Explain key health & safety policies and procedures set by employer

1.2. Explain the main points of health and safety policies and procedures agreed with the employer.

Course – Level 3 diploma in care (RQF)

Unit 8 – Promote Health, Safety, and Well-being in Care Settings

L.O. 1 – Understand your own responsibilities and the responsibilities of others relating to health and safety

In a care environment, health and safety policies and procedures that are agreed with the employer have been established to protect not only the health and safety of service users but also the service providers (staff) and visitors. These policies and procedures are established in accordance with legal requirements such as the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and set out the responsibilities of employers and employees 

1. General Health and Safety Policy

All care organisations are required to have a written health and safety policy. An organisation’s health and safety policy explains the organisation’s commitment to providing a safe environment, identifies potential hazards, and details how they plan to control certain risks. It will also detail who will be responsible for implementing control measures and how staff are expected to report their concerns. 

2. Risk Assessments

Employers will need to carry out ongoing risk assessments in relation to the care provided in the organisation to ensure adequate steps are taken to minimise any identified hazards. An employee using the safe system of work, as defined by the employer’s risk assessment process, is expected to report if they find any new hazards. 

3. Prevention of Infection/Control

In relation to the prevention of infection/control, care settings will have their own policies and procedures to help prevent and control infection. These will outline the need for appropriate hand hygiene, disposal of clinical waste correctly, correct use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and a cleaning schedule to prevent infectious disease from spreading.

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4. Moving and Handling

Policies define safe manual handling procedures as a way of promoting safe practice for all members of staff and service users. Staff should use moving and handling equipment, if available (e.g. hoists, slide sheets), and adhere to training and only carry out what is not unsafe. 

5. Accident and Incident Reporting

Reporting and recording procedures are in place for all accidents, incidents, and near misses. This includes the completion of accident forms, informing a manager, and, whenever appropriate, reporting to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) under the RIDDOR. 

6. Fire Safety

Fire safety procedures and training are provided by employers. For example, information regarding evacuation routes, alarms, routine fire drills, and staff training. Employees must know where the fire exits are, where fire extinguishers are, and how to support service users in an evacuation or during an emergency procedure. 

7. Emergency Procedures

Emergency procedures are written with clear information on how to respond to an emergency, for example, a medical incident, a power cut, or a security breach. Staff are trained to respond appropriately and with urgency whilst remaining calm and to contact emergency services.

 8. Equipment and Substances Use

The policies indicate procedures for safe use and maintenance of equipment, highlighted as regular maintenance checks and staff training. The control of substances hazardous to health (COSHH) means that substances need to be stored safely, disposed of safely, and used in a safe way.

9. Training and Supervision

Staff are required to have regular health and safety training to be able to maintain competence. Supervision enables people to follow the procedures correctly and consistently.

Conclusion

By working under the employer's agreed health and safety policies and procedures, a safe, compliant care environment is also a supporting environment; everyone will be protected in the setting, the legal obligations will be fulfilled, and professional standards of care will be maintained.