OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH & SAFETY IN MODERN DENTISTRY: AN OVERVIEW

The contemporary dental practitioner is exposed to a variety of hazardous materials and surgical procedures on a day to day basis which, if not due taken care of, may have a severely detrimental effect on the operator's wellbeing. In addition to the chronic exposure to various chemicals, dental materials, contaminated aerosol, radiation and noise, the dental surgeon often has to deal with long hours of working in relatively uncomfortable working postures. Add to this the percutaneous risk of serious infections such as HIV and Hepatitis-B and of dermatological, respiratoiy, musculoskeletal and psychological disorders. A thorough understanding of the various occupational hazards the dental practitioner is subject to is of great importance. A primary step in this regard is the education of the paramedical & support staff, the onus of which lies with the dental surgeon himself. The recommendations of the Occupational Health & Safety Act (OHSA) established with regard to workplace safety should be strictly adhered to. Not only should the operatory be ergonomically designed but strict emphasis must also be given to the appropriate use of all protective and preventive measures by the dental surgeon and his staff. Sound infection control practices must be employed and the use of protective wear, adequate sterilization & disinfection procedures and immunization should be a mandate for practicing dentist & associated staff. Emphasis should be given to appropriate ventilation, flooring, lighting and waste disposal. It is the responsibility of the dental surgeon to set high standards with regards to occupational safety in order to ensure the wellbeing of his own self as well as the paramedical staff and patients who frequent the clinical setting.