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Pharmacy inspections

Inspection reports and learning from inspections

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Using individual risk assessments to support team members

Pharmacy type

Community

Pharmacy context

​COVID-19

Relevant standards

  • 1.1 - The risks associated with providing pharmacy services are identified and managed

Why this is notable practice

The pharmacy is protecting its team members by carrying out individual risk assessments. And it is taking action to review working arrangements in order to safeguard team members who are at greater risk of severe illness if they were to contract COVID-19.

How the pharmacy did this

The pharmacy had carried out a risk assessment to identify any members of the team who may be at greater risk if they were to contract COVID-19. The pharmacy had a spacious dispensary with two back rooms. Pharmacy team members identified as being at greater risk were able to work alone in these rooms. This helped to further reduce the risk of them being exposed to the virus and meant they could continue working. In the main dispensary work stations had been set up so that team members worked with their backs to one another, and in a way that kept a minimum distance of two metres between them.

The risk assessment had also ensured that team members wore personal protective equipment when appropriate. And it had led to the pharmacy changing its hygiene procedures. Team members now washed their hands every 30 minutes. They also cleaned surfaces and equipment regularly, this included a core routine of three times per day as a minimum.

What difference this made to patients

Team members feel protected and valued whilst carrying out their roles. By protecting its team members, the pharmacy is able to continue to provide a safe and efficient service to people during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Highlighted standards

We have identified the standards most likely and least likely to be met in inspections, and highlighted examples of notable practice for each of these standards; to help everyone learn from others and to support continuous improvement:

  1. 1.1 Risk management
  2. 1.2 Reviewing and monitoring the safety of services
  3. 4.2 Safe and effective service delivery
  4. 4.3 Sourcing and safe, secure management of medicines and devices
  5. 2.2 Staff skills and qualifications