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Method Statement 2.2 - First Aid including Needle Stick & Other Sharp Objects

Document Information

Field Value
Document Reference MS 2.2
Issue Number 2
Issue Date 1 June 2026
Next Review 1 June 2027
Prepared By Sean Ashton
Approved By Aaron Mason, Director
Task No Task PPE to be worn Plant required Reference is made to the Team Pack risk assessment
2.2 First Aid including Needle Stick & Other Sharp Objects As defined by on-site risk assessment First aid kit, Sharps containers (UN3291/BS7320 compliant), Tongs/forceps, Wound cleaning materials N/A

Hazards

  • Blood-borne viruses (Hepatitis B/C, HIV)
  • Infection from contaminated sharps
  • Delayed or inadequate treatment

Environmental Impacts

  • Contaminated sharps disposal
  • Medical waste management

Customer Impacts

  • Site safety for customer premises
  • Potential service delays for medical treatment

Training Required

  • Emergency first aid at work
  • Sharps awareness training
  • Hepatitis B vaccination offered

Additional Plant and Equipment

  • Torches and mirrors for inspection
  • Puncture-resistant gloves
  • Eye protection
  • Waterproof dressings

Permits Required

As per site-specific requirements

COSHH Assessment Required

  • Blood-borne pathogens
  • Cleaning/disinfection products

Sequence of Operations and Control Methods

Pre-Work Assessment

  • Identify high-risk areas (meter pits, sewers, public toilets)
  • Review previous site records for sharps history
  • Consult with client regarding known hazards
  • Brief team on potential sharps risks

Visual Inspection Procedures

  • Conduct systematic visual inspection before any work
  • Use torches for dark areas
  • Use mirrors on extending poles for limited visibility areas
  • Never reach into areas without visual inspection
  • Minimum two-person approach for high-risk areas

Emergency Response - Sharps Injury

  • Do not squeeze or suck the wound
  • Encourage bleeding under running water
  • Wash thoroughly with soap and water
  • Cover with waterproof dressing
  • Report immediately to supervisor
  • Record incident details
  • Attend hospital emergency department (not GP)
  • Request blood-borne virus risk assessment
  • Follow up as directed by medical professionals

Safe Sharps Removal

  • Never handle sharps directly with hands
  • Use appropriate tools (tongs/forceps)
  • Place immediately in approved sharps container
  • Seal container when 2/3 full
  • Label container appropriately
  • Arrange licensed disposal through approved contractor
  • Record location and type of sharps found
  • Report to client and site management

Post-Incident Procedures

  • Complete accident/incident report
  • Notify HSE if required under RIDDOR
  • Review risk assessment
  • Implement additional controls if needed
  • Ensure follow-up medical appointments attended
  • HSE Guidance on Sharps Injuries
  • Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations
  • Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations