Which federal agency's law protects individuals from exposure to bloodborne pathogens and other body fluids in the workplace?

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration, commonly known as OSHA, is the federal agency responsible for ensuring safe and healthful working conditions by setting and enforcing standards. One of OSHA's key regulations is the Bloodborne Pathogens Standard, which specifically protects workers from the risk of exposure to bloodborne pathogens and other potentially infectious materials in the workplace.

This standard requires employers to implement measures such as exposure control plans, the provision of personal protective equipment, proper training for employees, and vaccination programs to mitigate the risks associated with bloodborne pathogens. OSHA's regulations are essential for maintaining worker safety in environments where exposure to blood and other body fluids is a concern, specifically in healthcare and laboratory settings.

The other agencies listed have different roles: the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) focuses on environmental protection and public health, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) works on disease control and prevention at a public health level, and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) conducts research and provides recommendations for occupational safety, but it does not enforce regulations. Therefore, OSHA is the agency that directly establishes the legal protections for workers against bloodborne pathogens.