The use of barrier protection, such as plastic wrap, foil, bags, or other moisture-impervious materials, is an important part of infection prevention and control. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends, and many state dental boards require, barriers…
The November/December 2014 issue of OSHA Review, covering mandatory reporting requirements for California dentists, has been sent. In September, news reports of NFL players Ray Rice knocking out then fiancee, now wife Janay in a hotel elevator and Adrien Petersen…
According to MSN News, the Supreme Court is considering a case that could have far-reaching consequences to state licensing boards. The case involves the North Carolina State Board of Dental Examiners (Board), and whether or not it has the authority…
With the deadly Ebola virus claiming its first victim on American soil this past week, healthcare providers, including dental professionals, need to be aware of how to screen and manage patients for the disease. Although the U.S. Centers for Disease…
On September 10, 2014, California Governor Brown signed the Healthy Workplaces, Healthy Families Act (AB 1522) into law. Starting July 1, 2015, all private and public employers, regardless of size, will be required to provide paid sick leave (PSL), with…
On September 23, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a proposed rule to control dental amalgam effluent that will be published in the Federal Register. The rule would require most dentists to install best available control technology, amalgam…
The US Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) announced in September an updated rule that requires employers to notify OSHA when an employee is killed on the job or suffers a severe injury. Severe injuries are defined…
While not prohibited, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that dental personnel with direct contact with patients refrain from wearing artificial nails, keeping natural nail tips to no longer than ¼ inch in length. Artificial nails have…
In order to prevent needle sticks, OSHA prohibits dental practitioners from performing unsafe work practices during needle handling. During patient care, it is important to always handle contaminated needles safely: Do not pass or accept exposed contaminated needles to/from another…
Dentists have options when disposing of medical waste, consisting of red-bag waste and contaminated sharps, generated in their offices. Many states allow medical waste generators to use approved mail-back systems for medical waste disposal, which provide a simple, economical alternative…
