November 5, 2003—New health and safety guidance on how to control the risks posed from infections at work has just been published by a group of experts who advise the UK Health and Safety Commission (HSC) and health and agriculture Ministers.
The guide is designed to clearly explain to employers their legal duties under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH), which includes how to produce risk assessments and identify potential hazards in the workplace. It provides information on the nature and sources of infections, as well as possible control measures such as hand washing and the provision of appropriate protective clothing.
Copies of “Infection at Work: Controlling the Risks” are available from HSE. Limited hard copies can be obtained from the ACDP Secretariat or by calling 020 7717 6358.
