SPOILER: How are UK/US surgical antisepsis protocols different?

I'm used to modern television shows where those working in the surgery wear masks over their nose and mouth, sometimes full-face plastic guards, and protective eyewear. Defenses against the spread of blood-borne diseases. In one scene early in the pilot, the story hinges on a surgical team being exposed to body fluids, when they might easily have been kept safe. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_precautions

Is this common practice in UK hospitals? Or just a TV convenience?