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Revision 22-3; Effective Nov. 8, 2022
HHSC contractors are required to always maintain a safe environment. Contractors must have written policies and procedures that address hazardous waste, fire safety and medical equipment.
3610 Hazardous Materials
Revision 22-3; Effective Nov. 8, 2022
Contractors must have written policies and procedures that address:
- handling, storage and disposing of hazardous materials and waste according to applicable laws and regulations;
- handling, storage and disposing of chemical and infectious waste including sharp objects; and
- an orientation and education program for personnel who manage or have contact with hazardous materials and waste.
3620 Fire Safety
Revision 22-3; Effective Nov. 8, 2022
Contractors must have a written fire safety policy that includes a schedule for testing and maintenance of fire safety equipment. Evacuation plans for the premises must be clearly posted and visible to all staff and clients.
3630 Medical Equipment
Revision 22-3; Effective Nov. 8, 2022
Contractors must have a written policy and maintain documentation of the maintenance, testing and inspection of medical equipment, including an Automated External Defibrillator (AED). Documentation must include:
- assessments of the clinical and physical risks of equipment through inspection, testing and maintenance;
- reports of any equipment management problems, failures and use errors;
- an orientation and education program for personnel who use medical equipment; and
- manufacturer recommendations for care and use of medical equipment.
3640 Radiology Equipment and Standards
Revision 22-3; Effective Nov. 8, 2022
All facilities providing radiology services, including dental X-rays, must:
- possess a current Certificate of Registration from the Texas Department of State Health Services, Radiation Control Program;
- have operating and safety procedures as required by Title 25 Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 289, Texas Regulations for Control of Radiation; and
- post Notice to Employees, Texas Regulations for Control of Radiation.
For information on X-ray machine registration, see the Texas Department of State Health Services, Radiation Control Program.
3650 Smoking Ban
Revision 22-3; Effective Nov. 8, 2022
Contractors must have written policies that prohibit smoking in any portion of their indoor facilities. If a contractor subcontracts with another entity for the provision of health services, the subcontractor must also comply with this policy.
3660 Disaster Response Plan
Revision 22-3; Effective Nov. 8, 2022
Contractors must have written and oral plans that address how staff must respond to emergency situations (e.g., fires, flooding, power outage, bomb threats, etc.). The disaster plan must identify the procedures and processes that will be initiated during a disaster and the staff position(s) responsible for each activity. A disaster response plan must be in writing, formally communicated to staff and kept in the workplace available to employees for review. For an employer with ten or fewer employees, the plan may be communicated orally to employees.
For additional resources on facilities and equipment, see the Occupational Safety and Health Administration website.