Blood Spills
(For blood or other material
with high organic content and low concentration of infectious microorganisms)

• Wear gloves, eye protection, and a lab coat (or tyvek).
• Absorb blood with paper towels and place in a biohazard bag. Collect any sharp objects with forceps or other mechanical device and place in a sharps container.
• Using a detergent solution, clean the spill site of all visible blood.
• Spray the spill site with 10% household bleach and allow to air-dry for 15 minutes.
• After the 15 minute contact time, wipe the area down with disinfectant-soaked paper towels. Discard all disposable materials used to decontaminate the spill and any contaminated personal protective equipment into a biohazard bag.
• Wash your hands.

Spill of a Biohazardous
Radioactive Material

A biohazardous spill involving radioactive material requires emergency procedures which are different from the procedures used for either material alone. Use procedures which protect you from the radiochemical while you disinfect the biological material.

Before any clean-up, consider the type of radionuclide, characteristics of the microorganism, and the volume of the spill. Contact the EHS Radiation Safety Office (785-3550) for isotope clean-up procedures:

• Avoid inhaling airborne material, while quickly leaving the room. Notify others to leave. Close door, and post a warning sign.
• Remove contaminated clothing, turn exposed areas inward, and place in a biohazard bag.
• Wash all exposed skin with disinfectant, following it with a three minute water rinse.
• Inform supervisor and Radiation Safety Office of spill, and monitor all exposed personnel for radiation.