Bloodborne pathogens are pathogenic microorganisms present in human blood that can cause disease in humans. These pathogens include, but are not limited to, Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), Hepatitis C Virus (HCV), Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers (e.g. Ebola). [29 CFR 1910.1030(b)]

Hazard

Exposure of housekeeping staff to work environments contaminated with blood or other potentially infectious materials (OPIM).

Requirements under OSHA's Bloodborne Pathogens Standard, 29 CFR 1910.1030

The Bloodborne Pathogens Standard requires precautions when there is occupational exposure to blood or OPIM (as defined by the standard).

OSHA requires employers to ensure that the biosafety officer or other responsible person conducts an exposure determination to determine the exposure of workers to blood or OPIM throughout the hospital setting. [29 CFR 1910.1030(c)(2)(i)].

Recognized Controls and Work Practices

• Develop and implement an appropriate written schedule for cleaning and methods of decontamination for each hospital area to be cleaned.
• This written schedule must be based on the:
  • Location within the facility.
  • Type of surfaces to be cleaned.
  • Amount of contamination.
  • The tasks or procedures to be performed in the area.

For more information, see Hospital-wide Hazards - Bloodborne Pathogens