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Protect staff from bloodborne pathogens

Lab Safety Advisor, July 18, 2006

 

Protect staff from bloodborne pathogens

The OSHA bloodborne pathogen standard has been in effect since 1992 and covers all lab employees exposed to blood and body fluids. Exposure occurs from needlesticks, cuts from contaminated sharps (broken glass, scalpel blades, etc.), and contact with eyes, nose, mouth or skin that has a cut. Bloodborne pathogens may also be transmitted through the mucous membranes of the eyes, nose, and mouth. A splash of contaminated blood can get into any of these openings quite easily if you do not wear the proper PPE, opening the door for transmission of a disease caused by a bloodborne pathogen.

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