Overview

This book provides health and safety guidance for managers, health and safety officers and employees in clinical pathology laboratories. The guidance is relevant to the collection and handling of diagnostic specimens in patient care areas as well as the laboratory. The book will help you to identify and assess the risks of infection and take appropiate precautions to control such risks. It also focuses on preparing standard operating procedures and ensuring that everyone is aware of the risks and how to manage them. Contents: Introduction; Health and Safety law; Health and safety management; Categorisation of biological agents; Containment levels; Buildings and accommodation; Standard operating procedures and safe working practices; Equipment; Review and revise practices and procedures; Labelling, transport and reception of specimens; Cleaning, decontamination and waste disposal; Information, instruction and training; Health surveillance and immunisation; Incidents and accidents; Measuring, auditing and reviewing performance; Appendices; References; Further information.