HM Prison and Probation Service
Central Government
Action Taken
The First Aid Policy Framework is being re-issued with instructions on face shield use, requiring all first aid kits to contain them and for them to be monitored. Face shields have been purchased and added to first aid boxes at HMP Preston, and staff were notified. (AI summary)
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Dear Mr Rheinberg,
Thank you for your Regulation 28 report of 7 June 2023 following the inquest into the death of Anthony Smith at HMP Preston on 16 May 2022.
I know that you will share a copy of this response with Mr Smith’s family, and I would first like to express my condolences for their loss. Every death in custody is a tragedy and the safety of those in our care is my absolute priority.
Your concerns relate to the availability and use of protective face masks for staff when performing CPR.
As you are aware, the First Aid Policy Framework is currently under review and is due to be re- issued by August 2023. The revised policy document will include instructions on the use of face shields including the requirement for all first aid kits in prisons to contain resuscitation face shields and for these to be monitored and replenished when required. The policy also emphasises the training requirements for Emergency First Aid and First Aid at Work, including the importance of using the face masks correctly and of these being available at all times.
At HMP Preston, face shields have been purchased and added to the existing first aid boxes on all residential units and will be monitored by the Health and Safety Team. A Notice to Staff was also issued in June 2023 to advise staff of the location of the face shields and the importance of using these when administering CPR.
Thank you again for bringing your concerns to my attention. I trust that this response provides assurance that action is being taken to address this matter.
Thank you for your Regulation 28 report of 7 June 2023 following the inquest into the death of Anthony Smith at HMP Preston on 16 May 2022.
I know that you will share a copy of this response with Mr Smith’s family, and I would first like to express my condolences for their loss. Every death in custody is a tragedy and the safety of those in our care is my absolute priority.
Your concerns relate to the availability and use of protective face masks for staff when performing CPR.
As you are aware, the First Aid Policy Framework is currently under review and is due to be re- issued by August 2023. The revised policy document will include instructions on the use of face shields including the requirement for all first aid kits in prisons to contain resuscitation face shields and for these to be monitored and replenished when required. The policy also emphasises the training requirements for Emergency First Aid and First Aid at Work, including the importance of using the face masks correctly and of these being available at all times.
At HMP Preston, face shields have been purchased and added to the existing first aid boxes on all residential units and will be monitored by the Health and Safety Team. A Notice to Staff was also issued in June 2023 to advise staff of the location of the face shields and the importance of using these when administering CPR.
Thank you again for bringing your concerns to my attention. I trust that this response provides assurance that action is being taken to address this matter.