Online Bloodborne Pathogens Certification Course

chapter 5 : Handling Exposure

If you are exposed to blood or blood-containing materials, you should act quickly and safely to protect yourself from becoming sick.

In case of exposure, follow these steps:

1. Immediately flood the exposed area with water
2. If you are wearing gloves, remove the gloves (follow proper methods as shown below)
3. Wash your hands with soap and large amounts of water (as demonstrated in the diagram below)
4. Report the incident to your employer or supervisor
5. Seek medical attention as advised by employer

“If you are stuck by a needle or other sharp or get blood or other potentially infectious materials in your eyes, nose, mouth, or on broken skin, immediately flood the exposed area with water and clean any wound with soap and water or a skin disinfectant if available. Report this immediately to your employer and seek immediate medical attention.” – OSHA

Removing Gloves Safely:

Remember when removing contaminated gloves you will have to do so without touching the outside of the gloves with your bare hands.

1. Grip one glove on the outside of the glove near the cuff and peel it down until it comes off inside out. (Note: never pull from the finger tips; blood can spray)
2. Cup the removed glove with your gloved hand.
3. Place two fingers of your bare hand inside the cuff of the glove that you have on. Be sure to not touch any damp or contaminated areas of the glove.
4. Peel that glove off so that it comes off inside out (with the other glove inside it).
5. Dispose of the gloves properly as instructed by your employer. If contaminated, ensure that the gloves are placed in a biohazard waste bag.