Sharps Injury Log

Since most exposures to bloodborne pathogens are caused by needlesticks and injuries from other sharp objects, employers must keep track of all such injuries in a Sharps Injury Log. Logging this information can help employers and outside health organizations, such as the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), determine which types of equipment and work practices are the least safe, thus leading to improvements in technology and safer work methods. This log must include the following information:

• The date and time of the exposure incident
• The type and brand of sharp object involved
• The job classification of the exposed employee
• The department or work area where the incident happened
• The procedure that the employee was performing when the incident happened
• How the incident happened
• The body part that was cut or pricked

For each exposure incident involving a needle or other such object, the log must state whether the object had any sharps injury protection. If so, the log must state whether the protection was activated, and whether the injury occurred before, during, or after activation.

If the object or equipment did not have any sharps injury prevention, the log must state the employee's opinion on whether and how sharps injury protection could have prevented this injury. For example, if the employee was poked by an IV that did not have a retractable needle, he or she may suggest that a retractable needle would make this type of equipment safer. Employees must also give their opinion on any other ways the injury could have been prevented.

Exposure incidents must be recorded within two weeks and must protect the employee's confidentiality.

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