Operating a dental practice is very expensive. Many times, the expenses are associated with workers' compensation. Below are a list of guidelines and procedures that may help a practice owner reduce workers' compensation costs and claim exposure:
- Maintain a written safety policy.
- Have ongoing safety and health training specific to each job including whenever new substances, processes, procedures or equipment are introduced to the workplace.
- Use protective barriers to prevent skin exposure when any contact with blood or other body fluids is anticipated.
- Prevent punctures through the careful handling of needles, instruments, and other sharp objects which might penetrate the skin.
- Never recap, bend or break syringe needles.
- Always dispose of needles and other "sharps" in a puncture-resistant container. "Sharps" containers should be located near where they are used.
- Use safe lifting practices with heavy objects and equipment.
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In the area of workers' compensation exposure, risk management is no longer optional. Every practice owner must be proactive from a risk management standpoint in order to control premium expense and employee claim exposure.
OBERMAN LAW FIRM
Stuart J. Oberman, Esq handles a wide range of legal issues for the dental profession including cyber security breaches, employment law, practice sales, OSHA, and HIPAA compliance, real estate transactions, lease agreements, noncompete agreements, dental board complaints, and professional corporations.
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