Policy/Guideline title: Dress Code and Uniform Policy

Author/Lead

Acknowledgement to Kings College Hospital, Uniform and Dress Code and Lois Atkinson, Uniform and dress code policy –adapted from both by Christine Pidgeon. In consultation with Yunus Dudhwala – Multi faith Chaplain.

Consultation:

Trust wide consultation

New document. Replaces “Nursing and Midwifery Uniform Policy”

Date of Last Review (if applicable)

July 2011

Next Formal Review Date:

July 2009 – IGC

Approval Date

Distribution:

Document Revision Record (if applicable) Version

This policy supersedes the existing Nursing and Midwifery Uniform policy 2006

 

Description of Change(s)

Need for a corporate dress code

Reason for Change

Christine Pidgeon

Author & Group(s)

As per approval

Date:

Jul 2009

Policy/Guideline Title

Synopsis: Newham University Hospital NHS Trust recognises the importance of appearance in creating a positive and professional image for our patients, their families, other staff and visitors to the Trust. The Trust also respects a natural desire for a certain amount of individuality and discretion in how staff dress and present themselves.

This policy sets out Newham University Hospital’s NHS Trust Dress Code and Uniform Policy for uniformed and non-uniformed staff. It applies to all Trust staff, including temporary staff and staff on honorary contracts. It specifies the roles and responsibilities of the employer and employees.

This guidance has therefore been designed to support good practice with regard to health and safety, infection control and security, as well as to promote a positive and professional image on behalf of the Trust, without being unreasonably prescriptive.

Staff Handbook 2009: quote: ‘The image of Newham University Hospital NHS Trust is important – the way we look, perform, and in the quality of our work. We must ensure that our standards are of the highest degree’. Equality & Diversity Statement Newham University Hospital NHS Trust is committed to ensuring that, as far as is reasonably practicable, the way we provide services to the public and the way we treat our staff reflects their individual needs and does not discriminate against individuals or groups on any grounds.

Aims & Objectives: The aim is to offer all staff and managers guidance in respect of dress and appearance, which will promote a positive and professional image of the Trust and contribute to health and safety, infection control and security

Who the policy/guideline applies to/is relevant to: The policy applies to all staff, including those with honorary contracts, sub contractors, NHS Professionals staff and agency workers, and students when working on Trust premises. It applies to both uniformed and nonuniformed staff groups. -This policy does not comprehensively cover the wearing of personal protective clothing and equipment. -For more information on Infection control refer to Infection Control Policy and Procedures -Uniforms and work wear are not personal protective clothing and items like plastic aprons and gowns must be used to protect uniform and work 2   

 

Policy/Guideline Title clothing from contamination during patient care activities. Application of standard infection control precautions following a risk assessment is key to protecting patients and staff from cross contamination with pathogenic organisms.

Training implications: There are no training implications.

Equipment: This policy does not comprehensively cover the wearing of personal protective clothing and equipment. For more information refer to Infection Control policy and procedures.

Outcome measures: Dress code monitoring will first be the responsibility of the department manager. There may be additional ‘spot check’ audit when appropriate/required. Senior managers should be involved and advice sought from Employment Relations Department.

Appropriate use: This guidance will apply at all times Deviation of this policy would need to be supported by a risk assessment and agreed by line manager.

What to do if policy is not followed by others: Completion of a Reporting and Learning Form, and appropriate action by the line manager or professional lead.

3   

 

Policy/Guideline Title

PROCEDURE / GUIDELINE ACTION

RATIONALE

1. Responsibilities of Employees In order for NUHT, its staff, patients and 1.1 All employees are supplied with a

visitors to be as safe as possible, all staff

Trust photo identity badge that must

must wear their Trust photo identification at

be worn and visible at all times when

all times. Name badges are insufficient, since

on duty or acting in an official capacity

these can be used by other people. It is

representing the Trust.

strongly recommended that identity badges

All employees should also wear a

are not worn in public areas outside the Trust,

clear name badge detailing, name

except where representing the Trust e.g.

and title.

when traveling to and from work, since they identify the wearer as a member of NUHT

NUHT employees with Honorary Trust

and this may compromise their safety.

contracts, including visiting clinical staff, student Nurses, Medical students and contractors must also wear ID and name badges. Smoking is not permitted on Trust property or - when wearing a Trust photo ID badge, or uniform.

1.2 Employees and honorary staff are

Dress and appearance are important

responsible for following standards of

factors in promoting the professional

uniform/dress and appearance as laid

image of the Trust and to good

down in this policy, and should

health and safety, infection control and

understand how this policy relates to

security for patients/clients, their families,

their working environment, health &

other staff and visitors to the Trust.

safety, infection control, their particular role and duties, during the course of their employment, and honorary duties carried out within the 4   

 

Policy/Guideline Title Trust.

1.3 All staff are required to comply with the principles of the Dress Code, and where appropriate, to the requirements of the Uniform Policy. Failure to adhere to the Trust’s standards of dress and appearance may constitute misconduct and

result

in

formal

disciplinary

proceedings by respective employers.

Where concerns over dress or appearance arise, it is important that local managers attempt to resolve these sensitively, but equally feel able to raise their concerns with the relevant member of staff. Advice can be sought from the Employee Relations Department

1.4 Managers are responsible for

If this cannot be resolved locally, more senior

ensuring the policy is adhered to at all

managers should be involved and advice

times in respect of the employees they

sought from Employee Relations Department.

manage. 1.5 It is the responsibility of all staff to

In extreme cases, staff who are asked to

ensure that they are fully conversant with revise their dress or appearance on the policy and are compliant.

reasonable grounds, will be sent home to do so, at loss of pay. Those who refuse to do

1.6 The policy is designed to guide so may be subject to disciplinary action under managers and employees on the Trust the Trust’s Disciplinary Procedure. It should standards of dress and appearance. The be stressed that this is a measure of last policy is not exhaustive in defining resource and will only be taken when the acceptable and unacceptable standards situation cannot be resolved by other means. of dress and appearance. 1.7 Managers and employees should use common

sense

in

adhering

to

the

principles underpinning the policy, and the principles outlined in this section, and should act as a guide to decision making. A sensible approach should be taken to ensure the spirit of the code is applied.

5   

 

Policy/Guideline Title 2. Allowances on the Grounds of Religious, Cultural, Patriotism or Political Beliefs 2.1

The wearing of items arising from

cultural or religious norms is in most circumstances supported by the Trust, providing that the health and safety and security

of patients or

staff

is

not

compromised.

2.2 Head coverings may be worn in accordance with certain cultural/religious

This guidance will be applied fairly and

requirements provided that the face is

consistently to all staff employed at the Trust

clearly visible and not obscured in any

regardless of sex, race, religion, ethnic origin,

way and is tucked in clinical areas. Where marital status, disability, union membership, the head covering is part of a uniform, it

sexual orientation, status, staff group,

should be in plain colours appropriate to

profession, numbers of hours worked or any

the uniform.

other irrelevant factor. It also applies to those working in the Trust as students, temporary

2.3 Symbols, badges and jewellery such staff, staff working through agencies including as a crucifix are permissible provided that NHS Professionals, staff working on a the

dress

code

guidelines

are consolatory basis and contractors.

and

adhered to. 2.4 Political beliefs are not covered within the UK regulations. Managers

Employees and

should however give

due To provide a uniform that is sensitive to the

consideration to ensuring that clothing is religious and cultural beliefs of our nursing not offensive, the wearing of T-shirts or and midwifery staff other garments with political or religious statements or slogans is not permitted.

2.5 The above section is intended as a guide for managers and employees only. Staffs are encouraged to discuss any additional clothing requirements with their

6   

 

Policy/Guideline Title managers on an individual basis.

2.6 Sleeves must be rolled up and turned back when in clinical areas with direct patient contact and during hand hygiene. To ensure effective communication, clothing which covers the face (veil/niqab) is not permitted for any staff in contact with patients, carers or visitors, or for staff in other roles where clear face to face communication is essential e.g. training. Staff in these areas who wish to wear a veil for religious reasons when they are not working e.g. during breaks, walking round the Trust, visiting the dining room, shops etc. may do so. However they must remove the veil for checking against their photo ID badge on request

3.

Dress Code – Uniformed Clinical Staff (Appendix 1)

3.1 The line manager or professional leads of services can authorise the nonwearing of uniforms in a specific specialist role where:



The client/clinician relationship has the wearing of a uniform.

The wearing of a uniform will create an unacceptable risk to safety and infection prevention.

7   

undertake, regularly or on ad hoc basis, will contribute to the appropriate choice of clothing.

the potential to be compromised by



The role that individual members of staff

 

Policy/Guideline Title



Where agreement is reached on appropriate standards of dress to be applied by the individuals in place of the uniform. (This is at the staff members own cost)

3.2 All uniformed staff should wear the Trust uniform which denotes their role when giving clinical care or undertaking administrative duties in a clinical setting (wards and departments). 3.3 Standard uniforms (at least three changes) will be provided by the Trust except for footwear (including maternity wear). Please see appendices for descriptions of uniforms for different staff groups. 3.4 The uniforms issued must not be altered or added to by the individual.

3.5 Nurses and nursing students wearing long-sleeved uniforms (for religious or cultural reasons) must roll the sleeves up and turn them back when in clinical areas with direct patient contact and during hand washing.

3.6 Nurse consultants/Consultant Midwives/Clinical Nurse Specialists/Midwifery Specialists, after discussion with the Director of Nursing and Midwifery, may use their discretion in relation to the clinical aspects of their role and decide whether the wearing of a 8   

 

Policy/Guideline Title uniform is appropriate to their speciality.

3.7 Navy or black cardigans (as colour of uniform denotes) or jumpers may be worn away from clinical areas and whilst on breaks but must be removed when providing clinical care. 3.8 The uniform must be worn in a clean and presentable fashion (see Section 5), and

changed

daily.

This

includes

patterned tabards worn in Paediatrics. 3.9 Uniformed staff should wear low heeled, rubber soled, closed toe, black leather or leather look shoes to reduce noise levels for patients, and to ensure that staff are able to respond rapidly in emergency situations. This is also necessary to ensure staff are protected from spillage or body fluids, and to facilitate safe manual handling. Crocs and Crocs work shoes, open toed sandals, flip flops and canvas or suede shoes are not permitted. Trainers are permitted only if they are all black, with a sturdy surround 3.10

Black,

or

flesh

coloured

non-

patterned tights or stockings should be worn if female staff are wearing a dress, and for male and female staff wearing tunic and trousers, plain, black socks should be worn. 3.11 If there is a member of nursing staff who requires an exception to this uniform policy –E.G in extremely hot weather - the reason should be clearly stated and a risk 9   

 

To comply with the NUHT heat wave business continuity plan 2008

Policy/Guideline Title assessment carried out. Any resulting actions to deviate from this policy must be agreed at the discretion of the Matron/ Assistant Director of area and /or professional lead. 3.12

Jewellery

must

be

kept to

a

minimum. A plain wedding band and one Necklaces can cause a hazard if they get pair of discreet stud earrings are caught in machinery (e.g. a photocopier or permitted. Also permitted is a single stud shredder).They can also be used to grab an nasal piercing, other facial or body individual in a violent situation. piercing are not permitted and must be Large amounts of jewellery or very dramatic removed before coming on duty (this will jewellery can sometimes compromise a include

tongue

piercing).

NB:

Nasal professional image piercing must be clean and healthy and not be implicated in any infection control issues.

No nail vanish or false nails

permitted.

3.13

Staff whose religion requires them

to wear a religious symbol may do so provided that they are discrete and comply with infection control and health and safety policies and guidance e.g. staff who are required to wear a Kara (steel bangle) may do so provided that it is pushed up the arm and taped to enable effective

clinical

decontamination.

hand The

washing wearing

/ of

necklaces is not permitted, unless worn for religious reasons. If worn they should be discreet and covered by the uniform. Wrist watches must not be worn while providing clinical care.

Dress and appearance are important factors

3.14 All staff will be encouraged to change their uniform before going off duty (changing facilities are provided in some 10   

 

in promoting the professional image of the Trust and to good health and safety, infection control and security for patients/clients, their

Policy/Guideline Title areas, although not in all areas). The

families, other staff and visitors to the Trust.

wearing of Trust uniform in public places outside of the Trust, such as in

To reduce the risk of infection being brought

supermarkets and restaurants and

in and out of the hospital environment.

travelling on public transport (other than Trust transport) is not acceptable.

To protect staff from emergency situations i.e. called on for help in the street as seen visible

It is absolutely forbidden for uniforms to be worn in any Public House or Bar.

The public often perceive that there is a risk of infection and it may undermine their confidence in our standards of care. If this is not possible, staff may travel between home and work in their uniform as long as it is completely covered by a full length coat. Failure to comply with this may lead to disciplinary action. 3.15 Nails should be kept short because they are easier to clean and ensure safe patient contact. Nail varnish and false nails, or acrylic nails, are not permitted. Nail varnish (which rapidly becomes chipped) and false nails are likely to harbour pathogens and can reduce compliance with hand hygiene.

3.16 Hair should be neat and tidy, arranged off the face and collar with suitable hair ornamentation. This includes headscarves for religious purposes or if necessary for medical reasons. 11   

 

as a nurse by the general public.

Policy/Guideline Title . 3.17 Staff must not eat or drink in clinical areas. Eating is only permitted in staff rest rooms and Trust restaurants. Smoking is not permitted on Trust property. Chewing gum is not permitted. In addition to this, the use of mobile phones, blue tooth headsets / devices in clinical areas are not permitted, while in consultation with patients. 4. Protective Clothing & Equipment

4.1 A number of clinical and non-clinical staff groups are required to wear protective clothing as part of their individual role, and these are provided by the Trust as required. The principles are based upon the need for: a) Patient safety b) Personal safety c)Statutory regulatory requirements d) Work environment e) Health and Safety requirements f) Infection prevention 4.2 The provision of personal protective equipment is the responsibility of the

The possibility of transmitting infections via

Trust. Each manager must ensure that

uniforms or work wear is an important issue,

personal protective clothing and

and the safety of patients in relation to

equipment is available to the employee in

healthcare associated infection (HCAI) is a

accordance with COSHH regulations and

clear priority for the Trust. There is no

local statutory recommendations.

conclusive evidence that uniforms (or other work clothes) pose a significant hazard in

5. Laundering

and

Care

of spreading infection. However it is well established that uniforms become

Uniform

5.1 The Trust has a duty to provide progressively contaminated with microguidance 12   

to

employees

on  

handling organisms. This policy adopts Department of

Policy/Guideline Title decontamination

of

soiled Health recommendations on uniform and

socially

uniforms. Uniforms should be washed as work wear that are considered good practice and based on informed common sense. It will

follows:  

Separate from other washing

help maintain public confidence around our

b) in a washing machine at the infection control practices because the public highest temperature possible that often perceive that there is a link between will not damage the fabric. Avoid uniforms and infection. The policy will help overloading the machine because the Trust to adhere to Duty 4, Section (h) this will reduce wash efficiency.

Health Act 2006 Code of Practice for the



Dried as quickly as possible,

Prevention and Control of Healthcare-



Tumbled and ironed preferably.

Associated Infections, and will help staff



Stored in a plastic bag, to prevent comply with national evidence-based contamination with dust or other guidelines on hand hygiene. pollutants.

5.2 Uniforms should be changed daily and staff should pay attention to their personal hygiene. Staff should bring a spare uniform to work and change into it immediately in the event of contamination with blood or body fluids.

All staff are required to comply with the principles of the Dress Code, and where appropriate, to the requirements of the Uniform Policy. Failure to adhere to the Trust’s standards of dress and appearance may constitute misconduct and result in formal disciplinary proceedings.

6. Dress

Code

for

Non-Uniformed

Clinical and Medical Staff (Those

staff

who

are

directly

involved in patient care) (Appendix 2) 13   

 

Policy/Guideline Title

6.1 In addition to the principles outlined in the

above

sections,

healthcare

professionals have a responsibility to minimise the spread of HCAIs by wearing appropriate clothing in the clinical setting. Micro-organisms are frequently carried on clothes, and this represents a potential source of HCAI in the clinical setting. 6.2 Cuffs become heavily contaminated and are likely to come into contact with the patient. 6.3 Ties must be removed during any activity

that

contact.

They

involves

direct

perform

no

patient

beneficial

function to patient care and have shown to be colonised by pathogens. 6.4 Medical Staff must follow all sections of the policy (with exception to Section 3) 6.5 All clinicians and students should observe the following guidance when in clinical areas. The standards listed below are mandatory for ward areas and recommended in clinics, especially when examining a patient: -Jackets must be removed -Shirt sleeves should be rolled to above the elbow and turned back when in clinical areas with direct patient contact and during hand washing. -Ties must be removed. -Long necklaces removed -Wristwatches removed, and any hand 14   

 

Policy/Guideline Title jewellery removed except one plain wedding band. Hand/wrist jewellery can harbour micro-organism and can reduce compliance with hand hygiene. -All bags, jackets and other personal belonging should be removed in ward

Staff should be aware that ‘modesty issues’

areas. Please follow local guidance on

can arise from how much of their bodies they

storage

expose. Very short skirts, low cut or low buttoned tops; clothes that show the midriff

6.6 Consultants should lead by example and transparent fabric can compromise the and actively encourage juniors to adhere professional image that a member of staff is to

this

dress

code,

as

decontaminating

hands

in

well line

as trying to achieve and, rightly or wrongly, can with be distracting or may even be perceived as

infection control policy.

7.

challenging or offensive.

Dress Code for Non-Clinical

Staff( Appendix3) 7.1 For staff working in any area of the Trust where they may come into general contact with patients or members of the general public. The following section of this policy must be followed: 7.2 Acceptable Clothing For staff not required to wear uniform, examples of acceptable staff clothing includes: 

Female Employees – skirts (not shorter than 2 inches above the knee), blouses, cardigans, smart T-shirts, jumpers, jackets, dresses, culottes, suits, dress or smart trousers.



Shoes or boots should be clean, smart and safe.



Trainers

and

plastic

flip-flops

(except by agreement with line manager) are not acceptable. 15   

 

Policy/Guideline Title 

Male

Employees

suits,

sports

tailored

–

business

jackets,

trousers,

blazers,

shirts

(with

collars – long or short sleeved), smart T-shirts, cardigans. 

No shorts (Bermuda or Cargo) to be worn. Shoes or boots should be clean, smart and safe.



Trainers

and

plastic

flip-flop

(except by agreement with line manager) are not acceptable.

7.3 Non-Acceptable Clothing For non-uniform wearing staff, the following items of clothing are examples of unacceptable clothing, either on the grounds of health and safety or the Trusts Denim jeans or skirts (all colours and styles) track suits, jogging bottoms, leggings, casual sports T-shirts, leisure shorts, sweatshirts, combat trousers(unless part of uniform), baseball caps/hats. 

Overly tight, see through, or revealing clothes, including miniskirts, tops with plunging neck lines or which expose the midriff.



Blatantly visible undergarments is also considered inappropriate clothing.



Any clothing that is sufficiently long that it touches the ground

16   

used in ‘casual wear’. Jeans and clothes made from denim, faded or “distressed” denim are likely to compromise a professional

public image: 

For many people denim is a fabric that is

 

image.

Policy/Guideline Title when walking is not acceptable on safety and hygiene grounds. Clothing bearing any inappropriate slogans must not be worn..

8. Scrubs Uniform (Appendix 4) 8.1 Scrubs will be worn by staff working in theatres/endoscopy/ITU

/maternity

birthing area’s including central delivery suite and Midwife led unit. Staff leaving theatre to see a patient on

In theatres/endoscopy and certain other high risk areas, additional measures are required to ensure the highest standards of infection control and to maintain the confidence of staff, visitors and the public

the ward must cover scrubs with theatre coat, but must change before re-entering high risk areas such as inner theatres. In addition to Theatres/endoscopy: 

Staff in certain high risk areas will

be permitted to wear blue scrubs during a clinical shift. These areas are ITU, NNU. 8.3 For all areas, vests worn under scrubs must be clean, short sleeved and must not be visible. 8.4 Staff are issued with scrubs on a daily basis in the above areas only. After use, scrubs must be placed in the bags provided

for

department.

cleaning Scrubs

by must

the not

linen be

laundered at home, or worn off site, or in between sites. 8.5 Footwear worn in the operating room may not be worn outside the main buildings. Antistatic footwear is provided. Crocs or Crocs work shoes are not to be Studies have shown that there is no worn. Footwear must be well fitting and significance in the mean bacterial floor colony 17   

 

Policy/Guideline Title offer

sufficient

protection,

including count between the use of overshoes and

impervious soles. No light fabric shoes. normal footwear. A new set of scrubs should Footwear should be cleaned regularly (at be worn before re-entering theatres and least once per week if not otherwise hands decontaminated. The use of overcoats soiled) to remove splashes of blood and has been discontinued. bodily fluids and all footwear should be Crocs or Croc work shoes do not comply cleaned after every session.

(must be correct fitting, conforming to non-slip requirement and be fully protective) with Health and Safety Regulations for footwear at

8.6 Hair & Headgear – Hair should be kept clean and out of the way. Within the operating theatre, hair must be entirely covered with a clean disposable hat that should be changed at least daily. Hats are not to be worn outside of theatres. Hats should be changed if they become contaminated with blood or body fluids. It is recommended that beards are covered with a hood. 8.7 Face Masks – It is recommended that the scrub team should wear a fluidrepellent” surgical mask”. Every individual in the operating theatre should wear a mask when a prostheses/implantation surgery is being performed, or if the patient is immuno-compromised. Masks should be removed and disposed of at the end of each case, or if deemed to have become contaminated or saturated. Masks should not be worn hanging around the neck. Masks must be removed on leaving theatres.

8.8 Protective Eyewear – Protective eyewear with visors, appropriate 18   

 

work.

Policy/Guideline Title aprons and gloves must be readily available in every theatre suite and dental surgery, ITU, and for resuscitation purposes if required. Their use enforced as per standard precautions and infection control policies. 8.9 Dress When Leaving Theatre: On leaving theatre for any reason theatre scrubs and masks should be removed Plastic overshoes should not be worn. Staff entering the canteen or coffee shops in scrubs will not be served. 8.10 Visitors to Theatre – Visitors entering the theatre complex need not change into scrubs unless they are entering an inner operating theatre. Patients or other carers do not need to change into scrubs when accompanying patients into the anaesthetic room. Theatre clothing must not be worn outside main hospital buildings including car parks, Must not be taken home. Any member of staff found to be in breach of this policy will face disciplinary action.

9.Requests for Changes to Uniform Nursing \ Midwifery- All proposed changes to existing uniform must be agreed via the Director of Nursing and Midwifery and NMAC, and/or as heat wave plan policy. 9.1 Professionals Allied to Medicine 19   

 

Policy/Guideline Title (PAM’S) - Changes must be agreed with the Professional leader for the staff group 9.2 Other staff - Changes must be agreed with the senior manager of the group and negotiations with the main uniform budget holder prior to any change.

10.Monitoring & Assurance 10.1

Heads

of

department

are

responsible for auditing compliance with this policy. The policy will be reviewed through the Trust consultation processes.

References: (used to develop this policy such as NICE, NSFs, review articles etc.) Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (2002). Guidance for hand Hygiene in HealthCare Settings Recommendations of the Healthcare Infection Control Practices Advisory Committee and the HICPAC/SHEA/APIC/IDSA hand Hygiene Task Force. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. October 25, Vol 51, No. RR-16 Department of Health (2006) The Health Act 2006 Code of Practice for the Prevention and Control of Healthcare Associated Infections. Revisited Jan 2008. Department of Health (2007) Uniforms and Workwear. An evidence base for developing local policy. Humpherys H, Marshjall RJ, Ricketts VE, Russell AJ, Reeves DS (1991) Theatre Overshoes Do Not Reduce Operating Theatre Floor Bacterial Counts. Journal of Hospital Infection. 1991 Dec;19(4):283-6 Pratt RJ, Pellowe, CM, Wilson JA et al (2007) epic2: National Evidence-Based Guidelines for Preventing Healthcare-Associated Infections in NHS Hospitals in England. Journal of Hospital Infection Vol 65 Supp1. Wilson JA, Loveday HP, Hoffman PN, Pratt RJ (2007) Uniform: an evidence review of the microbiological significance of uniforms and uniform policy in the prevention and control of healthcare-associated infections. Report to the Department of Health (England) Journal of 20   

 

Policy/Guideline Title Hospital Infection 66, 301-307 Woodhead K, Taylor EW, Bannister G et al (2001) Behaviours and rituals in the operating theatre. A report from the hospital Infection Society Working Group on Infection Control in the Operating Theatres. World Alliance for Patient Safety (2007) WHO guidelines on hand hygiene in health care (advanced draft) Impact Assessment: Which groups of the population do you think will be affected by this proposal? Please refer to the impact assessment checklist for details. Double click to open and fill this section or, if viewing a .pdf version of this document, please see the final two pages. 

RAPID IMPACT CHECKLIST - template

Save document as (Policy/Document name) Impact Assessment.doc

Appendices:

21   

 

Policy/Guideline Title

1.

Summary of Dress Code for Uniformed Clinical Staff Low heeled, rubber soled, closed toe black leather or leather look closed in shoes with non-slip soles. Trainers are permitted as detailed.

Footwear

No flip flops, open toed sandals, sandals, suede, canvas or light fabric, Crocs or Croc work shoes Black/flesh coloured non-patterned wearing a dress. No pop socks.

Tights/Stockings/Socks

tights/stockings

when

Black socks when wearing tunic and trousers. Navy or black as colour of uniform denotes.

Cardigans/Jumpers

Must not be worn when involved in Clinical areas. If in a clinical environment, any item of jewellery that creates the potential for an act of violence or the possibility of entanglement (e.g. loops in earlobes) must be removed during working hours.

Jewellery/ Piercing

Facial, body and tongue piercing is not permitted and must be removed before coming on duty. The exception to this is a single stud nasal piercing. If a member of staff has other piercing for religious or cultural reasons, these must be covered.

A single plain wedding band only.

One pair of plain discreet stud earrings.

Wrist watches must not be worn when providing clinical care. Fob watches are to be worn in side or on the side of a pocket .

Necklaces are not permitted unless for religious reasons, when they must be covered by a uniform.

22   

 

Policy/Guideline Title

Wrist/ankle chains bracelets must not be worn Hair should be neat and tidy, arranged off the face and collar with suitable hair ornamentation.

Hair & Beards

Headscarves may be worn for religious purposes or if necessary for medical reasons are allowed.

Beards must be neatly trimmed, unless this reflects the individual’s religion. Nail varnish and false/acrylic nails are not permitted

Nails

Nails must be kept short

Tattoos

Wherever possible tattoos should be covered

Make-Up/ Perfume

Discreet make-up may be worn.

Perfume and aftershaves must be subtle to prevent exacerbation of nausea in some patients, particularly those receiving treatment such as chemotherapy.

All other areas are required to comply If there is a member of nursing staff who requires an exception to this uniform policy – the reason should be clearly stated and a risk assessment carried out. Any resulting actions to deviate from this policy must be agreed at the discretion of the Matron/ Assistant Director of area.

Hot Weather

During the summer heat when a heat wave red or red emergency alert has been issued, it is acceptable for female staff not to wear tights/stockings. All staff are required to comply with the principles of the Dress Code, and where appropriate, to the requirements of the Uniform Policy. Failure to adhere to the Trust’s standards of dress and 23   

 

Policy/Guideline Title appearance may constitute misconduct and result in formal disciplinary proceedings by respective employers. 2. Summary of Non-Uniformed Clinical Staff & Medical Staff General

Must follow all sections of the policy except sections 3.0, 5.0, and 9.0

Footwear

No flip flops, open toed sandals, sandals, canvas or light fabric, Crocs or Croc work shoes.

Clothes

Preferably items that can be laundered frequently. Remove functionless clothing items such as ties. All clothes must be acceptable to others, ie; not exposing unacceptable amounts of bare body and comply with modesty Section 7.2. Sleeves must be short or rolled up above elbows. Ensure clothes are thoroughly laundered and remain separate from other clothing items. Presume some degree of contamination, even on clothing that is not visibly soiled. Long hair must be tied back

Hair

Headscarves may be worn for religious purposes or if necessary for medical reasons are allowed. Beards must be neatly trimmed, unless this reflects the individual’s religion. Must be short.

Nails

No nail varnish or false/acrylic nails Watches/Jewellery

Must be removed during direct patient contact, other than one plain band

Make-Up/ Perfume

Discreet make-up may be worn. Perfume and aftershaves must be subtle to prevent exacerbation of nausea in some patients, particularly those receiving treatment such as chemotherapy. All other areas are required to comply. Wherever possible tattoos should be covered.

Tattoos

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Policy/Guideline Title All staff are required to comply with the principles of the Dress Code, and where appropriate, to the requirements of the Uniform Policy. Failure to adhere to the Trust’s standards of dress and appearance may constitute misconduct and result in formal disciplinary proceedings by respective employers.

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Policy/Guideline Title

3. Summary of Dress Code for Non-Clinical Staff

General

Must follow all sections of the policy except sections 3.0, 5.0, and 9.0

Clothes

Preferably items that can be laundered frequently. All clothes must be acceptable to others, ie; not exposing unacceptable amounts of bare body and comply with modesty Section 7.2. Footwear must be appropriate to the duties of the wearer, in good order, smart and clean and have regard to Health and Safety considerations.

Footwear

Trainers and plastic flip-flops are not acceptable. Certain jobs can require non-clinical staff to wear protective footwear. These staff must wear the correct footwear for undertaking their work, and if staff are uncertain they must check with their manager. Tattoos

Tattoos should be covered wherever possible and where visible should not be offensive to others. Where they are deemed to be offensive they should be appropriately covered.

Jewellery and Piercing

All jewellery should be appropriate and not cause offence or be a health and safety hazard. Facial/body and tongue piercing is not permitted and must be removed before coming to work. The exception to this is a single stud nasal piercing. If staff have other piercings for religious or cultural reasons, these must be covered. Hair should be neat and tidy at all times.

Hair

Headscarves worn for religious purposes are permitted. Headscarves may be worn for religious purposes or if necessary for medical reasons.

All staff are required to comply with the principles of the Dress Code, and where appropriate, to the requirements of the Uniform Policy. Failure to adhere to the Trust’s standards of dress and appearance may constitute misconduct and result in formal disciplinary proceedings by respective employers.

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Policy/Guideline Title

4.Summary of Scrubs Uniform

Vests or Tee shirts worn under scrubs must be short sleeved and must not be visible.

Scrubs

Staff must not wear theatre scrubs outside designated areas Antistatic footwear is provided in theatre and may not be worn outside theatres.

Footwear

Open toed shoes/sandals, light fabric shoes, flip flops, Crocs or Crocs work shoes are not to be worn. Footwear must offer sufficient protection and full toe coverage. Masks

It is recommended that the scrub team should wear a fluidrepellent “surgical mask”. Masks should not be worn hanging around the neck.

Eyewear

Protective eyewear with visors, must be readily available in every theatre suite.

Hair & Beards

Hair must be entirely covered with a clean, disposable hat that should be changed at least daily. Hats should be changed if they become contaminated with blood or bodily fluids. It is recommended that beards are covered with a hood.

All staff are required to comply with the principles of the Dress Code, and where appropriate, to the requirements of the Uniform Policy. Failure to adhere to the Trust’s standards of dress and appearance may constitute misconduct and result in formal disciplinary proceedings by respective employers.

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Policy/Guideline Title

5.Summary of Scrubs Uniform

ADVICE FOR THE LAUNDERING OF STAFF UNIFORMS



Uniforms of clinical staff must be changed whenever soiled and preferably daily.



The uniforms of clinical staff should be washed appropriately in order to achieve thermal disinfection. Contamination during the working day means uniforms are a potential reservoir for micro-organisms and source of infection.



They must be washed on a machine cycle that maintains a temperature 60 C for at least 10 minutes.



Uniforms must be washed separately from other items to avoid cross contamination. Tumble drying will help to reduce the risk of microbial survival.



When dry, they should be ironed with a hot iron (or according to the fabric label) paying particular attention to the seams as this is where bacteria may harbour.

References Alyiffe G.A.J. and Collins B. (1989) Laundering of nurses’ dresses at home. Journal of Hospital Infection,13: 91-94. NHS Executive (1995) Hospital Laundry Arrangements for Used and Infected Linen. HSG(95)18, NHS Executive, London. Perry C., Marshall R. and Jones E. (2001) Bacterial contamination of uniforms. Journal of Hospital Infection, 48: 238-241. Uniform and Workwear DoH Sept 2007

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Policy/Guideline Title

RAPID IMPACT CHECKLIST Dress Code & Uniform Policy July 2009 Which groups of the population do you think will be affected by this proposal?      

minority ethnic people (including gipsy/travellers, refugees & asylum seekers NO women and men YES people in religious/faith groups YES disabled people YES older people, children & young people NO lesbian, gay, bisexual & transgender people YES

N.B. The word proposal is used below as shorthand for any policy, procedure, strategy or proposal that might be assessed.

Other groups :



people of low income YES

  

people with mental health problems NO homeless people people involved in criminal justice system NO staff YES any other groups

 

What positive & negative impacts do you think there might be? Which groups will be affected by these impacts?

What impact will the proposal have on lifestyles? For example, will the changes affect:     

Diet and nutrition? NONE Exercise and physical activity? UNIFORM TO BE COMFORTABLE FOR ACTAVETIES UNDERTAKEN Substance use: tobacco, alcohol or drugs? NO SMOKING IN UNIFORM Risk taking behaviour? NO Education and learning or skills? NO

Will the proposal have any impact on the social environment? Things that might be affected include:     

Social status NO Employment (paid or unpaid) YES Social/family support NO Stress NO Income CODE IS DESIGNED FOR EQUALITY OR DRESS

Will the proposal have any impact on:   

Discrimination? NONE Equality of opportunity? NONE Relations between groups? DEVOTE CLINICAL STAFF AND ROLES

Will the proposal have any impact on the physical environment? For example, will there be impacts on:     

Living conditions? NONE Working conditions? CO-OPERERATE IMAGE Pollution or climate change? NO Accidental injuries or public safety? NO Transmission of infectious disease? INFECTION CONTROL GUIDANCE FOLLOWED

Will the proposal affect access to and experience of services? For example:     

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Health care YES Transport NO Social Services NO Housing services NO Education NO

 

Policy/Guideline Title

Rapid Impact Checklist: Summary Sheet 1. Positive Impacts (Note the groups affected)     

All staff to be appropriately dressed Enhance Co-operate image or NUHT Patients and visitors ability to different ate roles Equality and diversity respected Infection control guidance compliance

2. Negative Impacts (Note the groups affected) 

Staff not compliant with policy

3. Additional Information and Evidence Required It will be managers responsibility to monitor and act appropriately with regard to staff compliance with policy.

4. Recommendations Policy needs to be sent to each staff member in summary from.

5. From the outcome of the RIC, have negative impacts been identified for race or other equality groups? Has a full EQIA process been recommended? If not, why not? NO

Manager’s Signature:

Date:

   

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