Draft: The Principles of Infection Prevention and Control

The principles of infection
prevention and control (282)
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AF About this unit
THIS UNIT HAS NOT BEEN ENDORSED BY CITY & GUILDS
Credit value: 3
Guided learning hours: 30
Infections are unpleasant and may result in The potential impact of an infection outbreak can
people becoming unwell and being admitted to be devastating, and this unit will enable you to
hospital. Infection prevention and control seeks to consider the important role of risk assessment in
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minimise the spread of infections across people. relation to preventing and controlling infections
where you work, and how to carry one out.
In this unit you will begin by exploring your roles
and responsibilities as well as those of others in Finally, this unit will provide you with the
the prevention and control of infection. You will opportunity to understand the correct and safe
also learn about the legislation, regulatory body practices to follow for the use, removal and
standards, local and organisational policies, disposal of personal protective equipment (PPE)
procedures and systems that underpin all and the importance of good personal hygiene
working practices. including hand washing and good skin care for
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preventing and controlling infections.
Learning outcomes
LO1: Understand your and others’ roles and LO4: Understand the importance of risk assessment
responsibilities in the prevention and control of in relation to the prevention and control of infections
infections LO5: Understand the importance of using
LO2: Understand legislation and policies relating Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) in the
to prevention and control of infections prevention and control of infections
LO3: Understand systems and procedures LO6: Understand the importance of good personal
relating to the prevention and control of infections hygiene in the prevention and control of infections
429116_CG_L2_Adult_Care_U1_01-36.indd 1 29/11/18 11:11 AM

Level 2 Diploma in Care
LO1 Understand your and others’ roles and responsibilities

in the prevention and control of infections
Getting started
Think about an infectious disease that you have read about or heard reported in the media in the UK.
For example, you may recognise the infectious diseases SARS (severe acute respiratory syndrome),
norovirus and tuberculosis. What did you learn about the infectious disease? What impact did it
have?
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Effective prevention and control of infections can
Key terms only happen if you and others you work with know
what infections are, how they occur and spread
SARS is caused by a virus that can lead to
and what can be done to minimise their spread.
severe breathing difficulties and can be fatal.
Norovirus is a viral infection that causes
AF diarrhoea and vomiting.

Tuberculosis is an infectious disease caused
by a bacterial infection that can affect the
lungs as well as other parts of the body.
AC 1.1 Explain employees’ roles and

responsibilities in relation to the
What is an infection?
An infection is caused by harmful
microorganisms that produce disease; they
are sometimes more commonly referred to
as pathogens and germs. Microorganisms are
around us everywhere, i.e. in the air we breathe,
in water and in soil – some are harmless, and
others are harmful. It is the harmful pathogens
that cause infections and they can spread
prevention and control of infection by transferring from one person to another.
Infections can affect your whole body (known as
What is infection control? systemic infection) and make you feel generally
Infections, if not controlled, can spread rapidly unwell, for example the flu. Some infections
and can cause diseases that may lead to people affect only part of your body (known as localised
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becoming unwell and, in some cases, may infection) and make this specific part of your
result in fatalities. Infection control involves body painful, such as an infected hand.
taking positive action to prevent and control
infections. What are the common types of
Infection control is important because if pathogens?
infections are not prevented from spreading There are many different types of pathogens
then people can become unwell and ultimately that exist. Table 1.1 provides you with some
die. When people become unwell they take time information about the main ones, but there are
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off from work and this means that their finances many more.
may suffer, employers will have staff shortages
and employees at work may have to work longer Bacteria and viruses cause the main types
hours to cover the staff shortages, all of which of infections you may know about or have
create unnecessary stress. When infections heard about. For example, bacteria may
spread this means that money needs to be found cause infections such as gastroenteritis and
and spent on treatments for many different tuberculosis and viruses can cause infections
people. Infection control is therefore important such as flu, measles and chickenpox. Common
for many reasons. examples of infections caused by fungi include
athlete’s foot and thrush.

Infection prevention and control (282)
Table 1.1 Types of pathogen and description
Type of pathogen Description

(cause of infection)
Bacteria • Bacteria cause infections by multiplying in large numbers.
• Bacteria need certain conditions to multiply, i.e. time, nutrients,
moisture, temperature.
• Antibiotics and immunisation can kill and control most bacteria;
some remain resistant to treatment and cannot be killed.
Viruses • Viruses are smaller than bacteria and they can cause infections by
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multiplying in small numbers.
• Viruses can only survive within the human body; they do not live long
outside the body.
• Anti-viral drugs and immunisation can kill and control viruses;
antibiotics do not kill viruses.
Fungi • Fungi can appear for example as moulds or yeasts.
AF How do infections spread?

• Some fungi affect the skin, others affect the whole body.
• Treatments are available for killing and controlling fungi.
Infections spread through six key stages, which

are often referred to as the ‘chain of infection’.
The six stages are:
1 A harmful pathogen causes infection.
2 The environment allows the pathogen to
Employees’ roles and responsibilities
The prevention and control of infection where you
work involves everyone. As an adult care worker,
you will have specific roles and responsibilities in
relation to the prevention and control of infection.
Below are examples of some of these:
multiply. ● To work closely with your employer in

preventing and controlling infections, e.g. by
3 Transport allows the pathogen to move.
reading publications provided by your employer
4 A route into the body allows the pathogen to and attending training on infection prevention
enter. and control
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5 A route out of the body allows the pathogen to ● To follow your employer’s agreed ways
exit. of working for preventing and controlling
6 The pathogen then enters the body of another infections, e.g. by reading your employer’s
person. agreed ways of working, policies and
1.1 procedures, asking questions if there is
something you do not understand and ensuring
Research it your work practices comply with agreed ways
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of working
1.1 Bacterial and viral infections
● To keep your knowledge, understanding and
Research the causes of two bacterial infections
skills for preventing and controlling infections up
and two viral infections. Discuss how these
to date, e.g. by reading updates provided by your
are caused and what symptoms you would be
employer, attending training and seeking advice
likely to have. Research how infections spread,
and guidance from more experienced colleagues
i.e. the ‘chain of infection’. For one of these,
discuss with a colleague how the infection ● To protect yourself, the individuals you work
could spread. Provide a written account of your with and others from infections, e.g. by
findings and/or your discussion. reporting to your manager or employer when
you and/or others are unwell, taking time off

work when you have an infection and following ● To have policies, procedures and agreed ways
your employer’s agreed ways of working for of working in place in relation to preventing and
infection prevention and control controlling infections, e.g. by ensuring that:
● To report and record unsafe practices in • these are underpinned by current legislation
relation to infection prevention and control, • they describe how infections can be
e.g. by reporting these immediately to your prevented and controlled
manager or employer and recording them
• they detail staff’s roles and responsibilities
using your employer’s agreed documentation.
when infections occur
● To provide a safe working environment free from
6Cs the danger of infection, e.g. by ensuring that:
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Communication • employees comply with safe working
practices
Communication in relation to the prevention
and control of infection is essential for working • there are welfare facilities such as toilet
closely with your employer. It involves you and hand washing facilities in place for
asking questions if there are any aspects of employees and others
the training you have undertaken that you do • employees are immunised
AF not understand, so that you can practise in

safe ways. It involves discussing and sharing
current knowledge and expertise in relation
to infection prevention and control with others
who may be more experienced than you. Good
communication is also essential for reporting
and recording unsafe practices in relation to
infection prevention and control.
● To raise employees’ awareness of the
importance of preventing and controlling
infections, e.g. by providing:
• information that is easily understood both
verbally and in writing
• regular information updates about good
working practices and any changes to
agreed ways of working
• access to regular training
● To report and record how they are preventing
Evidence opportunity and controlling infections, e.g. by documenting:
• how effective their policies, procedures and
1.1 Roles and responsibilities in
agreed ways of working are
relation to prevention and control
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• outbreaks of infection and the
of infection improvements made as a result
Provide a written account explaining your
• the information, guidance and training that
roles and responsibilities, and those of others,
have been provided.
where you work in relation to the prevention
and control of infection. You may want to refer
to your job description and/or job profile if you Research it
have one.
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1.2 Incidents or outbreaks of infection

and the employer’s responsibilities
AC 1.2 Explain employers’ Research the incidents or outbreaks of
infection that employers are required to report
responsibilities in relation to the to Public Health England or the local authority.
prevention and control of infection You will find the Health and Safety Executive’s
Your employer will also be responsible for making website and Public Health England’s website
sure the setting where you work is free from the useful sources of information. Write down your
danger of infections. Below are examples of some findings.
of their main roles and responsibilities:

Evidence opportunity
1.2 Employers’ responsibilities in relation to the prevention and control
of infection
Provide a written account or produce an information handout that explains employers’
responsibilities in relation to the prevention and control infection.
LO1 Knowledge, skills, behaviours
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Knowledge: do you know the roles and responsibilities in the prevention and control of infections?
Do you know what employees’ roles and responsibilities are?
Do you know what employers’ roles and responsibilities are?
Did you know that you have just shown your knowledge of roles and responsibilities in the prevention and control
of infections?
Skills: how can you show that you work in ways that prevent and control infections?
AF Do you know how to keep your knowledge about infection control up to date?
Do you know what to do if you have observed unsafe practices?
Do you understand your employer’s agreed ways of working for infection prevention and control?
Did you know that you have just answered questions about how to prevent and control infections?
Behaviours: how can you show the personal qualities you have when preventing and controlling infections?
Do you know how to work in partnership with your employer for preventing and controlling infections?
Do you know how to be sensitive when protecting yourself and others from infections?
Did you know that you have just answered questions about the essential behaviours that are expected for
preventing and controlling infections at work?
LO2 Understand legislation and policies relating to

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prevention and control of infections
Getting started AC 2.1 Outline current legislation

and regulatory body standards
Think about the laws you know about in which are relevant to the prevention
relation to health and safety. Why are these
important? How do they keep you, individuals and control of infection
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and others safe at work? What would be the Current legislation

consequences of these laws not being in As you will have learned, the roles and
place – for you, the individuals you care for and responsibilities of employers and employees in
others you work with? relation to the prevention and control of infections
is underpinned by legislation. Table 1.2 sets out
some of the main pieces of legislation that are
relevant to the prevention and control of infections
and that identify what employers and employees
must do to ensure safe working environments.

Table 1.2 Legislation and what it says about the prevention and control of infection
Legislation What it says about the prevention and control of infection

Health and Safety at Work • This Act is the basis of all current health and safety legislation and is known
Act 1974 as the ‘enabling’ Act because it enables other health and safety regulations
to be made. It promotes the health, safety and well-being of everyone.
• It established the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) as the regulator for the
health, safety and welfare of people in work settings in the UK.
• It established the key duties and responsibilities of all employers and
employees in work settings. For example, it requires employers to have
written health and safety policies and procedures in place including those
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for infection prevention and control.
Public Health (Control • This Act is concerned with the prevention of infections and disease and
of Disease) Act 1984 as promoting health and well-being.
amended by the Health and • It requires that infections and diseases are reported so that the spread of
Social Care Act 2008 and The infections and diseases can be managed and monitored effectively.
Public Health (Infectious • The Regulations set out a list of highly infectious diseases that must be
AF Diseases) Regulations 1988

Food Safety Act 1990, the
Food Standards Act 1999
and the Food Hygiene
Regulations 2006
Personal Protective
Equipment (PPE) at Work
reported
• The Food Safety Act is the basis of all current food safety legislation in the
UK and it provides a framework for promoting safe food handling.
• The Food Standards Act established the Food Standards Agency to monitor
food safety and standards to minimise the risk of contaminated food.
• The Regulations set out safe working practices that must be complied with
by premises where food is handled, prepared, cooked and served.
• These Regulations require employers to provide employees free of charge,
with personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves and aprons to
Regulations 1992 provide protection against infections.
• They require employers to ensure that PPE is available to employees and is
maintained in good condition so that it is effective, i.e. employees must be
able to use PPE as and when they require it and it must not be damaged.
The Regulations also require employers to provide training and supervision
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to employees in the use of PPE, i.e. in relation to when, why and how to put
it on and dispose of it safely.
• They require employees to comply with their employer’s agreed ways of
working when using and disposing of PPE during activities.
Workplace (Health, Safety • These Regulations require employers to ensure that workplaces are
and Welfare) Regulations environments where risks to general health and safety are minimised.
1992 In relation to infection control this includes, for example, ensuring the
environment is clean and free from debris and that equipment used with
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individuals is clean before and after use so that the spread of infections is
minimised.
Management of Health and • These Regulations require employers to assess the risks to the health
Safety at Work Regulations and safety of their employees and others in the workplace; this includes
(MHSWR) 1999 the risks from harmful pathogens when carrying out work activities. For
example, employers with five or more employees are required to record the
findings of their risk assessment.
• Employees are also required to take care of their own and others’ health
and safety, i.e. by following their employer’s agreed ways of working for
infection control, attending training and reporting all unsafe practices.
➜
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Table 1.2 Legislation and what it says about the prevention and control of infection continued
Legislation What it says about the prevention and control of infection

Control of Substances • These Regulations require employers and employees to manage the risks
Hazardous to Health that harmful pathogens can cause, i.e. infections and diseases.
(COSHH) Regulations 2002 • The Regulations also require employers and employees to use, store and
manage hazardous substances such as cleaning agents that you may use to
destroy harmful pathogens.
Environment Protection • These Regulations require that controlled waste is disposed of safely by
(Duty of Care) Regulations setting out how waste awaiting disposal must be stored.
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1991 (as amended 2003)
Hazardous Waste (England • These Regulations set out safe practices to follow when disposing of
and Wales) Regulations different types of waste including waste that has a potential to cause harm
2005 through infection, i.e. used dressings, sharps.
Health and Social Care Act • This Code of Practice applies to the NHS and all providers of health care
2008: Code of Practice on and adult social care in England. It sets out how providers must comply with
the prevention and control infection prevention requirements to ensure high levels of cleanliness are
AF of infections and related

guidance (2015)
Reporting of Injuries,
Diseases and Dangerous
Occurrence Regulations
(RIDDOR) 2013
maintained.
• It requires providers of care to meet the required standards in infection
prevention and control by assessing the risk of, and preventing, detecting
and controlling the spread of infections, including those that are health care
associated.
• These Regulations require employers to report and keep records of work-
related accidents that cause deaths and certain serious injuries (referred
to as reportable injuries), reportable work-related illnesses and certain
‘dangerous occurrences’ (i.e. incidents with the potential to cause harm).
• In relation to infection prevention and control this includes employers
reporting some work-related diseases to the Health and Safety Executive or
local authority.
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health, safety and welfare. For example,
Key term in 2003 the HSE published the guidance
‘Infection at work: Controlling the risks. A
Controlled waste refers to the waste disposed guide for employers and the self employed
of by households and businesses, for example. on identifying, assessing and controlling the
risks of infection in the workplace’. These
guidelines can be accessed here: www.hse.
Regulatory body standards gov.uk/pubns/infection.pdf
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There are a number of different organisations ● National Institute for Health and Clinical
across the UK that have been established by Excellence (NICE): the NICE provides
the government to set standards that guide guidance on promoting good health and well-
working practices. Below are some examples being in the UK. For example, in relation
of regulatory bodies that inform and guide best to the prevention and control of infections,
practice in relation to infection prevention and it provides guidance on best practice for
control: preventing infections through, for example,
hand hygiene and the use of personal
● Health and Safety Executive (HSE): the protective equipment. In March 2012, the
regulatory body responsible for workplace NICE published the following guidelines:

‘Healthcare-associated infections: prevention ● Care Quality Commission (CQC): the
and control in primary and community independent regulator of all health and social
care’ (updated February 2017). These care services in England. The CQC monitors,
provide guidance on how to prevent and inspects and regulates providers of health
control healthcare-associated infections in and social care services and sets standards
children, young people and adults in primary of quality and safety. They then publish their
and community care settings, and can be findings to help people choose the care
accessed here: www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ services they wish to use. For example, one
cg139 of the standards relates to where care and
● Public Health England (PHE): PHE promotes treatment are provided and the equipment
used; it states that these must be clean, free
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and monitors public health in the UK. It
provides specific information on the dangers from infections, suitable and looked after
posed by infections as well as how to properly. You can access the standards here:
treat and respond to infections when they www.cqc.org.uk/what-we-do/how-we-do-our-
occur. It provides services for responding job/fundamental-standards
to infections such as immunisation
programmes. It also carries out research Research it
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about infectious diseases and then advises
on the dangers posed by infections and how
to respond to these effectively. For example,
in September 2017 PHE updated its guidance
‘Managing common infections: guidance
for primary care’, which can be accessed
here: www.gov.uk/government/publications/
managing-common-infections-guidance-
for-primary-care
Food Standards Agency (FSA): the FSA
2.1 ‘Wipe it out’ campaign
Research the campaign ran by the RCN
called ‘Wipe it out’. Produce a written
account with your findings and ensure you
include information about its relevance to the
prevention and control of infections.
provides food safety and hygiene information Evidence opportunity

and advice in the UK. It protects public health
and consumers’ interests in relation to food
2.1 Legislation and regulatory body
safety. For example, the ‘E. coli’ guidance, standards
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updated in January 2018, provides information Produce a written account that outlines
about how E. coli spreads and what you can examples of current legislation and regulatory
do to prevent it contaminating your food. The body standards relevant to the prevention and
guidance can be accessed here: www.food.gov. control of infections.
uk/safety-hygiene/e-coli
● Royal College of Nursing (RCN): a
professional body for nurses, midwives and AC 2.2 Identify local and
health care assistants that aims to help with organisational policies relevant to
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developing best practice such as in relation

to working to prevent and control the spread the prevention and control
of infections. For example, in 2014 the RCN of infection
published ‘Infection prevention and control: The prevention and control of infections as you
information and learning resources for will have learned is everyone’s business. Local
health care staff’ (3rd edition), which can authorities are responsible for developing policies
be accessed here: www.rcn.org.uk/library/ that protect the people who live there from
subject-guides/infection-prevention-and- infections. As well as this, organisations and
control-subject-guide employers such as the one you work for must

also have in place policies for protecting and
controlling infections. Research it
Local and organisational policies are essential 2.2 Your local authority
because they describe what local authorities, Research the local authority where you live
organisations and employers need to do to and find out what policies they have in place
comply with the laws that govern the prevention in relation to the prevention and control of
and control of infections; you learned about the infections. Write down how these policies aim
relevant legislation in AC 2.1. to protect you and others who live there.
The main areas that must be covered by local
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prevention and control of infections policies
include the cleaning of areas, the disposal of There are also policies in place for the prevention
waste, the quality of the air, i.e. to ensure it is not and control of infections where you work. As you
polluted to dangerous levels, the management will have learned, both employers and employees
of a clean water supply, the management of are required by law to ensure they comply with
an effective sewerage system, how to identify the legislation in place. Figure 1.1 identifies some
and monitor infections when they occur. These of the main organisational policies relevant to
AF policies aim to prevent infections from occurring

as well as manage infections and infectious
disease should they occur.
Reporting of
infections and
Hand
hygiene Personal
Protective
infectious Equipment
diseases (PPE)
Infection Cleaning the

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training environment
Organisational
policies
Cleaning
Food hygiene
spillages
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Safe handling
Cleaning
and disposal
bodily fluids
of sharps
Safe handling
Cleaning
and disposal
equipment
of waste
Figure 1.1 Organisational policies relevant to the prevention and control of infections

Reflect on it Evidence opportunity

2.2 Policies where you work 2.2 Local and organisational policies
Reflect on the policies that are in place where relevant to the prevention and control
you work for the prevention and control of of infections
infections. Do you know who the person Provide a written account identifying examples
responsible is for infection prevention and of local and organisational policies relevant to
control where you work? Do you know where the prevention and control of infections where
the infection control policies are kept? Write a you live and work.
reflective account.
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Knowledge: what is the current legislation, regulatory body standards and local and organisational policies
for the prevention and control of infections?
AF Do you know what the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 says about preventing and controlling infections?
Do you know how the Food Standards Agency contributes to the prevention and control of infections?
Do you know what your employer’s policies say about their responsibilities and your responsibilities in relation to
preventing and controlling infections?
Do you know what your local authority’s policies say about their role in preventing and controlling infections?
Did you know that you have just shown your knowledge of relevant legislation, standards, local and
organisational policies for the prevention and control of infections?
Skills: how can you show that you work in ways that comply with legislation, regulatory body standards
and local and organisational policies for the prevention and control of infections?
Do you know how to minimise the risk of infection?
Do you know how to report an infection when it occurs?
Do you understand your employer’s safe infection prevention and control policies?
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Did you know that you have just answered questions about your skills when complying with laws, standards,
local and organisational policies for infection prevention and control?
Behaviours: how can you show the personal qualities you have for working with current legislation,
regulatory body standards and local and organisational policies for the prevention and control of infections?
Do you know how to comply with your role and responsibilities in relation to infection control?
Do you know how to work safely with your employer and others in relation to infection control?
Do you know how to maintain your knowledge of infection prevention and control up to date?
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LO3 Understand systems and procedures relating to

prevention and control of infections
Getting started Reflect on it

Think about the vaccinations you had during 3.1, 2.2 Policies and procedures
childhood and adulthood. What were these
Reflect on the differences there are between
for? Now find out what vaccinations other
policies and procedures. How are both
people you know had. Were they different to
interlinked? Why do they use legislation as their
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the ones you had?
basis? Why are both used where you work?
Key term Below are examples of some of the practices or

procedures that must be carried out to implement
Vaccinations are mild versions of the the policies you identified in AC 2.2. These
AF pathogens that cause disease and are given

to people to reduce or remove the risk of
infections and/or infectious disease. They work
by making the human body produce antibodies
that can fight against the disease.
AC 3.1 Describe procedures and

systems relevant to the prevention
examples are all relevant and important areas for
the prevention and control of infection.
Hand hygiene
● Always wash your hands before and after you
start work as well as before and after activities
such as supporting individuals with washing,
eating and drinking, going to the toilet and
handling waste.
● Keep your hands moisturised so that your skin
does not become too dry and flake off whilst
and control of infection carrying out activities.
In the UK, procedures and systems exist to
● Ensure any cuts to your hands are covered up,
prevent and control infection so that the dangers
i.e. with a blue plaster so that if it does come
of infectious diseases are managed and therefore
off you will be able to notice that it has done so.
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reduced. You will learn more about the impact of
an outbreak of infection in AC 3.2. ● Do not wear jewellery such as rings and
watches whilst carrying out activities such
as supporting individuals with their personal
Procedures for the prevention and hygiene or putting on PPE, as infections may
control of infection spread from you onto the individuals and
Procedures are ways of working that describe others you are working with.
the practices or actions that must be carried out
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
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for policies such as hand hygiene and the use of

● Only use and dispose of PPE in ways that you
PPE to be implemented. You will learn more about
have been trained to do so to ensure that you
these procedures in LO5 and LO6 and of course
protect yourself and others from the spread of
you will also learn more by reading through the
infection.
procedures you use where you work.
● Ensure you have selected the correct size of
PPE to wear because, for example, gloves that
are too small may rip and gloves that are too
big may slip off during an activity.
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● Ensure that you have selected the correct Cleaning bodily fluids
type of PPE, e.g. gloves are colour-coded for ● Only clean bodily fluids if you have been trained
different uses such as white for use when how to do so.
supporting individuals with their personal ● Always wear PPE and carry out effective hand
hygiene and blue for use when handling hygiene before and after cleaning bodily fluids
food. to prevent the spread of infection.
● Always wash your hands before and after ● Clean bodily fluids as soon as they have
putting on and disposing of PPE. occurred to minimise the risk of infection.
Cleaning the environment ● Use the appropriate disposal method for the
● Maintain the environment clean by keeping it type of bodily fluid you are handling, i.e. a red
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free from dust and dirt, i.e. by following the bag for soiled linen, a yellow bag for a used
cleaning schedules in place for each area dressing.
that describe the daily, weekly and monthly
cleaning practices that must take place such Cleaning of equipment
as vacuuming, dusting of surfaces, cleaning of ● Only clean equipment if you have been trained
floors, furnishings etc. how to do so.
● Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the
● Keep the environment clean by disposing
AF of waste safely and not leaving debris such

as spilled food on surfaces as this can
attract vermin such as rats and flies that
can transport harmful pathogens that carry
infections and diseases.
● Always use designated washing facilities as
agreed with your employer, i.e. for the
cleaning of equipment and for washing your
hands.
equipment when cleaning it such as using high
temperatures when washing equipment so
harmful pathogens are destroyed.
● Always check the equipment you are going to
use has been cleaned effectively before
using it.
● Always wear PPE when cleaning equipment.
Safe handling and disposal of waste

● When handling and disposing of waste you
● Always wear PPE and carry out effective hand need to ensure that you first identify the type of
hygiene before and after cleaning to prevent waste it is so that it is disposed of in the right
the spread of harmful pathogens through way. For example, general waste such as paper
contaminated surfaces and equipment. that poses no dangers of infections can be
disposed of safely in black bags.
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Cleaning spillages
● Only clean spillages if you have been trained to ● Clinical waste that poses a high risk of
do so. infection such as used dressings and
● Always wear PPE and carry out effective hand
incontinence pads must be disposed of in
hygiene before and after cleaning spillages to yellow bags as this waste will be incinerated.
prevent the spread of infection. ● Always wear PPE and carry out effective hand
● Only use cleaning materials that are

hygiene when handling and disposing of waste.
appropriate to the spillage and to the type of Safe handling and disposal of sharps
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floor covering (e.g. wooden floor, vinyl floor, ● Only handle and dispose of sharps if you have
carpet, soft furnishings) so that the cleaning been trained how to do so.
methods used are effective and do not cause ● When handling sharps, do not over handle
any damage to the floor surface. them as there is a risk that you may get a
● Alert others to the spillage by displaying a needlestick injury and if they contain
cleaning sign so that others do not become bodily fluids such as blood that are
contaminated by walking through the spillage contaminated then the infection may transfer
and through to other areas. over to you.
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● When disposing of sharps where you work, your job role. It will help you implement
find out the container that is used and ensure effective ways of working for preventing and
this is left in its designated safe location after controlling infections such as your
use. role and responsibilities, the use of PPE
● Follow the instructions on the sharps box and the reasons why personal hygiene is
when disposing of sharps, for example never important.
overfill the container because this may result ● If you are unsure about any aspect of the
in sharps spilling over onto the floor or causing training you have attended then you must seek
needlestick injuries if left near the top. further advice and guidance so that you can
ensure that you are working in ways that have
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Key terms been agreed by your employer.
● You must only work in ways that you have been
Equipment refers both to items used only trained to do so.
once in the care of individuals, such as ● If you witness any unsafe practices in relation
catheters, as well as re-usable equipment like to infection prevention and control then you
bath chairs. must report your concerns immediately.
Clinical waste refers to waste that is highly
AF infectious and contains bodily fluids such as

urine, faeces, saliva, blood, vomit.
Sharps refer to items that are used in the care
of individuals such as needles and syringes.
Food hygiene
● When handling food it is important that you
follow the instructions provided on the food
Reporting of infections and infectious
diseases
● Use your employer’s agreed ways of working
for the reporting of infections and infectious
diseases, i.e. ensure you understand what
these are and what form or document you are
required to complete.
● Ensure you know who to report to where you
work if you identify an infection or infectious
disease.
packaging for preparing food such as washing ● Always comply with the training you have
salad before consuming it. undertaken for identifying and reporting
● When cooking food, it is again important to infections and infectious diseases to ensure
follow the instructions provided on the food your competence.
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packaging such as the cooking times for meat ● Always ensure you report all unsafe practices
to ensure that any harmful pathogens are you notice to minimise the spread of infections
destroyed. and infectious diseases.
● When handling and eating food, it is important
you wash your hands before and after so that
any harmful pathogens that may be present on Research it
your hands are not transferred to the food you
and others are going to eat. 3.1 Procedures where you work
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● You must also ensure that all kitchen Carry out some research where you work.
equipment, utensils and surfaces you use are Identify three procedures from the list above
clean before you use them and that you ensure and see how they compare to those you have
they are cleaned after use. where you work. Compare the details they
contain – how do they compare? How do they
Infection training
differ? Write down your findings.
● When infection training is arranged you
must attend this as it is a requirement of
13

vaccinated the more effective the resistance
6Cs to infectious diseases developing and
spreading.
Competence ● Concerns have been raised in the media about
Competence in relation to preventing and the side effects of vaccinations, i.e. being the
controlling infections involves ensuring that cause of damage to the brain in children and
you have attended the training provided to you conditions such as autism. These concerns
by your employer. If the individual you care have meant that fewer people are having
for is also your employer then the training their children vaccinated which means that
may be provided by the individual and/or the risk of infectious diseases that were once
the local authority. To prevent the spread of
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destroyed (such as measles) returning are
infections you must ensure that you comply high.
not only with the training you have completed
but also with your employer’s agreed ways of Education and training
working. This could include ensuring that you ● Education and training about the prevention
wash your hands before and after supporting and control of infection can raise people’s
individuals with their personal hygiene making awareness of how they live their lives and
the procedures they must follow at work. For
AF sure you use and dispose of PPE as you

have been trained to do so. If you notice any
unsafe practices being followed such as by an
individual or a visitor, you must inform your
manager or employer and explain what you
have observed and why it may result in the
spread of infection.
example, the media campaign ‘Catch it, kill
it, bin it’ concerned with not sneezing and
coughing openly but instead using a tissue
aimed to raise people’s awareness of how not
to spread infections in public places.
● Information and leaflets are provided through
GP surgeries. For example, information is
provided to people to have the flu vaccine
before winter approaches.
Systems for the prevention and ● Information is provided and published through
control of infection the media, in newspapers and on posters. For
As well as carrying out activities at work designed example, hand washing posters are placed
to prevent and control infections there are also in hospitals and in public areas to encourage
systems in place across the UK that are effective effective and thorough hand washing (you
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in preventing and controlling the spread of will be learning more about hand hygiene in
infections. Systems are used by organisations to LO6).
ensure that they are taking preventative measures ● Research is undertaken and published to
to maintain environments free from the dangers inform the public and update them on recent
of infections. Below are some examples of developments and practitioners on good
systems that are relevant to both where you work working practices. For example, the NICE
and live. has published guidelines about reducing the
incidents of hospital acquired infections.
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Immunisation programmes
● More commonly known as vaccination Services
programmes that protect individuals from ● Services have been developed that have
becoming ill from infections. specific responsibilities with respect to the
● Immunisation programmes aim to destroy prevention and control of infections so that
infectious diseases that were once these are managed effectively across the whole
commonplace in the UK such as smallpox. of the UK.
● Immunisation programmes are most effective ● Environmental health services, for example,
if large populations accept the vaccinations monitor levels of pollution in the air to ensure
that they’re offered, i.e. the more people that the air we breathe is not contaminated
14

with high levels of pollutants that are mentally and emotionally. Being unwell can
dangerous to our health and may result in lead you to feel stressed and worried about your
infectious diseases. health; as a result, you may suffer with high levels
● Environmental health services also monitor of anxiety or feel unable to continue with your
services such as where food is handled day-to-day activities, which can be upsetting.
and eaten by carrying out inspections to Being unwell also means of course that you will
ensure that they are adhering to the required be unable to work or continue with your studies,
standards necessary for the prevention and both of which may affect your current and
control of infections. future pay and work prospects. The physical and
emotional effects of ill health combined may lead
● Local authority infection prevention and
to you becoming withdrawn, a loss of confidence
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control personnel provide information and
and not being able to fully participate in day-to-
advice to organisations and their employees on
day life; a prospect which is truly frightening. This
preventing and controlling infections, and also
means that high quality care and support will be
to the general public on what to do if there is
essential as well as compassion.
an outbreak of infection.
6Cs
AF Evidence opportunity
3.1 Procedures and systems relevant
to preventing and controlling the
spread of infection
Describe the procedures and systems relevant
to preventing and controlling the spread of
infection. Provide a written account.
Care
Care in relation to preventing and controlling
infections means putting yourself in the
shoes of the individuals you are providing
care and support to so that you can begin to
develop an understanding of how they may be
feeling if they have an infection. This means
that you will need to be kind and considerate
towards them when you are interacting and
AC 3.2 Explain the potential impact working with them. You will also need to
of an outbreak of infection on the ensure that you can provide them with the
time they require to feel reassured, as having
individual and the organisation an infection may impact on their physical and
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It is very important to always work in ways that mental well-being negatively. Always ensure
are safe and effective because not doing so can you remain respectful of their feelings and
lead to infections occurring that have the potential concerns. Be kind, polite and supportive.
to affect not only your own well-being but also the
health and well-being of individuals and others Compassion
you work with. The effects of infections however Compassion in relation to preventing and
are widespread and can also have disastrous controlling infections means being kind
effects on organisations. towards the individuals and others who may
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On an individual level, infections can make be affected as they will probably be feeling
you feel unwell and, depending on the severity very unwell. They will expect you to show
of their symptoms, can cause you pain and consideration for their feelings and respect
discomfort that may last a few hours, days or that they may not be able to participate in
even weeks. Serious infections, if left untreated activities like they usually do. Showing that you
or if unresponsive to treatments available, can genuinely care will go a long way!
ultimately lead to fatalities. Infections not only
affect you physically but can also affect you
15

employees taking time off work will also result
Reflect on it in an increase in expenditure for the organisation
they work for because they will either have to
3.2 Infection and impacts recruit more people to cover these work shifts
Reflect on how you would feel if you woke (that will all need to be trained and inducted prior
up one morning and you had developed an to commencing work) and/or pay staff overtime. If
infection that meant that you were unable to get an infection has already spread in an organisation,
out of bed. What immediate impact would this then sometimes they may need to temporarily
have on your day? How do you think this would prevent visitors such as individuals’ families from
impact on your life if the infection you had entering the premises until the infection is under
developed was not responding to treatment? control; this may again cause upset and anger to
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the individuals and families concerned.
On an organisational level, infections can also have Evidence opportunity

an impact. Infections do not usually affect only one
person but usually many people. This means that 3.2 Potential impact of an outbreak
you and others may not be able to work which in of infection
turn means that the individuals you support may
AF not receive the care they should by the people who

know them the best. This can be upsetting both
for you, your employer, the individuals and others
involved. This may also result in the organisation
you work for developing a poor reputation for
not meeting high standards of care. Multiple
Explain the potential impact of an outbreak of
infection on the individual and the organisation
where you work. You could, for example, think
about what would happen if there was an
outbreak of the norovirus where you work.
Provide a written account.

Knowledge: what are the current systems and procedures for the prevention and control of infections?
Do you know about two procedures you use where you work for preventing and controlling infections?
Do you know about two systems that are effective for preventing and controlling infections?
Do you know the consequences of an outbreak of an infection?
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Did you know that you have just shown your knowledge of relevant systems and procedures for infection
prevention and control?
Skills: how can you show that you work in ways that comply with systems and procedures
for the prevention and control of infections?
Do you know how to use and dispose of PPE safely?
Do you know what to do if you have to dispose of a sharp?
Do you know who to report an infection to?
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Did you know that you have just answered questions about your skills when preventing and controlling infections?
Behaviours: how can you show the personal qualities you have for using systems and procedures
for preventing and controlling infections?
Do you know how to listen attentively during infection prevention and control training?
Do you know how to be a good role model to others not using safe practices?
Do you know how to report unsafe practices in a diligent manner?
16

LO4 Understand the importance of risk assessment in relation

to the prevention and control of infections
Getting started Evidence opportunity

Think about a situation that has arisen at work 4.1 Risk
that had the potential to cause harm to you, Define the term ‘risk’. Provide a written
the individuals and others you work with. Why account.
was this situation potentially harmful? Could
anything be done to prevent it from happening
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or from being so harmful?
AC 4.2 Outline potential risks of
infection within the workplace
AC 4.1 Define the term ‘risk’ Infections can occur everywhere. Workplaces that
A risk in relation to infection is the likelihood involve coming into contact with bodily fluids that
that infection may spread rapidly between people may contain harmful pathogens, as well as different
AF and cause serious harm and even fatalities.

The likelihood of infection spreading rapidly will
depend on, for example, how quickly the infection
was identified and responded to, how effective the
practices applied for controlling the infection are
and how many people live and/or work in the area
where the infection was identified.
In addition to the above, the likelihood of an
infection spreading can also be affected by
people (some of whom may be unwell), will carry
high risks of infections occurring. Table 1.3 outlines
the potential risks of infections that may occur
within the workplace.
Reflect on it
4.2 Risk and activities
the people themselves. For example, an older Reflect on your current job role and your
individual who is frail will have a weak immune day-to-day activities. Are the activities you
system making them more at risk of infections. carry out high risk in relation to the spread of
Similarly, an individual whose immune system has infection? What could be the consequences for
been compromised because of illness or disease you, the individuals and others you work with?
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will be at a higher risk of getting an infection. Provide a reflective account.
For example, influenza (referred to commonly You could make a list of all the activities
as flu) and pneumonia are highly infectious and you carry out in your workplace. Discuss
people with weaker immune systems through, for which ones are high risk and which ones are
example, having had cancer or a chest infection low risk for causing infections. Include the
may be more at risk of acquiring these. reasons why.
Key terms
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Immune system refers to the human body’s

natural defences for fighting against infections
and infectious diseases.
4.2 Potential risks of infection within
Influenza is a viral infection that affects the the workplace
respiratory system and can cause fever, body
aches and pains. Provide a written account outlining potential
risks of infection within the workplace.
Pneumonia is a viral or bacterial infection
of the lung and can cause difficulties with
breathing and chest pains.
17

Table 1.3 Potential risk of infection and reasons for potential risk
Potential risk of infection Reasons for potential risk

Group living – settings where People who have infections will more likely spread it to others who they
many people live together, are in close contact with. For example, this may be through coughing and
work together, have frequent sneezing or by touching surfaces and equipment that is contaminated with
visitors harmful pathogens.
Caring for individuals who have Caring for individuals involves being in close contact with them and
infections and/or infectious with their bodily fluids that may carry infection, i.e. when supporting
diseases individuals for example with their personal hygiene, eating, drinking,
using the toilet, supporting them with health emergencies such as cuts.
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Handling waste Handling waste that may be infectious increases the risk of you coming
into contact with harmful pathogens.
Handling laundry Handling laundry involves you handling linen and clothes that may be
soiled with urine and faeces and other bodily fluids that are contaminated
with harmful pathogens.
Handling sharps Handling sharps involves you handling needles and/or other instruments
AF Cleaning
AC 4.3 Describe the process of

carrying out a risk assessment
A risk assessment in relation to infection
that may be contaminated with harmful pathogens and if you sustain a
needlestick injury these harmful pathogens may enter into your body.
Cleaning involves removing dirt and debris from areas that are
contaminated with harmful pathogens.
Step 1 – Identify
hazards, e.g. the work
setting, situations,
particular activities
prevention and control involves your employer
and you working together to minimise the Step 5 – Review and
Step 2 – Identify who
risk of infection by thoroughly examining any update your assessment
might be harmed and
as and when required,
areas or working practices that may cause i.e. regularly, when
how, e.g. individuals,
you, your colleagues,
infections from developing and spreading. Risk there are any changes
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others, visitors
to hazards and risks
assessment is therefore an ongoing process
because all risks will need to be reviewed on
a continuous basis and changes in individuals’
Step 3 – Evaluate the
health and in the environment will mean that Step 4 – Document
risks, decide what the
your risk assessment,
new risks will occur. i.e. using your work
benefit of taking the risk is,
whether existing control
setting's
measures are sufficient,
documentation
i.e. to reduce the risks
Reflect on it
Figure 1.2 Risk assessment process
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4.3, 2.1 Legislation, roles and According to the Health and Safety Executive
responsibilities (HSE), the risk assessment process involves five
Reflect on your learning in AC 2.1 and identify steps, as Figure 1.2 shows.
the main piece of legislation that requires
your employer to assess the risks of infections As well as the steps identified in Figure 1.2, the
spreading. What is your employer’s role? What risk assessment process involves:
are your responsibilities as an employee? ● being clear why the risk assessment is needed
so that you can ensure that the actions taken
address the area of potential concern
18

● knowing who will complete the risk it spreading and that staff take additional
assessment and why so that roles and precautions when entering and leaving the
responsibilities are understood individual’s room such as putting on and
● identifying who is at risk so that you can disposing of PPE and washing their hands to
prevent or minimise harm to them stop the infection from spreading (a process
● deciding when the risk should be assessed known as isolation nursing).
so that the actions taken are timely and ● Step 4: Document the risk assessment,
effective by using your employer’s agreed ways of
● assessing the benefits and drawbacks of the working and documentation. For example, by
risk to the individual and the organisation communicating the risk assessment you have
T
so that an informed decision can be taken in undertaken and documented to the individual
relation to the actions that are needed. and others you work with will ensure that
everyone is aware of the measures that have
In relation to infection prevention and control, the been put in place to stop the infection from
risk assessment process could be described as spreading.
follows:
● Step 5: Review the risk assessment regularly,
● Step 1: Identify hazards, by identifying the or if there are any changes to the situation. For
AF potential of infection in the environment in

areas such as toilets and kitchens, the working
practices used when cleaning, handling food
and supporting individuals with their personal
hygiene. For example, an individual develops
influenza.
● Step 2: Identify who might be harmed and
how, by considering the potential of infection
affecting the individuals you support, you and
example, when the individual has recovered
and no longer has influenza or if you notice
that someone is using unsafe practices with
the individual. In this way the risk assessment
can be updated and adapted if necessary to
ensure it is accurate and effective.
Key terms
Hazards refer to anything that has the
others who work with individuals and visitors
to your workplace such as individuals’ families potential to cause harm.
and other professionals. For example, the Risks refer to the likelihood of harm
individual with influenza may spread this onto occurring.
other individuals, you and others you work Isolation nursing refers to a way of working
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with. used in the provision of care for containing
● Step 3: Evaluate the risks, by assessing infections and stop them from spreading.
the benefits and drawbacks of taking the
risk. For example, by considering what the
benefits and dangers would be of an individual
with influenza not remaining in their room Evidence opportunity
and instead socialising with everyone else
where they live in the communal lounge (the 4.3 Risk assessment process
D
individual wouldn’t feel so isolated and would Describe the process of carrying out a risk
benefit from socialising but there is a high risk assessment to your assessor.
of the individual spreading their infection to You could, for example, identify a potential
others). As a result, you may decide that the infection control risk that may occur where you
dangers far outweigh the benefits and that work and discuss the process of carrying out a
specific measures are needed to control the risk assessment for this.
infection, i.e. that the individual remains in
their room to contain the infection and stop
19

AC 4.4 Explain the importance of and you being dismissed from your job. Your
employer’s agreed ways of working are there
carrying out a risk assessment to promote safe practices and protect everyone
Your employer is responsible for ensuring that from infections.
there is a risk assessment process in place. You
and others you work with have a responsibility to
cooperate with your employer and take part in the 6Cs
risk assessment process.
Carrying out a risk assessment in relation to Courage
infection prevention and control is important for Courage in relation to infection prevention
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several reasons: and control involves not being afraid to say if
you think that an individual is at risk even if
● It is essential for identifying risks of infection you know that saying so may mean that the
and preventing them or reducing them to individual and/or their family disagrees with
minimise the harm they may cause. Not you. Doing the right thing by speaking up for
carrying out a risk assessment would mean the individual will mean that not only will you be
that you would not know what the risks were able to show that you have their best interests
and therefore you would not be able to prevent,
AF ●
reduce or control them.
It is essential for protecting individuals, you
and others from harm and becoming unwell.
Not carrying out a risk assessment would
mean that you would not be able to stop
infections from spreading and therefore you,
individuals and others you work with would
become unwell. It requires your courage and
commitment.
at heart, but you will also be protecting them
and others from the risk of infection.
Commitment
Commitment in relation to infection prevention
and control involves ensuring that you work
in ways that are person centred. In terms of
carrying out a risk assessment it is essential
that you involve the individual and/or their
representative so that they can understand
● It enables you to fulfil your duty of care. Not what the risks are, including the benefits and
carrying out a risk assessment would mean consequences of taking the risks. Maintaining
that you would not be doing your upmost to individuals as the focus when carrying out risk
protect individuals and others from danger and assessments ensures that not only are you
harm which is a form of abuse, i.e. neglect. respecting them, but you are also involving
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Fulfilling your duty of care by carrying out a them in protecting themselves and others
risk assessment is part of high-quality care from infection.
and support.
● It enables you to comply with legal
requirements. Not carrying out a risk
assessment would mean that you and your
employer will not be complying with the law Evidence opportunity
which may result in your employer being
D
fined and you being dismissed from your job. 4.4 Importance of carrying out a risk
The law is there to protect everyone from assessment
infections. Provide a written account explaining the
● It enables you to comply with your employer’s importance of carrying out a risk assessment.
agreed ways of working. Not carrying out a You could also identify two potential risks of
risk assessment and not cooperating with infection where you work and then for each
your employer will mean a breach of your one explain the importance of carrying out a
employer’s agreed ways of working which risk assessment.
again may result in your employer being fined
20

Case study
4.2, 4.3, 4.4 Potential risks to the hairdressers. Min agrees to walk even
Gina is 79 years old and has arthritis in her though she feels that this may be difficult for
spine. Gina finds it difficult to walk without Gina because of her walking and is also a little
being supported because the arthritis in her concerned about the flu virus she has. As Min
spine means that this affects her balance when and Gina walk across the road in front of Gina’s
walking. house, Gina trips and falls over. Whilst down on
the ground, Gina shouts out, ‘Quick Min, call for
Gina is waiting for her carer, Min, who has help. I think I’ve done something to my leg, it
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agreed to take her to the hairdressers this really hurts and I can’t move it!’
morning. When Min arrives, she suggests that
they go down in her car to the hairdressers as it Questions
is a 10-minute walk away. Gina explains that she 1 What are the potential risks of infection in the
would like to walk down because she hasn’t been situation described above?
out of the house for two days because of the flu 2 Why should Min have carried out a risk
virus she got and was looking forward to getting assessment?
AF some fresh air.

Min does not want to disappoint Gina and can
see that she is very excited about walking down
3 What process should Min use for carrying out a
risk assessment?

Knowledge: do you know the importance of risk assessment in relation to the prevention
and control of infections?
Do you know what the meaning of risk is in relation to infection?
Do you know what steps are involved in the risk assessment process?
Do you know what the potential risks of infection are where you work?
Do you know why carrying out a risk assessment is important?
R
Did you know that you have just shown your knowledge of the importance of risk assessment in relation to the
prevention and control of infections?
Skills: how can you show your understanding of the risk assessment process?
Do you know how to identify hazards and risks where you work?
Do you know the potential risks of infections where you work and who might be harmed?
Do you know how to evaluate, document and review risks?
Do you know why it is important to fulfil your duty of care in relation to risk assessment of infections at work?
D
Did you know that you have just demonstrated the skills required for risk assessment of infections where
you work?
Behaviours: how can you show the personal qualities you have when risk assessing infections at work?
Do you know how to be thorough when identifying potential risks of infections?
Do you know how to be patient when explaining to individuals the benefits and dangers of infections?
Do you know how to document information about the risk assessment process clearly and accurately?
Did you know that you have just demonstrated the essential behaviours required for risk assessment in the
prevention and control of infections?
21

LO5 Understand the importance of using Personal Protective

Equipment (PPE) in the prevention and control of infections
You can only demonstrate the correct use of PPE
Getting started if you know when and why to use it. It is also
Think about the different types of PPE you useful to know how to put it on, remove and
have seen being used. For example, this dispose of it safely (see AC 5.7 and AC 5.8 for
may have been in a hospital, a GP surgery, more information about how to do so). Table 1.4
the dentist, in an individual’s home, in your provides you with information about some of the
workplace. Who uses them and why? different types of PPE, when they are used and
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why.
Disposable gloves and aprons must be changed
AC 5.1, 5.2, 5.3 Demonstrate correct every time they are used for a different work
use, identify different types and task and every time there is contact with
explain the reasons for use of PPE a different individual so that any harmful
pathogens are not spread onto others. It is also
Personal Protective Equipment (or PPE) refers to
AF the equipment that is worn by adult care workers

to protect against the spread of infections. You will
be observed for this AC demonstrating that you
can use PPE correctly.
To demonstrate the correct use of PPE you must:
● follow your employer’s PPE policy and
procedures. This will include what PPE you
must use for different tasks and how to use
important that you ensure that the PPE you wear
is the correct size (gloves that are too large may
come off when using them and gloves that are
too small may tear when using them), is clean
(otherwise they may contain harmful bacteria)
and has no tears (otherwise harmful bacteria
may spread through the tears). If you are unsure
about how to use PPE or have any concerns
about its condition you must report it to your
employer or manager.
it to ensure you are complying with your
employer’s agreed ways of working
Reflect on it
● follow the manufacturer’s instructions when
using PPE to ensure that you are working 5.1, 5.2, 5.3 Using PPE effectively
effectively to prevent the spread of infections
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Reflect on the different types of PPE you use
● always wash your hands before using PPE. This where you work and how you do so effectively.
is because it is sterile; not doing so may mean Familiarise yourself with your employer’s ways
that you contaminate it with harmful pathogens of working for using these; why do you think
● always wash your hands after disposing of PPE these precautions are necessary? Provide a
because it will contain harmful bacteria that reflective account.
you do not want to spread to other surfaces
and people.
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Key terms Evidence opportunity

PPE refers to Personal Protective Equipment. 5.1, 5.2, 5.3 Why use PPE?
This is equipment that is worn by adult care Identify two different types of PPE you use at
workers to prevent infections from spreading work, explain the reasons why you use them
and includes, for example, disposable gloves to your assessor and demonstrate their
and plastic aprons. correct use.
Sterile refers to an item that is free from
harmful pathogens.
22

Table 1.4 Types of PPE, when and why to use it
Type of PPE When and why to use it

Disposable gloves • When supporting individuals with personal hygiene as your hands may
come into contact with an individual’s bodily fluids, such as vomit, urine and
faeces.
• When dealing with an accident because your hands may come into contact
with an open wound or an individual’s bodily fluids such as blood and vomit.
• When your hands come into contact with broken skin, rashes or burns for
example. When disposing of used or soiled linen or waste, it is also a good
idea to wear gloves.
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• Your hands could spread infection if they are not covered; hands must be
washed and dried before and after using disposable gloves.
Plastic aprons • When handling food as you may come into contact with both cooked and raw
foods.
• When carrying out a cleaning task as this will prevent your skin and clothes
from coming into contact with substances such as cleaning agents that may
AF Uniform
be harmful.
• When supporting individuals with personal hygiene as you may come into
contact with an individual’s bodily fluids, such as vomit, urine and faeces.
• The plastic surface of the apron is slippery and therefore makes it difficult
for harmful pathogens to establish themselves on this.
• If you have a uniform, you must wear it at work and ensure that you launder
it regularly and at a high temperature to remove any harmful pathogens.
• You must also, if possible, change into and out of your uniform at work to
minimise the spread of any harmful pathogens that may be present on it.
• If you have to wear your uniform outside of your workplace then cover it
with a jacket or coat so you minimise the risk of any harmful pathogens it
contains spreading.
Paper caps • To cover hair and stop it from falling onto food when it is being prepared,
cooked or served. In this way the spread of harmful pathogens is minimised.
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AC 5.4 State current relevant place including those for the use of PPE and to
ensure that all employees are aware of them and
regulations and legislation relating that they work in ways that keep everyone safe.
to PPE The Management of Health and Safety at Work
The use of PPE in the prevention and control of Regulations 1999 requires employers to ensure
infections is governed by the Personal Protective that all employees are trained and supervised
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Equipment (PPE) at Work Regulations 1992 in using PPE correctly and that employees
(as amended). As you learned in AC 2.1, these comply with the training they have undertaken.
Regulations come under the Health and Safety at The Hazardous Waste Regulations 2005 and
Work Act 1974. Under these Regulations it is a legal the Environmental Protection (Duty of Care)
requirement for employees such as you to be able Regulations 1991 (as amended 2003) require
to use it correctly and safely, that it is appropriate that all waste that could be hazardous, including
and suitable for the task being used, that it is waste that is highly infectious such as used PPE,
maintained in good condition and stored safely. is disposed of correctly and stored correctly whilst
waiting to be disposed of, i.e. in the correct bags
The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 requires
for disposal.
employers to have policies and procedures in
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Research it Research it
5.4 Personal Protective Equipment 5.5, 5.6 Agreed ways of working
(PPE) at Work Regulations 1992 for PPE
Research the Personal Protective Equipment Research your employer’s agreed ways
(PPE) at Work Regulations 1992 (as of working for using PPE. What are the
amended) and produce a written account consequences for you if you do not comply with
with information about the main points. You these? And for the individuals you work with?
will find the HSE’s website a useful source of Discuss your findings with your assessor.
information.
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5.5, 5.6 Employees’ and employers’
5.4 Current relevant regulations and responsibilities regarding the use of PPE
legislation relating to PPE Provide a written account that describes
AF Provide a written account stating current

relevant regulations and legislation relating
to PPE.
AC 5.5, 5.6 Describe employees’

and employers’ responsibilities
regarding the use of PPE
employees’ and employers’ responsibilities
regarding the use of PPE. Or you could
describe this to your assessor.
AC 5.7 Describe the correct practice

in the application and removal of
PPE
The legislation in place for the effective use of It is important that you know how to apply and
PPE that you learned about in AC 5.4 also sets out remove PPE correctly because not doing so may
the responsibilities that employees and employers mean that you spread harmful pathogens onto
have in relation to the use of PPE. Table 1.5 sets other surfaces and people, e.g. if you throw PPE
out what these responsibilities are. into a bag when removing it or shake it out onto the
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floor. Table 1.6 provides you with more information
about how to apply and remove two types of PPE.
Table 1.5 Responsibilities of employers and employees
Employers’ responsibilities Employees’ responsibilities

Provide PPE that is suitable for tasks Use PPE correctly when carrying out work tasks.
in the workplace.
Ensure PPE is provided free of charge. Use PPE as provided by the employer.
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Ensure PPE is available when Use PPE every time it is needed.

required.
Ensure PPE is stored and maintained Ensure they know where PPE is stored and how to access it. Ensure
correctly. they report any faults with the PPE.
Provide training and supervision on Follow the employer’s agreed ways of working for the use of PPE to
the use of PPE. ensure it is put on, used, taken off and disposed of correctly.
Ensure that a risk assessment is Carry out and comply with risk assessments for the use of PPE.
completed to assess whether and
when PPE is required.
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Reflective exemplar
Introduction I work as a personal assistant to Joan who requires support with showering, dressing and
preparing breakfast. Joan has cerebral palsy and finds it difficult to mobilise.
What This morning I visited Joan as usual and she told me that she wanted to speak with me. I sat
happened? down next to her as she explained that she no longer thinks there is any need for me to wear
disposable gloves and an apron while I provide care and support to her in the mornings, given
that I have been her personal assistant for over a year now and have got to know her very well.
Joan added that she would feel a lot more relaxed if I didn’t wear these in her home.
I informed Joan that I was required to follow my work setting’s PPE policy and would therefore
always have to wear them when providing her with care and support.
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Joan frowned and explained that she didn’t feel like getting up this morning and would prefer it
if I came back tomorrow. I agreed to come back tomorrow.
What worked The fact that I informed Joan that I have to comply with my work setting’s PPE policy.
well?
What did not Joan’s reaction to the information I gave her, i.e. she does not usually frown.
go as well?
AF What could I
Links to unit
assessment
criteria
Perhaps I should have explained the reasons why I must wear PPE to Joan.
do to improve? Perhaps I should have referred Joan’s request to my manager. The use of PPE could then have
been risk assessed with Joan and the work setting to address how to balance her rights with
concerns for health and safety.
I think I need to discuss this situation with my manager and refer back to my work setting’s PPE
policy in relation to what it says about wearing PPE when an individual asks for it not to be used.
ACs 5.3, 5.4, 5.5, 5.6
Table 1.6 Type of PPE, how to apply it and how to remove it
Type of PPE How to apply it How to remove it

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Disposable Choose the correct size gloves. If they Remove one glove at the time. Hold the outside of
gloves are too big they may slip off. If they are the glove carefully with your opposite gloved hand
too small they may tear and let harmful and, once removed, place it in your gloved hand.
pathogens spread. Then remove the other glove by placing your fingertip
Wash your hands before putting on your on the inside of the top of the glove and remove it
disposable gloves so that your hands without touching the outer surface of the glove. Place
are clean and do not spread harmful them in the waste bin or bag for clinical waste.
pathogens into and onto your gloves. Wash and dry your hands to avoid transferring
harmful pathogens, i.e. the infection being passed
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from the outside of the gloves to your hands and to

the surrounding environment.
Plastic aprons Place the apron over your head and Unfasten or break the ties round the waist and then
then tie it around your waist to give you remove the apron by pulling it away from your neck
maximum protection over any harmful and only touching the inside of the apron while
pathogens that may be transported to doing so.
and from your clothing. Roll up the apron and place it in the waste bin or
Wash your hands before putting plastic bag for clinical waste. Wash and dry your hands to
aprons on so you do not spread harmful avoid infection transferring from the outside of your
pathogens into your gloves. apron to your hands and to the environment.
25

Reflect on it Research it
5.7 Improving your knowledge and 5.8 Disposal methods

skills for applying and disposing of Research the different types of disposal
PPE methods and waste bins and bags you use at
work for disposing of used PPE. Write down
Reflect on how you can improve your skills
your findings.
and knowledge for applying and disposing
of PPE. What information could you access
and from where? Who could you approach for
PPE that has not been in contact with clinical
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information where you work?
waste, e.g. gloves and aprons worn during the
handling and serving of food, can be placed in the
general waste bag with domestic waste as they
Evidence opportunity pose no risk of infection.
It is important that waste bins are not overfilled,
5.7 Correct practice in the application
i.e. they should not be more than two thirds
and removal of PPE
AF Provide a written account describing the
correct practice in the application and removal
of PPE.
You might like to read through your employer’s
PPE policy and procedures. Identify two types
of PPE you use and describe the agreed
practices you must use to apply and remove
them.
full so that the risk of their contents spilling is
minimised. Waste bins must also have lids on and
be able to be foot-operated so you do not have to
touch them with your hands when disposing of
waste. Waste bins and areas surrounding them
must be kept clean and all bags prepared for
disposal from the premises must be kept sealed
and secure to avoid their contents spilling or
vermin or people gaining access to them.
Remember to always wash your hands after
disposing of used PPE to minimise the spread of
AC 5.8 Describe the correct infection.
procedure for the disposal
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of used PPE Reflect on it
It is important that all used PPE is disposed
of correctly because it is likely to have been in 5.8 Correct procedures
contact with and still contain harmful pathogens. Think about what the correct procedures for
Always follow your employer’s agreed ways of disposal of used PPE are. Draw a flow diagram
working and the manufacturer’s instructions. that describes the correct procedure for the
Most of the PPE that is used is disposable which disposal of used PPE in your workplace.
means that it must be disposed of after it is used
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once. Not doing so may mean that it is no longer

effective in preventing infections from spreading.
PPE that has been in contact with clinical waste Reflect on it
must be disposed of correctly in the allocated
clinical waste bag or bin that will usually be
5.8 Correct procedures for the
colour-coded (if in a care setting) or a separate disposal of PPE
bag to the general waste bag (if in an individual’s Provide a written account describing the
home). All waste that is clinical waste will be correct procedure for the disposal of used
incinerated so that all harmful pathogens that it PPE.
contains are destroyed.
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Knowledge: why is it important to use PPE in the prevention and control of infections?
Do you know two different types of PPE and when to use them?
Do you know why you use PPE when supporting individuals with personal hygiene?
Do you know the key regulations regarding the use of PPE?
Do you know what your responsibilities and your employer’s responsibilities are regarding the use of PPE?
Do you know why it is important to apply, remove and dispose of PPE correctly?
Did you know that you have just shown your knowledge of the importance of using PPE for preventing and
controlling infections?
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Skills: how can you show that you can use PPE correctly?
Do you know how to put disposable gloves on correctly?
Do you know how to dispose of used PPE safely?
Do you know what practices you must follow before and after using PPE?
Did you know that you have just demonstrated the skills required to be able to use PPE correctly?
AF Behaviours: how can you show the personal qualities you have when using PPE in the prevention and control
of infections?
Do you know how to be sensitive if an individual does not want you to use PPE?
Do you know how to be thorough and explain in detail the reasons for the use of PPE?
Do you know how to be decisive when disposing of PPE?
Did you know that you have just demonstrated the essential behaviours required to use PPE correctly?
LO6 Understand the importance of good personal hygiene

in the prevention and control of infections
technique as you will learn about next is also
Getting started
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essential for preventing the spread of infection.
Think about what you believe to be a good Other important aspects of your personal hygiene
standard of personal hygiene. What does this for controlling the spread of infections include the
involve? Why is this important to you? How does following:
this compare to the personal hygiene of others ● Hair care: your hair must be regularly washed,
you know? For example, your family, friends? brushed and kept clean to prevent infections
such as head lice. If you have long hair it
should be tied back to prevent any unwanted
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AC 6.1 Describe the key principles hairs from falling into, for example, food that
you are preparing. Your hair may also come
of good personal hygiene into contact with individuals which could lead
Maintaining your personal hygiene to a good to the spread of infection.
standard is not only more pleasant for everyone
● Hand and nail care: your nails must be
you come into contact with, but it is also an
kept clean and short. Nail varnish and nail
essential part of preventing and controlling the
extensions must not be worn as these may
spread of infections. As you have learned in LO5,
flake and/or fall off whilst carrying out your
using PPE correctly is essential for preventing and
work activities and therefore have the potential
controlling infections. Using a good hand washing
to spread the harmful pathogens that they
27

contain. Jewellery such as rings and bracelets
can also be potential risks of infection as Evidence opportunity
harmful pathogens may become trapped in
these. Good hand hygiene, as you will learn 6.1 Key principles of good personal
later on, is essential for preventing and hygiene
controlling infections. Describe to your assessor what the key
● Oral care: you must brush your teeth principles of good personal hygiene are, or you
regularly to avoid infections that can cause could provide a written account describing these.
bad breath.
● Body care: you must wash, bathe or shower AC 6.2, 6.3 Demonstrate good hand
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every day, wear clean clothes and deodorant
to ensure that you prevent body odour and the washing technique and identify the
risk of infections to others. correct sequence for hand washing
● Skin care: your skin must be kept moisturised One of the most effective ways of preventing the
as with frequent hand washing it is likely spread of infection in care settings is through hand
to become dry and could therefore flake off washing. You must always wash your hands in care
during work activities and spread infections. If settings during your day-to-day work activities
AF ●
your skin has open wounds or you have a skin
rash then it is important to keep open wounds
covered over and to treat all skin rashes to
avoid the risk of cross infection.
Clothing/uniform: you must wash the
clothes you wear at work and/or uniform
regularly, so they are kept clean and
pathogen free. Wearing an apron will protect
the front/outside of your clothes from
because harmful pathogens are likely to be present
in the tasks you carry out and can therefore be the
cause of infections that can spread.
Research it
6.2 Hand hygiene policy
Research what your work setting’s hand
hygiene policy says about how to prevent the
harmful pathogens. Remember that if you spread of infections through effective hand
wear your uniform out of the work setting hygiene. Write down the key points.
that you may be at risk of cross infection,
such as if visiting the supermarket in your
lunch break or travelling home on the bus Good hand washing technique
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from work. In these situations, it may be The Care Quality Commission recommends that
better to change into and out of your uniform workers in care settings use liquid soap and
at work. In this way you will ensure that warm water for washing their hands and that they
your clothing and uniform do not spread carry out the following hand washing technique
infections from person to person and place for approximately 30 seconds, as outlined on the
to place. NHS’s ‘Hand hygiene technique for staff’ poster:
1 Wash your hands under warm running water.
Reflect on it 2 Apply liquid soap to cover all the hand surfaces.
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3 Rub your hands, palm to palm using a circular

6.1 Personal hygiene action.
Reflect on how it makes you feel to have good 4 Rub the back of each hand with the palm of the
personal hygiene. How would you feel if you other hand, with fingers interlaced.
were unable to maintain a good standard of 5 Rub palm to palm with fingers interlaced.
personal hygiene? Why? Now reflect on how 6 Rub backs of fingers to opposing palms with
an individual may feel. fingers interlocked.
7 Rub each thumb clasped in opposite hand
using a rotational action.
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8 Rub tips of fingers in the opposite palm in a AC 6.4 Explain when and why hand
circular action.
washing should be carried out
9 Rub each wrist with the opposite hand.
You must always wash your hands to protect
10 Rinse your hands under warm running water. yourself, the individuals and others you work with
11 Use your elbow or a paper towel to turn off the as well as the environment from the spread of
tap. germs. You must wash your hands:
12 Dry your hands thoroughly with paper towels.
● before and after you start work
13 Remember that hand washing should take
15–30 seconds. ● before and after contact with individuals who
you provide care or support to, i.e. support with
In addition, it is recommended that staff in care
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eating, drinking, washing
settings also comply with the following hand
hygiene practices that are also important in the ● before putting on and after disposing of
prevention of infections: gloves
● When you provide care to individual you must
● before preparing and handling food
roll your sleeves up to the elbows. This is ● after contact with your own or others’ bodily
referred to as Bare Below the Elbows (BBE). fluids, or any procedure that means you may
AF ● Jewellery must not be worn, i.e. rings, bracelet.

● Fingernails must be kept clean and short.
● Nail extensions, acrylic nails and nail varnish
must not be worn.
● Any cuts or abrasions must be covered with a
waterproof dressing.
Reflect on it
●
●
●
come into contact with bodily fluids
after going to the toilet
after coughing or sneezing, or blowing your
nose
after disposing of waste or handling used or
soiled linen
after coming into contact with clinical waste.
6.2 ‘Transport’ for infections Evidence opportunity

Reflect on your previous learning in this unit
and discuss with a colleague how clothes, 6.4 When and why hand washing
jewellery, nails and open wounds can be the should be carried out
‘transport’ for infections.
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Explain to your assessor when and why
hand washing should be carried out where
you work. Or you could provide a written
account.
6.2, 6.3 Demonstrating good hand
washing technique and identifying the
correct sequence for hand washing AC 6.5 Describe the types of
You will be observed for this AC. Practise washing products that should be used for
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your hands following the recommended method hand washing

for hand washing in care settings and ensuring Effective hand washing also depends on whether
you identify and follow the correct sequence. Ask you have the correct types of products available
a colleague to observe you whilst you do this and to use. If you don’t, then you won’t be effective in
make a note of any improvements you could make preventing and controlling infections. There are
to your practice. Reflect on their feedback and a number of products available that you can use;
practice washing your hands again. Remember below are some examples of these:
effective hand washing takes approximately
30 seconds – how long did you take? ● Soap: liquid soap is used to destroy harmful
pathogens that may be on your hands and
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arms. Bars of soap are not recommended that it continues to protect you and others from
because they can harbour many harmful infection. Below are some top tips for following
pathogens if handled by many people. the correct procedures for keeping your skin in
● Antiseptic hand wash: this is used to disinfect good condition:
the hands, for example when carrying out ● Your skin is being regularly washed and dried
isolation nursing for an individual who has an at work and at home. This can result in your
infection. skin becoming dry and flaky which can be the
● Alcohol-based hand gels: these can be used cause of infections. Ensure you moisturise
in addition to hand washing but only when your skin every day to avoid it from becoming
the hands are not visibly dirty and can be a too dry.
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convenient way of preventing the spread of ● Your skin is being regularly exposed to
infection, e.g. a home carer who works in different situations and environments. This
different individuals’ homes and access to can result in you developing cuts or small
hand washing facilities may not always be wounds. Ensure that all breaks in the skin
possible. are covered with a dressing that is replaced
● Paper towels: these can be used and disposed regularly and that can be seen if it falls off, i.e.
of afterwards when drying hands. Cotton blue coloured coverings can be easily spotted
AF towels are not recommended because they can

harbour many harmful pathogens if handled by
many people.
Research it
6.5 Hand washing products
Research the types of hand washing products
available where you work. Make a list of these
●
if they fell off.
Your skin has different products applied to it
such as soaps and hand gels. These may result
in skin rashes developing. Similarly, if you have
a skin condition such as eczema, regular hand
washing can make the eczema worse. Ensure
you report all concerns you have about your
skin at work; this may be to your employer or
manager. You will also need to seek medical
and why they are used. advice.
Reflect on it
Evidence opportunity 6.6 Your skin
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Reflect on how well you look after your skin.
6.5 Types of products for hand Why is this important? Are there any areas you
washing can improve on?
Produce a written account describing the types You could also produce a flow diagram that
of products that should be used for describes the correct procedures to follow for
hand washing. good skincare.
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AC 6.6 Describe correct procedures

that relate to skincare
Your skin is an effective protective barrier
from harmful pathogens and it is important to
ensure that you take good care of your skin so
30

Case study Evidence opportunity
6.6 Skincare 6.6 Correct procedures that relate

David works a community support worker, to skincare
providing support to individuals who live in Provide a written account describing correct
their homes. As he is very busy and does not procedures that relate to skincare.
have much time in between his visits between
individuals he doesn’t have time to moisturise
his hands after washing them. David has
noticed that his hands are becoming very dry
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and his skin is cracked.
Questions
1 What should David do? Why?
2 What are the risks of infection?
AF LO6 Knowledge, skills, behaviours

Knowledge: why is good personal hygiene important for the prevention and control of infections?
Do you know what good personal hygiene is?
Do you know why hand washing is important, when and why it should be carried out?
Do you know the products to use for hand washing?
Do you know the procedures to follow for good skincare?
Did you know that you have just shown your knowledge of what good personal hygiene involves in relation to
Skills: how can you show that you can demonstrate good personal hygiene?
Do you know how to care for your hair and nails?
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Do you know how to use the recommended hand washing technique by following the correct sequences?
Do you know how to use different types of products for washing your hands?
Do you know how to look after your skin so it doesn’t get too dry?
Did you know that you have just demonstrated the skills required to be able to show good personal hygiene?
Behaviours: how can you show the personal qualities you have when following good personal hygiene?
Do you know how to be thorough when washing your hands?
Do you know how to be respectful of the individuals you work with in terms of maintaining your own personal
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hygiene?
Did you know that you have just demonstrated the essential behaviours required to be able to apply good
personal hygiene?
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Suggestions for using the activities

This table summarises all the activities in the unit that are relevant to each assessment criterion.
Here, we also suggest other, different methods that you may want to use to present your knowledge and skills
by using the activities.
These are just suggestions, and you should refer to the Introduction section at the start of the book, and more
importantly the City & Guilds specification, and your assessor, who will be able to provide more guidance on how
you can evidence your knowledge and skills.
When you need to be observed during your assessment, this can be done by your assessor, or your manager can
provide a witness testimony.
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Assessment criteria and Suggested assessment methods to show your knowledge/skills
accompanying activities
LO1 Understand your and others’ roles and responsibilities in the prevention and control of infections
1.1 Research it (page xx) Provide a written account of your findings and/or your discussion.
1.1 Evidence opportunity Provide a written account that explains employees’ and others’ roles and
(page xx) responsibilities in relation to the prevention and control of infection. You could
also explain this to your assessor.
AF 1.2 Research it (page xx)
1.2 Evidence opportunity

(page xx)
2.1 Research it (page xx)

Provide a written account or develop a presentation that explains employers’
responsibilities in relation to the prevention and control of infection.
Discuss with your employer their responsibilities in relation to the prevention
and control of infection. Provide a written account or a handout that explains
employers’ responsibilities in relation to infection prevention and control.
LO2 Understand legislation and policies relating to prevention and control of infections
Write down your findings.
Provide a written account or outline examples of current legislation and
(page xx) regulatory body standards relevant to the prevention and control of infections
to your assessor.
2.2 Research it (page xx) Write down your findings. You could also discuss with a colleague two local
policies relevant to the prevention and control of infections and write down
details of your discussion.
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2.2 Reflect on it (page xx) Write a reflective account.
2.2 Evidence opportunity Provide a written account that identifies examples of local and organisational
(page xx) policies relevant to the prevention and control of infection.
LO3 Understand systems and procedures relating to the prevention and control of infections
3.1, 2.2 Reflect on it Write a reflective account addressing questions in the activity or one about the
(page xx) agreed ways of working you use to prevent and control infections where you
work.
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3.1 Research it (page xx) Write down your findings. Or you could explore how infections can be prevented
and controlled where you work and where you live.
3.1 Evidence opportunity Provide a written account that describes the procedures and systems relevant
(page xx) to preventing and controlling the spread of infection.
3.2 Reflect on it (page xx) Provide a reflective account addressing the questions in the activity or a more
general account discussing the consequences of an infection outbreak.
3.2 Evidence opportunity Write an account of how an outbreak of infection may affect the individuals and
(page xx) organisation you work in.
➜
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LO4 Understand the importance of risk assessment in relation to the prevention and control of infections
4.1 Evidence opportunity Write a statement that defines the term ‘risk’. You could also think about what
(page xx) this means in relation to infection, for example.
4.2 Reflect on it (page xx) Write a reflective account addressing the questions in the activity. Or you could
write one about the reasons why where you work has the potential for infection
to spread.
4.2 Evidence opportunity Provide a written account as suggested in the activity. Or you could develop
(page xx) a verbal presentation for your assessor that outlines the potential risks of
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infection within your workplace.
4.3, 2.1 Reflect on it (page xx) Write a reflective account. Or you could discuss, in your piece, the process of
carrying out and documenting a risk assessment where you work.
4.3 Evidence opportunity Describe to your assessor the process of carrying out a risk assessment in relation
(page xx) to the prevention and control of infections. Or you could provide a written account.
4.4, 4.2, 4.3 Case study Write down your answers to the questions at the end of the case study. Reflect
(page xx) on the case study and explain the importance of carrying out a risk assessment.
AF 4.4 Evidence opportunity

(page xx)
5.1, 5.2, 5.3 Reflect on it

(page xx)
5.1, 5.2, 5.3 Evidence
opportunity (page xx)
Write an account explaining the importance of carrying out a risk assessment.
You could also think about an occasion you carried out a risk assessment and
explain the importance of doing so.
LO5 Understand the importance of using Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) in the prevention and control of
infections
Write a reflective account addressing the points in the activity. Or you could
write a more general account of how you use PPE at work and why you use it.
You must make arrangements for your work practices to be observed so that
you can show how you use PPE correctly.
You can also obtain a witness testimony to demonstrate that you can use
different types of PPE correctly.
Remember that you must also identify different types of PPE and explain the
reasons why you use them to your assessor for this activity.
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5.4 Research it (page xx) Write down your findings or develop a presentation of current relevant
regulations and legislation relating to PPE.
5.4 Evidence opportunity Provide a written account stating current relevant regulations and legislation
(page xx) relating to PPE.
5.5, 5.6 Research it (page xx) Discuss your findings with your assessor, or you could discuss your employer’s
responsibilities and your responsibilities regarding the use of PPE where you
work more generally.
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5.5, 5.6 Evidence opportunity Write an account that describes employees’ and employers’ responsibilities
(page xx) regarding the use of PPE. Or you could describe this to your assessor.
5.3, 5.4, 5.5, 5.6 Reflective The reflective exemplar will help you to think about the reasons for using PPE,
exemplar (page xx) the legal requirements as well as employers’ and employees’ responsibilities.
5.7 Reflect on it (page xx) Write a reflective account based on the questions in the activity. Or you might
like to write one about the practices you follow for applying and removing PPE
where you work.
➜
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5.7 Evidence opportunity Provide a written account describing the correct practice in the application and
(page xx) removal of PPE.
Or you could describe to your assessor the correct practice for the application
and removal of two types of PPE you use at work.
5.8 Research it (page xx) Write down your findings.
5.8 Reflect on it (page xx) Draw a flow diagram as instructed or provide a written account.
5.8 Evidence opportunity Provide a written account describing the correct procedure for disposal of used
(page xx) PPE where you work.
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LO6 Understand the importance of good personal hygiene in the prevention and control of infections
6.1 Reflect on it (page xx) Write an account addressing the questions in the activity. Or you might want
to write a personal statement about the importance of good personal hygiene
more generally.
6.1 Evidence opportunity Describe to your assessor what the key principles of good personal hygiene
(page xx) are, or you could provide a written account describing this. Or you could
AF 6.2 Research it (page xx)

6.2 Reflect on it (page xx)
6.2, 6.3 Evidence opportunity

(page xx)

(page xx)
prepare a presentation for your assessor.
Write down the key points from your research findings.
Write a reflective account based on the activity or you could write an account of
how to use good hand washing technique.
You must make arrangements for your work practices to be observed so that
you can show how you use a good hand washing technique and identify the
correct sequence of steps to follow for hand washing.
Write an account that explains when and why hand washing should be carried
out.
6.5 Research it (page xx) Make a list of the types of products that are used for hand washing where you
work.
6.5 Evidence opportunity Produce a written account describing the types of products that you use at
(page xx) work for hand washing. You could include details of when and why you use
these.
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6.6 Reflect on it (page xx) Write a reflective account addressing the points in the activity or a general
account of how to maintain effective skincare.
6.6 Case study (page xx) Write down your answers.
The case study will help you to think about what to do if you have concerns
about your skin care.
6.6 Evidence opportunity Provide a written account describing correct procedures that relate to skincare.
(page xx) Or you could describe these to your assessor.
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Legislation
Relevant Act/Regulations Key points
Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 The health, safety and well-being of everyone must be promoted. It
established the key duties and responsibilities of all employers and
employees in work settings. For example, it requires employers to have
written health and safety policies, procedures in place including those for
Public Health (Control of Disease) Infections and diseases must be reported so that the spread of infections
Act 1984 as amended by the Health and diseases can be managed and monitored effectively. The Regulations
and Social Care Act 2008 and The set out a list of highly infectious diseases that must be reported.
T
Public Health (Infectious Diseases)
Regulations 1988
Food Safety Act 1990, the Food Safe food handling must always be promoted. The Food Standards Act
Standards Act 1999 and the Food established the Food Standards Agency to monitor food safety and
Hygiene Regulations 2006 standards to minimise the risk of contaminated food. The Regulations set
out safe working practices that must be complied with by premises where
food is handled, prepared, cooked and served.
AF Personal Protective Equipment

(PPE) at Work Regulations 1992
Workplace (Health, Safety and

Welfare) Regulations 1992
Management of Health and Safety

at Work Regulations (MHSWR)
1999
Employers must provide employees free of charge, with personal protective
equipment (PPE) such as gloves, aprons to provide protection against
infections. They require employees to comply with their employer’s agreed
ways of working when using and disposing of PPE during activities.
Employers must ensure that workplaces are environments where risks to
general health and safety are minimised including in relation to infection
control.
Employers must assess the risks to the health and safety of their
employees and others in the workplace; this includes the risks from
harmful pathogens when carrying out work activities. It also requires
employees to take care of their own and others’ health and safety, including
in relation to infection control.
Control of Substances Hazardous Employers and employees must manage the risks that harmful pathogens
to Health (COSHH) Regulations can cause, i.e. infections and diseases. The Regulations also require
R
2002 employers and employees to use, store and manage hazardous substances
safely.
Environment Protection Controlled waste must be disposed of safely by setting out how waste
(Duty of Care) Regulations 1991 awaiting disposal must be stored.
(as amended 2003)
Hazardous Waste (England and Safe practices must be followed when disposing of different types of waste
Wales) Regulations 2005 including waste that has a potential to cause harm through infection, i.e.
used dressings, sharps.
D
Health and Social Care Act 2008: The NHS and all providers of health care and adult social care in England
Code of Practice on the prevention must comply with infection prevention requirements to ensure high levels
and control of infections and of cleanliness are maintained.
related guidance (2015)
The Reporting of Injuries, Diseases Employers must report and keep records of work-related accidents which
and Dangerous Occurrence cause deaths, work-related accidents which cause certain serious injuries
Regulations (RIDDOR) 2013 (referred to as reportable injuries), reportable work-related illnesses and
certain ‘dangerous occurrences’ (i.e. incidents with the potential to cause
harm).
35

Resources for further reading

and research
Books Weblinks
Ferreiro Peteiro, M. (2014) Level 2 Health and www.cqc.org.uk Care Quality Commission
Social Care Diploma Evidence Guide, Hodder (CQC) – information on the standards that can eb
Education expected in care services
Michie, V. Morris, C. Baker, L. Collier, F. and www.food.gov.uk Food Standards Agency (FSA) –
T
Marshall, T. (2011) Level 2 Health and Social Care information and guidance about food safety and
Diploma, Hodder Education hygiene
www.gov.uk The UK Government’s website –
Booklets information about current legislation and
Association of Healthcare Cleaning Professionals regulations
and Royal College of Nursing (2013) ‘Creating www.hse.gov.uk Health & Safety Executive –
AF a safe environment for care: defining the

relationship between cleaning and nursing staff’,
London, RCN.
Health and Safety Executive (2014) ‘Risk
assessment: A brief guide to controlling risks in
the workplace’, Health and Safety Executive
Royal College of Nursing (2012) ‘Essential
practice for infection prevention and control:
guidance for nursing staff (Wipe it out: one chance
resources and information about infection
prevention and control in the adult social care
sector
www.nice.org.uk National Institute for Health
and Care Excellence (NICE) – guidance about best
practice for infection prevention and control
www.gov.uk/government/organisations/
public-health-england Public Health England –
guidance and research on infection prevention
and control
to get it right)’, London, RCN.
Royal College of Nursing and Infection Prevention www.rcn.org.uk Royal College of Nursing (RCN) –
Society (2016) ‘Infection prevention and control guidance and information about the prevention
commissioning toolkit: guidance and information and control of infections
for nursing and commissioning staff in England’ www.skillsforcare.org.uk Skills for Care –
R
(3rd edition), London, RCN. resources and information on the code of conduct
Royal College of Nursing (2014) ‘Infection for adult care workers
prevention and control: information and learning www.skillsforhealth.org.uk Skills for Health –
resources for health care staff’ (3rd edition), resources and information on the code of conduct
London, RCN. for adult care workers
D
ISBN: 9781510429116
© Maria Ferreiro Peteiro 2018
All rights reserved. Apart from any use permitted under UK copyright law, no part of this publication
may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including
photocopying and recording, or held within any information storage and retrieval system, without
permission in writing from the publisher or under licence from the Copyright Licensing Agency Limited.
Further details of such licences (for reprographic reproduction) may be obtained from the Copyright
Licensing Agency Limited, www.cla.co.uk
Cover photo © tournee - Fotolia
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The principles of infection

prevention and control (282)

preventing and controlling infections.

429116_CG_L2_Adult_Care_U1_01-36.indd 1 29/11/18 11:11 AM

LO1 Understand your and others’ roles and responsibilities

AF diarrhoea and vomiting.

AC 1.1 Explain employees’ roles and

429116_CG_L2_Adult_Care_U1_01-36.indd 2 29/11/18 11:11 AM

Type of pathogen Description

AF How do infections spread?

Infections spread through six key stages, which

multiply. ● To work closely with your employer in

429116_CG_L2_Adult_Care_U1_01-36.indd 3 29/11/18 11:11 AM

AF not understand, so that you can practise in

1.2 Incidents or outbreaks of infection

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LO1 Knowledge, skills, behaviours

LO2 Understand legislation and policies relating to

Getting started AC 2.1 Outline current legislation

and others safe at work? What would be the Current legislation

429116_CG_L2_Adult_Care_U1_01-36.indd 5 29/11/18 11:11 AM

Legislation What it says about the prevention and control of infection

AF Diseases) Regulations 1988

429116_CG_L2_Adult_Care_U1_01-36.indd 6 29/11/18 11:11 AM

Legislation What it says about the prevention and control of infection

AF of infections and related

429116_CG_L2_Adult_Care_U1_01-36.indd 7 29/11/18 11:11 AM

provides food safety and hygiene information Evidence opportunity

developing best practice such as in relation

429116_CG_L2_Adult_Care_U1_01-36.indd 8 29/11/18 11:11 AM

AF policies aim to prevent infections from occurring

Infection Cleaning the

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Reflect on it Evidence opportunity

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LO3 Understand systems and procedures relating to

Getting started Reflect on it

Key term Below are examples of some of the practices or

AF pathogens that cause disease and are given

AC 3.1 Describe procedures and

for policies such as hand hygiene and the use of

429116_CG_L2_Adult_Care_U1_01-36.indd 11 29/11/18 11:11 AM

AF of waste safely and not leaving debris such

Safe handling and disposal of waste

● Only use cleaning materials that are

429116_CG_L2_Adult_Care_U1_01-36.indd 12 29/11/18 11:11 AM

AF infectious and contains bodily fluids such as

429116_CG_L2_Adult_Care_U1_01-36.indd 13 29/11/18 11:11 AM

AF sure you use and dispose of PPE as you

429116_CG_L2_Adult_Care_U1_01-36.indd 14 29/11/18 11:11 AM

429116_CG_L2_Adult_Care_U1_01-36.indd 15 29/11/18 11:11 AM

On an organisational level, infections can also have Evidence opportunity

AF not receive the care they should by the people who

LO3 Knowledge, skills, behaviours

429116_CG_L2_Adult_Care_U1_01-36.indd 16 29/11/18 11:11 AM

LO4 Understand the importance of risk assessment in relation

Getting started Evidence opportunity

AF and cause serious harm and even fatalities.

Immune system refers to the human body’s

429116_CG_L2_Adult_Care_U1_01-36.indd 17 29/11/18 11:11 AM

Potential risk of infection Reasons for potential risk

AC 4.3 Describe the process of

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