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#1 Posted : 05 June 2007 09:41:00(UTC)
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Posted By Phillipe I would like some feedback please with regard to cleaning up of bodily fluids from the floors, walls, ceilings (you never know!), etc. Where any of you employ cleaners (contract type) is it written in their contracts that this is part of the job? What type of kit is provided to do the job? Have you risk assessed it? Type of fluids I am referring to would be the usual type of fluids a body can secrete, I don't think anymore needs to be said. Mainly talking about children, unwell adults, the usual thing. I'll take it for granted that a full rubber body suited with gauntlets, boots and a respirator need to be worn !
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#2 Posted : 05 June 2007 11:24:00(UTC)
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Posted By Dan Malone Phillipe, Where I work the contract cleaners do NOT clean up bodt fluids. That is let to the ERT whom I am a member. Our precautions are, Universal precautions, gloves, Face Shield and apron when needed. If the body fluid is on the walls then we get into full body cover. We also use a packaged bag with granules to absorb any moisture. Bio Bag and a disposal scoop. Our biggest is blood from cuts and wounds. If you need further info please contact me. Regards Dan Malone
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#3 Posted : 05 June 2007 12:31:00(UTC)
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Posted By John Cook Phillipe We have assesed under COSHH and take the necessary precautions. We provide specific certificated training to nominated individuals. PPE used is dependant upon whether or not it is classed a sa major or minor spill, type of fluid/ excretion etc. Full audit trail in place as well. All kit is generally single use. All waste disposed of as biohazrd waste.
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#4 Posted : 05 June 2007 12:39:00(UTC)
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Posted By Bill Parkinson Contact your local hospital and speak to the infection control nurse who will be able to tell you what type of PPE to wear and also the risks involved. Regards Bill
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#5 Posted : 06 June 2007 09:05:00(UTC)
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Posted By Gary Smith Phillipe I work for the Prison Service & (unfortunately) we have to deal with this type of thing on a regular basis. I have recently introduced training & local procedures / Policy on how to manage these issues, & I'd be glad to forward details to you if you drop me a line. Gary
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#6 Posted : 06 June 2007 09:16:00(UTC)
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Posted By AjSaunders Also contact your local authority, and or police station. Sometimes cleaning staff employed within police stations (court cells) are actually employed by cleaning divisions of the local authority, regardless they will be able to offer you sound advice. What already has been stated here though is excellent advice.
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#7 Posted : 06 June 2007 09:50:00(UTC)
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Posted By Rob T Don't forget to ensure that these people have had Hepatitis B inoculations in particular. You may also have to consider a regime for regular testing of the employees for Hep C and HIV (unfortunately no inoculations available as I'm sure you know) if there has been a breach in any item of PPE. Hep B and C contagions can stay live and be inhaled or pass through mucous membranes (including eyes) for days (if not longer) after an event - there are various ideas about how long HIV can stay live but on a good authority I have been told up to a week.
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