Bloodborne pathogens are tiny microorganisms in human blood that can cause disease in humans, including various
types of Hepatitis and HIV. Understanding the hazards presented by bloodborne pathogens and controlling your
exposure by following safe work practices is critical to prevent the spread of bloodborne diseases. This program
provides an overview of California OSHA’s requirements related to bloodborne pathogens while showing viewers how
they can control their exposure by following universal precautions and other methods for avoiding contact.
Topics include occupational exposure, routes of entry, risk identification, avoiding contact to prevent exposure, use of
barrier devices, safe handling of potentially infectious material, decontamination and disposal of contaminated items
and how to respond to an exposure.
After watching the program, the participant should be able to explain the following:
• How the Bloodborne Pathogens Exposure Control Plan works;
• How bloodborne pathogens can enter our bodies;
• What universal precautions are and why it is important to follow them;
• How to safely handle potentially infectious material;
• How to respond to an exposure.