Engineering controls minimize exposure to bloodborne pathogens through _____.

Engineering controls refer to the physical modifications made to the workplace to eliminate or reduce hazards associated with bloodborne pathogens. These controls are designed to minimize exposure risks by using equipment and facilities that inherently decrease the likelihood of contact with harmful biological materials.

Equipment design is a critical aspect of engineering controls, as it includes features like safety needles, sharps disposal containers, and self-sheathing devices, all of which are specifically designed to prevent the accidental exposure or needlestick injuries. By redesigning tools and equipment used in healthcare settings, the risk of coming into contact with bloodborne pathogens is substantially reduced, thereby providing a safer environment for workers.

In contrast, training and proper waste disposal, while important components of an overall safety program, do not fit the definition of engineering controls. They focus more on behavioral and procedural aspects rather than altering the equipment or environment. The use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is also critical but represents a form of administrative control rather than an engineering control, as it requires individual action to be effective.