Bloodborne Pathogens

Occupational Exposure to human-derived blood and other body substances constitutes potential exposure to bloodborne pathogens. Hepatitis B & C are the most prevalent of these pathogens, as well as HIV. Federal and state laws require that any employee who is potentially exposed during the course of their assigned duties, on-the-job, must be offered specific protections to prevent such exposures and potential infections. Written SOP's for their specific tasks involving blood and other related substances, training, protective equipment, immunization for those agents that have vaccines available, and post-exposure evaluation and follow-up plans are all required. A University standard Exposure Control Plan has been developed and applies to all at-risk employees. Supervisors are required to implement this plan within their research operations that involve potential bloodborne pathogens.