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This month NHS Supply Chain has been running a series of national events to help NHS Trusts prepare for the introduction of forthcoming legislation surrounding clinical sharps safety.

The events focus on raising awareness of EU Directive 2010/32/EU and the support available from NHS Supply Chain to help trusts implement changes to their clinical processes. Coming into force on 11 May, the Directive requires all trusts to have carried out a risk assessment of the potential for exposure to blood-borne infections by clinical staff and to have prepared an action plan for implementing improvements to processes and procedures that eliminate or reduce risk.

'The new Directive is a major step forward for improving health and safety amongst healthcare staff,' said Chris Littlejohn, Clinical Lead at NHS Supply Chain. 'NHS Supply Chain can work with trusts to review their current position, ensuring a tailored approach for a smooth transition.'

www.hse.gov.uk/healthservices/needlesticks/eu-directive.htm