Ask the expert: Under-the-sink storage
Q: Is it permissible to store anything under the sink? What about bleach, cleaning products, etc.?
A: It depends on who is doing the inspecting for storing items under the sink.
OSHA isn’t concerned about under-the-sink storage as long as it does not endanger employees. In this case, stay away from sharps containers and red bag containers that make disposal awkward and personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, masks, respirators, or any other PPE items that could be compromised by water. Buckets and cleaning product containers, as you questioned, would be permitted under OSHA.
It is always a bad idea to store medications or patient care and medical supply and device items under a sink. Accrediting organizations, such as The Joint Commission (formerly JCAHO) or the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care, and state health department inspectors likely will cite you for this deficiency in infection control and patient safety.
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David LaHoda
David LaHoda, the managing editor of Medical Environment Update and OSHA Watch, has produced healthcare training videos and consulted for medical practices and ambulatory healthcare facilities.
David has written 196 posts.
Comments
Do you have any thing on sterilization Records Retention? How many years should each one be kept?
I enjoy reading all your comments they are very informal to our industry.
Thank you.
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