OSHA Review 2024

Occupational safety in the dental office is not just a good idea; it is the law. This course provides a comprehensive review of the current Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards mandated for dental healthcare settings in 2024. It focuses heavily on the Bloodborne Pathogens Standard, which remains the most frequently cited regulation in dentistry. Participants will revisit the essential requirements for an Exposure Control Plan, understanding why this living document must be updated annually to reflect new technologies and safer medical devices. Beyond bloodborne risks, this course explores the "Right to Understand" under the Hazard Communication Standard. It clarifies the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) for classifying and labeling chemicals, ensuring that every staff member can interpret Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and warning pictograms. The curriculum also covers often-overlooked General Duty Clause requirements, such as fire safety, emergency exit routes, and electrical hazards, which are critical for maintaining a safe physical environment for both patients and the dental team. Finally, the course addresses the administrative burden of compliance. It outlines the strict recordkeeping requirements for employee training, medical records, and the sharps injury log. By demystifying the inspection process and highlighting common triggers for OSHA audits, this training empowers dental professionals to take a proactive stance on safety. The goal is to move beyond checking boxes to creating a culture of safety that protects the practice's most valuable asset: its people.