IPC practices required at a DMC

The following work practices are recommended to ensure that microscopy laboratory technicians are not exposed to aerosols from sputum specimens.

1. Administrative Control at DMC

• The layout and design of the DMCs should include natural ventilation, mechanical ventilation (exhaust fan) and unidirectional airflow.
• The sputum collection area should be separated from the laboratory.
• Provisions for biomedical waste management in deep burial pits, sharps pits or appropriate disposal via the health facility biomedical waste management system.

2. Environment Control at DMC 

• Doors and windows should be kept open for air exchanges.
• Sputum must be collected in a well-ventilated area with direct sunlight. It should not be collected inside the laboratories, toilets, waiting rooms, reception rooms, or any other enclosed space.

3. Personnel Level Control at DMC 

• Laboratory technicians should wear laboratory coats, gloves and masks when handling sputum containers and during smear preparation and staining.
• Smears should be prepared in a well-ventilated environment near an open flame.
• Work benches should be cleaned daily with disinfectants.
• Sputum containers, applicator/ broomsticks, and used slides should be disinfected with 5% Phenol overnight before discarding.

Resources

• Guidelines on Airborne Infection Control in Healthcare and Other Settings, 2010.