When you think of a dental practice, “high-risk environment” might not be the first phrase that comes to mind. Yet for this Auckland-based dental clinic, workplace safety is as essential as a perfect smile. Facing risks from hazardous substances, radiation, and biological hazards, the practice took proactive steps to safeguard its employees, contractors, and patients by partnering with Health & Safety Consultants Auckland (HSCA) to implement an Occupational Health and Safety Management System (OHSM).
The Challenge
The dental practice operates in a unique environment where safety hazards extend beyond what is typically found in an office setting. Staff regularly handle oxygen tanks, pharmaceutical drugs, and X-ray equipment, all while managing the risks of cross-infection and other biological hazards. Recognising the importance of a safe work environment, the practice sought to align with New Zealand’s Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (HSWA 2015).
But compliance was just one piece of the puzzle. The clinic also wanted a system that would enhance their workplace culture, minimize risks, and empower their team to actively participate in health and safety initiatives.
The Solution: A Tailored OHSM
To address these challenges, HSCA designed a comprehensive OHSM specifically tailored to the dental practice’s needs. Here’s how the system worked:
1. Hazard Management
- Identification and Assessment: A detailed review identified risks such as cross-infection, chemical hazards, and radiation exposure.
- Prioritization: A Risk Assessment Matrix helped rank hazards by likelihood and severity, ensuring high-risk issues received immediate attention.
2. Emergency Preparedness
- Procedures: Clear evacuation protocols were established, covering the safe handling of oxygen tanks and hazardous materials.
- Training: Regular emergency drills familiarised staff with procedures, building confidence in their ability to respond.
3. Incident Reporting and Investigation
- Streamlined Reporting: A simple process allowed incidents and near misses to be reported within 12 hours using standardised templates.
- Preventive Actions: Root cause analysis ensured issues were addressed at their source, reducing the likelihood of recurrence.
4. Health and Safety Training
- Induction Programs: New employees received training on PPE use, hazardous substances, and overall health and safety.
- Ongoing Education: Staff participated in specialised training on radiation safety, infection control, and chemical management.
5. Contractor and Equipment Management
- Contractor Safety: On-site contractors underwent induction programs and signed acknowledgments of health and safety policies.
- Equipment Maintenance: Regular checks and maintenance of X-ray machines and other critical equipment ensured compliance and safety.
6. Continuous Improvement
- Feedback Integration: Staff feedback and lessons from incident investigations were used to update the system.
- Performance Monitoring: Key performance indicators (KPIs) tracked the effectiveness of safety measures over time.
The Results
The impact of the OHSM on the dental practice was profound:
- Enhanced Safety Culture: Employees became active participants in fostering a safe workplace.
- Regulatory Compliance: The practice achieved full compliance with HSWA 2015 and other relevant regulations.
- Risk Reduction: Effective hazard management contributed to a safer environment for staff, contractors, and patients alike.
Lessons Learned
The journey to improved health and safety offered valuable insights:
- Team Involvement is Key: Active participation from all staff members is critical for success.
- Training and Drills Matter: Regular practice ensures everyone is prepared for emergencies.
- Adaptability is Essential: Systems must evolve to address new risks and operational changes.
Conclusion
By prioritising health and safety, this Auckland dental practice has set a shining example for other organisations. Their commitment to a robust OHSM not only ensures compliance but also creates a safer and more confident workplace.
Are you ready to elevate your workplace safety standards? Contact Health & Safety Consultants Auckland today to learn how we can tailor a solution to your needs.
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