Contaminated Work Environments
Housekeeping staff and others can be exposed to blood or other potentially infectious material (OPIM) through contaminated work environments.
All equipment needs to be cleaned and decontaminated after contact with blood.
OSHA requires clean and sanitary work environments to prevent contact with blood or OPIM. The employer must determine and implement an appropriate written schedule for cleaning and decontamination methods.
This written schedule must be based on the following:
- location within the facility
- type of surfaces to be cleaned
- type of soil present
- the tasks or procedures to be performed in the area
Contaminated Equipment
Employees can be exposed to blood or OPIM through contact with the following:
- equipment and working surfaces
- protective coverings
- reusable containers
- glassware