Disinfectants for bloodborne pathogen cleanup

NOTICE: This is an OSHA Archive Document, and may no longer represent OSHA Policy. It is presented here as historical content, for research and review purposes only.

May 19, 1992

Sue Niedzwiecki, RN
Infection Control Coordinator
Standish Community Hospital
and Skilled Nursing Facility
[Recipient address omitted]
Dear Ms. Niedzwiecki:

This is in response to your letter of April 17, in which you requested clarification concerning the use of appropriate disinfectants, as required by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulation, 29 CFR 1910.1030, "Occupational Exposure to Bloodborne Pathogens".

As stated in OSHA Instruction CPL 2-2.44C, "Enforcement Procedures for the Occupational Exposure to Bloodborne Pathogens Standard" (copy enclosed), a product must be registered by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as a tuberculocidal disinfectant in order for OSHA to consider it to be effective in the cleanup of a contaminated item or surface.

A solution of 5.25 percent sodium hypochlorite (household bleach) diluted between 1:10 and 1:100 with water is also acceptable for the cleanup of contaminated items or surfaces.

Quaternary ammonia products are appropriate for use in general housekeeping procedures which do not involve the clean-up of contaminated items or surfaces. Please bear in mind, however, that the term "contaminated" is defined as the presence OR REASONABLY ANTICIPATED PRESENCE of blood or other potentially infectious material.

We hope this information is responsive to your concerns. Thank you for your interest in worker safety and health.

Sincerely,
Patricia K. Clark, Director
Directorate of Compliance Programs