Welcome to Life & Safety with Jimmy Rios! Get ready to dive into a world where safety meets storytelling! Drawing from his rich background as a former firefighter, EMT and safety expert, Jimmy brings you straight into the heart of safety and emergency preparedness. Episodes feature easy-to-understand tips, real-life stories, and interviews with experts, all designed to help you protect yourself, your business, and those you care about. Whether it's advice on navigating everyday safety challe ...
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Bloodborne Pathogens Podcasts
Our podcast covers current topics such as infection prevention and control, OSHA and HIPAA compliance for dentistry. We discuss the latest regulatory information, answer frequently asked questions and give suggestions for dental practices to make compliance easy and sustainable.The Compliance Divas are a trusted source for consistent, accurate information based upon current guidelines, standards, science, and recommendations.
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#224 Is Your Bloodborne Pathogens & Infection Control Training Up to Par?
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14:54In this episode, the Divas review the topics that must be covered in BBPS training, when it must be provided and who is qualified to present the training. Learn from the experts how to manage new employee and annual training on the BBPS, infection control and other required safety training. Resources: OSHA BBPS Fact Sheet - https://www.osha.gov/sit…
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#225 In The News Again: Nitrous Oxide? No Joke!
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19:26In this episode, the Divas interview Dr. Anthony Carroccia who lectures nationally on nitrous oxide. He'll provide insight on FDA's new recommendation for consumers. FDA Information: https://www.fda.gov/food/alerts-advisories-safety-information/fda-advises-consumers-not-inhale-nitrous-oxide-products Dr. Anthony Carroccia: https://www.stbethlehemden…
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All The Ways Thanksgiving Can Go Sideways
18:13
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18:13Thanksgiving is supposed to be festive and cozy, but let’s be honest... it can also go completely sideways. In this episode we're walking you through some of the little (and usually unexpected) holiday hazards that can turn your holiday kitchen into a tornado of chaos. From mystery potluck dishes and food allergies, to deep-fried turkey disasters, …
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#223 The Dirty Truth: What Handwashing Misses
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20:39Join the Divas as we explore the science behind hand hygiene, nail contamination, and the surprising resilience of pathogens. Are you ready for a deep dive into the bacterial biofilms hiding beneath your fingertips—and why they matter in healthcare. Resources: CDC Guidelines for Hand Hygiene in Healthcare Settings https://www.cdc.gov/infection-cont…
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If I’m Running at the Airport, You Should Be Too
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28:27When an ordinary flight turns into an airport lockdown, Jimmy learns a travel safety lesson the hard way... and it’s one he’ll never forget. This episode takes you from airplane aisle seats to foreign street corners, with real stories and practical travel tips. Ever wonder which seat gives you the best shot in an emergency? Or why you should always…
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#222 Medical Emergencies: When Saving a Life, Simplicity Matters
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21:37The Divas discuss the critical need to be ready for unexpected medical emergencies with Lee Majerus, Program Manager for VitalertKit at Young Innovations. Lee explains how a well designed color coded medical emergency kit can help dental teams handle a variety of urgent situations. Whether it’s responding to an allergic reaction or addressing a sud…
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#221 Why Dentistry Still Needs to Trust the CDC and It's Guidelines
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12:17In this episode, the Divas discuss recent developments at the CDC that suggest that the public's trust in the CDC has diminished. Although the Division of Oral Health has been eliminated, all of the infection control guidelines for dental settings are still intact, and the Divas will discuss the importance of following these guidelines and how they…
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Surviving Halloween Without a Visit to the ER
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20:30Halloween’s supposed to be scary for the right reasons... adorable little ghosts, goblins, and that really cool house on the corner that goes all out with their decorations. But tripping over the cape on your costume or letting that candle or firepit get a littlee out of hand? That’s the wrong kind of scary. In this episode, Jimmy and Megan swap ho…
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#220 Instrument Cleaning: The Essential First Step in Effective Sterilization
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19:58
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19:58If dental instruments aren’t thoroughly cleaned, they can’t be properly sterilized. In this episode, Mary and Linda discuss why effective instrument cleaning is essential for successful sterilization and share best practices to ensure your instruments are truly clean and ready for safe use. Resources: CDC Guideline for Disinfection and Sterilizatio…
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#219 Fall Fun: How to Make Compliance Training Fun
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15:49Compliance training doesn’t have to be dull—and today, we’re proving it. In this episode, the Divas dive into creative engagement strategies like games, quizzes, and challenges, and explore which ones actually move the needle on retention and behavior. If you’ve ever wondered whether fun equals effective in compliance education, this podcast is for…
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#218 Five Things You Need to Know about TB
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17:58By Leslie Canham, Mary Govoni, Linda Harvey and Olivia Wann
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How Not to Burn Down Your House This Holiday Season
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14:46By Life Safety Associates, Inc.
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#217 Think your ultrasonic scaler waterlines are clean? Think again!
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28:38The Divas wrap up Dental Infection Control Awareness Month with a powerful conversation with two experts from Parkell Dental. This episode focuses on water quality and biofilm contamination in ultrasonic scalers. Learn about the difference between scaler waterlines and other dental waterlines, and how to conquer the biofilm challenge with Pure Clar…
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#216 Windows 10 Support Ends Soon - Are You Ready and HIPAA Compliant?
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15:12It has been widely reported that support and updates for the Microsoft Windows 10 operating system will end on Oct. 14, 2025. In this episode, the Divas discuss what this means for dental practices that use Windows operating systems, and how HIPAA security compliance requires covered entities to use the most up-to-date software with security update…
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Go Bags, Meet-Up Spots & Why Texting Won’t Save You
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27:10Most people say they’re prepared for an emergency… but the numbers tell a different story. In honor of National Preparedness Month this episode digs into FEMA’s 2024 National Household Survey on Disaster Preparedness... and the results will definitely surprise you! We're discussing what households worry about most (hint: it’s not food), why basic m…
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In this enlightening episode, Dr. Bryan Laskin joins the Divas to spotlight the overlooked "P" in HIPAA—Portability—and why it’s critical for dental practices. Tune in as Dr. Laskin shares the challenges of data interoperability, the impact on patient trust, and the urgent need for seamless access to health records across systems. Dr. Laskin's Link…
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#214 Antibiotic Stewardship: A Team-Based Prescription for Success
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44:09This episode is a must listen for every member of the entire dental team! The Diva's special guest, Dr. Marie Fluent, explains the development of the concept of antibiotic stewardship in dentistry, how antibiotic resistance develops, the importance of the 2019 ADA guidelines for Dental Pain and Swelling, and the new CDC checklist for prescribing an…
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Pranks, Brotherhood, and the Unwritten Rules of the Firehouse
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25:25In the firehouse birthdays aren’t marked with parties or piles of presents. Most of the time you’re lucky if someone grabs you a card... or maybe a balloon from the grocery store. (Hold back your excitement folks!) The real tradition? Pranks and hazing. Sometimes hilarious, sometimes questionable, always memorable. In this episode, Jimmy's sharing …
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#213 No More Maybes: Proven Waterline Protocols for Peace of Mind
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21:50Is managing dental unit waterlines in your practice still a puzzle? In this episode, the Divas discuss how to better understand your water test results by having confidence in your water quality rather than guessing. Resources: CDC - Dental Unit Water Quality https://bit.ly/3UR3ua5 Agenics Labs Water Testing Resources for Dentistry https://www.agen…
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#212 Preventing Sharps Injuries: The Role of Engineering Controls
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17:29Did you know that evaluating safer sharps devices is require as part of OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens training? The Divas provide information on what you must include in training, along with the what, why and how of engineering controls and engineered Sharps Injury Protections (ESIP). Resources: Needlestick Safety and Prevention Act https://bit.ly/4mt3…
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#211 HIV Discrimination - Does it Still Exist in Dentistry?
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20:17The Divas take a deep dive into the attitudes, stigmas and facts surrounding the treatment of patients with HIV/AIDS. This compelling discussion includes historical as well as current information about providing oral health care to this very deserving group of patients. Resources: Williams Institute Study on HIV Discrimination in Dental Care https:…
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Many people overlook the needs of their aging loved ones when creating emergency plans. In reality, Grandma may not have a plan at all. That's why it's essential to include her specific needs in your safety strategy. In this episode, Jimmy and Megan discuss how disaster preparedness evolves as we (and our loved ones) age. They cover everything from…
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What do frostbite, CPR, fire extinguishers, and a cardboard cutout of Justin Bieber have in common? They all make an appearance in this week’s episode. And yes, that’s exactly the kind of day it was. Jimmy and Megan are playing “Two Truths and a Lie,” Life Safety style. Each round tests Jimmy’s ability to separate fact from fiction on topics like d…
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#210 When It Comes to Amalgam Waste Are You Compliant?
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25:18If your dental office places or removes amalgam and discharges wastewater to a municipal sewage system, you are required to have an amalgam separator that meets EPA standards, follow best management practices, and comply with reporting requirements. Learn what is required, how to comply, and a potential alternative to traditional amalgam separators…
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Personal protective equipment, otherwise known as PPE, is a critical element of workplace safety in dentistry. In this episode, the Divas discuss OSHA's PPE requirements and some common errors that dental teams make with regard to PPE. Resources: OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens Standard https://bit.ly/3S8a5yJ OSHA Hazard Communication Standard https://ww…
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I Know What You Did Last Summer… You Got Burned!
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20:40You know that one friend who insists they “don’t burn”, then spends the whole beach day turning into a lobster? Yeah… don’t be that friend. In this episode, we’re talking all things too much sun and not enough water. Jimmy and Megan sharing stories, smart tips, and a few bad decisions from their own half-baked adventures. You’ll hear how to treat a…
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#208 Exciting News from the Association for Dental Safety
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20:46In this episode, Ashley Quackenbush shares insights about Ask ADS, the latest feature from the Association of Dental Safety. This newly launched AI tool answers your toughest questions about dental compliance and clinical best practices. Whether you're a solo practitioner or part of a large DSO, Ask ADS makes staying compliant refreshingly accessib…
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It’s odorless, invisible, and a little misunderstood. In this episode we're busting some of the most common myths about carbon monoxide. Including why that outlet plug detector might be a waste of your moola. We'll break down how CO poisoning actually works, where you should place your detectors, and how to avoid other sneaky everyday dangers, like…
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#207 Infection Control Bloopers, Breaches and Uh-Ohs!
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23:26Infection control breaches can lead to serious consequences including disciplinary action or lawsuits. In this episode, the Divas share actual cases in dental practices that involved regulatory action. Leverage these lessons learned to protect your patients, your practice, and your license. Resources: CDC Guidelines for Infection Control in Dental …
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The One Where Jimmy Met a Guy with a DNR Tattoo
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14:48
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14:48You’ve probably seen it in movies... someone collapses, a family member screams “They have a DNR!” and suddenly everyone freezes. But what actually happens in real life when a do-not-resuscitate order enters the scene? In this episode, Jimmy and Megan dig into what a DNR really means, how it's used in emergency situations, and what makes it legally…
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This week, we’re lighting a fire under your safety habits. Jimmy and Megan break down how to protect your home from wildfires, what to do if you’re caught hiking when a fire breaks out, and why those fire extinguishers from big box stores might not save the day. From defensible space and dryer lint hazards to why goats might be your best landscapin…
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#206 Key Highlights from the Association for Dental Safety Meeting
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20:41The Compliance Divas recently attended the annual conference of the Association for Dental Safety and share their insights and take-aways from the meeting presentations. The Divas also have a special promotion for ADS membership - see below. Resources: ADS membership application - https://www.myads.org/membership-application Use code DIVAS50. Assoc…
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It’s CPR Awareness Week, and we’re setting the record straight. In this episode, Jimmy and Megan tackle the most common myths and misconceptions about CPR, from outdated advice still floating around the internet to reasons why people hesitate to jump in and help. Do you have to check for a pulse? Nope. Is mouth-to-mouth still required? Not necessar…
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Don’t Kick the Instructor. He Kicks Back.
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18:18What happens when you mix martial arts, a little peer pressure, and three people who should definitely not be sparring at work? You get a wild, hilarious, and surprisingly insightful podcast episode on self-defense, teamwork, and knowing your limits. Jimmy is sharing stories from his many many years of martial arts training... from the moves he’s m…
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#205 Does HIPAA Require the Use of Encryption?
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23:25Email encryption ensures that only authorized individuals have access to patient information and it's required under the HIPAA Security Rule. Having the right program makes it easier to be compliant and protect your patients' sensitive information. In this episode, the Divas provide tips for evaluating your current email encryption program. HIPAA S…
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How Not to Die in Yosemite (or Anywhere Else You Hike)
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15:37From Yosemite run-ins with the highway patrol to six-foot flames caused by DIY fire starters, this episode covers the real-life risks of venturing into nature and how to prep like a pro... even if you’re just going for “a quick hike.” Jimmy and Megan talk trail safety, packing tips, camping fails, and how to purify water with everything from iodine…
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3 Minutes. 1 Tourniquet. Can You Stop the Bleed?
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14:22Most people don’t realize how fast someone can bleed out... or how easy it is to stop it (if you know what to do). In this episode, Jimmy and Megan are joined by Miguel for a deep dive into one of the most practical, life-saving skills out there: stopping the bleed. But don’t expect a boring first aid lecture. We’re talking real talk: how white clo…
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From Day One to Year One! The Podcast That Should’ve Been a Group Text
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28:51When we hit “record” for the first time, we didn’t have a clue what we were doing. We were totally winging it. Honestly? This whole podcast started more like a group text—inside jokes, random stories, and way too much laughing at ourselves. One year later—57 episodes (63 counting bonus episodes!), countless bloopers, a lot of late-night editing ses…
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#204 Next Generation Sterilizer Innovations from Midmark
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21:01Join the DIVAS and Holly Weaver from Midmark for an in-depth discussion of the new Midmark M-9 and M-11 sterilizers. Dental teams will want to know how these innovations and new features can elevate the instrument sterilization process, trouble-shooting errors and recordkeeping for risk management. Resources: Midmark Corporation https://www.midmark…
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Spring cleaning isn’t just about sparkling garages and organized shelves—it’s also the perfect time to double-check your emergency supplies. In this episode, Jimmy and Megan roll up their sleeves and dive deep into their own camping and disaster gear to figure out what’s worth keeping, what’s better off retired, and why even a dusty water filter mi…
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We Played Would You Rather... It Got Weird.
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29:41This episode, we’re flipping the script with a rapid-fire game of “Would You Rather?”—Life & Safety style. Jimmy’s in the hot seat as Megan throws out 10 surprisingly tough scenarios with a safety twist. Would he rather perform CPR on a stranger in a crowd *or* on a loved one all alone? Get lost in the forest with just a flashlight *or* brave a cit…
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Ever wonder what happens when you bring someone along for a ride-along on a ambulance or a fire engine for the day? According to first responders, it’s either a total snooze-fest, or a wild and crazy adventure—and there’s rarely anything in between. In this episode, Jimmy and Megan dig into the strange superstition known as the “ride-along curse,” …
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# 203 Dental Water Quality Standards - Is Your State Next to Require Testing?
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22:19The states of WA and GA have implemented rules within the state dental boards for maintaining and testing dental unit water quality. Join the Divas as they discuss this regulatory activity, and why it is so important for patient safety. Our special guest is Chanda Chatham, Director of Education for Solmetex, our sustaining sponsor. Resources: WA St…
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We all like to think we can bounce back from anything—but sometimes our bodies have other plans for us. In this episode, we’re swapping stories about the injuries that taught us the hard way how important it is to rest, recover, and know your limits. From a high school football game that ended with a torn rotator cuff, to a wrestling match gone wro…
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#202 CDC Health Alert Dengue Virus Risks: Prevention and Impact
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15:38Spring and summer usher in mosquito season, bringing an increased risk of mosquito-borne diseases. Recently, the CDC Health Alert Network (HAN) issued a warning about Dengue virus in the U.S. The Divas delve into its transmission, symptoms, and ways to prevent exposure. Resources: CDC Health Alert Network (HAN) Ongoing Risk of Dengue Virus Infectio…
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Local Legends: The Mongolian Spot, The Taco Truck & More
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26:20In this episode, Jimmy and Megan swap stories about their favorite food finds, from a legendary taco truck on O’Toole to a Mongolian BBQ place tucked beside a questionable pool hall. Since we spend so much time training onsite at client offices across the Bay Area, we’ve been lucky enough to discover some incredible local eats. (Shout out to our am…
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#201 Patient Safety Awareness Week - The 3 A's That Matter
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23:49Since 2002, Patient Safety Awareness Week (PSAW) aims to promote patient safety throughout healthcare. This week the Divas share four key patient safety strategies for every practice and the three "A's" of patient safety and more. Resources: Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI) - https://bit.ly/4icWtdL IHI - Patient Safety Essential Tool Kit …
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Where Even Are We? Why Bad Directions Matter
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17:26Picture this: there’s an emergency, someone dials 911, and the dispatcher asks for the location. But instead of a clear answer, they get: “Uh… we’re in the Fishbowl?” Or maybe, “We’re by the thing, you know, near the back door?” Not exactly helpful. In this episode, we tackle one of the sneakiest yet most preventable dangers in workplace safety—bad…
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#200 Utility Gloves - Not Just a Good Idea!
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11:05Love them or hate them, utility gloves are a critical part of PPE requirements in dentistry. In this episode, the divas will discuss which OSHA standards require the use of utility gloves, and what the CDC guidelines recommend. We will also include tips for disinfection and storage for the gloves after use. Resources: OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens Stan…
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Forklift Safety Gaps: Why Training Matters More Than You Think
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19:54Think driving a forklift is just like driving a car? Not even close. Forklifts are a leading cause of workplace injuries, and many companies don’t even realize they may be out of compliance with OSHA regulations... until an accident happens and they're in trouble. In this episode you’ll learn why proper forklift training isn’t just a formality, but…
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