Tools for Identifying Hazard and Improving Workplace Safety in Central Service

what are the three general categories in CS/SP

1. Physical

2. chemica

3. biological

what is a physical hazard?

an agent or factor that can cause harm to the body with or without coming into contact with the body

what are some physical hazards you can encounter in CS/SP?

• washing

• wrapping

• inspecting

• transporting

• lifting trays improperly

what are some external factors that can lead to physical injuries

• wet floors

• hanging cords

• damaged flooring

• vibrations from heating and cooling systems

• operation of some processing equipment

• exposure to extreme heat or cold due to malfunctioning equipment

• improper handling of items

what is a chemical hazard

• exposure to chemicals in the workplace

• chemicals used in CS/SP department

  • enzymatics

  • detergents

  • cleaners

  • disinfectans

  • steriliants

is biohazard another word for biological hazards?

yes

what are biohazards?

• substances that pose a threat to human life

• microbially-contaminated instruments taht must be handled during reprocessing

how are new biological hazards made?

• emergence of microorganisms that are becoming resistant to today’s antibiotics