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Basic universal precautions for surfaces that should be used at each harm reduction services sites include:

  • All surfaces touched by supplies should be wiped down with a broad-spectrum antimicrobial surface cleaner at the beginning and end of each shift.
  • Harm reduction staff or volunteers should wipe down all surfaces used by more than one person, including pens, clipboards, chairs, desks, cabinet fronts, floors, doors, steering wheels, and so on. This should be done regularly/at least once per month with a broad spectrum anti-microbial surface cleaner.

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. 

As discussed in the part of the site on preventing escalation, it is essential for harm reduction workers to stay present and remain centered and relatively calm during escalated events. This is one of the hardest things to do, but staying present and centered during any kind of escalated situation at your harm reduction site is essential to de-escalation.
These principles were developed over a period of about four years in the 1990s amid much debate among early harm reductionists, who came to consensus on these enduring principles of harm reduction.