OSHA Administrator Dr. David Michaels has initiated a National Emphasis Program regarding healthcare workers and the recent increase in nonfatal injuries and days away from work, according to EHS Today. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that in the past year, the nonfatal injury incidence requiring days away from work rate increased 6 percent to 283 cases per 10,000 workers and the rate among nursing aides, orderlies and attendants rose 7 percent to 489 per 10,000 workers.

The national emphasis initiative will call for increased inspections of nursing homes and residential care facilities, focusing on the typical injuries that healthcare workers face, including back injuries, infectious diseases, workplace violence and trips or falls.

After thorough inspections, nursing home and residential care management can organize a detailed assessment of the occupational labor required of the workers to help prevent employee injuries in the future and to ensure that healing injuries don't worsen.

Encouraging workplace safety by posting ways to take safety precautions in noticeable areas around a facility can increase employees' safety compliance and awareness, as well as show workers the value of safety to every department of a company.