HEALTH AND SAFETY POLICY STATEMENT (STATUTORY
REQUIREMENTS)
The Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 Section 2(3) requires an employer to
publish his policy with respect to health and safety at work of his employees and the
organisation and arrangements for the time being in force for carrying out that policy.
ST PHILIP’S SCHOOL HEALTH AND SAFETY POLICY
Overall responsibility for Health and Safety in St Philip’s School is vested in me by
virtue of my appointment as the Headmaster. It is my policy that the School will
comply with the requirements of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 and with
all relevant applicable legislation.
I am committed to providing and maintaining a safe and healthy environment for all
those who work in and visit the school, also for the children who attend the school.
The School’s approach to Health and Safety is based on the identification of hazards
and the control of risks.
I will make available the necessary resources, as far as is reasonably practicable, for
ensuring that this Policy is implemented and I will arrange for sufficient information,
instruction, training and supervision to be made available to enable staff to carry out
their work, and for the children to attend their lessons, safely and without risks to their
health.
Organisation
Health and Safety Adviser
I have appointed Peter Mules as my Health and Safety Adviser and he will:
- Act as a focal point for Health and Safety information
- Monitor all workplace and fire risk assessments for the school
- Monitor, on my behalf, the application of the detailed arrangements for
compliance with legislative requirements, including my Health and Safety
Plan
- Act as the secretary, draft and circulate the minutes of the School’s Health
and Safety Committee
- Report to me if, in his opinion, any further measures are required to achieve
compliance.
Health and Safety Committee
I will chair the School Health and Safety Committee, which will meet each term.
Mr Mules will act as Committee Secretary and the committee will also consist of the
School Secretary, Harriot Rennie; Housekeeper, Sue Arnold: Science Mistress, Lily
Canterbury and the First Aid/Swimming Master, Mark Walters.
Arrangements
Procedures covering emergencies in the event of an accident, also how to get First
Aid and what action is required are included in the Appendices to this Statement.
Everyone within the School is to know and understand the actions required of them by
these procedures.
Health and Safety Plan
A Health and Safety Plan covering all of the main Health and Safety management
areas and which encompasses local issues within the School is to be maintained by the
Health and Safety Adviser.
Duties to Others
All visitors or persons working temporarily within the School such as contractors,
consultants, or part time workers are to be made aware of any hazards that exist in the
workplace areas. Whenever appropriate they are to be made aware of the provisions
of any risk assessments that might apply to their activities.
Training
Where a need for training is identified to enable any member of staff to carry out the
duties placed upon them in a safe manner, then so far as is practicable, suitable
training will be given.
Policy Review
The operation of this Statement will be reviewed annually to ensure that its objectives
are met.
Signed:
Date:
(Headmaster)
February 2014
The following statement is a summary of St. Philip’s Health and Safety Policy:St Philip’s School aims to provide a safe and healthy working environment for staff,
pupils and visitors. All staff and pupils must appreciate that their own safety and that of
others depends on their individual conduct and vigilance while on the School premises or
while taking part in school-sponsored activities. Staff are routinely responsible for health,
safety and welfare at work. They are also responsible for the prevention of and dealing
appropriately with accidents or incidents in their sphere of duties.
Duties of All Members of Staff
All staff will make themselves familiar with the requirements of the St Philip’s Health
and Safety Policy and codes of practice.
They should:
• take responsible care of their own Health and Safety and any other persons who
may be attected by their acts or omissions at work
• as regards any duty or requirements imposed on him or her employer or any other
persons by or under any of the relevant statutory provisions, co-operate with him
or her so far as necessary to enable that duty or requirement to be performed or
complied with.
All staff are expected to familiarise themselves with the Health and Safety aspects of
their work and to avoid conduct which would put them or anyone else at risk. In
particular all members of staff will
• be familiar with the safety policy and any and all safety regulations as laid down
by the Governing Body
• ensure Health and Safety regulations, rules, routines and procedures are being
applied effectively by both staff and pupils
• see that all plant, machinery and equipment is adequately guarded
• see that all plant, machinery and equipment is in good and safe working order
• not make unauthorised or improper use of plant, machinery and equipment
• use the correct equipment and tools for the job and any protective equipment or
safety devices which may be supplied
• ensure that toxic, hazardous and highly flammable substances are correctly used,
stored and labelled
• report any defects in the premises, plant, equipment and facilities which they
observe to the Headmaster
• take an active interest in promoting Health and Safety and suggest ways of
reducing risks
RISK ASSESSMENT RE: HEALTH AND SAFETY
St. Philip’s strives constantly to update and improve its Health and Safety Policy.
To this end, all staff are required to take a pro-active part in risk assessment.
Any defective equipment or faults on the premises of the school need to be reported to
the Headmaster in order that prompt action can be taken where necessary.
e.g.
exposed nails, screws, etc:
splintered woodwork
cracked glass
trailing wires to electrical appliances
• The Headmaster will make a brief check of the premises at the beginning and end
of each school day.
• The cleaning company will be asked to communicate any concerns in writing on
Mrs. Arnold’s desk in the ground floor Staff Room, which can be monitored by
the Headmaster.
• Annual PAT testing will be undertaken (each Easter holiday).
• Regular checks of the electrical installations will take place in the summer
holiday.
• Every room above the ground floor will have window protection.
• Any new shelving must be checked for safety (e.g. sharp edges must be padded)
• The fire escape must be checked and swept, if necessary, on a weekly basis.
• No boy is to switch on or off any electrical appliance unless under the direct
supervision of a member of staff.
• The Fire Alarm is to be checked on a weekly basis.
SAFETY IN THE BUILDING
No running is allowed anywhere in the school building
Classroom Safety
• No child is to plug in or unplug any electrical equipment unless under the direct
supervision of a member of staff.
• No child is allowed to climb or stand on any furniture, nor sit on desks without
permission from a member of staff.
• No child is allowed to touch whiteboards, board dusters or any other teaching
materials in the classroom, unless given permission to do so by a member of staff.
• No child is allowed to block or obstruct doorways.
• No child is allowed to open windows unless under direct supervision.
• No child is allowed to touch the window blinds.
• No school bags, satchels, etc, are permitted in the classrooms.
Corridors and Staircases
No running is allowed. Bags, desks, chairs, etc, must not obstruct landings.
Cloakrooms and Lavatories
•
•
•
No running. No swinging on clothes pegs, which are for hanging clothes and
bags.
No climbing on the lavatories.
In break times, staff are designated to supervise these areas, to ensure the
children’s good behaviour and safety.
SCIENCE LABORATORY
Staff should refer to the Health and Safety Policy Document for the Science laboratory
held by the Head of Science. A summary of the safety features in the laboratory is
displayed on the Health and Safety Noticeboard by the Fire Exit.
SECURITY
The security of all pupils and staff is of paramount importance
•
•
•
•
•
The front door of the school is to be locked on the latch at all times except when it
is supervised by the Headmaster or a member of staff at the beginning and end of
the school day.
No child is permitted to answer the front door to any person unless under the
direct supervision of a member of staff.
No child is allowed outside the front door of the school unless under the direct
supervision of a member of staff.
No child is allowed on any fire escape unless under the direct supervision of a
member of staff.
No child is allowed in the garden unsupervised.
When the garden is being used for break times
•
•
•
•
The boys may play at the discretion of the staff on duty, but no running is
allowed. Flower beds are out of bounds, as are the back doorways of homes, and
plants and trees are to be left alone.
At the end of break, the boys will line up in Forms and walk back in a calm and
controlled fashion, under the direction of the staff
At least four staff must be present in the garden during breaks, one of whom must
always be at the far end of the garden at the entrance to the alleyway leading into
Ashburn Place. No boys are allowed in the alleyway unless supervised by a
member of staff.
Staff must supervise boys in a proactive fashion during breaks in the garden (see
Section on “Bullying”).
PROCEDURES FOR PUPILS OUT OF SCHOOL
No pupil is allowed out of the front door of the school during school hours unless under
the direct supervision of a member of staff.
When a school party is outside the school in order to board a coach (e.g. to games,
swimming or an outing) or to walk to a location such as church, the following procedures
must be adopted:
• The children must line up in pairs or in single file on the pavement as far away
from the kerb as is reasonably possible.
• They must be put on silence and reminded of simple safety procedures, i.e. look
where they are going, stay away from the kerb and no running.
• There must be at least one member of staff for every 20 pupils, who must ensure
good order.
• Roads must be crossed at an appropriate distance from road junctions where
possible.
• One member of staff must position him/herself in the road before any pupils are
allowed to cross. The pupils must cross in silence in a straight line, as directed by
staff.
• Under no circumstances are pupils to be allowed to run, either on pavements or
across roads.
• Pupils are not to board coaches until a member of staff is aboard, in order to
supervise loading.
Procedure For Boarding Coaches To Games
1)
Three members of staff go to the head of the queue of boys lined up outside
the school. One for each coach to supervise boarding of boys – boys not to start
boarding until a member of staff is on the coach at the front.
2)
Two members of staff to stay in the road (Hereford Square) to ensure safe
crossing.
3)
Remaining staff to supervise the queue.
Gamesmaster will announce which coach the boys from which form travel on
beforehand – this would usually be:
Front Coach:
Forms 3 & 4
Middle Coach
Forms 5 & 6
Rear Coach:
Forms 7 & 8
Staff will be informed by Gamesmaster in advance, on which coach they are to travel.
GENERAL POINTS
•
•
At least 2 members of staff should be seated on the large coaches. There
should always be a member of staff at the rear of the coach.
Staff should remind the boys that they must wear their seatbelts at the start of
every journey. A member of staff should check that all boys are wearing their
seatbelts before the coach sets off. Under no circumstances are boys allowed
to undo their seatbelts during a journey.
See also the separate policy on Educational Visits.
EMERGENCY PLANS
Emergency plans are prepared to cover all foreseeable major incidents. The Headmaster
(in his absence, the Deputy Head) is responsible for the execution of such plans. An
emergency telephone cascade SMS and email notification system is ready to inform
parents/guardians of any plans. If evacuation is required then the Fire Policy Procedures
will be adopted.
MEDICAL POLICY AND PROCEDURES
The arrangements for first aid provision will be adequate to cope with all foreseeable
major incidents.
The number of certified first-aiders will not be less than the number required by law and
all permanent staff will undergo basic first-aid training. All first-aid training will be
regularly updated.
Supplies of first-aid material will be held in the First Aid Room and Science Lab.
Adequate and appropriate first aid provision will form part of the arrangements for all
out-of-school activities.
A record will be made of each occasion any member of staff, pupil or other person
receives first aid treatment either on the school premises or as part of a school-related
activity. All first aid treatment is recorded by the Housekeeper and First-Aiders in
medical books kept in the school office. There is also an accident book to log the
occurrence of any significant accident that occurs on site.
Personnel and Procedures
The Housekeeper, Mrs Sue Arnold (School Secretary, Mrs Harriot Rennie, in her
absence) is the appointed person responsible for:
• Anyone who is injured or becomes ill;
• Stocking and maintaining all First Aid equipment;
• Ensuring that an ambulance or other medical help is summoned when appropriate;
• Contacting parents/dependents to provide appropriate information;
• Recording details in the Accident Book and contacting the authorities if required.
Mr. Walters is the First Aider, who should be contacted first in the event of First Aid
being required. Mr Mules will act as deputy first aider in Mr. Walters’ absence.
Fully stocked First Aid containers are kept in:• The First Aid Room;
• The Science Lab.
At the Sports Ground (Monday and Wednesday afternoons), Mr Mules is the appointed
person, who will take on the responsibilities described in paragraph 1). He will ensure
that a first aid container and a mobile telephone are taken to the sports ground. On school
outings, the same procedures will operate with the designated leader being responsible
for the appropriate action to be taken. A first aid container and mobile telephone must
always be taken.
Between 8.00 a.m. and 5.15 p.m. the Headmaster (Deputy Head in his absence) will take
responsibility for anyone on the school premises, should either the appointed person or
the first aider be absent. This will involve his operating the procedures described in
paragraphs 1 and 2.
This will also apply at other times when the school is being used for school business,
parents’ evenings, after-school clubs, etc. If the Headmaster (or Deputy Head) is absent,
then he will delegate to an appropriate member of the school’s staff.
When the school is let out to other organizations, the location of first aid containers and
first aid information notices will be given to those in charge. Otherwise, the health,
safety and welfare of those taking part in activities arranged by such organizations on the
school premises, is the responsibility of the hirers and not the School. This will be made
clear to the hirers.
Distribution of Medication
Any medication brought to school for a pupil must be handed in on arrival to a member
of staff, who will give it directly to The Housekeeper. The medication must be
accompanied by a letter, giving relevant details of dosage and when the medication
should be administered. A contact telephone number should also be given if different
from school records. Once the required medication has been given, the transaction is to
be recorded by The Housekeeper in the “medication log book” (date, time, child’s name,
medication given). The parent’s letter is to be given to the Headmaster and kept with the
child’s records.
Cases of Illness
If a boy complains of feeling ill, he is to be taken to The Housekeeper who will try to
ascertain whether his symptoms are genuine by checking his medical form for allergies,
etc, questioning him and taking his temperature. If she is satisfied that he is too ill to
continue at school, then his parents will be contacted by telephone and asked to collect
him. The Headmaster will be informed and he will disseminate the information to the
relevant members of staff. No medication of any type will be given to a child unless a
parent/guardian specifically requests it by signing the Medical Health Form. The
Medication will be administered by the first aider, who will write in the “medication log
book”.
Allergies
It is the parents’ responsibility to inform the school in writing of any allergy that their
child may have. All parents are asked to complete the relevant information in the
medical form supplied on the boy’s arrival at the school.
A list, which is regularly updated, of boys who suffer from allergies, with appropriate
information, is prepared by The Housekeeper, and displayed on the noticeboards in the
staff room and office. All teaching staff are responsible for being aware of allergies of
pupils in their care on school trips, where food may be consumed, and taking reasonable
precautions to guard against boys suffering allergic reactions.
In the case of extreme allergies which could be life-threatening, it is the parents’
responsibility to supply a properly equipped “medi-pac” with clear instructions and a
contact telephone number. Parents should check that ampules, etc, are in date. The
medi-pac will be kept at a known place in the school and the First Aider will ensure that:
a) it is taken on any school trip, and
b) the appointed leader of the school party is made aware of the action necessary in an
emergency.
The school will already have entered into an appropriate signed agreement of action to
take in an emergency with the child’s parents.
Asthmatics
It is the parents’ responsibility to inform the school if their child suffers from asthma, and
to ensure that he brings the required inhalers to school. The Housekeeper and The First
Aider must be informed. A list, which is regularly updated, of boys who are on
medication for asthma, with appropriate information, is prepared by The Housekeeper,
and displayed on the notice boards in the staff room and office.
Except in special circumstances, boys are responsible for their own inhalers, but should
be reminded by staff to have them when leaving on school trips (e.g. sports fixtures).
Procedure if a boy needs emergency treatment
If a child needs urgent medical treatment then an ambulance is immediately called. His
parents are to be contacted and informed of which hospital their son has been taken to, so
that they can make their own way to the casualty department there.
If deemed appropriate, a member of the school staff will travel with the boy in the
ambulance. The Headmaster must be promptly informed of any boy who needs hospital
treatment. He will arrange for a written report of the circumstances and action taken by
the staff concerned at the earliest opportunity.
FIRE POLICY AND PROCEDURE
It is the policy of the school and the school Governors to have in place and to
maintain all the systems relating to fire detection, to the safe evacuation of personnel
in the event of an emergency, and. Fire drills are held regularly, and appropriate staff
training is implemented.
The school has implemented all the recommendations arising from the recent Fire
Risk Assessment completed by the Fire Prevention Authority.
Fire Safety Officer
The appointed Fire Safety Officer is Mr Peter Mules. It is his duty to ensure that all fire
safety equipment and protocols are in place and in good order.
All staff have a responsibility to oversee fire safety in the place in which they are
working and to report any inadequacies they discover to the Fire Safety Officer at the
earliest opportunity.
FIRE ACTION PLAN
Fire extinguishers must remain on their brackets on the wall at all times. Staff are
required to familiarize themselves with the operation of fire extinguishers. In the event
of a fire, you may need the extinguisher to make your escape and you will probably be
unable to read the instructions in smoky conditions.
Fire appliances are situated:
• next to fire doors on the staircase
• in the Science Laboratory
• in the Special Needs Room
• in the Office
• in the ground floor Staff Room
Fire doors are either fitted with automatic closing mechanisms or must remain closed.
Fire doors must never be propped open.
Fire exits must remain unlocked and unblocked by furniture during the whole time the
building is occupied. The last person to leave the building in the evening must see that
all the external and internal doors are closed before locking the front door.
If you detect a fire, go to one of the call points and break the glass. The call points are
situated in the office and on every landing. Do not try to extinguish the fire – that is the
fire brigade’s job. The electric bell will ring continuously once the glass is broken.
If you hear the electric fire alarm, stop whatever you are doing, leave everything
behind and immediately line up in silence at the door of your room. Do not talk, do not
run, and stay calm. Leave the building silently as follows:
The member of staff with you is last to leave the room. If there is time, the teacher closes
the windows, ensuring that the door is closed behind him/herself and the children, and
switching off the lights.
Leave the building by the nearest exit, assuming it is not blocked by fire –
• Those on the top floor use the Fire Exit from the Science Laboratory;
• Those on 8M/8W landing file out through the Fire Exit leading from 8W;
• Those in Form 7, Form 3 or the Music Room should use the Fire Exit leading
from the Music Room;
• Those in the Big Schoolroom should use the Fire Exit leading from the Back
Classroom or from either the Secretary’s or Headmaster’s Office fire escape;
• Those in the basement should either leave by the fire escape in the senior
cloakroom into the garden, or should go through the Special Needs Room and up
the area steps – turn right at the end of Wetherby Place and enter the garden by
the gate in Ashburn Place;
• Those in Form 5 should either leave by the back classroom into the garden or go
through front door and enter the garden by the gate in Ashburn Place;
If your exit is blocked, use the Headmaster’s study, the front door or the nearest available
fire exit.
The whole school assembles in the garden, form by form, in silence, for a roll call. At all
times, children must follow the staff’s instructions.
The Headmaster (The Secretary or Deputy Head in his absence) will collect the registers
from the Secretary’s office and each Form will have the roll called by their Form
Teacher.
On no account is re-entry to the building allowed, for any reason, without the consent of
1. The Fire Brigade
2. The Fire Safety Officer
3. The Headmaster
Evacuation procedures are practised, without warning, at least once per term.
If parents and other visitors are gathered for a social function or similar, they must be
advised of the foregoing.
St Philip's School
Policy for health & safety in science
Effective 1st September 2012
1
Scope of this policy
This policy, dated 1 September 2012, is concerned with health and safety when
teaching science. It has been produced with the approval of the school’s governing
body. It should be read in conjunction with the school’s overall health & safety
policy, dated September 2012 [1], the health & safety laboratory plan and other
specific health & safety policies including the policy for Field Trips and School
Visits, fire safety policy, spills and chemical handling policy and the first aid in the
laboratory policy. Reference should also be made to the laboratory rules for pupils
and guidelines for use for teachers and other staff. These can be found as appendices
to this document.
This policy is not concerned with the teaching of health and safety, although that is a
requirement of the Programmes of Study for Science in the National Curriculum and
the ISEB Curriculum.
This document is maintained by the science department. It is copied to all new
members of staff, ie, teachers, technicians, trainees, etc working in the department.
Staff are expected to sign the list kept in the school office to show that they have
received a copy. A reference copy, together with various Appendices, is kept in the
Science Lab available for consultation by staff and for inspection by visiting HSE
inspectors or a representative of the employer. A copy of this document has been
lodged in the school office.
This document recognises the right of any or every trade union in the workplace to
elect health & safety representatives for its members and its right to require a health &
safety committee to be set up in the school. The science department will cooperate
with any union health & safety representative to promote health, safety and welfare
and will address any matters raised by or through such a representative in a manner
appropriate to the level of risk.
2.
Health and safety roles
2.1
Duties, functions and tasks
The employer, i.e. the governing body of St Philip’s School, has the ultimate
responsibility to ensure the health and safety of employees and others at this school.
The task of overseeing health and safety in this school has been delegated by the
employer to the Health and Safety Officer, Mr Peter Mules.
Within science and ICT this task has been further delegated to the Head of Science
and ICT, Mrs Lily Canterbury.
It is the duty of all staff (and, where relevant, non-employees such as parent helpers):
• to take reasonable care for the health and safety of themselves and others who
may be affected by their acts or omissions;
• to be familiar with this policy by periodic reference to it;
• to implement the provisions of this policy;
• to cooperate with the employer and with other members of staff in promoting
health and safety.
2.2
Communications
It is acknowledged that communication of health & safety information is of the
greatest importance and is the task of the Head of Science.
In this department, all staff are issued with this policy. A reference copy is kept in the
Science Lab together with any Appendices.
Any new instructions, restrictions or rescinded (lifted) restrictions made by the
employer are communicated to all staff in writing as well as being attached to the
reference copy of this policy.
2.3
Monitoring and checking
The employer expects the science department to monitor the implementation of this
policy. Records of monitoring are kept by the Head of Science.
Checklists on resources and facilities for termly use are customised from those
suggested in CLEAPSS Guide L248 Running a Prep Room. Records of the checks are
kept by the Head of Science.
3.
Training policy
The person with the task of seeing that training is provided is the Head of Science.
Generally, this department follows guidance in the CLEAPSS documents L238,
Health and Safety Induction and Training of Science Teachers and L234, Induction
and Training of Science Technicians, suitably customised, to identify the training
needs of staff.
Health & safety aspects of the work
of newly-qualified teachers and
other new teachers
Health and safety of trainees on
teaching practice
Induction of newly-appointed
technicians
Immediate remedial measures and
other emergency procedures (spills,
bench fires, etc)
Training in the use of specialist
equipment, chemicals or procedures
(in line with CLEAPSS guides
L238 and L234, as customised)
Head of Science and the Health & Safety Officer
Head of Science and the Health & Safety Officer
Head of Science and the Health & Safety Officer
Head of Science and the Health & Safety Officer
Head of Science and the Health & Safety Officer
Health & safety training of nonHead of Science and the Health & Safety Officer
science support staff
Health and safety of non-science
Head of Science and the Health & Safety Officer
teachers using laboratories
Manual handling for all staff using Head of Science and the Health & Safety Officer
laboratories
Healthy and safe procedures for
Head of Science and the Health & Safety Officer
laboratory cleaners
Regular update training (covering
Head of Science and the Health & Safety Officer
new or changed regulations, new
equipment etc)
Records of the training received by members of the science staff are kept by the Head
of Science.
4
Advice on health & safety matters in science
The school has a subscription to CLEAPSS, Brunel University, Uxbridge UB8 3PH
(Tel: 01895 251496; Fax: 01895 814372; E-mail: science@cleapss.org.uk; Web site:
www.cleapss.org.uk) for the purpose of obtaining risk assessments and for general
advice on health & safety matters in science. In an emergency, advice can be obtained
by contacting CLEAPSS.
The CLEAPSS Primary Science and Technology Newsletter is despatched to schools
by direct mailing, about 3 or 4 weeks after the start of each term. The Head of Science
and ICT circulates a copy of the Newsletter amongst staff. Back copies are kept for
reference in the Science Lab and are also available on the members-only part of the
CLEAPSS web site.
5
Science risk assessment
Every employer is required under various regulations 1 to supply employees with a
risk assessment before any hazardous activity takes place. (Common hazardous
activities carried out in science departments are listed in the publications below.)
Because it is impracticable for the employer to write risk assessments for each of the
many activities in school science, this employer follows the recommendation of the
Health and Safety Commission to adopt published ‘model’ or ‘general’ risk
assessments which school science departments adapt to their local circumstances.
The employer has endorsed the use of the following publications as sources of model
(general) risk assessments.
[CLEAPSS 2 publications generally]
[CLEAPSS, Hazcards, current edition]
[CLEAPSS, Laboratory Handbook, current edition]
[CLEAPSS, Recipe Cards, current edition]
[CLEAPSS, L93, Managing Ionising Radiations and Radioactive Substances, (under
revision, 2007)]
1
Risk assessments are required by the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations), the
Management of Health & Safety at Work Regulations, the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations
(DSEAR) and others.
2
Most CLEAPSS publications for secondary schools are on the CLEAPSS Science Publications CD-ROM. This is
updated annually and issued, free of charge, to all member schools in December/January. Science departments are encouraged to
mount it onto school networks and copy it onto stand-alone computers, laptops and teachers’ home computers.
[ASE, Safeguards in the School Laboratory, ASE, 2006 (11th Edition), ISBN 978-086357-408-5]
[ASE, Topics in Safety, ASE, 2001 (3rd edition), ISBN 0863573169]
[DfEE, Safety in Science Education, HMSO, 1996, ISBN 011270915X]
L5p Safe Use of Household and Other Chemicals,
L86p Electrical Safety, L190 Studying Microorganisms in Primary Schools
Whenever a new course is adopted or developed, all activities (including preparation
and clearing-up work) are checked against the model risk assessments and significant
findings are incorporated into texts in daily use, ie, the lesson plans.
If a model risk assessment for a particular operation involving hazards cannot be
found in these texts, a special risk assessment is obtained, following the employer’s
instructions, from CLEAPSS. In order to assess the risks adequately, the following
information is collected.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Details of the proposed activity.
The age and ability of the persons likely to do it.
Details of the room to be used, ie, size, availability of services and whether or not
the ventilation rate is good or poor.
Any substance(s) possibly hazardous to health.
The quantities of substances hazardous to health likely to be used, including the
concentrations of any solutions.
Class size.
Any other relevant details, eg, high voltages, heavy masses, etc.
When drawing up schemes of work and lesson plans, staff should note down any
relevant and important health & safety information. This can be very brief comments
and will only be necessary for a few topics but will satisfy the requirement that the
significant findings of risk assessment should be recorded and demonstrate that
individuals acknowledge the risk involved. Examples of this approach can be found in
“A Scheme of Work For Key Stages 1 and 2: Science”, although teachers may
occasionally find that they want to note down more detail about particular techniques.
Since the lesson plans have been checked against the model risk assessments,
staff should deviate from it only if their proposed activities have been also
checked with the models.
We encourage the development of new practical activities (including on open
evenings, at science clubs, etc) but these should be undertaken only after a prior
check against model risk assessments and/or a special risk assessment has been
obtained.
6
Equipment and Resources
6.1
Electrical testing
To meet the requirements of the Electricity at Work Regulations, this employer
requires portable electrical equipment to be inspected and tested regularly. Electrical
equipment in the Science Lab will be tested in accordance with the school’s policy,
which involves bringing in our own contractor.
6.2
Animals, plants and micro organisms in schools
The school believes that the responsible use of suitable animals, plants and
microorganisms in the classroom not only enhances the curriculum, but also helps to
promote respect for living things. Classroom uses of living organisms may raise
issues about the health & safety of pupils and teachers and, in the case of animals,
about their welfare and the need to care for them humanely. We follow advice given
in CLEAPSS publications, e.g. L52 Small Mammals, L56 Housing and Keeping
Animals, L124 Aquaria in Primary Schools: Electrical Safety, L181 Cold-Water
Aquaria, L190 Studying Microorganisms in Primary Schools, L197 Giant African
land snails, L201 Giant millipedes, L206 Tadpoles, L227 Stick Insects, PS55
Bringing Pets & Other Animals into Schools.
The hazards associated with the use of animals, plants and microorganisms are
discussed in the texts listed in section 5 which also give advice on controlling them.
6.3
Equipment safety
All staff selecting equipment for purchase will check that it is safe and suitable for the
intended purpose (to comply with the Provision and Use of Work Equipment
Regulations). Equipment listed by specialist educational equipment suppliers is taken
to meet these Regulations but all other equipment, especially gifts, is treated with
caution and carefully assessed. Advice on safety and suitability is sought from
CLEAPSS through publications and directly.
6.4
Personal protective equipment
The employer accepts the duty to provide eye protection, gloves and laboratory coats
for employees where the risk assessment requires them (Personal Protective
Equipment at Work Regulations). Prescription safety spectacles are to be ordered from
any optician and the employer will meet the full cost of the safety features.
Laboratory coats are supplied by the employer and laundered by staff with the cost
claimed against income tax.
The employer expects eye protection to be available for pupils and visitors. Safety
spectacles are provided for general use, with a set of goggles or face shields used
whenever the risk assessment requires them. Goggles or face shields to chemicalsplash standard are worn whenever there is a risk to the eyes.
The condition of the eye protection is checked regularly (see section 2.3, Monitoring
and checking).
6.5
Chemicals
Offers of gifts of chemicals are not accepted.
The task of arranging safe storage of chemicals (and, where necessary, disposal),
including highly-flammable liquids, in accordance with the requirements of the
Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations (DSEAR) is given to
the Head of Science who will ensure that chemicals are stored securely, the risks of
fire, explosion and spillage are minimised, labels are readable and that a spill kit is
available and properly replenished.
Chemicals and any other hazardous items are locked away from children in the
Science Lab cupboards, with the key obtainable from the Head of Science and ICT.
Hazardous activities involving chemicals restricted to those who have received special
training (see section 3, Training policy) are identified in the texts in daily use as part
of the risk assessment (see section 5, Risk assessments).
6.6
Waste disposal
Waste chemicals and equipment are disposed of in an environmentally-responsible
manner in accordance with relevant legislation. Chemical disposal follows guidance
on CLEAPSS Hazcards (2007 edition or later). Other disposal follows guidance in the
relevant section of the CLEAPSS Laboratory Handbook.
6.7
Close supervision
On some occasions, “Be Safe!” states that an activity should be carried out “under
close adult supervision”. We interpret this as meaning that a small group of children
(up to about 6) should have the undivided attention of the supervising adult. Such
adults need not be teachers but, if they are parents, assistants etc, they must have been
well briefed before the activity on the nature of the risk by the teacher in charge and
be aware of guidance in “Be Safe!” etc.
7
Activities and procedures
7.1
Outdoor activities
When planning any field trips etc, staff consult one or more of the following the Staff
Handbook and the CLEAPSS Laboratory Handbook.
7.2
Manual handling and working at height
All regular operations involving lifting or carrying equipment, pushing trolleys, etc
will be assessed to see if any may give rise to risks of injury (Manual Handling
Operations Regulations) by the Health & Safety Officer and the Head of Science.
Occasional (ie, one-off) manual-handling operations will be assessed by the staff
member(s) before attempting them. Problems will be reported to the Health & Safety
Officer and the Head of Science
Following risk assessments under the Work at Height Regulations, when it is
impossible to avoid storage or display above head height, glass or other fragile items
are never stored above head height and only light-weight and rarely-used items are
stored there. When displaying items at high level or fetching or replacing items stored
at high level, step ladders or kick stools are used; staff never climb onto laboratory
stools or benches.
7.3
Security
Access to laboratories and preparation rooms will be controlled to comply with the
Management of Health & Safety at Work Regulations. Any non-science staff who
have to supervise any class in a laboratory will receive brief training in laboratory
rules. The guidance for such staff is filed as an Appendix to this policy in the
reference copy kept in the Science Lab with laminated copies to give to such staff.
As the Science Lab provides a fire exit, this cannot be locked. Teachers will therefore
give priority to clearing items from this room so that risks are minimised.
7.4
Concern for others
All science areas are made safe for cleaners or contractors to work in before these
persons are allowed to proceed.
8.
Emergency procedures
8.1
Fire
Science staff will follow the normal school procedures in case of major fires. All
science staff are trained to deal with minor bench fires, clothing fires and hair fires.
This training is supported by regular drills arranged by the Head of Science and the
Health & Safety Officer.
Advice on fire-fighting is given in sections 4 and 5 of the CLEAPSS Laboratory
Handbook]. For additional information please see the school Fire Safety Policy and
the Science Lab Fire Safety Policy.
8.2
Spills
Trivial spills are dealt with using damp cloths or paper towels. Spills of any amount
which do not give rise to significant quantities of toxic or highly-flammable fumes
(‘minor spills’) are dealt with by teachers or technical staff using a ‘spill kit’ prepared
for this purpose [in accordance with section 7 of the CLEAPSS Laboratory
Handbook]. Spill kits are kept on the front bench of the Science Lab, see Health &
Safety Laboratory Plan for details.
Major spills are those involving the escape of toxic gases and vapours or of
flammable gases and vapours in significant concentrations. (Small amounts can be
‘major spills’ if spilt in small rooms.) Staff are trained in the appropriate procedures
which may involve calling the Fire and Rescue Service. This training is supported by
regular drills arranged by the Head of Science and the Health & Safety Officer.
8.3
Injury
Science staff will follow the normal school procedures in cases that require first aid,
see school First Aid Policy and Science Lab First Aid Policy. Science staff are trained
to carry out immediate remedial measures (eg, eye rinsing), while waiting for first
aiders, after the accidents which occur in science. See the most recent edition of the
CLEAPSS Laboratory Handbook section 5. Instructions for immediate remedial
measures are posted on the Health & Safety notice board in the Science Lab.
8.4
Reporting procedures
Injuries or suspected injuries to a pupil or a member of staff, dangerous occurrences
and instances of damage or theft will be reported using the standard school procedures
as quickly as possible.
Dangerous situations and incidents which might have resulted in injury (‘nearmisses’) should be reported to the headmaster in writing. These will be analysed and
discussed at departmental meetings.
9
Laboratory rules for students
The rules for students during science lessons are as follows.
Laboratory Rules
The biggest danger in the lab is YOU! You are at risk when you don’t understand the
hazards or you are careless, or both. These rules are designed to keep you safe.
1. Always wait outside until a teacher lets you in to the lab. Never rush about or
throw things in the lab.
2. Blazers are not allowed in the lab. Please leave yours in your classroom.
3. Never eat or drink or put anything in your mouth in the lab. If you get something
in your mouth, tell your teacher.
4. Always tell the teacher if you think something has gone wrong. Accidents happen,
you won’t get into trouble.
5. Never touch the plug sockets or gas taps on the desks or the main gas tap unless
you are told to by a teacher.
6. The chemical cupboards are out of bounds.
7. Always wear safety glasses during practical work
8. Always tuck your tie in during practical work.
9. Always wash your hands after practical work.
10. Follow instructions precisely
11. If you are burnt or a chemical splashes on your skin, wash the affected part at
once with lots of water. Tell your teacher.
12. Never put waste solids in the sink. Put them in the bin unless your teacher
instructs you otherwise.
Always work sensibly and quietly, it’s the safest way!
10
Special restrictions
The headmaster and the Head of Science and ICT have decided that in addition to
advice in “Be Safe!” and relevant CLEAPSS publications, the following special
restrictions will apply when teaching science.
•
•
•
Thin plastic (polystyrene) cups from drinks machines should not be used to
hold hot water, because of the risk that they may be easily knocked over when
pouring the water or may soften and collapse, in either case spilling hot water
on those nearby.
Glass containers should not normally be used by pupils in Years 3 to 4, but
may be used in Years 5 to 8 when the nature of the work means that there is no
realistic alternative.
Rechargeable batteries should not be used for circuit work by pupils, because
they may become very hot if short-circuited (but they can be used in
equipment; for example, in Roamer robots, Lego motors, etc).
•
•
•
•
11
Where iron filings are in use for work on magnets, these should be enclosed in
clear plastic containers, sealed plastic bags or similar. Where iron filings are
needed for other purposes, e.g. separation of mixtures, pupils should be
warned about the dangers of rubbing eyes with their fingers.
Scrupulous hygiene must be observed before and after practical activities or
handling animals, etc. Younger pupils should be supervised to ensure they
wash their hands properly.
Writing slopes for pupils with special educational needs will not be used in
any science lesson because they cause congestion on desks and therefore
create hazards during practical work.
Blazers must not be worn in the lab by any pupil, they must be left in the
cloakroom or the classroom. Any pupil who brings his blazer to the lab must
return it to his classroom or cloakroom. It must not be left in the lab or on the
stairs.
Staff roles and Emergency contacts
Staff roles
Staff roles and/or emergency contacts updated on: …… .
Advice on health & safety and all aspects of practical
science generally
[Local authority science [adviser] / [ inspector] /
[consultant]
[Local authority health & safety adviser]
Overseeing health and safety in this school
Overseeing health and safety in the science department
Senior technician
Overseeing the checking of activities against the model
risk assessments and recording significant findings
The person in charge of chemical storage and disposal
The person in charge of manual handling
The union health and safety representative(s)
Emergency contacts
Emergency advice
Serious accident: Ambulance service
Serious accident: School first-aiders
Serious accident: School health & safety officer
Major chemical spill: Fire & Rescue Service Chemical
Incident Unit
Gas leak: Gas company
CLEAPSS,
01895 251496
[… … tel ……]
N/A
[… … tel ……]
N/A
Mr Peter Mules
Mrs Lily Canterbury
Mrs Ann Macey
Mrs Lily Canterbury
Mrs Lily Canterbury
Mr Peter Mules
?
CLEAPSS 01895 251496
999
Mr Mark Walters Mrs Sue Arnold
internal tel ext 22, 25 or 21
Mr Peter Mules internal tel ext 22
tel 999
tel
999
Appendix
1 Guidelines for all teachers, technicians and support staff
1. Teachers and technicians have a general duty to take reasonable care for the health
and safety of themselves, of other members of staff and of pupils. They have
specific duties: to be familiar with this health and safety policy, its updates, the
texts to which it refers and any Appendices. They must cooperate with the
employer’s instructions, observe the requirements of this policy and fulfil any
special responsibilities it gives them. They must cooperate with colleagues in their
specific health & safety duties. They have a duty to report to local management
any failure of equipment that has a health & safety function.
2. Staff practice must set a good example to pupils and be consistent with pupil
laboratory rules, eg, over the wearing of eye protection.
3. Staff must be familiar with emergency drills and with the location in each science
room of: the escape route; fire-fighting equipment; the water tap with tubing for
eye washing; the main gas cock; the main electricity switch and the nearest spill
kit.
4. Laboratories must be left safe. Special arrangements must be made for equipment
which has to be left running overnight and hazardous equipment which has to be
left out. In general, all gas taps should be completely turned off and all mainsoperated apparatus switched off. At the end of the day, if practicable, gas should
also be turned off at the laboratory main gas cock.
5. Eating, drinking and the application of cosmetics should not take place in
laboratories, storage areas or preparation rooms unless an area in which it is safe
to do so has been created. Pupils should not be allowed to drink from water
bottles.
6. When staff are alone in the science department, nothing should be done which
could lead to an accident requiring remedial measures. A teacher or technician
must assess risks very carefully before conducting any practical operation in such
circumstances.
7. In general, pupils must not be left unsupervised in a laboratory. Staff needing to
leave a class briefly must assess the risks of doing so, perhaps arranging for
temporary supervision by a neighbouring member of staff.
8. Pupils must never be allowed into the Science Lab when it is being used as a
preparation room. The Laboratory must only be used by teachers who are not
scientists for teaching or registration after they have received special training or if
the laboratories have been specially cleared.
2 Guidelines for teachers
1. At the beginning of each school year, teachers must make sure that their classes
have copies of the student laboratory rules and issue them if necessary. They
should be stuck into an exercise book, work folder or similar place.
2. Teachers must enforce the student laboratory rules, reminding students of them
often enough for them to be familiar. With new students, time should be spent
explaining the rules, with appropriate demonstrations.
3. Lesson preparation should be adequate and include checking on risk assessments
and, where necessary, the health & safety precautions required. Technicians must
be given adequate time to prepare work safely. Time should be to try out
experiments, particularly those involving significant hazards. Teachers must only
deviate from the scheme of work (for which the activities have been checked
against model risk assessments), after making a further risk assessment, checked
with a subject specialist, possibly obtaining a special risk assessment from
CLEAPSS. Teachers should explain precautions to students as part of their health
& safety education, [using the CLEAPSS Student Safety Sheets, where
appropriate].
4. If, because of large class size or indiscipline, health and safety cannot be
maintained during certain practical work, the work should be modified or
abandoned. This decision should be reported to the Headmaster.
5. A teacher is responsible for the health and safety of any of his/her classes taken by
a trainee teacher. If the normal class teacher is absent, another science teacher
must be given this responsibility by the Head of Department.
References
[1]
St Philip’s School Health & Safety Policy [date]
[2]
“Be Safe! Health and safety in primary school science and technology” (3rd
edition, 2001, Association for Science Education ISBN 086357324X).
[3]
A Scheme of Work For Key Stages 1 and 2: Science (DfEE / QCA, 1998)