The Occupational Health and Safety Administration has a set of Universal Precautions in place for massage therapists and others involved in health services, to prevent the spread of disease and ensure the safety of everyone involved. "The mission of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is to save lives, prevent injuries and protect the health of America's workers," says Massage Nerd. "To accomplish this, federal and state governments must work in partnership with the more than 100 million working men and women and their six and a half million employers who are covered by the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970."
While the list of precautions is extensive, all massage therapists are encouraged to abide by certain principles, to be as safe as possible. Some of the Universal Precautions are fairly basic and attributable to common sense. Others are a bit more complicated.
Work Area Sanitation
Sanitation is one of the most important of the Universal Precautions. Massage therapists are required to bathe on a daily basis, keep their teeth and gums healthy and wash their hands frequently--especially after using the bathroom.
Massage tables and chairs should also be cleaned regularly with a mild detergent. According to Massage Nerd, mild detergents are best, as oils, bleach and alcohol can damage the table.
Hygiene of the Hands
The hands are extremely important in massage therapy, as they are the connection between the therapist and the patient. Having clean hands is important, but having well-manicured, soft hands is also encouraged. Short, unpolished or lightly polished nails are best. Jewelry on the hands and wrists (watches, rings, etc.) should be kept to a minimum, as it can carry germs or cause discomfort to the patient.
First Aid Certifications
Massage therapists are strongly encouraged (and sometimes required) to be certified in first aid and CPR. If a health emergency arises while a patient is on the table, this training allows the therapist to be of assistance until emergency personnel arrive.
Blood-Borne Pathogen Protocol
"Workers in many different occupations are at risk of exposure to bloodborne pathogens, including Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and HIV/AIDS," says the official OSHA website. "First aid team members, housekeeping personnel in some settings, nurses and other healthcare providers are examples of workers who may be at risk of exposure." Awareness of and training in the Universal Precautions is important for massage therapists as professionals in the healthcare field. The basics are simple: assume that all individuals have the potential to spread blood-borne pathogens, and take the necessary precautions to remain safe.
Member Comments