Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) and Hepatitis B are
serious concern for workers. Occupational exposure to blood,
potentially infectious materials, and certain body fluids can
contain bloodborne pathogens such as Human Immunodeficiency Virus
(HIV) and the Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), a serious liver disease.
Exposure to blood borne pathogens may occur in many ways. Although
needle stick injuries are the most common means of exposure for
workers, blood borne pathogens also can be transmitted through
contact with the mucous membranes and non-intact skin of workers.
This standard is designed to formalize and document BNL's program to
control possible exposure to these hazards. This exposure can be
minimized or eliminated using universal precautions. In addition the
program specifies the use of engineering and work practice controls,
personal protective clothing and equipment, training, medical
surveillance, hepatitis vaccination, signs and labels and other
Last Modified: March 16, 2012