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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

This policy ensures the safe use, storage, and management of emollients in our care home while mitigating the associated fire risks. Emollients are widely used in care settings to manage dry skin conditions; however, they can pose a significant fire hazard due to their flammability when absorbed into fabrics.

This policy outlines how our organisation, {{org_field_name}}, complies with the Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014 and adheres to CQC Regulation 12 (Safe Care and Treatment)​ and Regulation 15 (Premises and Equipment)​, ensuring the safety of the people we support, staff, and visitors.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

• All staff members including carers, nurses, and ancillary workers.
• People we support who require emollient creams for skin conditions.
• Visitors and family members involved in personal care.
• Fire safety officers and emergency responders within our care home premises.

3. Related Policies

This policy is closely linked with:

• CH11 – Safe Care and Treatment Policy
• CH13 – Safeguarding Adults from Abuse and Improper Treatment Policy
• CH16 – Health and Safety at Work Policy
• CH17 – Infection Prevention and Control Policy
• CH18 – Risk Management and Assessment Policy
• CH20 – Fire Safety and Evacuation Procedures Policy
• CH21 – Medication Management and Administration Policy
• CH22 – Handling and Disposal of Hazardous Substances Policy​

4. Safe Use of Emollients

4.1 Selection and Prescription of Emollients

• Only prescribed and approved emollients are used for people we support.
• Staff must always check product labels for flammability warnings.
• Water-based emollients are preferred where possible to reduce fire risk.

4.2 Application and Personal Care

• Staff must wash their hands thoroughly after applying emollients to prevent fire transfer.
• People we support are advised to avoid smoking or open flames while using emollients.
• Emollients must be spread thinly to prevent excess buildup on clothing and bedding.

4.3 Clothing and Bedding Management

• Regular washing at high temperatures (60°C or above) is required to remove emollient residue from fabrics.
• Barrier garments (fire-resistant aprons, bedding covers) are provided where applicable.
• People we support and their families are informed of fire risks associated with emollients and the importance of safe washing practices.

4.4 Staff Training

• All staff must complete annual fire safety and emollient risk management training.
• Training includes correct application methods, risk awareness, and emergency procedures.
• A fire risk assessment specific to emollient use is conducted quarterly.

5. Fire Risk Management and Prevention

5.1 Fire Safety Measures

• Flammable warning signs are placed in rooms where emollients are used.
• Strict no-smoking policy is enforced within all care home premises.
• Open flames, candles, or naked heat sources are not allowed in rooms where emollients are used.

5.2 Fire-Resistant Materials and Equipment

• Fire-retardant bedding, clothing, and chair covers are used to reduce ignition risk.
• Specialist laundering procedures are followed for clothes and bedding of people using emollients.
• Fire blankets and extinguishers are available near high-risk areas.

5.3 Emergency Procedures

• If an emollient-related fire occurs:
  • Raise the alarm immediately.
  • Use appropriate fire extinguishers (CO₂ or dry powder) – water must not be used.
  • Evacuate the affected area following the fire safety protocol.
  • Seek medical assistance for any burns or injuries.
• All fire incidents must be reported immediately using the organisation’s Incident Reporting Procedure.

6. Monitoring, Compliance, and Review

6.1 Fire Risk Assessments

• Monthly fire risk assessments are conducted.
• Emollient use is reviewed in care plans to ensure safety and necessity.
• Fire drills incorporate scenarios involving emollient-related risks.

6.2 Incident Reporting and Investigation

Call the office to inform the Registered Manager at {{org_field_phone_no}}.

If the concern arises out of office hours, call the out-of-hours phone number: {{out_of_hours}}.

• Any fire incidents or near misses are investigated by the Fire Safety Lead.
• Findings are reviewed to implement additional preventative measures.

6.3 Staff Responsibilities

• The Fire Safety Lead ({{org_field_the_fire_safety_lead_name}}) ensures compliance with this policy.
• Registered Manager ({{org_field_registered_manager_first_name}} {{org_field_registered_manager_last_name}}) is responsible for staff training and adherence to risk management protocols.
• Care staff must document all emollient applications and highlight any concerns regarding fire safety risks.

7. Policy Review

This policy is reviewed annually or sooner if:

• There are legislative changes affecting fire safety or emollient use.
• New fire risk assessment findings indicate a need for updates.
• An incident or near miss requires policy amendments.

This policy is in accordance with Regulation 12 (Safe Care and Treatment) and Regulation 15 (Premises and Equipment) of the Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014, ensuring compliance with CQC standards​​.

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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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