Exposure Control Plan for Bloodborned pathogens

Because many types of infections may be caused by organisms transmitted on the hands of personnel, handwashing is generally considered the single most important procedure in preventing the spread of infection. For this reason guidelines for the use of appropriate handwashing are provided.

For routine contacts and procedures, a vigorous rubbing together of all surfaces of lathered hands for at least 60 seconds, followed by rinsing under a stream of water is recommended, using a product which is generally acceptable to personnel. In the absence of a true emergency, personnel must always wash their hands:

Before performing non-surgical invasive procedures (e.g., insertion of intravenous or urinary catheters).
Before taking care of particularly susceptible individuals, such as those who are severely immunocompromised and newborns.
Before and after touching wounds, whether surgical, traumatic, or associated with an invasive device.
After situations during which microbial contamination of hands is likely to occur, especially those involving contact with mucous membranes, blood or body fluids, secretions, excretions, broken skin, infectious cultures, or animals.
After touching inanimate sources that are likely to be contaminated with virulent or epidemiologically important microorganisms. These sources include urine-measuring devices or secretion-collection apparatuses.
After removing gloves.
Between contacts with different individuals.
Before preparing medication.
Before and after all procedures or treatments.
After using restroom facilities.
Before leaving research areas.

Routine Patient Care Areas
Handwashing facilities will be readily accessible to employees. When provision of handwashing facilities is not feasible, an appropriate antiseptic hand cleaner and clean cloth/paper towels or antiseptic towelettes will be provided.
1. Each handwashing station will be provided with a liquid soap dispenser, soap and single-use disposable paper towels.
2. When antiseptic towelettes or cleaner are used, hands will be washed with soap and running water as soon as feasible.
Non-Patient Contact Areas (e.g., public restrooms and other areas in which there is no direct patient contact).
Handwashing facilities, including sinks with running water, should be conveniently located for frequent use. However, when provision of handwashing facilities is not feasible, an antiseptic handwashing product that is generally acceptable to personnel is to be provided. It is not necessary for this product to be medicated or antimicrobial. Gloves do not serve as a substitute for handwashing (see OECP - 101.00 Universal Precautions and Engineering and WorkPractice Controls).