Because human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and other bloodborne diseases is transmitted by blood and body fluids containing blood, preventing exposure to HIV on the job really means preventing exposure to these substances. It is the actual contact with blood on the job that puts a worker at risk. Workers, especially health care workers, may come into contact with blood on the job by a blood splash to the eyes, mouth, or nose, or they may be one of the estimated one million health care workers stuck by a needle every year.
Workers may have several concerns or questions regarding their exposure or possible exposure to blood and bloodborne diseases at work. Some of the questions workers most often ask include:
Fortunately, when workers practice universal precautions and work to make sure that standards and protocols are enforced in the workplace, their risk of exposure to HIV and other bloodborne diseases decreases.
Bloodborne diseases—like HIV and Viral Hepatitis (Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C) are caused by viruses. Viruses are transmitted by contact with blood, semen, vaginal secretions, and certain other body fluids. If any of these viruses get into a person’s body, he or she may become infected with the virus and get sick.
When workers are exposed to blood or body fluids containing visible blood, they can be exposed to HBV, HCV, and HIV. Fortunately, workers can take several steps to protect themselves and make their workplace safer. Some of those steps include:
Any worker who has concerns or questions is encouraged to call his or her union’s health and safety representative. For additional information regarding HIV/AIDS prevention, contact the CDC Business and Labor Resource Service at 1-877-242-9760 or visit its web site at www.brta-lrta.org.
