Abstract
Personal protective equipment for protecting against acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) was discussed. The Joint Notice issued by the United States Department of Labor and Department of Health and Human Services on protecting against occupational exposure to hepatitis-B virus (HBV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) was considered. The joint notice has stated that the known risk factors for HIV transmission are essentially the same as those for HBV. Workers are regarded as being at risk of HIV infection to the extent that they are exposed to blood and body fluids. Despite the similarities in transmission, the risk of HBV infection in those exposed to blood and body fluids, such as health care workers, far exceeds that for HIV infection. Workers exposed to blood, body fluids, or tissue can be protected from the identifiable risks of HBV and HIV infection by using engineering controls, work practices, and protective equipment that are readily available, commonly used, and only slightly invasive. Recommendations were provided for personal protective equipment for protecting against various levels of HBV and HIV exposure, ranging from tasks that involve no exposure to blood, body fluids, or tissues to tasks that involve such exposures as a condition of employment. It was noted that emergency medical response personnel have been advised to wear double sets of gloves, as well as protective eyewear or face shields and impervious coveralls where appropriate.
