2 Components of Bloodborne Pathogen Training

Entities like the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have issued various guidelines to protect employees from several fields against bloodborne pathogens, and also encourage adequate training to minimize risks of infections.
An ideal training module must be divided into two sections, where the mental part must deal with understanding bloodborne pathogens on various parameters, and the physical part which will deal with handling such situations in the real world.
Some of the things that should be covered in both the components are listed below.
1. Mental Components
• Awareness: Awareness is extremely vital in any kind of bloodborne training. Here you will learn the many dangers of coming in contact with infected blood and body fluids, including the different dangerous diseases that can be caused due to them. Also you will know how to identify a potentially hazardous situation so that you can approach it with caution.
• Learning Standards: Besides general awareness you can learn a lot from the many studies and publications of OSHA and also learn about its specific standards for bloodborne pathogens which cover a comprehensive list of situations for a more thorough understanding of the risks involved and how to deal with them. In addition you will also learn to identify different labels, signs, symbols and color codes to identify hazardous materials, containers and even areas so that you can take the necessary precautions in such vicinities.
• Occupational Exposure and Plans: Occupational exposure will tell you the possible risks involved while carrying out certain kinds of jobs, and also the importance of understanding and following the exposure control plans formulated by your employer.
2. Physical Components
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Here you will learn the importance of different kinds of personal gear like gloves, face masks, goggles and gowns to prevent contact with blood and fluids. Using one or all the items of the gear will depend on the particular situation, but you must gain complete understanding of which equipment is required when, and also how to wear the items properly. On your end, you must find out if such gear is available at your place of work.
• Vaccination: Bloodborne pathogens are known to cause certain diseases that do not have a complete cure; Hepatitis B is one such example. It is in your interest that you take such a vaccination as directed so that you are sufficiently protected when working with blood or people who might be infected with this ailment. In fact, OSHA guidelines require all employers to offer such vaccinations to their employees.
• Post Exposure: Training will also prepare you for instances when exposure to bloodborne pathogens does take place. You will be taught the sequence of measures to be taken which include informing your seniors, focusing on prompt medical treatment and regular follow-ups in addition to abiding by any specific provisions of law.
The above components substantially cover the many risks posed by bloodborne pathogens and also provide you with necessary practical knowledge for better handling of any situation at your workplace.