WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Occupation Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) bloodborne pathogens standard was revised with the objective of reducing the number of needlesticks among healthcare and other workers who handle medical sharps. The new standard became effective April 18; however, OSHA will mount a 90-day outreach and education program before enforcing the new rules.
The revisions, mandated by the Needlestick Safety and Prevention Act, stipulates that employers are to select safer needle devices as they become available and that employees are to be included in the process of selecting the devices. Employers are also required to maintain a log of workers who may have been exposed to infectious diseases through needlestick injuries from contaminated sharps and to ensure privacy for employees.
The Needlestick Safety and Prevention Act was passed unanimously by Congress in November 2000.
