Corrections officers may risk exposure to bloodborne pathogens or dangerous controlled substances in the line of duty. Officers should always be mindful of these risks and take some simple precautions to avoid exposure. Jail Bloodborne Pathogen Risks & Officer Protection is a critical topic, and online correctional officer training can help officer recognize and prepare for the risk.
What Are Bloodborne Pathogens? Understanding Jail Bloodborne Pathogen Risks & Officer Protection
“Bloodborne pathogens” means infectious microorganisms that are present in human blood and can cause disease in humans. These pathogens include, but are not limited to, hepatitis B virus, hepatitis C virus, and HIV – human immunodeficiency virus. Bloodborne pathogens may be present in a person’s blood and other bodily fluids, including semen and saliva.
How Correctional Officers Are Exposed
Officers may be exposed to a range of assaultive and disruptive behaviors in which they can be exposed to blood or other body fluids containing blood. Of particular concern are hand-to-hand combat situations (especially ones involving biting attacks or attacks with sharp objects) that result in blood exposure. In fact, Jail Bloodborne Pathogen Risks & Officer Protection are crucial factors during these incidents.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Essentials for Jail Bloodborne Pathogen Risks & Officer Protection
The first thing officers should do in any situation where they may be exposed to bloodborne pathogens is to ensure they are wearing the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). If feasible, officers should wear protective gloves whenever the possibility for exposure to blood exists. Officers should also wash their hands as soon as feasible after removing gloves or other personal protective equipment. Proper training about Jail Bloodborne Pathogen Risks & Officer Protection ensures officers understand how to use PPE effectively.
Preventing Exposure to Controlled Substances
Another potential exposure risk facing officers is the presence of controlled substances. An incoming inmate may attempt to bring controlled substances into the jail. As with bloodborne pathogens, nitrile gloves can provide effective protection against exposure to controlled substances such as opioids (e.g. fentanyl). If an officer believes he or she has had contact with an opioids, the officer should not use an alcohol-based sanitizer or bleach to remove it; they do not effectively wash opioids off skin. Instead, wash the area with water as quickly as possible.
Interested in learning more?
PLS offers online training for correctional officers link: https://www.policelegalsciences.com/ on a wide variety of practical issues to help them make good decisions in challenging situations.