Universal Precautions

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Universal Precautions

• Use barrier protection at all times.
• Use gloves for protection when working with or around blood and body fluids.
• Change glove between patients.
• Use glasses, goggles, masks, shields, and waterproof gowns/aprons to protect face from splashes.
• Wash hands if contaminated and after removing gloves.
• Use puncture-resistant sharps disposal containers (at point of use).
• Do not recap, bend or break needles and handle all sharps carefully.
• Use resuscitation equipment and devices for mouth-to-mouth resuscitation.
• Minimize spills and spatters; use leak-proof containers; appropriate biological safety cabinet.
• Decontaminate all surfaces and devices after use.
• Observe prudent laboratory practices.
• Use proper waste management/housekeeping.
• Promptly seek medical attention and counseling if exposed to contaminated materials (see below).

Other Protection Procedures

• Use safe-design needle kits.
• Use needle guard or needlestick prevention devices if recapping needle is necessary.
• Reduce the use of needles and other sharps.
• Use occlusive bandages as needed.
• Follow infection control/body substance isolation practices.
• Review and monitor protocols and/or practices for improving safety conditions.
• Change or modify protocols/practices according to risk of tasks or biosafety level with additional use of personal protective equipment or special precautions.

Decontamination

• Use approved disinfectant (e.g. 1:10 household bleach, etc.).
• Use proper personal protective equipment.
• Use a suitable strategy for decontamination and clean-up.
• Absorb, contain and decontaminate spills.
• Clean area with detergent and water after decontamination.
• Properly dispose of contaminated materials.

Disposal Procedures

• Place infectious waste in labeled "red bag"/designated containers.
• Dispose of sharps in labeled, puncture-resistant containers.
• Utilize: proper storage/transport/treatment (decontamination) of infectious materials.

In Case of Accident:

• Immediately report the incident to your supervisor and fill out "Supervisor's First Report of Injury" form.
• Report the incident as soon as possible to Environmental Health & Safety at 500-8100 (Biological Safety 500-4193).
• Seek medical attention and/or counseling.
• Contact UT Student and Employee Health Services at 500-3267; take completed "Supervisor's First Report of Injury" form with you for office appointment.
• Needlesticks should be reported to 951-8013 (a 24 hour pager).