Hazard | Potential Risk | Likelihood | Severity | Risk Level | Mitigation Measures |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Panic or Aggression | Approaching the service user from outside their field of vision could cause panic or escalate aggression. | Medium | High | Medium-High | Ensure staff approach from within the service user's field of vision whenever possible. |
Miscommunication | Lack of coordination between the lead and support staff may confuse the service user and escalate the situation. | Medium | Medium | Medium | Conduct pre-planning and clear communication between staff members before engaging with the service user. |
Physical Injury | The service user may react physically towards either the lead or support staff, resulting in injury. | Medium | High | Medium-High | Staff should maintain a safe distance and use non-threatening body language to minimise the risk of physical reaction. |
Loss of Control | If the service user shifts attention unpredictably, the lead and support roles may become unclear, increasing the risk of escalation. | Medium | Medium | Medium | Staff should be trained to quickly adapt and switch roles if necessary to maintain control of the situation. |
Fatigue or Stress | Extended interaction may lead to fatigue or stress in staff, reducing their ability to respond effectively. | Low | Medium | Low-Medium | Ensure adequate staffing levels and provide regular breaks during extended interactions. |
Overall Risk Level | Medium |
Hazard | Potential Risk | Likelihood | Severity | Risk Level | Mitigation Measures |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Physical Strain | The staff member may experience strain or fatigue, particularly if the service user requires significant guidance or support. | Medium | Medium | Medium | Ensure the staff member is trained in safe handling techniques and takes regular breaks if necessary. |
Lack of Support | If an incident occurs, the single staff member may lack immediate assistance to manage the situation effectively. | Medium | High | Medium-High | Only conduct single-staff guiding in low-risk situations and ensure backup support is readily available if required. |
Service User Resistance | The service user may resist or react unpredictably, increasing the risk of injury to both parties. | Medium | High | Medium-High | Train staff in de-escalation techniques and ensure the guiding approach is non-threatening and supportive. |
Limited Supervision | The single staff member may struggle to manage other environmental risks (e.g., obstacles, doors). | Medium | Medium | Medium | Plan the route in advance and minimise environmental risks where possible. |
Overall Risk Level | Medium-High |
Hazard | Potential Risk | Likelihood | Severity | Risk Level | Mitigation Measures |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Physical Strain | Strain or fatigue may still occur, but with a second staff member, the load is more evenly distributed. | Low | Medium | Low-Medium | Rotate responsibilities between staff members to avoid overexertion. |
Coordination | Poor communication between the two staff members may confuse the service user or lead to inconsistent actions. | Medium | Medium | Medium | Ensure both staff members plan and agree on their roles before guiding. |
Environmental Hazards | Doors, obstacles, or other environmental factors may pose risks if not managed effectively. | Low | Medium | Low-Medium | Assign one staff member to manage the environment (e.g., opening doors) while the other focuses on the service user. |
Service User Resistance | Resistance from the service user may still occur but can be managed more effectively with two staff members. | Medium | Medium | Medium | Ensure staff are trained in de-escalation techniques and work together to respond calmly and appropriately. |
Overall Risk Level | Medium |
Version: Version: 1.07