This Infection Control Guidelines document consolidates, clarifies and updates the previously published recommendations on the basis of current knowledge regarding bloodborne disease transmission in Canada and elsewhere. Guidelines, by definition, are directing principles and indications or outlines of policy or conduct that should not be regarded as rigid standards.

This Infection Control Guidelines document presents relevant Canadian epidemiologic data. The information and recommendations in Section III are applicable to all situations in which the potential exposure to blood and fluids capable of transmitting bloodborne infection exists. Additional information is provided that will enable application of the recommendations in selected settings (e.g., fire fighting, emergency, law-enforcement, correctional, surgical, dental, hemodialysis, mortuary, autopsy, funeral, laboratory, camp, day care, playground, school, foster care, home health care, long-term care, rehabilitation, personal service).

Introduction
Epidemiology of the Transmission of Bloodborne Pathogens
General Recommendations for Canadian Health Care and Public Service Settings
Bibliography
Appendix