| Instructions: Use this Safety Toolbox Talk to spark discussion within the employee group. Test knowledge retention with the associated quiz. |
Bloodborne Pathogens
Introductory Comments
What are bloodborne pathogens? Bloodborne pathogens are
infectious microorganisms in human blood that can cause disease in
humans. All occupational exposure to blood or other potentially
infectious materials (OPIM) places workers at risk for infection from bloodborne pathogens
These pathogens include, but are not limited to, hepatitis B (HBV), hepatitis C (HCV) and human
immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Needlesticks and other sharps-related injuries may expose
workers to bloodborne pathogens. (www.OSHA.gov).
Meeting Start Question
▪ What are bloodborne pathogens?
▪ What can be done to control the exposure to bloodborne pathogens?
▪ What is OPIM?
Critical Safety Points
Blood and other potentially infrectious materials (OPIMs) gushing or dripping out of wounds
can cause HIV, hepatitis, and numerous other serious and potentially fatal diseases. Avenues of
infection include skin punctures, small cuts, acne, or suburn blisters, and your eyes, nose, and
mouth (e.g., if you rub your eyes or nose with contaminated gloves or clothing, you’ve put
yourself at risk.).
Infectious agents can survive in dried blood for up to seven days. Never assume that if blood or
OPIMs are dry, you are not at risk of infections. If you assigned to clean up a spill, cover the
area containing blood or OPIM with paper towels or rags, pour disinfectant solution over the
towels and leave them in place for at least 10 minutes. That will help kill the infectious agents,
then you can clean up the spill.
When injuries happen, employees should alert their manager. The manager or manager on duty reports injuries to Sedgwick at 1-877-576-1911.