We live in an time of litigation and this will not go away anytime soon if ever. Any employer must make sure that they take all practical steps to ensure their staff are safe whilst carrying out their day to day job. Full staff training is paramount to increasing the safety of your staff and should form a major part of you companies risk assessment in regards to the hazards related to sharps. That’s why companies need to invest in practical training that will educate and make staff personally aware of the risks to themselves and their colleagues.
Needle Stick Injuries are a major cause of concern for any staff working in a hands on practical role, and staff that may come into contact with suspected drug users such as housing officers. Millions of needles are handed to drug users every year and only a fraction are returned to needle exchanges. Needles are found in parks, garages, buildings, Houses the list goes on and on.
Staff need to be trained in how to spot the dangers in regards to drug needles and other drug related hazards and depending on your companies role the safe removal of needles and drugs litter.
the trade union UNISON say that:
“Many UNISON members face the daily risk of injury from discarded needles because of their work.
The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 requires employers to, as far as is reasonably practical, ensure the health and safety of both their employees and the public.
Any policy or procedure must be underpinned by training.
This training must cover, not only the safe system of work, but also an explanation of the reasons for it. Training should explain the levels of risk and how the procedures and control measures will reduce that risk.
It is important that training does not scaremonger or hype up the risk. Nor should it be judgmental about drug users.
Training should be an ongoing process and refresher training needs to be provided at regular intervals. “
If a staff member suffers a needle stick injury he will have to wait months for the hopefully reported all clear from the hospital in regards to HIV / HEP C / HEP B. Months of worry and concern for themselves and their families.
Help to safeguard against this risk! with full training provided by a trainer with years of practical experience of Sharps safety/Needle Removal/Drug Awareness and drug releated risk management you could dramatically reduce the chances of injury to staff members, and thus help to protect your company from the worry of litigation.
