Write a toolbox talk on Housekeeping Staff Safe cleaning and waste management of suspected Ebola virus cases in a hospital according to CDC and WHO

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# 1910.502 HEALTHCARE (cont.) ## 1910.502(b) Definitions. (cont.) imaging); and urgent care clinics. Ambulatory care does not include home healthcare settings for the purposes of this section. Assistant Secretary means the Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health, U.S. Department of Labor, or designee. Clean/cleaning means the removal of dirt and impurities, including germs, from surfaces using soap and water or other cleaning agents. Cleaning alone reduces germs on surfaces by removing contaminants and may also weaken or damage some of the virus particles, which decreases risk of infection from surfaces. Close contact means being within 6 feet of any other person for a cumulative total of 15 minutes or more over a 24- hour period during that person's potential period of transmission. The potential transmission period runs from 2 days before the person felt sick (or, for asymptomatic people, 2 days prior to test specimen collection) until the time the person is isolated. Common areas means indoor or outdoor locations under the control of the employer that more than one person may use or where people congregate (e.g., building lobbies, reception areas, waiting rooms, restrooms, break rooms, eating areas, conference rooms). COVID-19 (Coronavirus Disease 2019) means the respiratory disease caused by SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2). For clarity and ease of reference, this section refers to "COVID-19" when describing exposures or potential exposures to SARS-CoV-2. COVID-19 positive and confirmed COVID-19 refer to a person who has a confirmed positive test for, or who has been diagnosed by a licensed healthcare provider with, COVID-19. COVID-19 symptoms mean the following: Fever or chills; cough; shortness of breath or difficulty breathing; fatigue; muscle or body aches; headache; new loss of taste or smell; sore throat; congestion or runny nose; nausea or vomiting; diarrhea. COVID-19 test means a test for SARS-CoV-2 …

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## Risk Factors (cont.) Page 2 of 3 are not considered to be at increased risk for hantavirus infection. Laboratory acquired infections have occurred among persons who handled infected wild or laboratory rodents. Therefore, laboratory work that may result in propagation of hantaviruses should be conducted in a biosafety level 3 facility. Biosafety level 3 is described in Biosafety in Microbiological and Biomedical Laboratories. ## Clean up and Disinfection It is uncertain how long the virus survives after being shed into the environment. Therefore it is critical to minimize aerosolizing of dust during clean up and disinfection. The CDC first recommends opening windows and doors to enclosed areas and allowing the space to ventilate for at least 30 minutes. Droppings and other contaminated material should not be dry swept or vacuumed with a household vacuum. Thoroughly soak materials as noted below before sweeping or wiping. Use only a vacuum equipped with a true high efficiency particulate air filter (HEPA). Hantaviruses are susceptible to most disinfectants. Suggested disinfectants include: • Sodium hypochorite. The CDC recommends a 1:10 solution (1 part commercial bleach to 10 parts water). The materials should be soaked and let stand for at least 5 minutes. • Most commercial disinfectants. Follow manufacturer's recommendations for dilution and disinfection time. Refer to the CDC Hantavirus website for further details on clean up and disinfection. ## Engineering Controls As with any occupational hazard, engineering controls (e.g. eliminating the hazard) are the best. In this case utilizing environmental hygiene practices that deter rodents from colonizing the home and work environment are recommended. The CDC Hantavirus web site (www.cdc.gov/hantavirus) and the July 26, 2002 issue of Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report have recommendations for eliminating rodents from structures (e.g. sealing building entry points, removing food sources, use of traps to …

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# How to Work Safely with - Hazardous Products using the "Biohazardous Infectious Materials" Pictogram (cont.) ## How can products with the biohazardous infectious materials pictogram be handled and stored safely? (cont.) Some workplaces may follow routine practices, which are a set of infection control strategies and standards designed to protect workers from exposure to potential sources of infectious diseases. Routine practices are based on the premise that all blood, body fluids, secretions, excretions, mucous membranes, non-intact skin or soiled items are potentially infectious. These practices, while mainly adopted by healthcare providers, apply to all professions in which workers may become exposed to infectious microorganisms through contact with blood and body fluids. Examples of these professions include police officers, trauma or crime scene clean-up crews, zookeepers, laboratory technicians, and embalmers. In non-healthcare or laboratory settings, workers should be aware of general good practices for sanitation and infection control, including how to work safely with household (chlorine) bleach. Control measures may include: - Ventilation (e.g., negative pressure, separate ventilation system) - Biosafety hoods or cabinets - Ultra-violet lights for disinfection - Disposal containers for needles and other sharps - Self-sheathing needles and lancets - Sterilization - using high heat, high pressure, or using biocides to kill bacteria - Worker education and training - Procedures for disinfection and clean-up - Vaccination, where possible - Personal protective equipment (PPE) - respirators, gloves, protective clothing, glasses/goggles, face shields, shoe covers - Personal hygiene, including hand washing and other good practices to reduce the spread of infections and viruses. ## What should I do in case of an emergency? General precautions include the following tips. If you work in a laboratory or healthcare setting, follow your biosafety…

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# 1910.502 HEALTHCARE (cont.) ## 1910.502(k) Ventilation. (cont.) 1910.502(I)(6) Return to work. The employer must make decisions regarding an employee's return to work after a COVID-19-related workplace removal in accordance with guidance from a licensed healthcare provider or CDC's "Isolation Guidance" (incorporated by reference, 1910.509); and CDC's "Return to Work Healthcare Guidance" (incorporated by reference, 1910.509). Note to paragraph (I). OSHA recognizes that CDC's "Strategies to Mitigate Healthcare Personnel Staffing Shortages" (available atwww.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/mitigating-staff-shortages.html)allows elimination of quarantine for certain healthcare workers, but only as a last resort, if the workers' absence would mean there are no longer enough staff to provide safe patient care, specific other amelioration strategies have already been tried, patients have been notified, and workers are utilizing additional PPE at all times. 1910.502(m) Vaccination. The employer must support COVID-19 vaccination for each employee by providing reasonable time and paid leave (e.g., paid sick leave, administrative leave) to each employee for vaccination and any side effects experienced following vaccination. ## 1910.502(n) Training. 1910.502(n)(1) The employer must ensure that each employee receives training, in a language and at a literacy level the employee understands, and so that the employee comprehends at least the following: 1910.502(n)(1)(i) COVID-19, including how the disease is transmitted (including presymptomatic and asymptomatic transmission), the importance of hand hygiene to reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19 infections, ways to reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19 through the proper covering of the nose and mouth, the signs and symptoms of the disease, risk factors for severe illness, and when to seek medical attention; 1910.502(n)(1)(ii) Employer-specific policies and procedures on patient screening and management; 1910.502(n) Task…

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# WASTE RECYCLING Date Posted: 08/14/2016 ## WASTE RECYCLING Diverts material from going to the landfill. As waste recycling coordinator positions continue to evolve with the green building industry, there is a lot of opportunity for trade collaboration and coordination between waste recycling and safety supervision. ## MATERIAL HANDLING If materials are separated at the source of installation, removed without mixing with trash and placed into the proper recycling bin there is less exposure to injury. If materials get mixed onsite it means more time is spent separating materials down at the recycling bin which puts workers at a greater risk of injury. If the site is limited on space and does not have room for source separated bins, commingled recycling bins can reduce time spent handling materials. If the commingled bins are not contaminated with trash there will be no need for people to enter the dumpster to sort out materials that should not be in the bin. If materials are big and heavy use the proper equipment to get them into the bin rather than trying to overexert yourself by placing them in by hand. Proactive material handling is key to a safe recycling effort. ## OVEREXERTION Added material handling time can lead to overexertion. Some materials are heavy and hard to hoist into the bin. ## ACCESS If materials do need to be sorted in the bin or the bin needs to be compacted it is important that there is a safe and secure access point for entering the bin and caution is taken for sharp objects that could cause an impalement. If the bins ladder is damaged avoid using it and request a new bin after the next pickup. ## POTENTIAL HAZARDOUS MATERIALS Certain waste materials may contain contaminants that are harmful to employees health. Especially during demolition, it is very important to be aware of what you are handling and how to properly dispose of it. ## ITEMS TO REINFORCE • Clarity on what is recyclable versus what is hazardous waste • Safe hand…

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## How can we stay safe today? (cont.) Equipment Safety: V Construction Toolbox Talk NIOSH CPWR 【● Getting On and Off - Face the equipment ladder and use both hands when climbing up or down. - Check the handholds and steps for mud or other conditions that could make them slippery. - Keep work areas clean and free of waste such as scraps, extra materials, and garbage to prevent trip and slip hazards. GET INFORMATION CDC/NIOSH INFO: 1-800-CDC-INFO (1-[redacted phone]) | TTY: 1-[redacted phone] | cdc.gov/cdc-info | cdc.gov/niosh CPWR: Contact [redacted phone] | [redacted email] | www.cpwr.com/toolbox-talks DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2022-144 | DOI: https://doi.org/10.[redacted postal code]/NIOSHPUB2022144 | August 2022

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# Engineering and Work Practice Controls and Personal Protective Equipment (cont.) ## Airborne Infection Isolation Rooms or Areas (AIIR) (cont.) Work Practice Controls Anteroom Monitor Bathroom All only 111 Corridor Neutral Anteroom Aonitor Bathroom All and immuno compromised Corridor Anteroom Monitor Bathroom All and immuno- compromised HE Corridor Engineering and Work Practice Controls and Personal Protective Equipment Credit: CDC. AIIRS with anterooms. (top): Diagram of desired airflow if the patient has airborne infectious disease. (middle and bottom): Diagrams of recommended airflow if the patient is both immunocompromised and has an airborne infectious disease. for 35 minutes. Only after this ventilation period are employees allowed to enter the room without respiratory protection. When AII must be provided for an immunocompromised patient, employers should refer to the CDC Guidelines for Environmental Infection Control in Health-Care Facilities, which recommends using a neutral anteroom, described earlier, to both prevent contaminated air from escaping the AIIR and protect the patient in the AIIR from unfiltered corridor air. However, if an anteroom is not available, the patient should be placed in an AIIR with portable industrial-grade HEPA filters to clean the room air. Also see the CDC Guidelines for Preventing the Transmission of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in Health-Care Settings, which expands on ventilation and air- cleaning technologies. CDC Guidelines for Environmental Infection Control in Health-Care Facilities: www.cdc. gov/infectioncontrol/guidelines/environmental/ index.html ## Engineering Controls for Vehicles AirID cases, including ambulances, medical transport vehicles, and helicopters. Such employees work in emergency medical services, law enforcement, correctional facilities, and other operations. These employers must assess and use feasible engineering controls, such as barriers, air handling systems, and plastic mater…

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# 1910.502 HEALTHCARE (cont.) ## 1910.502(c) COVID-19 plan. (cont.) Note to paragraph (f)(1)(iii)(F). With respect to paragraphs (f)(1)(iii)(D) through (F) of this section, the employer may determine that the use of face shields, without facemasks, in certain settings is not appropriate due to other infection control concerns. 1910.502(f)(1)(iv) Where a face shield is required to comply with this paragraph or is otherwise required by the employer, the employer must ensure that face shields are cleaned at least daily and are not damaged. When an employee provides a face shield that meets the definition in paragraph (b) of this section, the employer may allow the employee to use it and is not required to reimburse the employee for that face shield. 1910.502(f)(2) Respirators and other PPE for exposure to people with suspected or confirmed COVID-19. When employees have exposure to a person with suspected or confirmed COVID-19, the employer must provide: 1910.502(f)(2)(i) A respirator to each employee and ensure that it is provided and used in accordance with $ 1910.134 and 1910.502(f)(2)(ii) Gloves, an isolation gown or protective clothing, and eye protection to each employee and ensure that the PPE is used in accordance with subpart I of this part. Note to paragraph (f)(2). When there is a limited supply of filtering facepiece respirators, employers may follow the CDC's "Strategies for Optimizing the Supply of N95 Respirators" (available at: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/respirators-strategy/index.html). Where possible, employers are encouraged to select elastomeric respirators or PAPRs instead of filtering facepiece respirators to prevent shortages and supply chain disruption. 1910.502(f)(3) Respirators and other PPE during aerosol-generating procedures. For aerosol-generating procedures performed on a person with suspected or confirmed COVID-19, the employer must provide: 1910.502(f)(3)(i) A respirator to each employee and ensure that it is pro…

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# BLOODBORNE PATHOGENS (cont.) ## UNIVERSAL PRECAUTIONS According to Chapter 296-823 WAC, universal precautions are an approach to infection control. According to universal precautions, all human blood and certain human body fluids are treated as if known to be infectious for HIV, HBV, and other bloodborne pathogens. Universal precautions should be taken when administering first aid to an injured person with potential exposure to bodily fluids. These guidelines include: • Wear appropriate disposable gloves to avoid direct contact with the injured person's bodily fluids. Roll the first glove off the hand inside out when removing disposable gloves. Then, place the gloves in a biohazard waste container for proper disposal. • Wear a dust mask or other protective device on the face, if necessary. • Flush eyes, nose, or other exposed mucous membranes. • Wash hands and any other affected area(s) immediately with soap and warm water. - Report all BBP exposures or any potential exposures to a supervisor immediately. ## RESPONDING TO INJURIES ON SITE • Use universal precautions when attending to any bleeding wound on another person. Assume that bloodborne pathogens could be present. • - Have the worker apply bandages to control bleeding for minor injuries. If needed, provide assistance. • Wear disposable rubber gloves and try to avoid contact with any blood or body fluids on the person or their clothing. • If disposable gloves are not readily available in an emergency, use your work gloves, a clean towel, or newspaper to prevent contact with blood or body fluids. • When finished with treatment and clean up, carefully remove your gloves to avoid touching the glove's contaminated exterior. • Thoroughly wash your hands immediately after removing your gloves. • If you get blood or body fluids on your skin, immediately wash the contaminated areas with soap and water. • Use emergency eye wash to thoroughly flush any contamination from your eyes or mouth. - Repor…

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# What type of information should be included in a safe operating procedure? The safe operating procedure (SOP) should be prepared by a competent person or team with chemical background, and who are knowledgeable about the jurisdiction's occupational and environmental legislation. The SOP for hazardous waste should include information on: - the facility's waste identification system: how to identify the type of hazardous waste and type of ingredients that are present in the waste - the waste's hazardous characteristics (e.g., toxicity, fire, explosion, or reactivity), - how hazardous wastes are: - collected, - sorted, and - which wastes can be mixed together in the same containment method - how to store the waste safely (e.g., separation of incompatible waste containers, placing containers in a secondary containment) - how to handle the hazardous waste safely (e.g., type of personal protective equipment (PPE) to use, special handling practices such as bonding and grounding for ignitable or flammable wastes) - how to contain and clean up spills - which wastes will be treated on site (if any) and the treatment method - which wastes will be sent out to a commercial waste management facility - firefighting information - emergency response - first aid measures The information in the SOP should be sufficient so that workers are able to identify the hazardous waste, understand the information in the SOP or other safety related documentation, and can apply the knowledge on the job to protect themselves (i.e., what personal protective equipment to wear) and others. ## What are the workers' responsibilities for handling hazardous waste? Before workers handle hazardous wastes, employers must make sure they are trained in: - the safe operating procedures (SOPs) that are related to the worker's tasks and responsibilities. - any required personal protective equipment (PPE) needed, and its use and maintenance - emergency procedures - spill procedures - W…

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# What type of information should be included in a safe operating procedure? (cont.) ## What are the workers' responsibilities for handling hazardous waste? (cont.) - Before you handle hazardous wastes, your employer is required to provide instruction, education, and training in the identification system, hazards, safe handling, and storage. This information should be in the SOP for the particular waste that is being handled. If you have not received the necessary training, talk to your supervisor or employer. - Always get and read a copy of the SOP, especially if you are unsure of the procedures to follow. Ask your supervisor for help. - When instructed to use PPE, you must use it. Before you use any PPE, you must be trained on how to use it properly. - Only use containers that are specified in the SOP for the particular hazardous waste. - Before adding hazardous waste in a new container, always make sure the container is compatible and appropriate according to the SOP. You may be asked to label the container to identify the contents. The label may follow WHMIS or TDG requirements, if transportation is planned. Note, you must be trained in the TDG Regulations before you ship any TDG Regulated hazardous waste. - Only mix hazardous wastes that are approved by the SOP. If you are not sure, ask your supervisor or a competent person such as a chemist. - Containers of hazardous waste must only be opened in the designated locations that are specified in the SOP. Unless in active use, always seal or close hazardous waste containers. - Store containers according to the SOP. - Separate containers with incompatible hazardous wastes according to the SOP. - NEVER add any hazardous waste to a container whose contents are unknown and not labelled. Containers without labels and unknown content must be reported to your supervisor as soon as possible. - NEVER pour wastes down a sink or floor drain, or place into any regular solid refuse container, especially not any of t…

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# Occupational Safety and Health Administration (cont.) ## 1910.502(b) (cont.) Disinfect/disinfection means using an EPA-registered, hospital-grade disinfectant on EPA's "List N" (incorporated by reference, $ 1910.509), in accordance with manufacturers' instructions to kill germs on surfaces. Elastomeric respirator means a tight-fitting respirator with a facepiece that is made of synthetic or rubber material that permits it to be disinfected, cleaned, and reused according to manufacturer's instructions. It is equipped with a replaceable cartridge(s), canister(s), or filter(s). Facemask means a surgical, medical procedure, dental, or isolation mask that is FDA-cleared, authorized by an FDA EUA, or offered or distributed as described in an FDA enforcement policy. Facemasks may also be referred to as "medical procedure masks." - Face shield means a device, typically made of clear plastic, that: (i) Is certified to ANSI/ISEA Z87.1 (incorporated by reference, $ 1910.509); or (ii) Covers the wearer's eyes, nose, and mouth to protect from splashes, sprays, and spatter of body fluids, wraps around the sides of the wearer's face (i.e., temple-to-temple), and extends below the wearer's chin. - Filtering facepiece respirator means a negative pressure particulate respirator with a non- replaceable filter as an integral part of the facepiece or with the entire facepiece composed of the non-replaceable filtering medium. - Fully vaccinated means 2 weeks or more following the final dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. - Hand hygiene means the cleaning and/or disinfecting of one's hands by using standard handwashing methods with soap and running water or an alcohol-based hand rub that is at least 60% alcohol. - Healthcare services mean services that are provided to individuals by professional healthcare practitioners (e.g., doctors, nurses, emergency medical personnel, oral health professionals) for the purpose of promoting, maintaining, monitoring, or restoring health. Healthcare…

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## Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) (cont.) Page 3 of 3 ## Waste Disposal All potentially infective waste material (including respirator filters and protective clothing) from clean-up operations should be double bagged in plastic bags. County or state health departments can assist in determining appropriate disposal methods. ## Conclusion OSHA does not currently have any specific regulations regarding Hantavirus. For the latest information on Hantavirus and the CDC's recommendations for diagnosis, treatment and prevention, see the CDC's Hantavirus web site (www.cdc.gov/hantavirus). This Technical Data Bulletin does not contain the CDC's recommendations in their entirety, nor does it constitute an endorsement by OH&ESD to use 3M respirators for this purpose. The impact and utility of these recommendations will be assessed as they are implemented and will be continually reviewed by the CDC and the involved state and local health agencies as additional data related to the disease is gathered. The reader is advised to be alert to supplements or modifications to these recommendations in the future. For further information on respirators, eye protection and disposable coveralls for use against Hantavirus call 3M Tech Service at 1-[redacted phone] or visit our website at www.3M.com/PPESafety. For possible disinfectants visit our website at http://solutions.3m.com/wps/portal/3M/en_US/Commercial/Care/Solutions- for/Infection-Control/ ## Warning Respirators are designed to reduce the wearer's exposure to airborne hazards. Biological agents, such as viruses, are particles and can be filtered by particulate filters with the same efficiency as non-biological particles having the same physical characteristics (e.g. size, shape). Unlike many industrial particles, there are no exposure limits established for biological agents. Therefore, while respirators will help reduce exposure to hantaviruses, there is no guarantee that the user will not contract HPS. Respirators may…

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# BASIC CLEANUP PRINCIPLES (cont.) ## PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE) (cont.) Cleanup workers should be trained and equipped with appropriate personal protective equipment, including rubber boots or equivalent, rubber gloves, splash-proof goggles, full-body protective clothing, and, if conditions warrant, respirators. An N95 respirator may be adequate. A half face air purifying respirator with hybrid organic vapor/HEPA cartridges may be more appropriate in some circumstances. Using a respirator, even the right respirator, probably will not provide proper protection unless you have been fit-tested, trained, and qualified to use a respirator. If you are an employee and are required to use a respirator, your employer must provide you with a respirator at no cost, along with annual training, fit-testing, and medical clearance. Use heavy gloves to protect the hands when handling debris to protect against cuts and scrapes. Gloves designed to protect the skin from chemical exposure are usually not strong enough to protect from debris. Double gloving with a waterproof glove under a heavy work glove is the best way to protect against both cuts and scrapes and floodwater exposure. Wearing wet gloves or PPE can cause dermal irritation. Repeated use of impermeable gloves, especially in hot and humid conditions, can aggravate skin rashes. Cotton liners can be used under protective gloves to improve comfort and to prevent dermatitis. Latex gloves should be avoided because of the risk of developing skin sensitivity or allergy. If skin contact with floodwaters does occur, use soap and water to clean exposed areas. Waterless alcohol-based hand rubs can be used when soap or clean water is not available. Hands should be washed after removal of gloves. Gloves not disposed of should be cleaned with soap and water and dried between uses. ## HEALTH-BASED RECOMMENDATIONS FOR RESTORATION The goal is to restore the contaminated area to a condition that eliminates any additional…

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# Good Hygiene Practices - Reducing the Spread of Infections and Viruses (cont.) ## What can a workplace do? (cont.) - Removing magazines and papers from waiting areas or common rooms (such as receptions, break rooms and kitchens). Disinfecting items - such as pens at receptions and service desks between users. - Cleaning and disinfecting a person's workstation (or other surfaces they came in contact with) when they suspect or confirm they have an infection. - Making sure ventilation systems are working properly, are maintained according to manufacturers recommendation and are adjusted to provide the maximum air exchanges per hour. - Washing hands after handling garbage. - When handling of linen contaminated with secretions from persons thought to be or are sick, wash using detergent and dry items completely. Do not shake dirty laundry. Perform hand hygiene afterwards. - Considering the creation of teams or crews ("cohorts") of workers that will work together exclusively to reduce the spread of the virus. - Limiting visitors. Rescheduling or limiting appointments with suppliers, vendors, service technicians and others where possible. ## When cleaning and disinfecting, how should it be done? Additional measures may be required to minimize transmission of germs by touch points (sinks, door and cupboard handles, railings, objects, counters, etc.). Viruses, for example, can remain viable on hard surfaces for several hours, depending on environmental conditions. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in the United States indicates that "Most studies have shown that the flu virus can live and potentially infect a person for up to 48 hours after being deposited on a surface." In most workplaces and homes, cleaning floors, walls, doorknobs, etc. with disinfectants or bleach solution (5 millilitres (mL) of (5%) bleach per 250 mL of water is recommended. Use a disinfectant with a drug identification number (DIN). This number means that it has been appr…

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# BLOODBORNE PATHOGENS Date Published: 05/14/2025 Bloodborne pathogens are a health concern for workers in the construction industry. While not everyone on site has the risk of being exposed to bloodborne pathogens routinely, there is always a chance that you could come into contact with skin, eye, mucus membrane, or parenteral contact (breaking the mucous membrane or skin barrier) with blood or other potentially infectious materials (OPIM). Examples of scenarios include providing first aid after an accident or medical event. ## WHAT ARE BLOODBORNE PATHOGENS? According to Chapter 296-823 WAC, bloodborne pathogens are pathogenic microorganisms that are present in human blood and can cause disease in humans. healthy people have contact with these pathogens, they may also become infected. However, the spread of diseases caused by these pathogens can easily be prevented. If In the workplace, bloodborne pathogens (BBP) may be transmitted when blood or other infectious body fluids come in contact with mucous membranes (your eyes, nose, mouth), non-intact skin (due to cuts, abrasions, burns, rashes), or by handling or touching contaminated materials or surfaces. Bloodborne pathogens are also transmitted by "injection" under the skin via a contaminated sharp object puncturing or cutting the skin, causing a wound. ## COMMON BLOODBORNE PATHOGENS Individuals who are infected with Hepatitis B virus (HBV) or Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) may not show symptoms and may not know they are infectious. For this reason, all human blood and body fluids should be considered infectious, and all precautions should be taken to avoid contact. This simple rule is known as "universal precautions." For your safety, you need to assume that the blood of any person is infected with a lethal disease. When your job is helping other people who are ill or injured, you could risk your health. Exposure to bloodborne disease-related pathogens is a job hazard for aid and emergency respond…

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# ASBESTOS IN CONSTRUCTION (cont.) ## HOW CAN YOU PROTECT YOURSELF FROM ASBESTOS EXPOSURE IN THE WORKPLACE? (cont.) • Be trained to recognize the places and materials where asbestos may be found. Typically, this is asbestos awareness training, which is training for workers who might encounter asbestos during their work. This would include almost all construction workers. • Avoid handling or disturbing asbestos. • Use a certified asbestos abatement contractor to remove asbestos from the work area. Below are tasks that only a certified asbestos abatement contractor should do: • Isolate and contain work areas with temporary barriers or enclosures to avoid spreading fibers. Use local exhaust ventilation equipped with HEPA filter dust collection systems. Ventilation of the regulated area should move contaminated air away from the breathing zone of employees and toward a filtration or collection device equipped with a HEPA filter. • Use wet methods, if feasible, to reduce exposure. - Never use compressed air for cleaning. Instead, vacuum cleaners equipped with HEPA filters collect all debris and dust. • - Clean up and disposal of waste in leak-tight containers (except in roofing operations). • Avoid dry sweeping, shoveling, or other dry clean-up methods. - Use disposable protective clothing or clothing that is left in the workplace. Do not launder work clothing with family clothing. • Use proper respiratory protection. 。 Dispose of waste and debris contaminated with asbestos in leak-tight containers in accordance with OSHA and EPA standards. Note: If you come across a material that you believe may contain asbestos, DO NOT DISTURB IT! Leave it where you found it and report immediately to the site supervisor, superintendent, or manager. ## REFERENCES Asbestos | Washington State Department of Health WAC 296-62-[redacted postal code] https://www.lni.wa.gov/safety-health/safety-topics/topics/asbestos Asbestos - Overview | Occupational Safety and Health A…

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# PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT Date Posted: 09/03/2016 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is gear that can be worn to help minimize or eliminate injury. It can be worn to help prevent sudden injuries or injuries occur over time. It is very important the user understands the intended purpose of the PPE and verifies that it fits properly. that ## When to Wear PPE • Before you resort to PPE, you should first: • Use administrative controls • Implement Engineering Controls • Use local exhaust or general ventilation vs. a respirator • Control dust with a wet process vs. dry • Install sound reducing devices to mechanical equipment • When these other two means of protection are exhausted you then will need to select the appropriate PPE. - Often times PPE will be used in conjunction with administrative and engineering controls for added protection. ## BASIC TYPES OF PPE Head: Hard hat, welders cap Hearing: Earmuffs, ear plugs or canal caps Face/Eye: Safety glasses, face shield, safety goggles. Hand: Gloves for general use, chemical use, electrical work or hot work. Body: Chaps, leathers, coveralls Foot Protection: Leather boots, Safety toe/steel toe boots Personal Protective Equipment is gear that is worn to help minimize or eliminate injury. It is very important the user understands the intended purpose of the PPE, verifies that the PPE fits properly and is adequate for the work to be performed. Remember: PPE is the last line of defense against a hazard. LEARN MORE ## QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION • Does the PPE you wear to perform your work fit properly and is it in good working condition? What can be done in your work area to improve the use of PPE? • What improvements can be made to reduce the need for PPE? ## PRESENTER TIPS • Pre-read the Toolbox Talk. Your comfort level and confidence will be higher if you know your topic. Discuss related tasks, work areas or events that make the Toolbox Talk relevant to your job site. • Involve the workers …

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# Landscaping - Infectious Waste (cont.) ## What are some safety tips to know when dealing with infectious waste? (cont.) - Ask your supervisor for training, if he or she has not done so already, so you: - understand potential hazards - know your roles and responsibilities - are familiar with regulations - Wear gloves and use disposable towels or other means of cleaning (e.g., brooms or shovels) that will stop direct contact between you and infectious waste, such as any blood or body fluids. - Wear puncture-resistant gloves and safety boots if there is a risk of puncture (e.g., from needles, sharp objects, etc.). - Wear respiratory protection if you must clean up waste, leaves or dust which may contain mouse or bird waste. Mice can carry the hantavirus which can become airborne with dust and may be inhaled by workers. Bird waste may transmit psittacosis, which is an infectious disease in humans that has mild, non-specific flu-like symptoms. - Make sure your tetanus immunization is up to date (recommended every 10 years). - Consider all contaminated wastes as infectious. - Handle all contaminated wastes very carefully to prevent body contact and injury. - Use pliers or tongs to gently pick up needles or glass. Do not touch the needle directly if possible. - Dispose of infectious waste in a puncture-resistant container such as a bucket or box with a secure lid and lined with a leak-proof, puncture-resistant plastic. - Post a biological hazard symbol on the waste container. - Wash hands to reduce the risk of infection. - Report any injuries immediately. - Call your local public health department or police for further assistance. More information is available in the OSH Answers Sanitation and Infection Control for Cleaning Staff. What should I avoid doing? Landscaping - Infectious Waste CCOHS