In no particular order, here is our list of the 22 most common CDC violations seen in dental offices.
- Improper management and disposal of Biohazardous Waste Materials
- Improper biological monitoring of sterilizers
- Improper Disposal of Sharp Implements
- Improper Hand Hygiene
- Lack of Appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Lack of written Exposure Control Plan
- Lack of written Protocol for Instrument Processing & Sterilization
- Lack of verification of office staff vaccination for Hepatitis B Vaccine
- Inability to verify dental instruments are sterile
- Improper storage of dental instruments
- Improper flushing of dental water lines
- Continued use of single use disposables
- Cross-contamination in the operatory , sterilization area, and/or dental laboratory
- Improper operatory sanitation
- Failure to properly sterilize dental handpieces
- Improper instrument debridement
- Failure to disinfect impressions
- Failure to use sterile gloves when providing surgical services
- Failure to use Heavy Utility Gloves when handling handling contaminated instruments
- Failure to separate sterile and non-sterile areas in sterilization area
- Co-mingling of dental materials and food products in refrigerator
- Failure to maintain up-to-date Material Safety Data Sheets