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JCAHO vs. OSHA

Case Management Weekly, November 9, 2005

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Healthcare administrators can't choose between Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO) or Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards-they must address the requirements for both entities. Some of the differences between the two organizations include the following:

• JCAHO has standards for healthcare facilities only. OSHA has standards for many industries.
• JCAHO does not issue monetary fines. OSHA may issue monetary fines.
• A non-compliant review by JCAHO may lead to non-accreditation. Failure to comply with OSHA standards usually leads to citations that may include monetary fines.
• JCAHO may perform "unannounced" inspections but does not in the majority of cases. The majority of OSHA inspections are unannounced.
• JCAHO requires written follow-up reports. OSHA requires a written plan of action.
• JCAHO requires written policies and procedures. OSHA may require written safety and health plans and procedures.
• JCAHO covers patients, visitors, and staff safety. OSHA covers employee safety only.
• JCAHO uses performance oriented criteria to meet the intent of standards. OSHA uses performance oriented standards.
• JCAHO follows OSHA's bloodborne pathogens standard. OSHA enforces the bloodborne pathogens standard.
• JCAHO addresses the Life Safety Code. OSHA requires emergency and fire protection plans.

Source: Business & Legal Reports, safety.blr.com

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