The status of occupational blood and infectious body fluids exposures in five blood centres in China: a 5-year review

SUMMARY Background Few information about the occupational exposures to blood and body fluid (BBF) among blood service workers (BSWs) in blood stations in China are available currently. Objectives To assess current status of occupational exposure to BBF and assess the knowledge about occupational blood-borne pathogen exposures and universal precaution among BSWs in blood donations in China. To understand the incidence of occupational exposure in five blood centres in China. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted from January 2008 to December 2013. Results There were a total of 99 BBF exposures reported during the study period. The total incidence of BBF exposures was 4·4 per 100 person-years. Higher rates were observed for persons employed less than 5 years and persons less than 45 years old. Nurses have the highest percentage (49·5%) of BBF exposures. BBF exposures occurred most commonly during the afternoon (62·7%). Percutaneous injuries were the most commonly BBF exposures. Most incidents occurred during sharps use (73·4%). The major cause of occupational exposure was that there was no continuous training (48·4%) and improper use of equipment (23·2%). Only 56·6% of BBF exposures have appropriate first aid measures. During this research work, one staff was reported to have seroconvert to syphilis after BBF exposure. Conclusions To reduce BBF exposures, it is urgent to take several effective actions in China, including improved occupational health system, adequate education, administrative support, increased use of standard precautions, better safety devices/products and work practices.