Today, the world is focused on the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet, the risk for bloodborne pathogen exposure continues and has even increased.
Disposable syringes and needles pose the highest risk for exposure. With the push to vaccinate the entire population, more people are at risk for needle sticks. This makes workplace safety and bloodborne pathogens training certification a high priority.
Every person who works with needles and other sharps must learn about staying safe at work. Keep reading to learn how to reduce your staff’s risk of blood exposure.
Examples of Workplace Bloodborne Pathogens
Healthcare workers are at high risk for bloodborne pathogen exposure. Yet, they’re not the only ones. Other at-risk employees include:
- First responders
- Tattoo artists
- Housekeeping personnel
- Blood donation center employees.
- Mass COVID-19 vaccination center staff that handle needles
Exposures can lead to over 20 different illnesses. There are three diseases that represent the highest risk. These include hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
Common Routes of Exposure
There are several activities that can cause accidental exposures. Examples include:
- While inserting or removing needles
- When accessing IV lines
- When passing equipment to another staff member
- Accidental collision with the sharp or co-worker
- During the transfer and processing of specimens
- After use when activating safety features, recapping, and clean up
- While taking a sharp to the disposal container and during disposal
Mucocutaneous exposure can occur with blood or other potentially infectious materials (OPIMs). Splashes or contact with non-intact skin or mucous membranes presents another route of exposure.
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Standards
The OSHA Bloodborne Pathogen Standard was amended in 2000. The Needlestick Safety and Prevention Act defines worker safeguards. It focuses on bloodborne pathogen exposure plans, work practice, and engineering controls.
Organizations must put these prescribed practices in place to limit or remove risks. Employers must maintain Sharps Injury Logs and Exposure Control Plans. Workers should have access to commercial safety medical devices as well.
Workplace Safety Tips
All at-risk workers should follow universal precautions. This includes wearing the proper personal protective equipment (PPE) as prescribed. Thoroughly wash hands and exposed skin after procedures or contamination.
Place all sharp items directly into a puncture-resistant container after use. Employers must keep required PPE and equipment available and in good condition. If it’s not readily accessible, employees are less likely to use it.
Workplace Safety and Bloodborne Pathogens Certification
At-risk employees must receive bloodborne pathogen training when starting a new job. Annual training is then required for all applicable personnel.
This yearly training is a refresher and doesn’t have to replicate the initial training. OSHA allows flexibility to meet the staff’s background and responsibilities.
The course should include both the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and OSHA standards. At the end of the course, employees may complete an examination. After passing the test, they’ll receive a bloodborne pathogens training certification of completion.
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Providing staff members workplace safety and bloodborne pathogens certification meets OSHA standards. HIPAA Exams is IACET accredited and the most trusted source for compliance training.
Employees can access our online training courses anytime from anywhere. They’ll also receive continuing education credits. We offer low-cost accredited courses with bulk pricing options. Get in touch today to find the right course to meet your needs.