If you feel that you are in danger or compromised in an unhealthy or unsafe environment, or you are not being protected in a compromising bloodborne pathogen contamination, you do need to follow several steps to get in a safe mode. Your employer needs to be informed and warnings need to be given to colleagues. There are several stages that can help the situation and you always have the right to file a complaint with OSHA. You also have the justification to refuse to work in an unhealthy or unsafe situation. To refuse to work with bloodborne pathogens, you must have clear examples of your suspicion of possible death, serious physical harm or if there are no methods in place to correct the harmful situation.

– The Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 provides the right to file a complaint. OSHA inspectors will come to your workplace and make sure that there are enough safeguards in regards to handling bloodborne pathogens after you file your compliant. Your name will not be revealed to your employer unless you request your name be given out.

– Employers cannot discriminate. If it is found that you have lodged a complaint regarding unhealthy or contaminated conditions in your health care facility your employer cannot fire, demote or transfer you.

– Online options are available. There are complaint forms on line that can be filled out and filed with the district OSHA office. Make sure you completely fill out the form and include why you think you are risk for bloodborne pathogen contamination.

– Fax or mail a downloaded form. This form must be signed, but it does contain the same procedures as the online form.

– Telephone. You can discuss your complaint at any time with an OSHA representative. If you feel that your safety is highly compromised or directly life-threatening, do call your local OSHA district office immediately.

It is recommended that employees try to reach an agreement with their health care employer by reporting the infraction or concern to a supervisor or manager. If you have a health and safety committee on site, report the problem to them. Try to work out with your health care employer the best way to prevent bloodborne pathogen contamination and work toward fixing the problem. If nothing is agreed on or “fixed”, it is very important that the following information be included in any complaint to OSHA:

– How many employees may be exposed to the hazard?

– How were workers exposed?

– What work was being performed that lead to the exposure to bloodborne pathogens?

– Are there any safeguard or rules in place?

– How often were you exposed?

– Has anyone gotten sick or contracted the bloodborne pathogen disease?

You have every right to expect a safe and healthy environment when you work in a health clinic. You do need to be aware, however, that you are working with bloodborne pathogens and exact care needs to be taken on your part to ensure your own safety. It is good to know, however that there are agencies that can ensure your safety and prevent dangerous situations.

For more information, please visit our bloodborne pathogens website.

For more information, please visit our bloodborne pathogens website http://www.bloodborne-pathogens.com

Author Bio: For more information, please visit our bloodborne pathogens website.

Category: Advice
Keywords: bloodborne pathogens certification,Bloodborne Pathogen ,health care