Missouri Western State University is committed to provide a safe and healthy environment for all employees, students and visitors and ensure the preservation of state property. In view of this commitment, the Missouri Western Health and Safety Manager provides expert guidance and timely services to the Missouri Western community through a commitment to employing best practices and collaboration, and by building long-term relationships aimed at promoting a productive and safety-conscious working and learning environment. The Missouri Western Health and Safety Manager assists members in developing comprehensive safety programs.
Bloodborne Pathogens
Bloodborne pathogens are microorganisms found in the blood of infected individuals that cause diseases. They may also be present in “other potentially infectious materials,” such as blood-tainted body fluids, unfixed tissues or body parts, and even some biological research materials. These pathogens are a concern because they are capable of infecting others who are exposed to infectious blood or other body fluids.
Exposure to bloodborne diseases can occur in many activities in the higher education community that reach well beyond the confines of biosafety in the laboratory. Practically any job or activity that involves intimate contact with people, whether it is health care, public safety, athletic training, childcare, or custodial work, can result in exposure.
Some workers are at risk of exposure as a result of their occupational duties, and, these workers are required to receive bloodborne pathogens training prior to initial assignment to tasks where occupational exposure may occur, and then receive refresher training annually thereafter. The training covers a variety of topics aimed at reducing the risk of exposure and disease transmission.
Exposure Control Plan
An Exposure Control Plan is a written action plan that identifies occupational risks and specifies precautionary control measures needed to manage and minimize potential exposure to bloodborne pathogens. A copy of our plan is available here: Exposure Control Plan.
Exposure Incident Reporting
If a bloodborne pathogens exposure incident should occur, report the incident immediately to your supervisor and the safety office. In addition, complete and submit an Employer’s First Report of Injury or Illness and, if a contaminated sharps was involved, a Contaminated Sharps Injury Reporting Form. These forms may also be found at the Missouri Western Workers’ Compensation Insurance website, Workers’ Compensation Information.
Student Laboratory and Shop Safety Training
In keeping with the commitment of the Missouri Western State University to provide a safe and healthy environment for all employees, students and visitors, it is Risk Management’s expectation student laboratory and shop safety training should be part of member health and safety programs.
