Prevention/Control of Exposure

The Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) has determined that human blood and all materials derived from or associated with human blood are equivalent to Risk Group 2 pathogens and recommend Universal Precautions/ Biosafety Level 2 containment.

It is important to understand that at this level we are dealing with research, diagnostic or production activities thought to pose little or minimal hazards to workers.  To date, these procedures and practices have been considered sufficient to protect the work force. 

The specific procedures, practices and facility considerations which follow are to be used to prevent worker exposure to blood and blood associated pathogenic microorganisms.