What are considered Other Potentially Infectious Materials (OPIM)?

Other Potentially Infectious Materials (OPIM) include human bodily fluids and unfixed body tissues because these materials can harbor infectious agents that pose a risk of transmission of diseases. The definition of OPIM, as per OSHA standards, encompasses a range of fluids and materials beyond just blood, which is classified as a biohazard. Specifically, OPIM can include fluids such as cerebrospinal fluid, synovial fluid, pleural fluid, pericardial fluid, and others that are capable of transmitting bloodborne pathogens.

Understanding the diverse types of fluids and tissues that fall under OPIM is crucial for healthcare workers, including dental professionals, as it informs the appropriate safety protocols and preventive measures they must adhere to when handling these materials. Recognizing these aspects helps in ensuring a safer workplace and minimizing the risk of exposure to hazardous biological agents.