Policy Title: Health and Safety (Whole School) This Policy also applies to the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Date of Issue: September 2017 Date of Review: September 2018 References: The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 School Policies: First Aid Policy Minibus Policy Educational Visits Policy Lettings Policy Risk Assessment Policy Lone Working Policy Colston s School Staff Handbook Author: Facilities Manager Version Date Amendments V1.3 05.07.2017 Reformatting. Grammatical improvements to sections on monitoring and employee responsibilities. Note added indicating the swimming pool will be out of action during 2017/18. Clarification of MOD role in writing CCF risk assessments. Inclusion of new minibus lites in the minibus protocols (these do not need D1). Amendments to lettings section. Inclusion of approved contractors list within section about contractors. This policy is made available to parents of all pupils and visitors, on the School website, and on request from the School Office. It is available to the Staff at the School from the School website, in the Staff Handbook and on request from the School Office. Content of this policy is directly discussed with new staff upon induction into the School. www.colstons.org Page 1 of 23
Contents INTRODUCTION... 3 HEALTH AND SAFETY STATEMENT OF INTENT... 5 MANAGEMENT ORGANISATION AND RESPONSIBILITIES... 6 Introduction... 6 Responsibilities... 6 Health & Safety Committee... 9 Introduction... 9 Organising... 11 Monitoring... 11 INDIVIDUAL HEALTH AND SAFETY RESPONSIBILITY... 11 EMPLOYEE RESPONSIBILITIES AND PROCEDURES... 11 INTRODUCTION... 11 INFORMATION FOR EMPLOYEES... 11 SAFETY PROCEDURES... 12 REPORTING PROCEDURE... 12 WORKING CONDITIONS / ENVIRONMENT... 14 WORKING PRACTICES... 14 FIRE SAFETY... 14 FIRST AID... 15 INCIDENTS... 15 HEALTH INCLUDING WELLBEING AND STRESS... 15 LONE WORKING... 16 RISK ASSESSMENTS... 16 CURRICULAR/EXTRA-CURRICULAR SAFETY... 16 Off-Site Visits... 17 SWIMMING POOL (out of action during academic year 2017/18)... 17 CCF... 17 VEHICLES INCLUDING SCHOOL MINIBUSES... 18 LETTINGS INCLUDING SUMMER CAMPS... 18 SECURITY... 18 ASBESTOS... 19 MAINTENANCE OF EQUIPMENT... 20 WASTE MANAGEMENT... 20 WATER HYGIENE... 20 PERSONAL PROTECTIVE CLOTHING AND EQUIPMENT... 20 NO SMOKING... 22 Page 2 of 23
Appendix 1: Colston s School Risk Assessment... 23 INTRODUCTION Schools that are successful in achieving high standards have health and safety policies which contribute to their business performance whilst they meet their responsibilities to pupils, employees, guests, visitors and working environment in a way which fulfils both the spirit and the letter of the law. What the law requires us to do: a) The School s Health and Safety Policy is important because it is our basic action plan on health and safety. To achieve this health and safety general policy and statement of intent, we have been carrying out full assessments, inspections and appraisal of our needs. b) The School has a legal and moral obligation to have a written statement of general policy on health and safety along with a statement of intent for the protection of employees, pupils, employees, guests, visitors and others who may be affected by our work activities. c) This health and safety policy statement of intent reflects our commitment to a systematic approach to policy implementation and continued planning, reviewing and monitoring of this approach will be undertaken to ensure high standards are maintained by us. d) Each employee is required to co-operate with us on all matters of health and safety to enable us to fulfil our legal and moral obligations to both yourselves and others who may be affected by your acts or omission. e) It is also vital that you do not interfere or misuse anything that is provided within the scope of any relevant statutory provisions, for yours or others health & safety. f) All the above are identified within your Staff Handbook or Department Handbook or induction handbook as your individual responsibilities, all school procedures and procedures must be adhered to at all times. This policy outlines the legal requirements to be fulfilled on health and safety. The following statement outlines the format from which our health and safety statement of intent has been produced. To ensure we attain a high standard of health and safety within the school, the health and safety general policy has been compiled and identifies the standards and areas of attainment to be achieved by us all. One of the most important functions at Colston s School is to ensure that we prevent incidents, injuries and ill health happening to any of our employees, pupils, visitors, guests or any other person as a result of our activities or work progresses. To ensure this happens we intend to comply rigorously with all health and safety legislation, codes of practice, expert guidance and with all safe working methodology. The health and safety policy, manuals and guidebooks we have prepared identify the way in which Colston s school intends to meet with its legal and moral obligations. We are legally obliged to prepare a statement of general policy with respect to our employees health and safety, together with details of the management organisation and arrangements that have set up to ensure that this policy is carried out. As employers, in so far as reasonably practicable, we will provide: a) Training, instruction, information and supervision that is commensurate with your duties. Page 3 of 23
b) Safe means of handling and transporting articles, dangerous or heavy substances and people including pupils. c) Systems of work that are safe d) Safe plant and equipment that is in good working order. e) A safe place to work in which has a safe access and egress. f) A safe and healthy environment. g) Adequate outside expert assistance in specialist areas. h) Adequate welfare facilities. In so far as reasonably practicable, we will also ensure that the way we carry out our work does not affect the health and safety of persons who are not our employees, for example, pupils, visitors and contractors. It is also recognised that where we either produce articles and substances for use at work, or buy in such items or indeed erect or install any plant or equipment for use at work, we will ensure the health and safety of those who have to use them and make available all the required information and personal protective equipment for their health and safety. It is every employee s responsibility to look after their own health and safety by complying with all of our policies and procedures. Every employee must also ensure that they do not endanger others by supporting their employer, in meeting our legal and moral obligations. Violence to staff by pupils or colleagues is not acceptable in any circumstances and needs to be reported immediately to the Management chain and directly to the Headmaster(s) and Facilities Manager. Any such incident needs to be recorded and managed and reported to Governors and the Police where appropriate. If there is any need to complete a RIDDOR form, a Near Miss Form or an Accident Form this should be done as soon as possible. Page 4 of 23
HEALTH AND SAFETY STATEMENT OF INTENT To assist in meeting our legal requirements and our general duties outlined in the health and safety general policy, a health and safety statement has been prepared. This is detailed below and identifies our approach to ensuring our health and safety policies and procedures are carried through rigorously. We are committed to enforcing all necessary and appropriate measures to control, review and monitor health and safety procedures as a vital part of running Colston s School as an efficient, effective and successful operation. Therefore, in so far as reasonably practicable, Colston s School will: a) Provide such information, instruction, training and supervision as is necessary to ensure the health and safety at work of all employees. b) Ensure that all necessary precautions are taken in respect of the safe use, handling, storage and transport of materials and substances, dangerous, heavy or otherwise. c) Ensure that equipment and working practices are safe and offer no hazard and risk to health and safety. d) Maintain all places of work, work equipment and transport under its control in a safe condition, free from risk to health and safety. e) Provide adequate facilities for the welfare of employees. f) Safeguard the health and safety of visitors, contractors and any members of the general public who could be affected by its activities. g) Provide all necessary information relating to health and safety in respect of procedures and services and where necessary, consult with employees. h) Review and update the policy as and when necessary particularly in respect of major changes within Colston s school and /or changes in legislation and brings these changes to the attention of all employees. i) Ensure that all employees are mindful of their health and safety responsibilities and co-operate with Colston s school in its efforts to fulfil the above policy. j) Ensure this policy is monitored in the workplace. Signed:.. Signed:.. Position: Headmaster Position: Chair of Governors Date:. Date: Page 5 of 23
MANAGEMENT ORGANISATION AND RESPONSIBILITIES Introduction It is our legal and moral obligation to identify the management duties and responsibilities in regard to health and safety for those involved in the management of Colston s School, and to have their duties and responsibilities clearly defined. This is to ensure the health and safety general policy statement of intent are fully considered when designing, introducing and implementing systems and procedures in the workplace. We also have a responsibility and duty to ensure that: a) Employees are aware and understand the health and safety general policy and statement of intent. b) Employees are fully aware of and understand the health and safety procedures relating to their employment. c) Employees are adequately instructed, trained and supervised commensurate with their position at the school. d) Employees are made aware of any and all of the hazards and risks associated with their work activities. e) Employees are provided with safe, substances, equipment including personnel protective equipment, safe methods of work and an environment that is both safe and healthy to work in. Our duties and responsibilities are implemented through the use of the documentation outlined within this document and through management carrying out regular risk assessments and a periodic monitoring of the areas under their control. Responsibilities The Governing Body The Governing Body has the following responsibilities to ensure: a) A clear written Health and Safety Policy statement of intent is created which promotes the correct attitude towards safety in staff and pupils. b) Issues relating to health, safety and welfare are reviewed on a termly basis by the Welfare and Safeguarding Committee. They are informed of any health and safety issues by the School Health and Safety Committee, who prepare departmental termly reports. c) Appropriate staff or contracted support has sufficient experience, knowledge and training to perform the tasks required of them. d) Clear procedures are created which assess the risk from hazards and produce safe systems of work. e) Sufficient funds are set aside with which to operate safe systems of work. f) Health and safety performance is measured both actively and reactively. g) The school s health and safety policy and performance is reviewed annually. The Headmaster and Head of Lower School The Headmaster and Head of Lower School have the following responsibilities: a) To be fully committed to the Governing Body s Statement of Intent for Health and Safety. b) Ensure that a clear written local Policy for Health and Safety is created. c) Ensure that the policy is communicated adequately to all relevant persons. d) Ensure appropriate information on significant risk activities is given to visitors and contractors. Page 6 of 23
e) Ensure that all staff are provided with adequate information, instruction and training on health and safety issues. f) Make or arrange for risk assessments of the premises and working practices to be undertaken. g) Ensure safe systems of work are in place as identified from risk assessments. h) Ensure that emergency procedures are in place. i) Ensure that equipment is inspected and tested to ensure it remains in a safe condition. j) Ensure records are kept of all relevant health and safety activities e.g. risk assessments, inspections, accidents, etc. k) Ensure arrangements are in place to monitor premises and performance. l) Ensure that all accidents are investigated and any remedial actions required are taken or requested. m) Report to the Governing Body annually on the health and safety performance of the school. School Health and Safety Officer The School s Health and Safety Officer has the following responsibilities: a) To co-ordinate and manage the risk assessment process for the school. b) To co-ordinate the annual general workplace monitoring inspections and performance monitoring process. c) To manage the keeping of records of all health and safety activities, under the supervision of the Facilities Manager. d) To advise the Headmaster/Head of Lower School of situations or activities which are potentially hazardous to the health and safety of staff, pupils and visitors; in consultation with the Facilities Manager e) To ensure that staff are adequately instructed in safety and welfare matters about their specific work place and the school generally. f) To manage and keep training records of all staff relating to Health and safety matters and ensure that training qualifications remain up to date Staff holding positions of special responsibility Teaching/Support Staff This includes Deputy Headmaster, Assistant Head (Co-curricular), Facilities Manager, H & S Officer, Deputy Head of Lower School, Head of Sixth Form, Directors of Faculty, Heads of Departments, EYFS Co-ordinator, Heads of House, Head of Domestic Services, Head of Maintenance, Head of Grounds, Matron, Drama Graduate Assistant and Technicians They have the following responsibilities: a) Apply the School s Health and Safety Policy to their own department or area of work and be directly responsible to the Headmaster/Head of Lower School for the application of the health and safety procedures and arrangements. b) Carry out regular health and safety risk assessments of the activities for which they are responsible. c) Ensure that all staff under their control are familiar with the health and safety policy, if issued, for their area of work. d) Resolve health, safety and welfare problems members of staff refer to them, or refer to the Headmaster/Head of Lower School, or Facilities Manager any problems to which they cannot achieve a satisfactory solution within the resources available to them. e) Carry out regular inspections of their areas of responsibility to ensure that equipment, furniture and activities are safe and record these inspections where required. f) Ensure, as far as is reasonably practicable, the provision of sufficient information, instruction, training and supervision to enable other employees and pupils to avoid hazards and contribute positively to their own health and safety. g) Investigate any incidents that occur within their area of responsibility. Page 7 of 23
Teachers Teachers are expected to: a) Exercise effective supervision of their pupils, to know the procedures for fire, first aid and other emergencies and to carry them out. b) Follow the particular health and safety measures to be adopted in their own teaching areas as laid down in the relevant policies, if issued, and to ensure that they are applied. c) Sign necessary work place risk assessments, when required. d) Give clear oral and written instructions and warnings to pupils when necessary. e) Follow safe working procedures. f) Require the use of protective clothing and guards where necessary. g) Make recommendations to the Headmaster/ Head of Lower School, member of the Health and Safety Committee or Head of Department on health and safety equipment and on additions or necessary improvements to plant, tools, equipment or machinery. h) Integrate all relevant aspects of safety into the teaching process and, where necessary, give special lessons on health and safety. i) Report all incidents, defects and dangerous occurrences to their Head of Department. All Employees All employees have individual legal responsibilities to take reasonable care for the health and safety of themselves and for others who may be affected by their acts or omissions. In particular, employees must: a) Comply with the school s health and safety policy and procedures at all times in particular procedures for fire, first aid and other emergencies. b) Co-operate with school management in complying with relevant health and safety law. c) Take note of the work place risk assessments, where applicable d) Use all work equipment and substances in accordance with instruction, training and information received. e) Avoid introducing personal items of equipment (electrical or mechanical) into the School unless they have been PAT tested by the maintenance department. f) Report to their immediate line manager any hazardous situations and defects in equipment found in their work places. g) Report all incidents in line with current incident reporting procedure. h) Act in accordance with any specific health and safety training received. i) Inform their Line Manager of what they consider to be shortcomings in the school s health and safety arrangements. j) Exercise good standards of housekeeping and cleanliness. Pupils Pupils, allowing for their age and aptitude, are expected to: a) Exercise personal responsibility for the health and safety of themselves and others. b) Observe standards of dress consistent with safety and/or hygiene. c) Observe all the health and safety procedures of the school and in particular the instructions of staff given in an emergency. d) Use and not wilfully misuse, neglect or interfere with things provided for their health and safety. Page 8 of 23
Health & Safety Committee Introduction In accordance with its obligations under The Safety Representatives and Safety Committees Regulations 1977 and The Health and Safety (Consultation with Employees) Regulations 1996, the School established a Whole School Health and Safety Committee. The prime objective of the Committee is to monitor health, safety and welfare issues across the School and to propose solutions in order that management is able to address these issues. Remit of the Whole School Committee To promote a culture of good health and safety practices To monitor and review the School s Health and Safety Policy on an annual basis To discuss and recommend ways of raising awareness of good health, safety and welfare practices amongst staff and pupils To review and investigate incidents and Near Misses reporting regularly to the Governors Welfare and Safeguarding Committee Advise the Governing Body Welfare and Safeguarding Committee of health and safety issues with proposed solutions To advise the areas they represent of issues raised at Committee meetings To advise the Health and Safety Officer of areas of concern within their departments To assist with ensuring compliance with all health and safety legislation across the School To review reports from external agencies such as the Health and Safety Executive, and the Fire and Rescue Services. To discuss and recommend general or specific safety training for employees where it is considered necessary. The Committee meets once every term. Committee Members Headmaster Deputy Headmaster Head of Lower School Facilities Manager (Chair) Assistant Head Co-Curricular Health and Safety Officer Page 9 of 23
COLSTON S SCHOOL MEMBERS OF THE SCHOOL HEALTH AND SAFETY COMMITTEE WITH AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY/REPORTING Headmaster Overall Responsiblity Deputy Headmaster Academic Faculties Head of Lower school Lower School Facilities Manager Facilities, Policies Assistant Head (Co-Curricular) Sport, Drama, CCF, DofE, Off-site visits/trips, Matron (for co-curricular incidents) Health and Safety Officer Compliance, Training, Audits, Risk Assessments Page 10 of 23
Organising Organisations that achieve high standards of health and safety are structured and operate to put the health and safety policies into practice effectively. To attain this level at Colston s School we have to maintain a positive health and safety culture that ensures involvement and participation at all levels. A positive and active approach from all managers, that is supportive of all health and safety issues, will ensure the participation; commitment and involvement of all others achieve our aim of effective risk control. Monitoring Areas of responsibility have been identified for each individual within the school with key health and safety management tasks to ensure their involvement in the overall management of the health and safety at Colston s school. All health and safety documentation will be copied, collated and held centrally. Specific departmental documentation will also be held in relevant departments throughout the school. This ensures extensive monitoring of the schools responsibilities as outlined in the health and safety general policy and statement of intent. As the person with the overall responsibility for health and safety at Colston s School, the Headmaster reviews all documentation at the required intervals. Any action required as a result of the review will be reported at the Health and Safety Committee and subsequently to the Welfare and Safeguarding Committee. INDIVIDUAL HEALTH AND SAFETY RESPONSIBILITY Individual health and safety responsibility lies within departments (including academic, co-curricular and support departments) and is monitored by Directors of Faculty and Heads of these Department, under the guidance of the Health and Safety Officer. EMPLOYEE RESPONSIBILITIES AND PROCEDURES INTRODUCTION Health and safety legal requirements lay down specific responsibilities on us to secure the health and safety of all employees whilst at work. The legislation also requires that we protect others who are not our employees who may be affected by our activities that may create risks to their health and safety. The health and safety legislation not only places duties on us to look after our own health and safety but also others who may be affected by our acts or omission. INFORMATION FOR EMPLOYEES Colston s School fulfils the general duties and responsibilities for the provision of information to employees and their representatives on all aspects of health and safety at work by displaying and issuing documentation as follows: a) The health and safety law poster. b) The distribution of literature and information leaflets Page 11 of 23
c) The displaying of information relating to safe working procedures d) Making available information on the results of various assessments carried out and the control measures to be put in place. In addition to the above, the school identifies training requirements of departments to ensure that employees have the skills to carry out their duties and that the school complies with statutory requirements It is also of vital importance that employees read and take note of the information in this document and any training events subsequently organised by the school relating to health and safety. Staff are required to sign the induction checklist (new employees) and an attendance register at training events to confirm their understanding, acceptance and compliance with the contents of the document and / or training event. SAFETY PROCEDURES The general procedures laid down in this section have been prepared in accordance with legal requirements and with acknowledged safe working practices at the forefront of our thinking. It should also be noted that in addition to the legal duty imposed upon you to comply with these procedures, any breaches of these procedures could result in discipline action, leading to possible dismissal. We have to recognise that it is not possible to prepare safety procedures that will meet every possible eventuality. However, we do ask and expect employees to act in a sensible manner and, in particular, to implement all instructions given by the management to maintain or improve health and safety. Should you feel that any additional procedures or practises should be implemented to improve the welfare or health and safety of you or your colleagues, please bring them to the attention of your immediate supervisor or health and safety representative through the usual reporting channels as highlighted on page 9 and 12 REPORTING PROCEDURE In the event of any incident or near miss which is deemed to be a health and safety risk, it is the responsibility of all employees to report this to their line manager. This will be disseminated to the relevant Heads of Departments (including academic, co-curricular and support departments) and Faculty Directors, and in turn reported via the Health and Safety Committee to the Governors Welfare and Safeguarding Committee. In situations where there is an immediate /critical issue, this should be escalated immediately to the Facilities Manager or Health and Safety Officer to action. Page 12 of 23
REPORTING PROCEDURE FOR INCIDENTS / NEAR MISSES Governing Body Critical Report to Headmaster / Facilities Manager Report to Chair of Governors RIDDOR / HSE Witness an incident/near miss Assess Immediate but not critical Report to Facilities Manager / Health & Safety Officer to Action immediately Report to Health and Safety Committee Report to Governor Welfare & Safeguarding Committee Report to Governing Body Non-Urgent Report to Line Manager Report to Head of Department/Director of Faculty Report to Health and Safety Committee Facilities Manager / Health & Safety Officer Governor Welfare & Safeguarding Committee Report to Governing Body Page 13 of 23
WORKING CONDITIONS / ENVIRONMENT Tidiness, cleanliness and efficiency are essential factors in the promotion of health and safety. Incidents can be prevented by following the guidelines listed below: a) All walkways, exits and work areas are to be kept clear and in a clean and tidy condition at all times. b) Equipment and facilities provided to control working conditions and the environment must be used in a safe and proper manner. c) Dispose of all rubbish, scrap and waste materials within the working area using the prescribed procedures and receptacles provided. d) When removing any waste or materials from machines use the correct tools and safety equipment provided and dispose into the appropriate receptacles. e) Clear up any liquid spillages within the work area immediately in the prescribed manner and either report any hazardous conditions that exist or use the appropriate safety signs and equipment to warn others. f) All waste chemicals and oils must be deposited at the correct disposal points and in the prescribed manner. g) Pollution of drains, sewers or other water courses with chemicals, oils or any other dangerous or hazardous substances is strictly prohibited. h) Ensure that combustible items are kept away from ignition sources and do not cover electrical sockets with combustible items i) All staff, students and visitors comply with all hazard/warning signs and notices displayed on the school premises. WORKING PRACTICES The following procedures apply: a) You must not operate any machinery, plant or equipment unless you have been trained and authorised to do so and have signed a training record card. b) If you are under the age of 18 years you must not operate any prescribed dangerous machinery without specific authorisation. Training on such equipment will be given along with adequate supervision. c) Always operate any machinery without making full and proper use of all machine guards. d) Always report to your supervisor or manager immediately any fault, damage, defect or malfunction in any machinery, plant, equipment, tools, cables, flexes or guards. e) Unless authorised to do so you must never carry out any remedial repair or maintenance work of any description f) Never clean any machinery, plant or equipment whilst it is in motion or while it is connected to an electrical supply. g) Never leave any plant, machinery or equipment that is in motion, unattended unless authorised to do so. h) All substances chemicals, liquids etc. must be returned to their designated safe storage areas when not in use and at the end of the working shift. These areas should be kept locked when unattended. i) You must use all substances, chemicals, liquids etc., in accordance with the COSHH assessments and instructions. Never use them if you have not trained to do so. j) You must observe all pedestrian and vehicles control safety measures throughout the premises FIRE SAFETY To be read in conjunction with the school Fire Safety Policy and in line with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. Fire evacuation procedures are available in every classroom and at various points throughout the school. Regular training sessions are held for existing staff and new members of staff are trained Page 14 of 23
as part of the schools induction process. The most important part of fire control is prevention. It is with this in mind that all staff are to be conversant with the fire potential of materials and substances that they use, and should exercise maximum care in their use, especially those marked flammable. Fire evacuation procedures, fire prevention training and fire alarm testing is to be carried out in accordance with current legislation. All details are kept in the fire safety file situated in the maintenance Office. The following procedures apply: a) You must conform to all emergency procedures as laid down in this policy and your induction booklet and all those procedures as displayed thought the premises. b) You must never obstruct any fire escape route, fire equipment or fire door for any reason whatsoever. c) You must never try to control any fire outbreaks unless you have received the appropriate training and are with another person. d) You must report any misuse or damaged fire fighting equipment to management. e) Always report any fire however seemingly insignificant (even if brought under control or extinguished) to the Facilities Manager or Health and Safety Officer. FIRST AID All staff receive basic first aid trained through the online educare programme. In addition to this the school has nominated first aid at work trained staff who are retrained every three years. A number of staff are also trained in the use of the defibrillator which is situated inside the Bishops Palace (upper school) and the main reception area (lower school). A list of Trained First Aiders and De-Fib trained staff is available throughout the school. Portable first aid kits must be taken on all visits away from school. These are kept in the school minibuses. Please see the first aid policy for further details. INCIDENTS The following procedures apply: a) Medical attention or treatment must be sought for any injury you may receive, no matter how slight or insignificant it may seem. b) This must be recorded in the incident book situated in the surgery. c) Any incidents, which cause you to have seven or more consecutive days off work, must be reported to your supervisor or manager and the procedure for RIDDOR followed. d) You must report all incidents, near misses and dangerous occurrences to the management as soon as it is practicable to do so and enter them in the accident book situated in the Surgery. (see Chart Page 12) e) You must notify your supervisor or manager immediately should be involved in any incident in which damage is caused to either our or any third party s property. f) Any absences lasting three days must also be recorded and reported to the Health and safety committee g) Where appropriate, the facilities manager and health and safety officer will carry out a full investigation into the incident and report to the health and safety committee. HEALTH INCLUDING WELLBEING AND STRESS Staff are encouraged to support each other, discuss openly and not see stress as a sign of weakness. The headmaster of Upper and Lower school, together with senior members of staff should be aware of the signs of stress and establish ways to support staff members, particularly in difficult periods, (e.g. Inspections, examination time). Stress factors will be considered when carrying out the risk assessments for the school. Where workplace stress arises, managers will Page 15 of 23
deal with the issue in a sensitive and constructive manner, using all available means. In addition to the above, all staff have a responsibility for their own wellbeing. The following procedures apply: a) You must report to your supervisor or manager any medical condition that could affect the safety of yourself or others at work. b) You must co-operate on the implementation of medical and occupational health provisions e.g. completing the prescribed forms to work after illness. PREGNANT WORKERS When a member of staff becomes pregnant, the school should be notified. A risk assessment will then be carried out by the health and safety officer to ensure that the duties performed do not cause her, or her unborn child, any harm. The very latest date for notification is 15 weeks prior to the expected delivery date. LONE WORKING Line managers will ensure that lone working is risk assessed and that appropriate control measures are put in place to mitigate those risks. Solutions might include the provision of mobile phones, radios, in-out boards and other means of monitoring staff whereabouts. Staff themselves have a responsibility to ensure their own health and safety and assist in the operation of any systems designed to provide for their safety. Please see separate lone working policy for full details of procedures RISK ASSESSMENTS Risk assessments will be carried out by members of school staff to comply with legislative requirements. The risk assessment will be led by line managers and signed off by the members of their team, according to the area / requirement/ specific activity. These will be reviewed annually and reported to the Health and safety committee. These are developed through: Assessing the task Identifying the hazard Defining a safe method Implementing the system Monitoring the system Findings of the above will be brought to the attention of the staff and the assessment reviewed and revised as necessary. The review will take place at least annually but will take place if there are changes that require it, such as building work being carried out at the school. Risks are assessed in a manner that ranks them by severity/probability for prioritisation and control measures identified and put in place that are proportional to the level of risk. The outcome of the risk assessments is then recorded and communicated to those affected. Records are maintained within the relevant departments. CURRICULAR/EXTRA-CURRICULAR SAFETY The school recognise that programmes of study require that pupils should be taught how to identify Page 16 of 23
and reduce risks in the way that they work. A balance must be achieved between independent learning and the necessary supervision to ensure safety. Academic staff will ensure that they are familiar with all risks which might arise from the tools, equipment, materials and processes they plan for pupils to use. Appropriate training will be arranged and reviewed by management in each academic department. All guidance material will be reviewed where required and the school will call upon expertise from associations such as: CLEAPS Science & DT AfPE PE Staff will sign off all risk assessment, copies of which are kept in within their relevant department. Risk assessments will be reviewed on an annual basis in all activities in order to determine: Where close supervision is required Suitable group size Suitability for whole class participation Where particular skills need to be taught Specific machinery / equipment training issues Personal protective equipment (PPE) Levels of hygiene required The Assistant Head Co-Curricular is responsible for collating all risk assessments for academic and extra-curricular safety. Any issues arising from risk assessments / activities will be reported as per the chart on page 12. Off-Site Visits The school complies with OEAP national guidance on educational visits The Educational Visits Coordinator (EVC) is responsible for: Supporting the head and governors with approval and other decisions Assessing the competence of leaders and other adults proposed for a visit Ensuring appropriate risk assessments have been documented and put in place Ensuring appropriate staff:pupil ratios are in place Organising induction of new visit leaders, as required Reviewing systems and monitoring practice The above is to be read in conjunction with Educational Visits Policy and Minibus Policy SWIMMING POOL (out of action during academic year 2017/18) Normal operating procedures in the swimming pool are covered in the Pool operation pack which is held by the Maintenance department and a copy is also kept at the pool. This pack also includes the Emergency Action Plan for the Pool and all Risk assessments. Training takes place for all members of the maintenance team who are responsible for the maintenance of the swimming pool every three years. Swimming sessions only take place when there is a qualified lifeguard present. CCF Page 17 of 23
The Combined Cadet Force at Colston s School hold MOD risk assessments and policies for all activities. The CCF regular staff are employed by the school and therefore subject to the school policies, procedures and risk assessments. VEHICLES INCLUDING SCHOOL MINIBUSES Only those persons authorised and in possession of the appropriate licence and insurance should transport pupils in their own vehicle. When transporting children in your own vehicle the following documents are required by the accounts office: Driving licence, Maker, Model, Registration and MOT certificate (if required) of the vehicle Insurance documents In addition to this, an e mail containing details of the date and time of departure is required by the accounts department. The rules which govern the use of school minibuses are designed to ensure your safety on school journeys. Please comply and ensure your passengers are safe. The following protocol is in operation. Ensure category D1 is authorised on the licence - unless driving a minibus lite, in which case an internal driving assessment will have taken place Produce details of your driving licence on first use and thereafter annually Advise the accounts office of any changes to your licence that may affect the school insurance and/or your ability to drive All staff who are eligible to drive the school minibuses must have a comprehensive knowledge of the School Minibus Policy LETTINGS INCLUDING SUMMER CAMPS To be read in conjunction with the lettings policy. The Facilities Manager will oversee all lettings, including summer camps and private functions which are administered by the Accounts Department. Where applicable, the hirer will produce public liability insurance cover together with confirmation that they have risk assessments in place and that all members of their organization who are responsible for the activity are DBS cleared (summer camps and activities including child supervision) and appropriate training certificates are held, if relevant, for the activity taking place. All lettings will be subject to individual risk assessment and fire risk assessments, including nominating fire wardens. The lettings Supervisor holds a First Aid at Work certificate and has attended fire marshall training. They will be responsible for ensuring the school is securely locked after lettings. External events will be subject to their own risk assessments and locking up procedures which will be arranged prior to the event. SECURITY Entry to the school during the school day is restricted where possible to prevent access from Page 18 of 23
unplanned visitors. VISITORS See visitor s policy Visitors to the school are directed to the School Office / Head masters PA depending on the nature of the visit. All visitors must sign in and where ID badges and are given a leaflet containing details of safeguarding procedure, fire and first aid. If unknown visitors are encountered in the school, or not wearing a valid badge they must be reported to am member of senior management immediately. Visitors should sign out at the end of the visit Contractors See visitor s policy Pre visit checks are carried out on all contractors. They are required to sign the responsibilities form which includes requirement for liability insurance, risk assessments and details of regulatory Contractors working within school are required to comply with the schools code of conduct. Any breach of these procedures should be reported to the Facilities Manager Contractors must sign in to school at the school office and wear a contractor s badge. Upon issue of the badge they will be made aware of fire and accident procedures (through a safety information leaflet). Any contractors who cannot are not on the approved contractors list must be supervised whilst on site. DBS CHECKS All school staff are DBS checked prior to commencement of employment. This is an enhanced disclosure. Regular volunteers, Peripatetic Teachers, Sports Coaches are also required to complete an enhanced dbs. Passive supervision is exercised for those who do not have a DBS (Prospective parents). A SCR register is kept by the HR manager. VALUABLE EQUIPMENT All valuable school equipment is security tagged and an inventory compiled and maintained. PERSONAL PROPERTY Staff are responsible for the security of their own personal items. Pupils are discouraged from bringing valuables into school. Parents are regularly reminded to identify pupil s clothing by securing name tags to each item. CASH HANDLING Money/cheques etc., collected for Mufti days, school trips etc. are collected by Tutor groups and taken to the accounts office. The school has a safe with a maximum cash value to comply with insurance requirements. Accounts staff attend to banking on varying days and times and generally carry cheque and small cash values. Large amounts of cash are taken by the maintenance team to the local bank (in pairs). ASBESTOS To minimize risk from materials containing asbestos on the school s premises, the school will Page 19 of 23
maintain a safe and healthy environment by: Complying with all regulations and policy concerning the control of asbestos Where possible, removing materials containing asbestos To have a named officer (the Facilities Manager) who will have responsibility for implementing an Asbestos Management Plan in compliance with the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 MAINTENANCE OF EQUIPMENT Records of equipment testing and monitoring are kept by heads of the facilities departments. These are overseen by the Facilities Manager and reported to the Health and Safety Committee to ensure the school remains complaint. WASTE MANAGEMENT The arrangements for the removal of waste from the school are reviewed annually to ensure they remain adequate for the needs of the school. All waste bins are kept in locked compounds away from the school buildings. WATER HYGIENE The primary of water testing is to prevent the build-up of the Legionella Pneumophilla organisms in water systems and to prevent inhalation of infected water droplets. Control measures are in place to ensure regular testing and monitoring. Risk assessments are reviewed and action plans in place to rectify any issues highlighted. The school has a weekly, monthly, and quarterly testing regime in place to ensure compliance. Member of the maintenance team undergo regular training in the management of legionella. PERSONAL PROTECTIVE CLOTHING AND EQUIPMENT Line managers will assess on the basis of risk assessment and COSHH assessments the need for PPE. Where it is assessed that PPE is required it shall be appropriately selected and provided. The following procedures apply: a) You must use all items or protective clothing and equipment that is provided as instructed. b) You must not misuse or wilfully damage any item of protective clothing or equipment provided. c) You must store and maintain protective clothing or equipment as instructed. d) It is important that you report any damage, loss, fault or unsuitability of protective clothing or equipment to your supervisor or manager immediately USE OF HARMFUL SUBSTANCES (COSHH) Control of substances hazardous to health (COSHH) has been adopted in respect of managing hazardous substances. All chemicals are to be kept in locked storage cupboards when not in use. When using harmful substances, whether they are material or chemical substances, all staff members must ensure that adequate precautions are taken to prevent injury to themselves or others and be suitably trained in the use and management of harmful substances. All Departments with COSHH cupboards have relevant risk assessments which are reviewed annually by the responsible person within the department. Any spillages should be cleared away immediately and protective clothing and equipment must be Page 20 of 23
worn at all times. No new materials or chemical substances are to be brought into use unless a COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 1994) assessment has been carried out. This is the responsibility of the head of department. Training requirements must also be ascertained by heads of departments who in turn inform the Health and Safety Officer of requirements. The management of harmful substances is the responsibility of the Health and Safety Officer. MANUAL HANDLING & LIFTING Staff are not permitted to lift, drag, push or carry heavy or awkward loads unless training has been undertaken and a risk assessment carried out. Where staff may be required to carry out manual handling operations, the appropriate level of training will be provided. Seeking assistance with the task can often reduce the risks for simple handling tasks. WORKING AT HEIGHT When using access equipment such as ladders, crawling boards, etc., the correct equipment is to be used for the job undertaken. Training or instruction in the use of this equipment must have been given prior to use. Under no circumstances should staff stand on chairs or desks. If in doubt, please see a member of the maintenance team who have all undergone working at heights training and will be able to assist. OFFICE SAFETY Display Screen Equipment (DSE) is a device or equipment that has an alphanumeric or graphic display screen, regardless of the display process involved; it includes both conventional display screens and those used in emerging technologies such as laptops, touch-screens and other similar devices. All members of staff will follow effective practice, set up their workstations properly and take breaks during prolonged use. A Display Screen checklist is given to relevant staff on induction to complete. If required, this will be passed to the facilities manager who will arrange for reasonable adjustments to be made to the workstation area if required. When rooms are modified / changed, a new checklist will be required to be completed by the relevant staff member. If a member of staff experiences health issues related to their work station area, they should report this to their line manager. ELECTRICAL SAFETY Only authorised and fully qualified personnel are to install, repair or attempt to repair electrical equipment. The protective outer sleeve of electric cables is to be firmly secured within the electric plugs. Where outer sleeve is not secured within the plug and the connecting live wires are visible, a qualified person is to be tasked to re-wire the plug correctly Electrical equipment that is known to be, or suspected of being faulty, must not be used and details reported immediately to the Head of Maintenance or Facilities Manager. If electrical equipment becomes faulty whilst in use it is to be isolated from the source of supply and secured so that it cannot be used until repair has been effected All portable appliances are tested annually in house on a rolling programme. Page 21 of 23
Staff should visually check items of electrical equipment before using it and report any faults to the maintenance team, and the equipment taken out of use until suitably repaired. Be aware of the dangers of trailing cables and do not trail cables across walkways Staff/visitors/pupils are not permitted to use personal electrical equipment in school without the equipment being PAT tested. NO SMOKING Colston s is a no smoking site. Smoking is not permitted in the school buildings or grounds. Page 22 of 23
Appendix 1: Colston s School Risk Assessment The risk assessment template below is to be used for all activities / areas that require control measures to ensure safety. Below is an example entry of a common hazard to assist with completion. Look at how this might apply to your area, continue by identifying the hazards that are the real priorities in your case and complete the table to suit. You can print and save this template so you can easily review and update the information as and when required. You may find our example risk assessments a useful guide. Please ensure you share this risk assessment with all relevant people. You should review your risk assessment if you think it might no longer be valid (e.g. following an accident in the workplace or if there are any significant changes to hazards, such as new work equipment or work activities) Activity/Area being risk Assessed: Person completing Risk Assessment: Date of risk assessment: Date of Review: What are the hazards? Who might be harmed and how? Measures that are already in place What further action is necessary? Action by who? Action by when? Completed Slips and trips Staff and visitors may be injured if they trip over objects or slip on spillages. General good housekeeping is carried out. All areas well lit, including stairs. No trailing leads or cables. Staff keep work areas clear, eg no boxes left in walkways, deliveries stored immediately. Better housekeeping in staff kitchen needed, eg on spills. Arrange for loose carpet tile on second floor to be repaired/replaced. All staff, supervisor to monitor Manager From now on *Hint, tab here for new row*