What to know
- Preventing injury and illness in over 22 million U.S. healthcare workers is a major healthcare industry concern.
- Healthcare workers face dangerous hazards, including exposure to pathogens, chemicals, high stress levels, and physical demands.
- Learn how planning, procedures, training, and technology can work hand-in-hand to reduce worker injuries and illness.
Preventing worker injuries and illness
The U.S. healthcare industry, which employs over 22 million workers, has one of the highest rates of nonfatal work injury and illness in the country. Healthcare workers risk exposure to hazards such as dangerous pathogens, harmful chemicals, and high levels of mental and physical stress on a daily basis.
Understanding and implementing new and better ways to prevent worker injuries and illness is of critical concern to the healthcare industry. Use the information and resource links below to learn more about preventing healthcare worker injuries and illness.
Safe patient handling and mobility
Patient handling, or lifting, moving, and repositioning patients, is an essential job task for healthcare workers. It is also when they are at the greatest risk of acquiring a work-related musculoskeletal disorder (WMSD) or an overexertion injury.
Fortunately, there are several ways to reduce and prevent the risks, including the adoption of safe patient handling and mobility (SPHM) technology. Find out more about preventing patient handling injuries and the associated research by visiting the page linked below.