First aiders and employers of first aiders will be interested in the HSE’s published guidance aimed at those working in environments where exposure to blood or other body fluids may occur due to the risk of infection from blood-borne viruses.
Blood-borne viruses (BBVs) are carried in the blood of some people and are potentially harmful to some but not to others. They can also be found in other body fluids.
Direct exposure to infected blood within the workplace can happen through accidental contamination by a sharp instrument, such as a needle or broken glass, contamination of open wounds, skin abrasions, damaged skin due to eczema, or splashes to the eyes, nose and mouth.
The guide provides a list of BBVs and a number of procedures to follow after possible infection with a BBV.
The guidance INDG 342 is available from HSE Books.
Single copies are free, packs of 10 are priced.