Every job site encounters different threats that vary in severity. One of the biggest concerns in dentistry is bloodborne pathogens. They pose many health risks and safety concerns in the workplace, making them a top priority for the Occupational Safety and Health Association (OSHA). Here are three facts about bloodborne viruses dental professionals should know to enhance their dental clinic’s safety.
The Dangers of Bloodborne Viruses
Bloodborne viruses derive from disease-bearing microorganisms present in the blood. Three of the most common and dangerous pathogens include hepatitis B (HBV) and C (HCV) and the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). All three viruses cause long-term and, in some scenarios, life-threatening concerns.
Anything that enters the bloodstream poses a serious threat since blood connects to most essential internal systems and organs. Bloodborne pathogens can shut down pertinent bodily systems, cause inflammation and irritation, increase one’s susceptibility to other diseases, and break down natural defense systems.
Common Transmissions
There are many ways to contract bloodborne viruses, from contact between broken or damaged skin to sharing or reusing hypodermic needles. The most common bloodborne transmissions in dentistry include:
• Sprays from dental equipment (e.g., ultrasonic scaling and drills)
• Accidental punctures and exposures
• Cross-contamination
• Occasional bites
• Poor sanitation
• Lack of personal protective equipment (PPE)
Precautions and Preventions
It’s better to be safe than sorry; you won’t want to deal with the consequences after the fact. HBV, HCV, and HIV are irreversible, making them serious health and safety risks. It’s better to avoid them than take any risks of exposure. Proper defenses against bloodborne diseases include the following:
• Wearing PPE (e.g., gloves, masks, face shields, and long sleeves)
• Sanitizing equipment and workspaces between appointments
• Disposing of sharps and other items exposed to body fluids in the hazardous waste disposal
• Not reusing needles and syringes (without proper sanitation)
• Implementing proper and safe handling of sharps and injection methods
• Getting vaccinated
For more precautions and preventions, take a course on dental OSHA training online. OSHA requires proper training to heighten the health and safety of workplaces and workers. The standards feature many best practices that keep everyone—employees and patients—safe from many threats, including bloodborne diseases.
Maximized health and safety benefits everyone, regardless of the dangers and field of work. It increases working conditions and more. Knowing these three facts about bloodborne viruses in dentistry and proper health and safety training helps dental professionals improve their performance and safety. With threats out of the way, everyone is safe, healthy, and happy.