Protect Yourself From Bloodborne Pathogens

 

The most commonly known bloodborne pathogens (BBPs) are Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) and Hepatitis C Virus (HCV). Bloodborne pathogens are transmitted through blood or body fluids that have been contaminated with infected human blood. The most likely exposure for most College employees would be through accidents that cause bleeding, vomiting, or other body fluid release.

 

The College’s Bloodborne Pathogens Exposure Control Plan, BOT Rule 6Hx23-2.905, which is based on the requirements of the OSHA Standard for Bloodborne Pathogens, was developed to protect employees from on-the-job exposure to blood and potentially infectious materials. However, the Exposure Control Plan does not include all employees. It only includes employees who have jobs that place them at risk of exposure to BBPs during the normal performance of their job duties. Therefore, College employees who are not included in the Exposure Control Plan, as part of a "potentially at risk group", are cautioned to protect themselves from avoidable exposure to bloodborne pathogens.

 

Custodial and maintenance staff has been trained to use the correct procedures and have the proper personal protective equipment required for cleanup of accidental blood and body fluid spills. College employees who have not received the required bloodborne pathogens training should not attempt to cleanup either a known or suspected infectious material. If you observe what appears to be blood or a body fluid, contact Facilities Services immediately so they can send trained staff to cleanup and disinfect the area. Until the Facilities Services staff arrive, restrict access to the spill area to prevent others from unknowingly being exposed. Strict adherence to the College’s Exposure Control Plan procedures will prevent unnecessary exposure of employees to potentially infectious materials.

 

A copy of the College's Bloodborne Pathogens Exposure Control Plan, BOT Rule 6Hx23-2.905 may be accessed by computer at www.spjc.edu/central/BOTRules in the “SPC - BOT Rules and Procedures” file.

 

All College employees accidentally exposed to a potentially infectious material while at work should report the incident to their supervisor immediately and call Risk Management for instructions regarding post-exposure medical treatment and follow-up.

 

If you have questions about the College's Bloodborne Pathogens Exposure Control Plan, please contact:

Dennis Mosser, Safety/Environmental Manager, DO

Phone: 341-3385

Email: mosserd@spcollege.edu