What action is an employer legally required to take to protect workers against health hazards related to bloodborne pathogens?

An employer is legally required to provide personal protective equipment (PPE) to protect workers against health hazards related to bloodborne pathogens. This requirement arises from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards, which mandate that employers assess the potential hazards present in their workplace and take appropriate measures to ensure worker safety. PPE, such as gloves, gowns, masks, and eye protection, serves as a critical barrier between employees and potentially infectious materials, thus mitigating the risk of exposure to bloodborne pathogens.

While ensuring all staff are trained is also essential for workplace safety, and restrictions on access to hazardous areas can be helpful in preventing exposure, providing the necessary PPE is a direct measure that addresses the physical protection of workers engaging with materials that may pose a health risk. Conducting regular health checks is a valuable aspect of ongoing employee health and safety, but it does not directly prevent exposure to bloodborne pathogens. By offering appropriate PPE, employers fulfill a core obligation to create a safer work environment for their employees.