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{{org_field_name}}

Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

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Managing Sharps Policy

1. Purpose The purpose of this policy is to ensure that {{org_field_name}} safely manages the handling, use, storage, and disposal of sharps in compliance with CQC regulations, Health and Safety (Sharp Instruments in Healthcare) Regulations 2013, and Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002. This policy aims to:

• Prevent needlestick injuries and exposure to bloodborne pathogens.
• Ensure safe handling and disposal of sharps to protect staff, people we support, and visitors.
• Maintain compliance with CQC Fundamental Standards and best infection prevention and control practices.
• Provide guidance on immediate actions following sharps injuries or exposure incidents.

2. Scope This policy applies to all employees, agency workers, healthcare professionals, and visitors within {{org_field_name}}. It covers all situations involving the handling and disposal of sharps, including needles, syringes, scalpels, lancets, and glass ampoules.

3. Policy Statement {{org_field_name}} is committed to ensuring that:

• All sharps are handled and disposed of safely and correctly.
• Staff receive regular training and competency assessments on sharps management.
• The risk of needlestick injuries is minimised through safe working practices and equipment use.
• A robust incident reporting and post-exposure management system is in place.
• Regular audits and risk assessments are conducted to ensure compliance with infection control policies.

4. Safe Use and Handling of Sharps

• Sharps should only be used when absolutely necessary, and alternatives should be considered where possible.
• Always use safety-engineered devices such as retractable needles or needle guards.
• Staff must not recap needles after use to prevent needlestick injuries.
• Used sharps must be immediately disposed of in an approved sharps container.
• Sharps containers must be placed at the point of use and never overfilled beyond the safety line.
• Staff must be trained on the correct handling of sharps to minimise risk.

5. Storage and Disposal of Sharps

• All sharps must be stored securely in a designated area with restricted access.
• Sharps bins must comply with BS EN ISO 23907:2012 and be clearly marked for disposal.
• Used sharps containers must be disposed of through an authorised hazardous waste collection service.
• A sharps disposal log must be maintained and reviewed to ensure compliance with regulations.

6. Preventing Needlestick Injuries

• Staff must wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when handling sharps.
• Use of safe injection techniques and appropriate disposal must be enforced.
• Avoid unnecessary use of sharps where alternative methods exist.
• Staff should be trained on reducing risk factors, including safe positioning when using sharps.
• Posters and reminders should be displayed in key areas to reinforce best practices.

7. Managing Sharps Injuries and Exposure Incidents In the event of a needlestick injury or exposure to bloodborne pathogens, the following steps must be followed:

1. Encourage bleeding from the wound without squeezing.
2. Wash the area immediately with soap and running water.
3. Cover the wound with a waterproof dressing.
4. Report the incident immediately to the Registered Manager and complete an incident report.
5. Seek medical advice immediately for post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) if required.
6. Review the incident and implement actions to prevent future occurrences.

8. Training and Competency

• All staff must complete annual training on sharps safety.
• Training includes:
  • Safe handling and disposal of sharps.
  • Risks of bloodborne infections such as Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and HIV.
  • Post-exposure procedures and reporting requirements.
  • Use of safety-engineered devices.
• Staff competency assessments should be conducted at least annually and following any incidents.

9. Risk Assessments and Audits

• A risk assessment must be completed for all sharps-related activities.
• Regular audits must be conducted to review sharps disposal practices and incident trends.
• Findings must be reviewed by the Infection Control Lead and appropriate action taken to improve safety.

10. Reporting and Monitoring

• All sharps-related injuries must be reported in accordance with RIDDOR (Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 2013).
• Reports should be logged, and corrective actions implemented promptly.
• Incident reviews should be used to improve procedures and staff training.
• Learning from incidents must be shared across teams to enhance awareness and prevention measures.

11. Policy Review This policy will be reviewed annually or earlier if required due to changes in legislation, CQC guidance, or internal audit findings.

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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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