Bloodborne Pathogens

Bloodborne pathogens are microorganisms found in the blood or other potentially infectious materials of infected individuals that cause disease. These pathogens are concerning because they are capable of infecting individuals who are exposed to infectious blood or bodily fluids.

As part of their regular duties, certain positions at TSTC are classified as having reasonably anticipated occupational exposure to blood or other potentially infectious materials, regardless of the use of personal protective equipment. Additionally, these individuals are required to receive bloodborne pathogens training prior to their work assignment to tasks where the occupational exposure could occur, then receive training refreshers thereafter. The training covers items such as how to reduce the risk of exposure and transmission of disease.

Hepatitis B Virus

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 potentially infectious materials, such as body fluids.

All employees who have been identified as having occupational exposure to blood or other potentially infectious materials are offered Hepatitis B (HBV) vaccine, at no cost to the employee, within 10 working days of the employee’s start date. 

Read Hepatitis B Vaccination Guide for more information.

Exposure Control Plan

An Exposure Control Plan (ECP) is a written action plan that identifies occupational risks and specifies precautionary control measures to manage and minimize potential exposure to bloodborne pathogens. 

View TSTC’s Exposure Control Plan

Incident Reporting

If an employee experiences an exposure incident to a bloodborne pathogen, the employee should:

1. Wash needlesticks and cuts with soap and water

2. Flush splashes to the nose, mouth, or skin with water

3. Irrigate eyes with clean water, saline, or sterile irrigants

4. Remove contaminated clothing

5. Immediately seek medical treatment (see the ECP for more information) 

6. Immediately report the incident to the supervisor

7. In collaboration with the supervisor, complete the TSTC accident/incident report

8. Submit the completed TSTC accident/incident report to the campus EHS coordinator

Remember: don’t delay! If you think you may have been exposed to human blood or infectious materials through a needle stick or cut, or in your eyes, nose, or mouth, report the exposure immediately.