Bloodborne Pathogen Training in Surgery Centers: Q&A With Pamela Dembski Hart

Rachel Fields -

Q: What are the OSHA requirements for bloodborne pathogen training for surgery center employees?

A: According to OSHA training requirements, all employees with potential occupational exposure must undergo training that covers all 14 topics described in the rule at the time of initial assignment and when new tasks and procedures are introduced. Training must be held annually and must be given by a trainer knowledgeable in the subject matter.

"Many people don't understand that web-based training does not meet the requirements," says Pamela Dembski Hart, CHSP, BS, MT, principal with Healthcare Accreditation Resources. "It can be used to supplement, but with bloodborne pathogens, you need someone who's knowledgeable delivering information to the audience."

The training must also specifically address the particular workplace and be tailored to the audience it addresses. "The depth that you go into about disease transmission will vary based on the audience, and the training should be site-specific to the procedures that are performed," Ms. Dembski Hart says.

Learn more about OSHA training requirements.

Learn more about Healthcare Accreditation Resources.

Related Articles on Surgery Center Accreditation:
Joint Commission Releases Animated Patient Safety Video Focusing on Pediatric Care
Patient Safety Tool: Patient Handover Toolkit From the Royal College of Physicians
Patient Safety Tool: WHO Surgical Safety Checklist

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