The DHSC has contacted Skills for Care to cascade information about the heatwave
The Department for Health and Social Care (DHSC) has contacted Skills for Care to cascade the following information about the heatwave.
Regarding PPE, please note that staff may need to need to change their face masks more frequently than normal due to sweat and the need to take more frequent breaks to drink. This should be supported and if there are any concerns regarding stock, providers should contact the PPE Portal customer service team on 0800 876 6802.
Skills for Care is not in a position any specific enquires about this but we wanted to notify you about precautions and support during this period.
Read the ASC heat alert guidance.
The importance of good ventilation in helping to reduce the spread of COVID-19 is now well recognised. Ventilation is the process of introducing fresh air into indoor spaces while removing stale air. There are many ways to promote good ventilation in indoor spaces by using air vents, doors and windows where mechanical air ventilation is not available. Further information regarding ventilation can be found in Infection prevention and control: resource for adult social care and Ventilation of indoor spaces.
Stand-alone fans do not on their own provide fresh air. However they can assist with air flow if positioned by a window to blow air out and do not blow air directly from one person to another or move air between two adjoining indoor spaces or down corridors.
Fans should be kept visibly clean and if a bladeless fan is used there should be a clear protocol to regularly clean the inside of the unit and replace any filters. Fans that can be safely and easily cleaned are preferable.
At this time of hot weather fans can also help people to feel cooler and more comfortable. Please note that at temperatures above 35ºC fans may not prevent heat-related illness. Additionally fans can cause excess dehydration. Current heatwave advice is to place the fan at an appropriate distance from people, not aiming it directly on the body and to have regular drinks, this is especially important in the case of sick people confined to bed. See the further guidance: Supporting vulnerable people before and during a heatwave: for care home managers and staff - GOV.UK
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