Candidate Support Pack - Scottish Qualifications Authority

Sorting tables should be used when available. They enable sorting to take place at a safe
height and keep soiled linen off the floor.
Weighing scales are an important piece of equipment. They enable the sorter to
accurately measure the weight of each load.
Accuracy is important if optimum production is to be maintained through the washing
machines. An unbalanced load will probably not extract properly and over and underloading
of the washing machine reduces the wash quality, and can damage the machines.
Production control figures for the washroom are usually based on the weight of work
processed. Recording production throughput accurately provides management with
statistical information on which they can base their business plans and development
programmes.
Activity 14
What are the possible consequences of sorting work on the floor?
Work might pick up additional soiling. ■
A chemical spillage might contaminate it. ■
The factory cat might sleep on the pile. ■
People may trip over the pile. ■
It might get stood on or run over by a trolley. ■
Work can get damaged. ■
Picking work up off the floor may injure the sorter. ■
Self-check questionnaire
Answer sheets p. 3.44
1 Document HSG (95) 18 describes what actions should be taken with
healthcare linen. Can you explain what these are?
2 What checks should be made to the cages/barrows and bags used in the
laundry?
3 What are the advantages of using weighing scales?
Answer sheets p. 3.45
Use this self-check questionnaire to make sure that you now know all that you
need to know about sorting contract laundry.
When you have finished discuss the answers with your trainer.
4 What are the nine factors you should take into account when assembling
wash loads?
GC8N 22 — Laundry Operations Level 2 3.23