Why This Skill Matters in an Emergency or Survival Situation

Safe handling and burial of deceased individuals who have succumbed to viral hemorrhagic fever (VHF) is crucial in preventing the spread of the virus. VHF can be highly contagious and potentially deadly, making it imperative to follow strict safety protocols to protect yourself and others from infection.

What You Need

Materials and Tools

  • Personal protective equipment (PPE): gloves, goggles, face mask, impermeable gown, and boots
  • Body bags or plastic sheeting
  • Disinfectant solution (10% bleach solution or equivalent)
  • Shovel
  • Long-handled tools
  • Disinfectant wipes or spray
  • Signage indicating biohazard area
  • Communication devices for coordinating with other team members

Knowledge

  • Understanding of VHF and its transmission methods
  • Basic first aid and emergency response training
  • Knowledge of local regulations and guidelines for handling infectious waste

Step-by-Step Instructions or Key Techniques

  1. Preparation: Ensure you have all necessary PPE and tools. Familiarize yourself with the deceased’s medical history and any known risks associated with their condition.
  2. Don PPE: Put on gloves, goggles, face mask, impermeable gown, and boots. Double-glove if necessary.
  3. Disinfect Environment: Before handling the body, disinfect the immediate area with a 10% bleach solution or equivalent. Allow it to sit for at least 10 minutes before wiping down surfaces.
  4. Transfer to Body Bag: Carefully transfer the body to a body bag or plastic sheeting. Ensure the body is fully enclosed and sealed.
  5. Disinfect Body Bag: Apply disinfectant solution to the exterior of the body bag and allow it to sit for at least 10 minutes before sealing.
  6. Transport: Use long-handled tools to move the body bag to the designated burial site. Avoid direct contact with the body bag.
  7. Burying the Body: Dig a deep grave, at least 6 feet deep, to prevent contamination of groundwater. Bury the body bag securely.
  8. Disinfect Tools: Thoroughly disinfect all tools and equipment used during the process.
  9. Decontamination: Remove PPE in a controlled manner, ensuring no contamination occurs. Dispose of PPE as biohazard waste.
  10. Signage: Place biohazard signs around the burial site to warn others of the potential risk.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

  • Lack of Proper PPE: Always ensure you have the correct PPE and wear it properly. Double-gloving can provide an extra layer of protection.
  • Improper Disinfection: Follow the recommended disinfection procedures and times to ensure effective decontamination.
  • Direct Contact: Avoid direct contact with the body or body bag. Use long-handled tools to move the body bag.
  • Inadequate Burial Depth: Dig a deep enough grave to prevent contamination of groundwater and soil.
  • Failure to Dispose of PPE Properly: Dispose of all used PPE as biohazard waste to prevent further contamination.

Variations, Tips, or Related Techniques Worth Knowing

  • Alternative Disinfectants: If bleach is unavailable, use other disinfectants approved for VHF decontamination.
  • Communication: Maintain clear communication with other team members to ensure safety and efficiency.
  • Local Regulations: Always adhere to local regulations and guidelines for handling infectious waste.
  • Training: Regularly update your training on handling infectious materials and VHF protocols.
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