Evaluation and Management of Exposure to Infectious Agents

Document Type

Book Section

Publication Date

3-29-2019

Publication Title

Handbook of Occupational Safety and Health

Publisher

Wiley

Edition

3

First page number:

147

Last page number:

198

Abstract

This chapter addresses infectious diseases seen in the United States as a result of work‐related exposures. In some cases, sport and recreational activities overlap with work‐related ones, because many of the former involve full‐time or part‐time workers as well as volunteers. The chapter includes three case studies that illustrate important aspects of recognizing and investigating work‐related infections. It describes fundamental terms and concepts related to infectious diseases, their transmission, and prevention. Health and safety programs for control of infectious agents in the workplace should identify potential work‐related infections; identify applicable regulations or guidelines; and develop an appropriate medical surveillance program, including reporting and investigation of accidents and exposure incidents. They should also develop control and prevention strategies, including emergency procedures; educate workers and train them to recognize and avoid exposures and to respond correctly to emergencies; and inspect the workplace for compliance with health and safety rules.

Keywords

Health and Safety Programs; Infectious Agents; Infectious Disease Prevention; Infectious Disease Transmission; Medical Surveillance Program; Work‐Related Exposures

Disciplines

Medicine and Health Sciences | Occupational Health and Industrial Hygiene | Public Health

Language

English

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