Focus: Environmental Services

Hospital cleaners awarded damages over toxic fumes

According to their union, the workers were not given any training on potentially dangerous cleaning chemicals


Cleaners working at Torbay Hospital in the U.K. have won £70,000 in damages after exposure to a hazardous chemical disinfectant at work made them ill, according to an article on the Devon Live website. 

The 22 cleaning staff work for the Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust, began using the chemical Actichlor seven years ago.

According to their union, the workers were not given any training on its use. Solicitors who took on the case now believe it may have repercussions on other health trusts.

A union spokesman said: "Anyone using the cleaning substance experienced runny eyes, nose sores, and wheezing coughs. To make matters worse the masks they'd been given were useless and the goggles didn't fit anyone who wore glasses."

Read the article.

 

 



May 2, 2017


Topic Area: Safety


Recent Posts

Designing a Home Away from Home

Ronald McDonald House Atlanta balances the familiarity of home with the demands of a high-use facility serving families of children receiving medical care.


Stephens County Hospital Becoming Part of Wellstar Health System

The transaction is expected to be completed toward the end of 2026, pending the conclusion of regulatory approvals.


Grafton City Hospital Joins Vandalia Health

The transition follows approval from the West Virginia Health Care Authority and continues a longstanding partnership between the organizations.


Protecting Patients from C. auris Through Bed and Mattress Safety

Managers face an urgent question: What happens when a colonized patient returns to a contaminated mattress?


Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center Tops Off New Acute Care Tower

The new acute care tower, designed by FCA, will enhance the hospital’s ability to serve patients by incorporating facilities and expanding its range of services.


 
 


FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

 
 
 


All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.