The OSHA and closely-related Cal-OSHA Standard were established to help reduce or eliminate workplace hazards that consequently lead to bloodborne pathogen (BBP) exposures. The standards cover all pathogens that are transmitted through exposure to human or non-human primate blood. USC’s Bloodborne Pathogen Program embodies the standards and details critical components such as the Exposure Control Plan (in the event of a BBP exposure) and procedural techniques.
Exposure Control Plan (ECP)
According to OSHA and Cal-OSHA Bloodborne Pathogen Standards, employers must establish a written Exposure Control Plan (ECP). The written document (sample template coming soon): (a) outlines job classifications and tasks that may result in potential exposures to BBP, (b) details best practices that can help minimize exposures, and (c) includes emergency response protocol when there is a suspected exposure.
All human and non-human primate blood, cells, cell lines, tissues, organs, body parts, or other potentially infectious materials (OPIM) are regarded as infectious under the Universal Precautions paradigm; control measures are the engineering controls, administrative controls, and personal protective equipment (PPE) employed to effectively safeguard against exposure.
BBP Training
BBP training is required upon work assignment and annually thereafter. Details on how to enroll in this training as well as other EH&S safety training sessions are available at the Training web page.
BBP Exposure
All needlestick incidents must be documented in the Manager’s Report of Incident form. Employees may participate in the Hepatitis B (HBV) Immunization Program to receive the HBV vaccination.
Puncture wounds, bites, and scratches
- Remove all contaminated PPE immediately.
- Wash the affected area(s) thoroughly with soap (non-abrasive, antibacterial recommended) and water for at least fifteen (15) minutes.
- Control bleeding by applying direct pressure with sterile gauze or bandage.
Extremity/body exposure
- Remove all contaminated clothing and PPE immediately.
- Wash affected area(s) thoroughly under a deluge shower at an emergency eyewash/shower station for at least fifteen (15) minutes.
Eye/nose/mouth or other mucous membrane
- Irrigate the affected area(s) thoroughly at an emergency eyewash/shower station for at least fifteen (15) minutes.
NOTE: Follow emergency notification steps outlined at the Emergency Notification and Incident Reporting web page.