Understanding Health and Safety Responsibilities in HSC 037

Categories: HealthSafety

Promoting and implementing health and safety in health and social care (HSC 037) involves understanding personal responsibilities as well as the responsibilities of others. A crucial aspect is identifying the relevant legislation associated with health and safety in healthcare or social care work settings. The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 (HASAWA) establishes a comprehensive framework, which is further supported, extended, and explained by various regulations and guidelines.

The regulations encompass:

  • The Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 (amended 2002)
  • The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH)
  • The Reporting of Injuries, Diseases, and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 1995 (amended 2008)
  • The Health and Safety First Aid Regulations 1981
  • The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999

2. The employer and employees must communicate the agreed-upon essential aspects of health and safety policies and procedures. The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 is the primary law in England for regulating health and safety, applicable to all individuals within the organization regardless of their job position. Each person has a responsibility to ensure their own well-being as well as that of others while working.

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Employees are also obliged to take care of themselves and anyone affected by their actions, familiarizing themselves with risk assessment reports and any subsequent modifications. Compliance with these changes is expected from all staff members.

The main health and safety responsibilities include:

  • Ensuring safe movement and handling of objects and individuals through manual handling
  • Knowing the organization's fire/evacuation policy and procedure, locating fire exits and equipment, and knowing how to call for help in case of a fire or evacuation
  • Understanding the risks associated with each activity and regularly assessing for improvements through risk assessment
  • Understanding the different colors for general waste and clinical waste, as well as the types of sharp boxes for disposal according to the waste disposal policy
  • Familiarity with infection control policies to prevent infection spread, such as handwashing between patients and following protocols for specific infections like MRSA and CDDif

Analyzing the main health and safety responsibilities involves understanding these aspects.

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• Individuals should take responsibility for their own health and safety. This includes avoiding wearing jewellery that could get caught in equipment, securing long hair or headscarves, receiving proper training on company health and safety policies, reporting any job-related injuries or illnesses, and informing their employer of any factors that may affect their ability to work.

• Employers or managers are obligated to ensure a safe workplace. This involves preventing health risks, maintaining the safety of equipment and working practices, handling materials safely, providing first aid facilities, informing employees about potential hazards and necessary information, instructions, training, and supervision. They should also establish emergency plans and maintain adequate temperature, lighting, toilet facilities, and washing facilities for the well-being of employees in terms of health and safety.

To ensure safety in the workplace, it is important to provide and maintain appropriate work equipment. It is also crucial to use the equipment correctly and avoid potentially hazardous tasks related to manual handling. If these tasks cannot be avoided, precautions should be taken to reduce the risk of injury. Additionally, any accidents, injuries, diseases, or dangerous incidents should be promptly reported to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) or other relevant parties. All employees must use personal protective equipment (PPE) and take responsibility for their own health and safety as well as that of patients and fellow employees. Any concerns should be reported promptly to minimize risks to patients. Lastly, specialized training is required for specific tasks within the work setting such as operating manual handling equipment like sliding sheets, hoists, and mobility aids.

Employers have a duty to provide manual handling training, which is essential for staying current with new techniques and equipment. It is unsafe for both the employee and the patient to move patients without proper training. Additionally, specific equipment such as the arjo hoist and oxford hoist cannot be operated without training. For instance, when moving a patient from bed to an armchair, we refer to the risk assessment manual & handling form, which indicates the use of an arjo hoist. Training is required to operate the hoist properly and determine the appropriate sling to use. In this scenario, using the yellow sling is recommended for a patient weighing 60 kg. By following these guidelines, we can safely hoist the patient onto the armchair.

In order to achieve our goal, we require an update on manual handling training. Outcome 2 encompasses the ability to fulfill our own health and safety responsibilities. This involves utilizing the appropriate policies, procedures, and established methods of operation pertaining to health and safety.

Health and Safety policies delineate the protocols that a workplace adheres to in order to comply with regulations. Health and Safety procedures specify the specific tasks that must be executed in accordance with these policies and procedures set by our employer.

Having policies and procedures is futile if they are not followed. It is essential for us to possess a clear understanding of the areas for which we hold responsibility. Additionally, it is advisable for us to assist others in comprehending and abiding by safe practices.

Supporting individuals in taking necessary safety measures is vital. It is essential to empower the people we support, so they can prioritize their health and well-being. To achieve this, we need to motivate and assist individuals in discussing their desired actions for their health and safety. They should understand and take responsibility for promoting their own healthcare, as well as assess and manage potential risks to their well-being. Additionally, it is important for them to recognize and report any factors that may endanger themselves or others.

In a workplace where we are the only ones following good practice, it can be quite challenging. However, there are ways to encourage others to do the same. We can lead by example, explain the reasons behind our adherence to procedures, obtain health and safety leaflets from our trade union or environmental health office and leave them in the staffroom for everyone to peruse. We can also bring in any information about training and ask our manager if they can organize a talk on health and safety. Additionally, it is important to monitor and report any potential health and safety risks.

Ensuring the safety of all service users is a responsibility we have to our employer. It is crucial to remain constantly alert as risks and hazards are always changing. Merely assuming that something is still functioning properly because it was checked six months ago would be a mistake. For instance, a hoist that worked fine just a few days ago may not be working today. We must regularly monitor and stay aware of various types of hazards. Even after conducting risk assessments and implementing control measures, it is essential to report any identified risks to our manager or call 6000. Hazards that exceed our role and competence, such as faulty equipment, loose or damaged fittings, and malfunctioning aids like bed brakes, bed controllers, and hoists should also be reported. Additionally, in addition to reporting risks and hazards to our employer, all employers are obligated to report certain incidents to the Health and Safety Executive or environmental health department. Lastly, employing risk assessment methods for health and safety purposes holds great importance.

Risk assessment is crucial in the health and social care sector for all individuals, including employers, self-employed individuals, and employees. It is a legal requirement to identify and evaluate workplace risks that may cause harm. Various regulations, such as those under European Community directives, mandate risk assessments. These regulations include the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992, Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992, Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulation 1992, Noise at Work Regulation 1989, Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH), and Control of Asbestos at Work Regulations 2002.

The Control of Lead at Work Regulations 2002, mandated by the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, necessitate employers to evaluate risks in the workplace and work activities. Risk assessments are pivotal for safeguarding our health and safety, as well as that of those we support. It is crucial to carry out a risk assessment before initiating any task. Adhering to the steps specified in the assessment is vital for diminishing risk. Furthermore, demonstrating techniques for lessening potential risks and hazards during work assessments is important.

The text highlights the significance of accessing additional support or information for health and safety, particularly in relation to Outcome 3. This outcome focuses on understanding how to effectively respond to accidents and sudden illnesses within a work environment. The text then proceeds to outline various examples of accidents and sudden illnesses that can occur at a hospital. For instance, patients with dementia may unintentionally trip over their clothing while wandering around, resulting in accidents. Fatigue can also cause them to fall. Additionally, they may display aggressive behavior towards staff members who are attempting to assist them. Another scenario involves a patient utilizing mobility aids such as a frame while being accompanied by a staff member on their way to the toilet and carrying a small oxygen bottle. If the patient exerts themselves too much on the toilet and loses consciousness, it could result in a sudden illness. Moreover, patients undergoing antibiotic treatment might experience loose stool with an offensive smell (specifically types 5/6/7), which could be attributed to infections like urinary tract infections or chest infections. Lastly, the text discusses protocols for managing both accidents and sudden illnesses.

When accidents or sudden illness occur, we request assistance. If a patient falls and is able to follow commands, we assist them in standing using a chair or bed. We bend their knee and support them. If a patient is unable to stand, we utilize a hoist. Following this, we inspect their skin, inquire about any pain they may be experiencing, and conduct a series of observations before contacting the doctor. Loss of consciousness can happen due to exertion. In such cases, we call for help, activate the emergency alarm, swiftly return the patient to bed, administer oxygen, conduct further observations, and contact the doctor. If a patient has a C. Difficile infection – a type of bacterial infection that affects the digestive system – and has received antibiotic treatment, they should be placed in a side room.

The process for a patient with loose stool type 5/6/7 involves sending a stool sample to be tested for c.diff and MRSA. Once the results are known and c.diff is confirmed, the patient should be isolated if there is an available side room. If not, a barrier nurse wearing gloves, a yellow apron, and carrying a trolley should be placed in the bay along with a sign indicating the start date of diarrhea. Visitors should be informed about necessary precautions and given an information leaflet about the infection. C. difficile bacteria are highly contagious but can be prevented by practicing good hygiene, such as regular handwashing and using bleach-based cleaning products on surfaces. Visitors and staff must wash their hands before and after entering the patient's bed space since alcohol hand gel does not work against C. difficile spores; soap and water are necessary.

Outcome 4 emphasizes the importance of reducing the transmission of infections.

My role in supporting others is to assist them in following practices that reduce the spread of infection, such as wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), regularly washing hands, and properly disposing of contaminated waste in designated yellow bins. It is crucial to ensure all equipment remains clean before and after use.

To prevent C. difficile infections, I advise visitors who are visiting patients with diarrhea or stomach upset in hospitals to refrain from bringing children under 12 years old. Additionally, it is important for them to wash their hands using soap and water when entering or exiting ward areas and side rooms. Moreover, they should avoid coming to the hospital if they feel unwell or have recently experienced diarrhea.

It is essential to follow the visiting hours and comply with all visiting guidelines.

To prevent the spread of C. difficile infection, healthcare workers should wear disposable gloves and aprons when caring for infected individuals. It is also important to provide them with their own room and toilet facilities. All staff, patients, and visitors must be reminded to wash their hands regularly using soap and water. Alcohol hand gel is ineffective against C. difficile spores, so it is necessary to use soap and water instead. Moreover, surfaces that may have come into contact with the bacteria or spores like toilets, toilet surroundings, bedpans, and beds should be thoroughly cleaned with water and a bleach-containing cleaning product. Lastly, it is recommended to demonstrate the proper hand washing technique.

Face to face completed

Objective 3: Show various methods of maintaining personal health and hygiene that do not jeopardize the well-being of oneself or others in the workplace.

The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 (amended 2002) are two key legislations that offer guidance on moving and handling. The former encompasses all aspects of health and safety, including moving and handling, requiring employers to provide employees with necessary equipment, information, instruction, training, and supervision for their well-being.

Employees must prioritize their own safety and the safety of others, according to the Manual Handling Operations Regulations of 1992. They should cooperate with their employer and take steps to avoid manual handling whenever possible. However, if manual handling is unavoidable, a thorough risk assessment for the specific task should be conducted. Any identified risks need to be minimized and assessments should be regularly reviewed. Employees are also required to follow all policies and procedures related to manual handling.

Two principles must be explained in order to ensure safe moving and handling.

When performing manual handling, it is important to wear suitable clothing and footwear that allows for easy movement. Before engaging in any manual handling tasks, always consider the load, task, capabilities of the staff, and the environment (TILE). It is essential to choose the right equipment or technique for each movement. Whenever feasible, try to avoid manual lifting.

Remove any objects that may be considered hazardous.

When moving a patient, it is important to involve them and promote their ability to move independently. Stand as close to the patient as you can and have your feet positioned shoulder-width apart. Remember to bend your knees and utilize your thigh muscles instead of your back muscles, maintaining an upright posture. Keep your head up to avoid stooping, and focus your gaze straight ahead.

When lifting the patient, it is recommended to use your legs in order to achieve a smooth motion. This technique provides more leverage and minimizes strain on your back. Additionally, try to avoid twisting your body by turning your feet to properly position yourself with the patient. To further support your lumbar spine, engage your abdominal muscles while moving and handling. Remember to use the commands READY, BRACE, MOVE.

3. Safely move and handle equipment and other objects.

Outcome 6: Be able to handle hazardous substances and materials

1. Describe types of hazardous substances that may be found in the work setting

The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations apply to substances that have been identified as:
- Toxic: chemicals which in very low quantities cause death or acute or chronic damage to health whn inhaled, swallowed or absorbed through the skin;
- Corrosive: chemicals which on contact with living tissues may destroy them;
- Harmful: chemicals which may cause death or accute or chronic damage to health;
- Irritant: non-corrosive chemical which through immediate, prolonged or repeated contact with the skin or mucous membranes, may cause inflammation;

Explosive chemicals are those that can react to produce heat without needing atmospheric oxygen. This reaction occurs rapidly, leading to the production of gases and potential detonation and explosion. Oxidizing chemicals, on the other hand, generate reactions that produce heat when in contact with other substances, especially flammable ones. Flammable substances can be either liquids with a very low flash point below 0ºC and a boiling point equal to or below 35ºC, or gases that are flammable when exposed to air at normal temperature and pressure.

These highly combustible chemicals can spontaneously ignite upon contact with air at normal temperatures without any external heat source. They are solids that easily catch fire with minimal exposure to an ignition source and continue to burn even after the source is removed. Additionally, they are liquids with a very low flashpoint (equal to or less than 21ºC) but are not classified as extremely flammable.

2. Show the proper methods for:
    • Safely storing hazardous substances
    • Safely using hazardous substances
    • Properly disposing of hazardous substances and materials.

Outcome 7: Be able to promote fire safety in the work setting.

1. Describe practices that prevent fires from starting:

a. Practices that prevent fires from starting include: the use of smoke alarms, ensuring all cigarettes have been extinguished, ensuring all unused electrical equipment is unplugged and ensuring electrical and gas appliances have been checked.

b. Practices that prevent fires from spreading:

Practices that prevent fires from spreading include keeping fire doors closed to hinder the spread of fire and not opening windows that could cause the fire to rapidly spread. Additionally, the text aims to demonstrate measures that prevent fires from starting.

3. The work setting's emergency procedures in the event of a fire are as follows: sound the alarm, call the fire brigade, follow the evacuation plan, and report to the assembly point. If it is safe to do so, assist others but remember to close doors to prevent the fire from spreading. Additionally, do not use the lift during a fire. It is vital to keep all routes of evacuation, fire exits, doors, corridors, and passage ways clear at all times to ensure quick escape and comply with legislation requirements.

4. It is important to always maintain clear evacuation routes in the work setting.

Outcome 8: In order to implement security measures in the work setting, demonstrate the proper use of procedures for checking the identity of anyone requesting access.

• premises and information

2. Demonstrate the use of measures to protect one's own security and the security of others in the work setting.

3. Explain the importance of ensuring that others are aware of one's own whereabouts.

The significance of ensuring that others are aware of your whereabouts in a care setting is to prevent being trapped in emergency situations where you may not know how to protect yourself. Additionally, knowing your location helps avoid potential accidents since you are familiar with the surroundings and, most importantly, prevents getting lost. For instance, if there is a fire in a building and you have already left without informing anyone, and you are not accounted for on the register, they might assume you are still inside. That is why it is crucial to communicate your whereabouts.

Outcome 9: Understanding stress management techniques.

1. Common signs and indicators of stress: Stress is the feeling that arises when you experience excessive pressure. While some amount of pressure can be beneficial, driving productivity and motivation, excessive pressure can result in negative stress. Typically, when discussing stress, we are referring to the negative kind which poses risks to both mental and physical well-being. Individuals react to stress in diverse ways, with varying levels of tolerance. Consequently, excessive stress is frequently associated with a range of physical, mental, and emotional issues.

Updated: Feb 16, 2024
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Understanding Health and Safety Responsibilities in HSC 037. (2016, Sep 27). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/promote-and-implement-health-and-safety-2-essay

Understanding Health and Safety Responsibilities in HSC 037 essay
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