POLICIES AND PROCEDURES RELATING TO WORKPLACE SAFETY.

(a) The governing body of a hospital shall adopt policies and procedures related to the work environment for nurses to:

(1) improve workplace safety and reduce the risk of injury, occupational illness, and violence; and

(2) increase the use of ergonomic principles and ergonomically designed devices to reduce injury and fatigue.

(b) The policies and procedures adopted under Subsection (a), at a minimum, must include:

(1) evaluating new products and technology that incorporate ergonomic principles;

(2) educating nurses in the application of ergonomic practices;

(3) conducting workplace audits to identify areas of risk of injury, occupational illness, or violence and recommending ways to reduce those risks;

(4) controlling access to those areas identified as having a high risk of violence; and

(5) promptly reporting crimes committed against nurses to appropriate law enforcement agencies.