Bloodborne Pathogens

Viruses such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C and HIV can spread through contact with blood. When you help an injured coworker or clean up after an injury, simple precautions protect you.

• Construction
• General Industry

Universal precautions

Treat all blood and body fluids as if they’re infectious.

• Wear disposable gloves before touching blood. Keep gloves in every first aid kit.
• Use a CPR face shield or mask.
• Cover your own cuts with bandages.
• Wash hands with soap and water right after removing gloves.
• Clean blood spills with an approved disinfectant (or a fresh bleach solution), wearing gloves.
• Dispose of contaminated materials and sharps as your employer directs.

If you’re exposed

1. Wash the area with soap and water; flush eyes, nose or mouth with water.
2. Report it to your supervisor immediately.
3. Get a medical evaluation right away. Some treatments work best within hours.

Employer requirements

Workers whose job includes providing first aid (designated responders) are covered by OSHA’s bloodborne pathogens standard: an exposure control plan, training, PPE, and the hepatitis B vaccine offered at no cost.

Last updated: October 1, 2026