Why are the eyes nose and mouth common transmission routes for blood-borne pathogens

It is very unlikely that you will become infected through everyday social contact with another worker who has a blood-borne virus (BBV). It is not thought that BBVs can be transmitted via the respiratory route, although this possibility cannot be dismissed entirely when, under laboratory conditions, (such as high titre in vitro cultures), BBVs are present in concentrations far exceeding that found in normal body fluids. BBVs are mainly transmitted sexually or by direct exposure to infected blood or other body fluids contaminated with infected blood. In the workplace, direct exposure can happen through accidental contamination by a sharp instrument, such as a needle or broken glass. Infected blood may also spread through contamination of open wounds, skin abrasions, skin damaged due to a condition such as eczema, or through splashes to the eyes, nose or mouth.

Routes of transmission

Blood-borne viruses (BBVs) are transmitted by blood, or other body fluids containing virus. This happens when the blood or fluids enter into the body of a susceptible person. The rate of viral transmission varies depending on how the person has been exposed to the virus (the route of transmission), the type of virus, how much of the virus the carrier has in their body and the immune status of the exposed person.

The more common routes of transmission include:

• sexual intercourse (common for HBV, HIV; inefficient for HCV);
  
• sharing injecting equipment;
• skin puncture by blood-contaminated sharp objects (eg needles, instruments or glass); and
• childbirth (ie the mother infects the child either before or during birth, or through breast-feeding).

Less common routes of transmission are:

• contamination of open wounds (eg blood injuries during sporting activities);
• contamination of skin lesions (eg eczema);
• splashing of the mucous membranes of the eye, nose or mouth; and
• human bites when blood is drawn (this may be more of a problem in certain occupations, eg prison and police service, where front line workers may be exposed to violent behaviour).

There is also a risk of acquiring a BBV infection via blood transfusion. However, in the UK, all blood donations are screened for HBV, HCV and HIV, meaning the risk is remote.

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Bloodborne pathogen awareness is an important safety topic for any workplace where employees could potentially encounter any bloodborne pathogen. The first step to planning proper safety procedures is ensuring you and your employees understand what bloodborne pathogens are, some of the most common types of bloodborne pathogens, and how bloodborne pathogens are transmitted. With that information in hand, you’ll be able to better assess the level of training and preparation your team needs to stay safe at work. Let’s start with a definition of bloodborne pathogens:

What Are Bloodborne Pathogens?

Bloodborne pathogens are disease-causing microorganisms that are present in human blood and other potentially infectious materials like human body fluids. Workers who have occupational exposure — meaning there is a likelihood that they may encounter or be exposed to bloodborne pathogens in the workplace — are at risk for the diseases caused by bloodborne pathogens.

What Are The Types of Bloodborne Pathogens?

There are many different types of bloodborne pathogens, but the three most common bloodborne pathogens referenced when discussing occupational exposure are:

• Hepatitis B (HBV) — A serious liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus.
• Hepatitis C (HCV) — A viral infection that causes liver inflammation, and can lead to serious liver damage.
• HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) — A virus that attacks the body’s immune system, and that, if untreated, can lead to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome).

Three Main Routes of Bloodborne Pathogen Transmission in the Workplace

There are a few different ways that bloodborne pathogens can be transmitted. In the workplace, the most common cause of transmission is when an infected person’s blood enters another person’s bloodstream through an open wound. That said, to have a comprehensive understanding of bloodborne pathogens, it’s important to understand the three main routes of bloodborne pathogen transmission:

• Unprotected openings in the skin. Bloodborne pathogens can be transmitted through cuts, scrapes, or any other open wounds. As mentioned above, this is the most common cause of transmission in the workplace.
• Mucous membranes. Mucous membranes in the body, like those found in the eyes, nose, and mouth, are also potential routes of bloodborne pathogen transmission.
• Penetration of skin. The third main route of transmission is through skin penetration, which is a common hazard in many healthcare settings. Sharp objects like needles, razors, or even broken glass can transmit bloodborne pathogens.

Identifying the Right Bloodborne Pathogen Awareness Training for your Workplace

Understanding what bloodborne pathogens are and how they are transmitted will help you to identify and implement the right bloodborne pathogen training for your workplace. Every workplace has different training requirements, based on the level of exposure.

For example, while a small sales office may find a general awareness course sufficiently covers the level of training needed, a healthcare facility will require a more extensive bloodborne pathogen training to be implemented. The greater the opportunity for occupational exposure to bloodborne pathogens, the more in-depth training and implementation of an exposure control plan will be required.

You can assess what training your workplace needs by reviewing the  OSHA guidelines for your industry. From there, you can develop a workplace safety training plan that best educates and protects your employees.

For more general information about bloodborne pathogens and training standards, see OSHA’s Bloodborne Pathogens Standard factsheet. And if you’re looking for a general bloodborne pathogen awareness course for your workplace eSafety’s Bloodborne Pathogen Training course may be right for you. Learn more about our LMS online, or request a free quote today!

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