SECTION 27. INFECTIOUS CONTROL PLAN

27.1 BACKGROUND

Certain body fluids can contain biologically hazardous organisms that can be picked up by others causing illness. The extent of the illness can be mild to fatal. Generally these diseases are picked up through contact with the receiving persons body fluids that in turn transports the organisms into the body. While the most serious of these is the HIV virus that can cause AIDS even the common cold virus will cause illness and potentially loss of time from work. Thus it is in the observatories interest to try and contain the spread of all transmittable diseases.

27.2 EXPOSURE DETERMINATION

The Observatory does not have medical personnel nor does it officially provide any medical assistance. Emergency medical aid is provided by the Sunspot EMS volunteer service. While some employees may be a member of Sunspot's service and provide medical services at APO, they perform these services as part of Sunspot's EMS service and not as an employee of APO. The Observatory thus allows for some limited excused time off in order for personnel to participate in this and other volunteer services. As a volunteer service and with limited funding the Observatory may also assist by donating certain funds or equipment to EMS service. However, this equipment is to be used only when operating on behalf of the Sunspot EMS service.

Risks of exposure can be through general housekeeping duties, and at a much lower risk through plumbing repairs. Exposure risks during these activities has been reviewed and determined to be negligible. The risks are further reduced by adhering to basic protection standards as outlined in Section 27.3. If, however, an employee were to come in contact with potentially infectious diseases through these tasks, an NMSU Incident report must be filed with the NMSU EHS Office and they will be provided the necessary medical attention at that time. (see Figures 4.1 and 4.2)

27.3 GENERAL GUIDELINES

The risks associated with an employee catching a common cold or flu virus far and exceed any risk to the more serious diseases when performing their assigned job duties. In an effort to reduce the spread of these germs and virus, some basic procedures and guidelines shall be followed:

Disinfectant cleaners will be used whenever possible.

Frequently handled items such as doorknobs, community telephones, kitchen items shall be cleaned frequently, especially during the cold and flu seasons.

Hot water and antibacterial cleansers shall be used when possible.

Rubber gloves shall be worn during cleaning, especially the bathroom areas. (These will likely be required for handling cleansers as well)

Dust filter masks are provided and should be worn for the reduction of nuisance levels of airborne dust particles during cleaning.

High efficiency filters shall be used on all vacuums.

All open wounds shall be treated with an antiseptic and covered.

Hands shall be washed after using the restroom.

Disposable tissues shall be provided.

All tissues, sanitary pads, or other materials with body fluids on it shall be disposed of by the originator and not left about.

Rubber gloves shall be worn during any drain cleaning operation.

Eye/face protection shall be worn if the risk of splashing is present or required by the chemical manufacture.

Coveralls will be provided and should be used during heavy cleaning duties when the possibility of clothes contamination is likely.