SCHOOL OF GEOGRAPHY
Safety Handbook
Last updated August 2011
SCHOOL OF GEOGRAPHY
QUEEN MARY UNIVERSITY OF LONDON
SAFETY HANDBOOK
This document is designed to supplement, but NOT supplant, the College's
Health and Safety Policy and the various statements, procedures, rules,
responsibilities and codes of practice associated with it.
These are published on QMUL's Health and Safety web site:
http://qm-web.safety.qmul.ac.uk/
and they MUST be read in conjunction with this Safety Handbook.
STAFF, VISITORS AND CONTRACTORS IN THE SCHOOL OF
GEOGRAPHY MUST READ, BE AWARE OF AND CONFORM TO
THE REQUIREMENTS OF THIS SAFETY HANDBOOK
ALL STUDENTS (POSTGRADUATE AND UNDERGRADUATE) MUST
SIGN A DECLARATION STATING THAT THEY HAVE READ AND
UNDERSTOOD THE SAFETY HANDBOOK. THE DECLARATION
SHOULD BE RETURNED TO THE SCHOOL OFFICE
Copies of this Safety Handbook and the declaration form may be downloaded
from the School website:
http://www.geog.qmul.ac.uk/undergraduate/resources/index.html
1
Contents
Page
I
Safety is everyone's responsibility
3
II
Safety Policy Statement
5
III
Safety Group
6
IV
Emergencies
First Aid
Fire
Bomb threat
Evacuation of persons with impaired mobility
Chemical/biological threats
Meningitis
7
7
8
10
11
13
16
V
General Safety in the School
Working hours
Lone working
Access
Conduct
Special educational needs and disabilities
Health issues and work in the School
18
18
18
18
19
19
19
VI
Fieldwork and other work away from the School
Risk Assessment
Medical Questionnaire
Travel
Group fieldwork
20
20
21
21
21
VII
VII
First aid, safety equipment and medication
21
Guidelines
Independent fieldwork
Planning
Local conditions
Fieldwork overseas
22
23
24
24
26
Laboratories
Coursework
Accident procedures
Risk assessment
COSHH
Rules
Chemical laboratories
Concentrated acids
Other hazards
Non-chemical laboratories
Overnight use
Breakages and spills
Outside laboratories
Pressure equipment
IGS/PES
School, College and hired vehicles
2
27
28
28
28
28
29
29
30
30
30
30
31
31
31
31
32
Safety and the School of Geography
I
Safety is everyone's responsibility
Responsibility for safety extends to undergraduates, postgraduates, staff,
visitors and contractors. The School can provide a healthy and safe
environment only with the full and mutual co-operation of all concerned.
Conditions and regulations relating to safety change continuously and it is the
responsibility of all to be aware of and conform to appropriate regulations.
Although QMUL is responsible for maintaining the safety of the School's
buildings, the School is responsible for safety in specific parts of the buildings
(e.g. the laboratories) and during specific activities (e.g. fieldwork).
If you spot risks or malfunctions in the Geography Building or in the City
Centre (Francis Bancroft Building), it is your responsibility to report them to
the School Office (room 117, ext. 8200). If you spot risks or malfunctions in
the Geography Laboratories (Francis Bancroft Building) report them to the
Laboratory Manager (Simon Dobinson, room 2.22.15, ext. 2715). Do not wait
until someone else has spotted or reported the problem and do not assume that
someone else has already done so.
Completion of a risk assessment by course convenors is obligatory before any
field trips or laboratory class (or series of laboratory classes) may take place.
This is the responsibility of the course convenor. Risk assessments are also
obligatory before any field work by staff, research staff, postgraduates or
undergraduates may take place. Field work leaders, are responsible for
completing these assessments for group work. Individuals are responsible for
completing assessments for fieldwork they are conducting on their own and for
having their assessments appropriately countersigned (see form for details).
Copies of the School risk assessment forms may be found on the School
website (http://www.geog.qmul.ac.uk/) (Information for: current
undergraduates / current postgraduates – resources). This form has been
designed so that it can be completed (in Word) at any length suitable for the
particular fieldwork being planned. There are three versions of this form – one
specifically for individual (students and staff) fieldwork, one for group
fieldwork and one for other types of off-campus activity such as conferences; if
unsure whether one is needed, ask the School of Geography Safety Advisor (Dr
Kate Spencer, ext. 7814, Email: k.spencer@qmul.ac.uk).
3
All risk assessment forms MUST be signed by either the HoS (for academic
members of staff), Grant Holders (for RAs) or tutors/supervisors (for
undergraduates, masters and PhD students). These forms must be given to the
Undergraduate Administrator in the School Office, who will inform the
College Insurance Officer of the proposed trip. Please submit the form 7
working days before you leave to ensure enough time to issue an insurance
cover note.
ALL accidents or other incidents affecting Health and Safety MUST be
reported in the Accident Book lodged with the Laboratory Manager, and an
Accident and Dangerous Occurrence Report Form, to be found on the website
at: http://qm-web.safety.qmul.ac.uk/procedures/
Smoking is not allowed anywhere on Campus. Queen Mary is a smoke free
University.
4
II
Safety Policy Statement
This statement supplements the Health and Safety Policy of Queen Mary,
University of London (http://qm-web.safety.qmul.ac.uk/index.html).
The School of Geography recognises its responsibility to the College for
ensuring every reasonable effort is made to fulfil the requirements of the
College Health and Safety Policy procedures and, in particular, will promote
occupational health, accident prevention, fire protection and safety awareness
amongst its own staff, students, contractors, and visitors entering School
premises or affected by School activities.
To support Safety Policy, the School will, through its Safety Committee:
(i)
(ii)
make appropriate training available to all employees;
endeavour to provide safe working equipment and, where necessary,
personal protection
(iii) notify employees and students of any significant risk that exists in the
course of their work, the reasons for preventative measures that need to
be taken, and the approved safe methods of work
(iv) bring to the attention of employees and students their responsibilities
both to themselves and others, to work and act safely
(v) conduct regular School safety checks to monitor safety standards
(vi) conduct regular safety audits in order to evaluate the School safety
performance
(vii) liase with suppliers to ensure that relevant information is available for
the safe handling of goods and materials provided by them
Particular emphasis will be placed on the training of persons with specific
safety responsibilities (e.g. School Safety Advisor, Laboratory Manager, field
trip leaders). It is important that these people ensure safety has top priority for
the mutual benefit of all College staff.
5
III
Safety Committee
The Safety Committee reports to the Resources and Infrastructure Committee
and the School meeting. Its membership is as follows
School Safety Advisor
Academic Laboratory Manager
Dr Kate Spencer
Dr Sven Lukas (sem 1)
Dr Dave Horne (sem 2)
Laboratory Manager
Mr Simon Dobinson
School Radiation Advisor
Dr Sven Lukas
Head of School
Prof Miles Ogborn
School Secretary
Mrs Helen McLurg
Postgraduate Student Representative Helen Gibbs
ext. 7814
ext. 8416
ext. 7619
ext. 2715
ext. 8417
ext. 8926
ext. 8200
Suggestions to improve safety or notifications of risk should be made to any of
the above or via School secretaries in room 117 (ext 8200 or 8168).
6
IV
Emergencies
First Aid
If you suffer an injury or find someone who has, contact a School First Aider
(details below), the college first aid number (ext. 3333) or Security (ext. 5000),
and give the following details:
• name and location of caller and injured person(s)
• type of injury (if serious a request for an ambulance can be made)
• number of injured persons
A first aider will be sent to that location by Security staff. Out of working
hours an ambulance will be called by Security if there is no response from the
first aid team. If the situation is serious and you cannot get a response from the
college numbers, don't waste time repeating the calls, but dial 999 and ask for
an ambulance.
The first aider or School representative should enter details in the Accident
Book and complete an Accident and Dangerous Occurrence Report Form.
Qualified first aiders in the School include the following:
Lisa Belyea
Beth Greenhough
Gemma Harvey
Kate Heppell
Dave Horne
Simon Lewis
Jon May
Alastair Owens
Kate Peel
Kate Spencer
Laura Shotbolt
Geraldene Wharton
room 210
room 101
room 206
room 205
room 209
room 120
room 124
room110
room 2.22.16
room 207
room 2.22.16
room 105
ext. 2781
ext. 2747
ext. 2722
ext. 2768
ext. 7619
ext. 7872
ext.8925
ext. 5401
ext. 2716
ext. 7814
ext. 2716
ext. 5436
First aid kits are kept in each laboratory and in the School Office (room 117).
Anyone working in the School should note the location of first aid boxes. Field
trips must be accompanied by least one qualified first aider. The School will
endeavour to ensure that sufficient staff qualify as first aiders by providing the
means to follow relevant courses.
7
Fire
Fire Discovered
A person who discovers a fire should:
• raise the alarm by breaking the glass of the nearest fire alarm call point,
usually a small red box mounted on the wall:
• from a place of safety dial 3333, the site emergency number, using a
normal telephone or an emergency telephone, as detailed on the Fire
Action Notice close to the Fire Alarm Call Point. On a mobile phone call
0207 882 3333
The Duty SecurityOfficer will answer and ask the following questions:
What is your name?
Where are you?
What is the room number?
What is your 'phone extension?
Which building is the fire in?
Where is the fire?
• proceed to the main entrance of the building to meet the Security Patrol
and/or the College Safety Adviser
Building Evacuation Procedure
On hearing fire alarm:
•
•
•
•
leave the building immediately, using the closest emergency exit. Do not
go to any other part of the building for any reason
proceed to the emergency assembly area designated for your building.
The assembly point for the School of Geography is located in the square
in front of the library. Report to your fire marshal (see below)
do not leave that area until instructed to do so by the Head of School or
his representative
do not re-enter the building until instructed to do so by the Chief Fire
Officer in attendance or the Head of School or his/her representative
8
There are Fire Marshals for different parts of the building. Their instructions
must be followed without question. Fire Marshals can be recognised by their
high visibility vests.
School Fire Marshals are
Geography Building
Helen McLurg
Jennifer Murray
Ed Oliver
Dave Horne
1st floor
1st floor
2nd floor
2nd floor
ext. 8200
ext. 8165
ext. 5437
ext. 7619
Laboratories
Laboratories
City Centre
ext. 2715
ext. 2716
ext. 2746
Francis Bancroft Building
Simon Dobinson
Laura Shotbolt
Al James
Unannounced fire drills will take place from time to time. They may affect
teaching or other work in the School
9
Bomb Threat
All staff and postgraduates should ensure that they have a copy of the QM H&S
0041 Sept 2008 Bomb Threat Form readily accessible
(http://qm-web.safety.qmul.ac.uk/procedures/index.html) (Procedures and
forms – Emergencies – Forms).
If you discover a suspicious item
• Contact one of the following:
AND
Helen McLurg
Simon Dobinson
Ed Oliver
Al James
College Security
ext. 8200
ext. 2715
ext. 5437
ext. 2746
ext. 5000
• A designated person will check each area for suspicious items: Geography
Building, Ed Oliver (second floor), Helen McLurg (first floor and exterior
of the building); Francis Bancroft Building, Simon Dobinson (laboratories),
Al James (City Centre). The result of the search will be reported to College
Security.
• If a suspicious item is found the building may be evacuated immediately
and the relevant area will be cordoned off.
• All occupants of the building should proceed to the dedicated Assembly
Point located in the square outside the College Library.
If you receive a telephoned bomb threat, adopt the following procedures:
•
do not put the handset down or cut off the conversation
•
keep the caller talking, ask them to speak slowly and clearly and to
repeat the message
•
complete the Bomb Threat Report Form as you are talking to the caller
When the caller has finished:
•
ring 3333, the College Emergency number, identify yourself and give as
much information as possible
•
ring 8472 the College Security Operations Manager
•
pass the report form as quickly as possible to the College Security
Operations Room WG14, Queen’s Building
10
Procedures for Evacuation of Persons with Impaired Mobility
Definition
For the purpose of these procedures, persons who are unable to use stairs to
leave a building without help from others are considered to have impaired
mobility. Difficulties with the evacuation of persons who have impaired
mobility can be minimised if they are identified and their location known at all
times whilst they are on College property.
Visitors
The following general procedures must be implemented when persons with
impaired mobility are invited onto College property:
•
•
•
The safety of persons with impaired mobility invited to the College shall
be the responsibility of the Head of School issuing the invitation or of a
named person acting on his behalf. As far as is reasonably practicable,
the location of any such persons within College buildings shall, at all
times, be known to the Head of School or a named person acting on
behalf of the Head of School .
As far as reasonably practicable, persons with impaired mobility should,
whilst on College property, be accompanied by a member of College
staff and not be taken to a place from which, in the event of an
emergency, they cannot either self-evacuate or be evacuated with the
help of accompanying persons ( ie above the ground floor in most
College buildings).
If, during an emergency evacuation, a person with impaired mobility
cannot be evacuated from a particular building, that person should be
placed within a protected escape area and the precise location
communicated to the Senior Fire Officer attending the emergency. For
the purposes of these procedures, designated escape stairwells are
"protected escape areas."
Employees
The safety of any College employee with impaired mobility shall be the
responsibility of the Head of School with which that employee works.
11
•
•
During the working day, as far as is reasonably practicable, the name and
location of any such employees in the School shall be known to the Head
of School, or a named person acting on behalf of the Head of School.
The Head of School, or a named person acting on behalf of the Head of
School shall make arrangements for employees with impaired mobility
to be assisted when emergency evacuation of the School is required.
Students
•
•
Students with impaired mobility who are attending lectures or practical
classes must make themselves known to the member of staff responsible
for the course. In the event of an emergency evacuation the member of
staff must arrange for any student with impaired mobility to be assisted
to evacuate.
Students with impaired mobility who are in the library or the catering
complex should make themselves known to the Senior Duty Librarian or
Senior Catering Manager who must, in the event of an emergency
evacuation arrange for the any student with impaired mobility to be
assisted to evacuate the building.
12
Chemical/Biological Threats
How to handle anthrax and other biological agent threats
Many facilities in communities around the USA and the UK have received
'anthrax threat letters'. Most were empty envelopes; some have contained
powdery substances. These guidelines recommend procedures for dealing with
such incidents.
Context
The disease known as anthrax is caused by a bacterium called Bacillus
anthracis. The organism can be found in soils and forms a resistant spore that
can remain 'alive' but dormant for many years.
The bacterium usually infect grazing animals and the usual route of human
exposure is through contact with infected animals or animal produces;
classically hides or wool (wool sorters disease).
Three clinical syndromes are recognised:
•
•
•
Cutaneous anthrax
the bacterial spores enter through a wound or skin lesion
Inhaled anthrax
the bacterial spores are breathed in and cause severe pulmonary disease
Gastrointestinal anthrax
a rare condition in humans caused by ingestion of contaminated
foodstuffs
Inhaled spores present the greatest hazard but it is rather difficult to get them
into the deep lungs where they cause the most damage.
Although anthrax organism can cause infection in the skin, gastrointestinal
system, or the lungs, to do so the organism must be rubbed into abraded skin,
swallowed, or inhaled as a fire, aerosol mist. Disease can be prevented after
exposure to the anthrax spores by early treatment with appropriate antibiotics.
Anthrax is not spread from one person to another person
For anthrax to be effective as a covert agent, it must be aerosolised into very
small particles. This is difficult to do, and requires a great deal of technical
skill and special equipment. If these small particles are inhaled, life13
threatening lung infection can occur, but prompt recognition and treatment are
effective.
Threat incidents involving biological agents
Incident Type 1: suspicious packages and letters
Receipt of a suspicious unopened letter or package or envelope marked with a
threatening message such as ANTHRAX.
• Do not shake or empty the contents of any suspicious envelope or package
• Place the envelope or package in a plastic bag or some other, preferably
sealable, container to present leakage of contents
• If you do not have any container, then cover the envelope or package with
anything (e.g. clothing, paper, waste paper basket, etc) and do not remove
this cover
• Leave the room and close the door, or section off the area to prevent others
from entering (ie keep others away)
• Wash your hands with soap and copius amounts of water to prevent
spreading any powder to your face
• Report the incident to security ext 5000
• List all people who were in the room or area when this suspicious letter of
package was recognised
Incident Type 2:
surface
Envelope containing powder or spillage of powder onto
• DO NOT ATTEMPT TO CLEAN UP THE POWDER. Cover the spilled
contents immediately with anything available (e.g. clothing, paper, waste
paper bin etc) and do not remove this cover
• Leave the room and close the door, or section off the area to prevent others
from entering (ie keep others away)
• Wash your hands with soap and copious amounts of water to prevent the
transfer of any powder to your face
• Report the incident to security ext 5000
• Remove possibly contaminated clothing as soon as possible and place in a
plastic bag, or some other container that can be sealed. This clothing bag
should be given to the emergency responders for proper handling
• Shower with soap and water as soon as possible. Do not use bleach or other
disinfectant on your skin
14
• List all people who were in the room or area, especially those who had
actual contact with powder. Give copies of this list to the Safety Advisor
and security officer
How to identify suspicious packages and letters
Some characteristics of suspicious packages and letters include the following:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Handwritten or poorly typed addresses
Incorrect titles
Title but no name
Mis-spelling of common words
Oily stains, discolourations or odour
No return address
Excessive weight
Lopsided or uneven envelope
Excessive security material such as masking tape, string etc
Visual distractions
Marked with restrictive endorsements, such as 'personal' or 'confidential'
Shows a postmark that does not match the return address.
15
Meningitis
A report of an identified case of meningitis should be made to the Health
Centre (020 7882 8710). It is likely to come from either the Public Health
Team or from a message from a fellow student or member of College staff, e.g.
Head of School, Year/Personal tutor, Warden of a Hall of Residence or
Registry staff.
It is vital that messages coming from sources other than the Consultant in
Communicable Disease control (CCDC) or the treating doctor, should be
checked carefully before action is taken.
• The CCDC will notify Occupational Health if they become aware of an
identified case in office hours but they also have the Halls of Residence
numbers for out of hours use. In the latter case the Warden of the Hall
should contact the Health Centre staff as soon as possible. Emergency
contact numbers for the College's occupational health physician and nurse
are available at the Security Lodge at the Mile End campus (020 7882
5000).
• Any members of College staff receiving notification of a case should treat
the information as confidential but should inform the Health Centre
immediately.
• The Occupational health staff will inform the Principal's Office and the
Academic Registrar.
The CCDC, supported by the Health Authority Infection Control Team, will
organise everything that is necessary in the way of medical advice and
treatment, e.g. prophylactic antibiotics, vaccination. This advice and treatment
will be available both during the working week and at weekends and Public
Holidays. The College should be ready to respond and assist the CCDC and
Infection Control Team as requested.
In the event of a single notified case, the CCDC and as Infection Control nurse
will come to the College Health Centre to give further advice on raising
awareness and the management of close contacts.
Management may include the provision of antibiotics and vaccination. (The
pharmacy at Mile End Hospital normally supplies the community and has
experience of obtaining very large supplies of vaccine at very short notice).
The Infection Control Team has appropriate leaflets for use at this stage and the
College has produced its own letters with local advice, telephone numbers etc.
16
These standard letters are available on disk from the secretary or nursing staff
at the Health Centre. It is essential that the GPs who serve the students on
Halls of Residence should be advised of the existence of a case of meningitis at
the earliest possible stage.
In the event of two notified cases an Outbreak Control Team will be formed.
This will be Chaired by Vice-Principal and will include the CCDC, the College
Occupational Health staff and other key officers. This team will make plans
for vaccination and/or prophylaxis and will allocate resources to implement
any necessary action.
• The first requirement will be a list of the patient's close contacts.
Assembling this list will be the task of Registry
• The Health Centre will contact the Deputy Academic Registrar, saying that
there he has been notified case of meningitis and ask for the list of contacts.
The list of contacts will be assembled immediately by Registry and reported
back to the Health Centre. This will include:
• Those living with the patient, i.e. on the same corridor of the Hall of
Residence or sharing a flat or digs. (Information from Residences Office)
• Those in the same tutorial or seminar group. (Information from the Head of
School and Year/Personal Tutor)
• Close friends, boyfriends, girlfriends, partners, family (if living at home).
(Information from Steward/Warden if in Residence or from friends, tutors
etc).
Further details can be found on the College Occupational Health Service
website: http://www.ohs.qmul.ac.uk/ and advice on symptoms can be found at
www.meningitis.org or by ringing the freephone 080 8800 3344.
17
V
General safety in the School
Working hours
The School is open from 08:00 to 18:00 from Monday to Friday in term time.
Undergraduates have access only at those times. Postgraduates and staff have
access outside those times but MUST sign and indicate the room(s) in which
they will be working, in the Out of Hours book kept at the middle entrance to
the School on ALL occasions when they are in the School outside these hours.
If laboratory work is being carried out, a risk assessment for lone working
under those circumstances MUST be completed.
Lone working
Extra care must be taken if working alone, i.e. when no other person is present
anywhere in the laboratory suite, or perhaps even in the building, and this must
only be undertaken after obtaining the advice and permission of the Laboratory
Manager. Someone MUST know where you are, so fill details in the Out of
Hours book when you enter the building. If laboratory work is being carried
out, a risk assessment for lone working under those circumstances must be
undertaken. Lone working procedures are outlined in the QM H&S 0083 Sept
2008 Lone Working Policy on the website: http://qm-web.safety.qmul.ac.uk/.
Access
All unoccupied rooms, offices, laboratories and, as far as possible, lecture
theatres should be locked when not in use.
Undergraduates have free access to corridors and public spaces in the School
during opening hours. Access to classrooms and laboratories is strictly limited
to scheduled course times. Undergraduates are not allowed in staff offices
unless specifically invited in.
Teaching laboratories are accessible only during scheduled classes or with the
explicit permission and, normally, in the presence of the the Laboratory
Manager
Unsupervised work by undergraduates or postgraduates in the laboratories is
not permitted without explicit permission from a supervisor and the Laboratory
Manager, and the completion of an appropriate Risk Assessment form and,
where necessary, COSHH form. The Laboratory Management Group is
responsible for defining the work which can be undertaken unsupervised in the
teaching laboratories.
18
Conduct
Never run in the laboratories, corridors and stairways and do not engage in
horseplay. You may cause injury or spillage. Do not leave your belongings
unattended. Do not leave waste lying about, as apart from being an eyesore, it
is a safety risk (fire, spillage).
Be aware of the siting of emergency exits, fire extinguishers, fire alarms and
First Aid kits in the School.
Special educational needs and disabilities
As far as possible provision is made for access to the building and its activities
for those with special educational needs and impaired mobility (see also pp 11
– 12 Procedures for Evacuation of Persons with Impaired Mobility).
Health issues and work in the School
Students suffering from conditions or allergies which in some circumstances
could render them unconscious should report the fact in writing to their Tutor
and the School Administrator, stating medication.
Field trip leaders will ask all students to complete a medical questionnaire. All
conditions or allergies must be recorded on these forms. A copy of each form
will be taken on the fieldtrip and a copy kept with the School Secretary in case
of emergencies.
Ethical considerations forbid the Health Centre from passing on the relevant
health information regarding individual students to the School.
Students with health problems that may affect their performance in laboratories
or that may render them unconscious are advised to bring this to the attention
of the Module Convenor/Lecturer and Laboratory Manager.
19
VI
Fieldwork and other work away from the School
Fieldwork is an activity that inherently involves risks. This may seem most
obvious for Physical Geography and Environmental Science, however it also
applies to Human Geography. Even on field trips led by staff, each individual
is responsible for his/her own safety, realising that all interests are mutual.
Other work away from the School, such as attendance of conferences, should
be considered in the same way and the risks assessed.
Risk Assessment
Risk Assessment is essential for any activity away from the School,
including group field trips led by a member of staff, individual fieldwork for
research, attendance of conferences and visits to other facilities. This means
considering the potential hazards and how to avoid or reduce their likelihood
as well as the need for any special clothing, equipment or procedures (e.g.
walking boots and waterproofs, first aid kits, mobile phones, inoculations).
Completing a Risk Assessment form is essential, but it must be understood
that this is an aid to (and evidence of) actually carrying out a proper risk
assessment, which should be a task shared by those involved; Risk
Assessments for group field trips should be discussed with all students and
staff in advance of the trip and copies made available to all participants.
Risk Assessment forms must be completed electronically (at any appropriate
length), countersigned and logged with the School Office before the
fieldwork (or other work) commences. This applies to all fieldwork
irrespective of whether it is a complex overseas exercise in mountainous
terrain or a couple of interviews in the Mile End Road; it includes laboratory
work undertaken off College premises, and other off-campus activities such
as conferences; if uncertain whether a Risk Assessment is required, ask the
School Safety Advisor.
Risk Assessment Forms are available on the School website:
http://www.geog.qmul.ac.uk/undergraduate/resources/index.html
or (for members of staff) on the intranet. Undergraduates and postgraduates
should complete Risk Assessment forms jointly with their supervisor who
must counter-sign the form to indicate approval. Staff Risk Assessments
must be counter-signed by the Head of School. Completed, signed and
counter-signed forms must be submitted to the School Office before any
fieldwork commences.
20
Medical Questionnaire
Prior to each and every field trip students must complete a Medical
Questionnaire (available on the School website:
http://www.geog.qmul.ac.uk/undergraduate/resources/index.html); these and
any other safety notes issued are to be kept on file in the School Office and (as
appropriate) copies carried by the field trip leader.
Travel
Unless specifically agreed with the Head of School or Fieldtrip leader, students
are not allowed to drive themselves to a fieldtrip site. Students who are
allowed to drive to field sites must not use their cars at any time after arrival,
either for activities associated with work on the field course or for activities in
any spare time they may have on the field course. In addition, they are solely
responsible for arranging parking permits for their vehicle.
Postgraduates must obtain permission from supervisors before driving to a field
site. Users of the School vehicle must have completed a signed approval form.
Copies are available on the College web site.
Group Fieldwork
In accordance with the Health & Safety at Work Act 1974, field trip leaders
must take every reasonable care concerning the safety of those involved in field
trips. Risk Assessment forms MUST be completed before the commencement
of the fieldtrip. Students must co-operate by behaving responsibly in order to
minimise the risk of accidents. Field trip leaders must issue and collect Medical
Questionnaire and Contact Details forms.
First aid, safety equipment and medication
First aid kits will be carried by the fieldtrip leaders but students are advised to
purchase their own first aid kit, whistle and compass, as part of a full kit of
field equipment. Students should remember to bring these on all field trips.
Although not necessary for ordinary field activities, students should be aware
of when they have last had an anti-tetanus injection.
Students with health problems that may affect their performance in the field or
that may render them unconscious are advised to bring this to the attention of
fieldtrip supervisors before the trip takes place.
21
Guidelines to be observed during all field trips
Observe all safety instructions by party leaders.
Stay with the party, except when specifically stated otherwise.
In order to receive specific guidance on likely hazards assemble on time at the
assigned place and observe instructions for reporting upon completion of tasks.
Only enter places (quarries, mines, caves etc) for which you have received
authorisation from the field trip leader.
Immediately report any injuries or illness.
Wear adequate footwear and clothing. Trainers and jeans are not adequate
under many weather conditions. For field trips and excursions the following
equipment will generally be required.
•
•
•
Waterproof jacket and trousers
Heavy duty walking boots, occasionally wellingtons (rubber, not plastic)
Warm sweater, hat and gloves for upland and winter trips
Students who come ill-equipped may be refused from participating in the
fieldtrip as they are a danger to themselves. Looking after them makes an
efficient and safe field trip impossible.
It is critical that students are sensitive to the opinions and feelings of local
residents when conducting surveys so as to avoid any potential confrontations.
Students should always remain with the main group or the smaller groups to
which they are assigned; at no time should students work alone in the field.
Wear a safety helmet when advised to do so. Safety helmets are obligatory
when visiting building sites, working quarries and mines, natural cliff
exposures.
When hammering rocks, or in the presence of anyone hammering rocks, wear
safety goggles or glasses with shatterproof lenses. Never hit another hammer,
or use a hammer as a chisel. Avoid hammering near other persons and hammer
downwards, not sideways.
Do not climb cliffs or quarry faces unless this is necessary as part of the
exercise and is supervised.
22
Never walk or work directly above or below another person on a steep slope.
Rockfalls and mudslides may occur on all sorts of slopes and under different
weather conditions. Steep faces may release material upon thawing, which
may occur at all time of the day or the season depending on altitude and
exposure to sunshine. Overhangs and blasted quarry faces are by definition
unstable.
Always wear high visibility vests in quarries and around working vehicles. In
quarries stay away from machinery and equipment. Do not walk behind
moving equipment or lorries, the driver will not hear or see you when
reversing.
Do not enter old mine workings or cave systems unless authorised as an
essential part of your work. Then do so only with proper lighting, headgear
and route tracing equipment, in the company of an experienced person. Ensure
that someone at the surface knows your location and expected time of return.
Be sure to report to them on returning to the surface.
Be very careful when walking wet or slippery slopes, remember that wet grass
slopes are very slippery
Always be aware of traffic.
Anyone not complying with appropriate standards of behaviour as
indicated by the field-trip leader may be excluded from a fieldtrip or from
any future fieldtrips.
Independent fieldwork
All the rules which apply to fieldwork and excursions also apply to
independent fieldwork. Risk Assessment forms must be completed for all
fieldwork; this includes all off-campus activities such as tutor-group visits to
sites for project work as well as independent IGS and PES fieldwork. Explicit
permission must be obtained from supervisors if you intend to work alone in
the field. If at all possible you should try to find a partner with whom to
conduct fieldwork, but note that supervisor's approval should be obtained in all
such cases.
23
Planning
Know your own experience, training or fitness and carefully plan your work.
Do not overestimate what can be done in a given period, either physically or
scientifically.
Make your whereabouts known. Each day leave plans of where you will work
or which route you will follow, or which addresses you are visiting, with a
colleague or a local person. Likewise make sure this person knows that you
have returned. If you will be away for a prolonged period, make it known
when you expect to be back. Do not break assignments.
Always obtain permission to enter private property. Wherever possible obtain
permission before going into the field.
When working underneath steep faces wear protective headgear and safety
vest.
In quarries you are often told which areas are off-limits, stick to this. Always
report when leaving quarries or construction sites.
Be very careful about entering buildings alone - for example in conducting
interviews. ALWAYS ensure that someone knows the address that you are
visiting.
Local conditions
Check local weather conditions before going into the field and be aware of
sudden weather changes, especially in uplands. Do not hesitate to turn back if
the weather gets bad.
When working on coasts make sure you know the timing of the tides, be aware
that rocks maybe very slippery at low tide. Avoid getting trapped on the intertidal banks and on shore watch for the high-tide mark. Depending on the risk
anticipated, consider the wearing of life jackets.
Familiarise yourself with local currents. Always check with HM Coastguard
for local conditions.
Working offshore is permitted ONLY if accompanied by an experienced
boatman and the wearing of life jackets is essential. Diving is permitted
ONLY if you are qualified and trained and are accompanied by trained persons.
24
As such activities will be part of the risk assessment they can never be
undertaken without permission of the supervisor.
Similar provisions apply to rock climbing and caving which may be undertaken
ONLY in the company of an experienced companion AND with prior
knowledge of your supervisor.
When intending to do fieldwork in unfamiliar terrain, like deserts, high
mountain, glaciers, tropical areas, the arctic, make sure that you are aware of
and familiar with local health and safety requirements. Familiarise yourself
with the mountain safety code; be aware of the effects of exposure, dehydration
and hypothermia. Reflect in advance what to do if caught in a thunderstorm or
in case of any emergency.
In remote areas always carry the following items with you:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
An approved first aid kit
Adequate clothing and waterproofs
Emergency food (high energy, like chocolate, glucose tablets, etc.)
Drinks, do not trust streams in terrain where animals are about
An emergency blanket
Map, compass, watch and if possible GPS system
Torch and whistle
Mobile phone
Wear footwear when wading, but take off socks. Putting on dry socks after
wading makes all the difference!
Know the international distress signal.
•
•
•
•
Six whistle blasts, shouts, or flashes of your torch
Pause for a minute
Repeat the six blasts, shouts, etc
Continue until answered by three blasts, shouts or flashes, broken by one
minute intervals
Always carry whistle and torch (the latter does not help in the Arctic) as
the sound and the light will carry much further, and for a longer period,
than your voice. In distress do not exhaust yourself by shouting or
blowing your whistle, take a break, and then start again.
25
Fieldwork overseas
The School of Geography is working towards compliance with the British
Standard, BS 8848: a specification for visits, fieldwork, expeditions and
adventurous activities outside the UK. All rules re fieldwork apply to
fieldwork overseas. Local embassy and consular officials should be
informed before leaving for the fieldwork and the School MUST have a
contact email address or telephone number at all times.
Students conducting fieldwork overseas must consult their doctors well before
departure and be treated with necessary vaccinations and other medical
requirements.
If they are going to work in particularly remote areas, students should have
taken a first aid course.
Travel insurance, arranged through QMUL via the Undergraduate
Administrator IS ESSENTIAL. It is also VITAL to take out health insurance.
Do not carry out fieldwork in countries or regions if the British Government, or
other bodies, have advised against travel to, holiday or work in, that country or
region.
26
VII
Laboratories
The School of Geography Laboratories in the Francis Bancroft Building
include all analytical, storage and teaching facilities in the laboratory suite,
which incorporates the Micromorphology Centre. Laboratories are accessible
to undergraduates only during supervised classes or after having received
permission from the Laboratory Manager. Unsupervised work in the
laboratories is permitted ONLY after consultation with the Laboratory
Manager. Undergraduates working alone in a specific laboratory must first
obtain advice and permission from the Laboratory Manager or their designated
deputy, who must be present somewhere in the laboratory suite while the work
is undertaken; they should also ensure that the students know how to contact
them.
Clothing should be appropriate for working in the laboratories, i.e. it should be
a first protection, against, for instance, chemicals. For this reason the wearing
of shorts or short skirts or open-toed footwear in laboratories is not allowed.
Personal Protection Equipment (PPE; e.g., laboratory coat, eye protection)
must always be worn as indicated in the appropriate Laboratory Risk
Assessment and/or COSHH forms.
Postgraduates may work alone in the laboratories ONLY with the prior
permission of their supervisor and the Laboratory Manager.
Students with health problems that may affect their performance in laboratories
or that may render them unconscious MUST bring this to the attention of the
Module Convenor/Lecturer, their supervisors, and the Laboratory Manager.
Before working or attending classes in any laboratory students should be made
familiar/familiarise themselves with safety equipment in that particular room.
This relates specifically to emergency exit(s), telephone, shower, eye baths and
first-aid kits.
Safety instructions (e.g. to wear goggles or protective gloves) MUST be strictly
followed.
Laboratories are not in use only for classroom teaching, but are also used by
other students (both under-and postgraduates) and staff. As it is impossible to
clear away material used in running experiments, students must not tamper
with any material on the benches or shelves. Not only could this ruin someone
27
else's experiment but, because unknown chemicals may be involved, there is an
unknown risk. If such material hampers a user's proper functioning in a
laboratory he/she must contact the Laboratory Manager.
Coursework
Coursework involving the use of chemical facilities must be confined to the
hours timetabled for the course concerned.
Accident procedures
Relevant emergency action is displayed in each laboratory. Before starting
work, you should make sure you know the precise location of:
•
•
•
•
•
•
First-aid kits
Fire extinguishers and blankets
Eye-wash (normally a cold tap with rubber hose connected)
Emergency instructions
Electric mains isolator switch
Shower
All accidents MUST be reported in the Accident Book lodged with the
Laboratory Manager, and on an Accident and Dangerous Occurrence Report
Form on the web at: http://qm-web.safety.qmul.ac.uk/procedures/index.html
Risk Assessment
Since all types of laboratory work involve the use of chemicals, equipment
and/or machinery, a Laboratory Risk Assessment MUST be completed and
signed for each method, before starting work. Risk Assessment forms may be
obtained from the Laboratory Manager and MUST be completed in
conjunction with the Laboratory Manager or appropriate Laboratory
Technician. For practical classes involving supervised or independent work by
students, a Risk Assessment form should be completed by the relevant lecturer
/ module convenor and used as basis for making their students aware of risks,
precautions and actions to be taken in the event of an accident.
COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health)
In addition to the Laboratory Risk Assessment, for each chemical to be used in
the laboratories, COSHH forms MUST be completed and signed before any
laboratory work is undertaken.
28
Rules
Laboratories are potentially dangerous areas as they contain many hazardous
materials, eg acids, alkalis, gases, inflammables, electrically and many others.
Great care must be taken by all who use these facilities and laboratory rules
must be compiled with. Anyone failing to comply with the rules will be asked
to leave the laboratory to prevent them causing harm to themselves and others.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Food and drink must not be brought into any laboratory
Always wash your hands before leaving the laboratory, for any reason
Never try to repair broken equipment yourself - ask a member of staff.
If you attempt to carry out a repair you could do more damage and/or hurt
yourself
Do not sit on laboratory benches - you never know what you may be
sitting on
Make sure to clean and tidy your work area before leaving the laboratory
Put all rubbish in the bins, as labelled
Chemical Laboratories
•
Laboratory coats must be worn at all times
•
Suitable eye protection must be worn at all times. This is a College
requirement unless a risk assessment indicates otherwise
•
Gloves must be worn when you are instructed to do so
•
Laboratory Risk Assessment and COSHH forms must be completed and
signed before starting any work
•
No-one must work in a laboratory unless within shouting distance of
another person
•
Undergraduate students are not allowed to work in a laboratory without
supervision
•
Long hair must be tied back to avoid chemicals, equipment etc.
•
Contact lenses should not be worn in the laboratory as chemicals splashed
in the eye will lodge behind them
•
Glasses should be worn instead of contact lenses in the laboratory
•
An appropriate design of safety goggle should be worn over the glasses
when necessary
•
Handle chemicals with care and all chemicals must be cleared and stored
as directed by the Laboratory Manager
29
Concentrated acids
Users MUST always wear eye protection and disposable gloves.
Never add water to concentrated acid; always dilute concentrated acid by
adding acid to water, slowly, with the receptacle in a sink.
Hydrofluoric (HF) and Perchloric (HC104) acids must not be used by
students at any time. A supervising staff member will carry out all operations
involving these acids.
Organic solvents commonly give off toxic, carcinogenic or highly flammable
vapours. They should never be used in the open laboratory. Use only in
appropriate fume cupboards (as indicated by supervising staff). Never use
them in fume cupboards which contain a naked flame or electrical heaters (to
avoid igniting vapours). Volatile organics must never be used in a fume
cupboard where Perchloric Acid has been used, as they may react
explosively with its residues. Dispose of organic waste in the correct residue
bottle; if in doubt, consult a supervising staff member - some mixtures of
organic compounds are explosive. Gloves and eye protection should be worn
at all times.
Other hazards
Many other dangerous chemicals are used in chemical laboratories. Laboratory
apparatus can also be dangerous if used improperly. Do not tamper with
anything unless specifically authorised, and instructed in operating procedures.
Non-Chemical Laboratories
These laboratories contain very expensive equipment
•
•
While the general rules apply, do not move the equipment for any reason
whatsoever. It this needs to be done, ask a member of staff
Make sure that any equipment that you have used is switched off before
leaving the laboratory (unless it is marked that it should be left on).
Always switch equipment off at the machine first, then the electrical
supply.
Overnight Use
Some types of equipment are designed to run unattended overnight. Such use
MUST be authorised by a staff member beforehand.
30
Breakages and spills
Major spills should be reported immediately to supervising staff. Switch off all
electrical equipment in the affected area. Do not attempt to switch off at the
mains if overheating or smoking is taking place. If acids or solvents are
involved, evacuate the laboratory.
Minor acid spills and leaks can be neutralised with calcium carbonate (CaCO3)
and mopped up with plenty of water, but should be reported to supervising staff
immediately.
Outside Laboratories
Users of laboratories outside the School must comply with that School's
registration procedures.
Pressure Equipment
When working with pressure, either positive or negative, make sure that safety
valves are working, and the correct pressure level is set. Check with the
supervising member of staff.
IGS/PES
The School allows undergraduates to work in the laboratories for either IGS or
PES. Before starting to work in the laboratories students must complete the
necessary COSHH and Laboratory Risk Assessment forms, to be signed by
their supervisor. Copies of these must be handed in to the Laboratory Manager
and kept on file in the laboratory for easy reference.
The Laboratory Manager allocates space and time in the laboratories, bearing
in mind that unsupervised work by undergraduates in the laboratories is not
permitted, nor is any undergraduate allowed work in any laboratory unless the
Laboratory Manager (or designated deputy) is present and contactable in the
laboratory suite.
The use of laboratories must involve the proper storage of chemicals (after use)
and the clearing of finished experiments and analyses.
Because laboratory analysis is part of the IGS or PES, laboratory conduct may
influence the marks awarded for the project. Serious misconduct in the
laboratories may lead to a student being expelled from the laboratories, even if
this means not being able to finish a project as planned.
31
VIII School, College and hired vehicles
Introduction
Driving a minibus requires additional skills in order to be able to handle the
vehicle safely. It is not simply like driving a large car. The weight and the size
of the vehicle are greater and the driver takes on the responsibility for the
safety of passengers. Although rare, serious, sometimes fatal, accidents
involving vehicles owned or hired by university departments have occurred.
The motor vehicle licensing requirements are an important consideration. For
the purposes of licensing, the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA)
makes a distinction between drivers of minibuses used in the course of
employment and those used for social purposes. It is important that DVLA
licensing requirements are met by all persons driving minibuses in connection
with College activities because the College's motor insurers require that drivers
hold appropriate driving licences.
This Policy and Procedure, hereafter referred to as a Code of Practice, has been
prepared to ensure that students and staff who drive minibuses for College
associated activities have the correct licences and that they drive in a manner
which minimises the risk of accidents occurring.
The Procedures and Code of Practice for Using Minibuses including a
Minibus Driver Approval Form can be found on the College Health &
Safety web site at: http://qm-web.safety.qmul.ac.uk/procedures/ (General
procedures).
This form must be completed by the intended driver and signed by the Head of
School before the School van or a minibus can be driven by a member of staff
or postgraduate.
32
Application
This Code of Practice applies to:
•
•
•
any use of minibuses owned by the College, the Students Union or any
club or society affiliated to the Students' Union
any minibus hired for teaching, research and other College activities
any minibus hired by a society or club affiliated to the Students' Union
Strictly, the Code applies only to minibuses, which are defined as vehicles
"Constructed or adapted to carry more than eight, but not more than sixteen
passengers, in addition to the driver"
but it should also be applied in principle to the School van, which carries a
maximum of eight passengers.
There must be no attempt to by-pass this Code by using a van (i.e. a vehicle
with solid side panels behind the driver), whether or not extra seating is fitted.
This Code of Practice should be read in conjunction with any other College or
School policies that relate to the use of vehicles.
The requirements of this Code of Practice represent the minimum standard to
be adopted. Schools may impose additional requirements if they consider it
appropriate. For example a department may decide that the minimum age for
driving a minibus should be 25 not 21.
Roadworthiness of the vehicle
All minibuses owned by the College must be regularly maintained and kept in a
roadworthy condition. The driver must check a hired vehicle very carefully on
delivery.
Before taking over responsibility for any vehicle, all drivers must carry out the
pre-journey check list that follows, or satisfy themselves that such checks have
already been carried out by the operator prior to handing over the vehicle. The
pre-journey checks must be carried out at least on a daily basis whilst the
vehicle is in use.
•
brakes and steering operate correctly
33
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
there is an adequate supply of water in the windscreen wash reservoir, and
that windscreen wash and wipers function correctly
there are correct fluid levels in hydraulic systems, particularly the braking
system, and the engine oil level is correct
there is an adequately stocked first aid kit; any items used from the kit
should be replaced without delay.
first aid equipment can be obtained from the University Safety Office
there is a vehicle fire extinguisher mounted in an easily accessible
position
all windows are clean in order to ensure good all round visibility
tyres are inflated to the correct pressure and are free of dangerous cuts or
cracks, tread depth is at least1.6 mm, and wheel nuts are tight
a spare wheel is carried and is also in good condition and correctly
inflated.
Provision and Use of Seat Belts
All minibuses purchased, leased or hired must have seat belts fitted to all seats.
These should, as far as possible, be lap and diagonal belts, but where this is not
feasible lap belts should be fitted. New minibuses must not have any sideways
facing seats.
The requirements relating to seat belts and seating arrangements now apply to
minibuses owned by the University before 1 January 1998.
Seat belts must be worn at all times. The most senior member of staff present
or the driver must ensure that they are worn.
Loading Minibuses
The number of people and the weight of luggage carried must not exceed the
maximum limits specified by the manufacturer of the vehicle. If a large amount
of luggage is to be carried it may be necessary to reduce the number of
passengers in order to remain within the maximum loading limits. All luggage
that may shift due to the movement of the vehicle must be safely secured. The
use of roof racks must comply with the guidance given by the manufacturer of
the vehicle.
Towing Trailers
If a trailer is being towed no passengers may be carried behind the front row of
seats unless there is a side door is easily accessible to passengers.
34
Before towing a trailer, the following checks must be carried out to ensure that;
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
the vehicle being used is appropriate for this use (seek professional advice
through the Safety Office if in any doubt)
the gross weight of the vehicle plus the trailer is within the vehicle gross
weight limit
the kerbside weight of the towing vehicle is clearly marked on the front
nearside of the vehicle
the downward force from the loaded trailer on the towing ball is within
the limits imposed by the towing vehicle manufacturer
the axle loads of the towing vehicle are not exceeded
a breakaway chain is in use, which will activate the handbrake should the
coupling break. Advice on this matter should be sought from the trailer
manufacturer or approved dealer
the unladen weight of the trailer and trailer tyre pressures are clearly
marked on the trailer
the total gross weight (trailer weight plus maximum load to be carried) is
clearly marked on the front of the trailer
the trailer handbrake/overrun brake functions properly
the trailer lights and indicators work
the load is securely lashed to the trailer body or frame
there is suitable marking of any rear overhang greater than one metre by
using a "Long Vehicle" sign or other approved method (eg warning tape)
or an approved light in hours of darkness or bad weather
When towing a trailer drivers must be very cautious about the vehicle speed.
Vehicle/trailer combinations can become unstable at low speeds as well as at
high speeds, and particularly when being passed by fast moving large vehicles,
in windy conditions, or when manoeuvring. On long journeys the trailer and
vehicle should be checked at least once every two hours of travel.
Users of boat trailers are strongly advised to refer to the Amateur Rowing
Association's booklet "Towing of Boat Trailers".
Competence of Drivers and the Provision of Information and Training
The skill and care exercised by the driver is the most important aspect of
minibus safety. Driving a minibus, especially a fully-laden 15 seater over long
distances, is much more demanding than driving a private car.
35
The RoSPA booklet Minibus Safety: A Code of Practice is essential reading
and all drivers should be issued with a copy by the Laboratory Manager.
Supplies can be obtained from RoSPA, Edgbaston House, 353 Bristol Road,
Edgbaston, Birmingham, B5 7ST or downloaded:
http://www.rospa.co.uk/roadsafety/advice/minibus/info/Minibus_Code_2008.pdf)
All drivers must be approved by the Laboratory Manager and/or the Head of
School or, in the case of the Students Union, the Union General Manager, to
drive minibuses. Approval may be given only providing the following
requirements are met;
•
•
•
•
the driver is over 21 years of age
the driver has a valid full driving licence
the driver has received adequate training and has been assessed as
competent
drivers have completed the approval form found in the College
Procedures and Code of Practice for Using Minibuses
All drivers are required to inform the DVLA in Swansea of any physical or
mental disability which might affect their fitness to drive any vehicle. Special
care must be taken over the use of any medication, prescribed or otherwise,
which might affect driving ability.
Journey and Driving Times
Tiredness of the driver has often been a significant factor in accidents
involving minibuses. The presence of a second driver should always be
considered both on account of possible incapacity of the first driver and also
because of tiredness.
The maximum number of hours that a driver may drive in any 24 hour period is
9 hours subject to a weekly maximum of 56 hours. Every driver must take a
continuous rest period of at least 11 hours in every 24 hour period. A bed, bunk
or couchette must be available for use during the rest period. The driver must
not be tired at the start of a journey.
The maximum continuous period of driving should not exceed 2.5 hours and
should be followed by a minimum break of 10 minutes out of the vehicle. Time
spent, for example, crawling in motorway type hold-ups should count as part of
the driving period.
36
Consumption of Alcohol by any Driver
It is an absolute rule that a driver DOES NOT consume any alcohol during or
in the period before any journey. Since blood alcohol level should be zero
during all driving activities, care should be exercised if consuming alcohol
even on the previous day. Alcohol must not be consumed in the 8 hour period
immediately prior to driving.
Speed Limits
All speed limits must be complied with. See RoSPA Minibus Safety: A Code
of Practice and The Highway Code held by the Laboratory Manager.
First Aid and Emergency Procedures
If a vehicle is involved in an accident:
•
•
•
•
•
Make sure all passengers are safe and if necessary summon the emergency
services for assistance
Obtain the registration number(s) and insurance details of any other
vehicle(s) involved
Take the names, addresses and, if appropriate, vehicle registration number
of any witnesses and the number and base station of any Police Officer
who attends
Write down as soon as possible after the accident all relevant details in a
precise manner
Report all the above details to the Insurance Office as soon as possible. If
you need any immediate or emergency assistance from the College, call
the College Security Office on 0207 882 5000 (24 hour service)
The legal requirements for providing information after an accident are:
•
if you are involved in an accident which causes damage or injury to any
other person, or other vehicle, or an animal (horse, cattle, ass, mule,
sheep, pig, goat or dog) not in your vehicle, or roadside property
You must:
•
stop
37
•
•
•
•
•
give your own and the vehicle owner's name and address and the
registration number of the vehicle to anyone having reasonable grounds
for requiring them
if you do not give your name and address at the time of the accident,
report the accident to the police as soon as reasonably practicable, and
in any case within 24 hours.
if any other person is injured and you do not produce your insurance
certificate at the time of the accident to the police or to anyone who
with reasonable grounds has requested it, you MUST also:
report the accident to the police as soon as possible, and in any case
within 24 hours
produce your insurance certificate to the police either when reporting
the accident or within seven days at any police station you select.
Documentation
Drivers should carry their driving licences but, wherever possible, any hire
agreement or insurance certificate should be kept by the School. Details of
insurance should be carried by the driver in order to exchange the information
as indicated above.
Overseas Travel
There are likely to be special insurance requirements for overseas travel. Check
with the Insurance Officer and the operator of any hired vehicle.
Vehicles seating more than 9 and travelling outside the British Isles will
encounter different driving and transport regulations in Continental EU
countries, and different standards again outside the EU. These regulations
should be checked with the Department of Transport International Office.
General Administration
The heads of all schools that regularly hire or own minibuses must nominate a
member of staff or have other effective mechanisms to oversee compliance
with the College policy.
It is essential that, in an emergency, the identities of the people present in the
minibus is known to relevant College or Student Union Officers. As far as
practicable a system should be in place whereby this information will be
readily available.
38
In the case of journeys organised by a school, the names could be kept on a list
in the school and should be available to the College Security Office on a 24
hour basis.
The School’s vehicle
The School vehicle may be driven ONLY by drivers able to conform with the
QMUL Code of Practice on the use of minibuses.
All drivers must have signed the appropriate form, had it counter-signed by the
Head of School and filed with the Laboratory Manager.
The vehicle must be used ONLY in accordance with the manufacturer’s
specifications and guidance and must ALWAYS be driven in accordance with
local highway regulations.
The vehicle must be used ONLY for appropriate purposes. Extensive use over
rough terrain is not permitted.
Any defect noted in using the vehicle must be rectified immediately or reported
to the Laboratory Manager (020 7882 2715; s.dobinson@qmul.ac.uk) before
use is resumed.
The vehicle must be left in a clean and well-ordered condition after use so that
the next user is able to make use of the vehicle without hindrance.
The Laboratory Manager is responsible for the day-to-day maintenance of the
vehicle, checking its roadworthiness and arranging its servicing and insurance.
39