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Universal Precautions: Surface Safety

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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. 

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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Universal Precautions and Workplace Safety

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Though not all harm reduction organizations or programs are in need of universal precautions or OSHA considerations, most are. It’s important when setting up a harm reduction space to take into consideration the important and real risks of harm reduction work. This includes the potential for entry and exposure to blood-borne pathogens as well as airborne pathogens.
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