Page 52 - Compendium Chapters for Course 1 (IC, DPA, OSHA)

questions about the content of the training. Training records must be kept for a minimum of three years and more appropriately for the duration of the staff member’s employ plus three years in the event the former employee needs copies of the training record.
Reducing hazards in the dental office can be accomplished by the following:
• Reading all product labels and following directions for use
• Keeping the number of hazard chemicals to a minimum
• Storing chemicals and products in their original containers
• Avoid mixing two or more known hazardous chemicals together that may cause caustic cloud or explosion
• Washing and drying hands after handling all chemicals
• Wearing correct PPE whenever handling and storing chemicals
• Keeping the office and storage areas well ventilated
• Avoiding skin contact with chemicals
• Staying abreast of necessary handling instructions for all chemicals used in the practice
• Training on all new products introduced to the practice on a regular basis
• Disposing of all products and materials once a shelf-life has been reached
• Keeping a properly equipped and assembled emergency kit and chemical spill kit
Exposure to Chemicals
Hazardous chemicals are defined as those that 1) can ignite, 2) can react or explode when mixed with water or other substances, 3) is corrosive, or 4) is toxic.
Chemicals can enter into the body one of three ways: inhalation of chemical vapors, ingestion of the chemical through eating or drinking, and absorption of the chemical through the skin.
Inhalation of gases and vapors from chemicals can cause direct damage to the respiratory system. Chemicals can also be absorbed through the skin upon direct contact or sometimes after repeated contact over a period of time. Ingestion through drinking or swallowing can occur when chemicals on the hands reach the mouth while eating or touching the mouth – handwashing is essential after handling chemicals in the dental office if gloves are not worn.
Intro Page - 52
Introductory Chapter: Dental Practice Act, Infection Control and Cal-OSHA
The California RDAEF: A Compendium for Licensure Success © The Foundation for Allied Dental Education, Inc. 2016 Copyright protected. All rights reserved