OSHA Cites Massachusetts Dental Practice for Coronavirus Protection Violations

Georgetown Dental received six serious violations and a fine of $9,500.

Georgetown Dental LLC in Georgetown, Massachusetts was cited by OSHA on September 16, 2020 for violating standards such as respiratory protection.

Georgetown Dental was cited for seven total violations, with six of them being classified as serious. The citations culminated in a penalty of $9,500, which the company has paid in full.

The dental practice was cited for failing to provide medical evaluations and fit testing for employees required to wear N-95 respirators. There were also citations for inadequate eyewash stations, insufficient bloodborne pathogen training and controls, lack of written programs related to respiratory protection and bloodborne pathogen exposure control and chemical hazard communication. The company has abated all of the citations.

“OSHA’s goal is to ensure abatement of hazards. With this settlement and hazard abatement, the goal has been met,” said Anthony Covello, OSHA Andover Area Officer Director. “OSHA will continue to field and respond to complaints and take steps needed to address unsafe workplaces.”

More information on OSHA standards can be found at osha.gov. Resources for health and safety practices during COVID-19 are available at OSHA’s coronavirus response webpage.

About the Author

Nikki Johnson-Bolden is an Associate Content Editor for Occupational Health & Safety.

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