Syringe Policy

Purpose

To ensure the safety of students, staff and parents of Jells Park Primary School  in the event of a syringe being discovered on school property.

Aim/Nature

The threat of accidental injury which could occur through mishandling a syringe is to be minimised by correct management. This will be achieved through the safe handling and disposal of any syringe found. All staff, students and school community members will be educated as to the procedures involved.

Implementation

• A procedure for safe handling and disposal of syringes will be developed and communicated to staff and students.
• The parent and school community will be made aware of these procedures through  the school  newsletter.
• A “Sharps or Syringe Kit” will be prepared and available in the event of a syringe or sharp object being found in the school yard.

Evaluation

Communication of correct procedures for handling and disposal of syringes or sharps. 

Correct procedures followed as per Occupational Health and Safety Regulations listed below:

A Guide if person finds a syringe, needle or other sharp object…

The following five safe step guide to a sharps or syringe find can be used in public places including the school ground.

1.  Spotting the Find

A child spots a needle, syringe or other sharp object.

2.  Marking the spot

The child then marks the precise area of the find and leaves it where it has been found.

3.  Guard the find

The child then guards the find to prevent other children from handling the injecting or other sharp objects.   A message is then sent to an adult that a find has been made while the child stays with the find until an adult arrives.                                                                     

4.  Find the box

Once an adult has been notified, retrieval equipment is collected, including:

• a pair of long-handled tongs
• bucket
• gloves
• sharps disposal container

This equipment is then taken to the area of the find.   If at school, the retrieval equipment -  ‘The Syringe Kit' is located in the First Aid room. 

5.  Box the Find

If you can, protect your hands with gloves or a cloth.   Bring the container as close to the syringe as possible.

Preferably using tongs pick up the syringe by the plunger end and drop it into the container with other possible discarded injecting materials.  Close the lid of the container and return it to a safe place whilst arranging for disposal or collection -eg. local council office.