Risk to police officers from biohazards encountered in police work.
The risk of contracting infectious disease in the course of police work is reviewed. The specific focus is on Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS), hepatitis and tuberculosis. A review of the relevant literature and an assessment of the biohazard risk specific to police work is provided. The risk of AIDS and hepatitis C is seen to be less than the risk of hepatitis B. For these blood borne diseases, universal precautions are recommended. The application of such precautions to policing is outlined. Immunisation against hepatitis B is recommended. Tuberculosis is seen as a possibly increasing risk. A programme of surveillance is recommended. A review of post-exposure management is provided.
Trottier
A
A
Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
Brown
J
J