Taser Probe Removal Safety Issues
1) Taser Probes (also known as Taser Darts) qualify as a "Sharp" according to the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) definition of "Sharps". This is important because the proper removal and treatment of a sharp is an OSHA issue in the US.
2) If an individual receives a "needlestick" during the Taser dart removal, or if an individual is exposed to bloodborne diseases during the removal, the incident is called an "exposure incident". The individual subject to the exposure incident may have or have not contracted bloodborne diseases while removing the Taser dart or while having the Taser dart removed. Extensive testing is the next step in the process. This can be an expensive and stressful event. Possible bloodborne diseases that may be contracted include HIV, hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), and other bloodborne pathogens". Methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is also a bloodborne pathogen.
3) Current methods of removal: OSHA does not give clear guidance as to how to remove the probes, the guidelines only state that the removal must be done safely. Current methods of Taser Darts include removing the probes by hand, removing the probe with pliers or similar tools, or using the D.A.R.T. Pro and X-TRACTOR TIP Removal System made by Global Pathogen Solutions. When handling contaminated sharps OSHA guidelines should always be followed.
Special precautions should be taken when a Taser dart is being removed from sensitive areas.
4) Disposal issues: Proper disposal of the contaminated darts includes placing the probes into a puncture resistant, leak-proof container.
5) OSHA requirements and the Bloodborne Pathogen Protocols should be followed when removing a Taser probe. The removal process may also be addressed in an Exposure Control Plan in order to increase aser probe removal safety.
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