Why are laws needed???

Back in 2003, research was published that NO manual patient lifting is safe, yet less than 5% of all caregivers have adequate lifting equipment.  The budget money goes to what seems like more important priorities.

LAWS HELP FACILITIES TO PUT THEIR WORKERS FIRST!!

Safe Patient Handling equipment pays for itself within a few months to a couple of years, depending on which equipment is chosen.  So, hospitals save money when they purchase equipment. Then, why don't they buy it for their workers?

• They have to buy a new CT scan machine (or something like it), and that uses up all their available budget for equipment. Equipment that generates incomes has priority over equipment that saves money.
• They may see the worker comp costs as a very small part of their entire budget, and it just isn't a high priority for them.  They are businesses, after all, and they make their decisions based on those parameters.
• Most injuries happen to nurse aides and techs.  These people are relatively low paid, and it doesn't cost much to replace them.  Let's be honest, if it doesn't hurt them in the pocketbook, administration does not place it high on their list.
• They may be worried their nurses won't use it.

Laws also help hospitals and nursing homes set up good, effective safe patient handling programs.  After a law is passed, OSHA can set up guidelines to help facilities move to minimize the lifting required for patient care.