Operating a dental practice is very expensive. Many times, the expenses are associated with workers’ compensation. Below is a list of guidelines and procedures that may help a practice owner reduce workers’ compensation costs and claim exposure:

  • Maintain a written safety policy.
  • Have ongoing safety and health training specific to each job including whenever new substances, processes, procedures, or equipment are introduced to the workplace.
  • Use protective barriers to prevent skin exposure when any contact with blood or other body fluids is anticipated.
  • Prevent punctures through the careful handling of needles, instruments, and other sharp objects which might penetrate the skin.
  • Never recap, bend or break syringe needles.
  • Always dispose of needles and other “sharps” in a puncture-resistant container. “Sharps” containers should be located near where they are used.
  • Use safe lifting practices with heavy objects and equipment.
In the area of workers’ compensation exposure, risk management is no longer optional. Every practice owner must be proactive from a risk management standpoint in order to control premium expenses and employee claim exposure.