Falls among older adults in nursing homes and long-term care facilities are a serious concern, with over 50% of residents experiencing a fall annually. While these incidents have devastating consequences—including chronic pain, disability, and even death—fall hazards are just one of many risks faced in these environments.
Nursing and residential care facilities provide a unique blend of health and social services, requiring staff from diverse trades beyond medical professionals. Housekeeping, food service, laundry, and building maintenance workers all encounter health and safety hazards. In 2024, OSHA identified bloodborne pathogens, respiratory protection, and hazard communication as the top three safety violations, leading to over $200,000 in penalties. Additionally, other risks such as workplace violence, laser hazards, waste anesthetic gas exposure, and ergonomic injuries—particularly among nursing assistants—underscore the need for comprehensive safety measures.
The healthcare and social assistance sector experiences the highest rate of workplace injuries among private industries, with a 40% increase in reported cases in 2020 alone. More than 806,000 injuries were recorded that year, with over half requiring at least one day away from work.
While fall prevention remains critical, a holistic approach to workplace safety is essential. Poor working conditions contribute to high rates of burnout, back pain, and occupational injuries among healthcare workers. Ensuring safety for both patients and employees can enhance overall care quality and improve staff well-being.
How USF SafetyFlorida Can Help
The USF SafetyFlorida Consultation Program provides tailored solutions to help nursing and residential care facilities create safer workplaces. If you own or manage a facility, our experts can assess your specific risks and implement effective strategies to protect your workforce.
Invest in safety today! Contact USF SafetyFlorida to schedule a consultation and take proactive steps toward a safer and healthier environment for employees and residents.