Posted May 24th, 2007 @ 2:57 pm by David Shearer

The OSHA website recently announced the release (May 21, 2007) of a new safety and health guide to help healthcare workers and their employers prepare for a possible influenza pandemic.

The document includes technical information on infection control and industrial hygiene practices to reduce the risk of infection in healthcare settings; workplace preparations and planning issues; suggestions on personal/respiratory protection and work practices; as well as OSHA standards that have special importance to pandemic preparedness planners and responders in the industry.

In addition, a wide range of information and tools helpful to pandemic planners is included: Internet resources, communication tools, sample infection control programs, and self-triage and home care resources. It also offers how-to advice on diagnosis and treatment of staff during a pandemic, developing planning and supply checklists, and risk communication.

The document is the Pandemic Influenza Preparedness and Response Guidance for Healthcare Workers and Healthcare Employers and is available at www.osha.gov/Publications/OSHA_pandemic_health.pdf