Is a single-handed scalpel blade removal device an engineering control under the Bloodborne Pathogens standard?

OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards and regulations. Our interpretation letters explain these requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances, but they cannot create additional employer obligations. This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of the requirements discussed. Note that our enforcement guidance may be affected by changes to OSHA rules. Also, from time to time we update our guidance in response to new information. To keep apprised of such developments, you can consult OSHA's website at https://www.osha.gov.

February 8, 2023

Dr. Michael Sinnott, MBBS, FACEM, FRACP
Staff and Patient Safety
P.O. Box 5677,
West End,
Brisbane, Queensland, 4101
AUSTRALIA

Dear Dr. Sinnott:

Recapping of contaminated needles.

OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards and regulations. Our interpretation letters explain these requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances, but they cannot create additional employer obligations. This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of the requirements discussed. Note that our enforcement guidance may be affected by changes to OSHA rules. Also, from time to time we update our guidance in response to new information. To keep apprised of such developments, you can consult OSHA's website at https://www.osha.gov.

January 26, 1993

Douglas A. Witte, DDS
Periodontics
1029 East Idel
Tyler, Texas 75701

Dear Mr. Witte:

This is in response to your letter of November 10, addressed to Gilbert Saulter, Regional Administrator in Dallas. You requested clarification of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulation 29 CFR 1910.1030, "Occupational Exposure to Bloodborne Pathogens". Specifically, you asked if the recapping device you submitted, Safe-Cap, meets the intent of the standard.

Applicability of the bloodborne pathogens standard to persons who self-administer injectable medications.

OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards and regulations. Our interpretation letters explain these requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances, but they cannot create additional employer obligations. This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of the requirements discussed. Note that our enforcement guidance may be affected by changes to OSHA rules. Also, from time to time we update our guidance in response to new information. To keep apprised of such developments, you can consult OSHA's website at https://www.osha.gov.

September 6, 2005

Mr. William M. Teringo
President
PDMP, Inc.
105 Loudoun Street, S.W.
Leesburg, VA 20175

Dear Mr. Teringo:

Needle removal procedures for situations where other methods of disposal are infeasible or required by a specific procedure.

OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards and regulations. Our interpretation letters explain these requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances, but they cannot create additional employer obligations. This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of the requirements discussed. Note that our enforcement guidance may be affected by changes to OSHA rules. Also, from time to time we update our guidance in response to new information. To keep apprised of such developments, you can consult OSHA's website at https://www.osha.gov.

December 9, 2004

Ms. Kathy Toriello, RN, MHA, CIC
Corporate Director of Employee Services
NeighborCare
601 E. Pratt Street
Baltimore, MD 21202

Dear Ms. Toriello:

OSHA's position on the use of fingers or a two-handed procedure with a hemostat to remove scalpel blades.

OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards and regulations. Our interpretation letters explain these requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances, but they cannot create additional employer obligations. This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of the requirements discussed. Note that our enforcement guidance may be affected by changes to OSHA rules. Also, from time to time we update our guidance in response to new information. To keep apprised of such developments, you can consult OSHA's website at https://www.osha.gov.


November 21, 2008

Dr. Michael Sinnott
Qlicksmart Pty Ltd.
PO Box 5677
West End
Brisbane 4101
Australia

Dear Dr. Sinnott:

OSHA's position on the use of Q104 needle removal device.

OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards and regulations. Our interpretation letters explain these requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances, but they cannot create additional employer obligations. This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of the requirements discussed. Note that our enforcement guidance may be affected by changes to OSHA rules. Also, from time to time we update our guidance in response to new information. To keep apprised of such developments, you can consult OSHA's website at https://www.osha.gov.


September 25, 2008

William F. Butler
President
Q Care International, LLC
680 Atlanta Country Club Drive
Marietta, GA 30067

Dear Mr. Butler: