Training, authorisation and pre-use checks

Most equipment safety problems are easier to prevent than to fix. A short pre-use check can find a wrong-patient record, missing accessories, an unclear cleaning status, an expired service label or a setup that is unsuitable for the patient.

Pre-use checks should be local and practical. Support staff do not need detailed engineering knowledge, but they must recognise what "ready to use" looks like for the tasks they are authorised to perform.

Before using equipment, check

• Authorisation: are you trained, signed off and working under the required supervision?
• Patient identity: are you using the correct record, appointment and device workflow?
• Task explanation: have you explained the task and confirmed the patient is willing and comfortable?
• Cleaning status: is the equipment clean, dry and ready for contact with the patient?
• Condition: are cables, plugs, chin rests, head rests, lenses, tools, surfaces and moving parts intact?
• Readiness: are accessories, paper, wipes, test targets, covers, batteries or linked software available and prepared?
• Service or calibration cues: do labels, prompts or logs indicate anything needing attention?
• Stop points: do you know when to stop and seek help from a registrant, manager or trained colleague?

Locums and temporary staff

Temporary staff may be familiar with a device type but not with the local setup, record system, cleaning method, fault labels or escalation route. Local induction should include the specific equipment they will use, not just where it is located.

If you are new to a practice, ask: "Which equipment am I authorised to use here, what checks do you expect, and who do I contact if something is unusual?"

PUWER and business responsibilities

Pre-use checks are not red tape. They confirm that the person, patient, device and process are ready before risk increases.