Bloodborne Pathogens are a real threat in workplaces and schools.  They are responsible for diseases such as Hepatitis B and AIDS, and both can be fatal.  While AIDS is primarily contracted through sexual contact, it can also be contracted by other contaminated blood sources and certain types of body fluids.  Hepatitis B is transmitted through contact with contaminated blood as well, but can also be passed from person to person through saliva. 

Consider the following scenario:

An infected preschooler falls in the classroom and cuts their lip.  The teacher runs over and wipes the child's mouth with a paper towel and throws the towel in the trash.  A couple hours later another curious child finds the paper towel in the trash and pulls it out.  The teacher and the curious child have now been exposed and potentially infected.

This could have been avoided if the teacher was wearing gloves and properly disposed of them and the paper towel.

CDC National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
-provides a wealth of information concerning bloodborne pathogens.

OSHA - Bloodborne Pathogens and Needlestick Prevention 


Resources for Bloodborne Pathogens

Bloodborne Pathogens