Final answer:
The purpose of infection prevention procedures and an exposure control plan is to ensure employee safety, comply with legal requirements, and prevent the spread of diseases. These include practices like hand washing, PPE use, and adhering to public health and OSHA guidelines.
Step-by-step explanation:
The purpose of establishing infection prevention procedures and an exposure control plan is multifaceted. Firstly, it ensures the safety and well-being of employees by minimizing the risk of exposure to infectious agents. Secondly, such measures help organizations to comply with legal and regulatory requirements, like those outlined by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Finally, these procedures are pivotal in the prevention of the spread of infectious diseases, contributing to the overarching goals of public health.
Health and safety protocols such as frequent hand washing, using personal protective equipment (PPE), and proper sanitation and sterilization techniques are key components of these plans. In the workplace, OSHA guidelines demand employers to provide a safe work environment, which includes infection prevention and control measures. Moreover, the implementation of an exposure control plan should involve education and training on avoiding infectious diseases, proper diagnosis to ensure effective treatment, and various methods for reducing the risk of contamination, both within a workplace and the broader community.
Employers have duties such as providing safety training, maintaining records of workplace injuries and illnesses, offering medical tests, and notifying OSHA of serious workplace incidents. Additionally, public health efforts such as vaccination and community education are essential in managing infectious diseases.