Corrections_Today_July_August_2019_Vol.84_No.4

Office of Correctional Health

Those who may come in contact with any unknown illicit substance should wear Nitrile gloves. Nitrile gloves are non-allergenic, have good dexterity and sensitivity and are considered appropriate protection for synthetic exposure.

The most basic strategies include preventing the exposure. To that end, staff should never handle suspect substances without protective equip- ment in place. Those who may come in contact with any unknown illicit substance should wear Nitrile gloves. Nitrile gloves are non-allergenic, have good dexterity and sensitivity and are considered appropriate pro- tection for synthetic exposure. Just as important as wearing these gloves is the importance of proper donning and doffing methods. It does no good to don gloves to prevent exposure, only to take them off incorrectly (doffing), thereby creating an inad- vertent exposure. It is also strongly recommended not to use hand sanitizers as these products tend to dry and crack the skin making for an easier route of exposure. If, despite best intentions, a correc- tional professional comes in contact with an unknown substance, the fol- lowing steps are recommended: 1. Move to a well-ventilated area away from the scene of pos- sible exposure.

iStock/ Darwin Brandis

any exposed needles or other para- phernalia on the scene, and under no circumstances should they try and recap a needle. If drug paraphernalia is kept as evidence, or when trans- porting or storing, it is imperative to place them in puncture-resistant containers that is compliant with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations (e.g., “sharps” container). When dealing with any unknown substance, corrections professionals should avoid making it “airborne.” When particulates and powders become aerosolized, inhalation be- comes a likely route of exposure. In some situations, to which corrections

2. Abstain from touching the face, as this increases the ac- cess to mucous membranes. 3. Wash hands with copious amounts of soap and water. 4. Seek medical attention if expo- sure produces symptoms. For proper protection, awareness of cross-contamination is neces- sary. If a corrections professional transmits over the radio (or phone, or computer keyboard) with a gloved hand, they need to clean the radio before touching it with ungloved fin- gers as minute particles of the illicit substance may have transferred to the device. They should be aware of

84 — July/August 2019 Corrections Today