Bloodborne Pathogens
Recognizing Tasks and Activities Involving Exposure to Blood
The OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) defines an occupational exposure as "reasonably anticipated skin, eye, mucous membrane, or parenteral contact with blood or other potentially infectious materials that may result from the performance of an employee's duties."
OSHA's definition of occupational exposure excludes exposures that are not reasonably expected. It also excludes exposures that are not a required part of your normal job.
If you are unsure about whether an activity may involve exposure to blood or other potentially infectious materials, ask your supervisor or contact EH&S at x4111.
BBP Exposure Plan (PDF)
Potentially Infectious Materials
The following list represents the potentially infectious materials that are regulated by OSHA and which require careful management and control:
- Human blood, blood components, and blood products
- Semen or vaginal secretions
- Cerebrospinal fluid
- Synovial, pleural, peritoneal, or amniotic fluids
- Saliva in dental procedures (frequently contains blood)
- Any body fluid visibly contaminated with blood
- All body fluids in situations where it is difficult or impossible to differentiate between body fluids
- Any unfixed tissue or organs (other than intact skin) from a human (living or dead)
- HIV-containing cell or tissue cultures, organ cultures, and HIV or HBV-containing culture medium or other solutions
- blood, organs, or other tissues from experimental animals infected with HIV or HBV
Bloodborne Pathogens Training
Initial Training
OSHA Bloodborne Pathogen Standard (29CFR 1910.1030) requires that all employees who work with potentially infectious materials attend a bloodborne pathogens training annually. In addition to providing useful information regarding exposure to biological agents, the training classes offer very useful information regarding what Personal Protective Equipment to wear, proper biological waste disposal and what to do in the event of an emergency.
Annual Refresher Training
Annual refresher training is required for all personnel exposed to potentially infectious materials and bloodborne pathogens.
Training classes can be scheduled as needed. Please contact EH&S for more information at extension 4111.