During my in-office OSHA Annual Training sessions, I’ve noticed the same questions pop up time and again. These aren’t big oversights, but they are important details that can make a difference in compliance and safety. Let’s review a few commonly missed areas:
Eyewash Stations – If your office uses chemicals, you must have an eyewash station that is:
- Accessible within 10 seconds
- Operable with one hand and equipped with a stay-open valve
- Capable of flushing eyes continuously for 15 minutes
Weekly checks are required—run the unit for at least 3 minutes and log the date, results, and initials.
Fire Extinguishers – Fire extinguishers should be:
- Inspected monthly (check the hose and gauge, and document your findings)
- Maintained or replaced by a certified provider annually
Emergency Evacuation Plan – Every dental office needs a written Emergency Action Plan that includes:
- Clearly marked and unobstructed exits
- A designated meeting place known to all team members
- Posted evacuation routes visible throughout the office
Instrument Transport – Never carry instruments by hand or on an open tray. Use containers that are:
- Puncture-resistant
- Closeable
- Labeled with a biohazard symbol
Training Documentation – OSHA requires training:
- At hire
- Annually (within 365 days of the previous session)
- Whenever tasks or procedures change
Your training records should include:
- Date of the session
- Summary of content covered
- Trainer’s name and qualifications
- Names, job titles, and signatures of attendees
- Records kept for at least 3 years
Final Thoughts
While OSHA typically won’t cold call a dental office, random audits do happen. Being prepared not only ensures compliance but also keeps your team and patients safe.
If you’d like guidance on OSHA compliance for your practice, I’d be happy to help. Visit www.advanceddentaladmin.com for more resources or reach out directly.
📖 Reference: OSHA Standard 1910.1030