Bloodborne pathogens are microorganisms carried by human blood and other body fluids. The two most common are the hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C (HBC) and the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Many people think of AIDS when discussing bloodborne pathogens, but actually HBV is much more common.

Most approaches to infection control are based on the concept of Standard Precautions treating all blood and body fluids as if they were potentially infectious. This approach is critical because it is impossible to tell who is infected with HBV, HCV or HIV simply by appearances. Many people who carry infectious disease have no visible symptoms and no knowledge of their condition.  

Reducing your risk of exposure to bloodborne pathogens means you need to do more than wear gloves. It is using; Work Practice controls, PPE, Engineering Controls, Housekeeping,  and Vaccines.