Outcome 1 Understand own responsibilities, and the responsibilities of others, relating to health and safety
1. The main legislation is the Health & Safety at work Act of 1974, which acts as an umbrella to all other legislations which we must follow. These are broken down as;
MANUAL HANDLING OPERATION REGULATIONS 1992 -Moving & Handling – Techniques which are used to move people and objects in a manor which will avoid injury
CONTROL OF SUBSTANCES HAZARDOUS TO HEALTH 2002 (COSHH) –carers should have a full understanding of disposing of and storing of all substance especially with regards Infection control. All carers must understand the importance of infection control whilst caring for individuals
REPORTING OF INJURIES DISEASES AND DANGEROUS OCCURENCES 1995 (RIDDOR) –The carer should have a good understanding of the requirements of reporting accidents and ill health
FOOD SAFETY ACT 1990 - Food Hygiene – The carer should be able to cook, prepare and store foods which are safe and would avoid food poisoning.
2.
HEALTH & SAFETY AT WORK ACT 1974
Wear apron and gloves – wash hands before and after to maintain infection control
Store hazardous substances according to the manufacturers instructions
Know correct procedure in the event of a spillage
Dispose of hazardous waste in the correct manner
FOOD SAFETY ACT 1990
This act makes it an offence to offer a service user contaminated food which may be injurious to health. It is important as a carer that you check the date on food, ensure it has been stored correctly, and it is cooked correctly. Ensure it has not been contaminated by cross infection, therefore always wear appropriate PPE when handling and preparing food. The carer should be able to cook prepare and store foods which are safe and would avoid food poisoning.