The Occupational Safety and Health Administration is extending its National Emphasis Program on Nursing and Residential Care Facilities because the healthcare industry still has more reported workplace injuries than any other general industry, according to an article on the Healthcare Finance website.
Federal regulators will investigate, audit and possibly fine healthcare facilities for safety problems.
OSHA “will continue to use both enforcement and collaborative efforts to address hazards such as musculoskeletal disorders from lifting patients or residents, exposures to tuberculosis, bloodborne pathogens, workplace violence, and slips, trips and falls.”
The effort will focus on “ergonomic stressors relating to resident handling” and slips, trips, and falls, along with pathogen and hazardous material exposure.
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