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Biological agents

Who this training is for

This training is mandatory for employees with supervisory or managerial responsibilities in healthcare such as line managers and heads of department and for employees who work with or who are at risk of exposure to Biological Agents in the workplace (as identified via the training needs assessment).

Contact the Health and Safety helpdesk for more information or advice

This training is only available to HSE staff.

Training format

eLearning

Objectives

This module provides an overview of the types and classes of biological agents that may be encountered in healthcare and introduces the concept of biological agents risk assessment. The content is suitable across all healthcare settings and provides concise practical strategies for everyday use.

On successful completion of this module participants will be able to:

  • outline the four biological agent risk groups
  • identify ways in which healthcare employees are exposed to biological agents in the workplace
  • recognise the types of health effects associated with hazardous biological agents
  • describe how to carry out a biological agents risk assessment in the workplace, and
  • describe the measures used to safeguard healthcare employees from harmful effects of hazardous biological agents

Course content

  • Topic 1 Introduction to Biological Agents (classification, routes of exposure and health effects)
  • Topic 2 Biological Agents Risk Assessment
  • Topic 3 Implementing Control Measures

How to book

Online via www.hseland.ie

Duration

40-60 minutes

Assessment

There is an online assessment to be completed.

Certification

An online certificate of completion will be issued.

Course code

BAH-SHST-033:02

Acknowledgements

Health and Safety Authority (HSA)

Record system

LMS

Important

Additional training may be required due to the complexity of the hazards, risk process and controls in your workplace. These additional needs should be identified by each line manager in consultation with their staff through the training needs assessment process.