Bloodborne Pathogens in Industrial Environments
Working in an environment where contact with blood or bodily fluids is possible puts employees at risk for serious, life-threatening infections. This course covers the most common bloodborne pathogens found in industrial settings, how OSHA’s Bloodborne Pathogens Standard protects workers, and the safe work practices, protective measures, and post-exposure procedures every employee needs to know to stay safe on the job.
Course Highlights
- Overview of key bloodborne pathogens — HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C — including their symptoms, transmission routes, available treatments, and prevention strategies
- Explanation of OSHA’s Bloodborne Pathogens Standard and the requirements it places on employers, including the creation and maintenance of a written Exposure Control Plan
- Proper use of biohazard labels, red containers, and warning signage to identify contaminated surfaces, equipment, and regulated waste
- Safe work practices for minimizing exposure risk, including correct handwashing techniques, mucous membrane rinsing, and the handling of potentially infectious materials
- Housekeeping procedures for decontaminating work surfaces and safely disposing of contaminated materials, PPE, and regulated waste
- Information on the Hepatitis B vaccination program, including employee rights, the declination process, and post-exposure vaccination options
- Step-by-step procedures to follow after an accidental exposure incident, including immediate response actions, supervisor notification, incident reporting, and medical evaluation protocols
By the end of the course, you will have learned:
- How HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C are transmitted, what symptoms to watch for, and what treatment and prevention options exist for each
- What OSHA’s Bloodborne Pathogens Standard requires of your facility and how the Exposure Control Plan is designed to protect you
- How to recognize biohazard labels and understand what they indicate about contaminated materials and areas
- How to apply standard precautions by treating all blood and bodily fluids as potentially infectious at all times
- How to safely handle, clean up, and dispose of potentially infectious materials and contaminated equipment using proper tools and approved waste containers
- Your rights and responsibilities regarding the Hepatitis B vaccine, including how to access it at no cost and what is required if you choose to decline
- How to respond effectively to an accidental exposure incident, including immediate first aid steps, reporting requirements, and what to expect during the post-exposure medical evaluation process