Certified Materials and Resource Professional Practice

The correct action for employees according to exposure control plans is to avoid contact with potentially infected materials. This fundamental practice is critical in maintaining safety and preventing the transmission of infections in various environments, particularly in healthcare settings. Exposure control plans are designed to minimize the risk of exposure to pathogens and other hazardous materials, thus helping to protect both employees and patients.

By avoiding contact with potentially infected materials, employees can significantly reduce their risk of acquiring or spreading infectious diseases. This practice is often emphasized as it is one of the most effective ways to ensure a safe working environment. The focus is on preventing exposures before they occur, rather than relying solely on post-exposure measures.

In contrast, always wearing surgical masks, while important in certain situations, does not encompass the broader protective measures needed against all types of potential exposure. Avoiding contact with all patients may be impractical and counterproductive in healthcare settings where interaction with patients is necessary for providing care. Additionally, only handling instruments after sterilization addresses a specific aspect of infection control, but it does not represent the holistic approach advocated by exposure control plans to avoid contact with any potentially infected materials in the first place. Thus, the emphasis on avoiding contact with potentially infected materials stands out as the essential action that aligns with the goals