Universal Precautions
Universal precautions is an infection-control approach that assumes all blood and certain body fluids are potentially infectious. This method treats every human blood sample and specific body fluids as if they could transmit HIV, HBV, or other bloodborne pathogens, removing the need to determine risk on a case-by-case basis.
Key Guidelines:
- Use universal precautions whenever there is potential exposure to blood or other potentially infectious materials (OPIM).
- 29 CFR 1910.1030(d)(1) requires employees to observe universal precautions to prevent contact with blood or OPIM.
- When it is difficult or impossible to differentiate between body fluid types, all fluids should be treated as potentially infectious.
Precautionary Measures:
- Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, masks, and gowns when exposure to blood or OPIM is anticipated.
- Implement engineering and work practice controls to reduce the risk of exposure.