Some workers, such as doctors, nurses, phlebotomists, and emergency medical technicians, frequently come into contact with blood and other potentially infectious materials while performing their jobs. Blood and other bodily fluids may contain viruses such as hepatitis B or C or HIV. Because of the risk of exposure to bloodborne pathogens, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires employees to use personal protective equipment to serve as a barrier and prevent exposure. 

Types of Personal Protective Equipment

Personal protective equipment can take several forms, depending on the type of work being done and the potential level of exposure. Employees may be required to wear gloves, laboratory coats, gowns, face shields, eye protection, or other protective equipment. The type of equipment to be worn will depend on the task being performed and the anticipated level of exposure. Workers who are reasonably expected to come into contact with blood or other potentially infectious materials are required to wear gloves at a minimum. Employers are required to provide personal protective equipment for employees in appropriate sizes and at no cost to workers. 

Personal Protective Equipment Must Be Cleaned or Disposed of after Each Use

If personal protective equipment can be cleaned and reused, it should be removed as quickly as possible after exposure and put in a designated container or area for cleaning. If it cannot be reused, it must be disposed of appropriately. Latex gloves should be disposed of after one use. 

Order Personal Protective Equipment from 1st Aid Supplies

If your employees can be exposed to blood or other potentially infectious materials in the course of their jobs, you are required by OSHA to provide personal protective equipment. 1st Aid Supplies has a complete line of products that can protect your employees from bloodborne pathogens. These include gloves, protective aprons, safety shields, disinfectant, and biohazard waste bags for disposal of contaminated personal protective equipment. These are essential supplies that must be available for employees to use whenever they come into contact with blood or other bodily fluids. Order personal protective equipment for your employees from 1st Aid Supplies today.