CHW22-Handling and Disposal of Hazardous Substances Policy

Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

Handling and Disposal of Hazardous Substances Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that all hazardous substances used, stored, and disposed of within {{org_field_name}} are managed safely and in compliance with the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002, the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, and the Regulation and Inspection of Social Care (Wales) Act 2016. This policy sets out procedures for staff to follow to prevent harm to residents, employees, visitors, and the environment while ensuring compliance with Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW) requirements.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

All staff members, including care staff, housekeeping, maintenance teams, and administrative personnel.
Contractors and suppliers delivering or handling hazardous substances within the care home.
Residents and visitors, ensuring their safety around hazardous substances.
The Registered Manager and Health and Safety Lead, who oversee compliance with hazardous substance regulations.

3. Compliance with CIW Regulations and Legal Framework

Our hazardous substance management aligns with:

The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002, ensuring safe handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous substances.
The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, which requires employers to maintain a safe working environment.
The Environmental Protection Act 1990, ensuring hazardous waste is disposed of correctly.
The Hazardous Waste Regulations 2005, governing the legal requirements for waste management and disposal.
The Regulated Services (Service Providers and Responsible Individuals) (Wales) Regulations 2017, requiring the service provider to ensure a safe and effective environment.

4. Identifying and Assessing Hazardous Substances

{{org_field_name}} maintains a comprehensive inventory of all hazardous substances used within the care home, including:

Cleaning chemicals (e.g., disinfectants, bleach, sanitizers).
Medical waste (e.g., used sharps, expired medication, bodily fluids).
Personal care products (e.g., aerosols, creams, alcohol-based products).
Maintenance chemicals (e.g., paints, oils, solvents).

A COSHH risk assessment is carried out for each hazardous substance, identifying:

The risks associated with use.
Appropriate handling and storage measures.
The necessary Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
Correct disposal procedures.

5. Safe Handling and Use of Hazardous Substances

To minimise risks when handling hazardous substances:

Only trained staff are permitted to use hazardous substances.
Staff must read and follow Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for each substance before use.
Appropriate PPE, such as gloves, masks, and aprons, must be worn where required.
Decanting chemicals is strictly prohibited; substances must remain in original containers with intact labels.
Residents and visitors must not have access to hazardous substances unless it is part of their prescribed care plan.

6. Storage of Hazardous Substances

To ensure safe storage:

All hazardous substances must be locked away in designated storage areas.
Storage areas are clearly labelled, ventilated, and kept at appropriate temperatures.
Substances must be kept in original packaging with manufacturer labels intact.
Incompatible substances are stored separately to prevent dangerous reactions.
Weekly inventory checks ensure proper stock levels and detect any issues.

7. Disposal of Hazardous Substances

Hazardous waste disposal is managed in compliance with environmental and health and safety laws:

Clinical waste (e.g., sharps, bodily fluids) is placed in designated yellow bins and collected by a licensed waste disposal contractor.
Unused or expired medication is returned to the pharmacy for safe disposal.
Chemical waste (e.g., cleaning agents) is disposed of according to manufacturer guidance and local authority regulations.
General hazardous waste is separated and disposed of through registered waste disposal services.
Spill kits are available and staff are trained in spill management procedures.

8. Emergency Procedures for Hazardous Substance Incidents

In case of accidental exposure, spillage, or contamination:

The affected area must be evacuated immediately.
The Health and Safety Lead must be notified, and spill containment measures initiated.
Emergency PPE must be used, and cleaning procedures followed per SDS instructions.
Medical assistance must be sought if exposure occurs.
The incident must be recorded and investigated, and corrective measures taken to prevent recurrence.

9. Training and Staff Responsibilities

All staff receive COSHH training upon induction and annual refresher courses.
Managers ensure compliance through regular audits and risk assessments.
Staff must report concerns related to hazardous substance management immediately.
Training logs are maintained to ensure all employees are up to date with procedures.

10. Continuous Monitoring and Improvement

To ensure ongoing compliance and best practice:

Quarterly audits of hazardous substances are conducted by the Health and Safety Lead.
Annual policy reviews are undertaken to align with regulatory updates.
Feedback from staff and residents is encouraged to improve safety measures.
Incident trend analysis helps identify areas for improvement in handling and disposal procedures.

11. Related Policies

This policy should be read alongside:

CHW16 – Health and Safety at Work Policy
CHW17 – Infection Prevention and Control Policy
CHW18 – Risk Management and Assessment Policy
CHW22 – Handling and Disposal of Hazardous Substances Policy
CHW24 – Management of Accidents, Incidents, and Near Misses Policy

12. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if changes in legislation, CIW regulations, or operational needs occur. The Registered Manager and Health and Safety Lead will oversee the review process to ensure compliance.

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}}
Copyright © {{current_year}} – {{org_field_name}}. All rights reserved.