Health and Safety

The Occupational Safety and Health Act does not apply to people you employ to provide personal assistance in your own home. However, in law, you owe a general duty of care to anyone coming into your home. It is good practice to be aware of health and safety concerns.

• It is your responsibility to provide a healthy and safe work place for your personal assistant (PA).
• It is your PA's duty not to do anything that might endanger either you or their own safety at any time.

The Health and Safety section covers

• Emergency Care
• Reducing Risks
• Body Mechanics
• Universal Precautions
• Disaster Preparedness
• Managing your own Health Care

General Health and Safety Checklist

You will want to train your PA to do what you want, in the way you want it done. Most of the time, they will be working directly to your instructions. Think about hazards in your home and how they can be avoided--try and look with the eyes of a stranger.

• use the proper moving techniques or handling aids. You may wish to stay on top of new technology that could assist you.
• you must ensure that PA's follow the correct handling techniques at all times. Ensure that they aren't wearing anything unsuitable such as high-heeled shoes for carrying out the maneuver. Always be aware of back problems.
• check for obstacles and sharp surfaces.
• make sure nothing is left on the floor that could be tripped over.
• be aware of caustic substances in your home--bleach, wheelchair battery acid--and provide appropriate clothing for your PA to wear (e.g., gloves).
• make sure that electric and mechanical equipment is checked and maintained.
• look out for loose carpeting or rugs.
• ensure proper hygiene practices are carried out. Disinfect, wash hands and equipment after use, dispose of waste and so on.
• take extra care over the preparation and cooking of food. Wash hands before and after, clean utensils and cutting tools thoroughly.
• If you have pets, you will need to keep them free of parasites. PA's are unlikely to put up with fleabites. Ask your vet for advice on injections and sprays, which you can use.

Much of this is common sense. However, keep on top of it.

You can also get (or arrange) further advice from:

• public health nurses, contact them through your local county or physician.
• your social worker, if you have one.
• your local consumer hotline.
• American Red Cross Disaster Planning websites.

General Health and Safety Checklist adapted from You're the Boss! (pp. 4-5, 8, 24-25, 29). Copyright 2000 Gateshead Council on Disability, Personal Assistance Project. Gateshead, NE8 4DY England. Reprinted with permission.

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