Bloodborne Pathogens
Diann Stedman
Bloodborne pathogens are disease-causing microorganisms found in human blood that can cause illness in humans. The most common ones are Hepatitis B virus (HBV), Hepatitis C virus (HCV), and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV - the virus that causes AIDS). Persons who work in the health care field, laboratory personnel handling human blood or tissues, and emergency response personnel are just some occupations where exposure to bloodborne pathogens is possible. Proper work practices, the use of PPE, and training can help prevent exposure to these organisms.
Program Applicability
The Bloodborne Pathogen Program applies to University employees and visitors who could be exposed to human blood or other potentially infectious body fluids during the course of their work activities. This program always includes employees such as athletic trainers, health care personnel, laboratory technicians, and lifeguards. It may also include full‑time or part‑time police and security personnel and maintenance or janitorial employees whose job duties may involve cleaning up blood or bodily fluids. The program does not apply to clerical, office, or administrative personnel, or to faculty who do not handle human blood or infectious body fluids as part of their work.
Program Requirements
The Bloodborne Pathogen Program establishes requirements to prevent occupational exposure and protect affected employees. Key requirements include:
- Exposure Control Plan
Work units must develop and implement a Unit‑Specific Exposure Control Plan. - Supervisor Responsibilities
Supervisors must identify positions covered by the program, ensure affected employees receive required training, and maintain program compliance. - Hepatitis B Vaccination
Affected employees must be offered Hepatitis B vaccination at no cost. - Post‑Exposure Response
Employees who experience an exposure must report it immediately to their supervisor and be offered medical consultation without delay. - Regulated Medical Waste Disposal
Regulated medical waste must be disposed of properly through Environmental Health and Safety (EHS). - Training Requirements
Affected employees must complete Bloodborne Pathogen training. - Recordkeeping Requirements
Work units must maintain the exposure control plan and training records for three years.
Documents and Forms
Program:
- Bloodborne Pathogens Exposure Control Plan
Procedure/ Lists:
- Bloodborne Pathogen FAQ
- Bloodborne Pathogen Risk Assessment
Forms:
- Bloodborne Pathogen Immunization Determination