Bloodborne Pathogens Jill Cranmore Director, Human Resources Danville Area Community College 2000 E. Main St. Danville, IL 61834 217-443-8756 [email protected]

Bloodborne PathogensBloodborne Pathogens

Jill CranmoreJill Cranmore

Director, Human ResourcesDirector, Human Resources

Danville Area Community CollegeDanville Area Community College

2000 E. Main St.2000 E. Main St.

Danville, IL 61834Danville, IL 61834

217-443-8756217-443-8756

[email protected]


Occupational exposures to bloodborne and other Occupational exposures to bloodborne and other pathogens and consequent infection can occur not pathogens and consequent infection can occur not only as the result of accidents, but also during the only as the result of accidents, but also during the

performance of routine work activities. Therefore, it performance of routine work activities. Therefore, it makes good sense to plan your work with regard to makes good sense to plan your work with regard to

the basic principles of biosafety.the basic principles of biosafety.


Part I:Part I:

The Infectious Disease The Infectious Disease ProcessProcess

Bloodborne PathogensBloodborne PathogensMicroorganisms include the followingMicroorganisms include the followingclassifications: classifications: BacteriaBacteria VirusesViruses FungiFungi AlgaeAlgae YeastsYeasts ProtozoaProtozoaThese microorganisms are too small to be seen by the unaided human These microorganisms are too small to be seen by the unaided human eye. eye.

They are found in the soil, in the water, They are found in the soil, in the water, and on plants and animals. In fact, and on plants and animals. In fact,

billionsbillionsare found in humans on the skin and are found in humans on the skin and

in in both the nasal and intestinal tracts.both the nasal and intestinal tracts.

Bloodborne PathogensBloodborne PathogensAlthough most microorganisms live in Although most microorganisms live in

harmony with the human body, some—called harmony with the human body, some—called

pathogens—can infect the body and cause pathogens—can infect the body and cause

disease. Infectious diseases range from mild disease. Infectious diseases range from mild

illnesses, such as a cold, to fatal illnesses, illnesses, such as a cold, to fatal illnesses,

such as AIDS.such as AIDS.


We occasionally come into contact with people or We occasionally come into contact with people or animals that are infected and thus expose ourselves animals that are infected and thus expose ourselves

to the pathogens of their diseases. In fact, our to the pathogens of their diseases. In fact, our environment is such that everyday we live with some environment is such that everyday we live with some

risk of exposure to diseases.risk of exposure to diseases.

Bloodborne PathogensBloodborne PathogensSome individuals, because of the work they Some individuals, because of the work they

do, are “at risk” for occupationally acquired do, are “at risk” for occupationally acquired

infection. For this reason, DACC has infection. For this reason, DACC has

developed training and procedures to help developed training and procedures to help

minimize your health risks. minimize your health risks.

This training program will cover: This training program will cover: the infectious disease processthe infectious disease process potential exposure risks to employeespotential exposure risks to employees work practices that will minimize your risk of exposure to work practices that will minimize your risk of exposure to pathogenic microorganisms pathogenic microorganisms

Let's start by exploring the infectious disease process.Let's start by exploring the infectious disease process.

Bloodborne PathogensBloodborne PathogensThe infectious disease process is defined as the The infectious disease process is defined as the

interaction between the pathogenic microorganism, interaction between the pathogenic microorganism, the environment, and the host. The process may be the environment, and the host. The process may be

thought of as a circular chain with six links. thought of as a circular chain with six links.

The following story illustrates the chain…The following story illustrates the chain…

Bloodborne PathogensBloodborne PathogensThe chain The chain beginsbegins with the with the

existence of a specific existence of a specific

pathogenic microorganism.pathogenic microorganism.

The The secondsecond link is the link is the

reservoir, an environment reservoir, an environment

where the pathogen can where the pathogen can

survive.survive.

Bloodborne PathogensBloodborne PathogensThe The thirdthird link is the link is the

means of escape means of escape

from the reservoir.from the reservoir.

The The fourthfourth link is the link is the

mode of transmission mode of transmission

from the reservoir to from the reservoir to

the host.the host.


The The fifthfifth link is the means link is the means of entry into the host. of entry into the host.

And the And the lastlast link is the link is the host's susceptibility to host's susceptibility to the pathogenic the pathogenic microorganism.microorganism.

Bloodborne PathogensBloodborne PathogensFor an infectious disease to occur, each link in the For an infectious disease to occur, each link in the

chain must be connected.chain must be connected.


If even one link of the chain is missing, it interrupts If even one link of the chain is missing, it interrupts the process, and no infection will occur. Here the the process, and no infection will occur. Here the chain is broken at the point of host susceptibility.chain is broken at the point of host susceptibility.

Bloodborne PathogensBloodborne PathogensHere the mode of Here the mode of

transmission breaks transmission breaks

the chain of infection.the chain of infection.

Before looking at the infectious disease process for Before looking at the infectious disease process for several different illnesses, see if you can correctly several different illnesses, see if you can correctly

answer the following question…answer the following question…

Bloodborne PathogensBloodborne PathogensThe chain of infection illustrates? The chain of infection illustrates?

A.A. Contact with a pathogen means Contact with a pathogen means

you will become fatally ill. you will become fatally ill.

B.B. Every link in the chain must Every link in the chain must

be broken to prevent infection. be broken to prevent infection.

C.C. You can prevent infection by You can prevent infection by

interrupting the process anywhere interrupting the process anywhere

in the chain. in the chain.

D.D. All microorganisms are hazardous All microorganisms are hazardous

to your health.to your health.

And the answer is…And the answer is…


C.C. You can prevent infection by You can prevent infection by

interrupting the process anywhere interrupting the process anywhere

in the chain. in the chain.

Bloodborne PathogensBloodborne PathogensHepatitis B Virus (HBV)Hepatitis B Virus (HBV)

The microorganism known as Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) The microorganism known as Hepatitis B Virus (HBV)

causes an inflammation of the liver. This can result in causes an inflammation of the liver. This can result in

illnesses such as chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis of the liver, and illnesses such as chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis of the liver, and

liver cancer. Because the virus is present in the blood or liver cancer. Because the virus is present in the blood or

body fluids of a person with the Hepatitis B Virus, it is termed body fluids of a person with the Hepatitis B Virus, it is termed

a bloodborne pathogen. Hepatitis B Virus is a serious health a bloodborne pathogen. Hepatitis B Virus is a serious health

concern for any employee whose work responsibilities bring concern for any employee whose work responsibilities bring

them in contact with blood or body fluids.them in contact with blood or body fluids.


Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)

The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is another The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is another bloodborne pathogen. This life-threatening virus bloodborne pathogen. This life-threatening virus

compromises the body's immune system. Early symptoms compromises the body's immune system. Early symptoms may be similar to those of the flu. During later stages of the may be similar to those of the flu. During later stages of the

disease, the body is incapable of warding off other infections disease, the body is incapable of warding off other infections which frequently prove fatal. which frequently prove fatal.

Bloodborne PathogensBloodborne PathogensPenetration into the BloodstreamPenetration into the Bloodstream

Bloodborne pathogens are transmitted when an individual comes in Bloodborne pathogens are transmitted when an individual comes in contact with an infected person's blood or body fluids. However, contact contact with an infected person's blood or body fluids. However, contact

alone does not mean infection will result. Pathogens must enter the alone does not mean infection will result. Pathogens must enter the bloodstream to cause infection. In the workplace, an employee may be bloodstream to cause infection. In the workplace, an employee may be

exposed to HBV or HIV when infected blood or body fluid is exposed to HBV or HIV when infected blood or body fluid is allowed to enter the body by means of penetration.allowed to enter the body by means of penetration.

This can occur through:This can occur through: a needle stick a needle stick a cut or break in the skin a cut or break in the skin contact with mucous membranescontact with mucous membranes

such as those of the eye, nose, such as those of the eye, nose, and mouth and mouth

Bloodborne PathogensBloodborne PathogensPreventive MeasuresPreventive Measures

To interrupt the chain of infection for HBV or HIV, use the followingTo interrupt the chain of infection for HBV or HIV, use the followingpreventive measures:preventive measures:

Wash your hands to remove infectiousWash your hands to remove infectiousorganisms before they can enter the body. organisms before they can enter the body.

Wear gloves as a barrier when Wear gloves as a barrier when handling handling

blood and other body fluids. blood and other body fluids.

Wear face protection when work tasks Wear face protection when work tasks include the potential for spraying include the potential for spraying or splattering of body substances.or splattering of body substances.

Bloodborne PathogensBloodborne PathogensUse caution when handling needles or Use caution when handling needles or other sharp objects. They can other sharp objects. They can

penetrate penetrate the skin and create entries for the skin and create entries for

pathogens. pathogens.

The safest way to handle contaminated The safest way to handle contaminated needles or other sharp objects is to place needles or other sharp objects is to place them directly into a labeled sharps them directly into a labeled sharps container without recapping. This practice container without recapping. This practice minimizes your risk of a needle stick. If minimizes your risk of a needle stick. If your work requires you to recap needles, your work requires you to recap needles, you will want to learn a special one-handed technique. you will want to learn a special one-handed technique.

Finally, receive an HBV vaccination to decrease your susceptibility to the Finally, receive an HBV vaccination to decrease your susceptibility to the disease. Presently, no vaccine for HIV is available. disease. Presently, no vaccine for HIV is available.

Bloodborne PathogensBloodborne PathogensPreventing infection from bloodborne pathogens involves? Preventing infection from bloodborne pathogens involves?

A.A. Vaccination against HIV. Vaccination against HIV.

B.B. Preventing blood or body Preventing blood or body fluids from contacting your fluids from contacting your skin or mucous membranes. skin or mucous membranes.

C.C. Washing your hands before beginning work. Washing your hands before beginning work.

D.D. Wearing gloves as a barrier against Wearing gloves as a barrier against needle sticks.needle sticks.

The answer is…The answer is…


B.B. Preventing blood or body fluids from Preventing blood or body fluids from contacting your skin or mucous contacting your skin or mucous membranes. membranes.

Bloodborne PathogensBloodborne PathogensMycobacterium (tuberculosis)Mycobacterium (tuberculosis)

Another group of pathogens known as Another group of pathogens known as

Mycobacterium cause the chronic lung Mycobacterium cause the chronic lung

disease tuberculosis (TB). Although disease tuberculosis (TB). Although

human beings are the main reservoirs, human beings are the main reservoirs,

other primates, cattle, and swine can also other primates, cattle, and swine can also

be reservoirs. TB is transmitted be reservoirs. TB is transmitted

primarily through the air. A person with primarily through the air. A person with

an active case of TB discharges the microorganisms by coughing or an active case of TB discharges the microorganisms by coughing or

sneezing.sneezing.

Inhalation:Inhalation: Exposure occurs when others breathe the contaminated air. Exposure occurs when others breathe the contaminated air.

Once inhaled, the pathogen may lodge in lung tissue and produce Once inhaled, the pathogen may lodge in lung tissue and produce

lesions.lesions.


How then can employees protect themselves from airborne diseases How then can employees protect themselves from airborne diseases suchsuch

as TB?as TB?

If necessary, and risk factors for TB are If necessary, and risk factors for TB are

present, wear respiratory protection. present, wear respiratory protection.

Screen yourself for exposure to TB by Screen yourself for exposure to TB by receiving a TB skin test.receiving a TB skin test.

Bloodborne PathogensBloodborne PathogensTB is an airborne disease? TB is an airborne disease?

A.A. Transmitted by plants. Transmitted by plants.

B.B. That used to be a health concern, That used to be a health concern, but is not relevant in the workplace any longer. but is not relevant in the workplace any longer.

C.C. Prevented by wearing a respiratory mask to prevent Prevented by wearing a respiratory mask to prevent inhaling contaminated air. inhaling contaminated air.

D.D. Prevented by holding your breath.Prevented by holding your breath.



C.C. Prevented by wearing a respiratory Prevented by wearing a respiratory mask to prevent inhaling mask to prevent inhaling contaminated air.contaminated air.

Bloodborne PathogensBloodborne PathogensSalmonella Salmonella

The next disease, salmonellas, is caused by a group of bacteria called The next disease, salmonellas, is caused by a group of bacteria called salmonella. The most common manifestation of this disease is acute salmonella. The most common manifestation of this disease is acute

gastroenteritis or intestinal inflammation. Both animals and humans are gastroenteritis or intestinal inflammation. Both animals and humans are reservoirs for the salmonella organism. Diseased animals and humans reservoirs for the salmonella organism. Diseased animals and humans

discharge large numbers of salmonella in their feces.discharge large numbers of salmonella in their feces.

Bloodborne PathogensBloodborne PathogensIngestionIngestion

Infection results from ingesting (i.e., through the mouth) salmonellaInfection results from ingesting (i.e., through the mouth) salmonella

organisms. Employees may be exposed to these organisms when organisms. Employees may be exposed to these organisms when

handling soiled diapers and linens, working with animals, or cleaning and handling soiled diapers and linens, working with animals, or cleaning and maintaining restrooms.maintaining restrooms.


You can guard against salmonella exposure by incorporating the You can guard against salmonella exposure by incorporating the following practices into your daily routine: following practices into your daily routine:

As a first line defense against ingesting As a first line defense against ingesting microorganisms, don't put anything in microorganisms, don't put anything in your mouth while at work. your mouth while at work.

Wear gloves when your hands Wear gloves when your hands will will likely come in contact with likely come in contact with

contaminated materials.contaminated materials.


Wipe counters with a disinfectant after Wipe counters with a disinfectant after performing tasks with materials that performing tasks with materials that may be contaminated.may be contaminated.

And, thoroughly wash your hands after And, thoroughly wash your hands after handling potentially contaminated items. handling potentially contaminated items. Even microscopic amounts of fecal matter Even microscopic amounts of fecal matter may contain millions of salmonella may contain millions of salmonella organisms.organisms.

Bloodborne PathogensBloodborne PathogensPreventing ingestion of salmonella Preventing ingestion of salmonella organisms involves?organisms involves?

A.A. Not washing your hands if they look clean. Not washing your hands if they look clean.

B.B. Wearing gloves, washing hands, and disinfecting work Wearing gloves, washing hands, and disinfecting work surfaces. surfaces.

C.C. Not eating right after work. Not eating right after work.

D.D. Putting only your own pencils and pens in your mouth.Putting only your own pencils and pens in your mouth.



B.B. Wearing gloves, washing hands, and Wearing gloves, washing hands, and disinfecting work surfaces.disinfecting work surfaces.

Bloodborne PathogensBloodborne PathogensIn summary, the infectious disease process typically consists of three In summary, the infectious disease process typically consists of three routes of entry: routes of entry:

PENETRATIONPENETRATION into the bloodstream, exemplified by HBV and HIV; into the bloodstream, exemplified by HBV and HIV;

INHALATIONINHALATION of airborne organisms, illustrated by TB; and of airborne organisms, illustrated by TB; and

INGESTIONINGESTION of organisms, demonstrated by salmonella. of organisms, demonstrated by salmonella.

As seen in the examples, occupational exposures and consequent As seen in the examples, occupational exposures and consequent infection can occur not only as the result of accidents but also during the infection can occur not only as the result of accidents but also during the performance of routine work activities. Therefore, it makes good sense to performance of routine work activities. Therefore, it makes good sense to

plan your work with regard to the basic principles of biosafety. plan your work with regard to the basic principles of biosafety.

Bloodborne PathogensBloodborne PathogensThe best strategy to decrease your risk of infection is to?The best strategy to decrease your risk of infection is to?

A.A. Enhance your susceptibility Enhance your susceptibility through proper nutrition. through proper nutrition.

B.B. Not worry about things you Not worry about things you cannot see. cannot see.

C.C. Rely on vaccination. Rely on vaccination.

D.D. Break the chain of infection by using several preventive Break the chain of infection by using several preventive measures.measures.



D.D. Break the chain of infection by using Break the chain of infection by using several preventive measures.several preventive measures.


““AT RISK” employees continue!AT RISK” employees continue!

At risk employee groups include, but are not limited to:At risk employee groups include, but are not limited to: Athletic Trainers and CoachesAthletic Trainers and Coaches Building Services AttendantsBuilding Services Attendants Child Development Center staffChild Development Center staff First Aid / CPR InstructorFirst Aid / CPR Instructor GroundskeeperGroundskeeper Instructors of Invasive LabsInstructors of Invasive Labs Maintenance MechanicsMaintenance Mechanics Nursing and C. N. A. staffNursing and C. N. A. staff Science Lab staff Science Lab staff


Part II:Part II:

Exposure Control Exposure Control Strategies Strategies

Bloodborne PathogensBloodborne PathogensThe next part of this program will cover exposure control strategies that The next part of this program will cover exposure control strategies that

include the use of: include the use of:

universal precautions universal precautions immunization immunization good personal work habits good personal work habits containment containment personal protective equipment personal protective equipment decontamination decontamination emergency procedures for emergency procedures for

accidental exposures accidental exposures

Bloodborne PathogensBloodborne PathogensUniversal PrecautionsUniversal Precautions

Universal precautions are work practices Universal precautions are work practices

that reduce your risk of exposure to that reduce your risk of exposure to

pathogens found in blood and body fluids, pathogens found in blood and body fluids,

particularly HBV and HIV. A government particularly HBV and HIV. A government

regulation referred to as the "Bloodborne regulation referred to as the "Bloodborne

Pathogen Rule" requires that employees Pathogen Rule" requires that employees

with a risk of occupational exposure receive training in universal with a risk of occupational exposure receive training in universal

precautions and other safety measures. At-risk employees are those precautions and other safety measures. At-risk employees are those

individuals whose work responsibilities could potentially bring them in individuals whose work responsibilities could potentially bring them in

contact with blood and body fluids.contact with blood and body fluids.

Bloodborne PathogensBloodborne PathogensPreventing Accidental ExposuresPreventing Accidental Exposures

Most occupational exposures to bloodborne pathogens occur accidentally from:Most occupational exposures to bloodborne pathogens occur accidentally from:

needle sticks needle sticks injuries from sharp objects injuries from sharp objects splashes to the eyes, nose, and mouth splashes to the eyes, nose, and mouth contact with broken skin contact with broken skin

The following universal precautions are aimed at preventing these exposures:The following universal precautions are aimed at preventing these exposures:

Eliminate the use of needles and sharp instruments whenever possible. Eliminate the use of needles and sharp instruments whenever possible. Choose safer alternatives for your work tasks. Choose safer alternatives for your work tasks.

When use of needles and sharps is required, place used items directly into a When use of needles and sharps is required, place used items directly into a sharps container located within easy reach. Remember that recapping sharps container located within easy reach. Remember that recapping should be avoided, because it increases your risk of needle stick injuries. should be avoided, because it increases your risk of needle stick injuries.

Use only labeled, leak-proof, puncture-resistant sharps containers to help Use only labeled, leak-proof, puncture-resistant sharps containers to help avoid accidental exposure of co-workers and waste handlers down the line.avoid accidental exposure of co-workers and waste handlers down the line.

Bloodborne PathogensBloodborne Pathogens Wear personal protective equipment such as gloves, face shields, Wear personal protective equipment such as gloves, face shields,

eyewear with side shields, and gowns to prevent contact with blood eyewear with side shields, and gowns to prevent contact with blood and body fluids. Properly decontaminate or dispose of this and body fluids. Properly decontaminate or dispose of this equipment after use. equipment after use.

Wash your hands routinely, even after removing gloves. Gloves may Wash your hands routinely, even after removing gloves. Gloves may have minute holes through which fluids can pass.have minute holes through which fluids can pass.

Bloodborne PathogensBloodborne PathogensImmunizationImmunization

Finally, decrease your susceptibility to infection by being immunized.Finally, decrease your susceptibility to infection by being immunized.

Recommended Vaccines:Recommended Vaccines:

HBV for potential exposure to HBV for potential exposure to blood or body fluids blood or body fluids

Measles, Rubella, Diphtheria, Measles, Rubella, Diphtheria, Poliomyelitis, and Tetanus for Poliomyelitis, and Tetanus for anyone who has not been anyone who has not been vaccinated in childhood vaccinated in childhood

Tetanus and Rabies for work with animals Tetanus and Rabies for work with animals Other vaccines for foreign travel and research with pathogens Other vaccines for foreign travel and research with pathogens

Bloodborne PathogensBloodborne PathogensThe HBV vaccine is offered free of charge The HBV vaccine is offered free of charge

to all employees who may be occupationally to all employees who may be occupationally

exposed to blood or other body fluids. The exposed to blood or other body fluids. The

vaccine is effective in more than 90% of vaccine is effective in more than 90% of

healthy people who receive the series of healthy people who receive the series of

injections. It is administered intramuscularly injections. It is administered intramuscularly

in three doses within a six-month period. The most common side effect in three doses within a six-month period. The most common side effect

of vaccination is soreness at the injection site. of vaccination is soreness at the injection site.

If you decide against vaccination, you If you decide against vaccination, you willwill

be required to sign a declination form. be required to sign a declination form. However, you will remain eligible for However, you will remain eligible for vaccination if you desire it at a later vaccination if you desire it at a later

time.time.

Bloodborne PathogensBloodborne PathogensFollowing universal precautions means you should?Following universal precautions means you should?

A.A. Handle every sample as if it Handle every sample as if it is infectious. is infectious.

B.B. Use protective equipment Use protective equipment only when you think the only when you think the sample is from a patient with HBV. sample is from a patient with HBV.

C.C. Think about washing your hands and do so when Think about washing your hands and do so when you have time. you have time.

D.D. Use needles and blades whenever possible.Use needles and blades whenever possible.



A.A. Handle every sample as if it is Handle every sample as if it is infectious. infectious.

Bloodborne PathogensBloodborne PathogensGood Personal Work HabitsGood Personal Work Habits

Hand Washing:Hand Washing:

Conscientious hand washing is an essential part of your daily Conscientious hand washing is an essential part of your daily regimen. Hands routinely come into contact with items and regimen. Hands routinely come into contact with items and materials that may be contaminated with pathogens.materials that may be contaminated with pathogens.

Hands also unconsciously touch the eyes, nose, and mouth Hands also unconsciously touch the eyes, nose, and mouth numerous times throughout the day. These body areas are potential numerous times throughout the day. These body areas are potential portals of entry for infectious organisms. Because of these factors, portals of entry for infectious organisms. Because of these factors, it is extremely important to wash your hands frequently. it is extremely important to wash your hands frequently.

Wash hands immediately if you contact potentially contaminated Wash hands immediately if you contact potentially contaminated material. material.

Wash them after: Wash them after: handling infectious waste, even if it is properly contained handling infectious waste, even if it is properly contained removal of gloves removal of gloves using the restroom using the restroom

And finally, wash your hands before going on breaks and before And finally, wash your hands before going on breaks and before leaving work at the end of the day. leaving work at the end of the day.

Bloodborne PathogensBloodborne PathogensProper hand washing involves the following steps: Proper hand washing involves the following steps:

Wet both hands and wrists. Lather well using Wet both hands and wrists. Lather well using two squirts of soap or hand washing solution. two squirts of soap or hand washing solution.

Spread the lather to the back of the hands and Spread the lather to the back of the hands and

wrists. Clean between the fingers. Washing timewrists. Clean between the fingers. Washing timeshould be at least 10 seconds. should be at least 10 seconds.

Rinse hands and wrists well to remove all soap. Rinse hands and wrists well to remove all soap. Dry hands completely. Turn off the water using Dry hands completely. Turn off the water using

disposable towels when the faucet has handles. disposable towels when the faucet has handles. This prevents recontamination of the hands. This prevents recontamination of the hands.

Bloodborne PathogensBloodborne PathogensMany personal activities increase the risk of Many personal activities increase the risk of

exposure to pathogens transmitted by hand and exposure to pathogens transmitted by hand and

mouth. Therefore, the following activities are mouth. Therefore, the following activities are

discouraged in your work area: discouraged in your work area:

smoking (prohibited)smoking (prohibited) eating or drinking eating or drinking food storage food storage application of cosmetics or application of cosmetics or

contact lens contact lens

Bloodborne PathogensBloodborne PathogensHand washing is an important work habit because?Hand washing is an important work habit because?

A.A. It is easy for everyone to remember. It is easy for everyone to remember.

B.B. After you wash your hands, you can After you wash your hands, you can

eat lunch in the lab. eat lunch in the lab.

C.C. It removes pathogens that you may not know are on your It removes pathogens that you may not know are on your

hands. hands.

D.D. One thorough cleansing lasts all day.One thorough cleansing lasts all day.



C.C. It removes pathogens that you may It removes pathogens that you may not know are on your hands.not know are on your hands.

Bloodborne PathogensBloodborne PathogensContainmentContainment

Another approach to preventing exposure Another approach to preventing exposure to pathogens is to ensure containment of to pathogens is to ensure containment of potentially infectious materials, that is, to potentially infectious materials, that is, to prevent the contamination of other items prevent the contamination of other items whenever possible.whenever possible.

An action as simple as opening a container can create a hazard by An action as simple as opening a container can create a hazard by splashing or spraying material onto your hands and work area.splashing or spraying material onto your hands and work area.

Procedures that can result in the Procedures that can result in the generation of droplets include generation of droplets include

pipetting, pipetting, vortex mixing of unsealed vortex mixing of unsealed containers, and containers, and decanting liquids.decanting liquids.


Careful, thoughtful manipulation of potentiallyCareful, thoughtful manipulation of potentiallyinfectious materials is the key to avoiding infectious materials is the key to avoiding splashes, spills, and the production of droplets. splashes, spills, and the production of droplets. Using safety devices and equipment appropriate Using safety devices and equipment appropriate to the task also helps to minimize the release of to the task also helps to minimize the release of pathogens into your work environment.pathogens into your work environment.

Centrifuge containers prevent Centrifuge containers prevent splattering of splattering of materials if the sample materials if the sample container is container is damaged during damaged during centrifugation. You will centrifugation. You will avoid the need avoid the need for extensive environmental for extensive environmental cleanup by cleanup by containing the spill within a containing the spill within a secondary secondary container.container.

Bloodborne PathogensBloodborne PathogensWhen your work involves When your work involves

manipulations of manipulations of

potentially infectious materials, be potentially infectious materials, be certain certain equipment is functioning properly and equipment is functioning properly and is is designed to keep the materials designed to keep the materials contained.contained.

If you must carry potentially infectious If you must carry potentially infectious

materials to another area, place the primary materials to another area, place the primary

containers in a leak-proof container tocontainers in a leak-proof container to

prevent a spill during transport.prevent a spill during transport.

Bloodborne PathogensBloodborne PathogensPersonal Protective EquipmentPersonal Protective Equipment

Now let's turn our attention to the use of personal protective Now let's turn our attention to the use of personal protective equipment – barriers you wear to prevent contact with infectious equipment – barriers you wear to prevent contact with infectious materials.materials.

DACC provides lab coats, gowns, gloves, caps, shoe covers, and DACC provides lab coats, gowns, gloves, caps, shoe covers, and respiratory and eye protection, as needed. Choosing the respiratory and eye protection, as needed. Choosing the appropriate form of protection depends on work tasks and situations appropriate form of protection depends on work tasks and situations you might encounter.you might encounter.


As mentioned earlier, gloves prevent direct As mentioned earlier, gloves prevent direct contamination of the hands and are especially contamination of the hands and are especially necessary to block entry of pathogens if the necessary to block entry of pathogens if the skin is broken. Remember, you must wash your skin is broken. Remember, you must wash your hands after removing gloves.hands after removing gloves.

Properly fitted face masks offer Properly fitted face masks offer protection protection against inhalation of airborne against inhalation of airborne pathogens. pathogens. Put on a mask before entering Put on a mask before entering an area an area where there is a risk of where there is a risk of respiratory respiratory exposure. exposure.

Bloodborne PathogensBloodborne PathogensDuring work activities where splashes During work activities where splashes

to to the face might occur, wear both a the face might occur, wear both a mask and mask and eye protection or a face shield eye protection or a face shield to prevent to prevent contact with infectious contact with infectious organisms.organisms.

If you work with blood or other If you work with blood or other potentially potentially infectious materials, you must infectious materials, you must wear wear protective garments designed protective garments designed to prevent to prevent these materials from soaking these materials from soaking through to through to your clothing or skin. your clothing or skin. Garments such as Garments such as gowns, lab coats, gowns, lab coats, aprons, and coveralls aprons, and coveralls offer such protection.offer such protection.

Bloodborne PathogensBloodborne PathogensAll personal protective clothing and All personal protective clothing and

equipment must be removed before equipment must be removed before

leaving the work area so as not to leaving the work area so as not to

accidentally expose others. When accidentally expose others. When

removing garments, grasp the clean removing garments, grasp the clean

side, peel off the article, and fold the side, peel off the article, and fold the

contaminated side inward.contaminated side inward.

Place contaminated items in a Place contaminated items in a

designated container.designated container.

Bloodborne PathogensBloodborne PathogensPersonal protective equipment must be?Personal protective equipment must be?

A.A. Designed to allow pathogens to contact your skin. Designed to allow pathogens to contact your skin.

B.B. Removed when leaving the work area and going to the Removed when leaving the work area and going to the cafeteria for lunch. cafeteria for lunch.

C.C. The same for all tasks. The same for all tasks.

D.D. Stylish and flattering.Stylish and flattering.



B.B. Removed when leaving the work area Removed when leaving the work area and going to the cafeteria for lunch.and going to the cafeteria for lunch.

Bloodborne PathogensBloodborne PathogensDecontaminationDecontamination

The next portion of this program will examine various decontamination The next portion of this program will examine various decontamination

procedures used to destroy pathogens on items and materials that procedures used to destroy pathogens on items and materials that

become contaminated during regular work activities.become contaminated during regular work activities.

Bloodborne PathogensBloodborne PathogensWaste items that have been properly decontaminated may be discarded Waste items that have been properly decontaminated may be discarded

in the regular trash.in the regular trash.

Bloodborne PathogensBloodborne PathogensOne particular means of decontamination is with the use of chemical One particular means of decontamination is with the use of chemical

disinfectants. Choosing the type and concentration of a disinfectant disinfectants. Choosing the type and concentration of a disinfectant

depends on its effectiveness against specific pathogens. Soak depends on its effectiveness against specific pathogens. Soak

contaminated items in a suitable chemical disinfectant to render them contaminated items in a suitable chemical disinfectant to render them

safe for further handling. Items may then be washed, and if needed, safe for further handling. Items may then be washed, and if needed,

sterilized.sterilized.

Bloodborne PathogensBloodborne PathogensAn important practice aimed at preventing An important practice aimed at preventing transmission of pathogens is routine use of transmission of pathogens is routine use of chemical disinfectants for wiping work chemical disinfectants for wiping work

surfaces. surfaces. Wipe your work area with an Wipe your work area with an appropriate appropriate disinfectant before starting disinfectant before starting work, between projects, work, between projects, immediately after a immediately after a spill, and at the end of the work spill, and at the end of the work shift.shift.

Use a disinfectant to wipe equipment that Use a disinfectant to wipe equipment that cannot cannot be autoclaved or soaked. This is especially be autoclaved or soaked. This is especially

important if the equipment is sent elsewhere important if the equipment is sent elsewhere to be to be recalibrated or repaired. recalibrated or repaired.

If parts of the equipment cannot be If parts of the equipment cannot be disinfected, the disinfected, the equipment must be packaged equipment must be packaged and labeled to and labeled to ensure that others will handle ensure that others will handle it with caution.it with caution.


The fluorescent orange or red biohazard The fluorescent orange or red biohazard

emblem is used to communicate a risk of emblem is used to communicate a risk of

exposure to pathogens.exposure to pathogens.

Biohazard labels must be affixed on Biohazard labels must be affixed on refrigerators, freezers, and any other refrigerators, freezers, and any other containers used for storage or containers used for storage or

transport of transport of potentially infectious potentially infectious materials.materials.

Bloodborne PathogensBloodborne PathogensThe biohazard label on a waste bag or The biohazard label on a waste bag or

use use of a red bag signify that items inside of a red bag signify that items inside pose pose an exposure risk. These containers an exposure risk. These containers require require careful handling until they can careful handling until they can be be decontaminated by methods decontaminated by methods such as such as autoclaving or autoclaving or incineration.incineration.

To handle an infectious waste bag, grasp To handle an infectious waste bag, grasp

and lift the bag by its top. If an infectious and lift the bag by its top. If an infectious

waste bag develops a leak or a tear, contact waste bag develops a leak or a tear, contact

your supervisor immediately.your supervisor immediately.

Bloodborne PathogensBloodborne PathogensNever discard needles, syringes, blades, or other Never discard needles, syringes, blades, or other sharp objects directly into waste bags because of sharp objects directly into waste bags because of the high puncture risk. Instead, place them in an the high puncture risk. Instead, place them in an approved, puncture-resistant, leak-proof sharps approved, puncture-resistant, leak-proof sharps container that is labeled or color coded red by the container that is labeled or color coded red by the supplier. supplier.

Use the approved sharps container for all sharp Use the approved sharps container for all sharp items, even those free of pathogens. Never reach items, even those free of pathogens. Never reach inside, and be sure to replace containers when inside, and be sure to replace containers when about three-fourths full. Overfilling containers is about three-fourths full. Overfilling containers is hazardous.hazardous. Contaminated laundry and linens should be placed Contaminated laundry and linens should be placed in designated bags provided by DACC for safe in designated bags provided by DACC for safe collection and decontamination.collection and decontamination.

Bloodborne PathogensBloodborne PathogensA sharps container is?A sharps container is?

A.A. Safe to use when more than three-fourths full. Safe to use when more than three-fourths full.

B.B. Any rigid container you can find. Any rigid container you can find.

C.C. Leak-proof, puncture-resistant, and Leak-proof, puncture-resistant, and properly labeled by the supplier. properly labeled by the supplier.

D.D. Optional for labs using Optional for labs using uncontaminated sharps.uncontaminated sharps.



C.C. Leak-proof, puncture-resistant, and Leak-proof, puncture-resistant, and properly labeled by the supplier.properly labeled by the supplier.

Bloodborne PathogensBloodborne PathogensAccidental ExposuresAccidental Exposures

Earlier in the program, it was mentioned that most Earlier in the program, it was mentioned that most occupational exposures to pathogens occur occupational exposures to pathogens occur accidentally from needle sticks, injuries from sharp accidentally from needle sticks, injuries from sharp instruments, splashes onto mucous membranes of instruments, splashes onto mucous membranes of the face, or contact with broken skin. the face, or contact with broken skin.

If your skin is cut or punctured while If your skin is cut or punctured while handling potentially infectious materials:handling potentially infectious materials:

encourage the wound to bleed encourage the wound to bleed flush with water flush with water apply antiseptic apply antiseptic

Then notify your supervisor, and immediately seek medical attention.Then notify your supervisor, and immediately seek medical attention.

Bloodborne PathogensBloodborne PathogensIf you receive a splash to the face or any other unprotected skin: If you receive a splash to the face or any other unprotected skin:

flush well at the nearest sink or flush well at the nearest sink or eyewash fountain eyewash fountain

notify your supervisor notify your supervisor seek medical attentionseek medical attention


DACC has developed a Bloodborne Pathogens Exposure Control Plan DACC has developed a Bloodborne Pathogens Exposure Control Plan (available in the DACC Safety and Procedures Plan)(available in the DACC Safety and Procedures Plan)

that outlines how to report an exposure incident, where to that outlines how to report an exposure incident, where to go to receive an immediate medical evaluation, and what services are go to receive an immediate medical evaluation, and what services are

available for follow-up care. Review the Exposure Control Plan so available for follow-up care. Review the Exposure Control Plan so that you know what to do in an emergency. that you know what to do in an emergency.

Bloodborne PathogensBloodborne PathogensIf handled properly, accidental spills of potentially infectious materials If handled properly, accidental spills of potentially infectious materials onto environmental surfaces need not result in personal exposure. onto environmental surfaces need not result in personal exposure. Employ the following cleanup procedure…Employ the following cleanup procedure…

Immediately decontaminate the surface area;Immediately decontaminate the surface area;

Place paper towels over the spill;Place paper towels over the spill; Gently pour a disinfectant on the towels;Gently pour a disinfectant on the towels; And allow the area to soak for about 10 And allow the area to soak for about 10

minutes before cleanup. minutes before cleanup.

If broken glass or other sharp equipment is If broken glass or other sharp equipment is involved, scoop up the material with a dust involved, scoop up the material with a dust pan or cardboard to avoid the risk of injury. pan or cardboard to avoid the risk of injury. Place materials in a puncture-resistant Place materials in a puncture-resistant container and then in a biohazard bag.container and then in a biohazard bag.

Bloodborne PathogensBloodborne PathogensSome spills require special cleanup techniques. If a spill of pathogenic Some spills require special cleanup techniques. If a spill of pathogenic material transmitted through inhalation occurs…material transmitted through inhalation occurs…

leave the room leave the room close the doors close the doors restrict access restrict access immediately call Campus Security immediately call Campus Security

(dial 8888)(dial 8888)

Other accidental spills might involve the release of hazardous chemicalsOther accidental spills might involve the release of hazardous chemicalsor materials along with pathogens. If such a situation occurs, be sure to or materials along with pathogens. If such a situation occurs, be sure to report this additional information when you call Campus Security.report this additional information when you call Campus Security.

Bloodborne PathogensBloodborne PathogensEmergency situations such as needle sticks, spills, or Emergency situations such as needle sticks, spills, or splashes of infectious material?splashes of infectious material?

A.A. Don't happen in my building. Don't happen in my building.

B.B. Are of little concern if I have had Are of little concern if I have had a tetanus shot. a tetanus shot.

C.C. Need not be reported until Need not be reported until someone gets sick. someone gets sick.

D.D. Should be planned for in advance so the appropriate Should be planned for in advance so the appropriate response can be initiated promptly.response can be initiated promptly.



D.D. Should be planned for in advance so Should be planned for in advance so the appropriate response can be the appropriate response can be initiated promptly.initiated promptly.

Bloodborne PathogensBloodborne PathogensThis program has covered exposure control strategies that include the This program has covered exposure control strategies that include the

use of:use of:

universal precautions universal precautions vaccination vaccination good personal work habits good personal work habits containment containment personal protective equipment personal protective equipment decontamination decontamination emergency procedures for accidental exposures emergency procedures for accidental exposures

Bloodborne PathogensBloodborne PathogensIf you have any questions or concerns, please contact your If you have any questions or concerns, please contact your

immediate supervisor or Jill Cranmore.immediate supervisor or Jill Cranmore.

Jill Cranmore can be reached at 217.443.8756 or Jill Cranmore can be reached at 217.443.8756 or [email protected]@dacc.edu

Documents

Bloodborne Pathogens Jill Cranmore Director, Human Resources Danville Area Community College 2000 E. Main St. Danville, IL 61834 217-443-8756 [email protected]