Which items require routine practices and additional precautions when handling?

Blood specimens require routine practices and additional precautions when handling due to the potential risk of exposure to bloodborne pathogens. Handling blood entails significant responsibilities, as it is often considered a biohazard. Standard safety practices such as wearing personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves and face shields, are essential to prevent the transmission of infectious diseases like HIV and hepatitis.

In healthcare and laboratory settings, following protocols including proper disposal of contaminated items, using safety-engineered devices, and practicing hand hygiene are crucial. These measures help minimize risks for healthcare workers and others involved in patient care. While the other items mentioned may pose hazards, blood specimens specifically pose a direct and significant risk of infection, hence the emphasis on the necessity for routine practices and additional precautions.