Safety tip of the Week – Bloodborne Pathogens (BBP) Safety

In the workplace, bloodborne pathogens (BBP) may be transmitted when blood or other infectious body fluids come in contact with mucous membranes (your eyes, nose, mouth), non-intact skin (due to cuts, abrasions, burns, rashes, paper cuts), or by handling or touching contaminated materials or surfaces. Bloodborne pathogens are also transmitted by “injection” under the skin via a contaminated sharp object puncturing or cutting the skin, causing a wound. 

Bloodborne pathogens are microorganisms such as viruses or bacteria that are carried in blood and can cause disease. Bloodborne Pathogen control in the workplace is an essential program to keep employees safe if they are required to provide first aid care in the workplace.

First Aid Exposure:

If you administer first aid to an injured person in the workplace and there is a potential for contacting any body fluids, you should adhere to the following “universal precaution” guidelines:

• Wear impervious gloves when there is a chance of exposure to blood or body fluids.

• Wear a face shield to protect your entire face and safety goggles to provide the most complete eye protection.

• Use resuscitation devices when performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).

• Report all BBP exposures or potential exposures to your supervisor immediately.

• Immediately wash your hands and affected areas with soap and warm water.

• Flush your eyes, nose, or other mucous membrane areas with water, if exposed.

• Wash down areas that body fluids may contacted with the use of a mild solution of household water and bleach (10:1).

  A wound neglected may be a wound infected!!