Introduction
Bloodborne pathogens can cause serious illness and even death. The most common diseases associated with bloodborne pathogens include:
- Hepatitis B Virus (HBV)
- Hepatitis C Virus (HCV)
- Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)
Other pathogens that can be transmitted through body fluids include:
- West Nile Virus
- Malaria
- Syphilis
Many occupations place employees at risk of exposure to bloodborne pathogens. Employers can significantly reduce—or even eliminate—these occupational hazards by implementing a combination of effective exposure control strategies that apply to all bloodborne diseases.
Simply providing bloodborne pathogen training is not enough. Employers must also have a formal Exposure Control Plan that is properly documented, actively enforced, and regularly updated to protect workers.