Bloodborne Pathogens Program
The University of Arizona is committed to protecting employees from risks related to occupational exposure to bloodborne pathogens (BBPs).
This program outlines the procedures, responsibilities and training required under Arizona Division of Occupational Safety and Health (OSHA 29 CFR 1910.1030) to ensure compliance and protect our university community.
Employees covered by this program
This program applies to employees with reasonably anticipated contact with blood or other potentially infectious materials (OPIM), including but not limited to:
- Laboratory personnel
- Custodial staff
- First aid and emergency responders
- Healthcare/clinical staff
- Animal research and care workers
Key program elements
All applicable employees should review the Exposure Control Plan and complete the annual training in EDGE Learning.
Exposure Control Plan
The ECP details responsibilities, procedures and prevention methods to minimize occupational exposure.
Training Requirement
Annual BBP training is required for all employees with potential exposure risks.
Controls and procedures
To reduce risk, utilize the following control methods. This information is taken from the BBP Exposure Control Plan.
Post-exposure response
Have you or a colleague experienced a sharps injury or BBP exposure? Follow these steps:
- Immediately wash the affected area with soap and water.
- Report the incident to your supervisor.
- Seek medical evaluation with an occupational health provider.
- Submit an incident report through the Risk Management portal.
Engineering controls
- Sharps disposal containers
- Needleless systems or safety-engineered sharps
- Handwashing facilities and eye wash stations
Work practice
- No recapping of used needles
- Proper disposal of contaminated PPE and sharps
- Regular handwashing and sanitization
- No food or drink in exposure-prone areas
Housekeeping
- Routine disinfection of surfaces
- Safe handling of regulated waste
- Spill cleanup procedures and labeling protocols
Personal protective equipment
- Gloves, lab coats, face shields, and masks as applicable
- PPE must be used appropriately and replaced as needed