Bloodborne pathogens are pathogenic microorganisms that can be present in human blood and cause diseases in humans. These pathogens include, but are not limited to, HIV and HBV. Therefore, blood is a potentially infectious material and how you take care of waste materials can literally be the difference between life or death. 

Most infection occurs when the infectious pathogens come in contact with an employee's mucous membranes, such as the nose or mouth- and also open cuts or breaks in the skin. Although bodily fluids can easily contain pathogenic microorganisms, they can easily be protected against by using universal precautions.

The CDC came up with a universal precaution approach by treating all contaminated materials as contaminated with bloodborne pathogens.. It is very important to wear personal protective gear when handling laundry and cleaning up waste to avoid the spread of infection and disease. If there is any chance that an employee has come in contact with bloodborne pathogens, it is important for them to notify a physician immediately.