Cleaning Up Safely Matters

Unfortunately, cleaning up vomit and bodily fluids is one of those unpleasant situations that happens from time to time. One thing is important to remember: vomit and bodily fluids should be considered biohazardous materials. Universal precautions should always be taken during cleanup.

The most difficult part is usually the initial removal. Here are our recommended steps:

1. Wear personal protective equipment, including disposable gloves and protective eyewear. Regular eyeglasses are not considered protective eyewear.
2. For best results, keep a quality absorbent material on hand to help contain and solidify the spill before removal. Dispose of all residue carefully in a plastic bag, preferably double bagged.
3. Clean the affected area with paper towel to remove the bulk of the spill. Disinfectants cannot work properly if bodily fluids remain on the surface. Cloth towels should only be used if they will be discarded afterward. Dispose of all used paper towel in a sealed plastic bag.
4. Clean and disinfect the area using a hospital grade disinfectant. Allow the disinfectant to remain wet on the surface for at least 10 minutes before drying.
   Discard contaminated gloves, paper towels, and other disposable materials in a plastic lined garbage bag.
5. Thoroughly wash your hands and wrists after cleanup.

What is the real trick, aside from trying to keep your own stomach settled during the process? Keep the surface wet with disinfectant for the full 10 minutes and properly contain all contaminated cleanup materials.

And may the force be with you.