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{{org_field_name}}

Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

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Handling and Disposal of Hazardous Substances Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that {{org_field_name}} complies with all relevant legislation and regulations relating to the handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous substances, including the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002, the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, the Environmental Protection Act 1990, and the Waste (England and Wales) Regulations 2011. The policy aims to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the people we support, staff, visitors, and contractors by minimising risks associated with hazardous substances and ensuring responsible environmental management.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all staff, volunteers, and contractors who may come into contact with hazardous substances during their duties at {{org_field_name}}. It covers all areas where hazardous substances are used, stored, or disposed of, including cleaning products, medical waste, chemicals, bodily fluids, and other potentially harmful materials. This policy also ensures compliance with Care Quality Commission (CQC) Fundamental Standards regarding the safe handling of substances.

3. Principles of Safe Handling and Disposal of Hazardous Substances

{{org_field_name}} is committed to ensuring a safe environment by adhering to the following key principles:

Identification and Risk Assessment

• A comprehensive inventory of all hazardous substances used within the organisation is maintained and regularly reviewed.
• COSHH risk assessments are conducted for all hazardous substances to determine potential health risks and necessary control measures.
• Safety Data Sheets (SDS) are available for all hazardous substances, providing information on safe handling, storage, emergency measures, and first aid procedures.
• People we support are assessed to identify any specific risks related to hazardous substances they may be exposed to within their care setting.

Storage and Labelling

• All hazardous substances are stored in designated, secure areas with restricted access, ensuring only trained and authorised staff can access them.
• Storage areas must be well-ventilated, temperature-controlled where required, and compliant with legal requirements to prevent contamination or accidental exposure.
• Correct labelling is applied to all hazardous substances in accordance with COSHH and REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) Regulations.
• Chemicals must never be stored in unlabelled containers or transferred to containers that may cause confusion (e.g., food or drink containers).
• Separate storage areas must be provided for different types of hazardous substances (flammables, corrosives, toxic substances, etc.) to prevent dangerous reactions.

Safe Handling and Use

• Staff are provided with Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as gloves, masks, and eye protection when handling hazardous substances.
• All staff receive mandatory COSHH training covering how to handle hazardous substances safely, including manual handling techniques, ventilation requirements, and emergency procedures.
• Hazardous substances are only used for their intended purpose and in strict accordance with manufacturer guidelines and SDS instructions.
• Spill kits and emergency decontamination equipment are available, and staff are trained in their use.
• Chemicals and cleaning agents must not be mixed, as this can result in toxic fumes or dangerous reactions.
• Any spills or accidental exposure are reported immediately and managed according to emergency response procedures.

Disposal of Hazardous Substances

• Waste disposal procedures are clearly outlined and in compliance with local authority regulations and environmental laws, including the Environmental Protection Act 1990.
• Hazardous waste is segregated from general waste to ensure safe and appropriate disposal.
• Medical waste disposal is conducted following NHS waste regulations and includes appropriate use of sharps bins, clinical waste bags, and designated collection points.
• Chemical waste disposal follows strict procedures, ensuring that hazardous chemicals are neutralised or disposed of through authorised waste management providers.
• Unused or expired medications are returned to a pharmacy or disposed of in line with the organisation’s Medication Management Policy.
• Regular audits are conducted to ensure hazardous waste is disposed of correctly and that staff understand their responsibilities.

Emergency Response and Spill Management

• Clear emergency response procedures are in place for managing hazardous substance spills, including containment, cleanup, and decontamination protocols.
• Emergency contact numbers for poison control, environmental agencies, and waste disposal contractors are readily available.
• Spill kits are available in all relevant areas, and staff are trained in their proper use.
• All incidents involving hazardous substances must be documented, investigated, and reviewed to prevent recurrence and improve safety measures.
• First aid measures for exposure to hazardous substances (e.g., eye washing, chemical burns) are clearly displayed and understood by all staff.

Training and Staff Responsibilities

• All staff are required to complete mandatory COSHH training upon induction and attend refresher courses annually.
• Additional task-specific training is provided for staff handling high-risk hazardous substances.
• Staff must report any concerns regarding hazardous substances to their supervisor or the Health and Safety Lead immediately.
• Regular safety drills and scenario-based training sessions help ensure staff are prepared for handling hazardous substances safely.
• Staff are encouraged to suggest improvements to existing safety procedures and to report unsafe practices confidentially if necessary.

Monitoring and Compliance

• Regular COSHH risk assessments and audits are conducted to ensure compliance with hazardous substance regulations.
• Inspection checklists are used to monitor safe storage, handling, and disposal procedures.
• Accident and incident reports related to hazardous substances are reviewed by the Health and Safety Committee.
• Updates in legislation, CQC requirements, or industry best practices are incorporated into policies and training materials promptly.
• Non-compliance is addressed through training, supervision, and corrective action plans to improve adherence to safety protocols.

4. Roles and Responsibilities

• Registered Manager: Ensures compliance with all hazardous substances regulations and oversees staff training.
• Health and Safety Lead: Conducts COSHH risk assessments, maintains SDS records, and monitors the safe handling and disposal of hazardous substances.
• All Staff: Responsible for adhering to safe handling procedures, reporting any incidents, and following disposal protocols.
• Waste Management Providers: Ensures hazardous waste is disposed of in compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Training Coordinator: Ensures all staff receive appropriate COSHH training and updates training materials as needed.

5. Related Policies

This policy should be read in conjunction with:

• SL11 – Safe Care and Treatment Policy
• SL16 – Health and Safety at Work Policy
• SL21 – Infection Prevention and Control Policy
• SL30 – Fire Safety and Emergency Evacuation Policy
• SL35 – Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Policy
• SL40 – Medication Management and Administration Policy

6. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if legislative changes, CQC requirements, or organisational needs necessitate an update. Any updates will be communicated to all staff to ensure continued compliance with safe handling and disposal of hazardous substances. Non-compliance with this policy may result in disciplinary action.

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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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