OSHA requires employers to provide an immediate and confidential medical evaluation and appropriate follow-up to employees that have an exposure incident at no cost to the worker.
If you experience a bloodborne pathogen (BBP) exposure:
- Wash/flush/irrigate the affected area:
- Wash needlesticks and cuts with soap and water.
- Flush splashes to the nose, mouth, or skin with water.
- Irrigate eyes with water or saline.
- Notify your supervisor right away.
- Seek medical evaluation/treatment immediately per facility policy.
- Document the incident per facility policy (eg, completing an exposure incident report).
- Follow-up as instructed.
If you are not sure but think you may have been exposed to a BBP, contact your supervisor or the appropriate department/personnel (eg, Occupational Health) designated by your facility. If an exposure is confirmed, it is important to follow up as instructed.
