HSE highlights the importance of health and social care risk assessments
Domiciliary care insurance
8th December 2008
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has warned health and social care employers, including those in the domiciliary care sector, about the importance of carrying out risk assessments.
The warning comes after South Birmingham Primary Care Trust was fined a total of £20,000, in addition to costs of £17,500 after pleading guilty to breaching section 3(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974.
Alice Belle, 90, fell from a sling as she was being transferred by two auxiliary nurses from a commode to her bed.
She died at the scene.
HSE investigating inspector Amanda James commented: "South Birmingham Primary Care Trust failed in its duty by exposing the patient to grave risk.
"It is essential to ensure that all equipment, including hoists and slings, is appropriate for the individual being moved or handled."
Ensuring proper risk assessments are carried could prevent unnecessary deaths and insurance claims.
