Infectious Diseases
Controlling the risk

Controlling the risk

Complete a risk assessment for your programme or activity.
Employees and line managers should understand the risks through proper information/instruction about.
The risks of working sharps and how to prevent them;
what to do if they use sharps;
what to do if they find sharps.
You may need to provide any of the following depending on your activity with sharps e.g.
Tools for picking up needles e.g. pincer tools/tongs/ litter picker/ tweezers/ dustpan and hand brush.
Sharps containers (capable of safely containing needles and blades).
Gloves - Gloves should be selected to give a high degree of puncture resistance. (EN388: 1994 Protective gloves against mechanical risks). You can get these from Safety Equipment Stores (when you show them your risk assessment) or from your own local equipment store.
You should also know what to do if your skin is punctured by sharps.
If you find sharps on BBC premises you should call Workplace Services.
If you find sharps on location you should contact the site owner.