Cleaning spills of blood and body fluids

It is a good idea to have a “spill kit” ready to be able to clean up spills of blood, vomit or diarrhea (or other body fluids) that can carry infection. Remember, clean first, then sanitize.

A preassembled spill kit should contain:

• Garbage bags and masking tape
• Disposable gloves (non-latex)
• Paper towels
• Detergent
• Bleach or disinfectant
• Bucket
• Mop, cloths, brushes

Spills of blood, vomit or diarrhea or any other body fluid:

• Wear disposable gloves (or household rubber gloves that can be cleaned and sanitized).
• Use other personal protective equipment as required (goggles, protective clothing, if there is a risk of splashing).

• Soak up and remove most of the spill using paper towels. Place soiled paper towels directly into a plastic garbage bag.
• With a mop or cleaning cloth, clean the soiled area with detergent and water to remove any visible dirt or body fluids.
• After cleaning, sanitize the area using a low-level disinfectant — a mixture of one cup (250 ml) of household bleach (5% – 6% chlorine) in ten cups (2.5 litres) of water (1 part bleach to 10 parts water) will do. To sanitize a surface, let bleach solution stand for one minute before drying.
• If you use a commercial disinfectant, follow the instructions on the label.
• Close the bag using masking tape (to prevent it from being opened), and deposit it in regular garbage.
• Remove gloves and other personal protective equipment, deposit in regular garbage and wash your hands.

• Blot up the spill with paper towels.
• Place soiled paper towels directly into a plastic garbage bag.
• Apply a household detergent/disinfectant to cover the spot. Let sit 30 minutes.
• Blot up excess liquid with paper towels and dispose of them, as above. Reapply detergent/disinfectant. Let dry overnight.
• Close the bag using masking tape (to prevent it from being opened) and deposit it in regular garbage.
• Remove gloves and other personal protective equipment, deposit in regular garbage and wash your hands.
• Steam clean carpet and upholstery, if necessary. Replace heavily soiled carpets and upholstery that cannot be effectively cleaned and sanitized.

• Wear disposable gloves (or household rubber gloves that can be cleaned and sanitized).
• Wash mops, cloths and brushes in hot, soapy water and rinse. Ensure that all visible dirt is removed.
• Soak mops, cloths and brushes in a low-level disinfectant solution for 20 minutes. Sanitize the mop handle by cleaning and wiping it with a low-level disinfectant.
• Clean and sanitize reusable personal protective equipment, such as household rubber gloves.
• Clean and sanitize surface areas and sinks where you have cleaned equipment.