By Jennifer Dawson, MHA, FACHE, CPHQ, LSSBB, DLM(ASCP)SLS, QIHC, QLC bio There is a lot of talk these days about integrating the laboratory into patient-centered care teams1 and about … [Read more...]
Ergonomics in the Laboratory Setting
By Dan Scungio, MT (ASCP), SLS, CQA (ASQ) bio Sometimes when I am talking about lab safety and the topic turns to ergonomics, I get an unusual reaction from the audience—laughter. It … [Read more...]
Trap to Avoid: Asking Lab Employees about Their Latex Allergies
"Are you allergic to latex?" It seems like a perfectly legitimate thing to ask, especially to an employee who's expected to wear latex gloves on the job. The problem is that asking the question may … [Read more...]
Compliance Perspectives: How to Implement a Respiratory Protection Program at Your Lab
Worker exposure to infection and hazardous substances is a constant and pressing challenge for lab managers. And if yours is among the many labs where workers are required to use respirators, you face … [Read more...]
Changes in hazardous waste management: the Generator Improvement Rule
By Dan Scungio, MT (ASCP), SLS, CQA (ASQ) bio If you haven't heard by now, you should know that the EPA published its Generator Improvement Rule (GIR) in 2016. It is an update to the … [Read more...]
The Safety Interpretation
By Dan Scungio, MT (ASCP), SLS, CQA (ASQ) bio When hospitals were placed on OSHA's list of "high-risk" workplaces, no one had to ask why. OSHA adjusts that list based on the number of … [Read more...]
Where’s your lab safety manual?
By Dan Scungio, MT (ASCP), SLS, CQA (ASQ) bio Laboratory leadership should be committed to providing a safe working environment, and they should believe their employees have a right to … [Read more...]
Tool: Respirator Fit Testing Checklist
If you require lab workers to use respirators, you must implement a Respiratory Protection Program that meets the standards set out in the OSHA Respiratory Protection Standard (1910.134(f)) … [Read more...]
Compliance Perspectives: The 12 Things to Include in Your Drug & Alcohol Testing Policy
MYTH Employee drug testing is illegal in states where it's legal to use recreational or medical marijuana WHAT'S AT STAKE No! No! No! The truth is that state laws on marijuana use and … [Read more...]
Tool: Model Pandemic Influenza Policy
Although not officially a pandemic, the miserable 2018 flu season is a vivid reminder of the importance of preparing so that your lab responds effectively if and when the next pandemic does hit. The … [Read more...]