Laboratory Signage

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I manage the POCT Program in several physician offices.  Most of the testing takes place in small rooms, some have a sign designating the rooms as "Lab", others do not.
A question came up, "Should those rooms have warning signage such as "Biohazard" outside the door?". Any input with references will be appreciated.


3 Replies

Hi Felix, hopefully the question did not come up from the 'Environmental Health & Sciences', Environment of Care department - or whatever it's called within the entity/facility holding the authority over the physician offices where you manage the POCT Program. It's those folks I'd steer you to ask the question. The question is actually more complicated than it may seem (regarding Accreditation, such as TJC for the 'environment' and nursing/clinical staff and patient safety, and local/state regulations as well.
Felix, for a piece of unsolicited advice ;-) since I work in ambulatory world as well, since 2008 when our university expanded big time, from one 'on an island' medical school campus to add many physician practices, I've fought really hard with facilities group to not use "Lab" on any sign designating the areas where POC testing or draw stations/phlebotomy is performed/conducted. Finally, related to an inspection, everyone knew I wasn't blowing smoke up their chimneys that "Lab" drew way too much attention (from inspectors) where it didn't need to be (safety equipment, compliance as if we were using CoA or CoC CLIAs). I 'won' that battle and now the signs say "POC Room" and "Phlebotomy" (or "Collection Station") kind of wording.
Good Luck!

If you are handling blood and urine in those rooms, a "Biohazard" sign is necessary. Other than that, I wouldn't add any more signage. 

We put a biohazard sign on non-patient/non-OR rooms where patient samples are being handled (ex. blood, urine, respiratory swabs, etc...).  

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Felix Ortiz-Plaza
8 months ago
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