Contribute to health and safety in health and social care

Unit aim

This unit is aimed at those working in a wide range of settings. It provides the learner with the knowledge and skills required to carry out their work safely.

Outcome 1 Understand own responsibilities, and the responsibilities of others, relating to health and safety in the work setting

1. identify legislation relating to general health and safety in a health or social care work setting

2. describe the main points of the health and safety policies and procedures agreed with the employer

3. outline the main health and safety responsibilities of:

• self

• the employer or manager

• others in the work setting

4. identify tasks relating to health and safety that should not be carried out without special training

5. explain how to access additional support and information relating to health and safety

Outcome 2 Understand the use of risk assessments in relation to health and safety

1. explain why it is important to assess health and safety hazards posed by the work setting or by particular activities

2. explain how and when to report potential health and safety risks that have been identified

3. explain how risk assessment can help address dilemmas between rights and health and safety concerns.

Outcome 3 Understand procedures for responding to accidents and sudden illness

1. describe different types of accidents and sudden illness that may occur in own work setting

2. outline the procedures to be followed if an accident or sudden illness should occur.

Outcome 4 Reduce the spread of infection

1. demonstrate the recommended method for hand washing

2. demonstrate ways to ensure that own health and hygiene do not pose a risk to others at work.

Outcome 5 Move and handle equipment and other objects safely

1. identify legislation that relates to moving and handling

2. explain principles for moving and handling equipment and other objects safely

3. move and handle equipment or other objects safely.

Outcome 6 Know how to handle hazardous substances and materials

1. identify hazardous substances and materials that may be found in the work setting

2. describe safe practices for:

• Storing hazardous substances

• Using hazardous substances

• Disposing of hazardous substances and materials.

Outcome 7 Understand how to promote fire safety in the work setting

1. describe practices that prevent fires from:

• starting

• spreading

2. outline emergency procedures to be followed in the event of a fire in the work setting

3. explain the importance of maintaining clear evacuation routes at all times.

Outcome 8 Implement security measures in the work setting

1. use agreed ways of working for checking the identity of anyone requesting access to:

• premises

• information

2. implement measures to protect own security and the security of others in the work setting

3. explain the importance of ensuring that others are aware of own whereabouts.

Outcome 9 Know how to manage own stress

1. identify common signs and indicators of stress

2. identify circumstances that tend to trigger own stress

3. describe ways to manage own stress.