1.2 Describe different risks that may arise and ways to minimise these

This guide will help you answer 1.2 Describe different risks that may arise and ways to minimise these.

Transporting individuals as part of health and social care work brings many responsibilities. It often involves moving people between care settings, to medical appointments, or for social activities. Each journey comes with potential dangers. These can affect the person being transported, the worker, and anyone else involved. It is important to recognise these risks and find ways to make journeys as safe as possible.

Journeys might be short or long, and could use a range of transport like cars, ambulances, taxis, minibuses, or even public transport. Each type of transport brings its own set of challenges. Some risks are obvious, but others are less easy to spot. Predicting what might go wrong helps prevent accidents, injuries, and distress.

Risks Linked to the Individual

Every person is different. Their needs, medical history, and behaviour play a key part in the risks present during travel.

• Mobility issues: A person who uses a wheelchair needs proper transfers to avoid falls. Those who walk with difficulty might slip or trip.
• Medical conditions: Some people need medication, oxygen, or monitoring during trips. Failing to provide for these needs could be dangerous.
• Challenging behaviour: People living with dementia or learning disabilities may become distressed, attempt to leave the vehicle, or refuse to wear a seatbelt.
• Seizures: Epileptic seizures or similar episodes may strike at any time.
• Incontinence: Lack of immediate access to a toilet can upset or embarrass some people.
• Communication needs: A person may not be able to ask for help or tell you if they are in pain.

Minimising Individual Risks

Preparation is the key to reducing personal risks. Before each journey:

• Read the care plan, medical notes, and risk assessments for the person.
• Bring required medication, equipment (such as inhalers, glucose, or mobility aids), and emergency contact details.
• Use suitable seating, harnesses, and support aids—like wheelchair restraints.
• Provide clear explanations about the journey, using the person’s preferred communication method.
• Ask about comfort and comfort breaks; plan these if needed.
• Travel with another trained person for individuals with complex needs.
• Be prepared to manage distress or challenging behaviour calmly and safely.
• Make sure any necessary medical monitoring or support is in place during transit.

Environmental and Transport Risks

Transport environments could pose dangers that must be considered.

• Slips, trips, and falls: Wet floors, uneven ground, ice, or poorly lit areas increase the chances of falling while getting in and out.
• Poor maintenance: Faulty seat belts, broken steps, flat tyres or unfastened wheelchairs inside the vehicle are hazards.
• Extreme temperatures: Very hot or cold conditions can make people uncomfortable or ill, especially older adults or the very young.
• Lack of accessibility: Steps or high vehicle floors can prevent safe entry and exit.
• Unexpected breakdowns: Vehicle failure could leave people stranded without needed support.
• Delays: Getting stuck in traffic, or a late pickup, could cause distress, missed appointments, or missed medication.

Minimising Environmental and Transport Risks

Safety checks and planning reduce these dangers:

• Inspect the vehicle before every journey. Look for working seat belts, wheelchair restraints, lights, and accessible steps.
• Clear entrance and exit areas of obstacles, wet patches, and clutter.
• Support people as they get in or out—some may require hands-on assistance or specialist equipment like ramps.
• Bring blankets, drinks, and sun protection, especially for long trips or extreme weather.
• Prepare for breakdowns with a charged mobile phone, emergency supplies, and a contact number for breakdown services.
• Time journeys to allow for traffic, avoiding peak times if possible.
• Communicate with the person and their family about any expected delays or changes.
• Always lock the vehicle when stationary and keep keys secure.

Road and Traffic Risks

Road travel involves risks from other vehicles and the general environment:

• Traffic accidents: Collisions can injure passengers or cause distress.
• Sudden stops or turns: Unprepared passengers can fall or be thrown from their seat.
• Poor driving conditions: Wet, icy, or foggy roads raise the risk of accidents.
• Poor navigation: Getting lost or taking unfamiliar routes causes anxiety for the passenger.

Minimising Road and Traffic Risks

Good driving, awareness, and proper planning are fundamental:

• Only competent, licenced staff with up-to-date training should drive.
• All passengers must wear seat belts or appropriate support.
• Wheelchairs must be properly secured using safety clips and harnesses.
• Drive smoothly, avoiding harsh braking or acceleration.
• Use familiar and safest routes; review them ahead of time.
• Adjust driving speed to the weather and road conditions.
• Keep distractions, such as loud music or phone use, to a minimum.
• Discuss and rehearse emergency procedures with both staff and passengers.
• If possible, involve the person in choosing the route or timing.
• Ensure clear communication—let passengers know where you are going and for how long.

Risks Relating to Infection and Hygiene

Cross-infection and poor hygiene need to be considered for every journey, especially with vulnerable people:

• Spread of illness: Colds, flu, COVID-19, or stomach bugs can pass between passengers or staff.
• Contaminated surfaces: Door handles, seat belts, and wheelchairs can carry germs.
• Bodily fluids: Vomit, blood, or faeces may pose a risk, especially for immune-compromised people.

Minimising Infection and Hygiene Risks

Applying good hygiene rules is a must:

• Clean and disinfect vehicles before and after use, paying attention to high-touch areas.
• Supply hand sanitiser and disposable tissues.
• Use gloves and other protective equipment (PPE) when likely to contact fluids or contaminated items.
• Air out the vehicle between journeys.
• Follow correct procedures for dealing with spills or accidents.
• If someone is unwell with an infectious illness, postpone the journey if possible.

Risks Linked to Confidentiality and Personal Safety

Protecting dignity, privacy, and well-being is always part of travel:

• Being overheard: Private conversations may be heard by others, especially in shared vehicles or public spaces.
• Loss of personal documents: Medical records, identification cards, and personal belongings may get lost or stolen.
• Physical safety: There is a risk to the worker or passenger if there is poor lighting, unsafe areas, or if the vehicle is targeted for crime.
• Unsupervised time: Delays could leave the person alone or unsupported at their destination.

Minimising Confidentiality and Safety Risks

To keep everyone safe and protect personal information:

• Only discuss personal details when absolutely necessary and not in public.
• Keep documents in a secure, locked bag during the journey.
• Stay in well-lit, busy areas when loading or unloading.
• Use staff uniforms and ID badges for security.
• Never leave people alone while waiting or at risk.
• Have a clear handover process when arriving at the destination.

Emotional and Psychological Risks

Travelling can be stressful, especially for people with mental health needs or dementia. Risks include:

• Distress, confusion, or panic: Unfamiliar surroundings or routes might upset the person.
• Feelings of isolation: If the individual struggles with communication or feels ignored, it can be upsetting.
• Reluctance to travel: Some may refuse to get into the vehicle out of fear or misunderstanding.

Minimising Emotional and Psychological Risks

Approach with compassion and understanding:

• Explain what is happening before, during, and after travel.
• Use photos, timetables, or written instructions if helpful.
• Offer reassurance throughout. Give the person time to process and ask questions.
• Allow a familiar carer or friend to accompany the person if possible.
• Avoid rushing—give plenty of time for each stage of the journey.
• Build in safe “pause points” if the person needs a break or reassurance.

Risks When Using Specialist Transport

Ambulances, adapted minibuses, or taxis for disabled people may introduce extra risks:

• Improper equipment use: Poorly fitted lifts, ramps, or hoists can lead to injury.
• Unsecured wheelchairs or stretchers: This can cause injury during movement.
• Poor staff training: Untrained staff may not use equipment safely or respond to emergencies effectively.

Minimising Specialist Transport Risks

Prioritise skilled staff and suitable equipment:

• Employ trained personnel for using lifts, hoists, and securing devices.
• Do equipment checks before and after use.
• Provide regular staff training on all devices.
• Keep maintenance records.
• Record incidents and near misses to help prevent repeats.

Risks from Lone Working

Workers sometimes have to transport a person by themselves. Risks could be:

• No help in emergencies: If the person becomes unwell or aggressive, the worker is alone.
• Personal safety: Staff alone in unfamiliar areas may be at risk from crime or abuse.

Minimising Lone Working Risks

Have a clear plan in place:

• Follow a lone working policy—inform managers of your location and timings.
• Carry a mobile phone and have emergency numbers ready.
• Keep a calm, polite manner if faced with aggression.
• Park in public, well-lit areas.
• Use tracking or check-in systems.
• If transporting people known to have challenging behaviour, seek extra support.

Final Thoughts

Travelling is part of many health and social care roles. Every journey has risks, but careful planning, preparation, and communication make a big difference. These efforts protect people’s safety, comfort, and dignity, and support the worker’s own safety. All risks should be identified and plans made to reduce them, recorded through risk assessments and care plans

Good practice makes journeys safer and less stressful for everyone. Staff who take time to recognise and address risks help keep people well and support their rights. Document all incidents or near-misses for improvement. Always value the experiences of those you support, using their input to make journeys better in the future.

Proper risk management means everyone arrives safely and with their well-being protected.