OSHA Requirements for a Medical Office

Medical offices of all sizes are regulated by the Occupational Safety and Health administration (OSHA). Section 3187-09R of OSHA's code states specific safety requirements for medical offices. These requirements are established to save lives, prevent injury and protect workers in the workplace. Medical offices require even more stringent safety requirements than many other workplaces because of the exposure to hazardous materials.

Bloodborne Pathogens

• Perhaps the most noted and important OSHA standard for medical offices is the one dealing with bloodborne pathogens. Requirements for medical offices regarding this issue are stringent. Above all, OSHA requires that each office have a written exposure control plan. This plan should give detailed instructions as to how to handle exposure to bloodborne pathogens. This plan must be updated every year. Employees exposed to such pathogens shall be given a Hepatitis B vaccine at no cost to the employee.

  Other practices with regard to supplies and equipment must also be followed. OSHA requires that there be an implemented system for using safer needles and sharps. Employees should be thoroughly trained in correctly handling and containing waste. There shall also be a color labeling system designating specimens, contained waste, contaminated laundry and sharps disposal boxes.

Ionizing Radiation and Electrical

• Ionizing radiation requirements only apply to medical offices with x-ray equipment. These requirements must be followed very closely. All areas with x-rays must be restricted to limit employees' exposure to radiation. All rooms with x-ray equipment must be labeled with caution signs. Employees working directly in those areas are required to wear personal radiation monitors.

  Areas of medical offices with electrical equipment and other hazardous locations must also follow detailed requirements. If the office is using flammable gas, it typically will need special equipment with specialty wiring. The full text of electrical procedures is very complex. OSHA recommends that offices speak with their local fire department and insurance company before installing electrical equipment.

Hazard Communication and Exit Routes

• Also referred to as the "employees right to know" standard, this requirement states that employees must have access to all hazard information. At the least, there should be a hazard communication program in place with formal employee training to accompany such program. A list of hazardous chemicals used or stored in the office must be published for employees to view. Additionally, a copy of the Material Safety Data Sheet shall also be published so employees know about each chemical stored and used in the office.

  Exit routes are very important for employee safety. OSHA requires, at minimum, that there be enough exit routes available for the number of employees in the office space. A full diagram of the designated exit routes must be posted in a visible location within the office for employees to study and view.