Fire and Emergency Services Exploring: Policy Statement on Bloodborne Pathogens

Questions have been raised regarding the position of Learning for Life on OSHA's Regulation for Bloodborne Pathogens (29 CFR Section 1910.1030) as it relates to Exploring's adult volunteers, youth members, and participating organizations.

This position statement is for those individuals who may be exposed to blood and body fluids; specifically, members of posts with specialties in medicine, fire rescue, law enforcement, etc.

The OSHA rules apply only to employees in jobs that involve "occupational exposure" to bloodborne pathogens. They do not apply to situations or posts involving volunteers.
However, we recommend the following in instances where youth and/or adults may be exposed to blood or body fluids.
1. The participating organization and its leaders should always explain and make clear the possible degree of exposure to blood or body fluids as a result of Exploring activities.
2. As a precaution, adult volunteers and youth members should consider getting a hepatitis B vaccination. The cost of the shots will not be borne by Learning for Life, nor is the participating organization required to underwrite the cost.
3. However, the participating organization may arrange to have hepatitis B vaccinations given at a reduced rate or free of charge.
4. If vaccination is recommended, any adult volunteers and youth members who decline the shots, either at the full cost to them, at a reduced rate, or free, should sign the refusal waiver (which you may download). A declination file must be maintained for five years.
Learning for Life also recommends the following:
Treat all blood as if it were contaminated with bloodborne viruses. Do not use bare hands to stop bleeding; always use a protective barrier. Always wash exposed skin areas with hot water and soap immediately after treating the victim. The following pieces of equipment are to be included in all first aid kits and used when rendering first aid to those in need:
- Latex or vinyl gloves, to be used when bleeding is being stopped or wounds are being dressed.
- A mouth-barrier device, for rendering rescue breathing or CPR.
- Plastic goggles or other eye protection, to prevent a victim's blood from getting into rescuers' eyes in the event of serious arterial bleeding.
- Antiseptic, for use in sterilizing or cleaning exposed skin areas, particularly if no soap or water is available.