OSHA Cites Hospital for Failing to Keep Employees Safe from Patients

Staff members of Big Lots Behavioral Health Pavilion reportedly suffered concussions, lacerations and sprains from patients.

By HFT Staff


The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has cited a Columbus, Ohio hospital for failing to protect its employees from patients whose bites, kicks, punches and other assaults caused serious injuries.  

Following a complaint of unsafe working conditions, an investigation occurred at the Big Lots Behavioral Health Pavilion at Nationwide Children’s Hospital in November 2022.  OSHA determined the facility did not protect its employees from violent incidents involving the hospital’s patients. Staff reportedly suffered concussions, lacerations, contusions and sprains. The agency also learned the facility failed to keep proper records of employees injuries as required.  

The Big Lots Behavioral Health Pavilion at Nationwide Children's Hospital provides acute behavioral health services with intensive outpatient programs 

The facility was cited for one serious violation and one other-than-serious violation and proposed $18,000 in penalties. The company has 15 days from receipt of the citations and penalties to comply, request an informal conference with OSHA’s area director, or contest the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.   

 

 



May 31, 2023


Topic Area: Safety


Recent Posts

Designing for Distraction: Benefits for Children, Families

Designers who can incorporate distractions into pediatric healthcare facilities can help children and families successfully navigate healthcare journeys.


Staffing and Consolidation Reshape Outpatient Facility Strategies

Labor shortages and health system consolidation are driving new approaches to outpatient facility planning.


Adams Health Network Falls Victim to Phishing Attack

Adams Health Network does not have any evidence that the attacker was seeking patient information.


Ventilation and Filtering for Infection ControlĀ 

Poor IAQ can be deadly in healthcare facilities, so maintaining proper air conditioning and filter systems is key in controlling the spread of infection.


ChristianaCare Opens Aston Campus Neighborhood Hospital

The hospital is expected to care for approximately 15,000 patients each year.


 
 


FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

 
 
 


All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.