Health and Safety Policy Statement
Greenfylde Church of England First School
Health and Safety Policy Statement
Introduction and Rationale
This policy should be taken as part of the overall strategy of the school and operated within the context of our vision, aims and values as a Church of England School.
1.1 The Governors and management of the school are committed to a safety management approach to health and safety, and thereby to an organised, well informed and pro-active approach to all health and safety related issues. All activities whether timetabled or not will therefore be planned and executed with a systematic approach that includes an element of 'context sensitive' risk assessment and where necessary control elements appropriate to the risks foreseen.
1.2 This policy supplements and operates in conjunction with Somerset County Council and the Education Department policy statements on health and safety.
1.3 It is the policy of this School to operate at all times in a manner which ensures, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare of all persons employed, visiting, working in, or being taught at the school.
1.4 All school staff are reminded that they have a duty to carry out their work with due regard for the health and safety of themselves, other staff, pupils, contractors and visitors to the school premises, and to observe the health and safety requirements relevant to their activities.
1.5 A suitable assessment of all foreseeable hazards and risks to staff, pupils and visitors will be carried out. Where significant risk is identified appropriate measures to reduce or minimise the risk will be taken and communicated to those concerned.
1.6 Consultation will take place with staff on matters that affect their health and safety. If required, specialist advice will be sought.
1.7 All staff are requested to support the school in achieving a safe environment for everyone. The necessary information, instruction and training will be made available by managers to achieve this.
1.8 A copy of this statement will be brought to the attention of all members of staff. It will be regularly reviewed and updated as necessary.
1.9 Additional information to implement this policy is contained in the attached schedule of duties and safe working procedures. Further information regarding standards is contained within Guidance to Schools, Volume 4, Health and Safety, which is available to all staff and is located in the School Office.
Duties and Responsibilities
Headteacher
2.0 The Headteacher is responsible for the implementation of this policy in all areas and activities within the school. To achieve this his duties include the following:-
2.1 Ensure that all members of staff, (including new staff, supply teachers, probationers and students, voluntary helpers etc), and governors are aware of the contents of the school safety policy together with relevant safe working procedures.
2.2 Seek the necessary specialist advice before making any changes or undertaking any activities which could affect fire or general safety, referring to the governors where appropriate.
2.3 Receive safety and maintenance inspection reports (including fire safety) from any inspecting officer or agent and the fire service, where necessary taking any appropriate immediate action. Ensure that the LEA is aware of the report and bring the recommendations to the attention of the governors and the appropriate staff.
2.4 Ensure that before purchasing plant, equipment, materials, substances or furniture that health and safety information is sought and that any relevant specifications and standards will be fully met.
2.5 Take effective action (e.g. remove pupils from risk/isolate machinery) where it is considered there is a hazard likely to affect the safety of staff, pupils or visitors to the school.
2.6 Ensure that inspections of the school premises, plant, equipment and working practices are carried out on a regular basis, and where necessary changes and improvements are recommended. This will include the identifying, the training as required, and the deeming of individuals once suitably qualified by experience or training as 'competent' persons.
2.7 Review, and if required update the fire and evacuation procedures (including provision for the disabled) for all school premises. Fire drills should be held on at least a once per term basis.
2.8 In the absence of the Headteacher the responsibility and authority for the day to day implementation of this policy is placed with Mrs M JEWSON (Health & Safety Officer)
Health and Safety Officer
3.0 Where equipment has been donated to the school, or when staff or PTA bring equipment onto the school premises, to ensure that it is safe for its intended use. Where necessary seek specialist advice as to its safety.
3.1 Report any obviously hazardous substances found in school to the Headteacher.
3.2 Ensure that all staff, students/probationers, supply teachers and voluntary helpers are aware of the requirements of the safety policy and the safe working practices that apply to their areas of activity.
3.3 Actively encourage the participation in health, safety and welfare matters of all staff and pupils.
3.4 Make known to the Headteacher any identified training needs.
3.5 Establish and regularly review safe working practices for activities under their control. Also as potential temporary Headteachers for Health and Safety purposes, to maintain an active interest and current knowledge of all school safety matters.
3.6 Take effective action and/or refer to the Headteacher immediately any health and safety problems brought to their attention. This includes the stopping of any practices or the use of any tool, equipment etc which are considered unsafe until satisfied as to their safety.
3.7 Carry out regular inspections of areas and activities under their control and where necessary submit reports to the Headteacher with findings and recommendations.
3.8 Check the adequacy of fire precautions and procedures in liaison with the Headteacher. Any problems noted during termly fire drills should receive immediate attention.
3.9 Carry out investigations of accidents or incidents involving staff, pupils or visitors. Reports are to be submitted to the Headteacher with findings and recommendations to prevent a recurrence.
3.10 Ensure that details of any serious accidents are recorded in the red accident book( please refer to office staff) and/or that the correct procedures are followed in submitting an accident form to County Hall ( see Mrs Rice for the form).
3.11 To assume the responsibility for the day to day implementation of this policy in the absence of the Headteacher.
3.12 Where equipment has been donated to the school, or when staff or PTA bring equipment onto the school premises, to ensure that it is safe for its intended use. Where necessary seek specialist advice as to its safety.
3.13 Ensure that effective first aid provision and accident reporting procedures exist in accordance with the guidelines issued by the Education Department.
3.14 Periodically to review with all those involved the effectiveness of health and safety arrangements and update them as may be necessary.
3.15 Regularly review safety information, instruction(s) and training and to consult with the council's safety officers and Education Development Service where training needs are identified so that suitable courses can be prepared.
3.16 Investigation of accidents and incidents involving staff, pupils or visitors where there is a suspected breach of legislation, a failure in a system of work, or a hazard identified which could result in further accidents or incidents.
3.17 Ensure that a full inventory of all portable electrical equipment is kept up to date via liaison with the office staff and that regular tests/inspections are carried out by competent persons.
3.18 Review, and if required update the fire and evacuation procedures(including provision for the disabled) for all school premises. Fire drills should be held on at least once per term basis.
Teaching Staff (including Supply Teachers)
4.0 All teaching staff are directly responsible for the health and safety of all pupils when under their control whether on the school premises (including playgrounds or playing fields) or not. They may also be responsible as 'line managers' for students/probationers and helpers etc. This includes the following duties:-
4.1 Ensure that all students/probationers, supply teachers etc assigned to help are aware of the general health and safety requirements of the school and the detailed requirements for activities relevant to them.
4.2 Integrate all relevant aspects of health and safety into the teaching process and,, if necessary, give special lessons.
4.3 Ensure that each class or pair of classes has a fully stocked First Aid box and to report discrepancies to Mrs Rice.
4.4 Ensure that any major accident is correctly reported in the accident book( please refer to office staff) and/or that the correct procedure is followed in completing and submitting an accident form (obtained from Mrs Rice) to County Hall.
4.5 All members of the teaching staff should ensure that they know how and where to turn off the water and electricity supplies leading into their classrooms.
4.6 All teachers should test their fire doors to ensure that they open easily.
4.7 Know the numbers of:¬ Ilminster Police 01823 363087
Summervale Medical Centre 52354
Dr Simpson's Surgery 52284
All Support Staff
5.0 Implement the health, safety and welfare procedures for pupils at a level appropriate for their requirements. Ensure these procedures are explained in terms that they can readily understand.
5.1 Exercise effective supervision of pupils and maintain an awareness of emergency procedures in respect of fire, first aid, accident reporting etc and carry them out as necessary.
5.2 Seek information on any special safety measures to be adopted in their own teaching areas and ensure that they are applied.
5.3 Set an example by personally following safe working practices.
5.4 Ensure that where necessary the appropriate protective clothing, guards etc are available, in good condition and used.
5.5 Report to the head teacher or Health & Safety Officer any defects in equipment or identified inadequacies in procedures. Where any defect renders the equipment potentially hazardous to use it should be placed out of use and clearly labelled as such, until repaired or replaced.
Cleaning and Caretaking Staff
6.1 It is the duty of the caretaker to ensure that the school is clean and secure. He will organise his cleaning staff to ensure that the schedule for daily, weekly, termly and yearly cleaning is carried out to the satisfaction of all concerned.
6.2 The caretaker is responsible for the maintenance of fixtures, fittings, furniture and the fabric of the school buildings. Any repairs deemed necessary must be reported to Mrs Rice and/or the Headteacher for appropriate action.
6.3 The caretaker must understand the heating systems in use throughout the school so as to be able to maintain their efficient use so that staff and children are able to work in satisfactory conditions.
6.4 The security of the school is delegated to the caretaker who holds the keys and can allow or prevent access to the school in accordance with the Headteacher's wishes. The buildings must be secured at the end of the day and the caretaker must be prepared to investigate and assist the police if the alarm is raised.
6.5 The caretaker must at all times be aware of the current practices for the safe use of the various chemicals used in cleaning the school. Care must also be taken over the use of the appliances and tools.
6.6 The caretaker must work closely with the teaching staff in ensuring that the school environment is
as safe and secure as is reasonably possible.
Reviewed September 2003.
Appendix A
First Aid
All staff should please note the following:-
- First Aid Boxes are kept in all class rooms.
- There is also a box in the kitchen next to the hall.
- The First Aid Supplies are kept in the ICT suite, along with another First Aid Kit.
- Staff should inform the office and/or Pam Robbins if stocks of any First Aid supplies are running low.
- Guidance as to First Aid procedures will be regularly circulated as and when necessary.
- Persons within the school with recently updated First Aid qualifications are
Mrs Pam Robbins (Teacher in Year 3/4)
Mrs Jackie Turnock (Support Assistant, Reception)
Appendix B
Medicines in School
The following guidelines and wording appear in the school?s Prospectus.
Medicines in School.
The giving of medicines to a child is, first and foremost, the responsibility of the parent or guardian. Therefore, if a child should need, under the direction of a doctor, to take medicine whilst at school the parent/guardian should, if at all possible, take the child home to give them the medicine or come into school to do so. Staff should discuss this with the parent/guardian if requested to administer medicine.
However, if the above is not possible, the Head (or Deputy in his absence) will take responsibility for administering any medicines. The following should be noted:-
* The parent/guardian should come to the office where they will be asked to fill in a form giving permission for the Head/Deputy to administer medicines.
* The smallest practicable dose should be brought to school and handed in to the office. Medicines must not be kept by the pupils (with the exception of inhalers, which need to be kept in classrooms for easy access at all times).
* The medicine must clearly state the child's name and the exact dosages and timing required, and the name of the medication.
* Should the dosage of the medicine change, a new permission form will be required.
These guidelines have been written with the best interests of all parties, staff, parents and all pupils, at heart.
Health and Safety Policy Statement
Introduction and Rationale
This policy should be taken as part of the overall strategy of the school and operated within the context of our vision, aims and values as a Church of England School.
1.1 The Governors and management of the school are committed to a safety management approach to health and safety, and thereby to an organised, well informed and pro-active approach to all health and safety related issues. All activities whether timetabled or not will therefore be planned and executed with a systematic approach that includes an element of 'context sensitive' risk assessment and where necessary control elements appropriate to the risks foreseen.
1.2 This policy supplements and operates in conjunction with Somerset County Council and the Education Department policy statements on health and safety.
1.3 It is the policy of this School to operate at all times in a manner which ensures, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare of all persons employed, visiting, working in, or being taught at the school.
1.4 All school staff are reminded that they have a duty to carry out their work with due regard for the health and safety of themselves, other staff, pupils, contractors and visitors to the school premises, and to observe the health and safety requirements relevant to their activities.
1.5 A suitable assessment of all foreseeable hazards and risks to staff, pupils and visitors will be carried out. Where significant risk is identified appropriate measures to reduce or minimise the risk will be taken and communicated to those concerned.
1.6 Consultation will take place with staff on matters that affect their health and safety. If required, specialist advice will be sought.
1.7 All staff are requested to support the school in achieving a safe environment for everyone. The necessary information, instruction and training will be made available by managers to achieve this.
1.8 A copy of this statement will be brought to the attention of all members of staff. It will be regularly reviewed and updated as necessary.
1.9 Additional information to implement this policy is contained in the attached schedule of duties and safe working procedures. Further information regarding standards is contained within Guidance to Schools, Volume 4, Health and Safety, which is available to all staff and is located in the School Office.
Duties and Responsibilities
Headteacher
2.0 The Headteacher is responsible for the implementation of this policy in all areas and activities within the school. To achieve this his duties include the following:-
2.1 Ensure that all members of staff, (including new staff, supply teachers, probationers and students, voluntary helpers etc), and governors are aware of the contents of the school safety policy together with relevant safe working procedures.
2.2 Seek the necessary specialist advice before making any changes or undertaking any activities which could affect fire or general safety, referring to the governors where appropriate.
2.3 Receive safety and maintenance inspection reports (including fire safety) from any inspecting officer or agent and the fire service, where necessary taking any appropriate immediate action. Ensure that the LEA is aware of the report and bring the recommendations to the attention of the governors and the appropriate staff.
2.4 Ensure that before purchasing plant, equipment, materials, substances or furniture that health and safety information is sought and that any relevant specifications and standards will be fully met.
2.5 Take effective action (e.g. remove pupils from risk/isolate machinery) where it is considered there is a hazard likely to affect the safety of staff, pupils or visitors to the school.
2.6 Ensure that inspections of the school premises, plant, equipment and working practices are carried out on a regular basis, and where necessary changes and improvements are recommended. This will include the identifying, the training as required, and the deeming of individuals once suitably qualified by experience or training as 'competent' persons.
2.7 Review, and if required update the fire and evacuation procedures (including provision for the disabled) for all school premises. Fire drills should be held on at least a once per term basis.
2.8 In the absence of the Headteacher the responsibility and authority for the day to day implementation of this policy is placed with Mrs M JEWSON (Health & Safety Officer)
Health and Safety Officer
3.0 Where equipment has been donated to the school, or when staff or PTA bring equipment onto the school premises, to ensure that it is safe for its intended use. Where necessary seek specialist advice as to its safety.
3.1 Report any obviously hazardous substances found in school to the Headteacher.
3.2 Ensure that all staff, students/probationers, supply teachers and voluntary helpers are aware of the requirements of the safety policy and the safe working practices that apply to their areas of activity.
3.3 Actively encourage the participation in health, safety and welfare matters of all staff and pupils.
3.4 Make known to the Headteacher any identified training needs.
3.5 Establish and regularly review safe working practices for activities under their control. Also as potential temporary Headteachers for Health and Safety purposes, to maintain an active interest and current knowledge of all school safety matters.
3.6 Take effective action and/or refer to the Headteacher immediately any health and safety problems brought to their attention. This includes the stopping of any practices or the use of any tool, equipment etc which are considered unsafe until satisfied as to their safety.
3.7 Carry out regular inspections of areas and activities under their control and where necessary submit reports to the Headteacher with findings and recommendations.
3.8 Check the adequacy of fire precautions and procedures in liaison with the Headteacher. Any problems noted during termly fire drills should receive immediate attention.
3.9 Carry out investigations of accidents or incidents involving staff, pupils or visitors. Reports are to be submitted to the Headteacher with findings and recommendations to prevent a recurrence.
3.10 Ensure that details of any serious accidents are recorded in the red accident book( please refer to office staff) and/or that the correct procedures are followed in submitting an accident form to County Hall ( see Mrs Rice for the form).
3.11 To assume the responsibility for the day to day implementation of this policy in the absence of the Headteacher.
3.12 Where equipment has been donated to the school, or when staff or PTA bring equipment onto the school premises, to ensure that it is safe for its intended use. Where necessary seek specialist advice as to its safety.
3.13 Ensure that effective first aid provision and accident reporting procedures exist in accordance with the guidelines issued by the Education Department.
3.14 Periodically to review with all those involved the effectiveness of health and safety arrangements and update them as may be necessary.
3.15 Regularly review safety information, instruction(s) and training and to consult with the council's safety officers and Education Development Service where training needs are identified so that suitable courses can be prepared.
3.16 Investigation of accidents and incidents involving staff, pupils or visitors where there is a suspected breach of legislation, a failure in a system of work, or a hazard identified which could result in further accidents or incidents.
3.17 Ensure that a full inventory of all portable electrical equipment is kept up to date via liaison with the office staff and that regular tests/inspections are carried out by competent persons.
3.18 Review, and if required update the fire and evacuation procedures(including provision for the disabled) for all school premises. Fire drills should be held on at least once per term basis.
Teaching Staff (including Supply Teachers)
4.0 All teaching staff are directly responsible for the health and safety of all pupils when under their control whether on the school premises (including playgrounds or playing fields) or not. They may also be responsible as 'line managers' for students/probationers and helpers etc. This includes the following duties:-
4.1 Ensure that all students/probationers, supply teachers etc assigned to help are aware of the general health and safety requirements of the school and the detailed requirements for activities relevant to them.
4.2 Integrate all relevant aspects of health and safety into the teaching process and,, if necessary, give special lessons.
4.3 Ensure that each class or pair of classes has a fully stocked First Aid box and to report discrepancies to Mrs Rice.
4.4 Ensure that any major accident is correctly reported in the accident book( please refer to office staff) and/or that the correct procedure is followed in completing and submitting an accident form (obtained from Mrs Rice) to County Hall.
4.5 All members of the teaching staff should ensure that they know how and where to turn off the water and electricity supplies leading into their classrooms.
4.6 All teachers should test their fire doors to ensure that they open easily.
4.7 Know the numbers of:¬ Ilminster Police 01823 363087
Summervale Medical Centre 52354
Dr Simpson's Surgery 52284
All Support Staff
5.0 Implement the health, safety and welfare procedures for pupils at a level appropriate for their requirements. Ensure these procedures are explained in terms that they can readily understand.
5.1 Exercise effective supervision of pupils and maintain an awareness of emergency procedures in respect of fire, first aid, accident reporting etc and carry them out as necessary.
5.2 Seek information on any special safety measures to be adopted in their own teaching areas and ensure that they are applied.
5.3 Set an example by personally following safe working practices.
5.4 Ensure that where necessary the appropriate protective clothing, guards etc are available, in good condition and used.
5.5 Report to the head teacher or Health & Safety Officer any defects in equipment or identified inadequacies in procedures. Where any defect renders the equipment potentially hazardous to use it should be placed out of use and clearly labelled as such, until repaired or replaced.
Cleaning and Caretaking Staff
6.1 It is the duty of the caretaker to ensure that the school is clean and secure. He will organise his cleaning staff to ensure that the schedule for daily, weekly, termly and yearly cleaning is carried out to the satisfaction of all concerned.
6.2 The caretaker is responsible for the maintenance of fixtures, fittings, furniture and the fabric of the school buildings. Any repairs deemed necessary must be reported to Mrs Rice and/or the Headteacher for appropriate action.
6.3 The caretaker must understand the heating systems in use throughout the school so as to be able to maintain their efficient use so that staff and children are able to work in satisfactory conditions.
6.4 The security of the school is delegated to the caretaker who holds the keys and can allow or prevent access to the school in accordance with the Headteacher's wishes. The buildings must be secured at the end of the day and the caretaker must be prepared to investigate and assist the police if the alarm is raised.
6.5 The caretaker must at all times be aware of the current practices for the safe use of the various chemicals used in cleaning the school. Care must also be taken over the use of the appliances and tools.
6.6 The caretaker must work closely with the teaching staff in ensuring that the school environment is
as safe and secure as is reasonably possible.
Reviewed September 2003.
Appendix A
First Aid
All staff should please note the following:-
- First Aid Boxes are kept in all class rooms.
- There is also a box in the kitchen next to the hall.
- The First Aid Supplies are kept in the ICT suite, along with another First Aid Kit.
- Staff should inform the office and/or Pam Robbins if stocks of any First Aid supplies are running low.
- Guidance as to First Aid procedures will be regularly circulated as and when necessary.
- Persons within the school with recently updated First Aid qualifications are
Mrs Pam Robbins (Teacher in Year 3/4)
Mrs Jackie Turnock (Support Assistant, Reception)
Appendix B
Medicines in School
The following guidelines and wording appear in the school?s Prospectus.
Medicines in School.
The giving of medicines to a child is, first and foremost, the responsibility of the parent or guardian. Therefore, if a child should need, under the direction of a doctor, to take medicine whilst at school the parent/guardian should, if at all possible, take the child home to give them the medicine or come into school to do so. Staff should discuss this with the parent/guardian if requested to administer medicine.
However, if the above is not possible, the Head (or Deputy in his absence) will take responsibility for administering any medicines. The following should be noted:-
* The parent/guardian should come to the office where they will be asked to fill in a form giving permission for the Head/Deputy to administer medicines.
* The smallest practicable dose should be brought to school and handed in to the office. Medicines must not be kept by the pupils (with the exception of inhalers, which need to be kept in classrooms for easy access at all times).
* The medicine must clearly state the child's name and the exact dosages and timing required, and the name of the medication.
* Should the dosage of the medicine change, a new permission form will be required.
These guidelines have been written with the best interests of all parties, staff, parents and all pupils, at heart.