Health and safety hazards pervade hospital environments, so hospital administrations develop precautionary procedures to preserve the wellness of patients and personnel. Actual procedures vary among institutions, but some concerns are common in the medical field.
Blood Borne Pathogens
According to OSHA, the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration, approximately 5.6 million health care workers are at risk of being exposed to blood borne pathogens. When a patient or employee is stuck with a contaminated needle, exposure can be lethal. Blood borne pathogen safety measures include immediate cleanup of blood and bodily fluid spills and the proper disposal of needles and sharps.
Walking Surfaces
Clean, dry walking surfaces that are free from debris minimize falls. Hospital personnel often need to get somewhere quickly, and any type of slipping hazard can cause an accident. Safety procedures typically call for the use of caution cones if leaks or spills occur and cannot be cleaned up immediately.
Personal Protective Equipment
Hospitals require employees to wear proper personal protective equipment. Closed-toe shoes with gripping soles allow hospital staff to move swiftly around the hospital safely. Gloves are supplied in all hospital rooms and main areas to properly protect workers who handle sharps and fluids or interact with patients that are contagious. Lead smocks shield employees for exposure during X-ray procedures.
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