Bloodborne pathogens are microorganisms that are in human blood and has the potential to cause various disease if exposed. These diseases may include HIV/AIDS, hepatitis b, hepatitis c, malaria, and syphilis. The CDC reported that approximately 5.6 million healthcare and janitorial service workers are at risk of exposure to bloodborne pathogens. Therefore, we must maintain gaining knowledge of bloodborne pathogens.

It's important to have knowledge of bloodborne pathogens because when knowledge is applied correctly it reduces the potential of a threat. Continually educating yourself on OSHA guidelines keeps the employer and their employees safe, also eliminates exposure in the workplace. With the training and guidelines of OSHA, it teaches us that we should treat all bodily fluids as if they are contaminated since there is no way to differentiate between infected fluids and non-infected fluids.

In conclusion, educating ourselves about bloodborne pathogens should remain our priority. Annually educating ourselves and employees on the proper clean up of bodily fluids will continue to ensure workplace safety. Taking the initiative to meet OSHA guidelines will help you and others around you by limiting exposure.