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OSHA News Release (Archived)
2008 - 10/03/2008 - Updated eTool for healthcare industry helps employees avoid injuries |
OSHA News Release - (Archived) Table of Contents |
NOTICE: This is an OSHA Archive Document, and may no longer represent OSHA Policy. It is presented here as historical content, for research and review purposes only. |
Trade News Release October 3, 2008 Contact: Office of Communications Phone: 202-693-1999 Updated eTool for healthcare industry helps employees avoid injuries
WASHINGTON -- Employers and employees in the healthcare industry stand to benefit from the new sonography and updated surgical modules featured in the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA) Hospital eTool, posted to OSHA's Web site today. OSHA's eTools are stand-alone, Web-based training tools on occupational safety and health topics. OSHA developed these eTool modules with input from the following Alliance Program participants: Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Association of Occupational Health Professionals, American Association of Occupational Health Nurses, Laser Institute of America, American Biological Safety Association, Association of periOperative Registered Nurses, and the Joint Commission and Joint Commission Resources. "These new and updated modules are examples of the many resources developed through our Alliances that address common hazards in the healthcare industry," said Assistant Secretary of Labor for OSHA Edwin G. Foulke, Jr. "We will continue our mission of providing useful information to ensure employees remain safe and healthy while on the job." Employees face many occupational safety and health hazards while working in a hospital. OSHA originally developed the Hospital eTool with modules describing common hazards and possible solutions for tasks performed in administration, central supply, clinical services, dietary, emergency, engineering, heliport operations, housekeeping, laboratories, laundry, pharmacy, the intensive care unit and the surgical suite. The sonography module provides guidance on how sonographers—medical professionals who use high frequency ultrasound to create diagnostic images—can reduce their risk of musculoskeletal disorders. The surgical module now features updated information on bloodborne pathogens, waste anesthetic gases, laser safety, and other topics related to workplace safety and health in surgical suites. Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers are responsible for providing a safe and healthy workplace for their employees. OSHA's role is to promote the safety and health of America's working men and women by setting and enforcing standards; providing training, outreach, and education; establishing partnerships; and encouraging continual process improvement in workplace safety and health. For more information, visit www.osha.gov. ###
U.S. Labor Department releases are accessible on the Internet at www.dol.gov. The information in this news release will be made available in alternate format upon request (large print, Braille, audiotape or disc) from the COAST office. Please specify which news release when placing your request at (202) 693-7828 or TTY (202) 693-7755. The U.S. Department of Labor is committed to providing America's employers and employees with easy access to understandable information on how to comply with its laws and regulations. For more information, please visit www.dol.gov/compliance. |
NOTICE: This is an OSHA Archive Document, and may no longer represent OSHA Policy. It is presented here as historical content, for research and review purposes only. |
OSHA News Release - (Archived) Table of Contents |
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