MSDSs

Appendix 3: Postexposure Evaluation and Follow-Up Procedure

In the rare occurrence of an employee or student being exposed to blood or other potentially infectious material, follow the procedures described below. In the event of an exposure incident, it is the department head's responsibility to ensure that a confidential medical evaluation and follow-up is made available to the exposed person.

STUDENTS

Students should notify their supervisor, call the University's Health Service (491-8100 in Evanston, 908-8134 in Chicago--available 24 hours), and consult with a physician. The physician will determine what course of treatment is appropriate for the exposure incident. The physician's evaluation should include the required elements listed in your Exposure Control Plan. If the exposure is coupled with life threatening circumstances, call 911 immediately.

EMPLOYEES

Evanston Campus Employees

Employees should notify their supervisor and call Occupational Medicine Evanston/Glenbrook Association (OMEGA) (847) 657-7466, which the University has designated as the primary medical care facility for work-related injuries and illnesses. After normal working hours, employees should seek medical attention at Evanston Hospital's emergency room. It is important that injured employees taken to Evanston Hospital should themselves as Northwestern University OMEGA patients.

Chicago Campus Employees

Employees should notify their supervisor and call Northwestern Memorial Hospital Corporate Health at 312/926-8282 both during business hours and after hours. The healthcare professional on the line will evaluate the exposure. Do not go to the emergency department unless instructed by the healthcare professional answering your call.

Again, if the exposure incident is coupled with life threatening circumstances, call 911 immediately. UP will contact fire department paramedics and direct them to the injured person for treatment and transportation to the hospital emergency room.

For incidents occuring on either campus, notify the Office of Risk Management, Safety and Loss Prevention Division, at 1-3253, regarding workers' compensation if the exposed individual is an employee.

All incidents shall be reported to ORS for review by the Chemical and Biological Safety Committee.

Internal ORS Links: What's New | Emergency Response | Administration | Biological Safety | Chemical Safety | Hazard Communication | Laboratory Safety | New to NU? | Radiation Safety

External ORS Links: Northwestern Home | Vice President for Research | Big 10 EH&S Links | Risk Management | Employee Safety Handbook

ORS - Evanston • 2145 Sheridan Road • Tech NG71 • Evanston, IL 60208
ORS - Chicago • 303 E. Chicago Avenue • Ward B106 W223 • Chicago, IL 60611
Phone 847/491-5581 or 312/503-8300 • FAX 847/467-2797 or 312/503-0547
e-mail researchsafety@northwestern.edu
Last Revision 05/16/2007
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