Certified Healthcare Safety Professional (CHSP) Practice Exam

Based on Injury and Illness Rates by Industry from 1989-2011, which industry had the highest cases per 100 full-time employees?

1. Construction

2. Retail

3. Hospitals

4. Agriculture

The correct answer is: Hospitals

The healthcare industry, particularly hospitals, consistently reports high injury and illness rates due to the unique and challenging environment in which healthcare providers operate. Factors such as patient handling, exposure to infectious diseases, the physical demands of the job, and the complexity of medical equipment contribute significantly to this elevated risk. In hospitals, workers are routinely involved in patient care activities that may require lifting or repositioning patients, which can lead to musculoskeletal injuries. Additionally, healthcare workers are exposed to various hazards, including bloodborne pathogens and chemical exposures, which further increase their risks of illness and injury. While other industries like construction, retail, and agriculture also face safety challenges, the healthcare sector's combination of physical demands, exposure to various hazards, and the environment generates a higher incidence rate of injuries and illnesses per 100 full-time employees. This context helps to understand why hospitals stand out in the statistics for injury and illness rates over the specified period.