Class Description: Safety for Home Care Workers

Based on State of Oregon Home Care Commission Course

This class is for homecare workers and is designed to help employees stay safe and avoid injury and illness related to in-home services. It is designed to give the employees ownership in their own safety and health. A manual is provided to use as a reference. By following the safety suggestions, employees can greatly reduce their risk of accidents and illnesses.

Below is a list of general topics that will be discussed to help keep employees safe. More information about each of these topics is found throughout the manual.

• Practice safety at all times.


• Think safety for both you and your employer.


• Take the time to do it right.


• Keep quick access to a phone to call 911.


• Use gloves and personal protective equipment when handling chemical, blood or body

fluids/substances.

• Follow the Task List and any other instructions carefully


• Lift safely.


• Use utility ladders and step stools instead of chairs.


• Use gloves and good ventilation when working with household chemicals.


• Make sure smoke detectors are in place and are working.


• Use good lighting.


• Keep firearms and ammunition safe.


• Don’t use broken equipment.


• Know your emergency evacuation escape routes and back-up plans.


• Ask for help if you have a hazard you can’t resolve with your employer.


• Maintain a drug-free workplace

GHS/Haz Com program for commonly used chemicals and materials will be discussed to meet the December 1, 2013 deadline for employee training on the new system.

Biohazards and potential exposure to Bloodborne Pathogens and the appropriate control measures will also be covered.

Violence in the Workplace is covered as well, to enhance the employees skills at recognizing predictable and preventable exposures to violence.