Bloodborne Pathogens

The term " bloodborne pathogen" refers to a pathogenic microorganism that is present in the human blood and can cause disease in humans.  These pathogens include, but are not limited to: Hepatitis B, C, and HIV (human immunodeficiency virus), malaria, syphilis, and hepatitis D.

Possible routes of transmission includes exposure to blood, or other potentially infectious materials, due to contact with the eyes, mouth or other mucous membranes, non-intact skin, or penetrates the skin.

Who is at risk to an occupational exposure? "Occupational exposure"  means any one who is reasonably anticipated to experience an exposure that result from the performance of an employee's duties.  Some examples include:

• Any employee who is required to provide first aid:
  • Lifequards
  • Security
• Any employee who handles blood products/components
  • Health occupations, including: dental hygiene, nursing
  • Veterinary/lab animal technicians
  • Police science
  • Facilities staff

Bloodborne Pathogens Exposure Control training is required for staff who is considered to have "occupational expsoure" to human blood.covered under our MATC BBP Exposusre Control, meaning staff anticipated to be exposed to human blood based on job duties. Those staff in AAT&I currently covered under our plan (and training requirements) include Vet Tech and other designated staff (on an individual request basis).

The hazards associated with bloodborne pathogens include viruses such as: Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C and HIV. Employees whose tasks may expose them to human blood or blood-containing items are considered occupationally exposed, and must recieve annual Bloodborne Pathogens training. Bloodborne Pathogens training will train the employee in the hazards, risks of exposure, and ways to prevent exposure.

Blood Spills
Only those who have had bloodborne pathogen training can clean up a blood spill, becuase they understand the hazards and how to keep themselves safe while properly handling the clean-up process. If there is a blood spill an you have not had this training, call Custodial at x6030. They will send a trained staff member to clean this up.

Bloodborne Pathogens Program

Click to view MATC's Bloodborne Pathogens Program

Questions? Contact Michael Ring, EH&S Department