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The American Library Association (ALA, 2024) estimates that nearly 124,000 libraries of all types, staffed by nearly 370,000 workers, operate in the U.S. Data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS, 2024) show more than 2,000 cases involving days away from work, restricted activity, or job transfer (DART) for librarians and media collection specialists, and more than 500 DART cases for library technicians. Library staff frequently empty book returns, carry books and other library materials, shift materials on shelves, and check books and materials into and out of the collection. Ensure that staff know where to find safety data sheets (EHS Daily Advisor, 2018). * Have a written bloodborne pathogens program in place and provide training for employees (OSHA, n.d.). * Train library workers in active shooter preparedness and have a plan for what to do in the event of an active shooter incident.
Details
Libraries;
Technicians;
Occupational health;
Books;
Occupational accidents;
Workplace violence;
Injuries;
Library materials;
Advisors;
Workers compensation;
Library staff;
Library associations;
Training;
Library science;
Ergonomics;
Librarians;
Occupational safety;
Musculoskeletal diseases;
Public safety;
Stress;
Safety training