They must also train employees on protective measures and ensure employees use them appropriately. Employers must assess workplace risks and determine the necessary protective measures. The Personal Protective Equipment Standard requires employers to provide and pay for any necessary equipment to protect workers from hazards in the workplace. The Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Standard (.132) Information is available on the OSHA website. OSHA has begun the process of creating an infectious disease standard and is seeking input through a Small Business Advocacy Review Panel and through the Office of Management and Budget’s Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs. Infectious Disease Rulemaking Effort (in process) It requires workers to receive initial and yearly training on bloodborne pathogens and needle stick prevention, as well as requiring employers to have written exposure control plans in case of an accidental exposure. It covers all laboratory workers who can be “reasonably expected” to encounter blood or other potentially infectious biological materials in the laboratory. One of the most important standards for biological laboratories is the Bloodborne Pathogens Standard. The Bloodborne Pathogens Standard (.1030) The standard includes provisions for many aspects of hazard communication including: developing and maintaining a written hazard communication program for the workplace, labeling of containers of chemicals, distribution of material safety data sheets (MSDSs) to workers, and development of worker training programs about the hazards of chemicals and worker protection. The Hazard Communication Standard requires employers to make sure workers understand what they are working with, what the dangers are, and what they need to do to protect themselves. The Hazard Communication Standard (.1200) It must include procedures for worker protection, medical treatment in the case of an exposure, and laboratory safety practices. The Chemical Hygiene Plan must be tailored to the chemicals and their uses present in the laboratory. It requires laboratories to appoint a Chemical Safety Officer, develop a Chemical Hygiene Plan, and to regularly verify that the plan is followed. This standard is frequently referred to as the Laboratory Standard. Occupational Exposure to Hazardous Chemicals in Laboratories Standard (.1450) The General Duty Clause of the Occupational Safety and Health Act states that an employer “shall furnish to each of his employees employment and a place of employment which are free from recognized hazards that are causing or likely to cause death or serious physical harm to his employees.” This principle is the basis for all other OSHA guidance and regulation. OSHA also publishes Quick Facts sheets on specific pieces of equipment, such as centrifuges, which may also be of use to laboratory workers and administrators. All laboratory workers should be aware of the publications from OSHA related to biological laboratory safety including several regulations and guidance documents. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) issues guidelines to protect workers in all industries, including biological laboratories.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |