OSHA cited MD Dental Center PC (doing business as Smile Center Dental) for 26 alleged serious violations. An inspection at the company’s facility in Washington, D.C. was initiated in response to a complaint, and resulted in $61,600 in proposed penalties.
A citation for a serious violation is issued when there is substantial probability that death or serious physical harm could result from a hazard present in the workplace that the employer knew—or should have known—existed.
“All medical facilities have a duty to provide a safe and healthful workplace for their employees,” said Michael Stracka, acting director of OSHA’s Baltimore/Washington Area Office. “Employers must protect workers who are occupationally exposed to blood or other potentially infectious materials.”
The cited violations include:
- Worker exposure to bloodborne pathogens without an exposure control plan or proper training
- Lack of proper eye protection during use of chemicals to sanitize medical instruments
- Egress issues
- Exposure to electrical hazards
- Inadequate personal protective equipment
In addition, the company failed to:
- Provide workers with Hepatitis B vaccinations within 10 days of employment.
- Have an adequate hazard communication program and training in place.
- Properly label chemicals.
- Maintain material safety data sheets for chemicals used on-site.
Download a helpful fact sheet from OSHA about its inspections.
Smart Training’s OSHA/HIPAA compliance advisors offer a complimentary initial inspection ($250 value) for TDA members in major metropolitan areas.