Infection Control Policy

Introduction

At Seven Steps Support Ltd, we are committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for our service users, staff, and visitors. The purpose of this Infection Control Policy is to outline our approach to preventing and controlling the spread of infection within our organization and the wider community.

Scope

This policy applies to all employees, volunteers, contractors, and visitors involved with Seven Steps Support Ltd, including those providing direct care and support to service users.

Objectives

The primary objectives of our Infection Control Policy are to:

Minimize the risk of infection for service users, staff, and visitors.
Ensure compliance with relevant legislation, guidelines, and best practices for infection control.
Provide clear guidance on infection prevention and control measures.
Promote a culture of infection prevention and control awareness within the organization.

Roles and Responsibilities

All employees, volunteers, and contractors have a responsibility to adhere to this Infection Control Policy and follow the infection control procedures outlined within.

Management: Ensures the implementation and ongoing review of this policy, provides adequate resources for infection control training and personal protective equipment (PPE), and oversees the monitoring of infection control practices.
Employees: Follow infection control procedures, attend mandatory training, and report any infection control concerns to management.
Infection Control Lead: Acts as the primary point of contact for infection control matters, provides guidance and support to staff, and liaises with external agencies and healthcare professionals as necessary.

Infection Control Procedures

Hand hygiene: All staff must adhere to proper hand hygiene practices, including regular hand washing and the use of alcohol-based hand sanitizers.
Personal protective equipment (PPE): Appropriate PPE, such as gloves, masks, and aprons, must be used by staff according to the level of risk and in accordance with relevant guidelines.
Cleaning and disinfection: Regular cleaning and disinfection of surfaces, equipment, and shared spaces are essential in reducing the risk of infection. Cleaning schedules and procedures must be followed.
Waste management: All waste, including clinical waste, must be handled and disposed of in accordance with relevant regulations and guidelines.
Laundry: Soiled linens and clothing must be handled, washed, and stored in a manner that minimizes the risk of infection.
Training: All staff must attend mandatory infection control training and updates, including specific training on any emerging or prevalent infections.
Reporting and monitoring: Staff must report any suspected or confirmed cases of infection to the Infection Control Lead, who will liaise with relevant healthcare professionals and authorities as necessary. Regular monitoring and auditing of infection control practices will be conducted to ensure ongoing compliance.

Outbreak Management

In the event of an infectious disease outbreak, Seven Steps Support Ltd will implement an Outbreak Management Plan, which includes:

Identifying the nature of the outbreak and assessing the level of risk.
Implementing appropriate infection control measures, including enhanced cleaning, isolation, and quarantine procedures.
Notifying relevant authorities and healthcare professionals.
Providing timely communication and support to service users, staff, and families.
Reviewing and adapting the Outbreak Management Plan as needed.

Policy Review

This Infection Control Policy will be reviewed annually or as needed in response to changes in legislation, guidelines, or best practices.