Laboratory Safety and Infection Control
What this domain tests
This domain tests laboratory safety and infection control as they apply to CLIA laboratories. CLIA requires a safe physical environment, but detailed occupational safety rules come largely from OSHA and state law.
Core rules
- The laboratory must have adequate space, lighting, ventilation, plumbing, and equipment for the testing performed.
- Bloodborne pathogen requirements include an exposure control plan, standard precautions, PPE, engineering controls, hepatitis B vaccination offer, and post-exposure evaluation.
- Chemical hygiene and hazardous waste rules apply; safety data sheets and spill procedures must be available.
- Sharps must be handled and disposed of safely; hand hygiene and surface decontamination are routine.
- Staff must know spill response and exposure reporting.
Worked example
A technologist sustains a needlestick from a used vacuum tube needle. Reasoning: the response is not just washing the site. The laboratory must follow its exposure control plan: encourage bleeding, wash with soap and water, report immediately, arrange source evaluation and post-exposure prophylaxis evaluation, and document the incident. The event also triggers review of engineering controls and work practices.
Traps
Assuming CLIA itself contains all safety detail. Ignoring OSHA. Using PPE inconsistently. Not documenting exposure. Treating a spill as a housekeeping issue rather than an infection-control procedure.