Laboratory Bloodborne Pathogens (Needle Sharps Program)

Laboratory personnel and workers who may be exposed to bloodborne pathogens must complete Laboratory Bloodborne Pathogens (Needle Sharps Program) Training in accordance with OSHA standards before performing any tasks involving potential exposure. This includes handling needles, sharps, or contaminated laboratory materials. The training ensures workers understand exposure risks, prevention methods, and safe laboratory practices to reduce injury and infection risk. Refresher training may be required annually or whenever workplace hazards or procedures change. Employers are responsible for ensuring all employees are trained and competent in safe handling procedures and exposure prevention. Employers must provide site-specific training tailored to laboratory procedures, equipment, and exposure control plans. This includes proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), safe sharps disposal methods, and decontamination procedures. Workers must also be trained on emergency response actions following a potential exposure incident, including reporting protocols and medical evaluation procedures. All training and exposure control procedures must be properly documented and maintained to ensure OSHA compliance and support workplace safety audits.