Common workplace hazards: infection control risks

There may be infection control risks in your community services environment. These may include exposure to biological materials such as blood, sweat, sputum, urine and faeces.

Depending on your role you may also be at risk of needle stick injuries and increased exposure to airborne diseases such as colds, flus and some forms of gastroenteritis.

Exposure to these bio-hazardous substances can place you at higher risk of contracting and spreading contagious diseases.

Many of these hazards can be eliminated or appropriately minimised by applying correct infection control strategies, using universal precautions such as hand hygiene and using personal protective equipment. When managing infection control follow the tips listed here.