The article is written by ESIP's Director of Loss Control Services, Bill Tricarico who himself was a fire company treasurer for over 14 years. This article is a must read. OSHA Reviewing Needlestick Injuries OSHA has announced new measures to reduce needlestick injuries to healthcare workers including EMS operations. According to the National Safety Council, the new concept will have healthcare workers reporting all injuries resulting from contaminated needles and sharp objects on OSHA logs. OSHA also plans on revising the bloodborne pathogens compliance directive later this year to reflect the newer and safer technologies now available.
Compliance officers use the directive to enforce the bloodborne pathogens standard.
ESIP clients may avail themselves of reference material related to bloodborne pathogens through our video and book loan libraries. Some of the most frequently asked questions of our Loss Control Services Division relate to the operation of Safety Officers. While we are always ready to assist in these matters, we would like to suggest that safety officers check out the Fire Department Safety Officers Association. This group is dedicated to assisting organizations in development and operation of a safety officer. They provide monthly newsletters as well as several seminars on pertinent topics.