Aerosol Risk

Health care workers and surgeons are exposed to a high risk of exposure to blood-borne diseases. Conjunctival contamination is a real concern and there have been numerous studies which have assessed the risks. Eye protection, or face shields, should be used as a routine measure as part of any infection control protocol, as part of the appropriate apparel, and those that fasten across the top of the head offer the greatest safety.

Aerosols in particular pose a risk to the eyes. When blood or other body fluids are mechanically disturbed, aerosols can be generated. These can contain blood borne pathogens such as hepatitis B virus, hepatitis C virus
and HIV.

During any operating room procedure, theatre personnel risk contamination to the eyes from:

Splattering of blood from power tools
The use of any irrigation fluids, from indirect aerosols or direct droplets
The risk of bone fragments or debris generation