Housekeeping staff in healthcare facilities are constantly exposed to harmful contaminants including bloodborne pathogens and other hazardous materials. Those working in the housekeeping department in a healthcare facility should be mindful of how they handle items. It is important to take every necessary step to protect oneself from contamination. In most cases, contacting a blood spill cleanup service is by far the best move for getting rid of a large pool of blood. Your health is of paramount importance hence hiring a professional cleaning company keeps you safe.
What’s more, is that blood spill cleanup service providers usually train and re-train housekeeping staff on how to handle blood and other infectious materials. If you have not received enough training on how to clean up and dispose of biohazardous waste, it is in your best interest to stay clear of the contaminated area.
Common Issues and Solutions When Dealing With Blood Borne Housekeeping
- Most bloodborne pathogens can survive outside their host for a few days. A good example is Hepatitis B and it can survive for up to 1 week even in dried blood or on surfaces. Coming in contact with a contaminated surface, or sharp object can cause serious health issues.
Solution: The best way to deal with a contaminated surface is to clean it using OSHA standard disinfectants and sterilizers. Housekeeping staff needs proper training to deal with such contaminated surfaces. Prior to cleaning the contaminated area, it is important that you use personal protective equipment. Clean the blood or other contaminated fluids before applying disinfectant. Sharp objects should be disposed of properly in a biohazard disposal bag.
- The risks of contamination is quite high when housekeeping staff are constantly exposed to used protective containers and reusable containers
Solution: Remove protective coverings like plastic wrap and aluminum foil carefully, as soon as you’re done for the day. Broken glassware might be contaminated as well, so picking them up without hand gloves puts you at risk of getting infected. Alternatively, you can use forceps, tongs, and dustpan to get rid of the broken glassware. More so, reusable containers are more likely to get infected with blood and other bodily fluids. Regular disinfection should be given top priority when dealing with reusable containers. Whether the contamination is visible or not, make sure you protect yourself and take every precautionary step to protect yourself against potentially infectious materials.
Bottom Line
Unfortunately, many housekeeping staff in hospitals and healthcare facilities have been exposed to contaminated blood and other infectious materials due to a lack of training on how to handle such situations. Every healthcare facility should endeavor to train its housekeeping staff on how to deal with contaminated materials. Training also teaches staff members proper handwashing techniques which in turn prevents the spread of infection.
Another great way to handle such a scenario is to contact a blood spill cleanup service. The professional cleaners are well equipped and will leave the contaminated area clean and safe for use by the general public. Get professional help today and keep your healthcare facility free from contamination.
