Sharp as a needle

Latest bloodborne virus exposure data from the HPA highlights the importance of the forthcoming sharps and needlestick legislation

Summary:

Legislation bringing the EU sharps directive into UK law must come into force in May this year. Latest exposure data from the Health Protection Agency shows why the legislation is badly needed.

LEGISLATION to implement EU directive 2010/32/EU on the prevention of sharps injuries in the hospital and healthcare sector will come into force on 11 May 20131. The directive requires exposure to be eliminated where a risk assessment indicates…    

John Ballard is editor of Occupational Health [at Work].

Author: Ballard J

Tags healthcare worker hepatitis hiv hpa - health protection agency legislation needlestick sharps

Occupational Health at Work February/March 2013 (vol. 09/5) pp14-20

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