Course Outline
1. Introduction to Sharps and Blood Spillages
β’ Definition of sharps and common sources of blood spillages
β’ Overview of associated risks and potential hazards
2. Legislation and Guidelines
β’ Explanation of relevant legislation, standards, and guidelines pertaining to sharps
and bloodborne pathogens
β’ Discussion of legal responsibilities and duty of care
3. Risk Assessment and Prevention
β’ Conducting risk assessments to identify potential hazards and vulnerabilities
β’ Strategies for preventing sharps injuries and minimizing the risk of blood spillages
4. Handling Sharps Safely
β’ Proper techniques for handling, using, and disposing of sharps devices
β’ Importance of using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)
5. Blood Spillage Management
β’ Step-by-step protocol for responding to blood spillages, including containment,
cleaning, and disinfection procedures
β’ Strategies for minimizing the spread of bloodborne pathogens and preventing crosscontamination
6. Emergency Response
β’ Guidelines for managing emergency situations involving sharps injuries and
significant blood spillages
β’ First aid procedures and the importance of seeking medical assistance promptly
7. Documentation and Reporting
β’ Importance of documenting sharps-related incidents and blood spillages
β’ Procedures for reporting incidents to relevant authorities and completing incident
reports
8. Practical Exercises and Case Studies
Hands-on demonstrations and simulations to practice sharps handling and blood
spillage management techniques
β’ Analysis of real-life case studies to reinforce learning objective
Suitable For
β’ Healthcare professionals (nurses, carers, clinical staff)
β’ Cleaning and facilities staff in healthcare or laboratory settings
β’ School/college staff and first aiders
β’ Anyone working in environments with potential exposure to sharps or bodily fluids
Key Features
β’ Understanding Risks: Identify potential hazards associated with sharps and blood spillages in the workplace.
β’ Safe Handling Procedures: Learn correct techniques for handling, disposing of, and storing sharps.
β’ Spillage Management: Step-by-step protocol for dealing with blood and bodily fluid spillages safely and effectively.
β’ Use of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment): Correct selection and application of protective equipment.
β’ Infection Control: Best practices to prevent contamination and cross-infection.
β’ Incident Reporting: How to record, report, and respond appropriately following an incident.
β’ Practical Guidance: Demonstrations of safe clean-up techniques and disposal methods.
Course Outcome
Upon completion of the course, participants will:
β’ Understand the risks associated with sharps injuries and bloodborne pathogens
β’ Be familiar with relevant legislation, guidelines, and best practices governing sharps and
blood spillage management
β’ Possess the necessary skills to handle sharps safely and respond effectively to blood spillages
β’ Be equipped to conduct risk assessments, implement preventive measures, and follow
established protocols in their workplace
β’ Demonstrate proficiency in documenting incidents and reporting procedures related to
sharps and bloodborne hazards