In what year did OSHA publish the Bloodborne Pathogens standard?

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) published the Bloodborne Pathogens standard in 1991. This landmark regulation was designed to protect workers who are exposed to blood and other potentially infectious materials. The standard established a set of requirements intended to minimize the risk of transmission of diseases such as HIV and Hepatitis B in healthcare and other settings where such exposures could occur.

The 1991 implementation of this standard marked a significant advancement in workplace safety regulations, emphasizing the need for organizations to develop and follow exposure control plans, provide training, and ensure the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE). This reflects OSHA’s commitment to safety and health in the workplace, particularly concerning biological risks.

Understanding the correct date is crucial for compliance professionals, as it lays the foundation for how bloodborne pathogens are managed and how workplace safety regulations have evolved over time.