Bloodborne Pathogens Universal Precautions in the Workplace

OSHA’s bloodborne pathogen standard protects workers from potentially deadly and serious viruses like the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis B (HBV). Bloodborne pathogens can travel through bodily fluids, such as blood, saliva, and semen.

Healthcare workers are especially at risk of bloodborne pathogens due to the nature of their job. Common transmissions of bloodborne pathogens include direct dermatitis contact, respiratory transmissions, and penetration from infected objects, like needles. Following OSHA’s bloodborne pathogen universal precautions implements best practices and safety measures that protect yourself and others from the risks of bloodborne viruses in your workplace.

Prevention With PPE

Wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) is the most effective way to prevent exposure to and contact with an infection. OSHA recommends healthcare workers wear PPE, such as the following:

N95 face masks
Surgical gowns
Protective eyewear
Disposable gloves
Face shields
Shoe covers
Surgical caps
Aprons

Establishing a barrier between the worker and the contaminated or potentially infected sources protects healthcare workers from bloodborne pathogens. PPE blocks the infection from transferring through open wounds and other orifices.

Hazardous Waste Management

From needle sticks to surgical pads, any item that comes into contact with infected bodily fluids carrying bloodborne pathogens becomes hazardous waste. Proper waste disposal reduces the risks of spreading the infection and keeps bloodborne pathogens contained.

OSHA’s hazardous waste standards include using enclosed disposal containers, labeling hazardous waste, and using bins with leakage or spillage prevention. Any waste collected should then be taken to incineration.

Patient Isolation

When caring for a patient infected with bloodborne pathogens, the patient must be isolated. Creating a more controlled environment—by limiting potential exposures—prevents the spread of the infection. The fewer people who are infected, the safer the workplace and the better the care you provide will be.

Sanitation Practices

Sanitation in healthcare workplaces plays an important role in reducing the risks of the spread of bloodborne pathogens. Proper workplace cleanliness prevents the spread of all kinds of viruses and germs.

Ideal sanitation methods in accordance with OSHA’s bloodborne pathogen precautions include the following:

Using disinfectants
Wearing heavy cleaning gloves
Avoiding placing hands in hard-to-see spots
Setting up new bedspreads per patient
Holding trash bags at a distance from the body

OSHA’s bloodborne pathogen universal precautions relate to all workers in the healthcare field, from doctors to the housekeeping staff. Anyone visiting or working in a healthcare establishment is at risk of potential exposure to bloodborne pathogens. Following these standards and undergoing OSHA training enhances your health and safety on the job. Protect yourself and others from bloodborne pathogens with universal precautions and compliance training.