Health and Safety of Workers in the Health Sector: A Manual for Managers and Administrators

Abstract

This manual is a product of Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) through its Programs of Workers’ Health and Human Resources Development (of the Sustainable Development Area and Strategic Health Development Area, respectively) with the support of World Health Organization (WHO), consultants, and Collaborating Centers on Occupational Health in the Americas. It was initiated within the framework of PAHO/WHO Regional Plan on Workers’ Health (Resolution CD41/15), in agreement with ILO/WHO guidelines (Convention 161 of 1985; Recommendation 171 of 1985; Standards for Occupational Safety and Health Management Systems of 2001; and the Joint ILO/WHO Committee on Occupational Health and Safety of 2003). The Manual is intended for managers, administrators, planners and, in general, for all who are involved in decision making at establishments that administer health services in the Latin American and Caribbean Region whether affiliated with the public or private sector. The Manual may also be utilized by labor unions. It aims to offer basic operational concepts of occupational health and safety (OH&S) management at health care facilities and highlights the hazards commonly encountered in the health care sector and its operations to which workers in the health services are exposed in their work. Practical, easily applicable guidelines are provided based on international standards of good practice...