Answer to Question 1
ANSWER:
This question is likely to be answered in two ways: focused on protecting workers from three hazards of the workplace environment, or three reasons that standards protect patients, employees, and employers. The wording of the question and a previous multiple choice question aim to bring out the latter response.
First, adhering to OSHA regulations reduces the incidence of workplace accidents and injuries. Employees in the healthcare setting are exposed to occupational hazards, including blood-borne pathogens, infectious agents, radiation, and chemical hazards. It reduces the spread of infectious disease and improves the quality of care for patients. Furthermore, meeting OSHA standards is federal law. Finally, meeting OSHA standards is required for many healthcare settings to be accredited by agencies such as the Joint Commission.
Answer to Question 2
ANSWER:
Rights of workers include the right to be informed of potential hazards, methods to prevent harm, and OSHA standards that apply to the workplace. Workers have the right to training in a language they can understand. They have the right to get copies of their medical records, observe testing and test results of workplace hazards, review records of work-related injuries and illnesses, and to request OSHA to inspect their workplace free of retaliation and discrimination.
Main worker responsibilities are to know and understand workplace hazards and follow safe work practice.