An Employer’s Exposure Control Plan (ECP)
A written Exposure Control Plan (ECP) is required under 29 CFR 1910.1030(c) of the OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens Standard. Its purpose is to establish procedures that eliminate or minimize employee exposure to bloodborne pathogens.
Visual: Infographic of an Exposure Control Plan
Does Your Employer Have an ECP?
An ECP is a site-specific, written plan that outlines strategies to protect employees from occupational exposure to bloodborne pathogens and other potentially infectious materials (OPIM). It identifies all employee classifications with potential exposure and details procedures to reduce risk.
Key Components of an ECP Include:
- Engineering and work practice controls
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Housekeeping procedures
- Proper containment and labeling of potentially infectious materials
The plan also specifies site-specific methods for reducing employee risk, such as:
- Providing appropriate training
- Communicating hazard information effectively
- Offering Hepatitis B vaccinations to at-risk employees
- Procedures for post-exposure evaluation and follow-up
- Maintaining proper recordkeeping
- Keeping a sharps injury log
A properly implemented ECP is essential for protecting employees and ensuring compliance with OSHA standards.