An EU Directive has set out a new legal framework for the management of sharps and needlestick injuries (NSI). The new regime which must be fully transposed into UK and Irish law by May 2013 has focused attention on the need to provide greater protection to all healthcare workers and others who are at risk of sharps injury.
In response, FIT4Safety UK and Ireland have produced evidence-based best practice information which encompasses all people at risk of needle stick injury and accidental blood or other body fluid exposure. The aim of these recommendations is to protect individuals and prevent injury and support individuals and organisations to apply the new EU Directive to clinical practice in their field of care. The goal of ensuring that risk assessment and safe practice are the norm – will be accomplished through raising awareness, education, training and easily accessible information.