Healthcare Employers: Get Ready for OSHA's Workplace Violence Rule
As the healthcare industry braces for significant regulatory changes, workplace violence prevention is poised to take center stage. Federal workplace safety officials, through the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), plan to introduce a new rule later this year aimed at curbing workplace violence in healthcare and social assistance sectors. Today’s article delves into what this proposed rule entails, how healthcare employers can prepare, and practical steps they should take now to ensure compliance and protect their workforce.
Background: Understanding the OSHA Initiative
OSHA has long acknowledged the unique challenges healthcare workers face concerning workplace violence. The agency’s intent to release a proposed Prevention of Workplace Violence in Health Care and Social Assistance rule reflects its growing concern about the heightened risk of violence that healthcare workers endure, often from patients, residents, and even visitors.
According to a Small Business Advocacy Review (SBAR) panel convened by OSHA, healthcare workers are significantly more vulnerable to nonfatal assaults compared to workers in other industries. For instance, hospital workers experience 8.3 nonfatal assaults per 10,000 employees compared to 2.0 assaults per 10,000 workers in other private-sector industries. This alarming trend has prompted labor unions and organizations such as the National Nurses United to petition for regulatory intervention, leading to the forthcoming OSHA proposal.
What Might the Proposed Rule Include?
The upcoming proposed rule, expected to be published by December 2024, will likely require healthcare employers to implement a comprehensive workplace violence prevention program. While the details remain under development, the rule is anticipated to include the following provisions:
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Examples of OSHA's Actions
Recent actions by OSHA provide a glimpse into how seriously the agency views workplace violence in healthcare settings. Here are two examples:
Practical Steps for Employers to Take Now
Although the proposed rule has yet to be finalized, healthcare employers should begin preparing now to avoid being caught off guard. Here are several steps employers can take to stay ahead of the impending requirements:
Preparing for the Future with Axis HR Solutions
As the healthcare industry awaits the finalization of OSHA's proposed workplace violence prevention rule, healthcare employers must act proactively. By implementing robust workplace violence prevention programs now, conducting regular hazard assessments, and training employees, healthcare organizations can not only comply with future regulations but also create safer, more supportive environments for their workers.
The team at Axis HR Solutions is here to help. We specialize in HR compliance and can assist healthcare employers in developing and implementing effective workplace violence prevention strategies. Our comprehensive services include conducting hazard assessments, designing training programs, and ensuring your organization is prepared to meet OSHA's new standards.
To learn more about how Axis HR Solutions can support your workplace safety initiatives, visit our website at axishrky.com and schedule a consultation today.