What is OSHA's primary role in infection control for dental practices?

OSHA, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, plays a crucial role in ensuring a safe and healthy workplace for employees, which includes those working in dental practices. Its primary mission revolves around enforcing workplace safety regulations to protect employees from health hazards, including those associated with infection control. This involves setting standards and guidelines that dental practices must follow to minimize exposure to infectious agents, such as bloodborne pathogens and other hazardous materials.

Understanding OSHA's role helps dental professionals implement effective infection control protocols that safeguard both staff and patients. By enforcing regulations, OSHA provides a framework that assists dental practices in recognizing and mitigating risks, monitoring compliance, and promoting a culture of safety within the office environment. This oversight contributes significantly to maintaining proper infection control practices within dental settings.