OSHA Guidelines for Biohazard Exposure and Workplace Incidents
Workplace incidents involving blood, bodily fluids, or infectious materials pose serious risks to employees. To protect workers, OSHA established the Bloodborne Pathogens (BBP) Standard (29 CFR 1910.1030), which applies not only to healthcare but also to custodial services, waste management, laboratories, schools, and offices.
What Is a Biohazard?
Biohazards include blood, bodily fluids, human tissues, microorganisms, and contaminated sharps such as needles or broken glass. Employers must identify and prepare for these hazards wherever exposure risks exist.
OSHA Requirements
The BBP Standard mandates:
Exposure Control Plan updated annually.
Universal Precautions—treating all fluids as infectious.
Engineering & Work Practice Controls like sharps disposal and handwashing.
PPE provided at no cost.
Hepatitis B vaccination offered to at-risk employees.
Post-exposure care including medical evaluation and follow-up.
Training and recordkeeping to ensure ongoing compliance.
Incident Response
Employers must isolate affected areas, equip responders with PPE, disinfect properly, provide medical evaluation, document incidents, and retrain staff.
Why It Matters
Noncompliance risks fines, lawsuits, and reputational damage. Following OSHA’s standards fosters safety, reduces liability, and builds trust. Preparedness remains the strongest defense against biohazard risks.
