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Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

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Health and Safety at Work Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure the health, safety, and well-being of all staff, residents, visitors, and contractors within {{org_field_name}}, in accordance with the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, the Regulation and Inspection of Social Care (Wales) Act 2016, and the Regulated Services (Service Providers and Responsible Individuals) (Wales) Regulations 2017. This policy sets out the responsibilities and procedures for ensuring a safe working and living environment, minimising risks, and complying with Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW) requirements.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

• All staff members, including permanent, temporary, agency, and volunteer workers.
• Residents, ensuring they live in a safe environment.
• Visitors, contractors, and professionals visiting or working within the care home.
• The Registered Manager and Responsible Individual, who oversee the implementation and compliance of health and safety practices.

3. Compliance with CIW Regulations and Legal Framework

Our health and safety policy aligns with:

• The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, outlining the legal duties of employers and employees to maintain workplace safety.
• The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, requiring risk assessments and the implementation of preventive measures.
• The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002, ensuring proper handling and disposal of hazardous substances.
• The Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992, ensuring safe moving and handling practices.
• The Fire Safety Order 2005, ensuring robust fire prevention and evacuation measures.
• The Regulated Services (Service Providers and Responsible Individuals) (Wales) Regulations 2017, which require the provider to ensure a safe and effective service.

4. Health and Safety Management and Responsibilities

To effectively manage health and safety, responsibilities are clearly defined:

• The Registered Manager ensures compliance with health and safety laws, policies, and risk assessments.
• The Responsible Individual provides oversight and ensures adequate resources are available.
• The Health and Safety Lead conducts regular risk assessments, training, and audits.
• All Employees have a duty to follow health and safety guidelines, report hazards, and take reasonable care of themselves and others.
• Residents and Visitors are encouraged to follow health and safety guidance to maintain a secure environment.

5. Risk Assessments and Hazard Prevention

• Regular risk assessments are conducted to identify and mitigate potential hazards in line with CIW and HSE guidance.
• Personalised risk assessments are created for residents with specific mobility, health, or sensory needs.
• Preventative measures include appropriate signage, maintenance checks, and staff training.
• Emergency preparedness ensures that fire exits, alarms, and evacuation procedures are in place and understood.

6. Fire Safety and Emergency Procedures

• The Fire Safety Lead ensures compliance with The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.
• Fire drills are conducted quarterly, with records maintained.
• Fire risk assessments are reviewed annually or following any significant change.
• Staff receive mandatory fire safety training, including evacuation procedures and use of fire extinguishers.
• Residents and visitors are informed of emergency evacuation routes upon admission/entry.

7. Infection Control and Hygiene

• The Infection Control Lead ensures compliance with Public Health Wales guidelines.
• Staff are trained in infection prevention, including hand hygiene, PPE usage, and waste disposal.
• Routine cleaning and sanitisation of high-touch surfaces, resident rooms, and communal areas is conducted daily.
• COVID-19 and flu protocols are in place, including symptom monitoring and outbreak response plans.

8. Safe Moving and Handling Procedures

• All staff receive training in safe manual handling techniques, in line with the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992.
• Hoists, slings, and mobility aids are regularly inspected and maintained.
• Individual moving and handling assessments are conducted for residents requiring support.

9. Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH)

• All hazardous substances are securely stored, clearly labelled, and documented.
• Staff are trained in COSHH regulations, understanding the correct use and disposal of chemicals.
• Safety Data Sheets (SDS) are available for all hazardous substances used within the care home.

10. Accident and Incident Reporting

• All accidents and incidents must be reported immediately using the Accident/Incident Report Form.
• Serious incidents are reported to CIW, in accordance with regulatory requirements.
• Investigations are conducted to determine causes and implement corrective actions.
• Lessons learned are shared with staff to improve safety measures.

11. Lone Working and Staff Safety

• Lone workers (staff working alone in a resident’s room or on night shifts) are provided with personal safety protocols.
• A check-in system ensures lone workers can signal for assistance if needed.
• Violence and aggression training equips staff with de-escalation techniques and emergency response plans.

12. Workplace Stress and Well-Being

• Staff support programmes include mental health awareness training, counselling access, and regular supervision.
• Workloads are regularly reviewed to prevent excessive stress.
• Open-door policy allows staff to discuss concerns confidentially with management.

13. Continuous Monitoring and Improvement

To maintain high safety standards, we implement:

• Monthly health and safety audits, covering equipment, environment, and staff adherence to procedures.
• Annual policy reviews or updates following changes in legislation or best practices.
• Resident and staff feedback mechanisms to report safety concerns and suggest improvements.
• Incident trend analysis to identify and reduce recurring hazards.

14. Related Policies

This policy should be read in conjunction with:

• CHW11 – Safe Care and Treatment Policy
• CHW16 – Health and Safety at Work Policy
• CHW17 – Infection Prevention and Control Policy
• CHW18 – Risk Management and Assessment Policy
• CHW20 – Fire Safety and Evacuation Procedures
• CHW23 – Lone Working and Staff Safety Policy
• CHW24 – Management of Accidents, Incidents, and Near Misses Policy

15. 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 continued compliance and best practice.

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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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