Blood-borne pathogens are primarily regulated by which agency?

Blood-borne pathogens are primarily regulated by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) because they focus on ensuring safe and healthy working conditions for employees. OSHA has established standards specifically designed to protect workers from health hazards in the workplace, including exposure to blood-borne pathogens, which can transmit serious infections like HIV and hepatitis B and C.

The OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens Standard (29 CFR 1910.1030) requires employers to take specific precautions to minimize the risk of exposure to these pathogens. This includes providing training for employees about the risks, implementing exposure control plans, ensuring the use of personal protective equipment, and maintaining proper disposal methods for contaminated materials.

In contrast, while agencies like the CDC are involved in public health recommendations and guidance regarding blood-borne pathogens, they do not have regulatory authority to enforce workplace safety regulations in the way that OSHA does. The EPA primarily focuses on environmental protection and regulations regarding hazardous waste and chemical exposure, while the USDA is concerned with food safety and agricultural issues. Therefore, the responsibility for regulating blood-borne pathogens in a workplace setting lies with OSHA.