Equipment Hazards
Potential Hazard
Employees in the emergency department may be at risk of injury due to improper use or lack of training on medical equipment, such as defibrillators. Additional hazards include electric shock from poorly maintained equipment or misuse of controls. Oxygen-enriched environments and the presence of water can further increase the risk of injury.
Possible Solutions
Emergency departments should implement a comprehensive program to ensure all equipment is regularly inspected, maintained, and kept in safe working order. Employees must receive proper training on the correct use of all equipment to minimize the risk of injury.