You may recall that L&I published its second report on work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) as required by RCW 49.17.520 Industries and Risk Classifications Eligible for Ergonomic Rulemaking, November 2024. While long-term care has some of the lowest rates of WMSD, L&I identified it as one of their top five industries in this report.
The best way to prevent new regulations is by preventing WMSD. Prevention requires safe patient/resident handling, equipment, training, and observation programs. ERNwest offers a WHCA Accident Prevention Program (APP) template that has model language for a Safe Patient/Resident Handling program. Access free, on-site CEU-certified safety training that includes training on lifts and transfers. You can also register for “Supervising for Safety” which covers how to put together an effective Safety Observation program. Find all these resources at WHCA – ERNwest (password: StayHealthy).