NIOSH Fast Fact Publications for Home Healthcare Workers

According to National Association for Home Care & Hospice, in 2008 (the latest data available),   approximately 12 million individuals were receiving care from more than 33,000 providers (for causes including acute illness, long-term health conditions, permanent disability or terminal illness). According to NIOSH, during 2007 alone, 27,400 recorded injuries occurred among more than 896,800 home healthcare workers.

NIOSH has produced a serious of fast fact publications designed to help home healthcare workers avoid hazardous exposures and prevent injuries and illnesses. They cover needlesticks and sharps injuries; safely driving to/from client homes; recognizing and avoiding unsafe conditions (such as hoarding, hostile pets); musculoskeletal disorders; latex allergies; and workplace violence.

You can also download the agency's "Occupational Hazards in Home Healthcare" hazard review here.