NIOSH recently partnered with OSHA to raise awareness about its web-based training curriculum intended to help home healthcare agencies and workers recognize common hazards in homecare workplaces, communicate safety concerns, and apply practical solutions to manage risks and improve safety. The curriculum comprises seven training modules that each include a trainer’s guide, customizable PowerPoint slides, and participant handouts. The modules cover topics such as reducing strains, sprains, and falls; reducing exposure to bloodborne and other infectious diseases; staying safe when working with clients with dementia; and safely handling threatening behavior when providing homeware.

“Home healthcare workers, a work force that is part of one of the most rapidly expanding industries in the U.S., face unique risks to their personal health and safety,” NIOSH’s press release reads. “Since these workers typically work alone in a client’s home, they are often harder to reach with health and safety information.”

A () signed by NIOSH Director John Howard and Assistant Secretary of Labor for OSHA David Michaels includes links to the curriculum and other relevant resources.