Targeting some of the most common causes of workplace injury and illness in the healthcare industry, OSHA is expanding its use of enforcement resources in hospitals and nursing homes.
OSHA advised its staff through a memorandum that all inspections of hospitals and nursing home facilities, including those prompted by complaints, referrals or severe injury reports , should include the review of potential hazards involving musculoskeletal disorders related to patient handling; bloodborne pathogens; workplace violence; tuberculosis; and slips, trips and falls.
"Workers in hospitals, nursing homes and long-term care facilities have work injury and illness rates that are among the highest in the country, and virtually all of these injuries and illnesses are preventable," said Dr. David Michaels, assistant secretary of labor for occupational safety and health.
OSHA provides employers with education, training and resource materials to protect healthcare workers. For more information, see the news release .
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