Bloodborne Pathogens Program

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.

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:

  1. Immediately wash the affected area with soap and water.
  2. Report the incident to your supervisor.
  3. Seek medical evaluation with an occupational health provider.
  4. 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