Follow agreed health and safety policies and procedures at work.

2.1 Use policies and procedures or other agreed ways of working that relate to health and safety

Course – Level 3 diploma in care (RQF)

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

L.O. 2 – Be worried about yourself during safety measures

Policies and procedures are important in a care setting because they ensure health, safety, and well-being for service users and staff. They provide clear guidance on how tasks should be carried out safely and ensure compliance with legislation such as the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, the Manual Handling Operations Regulations, and the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH). Working in accordance with the agreed way of working outlined in policies and procedures supports care workers in maintaining a safe environment for themselves and for those they support; it allows them the opportunity to reduce accidents that will contribute to risks.

For example, infection control policies offer what PPE is to be used and when; this may be gloves, aprons, or masks. Following approved hand hygiene policies and cleaning schedules, as well as disposal of waste, assists in reducing the spread of infection. Fire safety policies allow the staff to perform checks of alarms and exits, carry out fire drills, and understand evacuation routes to ensure the safety of all in the building.

Manual handling procedures are another key piece of information in care work. Workers are expected to utilise lifting techniques and equipment (e.g., hoists, slide sheets) to help ensure the safe movement of people. You are protecting the service user from injury and the worker from possibly injuring themselves and experiencing musculoskeletal conditions.

Risk assessments play an important role in care work. By identifying potential hazards, such as wet floors or faulty equipment, care staff can follow control measures and guidance in organisational policies designed to minimise harm and allow staff to act in ways that enhance the safety of themselves and others.

In conclusion, using policies and procedures in relation to health and safety enables your care workers to operate in a way that is consistent, lawful, and responsible. This good practice is designed to protect the individual receiving care, as well as the staff, visitors, and the care environment. Following these agreed ways of working helps to professionalise care work and leads to the safe delivery of quality care.

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