Nursing

JCAHO vs. OSHA

Staff Development Weekly: Insight on Evidence-Based Practice in Education, October 28, 2005

Want to receive articles like this one in your inbox? Subscribe to Staff Development Weekly: Insight on Evidence-Based Practice in Education!

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 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 requires staff training. OSHA requires employee training.
  • 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



Want to receive articles like this one in your inbox? Subscribe to Staff Development Weekly: Insight on Evidence-Based Practice in Education!

Most Popular

Related Articles