Management of occupational exposures

Management of exposures to blood and body fluids (PDF 369 kB) provides the minimum recommended procedures for the immediate assessment, management and follow-up of individuals who have been exposed (or suspect they have been exposed) to blood borne viruses, and recommendations for initiation of post-exposure prophylaxis in occupational settings.

The key messages in this clinical practice guideline are:

  • Occupational exposures to blood and body fluids have the potential to transmit the blood-borne viruses HIV, Hepatitis C, and Hepatitis B.
  • Exposures that might place a healthcare worker at risk of HBV, HCV, or HIV infection are:
    • a percutaneous injury (for example a needlestick or cut with a sharp object); or
    • contact of mucous membranes or non-intact skin with blood, tissue, or other bodily fluids that are potentially infectious for blood-borne viruses.
  • The immediate priority is first aid. Wash affected skin or wounds with soap and water. Wash affected mucous membranes with water and irrigate affected eyes with normal saline or clean water.
  • Prompt assessment and management is required, including baseline pathology testing of the source patient and the exposed person.
  • Post-exposure prophylaxis is available for HIV and Hepatitis B and, where required, this must be commenced as soon as possible following the exposure (preferably same day, must be commenced within 72 hours).
  • No post-exposure prophylaxis is available for Hepatitis C. However, in the event of transmission of infection with HCV, referral is available for highly effective treatment for HCV, with the goal of successful viral eradication (cure).

For occupational exposures to communicable diseases other than HIV, HBV, and HCV, refer to the applicable communicable disease control guidance.

Clinician Quick Reference Summary

When post-exposureRecommended management actions
Immediately
  • First aid
  • Notify supervisor
  • Relief from duty
  • Inform the source patient if appropriate
  • Risk assessment – gather exposure and source patient details
As soon as possible (preferably same day, PEP must be commenced within 72 hours)
  • Source assessment
  • Documentation and assessment of the exposure
  • Informed consent for testing (exposed person and source)
  • Baseline serology (exposed person and source):
    • If the source patient is positive for any blood-borne virus (BBV) arrange counselling and referral to a clinical expert
    • If the source patient is positive for HIV or HBV, assess the need for the exposed person to receive post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), and commence if indicated
    • If the exposed person is not immune to HBV, assess the need for vaccination
  • If HIV PEP is commenced, arrange a referral to a specialist physician
  • Offer referral to the employee assistance program
  • Formal reporting as per HHS local procedures
Within 1 week

Conduct a review of the exposure incident to determine if any education or system improvement is required.

Informed consent discussion for future recommended testing.

Convey results to the exposed person.

Re-offer referral to employee assistance program.

If positive serology refer to an appropriate specialist for clinical management.

Week 4 - 6Follow-up serology (where required) for HIV, hepatitis C virus (HCV)
Week 12Follow-up serology (where required) for HIV, hepatitis B virus (HBV), HCV
6 monthsFollow-up serology (where required) for HBV

Last updated: 15 September 2025