Procedures to Maintain Health and Safety

Understand the importance of an effective health and safety policy: All care settings must have a health and safety policy, which ensures that the environment is safe for service users, staff and any visitors. Familiarise yourself with the policy, as it is a legal requirement and it will guide you on the procedures to follow.
Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Wearing appropriate PPE such as gloves, aprons, and masks can help to prevent the spread of infections. Always ensure that PPE is used correctly and safely disposed of after use.
Risk Assessments: Before any activity, a risk assessment should be carried out. This is done to identify any potential hazards and risks associated with the activity. Measures can then be put in place to reduce these risks. It’s also important to review risk assessments regularly.
Hand Hygiene: This is a crucial component of maintaining health and safety. Regular and thorough hand washing with soap and warm water can prevent spread of infections. Hand sanitizers can also be used.
Safe Moving and Handling: Always use Correct movement techniques when lifting or moving objects or individuals to prevent injuries. Use appropriate aids and equipment for moving and handling.
Food Hygiene: Understand and practice proper food preparation and storage to prevent foodborne illnesses. Always wash hands thoroughly before handling food and clean all surfaces and utensils.
Emergency Procedures: Know where the nearest exit points are in case of an emergency. Make sure you are familiar with the fire evacuation plan and procedures.
First Aid: Having basic knowledge of first aid can be very helpful in emergencies until professional medical help arrives. Know where the first aid kit is kept and how to use it.
Reporting Incidents and Concerns: Always report any health and safety concerns to your supervisor. Use the correct documentation and procedures to report and record incidents.
Training and Supervision: Regular training ensures employees are up-to-date with current practices and procedures. Likewise, supervision ensures that tasks are performed safely and correctly.
Waste Disposal: Follow correct procedures of waste disposal to avoid risks of infection.

The key principle to understand is that maintaining health and safety in a health and social care setting is everyone’s responsibility. An understanding of these procedures can contribute to safer practice and reduce the risk of harm and injury.