Understand the Transmission of Infection

Unit 306/HSC 037: Promote and implement health and safety in health and social care Unit 306: Understand health and safety in social care settings Handout 3: Risk assessment 4222 Learning Outcome 2 Assessment Criteria 2. 1, 2. 2, 2. 3, 2. 4, 2. 5 4229 Learning Outcome 2 Assessment Criteria 2. 1, 2. 2, 2. 3, 2. 4, 2. 5 The Management of Health & Safety at Work Regulations require every employer to carry out risk assessment. Risk assessments should provide a picture of how an accident might happen, how likely it is to happen and how serious it could be.Risk assessments are carried out: †¢ when an individual is new to the service †¢ when using new equipment †¢ when working in hazardous environments †¢ during the planning stage for individuals’ activities, outings or holidays †¢ if an individual’s behaviour may put them or others at risk †¢ for individuals who are prone to falling †¢ for those who prefer to self-medicate †¢ when deali ng with hazardous substances (COSHH) †¢ for infection control when moving and handling activities need to be undertaken †¢ to identify if an individual is at risk from developing pressure sores †¢ if any form of restraint is to be used, for example bed rails. | | |Risk assessment is a key aspect of working safely. Assessments are likely to be carried out for a wide range of situations in your | |workplace. Prior to any work activities, you should carry out your own risk assessment. |Employers must: 1. assess the risks identify workplace hazards – consider what or how things could go wrong identify people who are at risk – who uses the equipment or is working in that area evaluate the risks – the likelihood of an accident, injury or damage to health. How serious this could be? 2. remove all the risks possible, for example, remove the hazard 3. reduce risks that cannot be removed by introducing control measures – for example, fit safety guar ds, provide training and personal protective clothing 4. record each process 5. review the risk.