Download Safety in the Workplace Handout

Safety in the Workplace
► Objectives
1. List the Joint Commission’s 2010 patient safety goals for ambulatory health
centers.
2. List methods for reducing patient injury and illness.
3. Discuss what should be included in a patient safety plan.
4. Describe how to reduce the transmission of communicable diseases.
5. Discuss methods for reducing injuries in the workplace.
6. Discuss different types of hazards that are common in the medical workplace.
7. List components of a chemical hygiene program.
8. Describe steps to take in the event of a chemical spill.
9. Discuss the importance of fire safety and describe the various types of fire
extinguishers.
10. Discuss the importance of ergonomics in maintaining employee safety.
Safety in the Workplace
Individuals often associate workplace injury and illness with the construction, coal mining
and manufacturing industries; however, OSHA estimates that “5.6 million workers in the
health care industry and related occupations are at risk of workplace illness due to
occupational exposure to bloodborne pathogens, including human immunodeficiency virus
(HIV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), and others” (Bloodborne Pathogens
and Needlestick Prevention, http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/bloodbornepathogens/index.html).
Musculoskeletal injuries are the most common type of injury reported by health
care workers due to lifting responsibilities. In addition to personal safety, health care
workers need to be concerned about the safety of patients—which is why it is important to
create a culture of safety rather than simply following a set of safety rules.
The purpose of this handout is to provide learners with information to create and
maintain an environment that is safe for both health care workers, including medical
assistants, and their patients.
Patient Safety
The Joint Commission (JC) is an independent, not-for-profit organization that accredits and
certifies more than 17,000 health care organizations and programs in the United States.
Each year, the JC publishes a list of national patient safety goals to help improve patient
safety. Table 1 contains the 2010 Patient Safety Goals, which are geared toward
ambulatory health centers and should be implemented in order to maintain JC
accreditation. There are several other goals for inpatient establishments. Read more about
these goals at the Joint Commission’s web site, www.jointcommission.org.
Table 1: The Joint Commission’s 2010 Patient Safety Goals
2010 Patient Safety Goals
Steps for Implementation
1. Improve the accuracy of patient
identification.
Using two patient identifiers before
conducting any testing or administering any
medications can assist in accomplishing this
goal.
2. Improve the effectiveness of
communication among caregivers.
This particular goal doesn’t apply directly to
ambulatory health centers; however, all
health care professionals should do
everything possible to promote effective
communication from one caregiver to the
next.
3. Improve the safety of using
medications.
Make certain that drugs that look alike or
sound alike are separated or labeled in a
manner that they cannot be confused with
one another.
4. Reduce the risk of health care
associated infections.
Implement the CDC hand hygiene
guidelines and develop a sterile conscience
to help prevent the threat of surgical site
infections.
5. Accurately and completely reconcile
medications across the continuum.
Compare current and newly ordered
medications.
Communicate medications to the next
provider
Provide a reconciled medication list to the
patient.
6. Reduce the risk of patient harm
resulting from falls.
This can be accomplished by checking the
stability of the patient before asking the
patient to stand or ambulate and providing
assistance to patients that may be
unsteady.
Medical assistants should always check to
make certain that halls are free from clutter
and that there are no rugs or cords that may
promote patient falls.
Patient Safety Plan
According to a 2009 article from Thomson Reuters, 98,000 lives are lost each year due to
medical errors; ten years prior, a 1999 report by the Institute of Medicine (IOM) found that
medical errors cost the United States $17-$29 billion a year. These statistics are alarming
and unacceptable which is why organizations like the JC and Institute for Safe Medication
Practices (ISMP) strive to educate health care workers on ways to reduce errors. One of
the most aggressive goals to help reduce medical errors is the nationwide adoption of
electronic medical records. This goal will reduce mistakes made from illegible handwriting
and organize each patient’s chart so that any practitioner can readily find pertinent
information.
Health care facilities should design a patient safety plan that reduces medical
mistakes and promotes patient wellness and safety. The plan may include the following:
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What the patient can do to promote their own safety
What the facility can do to prevent the transfer of communicable diseases
What the facility can do to prevent injury to patients
What Patients Can Do to Promote Personal Safety
At the beginning of care, all patients should receive a statement explaining how they can
be active participants in promoting their own personal safety. The following points are
some examples of what may be included in the statement:

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Provide us with thorough information regarding your medical history and
your current condition.
Ask questions when you don’t understand your diagnosis or treatment, or
any other aspect of your care.

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Keep us informed of any changes in your condition—whether good or bad.
Keep us posted on any medication changes.

Take medications only as directed and report any adverse reactions to
medications.

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Never take medication that was prescribed for someone else.
Follow all homecare instructions.
Preventing the Transfer of Communicable Diseases
The term noscomial infection means an infection acquired while in a hospital or other
medical establishment. The most common nosocomial infections are surgical wound
infections, urinary and respiratory tract infections, and bacteremia (blood infections). Many
of these infections are caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria, known as superbugs—a
strain of bacteria resistant to all forms of antibiotics. Superbugs often have serious
consequences for affected individuals and the medical community at large.
The transmission of superbugs is not as common in an ambulatory setting, but may
occur if health care workers are not careful. Of course, the best way to stop the spread of
infection is through effective handwashing techniques. It is estimated that half of all
infections could be prevented if health care workers would simply wash their hands.
►►Some hospitals are investing in wireless technology to detect whether employees
have washed their hands. Employees begin by washing their hands with an alcohol
antiseptic cleanser outside of the patient’s room. Upon entering the room, employees wave
their hands near a sensor on their ID badge. A green light means that the sensor has
picked up alcohol on the worker’s hands; a red light means that the employee must rewash
their hands and be scanned again before proceeding with patient responsibilities. Hospitals
that have invested in this technology state noscomial infections have declined as a result
of the technology.
The following actions can assist in reducing infections:


Wash hands before and after working with patients.
Wear gloves when working with body fluids.


Wash hands before applying and removing gloves.
Disinfect equipment that is used between patients, such as blood pressure
cuffs, stethoscopes, pulse oximeters, etc.

Sterilize equipment or instruments that are inserted into a body cavity or
through a break in the skin.

Wear a mask when you may have a contagious respiratory ailment.

Cover any open wounds before working with patients.
Reducing the Spread of Communicable Disease between
Infected Patients
The most effective method for stopping the spread of microorganisms between patients is
to design a policy listing specific steps that should be taken when patients have potentially
infectious diseases, particularly airborne illnesses or staph infections. Policies only work
when enforced, so it is imperative that all staff members follow the policy. The chart below
lists steps to reduce the spread of communicable diseases from one patient to another.
Communicable Diseases
Policy in
Place
Display a sign stating the following:
Patients displaying symptoms of a respiratory illness, rash, or fever
should wear a mask, perform hand hygiene and alert the receptionist so
that they can be taken to a separate area.
Masks, waterless hand cleanser, and tissue should be in the entrance
area for patients that need them.
Recognize
Patients displaying possible infectious disease should be screened as
early as possible and separated from other patients. (This applies to
patients that do not identify themselves as potentially infectious.)
Screen
Screen patients according to facility guidelines for possible respiratory
illness or rash.
Separate
If patient does appear to have an infectious disease follow office
protocol regarding the separation of the patient from other patients.
It is also important to disinfect toys in the play area whenever possible to reduce
the spread of microorganisms between children.
Preventing Patient Injuries
No one thinks about incurring an injury in a place that heals injuries, but injuries can occur
anywhere—even in the medical office. There are several actions that medical assistants
can take do to help prevent patient injuries.
Guidelines for Preventing Patient Injuries

Rugs should not be used in patient areas because of the risk of tripping or falling.

Wet floors should be marked and blocked accordingly.
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Electrical cords and wires should be inspected for any problems, such as fraying.
All sharps containers in patient areas should be adhered to a wall and out of children’s
reach.
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All cabinet and closets in patient areas should have safety locks.
Employees should inspect and learn how to properly use all patient exam tables and
beds before using with patients.
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Safety belts should be used on patients who are not stable.
Patients should always roll toward the medical assistant when changing positions on
the exam table.
Non-ambulatory patients or patients with mobility concerns should be placed in a
wheelchair when transferred from one area of the clinic to another.
Coffeemakers should not be placed in patient areas due to the threat of injury.
Toys that may cause choking or other potential injuries should be removed from
children’s play areas.
Halls and other patient access areas should be free of obstacles.
Parking lots and sidewalks should be cleared of ice and snow.
Elevators should be serviced regularly and display instructions on what to do in an
emergency.
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Promoting Employee Safety in the Workplace
Workplace injury and illness is a real problem. Businesses are required to promote a safe
working environment and take steps to prevent or reduce health risks to employees. Some
states, such as California, require businesses to have an Injury and Illness Prevention
Program (IIPP). The purpose of the program is to help identify injuries and illnesses that
are common in the workplace and to develop a plan to prevent or reduce such events.
Information that should be included in the program will vary according to each state’s
standards, but generally include:

A statement regarding management’s commitment to the program;

Staff assignments and responsibilities for carrying out the plan;

A method for effectively communicating with employees regarding safety
practices;
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A system for assuring employee compliance with safe work practices;

Accident and exposure evaluations;

Scheduled inspections/evaluation system;
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Procedures for correcting unsafe/unhealthy conditions;
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Safety and health training and instruction;
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Recordkeeping and documentation.
Controls for Workplace Safety
There are three types of controls which are used to promote workplace safety:
administrative controls, engineering controls, and workplace controls. Administrative
controls include workplace policy, procedures, and practices that minimize the exposure
of workers to risk conditions. Engineering controls are devices used to separate
employees from workplace hazards and include items such as retractable needles, lab
hoods, and sharps containers. Workplace controls are the means used to minimize or
eliminate employee exposure and may be considered a type of administrative control. An
example of a workplace control would be a procedure for handling hazardous chemicals.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
OSHA requires the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) (shown in Figure 1) to
reduce employee exposure to hazards when engineering and administrative controls are
not effective in reducing these exposures. OSHA requires health care facilities to supply
PPE to any worker that comes into contact with hazardous chemicals, blood, or other
potentially infectious material (OPIM). Common PPE in a health care facility includes:

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Gloves
Masks
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Goggles
Gowns
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Foot Covers
Plastic Shields
Figure 1: Examples of PPE.
Safety Signs, Symbols and Labels
There are a variety of warning signs, symbols, and labels that are used to warn health care
workers of potential hazards. Refer to Chapter 10, page 212, to learn about the biohazard
label and pages 214-215 to learn about special labeling for chemicals.
Eyewash Stations and Emergency Showers
Eyewash stations are areas which allow quick flushing
of eyes that become contaminated by harmful
chemicals. These stations are required in any workplace
in which there is a threat of chemical splashes. The
American National Standards Institute (ANSI)
recommends that flushing occur for a minimum of 15
minutes or more depending on the type and amount of
chemical exposure; check the MSDS sheet for specific
information. Eyewash stations can be connected to
standard plumbing or come as a portable unit.
Recommended temperatures for flushing eyes range between 16-38°C (60-100°F).
Temperatures higher than 38°C (100°F) can be harmful to the eyes and may enhance
chemical interaction with the skin and eyes. Long flushing times with cold water (less than
15.5°C (60°F) can cause hypothermia; additionally, it may result in not rinsing or showering
for the full recommended time.
Emergency showers are also recommended in any establishment in which there is
the threat of chemical exposure to other parts of the body. For more information about
emergency showers, contact the American National Standards Institute.
Workplace Hazard Checklist
Medical offices are continually being assessed by the Joint Commission (JC), insurance
companies, and a host of other governmental agencies. Inspectors from these
organizations will conduct safety inspections during visits. Medical office personnel should
be proactive by conducting their own hazard inspections to identify potential hazards
before problems develop. Table 2 includes several categories of hazards that should be
assessed on a continuous basis. For a complete listing of items that should be checked,
review the checklist on OSHA’s Small Business Handbook, at
www.osha.gov/Publications/smallbusiness/small-business.html.
Table 2: Types of Workplace Hazards
Safety Hazards
Check for unsafe workplace conditions, unsafe work practices,
inadequate safety devices, machine guards, needles with
protective devices, etc.
Biological
Hazards
Check to make certain that disinfection practices are adequately
removing organisms such as viruses, bacteria, fungi and parasites.
Chemical Hazards
Check to determine the way that chemicals are being stored and
used, ventilation requirements, whether there an up-to-date MSDS
book on site; how chemicals are discarded (according to OSHA
and EPA standards).
Ergonomic
Hazards
Check to make certain that employees are performing procedures
in a manner that would not cause anatomical or physiological
damage due to poor lifting techniques or improperly-designed
workstations.
Physical Hazards
Check to make certain that there are no physical hazards caused
by loud noises, weather or electricity.
Radiation Hazards
Check to make certain that radiography equipment is working
properly and that the equipment is being inspected on a regular
basis.
Protection Against Hazardous Chemicals
OSHA defines a hazardous chemical as, “one in which there is statistically significant
evidence based on at least one study conducted in accordance with established scientific
principles that acute or chronic health effects may occur. The term health hazard includes
chemicals which are carcinogens, toxic or highly toxic agents, reproductive toxins, irritants,
corrosives, sensitizers, hepatotoxins, nephrotoxins, neurotoxins, agents which act on the
hematopoietic systems and agents which damage the lungs, skin, eyes, or mucous
membranes.”
Health care workers must be diligent about protecting themselves from dangerous
chemicals in the workplace. Chemicals must be stored and used in the proper manner in
order to prevent exposure incidents. Exposure can occur through inhalation, injection or
direct contact to the skin. Hazardous chemicals include acetone, formaldehyde, bleach,
ethyl alcohol, lab reagents, bloodstains and fixatives.
Businesses that utilize hazardous chemicals should incorporate a chemical hygiene
plan which identifies chemicals that are hazardous and initiate a standard operating plan
for working with such chemicals. The plan should also list what to do when a chemical
exposure occurs. Standards for a chemical hygiene plan should include:
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A listing of all hazards to employees.
Compliance rules for exposure prevention. (This would include standard
operating procedures for handling hazardous chemicals.)
A material safety data sheet (MSDS) manual that includes MSDS forms for
each chemical listed on the inventory form of hazardous chemicals.
Standard operating procedure explaining what to do when an exposure
occurs.

Standard operating procedure for the proper disposal of chemical wastes.
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Proper labeling of any products that are potentially hazardous.
Employee training within 30 days of the start of employment.
Each business should also have a chemical hygiene officer who oversees the
chemical hygiene plan.
Material Safety Data Sheets
A MSDS Manual should be available to all employees that have the potential of coming
into contact with hazardous chemicals. The MSDS form includes information about the
chemical including the product’s ingredients, physical data, fire and explosive information,
reactivity information, health hazards associated with the chemical, emergency and first aid
procedures, spill or leak procedures, and protective measures that should be taken when
working with the chemical. Refer to Figure 10-18 in the text for a sample of an MSDS form.
MSDS forms are usually shipped with hazardous chemicals; if not, the forms are
usually available online. Each new form should be placed in the MSDS manual upon
arrival of the shipment or after retrieving online.
Rules to Follow When Handling Hazardous Chemicals
To avoid injury or illness from a hazardous chemical, follow these rules when working with
hazardous chemicals.
Rules to Follow when Working with Hazardous Chemicals:

Read the MSDS form before working or handling any chemical.

Use appropriate PPE when handling hazardous chemicals.

Be sure that each chemical has an appropriate label that identifies the container’s
contents and required safety labeling.
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Dispose of chemicals in the right manner. Never pour any chemical down the drain or
in the trash without checking instructions for proper disposal.

Keep lids closed on chemicals when not in use.

Make sure chemicals are stored and transported according to manufacturer’s
instructions.

Use ventilation devices when working with chemicals that can cause damage to the
respiratory tract.
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Always know exactly where eyewash stations are and fire extinguishers in the event a
chemical splashes or sparks a fire.
Hazardous Material Disposal
Pouring hazardous chemicals down the drain or toilet or into lakes, rivers or streams is
against the law and may cause great harm to the environment. The Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) states that a waste is hazardous if it has one or more of the
following characteristics in Table 3.
Table 3: Hazardous Waste
Waste is considered hazardous, if it:
Contains any of several hundred
chemicals specifically listed by EPA
as toxic or acutely toxic.
Contains any of several hundred
chemicals specifically listed by EPA
as toxic or acutely toxic.
For example, EPA lists a number of spent solvents
as hazardous waste.
Results from a process listed by EPA
as generating hazardous waste.
Is corrosive.
Can burn the eyes or skin or body tissue on
contact. Corrosives may also wear away standard
containers.
Is ignitable.
Can catch fire or explode easily when exposed to
heat or a spark.
Is reactive.
Can catch fire, explode, or give off dangerous
vapors if it comes in contact with air, water, or
certain other substances.
Is toxic (poisonous).
Can cause illness. Some substances are toxic if
inhaled, some if they get on the skin, and some if
they're swallowed. Some substances may be toxic
on the first exposure; others cause health
problems as a result of repeated exposures.
Sometimes the effects show up immediately—for
instance, nausea or rash; other health problems
may not show up for years. Often these long-term
effects are very serious—for example, organ
damage, cancer or even death.
There are a variety of ways to safely dispose of hazardous waste, including:

Incineration: Burning with a special incinerator. This incinerator gets much
hotter than incinerators used for regular trash.

Special Landfills for Hazardous Substances: These landfills have special
linings that keep hazardous substances from leaking out into the soil.
Recycling: Not always possible, but you can check to see if the chemical is
recyclable prior to disposal.
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Hazardous Waste Removal: The waste can be removed by a waste
management company certified in the removal of hazardous wastes.
Biological waste is another type of waste that needs to be properly disposed.
Biological waste is any material that contains or has been contaminated by a biohazardous
agent. Biological waste includes (but is not limited to) needles, syringes, specimen
containers, blood vials, pipettes, petri dishes, absorbent materials such as gauze
containing blood or other OPIM, and contaminated PPE. Refer to Chapter 10 in your text
regarding the Bloodborne Pathogen Standard and exposure and determination plans for
biological wastes.
What to Do When There is a Chemical or Biological Spill
The best defense for a chemical or biological spill is prevention; however, if a spill does
occur, follow the instructions on the MSDS form for handling chemical spills. Follow office
protocol for handling biological spills. Each health care facility should include spill kits and
absorbents to clean up such spills. In most cases, chemical and biological exposures to
the eyes will require several minutes of flushing at the eyewash station. Treat chemical
skin exposures according to the directions on the MSDS forms. Biological exposures to
any skin surface (open or closed) should be thoroughly washed with soap and water.
Counseling should take place following any exposure in regards to the need for
prophylactic or medical treatment. Affected employees will also need to complete the
appropriate OSHA forms. Both the affected employee and supervisor will need to
determine why the incident occurred and discuss ways to prevent the incident from
occurring in the future.
Developing Your Commitment to Safety
Employers go through a great deal to keep employees safe; however, employees need to
do their part as well. A safety device only works when used and gloves only protect when
they are applied. It is easy to fall into a complacent mindset upon entering the industry—
taking shortcuts and acquiring other people’s poor work habits. Commit now to take safety
seriously by following all safety precautions and regularly practicing what to do in an
exposure event. The following points are a list of guidelines that can assist with
environmental safety.
Environmental Safety Guidelines:

Learn the hazards of each job you perform and follow safety protocol including the use
of administrative, engineering, and workplace controls when working with hazards.
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Maintain a safe work environment. Never compromise on safety by taking shortcuts!
Identify workplace hazards by periodically conducting your own walkthrough of the
areas in which you work. Look for physical and chemical hazards such as obstructed
walkways, frayed electrical cords, chemicals not stored correctly, and overfilled sharp’s
containers.
Report potential hazards to your supervisor right away unless the hazard can be easily
remedied by you.
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Participate as needed in exposure hazards measurement programs.
Fire Safety
Fires can strike any facility at anytime, including medical establishments. Medical
assistants must familiarize themselves with ways to prevent fire. The following tips will
assist you with fire prevention and safety.
Fire Prevention and Safety Guidelines:

Properly store any items that are combustible (such as solvents, cleaning agents, and
fuels) by following the instructions on the label.

Smoking should be prohibited throughout the workplace.
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Frequently check cords on electrical equipment and report any that are frayed or plugs
that are bent.
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Only use power strips with surge protectors.
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Report any chemical odors that are abnormal.
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Attend a fire prevention safety course within your organization.
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Know where fire extinguishers are located and learn how to use them.
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Be familiar with all emergency egress plans in your working area.
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Keep emergency equipment and exit paths clear and free of obstructions at all times.
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Report fires immediately, sound the alarm, evacuate the buildings, and use fire
extinguishers only if appropriate.
Fire Extinguishers
There are four basic kinds of fire extinguishers, each designed to handle specific types of
fire. On the label of each fire extinguisher, there is also a numerical rating which
determines the extinguishing potential for each size and type of extinguisher. The number
is an indication of the extinguisher's size, or firefighting, effectiveness; see Table 4.
Table 4: Classes of Fire Extinguishers
Type of
Extinguisher
What it Extinguishes
Class A
Ordinary combustibles
such as paper and
wood.
Label Information
Older labels have a
green triangle with the
letter A in the center of
the triangle.
Newer labels have a
picture of a trash can on
Numerical Listing
The numerical listing
refers to the amount of
water the extinguisher
holds and the size of
fire it will extinguish.
fire.
Class B
Flammable liquids
such as grease, oil
and gas.
Older labels have a red
square with a B on the
label.
Newer labels should a
gas can with a flame
around it.
Class C
Should only be used
on electrical
energized fires.
Older labels have a blue
circle with a C in the
center of the label.
The numerical listing
refers to the
approximate number of
square feet of a
flammable liquid that
can be extinguished by
a non-expert.
Does not have a
numerical rating.
Newer labels illustrate a
plug and electrical outlet
on fire.
Class D
Used on flammable
metals specified on
the label.
Older labels have a
yellow star with the
letter D in the center.
Does not have a
numerical rating.
There is no picture on
the new labels.
Multiple
Class
Ratings
Depending on the
class on the label.
Different types; the
letter on the label
illustrate which type of
fire it will extinguish.
A-B; B-C or A-B-C.
Not suitable for class
D fires.
Older labels will have
the combinations of the
triangle, square, or
circle with the single
letters ABC on each
shape depending on the
type of extinguisher.
Newer labels will have
pictures of what it
extinguishers in a
horizontal line.
Types of Extinguishers
Each fire extinguisher will be filled with a particular chemical:
Does not have a
numerical rating.
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Dry chemicals (usually rated for multiple purpose use);
Halon gas (used on electrical equipment);
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Water (only used on class A fires);
Carbon Dioxide (only used on class B and C fires).
Inspection of the Fire Extinguisher
Fire extinguishers should be checked at least once a month. The following items should be
checked when performing monthly inspections:
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The path to the extinguisher is completely clear; there are no obstacles
interfering with access.
The needle on extinguishers with gauges should be in the green zone.
The nozzle or other parts of the extinguisher has not been tampered with.
The tamper seal and pin are intact (if applicable).
The extinguisher is free of dents, rust, chemical deposits, or other
corrosives.
Some manufacturers recommend shaking any extinguishers that have a dry
chemical. This will help prevent the chemical from settling in the bottom of the canister.
Extinguishers should be pressure tested (a process called hydrostatic testing) after a
number of years to ensure that the cylinder is safe to use. Consult the owner's manual,
extinguisher label or the manufacturer to determine how often this type of maintenance
needs to be performed. Maintenance testing may be performed by the fire department or
by members of the safety team. If an extinguisher is damaged in any way or needs
charged it should be removed and replaced until it is back in service.
Extinguishing the Fire
A procedure for responding to a fire is included in the emergency preparedness
handout. The following is a reminder of how to use a fire extinguisher.
1. Only extinguish the fire if it is contained and manageable.
2. Use the PASS mnemonic when operating a fire extinguisher:
 Pull the pin (with the nozzle pointing away from you);
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Aim low (at the base of the fire);
Squeeze the trigger (with a slow, even motion);
Sweep the nozzle side-to-side across the area.
Never turn your back on a fire. If fire becomes unmanageable, back out of the area
and exit the building immediately.
Ergonomics & Body Mechanics
Musculoskeletal disorders are the most common type of injuries that occur in the
workplace. This is often the result of poor posturing and improper lifting. Ergonomics is a
field that studies the body in different work environments and designs solutions to reduce
injury and make the work environment healthier and safer. An ergonomist studies human
capabilities in relationship to work demands. Ergonomists may look at the way
individuals operate at home and in the car as well as the workplace.
Instituting proper body mechanics is essential to maintaining a healthy work
environment. Body mechanics is the way that individuals use their bodies when sitting,
standing, lifting, bending and working. An ergonomist will study the way workers sit at their
computers, operate the mouse, hold the phone and write. Lifting techniques will be
observed as well as the posture used when performing particular procedures.
The following are some tips that will assist you in preventing injury while at work,
home or in the car.
Guidelines for Preventing Injury:

Engage in regular exercise that helps to maintain muscle flexibility and strength.

Change postures or positions throughout the day. When repetitive movements are
necessary, take a five minute break each hour to rest the joints and muscles that are
continuously being worked.

When sitting at your desk, sit straight up. Your back should be straight and your head
should be well above your shoulders. Feet should be flat on the ground. When legs are
too short a foot rest should be used. There should be no slouching while sitting. Chairs
should have built in lumbar support to promote the natural alignment of the lower back.
The top of your monitor's screen should be about even or slightly lower than eye level.
The key board should be positioned so that it tilts backward to prevent wrists from
reaching upward. Hands should be kept in alignment with forearms.

Keep work items such as keyboards, telephones and files close to your body to avoid
excessive reaching.

Use larger muscle groups when greater force is necessary such as lifting, pulling and
pushing.

A primary key to a healthy back is maintaining the spine in normal balance. The lower
back should be slightly arched when sitting or standing. This is commonly referred to
as the “power position.”

Use a three point stance when lifting heavy items (similar to the stance that a football
player uses at the line of scrimmage). This can be accomplished by bending your
knees and hips instead of your waist; your buttocks should be pointed outward and
your head and chest should face upward. This position is commonly referred to as the
“power lift.” Always get as close as possible to the item being lifted to avoid reaching
injuries.

Use gait belts when lifting patients and get assistance when the patient is too large to
handle.
Medical assistants should make ergonomics part of the standard checklist when
looking for hazards in the workplace. Some offices invest in equipment that assist in good
body mechanics such as ergonomically correct keyboards, desk chairs and head sets. It is
far easier and less expensive to prevent injuries than to treat an injury caused by poor
body mechanics.
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