I’m a bit flummoxed as I try to summarize a 2019 regulatory report for you tonight. It’s a mixed bag.
For dental practices, the OSHA citation dollar amounts have been down, which is a good thing. Yet we’ve seen some whoppers—the largest single citation being over $35,000, and several in the $17k-20k range.
Interestingly, this year OSHA didn’t seem to negotiate down from its original citation amounts. A much higher percentage of its citation amounts have not been reduced than we’ve seen in recent years.
Another difference we saw: the type of violations cited. As usual, bloodborne pathogens violations led the way. But this year, we saw an uptick in violations related to radiation, hazard communications, and compressed gas.
At the moment, I’m completing my second OSHA defense case in the last 60 days. I can’t remember the last time I had two (in the dental industry) in a 60-day period. Maybe there’s something in the water.
Despite the mixed bag, my mantra still stands. It is far easier, less stressful, and less expensive to do the things you’re supposed to be doing the right way to start with. If you’re not sure what the right way is, consult a pro.