Hazard

Because of the high traffic and compact treatment spaces for patient care units, slips/trips/falls are a specific concern. For example, there is a slip and fall hazard if water or other fluid is spilled on the floor, electrical cords run across pathways, or if emergency equipment or supplies block passageways.

Requirements under OSHA's Walking-Working Surfaces Standard, 29 CFR 1910.22

• Keep floors clean and dry. [29 CFR 1910.22(a)(2)]
• Keep aisles and passageways clear and in good repair, with no obstruction across or in aisles that could create a hazard. [29 CFR 1910.22(a)]

Other OSHA Requirements

Follow Bloodborne Pathogens Standard spill clean-up requirements for spills containing blood or other potentially infectious materials (OPIM) [29 CFR 1910.1030].

Additional Information

• See Hospital-wide Hazards - Slips/Trips/Falls.
• Walking-Working Surfaces. OSHA.
• Inspection Guidance for Inpatient Healthcare Settings. (June 25, 2015). OSHA memorandum establishing guidance for inspections conducted in inpatient healthcare settings.