Occupational needlestick injuries in a US airport.

Objective: To characterize needlestick injuries (NSIs) among airport workers, and to suggest preventive strategies.

Methods: A retrospective chart review (2003-2008) of workers evaluated at a clinic in a large US airport that provides occupational health services.

Results: Over a period of 6 years, 14 NSI cases were seen. The majority of injuries occurred while workers cleaned lavatories in the airport or on airplanes. Insulin needles were involved in most cases, and the injuries typically occurred on the hand. No cases of hepatitis B, C, or HIV seroconversion were documented, although follow-up was typically incomplete.

Conclusions: The improper disposal of used insulin needles among travelers can result in potential bloodborne pathogen exposure among airport workers. Occupational NSIs have not previously been described among airport workers. A multilevel approach to prevention is recommended.