Question 1: Identify three common hazards that could be found in a care home setting and explain how they could potentially cause harm.

Answer: Possible hazards include wet floors which could cause slips and falls; faulty electrical equipment risking electric shocks; and cluttered walkways leading to trips. These hazards can cause injuries such as fractures, electric shocks, or bruises.

Question 2: Describe two safety procedures that staff in a health and social care setting should follow to prevent the spread of infections.

Answer: Staff should practice regular handwashing with soap and water and ensure proper disposal of used personal protective equipment (PPE) to prevent infection transmission.

Question 3: Explain why it is important for care workers to report any safety hazards they observe during their shift.

Answer: Reporting hazards helps prevent accidents or injuries, ensures prompt action to remove or fix dangers, and maintains a safe environment for both staff and service users.

Question 4: List four items of safety equipment that are essential in a health and social care environment and state their purpose.

Answer: 1. Fire extinguisher - to put out small fires. 2. Emergency alarm system - to alert staff in case of emergencies. 3. First aid kit - to treat minor injuries. 4. Safety signs - to provide warnings and instructions.

Question 5: Describe the steps a care worker should take if a service user is suspected of having a contagious illness.

Answer: The worker should immediately isolate the individual, wear appropriate PPE, inform the supervisor, follow infection control protocols, and ensure proper disposal of contaminated materials.

Question 6: Sketch a simple diagram of a safe layout for a care home's emergency exit route. Include key features such as exits, clear pathways, and signage.

Answer: A correct sketch would show a floor plan with clearly marked emergency exits, unobstructed pathways leading to exits, and visible safety signage indicating escape routes.

Question 7: Explain the importance of having regular safety drills in health and social care settings.

Answer: Safety drills prepare staff and service users for emergencies, improve response times, ensure everyone knows evacuation procedures, and help identify any weaknesses in safety plans.

Question 8: Identify and describe two procedures for safe manual handling of service users to prevent injury.

Answer: Use proper lifting techniques, such as bending the knees and keeping the back straight, and use assistive equipment like hoists or sliders to reduce physical strain.

Question 9: Describe what a 'risk assessment' involves and why it is important in health and social care.

Answer: A risk assessment involves identifying potential hazards, evaluating the level of risk, and deciding on measures to control or eliminate risks. It is important to prevent accidents and ensure safety.

Question 10: Create a list of four safety rules that should be followed by all staff working in a care setting.

Answer: 1. Always wash hands before and after caring for a service user. 2. Report any hazards or unsafe conditions immediately. 3. Use PPE when required. 4. Follow fire safety procedures during drills and emergencies.