Hygiene Atlas

Atlas · Plate XIV · Infection Control · 05

OSHA regulations

OSHA protects workers. Its Bloodborne Pathogens Standard requires a written exposure control plan reviewed every year, free annual training, and hepatitis B vaccine offered free within 10 working days of assignment. Exposure records are kept for the length of employment plus 30 years. By contrast, the CDC recommends, the EPA registers disinfectants and the FDA clears sterilizers.

High-yield facts · 7

  1. The OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens Standard (29 CFR 1910.1030) took effect in 1991 and was revised in 2001 by the Needlestick Safety and Prevention Act.S24
  2. Employers must have a written exposure control plan, reviewed at least annually.S24
  3. Training is required at hire and at least once a year, during work hours, free of charge.S24
  4. Hepatitis B vaccine must be offered free within 10 working days of assignment; a worker who declines must sign a declination form and can change their mind later.S24
  5. Medical (exposure) records are kept for the duration of employment plus 30 years; training records for 3 years.S24
  6. OSHA Hazard Communication requires Safety Data Sheets (16 sections) and labeled chemical containers.S24
  7. OSHA protects workers; the CDC issues recommendations; the EPA registers surface disinfectants; the FDA clears sterilizers and medical devices.S7

Facts are written in our own words; each tag links to its source. Values marked "sources vary" differ between references, so check the one your program uses.