TheatrePracticeStandardsGeneric1

Generic Theatre Standard No 11 - Dealing with Hazardous/Non
Hazardous Spillages
Standard Statement: All staff in the department must be aware of the measures that need to be
taken in the event of the spillage of a hazardous substance.
Method:
1. Hazardous Spillages
• All staff must adhere to COSHH regulations and be conversant with the Trust COSHH
policy for dealing with spillages.
• Staff will be conversant with the substances used in the Operating Theatres that are
considered a risk by COSHH
• All staff handling hazardous substances must receive training appropriate to their role
and responsibility.
• COSHH training is mandatory on appointment to the Trust and it is recommended that
updates are received every two years.
• Staff must wear protective clothing, in adherence with the trust policy, when dealing
with disposal of contaminated waste.
• Staff will be aware of the measures to be taken in the event of a spillage, regarding
appropriate protective clothing, evacuation requirements etc.
• All identified hazardous substances will be handled with care and compliance to
manufacturer’s instructions adhered to.
• Handling of identified hazardous substances will be kept a minimum.
• Any untoward occurrences involving hazardous substances must be reported, with
referral to the Occupational Health Department as necessary.
2. Non Hazardous Spillages
Standard Statement: Spillages will be dealt with as soon as possible. Each theatre must ensure
that the equipment to deal with spillage is readily available.
Method:
• All staff handling waste or spillage of fluids must receive training appropriate to their
role and responsibilities.
• Staff will familiarise themselves with the Trust policy on spillages.
• Wearing protective clothing i.e. gloves, aprons, mask. Substances will be mopped up
using paper roll/towels and discarded into a yellow clinical waste bag. Care must be
taken not to contaminate the outside of the bag.
• The surface must be cleaned using detergent and water and dried. Staff must dispose
of gloves as clinical waste and wash hands.
Compliance: 100%
Exceptions: None
References:
• RCH Trust Infection Control Precautions Policy, Disposal of
• Waste
• AfPP Principles of Safe Practice in the Perioperative Environment 2011
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