Eldercare Facilities and Pollution
Eldercare facilities must maintain a safe environment and protect their residents. One risk often overlooked is pollution. After all, there are many pollution hazards that, though normally harmless to the general population, can pose serious health threats for the elderly due to their weakened immune systems.
Pollution is generally seen as a risk primarily for heavy industries; however, eldercare facilities face serious pollution risks as well, and their liability is even greater if they lack sufficient pollution risk management programs and insurance coverage. Pollution that causes injury or death to residents can lead to huge claims, especially if it is facility-based, such as mold, poor ventilation, improper waste disposal or any number of other possibilities. Eldercare facilities could be sued for bodily injury, and are also potentially liable for legal defense fees, business interruption costs and hazardous material cleanup costs.
With this in mind, it’s crucial for eldercare facilities to take steps to minimize pollution. This article provides more information on potential sources of pollution and highlights related safeguards.
Possible Pollution Sources
Pollution can stem from various sources in eldercare facilities. Potential outdoor sources include:
- Air pollution (e.g., pollen, dust or vehicle emissions)
- Unsanitary debris from nearby loading docks or trash bins
- Seepage from underground storage tanks or improperly applied pesticides or herbicides
- Building exhaust near air intakes
On the other hand, potential indoor pollution sources include:
- HVAC equipment
- Emissions from office equipment, labs or shops
- Improper ventilation
- Mold conditions
- Fumes from freshly applied paint, cleaning materials, or new furnishings or flooring
- Materials containing volatile organic compounds or damaged asbestos
- Food preparation or arts and crafts areas
- Improperly handled medical waste
Limiting Your Liability
The smartest action you can take is to familiarize yourself with all potential pollution hazards in and around your facility and take steps to make the environment as safe as possible. This primarily entails having your building, ventilation and HVAC systems inspected periodically; creating policies for properly handling, storing and disposing of any potentially hazardous materials; and maintaining appropriate cleaning and housekeeping measures. The more proactive you are in addressing these concerns, the better you will be able to protect your residents and your organization.
It is also wise to purchase environmental liability insurance—also called pollution coverage—as most standard insurance policies specifically exclude pollution-related claims. Contact us today for additional risk management resources and coverage solutions.
This Risk Insights is not intended to be exhaustive nor should any discussion or opinions be construed as legal advice. Readers should contact legal counsel or an insurance professional for appropriate advice. © 2023 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved.