Major Causes of Exposure to Bloodborne Pathogens

By far, the most common cause of exposure to bloodborne pathogens in the workplace is percutaneous injury, meaning a needlestick or cut to the skin with a sharp object. Workers can also be exposed if the mucous membranes of their eyes, nose, or mouth come in contact with blood or other potentially infectious materials. Infections can also occur if a worker has non-intact skin, such as chapped lips or dermatitis, that comes in contact with blood or OPIM. Bites that draw blood can also place a worker at risk. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 385,000 percutaneous injuries occur every year in hospitals alone. Most of these exposures do not result in infection, but each exposure to blood has the potential to cause infection. Many of these exposures are preventable through the use of safer equipment and through safety best practices.

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