Bloodborne Pathogens Manual

18 Bloodborne Pathogens Manual • All evaluations must be documented annually in writing. ¤¤ Develop Safety Feature Evaluation Forms specific for alternative safer sharps devices to be tested in the department. A sample form is available in Appendix II. ¤¤ Have personnel using the devices complete the Safety Feature Evaluation Forms, and summarize the findings in a central location. ¤¤ Each year, summarize which alternative safer sharps devices were evaluated, and the reasons why the alternative devices were or were not implemented. Alternative safer sharps devices must be used wherever it will reduce personnel exposure, either by removing, eliminating or isolating the hazard, regardless of cost. Labeling and Signs Labels Labels with the universal biohazard symbol, the word “biohazard” and a predominantly fluorescent orange or orange-red background must be placed on all waste containers, refrigerators, and freezers containing human blood or other PIMs, and all other containers used to store, transport or ship human blood or other PIMs. The only exceptions to this labeling requirement are • individual containers of human blood or other PIMs placed inside a labeled container • containers for storage, transport, shipment, or disposal are exempted from the labeling requirement • containers of human blood, blood components, or blood products that are labeled as to their contents and have been released for transfusion or other clinical use are exempted from labeling requirements. Central Stores , (515) 294-0408 stocks a variety of appropriate biohazard labels and containers. Signs Signs with the universal biohazard symbol, the word “biohazard” and a predominantly fluorescent orange or orange-red background must be posted at the entrance to any area where human blood or other PIMs are used or stored. These signs must also include the name of the potentially infectious material, any special instructions for entering the area, and the name and telephone number of the area supervisor. These door signs may be requested from EH&S.