After being exposed to contaminated material, what should you do next?

The correct response is to report the exposure incident without delay. Timely reporting is crucial when exposed to contaminated material because immediate action can significantly mitigate the risk of infection and ensure that appropriate medical evaluations and interventions are initiated.

When an exposure occurs, it is essential to inform supervisors and the relevant safety officers so that they can assess the situation, provide necessary support, and document the incident properly. This reporting process is often a part of workplace protocols designed to protect all employees by identifying and addressing hazards promptly. Delay in reporting can result in complications, such as worsening health outcomes or additional exposure risks to others.

Other options, such as finishing your workday or waiting until the end of the week, would undermine safety protocols and could lead to severe consequences for both the exposed individual and their coworkers. Informing a coworker may not ensure that the appropriate procedures are followed, and it often does not fulfill the required reporting responsibilities that a supervisor or safety officer must undertake.