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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 within {{org_field_name}} to minimise risks to people we support, staff, and visitors. Oxygen is a life-sustaining but highly flammable gas, requiring strict adherence to Health and Safety Executive (HSE) guidance, CQC regulations, and COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) Regulations.

This policy ensures that people we support receive safe and appropriate oxygen therapy when needed, without compromising the safety of the living environment.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

• All staff members involved in the care and support of people who require oxygen therapy.
• People we support who use oxygen as part of their care plan.
• Visitors, healthcare professionals, and contractors attending premises where oxygen is stored or used.
• All premises managed by {{org_field_name}}, including supported living settings and vehicles where oxygen may be transported.

3. Legal and Regulatory Compliance

This policy aligns with:

• Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014
  • Regulation 12 (Safe Care and Treatment)
  • Regulation 15 (Premises and Equipment)
• Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002
• Health and Safety at Work Act 1974
• The Carriage of Dangerous Goods and Use of Transportable Pressure Equipment Regulations 2009
• BS EN ISO 7396-1:2016 (Medical Gas Pipeline Systems – Requirements for safety and performance)

4. Responsibilities

Registered Manager

• Ensures staff are trained in oxygen safety procedures.
• Maintains accurate records of oxygen storage, handling, and risk assessments.
• Reports any incidents to CQC and relevant authorities in line with Regulation 18 (Notification of Other Incidents).
• Ensures compliance with COSHH assessments and fire safety regulations.

Staff Members

• Follow procedures for safe handling and storage of oxygen.
• Conduct regular visual checks on oxygen cylinders.
• Report any damaged equipment or leaks immediately.
• Educate people we support on safe oxygen use.

People We Support

• Are informed of oxygen safety risks and encouraged to follow guidance.
• Must notify staff of any issues with their oxygen equipment.
• Must avoid using flammable materials (e.g., aerosols, smoking) near oxygen.

5. Safe Storage of Oxygen

Oxygen must be stored in compliance with HSE and CQC guidelines:

• Location: Oxygen cylinders must be stored upright, in a well-ventilated, fire-resistant area, away from direct sunlight, radiators, or heat sources.
• Secure Storage: Cylinders must be secured using brackets or chains to prevent falling.
• Separation: Oxygen must be stored separately from combustible materials such as oil, grease, or chemicals.
• Warning Signage: A “No Smoking” and “Oxygen in Use” sign must be displayed at storage areas and rooms where oxygen is used.
• Stock Rotation: Oldest stock should be used first to prevent expired cylinders.

6. Handling and Use of Oxygen

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Staff must wear appropriate PPE (e.g., gloves) when handling oxygen cylinders.
• Valve Safety: Oxygen valves must always be closed when not in use.
• Avoid Contamination: Hands must be clean and free of oil/grease before handling oxygen.
• Leak Checks: Before use, check for leaks using an approved leak detection solution.
• Correct Flow Rates: Ensure that oxygen is administered at the prescribed flow rate according to the care plan.
• Ventilation: Areas where oxygen is used must be well-ventilated to prevent oxygen enrichment, which increases fire risk.

7. Fire Safety Precautions

• Fire Risk Assessments: Oxygen use must be included in fire risk assessments as per Regulation 15 (Premises and Equipment).
• Prohibited Items:
  • No smoking or open flames near oxygen.
  • No use of electrical equipment prone to sparking near oxygen storage.
• Fire Extinguishers: COâ” or dry powder extinguishers must be available near oxygen storage areas.
• Emergency Procedures: Staff must be trained in evacuation procedures, including safe handling of oxygen-dependent individuals.

8. Transportation of Oxygen

When transporting oxygen (e.g., in a vehicle):

• Cylinders must be secured upright in a designated storage area.
• Vehicle must display an “Oxygen in Use” sign.
• No smoking or open flames inside the vehicle.
• Windows should be slightly open for ventilation.
• Only trained staff should load and unload oxygen cylinders.

9. Oxygen Therapy for People We Support

• Individual Care Plans: Each person requiring oxygen will have a detailed risk assessment and care plan.
• Regular Monitoring: Staff must monitor oxygen saturation levels and watch for signs of oxygen toxicity.
• Emergency Oxygen Use:
  • Emergency protocols must be in place for people requiring oxygen during a medical crisis.
  • Staff must ensure oxygen cylinders are accessible but not a fire hazard.

10. Incident Reporting and Risk Management

• Recording and Reporting: All oxygen-related incidents (e.g., leaks, fires, equipment failure) must be reported under Regulation 18 (Notification of Other Incidents).
• Immediate Action:
  • Leak detection: If an oxygen leak is suspected, ventilate the area and shut off oxygen.
  • Fire response: Follow fire safety procedures and evacuate if needed.
• Investigation and Learning: All incidents must be investigated and used for staff training and policy improvement.

11. Training and Competency of Staff

• Mandatory Training: All staff handling oxygen must complete annual training on:
  • Oxygen storage and handling
  • Fire safety precautions
  • Emergency procedures
• Competency Assessments: Staff must undergo regular competency checks to ensure safe oxygen management.

12. Related Policies

• SL11 – Safe Care and Treatment Policy
• SL16 – Health and Safety at Work Policy
• SL18 – Risk Management and Assessment Policy
• SL20 – Fire Safety and Evacuation Procedures
• SL21 – Medication Management and Administration Policy

13. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if:

• There are changes in legislation or CQC regulations.
• A serious incident occurs requiring policy amendments.
• New best practice guidance becomes available.

All staff will be informed of any updates, and training will be revised as necessary.

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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}}
Copyright © {{current_year}} – {{org_field_name}}. All rights reserved.