OSHA has announced citations to over 140 health care providers for failing to properly protect their employees with appropriate Personal Protective Equipment.
For the full list visit the OSHA Website https://www.osha.gov/news/newsreleases/national/10092020
Most of these investigations began with complaints by employees who were not provided with what they felt was proper protection. OSHA has many rules, and most are industry specific. As a medical practice, the most important rule you need to be in compliance with is the OHSA Blood Borne Pathogen Rule. Other OSHA standards you need to be aware of are:
Hazard Communication
The hazard communication standard is sometimes called the “employee right-to-know” standard. It requires employee access to hazard information. The basic requirements include:
- A written hazard communication program
- A list of hazardous chemicals (such as alcohol, disinfectants, anesthetic agents, sterilants, mercury) used or stored in the office
- A copy of the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for each chemical (obtained from the manufacturer) used or stored in the office
- Employee training
Ionizing Radiation
This standard applies to facilities that have an x-ray machine and requires the following:
- A survey of the types of radiation used in the facility, including x-rays
- Restricted areas to limit employee exposures
- Employees working in restricted areas must wear personal radiation monitors such as film badges or pocket dosimeters
- Rooms and equipment may need to be labeled and equipped with caution signs
Exit Routes
These standards include the requirements for providing safe and accessible building exits in case of fire or other emergency. It is important to become familiar with the full text of these standards because they provide details about signage and other issues. OSHA consultation services can help or your insurance company or local fire/police service may be able to assist you. The basic responsibilities include:
- Exit routes sufficient for the number of employees in any occupied space
- A diagram of evacuation routes posted in a visible location.
Electrical
These standards address electrical safety requirements to safeguard employees. OSHA electrical standards apply to electrical equipment and wiring in hazardous locations. If you use flammable gases, you may need special wiring and equipment installation. In addition to reading the full text of the OSHA standard, you should check with your insurance company or local fire department, or request an OSHA consultation for help.
OSHA Poster
Every workplace must display the OSHA poster (OSHA Publication 3165), or the state plan equivalent. The poster explains worker rights to a safe workplace and how to file a complaint. The poster must be placed where employees will see it. You can download a copy or order one free copy from OSHA’s web site at www.osha.gov or by calling (800) 321-OSHA.
https://www.osha.gov/Publications/poster.html
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