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Emergency Department » Equipment Hazards
Hazard
Injury may occur to employees from improper training or use of equipment (e.g., defibrillators). Electric shock may occur as a result of lack of maintenance or misuse of equipment and/or its controls.
Recognized Controls and Work Practices
- Maintain machines in good working order
- Routinely monitor the condition of equipment.
- Train employees to correctly and safely use and clean equipment.
- Maintain adequate working space and access to equipment.
- Visually inspect equipment before using.
- Visually inspect cords. Do not use if frayed or damaged.
- If something does not look right, do not use the machine. Call for assistance.
- Ensure that all electrical service equipment near sources of water is properly grounded. [29 CFR 1910.304]
- Adhere to all manufacturer and operator instructions to ensure safe use of equipment.
Additional Information
- See Healthcare-wide Hazards - Electrical Safety.
- Electrical Safety. OSHA QuickCard™ (Publication 3294), (2013). Also available in Spanish.
- Electrical Hazards: Controlling Electrical Hazards. OSHA Publication 3075, (2002).