We would like to discuss an important topic that relates to workplace safety: bloodborne pathogens and first aid. In this newsletter, we will cover the following sections:
- What are bloodborne pathogens?
- How to keep yourself and your workplace safe
- Statistics around bloodborne pathogens in the workplace
- Conclusions
What are Bloodborne Pathogens?
Bloodborne pathogens are microorganisms that can cause serious illnesses or infections if they enter the body. Examples of pathogens include Hepatitis B (HBV), Hepatitis C (HCV), and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV).
In the workplace, employees can be exposed to bloodborne pathogens through accidental needlesticks, cuts from contaminated equipment, or exposure to bodily fluids during first aid situations.
How to Keep Yourself and Your Workplace Safe
Employers have a responsibility to ensure that their workplace is safe and free from hazards, including those related to bloodborne pathogens.
Here are some ways to keep yourself and your workplace safe:
- Provide appropriate training: Employers should provide training to all employees on how to prevent exposure to bloodborne pathogens. This includes information on how to properly dispose of contaminated materials, how to use personal protective equipment (PPE), and what to do in the event of exposure.
- Use personal protective equipment: Employees should always use PPE when necessary, such as gloves, masks, and eye protection.
- Access to first aid supplies: Employers should have first aid supplies readily available in the workplace.
- Have a plan in place: Employers should have a plan in place to respond to potential exposure, including procedures for reporting incidents, providing medical treatment, and following up with affected employees.
- Properly disposing of contaminated materials: Employers should provide appropriate containers for the disposal of contaminated materials, and employees should be trained on how to use them.
Statistics Around Pathogens in the Workplace
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), healthcare workers are at the highest risk for exposure to bloodborne pathogens. However, workers in other industries, such as emergency responders, janitorial staff, and tattoo artists, are also at risk.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) estimates that 5.6 million workers in the healthcare industry and related occupations are at risk of exposure to bloodborne pathogens. In 2019, there were approximately 4,170 reported cases of Hepatitis B and 2,012 reported cases of Hepatitis C among healthcare workers in the United States.
Conclusion
Bloodborne pathogens pose a serious risk to employees in many industries and It is the responsibility of employers to ensure that their workplace is safe and free from hazards. This includes providing appropriate training, personal protective equipment, and access to first aid supplies. By taking the necessary steps to prevent exposure and being prepared for medical emergencies, we can create a safer and healthier work environment for all.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Bloodborne Infectious Diseases: HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C. https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/bbp/
- Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Bloodborne Pathogens and Needlestick Prevention. https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/bloodbornepathogens/
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Surveillance for Viral Hepatitis – United States, 2019. https://www.cdc.gov/hepatitis/statistics/2019surveillance/index.htm#tabs-6-12-0
