The exact procedure for responding to a biological spill depends on the material, amount, and location of the spill.

In general, follow these steps immediately after a biological spill occurs:

• Warn others.
• Leave the room; close the door.
• Remove contaminated garments.
• Wash your hands.
• Notify your supervisor.

Follow these steps to clean up a biological spill:

• Wait for any aerosols to settle.
• Put on protective clothing, as appropriate.
• Apply disinfectant to the contaminated area.
• Cover the area with paper towels to absorb the disinfectant.
• Wipe up the towels and mop the floor.
• Autoclave all contaminated wastes.

NOTE:
Spill cleanup must be appropriate for the hazards involved. Call the Risk Management & Safety Office for assistance if the spilled material is radioactive.

If a spill occurs inside a biological safety cabinet, follow these steps:

• Decontaminate materials while the cabinet is operating to prevent contaminants from escaping.
• Spay or wipe all affected equipment with an appropriate disinfectant. (Wear gloves while doing this.)
• If the spill is large, flood the work surface with disinfectant and allow it to stand for 10 to 15 minutes before removing it.