Accessibility statement

Disinfection & Spillage

Disinfection:

  • Effective disinfectants must be available for routine disinfection and immediate use in the event of spillage (see below)
  • Appropriate disinfectants must be used according to manufacturer’s instructions (concentration, contact time etc.) to ensure they are effective
  • Work surfaces should be regularly cleaned with an appropriate disinfectant
  • All surfaces should be disinfected before any maintenance staff are permitted to work in the area
  • All specimen containers, glassware and used equipment should be immersed in a suitable disinfectant before cleaning or disposal
  • Used laboratory glassware and other materials awaiting sterilisation must be stored in a safe manner
  • Pipettes, if placed in disinfectant, must be totally immersed

Spillage:

  • Effective disinfectants should be available for immediate use in the event of a spillage (small or large)
  • If a spillage occurs, keep calm and take any appropriate remedial action
  • A minor spillage involving little splashing and limited to a small area should be handled by:
    • applying disinfectant to the spillage (use of powdered disinfectants recommended to minimise generation of splashes)
    • leave for an appropriate period
    • mop up with disposable paper towels
    • dispose of paper towels in an autoclave bag for inactivation
  • Where a spillage involves personal contamination:
    • wash immediately with water and soap
    • shout for assistance if required
    • report the accident on the appropriate form