CAB - Agricultural Safety Resource Guide: 13

- Research Publications -

Agricultural Safety Resource Guide

13 - BLOODBORNE PATHOGENS

Introduction

In December 1991 the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), with the U.S. Department of Labor, published legislation regarding occupational exposure to bloodborne pathogens. This legislation requires that employers provide for the safety of employees who, in the course of their official duties, may be exposed to blood.

OSHA requires that certain agencies have an exposure control plan, that employees be properly trained, and that the hepatitis B vaccine be provided to employees. Control plans vary on the type of personnel being protected, but they must include universal precautions. All body fluids are assumed to be infectious, regardless of the source.

These plans must also include engineering and work practice controls, personal protective devices, proper housekeeping procedures, and separate laundry facilities for contaminated clothing.

Laws and regulations

Bloodborne Pathogens Act: This legislation requires that employers provide for the safety of employees who in the course of their duties may be exposed to blood. Control plans vary based on the type of personnel being protected, but they must include universal precautions. All body fluids are considered to be infectious regardless of the source. The plans must also include engineering and work practice controls, personal protective equipment use, proper housekeeping procedures, and separate laundry facilities for contaminated clothing.

Biohazard control progams

Bloodborne Pathogens Act - For further information contact the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, U.S. Department of Labor.

National Institutes of Health. Biohazards Safety Guide (NIH, 1984).

Centers for Disease Control (CDC) - Biosafety in the Occupational Setting.

Model programs/training materials

National Safety Council (NSC) - Bloodborne Pathogens booklet. An in-depth description of bloodborne pathogens and how to protect yourself on the job. Product #15252-0000.

NSC - Bloodborne Pathogens. A VHS video on essential topics of bloodborne pathogens. An essential guide for the training of employees on this important topic. Product #19491-2222.

NSC - Instructors Resource Manual for Bloodborne Pathogens. A required manual for instructors of the bloodborne pathogens course. Product #19492-0000.

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