What critical safety requirement must high-risk individuals meet concerning pre-existing wounds before working in potentially contaminated soil or water?
Answer
Ensuring all cuts, scrapes, or open wounds are completely covered with waterproof dressings
A critical aspect of prevention for individuals engaged in tasks where contact with contaminated soil or fresh water is unavoidable is meticulous barrier protection for the skin. Since the bacteria commonly enter through abrasions, it is mandatory that any existing breaks in the skin—such as cuts or scrapes—are thoroughly sealed off using waterproof dressings. This physical barrier prevents the organism from gaining entry via the most common portal, ensuring that even unavoidable contact with environmental contaminants does not lead to systemic infection.
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