The Bloodborne Pathogens Standard states that work surfaces must be decontaminated with an appropriate disinfectant after completion of procedures, when surfaces are noticeably contaminated, after any spill of blood or other potentially infectious materials, and at the end of the work shift, if the surface may have become contaminated since the last cleaning.
A 10% dilution of household bleach (sodium hypochlorite) is an example of an appropriate disinfectant. According to the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI), dilutions should be made at least daily to ensure germicidal activity.4
4. Callihan, Donald R. Protection of Laboratory Workers from Occupationally Acquired Infections: Approved Guideline. 4th ed., Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute, 2014.
