North Carolina Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) State Practice Exam

How should equipment covered in blood be cleaned?

1. Soap and water solution

2. 1 part bleach, 10 parts water

3. Disinfectant wipes

4. Vinegar and water solution

The correct answer is: 1 part bleach, 10 parts water

Using a solution of 1 part bleach to 10 parts water is the most effective method for cleaning equipment covered in blood due to the strong disinfectant properties of bleach, specifically sodium hypochlorite. This solution is capable of inactivating a wide range of pathogens, including viruses, bacteria, and fungi that may be present in blood. The importance of dilution is crucial; undiluted bleach can be corrosive and may damage equipment or surfaces. The recommended ratio ensures that the solution retains its efficacy as a disinfectant while minimizing potential harm to the items being cleaned. This method aligns with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines for dealing with potential bloodborne pathogens and is widely accepted in healthcare and safety protocols. In contrast, while soap and water can clean visible dirt and remove some pathogens, it may not effectively disinfect against bloodborne pathogens. Disinfectant wipes may not contain the necessary concentration of active ingredients to adequately treat bloodborne pathogens if not specifically designed for such use. Additionally, vinegar and water solutions are not effective as disinfectants against pathogens found in blood. This highlights the superiority of the bleach solution in circumstances requiring thorough disinfection.