Healthcare workers in Maryland are safer now, thanks to passage of a Safe Patient Lifting law that was recently signed into law by Governor Martin O?Malley.
The measure, which will take effect on December 1, requires each hospital in Maryland to create standards for a safe lifting policy. Intended to reduce employee injuries associated with patient lifting, the bill also requires the hospitals to draft a policy that can considers:
? using mechanical lifting devices,
? developing specialized lift teams,
? establishing training programs to learn about safe lifting. and
? including space for mechanical lifting devices during hospital construction or renovation.
To pass the Safe Patient Lifting bill, 1199SEIU partnered with the Maryland Hospital Association to ensure the safety of workers in Maryland. State Delegates Joseline A. Pena-Melnyk, Aisha N. Braveboy, Melony Ghee Griffith, Jolene Ivey and Kris Valderrama sponsored the legislation and worked toward its successful passage.