Transcript Slide 1

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Fit for Work
For all staff.
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Introduction
The main piece of law governing
Health & Safety is: The Health &
Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
Fit for work
COURSE OBJECTIVES
On completion of the Fit for Work
module you will be able to:
• Describe why an awareness
of health and safety issues in
the workplace is important.
• Demonstrate how to lift, carry,
and deposit an inanimate load
safely.
• Describe how to adjust
seating position and posture
whilst using display screen
equipment.
• Identify dangers associated
with using hazardous
chemicals.
• Take appropriate measures to
relieve stress and fatigue
whilst carrying out certain
tasks.
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This Act defines responsibilities and
duties for all people at work and
provides a system for other Health &
Safety law (Regulations) to fit into.
The Fit for Work module is designed to
encourage and promote safe working
practices which help you to look after
your health.
To remain safe you should:
- be aware of the risks involved in
activities;
- ensure that you use equipment that
has been provided to assist you in
your work;
- operate equipment and handle
materials according to health and
safety guidelines.
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Ergonomics
What is Ergonomics?
In its simplest term ergonomics is the study of people in
relation to their working environment. This means how you
and the things around you at work fit together. To ensure
efficient operation and to avoid strain and injury, you and your
workplace environment must be arranged, organised, and
designed.
In this section we shall help you to understand ergonomics at
work.
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Scenario
Jane works in a busy Admin office. She is only 5‘0" tall and all her colleagues are much
taller. The photocopier paper is always kept on an high shelf which is easily reached by
Jane’s taller colleagues. However, whenever Jane needs to refill the copier, it's a struggle
to reach the paper and she often has to stand on her tiptoes to reach.
What should she do?
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Stand on a chair?
Ask someone else to get it down for her?
Knock it down with an umbrella?
Ask for the shelf to be lowered?
Keep the paper elsewhere?
From these options it may seem very clear what the correct course
of action is but it also shows that some options are dangerous and
some may cause injury. It also demonstrates that this is not a very
efficient way to run an office.
The “fit” between a person and their working environment needs to be
addressed. A basic understanding of ergonomics within your workplace can
improve your work routine. Ergonomic solutions can often be simple to make,
such as altering the height of a chair.
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What can it do?
By applying ergonomics within the workplace it has the potential for reducing: Accidents;
 Potential for injury or ill health;
It can also lead to improved performance and productivity.
The use of Ergonomics reduces the potential for ill health at work, such as aches
and pains of the wrists, shoulders, and back by considering the layout of your
working equipment and how objects and work tools should be positioned in relation
to how they are used. For example, items used most often should be placed where
they are within easy reach and use reducing the need for stooping, stretching, etc.
Failure to observe ergonomic principles may have serious repercussions, not only for
individuals, work colleagues, their families, but also for the Trust.
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What can I do?
If you find a problem the next step is to look for the cause and consider possible solutions.
A slight alteration may be all that is necessary to make a task easier and safer to perform.
Here are some examples: Use adjustable chairs so individuals can work at their seating position;
 Remove any obstacles from under desks to create sufficient leg room;
 Arrange items stored on shelving so that those that are the heaviest are between waist
and shoulder height;
 Change shift work patterns;
 Rotation of different tasks to reduce physical and mental fatigue;
 Talk to colleagues and get them to suggest ideas and discuss possible solutions;
 Always make sure that any alterations are properly evaluated by the people who do the
job. Be aware that a change introduced to solve one problem does not create another.
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Ergonomics
Ergonomics is normally known for resolving problems that are more physical in
nature. For example, ensuring that desking is high enough to allow adequate
clearance for an individual’s legs. However, ergonomics also deals with
psychological and social aspects of the individual and their work. For example, a
workload that is too high or too low, not having clear and defined tasks, time
pressures, inadequate training, or poor social support can all contribute to having
negative effects on an individual and their work.
The following are some examples of ‘typical’ ergonomic problems that can be found
and addressed in the workplace: Display Screen Equipment
 Manual Handling
 Work-related Stress
 Managing the Working Day
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Question
Problems attributed to poor ergonomics may result
in mistakes being made at work?
FALSE
TRUE
Continue
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Display Screen Equipment Considerations
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Is the screen poorly positioned is it too high / low / close / far
from the worker, or is it off-set to
one side?
Is the mouse too far away and
do you have to stretch to use it?
Is the chair properly adjusted to
fit the person, or is it awkward
and causing uncomfortable
postures?
Is there glare on the screen from
windows or overhead lights, as
this will increase the risk of
eyestrain?
Is the hardware and / or software
suitable for the task and the
person using it, or is it causing
frustration and distress?
Remember to take enough
breaks or changes of activity?
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If any of the above problems are not dealt with it may
result in mistakes and poor productivity, stress, eye
strain, headaches, or other aches and pains. The
correct set up is demonstrated in the picture.
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Manual Handling Considerations
 Is the load heavy and / or bulky, placing unreasonable demands on
the person?
 Does the load have to be lifted from the floor and / or above the
shoulders?
 Does the task involve frequent repetitive lifting?
 Does the task cause an awkward posture, such as bending or
twisting?
 Can the load be gripped properly?
 Is the task performed on an uneven, wet, or sloping floor?
 Is the task performed under time pressure and / or have too few rest
breaks?
Any of the above, if not addressed, may result in physical injuries such
as low back pain, injury to the arms, hands, or fingers. The problems
may also contribute to the risk of slips, trips, and falls.
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Work Related Stress Considerations
 Are work demands too high or too low?
 Does the employee have little say in how they organise their work?
 Is there poor support from management and / or colleagues?
 Are there conflicting demands, e.g. high productivity and quality?
Any poor control of the risks causing workrelated stress could lead to ill health and,
therefore, reduced performance and
productivity.
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Scenario
Sheila works on a conveyor assembly line. In her job she has to use her hands to pick up
and fill small boxes of goods ready to dispatch to retail outlets. The assembly line makes
and dispatches 800 boxes a day and it takes approximately 30 seconds to pack each box.
As well as the risk from repetitive strain, Sheila often has to adopt poor postures to reach
the goods for packing. She has to repeatedly stretch out her arm and constrain her posture
while packing. After some time on the job, Sheila found she was leaving work with shoulder
and wrist pain.
One tea break, Sheila’s line manager saw her rubbing her neck and wrists and recognised
the pain could be due to the type of work she was doing. The Line Manager told the
company Health and Safety Representative about what she had seen.
Considering Sheila’s problem, think about what actions her employers could take to improve
the work area?
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What the Company Implemented
Whilst considering the possible actions, WELL DONE if you thought of any of the
following:-
 Modify the workplace layout and allow workers better access to the conveyor, so
they didn’t need to adopt poor working postures;
 Introduce grab tools that allowed the gathering of the goods, which will reduce the
repetitive movements;
 Implement a job rotation scheme, whereby five workers on the line are moved
around a number of different tasks.
This now completes the Ergonomics part of the
training
Continue
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Display Screen Equipment
It is very likely that in the course of your work you
will be using a computer, keyboard, mouse, and
Screen or monitor (referred to as a Visual Display
Unit or VDU).
However, to minimise any risks in using this
equipment your employer must ensure that the
workplace, desks, and jobs are well designed.
As a user of the equipment, you are also responsible
for using the equipment and resources provided to
you correctly.
In this section we will look at how you can work
safely and avoid injury while using equipment of this
type.
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What can I do?
To make full use of the equipment provided, you
will need to adjust your workstation to get the
best from it and to avoid any potential health
problems.
Firstly, set up your workstation properly to make
this as comfortable as possible.
The following slides will help you see how best
to set up your workstation and then complete the
Risk Assessment so that you will be able to
print, sign, and give it to your Manager.
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What can I do?
As a broad guide, your
forearms should be
approximately horizontal to the
desk surface and your eyes the
same height as the top of the
VDU.
Make sure you have enough
work space for whatever
documents or other equipment
you need.
Please Note
Make sure that your chair has five
spokes to its base.
Older models with only three or
four spokes are dangerous and
should be withdrawn.
Adjust your chair and screen to find the most comfortable position for your work.
Look beneath the seat of your chair for adjustment controls for lift, tilt, and back
height.
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Question
Your eyes should be level with the top of the VDU
screen to avoid neck and eye strain?
FALSE
TRUE
Continue
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What can I do?
Try different arrangements of keyboard, screen, mouse and
documents to find the best arrangement for you.
A document holder may help you avoid awkward neck and
eye movements.
Arrange your desk and VDU to avoid glare, or
bright reflections on the screen. This will be
easiest if neither you nor the screen is directly
facing windows or bright lights. Adjust curtains
or blinds to prevent unwanted light.
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What can I do?
Make sure there is space under your desk to move your legs freely. Move any obstacles
such as boxes, files, or equipment.
Avoid excess pressure
from the edge of your
seat on the backs of
your legs and knees. A
footrest may be
helpful, particularly for
smaller users.
Support your forearm on the
desk, and don’t grip the mouse
too tightly. Use a mouse mat
with wrist support if required.
Rest your fingers lightly on
the buttons and do not
press them hard.
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Position the mouse
within easy reach, so
it can be used with
the wrist straight. Sit
upright and close to
the desk, so you
don’t have to work
with your mouse arm
stretched.
What can I do?
Adjust your keyboard to get a good typing position.
A space in front of the keyboard is sometimes
helpful for resting the hands and wrists when not
typing.
Try to keep your wrists straight when typing. Keep
a soft touch on the keys and don't overstretch your
fingers. Good keyboard technique is important.
Adjust the brightness and contrast
controls on the screen to suit
lighting conditions in the room &
make sure the screen surface is
clean.
When setting up and working on
any applications, adjust the
settings so text is large enough to
read easily on your screen.
Individual characters on the screen
should be sharply focused and
should not flicker or move.
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What can I do?
Don’t sit in the same position for long periods.
Make sure you change your posture as often as
practicable. Some movement is desirable, but
avoid repeated stretching for things you need (if
this happens a lot, rearrange your workstation).
Most jobs provide opportunities to take a break
from working on a screen. Make use of them.
If there are no such natural breaks in your job,
your Manager should help you plan for regular
short breaks from the typing position. Frequent
short breaks are better than fewer long ones.
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Answers to some common
questions from VDU users:
“Are aches and pains caused by using a VDU? What about RSI”?
Some users may get aches and pains in their hands, wrists, arms, neck, shoulders, or back,
especially after long periods of uninterrupted VDU work. “Repetitive Strain Injury” (RSI) has
become a popular term for these aches, pains, and disorders, but can be misleading - it
means different things to different people. A more accurate name for this whole group of
conditions is “Upper Limb Disorders” (ULD). Usually, these disorders do not last but in a
few cases they may become persistent or even disabling.
“Can work with VDUs affect eyesight”?
Extensive research has found no evidence that VDUs can cause disease
or permanent damage to eyes, although long spells of VDU work can
lead to tired eyes and discomfort. Also, by giving your eyes more
demanding tasks, it might make you aware of an eyesight problem you
had not noticed before. You and your employer can help your eyes by
ensuring your VDU is well positioned and properly adjusted, and that the
workplace lighting is suitable. Ask for an Eye Test if you still think there
is a problem.
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Answers to some common
questions from VDU users:
Headaches may result from several things that occur with VDU work, such as:screen glare
poor image quality
a need for different spectacles
stress from the pace of work
anxiety about new technology
reading the screen for long periods without a break
poor posture
or a combination of these.
Many of these things can easily be put right once the cause of the problem has been
found. People who use a VDU sometimes complain of stress, but this usually arises from
an increased pace of work or pressure to meet deadlines, not the VDU itself. Some VDU
workers find stress reduced because the VDU makes their job easier or more interesting,
but for others stress becomes worse. This can happen when a system does not work well
or when the user does not feel in control or competent to operate it. Employers can help
overcome stress by providing the right training, and by designing systems and tasks to
match the abilities of the people who work with them.
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The Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992
require employers to minimise the risks in VDU work by ensuring that
workplaces and jobs are well designed.
The Regulations apply where staff habitually use VDUs as a significant
part of their normal work. People who use VDUs only occasionally are
not covered by the Regulations (apart from the workstation requirements).
However, their employers still have general duties to protect them under
other Health and Safety legislation.
I am self-employed - am I covered?
The Regulations do not place any duties on the self-employed. However, parts of them
apply if you habitually use a VDU for a significant part of your normal work and are using a
client employer’s workstation. The client employer has to assess and reduce risks, ensure
the workstation complies with the minimum requirements, and provide information as if you
were an employee. However, there is no requirement for employers to plan work breaks,
provide eye tests, or provide training for the self-employed.
I work at home: am I covered?
Yes, the Regulations apply if you are an employee working at home and
habitually using a VDU for a significant part of your normal work.
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Finally, before we leave this subject, don't forget about your other piece of display screen
equipment - your eyesight!
Have it checked regularly for your general medical health. If you use a computer for work
your employer may also pay towards your eye test.
This now completes the DSE part of the
training
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Continue
Manual Handling
What is Manual Handling?
A good definition of Manual Handling is: the transporting or
supporting of a load, including lifting, putting down, pushing,
pulling, carrying, or moving of a load.
More than a third of all 4+ day injuries reported across the country
each year are caused by manual handling - the transporting or
supporting of loads by hand or by bodily force.
Manual handling injuries account for approximately
40% of all general workplace reported injuries.
However, these only represent the tip of a very large
pyramid. For every injury that is reported there is an
estimated 10 additional injuries that have not and
approximately 200 near misses.
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What does the law say?
This is covered by the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 which aims to make the
workplace as safe as reasonably possible for staff and anyone affected by their work and
puts requirements on both employers and employees.
Along with Manual Handling Operations Regulation 1992 there are other regulations that also
come under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 that are also relevant.
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Manual Handling Operations
Regulation 1992
The Regulations require employers to:
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Avoid the need for hazardous manual handling, so far as is
reasonably practicable;
Assess the risk of injury from any hazardous manual handling
that can ’t be avoided;
Reduce the risk of injury from hazardous manual handling, so far as is reasonably
practicable;
Review Risk Assessments regularly.
However, Employees have duties, too.
They are:
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Follow appropriate systems of work laid down for their safety;
Make proper use of equipment provided for their safety;
Co-operate with their employer on health and safety matters;
Inform the employer if they identify hazardous handling
activities;
Take care to ensure that their activities do not put
others at risk.
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Risk Assessment - the Difference
Between an Hazard and a Risk
Central to understanding the risk assessment process is the difference between
an hazard and a risk. In everyday language these terms are used
interchangeably. For example, “that was hazardous” and “that was risky”.
In Risk Assessments, however, they have distinct and different meanings.
An Hazard is anything that
has the potential to cause
harm. Trailing leads, confined
spaces, water on the floor are
all examples of hazards.
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A Risk is the chance or
likelihood of harm occurring
from an hazard and takes into
account the possible
seriousness of the injury or
incident should it occur. For
example, an identical trip
hazard, such as a box, is an
higher risk on stairs than it is
in the corner of a seldom used
store room.
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Question
When lifting a load , twisting and lifting at the same
time is better than turning by moving the feet?
FALSE
TRUE
Continue
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The Risk Assessment Process in Manual
Handling - TILEE
We often undertake Risk Assessments in everyday life, for example, driving a car and
crossing a road. These assessments are, of course, informal and not structured, certainly
not written down!
When completing a Manual Handling Risk Assessment it is useful to have a structured
approach so that hazards are easier to see and risks are easier to control. In Manual
Handling the Risk Assessment must consider the hazards and risks in the following areas:
T
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Risk Assessment - T I L E E
Task
Things (Risk Factors) to consider
about the Task:
• How is the task performed?
• How long does the task take?
• Is our posture compromised?
• When and how often is it done?
• Is there sufficient rest between this
task and the next?
Load
The Load is central to the task.
We would assess the following
factors about the load:
• Its weight;
• Its size and shape (how easy
is it to handle);
• Does it have suitable
handles?
• Is it evenly balanced?
• Is there anything inside the
load that could move and
shift the centre of balance?
• Are there any sharp edges
and should we wear suitable
gloves and clothing (at work
this would be Personal
Protective Equipment PPE)?
Individual (you and me)
• Are you fit enough to do the task or do you have an injury or
a medical condition that might prevent you from applying
best practice techniques?
• Are you pregnant?
• Are you trained and confident to undertake this particular
task?
• Have you read the moving and handling plan?
• Are you familiar with any equipment used in the workplace?
Environment
• Is there enough space for the
task? (This includes you, your
colleagues and any equipment.)
• Are there problems in the
design? (Are the doorways and
corridors too narrow or is the
shape of the environment
awkward?)
• Is there anything on the floor
that you might slip or trip on?
• Is it too hot or too cold which
might impair your grip or cause
fatigue?
• Is your environment very busy,
noisy, or distracting?
Equipment
Does the Task require
equipment, for example, a
trolley or sack barrow and if
so:
• Is it available when
needed?
• Is the equipment safe,
serviced, and maintained?
• Is everyone trained and
competent in using the
equipment?
• Is it compatible with the
environment, ie too big or
small for the
room?
Work Equipment
It must be…
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Suitable for the intended purpose;
Safe for use and maintained in a safe condition;
Used by people who have received adequate training and
instruction;
• Fitted with adequate guards and warning signs where
appropriate.
And we must use it for the intended purpose, sensibly, safely,
and in accordance with any training received
Moving and Handling Forms
These are available from the
Trust Intranet within the
Policies and Procedures
section.
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A Quick Anatomy Lesson
The human spine consists of 32 individual bones (vertebrae) that are stacked one on top of
another to form a flexible column. Viewed from the side the spine has a series of curves
which act like a spring to protect our heads from the forces generated by walking and jumping.
What are the different structures that form the spine?
(Intervertebral) Discs - are flat, round
discs that act as shock absorbers and
physical spacers to separate the
vertebrae to allow room for the spinal
nerves to exit the spine. The discs also
allow the spine to be flexible.
Ligaments - are tough bands of
tissue that surround the facet joints
and also pass between the bodies of
the vertebrae. Ligaments help limit
movement and they hold everything
together
Facet Joints - are paired joints at the
back of the spine which direct and limit
the range of movement between
vertebrae.
Spinal Muscles - like all muscles
these provide the power to move
bones, in this case the vertebrae.
These muscles are small, delicate
and weak (when compared with the
large leg muscles) and form a
network that runs the length of the
spine. Our leg muscles are much
more powerful and better suited for
the power of lifting.
Vertebrae (individual spinal bones) gives the spine shape and structure,
transmits weight and forces as acts as
attachment points for the discs, muscles
and ligaments
Tendons - are non-contractile bands
that join the muscles to the bone. These
are needed because they take up less
space on the bone.
Remember - The spine is a very strong and
flexible structure but only when used
correctly ,it can be prone to injury if
misused.
Summary
Do Not
Jerk
Keep Close
to the Load
Recommended Loads
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Small children lift with a nice straight back and
using the hips and knees, both to bend and for
power, because of their lack of balance and
back muscle strength but this is the way that we
are designed to lift.
The way that most adults move, lift, and handle
loads and objects is essentially a learned bad
habit.
This now completes the Manual Handling part
of the training
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Continue
Stress
What is Stress?
Stress can become an issue for anyone at any level of business and
research shows us that work related stress is quite widespread and is
not confined to any particular sector, job, or industry.
The Health & Safety Executive defines stress as:
"the adverse reaction people have to excessive pressure
or other types of demand placed on them".
Pressure is part and parcel of all work and can help to
keep us motivated. However, exposure to excessive
pressure can lead to stress which can then undermine
performance, be costly to employers, and can make
individuals ill.
Stress is not an illness, but if stress becomes too excessive and
prolonged serious illness can develop. Work-related stress can affect
us all at some time or another. Recognising it, preventing it, and doing
something about it can help avoid mistakes, injury, and illness.
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Dealing with stress
Stress can be an unnoticed and gradual build-up of the many pressures
experienced in work, at home, and in everyday life. Most people are
able to cope with the big issues in life and can find them exciting but for
some they are too demanding or, combined with everything else going
on, they can become overwhelming, resulting in stress.
Many of life’s demands can cause stress, particularly work,
relationships, and money problems. When you feel stressed it can get
in the way of sorting out these demands, or can even affect everything
you do.
Stress can affect how you feel, think, behave, and how your body
works. In fact, common signs of stress include sleeping problems,
sweating, loss of appetite, and difficulty concentrating.
You may feel anxious, irritable, or low in self esteem, and you may
have racing thoughts, worry constantly, or go over things in your head.
You may notice that you lose your temper more easily, drink more, or
act unreasonably.
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Question
In some cases, prolonged stress can lead to
physical and/or mental ill health?
FALSE
TRUE
Continue
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Dealing with Issues
Many of life’s demands beyond work can cause stress,
particularly relationships and money problems.
A person can experience more stress outside of the working
day than during it, or vice versa, and stress from one can
affect the other.
Finding the correct balance between work and all the
demands, responsibilities, and rewards of everyday life can
be difficult. Conflicting demands are stressful and when you
feel stressed it can get in the way of sorting out these
demands or can even affect everything you do.
The less control you have over potentially stress-inducing
events and the more uncertainty they create, the more likely
you are to feel stressed. Even the typical day-to-day
demands of living can contribute to your body's stress
response.
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Stress
Recognising your Stress Triggers
If you're not sure what's causing your stress,
keep a diary and make a note of stressful
episodes for two-to-four weeks. Then review it
to spot the triggers.
Take Action to Tackle Stress
There's no quick-fix cure for stress, and no single
method will work for everyone. However, there
are simple things you can do to change the
common life problems that can cause stress or
make stress a problem. These include relaxation
techniques, exercise, and talking the issues
through with someone.
The Trust has many resources available that can
be found on the Intranet, it also has a systematic
and planned approach to promoting and
supporting all staff. This is part of the Trust’s
commitment to support work / life balance and
work force planning.
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Mental health issues,
including stress, anxiety
and depression, are the
reason for one-in-five
visits to a GP.
Stress
Take Action to Tackle Stress
If you've tried self-help techniques and they aren't working, you
should go to see your GP.
They may suggest other coping techniques for you to try or
recommend some form of counselling or cognitive behavioural
therapy.
Remember Stress can affect anyone.
This now completes the Stress part of the
training please
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Continue
Control Of Substances Hazardous to
Health (COSHH)
What is COSHH?
COSHH is the law that requires employers to control substances
that can be hazardous to health.
This section aims to give you an awareness of COSHH and
help you to identify and deal with potential hazardous
substances.
Using chemicals or any other hazardous substances at work can
put your own and other people's health at risk. The law requires
employers to control exposure to hazardous substances to
prevent ill health. These controls have to protect both
employees and any other person who may be exposed to the
substance by ensuring compliance with the Control of
Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH).
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What is an Hazardous Substance?
An hazardous substance is defined as: a substance with the
potential to cause ill-health effects.
Examples of these are:
• Chemicals - these are identified by orange hazard
warning symbols on the container e.g. very toxic, toxic,
harmful, corrosive, etc;
• Any substance that has been assigned a workplace
exposure limit;
• Dusts can become hazardous in concentrated form;
• Biological agents, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and
parasites;
• Asphyxiates, such as carbon dioxide and nitrogen;
• Carcinogens, such as tobacco smoke or radon gas.
Care should be taken with any containers that are not
marked!
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Substances may be hazardous not only due to their toxicity but also through the route of
entry they take into the body.
These routes may be:
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Inhalation - breathing in vapours, gasses,
dusts and fumes;
Ingestion - eating or drinking substances or
foods contaminated by hazardous
substances;
On or through the skin - contact with the skin
can cause harm to the skin or substances
can be absorbed into the body through the
skin causing harm to internal organs;
Eyes - contact with the eyes by fumes,
vapours, liquids, or dusts;
Injection - liquids, solids, or gasses passing
through the skin either by puncture wounds
or through cuts.
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A chemical is not just something used by scientists in
laboratories. Most people use chemicals as part of their job
or at home every day. Cleaning products such as bleach
and oven sprays are chemicals. So are paints, inks, glues,
and oils.
Most of the chemicals you might use at work are not
dangerous if you use them properly and know what to do if
something goes wrong (such as a spillage), however, some
chemicals need more careful handling than others. Labels
can help you identify the more hazardous chemicals: tell you
what the dangers are, and how to avoid them.
All hazardous substances must be segregated and stored
correctly; they must be kept locked in a COSHH cupboard
when not in use.
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A label can tell you a lot. Take a look at a typical
label you can find on a chemical used in the
workplace. You will see that it gives basic
information which alerts you to the dangers and
precautions, and gives details about the supplier
so you can get further advice. Look for the label
on all chemicals you use.
Any substance must be approved
through a Risk Assessment before they
can be used in the Trust. These are
usually controlled by the Facilities
Department which can provide further
information on request. For further
information about Risk Assessments
please visit the Trust intranet.
Manufacturers may also include instructions, either on the label or on a
leaflet supplied with the product. Suppliers must provide Safety Data
Sheets for chemicals used in the workplace. This is a detailed information
sheet provided by chemical suppliers to their customers so that workers
and the environment can be properly protected.
First Aid instructions appear on most hazardous
substances. You should familiarise yourself with these
instructions before using rather than after an incident
occurs.
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Question
If there are no ‘Instructions for use’ on the label or
supplied as a leaflet with the product, you should
consult your manager or supplier for advice?
FALSE
TRUE
Continue
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Each workplace should have a register of hazardous
substances usually located with the Facilities staff,
who most use the chemicals - ensure that you know
where this register is.
If you have any questions about safety precautions
for hazardous chemicals, ask your manager before
using them.
For your own safety, and the safety of those you
work with, each time you use a chemical pause for a
moment and…
ALWAYS READ THE LABEL
This now completes the COSHH part of the
training
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Continue
Accident and Incident Reporting
All staff have a duty to report an incident or accident when it happens, but only one report is
required per incident.
On completion of this Reporting section, you should understand:
• The reporting process
• RIDDOR reports
Within SEPT incidents and accidents are reported electronically on a database system
called Datix. Datix can be accessed via a link on the front page of the Trust intranet site.
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The word "accident" is used in day-to-day language quite often. In Health & Safety it has a
specific meaning, which is:“any unplanned event that resulted in injury or ill health of people, or damage or
loss to property, plant, materials or the environment or a loss of business
opportunity”.
A “near miss” is where harm could have resulted but was avoided.
Accident Causes
ALL accidents are the result of human failures, either by acts or omissions.
Of these accidents, it is calculated that 70% of them are preventable. People cause
accidents by a number of different methods, these include:
•
•
•
•
•
•
A lack of knowledge
Poor or defective tools or equipment
Lack of ability / training
By taking short-cuts
Not following correct Policy or Procedures
System Errors
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Factors
Despite all of the things just mentioned, we, as
people, do not usually choose to cause an
accident. There are personal factors which can
affect our behaviour. These can include:
• Complacency / Over-eagerness
• Disinterest
• Illness / Fatigue
• Boredom
• Distraction
• Worry / Stress
RIDDOR
All RIDDOR incidents must have a 7Day Report attached to the incident
record.
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Under RIDDOR (Reporting of Illness, Disease, and Dangerous Occurrence Regulations)
there are certain types of incidents and accidents that must be reported, these include:•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Any fracture, not including fingers, thumbs, or toes
Any amputation
Dislocation of the shoulder, hip, knee, or spine
Loss of sight (temporary or permanent)
Chemical or hot metal burn to the eye
Any penetrating injury to the eye
Any injury resulting from electric shock or electrical burn
A RIDDOR incident also includes time-off sick after an accident or incident at work, where
the person is off sick for four or more days (reported externally to the HSE if off sick for
eight or more days). Employees who are off-sick because of an incident or accident whilst
at work must, by law, inform their manager once they are off-sick for four or more days.
The Manager then reports this fact to the Risk Management Team and completes a 7-Day
Report Form.
RIDDOR reports are made in the usual way on Datix and the Risk Management Team
should be notified immediately by telephone (01268-739-731). Updates and changes to
the Datix record will be made by the Manager, or their deputy, as they occur.
It is very important that staff report any possible RIDDOR to the Risk Management Team
(RMT) as soon as the incident occurs. The RMT are required to report incident to the HSE
immediately (serious cases) or within 10 days (usual cases) of the incident
happening.
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Question
All staff have a duty to report any incident or
accident ?
FALSE
TRUE
Continue
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Datix Form Completion
Datix Forms are very
easy to complete. A
form should be
completed
immediately after an
incident or accident
happens - anyone
can complete the
form.
The Datix form is
completed on-line,
via the intranet.
On the form all the
areas marked with
the red asterisk must
be completed.
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Any Witness Statements, or other relevant documents, should be scanned and attached to
the Datix form. Ensure the documents are saved and are ready to be attached before
completing the incident form. Any documents added to a Datix record must have any
passwords removed before attaching them.
Enter all the details of those involved including Patients (Service Users), Staff, Visitors, etc.
By selecting the Add Another button you will be able to add all those named persons
involved in the incident / accident.
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Once the Datix form is complete you finish by clicking on the “Submit” button at the bottom of
the form.
Once a form has been submitted the system will automatically send out any necessary
alerts; the form is then available for the Manager of the area identified to complete their part,
which includes any investigations or reports.
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Remember
The Trust can only be proactive in Health & Safety if you report ALL accidents, incidents,
and near miss events.
For further help and advice on reporting please contact the Risk Management Team.
The Team’s details and contact numbers can be found on the Trust Intranet.
This now completes the Reporting part of the
training
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Continue
Slips, Trips, and Falls
“You take hundreds of steps every day, but how many of those steps do you take
seriously?”
Controlling slips and trips
risks at work
Introduction
Slips and trips are the most common cause of
injury at work. On average, they account for 40%
of all reported major injuries and can also lead to
other types of serious accidents, for example, falls
from height. Slips and trips are also the most
reported injury to members of the public.
This lesson covers :• What causes slips and trips;
• Assessing the risks;
• Spotting potential hazards;
• Being aware of your environment.
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Slips and trips are funny aren’t they??
Slip and trip accidents are often used in cartoons and videos to
raise a laugh, but ask a victim if they’re funny. Slip and trip
injuries are serious enough on their own, but they often cause
serious injury. Incidents such as falls can cause life long
problems.
Example
A young person, who was working in a fast food
outlet, slipped on water leaking from a freezer.
She put out her hand to break her fall but her
arm landed in a deep fat fryer, causing severe
scalding. The company, who were aware of the
leak but had not taken steps to cure it or to
contain it, were prosecuted by the Local
Authority and were fined £15,000.
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Regulations
The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 requires employers to ensure the health and
safety of all employees and anyone who may be affected by their work, so far as is
reasonably practicable. This includes taking steps to control slip and trip risks. Also,
employees have a duty not to put themselves or others in danger, and must use any safety
equipment provided.
Employers are required to assess risks (including slip and trip risks) and, where necessary,
take action to address them. The Regulations require floors to be suitable, in good
condition, and free from obstructions. People should be able to move around safely.
On average, fracture injuries result in at least one month off work
and the cost of treating slip and trip injuries for the NHS is more
than £150m pa.
•
•
•
To the individual: lost income, pain, reduced quality of life;
To employers: over £500m pa in damages, admin, insurance,
lost production, on-going absences;
To society: over £800m pa loss of potential output, medical
costs, social security.
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Spotting an Hazard
What could be a
potential hazard?
Poorly Lit
Areas
Manhole
covers
Extension
leads
Heaved
Concrete
Computer
Wiring
Phone
wires
Stairs
and steps
wet
Surfaces
Door
Thresholds
Loose floor
tiles
Loose
Carpet
Frost, Snow
Mats
Uneven
or Ice
Surface
Sudden
Inattention
Change of
Direction
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Open
drawers
These are only examples.
There are many others so
please be aware of your
environment.
Preventing a Slip or a Trip
There are many simple ways to control slip and trip risks and prevent accidents in your
workplace. Here are a few examples:Stop floors becoming contaminated by:
•
•
•
•
•
Use entrance matting;
Fix leaks from machinery or buildings;
Make sure plant and equipment are
maintained;
Design tasks to minimise spillages;
Plan pedestrian and vehicle routes to avoid
contaminated areas.
Get the right footwear:
•
Where floors cannot be kept clean
and dry, slip-resistant footwear can
help prevent slip accidents.
Consider the flooring and work environment:
•
•
Check for loose, damaged, and
worn flooring and replace as
needed;
Floors likely to get wet or have
spillages on them should be of
a type that does not become
unduly slippery;
START
•
•
•
Make sure lighting is sufficient
and that slopes or steps are
clearly visible;
Keep walkways and work
areas clear of obstructions;
Make sure that wires, cables
are leads are not a trip hazard.
FINISH
Question
Slips, Trips or Falls do not have to be reported?
FALSE
TRUE
Continue
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Summary
In all workplaces:
•
If you have an incident, accident, or near miss make sure you report it via Datix;
•
If you see a spillage, clean it up or make arrangements for it to be cleaned;
•
Report any damaged floors or mats;
•
Play your part and keep the workplace clean, clear, and tidy;
•
If you see items on the floor where someone could trip over them, remove them, arrange
for them to be removed, or for the situation to be made safe;
•
If you are given PPE (Personal Protective Equipment), wear it, use it, and look after it
reporting any faults or damage to your Manager.;
•
Tell the Trust about any work situation that you think is dangerous, or if you notice that
something has gone wrong with your health and safety arrangements.
This now completes the Slips Trips and Falls
And Fit for Work.
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Remember, if you want to find more information / evidence
about this subject or anything else which is relevant to your
work or study, join your local healthcare library.
For staff in Essex contact Basildon Healthcare Library.
www.btuheks.nhs.uk
[email protected]
01268 524900 EX3594
It may be that you work in a different
area,
for example Luton.
Details of all the Health Libraries in
the East of England can be found at
this site…
www.eel.nhs.uk
You are welcome to join any of these.
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Review of Objective(s)
Before completing the test, please ensure you have acquired the relevant
knowledge against the modules objective(s) below:
On completion of the Fit for Work module you will be able to:
• Describe why an awareness of health and safety issues in the workplace is
important;
• Demonstrate how to lift, carry, and deposit an inanimate load safely;
• Describe how to adjust seating position and posture whilst using display screen
equipment;
• Identify hazards associated with using hazardous chemicals;
• Take appropriate measures to relieve stress and fatigue whilst carrying out
certain tasks.
If not, please take this opportunity to revisit the presentation content.
CONTINUE
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You now need to take the test!
Remember to
click the ‘home’
icon when you
have finished
the test to save
your results!
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