If you work in one of these facilities, you will want to visit www.osha.gov and learn about the new National Emphasis Program (NEP) for Nursing and Residential Care Facilities.

Announced on April 5, 2012, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) have developed a new NEP to protect healthcare workers from serious injuries and illnesses that are common in the medical industry. While there was an earlier NEP program in 2002, this new program includes workplace violence.

According to the Bureau of Labor statistics, in 2010 “nursing and residential care facilities experienced one of the highest rates of lost workdays due to injuries and illnesses of all major American Industries.”

OSHA compliance staff, guided by the NEP on policies and procedures, will target and conduct focused inspections that will include reviewing musculoskeletal injuries related to the movement of patients/residents, exposure to blood borne pathogens or other potentially infectious materials, workplace violence and slip, trip fall hazards.  Other hazards or risks may include exposure to chemicals and drugs.

For further detailed information regarding the new National Emphasis Program, visit www.osha.gov, Directive Number CPL 03-00-016.

Posted by Donna Clendenning