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Sharps Training
This Sharps Training focuses on the dangers associated with Sharps, the potential health risks and the handling and disposal of Sharps objects. It also looks at The Health and Safety (Sharp Instruments in Healthcare) Regulations 2013 and covers what PPE equipment is available.
“Sharps” waste is a form of hazardous waste which includes any objects that are used to puncture the skin. These materials must be handled with care and safety.
Annually, there are 16 billion injections administered both in and out of hospitals around the world. However, there are a large number of needles and syringes that are not correctly disposed of and these could cause harm to others.
The NHS (Southampton) Sharps Safety Policy defines it as needles, sharp-edged instruments, broken glassware, razors, scissors, bones and teeth. Hence, Sharps is not just exclusive to needles as many think. Anything attached to needles and blades is also considered as Sharps waste and therefore, needs to be disposed of properly.
There are dangers associated with Sharps materials as bloodborne diseases and infections can be passed through them. Some of the diseases connected with Sharps materials are Hepatitis B, C and HIV, but are not exclusive to these three. This risk is, logically, higher to those working within the healthcare industry, however, there are risks to people using needles and blades at home and work. The general public can be put at risk too from improper needle disposal from drug use.
Alternative languages available. Check our translation page if you require an alternative language.
Key features
- CPD Accredited
- Suitable for all levels of staff and management
- Covers risks associated with improper disposal of sharps
- Show commitment to various legislations regarding Sharps
- End of course test and printable certificate
- Free trial, online demo and bulk discounts available
- Course translations readily available!
Test & certificate
Each of our courses ends with a multiple choice test to measure your knowledge of the material.
This Sharps Training course concludes with a 20 question multiple choice test with a printable certificate. In addition, brief in-course questionnaires guide the user through the sections of the training and are designed to reinforce learning and ensure maximum user engagement throughout.
As well as printable user certificates, training progress and results are all stored centrally in your LMS (Learning Management System) and can be accessed any time to reprint certificates, check and set pass marks and act as proof of a commitment to ongoing legal compliance.
What does my certificate include?
Your Sharps Training Certificate includes your name, company name (if applicable), name of course taken, pass percentage, completion date, expiry date and all relevant approvals.
Legislation Relating to Sharps
It's important that you comply with the law and know the ways in which it affects you and the way you work. Take a look at relevant legislation below.
The Health and Safety (Sharp Instruments in Healthcare) Regulations 2013
This legislation was created to prevent Sharps injuries in the hospital and healthcare sector. It aims to protect those in the healthcare sector from bloodborne viruses.
The legislation sets out many requirements that are already in Health & Safety Law. The Sharps legislation explains:
- Who and what the Legislation applies to
- The safe use & disposal of Sharps
- Necessary information and training to workers
- Risk assessments and risk prevention
- What to do with a Sharps injury
The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 (HSWA) is also relevant as it sets out the general responsibilities that employers have for their employees as well as the public, and the responsibility employees have to one another.
The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations, 2002 for assessing risks employees are exposed to by hazardous substances and aiming to prevent them. This also includes the use of protective equipment and reducing exposure.