HEATING AND VENTILATING
Right: ‘Absolute requirements’ include correct water treatment, record-keeping, and training to OEM guidelines, the author says.
Far right: An unhealthy boiler is an inefficient boiler, with a higher risk of failure.
Carl Knight
Carl Knight is a seasoned professional with over three decades of experience in the industrial heating sector. As managing director of Fulton Limited, he has been instrumental in driving the company’s growth and innovation since 2013. His career has included spells at Pfizer, L’Oréal, and Spirax Sarco. A respected industry
figure, Carl is known for his strategic vision and commitment to sustainability, and his expertise extends beyond sales and management, encompassing a deep understanding of industrial steam systems, thermal fluid heaters, and energy-efficient solutions. His leadership has been pivotal in expanding Fulton’s market presence, and developing cutting-edge products to meet evolving industry demands, and he has played a key role in steering Fulton towards more environmentally friendly technologies. His tenure has seen Fulton strengthen its position as a leading provider of industrial heat transfer solutions in the UK and beyond.
and emerging best practices, maintaining the relevance and effectiveness of the risk assessment in the dynamic healthcare environment. Failure to conduct a suitable and sufficient risk assessment, or to implement necessary control measures, can have severe consequences for healthcare facilities. The Health and Safety Executive has the power to issue improvement notices, prohibition notices, or even initiate prosecutions for non-compliance with health and safety regulations. In extreme cases of non-compliance or imminent danger, the HSE can also order the immediate shutdown of steam plant operations. A shutdown of the steam plant can disrupt essential
services, leading to an inability to sterilise medical instruments, and potentially the cancellation of surgical procedures. Additionally, heating and air-conditioning failures can compromise patient comfort and critical medical environments. The cessation of laundry services affects the availability of clean bedding and medical attire, while food preparation disruptions can impact patient nutrition. Financially, non-compliance can result in substantial fines, increased insurance premiums, and costs for emergency repairs. The financial losses from service disruptions can significantly affect the institution’s overall health. Reputational damage is also a concern, as incidents can lead to negative publicity, and erode public trust in the facility or NHS Trust. Legal liabilities arise if accidents or injuries occur due to non-compliance, potentially exposing the Trust and individual managers to civil or criminal action.
Best practices for TBHRA implementation in healthcare settings? To ensure the effective implementation of TBHRAs in healthcare settings, a number of best practices should be considered. It is essential to integrate the risk assessment with the facility’s overall safety management system, ensuring alignment with other risk assessments. This holistic approach enhances the coherence and effectiveness of safety protocols across the facility. Regular reviews and updating of the TBHRA are
also crucial. Conducting annual reviews and updating the assessment whenever significant changes occur in equipment, procedures, or regulations ensures that the risk assessment remains relevant and comprehensive. Regularly reassessing risks and updating control measures based on operational experience and emerging best practices
70 Health Estate Journal October 2024
ensures that the facility’s safety protocols are always up to date.
Staff involvement and training are also vital. Engaging boiler operators and maintenance staff in the risk assessment process, and providing regular training on identified risks and control measures, fosters a culture of safety, and ensures that staff are well-prepared to manage potential hazards. Clear communication of the findings to all relevant staff members, including senior management, is necessary to ensure that everyone is aware of the risks and the measures in place to mitigate them. This transparency supports a unified approach to safety. Engaging external experts, such as specialist engineering consultants and the steam boiler manufacturer, can provide additional insights and expertise, enhancing the thoroughness and accuracy of the risk assessment. Finally, maintaining comprehensive records of all risk assessments, control measures, and related actions, is essential. This documentation demonstrates due diligence, and supports continuous improvement efforts, ensuring that the facility can respond effectively to any safety concerns.
Conclusions Technical Boiler House Risk Assessments are a critical component of safety management in NHS Trusts and healthcare facilities. They not only ensure compliance with legal requirements, but also play a vital role in maintaining the safety and continuity of essential healthcare services. By thoroughly identifying and mitigating risks associated with steam boiler operations, healthcare providers can ensure the safety of patients, staff, and visitors, while maintaining the efficient operation of their facilities. The potential consequences of non-compliance – including facility shutdowns and disruptions to critical healthcare services, underscore the importance of conducting thorough and regular TBHRAs. By adhering to relevant regulations and guidelines, including BG01, BG13, HSE INDG 436, and HSE INDG 417 Rev1, and considering the specific requirements of both fuel- fired and electrically heated steam boilers, healthcare facilities can create a safer environment, and ensure the uninterrupted provision of vital steam-dependent services. Ultimately, a well-implemented TBHRA is not just a regulatory requirement, but a fundamental aspect of providing safe and effective healthcare services. It demonstrates a commitment to safety, supports operational efficiency, and contributes to the overall quality of patient care.
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