What defines work practice control in dental hygiene?

Work practice controls in dental hygiene are defined by actions taken to minimize risks associated with exposure to hazards in the dental practice environment. This encompasses the strategies and procedures put in place to reduce the likelihood of infections and occupational health hazards for both patients and dental professionals.

For example, this may involve specific techniques for handling instruments, proper disposal of sharps and waste, as well as implementing cleaning and disinfection protocols in the dental operatory. These measures are essential to ensure a safe working environment and to effectively manage the potential risks present during dental procedures.

While personal protective equipment (PPE) and following hygiene protocols are vital components of overall safety in dental hygiene, they fall under broader categories of safety practices that work in conjunction with work practice controls. Similarly, administrative policies provide a framework but do not specifically define the proactive actions taken at the level of individual practices to mitigate risks directly.