Final answer:
When handling a spill of infectious fluid or blood, proper PPE such as gloves, a protective gown or apron, and face protection like a mask with goggles or a face shield must be worn by the person cleaning the spill to prevent infection. Additional precautions like respirators might be required for highly infectious agents, and thorough decontamination procedures must be followed.
Step-by-step explanation:
If a spill involving infectious body fluid or blood occurs, it is essential that the person handling the cleanup wears proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to minimize the risk of infection. While specific requirements can vary depending upon the situation and the pathogens involved, a combination of PPE typically includes gloves, a protective gown or lab coat, and face/eye protection such as a mask, goggles, or a face shield. For dealing with highly infectious agents, such as those requiring Biosafety Level 3 (BSL-3) or 4 (BSL-4) precautions, additional equipment like a respirator may be necessary. A person cleaning a spill should also follow protocols for decontamination and disposal of the contaminated materials to ensure safety.
In the context of most laboratory or healthcare settings, where the risk of aerosol or splash exposures exists, a person should ideally wear gloves, a gown or apron, and face protection such as a mask with goggles or a face shield. This combination provides a barrier against potential contact with the skin and mucous membranes of the eyes, nose, and mouth.
After dealing with the spill, the person should properly dispose of the PPE and wash any exposed skin with a detergent and warm water. It is recommended to clean the skin further with either 1 N NaOH or a 1:10 dilution of bleach for 1 minute as a post-exposure prophylaxis if necessary.