OSHA Information on Safety Prevention in LTC

The United States Department of Labor Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is responsible for ensuring that workplaces are safe. OSHA regulates safety in longterm care facilities in several ways.

Disease Prevention

• Regulations cover the use of personal protective equipment, which is designed to protect employees from exposure to pathogens. Procedures for handling exposure to blood and other bodily fluids are provided. OSHA guidelines for dietary departments ensure food and kitchen safety to reduce the chance of food-related disease.

Injury Prevention

• Education is mandated for the use of proper body mechanics and equipment for patient care in long-term care facilities. Fall prevention policies exist to reduce the chance of injury to patients. Personal safety of employees is addressed through workplace violence policies.

Cleaning

• Housekeeping departments have procedures for laundering of patient's clothing and linens used in patient care. Cleaning of surfaces contaminated by blood and other bodily fluids is dictated by specific protocols. Maintenance departments are responsible for the upkeep of equipment inside the facility and the grounds outside the facility to reduce the chance of injury.