Occupational Health and Safety Issues

All perioperative personnel involved in patient care must place safety as a primary concern. The specialised equipment used in the perioperative environment requires that all staff are familiar with equipment and potential hazards related to them. Along with the highly specialised equipment certain pieces of equipment are used routinely but still have the potential to cause damage. Injuries to patients during operative procedures can have significant consequences for all concerned. An awareness of how to prevent and reduce these hazards through the development of knowledge and skills will provide a safer workplace for all involved.

Safety is a shared responsibility of employers and each employee. The responsibility of the employer is to provide a place of employment free from recognised hazards that could cause serious harm or injury. The responsibility of each employee is to be well informed about the potential hazards found in the workplace, to work in a safe manner, and to participate in the process of ensuring that the workplace is free of recognised hazards.

Physical hazards

Physical hazards in the operating suite are many; fires, electricity, radiation, slips, and falls, lifting of heavy objects, and steam. As orderlies you must be aware of how to use equipment and technology safely to prevent fire and electrical hazards, and you must also know how to respond to emergency situations caused by improper use or faulty equipment. Radiation safety protocols must be followed for staff and patient. Sufficient attention needs to be paid to items that can cause slips, trips, and falls. Lifting and movement of heavy equipment and patients requires proper body mechanics as well as an adequate number of personnel.

Emergency Procedures and Protocols

Every OR has an emergency signal 'red' button, that once activated will alert the operating suite complex, emergency response is required. A light will appear outside the OR requiring assistance and a distinct loud buzz will summons aid. The system should only be used in life threatening situations. Knowledge of how to use the system and how to respond to it is important. Being able to locate emergency equipment including the cardiac arrest trolley, fire extinguishers, and fire exits is extremely important. Attending training and education regarding emergency situations is a prerequisite for good response, saving invaluable time in critical situations.