OSHA is Seeking to Regulate Workplace Violence Prevention Programs

OSHA published the Guidelines for Preventing Workplace Violence for Healthcare and Social Service Workers and plans to release a proposed rule in December, which would take effect in 2025.

California’s Workplace Violence Prevention Requirements

Interestingly, California dental practices were required to establish, implement, and maintain a workplace violence prevention plan as of July 1st of this year, regardless of the number of employees in place. [1]

Shocking Incidents in Dental Offices

Earlier this year, we were quite shocked to read that a dentist in Louisiana was stabbed multiple times and may lose her eye. The criminal entered the dental office to talk to the dentist and then chased her around the office with a knife. [2]

Responding to Dangerous Situations

How would you respond in such a dangerous situation?

Identifying Workplace Violence Hazards

OSHA recommends identifying and assessing workplace violence hazards.

Risk Factors in Dentistry

• Working with people who have a history of violence, abuse drugs or alcohol, gang members, and relatives of patients.
• Poorly lit parking lots, especially in high-crime areas.

If you practice in a metro city in a large office building, you may relate to the fear of leaving work and facing potential crime while walking to your vehicle.

Implementing a Violence Prevention Program

A workplace violence prevention program includes:

• Management commitment and employee participation
• Worksite analysis
• Hazard prevention and control
• Safety and health training
• Recordkeeping and program evaluation

Importance of Management Commitment

Management commitment is key to an effective workplace violence prevention program. It involves allocating resources, creating a program, maintaining tools, making necessary office layout modifications, and providing ongoing training.

Engineering Controls to Address Hazards

Just as engineering controls isolate or remove bloodborne pathogen hazards, they can also reduce workplace violence hazards. Examples include:

• Barriers at the front desk with locked patient entrance doors and a keyless door system
• A well-lit parking lot
• Panic buttons
• An alarm system
• Maintaining a clear exit route

Training for Hostile Situations

Include training on dealing with hostile individuals, such as a patient’s relative or significant other.

Real-Life Example of Violence

In 2012, a dental receptionist was murdered when her husband shot her shortly after she arrived at work. He later shot himself. [3]

Managing Toxic Patients

We’ve all experienced toxic patients. How can you identify if a rude or arrogant patient or family member might escalate into a dangerous situation?

Strategies for De-Escalation

• Learn verbal de-escalation strategies.
• Assess if your office has a safe room where team members can take shelter during a violent situation.

Developing an Active Shooter Plan

Incorporate an active shooter plan into your workplace violence prevention program. [4] A future article will provide more details on this critical topic.

Preparing for OSHA’s Federal Workplace Violence Prevention Program

Be aware that OSHA will soon adopt workplace violence prevention requirements on a federal level. Update your policies now to keep your dental teams safe and in compliance.

References

[1] Workplace Violence Prevention Plan for California Dental Practices
[2] Dentist Attacked at LA Practice
[3] Nashville Dental Office Shooting
[4] Active Shooter Preparedness Guide