We're sorry, but OSHAcademy doesn't work properly without JavaScript enabled. Please turn on JavaScript or install a browser that supports Javascript.

773 Preventing MSDs in Healthcare
Skip to main content

A Process for Protecting Workers

Introduction

The number and severity of injuries resulting from physical demands in healthcare - and associated costs - can be substantially reduced. Providing an alternative to manual patient lifting is the primary goal of the ergonomics process in the healthcare setting.

Providing an alternative to manual patient lifting is the primary goal of the ergonomics process in the healthcare setting.

OSHA recommends that manual lifting of patients be minimized in all cases and eliminated when feasible. OSHA further recommends employers develop a process for systematically addressing ergonomics issues in their facilities, and incorporate this process into an overall program recognize and prevent occupational safety and health hazards.

An effective process should be tailored to the characteristics of the particular facility, but OSHA generally recommends several steps.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

1-1. What is the primary goal of the ergonomics process in the healthcare setting?