Ways to reduce the risk of injury from aerosols, spatter, and microscopic particles when operating lathes, model trimmers, and other rotary equipment:
- Ensure Plexiglas shield is in position
- Activate vacuum
- Use protective eyewear
- Lab coat/jacket should be worn at all times during fabrication process
- Do not wear outside of the lab, change daily and launder appropriately
Ways to reduce the risk of cross-contamination:
(Pumice has been shown to pose a potential contamination risk via aerosol or direct contact)
- Change pumice daily
- Mix pumice with clean water, diluted 1:10 bleach, or other appropriate disinfectant
- No need for separate pans for new and existing prostheses if isolated properly
- At a minimum, clean and disinfect pumice brushes and rag wheels daily -
Daily heat sterilization is preferable
- Machine should be cleaned and disinfected daily
Reference: USAF Dental Evaluation & Consultation Service
