The 5 Most Common OSHA Violations in the Healthcare Industry
Here is a list of the 5 most common OSHA violations in the healthcare industry found in 2018.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) was started back in 1970 as a Department of Labor agency tasked specifically with assuring that all workers have a safe and healthy workplace. They enforce standards through compliance requirements and penalties as well as provide training and assistance to businesses.
In the healthcare industry, OSHA requires that all health facilities meet stringent requirements when it comes to things like bloodborne pathogens, hazardous chemicals and other conditions. Failure to comply can result in hefty fines – or worse.
Here is a list of the 5 most common OSHA violations in the healthcare industry found in 2018.
1. Bloodborne Pathogens
The most common violation for healthcare facilities is standard 19101030 which relates to the protection of workers against blood and infectious materials exposure.
2. Lockout/Tagout Violations
Since there is a lot of equipment being used in hospitals, it is critical that lockout/tag out is in place. According to OSHA 1910.147, the electrical energy source of equipment will mandate if a lockout/tagout procedure is required. This can include pumps, generators, boilers, water heaters and more.
3. Failure to Report Incidents
Another major violation in the healthcare setting includes not following proper reporting guidelines when there is an amputation, death or other work-related injury that occurs. Standard 1904.39 requires these incidents be reported to OSHA.
4. Hazard Communication – Because there are so many hazards present at healthcare facilities, it’s critical that information about these hazards be communicated to all staff and employees. OSHA Standard 1910.1200 is another common violation that states all chemicals produced or imported be classified as such and that information concerning the classified hazards is transmitted to employers and employees.
5. Asbestos – Keeping employees safe from the ill effects of asbestos exposure is critical in hospitals. Yet, these violations make the top five list. Standard 1926.1101 includes details on how to protect workers from harm.
Be sure to protect your workplace by finding solutions to these dangers and issues before a citation is ever issued.
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