HAZ 005: Biohazard

Question 1

What is the definition of a biological risk? And what are the two types of biological hazards?

Answer 1

Any circumstance that may present a risk of infection and illness to firefighters - a biological risk category as defined in specific legislation

Pathogens
Bacteria or viruses which cause disease

Toxins
Biologically active materials or organisms

Question 2

Name some places where biohazards are likely to exist?

Six answers

Answer 2

Pathology labs

Veterinary and pharmaceutical research establishments

Medical schools and universities

Commercial premises

Food research establishments

Hospitals

Question 3

What is clinical waste?

Give some examples

Answer 3

A specific biological risk, presented by certain types of waste materials, which can cause infection to any person coming into contact with it

Human or animal tissue

Blood or bodily fluids

Excretions

Drugs or other pharmaceutical products

Swabs or dressings

Syringes, needles or other sharp instruments

Question 4

Where can clinical waste be produced?

Answer 4

Medical, nursing, dental, veterinary, pharmaceutical or similar products

Health investigation, treatment, car, teaching or research

The collection of blood for transfusion