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How can hospital workers stay safe on the job?

On Behalf of | Oct 13, 2021 | Workers' Compensation |

Hospital workers in Minnesota and elsewhere face numerous challenges. While on the job, it’s possible for nurses, doctors and other health care staff to suffer injuries or illnesses. Common risks lead to these problems, which can increase workers’ compensation claims.

Be cautious when handling sharp objects

Hospital staff members commonly come into contact with sharp objects such as needles and scalpels. If these items aren’t properly handled with care, they can lead to serious injuries or a risk of illness. Workers’ compensation claims are common when nurses or medical assistants get pricked by a needle, for instance. Staff must be properly trained on how to handle these objects so they can stay safe.

Avoid exposure to harmful substances

Harmful substances such as chemicals can pose serious risks to hospital workers. If they come into contact with these things, it can lead to illnesses. Exposure can be through the skin or inhaled. All employees who have to work with these substances need proper training to prevent an accident.

There is also the risk of coming into contact with blood-borne pathogens. Workers can stay safer by wearing personal protective equipment, or PPE, such as gowns, goggles, gloves, face masks and face shields to prevent accidental contamination.

Be careful of overexertion

Overexertion is common among hospital workers and can lead to more workers’ compensation claims being filed. Hospital workers frequently have to reach up, stoop over, bend, use computers and lift weight during their jobs. As a result, a repetitive or overexertion injury can occur. This is an ergonomics issue and requires accommodation such as dividing tasks with groups and providing ergonomic equipment.

Fire safety training is important

Some hospitals and other health care facilities have substances that are flammable and increase the risk of fires. It’s important for hospital workers to be properly trained in fire safety so that they can use the proper precautions to avoid a potential fire. Facilities can minimize the risk by having a medical waste management company provide the appropriate containers and dispose of them properly.

Although hospital workers have risky jobs, they can stay safer through these measures. Employers have a responsibility to provide workers with the necessary training and equipment.

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