Biohazard – Gross, Unsanitary Matter Procedure

Overview:

Cleaning gross unsanitary matter, such as feces, urine, homeless encampments, Levels 4 and 5 hoarding, and other harmful waste, requires specific procedures to ensure safety and compliance with health regulations. This procedure outlines the necessary equipment, chemicals, and steps for effective cleanup. Crawlspace category 3 are handled by discussion first in the shop before deployment.

Equipment Necessary:

  1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

    • Nitrile Gloves: 6 mil

    • Heavy Duty Nitrile Gloves: 15 mil (tape wrists)

    • MaxAir Headset: For respiratory protection against aerosolized particles. Facemask, charged batteries, helmet.

    • Respirator: Full-face.

    • Suits: White coveralls with long sleeve and foot protection. Yellow suits if in crawlspace.

    • Boot Covers: Disposable. (Not used in crawlspaces.)

  2. Cleaning Supplies:

    • Contractor Bags: 3-mil, 42-gallon

    • Foam Sprayer: For applying cleaning solutions.

    • Microfiber Cloths: For wiping surfaces.

    • Swivel-head Microfiber Mop: For larger wall and ceiling areas.

    • Sharps Container: May or may not be needed, but be prepared.

    • Fogger: Backpack, 4-gallon capacity. 1 gallon capacity acceptable.

  3. Chemicals Needed:

    • Disinfectant: (e.g., Quaternary Ammonium Compounds) effective against pathogens. Chem Decon A, B, C

    • Floor Cleaner: Unitex pH neutral.

Step-by-Step Procedure:

  1. CONTAIN:

    • Inspect the area for gross unsanitary matter and assess the extent of contamination.

    • Isolate the contaminated area to prevent the spread of pathogens.

    • ATP test at least three non-porous surfaces in the contamination zone.

  1. CONTROL:

    • Deep fog entire contamination zone with A/B. Wet walls and ceilings and contents.

    • Carefully collect any solid waste using disposable tools (e.g., scoops, bags).

    • Remove contents for discarding.

  2. NEUTRALIZE:

    • Dry mop walls, ceilings.

    • Foam Chem Decon A, B. All surfaces.

    • Agitate with scrubbers, let dwell 10 minutes minimum.

    • Wipe down with microfiber.

  3. REMOVE:

    • Wet microfiber with Vital Oxide, wipe down with microfiber.

    • Clean surfactants from floor with Unitex.

  4. Odor Neutralization (if necessary):

    • Fog the area with citric acid disinfectant.

Post-Cleanup:

  1. Waste Disposal:

    • Dispose of all contaminated materials (e.g., gloves, cloths) in biohazard bags.

    • Follow local regulations for the disposal of biohazard waste.

  2. Post-Cleanup Inspection:

    • Inspect the area to ensure all waste and contaminants have been removed.

  3. Hygiene Practices:

    • Wash hands thoroughly after removing PPE and completing the cleanup.

Conclusion:

This procedure outlines the necessary steps for safely cleaning gross unsanitary matter in a biohazard event. Proper equipment, PPE, and cleaning protocols are essential to ensure safety and effective management of biohazard situations. Always prioritize training and adherence to procedures for optimal outcomes.