Surveillance of occupational infections among healthcare workers in France has been in place for HIV since 1991, for HCV since 1997, and for HBV since 2005, with the aim of helping to identify and prevent blood-exposure incidents (BEIs) that carry a high risk of viral transmission. This surveillance relies primarily on occupational physicians in public and private healthcare facilities, but it also involves any physician likely to treat a healthcare worker for a viral infection. Data are collected using anonymous questionnaires available on the InVS website (www.invs.sante.fr/display/?doc=surveillance/questionnaires.htm). The number of HIV seroconversions reported as of December 31, 2005, since the start of the epidemic, stands at 14. The most recent seroconversion occurred in 2004 in a firefighter/paramedic, following massive blood splatter on the face and in the eyes while treating an HIV-positive individual. Regarding HCV, as of December 31, 2005, there were 55 cumulative cases of occupational seroconversion, resulting from 54 needle sticks/cuts and 1 instance of blood contact with broken skin. Since 1997, the annual number of HCV seroconversions has ranged from 2 to 5. No occupational HBV seroconversions have yet been reported. In terms of equipment used, surveillance data show that the majority of seroconversions occurred following a puncture with an intravenous needle. However, suture needles and subcutaneous needles have been responsible for 8 HCV seroconversions since the surveillance system was established. This is why, regardless of the procedure performed, the application of standard precautions and a systematic approach in the event of an adverse event are essential. (R.A.)