The Bloodborne Pathogens Standard states that work surfaces must be decontaminated with an appropriate disinfectant after completion of procedures, when surfaces are noticeably contaminated, after any spill of blood or other potentially infectious materials, and at the end of the work shift, if the surface may have become contaminated since the last cleaning.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the use of disinfectants that work against non-enveloped viruses to provide a broader antiviral spectrum. Disinfectants labeled by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as effective against non-enveloped viruses are more potent and can inactivate both enveloped (eg, Ebola) and non-enveloped (eg, poliovirus, rotavirus, norovirus) viruses.
Utilize hospital- or facility-approved disinfectants, such as:
- Diluted bleach solution (10% sodium hypochlorite)
- Germicidal disposable wipes
- Quaternary-based disinfectant cleaner concentrate (eg, Virex 256)
- EPA-registered tuberculocidal disinfectants
- EPA-registered disinfectants that are labeled as effective against both HIV and hepatitis B virus (HBV)
- Sterilants/high-level disinfectants cleared by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
- Other commercially available disinfectant
Always follow the facility-approved/manufacturer recommended contact time to ensure proper disinfection.
OSHA emphasizes that when cleaning and decontaminating surfaces/objects soiled with blood or body fluids:
- PPE is provided for the worker performing the task
- Fresh bleach solution should be prepared daily to ensure germicidal activity
- All blood must be cleaned up thoroughly before applying the disinfectant
- The disposal of the infectious waste be in accordance with federal, state, or local regulations
- The surface be left wet with the disinfectant for 30 seconds for HIV-1 and for 10 minutes for HBV
