Protecting Against Bloodborne Pathogens Protecting Against Bloodborne Pathogens By Marisa DiBiaso, Project Assistant A bloodborne pathogen is a virus that can be transmitted by contact with bodily fluids. A puncture from a nail or a cut from the sharp blade of a plow can put workers at risk of contracting a bloodborne pathogen.
Viruses can live on objects putting workers at risk.
Understanding safety precautions and knowing what to do can reduce the risk of workers becoming infected with a bloodborne pathogen . There are many types of bloodborne pathogens. HIV is generally spread through sexual contact, but it can also be contracted through blood and other bodily fluids. In accidents, contact with blood could result in transmission of viruses. Blood can carry a virus that could cause infection through an open cut or inflamed skin.