Last Quarter of the Year To Do List

As we enter the last quarter of the year, there are important considerations to make in reviewing your to do list for your regulatory compliance program. Let’s start with OSHA. The next issue we’ll address is HIPAA.

OSHA Training

• Have you completed and documented training?
  OSHA requires bloodborne pathogens training every 365 days for those with potential exposure to blood or other potentially infectious material (OPIM).
  • Obtain a roster listing the signatures and designations of attendees.
  • Include the presenter’s name/credentials, the date, and detailed required topics.
  • Don’t forget training on the Hazard Communication Standard and fire and emergency planning.
  • Retain training documentation for 3 years.

Safer Medical Device Evaluation

• Have you completed your safer medical device evaluation?
  OSHA requires an annual review of safer medical devices, documented with input from non-managerial employees.
  • Document sharps and needles in use and the safer devices implemented.
  • Investigate new devices like the NoPo Guard, which was recently showcased at a trade show.

Exposure Control Plan

• Have you updated your Exposure Control Plan?
  Review and update your plan annually, documenting any revisions.

SDS Collection

• Have you updated your SDS collection?
  Ensure your Safety Data Sheets (SDS) match the products in use.
  • If you frequently shop for deals, keeping your program current can be challenging.
  • Consider using an electronic program, such as those provided by Patterson Dental or our services.

Chemical Inventory

• Have you revised your chemical inventory?
  Audit your SDS and update your chemical inventory accordingly.

Employee Medical Records

• Have you checked your employee medical records?
  These confidential records must include:
  • HBV vaccine verification or declination.
  • Any exposure incident reports, including attending healthcare professional documentation.

Quality Control Records

• Have you audited your quality control records?
  Ensure timely completion of task logs, such as:
  • Weekly biological monitoring of sterilizers.
  • Quarterly water monitoring.
  • Monthly fire extinguisher checks.
  • Weekly eyewash station checks.
  • Amalgam separator filter changes.

Emergency Action Plan

• Have you reviewed your emergency action plan?
  Update the plan to include active shooter information with Run, Hide, and Fight protocols.

Infection Control Plan

• Have you revised your infection control plan?
  Update your plan with site-specific protocols for:
  • Surface disinfection.
  • Instrument management.
  • Quality control procedures, including water protocols.
  • Written protocols help avoid errors and infection control breaches.

Planning for 2024

• Schedule your 2024 training and policy updates.
  Whether you manage your own program or outsource it to Modern Practice Solutions, prioritize this essential aspect of practice management.