| Category | Health and Safety |
|---|---|
| Type | Policy |
| Approved by | Council, 1 September 2004 |
| Date Policy Took Effect | 1 September 2004 |
| Last approved revision | 23 November 2023 |
| Sponsor | Chief Operating Officer |
| Responsible officer | Director, Health, Safety and Wellbeing |
Purpose
To minimise the likelihood of occupational exposure to blood or other body fluids, and to ensure if exposure does occur, that the situation is managed correctly to ensure the minimum possible harm occurs to the individual(s) involved.
The University of Otago respects the cultural beliefs and values of the sacredness of blood. The University also understands that in Te Ao Māori, the body is considered tapu and requires special consideration and respect.
Organisational scope
All University of Otago work locations. This policy applies to all workers, students and visitors in any University of Otago workplace, including fieldwork and work off site.
Content
- Managers and Supervisors responsible for a workplace where there is a risk of blood and/or body fluid exposure must ensure that the operating procedures described in the Blood and Body Fluid Exposure Guidelines - General or Faculty of Dentistry are followed.
- Workers and students have a duty to comply with the Blood and Body Fluid Exposure Guidelines - General or Faculty of Dentistry requirements, including the reporting of any incidents.
- Where potential exposure to blood and body fluids are identified as work activity hazards or risks, proof of blood borne disease and immunisation status is required prior to commencement of work or research. The Occupational Vaccination Policy applies for the immunisation of blood borne diseases.
Related policies, procedures and forms
- Health and Safety at Work Act 2015
- Health and Safety Policy
- Occupational Vaccination Policy
- ACC Partnership Programme
- Incident Reporting Policy
- Process and Guide for Management of Blood and Body Fluids Exposure (PDF)
- Process and Guide for Management of Blood and Body Fluids Exposure – Dentistry (PDF)
Contact for further information
If you have any queries regarding the content of this policy or need further clarification, contact:
Director, Health, Safety and Wellbeing
Email hsa@otago.ac.nz
Email andrea.mcmillan@otago.ac.nz