GrifWell Services. Petitt Projects
Blood borne Pathogens
This course will cover the key elements of an appropriate blood borne pathogens program including the OSHA standard which limits occupational exposure to blood and other potentially infectious materials since any exposure could result in transmission of blood borne pathogens, which could lead to disease or death. Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS), Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C are serious concerns for workers exposed to blood and other potentially infectious materials. Blood borne pathogen exposure may occur in many ways, but needle stick injuries are the most common cause. Exposure may also occur through contact of contaminants with the nose, mouth, eyes, or skin.
The standard covers all employees who could be “reasonably anticipated” to face contact with blood and other potentially infectious materials as a result of performing their job duties. To reduce or eliminate the hazards of occupational exposure, an employer must implement an exposure control plan for the work site with details on protection measures. Engineering controls are the primary means of eliminating or minimizing employee exposure and include the use of safer medical devices. Work practice controls such as hand washing are stressed by the standard. Appropriate personal protective equipment must be used when necessary. The standard requires that the Hepatitis B vaccination be made available to all employees who have occupational exposure to blood. The standard specifies procedures to be made available to all.
Upon completion of the lesson, participants will be able to:
Give at least 3 examples of workers who are at risk of exposure to
blood borne pathogens
List the three ways exposure to blood borne pathogens commonly occurs.
Describe at least 5 key aspects of a Blood borne Pathogen Exposure Control Plan.
Explain how properly used PPE and appropriate housekeeping methods protect
against exposure to blood borne pathogens.
List three important steps to take if exposed to a blood borne pathogen.
