Specimens from persons under investigation (PUIs) for EVD can be safely handled following all of the laboratory precautions and practices specified in the OSHA BBP standard (29 CFR 1910.1030). It is important that laboratory personnel use an appropriate combination of both PPE and engineering controls to shield against contact with patient specimens, ensuring that their bare skin, eyes, nose, and mouth are covered and protected.
PPE worn and engineering controls used when manipulating primary specimens
Clinical laboratory personnel who perform processing and testing of suspect EVD specimens should use/wear the following combination of engineering controls/PPE:
- Gloves
- Fluid-resistant or impermeable gown
- Full face shield or *goggles
- Mask that covers all of the nose and mouth
- Use a certified class II biosafety cabinet (BSC) or a Plexiglass splash guard *Note: If a certified class II BSC or Plexiglass splash guard is not available, a full face shield should be worn instead of goggles
In addition, all manufacturer-installed safety features on laboratory instruments should also be used.
