What are standard precautions intended to prevent?

Standard precautions are designed specifically to prevent infection resulting from contact with body fluids. This set of guidelines is crucial in settings such as salons and medical facilities where practitioners may come into contact with a variety of bodily fluids, including blood, saliva, and other potentially infectious materials. By following standard precautions, individuals significantly reduce the risk of transmission of infectious diseases between clients and professionals.

The emphasis is on practicing good hygiene, using personal protective equipment, and properly handling and disposing of materials that may be contaminated. This approach helps create a safe environment for both the service provider and the client by minimizing the risk of spreading infections.

While exposure to environmental hazards, allergic reactions, and injuries from tools are important safety considerations, they do not fall under the primary intent of standard precautions, which is specifically focused on preventing infections linked to body fluids.