Compliance with OSHA's respiratory protection standard in hospitals.

This study examined the incidence of violations of occupational safety and health standards for respiratory protection in hospitals. Data from Occupational Safety and Health Administration inspections that occurred in hospitals and resulted in violations of the respiratory protection standards were examined. From July 1, 1990, to June 30, 1995, the complaint rates for hazards in the workplace significantly increased. During 1990-1991, tuberculosis hazard complaint inspections rates were approximately 5 complaints per 1000 complaint inspections conducted. During 1994-1995, tuberculosis hazard complaint inspections rates were approximately 76 complaints per 1000 complaint inspections conducted, representing an increase of over 15 times. During this same period, the percentage of respiratory protection violations in relation to all violations doubled. Increased employee awareness of the hazards and current safety laws could have contributed to the increased frequency of employee complaints, leading to increases in inspections, violations, and fines. Employers must adhere to the current safety and health requirements specifically as they pertain to respiratory hazards and tuberculosis.