You should primarily adhere to the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 (HSWA) and specific regulations like the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH) and the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999. accuSafe also recommends that health and safety management systems are aligned with CQC requirements and key HSE guidance in order to avoid potentially awkward interactions should the CQC or HSE visit your facilities.

Regular health and safety training sessions should be conducted annually, with refresher courses as needed, in line with UK regulations. Developing an inhouse training matrix will help to identify mandatory training and allow the effective and timely delivery of refresher training for staff.

Ensure clear evacuation procedures, designate emergency roles according to the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, and conduct regular evacuation drills. Evacuation procedures should be included as part of staff induction training.

Ensure staff members and contractors undertake a display screen equipment (DSE) assessment of their workstation. Provide ergonomic equipment based on the findings from an assessment, follow DSE guidance from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), and promote regular breaks to comply with the Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992. Repeat assessments following a long period of absence, where there are concerns or following an office move.

Yes, follow the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH) and guidelines from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) for suitable labelling and handling of hazardous substances.

Detailed records help identify trends and mitigate the potential for recurrence, improve safety processes, and demonstrate compliance during audits and inspections by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

Implement local infection control measures, adhere to advice on Health Building Notes (HBN) guidelines as communicated by your project team, and ensure staff are kept updated with project updates and timescales. HBN’s provide best practice guidance on the design and planning of new healthcare buildings and on the adaptation or extension of existing facilities.

To prevent sharps injuries:

• Use safety-engineered devices.
• Properly dispose of sharps in the designated containers provided.
• Provide training to staff on safe handling and disposal techniques.
• Encourage reporting of all related incidents for prompt action.
• Regularly review and update sharps safety protocols within your organisation.

Preventing slips, trips, and falls requires:

• Robust risk assessment and regular safety inspections and maintenance.
• Adequate signage for wet floors or uneven surfaces.
• Staff training on safe walking and proper footwear.
• Cleaning staff training on slip prevention principles.
• Use of cleaning materials appropriate for floor types.
• Keeping walkways clear and well-lit in all areas.
• Establishing a reporting system for prompt reporting of hazards and near misses.

Implementing and managing a violence and aggression reduction programme includes:

• Developing clear policies and procedures.
• Assessing risk in all areas where such activity may occur.
• Providing training in conflict de-escalation.
• Ensuring staff have access to security measures.
• Implementing a reporting system for incidents and sharing learnings with staff.

Regularly reviewing and updating the programme based on feedback.