Governing Regulations
The Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 created the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). OSHA, an agency of the U.S. Department of Labor, is charged with the enforcement of safety and health conditions of workers through the use of regulations published in the Code of Federal Regulations.
OSHA regulations are published in Title 29 of the Code of Federal Regulations. Part 1910 is reserved for general industry standards. The bloodborne pathogen standard is contained in 29 CFR 1910.1030. The Needlestick Safety and Prevention Act (NSPA), signed into law in 2000, specifies OSHA requirements for the identification, evaluation, and implementation of safety medical devices to reduce occupational exposure to bloodborne pathogens from accidental sharps injuries.