Bloodborne Pathogens

Pathogenic microorganisms (viruses, bacteria, parasites) present in human blood and other potentially infectious materials (OPIM) that can cause disease in humans.

Hepatitis B virus (HBV), Hepatitis C virus (HCV), and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV).

29 CFR 1910.1030 — the OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens Standard.

No. Pathogens can also be transmitted through semen, vaginal secretions, cerebrospinal fluid, synovial fluid, pleural fluid, amniotic fluid, saliva in dental procedures, and breast milk.

Influenza — it is transmitted via respiratory droplets, not through blood or bodily fluids.

An approach to infection control where all human blood and certain body fluids are treated as if known to be infectious for HIV, HBV, and other bloodborne pathogens.

To create a barrier between the worker and potentially infectious materials, protecting the worker from infection.

Gloves, gowns, face shields, masks, eye protection (goggles or safety glasses with side shields), and mouthpieces/resuscitation bags.

No. Recapping needles is one of the leading causes of accidental needlestick injuries and is prohibited unless using a mechanical device or one-handed technique.

At the time of initial assignment and at least annually thereafter.

Yes. The Hepatitis B vaccine is highly effective and must be offered free of charge to employees with occupational exposure within 10 working days of initial assignment.

No. There is currently no vaccine available for Hepatitis C or HIV.

Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), along with fatigue, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, nausea, and dark urine.

No. Hands must be washed with soap and water immediately after removing gloves, regardless of whether glove integrity was maintained.

Squeezing the wound — this can increase the risk of infection by forcing pathogens deeper into tissue.

Contain the spill, apply an EPA-registered disinfectant (such as a 10% bleach solution), clean with absorbent material, dispose of waste in a biohazard bag, and wash hands.

No. Pathogens can be present in body fluids even without visible blood contamination.

At least annually, to reflect changes in tasks, procedures, and technology that eliminate or reduce occupational exposure.

No. All employees who have reasonably anticipated occupational exposure to blood or OPIM require training, regardless of their specific role.

At least 20 known bloodborne pathogens, though HBV, HCV, and HIV are the three of greatest concern.

Sneezing — bloodborne pathogens are transmitted through contact with infected blood or body fluids, not through respiratory droplets.

When a healthcare provider or worker infected with a bloodborne pathogen subsequently passes the infection to another person.

A needlestick (percutaneous) injury.

Up to one week (7 days) at room temperature.

6-30%, depending on the source patient's HBeAg status.

Approximately 1.8% (less than 2%).

A written plan required by OSHA that describes the employer's strategy for eliminating or minimizing employee exposure to bloodborne pathogens, including exposure determination, methods of compliance, and post-exposure procedures.

Devices that isolate or remove the bloodborne pathogen hazard from the workplace, such as self-sheathing needles, sharps disposal containers, needleless IV systems, and splash guards.

No. Disposable gloves are personal protective equipment (PPE), not an engineering control. Engineering controls are devices that physically isolate or remove the hazard.

When they are three-quarters (3/4) full — never overfill a sharps container.

Immediately flush the eyes with clean water or saline for at least 15 minutes, then report the incident and seek medical evaluation.

Nitrile gloves.

Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water.

Personal eyeglasses are NOT acceptable as personal protective equipment for bloodborne pathogen protection. Dedicated safety goggles or face shields must be used.

Immediately wash the affected area with soap and water, report the incident to your supervisor, and seek medical evaluation.