WORKING ENVIRONMENT

The general working environment has a large influence on how well staff cope with pressures of working in a busy dispensary. In addition to general maintenance, cleanliness issues and safety the following points should be considered.

Signage

If patients can easily identify where to go to hand in/collect prescriptions or to ask for advice, the improved communication will lead to less confusion and shorter queues. This in turn reduces interruptions to pharmacy staff allowing them to concentrate on their task in hand clearly.

Lighting

Lighting is vitally important if error rates are to be reduced. Daylight bulbs give out a much better light to work by and should be used wherever possible in the dispensary. Good lighting is particularly important directly above dispensing benches and near computer screens. Background light however should not be as bright as that over working areas, as it can lead to symptoms such as headaches and can also decrease contrast which is required to help direct focus on critical areas.

Noise

Background noise such as tannoys, checkout till noise, music, and printers should be kept to a minimum by using methods to screen staff and customers from distracting noise.

Security

Both staff and customers need to have a feeling of security particularly in pharmacies dispensing controlled drugs. Higher/deeper counters, glass screens and hatches should be considered. However a balance between security and communication needs to be considered as communication may be hindered and security measures may be intimidating. Panic buttons and CCTV will also help to keep staff at ease.

Privacy

Many issues discussed by patients will be confidential so it is essential that they can receive advice without it being overheard. Separated drop off collection points and consultancy rooms should be considered.

Temperature & Ventilation

Staff should be working in a comfortable environment, health and safety recommendations state working temperatures should be no less than 16°C. Also medicine should not be stored at temperatures exceeding 25°C.

Work Surface Finishes

White surfaces are not a good choice for dispensing preparation as it may be difficult to see white packaging or medication. Consider using other contrasting finishes such as grey or cream.

Working Environment Medicine Storage