Universal Precautions

Massage therapists Cosmetologists and Aestheticians are not at great risk for occupational exposure to blood borne pathogens. Because of our work with the human body it is important that the basics of the Blood borne Pathogen standard and Universal precautions as set forth by the Center for Disease Control and the Occupational and Safety Health Administration are reviewed and understood.

Common blood borne pathogens include hepatitis B, hepatitis C, syphilis, malaria, and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Blood borne pathogens are very small , so small you can’t see them without a microscope. Blood borne viruses live in certain body fluids like blood, semen, vaginal fluids. You can only get these diseases if you get someone’s infected body fluids into your body. Things can get into your body through cuts, scrapes, your eyes, nose and mouth and sexual intercourse. You can’t tell by looking at people if they have an infectious virus or not, so it is best to assume that anyone could have it.

Since routine testing, medical history, and examination cannot reliably identify individuals who are infected with blood borne pathogens (bbp), it is imperative that consistent controls be in place to prevent the spread of blood borne infections. Based on recommendations from the CDC and OSHA regulations, clinicians should adapt to the following Universal Precaution guidelines, as applicable to the job guidelines.

The basic Principles of Universal Precautions include:

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