Bloodborne Pathogens Training FAQS
What are bloodborne pathogens?
Bloodborne pathogens are microorganisms present in human blood that can cause disease in exposed humans. They include things like hepatitis B virus, hepatitis C virus, HIV, and almost a dozen other viruses, bacteria, or pathogens.
Who does OSHA's Bloodborne Pathogen Standard apply to?
Any general industry or shipyard employer (of any size) that has one or more employees with occupational exposure falls under 29 CFR 1910.1030. “Occupational exposure” is reasonably anticipated contact with blood or other potentially infectious materials (OPIM) that may result from the performance of an employee’s duties. The standard is not meant solely for healthcare settings. For example, if an employee in a manufacturing facility is designated or expected to perform first aid involving blood-related injuries or to clean up blood spills, then that employee is covered.
Does OSHA require bloodborne pathogen training?
Yes, this training is required for any general industry or shipyard employees who have occupational exposure. The standard does not specify a training duration, but it does list the required elements to cover during training and requires a qualified trainer.
How often do I need to retrain my employees on bloodborne pathogens?
Employees must get initial and annual refresher training, but annual refreshers do not need to be as comprehensive as the initial training. In addition, if tasks or procedures change during the year in a way that affects their exposure, covered employees must be trained in those changes.
How long must bloodborne pathogen records be kept?
The answer depends on the type of record. Training records must be kept for at least three years. If an employee suffers an exposure incident as defined by the standard, a record of the incident must be kept for at least five years. Finally, certain employee medical records must be kept for at least the duration of employment plus 30 years.
What is a sharp, and what is a contaminated sharp?
A sharp is any object that can penetrate the skin. Most people think of needles, but broken glass and box cutter blades are also sharps. When these items are not contaminated with blood or OPIM, the employer can throw these items in the trash. However, when blood or OPIM is present or reasonably anticipated to be present on needles, glass shards, or blades, they’re considered to be contaminated sharps and must be handled with caution. When an employer falls under 1910.1030, contaminated sharps need to be immediately disposed of properly in a sharps container (not in the regular trash).
Does the bloodborne pathogen standard apply to good Samaritans?
No, the standard applies only to employees with occupational exposure, meaning reasonably anticipated contact with blood or OPIM as part of their job duties. If an employee voluntarily assists an injured coworker and is not otherwise designated or expected to perform that assistance, that good Samaritan act is not covered by the OSHA standard.
Are janitors, custodians, or housekeepers covered by the bloodborne standard?
These jobs are not automatically covered. No matter the job, the employer must determine which job classifications or specific tasks and procedures involve occupational exposure. Tasks such as cleaning toilets, emptying trash that may have soiled bandages or napkins, and cleaning up vomit do not normally involve occupational exposure. The employer should still evaluate and make a determination, however. If blood or OPIM is discovered during routine duties, the janitor, custodian, or housekeeper should contact the employee who is designated and trained to handle it.
