CareTech Community Service HS-02 Health and Safety Manual

Transcription

1 CareTech Community Service HS-02 Health and Safety Manual January 2017 CARETECH COMMUNITY SERVICE LTD Policies & Procedures Manual Doc No: HS-02 Prepared by: Acoura Issue No: 09 First issued: May 04 No. of Pages: 132 Reviewed by: Justin Rose Review Date: 20 th January 2017 CONTROLLED COPY 2 Arlington Court, Whittle Way, Arlington Business Park, Stevenage, SG1 2FS Telephone: +44 (0) Fax: +44 (0) info@acoura.com Website;

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3 Section Revision Tracker Date of Last Full Manual Review*: 20 th January 2017 *All sections were reviewed on the above date but only those that required updating were amended and are listed below. Sections that were not amended did not require any changes. Section Last Section Title Number Amended Details of Revision HS PART 1 GENERAL POLICY AND MANAGEMENT PROCEDURES HS General Policy and Management Procedures January 2017 Policy Statement dated 20 January 2017 HS Roles and January 2017 Responsibilities HS Monitoring and Review of January 2017 Safety Policy and Arrangements HS Consultation with January 2017 Employees HS Training in Health and January 2017 Safety HS Risk Assessments January 2017 References to PSN Direct changed to Acoura Assist HS PART 2 GENERAL ARRANGEMENTS AND SAFE WORKING PRACTICES HS Accident and Incident Reporting Procedure January 2017 Reference to PSN Direct changed to Acoura Assist Reference to hotel s changed to premises HS Accident Investigations January 2017 HS Training in Health and January 2017 Safety HS Electricity at Work January 2017 HS Gas Safety January 2017 TRANSCO replaced with National Grid Gas Emergencies HS Manual Handling January 2017 Additional information added to Good Handling Technique HS Medicine Administration January 2017 NHS Helpline changed to NHS 111 HS Control of Infection/Clinical Waste January 2017 References to PSN Direct changed to Acoura Assist. HS Personal Protective January 2017 Equipment HS Fire Safety January 2017 HS High Level Access January 2017 HS Pregnant Employees January 2017 HS Office Safety January 2017 HS Driving Safely January 2017 Paragraph on smoking added.

4 Section Last Section Title Number Amended Details of Revision HS Kitchen Safety January 2017 HS Passive Smoking January 2017 NHS smoking helpline details updated HS Water Temperature and Hot Surfaces January 2017 HS First Aid January 2017 HS Service Safety Checks January 2017 Section amended to refer to the new form HS-02- AP-08 Quarterly Safety Inspection HS Control of Substances Hazardous to January 2017 Health (COSHH) HS Violence at Work January 2017 HS January 2017 Disability Discrimination External Outings Act replaced with Equality Act 2010 HS Falls from Height January 2017 New section added HS Safe Use of Bed Rails January 2017 New section added APPENDICES HS-02-AP-01 Accident Investigation Form January 2017 HS-02-AP-02 Visitor Registration Record January 2017 HS-02-AP-03 MAL1 Medicine Administration Log January 2017 HS-02-AP-04 MAL2 Medicine Administration Log January 2017 HS-02-AP-05 Types of Clinical Waste January 2017 HS-02-AP-06 Pregnant Employee Risk Assessment January 2017 HS-02-AP-07 Workstation Assessment Sheet January 2017 HS-02-AP-09 Health and Safety Induction Record January 2017 Sheet HS-02-AP-10 First Aid Kit Contents January 2017 HS-02-AP-11 Questions and Answers Service January 2017 Based Staff HS-02-AP-12 Questions and Answers Office Based January 2017 Staff HS-02-AP-13 Stress Monitoring Programme January 2017

5 CONTENTS HS HS HS HS HS HS HS HS HS HS HS HS PART 1 - GENERAL POLICY AND MANAGEMENT PROCEDURES GENERAL POLICY AND MANAGEMENT PROCEDURES 1.1 Statement of General Policy for Health and Safety 1.2 Health and Safety Policy ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 2.1 Responsibilities of CareTech s Board for Health and Safety 2.2 Responsibilities of Corporate Directors, Regional Directors, Operations Managers, Senior Managers 2.3 Responsibilities of the Health and Safety Consultants 2.4 Responsibilities of Area Managers, Service Managers, Supervisory Staff 2.5 Individual Employees Responsibilities MONITORING AND REVIEW OF SAFETY POLICY AND ARRANGEMENTS CONSULTATION WITH EMPLOYEES TRAINING IN HEALTH AND SAFETY 5.1 Induction Training RISK ASSESSMENTS PART 2 - GENERAL ARRANGEMENTS AND SAFE WORKING PRACTICES ACCIDENT AND INCIDENT REPORTING PROCEDURE ACCIDENT INVESTIGATIONS TRAINING IN HEALTH AND SAFETY 9.1 Health and Safety Induction 9.2 Further Health and Safety Training ELECTRICITY AT WORK 10.1 Introduction 10.2 Scope 10.3 Hazards 10.4 Work Activities 10.5 Safe Ways of Working

6 HS HS HS HS GAS SAFETY 11.1 Introduction 11.2 Scope 11.3 Hazards 11.4 Work Activities 11.5 Safe Ways of Working Installation, Maintenance and Servicing Gas Shut Off Valves Appliances Pilot Lights Ignition Devices 11.6 Bulk Storage of LPG MANUAL HANDLING 12.1 Introduction 12.2 Hazards 12.3 Work Activities 12.4 Safe Ways of Working Lifting Loads Lifting People Lifting Equipment Breakdown of Lifting Equipment Examination of Lifting Equipment Repairs of Lifting Equipment Record Keeping MEDICINE ADMINISTRATION 13.1 Introduction 13.2 Scope 13.3 Hazards 13.4 Work Activities 13.5 Safe Ways of Working Storage of Medicines Administering Prescribed Medication Non-Prescription Medication Intravenous Medication Remedial Action NHS 111 CONTROL OF INFECTION/CLINICAL WASTE 14.1 Introduction 14.2 Scope 14.3 Hazards 14.4 Work Activities 14.5 Safe Ways of Working Identifying Potential Hazardous Material Service Managing and Disposing of Clinical Waste Universal Precautions for Employees Spillage Procedures Specific Risk and Immunisation

7 HS HS HS HS HS HS PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT 15.1 Introduction 15.2 Scope 15.3 Hazards 15.4 Work Activities 15.5 Safe Ways of Working FIRE SAFETY Refer to the Fire Safety and Fire Risk Assessment Manual HIGH LEVEL ACCESS 17.1 Introduction 17.2 Scope 17.3 Hazards 17.4 Work Activities 17.5 Safe Ways of Working Use of Ladders and Stepladders PREGNANT EMPLOYEES 18.1 Introduction 18.2 Scope 18.3 Work Activities 18.4 Safe Ways of Working Notification Risk Assessment OFFICE SAFETY 19.1 Introduction 19.2 Scope 19.3 Work Activities 19.4 Safe Ways of Working Working with Display Screen Equipment (DSE) General Office Duties Electrical Equipment Welfare Seating DRIVING SAFELY 20.1 Introduction 20.2 Scope 20.3 Hazards 20.4 Work Activities 20.5 Safe Driving Practices Handbook General Guidelines General Driving Tips

8 HS HS HS HS CONTROLLING ACCESS TO SERVICE AND APPOINTMENT OF CONTRACTORS 21.1 Introduction 21.2 Scope 21.3 Hazards 21.4 Work Activities 21.5 Safe Ways of Working Controlling Access to CareTech s Premises by Unauthorised Persons Roof Access, Access to Balconies etc Daily Checks Monitoring of Access and Access Control 21.6 Contractors Appointing Contractors Using Contractors Construction Working in CareTech s Premises KITCHEN SAFETY 22.1 Introduction 22.2 Scope 22.3 Hazards 22.4 Work Activities 22.5 Safe Ways of Working PASSIVE SMOKING 23.1 Introduction 23.2 Scope 23.3 Hazards 23.4 Safe Ways of Working Vehicles Home workers Signage Assistance for employees to give up smoking 23.5 Non-compliance 23.6 Maintaining this policy LEGIONELLA 24.1 Introduction 24.2 General Water Risk Management Policy 24.3 Roles and Responsibilities 24.4 Use of Competent Contractors 24.5 Training Provision for Water Risk Management 24.6 Legislation and Guidance 24.7 Background to the Diseases and Organisms 24.8 Health Risks 24.9 Water Risk Assessments Monitoring and Corrective Action System Operation and Procedures for Inspection and Checking Identification Evaluation and Control Monitoring Cold Water Storage and Distribution Hot Water Storage and Distribution Calorifiers Showers Independent Water Analysis

9 24.13 Water Management Log Book Monitoring and Review of Water Risk Management System Emergency Procedures Glossary of Water Risk Management Terms HS HS HS HS HS HS HS HS WATER TEMPERATURE AND HOT SURFACES 25.1 Introduction 25.2 Scope 25.3 Hazards 25.4 Safe Ways of Working FIRST AID 26.1 Introduction 26.2 Scope 26.3 Hazards 26.4 Safe Ways of Working 26.5 Risk Assessments Specific to a Service STRESS MANAGEMENT 27.1 Stress 27.2 Working Time SERVICE SAFETY CHECKS 28.1 Introduction 28.2 Scope 28.3 Responsibility and Frequency of Checks CONTROL OF SUBSTANCES HAZARDOUS TO HEALTH (COSHH) 29.1 Introduction 29.2 Assessment Process 29.3 After the Assessment VIOLENCE AT WORK 30.1 Introduction 30.2 Scope 30.3 Hazards 30.4 Work Activities 30.5 Safe Ways of Working 30.6 Incident Review Process EXTERNAL OUTINGS 31.1 Introduction 31.2 Scope 31.3 Hazards 31.4 Work Activities 31.5 Safe Ways of Working FALLS FROM HEIGHT 32.1 Introduction 32.2 Scope 32.3 Hazards 32.4 Work Activities 32.5 Safe Ways of Working

10 HS SAFE USE OF BED RAILS 33.1 Introduction 33.2 Scope 33.3 Hazards 33.4 Work Activities 33.5 Safe Ways of Working APPENDICES HS-02-AP-01 Accident Investigation Form HS-02-AP-02 Visitor Registration Record HS-02-AP-03 MAL1 Medicine Administration Log HS-02-AP-04 MAL2 Medicine Administration Log HS-02-AP-05 Types of Clinical Waste HS-02-AP-06 Pregnant Employee Risk Assessment HS-02-AP-07 Workstation Assessment Sheet HS-02-AP-08 Quarterly Safety Checklist HS-02-AP-09 Health and Safety Induction Record Sheet HS-02-AP-10 First Aid Kit Contents HS-02-AP-11 Questions and Answers Service Based Staff HS-02-AP-12 Questions and Answers Office Based Staff HS-02-AP-13 Stress Monitoring Programme HS-02-1P-14 Legionella checks Water Temperatures HS-02-AP-15 Legionella checks - Calorifiers HS-02-AP-16 Legionella checks Shower Head Cleaning Maintenance Thermometer Calibration HS-02-AP-17 Maintenance Thermometer Calibration

11 PART 1 GENERAL POLICY AND MANAGEMENT PROCEDURES CareTech Health & Safety Manual

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13 HS GENERAL POLICY AND MANAGEMENT PROCEDURES 1.1 STATEMENT OF GENERAL POLICY FOR HEALTH AND SAFETY It is our policy to promote the highest standards of health and safety to prevent the people who use our service, employees and visitors suffering accidents and ill health. We consider the statutory requirements of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and subordinate legislation to be the very minimum standards to be applied to the service we provide. We believe that the management of health and safety is one of the most important management functions. We expect management and supervisory staff and all employees to carry out their duties in the full knowledge that the Company considers health and safety to be a priority. The management in consultation with employees will define annual objectives for health and safety. Performance will be measured against those objectives. The Directors have appointed the Director of Compliance & Regulation as having particular responsibility for the implementation of the Policy and to whom reference should be made in the event of any difficulty arising in the execution of this Policy. The management and staff of the service will monitor the implementation and operation of this Policy. To assist them in this respect, in accordance with Regulation 7 of the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, the Directors have appointed Health and Safety Consultants to give advice on the requirements of the relevant statutory provisions and safety matters generally and to assist Managers and staff to understand and carry out their duties. This Statement of General Policy for Health and Safety will be displayed prominently at all Company premises. The complete service Health and Safety Manual detailing this organisation, risk assessments and arrangements for implementing this general Policy will also be available at each Service for reference by any employee. Signed: Director of Compliance & Regulation Date: 20 January 2017 CareTech Health & Safety Manual Page 1 of 2 HS General Policy and Management Procedures

14 1.2 HEALTH AND SAFETY POLICY Notwithstanding the Statement of General Policy for Health and Safety, CareTech will provide so far as is reasonably practicable, a safe and healthy working environment and endeavour to: 1. Acquire the appropriate knowledge of health and safety regulations and Codes of Practice as they affect our business in order that they may advise and instruct our employees with that knowledge. 2. Ensure that a copy of the Policy Statement and any other relevant sections of the Safety Policy is either given to or shown to every member of staff, and that it is fully explained and completely understood by them as part of the induction programme. 3. Adopt and maintain safe systems and procedures of work and comply with statutory regulations and approved Codes of Practice. 4. Ensure that equipment and tools, which may be used by employees, are safe and designed to minimise hazards. 5. Ensure that any safety devices are always fitted, properly adjusted as required, well maintained and used correctly. 6. Identify actual or possible hazards and ensure that proper safety measures are met. 7. Provide all or any necessary warning signs. 8. Provide safety training to include the use of fire fighting equipment and systems, emergency procedures to be followed, training in care of the person who uses our Service and the need for reporting any accidents or potential or actual hazards. 9. Ensure that regular reviews of health and safety are undertaken within the organisation and that any improvements required are actioned. 10. Ensure that any comments or complaints concerning safety are promptly investigated and that appropriate action is taken immediately. 11. Ensure that when and where necessary, protective clothing is issued and used. 12. In the case of any accident involving injury to any person on the premises, make a full investigation and also comply with any statutory requirements relating to the reporting of such accidents. 13. Familiarise any new employees with all aspects of Health and Safety at Work Policy, both by explanation and personal example. 14. Preserve the health and safety of persons who uses our Service and public so far as they are affected by the work carried out in the Service. 15. Ensure that all employees work in a safe manner, for themselves and others. 16. Ensure that all employees are aware of potential hazards and that they recognise them for what they are in order that action can be taken to avoid accidents. CareTech Health & Safety Manual Page 2 of 2 HS General Policy and Management Procedures

15 HS ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 2.1 RESPONSIBILITIES OF CARETECH S BOARD FOR HEALTH AND SAFETY 1. Prepare and keep up to date a Statement of General Policy for Health and Safety and ensure that it is brought to the notice of all employees. 2. Ensure that resources, including financial budgets, are adequate to allow for proper facilities, training, safe working methods and equipment to avoid injury, damage and wastage and that health and safety factors are considered in the selection of materials, equipment and contractors. 3. Prepare details of organisation and arrangements for carrying out the Company s Health and Safety Policy to make sure each person is aware of their responsibilities and the means by which they can carry them out. 4. Administer the Health and Safety Policy throughout the Service in conjunction with Senior Managers and direct line management. 5. Know the appropriate statutory health and safety and related requirements affecting the Service operations. 6. Ensure that appropriate training is given to staff as necessary. 7. Insist that sound working practices are observed as laid down by the Company s Policy arrangements, official guidance and Codes of Practice and that work is planned and carried out in accordance with the statutory provisions. 8. Ensure that there is liaison on health and safety matters between the Service and others in or near the premises that may be affected by its work. 9. Instigate reporting, investigations and costing of injury, damage and loss, and promote analysis of investigations to discover trends and eliminate hazards. 10. Ensure that appropriate disciplinary procedures are followed in respect of any member of management or supervisory staff failing to discharge satisfactorily their responsibilities for health and safety. 11. Arrange for funds and facilities to be available in order to meet the requirements of CareTech s Safety Policy. 12. Make certain that all Managers and staff understand that good health and safety performance will be taken into account during staff appraisals. 13. Set a personal example when visiting all Services, comment on acceptable or unacceptable conditions in place. 14. Arrange for regular meetings with Managers, staff and the safety advisor to discuss accident prevention, performance, possible improvements etc. CareTech Health & Safety Manual Page 1 of 6 HS Roles and Responsibilities

16 2.2 RESPONSIBILITIES OF CORPORATE DIRECTORS, REGIONAL DIRECTORS, OPERATIONS MANAGERS, SENIOR MANAGERS 1. Ensure that the CareTech s Statement of General Policy for Health and Safety is brought to the notice of all employees. 2. Ensure that resources, including financial budgets, are adequate to allow for proper facilities, training, safe working methods and equipment to avoid injury, damage and wastage and that health and safety factors are considered in the selection of materials, equipment and contractors. 3. Make sure each person is aware of his or her responsibilities with regard to CareTech s Health and Safety Policy. 4. Administer CareTech s Health and Safety Policy throughout the Service in conjunction with Senior Managers and direct line management. 5. Know the appropriate statutory health and safety and related requirements affecting the Service operations. 6. Ensure that appropriate training is given to staff as necessary. 7. Insist that sound working practices are observed as laid down by CareTech s Policy arrangements, official guidance and Codes of Practice and that work is planned and carried out in accordance with the statutory provisions. 8. Ensure that there is liaison on health and safety matters between the Service and others in or near the premises that may be affected by its work. 9. Instigate reporting, investigations and costing of injury, damage and loss, and promote analysis of investigations to discover trends and eliminate hazards. 10. Ensure that appropriate disciplinary procedures are followed in respect of any member of management or supervisory staff failing to discharge satisfactorily their responsibilities for health and safety. 11. Instigate liaison with external accident prevention organisations and encourage the distribution of safety literature throughout the Service. 12. Arrange for finds and facilities to be available in order to meet the requirements of CareTech s Safety Policy. 13. Make certain that all Managers and staff understand that good health and safety performance will be taken in to account during staff appraisals. 14. Set a personal example when visiting all Services, comment on acceptable or unacceptable conditions in place. 15. Arrange for regular meetings of Managers, staff and the safety advisor to discuss Service accident prevention, performance, possible improvements etc. CareTech Health & Safety Manual Page 2 of 6 HS Roles and Responsibilities

17 2.3 RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE HEALTH AND SAFETY CONSULTANTS 1. To keep up to date with legislation and inform CareTech Directors of any issues arising as necessary. 2. To give advice on the requirements of the relevant statutory provision and safety matters generally and assist Managers and staff to understand and carry out their duties. 3. Assist management in regularly updating the Health and Safety Policy. 4. To liaise with enforcing authorities at management s request. 5. To attend Company Health and Safety Meetings on a regular basis. CareTech Health & Safety Manual Page 3 of 6 HS Roles and Responsibilities

18 2.4 RESPONSIBILITIES OF AREA MANAGERS, SERVICE MANAGERS, SUPERVISORY STAFF 1. Ensure that the Statement of General Policy for Health and Safety is brought to the notice of all employees. 2. Ensure that there are safe working methods and equipment in place to avoid injury, damage and wastage and that health and safety factors are considered in the selection of materials and equipment. 3. Make sure each person is aware of his or her responsibilities with regard to CareTech s Health and Safety Policy. 4. Administer CareTech s Health and Safety Policy throughout the Service in conjunction with direct line management. 5. Know the appropriate statutory health and safety and related requirements affecting the Service operations. 6. Ensure that appropriate training is given to staff as necessary. 7. Insist that sound working practices are observed as laid down by CareTech s Policy arrangements, official guidance and Codes of Practice and that work is planned and carried out in accordance with the statutory provisions. 8. Ensure that there is liaison on health and safety matters between the Service and others in or near the premises that may be affected by its work. 9. Assist by reporting, supporting investigations and the costing of any injury, damage and loss, promote analysis if investigations to discover trends and eliminate hazards. 10. Ensure that appropriate disciplinary procedures are followed in respect of any member of staff failing to discharge satisfactorily their responsibilities for health and safety. 11. Make certain that staff understand that good health and safety practice will be taken into account during staff appraisals. 12. Review Risk Assessments and amend them where necessary to reflect site-specific hazards. 13. Area Managers will include an agenda on health and safety at their monthly management meetings, the results of which will be fed back to the regional management meetings. CareTech Health & Safety Manual Page 4 of 6 HS Roles and Responsibilities

19 2.5 INDIVIDUAL EMPLOYEES RESPONSIBILITIES Every employee has a responsibility for ensuring that they undertake the work they are required to do with due regard to the safety of themselves, their colleagues, those in the care of the Service and the general public. 1. Comply with the Health and Safety Policy. 2. Observe the Fire Evacuation Procedure and learn the position of all fire equipment and exit routes. 3. Attend, as requested, any training courses, meetings etc designed to further the interests of health and safety. 4. Observe all laid down procedures concerning work activities, materials and substances. 5. Become familiar with and conform to the relevant safety instructions at all times. Cooperate with the management and observe their instructions and advice with regard to health and safety matters. 6. Use protective clothing and equipment where and when necessary. 7. Not to interfere with or misuse anything that is provided in the interests of safety and health. 8. Avoid improvisation in any form that may create a risk to personal safety and to the safety of others. 9. Report to the management any incidents/accidents whether injury is sustained or not. 10. Give assistance as required in the investigation of accidents. 11. Conduct themselves in an orderly manner in the workplace and refrain from any form of horseplay. 12. Not to consume food or drink in areas where there is a risk of contamination. 13. Follow the control measures identified on the Risk Assessment for the task they are undertaking. 14. Ensure that they are familiar with the Risk Assessments for the tasks they undertake. 15. Report to the Service Manager any improvements which they believe may be necessary to the work practice or Risk Assessment, so as to further improve health and safety. Failure by an employee to comply with the aforementioned requirements may be treated as an act of breach of discipline and may remove liability from the Proprietors in the event of an accident. Persistent breaching of the health and safety arrangements by an employee will, after appropriate warnings, invite Disciplinary Action. CareTech Health & Safety Manual Page 5 of 6 HS Roles and Responsibilities

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21 HS MONITORING AND REVIEW OF SAFETY POLICY AND ARRANGEMENTS Any person who believes the Health and Safety Manual is in some way inadequate or requires review, must report this to their immediate Line Manager or a Health and Safety Representative sitting on the Health and Safety Committee. CareTech will continuously monitor and review the Health and Safety Manual and from time to time carry out safety checks of their Service. The Manual may be updated to take into account new developments, Service, legislation and health and safety guidance etc. However, any such changes will be drawn to the attention of all employees wherever appropriate. Information on changes will be provided through memos or updates to Policy inserts with appropriate filing instructions. A copy of the most up to date Policy shall be maintained by the Service and be made available for access by employees. Any employee who intentionally ignores health and safety guidance, information and training provided by CareTech may be considered to be in breach of contract and disciplinary action may be instigated. CareTech Health & Safety Manual Page 1 of 2 HS Monitoring and Review of Safety Policy and Arrangements

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23 HS CONSULTATION WITH EMPLOYEES The Health and Safety (Consultation with Employees) Regulations 1996 require that an employer consults with employees in good time in matters relating to health and safety at work. This includes: Introduction of any measure at the workplace which may substantially affect the health and safety of those employees. Arrangements for nominating competent persons in accordance with the Management Regulations to assist the employer on health and safety matters, and to take charge of measures to combat identified serious and imminent danger at the workplace. Any statutory health and safety information which he has to provide. Planning and organising of any health and safety training he has to provide, and; Health and safety consequences for those employees of the introduction of new technologies into the workplace. To meet the requirements of these regulations, CareTech have set up a Health and Safety Committee in which employees may raise matters relating to health and safety through their appointed representative on this group. A representative from each of the three regions will attend the meeting, which are to be held approximately three times a year. Attendance at the meetings should also include the Quality Performance Director, representatives from the Corporate Team and Human Resources, and also a representative from the Health and Safety Consultants. The meetings will also provide an opportunity for Management to update employees on the latest developments in terms of health and safety. Nominated persons from the recognised Unions represented in the workforce are also invited to attend the Health and Safety Committee meetings. The Health and Safety Committee will be formed for the period of one year and thereafter it s composition and effectiveness will be reviewed. The minutes of the Health and Safety Committee meeting and any action taken as a result of the meeting will be issued to the regional Health and Safety Representatives and Regional Operations Directors. Representation should be rotated on an annual basis to enhance communication with regard to health and safety throughout the organisation. Representatives will preferably be by voluntary consent or by local nomination process. CareTech Health & Safety Manual Page 1 of 2 HS Consultation with Employees

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25 HS TRAINING IN HEALTH AND SAFETY CareTech undertakes to train all their employees (and all other persons as appropriate) in all areas of health and safety relative to their normal day-to-day duties within the Company. It shall be the responsibility of each Service Manager to ensure that each member of his/her staff has received appropriate training before being allowed to carry out tasks unsupervised. The Service Manager should identify training needs relating to health and safety for individual employees. These needs will be largely defined by the training matrix, which CareTech have developed and will continue to update. Specific training requirements are also referred to in the Health and Safety Manual dependant on the particular section and the employee s role and activities within the particular Service. Where a Manager considers health and safety training is required, it is recommended that they consult with the relevant section of the Health and Safety Manual for further guidance. Throughout the Health and Safety Manual, there are key learning points that each and every employee must be aware of. The process for doing so is via the Health and Safety Induction Programme, which is set out in the Manual. 5.1 INDUCTION TRAINING Every member of staff commencing work at CareTech should undergo induction health and safety training. Until this is undertaken the Service Manager will be ultimately responsible for closely supervising the activities of the new employee. The induction training involves the member of staff completing the Health and Safety Induction Programme. An assessment to check the employee s knowledge and awareness of health and safety should be undertaken at the end of the induction training. CareTech Health & Safety Manual Page 1 of 2 HS Training in Health and Safety

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27 HS RISK ASSESSMENTS The Management of Health and Safety At Work Regulations 1999 require all employers to carry out risk assessments of all work activities that present a significant risk to health and safety. Generic risk assessment templates are provided on Acoura Assist. These are to be completed by the Service Manager. Further guidance is provided on Acoura Assist. Thereafter, Service Managers are responsible for reviewing the risk assessments at their Service on a 12 monthly basis or more often as required by any change in circumstances. The purpose of this review is to ensure that the assessments are still relevant and to make any amendments where necessary to reflect their own Service and/or operation. Service Managers will also be responsible for ensuring all relevant personnel are made aware of the significant findings of the risk assessments, and that the necessary control measures are implemented. This will be via the Health and Safety Induction Programme and then on an ongoing basis, via staff meetings and individual staff training on health and safety. Service Managers may also undertake some activities that do not appear in the generic risk assessments. In this event and where that activity presents a significant risk of injury or illhealth to an employee or other person, Managers should carry out a specific risk assessment using the form provided. The significant findings of the assessment should be recorded on Acoura Assist and drawn to the attention of those affected. Service Managers are also responsible for undertaking site/person specific risk assessments at various stages during the pregnancy of an employee. It is not necessary to forward copies of site-specific assessments to the Potters Bar Office. Young persons are considered to be at particular risk of injury or ill-health at work due to their lack of experience or possible immaturity. As such, young persons are not permitted to work within any CareTech Service, other than the office-based locations. Before any young person begins working with CareTech, an assessment of the risks to the health and safety of the young person must be undertaken. This will apply to any person under the age of 18 years and includes students on unpaid work experience. In addition to the generic risk assessments on Acoura Assist, there is also a Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Manual and a Fire Safety Manual. The Fire Safety Manual specifically identifies safe systems of work and fire precautions to reduce the likelihood of fires starting, and mitigating the effects of a fire should it break out. Managers are responsible for carrying out fire safety checks in accordance with the Fire Safety Manual. The COSHH Manual advises on the safe use of chemicals and requires Managers to carry out specific assessments on chemicals they use. The Manual provides full guidance on how such assessments should be carried out. In addition, the Health and Safety Manual package includes a Driver s Handbook for those required to drive Company or other vehicles as part of their duties. This handbook is a practical guide on what to do if a breakdown or accident occurs whilst on the road. The Driving Safely section in the Manual supports it. CareTech Health & Safety Manual Page 1 of 2 HS Risk Assessments

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29 PART 2 GENERAL ARRANGEMENTS AND SAFE WORKING PRACTICES CareTech Health & Safety Manual Part 2 General Arrangements and Safe Working Practices

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31 HS ACCIDENT AND INCIDENT REPORTING PROCEDURE GUIDELINES FOR MANAGERS FOR REPORTING ACCIDENTS / INCIDENTS UNDER THE REPORTING OF INJURIES, DISEASES AND DANGEROUS OCCURRENCES REGULATIONS 2013 The Reporting of Accidents/Incidents under the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 2013 (RIDDOR) require certain accidents to be reported to the Local Authority Environmental Health Department (or in the case of a Nursing Home, the Health & Safety Executive), who may come and investigate. All accidents and incidents, including if during an off-site activity, no matter how trivial, should be reported immediately to Acoura as soon as possible using Acoura Assist. Major incidents and serious workplace injuries (known as specified injuries) should be reported by telephone to Acoura immediately. Make sure a hard copy is printed and filed in the premises accident and incident file. However, always telephone Acoura if in doubt. Thereafter, Acoura will ensure compliance with RIDDOR (Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations) by reporting accidents to the appropriate authorities. The Service Manager must contact the Regional Health and Safety Representative for all reportable accidents. CareTech Health & Safety Manual Page 1 of 2 HS Accident and Incident Reporting Procedure

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33 HS ACCIDENT INVESTIGATIONS The Service Manager must investigate all notifiable accidents as soon as is practicable after the accident and once immediate first aid and preventative measures have been completed. Accidents and near misses mostly have a human cause; someone has either failed to follow procedures, misinterpreted information, failed to have had proper training, ignored safety signs and instructions or they may have been totally unaware of the hazards and risks associated with the tasks they have to do. In addition, accidents and near misses could be caused by poor maintenance, inappropriate use of equipment or other environmental factors. CareTech believes it important to review the causes of all accidents and incidents and to learn from the investigative outcomes so that a process of continuous improvement in health and safety management can be implemented. All notifiable accidents are to be investigated and the Accident Investigation Form (Appendix HS-02-AP-01) completed. All Managers are required to review the accident findings with their team members and are expected to implement any improvements to existing control measures or to implement new and improved control measures so as to minimise the risk of a similar accident recurrence. Significant findings of all investigated accidents shall be discussed at both the Company and Regional Health and Safety Group Meetings and common procedures, controls and preventative measures shall be adopted across all the Company s activities and venues. The completed Accident Investigation Form shall be kept in the Accident and Incident Records file and both forms must be retained for six years. The Area Manager is to ensure that accident reports are available at each Health and Safety Committee meeting. CareTech Health & Safety Manual Page 1 of 2 HS Accident Investigations

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35 HS TRAINING IN HEALTH AND SAFETY 9.1 HEALTH AND SAFETY INDUCTION Introduction The aim of this section is to provide guidance for Managers on the areas and topics which new employees to CareTech, (including employees who have moved from another Service) need to be made aware of. It also outlines the Health and Safety Induction Programme that new employees must work through over their first three months with CareTech and provides a question and answer check to allow Managers to assess the employee s knowledge of relevant health and safety matters. The Health and Safety Induction Programme comprises of three main areas: 1) First day induction on health and safety 2) Key learning points for employees 3) Health and safety induction check A level of health and safety induction training for new starters should be given on their first day at the new Service. Managers are responsible for ensuring that the new starter receives their induction training in full. As such, it is advised that specific time is set aside to carry out all the necessary health and safety training. If for any reason it is not possible to complete the health and safety training on their first day, then it is ultimately the Manager s responsibility to ensure the new starter is closely supervised until their induction training is completed. All training received should be recorded and the employee signs to confirm that they have received the training. The following training should be covered on the new employee s first day: Fire Safety Training Include location of emergency exits, fire extinguishers and types, location of the designated assembly point, the evacuation procedure and what to do in the event of a fire. First Aid Include location of first aid boxes and who the appointed first aiders or persons are. Lone Working Including dos and don ts, the safety procedures that the Service operates to protect employees working alone or in isolation. Manual Handling Safe lifting techniques, how to assess a load before lifting and to highlight that help should be sought wherever necessary from another employee. Drug Administration and Control Including those who are responsible for administering medication and the general safety arrangements in this respect. CareTech Health & Safety Manual Page 1 of 2 HS Training in Health and Safety

36 Health and Safety Induction Programme The Health and Safety Induction Programme is intended to run over the first three months of a new starters post with CareTech and is based upon the Key Learning Points throughout the Health and Safety, COSHH and Fire Manuals. In their own time, (but within three months) each new starter should work through the Key Learning Point sections of each section of the Health and Safety, COSHH and Fire Safety Manual. Once this has been completed and at the end of the three months, the Manager will issue a short question and answer check assessment in Appendices HS-02-AP 02 and 03. This is not an exam with pass and fail criteria, however it is intended as a guide to the level of health and safety awareness that the employee has. The employee may complete this check using the Manuals as an aide memoir however, the assessment must be completed in one session and not over a number of days. The Manager should discuss any incorrect answers with the employee on the same day of the assessment, understand whether further training is required and as such, ensure it is undertaken. Once staff have completed the Health and Safety Induction Programme Question and Answer Assessment in Appendices HS-02-AP-11 and 12, the Manager should log the date, employee s name and the score that they achieved on the record sheet. Service Managers must however, remember that induction training is only the beginning. Health and safety training must be ongoing for employees to ensure that each has the most up-to-date knowledge and is aware of the current best practice to help keep themselves, the colleagues they work with and the people who use our Service, safe. Refresher health and safety induction training, based on Key Learning Points, should be undertaken with employees on a six monthly basis. It should be recorded on the training record sheet in Appendix HS-02-AP FURTHER HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING CareTech are committed to ensuring that all employees receive appropriate health and safety training commensurate with their job activities and the risks to which they are exposed whilst at work. Internal and external training courses are available and employees are able to take part in training covering the following health and safety topics:- Manual handling Stress awareness Handling violent situations Managing safety in public places Risk assessments Managing health and safety The Health and Safety at Work Etc Act 1974 requires that employers provide information, instruction and training to employees in order that they may undertake their job duties safely. CareTech will use a variety of mechanisms for delivering training and imparting information to employees on the subject of health and safety. CareTech Health & Safety Manual Page 2 of 2 HS Training in Health and Safety

37 HS ELECTRICITY AT WORK 10.1 INTRODUCTION Electricity, whether from an industrial or domestic supply, presents a risk of death. As such it must be treated with respect and adequately controlled to minimise exposure to employees, people who use our Service and any other person who may have reason to be on CareTech Service SCOPE The purpose of this section is to provide basic rules for employees when faced with using electrical equipment in the course of their duties HAZARDS Fatality - caused by electrocution Injury - caused by electric shock Fire - caused by faulty electric equipment, this may result in fatalities, injury or property damage WORK ACTIVITIES Use of Portable Appliance (Appliances not provided by CareTech) Use of Portable Appliance (Appliances provided by CareTech) 10.5 SAFE WAYS OF WORKING All electrical appliances provided by CareTech will be sourced from reputable suppliers and be approved to industry standards. Employees can use their own portable appliances but they should be PAT tested. Safety Checks Portable electrical equipment must be checked regularly by Managers to ensure it is visually in good condition and is being used correctly. They should check the following: Sockets should not be overloaded, follow the simple rule one plug, one socket. Visually check plugs, cables, sockets and leads to ensure there are no signs of: o burn o cracks o loose plug pins or wires o coloured wires exposed o frayed flex or wire Visually check cables and leads are kept away from wet surfaces Check residual circuit devices (RCD s) are fitted to electrical circuits Ensure any defective/faulty equipment is taken out of use and put out of action to avoid accidental further use Ensure all employees are aware of general principles of electrical safety and use of portable appliances (see Key Learning Points at end of the section) The Safety Check Sheet for electrical equipment is provided with a number of simple, visual checks, which should be carried out and recorded on at least a quarterly basis. CareTech Health & Safety Manual Page 1 of 4 HS Electricity at Work

38 APPLIANCES Changing Fuses Managers should identify those employees who may be exposed, as a result of their duties, to the hazards identified above. All those employees identified as being at risk of exposure should be trained to spot potential hazards and therefore take steps to minimise any potential exposure. Check that the fuse is of correct capacity. Do not use anything as a replacement fuse. Rewiring Attempts to repair equipment must not be undertaken by employees. Only suitably qualified Electrical Engineers should attempt to repair equipment. Employees may only change plugs if they have received appropriate training and have been authorised to do so by the Manager. When fitting plugs always ensure that the cable sheath is securely attached within the plug. Wire plugs as follows: BROWN LIVE BLUE NEUTRAL YELLOW/GREEN EARTH Portable Appliance Testing A portable electrical appliance is any piece of electrical equipment, which is not connected to the electrical circuit and can be moved, e.g. it is plugged into a socket. All portable electrical appliances provided by CareTech shall be subject to quarterly visual inspections by the Manager or other appropriately appointed person, in accordance with the Safety Checklist included in the section Service Safety Checks. In addition, 100% of the portable equipment within the Service will be subject to annual Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) by a competent (NIC EIC/ECA registered) person, and records should be kept at the Service with all defects recorded and rectified within suitable timescales. All findings of these PAT activities will be brought to the attention of the Manager on the day, and any appliances presenting immediate risk shall be taken out of use with immediate effect. Changing Light Bulbs Where the fittings are in excess of three metres in height from floor level, then employees must not attempt to change light bulbs and suitable contractors should be appointed to undertake the task. CareTech Health & Safety Manual Page 2 of 4 HS Electricity at Work

39 If light bulbs are less than three metres in height, then Managers with the assistance of other staff, may undertake the changing of light bulbs following the guidance below (refer to High Level Access section of this Manual): Whoever undertakes the job is competent and understands the risks of electricity and are familiar with the safe system of work for changing light bulbs. Light bulbs to be changed must be accessible without creating unsafe working practices. Step ladders or ladders must be used for access to heights, NO stools, chairs, tables or crates are to be used for standing on (or anything similar). The light fitting should be easily accessible with easily removable covers, diffusers etc. The electrical supply to the light fitting MUST be switched off at the main light switch or control panel before touching it. If turning off the lights places the area in darkness, then two persons shall be present, one with a torch for lighting purposes. Remove the spent light bulb and replace with a similar new bulb. DO NOT use different types of bulbs, connections, wattage values etc. Do not touch any metal casings or pull at the actual light fitting. Replace any light bulb cover securely. Stand clear of light fitting and switch on mains electrical supply. If the light fitting does not work do not investigate; report the problem to Potters Bar Office. Appliances Owned by Persons Who Use Our Service From time to time employees may be asked to use or come into contact with the person who uses our Service own portable electrical equipment, for example, televisions, stereos etc. Employees should avoid where possible, use of person s own portable electrical appliances. Where it is absolutely essential to use the person s equipment, for example, during some cleaning tasks or if requested to set a video recorder or similar, then employees must carry out a visual inspection of the equipment following the guidelines in this Manual (see Key Learning Points at end of the section). If there is any doubt whatsoever as to the safety of the equipment, employees should not touch the appliance. Only if it is safe to do so should an employee disconnect it from the main electricity supply. CareTech Health & Safety Manual Page 3 of 4 HS Electricity at Work

40 Key Learning Points for Employees Any electrical item identified as faulty or where there is suspicion of a fault, should not be used and should be taken out of use wherever possible, by cutting off the plug or removing from the area. Do not tamper with or abuse electrical equipment. Do not use with wet hands or near wet surfaces. Visually inspect plugs, leads, sockets and cables prior to using any electrical equipment to check for: - signs of burns/scalding - coloured wires exposed - frayed/damaged leads or cables - loose plug pins - cracked plugs or sockets Be aware of the safe system of work for changing light bulbs, dependent on the Service that you work within and their classification for purposes of this Manual. CareTech Health & Safety Manual Page 4 of 4 HS Electricity at Work