How Often Is OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens Training Required?

OSHA requires bloodborne pathogens training when an employee is first assigned to tasks with occupational exposure and at least annually after that, within one year of the previous training. Additional training is required when new or changed tasks or procedures affect exposure. The employer provides the training at no cost to the employee and during working hours.

Under 29 CFR 1910.1030(g)(2), the employer must train each employee with occupational exposure:

• At the time of initial assignment to tasks where occupational exposure may take place (1910.1030(g)(2)(ii)(A)).
• At least annually thereafter (1910.1030(g)(2)(ii)(B)). Annual training must be provided within one year of the previous training (1910.1030(g)(2)(iv)).
• When changes such as new or modified tasks or procedures affect the employee's occupational exposure. This added training may be limited to the new exposures (1910.1030(g)(2)(v)).

Training must be provided at no cost to the employee and during working hours (1910.1030(g)(2)(i)). Materials must suit the educational level, literacy and language of the employees (1910.1030(g)(2)(vi)).

The annual cycle is measured from the date of the last training, so a session completed on March 15 is due again no later than March 15 of the following year. Employers keep the training records described in 1910.1030(h)(2) for three years.

State Plan standards must be at least as effective as federal OSHA standards, and State Plan states may have their own requirements.

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