OSHA

OSHA compliance is a significant part of every dentist's professional life. The ADA closely monitors OSHA activities to protect dentists from unreasonable regulation. The Association advocates dentistry's position on proposed OSHA standards of importance to practitioners, such as standards OSHA is developing on TB, ergonomics and indoor air quality. Through the ADA's efforts, OSHA agreed to a streamlined investigation procedure that allows dentists to respond to most complaints by telephone and fax, rather that having to contend with on-site inspections.

The Association makes available a wealth of resources to help dentists understand and comply with existing OSHA standards. An example is the Post-Exposure Evaluation and Follow-Up Requirements Under OSHA's Standard for Occupational Exposure to Bloodborne Pathogens: A Guide to Dental Employer Obligations which provides a step-by-step protocol for percutaneous exposures in the dental office. Also available is the ADA Regulatory Compliance Manual and Update Service and the video OSHA Refresher Course. These resources can be obtained through the ADA Catalog or by calling 1-800-947-4746.

ADA staff can also provide help to members with their specific questions about OSHA compliance dealing with such subjects as personal protective equipment (PPE) and laundry, material safety data sheets (MSDS), dental products and equipment or sterilization/disinfection, and the latest information on OSHA regulations. To address your specific questions, contact the ADA Council on Scientific Affairs at science@ada.org, or call the ADA member toll-free number, ext. 2534, or 312-440-2534.

For questions regarding OSHA inspections and investigations, call the ADA Division of Legal Affairs at the ADA member toll-free number, ext. 2499, or 312-440-2499.

For information on individual state requirements, call your state dental society.

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