OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens Standards

Bloodborne pathogens are disease-causing microorganisms transmitted through contact with infected human blood. Because this is a major concern for health care workers, in 1991 the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) published standards for the containment of bloodborne pathogens.

Background

• OSHA's Occupational Exposure to Bloodborne Pathogens standard requires employers of workers exposed to blood and other infectious materials to take preventive measures aimed at reducing the spread of disease. According to OSHA's 2001 revised standards, these measures include the use of safer medical devices, such as needleless systems, use of personal protective clothing and equipment, training, medical surveillance, provision of Hepatitis B vaccines, and the use of signs and labels.

Other Inclusions

• OSHA's standard requires other measures that work in conjunction with those already listed. The first of these is the use of an exposure control plan, which requires employers to conduct a documented assessment of new medical devices designed to decrease injuries. The standard also advocates collecting input on safety measures from employees who are involved in direct patient care, and detailed recordkeeping of any sharps-related injuries.

Significance

• The major bloodborne pathogens concerning health care workers are HIV, and Hepatitis B and C. These diseases can be transmitted through needlesticks, cuts from other sharp objects contaminated by infected blood, and touching the eyes, mouth, or nose after hands have come into contact with patient's blood. The goal of the OSHA Bloodborne Pathogen Standards is to reduce the transmission of bloodborne pathogens through adherence to proper protection methods.