Inadequate disinfection and sterilization of medical and dental items can lead to the persistence of infectious agents on surfaces and instruments. Some common areas of mistake are not cleaning the surface or instrument thoroughly before disinfection or sterilization, insufficient contact time of the disinfectant or sterilant and utilizing incorrect disinfectants. Prevention is key, healthcare facilities […]
As temperatures rise during the summer months, many people naturally associate heat-related illness with outdoor occupations such as construction, landscaping, agriculture, and road work. However, heat stress is not limited to outdoor environments. Healthcare and dental facilities can also present significant heat-related hazards, particularly in areas where employees work near heat-generating equipment, wear extensive personal […]
OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard (HAZCOM) is receiving important updates that will take effect in 2026. While these changes primarily affect how chemical hazards are communicated, they will also impact healthcare employers who use disinfectants, sterilants, laboratory chemicals, dental materials, and other products in daily operations. The goal of these updates is to improve the presentation […]
Many medical and dental practices rely on temporary staff to help manage busy schedules, staff shortages, or seasonal increases in patient volume. While temporary employees can be an essential part of maintaining operations, it is important to remember that they must receive the same workplace safety protections as permanent staff, especially regarding exposure to bloodborne […]
Over the past several months, OSHA efforts have accelerated in areas such as heat exposure, ergonomics, workplace violence prevention, and inspection procedures. These developments offer important insight into where workplace safety regulation and enforcement are heading. Heat Safety Heat illness has emerged as a regulatory priority. Its inclusion in rulemaking agendas signals the early stages […]
OSHA’s regulatory agenda for 2026 signals significant changes for employers across multiple industries. While some standards are still in development, the direction is clear: organizations should begin planning now to strengthen safety programs, prevention controls, and documentation practices. Below is an overview of the most impactful anticipated updates — and what employers can do to […]
When the weather turns colder, many of us instinctively prepare for icy walkways and storm-related risks. But while the hazards around us may change with the seasons, one thing should remain constant: our commitment to safety. Too often, safety is treated as a temporary response to specific conditions, something to “turn on” during busy periods […]
As we move through November and December, shorter days, cooler temperatures, and unpredictable weather bring a new set of safety challenges. One of the most common challenges involves slips, trips, and falls. While these incidents might seem minor, they remain one of the leading causes of workplace injuries, responsible for thousands of lost workdays, medical […]
Help Make This Halloween Safe and Fun! Halloween is a time of fun, imagination, and sweet treats—but it also comes with a few extra safety concerns. Whether you’re trick-or-treating with little ones, prepping your home for visitors, or behind the wheel, these tips will help everyone stay safe and happy. Costume Safety Choose flame-resistant costumes, […]
On July 30, 2025, the Earth shook off of Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula with a massive 8.8 earthquake. Tsunami alerts rippled out across the Pacific, triggering evacuation orders in multiple countries. Some 2 million people were told to evacuate around the area. Hours later, the warnings were canceled — and no destructive waves had materialized. The […]
