Cal Poly Code of Safe Practice

Bloodborne Pathogen Safety

These safety practices shall be followed where a hazard exists to employees because of potential exposure to bloodborne pathogens.

Bloodborne Pathogen Safety Procedures

• Employees should recognize that Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), and other pathogens may be present in blood, body fluids and in unfixed tissues or organs.
• Body fluids of concern are blood, semen, vaginal secretions, cerebrospinal fluid, synovial fluid, pleural fluid, saliva from dental procedures, any body fluid with visible blood, and any unidentifiable body fluid. Feces and vomit should also be considered potentially infectious, since they may contain blood which is not easily visible.
• Body fluids which are generally NOT considered potentially infectious include nasal secretions, sputum, sweat, tears, and urine.
• Pathogens can enter the body through cuts, nicks, skin abrasions, and the mucous membranes of the mouth, eyes, or nose.
• All blood or other body fluids of concern, as described above, should be assumed to be infectious. Universal Precautions should be followed when working with these potentially infectious materials.

Universal Precautions to be followed include:

• Wear impervious gloves. Latex, neoprene, or other impervious materials are acceptable. Leather gloves do NOT offer protection from infectious agents. Wash gloves with soap and water or disinfectant before removing.
• Use disinfectants (bleach or quaternary ammonium) on small spills before handling.
• Wash hands immediately after removing gloves. Use soap and water or disinfectant towelletes.
• Wear an impervious apron or suit if the possibility exists of splashing infectious materials onto exposed skin.
• Wear eye protection if the possibility exists of splashing infectious materials into your eyes.
• Wear a face mask if the possibility exists of splashing infectious materials onto your face.
• Report all possible exposure incidents to your supervisor immediately. Employees who have had exposure to potentially infectious materials may have a confidential consultation with a physician.
• Employees who may be exposed to potentially infectious materials can receive a hepatitis B vaccination.