April Safety
Meeting Topics

Blood Borne Pathogens

Definition: Pathogenic microorganisms that are present in human blood, which can cause disease in humans.

Examples: Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Hepatitis B Virus (HBV)

Exposure: Transfer of contaminated blood via inanimate objects or environmental surfaces has been shown to cause infection in the workplace.

Wounds do not have to be severe or even fresh in order to place you at risk of exposure.

Did you know..
The Hepatitis B Virus can survive for a week, dried at room temperature on environmental surfaces.

Cleaning: All equipment (environmental and working surfaces) should be cleaned and decontaminated with an appropriate disinfectant  after contact with blood or other potentially infectious materials.  

Associates should always use PPE when necessary for safe cleaning and must wash their hands immediately after removing gloves

If you notice blood or body fluid on any surface and did not observe how it got there, never assume that it came from a pet.

Remember!

ALWAYS seek medical attention immediately if exposure to a BBP is suspected!

Handling Emergencies

Both medical and non-medical emergencies can occur in a veterinary hospital

The team leader or hospital manager is responsible for associate safety in emergency situations.

It is the policy of Banfield to protect the safety and health of our associates, clients, and patients in our hospital.

Emergency Safety Procedure

1. Remain Calm
2. Assess the Situation

3. Identify any condition that may be considered an immediate threat to people or pets.

4. If necessary, take immediate steps to remove people and pets from dangerous situations.

5. Call for help. Always be prepared  to give the following information:

- Location of emergency (including names of streets)

- Telephone number from which you are calling
- What Happened
- How many people need help
- Condition of the people needing help

- What aid is being given to the people

6. Do not hang up.  The dispatcher may be able to give you instruction on how to care for the people until help arrives

During Monday's Meeting we will be practicing a fire drill and answering any questions you may have about this month's Safety Topic