Health and Safety

Patient Safety Charter

Our practice has a safety culture which means that patient safety is at the forefront of everyone's minds — not only when delivering healthcare but also when setting objectives, developing procedures, and purchasing new products and equipment. It is also a culture that is open and fair, where team members can discuss the challenges they face at work for the best interests of our patients.

For patient safety we:

• Follow the latest infection prevention guidelines including those from NHS England
• Use dental instruments that are single use or are sterilised after use
• Decontaminate work areas including the dental chair, hand held equipment and cupboard handles, between patients
• Maintain a high standard of personal hygiene including clinical clothing and the restricted wearing of jewellery
• Monitor practice water for quality — dental unit waterlines are disinfected and kept clear
• Handle waste according to current regulations and dispose of it with appropriate carriers
• Take expert advice if a team member may have a blood borne infection, following occupational health guidance on their role in treating patients
• Ensure all team members are trained in safeguarding of children and vulnerable adults and follow the practice safeguarding procedures, which are regularly monitored and reviewed
• Run a clinical governance system which uses integrated risk management to identify, assess, analyse and manage all risks and incidents — with the goal of continuous improvement in our care and service to you