Emergency Guide

Human Blood Spills

Blood borne Pathogens such as HIV and Hepatitis B can be transmitted through contact with human blood.

Contact includes:

  • Exposure of eyes, nose or mouth to blood
  • Exposure of non-intact (cut, scratched, burned, etc.) skin to blood
  • Accidental injection or puncture of the skin with a blood-contaminated sharp object

At STCC, only designated, trained individuals are advised to provide First Aid & Emergency Assistance or to clean-up blood spills.

If there is a situation involving an injured individual and/or a release of blood:

  1. Immediately call for medical assistance by contacting the police at 911.
  2. Be prepared to tell the police the following information:
    • Your name, phone number, and location from which you are calling
    • The nature of the incident
  3. Stay in the immediate area to meet responders.
  4. While waiting for assistance, comfort may be provided to the victim. When possible, have the victim apply pressure to the injury with an absorbent material (paper towel, cloth, etc.).
  5. If assistance is given in bleeding incidents, barrier protection (gloves, towel, etc.) should be used.
  6. Do not attempt to clean-up the blood yourself.  Trained Facilities staff will respond to properly remove blood and decontaminate the affected area(s).

If accidental exposure to human blood occurs:

  1. Notify your supervisor immediately. Employees must complete an incident report with assistance from their supervisor.
  2. Seek medical attention at the nearest hospital or contact your private health care provider as soon as possible.

Note: The sooner medical treatment is obtained, the less likely exposure may result in infection and/or disease.

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