Using individual risk assessments to inform safe working practices

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 uses individual team risk assessments to identify changes needed to the work environment to protect team members who are at greater risk of serious illness if they contract COVID-19.

How the pharmacy did this

The pharmacy had carried out individual risk assessments for all team members. This identified any members of the team who were at greater risk if they contracted COVID-19. Every team member had been involved in completing their own risk assessment. Although individual risk assessments were not shared amongst the team there were some common themes that had emerged from the process. The team members held a meeting to discuss the common themes and how they could manage the identified risks.

The team identified the small dispensary hindered compliance with social distancing. To manage this the team allocated specific tasks to different sections of the dispensary. This meant team members were not working close to each other on a regular basis. The team set aside dedicated time slots during the day to complete certain tasks, such as putting stock away after receiving the delivery from the wholesaler. The consultation room was not in use so the team set it up for dispensing medicines in to the compliance packs. All team members wore personal protective equipment in accordance with PHE guidance.

What difference this made to patients

The pharmacy team members work well together to ensure everyone feels safe whilst carrying out their roles. This means the team can continue to focus on providing a safe and efficient service to people during the COVID-19 pandemic.