Key Terms

Bloodborne pathogens are pathogenic microorganisms that are present in human blood and can cause disease in humans. These include hepatitis B (HBV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

Contaminated means the presence or expected presence of blood or other potentially infectious materials.

Contaminated sharps are any contaminated objects that can penetrate the skin. Some examples include needles, scalpels, broken glass, and knives.

Engineering controls are controls (sharps disposal containers, safer medical devices, and needleless systems) that isolate or remove the bloodborne pathogens hazard from the workplace.

HBV means Hepatitis B Virus.

HCV means Hepatitis C Virus.

HIV means Human Immunodeficiency Virus.

Occupational exposure means any reasonably anticipated contact with blood or other potentially infectious material that may result from the performance of an employee's duties.

Other Potentially Infectious Material (OPIM) is made up of human body fluids; semen, vaginal secretions, spinal fluid, saliva, amniotic fluid, or any other body fluid that has blood in it or cannot be identified. It also refers to tissues and cultures.

To learn more about Bloodborne Pathogens visit our Bloodborne Pathogens Safety Online Training web page.