When must the series of hepatitis vaccinations be given to an employee?

The series of hepatitis vaccinations must be given to an employee within 10 working days of their initial assignment to tasks that involve potential exposure to blood or other infectious materials. This timeline is established to ensure that employees are protected from hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection as quickly as possible, especially in settings such as healthcare or mortuary services where exposure risks are elevated.

Administering the vaccinations promptly is crucial because the hepatitis B virus can have serious long-term health consequences, including chronic liver disease and increased risk of liver cancer. By requiring that the vaccinations occur within this specific timeframe, employers can mitigate the risk of occupational exposure, ensuring the health and safety of their employees.

Other timelines for vaccination initiation, such as beyond 10 working days, would not effectively protect employees during the critical early period of potential exposure, thereby increasing the risk of infection. It’s important for all employees in at-risk positions to be vaccinated as soon as feasible, aligning with occupational health guidelines.