By the Numbers: Bloodborne Pathogens

DID YOU KNOW?

Q: What are bloodborne pathogens?

A: Infectious microorganisms in human blood that can cause diseases in humans.

There is a staggering statistic about injuries with bloodborne pathogens. Roughly 3 million occupational injuries occur every year.

The major blood pathogens are:

• Hepatitis B (HBV)
• Incubation period is 45 to 160 days.
• Hepatitis C (HCV)
• Incubation period is 14 to 180 days.
• Human Immunodeficiency Virus
• Incubation period ranges from a few months to 10 years or more.

KEEP IN MIND

Bloodborne pathogens can be transmitted through blood and other bodily fluids through:

• Ingestion
• Sexual contact
• Use of dirty needles
• Direct blood to blood contact
• Contact with mucous membranes
• Open cuts and sores

Prevention of Bloodborne Pathogens

• Take Universal Precautions and treat all blood, bodily fluids, and any other objects as if they are infected.

Engineering Controls:

• Sharps containers for disposing of used needles
• Mechanical devices to pick up contaminated items
• Self-capping syringes

Administrative Controls:

• Proper housekeeping, sanitation, and disposal procedures
• Clearly labeling sharps container
• Not eating, drinking, or applying makeup in work areas

PPE (Last Line of Defense)

• Disposable gloves
• Safety glasses and face shields
• Protective coverings (i.e mask)
• Ventilation barriers

REPORT EXPOSURE IMMEDIATELY