Emergency Response to Bloodborne Pathogen Exposure

Research, Environmental Health and Safety   |   Approved June 20, 2019

Purpose

Respond to human bloodborne pathogen exposure.

Applicability

Employees or students on campus who may be exposed to human bloodborne pathogens.  This includes any accidental or unauthorized contact with human blood and needlesticks.

Instructions

1. Wash the site of suspected contact with soap and water.
   • For needlesticks, cuts and scratches: immediately scrub and irrigate the wound with soap and water for at least 15 minutes.
   • For splashes to the eyes, nose, or mouth: irrigate the site immediately with rapidly following water for at least 15 minutes.
2. Students only: Call UMB Bloodborne Pathogen Exposure Hotline at (667) 214-1886 and advise them you are a student, stating your school and department.
3. Seek Medical Treatment. See the Receiving Medical Treatment for a Work-related Injury procedure.
4. Report incident to Risk Management  at 6-3221 and follow the Reporting a Work-related Incident procedure if applicable.  This will ensure timely processing of claim and issuance of claim number and prescription authorization, if appropriate.  Reporting should include:
   • All incidents, exposures, and potential exposures.
   • All conditions that may endanger the health of staff, students, and patients.