Nine nursing home employees die at work in 2012, data show

According to recent data provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), more than 7 percent of full-time nursing home workers experienced a nonfatal workplace illness or injury in 2012. State-run nursing homes tallied an even higher rate of injury/illness (13.1 percent).

Lifting, moving and turning residents represent actions may cause a variety of musculoskeletal injuries to the caregivers who must perform these tasks. Physical injuries are not the only dangers to long-term care workers, they are exposed to various illnesses and potential infections, such as HIV, as part of providing care to their residents, Barbara Dawson, president of the American Industrial Hygiene Association, says in an article.

Many facilities have a “zero-lift” policy to reduce the opportunity for injury The Occupational and Safety Health Administration also provides information on safe patient handling.

Rep. John Conyers (D-MI) has introduced a bill to Congress requiring the Department of Labor to set standards for worker protection.

Sandra Hoban

Sandra Hoban was on I Advance Senior Care / Long-Term Living’s editorial staff for 17 years. She is one of the country’s longest-serving senior care journalists. Before joining Long-Term Living, she was a member of the promotions department at Advanstar Communications. In addition to her editorial experience, Sandi has served past roles in print and broadcast advertising as a traffic and talent coordinator.