Health and Safety Guidance for Design
Technology, Art and Design, Ceramics,
Textiles and Food Technology
Date: September 2015
Document summary
This guidance is for subject leaders and staff within Design Technology, Art and Design
and includes Graphics, Ceramics, Textiles and Food Technology. It sets the general
standards required by East Sussex Children’s Services Department that schools must
follow and should be read in conjunction with the relevant subject specific Code of
Practice.
Contents
1.
2.
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.5
2.6
2.7
2.8
2.9
2.10
2.11
3.
3.1
4.
4.1
4.2
4.3
5.
6.
7.
7.1
7.2
7.3
8.
8.1
8.2
8.3
8.4
8.5
9.
10.
Introduction ............................................................................................................... 4
Management of safety .............................................................................................. 5
Risk assessments ....................................................................................................... 5
Health and safety policies............................................................................................ 6
Responsibilities ........................................................................................................... 7
Class sizes .................................................................................................................. 8
Using workrooms ......................................................................................................... 8
Maintenance of Equipment .......................................................................................... 9
Inspections ................................................................................................................ 10
Safety signs, notices and displays ............................................................................. 10
Making artefacts ........................................................................................................ 10
Guards and interlocks ............................................................................................... 10
Moving and handling ................................................................................................. 10
Accidents and incidents ......................................................................................... 10
Investigating and monitoring accidents ..................................................................... 11
Adhesives ................................................................................................................ 11
Hot-melt glue guns .................................................................................................... 11
Cyanoacrylates (superglues) ..................................................................................... 11
Wall-paper paste ....................................................................................................... 12
Buying safe goods and equipment ....................................................................... 12
Cleaning rooms ....................................................................................................... 12
Electricity................................................................................................................. 13
Mains leads, plugs and sockets................................................................................. 13
The fixed installation (the building wiring up to the power socket) ............................. 13
Room electricity emergency stops ............................................................................. 13
Checking and using equipment ............................................................................. 14
Approved equipment ................................................................................................. 14
Maintenance of equipment ........................................................................................ 14
Home-made mains apparatus ................................................................................... 14
Low voltage ............................................................................................................... 14
Rechargeable batteries ............................................................................................. 14
Fire safety ................................................................................................................ 15
Fumes and dust ...................................................................................................... 15
10.1
10.2
10.3
10.4
11.
11.1
11.2
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
16.1
16.2
17.
17.1
17.2
17.3
18.
18.1
18.2
18.3
19.
19.1
19.2
19.3
19.4
20.
20.1
20.2
20.3
21.
22.
22.1
22.2
22.3
22.4
Cleaning dusty areas ................................................................................................. 16
Hazardous materials ................................................................................................. 16
Risk assessments and control measures .................................................................. 16
Prohibited substances ............................................................................................... 17
ICT equipment ......................................................................................................... 17
Safe use of laptop computers .................................................................................... 17
Interactive whiteboards.............................................................................................. 18
Ladders, steps and other access equipment ....................................................... 19
Lifting operations and lifting equipment .............................................................. 19
Lone working........................................................................................................... 20
Noise ........................................................................................................................ 20
Pressure systems ................................................................................................... 21
Hired pressure systems ............................................................................................. 21
Model steam engines ................................................................................................ 22
Protective clothing and safety equipment ............................................................ 22
Clothing ..................................................................................................................... 22
Eye protection and guards......................................................................................... 22
First aid...................................................................................................................... 22
Services: water and gas ......................................................................................... 22
Gas supplies.............................................................................................................. 22
Using gas burners ..................................................................................................... 23
Water ......................................................................................................................... 23
Storage .................................................................................................................... 23
Flammables ............................................................................................................... 24
Corrosives ................................................................................................................. 24
Shelving..................................................................................................................... 24
Storage-life ................................................................................................................ 24
Tools: hand tools and portable power tools ........................................................ 24
Hand tools ................................................................................................................. 24
Portable power tools .................................................................................................. 24
Glue guns .................................................................................................................. 25
Training .................................................................................................................... 25
Waste ....................................................................................................................... 25
Disposable items ....................................................................................................... 26
Combustible swarf ..................................................................................................... 26
Metal swarf, sharps and glass ................................................................................... 26
Chemically hazardous materials ................................................................................ 26
About this document:
Enquiries: Health and Safety Team
Version number: 02
Author:
Related information
Health and Safety Team
Telephone: 01273 481938

Design Technology Code of Practice
Email:

Food Technology Code of Practice

Art and Design Code of Practice
paths@eastsussex.gov.uk
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Health and Safety Guidance for Design Technology, Art
and Design, Ceramics, Textiles and Food Technology
1.
Introduction
This guidance is for subject leaders and staff of Design Technology, Art and Design, and
includes Graphics, Ceramics, Textiles and Food Technology. It sets the standards
required by East Sussex Children’s Services Department that schools must follow. The
purpose of this document is to ensure safe practice in technology at KS3 and higher. The
document applies not only to teachers but also to others who work within the relevant
departments, including technicians, teaching assistants and other support staff and
trainees. This document must be made available to all staff involved in teaching these
areas and they must use the information in planning practical work. There are other
essential documents to this one:
 East Sussex Children’s Services Department Codes of Practice for Design
Technology, Food Technology and Art and Design
 CLEAPSS documentation - Design Technology (relevant to Design
Technology, Art and Design, Ceramics, Textiles, and Food Technology)
BS4163:2014 Health and safety for design and technology in educational and
similar establishments: British Standards
 A Guide to Safe Practice in Art and Design (updated version on NSEAD's website)
.
These documents, in conjunction with this guidance, form the basis of the policy
arrangements and any risk assessments for health and safety in Design Technology, Art
and Design, Ceramics, Textiles, Food Technology, Graphics, etc. Design Technology
Departments must have copies of this information readily available for staff to use, and for
inspection by the local authority advisers/officers, OfSTED inspectors, and the Health and
Safety Executive.
There are two further useful documents issued by the DfE. These are for design
technology areas, Building Bulletin 81 "Design and Technology Accommodation in
Secondary Schools: A Design Guide”, and for Art and Design areas, Building Bulletin 89,
Art Accommodation in Secondary Schools (both documents are available from the
CLEAPSS website).
The School Standards and Framework Act and the precursor, the Local Management of
Schools, has given schools increased delegated powers and duties in running schools,
including health and safety responsibilities for staff, students and visitors.
This document explains these health and safety responsibilities and the principles of
successful health and safety management.
As a guide to what is reasonably practicable, the word should in this document is used to
mean something that is recommended but not compulsory; these are usually actions that
are considered to be good working practices, but the school is free to choose other actions
if it has good reasons for doing so. Conversely, the word must is used to mean something
that is compulsory, usually something statutory, and a failure to implement would be
breaching a law, or breaching a duty of care.
Page 4 of 26
This document is specifically for health and safety matters relating to the technology
curriculum areas, including art and design. For general health and safety matters relating
to Children’s Services, refer to the A-Z of Health and Safety on Czone.
2.
Management of safety
The Children’s Services Department acknowledges that good design and technology
involves a significant amount of practical work. Practical experience provides
opportunities to introduce students to the concepts of risk assessment and safe working
methods. Students should be encouraged to develop their understanding of risk
assessment processes. It is essential that staff are fully conversant with hazards in their
work area and that they plan, organise, and monitor the work so that the risks can be
controlled.
This document will support staff by providing advice and guidance on legislation and best
practice as well as promoting a positive health and safety culture by the identification of
hazards and implementing control measures to adequately reduce and control the risks.
In the event of an accident, it is important that immediate interim measures are taken (if
needed) to prevent a recurrence. Accidents must be reported in accordance with both the
school and County Council reporting procedures.
2.1
Risk assessments
Risk assessment is a process for looking at what can cause harm, how likely and severe
the harm could be, and what can be done to prevent it. There is no such thing as zero risk
- risk assessment is a way of reducing the risks to an acceptable level, so the benefits of
the activity far outweigh them. All activities that involve foreseeable significant hazards
must have a risk assessment before it is undertaken. Do not carry out any such activity
without a risk assessment.
This document, along with BS 4163:2014, contains information on the hazards that may be
created by equipment and materials and a series of model risk assessments have been
developed by CLEAPSS that will help schools to undertake their own risk assessments. A
school specific risk assessment should be developed to ensure that all activities with
foreseeable significant hazards are assessed. One practical way of ensuring that
appropriate assessments are in place, would be to undertake a risk assessment for all
equipment, materials and hazardous substances that are used in school.
Before starting a new project the relevant risk assessments should be reviewed to identify
if there are special local conditions that create hazards, not already on the risk
assessments. You should adapt the risk assessment accordingly, adding steps to reduce
the local hazard. If there are any activities containing significant hazards that have not
been assessed, these can be included as part of the overall project risk assessment.
When students are planning projects and coursework, staff should help them to identify the
hazards that are likely to be encountered and the steps they will take to reduce the risks
adequately.
Do not forget to involve any Teaching Assistants and voluntary staff in your risk
assessments. They should be consulted when considering students with special needs so
that all students and staff have adequate levels of protection from the hazards in the
practical curriculum.
Page 5 of 26
Further information is contained in the Risk Assessment Policy, available via Czone. If
you need further advice on risk assessments, for example if you are undertaking or
supervising a special project, contact the Health and Safety Team.
2.2
Health and safety policies
To achieve good management of health and safety, subject leaders and staff are expected
to co-operate with the senior management of the school or college on health and safety
matters. Each school has an overall Health and Safety Policy that explains how adequate
standards of health and safety will be achieved and is prepared by the Headteacher and
Governing Body. Subject leaders will normally have delegated responsibility for ensuring
adequate health and safety standards in their departments.
It is a requirement of the Children’s Services Department that those departments
undertaking practical work (which includes Design Technology, Art and Design, Ceramics,
Textiles and Food Technology) have a written subsidiary health and safety policy that
clearly and concisely explains the departmental health and safety arrangements. This
could be a combined policy that covers a range of practical curriculum areas, or individual
policies in which each covers a specific practical curriculum area. In larger departments,
many health and safety functions will be delegated. It must be clear from the department’s
safety policy what safety functions have been delegated, and to whom. The policy should
have four sections:
 A general statement of commitment and intent
This is a short paragraph that expresses the departments’ commitment to health
and safety and the intent to make teaching as safe as is reasonably practicable
 Department's organisation
This is a description of the department’s organisation for achieving their
commitment. This should explain the structure of the department and the line
management from the Senior Leadership Team member to the subject leader to all
staff who work in the department. This section should explain the formal ways in
which health and safety information is communicated to and from staff. It is
recommended that time be allocated formally at staff meetings to exchange
information on health and safety. Minutes of a meeting can form a record of
information passed to staff
 The particular arrangements for implementing the policy
This should state the arrangements for undertaking risk assessments. This will
include the use of documentation from CLEAPSS, BS 4163:2014, and “A Guide to
Safe Practice in Art and Design”, as appropriate. This section should also explain all
health and safety duties delegated by the head of department, such as the person
responsible for ensuring schemes of work have appropriate risk assessments, the
person who oversees the induction for new staff including technicians, the people
who check the machinery, tools and rooms, etc. The arrangements for testing of
particular items should also be explained, such as checking fume extraction, gas
appliances, pressure systems, gas cylinders and regulators, and protective
equipment such as goggles and face shields. There must be a procedure for
making sure the health and safety functions are undertaken; part of the procedure
must be a plan of what will be done to rectify faulty equipment and machinery
 Monitoring and reviewing
This section should detail the department’s arrangements for monitoring and
reviewing the health and safety of the department.
Page 6 of 26
The document should be signed and dated annually (at the beginning of each academic
year) by the member of the Senior Leadership Team with line management responsibility
for the department, as well as the subject leader, and approved by the headteacher and
governing body. The policy length will depend on the departmental complexity, but try to
keep it to a few sides of A4. The document should not include particular risk assessments
or other codes of practice - it is not a document on the particular safety measures for each
piece of practical work undertaken.
Practical activities must be assessed for risk, and safety measures used to keep the risks
low. If you are undertaking any new activities, it is essential that a risk assessment is
carried out beforehand. Please contact the Health and Safety Team to help you determine
the significant hazards and the risk of them happening. From this, decide on suitable
control measures to minimise the risks.
2.3
Responsibilities
Health and safety is an integral part of the management of schools and its implications
need to be considered whenever related decisions are made.
Governors and headteachers are responsible for everything over which they have control
and are expected to take all reasonable measures within their authority to avoid or
minimise problems.
It is the responsibility of the headteacher, as the day to day manager, and governors to
ensure that:
 work is planned and organised safely
 staff receive adequate health and safety training, including specialist design
technology training
 plant and equipment are regularly checked, inspected and maintained to recognised
standards and records kept
 electrical installation is to current applicable requirements and in good order
 space allocation for machines, furniture and overall working arrangements and
numbers of students working in a design technology area contribute to safe and
healthy working
 what technology staff are asked to do is reasonable and has regard for their
accredited skills level and the student’s health and safety.
This document provides guidelines on safety in technology practical work. Subject leaders
have a duty to organise the department so that staff have access to the safety information
and understand the system for reporting defects in safety equipment.
Specific health and safety responsibilities for all groups of staff are included in the school
health and safety policy and the subject leaders must ensure that all members of staff are
aware of their individual responsibilities. All staff within the line management structure,
including the governing body, are accountable for the implementation of this document and
regular monitoring arrangements must be put in place to ensure that the measures
outlined within this document are an integral part of the day to day management of the
department.
No activity may be carried out unless the requisite safety apparatus is available and in
good working order. Every technology department must have procedures for:
Page 7 of 26







ensuring that risk assessments are undertaken and implemented
communicating information to the people who need it
ensuring regular safety checks are undertaken
keeping rooms clean and tidy
reporting defective equipment
ensuring apparatus receives necessary maintenance
ensuring only suitably qualified staff use restricted machinery or processes.
A safety policy is a good way of showing how these procedures are organised in the
department (see section 2.2 on Health and safety policies).
2.4
Class sizes
There is no statutory limitation on class size in any subject in schools in England and
Wales.
British Standards recommend class sizes of no more than 20 per competent, qualified
teacher. For numbers higher than this, follow the British Standards guidance (BS
4163:2014 section 4, part 9) and carry out a risk assessment. Use the guidance in Building
Bulletin 81, ‘Design and Technology Accommodation in Secondary Schools: A Design
Guide’, or DfEE Building Bulletin 89, ‘Art Accommodation in Secondary Schools’, as
appropriate for planning class sizes and work space, and take into account:
 room size and layout
 the equipment in the room
 the type of activities to be undertaken
 competence and experience of the teacher
 bench space, space between benches
 class behaviour
 students with special needs.
Any members of staff who are concerned that class sizes presents an unacceptable risk to
health and safety should report their concerns to their subject leader and, if necessary, the
headteacher. Use alternative methods if possible for particular practical activities to reduce
the risks, but if they cannot be lowered to an acceptable level, the activities must not be
undertaken until the health and safety matters have been resolved. The Health and Safety
Team can give advice.
2.5
Using workrooms
Staff are expected to leave workrooms in a safe condition. When starting a practical
lesson, staff should check that rooms are clear, all thoroughfares and room exits are free
from obstruction, floors are dry and in a safe condition, and the lighting is adequate for the
work being undertaken. Fire doors must be unlocked and clear. Only staff accredited to
use the equipment are permitted to switch on the electricity and gas mains isolators,
students may not switch these on - not even under supervision. The department must
ensure that students do not use utensils, tools, machines or other equipment until they
have been taught how to use them correctly. Only one person may operate a machine or
piece of equipment at a time (there are some exceptions and some machinery is restricted
to use by qualified staff, see the Design Technology Code of Practice). Students are
required to clear away at the end of each practical session as instructed.
Page 8 of 26
Workshops, food technology rooms and other specialist practical rooms should be locked
when not in use. A specialist room should only be used for the purpose for which it was
designed. Supply or cover teachers must be given information on the room hazards; this
could be a laminated A4 sheet for the room explaining the location and operation of main
services such as electrical isolators, any local hazards, and where help can be obtained.
Cover teachers may supervise practical work only if they are competent, experienced and
accredited to the appropriate standard e.g. DATA certification for the equipment to be
used, and understand the relevant safety procedures.
There have been a number of instances where schools have asked non design technology
trained staff to undertake practical resistant materials classes due to a shortage of a
trained design technology staff.
The subject leader and headteacher should ensure that any teaching staff practicing
design technology in school have the following experience and qualifications:
 DATA H&S Accreditation in core secondary and every specialist level that the
teacher may be required to teach
 Completion of a recognised design technology teacher training course.
Machine workshops or rooms where machinery and tools are left accessible must not be
used as tutor or form rooms.
2.6
Maintenance of Equipment
Employers have a legal duty to ensure that equipment/plant that their employees and nonemployees (e.g. students/students) use is safe. A Safe Condition Survey has been
produced to assist establishments in complying with this duty in design technology areas
/workshops.
The subject leader or other persons designated by them should complete the survey at the
start of each academic year. The person (or persons) completing the survey cards must be
competent to undertake the task (e.g. it would be inappropriate for a food technology
teacher to check the condition of metalworking machinery, unless they were able to
demonstrate competence in this area, such as DATA certification for the machines and
experience). Where suitable qualifications are not available for machine types, the subject
leader will need to assess the persons competence based on their experience and
understanding of the manufacturer’s instructions on safe use of the machine. Sheets have
been provided for details of competent persons to be recorded.
A file should be developed and contain a survey sheet for each piece of machinery/
equipment in the establishment (e.g. if the establishment has 6 pillar drills there should be
6 “Drilling Machine” survey cards).
Completion of the survey cards does not allow for other daily monitoring and maintenance
procedures to be neglected. Where survey cards refer to the machine and its accessories
having been maintained by a competent person/organisation, the level of competence
required would normally be different to that of someone completing the survey cards. The
person/organisation undertaking the maintenance would need to be competent to
undertake checks, servicing and repairs whereas the holder of DATA accreditation should
be competent to use and instruct on the operation of the machine. For machines which
use gas the maintenance contractor must be a Gas Safe Registered engineer who has the
appropriate certification to work on the type of installation and gas type.
Page 9 of 26
2.7
Inspections
Each workroom should be inspected three times per year by a person who understands
the nature of the hazards associated with the activities carried out in the room. A model
inspection checklist is available on Czone.
2.8
Safety signs, notices and displays
Each workroom must have a set of safety rules and the fire procedure displayed clearly.
Cautionary notices and signs must be displayed where appropriate, these can be homemade provided they conform to current standards and standard pictograms and are made
of a durable material. Details are available on CLEAPSS in the sign catalogue which is
adjustable and printable, and when laminated gives a useful and compliant workshop sign.
2.9
Making artefacts
Items made at school must be safe to use. In many cases, there are regulations or
guidelines such as the Toys (Safety) Regulations 1995. Items must not be dangerous on
account of their flammability; they should be made inflammable or, if they can ignite,
should burn slowly with a small rate of flame spread.
2.10
Guards and interlocks
Keep machine guards in clean and good condition, those that have safety interlocks must
be checked regularly to ensure that they work efficiently.
2.11
Moving and handling
Moving and handling covers any form of lifting, pushing, pulling or carrying loads, by hand
or using bodily force. Handling loads using incorrect techniques can cause strains,
particularly back strain, fractures, cuts and other injuries.
These can mean lost working days, and in severe cases even permanent disablement.
Injuries caused by bad document handling are a big cause of absence in education.
Therefore headteachers must make sure that each line manager is responsible for
arranging to:
 avoid equipment and material handling where there is a risk of injury, wherever
reasonably practicable
 risk assess all material handling operations
 record all relevant risk assessments
 review the risk assessments regularly
 provide adequate information, instruction and training for staff.
3.
Accidents and incidents
In health and safety, an accident is an event that causes ill-health or injury, and possibly
damage to property or the environment. An incident is an event that nearly causes illhealth, injury, damage to property or the environment (so it can be called a near miss).
Never ignore a near-miss. It gives important information on how to prevent a similar event
happening again. If ignored, the consequences could be much worse next time.
Page 10 of 26
It is essential to report accidents and incidents, as it is an important way of monitoring
health and safety performance and identifying trends so that resources can be targeted
towards tackling specific areas of concern. The law says that employers have to report
serious accidents and incidents.
There are two levels of reporting and recording accidents and incidents: using your local
school minor injuries form and reporting to East Sussex County Council via the online
incident system, available on Czone.
3.1
Investigating and monitoring accidents
Unless they are minor accidents where the cause is obvious, accidents and incidents need
to be investigated. The main reason for the investigation is to find the cause of the
accident to prevent it happening again. You should record any findings and
recommendations.
The investigator should be the person responsible for the area where the accident
occurred or the person in charge of the curriculum area if it happened in a lesson and
should be carried out in liaison with the Health and Safety Co-ordinator. More serious
accidents, where the injured person was taken to hospital, must be investigated by a
senior manager and Health and Safety Co-ordinator.
Accidents and incidents are usually caused by failures in control, and often have several
causes, both direct and indirect. Although the direct cause may be human or technical
failure, the indirect cause may be down to organisational failings or oversights that
managers are responsible for. When investigating an accident it is important to look for
both direct and indirect causes.
4.
Adhesives
Follow the guidance on CLEAPSS for Design and Technology to create a substance
assessment for safe use of all adhesives. Do not use hazardous adhesives (for example,
epoxy resins, cyanoacrylates and formaldehyde resins) when safer ones would do just as
well. It is recommended that non-solvent based products are used where possible. All
glues must be used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Be aware that
some solvent-based adhesives are used by glue-sniffers.
4.1
Hot-melt glue guns
Use the trigger-type only. Wear a protective glove on the hand holding the work. Consider
the use of an appropriate stand to keep glue gun clear of drips. Before use, teach users
the first aid procedure should hot glue come into contact with the skin; immerse the hand
in clean cold water for at least five minutes. Ensure that there is a source of cold water
available; it should be at least two metres away from the glue gun (preventing the risk of
water being spilled onto the glue gun).
4.2
Cyanoacrylates (superglues)
These may be used by teachers, technicians and under strict guidance and control,
students Y10 and above. Students must be under direct supervision. Be very careful not to
get this glue on anyone’s skin. This glue should be kept locked away when not in use.
Page 11 of 26
4.3
Wall-paper paste
Avoid the use of paste which has fungicide in it, as this is an irritant and can cause an
allergic skin reaction.
5.
Buying safe goods and equipment
When you buy goods and equipment, you want to be sure that you get what you pay for,
and that they will not cause any harm to staff or students. If possible, schools should avoid
using hazardous substances. Non or less hazardous substances should be chosen in
preference. The quality and performance of equipment must be suitable for educational
use. For example, items meant for DIY enthusiasts may not be suitable for students to
use. Please refer to BS 4163:2014 prior to purchasing any equipment to ensure its
suitability and to identify any training requirements, etc.
Buy from reputable suppliers, and avoid second-hand equipment unless you are sure it is
in good condition and suitable.
The CE mark on equipment is not a guarantee of safety - it says the manufacturer is
claiming the machinery complies with the law. It’s up to the school to check the equipment
is safe before use.
To help you choose safe and good value products:
 research what you need - contact other educational establishments for
recommendations
 don’t be misled by sales staff into buying unnecessary extras
 ask for written confirmation that the goods or services will comply with relevant
safety standards
 check for hidden costs or small print clauses
 check to see if the goods or services are covered by a code of practice, or if the
company is a member of a trade association
 if fitting or installation is involved, check to see that the person who will carry this
out is suitably qualified (e.g. an electrician or gas fitter)
 if the equipment has replaceable parts, check that they are easily available at a
reasonable cost, and preferably that you can get them from a range of suppliers.
When ordering the goods, make sure your order identifies the exact goods, specifications
and standards required, cross-referencing to the suppliers’ literature where necessary and
only sign off if these are correct. When arranging installations, these should only be
signed off when the equipment is proved to be working correctly. Be aware of interlock
switching with machines and local exhaust ventilation (LEV) equipment.
6.
Cleaning rooms
Staff must keep the practical rooms clean and tidy. Walkways and work areas should not
be cluttered. Equipment and materials must be stored appropriately. You need suitable
equipment to clean dust. See the section (11) on fumes and dust.
Page 12 of 26
School staff must leave practical rooms, offices and preparation rooms in a safe state so
the rooms can be cleaned safely. Cleaners must have induction training before cleaning in
hazardous areas such as machine workshops; the cleaning staff must have been trained
to use the appropriate cleaning methods, particularly in ceramics areas, wood and metal
machine workshops.
You must explain to cleaners clearly if there are areas or equipment that should not be
cleaned. Do this in liaison with the site manager or caretaker.
7.
Electricity
7.1
Mains leads, plugs and sockets
Plugs, leads and sockets must be checked regularly. Worn or damaged mains flex must
be replaced. All 230 volt mains plugs must be the standard 13 amp square pin type with
partly shrouded line and neutral pins, the older style plugs with bare line and neutral pins
should not be used. Staff should not wire plugs until they have received adequate training.
7.2
The fixed installation (the building wiring up to the power socket)
No one is allowed to work on the fixed installation without agreement from BSD Property
(maintained schools). If they have agreed the work, it can only be done by an ESCCapproved contractor, a NICEIC contractor, or an ECA or JIB recognised electrician. The
work must comply with the latest edition of the Institute of Electrical Engineers (IEE)
regulations for electrical installation, and when it is finished, a completion certificate must
be sent to BSD Property.
The mains wiring in workshops (single phase and three phase) must conform to the
requirements specified in section 3 (part 7) of BS 4163:2014. The mains isolator and
emergency stops must be labelled clearly. No student or unauthorised person is permitted
to turn on the mains isolator.
Often you have to connect more than one device to a mains socket, particularly with
computer equipment - do not use socket adapters, use fused 13A rated trailing distribution
blocks. Extension leads may only be used as a temporary method of powering portable
equipment; they must not be used as permanent fittings. Cable drum flex must be fully
unwound before use. All flex must be routed, guarded or protected so that it does not
cause a danger of tripping people.
Portable mains equipment used outdoors must be protected by a residual current device
(RCD).
7.3
Room electricity emergency stops
Rooms with high power electrical machines should be fitted with adequate emergency
stops around the room. Design technology workshops must have them installed. See
section 3 (part 7.2.5) of BS 4163:2014. The stops must be tested regularly; if any
malfunction, the machine should be taken out of use and they must be repaired by a
qualified electrician without delay.
Preparation rooms for staff use only do not need emergency stops and should not be
affected if emergency stops within the workshops are activated.
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8.
Checking and using equipment
All users of portable mains equipment should carry out a simple and quick five -point visual
check before plugging a device into a socket and switching it on:
 Are the plug and mains socket in good condition with no damage or missing
screws?
 Does the equipment have a current PAT label?
 Is the flex in good condition - the flex outer sheath must go fully into the plug and
fully into the equipment?
 Does the mains equipment appear in good order, free from dampness and no
obvious damage?
 If the equipment has a switch, is it switched to off?
Remember, damp or wet mains conductors are dangerous. Do not attempt to remove
damp plugs from sockets, isolate the supply first.
8.1
Approved equipment
All mains electrical equipment used in schools must conform to relevant British Standards
specification or equivalent European standards. Do not use equipment meant for domestic
light use.
8.2
Maintenance of equipment
The electricity at work regulations requires that periodic tests are made to ensure electrical
equipment is in a safe condition. Portable electrical equipment should be formally tested
annually. The checks include examination for integrity of connectors, correct fusing and
flex, tests for earth bonding and for line-earth insulation. The electricity regulations apply to
the whole school, not just to the technology department. Check with your school
management for the arrangements for electrical testing.
8.3
Home-made mains apparatus
Teachers/technicians are not permitted to construct mains equipment for school use.
8.4
Low voltage
Students are not permitted to use power supplies with more than 33 volts on open
terminals; for younger students (under Y10) it is preferable to keep the supply below 25
volts. Higher voltages are permitted if they are current limited to 5mA or less, or if the
terminals are suitably shrouded to prevent accidental contact with a live conductor.
Students must not be allowed to work on TV sets, open mains etc.
8.5
Rechargeable batteries
Rechargeable batteries (nicad, nickel metal hydride, lithium or lead-acid) may not be used
by young students in school (Y8 or lower) unless either the battery holder and all electrical
connections are completely inaccessible to students, or some current limiting device is
inserted between the batteries and the accessible connections. This restriction is
necessary because of the dangers of using these batteries. If they are short-circuited, the
conducting wires can become red hot and the plastic insulation will burn. If the short circuit
is severe, high-capacity batteries may explode.
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The risk of injury outweighs any cost-saving benefit. Nicad or nickel metal hydride
rechargeables may be used by students in Y9 or above under suitable supervision when a
low internal resistance power source is necessary for a project to work. The students must
be made aware of the hazards.
Owing to the risk of explosion, no attempt should be made to recharge primary (nonrechargeable) batteries.
9.
Fire safety
Follow the school procedure for fire evacuation. Each room should have a notice
explaining the evacuation procedure and muster points. If there is more than one exit, and
one may lead people in the wrong direction to escape safely, a fire exit sign with pictogram
must be placed over the correct exit(s).
Each workroom should have the correct type and number of extinguishers and other firefighting equipment as laid down by the local fire risk assessment. Access to the equipment
must not be hindered. Staff are advised to read the instructions on using the equipment.
Fire hazards from highly combustible material require a specific risk assessment. You
need to look at how the fire could start, and put in specific safety measures to reduce the
likelihood of it happening and spreading.
10.
Fumes and dust
The COSHH regulations require that fumes and dust are kept below limits specified. This
can be done in several ways. If a health and safety risk is anticipated refer first to the HSE
document HSG 258 about LEV, then follow these steps.
1)
Change the process
Sometimes a simple change of technique can reduce dusts. Avoid keeping and
mixing fine powders if it is safe to keep them in paste or pellet form. Brush on
paints, glazes etc. rather than spray them. Consider hand-cutting plastics rather
than machining them
2)
Use natural ventilation
Activities which produce low levels of fumes, such as gluing with household glues,
soldering and painting with solvent based paints, can be done with no special
precautions other than ensuring good natural ventilation. This may mean working
near a window or working outside
3)
Use local exhaust ventilation (LEV) systems
Some processes produce high levels of fumes and dust and may only be done with
an adequate local exhaust ventilation system, also known as LEV, or fume
extraction or dust extraction. Where LEV has been installed, it must be tested to
check it meets the design criteria every 14 months. It is the responsibility of the
subject leader to make sure the tests are undertaken and that records kept
4)
Use dust masks and respirators
These may only be used where it is impracticable to use methods 1-3, or when
methods 1-3 are not sufficient by themselves. It is not an alternative cheaper
method.
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Refer to CLEAPSS Design and Technology guidance on LEV for dust and fume control for
specific hazardous materials. Machines that produce high levels of fine dust, such as disc
sanders, belt-facers, circular saws, band saws and powered fret saws must be fitted with
suitable LEV.
10.1
Cleaning dusty areas
It is important that workspaces which are prone to the build up of dust - like wood
machining rooms and pottery rooms - are cleaned regularly, particularly in the not-soaccessible places. Vacuum cleaners may only be used if they have adequate dust filtering,
(stage 3) ordinary vacuum cleaners will only disperse very fine dust and cause a greater
risk. Surface cleaning should be done damp or wet, particularly silica dust in ceramics
rooms. You may need to wear a disposable dust mask (grade FFP2) if dust becomes
airborne while cleaning. See section 6 on cleaning rooms.
10.2
Hazardous materials
If possible, schools should avoid using hazardous substances. Non or less hazardous
substances should be chosen in preference. The Control of Substances Hazardous to
Health (COSHH) Regulations require risk assessments and control measures to be
provided for employees and others affected who have to work with hazardous substances,
for example solvents, acids, bleaches, dyes, etc. which could be harmful if used wrongly.
This includes fumes and dusts (COSHH is not concerned with dangers due to extremes of
temperature or pressure. Asbestos and lead are also excluded from the regulations
because there are separate regulations for these).
COSHH is not designed to prevent teachers from using hazardous materials; it should be
regarded as a more systematic approach to sensible safe practice which has developed in
schools and colleges over the years. Reference must be made to the COSHH risk
assessments before using hazardous materials, but there is no need for repeated referrals
once they are familiar with the hazards and safety procedures.
Be aware that the COSHH information is updated as new hazards are recognised. You
must not use a hazardous material if a safer substitute is reasonably practicable.
10.3
Risk assessments and control measures
Model COSHH risk assessments for the materials used in practical subjects are available
from the CLEAPSS online pages for Design and Technology. These should be crossreferenced with the material safety data sheets to develop COSHH assessments. Do not
use a hazardous material without an assessment. You must follow the guidance given on
the assessment.
To each risk assessment, you should add notes on any local conditions and hazards.
Every employee has a duty to make full and proper use of the safety equipment and safety
information provided by the school or the Local Authority. The COSHH information must
be used in the planning and organising of technology activities. People handling
hazardous materials are also required to follow the manufacturer’s or supplier’s
instructions for its use.
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LEV systems have to be checked every 14 months. Refer to the section fumes and dusts
(11).
10.4
Prohibited substances
Some of the following materials may have been used in the curriculum in the past, but they
are no longer considered suitable. It is unlikely that these are in schools now, but
sometimes they are discovered when clearing out old cupboards and stores. Do not use
them. The below list is not exhaustive; no hazardous material may be used unless it has
been assessed carefully.
Prohibited Substance
Asbestos
Likely use
Solvent
Benzene
Heat insulation
Barium powder pigments
Paint/glaze colouring
Cadmium powder pigments
Paint/glaze colouring
Chromium powder pigments
Paint/glaze colouring
Fehling’s solution
Food test
Hydrofluoric acid
Etching glass etc.
Methanal (formaldehyde, formalin)
Fungicide, lithography
Million’s reagent
Food test
Phenol (solid)
Anti-bacterial investigations
Raw lead glazes
Glazing ceramics
Tetrachloromethane (carbon tetrachloride) Solvent, stain remover
11.
ICT equipment
Although working with display screen equipment is not generally high risk, users can get
musculoskeletal and other physical problems, eye fatigue and mental stress if they do not
follow the precautions laid down in the Display Screen Equipment (DSE) Regulations.
These regulations are relevant to staff, particularly those in information technology areas.
Students are not normally classed as users because they do not use the DSE equipment
for long enough. Nonetheless, the general principles in setting up comfortable and low-risk
workstations for students should still be followed.
11.1
Safe use of laptop computers
Laptops and similar portable computers are not suitable as office workstations for
administrative support staff. These styles of computers have smaller keyboards and
screens than desktop computers and this makes them less comfortable to use, especially
over longer periods. The hazards are aches and pains caused by poor posture, eyestrain
and headaches from looking at a poor contrast screen, and arm and finger strains caused
by poor keyboard technique. There is also an electrical hazard if the laptop external power
unit becomes damaged.
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Follow these points to reduce the health hazards:
 avoid using laptop computers for long periods; use a full-sized PC if one is available
or consider using a docking station with a plug-in full size mouse and keyboard
 when you use mains power, only use the a/c adaptor provided by the manufacturer,
not any others, to avoid incompatibility and damage to the laptop
 look at the adaptor, power cables and plug, and check that they are in good
condition before plugging in. Keep the power cables free from twists
 if possible, choose software that allows you to adjust image size and colour
 be careful that power cables do not cross walkways because it may cause someone
to trip
 when you use a laptop for more than a few minutes, make sure you are sitting
comfortably with good posture, and adjust the screen to give the best viewing
position without screen reflections. It is better to use the laptop on a table rather
than on your lap
 take regular breaks from using the laptop if the work is prolonged. As a guide, do
something else for five minutes every thirty minutes of laptop use.
Practical rooms are far from ideal for ICT equipment, so extra care is needed. Ensure that
the equipment is placed in a dust-free area and well away from water, hazardous liquids
etc. Dust and dirt will damage DVD/CD drives. Do not place the equipment close to
radiators or other heat sources. Ensure that the ventilation holes remain unobstructed.
Arrange the equipment so that users are able to sit down and operate it comfortably.
Refer to the section on electricity (8). Computer equipment is likely to have many trailing
leads used for connecting the peripheral equipment. Route these leads to minimise the
risk of someone becoming entangled in them.
Some desktop PCs have a significant earth leakage to cause nuisance tripping of sensitive
RCDs. Double insulated equipment such as laptops will not cause this problem.
11.2
Interactive whiteboards
The height of the board from the floor should be set to give good visibility and ensure
users can reach all areas of the board without having to bend excessively; the height
should also give students access to a sufficient area of the board. Avoid using platforms to
give younger students access to the board.
The light from projectors is very bright and can cause eye damage. Follow these
guidelines to prevent this:




never stare directly into the beam of the projector. Warn students of the dangers too
when entering the beam, you should not look towards the class for more than a few
seconds
as much as practicable, keep your back to the projector beam when you move into
the beam
students should be supervised when the projector is in use.
Interactive whiteboards can be very difficult to see when direct sunlight shines on the
board. If the board is in direct sunlight, you will need to fit window blinds. Staff adjusting or
cleaning a high-mounted or suspended projector must use an appropriate step ladder to
access it safely. Projectors should be allowed to cool down before cleaning.
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All cabling must be safely secured for the whole of the cable length.
12.
Ladders, steps and other access equipment
You must have suitable ladders and other portable access equipment for staff who need to
work at heights, for instance to put up displays or reach upper shelves. Chairs, tables and
other items of furniture must not be used. Stepladders, ladders and scaffold towers must
be suitable for the tasks. Metal ladders must meet BS 2037:1994, or the European
equivalents. Ladders should be Class 1, designed for industrial use. Avoid ladders
designed for light or domestic use.
The headteacher must ensure that:
 the access equipment is in good condition
 the access equipment is stored safely and securely so unauthorised people cannot
use it
 staff and other users know how to use it properly.
Follow the guidance in the Stepladders user guide available on Czone. Access equipment
must be checked every three months and records kept. One way of arranging this is to
make sure each item of equipment has an ‘owner’ responsible for checking it regularly,
and taking it out of service if it becomes defective.
Staff that are expected to use ladders or stepladders more than 4 rungs high should attend
a ½ day training session. All staff who are expected to use a mobile tower scaffold (either
equipment owned or hired by the school) should attend a one day certificated training
session prior to using the equipment. The qualification should be to a PASMA
(Prefabricated Access Suppliers and Manufacturers Association) standard.
13.
Lifting operations and lifting equipment
These are regulated by the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER).
These regulations apply to all hoists, jacks or other lifting equipment that may be used in
technology. If you have any such equipment, then you must ensure that the lifting
equipment is:
 of adequate strength and stability for each load, particularly regarding the stress at
its mounting or fixing point
 positioned or installed to reduce to as low as is reasonably practicable the risk of
the equipment or a load striking a person; or from a load drifting, falling freely, or
being released unintentionally
 either marked to indicate its safe working load, or has information kept with the
machine that clearly indicates its safe working load for each configuration, or both if
it applies
 thoroughly examined regularly.
The regulations specify that lifting equipment to lift persons (including accessories for
lifting persons) must be examined every 6 months. Other lifting equipment must be
examined every 12 months (as a minimum), or in either case, in accordance with an
examination scheme, and each time that exceptional circumstances have occurred that
could have damaged the lifting equipment.
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The examination must be done by a competent person, and will normally involve a load
test. Records of dates and results of the examination must be kept.
See the section on moving and handling (2.11).
14.
Lone working
Lone working means working when there is nobody else around to help or to raise the
alarm if you need it. For example, a teacher might come into school on their own at the
weekend to prepare some work.
If staff need to work alone, you must consider what precautions you need to take for their
health and safety. This begins before they even arrive for work: it is important that
someone else knows that they will be working alone, and approximately when they should
be home. For practical purposes, this could be a relative, friend or neighbour.
When they are at work, the normal standards apply so that potential harm is kept to a
minimum. But lone workers also have to remember that they are responsible in law for
their own health and safety - they must not take risks or short cuts. They must not try to do
anything they are not adequately trained for, or which needs more than one person to do it
safely.
Anyone with supervisory responsibilities must do a risk assessment identifying the
hazards, assessing the risks involved and putting the measures in place to avoid or control
them. This means identifying situations where their staff work alone, and considering a
number of questions:
 Does anything about the environment present specific risks to staff – e.g. the
location, weather conditions or time of year?
 Is there safe access in and out?
 Can the equipment be safely handled and used by one person?
 Does the job involve handling loads?
 Is there a risk of violence?
 Do the staff concerned have any medical conditions?
 What forms of communication are available?
The risk assessment may point out a need for more staff, equipment, information,
instruction and training, greater supervision, or new safer systems of work such as a
checking-in system.
Personal safety courses are available via the Children’s Services Workforce Development
Team – sistraining@eastsussex.gov.uk.
15.
Noise
Noise levels at work are regulated by The Noise at Work Regulations 2005.
Some machines can produce high levels of sound, for example circular saws, planers, and
percussion drills.
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In general, if persons about 2 metres apart are required to raise their voices to carry out a
normal conversation, it might be necessary to implement controls under these
Regulations. Further information on the exposure limits are contained in BS4163:2014.
If you notice regular ringing in your ears after being in a noisy environment, reduce the
noise if possible and obtain advice from the Health and Safety Team.
16.
Pressure systems
Large compressed air systems (in which the pressure multiplied by the internal volume of
the air receiver exceeds 250 bar litre) are regulated by the Pressure Systems Safety
Regulations 2000. It is the policy of this local authority to have the examination carried out
by inspectors from Zurich using a written scheme of examination provided and record of
these inspections must be kept.
All pressure systems must be maintained in good repair to prevent danger. Users must
know what action is needed in the event of an emergency, in most cases this will be to
remove the source of energy (switch off the electrical supply, turn off the heat etc.) and
leave the area.
Users of any pressure system should carry out pre-start checks; they should understand
under what circumstances the system should be shut down and know how to vent any
residual pressure safely before removing lids, filler caps, hoses etc.
If the pressure vessel shows any signs of significant pitting, corrosion, damage from drops
or knocks or bowing from over-pressure, it should be considered sufficient grounds for
replacing the apparatus.
Regardless of the size of the system, it would still be wise to make regular spot-checks.
Ensure that all hoses and pressure pipes are in good condition and securely fitted. The
compressed air vessel should be free from corrosion or other visible signs of damage.
Check that the pressure gauges are working and the pressure cut-out switch operates.
Filters should be serviced regularly and water/oil trap bowls should be clear and free from
cracks. Where appropriate, the compressed air vessel should be marked clearly with the
maximum safe working pressure.
Do not neglect the non-pressure hazards like power cables, drive belts and guards. If
portable air compressors are mounted above the floor surface, they must be secured
before they are used.
Under no circumstances should compressed air be used for blowing away dust.
16.1
Hired pressure systems
The owner has the responsibility for carrying out the formal examination and the hirer has
the duty to use the system in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
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16.2
Model steam engines
Under the Pressure Systems Safety Regulations, regular checks must be made on all
pressure vessels, including model steam engines, using a written scheme of examination
(WSE). It is the policy of this authority to have the examination carried out by inspectors
from Zurich, using WSEs provided by the insurance company. A record of the
examinations must be kept.
17.
Protective clothing and safety equipment
17.1
Clothing
Protective clothing such as aprons or overalls must be used in any ‘messy’ practical work,
or where hazardous materials are being used. Do not use nylon or other plastic protective
clothing in high-temperature work. Leather aprons and heat-resistant spats, gloves, boots
and gaiters must be used when pouring molten metal in foundry work.
People wearing bandages on the hand or forearm are not permitted to use machinery
which has exposed moving parts.
17.2
Eye protection and guards
Eye protection must be used if there is any significant risk of eye injury in the work being
carried out or observed. Don’t overlook the risk when working with stretched materials.
Eye protection must conform to BS EN166, except for welding shields which must conform
to BS EN175. There are various grades within BS EN166, 3 protects against liquid
splashes, 4 protects against large dust particles, 5 protects against gas and fine dust
particles, 9 protects against molten metals and hot solids, B protects against medium
energy impact, and F protects against low energy impact.
B grade is generally sufficient for protecting eyes from particles produced by normal
machining techniques, but grade 9 must be used for protection against hot metal splashes
or sparks. Select the type of eye protection suitable for the practical work. Eye protectors
must be kept clean and scratch-free, periodically they must be washed in a mild household
disinfectant.
17.3
First aid
Each workroom must have easy access to a first aid kit. It should be in a cabinet marked
with a green cross. It must be stocked and used in accordance with the guidelines
available on Czone. At least one person holding a First Aid at Work certificate must be
available when design technology rooms are in use.
18.
Services: water and gas
18.1
Gas supplies
Refer to BS 4163:2014 section 3. There should be a gas isolating valve into each area of
use. The valve must be labelled clearly and the off position indicated. If it is outside the
workroom, a notice must be displayed near the entrance explaining where it is located.
The valve must be accessible at all times. Make sure the gas isolators are off when the
gas is not being used.
Page 22 of 26
In emergencies, shut off the gas at the isolator. If you think there is a gas leak, or are
worried about carbon monoxide, call the National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111
999, 24 hours a day, and keep all unauthorised people away from the area.
All gas equipment must be checked and maintained regularly. Gas pipe work and controls
should be visually checked to ensure that they are corrosion free. Check that the gas
flexible hoses and joints are in good condition and restraining cables, straps or chains are
secure. The equipment must be stable, all fixing straps and bolts must be secure. Gasfired equipment fed with pressure air or any other extraneous gas must have an approved
non-return valve fitted into the gas supply to each teaching area or group of areas. Staff
and technicians may carry out simple maintenance such as unblocking nozzles and
cleaning user-serviceable parts, but they may not otherwise dismantle or modify gas
equipment; this must be done by a competent Gas Safe Registered contractor.
All gas appliances must be formally checked at least once a year by a competent Gas
Safe Registered contractor. Keep records of the checks and maintenance.
18.2
Using gas burners
Do not situate gas burners in a position which can be illuminated by strong sunlight, the
flame becomes very difficult to see. Utensils and tools must be placed so that you do not
need to lean over the burner to reach them. Students must not be allowed to light gas
burners until they have received adequate training on how to do it safely. The danger is
particularly great with large burners like those fitted to brazing hearths and forges, where it
is possible for large amounts of gas/air mixture to be released in a short time.
18.3
Water
There should be a water stopcock in the water pipes into each area of use. The stopcock
must be labelled clearly and the off position indicated. If it is outside the workroom, a
notice must be displayed near the entrance explaining where it is located. In workshops
and other ‘non-clean’ rooms, warm water, soap and hand drying facilities must be provided
for hand washing.
19.
Storage
Workshop storage must be in accordance with section 3 of BS 4163:2014. Sharp tools and
utensils must be stored so that accidental contact with the sharp part is unlikely.
All materials that are hazardous, for example they may be toxic, flammable or corrosive,
must be clearly labelled. The labelling must state the material and the nature of the
hazard(s). Keep all working quantities of these materials to a minimum. Access to
hazardous materials must be restricted to authorised users only.
Storage must be kept well organised and tidy. Large items should not be stored at a high
level and proper step ladders or similar must be available for reaching high shelves safely.
Standing on benches, chairs, tables etc. is not permitted.
Suitable storage for clothing, school bags, etc. should be provided away from the main
practical area. Walkways must be kept clear at all times.
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19.1
Flammables
Stocks of flammable liquids must be stored in a lockable fire-resistant cabinet in a well
ventilated stockroom. The maximum amount of flammable liquids you are allowed to store
is 50 litres, no more than 5 litres of any one type. This is a large quantity and schools
should not normally store such large amounts. A large storage of flammable liquids
requires a specific fire risk assessment.
19.2
Corrosives
Stocks of corrosive liquids must be placed in secondary containers, e.g. plastic buckets, so
that the liquid can be retained if the primary container leaks. Stocks of corrosive liquids
must be stored in a secure and well ventilated storeroom.
19.3
Shelving
Make regular checks to ensure that shelving is in a safe condition. Shelves must not be
overloaded and heavy materials must not be stored high up. Ensure that the shelf space is
used sensibly with no items stacked precariously. Proper stepladders must be provided for
access to shelving beyond easy reach from the floor.
19.4
Storage-life
All materials and chemicals with limited shelf-lives must be dated, either with the purchase
date or with the dispose-of-by date; it must be clear what the date refers to. Ensure that
such chemicals or materials are disposed of safely before they deteriorate into a
dangerous state. See the section on waste (22).
See the separate Food Technology Code of Practice document for information on food
storage.
20.
Tools: hand tools and portable power tools
Tools must be used in the correct manner and for operations that they are designed for.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Arrangements must be put in place to ensure that
all tools are returned at the end of each practical lesson.
20.1
Hand tools
These must be kept in a clean safe condition. Ensure handles are secure. Cutting blades
must be kept sharp. Hammers must be checked to ensure the head is secure and the
handle is in a safe condition. Sharp tools and utensils must be stored so that people
cannot easily come into contact with the sharp edge or point.
20.2
Portable power tools
All work equipment must be regularly checked and maintained. Power tools designed for
machining materials must be a single-purpose type; power-tool attachments are not
permitted. This does not apply to non-machining tools such as food processors and
sewing machines. Students are not permitted to use portable power tools with exposed
rotating cutters (except drills not exceeding 13 mm bits). This prohibition includes power
gardening tools, circular saws, routers and planers. There are restrictions on the use of
Page 24 of 26
food processors and liquidisers with exposed blades (see section 2 of the Food
Technology Code of Practice: cookers and domestic machinery). High-power portable
machining tools are not recommended for the technology curriculum. Schools are not
permitted to use off-hand grinders, chain saws or any other very dangerous portable highpower tools.
Keep the external surfaces free from water; better still, keep the tool well away from water
(this does not refer to internal water reservoirs in steam irons etc.).
All electrical equipment must be visually checked. At least once a year it must undergo
formal checks for earth bonding and line insulation. Refer to the section electricity (8).
20.3
Glue guns
Refer to the section on adhesives (4).
21.
Training
Subject leaders must assess their own health and safety training needs and that of their
staff, and make arrangements for those who need training to attend suitable courses.
Training is not just for employees; if you use voluntary workers, they are also entitled to
training if they need it to carry out their role safely and without undue risk to themselves or
others affected by their work.
Some types of practical work using dangerous machinery may not be carried out unless
the person holds current accreditation from DATA. Subject leaders should assess their
staff periodically; training does not last indefinitely and refresher training will be needed.
DATA accreditation must be updated every five years with the individual’s portfolio’s being
subject to review by the Health and Safety Team as part of the audit programme.
22.
Waste
You have a strict duty to make sure your waste is managed properly. You must make sure
waste is disposed of legally. You must always have it taken by a registered carrier to a
properly licensed waste disposal facility, and always provide the necessary
documentation.
Waste material can be difficult and expensive to dispose of. If possible, avoid using
processes that produce significant quantities of toxic waste - change the process to
produce less waste, or a less harmful kind. When comparing the cost of materials, it is
important to take into account the cost of disposing of them. It’s also important to avoid
accumulating waste. Don’t buy more of a material than you are likely to need, particularly if
it has a limited shelf life. Often a small amount can be treated then disposed of as
household waste. However, if it is allowed to accumulate into a large amount, it becomes a
problem to treat.
There are extra regulations for some materials - such as asbestos, hazardous chemicals
and oil. If you have to dispose of any such wastes, the Environment Agency must be told
beforehand, and it will need a consignment note - the contractor will normally deal with
this.
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22.1
Disposable items
The practice of reclaiming disposable items for re-use is bad and should be avoided. It
saves very little money in return for lowering standards of hygiene and safety.
22.2
Combustible swarf
Combustible swarf such as plastic shavings, wood shavings and dust must not be allowed
to accumulate. They should be swept up into a sack and placed in a metal bin. The bin
should be emptied regularly into the school dustbins.
22.3
Metal swarf, sharps and glass
A bin, suitably labelled, should be reserved just for this type of waste. The cleaning staff
must be made aware of this so that the contents can be handled correctly.
22.4
Chemically hazardous materials
This must be disposed of as a special waste. It is important that schools avoid producing
large quantities of hazardous waste. This may mean selecting a safer process that does
not use or produce toxic materials.
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