Scope

This policy applies to all staff, volunteers, and participants of the Southern Peninsula Basketball Association (SPBA) during games and trainings. It is aimed at ensuring the safe and proper handling of blood spills to minimize the risk of infection and injury.

Audience

This policy applies to all staff, coaches, referees, players, volunteers, and any other individuals involved in games and trainings at SPBA.

Guidelines for Blood Spills

1. Training: SPBA will provide training to all staff, coaches, and volunteers on proper procedures for handling blood spills. This training will include information on personal protective equipment (PPE) usage, spill clean-up procedures, and bloodborne pathogen exposure prevention.

2. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): All staff, coaches, and volunteers involved in games and trainings must use appropriate PPE when handling blood spills. PPE may include gloves, masks, safety glasses, and disposable aprons.

3. Spill Clean-up Kits: SPBA will provide spill clean-up kits in easily accessible locations, such as first aid rooms, around the association facilities. These kits will contain necessary supplies, including gloves, absorbent materials, and disinfectants.

4. Immediate Response: In the event of a blood spill, it is essential to respond immediately to minimize the risk of contamination. The Customer Service Officer, Referee Supervisor or responsible for the spill should follow these steps:

• Put on appropriate PPE to protect against exposure.
• Isolate the area to prevent others from coming into contact with the spill.
• Absorb the spilled blood using absorbent materials, such as disposable towels or spill pads.
• Dispose of the contaminated materials in biohazard bags or containers.
• Clean the affected area using an appropriate disinfectant, following the manufacturer's instructions.
• Properly dispose of used PPE and contaminated materials in designated biohazard waste containers.

5. Reporting and Documentation: Any blood spills should be reported immediately to the designated staff member or supervisor. The incident should be accurately documented on the appropriate incident report form.

Prevention of Bloodborne Pathogen Exposure

1. Vaccination: All staff, coaches, and volunteers are encouraged to receive appropriate vaccinations, such as Hepatitis B, to protect against bloodborne pathogens.

2. Hand Hygiene: Proper hand hygiene is essential in preventing the spread of bloodborne pathogens. All individuals must wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer after handling blood spills or removing PPE.

3. Disposal of Biohazard Waste: Contaminated materials, including gloves, towels, and other PPE, must be disposed of properly in designated biohazard waste containers. These containers should be clearly labeled and regularly emptied.

4. Post-Exposure Procedures: In the event of exposure to blood or other potentially infectious materials, individuals should follow designated post-exposure procedures, including immediate reporting to a supervisor and seeking medical evaluation and treatment as necessary.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Failure to comply with this policy may result in disciplinary action, including verbal or written warnings, suspension, or termination of employment or participation with SPBA. The severity of the consequences will depend on the nature and frequency of the non-compliance.

SPBA reserves the right to revise or update this policy at any time. All staff, coaches, volunteers, and participants will be notified of any changes and are expected to adhere to the updated policy.