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Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

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Safe Use of Emollients and Fire Risk Management Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to provide clear guidance on the safe use, storage, and management of emollients to minimise fire risks in {{org_field_name}}’s supported living services. Emollients, while essential for skincare and treating conditions such as eczema and psoriasis, can increase fire hazards due to the build-up of residue on clothing, bedding, and upholstery.

This policy ensures that people we support receive safe and effective care, and that staff are aware of the fire risks associated with emollient use while adhering to CQC, Health and Safety Executive (HSE), and Fire Safety Regulations.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

• All staff handling emollients in supported living settings.
• People we support who use emollients as part of their care plan.
• Visitors, contractors, and healthcare professionals who may interact with individuals using emollients.
• All premises managed by {{org_field_name}}, including storage and disposal procedures.

3. Legal and Regulatory Compliance

This policy aligns with:

• Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014
  • Regulation 12 (Safe Care and Treatment)
  • Regulation 15 (Premises and Equipment)
  • Regulation 17 (Good Governance)
• The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005
• Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002
• Health and Safety at Work Act 1974
• Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) Guidance on Emollients and Fire Risk
• National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) Guidance on Emollient Safety

4. Responsibilities

Registered Manager

• Ensures staff are trained in emollient safety, fire risk management, and emergency procedures.
• Conducts regular risk assessments on emollient use and fire safety.
• Reports fire-related incidents to the CQC and local fire authorities in line with Regulation 18 (Notification of Other Incidents).
• Maintains clear procedures for emollient management in individual care plans.

Staff Members

• Follow safe handling, storage, and disposal procedures for emollients.
• Educate people we support on safe use of emollients.
• Identify and mitigate fire risks, ensuring compliance with fire prevention protocols.
• Report any fire hazards or incidents immediately.

People We Support

• Are informed of fire risks associated with emollients and encouraged to follow safety guidance.
• Must notify staff of any issues with their skincare products.
• Are advised to avoid smoking, open flames, and high-heat sources while using emollients.

5. Safe Use of Emollients

5.1 Emollient Selection and Risk Assessment

• Only MHRA-approved emollients will be used.
• Each person’s risk level will be assessed, considering:
  • The amount and type of emollient used.
  • The frequency of application.
  • The likelihood of exposure to flames or heat sources.
• Emollient-based risk assessments will be included in individual care plans.

5.2 Application of Emollients

• Apply thin layers of emollients to minimise excessive residue build-up.
• Wash hands thoroughly after applying emollients.
• Ensure clothing and bedding are washed regularly at high temperatures (above 60°C) to reduce residue build-up.
• Avoid using emollients immediately before smoking or cooking.

5.3 Education and Awareness

• People we support, staff, and families will receive training and guidance on emollient fire risks.
• Information will be provided in accessible formats, including easy-read leaflets and verbal explanations.
• Visitors will be informed of fire risks if they are supporting someone using emollients.

6. Fire Risk Management

6.1 Fire Safety Precautions

• Fire risk assessments must include specific checks on emollient use and storage.
• Display clear signage where emollients are stored and used, indicating fire risks.
• Smoke-free environment:
  • People who use emollients should be advised not to smoke or be exposed to open flames.
  • Staff must offer support for smoking cessation if needed.
• Ensure lighters, matches, and candles are stored safely away from people using emollients.

6.2 Handling and Storage of Emollients

• Emollients must be stored in a cool, dry place, away from heat sources.
• Large quantities should be stored in fire-resistant cabinets.
• Emollients must be clearly labelled, indicating fire risks.
• Expired or unused emollients should be disposed of safely and promptly following waste disposal guidelines.

6.3 Fire Prevention Measures

• Fire blankets and extinguishers must be easily accessible in high-risk areas.
• Regular laundering of clothing and bedding used by people applying emollients to remove build-up.
• Fire safety training must include specific awareness of emollient risks.

6.4 Emergency Procedures

• If a fire occurs, follow the fire evacuation plan immediately.
• Staff must be trained to identify fire hazards related to emollients.
• Fire drills must include emollient-specific risks, such as testing escape routes where people using emollients may require additional support.

7. Incident Reporting and Risk Management

• Recording and Reporting:
  • All incidents involving fire risks and emollients must be reported in line with Regulation 18 (Notification of Other Incidents).
• Immediate Action:
  • If an individual using emollients is involved in a fire incident, staff must remove contaminated clothing immediately and seek medical attention.
• Investigation and Learning:
  • All incidents must be fully investigated to improve future fire safety measures.
  • Staff must undergo additional training if an incident highlights knowledge gaps.

8. Training and Competency of Staff

• Mandatory Fire Safety Training must be conducted annually, covering:
  • Emollient risks and precautions.
  • Handling flammable substances safely.
  • Fire response procedures.
• Competency Assessments: Staff will undergo regular competency checks on emollient safety and fire prevention.

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Responsible Person: {{org_field_registered_manager_first_name}} {{org_field_registered_manager_last_name}}
Reviewed on: {{last_update_date}}
Next Review Date: {{next_review_date}}
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