Any facility open to the public can encounter blood or body fluid — accidents, medical episodes, injuries. OSHA 29 CFR 1910.1030 sets specific requirements for cleaning up these events, and non-compliance carries fines up to $15,000 per violation.
The Standard Procedure
- Block off the area and prevent foot traffic.
- Don full PPE: nitrile gloves, gown, face shield, shoe covers.
- Absorb liquid with solidifier or absorbent granules; scoop into biohazard bag.
- Apply EPA-registered tuberculocidal disinfectant to affected area with 10-minute dwell.
- Wipe with disposable towels; deposit in biohazard bag.
- Repeat disinfection cycle.
- Remove PPE inside-out and bag it.
- Wash hands thoroughly.
- Document incident, cleaner, chemicals, and disposal.
Disposal Requirements
Biohazard bags must be red or labeled and disposed through a licensed medical waste hauler — not commercial trash. Facilities without a hauler contract should partner with one before an incident occurs.
Training Requirement
OSHA requires annual bloodborne pathogen training for any employee reasonably expected to encounter blood or body fluid. Your cleaning vendor's crew qualifies — verify they carry current training records.
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