SAMPLE POLICY WORK

6. Other Critical Incidents

Definition: Any event or series of events that significantly disrupt safe service provision, compromise quality, or present an immediate risk to client or staff well-being.

Examples:

• Security breaches or intruder events that threaten the safety of clients or staff. • Critical equipment malfunctions leading to hazardous situations. • Data breaches compromising sensitive client information. • Environmental hazards (e.g., chemical spills) that pose an immediate risk.

d. Reporting Timelines

Timely reporting is essential for immediate intervention and effective investigation. The reporting timelines vary according to the severity and nature of the incident:

1. Immediate Reporting • Serious Incidents: Incidents involving abuse, severe neglect, significant injuries, or any situation that could result in immediate harm must be reported immediately – ideally within minutes of occurrence. • Mandatory Reporting: Staff must notify their immediate supervisor or designated Incident Response Team via the emergency hotline or designated digital reporting system. Simultaneously, such incidents should be reported to higher-level management and the Quality Assurance Team. Moderate Incidents: Incidents such as minor injuries or medication errors that do not pose an immediate threat to client safety are to be reported within 24 hours. • Standard Reporting: Any observed or self-reported incident that falls within this category should be documented on the Incident Report Form and submitted electronically within one business day. 2. 24-Hour Reporting • Cumulative or Low-Severity Incidents: Minor or low ‑ risk events that occur frequently may be summarized at the end of each week through a standardized incident log. • Data Aggregation: Supervisors are responsible for collecting these reports and incorporating them into the weekly Quality Improvement Summary, ensuring that even seemingly minor events are monitored consistently. 3. Weekly Summaries •