Under the blood-borne pathogen standard, what is the role of personal protective equipment (PPE)?

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is designed specifically to serve as a barrier to pathogens, thereby protecting healthcare workers from exposure to infectious materials. This protection is crucial in settings where employees may come into contact with blood or other potentially infectious bodily fluids. PPE includes items like gloves, masks, gowns, and face shields, which effectively reduce the risk of transmission of blood-borne pathogens by creating a physical barrier between the worker and the hazardous materials.

While sterilization of equipment and support for emergency safety procedures are important aspects of healthcare safety, they do not directly define the primary role of PPE. Moreover, PPE is meant to supplement but not replace engineering and work practice controls, which are other essential measures aimed at reducing the risk of exposure to blood-borne pathogens. Thus, the key focus of PPE is on its function as a barrier, underscoring its critical role in maintaining a safe working environment in healthcare settings.