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{{org_field_name}}

Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

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Safe Use of Equipment and Aids Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that all equipment and aids used within {{org_field_name}} are maintained, used, and managed safely to prevent harm to the people we support and staff. This policy provides clear guidance on the correct procedures for selecting, using, inspecting, maintaining, and reporting issues related to equipment and aids. By adhering to this policy, we ensure compliance with the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER) 1998, Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER) 1998, and Health and Social Care Standards (Scotland).

This policy aims to:

• Ensure all equipment and aids are used correctly and safely to support the independence and well-being of the people we support.
• Minimise risks associated with the use of equipment and aids in care settings.
• Provide clear procedures for staff to follow when using, maintaining, and inspecting equipment.
• Outline the responsibilities of staff, management, and external contractors in maintaining safe equipment.
• Ensure compliance with Care Inspectorate Scotland regulations.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all employees of {{org_field_name}}, including care workers, supervisors, managers, and other personnel involved in the use, maintenance, or procurement of equipment and aids. It also applies to external contractors providing servicing or inspection services for equipment.

3. Legal Framework

This policy aligns with the following legislation and regulations:

• Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 – Ensuring the safety of staff and people receiving care.
• The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER) 1998 – Governing the use of work equipment to prevent injury.
• Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER) 1998 – Covering the safe use of lifting equipment such as hoists.
• Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 – Outlining risk assessment responsibilities.
• Health and Social Care Standards (Scotland) – Defining what people receiving care should expect in terms of safety and dignity.
• Scottish Manual Handling Regulations – Governing the safe moving and handling of individuals and objects.

4. Safe Selection and Procurement of Equipment

All equipment and aids used within {{org_field_name}} must meet regulatory standards and be suitable for the intended purpose. When selecting equipment, the following considerations must be made:

• Equipment must be CE-marked or meet British/European safety standards.
• The needs of the individual receiving care must be assessed before choosing equipment.
• Only equipment that staff have been trained to use should be procured.
• Supplier instructions and guidelines must be reviewed before equipment is introduced.
• A full risk assessment must be conducted before new equipment is put into use.

5. Staff Training and Competency

To ensure safety and compliance, all staff using equipment must:

1. Receive Training: All staff must undergo induction and ongoing training on the safe use of care equipment.
2. Demonstrate Competency: Staff must be assessed on their ability to operate equipment safely before use.
3. Manual Handling Certification: Where applicable, staff must complete training in safe lifting techniques.
4. Emergency Response Knowledge: Staff must understand emergency procedures in case of equipment failure or accidents.
5. Annual Refreshers: Training should be refreshed annually or when introducing new equipment.

6. Equipment Maintenance and Inspection

Regular maintenance and inspection of equipment are essential to prevent malfunctions and safety hazards. {{org_field_name}} ensures that:

1. Daily Checks: Staff must visually inspect equipment before each use.
2. Scheduled Maintenance: Equipment such as hoists, wheelchairs, and beds must be serviced regularly.
3. Record Keeping: All maintenance and repair activities must be documented.
4. Immediate Reporting: Staff must report faults or wear and tear immediately.
5. Third-Party Inspections: Annual inspections by qualified technicians must be carried out on specialist equipment.

7. Safe Use of Mobility Aids

Mobility aids such as walking frames, rollators, wheelchairs, and crutches must be used safely and appropriately. Staff must:

1. Assess Suitability: Ensure the aid is suitable for the individual’s needs.
2. Perform Pre-Use Checks: Verify that rubber tips, brakes, and frames are intact.
3. Provide Guidance: Assist individuals in using mobility aids safely.
4. Monitor Changes: Identify if an individual’s needs have changed, requiring a different aid.
5. Store Safely: Ensure mobility aids are stored in a dry, accessible location.

8. Safe Use of Hoists and Lifting Equipment

Hoists and lifting aids require specific training and handling procedures. Staff must:

1. Verify Suitability: Check weight limits and individual risk assessments before use.
2. Conduct Safety Checks: Inspect slings, straps, and motors before operation.
3. Follow a Two-Person Policy: Always use a second staff member for complex transfers.
4. Ensure Comfort and Security: Position individuals properly before lifting.
5. Report Issues Immediately: Do not use hoists showing signs of wear or malfunction.

9. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Staff must wear appropriate PPE when using certain types of equipment to prevent injury. This includes:

• Gloves when handling personal care equipment.
• Safety footwear when moving heavy items.
• Protective clothing where there is a risk of contamination.

All PPE must comply with Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations.

10. Reporting and Managing Equipment Failures

Faulty equipment poses a serious safety risk. Staff must:

1. Stop Using the Equipment Immediately.
2. Report the Fault to a Supervisor.
3. Record the Issue in the Incident Log.
4. Mark the Equipment as Out of Service.
5. Arrange for Repairs or Replacement.

11. Emergency Procedures

In case of equipment failure, staff must:

• Use alternative manual handling techniques where safe and appropriate.
• Follow emergency evacuation plans if equipment failure poses a safety risk.
• Report any injury or incident immediately following incident reporting protocols.

12. Quality Assurance and Continuous Improvement

To ensure ongoing compliance and safety, {{org_field_name}} will:

• Conduct regular audits on equipment use and maintenance records.
• Obtain feedback from staff and people receiving care on equipment safety and usability.
• Keep up to date with new technology and best practices in equipment safety.
• Review and update procedures as needed, ensuring compliance with Care Inspectorate Scotland.

13. Related Policies

This policy should be read alongside:

• Health and Safety Policy
• Manual Handling Policy
• Risk Assessment and Incident Reporting Policy
• Infection Control Policy

14. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if there are changes in legislation, best practices, or organisational needs. Any amendments will be communicated to all staff and relevant stakeholders.

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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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