Top 10 Safety Precautions for Medical Industry Personnel
Medical industry personnel work in some of the most demanding environments when it comes to safety. Work uniforms for women and men aren’t just a way to readily identify employees; they are vital to the protection of both workers and patients.
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the incidence rate of musculoskeletal disorders was over seven times the rate of the average worker at 249 per 10,000 employees.
The concerns exist for patents as well. The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality estimates that there are 115 hospital-acquired conditions (HACs) per 1,000 discharges. Proper safety precautions are crucial for everyone.
Wear Comfortable Dress that Won’t Interfere with Movement
Comfortable uniforms ensure that medical staff have adequate freedom of movement to prevent awkward moves that could cause injury during patient handling. Healthcare workers face a heightened risk of back strain due to the high physical demands of their work.
Prevent Exposure to Bloodborne Pathogens
The International Safety Center’s EPINet Report for Blood and Body Fluid Exposures for 2015 found an incidence rate of 11.4 exposures per 100. Over 50 percent occurred in the patient’s room or ward. A work uniform rental can act as an effective barrier against accidental exposure.
Mitigate Contact with Chemicals Likely to Cause Reactions
Medical personnel are also at risk for exposure to a variety of hazardous substances including sterilants, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and even medications. The problem is compounded by the fact that there is regular contact.
Eliminate Exposure to Allergens
Other materials can cause additional health concerns with exposure to potential allergens such as latex and chemicals that can trigger asthma attacks.
Implement Proper Training to Prevent Injuries Associated with Patient Handling
A study by the University of Maryland School of Nursing found that nurses were 9 to 12 times more likely to have a neck or back injury on the job. Healthcare spending for musculoskeletal injuries and disorders topped $183 billion, according to the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation.
Ensure All Personnel Receive Fire Safety Training
Medical personnel work in potentially dangerous situations every day with exposure to flammable gases and chemicals, making regular fire safety training essential.
Practice Correct Disposal of Sharps and Other Hazardous Waste
While the use of needles has declined, best practices such as double gloving can reduce the risk of injury even further to protect both staff and patients.
Get Adequate Rest Between Shifts
The high physical and mental demands that healthcare staff face puts them at a greater risk of injury due to excessive sleepiness and other sleep disorders. Shift workers are especially vulnerable.
Use Only Certified Cleanroom Laundry Processing Facilities
While uniforms offer effective protection, it’s also crucial to ensure that they are properly cleaned between uses so that healthcare workers always have replacements with validated sterile garment processing.
Management Leadership Should Routinely Monitor Safety Procedures of Personnel
The visible presence of management leadership on the job can help prevent further issues with following proper safety practices. It can also encourage a good work ethic that can, in turn, improve employee morale.
Prudential Overall Supply offers a variety of solutions including work apparel services and cleanroom services to ensure the safety of your workers. Contact us today at (800) 767-5536 to talk to one of our experienced professionals.
Sources
- https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/healthcarefacilities/index.html
- https://www.ahrq.gov/professionals/quality-patient-safety/pfp/2015-interim.html
- https://internationalsafetycenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/Official-2015-BBFSummary.pdf
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12657347
- https://vizhub.healthdata.org/dex/