Text For Citation: 01 Item/Group: 001 Hazard: BLOODBORNE

Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970: The employer did not furnish employment and a place of employment which were free from recognized hazards that were causing or likely to cause death or serious physical harm to employees in that employees were exposed to Hepatitis B virus, human immunodeficiency virus and other bloodborne pathogens: (a) Employees who were offered and had consented to receive the Hepatitis B virus vaccine series free-of-charge were not given the vaccine series as of July 30, 1991. (b) All healthcare workers employed as of May 20, 1991 had not received training on bloodborne pathogens to inform them about the epidemiology, the modes of transmission, and the prevention of Hepatitis B virus and human immunodeficiency virus, as well as protective measures to be taken to prevent exposure. Among other methods, one feasible and acceptable abatement method to correct this hazard is: (1) Begin administration of the Hepatitis B virus vaccine series to those employees who have consented to receive the series. Vaccine administration should follow cur- rent and accepted medical practice specific to the immunization guidelines of the vaccine manufacturer. (2) Ensure that all exposed and potentially exposed health- care employees are adequately trained about bloodborne pathogens prior to working in patient care areas.