Safety Orientation for Supervisors Practice Exam

What action should be taken if bloodborne pathogens are identified in the workplace?

1. Ignore the findings

2. Implement exposure control measures

3. Notify employees to avoid the area

4. Report to a higher authority without action

The correct answer is: Implement exposure control measures

Implementing exposure control measures is the most appropriate action when bloodborne pathogens are identified in the workplace. This step is crucial because it directly addresses the potential risks associated with bloodborne pathogens, which can include serious diseases such as HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C. Exposure control measures are designed to minimize the risk of transmission and protect employees from exposure. These measures may encompass a range of actions, including but not limited to providing proper training to employees on how to handle blood or potentially infectious materials safely, ensuring appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) is available and used, and establishing protocols for safely cleaning up spills or disposing of biohazardous materials. The other actions listed, such as ignoring the findings, simply notifying employees to avoid an area, or reporting to a higher authority without taking direct action, do not adequately address the immediate health and safety concerns posed by the presence of bloodborne pathogens. Each of these alternatives fails to provide the necessary safeguards and could lead to increased risks for employees in the workplace. Hence, implementing exposure control measures is essential for ensuring a safe working environment.