The WISH,OSHA, and Infection Control Compliance Training for WA Dental Healthcare Providers course equips dental professionals with essential knowledge on WISHA, OSHA regulations, and infection control. Participants learn to maintain a safe work environment by identifying hazards, properly using personal protective equipment (PPE), and adhering to workplace safety standards. The training covers compliance with Washington Administrative Code (WAC) regulations, OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard, and best practices for managing hazardous materials like mercury in dental offices. By understanding these protocols, dental providers can ensure a safer workplace, protect employees from occupational risks, and uphold high standards of patient care.
What You Will Learn:
Common workplace compliance practices in dental healthcare
Principles of infection prevention and control in dental healthcare environments
Details:
Course length: 45 minutes; CME: 0.75
Languages: American English
Key features: Audio narration, learning activity, and post-assessment.
The information contained in these trainings was derived from publications of WA.gov, OSHA, and CDC (Government Sourced Material). None of the planners, authors or instructors for this activity have any relevant financial relationships to disclose. The Government Sourced Material used by AMC is available for no charge on their associated websites. The use of the Government Sourced Material by AMC does not imply endorsement or recommendation by WA.gov, OSHA, CDC, or by the United States Government, of AMC, its enterprise, its facility, its services or its products. © 2025 American Medical Compliance, no copyright claimed in Government Sourced Material. If you are not completely satisfied with this course within 30 days you will receive a full refund.
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Understanding Washington Industrial Safety and Health Act for Dental Workers
The Washington Industrial Safety and Health Act (WISHA), enacted in 1973, requires employers to maintain safe workplaces. To enforce these regulations, the Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) and the Division of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) oversee compliance under the Washington Administrative Code (WAC).
Furthermore, Certified Safety and Health Officers (CSHOs) must follow all workplace safety rules. They are also required to wear proper PPE and use the appropriate equipment during inspections. Additionally, Compliance Supervisors ensure that CSHOs have the necessary PPE, receive proper training, and adhere to guidelines for equipment use and maintenance. As a result, these measures help maintain workplace safety and compliance.
Learn Occupational Safety and Health Requirements
Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, all dental employers must provide a safe workplace free from recognized hazards. This requirement applies regardless of their education, training, or licensing. More importantly, employers must follow OSHA standards to prevent risks that could cause serious harm or death.
One major concern in dental offices is exposure to hazardous substances like mercury. Consequently, OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910.1200) mandates that employers implement safety measures when employees handle mercury or other hazardous chemicals. Since mercury is classified as hazardous under OSHA’s Air Contaminants Standard (29 CFR 1910.1000, Table Z-2), proper handling, exposure monitoring, and protective measures are essential. Moreover, employers must provide training on chemical hazards, maintain adequate ventilation, and enforce strict safety protocols. By taking these precautions, dental professionals can minimize exposure risks and create a safer work environment.
Managing Hazardous Materials
This course explores how mercury enters the environment and affects ecosystems. Specifically, you will learn how combustion releases mercury, how it transforms into toxic methyl mercury in water, and how it accumulates in aquatic life.
In addition, the course examines the role of dental practices in mercury discharge, primarily through the removal of amalgam fillings. Although dental amalgam contributes to less than one percent of total mercury discharges, proper handling and disposal remain crucial. Therefore, by completing this course, you will gain the skills to reduce mercury exposure and implement safer, more sustainable practices in dental healthcare.
