Health & Safety


Keeping track Keeping on top of all of these areas (plus more) can be tricky. While paper-based processes and checklists are adequate, advancements in technology make digital solutions a no-brainer, removing the possibility of paperwork going astray or piling up. Digitised processes mean that relevant staff members get real-time updates – making it easier for employees to spot trends or recurring issues. Plus, the real advantage here is that as


everything is all in one place, there is no need to run around like a headless chicken when a CQC inspector calls.


The Importance of regular internal audits You should not wait for a CQC inspection to highlight any concerns. Internal audits allow you to analyse and evaluate your safety processes as an ongoing practice, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.


Monthly spot checks serve as frequent,


targeted reviews of specific areas, helping to catch issues early. While some elements may remain consistent each month, it is beneficial to prioritise different areas cyclically to ensure comprehensive coverage. Given that slips, trips, and falls make up almost a third of all non-fatal injuries, these should be included in every check. Fire safety is another key area.


Inspections and tests should include: n Fire extinguishers: are there any signs of damage, leaks, or tampering? Are the pressure gauges in the green zone? Is the servicing in date?


n Fire alarm systems: do the fire alarms work? Can the alarm be heard in all areas of the property? Does everyone know what to do in the case of an evacuation? Is the evacuation done in a timely manner?


n Emergency exits and signage: are emergency exits clearly marked and unobstructed? Is the exit path lighting functioning properly?


n Fire doors: are they clear? Are they in good condition? Do they close correctly into their frame to prevent fire spread?


In contrast to spot checks, twice-yearly or yearly audits provide a comprehensive overview of the entire provision’s safety status, evaluating all processes and policies in place. The primary goal is to ensure compliance with relevant regulations and standards, identify areas for improvement,


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and promote a safe and healthy working environment. The key is to create a checklist that is bespoke to your care home, and then compare each audit to the last. Before long, you will have enough data to be able to spot any long-term trends and areas which need either immediate attention or a plan of action putting into place. There are a number of checklists and templates online that can provide you with a list of questions relating to various aspects of health and safety. How you score each area is up to you – from a simple ‘yes/ no’ response, to a risk matrix which scores the ‘likelihood’ and ‘consequence’ of a risk from zero to five. Auditors can also use a traffic-light priority system to organise their findings and help their team quickly visualise what needs correcting first.


Staff training We have touched upon staff training a few times already, which highlights the importance of it.


If there are a number of key areas you


need to improve, it is best to put a detailed roadmap in place with priorities, timelines, and resource allocations. As with any change, staff need to be informed. They should have an understanding of why the change has been made, along with the specifics on what has changed. If you are having a complete overhaul from paper to digital, make sure employees are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to use the new systems, and know who to speak to if they have any issues with the platform.


Kirstie Jones


Kirstie Jones is head of client services and environmental health expert at Navitas Safety. A former environmental health officer, Kirstie has been supporting businesses for over 20 years with health, food and fire safety best practice. Kirstie regularly provides guidance on health and safety topics and has been working with Navitas Safety for more than 14 years.


They should feel confident in the benefits of the digital transformation and how it streamlines their daily tasks. Outside of dedicated training sessions,


remind your team to remain vigilant while working and raise any issues – even as ‘small’ as a cracked floor – with the relevant personnel. Everyone, from caregivers to management, has the responsibility to uphold gold standards and ensure they are ‘inspection ready’ every day.


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www.thecarehomeenvironment.com November 2024


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