High-risk Jobs

People in the healthcare industry are at highest risk of exposure to bloodborne pathogens. This can include nurses, doctors, dentists and dental assistants, first responders, correctional healthcare workers, and others. Also at risk are people who work in laboratories that process blood or other potentially infectious materials; housekeeping personnel in some industries; or people who work with body art, such as tattoos and piercings. Police officers are also at risk for needlestick injuries during pat-down searches and patrol duties.

In general, the regulations covering bloodborne pathogens apply to anyone whose work exposes them to human blood or other potentially infectious materials, which are discussed next.

To learn more about Cal/OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens visit our Cal/OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens Online Training web page.