Key Legislations for Infection Control

Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (2013) - RIDDOR

The Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (2013), commonly known as RIDDOR, mandates the reporting of specific occupational exposures to blood-borne viruses such as HBV (Hepatitis B), HCV (Hepatitis C), and HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus). Under RIDDOR, certain occurrences must be reported, including:

• Dangerous occurrences - Accidental release of a biological agent likely to cause severe illness.
• Over 3-day injuries - Incidents where exposure to a blood-borne virus results in the worker being absent from work for three or more days.
• Acquisition of a virus - Cases where exposure results in the worker acquiring the virus.

Other Reportable Illnesses and Diseases

Additional reportable illnesses and diseases under RIDDOR include:

• Outbreaks - Diarrhoea, scabies, measles, and sickness.
• Poisonings - Certain types of poisoning.
• Skin Diseases - Occupational dermatitis, skin cancer.
• Lung Diseases - Occupational asthma, farmer’s lung, asbestosis.
• Infections - Hepatitis, tuberculosis, anthrax, tetanus.
• Other Conditions - Issues arising from infection control problems.

Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002

The COSHH Regulations 2002 apply to all work involving substances hazardous to health, including microorganisms. COSHH stands for Control of Substances Hazardous to Health. These regulations require:

• Identification - Identify substances hazardous to health in the workplace.
• Risk Assessment - Conduct formal written risk assessments for employees.
• Control Measures - Implement and monitor adequate control measures.
• Health Surveillance - Provide health surveillance where appropriate.
• Instruction and Training - Offer adequate instruction and training to staff.

COSHH regulations aim to manage and prevent exposure to hazardous substances, with personal protective equipment (PPE) being a last resort. COSHH information should be accessible where chemicals are stored.

Health and Safety Regulations

Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, employers have a duty of care to provide a safe working environment. This includes:

• Safe Working Environment - Ensure a safe place of work for employees and visitors.
• Staff Training - Provide appropriate training and PPE.
• Supervision and Communication - Maintain adequate supervision and clear lines of communication.

As part of clinical governance, care homes should develop customised infection control policies outlining specific procedures used in their workplace.

Environmental Protection and Waste Management

Care homes and hospitals must also address environmental protection through effective waste management strategies, including the collection and disposal of contaminated waste.

For compliance with all applicable infection control regulations, consult your workplace policies and procedures.