Standard Precautions

Need multiple seats for your university or lab? Get a quote
The page below is a sample from the LabCE course OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens. Access the complete course and earn ASCLS P.A.C.E.-approved continuing education credits by subscribing online.

Learn more about OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens (online CE course)
Standard Precautions

The consistent use of standard precautions protects health care workers from exposure to bloodborne pathogens. Standard precaution guidelines state that all blood and body fluids should be handled as if they are infectious and capable of transmitting disease.
Standard precautions apply to:
  • Blood
  • Body fluids
  • Secretions (except sweat*)
  • Excretions
  • Non-intact skin
  • Mucous membranes
*Note that sweat is listed among the body fluids that can transmit the Ebola virus.