Bloodborne Pathogens
Bloodborne pathogens are microorganisms found in the blood of infected individuals that cause diseases. They may also be present in “other potentially infectious materials,” such as blood-tainted body fluids, unfixed tissues or body parts, some biological research materials, and even other primates. These pathogens are a concern because they are capable of infecting others who are exposed to infectious blood or other body fluids.
Some workers are at risk of exposure as a result of their occupational duties, and, these workers are required to receive bloodborne pathogens training prior to initial assignment to tasks where occupational exposure may occur, and then receive refresher training annually thereafter. The training covers a variety of topics aimed at reducing the risk of exposure and disease transmission.
Hepatitis B Vaccination
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a serious bloodborne pathogen that attacks the liver and can cause potentially life-threatening disease in humans. HBV is transmitted through exposure to blood or other body fluids.
Workers whose job duties have a reasonable anticipation of contact with blood or other potentially infectious materials are required to be offered a vaccination series against HBV. The vaccine is offered after bloodborne pathogens training and within 10 working days of initial assignment to work unless the employee has previously received the complete hepatitis B vaccination series, antibody testing has revealed that the employee is immune, or that the vaccine is contraindicated for medical reasons.
A form for acceptance or declination of the HBV vaccine must be filled out by all workers whose job duties have been identified as placing them at risk for exposure. The standard Texas A&M University System form is available here: Hepatitis B Vaccination Form .
This form should be completed and returned to the designated individual(s) at your institution (contact information listed below).
Exposure Incident Reporting
If a bloodborne pathogens exposure incident should occur, report the incident immediately to your supervisor and the Department of Public Safety. In addition, complete and submit an Employer's First Report of Injury or Illness and, if a contaminated sharps was involved, a Contaminated Sharps Injury Reporting Form will be completed by the Department of Public Safety. These forms may also be found at the A&M System Workers’ Compensation Insurance website .
DO NOT DELAY!
If you think you may have been exposed to human blood or infectious materials through a needlestick or cut, or in your eyes, nose or mouth, do not delay. Right away, thoroughly wash the affected area and then immediately report the exposure to the biological safety contact(s) listed below to receive followup care.
Questions About BPP/HBV
If you have any questions about bloodborne pathogens training, your Exposure Control Plan, your risk of occupational exposure, Hepatitis B vaccinations, spill cleanup or waste pickup, contact your Safety Office using the appropriate information listed below.
Important Contacts
- Training Assistance: (254) 519-5771
- Biological Safety: (254) 519-5771
- Hepatitis B Immunization: (254) 519-5771
- Small Spill Cleanup Reporting: (254) 501-5800
- Large Spill Cleanup Reporting: (254) 501-5800
- Biohazard Waste Pick-up: (254) 519-5771