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Universal Precautions: Footwear & Attire

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To help prevent needlestick injury and pathogen exposure, harm reduction workers should always wear closed shoes while working. Flat shoes that are comfortable for walking, made of leather or another heavy material, are also recommended but not required.

Harm reduction workers are advised to wear long pants made of heavier denim or canvas to site. If skirts or shorts are worn, they should be of heavier fabric and reach at least to the knee. Be thoughtful about wearing dangling jewelry or other accessories that might get caught on things.

Featured Hacks

These featured hacks highlight creative, practical solutions from harm reduction leaders on the ground. From DIY tools to clever workarounds, each one reflects the ingenuity, care, and real-world experience that keeps this movement alive. 

Universal Precautions: Gloves

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Medical gloves should be worn whenever handling exposed or used supplies, especially those that might be used to prepare or use injection drugs such as syringes, cottons, cookers, tourniquets, and ascorbic acid. Gloves should be changed often, especially between activities or participants.
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Hacks for Service and Supply Management

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Many of the harm reduction leaders that were interviewed for Space Hacks talked about how critical it is to effectively manage services, supplies, and inventory in order to maintain community tranquility. It may not feel intuitive, but OGs report that ineffective management of supplies is the number one potential flashpoint for escalated situations during harm reduction services.
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