OH Technician Competencies 2010
The Pennine Acute Hospitals
NHS Trust
Mediscreen Occupational Health Department
Competency Development Workbook
Occupational Health Technician
Name…………………………………………….........................................................
Date of commencement…………………………………
Mentor……………………………………………………………………………………..
May 2010
OH Technician Competencies
Number
Achieved
OH TECHNICIAN COMPETENCY INDEX
Competency
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
Communication
Confidentiality
Essential Information Technology Skills
Records and Record Keeping
Infection Control
Pre Employment Screening of Health Questionnaires
Venepuncture
Immunisation History Screening to include TB
Spirometry
Audiometry
Hand Arm Vibration Screening
Vision Screening
Effective Time Management
Equipment Management (storage, access etc)
Monitoring & Maintaining Stocks of Materials and Equipment
Risk Management
Ensure Equity in Service Delivery
2
OH Technician Competencies
OH Technician Competency Statement - No. 1
Competency Statement: Can perform consistently safe practice in a variety of situations integrating theory to
practice with regard to the following:
Competency: Communication
Competency Elements:
Yes

Communicate effectively with other team members

Communicate effectively with other health professionals as necessary.

Communicate effectively with clients recognising their needs for
alternative methods of communication as appropriate.
No
Assessors Initials
Essential Evidence for this Competency:
Other Evidence: (as appropriate)
Direct Observation
Q&A
Testimony of others
Learning diary
Case Study
Declaration:
.........................................................has/has not demonstrated their competence to perform the above elements.
Date of Assessment........................Signature of Assessor.............................................................
3
OH Technician Competencies 2010
OH Technician Competency Statement - No 2
Competency Statement: Can perform consistently safe practice in a variety of situations integrating theory to
practice with regard to the following:
Competency: Confidentiality
Yes
Competency Elements:

Demonstrate theoretical/practical knowledge of confidentiality and
the predominant issues relevant to the Occupational Health setting.

Demonstrate a clear understanding of the Data Protection Act and
it’s relevance to the issue of confidentiality.

Demonstrate awareness of confidentiality issues relating to the filing
of confidential client records.

Acknowledge the importance of maintaining confidentiality when
dealing with clients, both on the telephone and face to face.
No
Assessors Initials
Essential Evidence for this Competency:
Other Evidence: (as appropriate)
Direct Observation
Q&A
Care Records
Learning diary
Case Study
Testimony of others
Declaration:
....................................................has/has not demonstrated their competence to perform the above elements.
Date of Assessment.........................................Signature of Assessor..............................................................
May 2010
OH Technician Competencies
OH Technician Competency Statement - No. 3
Competency Statement:
Can perform consistently safe practice in a variety of situations integrating theory to practice with regard to
the following:
Competency: Essential information technology skills
Competency Elements:
Yes

Attend relevant training sessions as appropriate.

Show an understanding of the implications of the Data Protection Act and
act accordingly.

Access e-mail to open and send mail via Outlook.

Demonstrate ability to access and use in-house IT systems (e.g. G & H
Drive and Cohort).

Create a document using Word.
No
Assessors
Initials
Essential Evidence for this Competency:
Other Evidence: (as appropriate)
Direct Observation
Q&A
Care Records
Learning diary
Case Study
Testimony of others
Declaration:
.................................................has/has not demonstrated their competence to perform the above elements.
Date of Assessment........................Signature of Assessor.............................................................
5
OH Technician Competencies 2010
OH Technician Competency Statement - No. 4
Competency Statement: Can perform consistently safe practice in a variety of situations integrating theory to
practice with regard to the following:
Competency: Records and Record Keeping
Yes
Competency Elements:

Demonstrate knowledge of different types of records held within OH and
the importance of these records.

Demonstrate knowledge of systems used within the OH Department
and why these systems have been utilised.

Demonstrate knowledge of timescales relating to record keeping and
rationale for same.

Demonstrate knowledge of rights of access to records held in OH.

Demonstrate the ability to use relevant paper and computer-based
systems in relation to record keeping.
No
Assessors Initials
Essential Evidence for this Competency:
Other Evidence: (as appropriate)
Direct Observation
Q&A
Testimony of others
Care Records
Learning diary
Declaration:
......................................................has/has not demonstrated their competence to perform the above elements.
Date of Assessment........................Signature of Assessor.............................................................
May 2010
OH Technician Competencies
OH Technician - Competency Statement - No. 5
Competency Statement: Can perform consistently safe practice in a variety of situations integrating theory to
practice with regard to the following:
Competency: Infection Control
Yes
Competency Elements:

Demonstrate basic hygiene i.e. washing hands (soap & water;
alcohol gel) before and after contact with the client and the clinical
environment is undertaken

Ensure compliance with Infection Control policies.

Demonstrate an understand of the legal duty to take reasonable
care of own health, safety and security and that of other persons
who may be affected by their actions and for reporting untoward
incidents and areas of concern.

Demonstrate safe working practices as outlined in Infection
Control policies.
No
Assessors Initials
Essential Evidence for this Competency:
Other Evidence: (as appropriate)
Direct Observation
Q&A
Testimony of others
Declaration:
......................................................has/has not demonstrated their competence to perform the above elements.
Date of Assessment...................................... Signature of Assessor...............................................................
7
OH Technician Competencies
OH Technician - Competency Statement - No. 6
Competency Statement: Can perform consistently safe practice in a variety of situations integrating theory to
practice with regard to the following:
Competency: Pre-employment/Work Health Questionnaire Screening.
Yes
Competency Elements:

Assess and identify the appropriate level of screening required for
a specific post.

Assess and identify the appropriate level of screening required on
an individual basis.

Demonstrate an understanding of the pre-employment screening
process.

Demonstrate insight into the rationale for questions asked.

Demonstrate the ability to recognise through screening, those who
may require further clinical input (e.g. pre-employment medical,
appointment with OH practitioner etc).

Communicate effectively and in an appropriate manner with
clients and others involved in the pre-employment screening
process

Show an understanding of all systems relevant to the preemployment screening process.

Demonstrate the ability to use and maintain relevant paper and
computer systems.
No
Assessors Initials
Essential Evidence for this Competency:
Other Evidence: (as appropriate)
Direct Observation
Q&A
Care Records
Learning diary
Testimony of others
Declaration:
......................................................has/has not demonstrated their competence to perform the above elements.
Date of Assessment...................................... Signature of Assessor...............................................................
8
OH Technician Competencies
OH Technician Competency Statement – No.7
Competency Statement: Can perform consistently safe practice in a variety of situations integrating theory to
practice with regard to the following:
Competency: Venepuncture
Competency Elements:
Yes

Attend venepuncture training course and be passed as competent in
undertaking the procedure.

Assess and be able to identify those requiring venepuncture in line with
local policy and pertinent guidance.

Demonstrate knowledge of venepuncture procedure and appropriate
preparation, use and safe disposal of equipment.

Demonstrate knowledge of understanding of appropriate forms and
completion of the same.

Show ability to communicate procedure to client.

Demonstrate ability to follow up or refer client as appropriate.
No
Assessors Initials
Essential Evidence for this Competency:
Other Evidence: (as appropriate)
Direct Observation
Q&A
Care Records
Learning diary
Case Study
Testimony of others
Declaration:
.........................................................has/has not demonstrated their competence to perform the above elements.
Date of Assessment........................Signature of Assessor.............................................................
9
OH Technician Competencies 2010
OH Technician Competency Statement - No. 8
Competency Statement:
Can perform consistently safe practice in a variety of situations integrating theory to practice with regard to the
following:
Competency: Immunisation history screening to include TB screening
Yes
Competency Elements:

Assess the need for screening following local policies and procedures
relating to TB.

Show understanding of the need for screening and the types of
screening different client groups will require.

Show ability to explain appropriate screening process to clients,
ensuring their understanding.

Demonstrate the ability to recognise a BCG vaccination scar and the
various sites on the body where scars can be found.

Demonstrate awareness of referral system and implement as
appropriate.

Demonstrate awareness of the process of follow up or referral for
vaccination as appropriate.

Demonstrate the ability to use relevant paper and computer systems.
No Assessors Initials
Essential Evidence for this Competency:
Other Evidence: (as appropriate)
Direct Observation
Q&A
Care Records
Learning diary
Case Study
Testimony of others
Declaration:
......................................................has/has not demonstrated their competence to perform the above elements.
Date of Assessment................................Signature of Assessor.................................................................
May 2010
OH Technician Competencies 2010
OH Technician Competency Statement - No. 9
Competency Statement: Can perform consistently safe practice in a variety of situations integrating theory to
practice with regard to the following:
Competency: Spirometry
Yes
Competency Elements:

Assess and identify those requiring spirometry in line with local policy
and current legislation.

Attend relevant spirometry course which includes interpretation of
results

Demonstrate knowledge of spirometry process and appropriate
preparation and use of equipment.

Demonstrate knowledge of assessing clients fitness to perform
spirometry.

Show ability to communicate process and technique to client.

Demonstrate ability to follow up or refer client as appropriate.

Be responsible for the care, maintenance and storage of equipment to
ensure it remains fully operational.

Demonstrate the ability to use relevant paper systems.
No
Assessors Initials
Essential Evidence for this Competency:
Other Evidence: (as appropriate)
Direct Observation
Q&A
Care Records
Learning diary
Case Study
Testimony of others
Declaration:
......................................................has/has not demonstrated their competence to perform the above elements.
Date of Assessment........................Signature of Assessor.............................................................
May 2010
OH Technician Competencies
OH Technician Competency Statement - No. 10
Competency Statement: Can perform consistently safe practice in a variety of situations integrating theory to
practice with regard to the following:
Competency: Audiometry
Yes
Competency Elements:

Assess and identify those requiring audiometry in line with local policy
and pertinent legislation.

Attend relevant audiometry course which includes interpretation of
results

Demonstrate knowledge of audiometry process and appropriate
preparation and use of equipment.

Demonstrate understanding of when audiomentry testing is not
appropriate and why.

Show ability to communicate process and technique to client.

Demonstrate ability to follow up or refer client as appropriate.

Be responsible for the care, maintenance and storage of equipment to
ensure it remains fully operational.

Demonstrate the ability to use relevant paper systems.
No
Assessors Initials
Essential Evidence for this Competency:
Other Evidence: (as appropriate)
Direct Observation
Q&A
Care Records
Learning diary
Case Study
Testimony of others
Declaration:
......................................................has/has not demonstrated their competence to perform the above elements.
Date of Assessment........................Signature of Assessor.............................................................
12
OH Technician Competencies
OH Technician Competency Statement - No. 11
Competency Statement:: Can perform consistently safe practice in a variety of situations integrating theory to
practice with regard to the following:
Competency: Hand Arm Vibration Screening
Competency Elements:
Yes

Understand and be able to identify those requiring HAVS in line with local
policy and pertinent legislation.

Attend relevant HAVS course/training which includes interpretation of
screening results

Demonstrate knowledge of the HAVS process and any appropriate
preparation and use of equipment.

Able to undertake HAVS in a knowledgeable, confident manner.

Show ability to communicate process to client.

Demonstrate ability to follow up or refer client as appropriate.

Demonstrate the ability to use relevant paper systems.
No
Assessors Initials
Essential Evidence for this Competency:
Other Evidence: (as appropriate)
Direct Observation
Q&A
Care Records
Learning diary
Case Study
Testimony of others
Declaration:
.........................................................has/has not demonstrated their competence to perform the above elements.
Date of Assessment........................Signature of Assessor.............................................................
13
OH Technician Competencies
OH Technician Competency Statement - No. 12
Competency Statement: Can perform consistently safe practice in a variety of situations integrating theory to
practice with regard to the following:
Competency: Vision Screening
Competency Elements:
Yes

Undertake relevance vision screening training which includes interpretation
of results

Assess and identify those requiring vision screening in line with local policy
and pertinent legislation.

Demonstrate knowledge of vision screening process and appropriate
preparation and use of equipment.

Show ability to communicate process and technique to client.

Demonstrate ability to follow up or refer client as appropriate.

Be responsible for the care, maintenance and storage of equipment to
ensure it remains fully operational.

Demonstrate the ability to use relevant paper systems.
No
Assessors Initials
Essential Evidence for this Competency:
Other Evidence: (as appropriate)
Direct Observation
Q&A
Care Records
Learning diary
Case Study
Testimony of others
Declaration:
.........................................................has/has not demonstrated their competence to perform the above elements.
Date of Assessment........................Signature of Assessor.............................................................
14
OH Technician Competencies 2010
OH Technician Competency Statement - No. 13
Competency Statement: Can perform consistently safe practice in a variety of situations integrating theory to
practice with regard to the following:
Competency:
Effective Time Management
Yes
Competency Elements:

Demonstrate the ability to assess a workload.

Effectively plan and prioritise workload.

Demonstrate the ability to reflect upon outcomes and evaluate the
initial plan.

Demonstrate punctuality in the workplace.
No
Assessors Initials
Essential Evidence for this Competency:
Other Evidence: (as appropriate)
Direct Observation
Q&A
Care Records
Learning diary
Case Study
Testimony of others
Declaration:
.......................................................has/has not demonstrated their competence to perform the above elements.
Date of Assessment......................................Signature of Assessor....................................................................
May 2010
OH Technician Competencies
OH Technician Competency Statement - No. 14
Competency Statement: Can perform consistently safe practice in a variety of situations integrating theory to
practice with regard to the following:
Competency: Equipment management.
Competency Elements:
Yes

Prepare, select and assemble equipment in accordance with the
manufacturers’ guidelines.

Demonstrate ability to calibrate equipment prior to use

Be responsible for the care and maintenance to ensure machinery is
fully operational, including arranging annual safety checks, maintenance
and calibration.

Follow Trust guidelines in reporting faulty equipment.

Dispose of products in an appropriate manner.

Declare competence in using all relevant medical devices.

Identify own training needs and report to mentor.

Store equipment safely and appropriately.
No
Assessors Initials
Essential Evidence for this Competency:
Other Evidence: (as appropriate )
Direct Observation
Q&A
Care Records
Projects or assignments
Learning diary
Case Study
Testimony of others
Simulation
Declaration:
.....................................................has/has not demonstrated their competence to perform the above elements.
Date of Assessment........................Signature of Assessor.............................................................
16
OH Technician Competencies 2010
OH Technician Competency Statement - No. 15
Competency Statement:
Can perform consistently safe practice in a variety of situations integrating theory to practice with regard to the
following:
Competency: Monitoring and maintaining stocks of materials and equipment.
Yes
Competency Elements:

Ensure any shortfalls or faults in equipment are recorded
accurately and reported immediately to the appropriate
person.

Ensure all stock is stored according to manufacturer
guidelines and is stored safely.

Ensure all stock is rotated to ensure optimum and safe use of
resources.

Ensure stocks are continually checked to ensure that stock
levels are maintained and that equipment used is in date, to
include paperwork.

Ensure appropriate action is taken when supply levels fall
below, or are likely to fall below stock levels. This includes
photocopying any paperwork as required.

Ensure all stock is replenished as required in all OH clinical
areas.

Ensure any loss or damage is reported immediately to the
appropriate person.
No
Assessors Initials
Essential Evidence for this Competency:
Other Evidence: (as appropriate)
Direct Observation
Q&A
Care Records
Projects or assignments
Learning diary
Case Study
Testimony of others
Simulation
Declaration:
.........................................................has/has not demonstrated their competence to perform the above elements.
Date of Assessment..................................... Signature of Assessor.....................................................................
May 2010
OH Technician Competencies
OH Technician Competency Statement - No. 16
Competency Statement:
Can perform consistently safe practice in a variety of situations integrating theory to practice with regard to the
following:
Competency: Risk management.
Competency Elements:
Yes

Demonstrate awareness of Pennine Acute Hospitals NHS Trust policies
on risk management.

Ensure adherence to Trust risk management policies.

Identify areas of risk in department when necessary.

Report concerns to senior colleagues through appropriate channels.

Report adverse incidents appropriately and complete relevant
documentation.
No
Assessors Initials
Essential Evidence for this Competency:
Other Evidence: (as appropriate)
Direct Observation
Q&A
Care Records
Learning diary
Case Study
Testimony of others
Declaration:
........................................................has/has not demonstrated their competence to perform the above elements.
Date of Assessment........................Signature of Assessor.............................................................
18
OH Technician Competencies
OH Technician Competency Statement - No. 17
Competency Statement: Can perform consistently safe practice in a variety of situations integrating theory to
practice with regard to the following:
Competency: Ensure equity in service provision.
Competency Elements:
Yes

Recognise the social and cultural differences of service users and
support equal provision of care in accordance with an individual’s rights,
choices and beliefs.

Act in a manner which does not stereotype people of different abilities,
cultures or faiths.

Ensure equal access to service facilities for able and disabled people.

Ensures that an interpreter is present when necessary.
No
Assessors
Initials
Essential Evidence for this Competency:
Other Evidence: (as appropriate)
Direct Observation
Q&A
Care Records
Learning diary
Case Study
Testimony of others
Declaration:
............……………......................has/has not demonstrated their competence to perform the above elements.
Date of Assessment………………………………………….Signature of Assessor.............................................
19
OH Technician Competencies
OH Technician Competency Statement - No. 18
Competency Statement: Can demonstrate knowledge, understanding of undertaking vaccinations and the
elements concerned with this.
Can undertake vaccination demonstrating correct technique.
Competency: Flu and Hepatitis B Vaccination
(minimum 2 assessments )
Competency Elements:
Yes

Demonstrates understanding of importance of maintaining cold
chain:
can state correct temperature range for vaccine storage
records vaccine fridge temperature at start of each
vaccination session

Checks patient’s records prior to vaccination to ascertain previous
immunisation history and which vaccines are required to bring
patient up to date with national schedule.

Knows whom to contact for advice if unsure about which
vaccination to give/vaccine schedule/spacing or compatibility of
vaccines

Gives appropriate advice and information

Ensures informed consent has been obtained prior to vaccinating

Correctly reconstitutes vaccines and is aware of which vaccines
can be mixed together

Ensures anaphylaxis equipment is readily available, knows what
should be provided and how and when to use it

Checks correct vaccine and vaccine dose has been prepared prior
to administration

Provides reassurance to vaccinee and correctly positions patient
prior to vaccinating

Demonstrates correct injection technique, uses recommended
needle size and recommended vaccination site(s)

Disposes of sharps, vaccine vials and other vaccine equipment
safely

Documents type of vaccine, batch number, expiry date, date given
and injection site in clinic notes and records on Cohort

Gives advice to patient about potential side effects and
management of these
20
No
Assessors
Initials
OH Technician Competencies
Essential Evidence for this Competency:
Other Evidence: (as appropriate)
Direct Observation
Q&A
Care Records
Learning diary
Case Study
Testimony of others
Declaration:
I agree that I am competent in all aspects of immunisation:
Signed_________________________________________Date_________________________
Date of Assessment………………………………………….Signature of Assessor.............................................
I agree that ________________________________________is competent in all aspects of immunisation
Signed ________________________________________Date__________________________
Title,________________________________________________
Qualifications and relationship to trainee _______________________________________
.
21