Spillages of blood and other body fluids may transmit blood borne viruses.

Blood and body fluid spillages must be decontaminated

• As soon as is reasonably practical by staff trained to undertake this safely
• Using body fluid spill kits/dedicated equipment
• Using dedicated products for this purpose which should be prepared and used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions

Responsibilities for the decontamination of blood and body fluid spillages should be clear within each area/care setting.

If superabsorbent polymer gel granules for containment of bodily waste are used these should be used in line with manufacturer instructions. In Scotland refer to Safety Action Notice - SAN(SC)19/03

Local policies should be available which define procedures and processes to follow for the decontamination of blood and body fluid spillages which is inclusive of type of product, spillage type, volume and surface material.  

Suitable PPE should be worn based on the level of associated risk of exposure or contamination.

Any materials used for the decontamination of blood and body fluid spillages should be disposed of as infectious clinical waste.

Resources

For management of blood and body fluid spillages see Appendix 9.