Bloodborne Pathogens (BBPs)

1. What Are Bloodborne Pathogens?

• Definition: Infectious microorganisms present in human blood that can cause diseases in humans.
• Examples include:
  • Hepatitis B (HBV)
  • Hepatitis C (HCV)
  • Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)

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2. Modes of Transmission:

• Direct Contact: Blood or bodily fluids entering the bloodstream through cuts or open wounds.
• Needlestick Injuries: Accidental punctures from needles or sharp objects.
• Mucous Membranes: Exposure through the eyes, nose, or mouth.?
• Contaminated Surfaces: Contact with dried blood or infectious materials.

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3. Who Is at Risk?

• Healthcare workers (e.g., nurses, doctors, lab technicians).
• First responders (e.g., EMTs, firefighters, police).
• Janitorial and cleaning staff.
• Workers handling sharps or infectious waste.?

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4. Key Prevention Strategies:

• Universal Precautions: Treat all blood and bodily fluids as potentially infectious.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Use gloves, masks, gowns, and goggles when handling potentially infectious materials.??
• Proper Disposal: Dispose of needles and sharps in designated containers.?
• Hand Hygiene: Wash hands thoroughly after exposure or removing gloves.?

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5. Employer Responsibilities (OSHA Standards):

• Provide BBP training to employees at risk.??
• Offer free Hepatitis B vaccinations to employees with occupational exposure.
• Develop an Exposure Control Plan outlining safety procedures.
• Ensure proper labeling of biohazardous materials and containers.?

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6. Steps to Take After Exposure:

• Immediate Action: Wash the affected area with soap and water; flush mucous membranes with water.
• Report the Incident: Notify a supervisor and document the exposure.
• Medical Evaluation: Seek medical care to assess exposure risk and start treatment if needed (e.g., post-exposure prophylaxis).

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7. Key Components of an Exposure Control Plan:

• Identification of at-risk tasks and roles.?
• Use of engineering controls (e.g., sharps containers, needleless systems).
• Work practice controls to reduce exposure risks (e.g., safe needle handling).
• Post-exposure follow-up procedures.

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8. Diseases Caused by Bloodborne Pathogens:

• Hepatitis B: Causes liver infection; vaccine-preventable.
• Hepatitis C: Chronic liver infection; no vaccine currently available.
• HIV/AIDS: Weakens the immune system, making the body vulnerable to infections.

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9. Training Requirements (OSHA):

• Must be provided annually for employees with occupational exposure.?
• Includes recognizing BBP hazards, understanding exposure controls, and emergency procedures.

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