BANGOR, Maine—The Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) and the Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) are investigating Acadia Hospital in response to an employee complaint about workplace safety.
The complaint alleged that policy changes had led to an increase in worker injuries, according to WCSH6.com. The psychiatric hospital recently changed its policy to eliminate the use of mechanical restraints when restraining patients. Now, employees are only to use hand hold restraints—but only as a last resort. Hospital officials believe the policy steers clear of more injuries than it causes.
The OSHA investigation could last up to six months; it is unclear how long DHHS’ inquiry will last. Officials for DHHS said the department’s investigation will be focused on patient safety, while OSHA will look into employee safety.
