New York's Rome Memorial Hospital has successfully implemented a number of programs which have resulted in a 29 percent reduction in workplace injuries so far this year, according to an article on the Rome Observer website.
The hospital has invested in numerous tools to help staff lift patients or potentially heavy objects and has also made strides in reducing injuries caused by violence.
“While many of these episodes are unavoidable, we have provided specialized training which teaches how to recognize a potentially hazardous situation and de-escalation techniques to all employees who work in high risk areas such as the emergency department,” director of risk management, Deborah Sherwood, said in the article.
OSHA reports that workplace injuries and illnesses have a major impact on an employer's bottom line. It has been estimated that employers pay almost $1 billion per week for direct workers' compensation costs alone.
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