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{{org_field_name}}

Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

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Oxygen Storage, Use, and Safety Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure the safe storage, handling, and use of oxygen in the homes of individuals receiving care from {{org_field_name}}. Oxygen therapy is essential for many individuals with respiratory conditions, chronic illnesses, or acute medical needs, but improper handling or storage of oxygen can pose serious health and safety risks, including fire hazards, oxygen toxicity, and contamination.

This policy ensures compliance with Health and Safety Legislation, the Health and Social Care Standards (Scotland), and SSSC Codes of Practice for Social Service Workers and Employers (2024)​, and provides clear guidance to staff on their roles and responsibilities in managing oxygen safely and efficiently.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all employees, volunteers, and contractors of {{org_field_name}} who may be involved in the handling, storage, or use of oxygen equipment in the provision of care services. It applies to all types of oxygen delivery systems, including:

• Oxygen cylinders (portable and fixed)
• Oxygen concentrators
• Liquid oxygen systems
• Oxygen masks, nasal cannulas, and tubing

This policy also applies to individuals receiving care who require oxygen therapy, their families, and any third-party healthcare professionals involved in their care.

3. Related Policies

This policy should be read in conjunction with the following:

• Health and Safety Policy, ensuring all safety procedures align with regulatory standards.
• Fire Safety Policy, addressing specific risks associated with oxygen storage and use.
• Medication Management Policy, where oxygen is prescribed and considered part of treatment.
• Infection Prevention and Control Policy, covering the safe handling of oxygen masks and tubing.
• Risk Assessment and Personal Plans Policy, ensuring individualised oxygen therapy management.

4. Policy Statement

{{org_field_name}} is committed to ensuring that oxygen is stored, handled, and used in a way that maximises safety, compliance, and effectiveness. This includes:

• Ensuring proper storage and handling of oxygen to reduce risks.
• Providing appropriate training to all staff involved in oxygen-related care.
• Conducting risk assessments for every individual requiring oxygen therapy.
• Coordinating with healthcare professionals to ensure safe administration and monitoring.
• Implementing fire safety measures in homes where oxygen is used.
• Ensuring regular maintenance of oxygen equipment and prompt reporting of faults.

5. Responsibilities

5.1 Responsibilities of All Staff

Staff must:

• Follow oxygen safety protocols and adhere to individual care plans.
• Conduct pre-use safety checks to ensure oxygen equipment is functioning correctly.
• Store and handle oxygen in accordance with manufacturer guidelines and health & safety standards.
• Maintain accurate records of oxygen usage and any incidents related to its storage or administration.
• Report any faulty, damaged, or unsafe oxygen equipment immediately.
• Be aware of fire safety precautions when working in homes where oxygen is used.
• Educate individuals receiving care and their families on safe oxygen usage.

5.2 Responsibilities of Management and Supervisors

Managers and supervisors must:

• Ensure all staff receive training in oxygen safety and handling.
• Conduct regular risk assessments for individuals receiving oxygen therapy.
• Ensure proper procedures are followed for the storage, maintenance, and disposal of oxygen equipment.
• Liaise with oxygen suppliers, healthcare professionals, and fire safety officers to ensure compliance.
• Investigate and report any oxygen-related incidents following health and safety protocols.

5.3 Responsibilities of Individuals Receiving Care and Their Families

Individuals and families must:

• Store and use oxygen in line with safety guidelines provided by healthcare professionals.
• Avoid smoking, open flames, or flammable materials near oxygen equipment.
• Report damaged or malfunctioning equipment to the relevant authority.
• Follow emergency procedures in case of an oxygen-related fire or hazard.

6. Safe Storage of Oxygen

6.1 General Storage Requirements

• Oxygen cylinders must be stored upright and secured to prevent falling.
• Cylinders should be kept in a cool, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
• Oxygen concentrators should be placed in an area with good airflow, avoiding obstructions.
• Storage areas must be free from flammable materials, including oil, grease, and aerosol sprays.
• Individuals should be advised not to cover oxygen tubing or masks with blankets or fabrics.

6.2 Storage in Individual Homes

• Oxygen equipment should be stored in a designated, safe location in the individual’s home.
• Homes where oxygen is used must have clear warning signs stating “Oxygen in Use”.
• Family members and visitors must be informed of oxygen safety procedures.
• Emergency contacts must be clearly displayed in case of an oxygen-related emergency.

7. Safe Use of Oxygen Equipment

7.1 Using Oxygen Safely

Staff must ensure:

• The correct oxygen flow rate is set as prescribed by healthcare professionals.
• Tubing and masks are cleaned and replaced regularly to prevent infections.
• Individuals do not increase their oxygen flow rate without medical approval.
• Oxygen tubing is placed to avoid trip hazards.

7.2 Preventing Fire Hazards

• No smoking is allowed in homes where oxygen is in use.
• Staff must ensure at least six feet of distance between oxygen sources and open flames.
• Electrical appliances, such as hairdryers, electric blankets, and heaters, should be kept away from oxygen equipment.
• Fire extinguishers and smoke alarms must be present in homes where oxygen is stored.

7.3 Oxygen Use in Emergency Situations

• If an individual experiences breathing difficulties despite oxygen therapy, emergency services must be contacted immediately.
• In the event of a fire, staff must prioritise evacuating the individual and alert emergency responders to the presence of oxygen.
• If an oxygen cylinder leaks, it must be moved to a well-ventilated area and the supplier contacted for safe disposal.

8. Maintenance and Inspection of Oxygen Equipment

8.1 Routine Maintenance

• Oxygen concentrators must be checked for blockages, leaks, and damage.
• Cylinders should be checked for expiration dates and replaced as needed.
• Masks and tubing must be cleaned daily and replaced regularly.
• Any issues with oxygen equipment must be reported immediately to management and the supplier.

8.2 Emergency Equipment Checks

• Staff must perform regular safety inspections on all oxygen-related equipment.
• Homes where oxygen is used must have emergency contact numbers for suppliers and healthcare professionals.
• Individuals and families should be instructed on how to safely turn off oxygen equipment in case of malfunction.

9. Incident Reporting and Risk Management

• Any oxygen-related incidents, including leaks, fire hazards, or equipment failures, must be reported immediately following the Incident Reporting and Management Policy.
• Risk assessments must be updated regularly for individuals receiving oxygen therapy.
• Lessons learned from oxygen-related incidents must be reviewed and used to improve safety procedures.

10. Staff Training and Competency

All staff providing care to individuals using oxygen must receive mandatory training on:

• Safe handling, storage, and administration of oxygen.
• Recognising signs of oxygen toxicity or complications.
• Fire safety procedures when working with oxygen.
• Emergency response in the event of an oxygen-related incident.
• Infection control and proper cleaning of oxygen masks and tubing.

Refresher training must be conducted annually or when procedures change.

11. Compliance and Monitoring

This policy complies with:

• Health and Safety at Work Act 1974
• COSHH Regulations 2002 (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health)
• SSSC Codes of Practice for Social Service Workers and Employers (2024)​
• Care Inspectorate Scotland guidelines on oxygen safety

Regular audits, spot checks, and staff competency assessments will ensure compliance with this policy.

12. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if legislation, supplier guidance, or best practices change. Updates will be communicated to all staff.

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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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