Bloodborne Pathogens in Construction Environments

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Working in construction means injuries and accidents happen — and with them, potential exposure to blood and other bodily fluids. This course covers the essential information construction workers need to recognize the dangers of bloodborne pathogens, understand their rights and protections under OSHA’s general duty clause, and take the right steps to protect themselves before and after an exposure incident.

Course Highlights

• Overview of bloodborne pathogens, including HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C — their symptoms, transmission routes, available treatments, and vaccines
• How bloodborne pathogens can be transmitted on construction job sites, including through skin abrasions, cuts, and contaminated sharp objects
• The purpose and components of a written Exposure Control Plan, including how it protects workers and outlines site-specific procedures
• How to identify biohazard labels, regulated waste containers, and contaminated surfaces on a job site
• Safe work practices, PPE use, and proper housekeeping methods to minimize the risk of exposure
• Hepatitis B vaccination options, including employer-provided programs and post-exposure vaccination series
• Step-by-step procedures to follow in the event of an accidental exposure incident, including immediate response actions and reporting requirements
• Post-exposure protocols, including medical evaluation, blood testing, and available treatments such as post-exposure prophylaxis

By the end of the course, you will have learned:

• The key bloodborne pathogens that pose a health risk to construction workers, how they are transmitted, and how they can be prevented or treated
• How OSHA’s general duty clause and bloodborne pathogen standard apply to construction workers and maintenance personnel
• What an Exposure Control Plan contains and how it works to protect you on the job
• How to recognize biohazard labels and properly handle regulated waste and contaminated materials
• Safe work practices and housekeeping procedures that reduce your risk of bloodborne pathogen exposure
• Your rights and options regarding the Hepatitis B vaccine, including employer-provided vaccination programs
• The correct steps to take immediately following an accidental exposure incident, including washing, containing, disinfecting, and reporting
• What to expect during the post-exposure evaluation process, including medical review, confidentiality protections, and potential treatment options

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