What is the purpose of personal protective equipment (PPE) in relation to bloodborne pathogens?

The purpose of personal protective equipment (PPE) in relation to bloodborne pathogens is fundamentally centered on preventing exposure to infectious materials. By utilizing PPE such as gloves, masks, gowns, and face shields, employees working in environments where blood or other potentially infectious materials (OPIM) are present can significantly reduce the risk of transmission of bloodborne pathogens like HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C. This protective gear acts as a critical barrier between the worker and the pathogens, thereby protecting their health and safety in high-risk situations.

Using PPE effectively decreases the likelihood of direct contact with harmful substances, thus playing a vital role in infection control and ensuring a safer workplace. The primary function of PPE is to mitigate potential hazards rather than enhance comfort, improve visibility, or simplify job duties; while these factors might be secondary benefits in some cases, they are not the main purpose of PPE in the context of bloodborne pathogens.