Policies and Procedures Relating To Workplace Safety

Sec. 241.029. POLICIES AND PROCEDURES RELATING TO WORKPLACE SAFETY. (a) The governing body of a hospital shall adopt policies and procedures related to the work environment for nurses to: (1) improve workplace safety and reduce the risk of injury, occupational illness, and violence; and (2) increase the use of ergonomic principles and ergonomically designed devices to reduce injury and fatigue. (b) The policies and procedures adopted under Subsection (a), at a minimum, must include: (1) evaluating new products and technology that incorporate ergonomic principles; (2) educating nurses in the application of ergonomic practices; (3) conducting workplace audits to identify areas of risk of injury, occupational illness, or violence and recommending ways to reduce those risks; (4) controlling access to those areas identified as having a high risk of violence; and (5) promptly reporting crimes committed against nurses to appropriate law enforcement agencies. Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 876, Sec. 13, eff. June 20, 2003. SUBCHAPTER C. ENFORCEMENT