OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens Standard

Personal protective equipment must be worn if blood or other potentially infectious materials are present or may be present on the sharp. This is important to protect oneself from exposure to bloodborne pathogens and prevent the spread of infections. Personal protective equipment includes items such as gloves, masks, goggles, and gowns, which act as a barrier between the sharp and the individual, reducing the risk of transmission. Wearing personal protective equipment is a standard safety practice in healthcare settings to ensure the well-being of both healthcare workers and patients.

Contaminated sharps should be disposed of immediately or as soon as feasible after use to prevent the risk of accidental needlestick injuries and the spread of infectious diseases. Prompt disposal ensures the safety of healthcare workers and minimizes the potential for contamination or transmission of pathogens. Waiting for a longer period, such as once a week, increases the chances of accidental injuries and the potential for contamination to others.

This statement is true because contaminated sharps, such as needles or blades, can carry infectious agents and pose a risk of transmitting diseases. Sharing or breaking contaminated sharps can increase the chances of accidental injuries and exposure to harmful pathogens. It is important to handle and dispose of contaminated sharps properly to ensure the safety of oneself and others.

Recapping, bending or removing needles is permissible only if there is no feasible alternative or if such actions are required for specific medical or dental procedures.

Employers must ensure that workers are recapping needles by using a mechanical device and a one-handed technique. This is important for the safety of the workers and to prevent needlestick injuries. A mechanical device, such as a needle recapper, can protect the worker's hands from accidental needle pricks while recapping. Additionally, a one-handed technique allows the worker to have better control over the needle and reduces the risk of injury. By implementing both measures, employers can minimize the chances of needlestick accidents and promote a safer working environment.

Sharps containers must be puncture resistant to prevent accidental needle sticks or cuts. They must also be leak proof to prevent any potential contamination or spills. They should be labeled hazardous or color coded red to indicate the presence of potentially infectious materials. Additionally, the containers should be closeable with a lid, flap, or other means of closing to ensure that the contents are securely contained and to prevent any accidental exposure.

You must never reach into a sharps container. Reusable sharps that are contaminated are to be stored in another manner that does not require workers to reach by hand into the sharps container.

Exposure incidents should be reported to Medical Temporaries immediately after it occurs.

Workers who reasonably anticipate contact with blood or other potentially infectious materials (OPIM) during their job duties are considered to have occupational exposure. As a result, they must follow their employer's exposure control plan. This plan is designed to minimize the risk of exposure to bloodborne pathogens and ensure the safety of workers. Therefore, the statement is true.

An employer must make hepatitis B vaccination available to all workers who have occupational exposure.