OSHA’s Bloodborne Pathogen Standard, 29 CFR 1910.1030, needs to be reviewed in detail when establishing a bloodborne pathogen protection program. This standard applies to all occupational exposure to human blood, human blood components, products made from human blood, and other potentially infectious material as defined in the standard.
There are many elements to consider when establishing compliance with this standard. Among other requirements, an Exposure Control Plan needs to be written and implemented to eliminate or minimize employee exposure to bloodborne pathogens. An exposure determination detailing the job classifications, tasks, and procedures that are covered needs to be conducted and documented. Other topics to cover include required PPE, hazard identification, safer sharps options, waste disposal practices, and proper work practices. All affected employees must be offered a hepatitis B vaccine, and post-exposure evaluation and follow-up consultation. Employees must be trained on the topics stipulated in the standard upon assignment to tasks with occupational exposure and at least annually thereafter.
Be sure to double check the standard and ensure your program is in compliance on an ongoing basis.