ELIMINATION (Remove the hazard entirely): Remove broken or unsafe equipment , Stop using glass collection tubes and switch to safer alternatives., Stop unnecessary manual handling tasks by removing heavy boxes or supplies from low storage., Remove aggressive or violent clients from the collection area (send to another service)., Remove clutter / unnecessary furniture to prevent trips., Stop accepting specimens that are leaking or improperly, SUBSTITUTION (Replace with something safer): Use safety-engineered needles instead of standard needles., Replace bleach-based cleaning products with hospital-grade disinfectants safer for staff., Swap glass containers for plastic, shatter-proof ones., Use digital forms and electronic referrals instead of paper to reduce contamination risks., Replace manual sharps disposal with hands-free, ENGINEERING CONTROLS (Isolate people from the hazard): Sharps containers mounted at eye level to prevent overreaching and needlestick injuries., Self-sheathing needles or vacuum collection systems., Needleless systems for transfer of samples., Splash guards on benches during sample processing., Handwashing sinks located in each collection room., Good ventilation and extraction fans (essential for airborne risks)., Automatic doors to reduce contact with handles., Height-adjustable chairs and beds to reduce manual handling., Specimen pass-through hatches to limit staff movement., Touch-free sanitiser dispensers, ADMINISTRATIVE CONTROLS (Policies, procedures, training): Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for blood collection, sharps use, waste handling., Infection control training (hand hygiene, PPE, spill response)., Staff rotation schedules to prevent fatigue and errors., Cleaning schedules for surfaces, collection chairs, and equipment., Sharps injury reporting system with incident forms., "No eating/no phones" policy in clinical zones., Rostered disinfection of high-touch points (door handles, benches)., Signage reminding staff and clients about hygiene and PPE., Regular equipment maintenance logs (centrifuge, fridges, ECG machines)., Correct waste segregation policy, PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE): Gloves for all blood and specimen handling., Masks (surgical or N95 depending on risk)., Face shields / goggles for splash-prone procedures., Disposable gowns or aprons for messy procedures., Closed-in, non-slip shoes,

Hierarchy of Controls – Pathology Collection

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