DCW22-Handling and Disposal of Hazardous Substances Policy
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Handling and Disposal of Hazardous Substances Policy
1. Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to ensure the safe handling, storage, use, and disposal of hazardous substances within {{org_field_name}} to protect staff, service users, visitors, and the environment. This policy aligns with the latest CIW regulations in Wales and ensures compliance with health and safety laws, reducing risks associated with hazardous substances in domiciliary care settings.
The objectives of this policy are to:
- Ensure compliance with all relevant legislation and regulatory requirements.
- Minimise risks associated with hazardous substances to protect staff, service users, and the public.
- Provide clear procedures for the safe storage, handling, and disposal of hazardous substances.
- Ensure staff training and competency in managing hazardous materials.
- Prevent environmental contamination through safe disposal practices.
2. Scope
This policy applies to:
- All staff, including care workers, managers, and administrative personnel.
- Service users and their families, ensuring awareness of potential risks.
- Contractors and external professionals, who must follow safety procedures when working with hazardous substances.
- The Registered Manager and Responsible Individual, who oversee compliance and risk management.
3. Legal and Regulatory Framework
This policy is aligned with the following legislation and CIW regulations:
- The Regulation and Inspection of Social Care (Wales) Act 2016.
- The Regulated Services (Service Providers and Responsible Individuals) (Wales) Regulations 2017, which require providers to ensure safe working environments.
- The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002, requiring risk assessment and control of hazardous substances.
- The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, ensuring safe working conditions.
- The Hazardous Waste (England and Wales) Regulations 2005, governing the correct disposal of hazardous waste.
- The Environmental Protection Act 1990, ensuring safe waste management practices.
- The Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR) 2013, mandating reporting of hazardous substance-related incidents.
4. Identifying Hazardous Substances in Domiciliary Care
Hazardous substances commonly encountered in domiciliary care settings include:
- Cleaning chemicals, such as disinfectants, bleach, and descalers.
- Medication waste, including controlled drugs, expired medications, and liquid medicines.
- Sharps and needles, used for insulin injections and other treatments.
- Biological hazards, including bodily fluids, waste, and contaminated items.
- Personal protective equipment (PPE) waste, such as gloves, masks, and gowns.
How we manage this efficiently:
- Comprehensive risk assessments are conducted for all hazardous substances.
- Safety data sheets (SDS) are available for all chemicals used by staff.
- Service users’ care plans include individual risk assessments related to hazardous substances.
5. Handling and Storage of Hazardous Substances
To prevent accidents, exposure, and contamination, all hazardous substances must be handled and stored correctly.
5.1 Safe Handling Procedures
- Staff must wear appropriate PPE, including gloves and masks, when handling hazardous substances.
- All hazardous substances should be used in well-ventilated areas where possible.
- Decanting chemicals is strictly prohibited to prevent accidental misuse.
- No hazardous substances should be left unattended in service users’ homes.
- Chemicals must never be mixed, as this can create harmful reactions.
How we manage this efficiently:
- All staff receive COSHH training on the safe handling of hazardous substances.
- Staff follow written instructions and manufacturer guidelines when using cleaning products.
- Emergency procedures are in place in case of accidental exposure.
5.2 Storage of Hazardous Substances
- All hazardous substances must be stored in original containers, clearly labelled with hazard symbols.
- Cleaning chemicals should be kept in locked cupboards, away from food and medicine.
- Flammable substances must be stored away from heat sources.
- Service users’ homes are risk assessed to ensure proper storage.
How we manage this efficiently:
- Regular audits are conducted to ensure proper storage of hazardous substances.
- Staff training includes best practices for storage safety.
- Care workers are required to check and report any storage concerns in service users’ homes.
6. Disposal of Hazardous Substances
Proper disposal procedures help prevent harm to staff, service users, and the environment.
6.1 Safe Disposal of Cleaning Chemicals
- Never dispose of hazardous substances down household drains or toilets unless specified as safe by the manufacturer.
- Follow local authority guidance for chemical disposal.
- Use designated hazardous waste containers for expired or unused chemicals.
6.2 Safe Disposal of Medication Waste
- Unused or expired medications must never be flushed down toilets or sinks.
- Medication waste should be returned to pharmacies for safe disposal.
- Controlled drugs must be recorded and disposed of under supervision.
6.3 Safe Disposal of Sharps and Needles
- Sharps must be disposed of in an approved sharps container, never in household bins.
- Used needles should never be recapped, to prevent injuries.
- Full sharps bins must be collected by licensed waste disposal services.
6.4 Safe Disposal of Biological Waste
- Contaminated PPE and waste should be double-bagged and disposed of as per local guidelines.
- Bodily fluids should be cleaned using appropriate disinfectants, with waste disposed of safely.
How we manage this efficiently:
- Staff follow strict disposal guidelines in line with environmental and health regulations.
- Clear procedures are communicated to service users and families where applicable.
- Routine checks ensure staff compliance with safe disposal practices.
7. Incident Reporting and Emergency Procedures
7.1 Incident Reporting
Any exposure, spill, or improper disposal of hazardous substances must be reported immediately using incident report forms.
- Major incidents must be reported to CIW and HSE as required by RIDDOR.
- Medical attention should be sought for any exposure-related injury or illness.
- Risk assessments must be updated following any incident.
7.2 Emergency Procedures
- In case of chemical spills, staff must evacuate and use appropriate spill kits.
- Inhalation or ingestion of hazardous substances must be treated as a medical emergency.
- Emergency contacts for hazardous waste disposal are available for staff use.
How we manage this efficiently:
- Emergency response plans are in place for hazardous substance incidents.
- Incident reports are analysed for trends and improvements.
- Regular drills ensure staff are prepared for emergencies.
8. Training and Staff Awareness
- All staff receive mandatory COSHH training, refreshed annually.
- Care workers handling hazardous substances undergo practical training.
- Supervisors conduct regular spot-checks to ensure compliance.
9. Related Policies
This policy aligns with:
- Health and Safety at Work Policy (DCW16).
- Risk Management and Assessment Policy (DCW18).
- Infection Prevention and Control Policy (DCW17).
- Management of Accidents, Incidents, and Near Misses Policy (DCW24).
10. Policy Review
This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if required due to changes in legislation, business needs, or CIW regulations. The Registered Manager and Responsible Individual are responsible for ensuring its accuracy and implementation.
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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