As the Health and Safety Executive prepares for the implementation of the EU Sharps Directive, The Clinical Services Journal, speaks to GRAHAM JOHNSON RSCPHN (OH), about the legal implications for Trusts and healthcare employees.
Over 1 million needlestick injuries are estimated to occur in the European Union every year, with 100,000 of these believed to be within the UK.1,2 However, as the deadline for implementation of the EU Sharps Directive draws nearer, Trusts are facing increasing pressure to address this serious health and safety issue. “While it remains to be seen how aspects of non-compliance will be dealt with in the courts, particularly in cases where an injured employee has not followed sharps policy, understanding the legal framework of the directive is crucial. All employees must be well informed on the key aspects of the directive, receive proper training and have access to appropriate safety devices,” commented Graham Johnson.
The legal framework
A clinical lead, at BUPA Health and Wellbeing, and an expert legal witness in occupational health cases, Graham Johnson explained that there are a number of duties of care a hospital has toward its employees, in respect of health and safety legislation, that are pertinent to the EU Sharps Directive in the UK.
Log in or register FREE to read the rest
This story is Premium Content and is only available to registered users. Please log in at the top of the page to view the full text.
If you don't already have an account, please register with us completely free of charge.
