What are bloodborne pathogens under OSHA?

Bloodborne pathogens are pathogenic microorganisms that are present in human blood and can cause disease in humans. They include, but are not limited to, hepatitis B virus (HBV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

By Cairn. Updated October 29, 2026. Sources: eCFR text as of October 27, 2026.

The legal definition

“Bloodborne Pathogens means pathogenic microorganisms that are present in human blood and can cause disease in humans. These pathogens include, but are not limited to, hepatitis B virus (HBV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).”

29 CFR 1910.1030(b), definition of “Bloodborne Pathogens”. eCFR, text as of October 27, 2026.

Where it applies

29 CFR 1910.1030, Bloodborne pathogens 9 paragraphs use the term. Read the text on eCFR.

In the enforcement record

Federal and state-plan agencies issued 17,026 cited violations under 29 CFR 1910.1030, Bloodborne pathogens, from January 2016 through September 10, 2026. The section ranks 16th among the 248 sections of 29 CFR cited at least 50 times. This is the count for the whole section, not for the term alone.

Cairn data, October 2026 snapshot.

See the full record for 29 CFR 1910.1030

Related terms

Occupational exposure Reasonably anticipated skin, eye, mucous membrane or parenteral contact with blood or other potentially infectious materials from an employee's duties.
Hazardous chemical Any chemical classified as a physical hazard or health hazard, a simple asphyxiant, combustible dust or a hazard not otherwise classified.

All terms in the OSHA glossary

Sources

29 CFR 1910.1030, Bloodborne pathogens. eCFR, text as of October 27, 2026.
Cairn data, October 2026 snapshot. Cairn analysis of the OSHA enforcement record.

Written by Cairn, updated October 29, 2026. The quoted text is copied from the sources above. A test compares each quotation with a stored copy of the source, and a separate script compares that copy with the live sources. This page explains the law and is not legal advice.