For example, patient handling and movement tasks were two of the most common causes of injury–both of which can be reduced, if not eliminated, through proper training and communication, the use of appropriate equipment, and strict enforcement of best-practice protocols, PMA said.

The study said the top and middle management at health care facilities need to lead by example and create a culture of safety. “Employees observe and emulate their supervisors,” PMA said.

Middle managers must also have the authority to take action and make changes when necessary. “This authority can be as simple as control of the staffing schedule, such as determining the length of staff member shifts, or it may involve the ability to make broader changes within their units, such as switching beds, making purchases, or relocating supplies, without permission from top managers,” PMA said.

Health care facilities should also use reliable loss trend data to instill accountability. Based on the data, PMA said, goals should be set for each unit.

PMA said safety hazards are taking professionals out of the workforce at a time when the nation faces a critical shortage of skilled health care personnel.

According to the American Hospital Association, about 13 percent of U.S. nursing positions go unfilled, and the rate is expected to climb to 20 percent by 2015.