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755 Bloodborne Pathogens Program Management
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The Purpose of the Standard

The purpose of the standard is to minimize or eliminate occupational exposure to disease-carrying microorganisms or "pathogens" that can be found in human blood and body fluids. To do that, employers are required to implement a formal Bloodborne Pathogens Program (BBP) including a written Exposure Control Plan that details the following actions:

  • Establish an exposure control plan
  • Update the exposure control plan annually
  • Implement the use of universal precautions
  • Identify and use engineering controls
  • Identify and ensure the use of work practice controls
  • Provide personal protective equipment (PPE)
  • Make available hepatitis B vaccinations to all workers with occupational exposure
  • Make available post-exposure evaluation and follow-up
  • Use labels and signs to communicate hazards
  • Provide information and training to workers
  • Maintain worker medical and training records

We will be covering each of these topics in the remaining course modules.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

1-3. What is the purpose of OSHA's Bloodborne Pathogens standard?