Page 596 - Xmo Strata - Bulletin Archive

Health, Safety & Environmental Bulletin No 235

K Parmentier – 3 March 2011

Syringe & Hypodermic Needles

Please see enclosed self explanatory safety alert received from Global Alliance.

Although we do not work with sinks, drains or other areas usually associated with
discarded needles, we do change forecourt rubbish bins, and work in undergrowth near
signs and either of these locations could contain needles or syringes.

Although our JSA's for higher risk tasks highlight the need to check for needles, you
should always be wary of any area you cannot see clearly; never put your hand into any
area before you have examined it for sharps. If you find any needles, syringes or other
contaminated waste, do not touch it and contact your supervisor.

As part of our policy to mitigate potential risks on site, we regularly refit grill covers to
interceptors to mitigate risk at source and add value to our customers, but please note

that there is a high risk of sharps in the interceptor gullies and under no circumstances
should anybody put their hand into the interceptor gully to attempt to find fixings or
other cover parts.

Always ensure you carry out a full Last Minute Risk Assessment before carrying out any
work.

Risk management is a big step towards accident prevention; however, it is dependent on the risk firstly
being identified, then controlled. We need safety awareness to be instinctive and form an integral part
of both our working and home lives; it is this, in turn, that may save the lives of others. Remember: if
shared, risks can be mitigated before they pose a threat.

If you have any queries regarding the Safety Bulletin content or require further information please
contact any staff member of Xmo Strata Ltd.