Sharps rule stresses evaluation and training

For years, the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration has faced growing pressure to strengthen its requirements on needle safety. Much of the new needle safety technology wasn’t available when OSHA released its first bloodborne pathogens directive in 1992.

An updated directive, published in November, makes it clear that employers need to evaluate, implement, and provide training on new needle safety devices. Here are some highlights of the directive:

• Employers must use effective engineering controls, including safer medical devices, to eliminate or minimize exposure to bloodborne pathogens.

• Exposure control plans must be reviewed and updated at least annually, and must reflect changes in technology and new scientific information on bloodborne pathogens.

• Employers are encouraged but not required to include front-line health care workers in the evaluation of products. Eval u ation of products should take into account the "large body of research and data" on safer devices, as well as Food and Drug Admini stra tion approval.

• Employers must follow the guidelines of the Centers for Disease Control and Preven tion in Atlanta on vaccinations against hepatitis B and postexposure evaluation and follow-up for HIV and hepatitis C.

• Training must be interactive, including "direct access to a qualified trainer" and the opportunity for employees to ask questions.