Health and Safety Statement - Coláiste Gleann Lígleannli.ie/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Health-Safety...CGL_HS_SS_001 draft 9 4.3 C OLÁISTE G LEANN L Í R OLES AND R ESPONSIBILITIES

HEALTH AND SAFETY STATEMENT

For

Coláiste Gleann Lí

Clash,

Tralee,

Co Kerry

Safety Statement

CGL_HS_SS_001 draft 2

Declaration

This Coláiste Gleann Lí Health & Safety Statement was adopted by the Board of

Management of Coláiste Gleann Lí on:

Safety Statement


1 DOCUMENT INFORMATION

Document Details

Title:

Coláiste Gleann Lí Health and Safety Statement

Safety Statement


2 CONTENTS

1 Document Information ................................................................................................................... 3

3 Introduction .................................................................................................................................... 5

Health and Safety Policy ......................................................................................................................... 7

4 Roles and Responsibilities ............................................................................................................... 8

4.1 Introduction to Kerry ETB Safety Structures ........................................................................... 8

4.2 Coláiste Gleann Lí Safety Organisational Chart....................................................................... 8

4.3 Coláiste Gleann Lí Roles and Responsibilities ......................................................................... 9

4.3.1 Principal – Richard Lawlor ............................................................................................... 9

4.3.2 Safety Officer – John Joe Roche .................................................................................... 10

4.3.3 Teachers ........................................................................................................................ 10

4.3.4 Caretakers ..................................................................................................................... 11

4.3.5 Special Needs Assistants ............................................................................................... 11

4.3.6 All Staff .......................................................................................................................... 12

5 Communication and Consultation ................................................................................................ 12

5.1 Rights of Elected Safety Representatives ............................................................................. 12

6 Resources and Welfare ................................................................................................................. 13

7 Training and Induction .................................................................................................................. 13

8 Emergency procedures ................................................................................................................. 14

8.1 Fire Procedure ....................................................................................................................... 14

8.2 Procedure for Suspected Gas Leak ....................................................................................... 15

8.3 Procedure for Security Issues – Bomb Threats and discovery of suspicious devices ........... 15

8.4 Emergency Evacuation Procedure ........................................................................................ 15

8.5 First Aid Procedure ................................................................................................................ 19

8.6 Serious Accident Procedure .................................................................................................. 20

8.7 Accident and Near Miss Reporting and Investigation procedure ......................................... 20

8.8 Procedure for Severe Weather Events ................................................................................. 22

9 Contractors ................................................................................................................................... 24

10 Monitoring and Review ............................................................................................................. 24

11 Risk Assessment Procedure ...................................................................................................... 26

12 Risk Assessments ...................................................................................................................... 29

Appendix 1: Duties of Employees ........................................................................................................ 30

Appendix 2 Safety Organisational Chart ............................................................................................... 31

Appendix 3 Covid-19 Risk Assessment…………………………………………………………………………………………31

Safety Statement


3 INTRODUCTION

The Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act, 2005, which applies to all persons at work, both

employers, employees & the self-employed, requires all employers to produce a Safety Statement and

bring it to the attention of all employees and others who may be exposed to risks to their health and

safety.

Corporate Document

Coláiste Gleann Lí is a post primary school under the governing body of Kerry ETB. Kerry ETB has

prepared an overall Corporate Safety Statement, which is used as a guide for all individual premises

Safety Statements under the control of Kerry ETB. The Corporate Safety Statement identifies the

health and safety procedures, controls and responsible persons within Kerry ETB. It is used as the

overall management document for defining Kerry ETB’s safety management system.

The working activities of Kerry ETB have been divided into individual premises and separate local

Safety Statements are produced for each premises. This safety statement sets out the Safety Policy of

Coláiste Gleann Lí and specifies the means provided to achieve this policy. Coláiste Gleann Lí’s

objective is to provide a safe and healthy work environment. Your support and co-operation is vital in

achieving this important objective.

Each staff member should familiarise her/himself with the safety statement and its contents. It is

important that you understand your role and the overall arrangements for Health and Safety. Specific

information and training on those parts of the safety statement which are of particular relevance to

you is also available and it is your duty to comply with all relevant procedures.

The Kerry ETB Corporate Safety Statement and associated policies and procedures are available on

the staff SharePoint.

The premises safety statement and related documents are kept in the Coláiste Gleann Lí OneNote

Safety Management System (SMS) file.

Overview of COLÁISTE GLEANN LÍ

Coláiste Gleann Lí has

Overview of the Safety Management System

Kerry ETB has established a safety management system for the organisation which includes central

procedures and policies outlined in the corporate safety statement. The safety statement and

associated procedures are available to view and download on the organisation SharePoint.

Coláiste Gleann Lí adheres to and has incorporated the central Kerry ETB policies and procedures into

its safety statement. There is a Safety Management System (SMS) safety file established in OneNote

for the school.

Safety Statement


The safety officer keeps the file updated by uploading training records, maintenance contracts,

accident reports, etc.

An annual review of the SMS system is carried out and risk assessments, emergency procedures, the

training register and action register are updated.

The Kerry ETB contracted safety adviser provides support and training where necessary to assist in

implementing the safety management system and rolling out central procedures.

Current Statutory Legislation applicable to COLÁISTE GLEANN LÍ

It is important for management representing Coláiste Gleann Lí to make themselves familiar with the

provisions of the applicable statutory legislation and how they should be implemented in the

workplace. These can be accessed through the Health & Safety Authority web-site (www.hsa.ie) or

from (www.irishstatutebook.ie)

In addition, the Health & Safety Authority provides Codes of Practice and Guidance documents for

various items of statutory legislation issued. The following items of legislation apply to the school:

SI 10/05 Safety, Health & Welfare at Work Act 2005 SI 299/07 Safety, Health & Welfare at Work (General Application) Regulations 2007 to 2016 SI 623/2015 Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (Chemical Agents) 2001 and 2015

S1 291/2013 Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (Construction) Regulations 2013

Safety Statement


HEALTH AND SAFETY POLICY

In accordance with the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 and the Safety, Health & Welfare

at Work (General Application) Regulations 2007-2016, it is the policy of Kerry Education and Training

Board (ETB) that all reasonable and practicable steps are taken to provide a safe and healthy

environment in Coláiste Gleann Lí.

Kerry ETB considers the safety, health and welfare at work of all staff and protecting pupils, learners,

visitors, contractors and other persons from injury and ill health arising from any work activity as a

high priority. Responsibility for health and safety rests with each member of staff, at every level within

the organisation. This safety statement will be used on an on-going basis by management in order to

achieve our overall objective, improve safety awareness and reduce accidents and ill health within the

school.

Coláiste Gleann Lí is a further education school under the control of Kerry ETB. The Kerry ETB

Corporate Safety Statement outlines the safety management system and the central safety

procedures for Kerry ETB. Coláiste Gleann Lí refers to the Kerry ETB central safety procedures in this

safety statement. In line with the Kerry ETB safety management system, the Principal, as manager of

the premises, commits to addressing all hazards in the workplace, by means of hazard identification

and risk assessment.

Kerry ETB will make available adequate resources to implement this policy. Kerry ETB will provide

information, instruction, training and supervision as necessary to ensure that the health and safety

objectives and duties are met.

Kerry ETB will ensure that measures are taken to protect, as far as is reasonably practicable, the health,

safety and welfare of individuals with disabilities.

This safety statement will be reviewed at least annually and revised when necessary to reflect changes

in procedure or policy or otherwise to maintain this as an up-to-date policy and working document.

Is mise le meas,

Signed: _________________________ Date: _________________

Colm McEvoy

CEO, Kerry ETB

Safety Statement


4 ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

4.1 INTRODUCTION TO KERRY ETB SAFETY STRUCTURES

Kerry Education and Training Board has over 1000 employees located in schools and adult education

facilities countywide. They serve approximately 3,000 fulltime students in further education schools

and over 12,000 learners engaged in Further Education and Training courses.

There is an overall Kerry ETB Safety Organisational Chart, attached in Appendix 2, which describes how

the management of safety is organised. In the overall safety management structure, there is a Facility

Manager for each Kerry ETB premises who has responsibility for daily management of safety in the

premises – the Principal in the case of COLÁISTE GLEANN LÍ. Refer to the overall Kerry ETB Roles and

Responsibilities for Safety and Health document number KETB_HS_DOC_014 for details of roles and

reporting structures in Kerry ETB.

The safety management structure for Coláiste Gleann Lí is detailed in the safety organisational chart

below.

4.2 COLÁISTE GLEANN LÍ SAFETY ORGANISATIONAL CHART

Principal, Richard

Lawlor

Staff

Director of Schools,

Youth and Music,

Ann O’Dwyer

Kerry ETB CEO

Colm McEvoy

Kerry ETB

Coláiste Gleann Lí

Kerry ETB Contracted

Safety Adviser –

Mary Walsh

Safety Officer – John Joe Roche

Safety Statement


4.3 COLÁISTE GLEANN LÍ ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Refer to the Roles and Responsibilities for Safety and Health document number KETB_HS_DOC_014

for the roles and responsibilities of the personnel listed in the Kerry ETB section of the Coláiste Gleann

Lí Safety Organisational Chart in Section 4.2.

The responsibilities of the personnel listed in the Coláiste Gleann Lí section are as follows:

4.3.1 Principal – Richard Lawlor

The Principal is responsible for the following and accountable to the Director of Schools in respect of same:

1. Ensuring compliance with statutory legislation and the requirements of the Kerry ETB Safety Statement within the premises that they have responsibility for. All safety policies and procedures are available on the Kerry ETB SharePoint.

2. Develop and support the implementation of the premises Safety Statement in conjunction with the contracted safety adviser.

3. Understanding how the Kerry ETB Safety Statement is structured and making the Kerry ETB Safety Statement and premises Safety Statements available to all staff

4. Ensuring all staff are familiar with the Kerry ETB Safety Statement and that relevant sections are discussed with appropriate staff.

5. Bringing the premises Safety Statement to the attention of learners/pupils, contractors and visitors.

6. Ensuring, through co-ordination with the relevant staff, that processes and activities carried out in the facility are undertaken safely.

7. Consulting with and seeking assistance from Kerry ETB’s contracted safety adviser on health and safety matters within their area of responsibility.

8. Where a Safety Officer has not been appointed for the school, retain Safety Officer responsibilities.

9. Identifying the resources required for safety, health & welfare needs within their school and preparing the necessary report to apply for the funding.

10. Ensuring that all new equipment and machinery are fully assessed with respect to safety prior to purchase/use in Kerry ETB.

11. Providing adequate resources and time for staff to undergo necessary instruction and training as is required by legislation and risk assessments.

12. Consulting with the relevant Staff Safety Representative for the school as appropriate. 13. Confirming that emergency planning arrangements are communicated to all staff. 14. Co-ordinating the emergency procedures including a minimum of 2 fire drills per academic

year and acting as Chief Fire Marshal or delegate the position. 15. Ensuring Fire Safety Register is in place and kept up-to-date. 16. Reporting all Accidents and Near Misses within the school as set out in the Kerry ETB Accident

Reporting Procedure. 17. Leading the investigation into all accidents and ensuring remedial actions are completed.

1. Informing the Health and Safety Authority (H&SA) and the Directorate immediately when a fatality, dangerous occurrence or serious accident occurs at work, as outlined in the Kerry ETB Accident Reporting Procedure.

18. Ensuring hazard identification and risk assessments have been carried out for all maintenance activities and a maintenance log is kept.

19. When appointing contractors, follow the Kerry ETB’s Contractor Management Safety Procedure to verify that contractors are competent and comply with safety legislation.

20. Arranging a preventative maintenance schedule for all plant and equipment used in the workshops to ensure it conforms to current health and safety legislation.

Safety Statement


21. Assigning a member of staff the task of restocking first aid kits and checking defibrillators. 22. Ensuring that all safety critical systems such as fire-fighting equipment, gas detection

equipment, emergency lighting, lifts, forklifts, air receivers, boilers, etc. are subjected to an appropriate preventative maintenance regime and statutory inspections and that records of inspection and maintenance are maintained.

23. Arranging to rectify any defects in safety critical systems 24. Liaising with all visiting Health and Safety Inspectors. 25. Providing information on safety to the relevant Board of Management.

4.3.2 Safety Officer – John Joe Roche

Safety Officer’s duties include the following and he is accountable to the Principal in respect of same: 1. Providing an advice and support function within each premises. 2. Assuming responsibilities for specific safety functions as delegated by the Facility Manager. 3. Assisting the contracted safety adviser and Facility Manager in developing the school/school

safety statement. 4. Assisting in maintaining a filing system for all health and safety documentation (policies, risk

assessments, health and safety statement and any other relevant documents) 5. Co-ordinating the completion of comprehensive hazard identification and risk assessments by

school/school staff for all activities within the school/school. 6. Maintaining an up to date register of action items from the risk assessments and review their

status of completion regularly with the Facility Manager. 7. Assisting the Facility Manager in reviewing the health and safety management system on an

ongoing basis. 8. Liaising with the Kerry ETB contracted safety adviser to identify training needs and risk

assessment requirements in the school/school. 9. Regularly inspecting the facility in a walk-through inspection with the relevant staff to ensure

that safety standards are being complied with. 10. Notifying any defects in safety critical systems observed during your walk through inspection

to the Facility manager (fire safety equipment, emergency lighting, gas systems etc.) 11. Arranging for staff to restock first aid kits and check defibrillators and keep records of same. 12. Consulting with the staff safety representative, as appropriate. 13. Taking a role in developing and implementing a Care Plan for all students with medical

conditions in line with the school’s Managing Chronic Health Conditions policy.

4.3.3 Teachers

Teachers’ duties include the following and they are accountable to the Principal in respect of same: 1. Leading/participating in risk assessments in their classrooms, science laboratories, practical

rooms, workshops, where relevant and update them regularly. 2. Providing effective supervision of students undergoing training or in class. 3. Taking an attendance register at every class. 4. Ensuring that all students/learners under their supervision receive adequate instructions

appropriate for the tasks assigned. 5. Maintaining good housekeeping standards in all rooms within their control. 6. In workshops, ensuring that all machinery and equipment is in proper working order, serviced

regularly and with all guards in place before being used by staff or students. 7. Ensuring that safe operating procedures are in place for all machinery in use. 8. Ensuring that students/learners operating and adjusting machines and equipment under their

control receive correct instruction and wear the correct protective clothing. 9. Reporting all observed defects in equipment or machinery to the Facility Manager.

Safety Statement


10. Ensuring that all materials and substances used in the area under their control are properly labelled and safely stored and/or are disposed of in accordance with the Safety Data Sheets.

11. Ensuring that all new chemicals purchased are assessed with respect to safety prior to purchase and updated Safety Data Sheets are available for all hazardous chemicals and preparations.

12. Reporting all accidents, Near Misses and Dangerous Occurrences to the Facility Manager and completing the appropriate form.

13. Partaking in any safety training required for the role and organised by Kerry ETB.

4.3.4 Caretakers

Caretakers’ duties include the following and they are accountable to the Principal in respect of same: 1. Ensuring that building(s) are safe and secure at the end of classes, examinations or

functions. 2. Upon closing the building(s) each day, inspecting all doors and windows to ensure they are

securely closed and heating and other electrical equipment is switched off. 3. Keeping in safe custody the keys of all rooms of the building(s) and to ensure that no

unauthorised person has access to any part of the building(s). 4. Liaising and co-operating with cleaning staff to ensure all areas are kept in a clean and

hygienic condition. 5. Listing promptly to the Facility Manager all requisitions for repairs to any machinery or

equipment used in routine work. 6. Ensuring that all machinery and equipment used by them is in proper working order,

serviced regularly and only used with all guards in place. 7. Ensuring the fuel boiler is operating safely at all times, by monitoring fuel usage,

safeguarding pipes during cold weather, and organising routine maintenance. 8. Wearing correct PPE, gloves when handling chemicals, safety glasses when using any cutting

equipment and steel toe capped boots at all times. 9. Ensuring that they only carry out work at height when edge protection or other measures

are in place to protect from falls. 10. Carrying out regular visual inspections on firefighting equipment and/or fire alarms as

defined by the Facility Manager and record inspections. 11. Liaising with the Facility Manager to organise regular preventive maintenance on electrical

and mechanical equipment in the school.

4.3.5 Special Needs Assistants

Personal Assistants’ duties include the following and they are accountable to the Principal in respect of same:

1. Assisting in ensuring that Special Educational Needs (SEN) students are learning in a safe environment

2. Assisting the SEN co-ordinator and/or safety officer in compiling a care plan for SEN students in their care.

3. Assisting with compiling a Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan for relevant SEN students in their care

4. Accompanying all SEN students in their care to assembly points during an emergency evacuation or fire drill.

5. Reporting any observed defects in equipment such as wheelchairs, walking aids to the SEN co-ordinator.

6. Reporting any observed defects in equipment such as hoists, slings, lifts to the SEN co-ordinator/Principal.

Safety Statement


4.3.6 All Staff

All Coláiste Gleann Lí staff, along with the responsibilities relevant to their specific role, have the responsibilities outlined in Duties of employees under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 in Appendix 1 of this document.

5 COMMUNICATION AND CONSULTATION

The Principal ensures that safety is on the agenda of every staff meeting.

Employees are encouraged raise health and safety issues with the Principal on a daily basis or at staff

department meetings.

Employees are encouraged to report all accidents and near misses to the Principal and to fill in an

accident report form.

The organisation is in the process of setting up an overall safety committee for Kerry ETB. Details of

the proposed membership of it are on the Kerry ETB Roles and Responsibilities for Safety and Health

document number KETB_HS_DOC_014.

5.1 RIGHTS OF ELECTED SAFETY REPRESENTATIVES

In line with sections 25 and 26 of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 employers have a

duty to consult with their employees. Employees have a right to select a Safety Representative (or

Safety Representatives) to represent them in health and safety matters with their employees. By

agreement between employers and employees a Safety Committee may be established to facilitate

the consultation process. The Safety Committee members shall be selected by agreement between

employees and employers as outlined in Schedule 4 of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act

2005. The Safety Committee must include at least one Safety Representative.

The selected Safety Representative will have the following rights:

• Make representations to management on any aspect of safety, health and welfare in the

workplace.

• Receive advice and information from Health & Safety Inspectors on matters relating to Safety,

Health and Welfare at work.

• Accompany an Inspector on any tour of inspection of the place of work or any accident

investigation at the discretion of the Inspector.

• Carry out inspections of the premises or areas they represent, subject to prior notice and

approval from the PRINCIPAL.

• Investigate potential hazards and complaints made by the employees they represent, subject

to prior notice and approval.

• Make oral or written representations to Health and Safety Authority Inspectors on matters of

Safety, Health and Welfare.

Safety Statement


6 RESOURCES AND WELFARE

Resources

Coláiste Gleann Lí shall dedicate the resources necessary to ensure in so far as is reasonably practicable, the Safety, Health and Welfare of employees. The following resources will be dedicated:

▪ Kerry ETB Management, with the assistance of consultants where deemed necessary, will develop appropriate health & safety policies, safety procedures, safety inspections and training activities.

▪ The Kerry ETB contracted safety adviser will support and advise the Principal in carrying out risk assessments and developing a safety management system.

Kerry ETB commits to providing, at all times, the resources necessary, in so far as is reasonably practicable, for the safety, health and welfare of its employees, students and the general public at Coláiste Gleann Lí including: ▪ Resources for reports, investigations, audits and meetings on Safety, Health and Welfare. ▪ Supporting those who have responsibility for employee Safety, Health and Welfare to carry

out their functions. ▪ Finance to ensure, as far as is reasonably practicable, the Safety, Health and Welfare of

employees. The aim shall be to provide adequate staff training and for the improvement or upgrading of present provisions, or starting of new provisions for securing the Safety, Health and Welfare of our employees.

▪ Ensuring that Health & Safety is taken into account at the planning stage of all new work, where this new work may have effects on employee Health & Safety.

Welfare

Various welfare facilities are provided and these welfare facilities are controlled as follows:

▪ The provision of First Aid boxes and the filling of same. Responsible person is the Principal.

▪ The provision of certified First Aiders. Responsible person is the Principal.

7 TRAINING AND INDUCTION

In relation to the training of employees, Coláiste Gleann Lí will comply with the duties placed upon it

by the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act, 2005.

Safety Statement


It is recognised that ongoing safety training is needed to maintain a high standard of service. Safety

training (First Aider, Manual Handling etc.) will be made available to all staff and specific training will

be organised where a need or requirement has been determined in risk assessments and training

needs analysis.

All new employees receive an executive summary of the Kerry ETB Safety Statement and the Coláiste

Gleann Lí Safety Statement. Induction safety training highlights the practical issues requiring attention

including good housekeeping practices and general safety responsibilities to ensure that employees

are able to undertake their activities safely and competently. We will ensure that our employees are

made aware of the hazards present at their place of work and the safety precautions necessary. Where

it is deemed necessary, employees will be given further training or retraining as required and this will

also be recorded, and progress monitored.

• Training will be given as necessary to all responsible persons and other staff to ensure that they

have adequate knowledge and the necessary skills to manage their areas safely and without risk

to health.

• A training register will be kept of all staff safety training in the OneNote SMS filing system and

updated when necessary by the safety officer.

• Employees must attend all training which Coláiste Gleann Lí reasonably requires them to

undertake.

8 EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

8.1 FIRE PROCEDURE

Raising the Alarm

On discovering a fire, raise the alarm immediately by shouting FIRE (to alert anyone in the vicinity) and

then activate the nearest push-glass fire alarm call-point (small red box, close to major exits) by

pushing the school of the glass with your fingers. Make yourself familiar with those nearest to your

workstation.

Should a smoke alarm go off, don’t go and investigate the cause. You could waste valuable moments

and risk injury. Raise the alarm and evacuate.

If safe to do so, use an appropriate fire extinguisher to tackle the fire, but only if your exit is clear. The

time to fight a fire is in the early stages. If the fire is growing or spreading it is time to leave. You should

always fight a fire with an exit or other means of escape at your back.

Leave the building by the nearest exit.

Call the fire brigade on 999 and state the location as Coláiste Gleann Lí as appropriate.

Report the location of the fire to the Principal.

Safety Statement


8.2 PROCEDURE FOR SUSPECTED GAS LEAK

If you suspect a gas leak and you don’t know where it is coming from or it can’t be stopped:

1. Set off the fire alarm to initiate evacuation of the building

2. Switch off the gas at the central entry point to the building

3. Turn off all naked flames and gas appliances but DO NOT turn electrical switches on or off

4. Ring the emergency gas number 1850 20 50 50 from outside the building

5. Do not search for the gas leak, leave it to the professionals

If you know where the gas leak is:

1. Turn off the gas at the source of the leak

2. Remove all students from the affected room and send a message to the Principal

3. Turn off all naked flames

4. DO NOT turn off or on electrical switches

5. Open all windows in the room to disperse the gas if possible

8.3 PROCEDURE FOR SECURITY ISSUES – BOMB THREATS AND DISCOVERY OF SUSPICIOUS DEVICES

If a telephoned bomb threat is received:

1. The person receiving the call should try to obtain as much information as possible

2. Report it to the Principal and Gardaí immediately

3. Follow the advice of the Gardaí on evacuation

If a suspicious package or device is discovered:

1. Clear the surrounding area and inform the Principal

2. Report it to the Gardaí and follow their advice on evacuation, taking care to ensure that the

route of escape does not bring people past the device.

3. Do not use a mobile phone near a suspicious device

4. Follow the normal emergency evacuation procedure

8.4 EMERGENCY EVACUATION PROCEDURE

Fire Alarm System Details

There is a fire alarm panel as follows:

• Inside the

The fire alarm panel is monitored remotely by Quirke Security.

Responsibilities & Duties

Facility Manager – Richard Lawlor

Safety Statement


• Responsible for providing overall direction and support to all staff.

• To act as Chief Fire Marshal or delegate the position – delegated to John Joe Roche

• Responsible for setting up process for roll books and roll call

Chief Fire Marshal – John Joe Roche

• Responsible for formulating, reviewing and updating these evacuation procedures on an

annual basis or as necessary.

• Responsible for ensuring that all staff are briefed with regard to the procedures to be

followed and responsibilities they have when evacuating the building or when conducting

Fire Drills.

• To conduct fire drills twice every year; one in either of the first two terms.

• To record and evaluate the fire drill details and to maintain a Fire Safety Evacuation Log.

Designated school/School Staff

To assist the Chief Fire Marshal and act as Fire Marshals in accordance with this procedure

All School/ School Staff

To assist Fire Marshals in accordance with this procedure

Applicable to:

This procedure applies to ALL persons who use Coláiste Gleann Lí.

Records / Forms:

The Principal will provide an up to date Evacuation Log Record either manually or electronically for

the Fire Officer’s inspection, which is located in the Fire Safety Register at the main office.

Overview:

Kerry ETB attaches great importance to fire precautions. Notices setting out procedures to be

followed in case of fire are posted throughout the college. Evacuation plan drawings are posted

throughout the college. Fire Extinguishers are located throughout the buildings. Fire Extinguishers

will be inspected and tested annually by a competent person. The Fire Alarm & Emergency Lighting

will be tested every 3 months by a competent person. The Evacuation Procedure is set out below in

section 7.

In the case of other Emergencies, once the alarm has sounded, the evacuation procedure is as in the

case of fire.

Detailed Procedure:

Chief Fire Marshal

- Put on the “Chief Fire Marshal” High Vis Jacket and check the location of the fire on the main

panel.

- Ensure the Fire Brigade is contacted

- Check with the caretaker that the gas is shut off, the central shut – off valve is in

- Instruct a member of staff in front office to bring the visitor book and fire safety register to

the Assembly point.

Safety Statement


- Depending on the number of personnel on duty, assign areas for sweeping, if safe to do so.

Once sweeping is complete all fire marshals will report back to the Chief Fire Marshal at a

designated central point - the front door.

- Liaise with teachers regarding the evacuation of a person/s with chronic health condition.

- Liaise with Personal Assistants regarding the evacuation of a person/s in their care.

- Assign responsibility to one fire marshal for bringing the emergency medications from the

staffroom out of the building if safe to do so.

- Direct the local Fire Authority to area of primary alarm;

- Order Stand-down under the direction of the local Fire Authority;

- Instruct staff & students to re-enter the building after the evacuation if deemed safe to do

so.

Fire Marshals

The following will act as Fire Marshals

Fire Marshal Area to sweep

Richard Lawlor Blue block and red block

Liam McGill New extension section

John Joe Roche Canteen and metalwork area

Fire Marshals should familiarize themselves with the evacuation routes in each building and with the

location of the assembly points outside;

- Designated staff will put on high visibility jackets labelled “Fire Marshal.”

- Sweep the area of the building that the Chief Fire Marshal assigned to you.

- Evacuate the designated area through the fire escapes.

- Indicate the exit routes and ensure that all occupants evacuate the building and go to the

designated assembly points in an efficient and orderly manner.

- One fire marshal brings the emergency medications for pupils kept in the staffroom out of

the building

- Assist the Personal Assistants with evacuating persons in their care.

- Instruct students/learners and any other personnel to “leave immediately by the nearest exit

and go to the assembly point”

- Once sweeping is complete all fire marshals will report back to the Chief Fire Marshal at a

designated central point – the front door.

- When outside usher personnel to the Fire Assembly Points. Do not allow personnel to

congregate near the building exits.

Safety Statement


Teachers/Instructors/Tutors in Class Rooms

- Note: Teachers/Instructors/tutors that are designated Fire Marshals should carry out the

additional duties outlined in 7.1.2

- Evacuate your own class and be last to leave the classroom/workshop. Close the door.

- Ensure gas or machinery have been switched off in your classroom if safe to do so.

- Bring the class role with you

- Instruct the class to “leave immediately by the nearest exit and go to the assembly point”

- Accompany your class to the assembly point. Do not congregate near to the building exits.

- Do a roll call/count of your students/learners.

- Inform the Fire Marshals of any missing persons.

- Liaise with Fire Marshals and only return with your class when instructed to do so.

Special Needs Assistants

- If the student you are assigned to has a Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan (PEEP) ensure it

is adhered to

- Escort the student you are assigned to out of the classroom

- Accompany him/her to the assembly point and remain with him/her

- If you are not with your assigned student at the time of the evacuation proceed to the

assembly point and verify that he/she has evacuated. Inform the Fire Marshal of any missing

persons.

- Liaise with the Fire Marshals and only return with your class when instructed to do so.

Additional Information

- Assembly points are defined by which door is exited. The assembly points are located at

o Assembly point 1: At the left of the entrance gate

o Assembly Point 2: At the right of the entrance gate

- Nobody (Staff, students, learners, visitors, contractors and members of the public) should

leave the assembly points until the all-clear is given.

- The silencing of the alarm does not indicate the all clear to re-enter the building. The ALL-

CLEAR SIGNAL to re-enter the building will consist of Chief Fire Marshal informing evacuees

at each of the Assembly Points that it is safe to re-enter the building.

Target Evacuation time for Coláiste Gleann Lí is 3 minutes.

Safety Statement


Evacuating people with disabilities During an Emergency

Note: An assessment is conducted at the start of each year/term to account for the number of

people with disabilities being catered for throughout the year/ term, a personal Emergency

Evacuation Plan (PEEP) may be required for some persons with disability.

Fire Marshal Duties for Evacuating Persons with Disabilities

- Assist the Special Needs Assistants with evacuating persons in their care.

- One Fire Marshal brings the emergency medications for pupils kept in the staffroom out of

the building, if safe to do so.

Chief Fire Marshal Duties for Evacuating Persons with Disabilities

- Co-ordinate the evacuation of persons with disabilities in accordance with all PEEPs where

required.

- Liaise with the Special Needs Assistants to verify that all persons in their care have been

evacuated.

- Assign responsibility to one fire marshal to bring the emergency medications out of the

building if safe to do so.

The CGL_HS_PROC_001 (Emergency evacuation procedure) gives further detail on the emergency

evacuation procedure for Coláiste Gleann Lí.

8.5 FIRST AID PROCEDURE

When an accident occurs, notify a first aider immediately, even if it seems minor. The first aider can

be contacted by ringing reception and asking for a first aider. If the office is not attended at the time

of the accident, seek help in the staffroom. The list of first aiders is posted at each first aid kit. The

staff trained in first aid in Coláiste Gleann Lí, Clash are:

Nora Coakley

Liz O’Callaghan

The first aider will assess the situation and decide whether to:

1. treat the person

2. Call a Doctor

3. Call emergency services on 999

When treatment is completed the first aider fills in a first aid report on the first aid register.

The first aid kits are located in the woodwork room, 2 x science rooms, metalwork room, home

economics room, art room, the staffroom and the office. There is 2 portable first aid kits to take on

trips out of school.

Safety Statement


Liz O’Callagan/ First Aid Supplies (Company) is responsible for checking and restocking the first aid

kits.

There is a defibrillator located in the staffroom and new extension Astroturf exit.

8.6 SERIOUS ACCIDENT PROCEDURE

When an accident occurs, ensure that the place is made safe before touching the injured person or the machinery involved. Always isolate electricity when electrical shock is suspected. Do not move the casualty unless they are in immediate danger of further injury or they can move themselves. Call a first aider for assistance. If the injury cannot be treated on site, call emergency services immediately (112 or 999). When calling the ambulance, use a mobile phone if possible. This allows you to speak to the operator when you are with the injured person and they can give you advice, ask questions and help you as much as possible until the ambulance arrives. The information you pass on to the operator will be passed onto the ambulance crew and help them when they arrive at the scene. If the injured person can be transported, then s/he may be taken to a Doctor or the local Hospital. If a chemical agent is involved in the injury, always take the relevant Material Safety Data Sheet or container and label, with the injured person, as this can be very helpful in treating the injury. When the Emergency Services arrive or when you arrive at a Hospital, you must give a clear and exact account of what has happened to the medical personnel receiving the injured person.

Never place yourself in danger whilst trying to help someone else, especially if you are unsure of what you are doing.

8.7 ACCIDENT AND NEAR MISS REPORTING AND INVESTIGATION PROCEDURE

All accidents, near misses and dangerous occurrences that occur must be reported to the Principal

and recorded on the Accident Report Form or Near Miss Report form. All employees have a

responsibility to report any accident or near miss they witness or are involved in. The Kerry ETB

KETB_HS_PROC_004 R1 (Accident Reporting and Investigation procedure) and associated report

forms can be accessed on the Kerry ETB SharePoint.

The Principal must send all accident and near miss reports completed by staff to the Director of

Schools and the Head of CS&CD.

1. When is the Accident Report form completed?

The Accident Report Form must be completed and sent immediately when the following occurs:

➢ Accident resulting in injury requiring medical attention by a registered medical

practitioner

➢ Accident resulting in fatality

➢ Any dangerous occurrence

Safety Statement


The Accident Report Form must be completed and sent within 48 hours for -

➢ Any minor accident that results in an injury that requires first aid.

The Near Miss Report form must be completed and sent within one week for -

➢ Any near miss that has the potential to cause injury or property damage.

2. Who has responsibility for completion of the Accident Report Form?

• When a student/learner is involved in an accident in class – the teacher/tutor/instructor

or staff member present at the time of the accident

• When a member of staff is involved in an accident– the staff member and/or the Principal

• When a student/learner is involved in an accident in common areas during breaks or lunch

– the supervising teacher/tutor/instructor/staff member at the time or the Principal

• When a student/learner is involved in an accident on a field trip/organised tour – the

teacher/tutor/instructor in charge of the trip

• When a visitor or contractor is involved in an accident on school premises – the Principal

3. What happens to the completed Accident Report Form or Near Miss Report form?

• Completed accident/near miss report forms must be sent to the Principal who signs and

files them in an accident/near miss report folder kept at the school.

• The Principal is responsible for sending the completed accident/near miss report form to

the Director of Schools by email and cc the Head of CS&CD.

4. Notification of accidents or dangerous occurrences to the Health and Safety Authority (HSA)

A reportable accident is

o when an accident causes an employee to be away from their place of work for more than

3 consecutive days as a result of the accident

o A fatality.

o An accident involving a student/learner if a student/learner is injured as a result of a

school-related activity (i.e. in class or on an organised trip but not on lunch break in the

yard) and requires medical treatment by a registered medical practitioner.

The PRINCIPAL must:

• Complete all notification of reportable accidents to the enforcement authority (HSA) on

the appropriate IR1 (Accident Report) Form online (www.hsa.ie) and copy to the relevant

Director and Head of CS&CD.

• Complete an IR3 (Dangerous Occurrence) Form to report any of the 16 dangerous

occurrences listed in the legislation. The list is on Appendix 5.

Timeframe:

• Report a fatality immediately to the HSA and the relevant Director.

• Notify the Director and Head of CS&CD as soon as possible after a reportable accident or

dangerous occurrence occurs. Complete an IR1 or IR3 form and send to the HSA no later

than ten days after the occurrence/accident.

If in any doubt around reporting contact [email protected] or your PRINCIPAL.

http://www.hsa.ie/

mailto:[email protected]

Safety Statement


5. Investigation procedure

All reported accidents, near misses and dangerous occurrences should be investigated. The level of

investigation required will depend on the incident and the possible severity of its outcome. At a

minimum an investigation must be initiated for all accidents involving lost time or hospital treatment

injuries or where it is believed an insurance claim may be made.

It is also very valuable to review / investigate first aid treated incidents and “near misses” as they could

have the potential to be more serious. If it is possible to learn from, and prevent the reoccurrence, of

these types of incidents it may be possible to prevent more serious “lost time” injuries from occurring.

Accidents rarely result from a single cause and many turn out to be complex, involving multiple

interrelated causal factors.

We will investigate all accidents that occur where an injury has been sustained in a classroom or during

a class, during any work activities by staff or a school/school outing.

All near misses will be reviewed by the Principal and the Kerry ETB contracted safety adviser and if

they feel that there was potential for serious harm should there be a reoccurrence, an investigation

using the Accident/Near Miss Investigation form will take place.

We investigate all accidents that occur where an injury has been sustained using the Accident

Investigation form KETB_HS_FORM_007.

If in any doubt about reporting or investigating an accident or near miss contact

[email protected] or your Principal.

8.8 PROCEDURE FOR SEVERE WEATHER EVENTS

The Principal conducts an evaluation of what should be in place each September to ensure the safe

opening of the school in the event of severe weather. Areas for consideration are protection and

maintenance of the premises and utilities such as heating and water systems, salt and gritting

supplies, emergency contacts list and transport services. How and where staff and students will be

accommodated within the premises during a severe weather event must be planned in advance.

Communication

When weather warnings are issued for Kerry, Kerry ETB distributes the warning to all

Principals/managers. The Principal monitors weather conditions and updates from Met Eireann,

Kerry ETB and Kerry County Council. The Principal co-ordinates the issuing of information to the

staff, students, transport services and Kerry ETB.

The relevant contact details of all local emergency services and transport services are updated every

September along with contact details for all students and/or parents/guardians.

Status Red Weather Warning

mailto:[email protected]

Safety Statement


Department of Education and Skills advice to schools is that they should not open where a Status Red

weather warning related to wind is forecast to coincide with the period/s during which students and

staff would be expected to be travelling and Kerry ETB concur with that. The school will:

▪ Issue information directly to staff

▪ Issue information directly to students

▪ Issue information to Media outlets

▪ Issue information on Social Media/KETB website

If the school is already open when the severe weather commences, the Principal of the schools should

contact An Garda Síochana, Kerry County Council and the school transport services for advice on

whether it may be safe to undertake journeys from school or when such journeys should commence.

Consideration should be taken of the safety of parents undertaking journeys to collect children. If a

decision is taken to remain on the premises during a severe weather event the procedure during the

event will be:

• The Principal and Fire Marshals will take the lead in co-ordinating response.

• Some/All classes may be temporarily suspended depending on location.

• Staff and students will be advised to remain within buildings and away from windows.

• Further updates will be issued via

o Kerry ETB twitter feed

o Staff/student email

o Staff/student text messages

o Mainstream media / social media.

• Procedure after storm event

o Convene meeting of the Critical Incident Response Team

o Assess damage to school power systems and computer systems.

o Issue staff/student and media communications as appropriate.

Status Red Weather Warning For Rain

Measures to be taken will depend on local circumstances, for instance, if the school is in an area prone

to flooding, it should close. The Principal must seek advice from An Garda Síochana, Kerry County

Council, Kerry ETB and local transport services when taking the decision to close.

Status Orange Weather Warning

When a status orange weather warning for County Kerry is issued, the Principal monitors weather

conditions and updates from Met Éireann and Kerry ETB. Advice will be sought from local An Garda

Síochana, Kerry County Council and local transport services when considering what course of action

to take.

Ice/Snow

• In the event that the Principal is of the belief that ground conditions at the school are

dangerous and significant risk of fall/injury exists then the Principal will liaise with the relevant

Director and agree an immediate course of action.

Safety Statement


• Procedures for dealing with ice on access/egress routes to the school can be summarised as

follows:

o Principal will liaise with caretaker and/or landscape contractors regarding early

morning gritting when forecasts require.

o Caretaker and/or landscape contractors will grit/salt roads, roadside footpaths and

car-parks.

o Footpaths that cannot be accessed by tractor spreader will be treated manually by

caretakers as directed by Principal.

o If necessary certain unessential roads and footpaths may be closed by the Principal.

9 CONTRACTORS

Contractor Safety Management

Every contractor or subcontractor must comply with the requirements of applicable health and safety

legislation as well as any requirements and regulations specified by the Institute. The Safety, Health

& Welfare at Work Act 2005 and the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (Construction) Regulations

2013 govern all contractors and they are required to comply at all times with the Act and any

subsidiary regulations.

Contractors must provide us with a copy of the first page of their Safety Statement together (where

required) with a method statement for works to be undertaken prior to commencing any works. The

Contractor may be required by the school to make changes to their method statement.

The contractor shall be responsible for the area in which they are working in. Trailing leads and cables

shall be brought from overhead whenever possible. Contractors should erect barriers around their

work area to minimise the risk of injury.

Method Statement (where necessary)

All works undertaken by a contractor must be carried out in accordance with the method statement

and otherwise in accordance with the terms of the contract entered into with us. If and where

applicable, safe working conditions must be agreed upon prior to commencement of work. All work

carried out must be to standards required by legislation.

10 MONITORING AND REVIEW

The school safety management system is regularly monitored and reviewed by the Principal with

assistance from staff. The Principal undertakes regular inspections of various sections of the school

Safety Statement


throughout the year. This provides an ongoing awareness of safety within the school and provides the

information necessary to review the action register and safety statement. The relevant staff in the

section of the school assist in the inspection and items checked are work practices,

machinery/equipment, housekeeping, access/egress, etc.

The contracted safety adviser for Kerry ETB will complete 2 audits of the school throughout the year

during which various sections of the school will be inspected and the action register reviewed to

establish the status of actions.

The emergency procedures are reviewed after each fire drill and changes made where necessary.

The safety statement is reviewed at least annually or more frequently where changes occur.

MANDATORY STATUTORY INSPECTIONS

In accordance with the statutory requirements, certain statutory examinations, testing and

inspections must be completed at each of our locations where applicable.

Test/Inspection/ Examination Frequency Inspector

Fire Alarm System 3 Monthly Contractor

Company

Fire Fighting Equipment 12 Monthly Contractor

Company

Emergency Lighting 3 Monthly Electrical Company

Lifting Equipment 6/12 Months Insurance Assessor

Eye Sight Tests for VDU Staff 24 Monthly Eye Specialist

Boilers 14 Monthly Contractor

Electrical Testing Annual Electrical Company

Safety Statement


11 RISK ASSESSMENT PROCEDURE

Risk assessments form the basis of a safety statement. The KETB_HS_PROC_012 (Risk Assessment

Procedure) gives guidance on how to undertake suitable and sufficient hazard identification and risk

assessment of all activities and premises associated with Kerry ETB. The risk assessments are used for

the purposes of identifying measures to be put in place to reduce the possibility of accidents or ill

health occurring.

The Principal is responsible for ensuring that documented risk assessments are undertaken for all

workplaces and routine and non-routine work activities in Coláiste Gleann Lí.

The risk assessments are filed in the OneNote SMS system with assistance from the KETB contracted

safety adviser. An action plan is generated from the recommended control measures in the risk

assessments and the Principal updates this every quarter in consultation with the safety officer.

The risk assessments are reviewed annually by the Principal.

Introduction

Risk assessments form the basis of a safety statement. This procedure gives guidance on how to

undertake suitable and sufficient hazard identification and risk assessment of all activities and

premises associated with Kerry ETB. The risk assessments are used for the purposes of identifying

measures to be put in place to reduce the possibility of accidents or ill health occurring.

The Principal, Area Training Centre Manager, PLC Principal, FET Centre Manager, VTOS Co-Ordinator,

OETC Manager or ALO) (referred to as Facility Manager from here on) is responsible for ensuring that

documented risk assessments are undertaken for all workplaces and routine and non-routine work

activities under their control.

The risk assessment templates provided in The Guidelines on Managing Safety and Health in Post-

Primary Schools published by the Health and Safety Authority are used by some post-primary schools

in Kerry ETB. They can be downloaded from this link HSA RA template. They can be used as an

alternative to the risk assessment template KETB_HS_FORM_013 in the forms folder on the Safety

policy SharePoint.

Definitions

Hazard: is anything that has the potential to cause harm to persons or property

Hazard Identification: is the process of identifying what hazards exist and defining characteristics

Risk: is the likelihood that someone could be harmed by the hazard together with an indication of how

serious the harm could be.

Risk Rating: The risk rating assigned to each hazard is a numerical value representing a combination

of the likelihood of injury from the hazard and the severity of that injury.

Risk Assessment: is the overall process of hazard identification, rating of risks, and identification of

control measures and assignment of responsibility for implementation of control measures.

Control Measures: are those measures which are put in place to eliminate the risk or to reduce the

residual risk to as low a level as is reasonably practicable.

http://www.hsa.ie/eng/Education/Managing_Safety_and_Health_in_Schools/Interactive_Risk_Assessments_-_Post-Primary_under_review_/

Safety Statement


Assessing Risk

Risk assessments are required for each area within a Kerry ETB premises. High risk work activities

require risk assessments also, for e.g.: work at height. The risk assessment procedure consists of the

following steps:

1. Identify the hazards and list them on the risk assessment template KETB_HS_FORM_013 in

the Hazard column.

2. Identify the risks associated with the hazard and record in the Risk column.

3. List the control measures already in place in the Existing Controls column.

4. Assess each risk (risk rating) associated with the hazard using the Risk Rating Matrix below.

5. Record the Risk Rating as Likelihood x Severity = Risk Rating (LxS=RR), for e.g. 2x3=6 in the Risk

Rating column.

6. Identify the control measures required to reduce the risk, applying the General Principles of

Prevention (Hierarchy of Controls) listed in Appendix 4 and record in the Improvements and

Additional Controls column.

7. Allocate responsibilities for the implementation of the control measures and record in the

Action by Who column. Consult the Facility Manager for this.

8. Re-assess each risk associated with the hazard following identification and implementation of

the control measures and record the new risk rating in the second Risk Rating column.

9. If the residual risk rating remains high, then additional control measures need to be identified

and implemented to reduce the risk rating to as low a level as is reasonably practicable.

10. Review the risk assessment when the need arises, such as new legislation, changes to work

practices, changes to work equipment, introduction of new material, new personnel,

following incident investigation, publication of safety alerts and at least annually.

Risk Rating Matrix

RISK RATING MATRIX

LIKELIHOOD 4: VERY LIKELY

4 8 12 16

3: LIKELY 3 6 9 12

2: MEDIUM 2 4 6 8

1: LOW 1 2 3 4

1: MINOR 2:MODERATE 3: MAJOR 4: SEVERE SEVERITY

Basis of the assessment

The approach for this risk assessment in this model is a quantitative one. The likelihood and severity

of a risk is assessed to decide on a risk rating.

The risk rating is derived from the product of the likelihood of injury from the hazard and the severity

of the consequent injury.

Safety Statement


The likelihood is the possibility that a given event will occur – how likely is it to happen and/or what is

the frequency? Categorise the likelihood as low, medium, likely or very likely in the matrix above and

assign the appropriate number.

The severity is determined by assessing how much harm the hazard may cause. Minor harm is cuts,

bruises or discomfort, moderate harm is injury that results in absence of more than a day from work,

major harm is harm resulting in long term disability or serious injury and severe harm is death of a

person or potentially fatal disease. Assign the appropriate number. Multiply likelihood x severity to

find the Risk Rating.

When both severity and likelihood are assigned in the Risk Rating Matrix the Risk Rating will be a green

box = Low, amber box = Medium or red box = high.

RISK RATING

LOW MEDIUM HIGH

When risk rating is high, control measures to eliminate or reduce the risk to at least medium are

required immediately.

When risk rating is medium, review control measures to ensure that the risk is as low as is reasonably

possible.

When risk rating is low, ensure measures are taken to keep the risk as low as is reasonably possible.

Safety Statement


12 RISK ASSESSMENTS

The risk assessments are on the Excel document CGL_HS_RA_001 (Coláiste Gleann Lí Master).

Safety Statement


APPENDIX 1: DUTIES OF EMPLOYEES

Duties of Employees under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005

Safety must be seen as everyone’s responsibility. Kerry ETB staff are expected to discharge their work in a safe manner, to avoid injury to themselves or other employees and avoid damage to Kerry ETB’s equipment and property. Under Sections 13 & 14 of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act, 2005, the Statutory Responsibilities of every employee are as follows:

13. (1) An employee shall, while at work— a) comply with the relevant statutory provisions, as appropriate, and take reasonable

care to protect his or her safety, health and welfare and the safety, health and welfare of any other person who may be affected by the employee’s acts or omissions at work,

b) ensure that he or she is not under the influence of an intoxicant to the extent that he or she is in such a state as to endanger his or her own safety, health or welfare at work or that of any other person,

c) if reasonably required by his or her employer, submit to any appropriate, reasonable and proportionate tests for intoxicants by, or under the supervision of, a registered medical practitioner who is a competent person, as may be prescribed,

d) co-operate with his or her employer or any other person so far as is necessary to enable his or her employer or the other person to comply with the relevant statutory provisions, as appropriate,

e) not engage in improper conduct or other behaviour that is likely to endanger his or her own safety, health and welfare at work or that of any other person,

f) attend such training and, as appropriate, undergo such assessment as may reasonably be required by his or her employer or as may be prescribed relating to safety, health and welfare at work or relating to the work carried out by the employee,

g) having regard to his or her training and the instructions given by his or her employer, make correct use of any article or substance provided for use by the employee at work or for the protection of his or her safety, health and welfare at work, including protective clothing or equipment,

h) report to his or her employer or to any other appropriate person, as soon as practicable— (i) Any work being carried on, or likely to be carried on, in a manner which may

endanger the safety, health or welfare at work of the employee or that of any other person,

(ii) any defect in the place of work, the systems of work, any article or substance which might endanger the safety, health or welfare at work of the employee or that of any other person, or

(iii) Any contravention of the relevant statutory provisions which may endanger the safety, health and welfare at work of the employee or that of any other person, of which he or she is aware.

13 (2) An employee shall not, on entering into a contract of employment, misrepresent himself or herself to an employer with regard to the level of training as may be prescribed under subsection (1) (f).

14. A person shall not intentionally, recklessly or without reasonable cause— (a) Interfere with, misuse or damage anything provided under the relevant statutory provisions or otherwise for securing the safety, health and welfare of persons at work, or (b) Place at risk the safety, health or welfare of persons in connection with work activities.

Coláiste Gleann Lí COVID-19 Response Plan for the safe and sustainable reopening of school

—— 31

APPENDIX 2 SAFETY ORGANISATIONAL CHART

27 July 2020

Appendix 4- Coláiste Gleann Lí Covid-19 Risk Assessment

Hazards

Hazard present Y/N

What is the risk?

Risk rating

Controls/ Measures in place

Is this control in place?

Action/to do list/outstanding controls

Person responsible

Date when action completed

H=High

M=Med L=Low

(When all controls are in place risk will be reduced) *Risk rating applies to outstanding controls outlined in this column

Covid-19 N

Illness H

School Covid19 Response Plan along with a covid-19 policy in place in line with Department of Education guidance and the Return to Work Safely Protocol and public health advice

Yes, Ratified

by B.O.M on

19/8/20

Response

Team August

19th

Staff members in at risk groups

have a higher risk of contracting

virus and it poses a higher risk to

their health

L

Pre return to work form to be completed by all staff before returning to work.

Staff in a very high-risk category is outlined in circulars 49/2020 and 50/2020. Principal has requested that staff in this category make contact and advised to follow circular guidance.

Y

Covid Co-Ordinator

Principal

V. High risk established

August

No Covid-19 Response team

N

No oversight of Covid-19 safety measures and

lack of implementation

L

Staff informed of appointment of Covid Co-Ordinator Mr.

Liam McGill.

Y Management August


—— 33

of Department and public health guidelines and no

co-ordinated approach.

Two LWRs/Lead worker representatives appointed

following a request for expressions of interest; Mr. Michael

O’Sullivan and Ms. Myrna Egan.

A Covid-19 Response team in place; Mr. Richard Lawlor,

Mr. Liam McGill, Mr. John Joe Roche, Ms. Myrna Egan, Mr.

Michael O’ Sullivan and Ms Aoife Reidy.

Two Covid Aides have been appointed; Ms. Shirley

O’Driscoll and Mr. Michael Quirke.

Social Distancing not maintained

Y Higher risk of virus transfer

M

Coláiste Gleann Lí has reviewed the Framework to

maintain Physical Distancing in the Classroom in Post

Primary Schools with a full return of all Students for the

2020/21 School Year. This has included the

implementation of a suite measures to allow for greater

social distancing.

Social Distancing Signs on floor, signs up advising the importance of social distancing, Social Distancing reiterated in all classes at start of each week. No Hand shaking policy implemented. Appropriate COVID 19 signage been prominently displayed throughout the school Single file and keep left system in place on corridors to reduce contact when staff/ students pass each other. Classrooms have been set up to allow for maximum social distancing. A minimum of 1m is between all student desks.

Y Y Y Y Y

Response Team

School Staff

Students

Covid Aides


—— 34

Masks to be worn in situations where 2m distancing cannot be maintained. Coláiste Gleann Lí has worked to reconfigure classrooms and other areas to support physical distancing in line with the guidance in advance of school reopening in the following ways;

• Keep left and Single file movement on all corridors with the centre of the corridors marked and arrows to denote correct directional movement.

• A minimum of 1 metre between students in classrooms and in canteen/dining areas.

• Single Tables will be used in all general classrooms (Due to arrive in Mid- September until then a mixture of single and double tables being used)

• Teachers desk have a clear counter screen guard of 1m x 1m to protect them while teaching.

• Larger class groups are timetabled in the larger classrooms when needed.

• Timetable reviewed to keep students in base rooms as much as possible.

• Two designated entry points to reduce contact of students/ staff and staggered arrival times for students

• Staggered break and lunchtimes to reduce volume of people and traffic, along with an additional dining area set-up.

• Max of 3 students in the main toilets at any one time, with Queue markings outside the door.

• Dedicated stalls in main bathrooms for year groups, and some sinks cordoned off to allow

Y Y


—— 35

physical distancing, along with floor markings at urinals.

• Visitors by appointment only.

• Hand sanitiser at all entry and exit points as well as outside each classroom and in the general and corridor areas.

• Hand sanitiser and cleaning point in all classrooms with disinfectant sprays/Wipes/Towels and a dedicated pedal bin for Covid-19 related waste.

• Maximum of 16 people in the staffroom at any one time.

• Entry points to school Mag locked and operational only with electronic Fob. Students that arrive late will buzz into main office to gain access.

• Queue markings in areas of congregation before entering classrooms.

• Students remain in the Base class Grouping/Pod for duration of the day. In option subjects’ students are seated in proximity to their base class.

• Students will have assigned and dedicated seats in classrooms and dining areas to help with contact tracing.

• Removal of locker use to allow for greater social distancing and to prevent crowds gathering.

• In classrooms unnecessary and additional storage has been removed to allow greater social distancing.

• At mealtimes students do not need to queue as meals are pre-prepared.

• Cashless payment system will be in use by the canteen.


—— 36

• Additional Staff workroom with PC’s / internet access.

• On the students PE day, they will wear their PE gear/tracksuit to remove the need for changing in school and use of changing rooms to help maintain social distancing. This measure will also provide for a further opportunity for Parents to wash their child’s school uniform.

In Coláiste Gleann Lí physical distancing of 2m where

possible or at least 1m is maintained between desks and

between individual students and staff.

As far as possible and practical, students remain in the

classroom and teachers move between rooms.

As far as possible and practical students are assigned to

their main base class cohort in option subjects and in

dining/ canteen areas.

Where students have an option subject they move quickly

into the new class and are seated with members of their

base class cohort, observing as much physical distance as

possible.

Hand washing and/or sanitising is available on corridors

and outside classrooms when moving between classes by

teachers and students.

Y Y Y Y

Base Rooms; 1st Year 8,9,10 2nd Year 19, 21, 22 3rd Year 7 and 27 5th Year 3 and 5 6th Year 4 and 6


—— 37

In class, Physical distancing between the teacher and class

is observed. Teachers desk have a clear protective screen

available.

Where movement of class groups between rooms is

required it should be planned to minimise interaction with

other class groups. To this end, morning starting times and

break times are staggered. The keep left and single file

system also maintains a physical distance during

movements.

Students will have assigned and dedicated seats in

classrooms and dining areas to help with contact tracing.

Additional supervision is in place to limit interaction on

arrival and departure and in hallways and other shared

areas.

Lockers will no longer be available to students to prevent

congregation and to maintain social distancing. Students

should only bring essential books and copies each day to

reduced bag weight.

Social physical contact (hand to hand greetings, hugs) is

not allowed and there is a no hand shaking policy in place

Where students need to move about within the classroom

to perform activities (access to a shared resource) it should

be organized to the greatest degree possible to minimise

congregation at the shared resource.

Y Y Y Y Y Y Y


—— 38

Staff and students should avoid sharing of personal items.

Where teaching and learning involves use of keyboards or

tablets, the contact surface of the device will be cleaned

regularly and hand hygiene encouraged.

Y Y Y

Difficulty in Contact tracing

Y

In the event of HSE requiring

information it is not available

M

Arrangement for necessary visitors such as contractors and

parents will be restricted to essential purposes and limited

to those who have obtained prior approval from the

principal.

A detailed sign in/sign out contact log of visitors entering

the school is maintained at the school office in accordance

with GDPR and the Data Protection. VsWare records

attendance of students daily and teacher’s attendance is

recorded in the contact log in the school office.

Students will have assigned and dedicated seats in

classrooms and dining areas to help with contact tracing.

SNAs will be timetabled to stay with same year group

where possible to prevent mixing with other year groups

Y Y Y

Assigning seating

Teachers

Response Team


—— 39

Y

Lack of appropriate PPE or PPE not being worn

N Higher risk of virus transfer

M

School set-up with PPE framework and ordering from suppliers on framework PPE station at front door and those arriving advised to use with information signs also at lobby. Caretaker/ Cleaner is nominated person responsible for supplying/ restocking cleaning products, ppe and alcohol gel when required Hand sanitiser dispensers have been installed around school Masks/ Face coverings are to be worn by staff and students

where a distance of 2 metres cannot be maintained, such

as in classrooms, moving from one class to another,

corridors and at break times/lunchtimes etc..

It is essential for those wearing a cloth face covering to

understand that the purpose is not to protect themselves

but to reduce onward transmission and the benefit is

reliant on wearing the covering appropriately.

Wearing a face covering or mask does not negate the need

to stay at home if symptomatic.

In certain circumstances where a student or staff member cannot wear a mask/ face covering for medical reasons a visor can be used if appropriate. You do not have to wear a face covering if you have an illness or impairment that would make wearing or removing a face covering upsetting

Y Y Y Y Y

Caretaker

Covid Aide

Response team


—— 40

or uncomfortable. In this instance a Medical letter will be requested The use of disposable gloves in the school by students or staff is not generally appropriate but may be necessary for matters such as cleaning or intimate care settings. Routine use does not protect the wearer and may expose others to risk from contaminated gloves Staff will be provided with Face mask and visor. Staff members responsible for intimate care of students with specific care needs will be allocated PPE- Gloves EN14683 face masks, Aprons, Visors. Parents have been informed that every student will need three masks per day. One for the morning, one for the afternoon and one in case of soiling. Parents have been informed that students will not be allowed in the school without a suitable mask. Staff and students have been shown how to use PPE Correctly SNAs provided with PPE when working with individual students while maintaining a minimum distance of 1 metre.

Y Y Y Y Y N

5 Such incidents induction pack on correct use of PPE shared with Parents/ Students

Staff/ Students with symptoms presenting to work

Y Spread of virus

Illness

H

Staff/ Students are informed not to attend school if they have symptoms. Protocol developed in situation of a suspect case.

Y Y

Response Team

August


—— 41

If symptoms develop at work staff member should be advised to go home and contact their GP. If unable to drive home staff member is put in the meeting Room which is our designated isolation room If students develop symptoms at school, the parent/guardian is contacted immediately. The student is collected and the parent is advised to take them home and contact their GP. While waiting to go home student is put in the meeting Room which is our designated isolation room (Full details are outlined in Response Plan) Designated Isolation Room Staff/ Students made aware of Signs and Symptoms of Corona Virus.

Government policy, which is based on official public health

advice, continues to advise against non-essential travel

overseas for everyone.

It is a requirement for anyone coming into Ireland, from

locations other than those with a rating of ‘normal

precautions’ (“green”), to restrict their movements for 14

days, and this includes school staff, parents and children or

other students coming from abroad to attend school in

Ireland. Restricting your movements means staying

indoors in one location and avoiding contact with other

people and social situations as much as possible

Y Y Y Y

Parent Guide given to parent Appendix 10 Meeting Room


—— 42

Staff unaware of Covid-19 and school policy

N

Not following established procedures

Higher risk of transfer of virus

L

All staff complete Department Induction on return to work protocols All staff have access to school response plan and OneNote All staff members must complete"Covid-19 Return to work induction" developed by Kerry ETB. posters displayed, covering hand hygiene, social distancing and respiratory hygiene and cough etiquette

Y Y Y

Response Team

Management

Sharing of equipment/ belongings

Y Transfer of virus M

Personal belongings should not be shared and staff and

students should limit the amount of their belongings

brought to school

No sharing of tools or equipment unless necessary.

Clean before and after handling any shared items.

N Y Y

Staff

Students

Students unaware of new procedures and guidelines

Y

Incorrect practices

Greater risk of

exposure to virus

Effect on the wellbeing of

school community

M

At Coláiste Gleann Lí year group assemblies at the

beginning of term and an induction booklet will be given to

students/ parents to show what changes they will

experience in the new school year. This induction booklet

also details;

1. Current information and where I can access

2. Changed school policies and procedures

3. How to protect my classmates and school

community

4. How to wash/sanitise your hands correctly

5. Correct respiratory hygiene

Y

Induction Booklet developed Appendix 11

Staff

Students

Response Team

Covid Aide


—— 43

6. What to do if you have symptoms

7. The importance of social distancing

8. Cleaning their own belongings, desk/

workspace and keeping it tidy

9. Correct fitting, removal, storage and disposal

of P.P.E, including how to wear a mask

correctly

10. A suspected case

Staggered starting back dates to allow for induction and

students familiarising themselves with the new school

setting.

Parents will also be informed of new procedures when

dropping their child off at school, the importance of

visiting by appointment only and the importance of

familiarising themselves with this response plan.

The importance of students following the correct

procedures and guidelines is reflected in the changes to

our Code of Behaviour. Both students and parents should

familiarise themselves with these updates. Our Code of

Behaviour is available on the school website.

Coláiste Gleann Lí has displayed signage outlining the signs

and symptoms of COVID-19 and to support good hand and

respiratory hygiene along with physical distancing. The

posters/ floor markings are age appropriate and display

appropriate key health messages – hand washing, sneeze

and cough etiquette etc. Floor markings also include

Y Y Y Y


—— 44

directional arrows for movement in corridors. Signage at

entrance outlines protocols for parents/ visitors and that it

is strictly by appointment only.

Lack of respiratory and hand hygiene

Y

Hands not

washed

increasing

possible transfer

of virus

exposure to

coughing/sneezin

g

M

Signage up around building along with regular reinforcement of handwashing and use of alcohol sanitiser. Tissue available for respiratory hygiene. Employees encouraged to adhere to respiratory hygiene, cough etiquette and social distancing Staff and students instructed to bring minimal personal belongings into the school to avoid risk of contamination. Wash hand basins, running water, liquid soap and hand

drying facilities are provided in all toilets, kitchens and any

food preparation areas.

Hand washing facilities are maintained in good condition

and supplies of soap and towels are topped up regularly by

School cleaner to encourage everyone to use them.

Hot air dryers are an acceptable alternative for hand drying

but must be regularly maintained. There is no evidence

that hand dryers are associated with increased risk of

transmission of COVID-19.

Hand sanitising stations available throughout school; on corridors and in all classrooms as well as outside classrooms and at all entry and exit points to the school.

Y Y Y Y Y

Cleaning Staff

Covid Aide

Response

Team

Touch Surfaces

Y M A list of touch surfaces maintained and highlighted as part of the cleaning regime.

Y

Staff


—— 45

Exposure to virus

Surfaces such as door handles, toilet facilities and sink areas cleaned twice daily by cleaning staff. Wipes in each room and those using PCs asked to wipe them down (Keyboard, Mouse, all touched areas) directly after use Wipes in each classroom and regular wipe down of table tops/chairs advised. All cups, cutlery, etc. must be thoroughly washed with hot

water and wash-up liquid between uses or dishwasher

used for all crockery.

Photocopier touchpad and contact points wiped down

after use by user.

Y Y Y Y

https://learningk

erryetb-

my.sharepoint.co

m/:b:/g/personal

/dp_gleannli_ie/

EWn-

mOGTZS9Nh06p-

jMJpE0BmjyzA2a

NRiSVltkERu3Q3

w?e=cmazEw

Cleaner

Students

Visitors Y

Visitors

interacting with

staff and students

M

No visitors allowed on premises without an appointment Use intercom system at front door. If a parent wants to meet it is strictly by appointment and parent will be asked in relation to having symptoms of virus. Health check form to be completed before arrival of all visitors. Visitors not to arrive earlier than appointment time A distance of 2metres to be maintained at all times Front door locked down during day with access only to those that have key fob.

Y Y Y Y Y Y

Appendix 12

Visitors

Response team


—— 46

Inadequate cleaning

Y

Greater risk of transfer of virus

Inappropriate

conditions for a learning

environment

Cleaning staff briefed on importance of cleaning to HSPC document advice and the importance of touch surfaces being cleaned regularly along with Toilet facilities Department Cleaning Checklist completed. Senior management meeting with cleaning staff. Additional hours sought and an allocation of 4.5hrs additional weekly granted. Training completed by cleaning staff. all unnecessary items been removed from the work area to include spare /extra chairs, storage boxes or any items which could contribute to the risk of contamination adequate supplies of hand washing materials e.g. liquid soap, disposable paper towels etc. (alcohol hand rub can be used if hands are not visibly dirty) Waste bins emptied, cleaned and sanitised on a regular basis. Particular care of the hygiene arrangements for wash hand

and toilet facilities will be taken.

Coláiste Gleann Lí will be cleaned at least once per day.

Additional cleaning will be focused on frequently touched

surfaces – door handles, hand rails, chairs/arm rests,

communal eating areas, sink and toilet facilities.

Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

Cleaning Staff

Staff

Students

Ongoing


—— 47

With students moving between classrooms a selection of

sprays/wipes/paper towels will be made available to them

to enable them to wipe down their desk, chair and surface

before leaving the room.

Each member of the school community is responsible for

cleaning/ sanitising their own work area.

All staff will have access to cleaning products and will be

required to maintain cleanliness of their own work area.

Under no circumstances should these cleaning materials be

removed from the building.

Staff should thoroughly clean and disinfect their work area

before and after use each day.

There will be regular collection of used waste disposal bags

from offices and other areas within the school facility.

Shower facilities shall not be available for use by staff or

students due to the increased risk associated with

communal shower facilities and areas. This shall be

reviewed in line with government guidance.

Staff must bring, use and clean their own equipment and

utensils (cup, cutlery, plate etc.).

Disposable gloves worn when emptying rubbish bins.

Spray cleaner with paper towels and/or disinfectant wipes

in all classrooms to clean commonly handled items.

Y Y Y Y Y Y Y


—— 48

Pedal bin available in all rooms for disposable of cleaning

towel/wipes.

Y Y Y

Legionnaires disease due to stagnant water

N Dirty stagnant water causing

illness L

Running Water before return to school to combat legionnaire’s disease as a result of stagnant water following school closure.

Y

Caretaker/

Cleaner August

Very high-risk students with medical conditions

Y More susceptible

to virus H

Letter to parents requesting they contact the school if their child is in the very high-risk category. Carry out individual assessments of risk factors.

School engagement with student and parents on concerns.

Provisions for schooling very high risk students remotely in

place

Y Y Y Y

studentsidentified Microsoft Teams being used along with live video feed

Ongoing

Students travelling by bus

Y

Confined space

Students from other schools

M

Bus Eireann have protocols in place Students and escorts wear masks Social distancing on buses will mean reduced numbers.

Y Y

Bus Eireann


—— 49

Students will be encouraged to not congregate at bus stops

while waiting for a bus and maintain social distancing.

Y

Staff Congregating

Y

Lack of social Distancing

Spread of virus

L

A distance of 2m is recommended for physical distancing

by staff. This is particularly relevant to distancing between

adults when they are not engaged in teaching such as the

staff room and arriving to work.

If 2m cannot be maintained in staff groups, the wearing of

a face covering should be observed. All staff will be

provided with face masks and face shields.

To prevent the congregation of staff, staggered break and

lunchtimes are in place. As there is a limit of 14 people in

the staffroom teachers may use their classroom for break

times. The home economics room will be used during

break times for additional tea making/ food preparation

space if required.

Additional Staff workroom with PC’s / internet access has

been introduced to the curricular room.

Staff meetings will be held remotely.

Staff are encouraged to minimise gathering at the

beginning or end of the school day.

Teachers are encouraged to work from home when not in

class.

Limit of 14 staff in staffroom.

Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

Staff

Response Team

Ongoing


—— 50

Limit on number of teachers in seating area. (based on

social distancing) Staff bring their own cutlery and plates

etc.

Y

Access/ Egress

Y

Lack of social distancing/

People congregating and thus transfer of

virus

M

Staggered arrival and leaving times. When dropping students off parents/guardians should

remain in cars and observe social distancing guidelines.

Arrangements for dropping off/collecting students will be

staggered to maintain physical distancing of 2m where

possible.

Walking/cycling to school will be encouraged as much as

possible.

Congregation of people at the school gates where physical

distancing requirements may not be respected will be

discouraged.

Staggered drop off/pick up times will be in place.

A second entry point will be used to prevent congregation.

As breakfast club has been moved to the later time of

Break 1 students should head straight to their designated

learning space/classroom at the beginning of the day.

Queue markings at front entrance Car park at rear of school available in order to increase

social distancing and allow for less contact of staff.

Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

Staff

Parents

Students

Ongoing


—— 51

Students are encouraged to use new pedestrian walkway

Adjustments to school office to restrict access.

Y Y

Canteen & dining areas

Y Lack of social

distancing M

Two designated break and lunch times in order to limit the

interaction of school community.

Physical distancing will be applied in canteen facilities and

dining areas with a minimum of 1m between people.

Staggered canteen use and an additional dining area have

been introduced to allow for physical distancing.

Floor markings have been introduced to managing queuing

however, with the prepacked meals the need for queuing

will be greatly reduced.

Students will be encouraged to use the hand sanitising

stations to clean their hands before and after entering the

canteen area.

As far as possible and practical students are assigned to

their main base class cohort and are given a designated

seat in dining/ canteen areas.

No payment required for school meals.

Table tops and touch surfaces cleaned to HSE guidelines

after use by canteen staff.

Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

Staff

Students

School Food Company

Ongoing


—— 52

Additional dining area in room 19 Media Centre in use to

allow for greater social distancing.

A maximum capacity of 86 applies to the canteen area and

55 to Room 19

Windows will be opened for adequate ventilation.

Each Dining area has a dedicated outdoor space for

students to get fresh air while maintaining social

distancing.

Students informed that they are not allowed move

furniture.

Y Y Y Y Y

Corridors Y

Physical contact

Lack of social distancing

M

A keep left and single file system will be enforced.

Facemasks to be worn at all times

Briefly passing someone in a hall is very unlikely to

contribute significantly to the spread of infection if people

do not have physical contact and avoid informal group

discussions.

Queue management and social distancing information sent

out prior to start of school of routes through corridors.

Student council members assigned leadership of corridor

behaviour.

Floor displays and posters highlighting the importance of

maintaining distance.

Y Y N N Y Y Y

Students

Staff

Response Team

Ongoing


—— 53

Teachers observe/supervise movement on corridors

Leaving the school grounds during the day

N

Interaction with other people/

buildings which are not under our

control and present a higher

risk

L

No extracurricular activities to be planned up to the end of 2020. 6th Year students are no longer allowed leave school grounds at lunchtime.

Y Y

Staff

Students

Management

Ongoing

PE Tralee Sports Complex

Y

Sports hall in the Tralee Sports

Complex and the toilet facilities in

the same location.

M

Students to wear their PE gear on the day of PE for the duration of the full day. This will negate the need to use changing rooms and bathrooms. Masks to be worn while moving to the PE hall and at the discretion of the PE teacher during the class. SNA to accompany PE teacher to the complex and to assist in supervision and adherence to covid respiratory etiquette. 80-minute class duration for all PE classes. Possible mask for teacher/ student when while moving to and returning to the complex. Regularly reinforce good hygiene etiquette. Provide portable hand sanitizers during the PE lesson and insist on hand washing after touching the equipment Footballs basketballs rackets and all PE equipment to be washable before and after use. Insist on hand hygiene etiquette to prevent contamination. Risk assessment carried out in Sports Complex. Students will enter complex through storeroom at back to prevent

Y Y Y Y

To be discussed with Sports complex management

Response

Team

Teacher

SNA

Ongoing


—— 54

mixing with public. They will enter main hall and use the sanitiser provided. If they need to use the toilet it will be only one student permitted at a time. The SNA will go with the student to the toilets at the reception instead of the toilets in the changing rooms. The SNA will wait outside an bring the student back both sanitising their hands on the way back into hall. PE teachers have the availability of sprays and wipes to help with sanitising equipment. Non-contact sports will be part of the PE curriculum. Pe Teachers have been given The Tralee Sports Complex Risk assessment. All touch surfaces to be cleaned regularly, equipment to be wiped and sanitized, regularity of the cleaning regime in the sports complex to be agreed and shared. Teacher marks the class group attendance; records contact with all non-school personnel in the complex and while walking to and coming from. If Covid-19 is suspected in a patient, implement the isolation procedure.

Y Y Y

Lack of mechanical ventilation

Y

Poor ventilation in indoor spaces

is associated with increased

transmission of respiratory infections

M

Increased natural ventilation – preferably with fresh air (i.e. by opening windows and doors) – is practiced, whenever possible, in all the school areas visited by children and adults (e.g. classrooms, corridors, canteen, etc.). This may lead to cooler temperatures in the school. A strategy of opening the windows in each classroom during each break and at lunchtime can be employed during the colder winter months.

Y Y

Response

Team Ongoing


—— 55

Staff and students are made aware of the benefit of the ventilation strategy in reducing the circulation of airborne infectious materials to avoid the possibility of windows being closed because of discomfort draughts. The potential benefit to public health at this time outweighs the reduction in energy efficiency. Air vents in walls or windows checked for blockages and windows inspected so they are not difficult to open.

Y

Rules not being followed

Y

Students flouting Health & Safety

guidelines posing a health & Safety

risk

H

Code of behaviour adjusted allowing for measures in the event of non- compliance and risky behaviour and parents informed of changes. A strict no touching/physical contact policy is in place between students. Additional supervision at break times and on the corridors. A zero tolerance approach will be taken towards those that purposely do not follow procedures or the direction of staff members.

Y Y Y

Students

Parents

Staff

Response Team

External Contractors

Y

Increased interaction with people outside

the school community.

Not aware of

school procedures

L

Kerry ETB are taking steps to ensure the safety and health of all who attend our schools/centres and our staff/learners/students. Non-essential visits are not permitted at present. However, visits by contractors to provide essential services are permissible. The following steps are essential to ensure measures to prevent spread of COVID-19 are complied with by all contractors.

Y

Staff

Response Team

Ongoing


—— 56

Facility managers must issue the following to all contractors •COVID-19 letter to contractor (Appendix 1) •Kerry ETB Site Rules including the COVID-19 addition (Appendix 2) •Kerry ETB Contractor COVID-19 Questionnaire (Appendix 3) •Kerry ETB COVID-19 induction–issued already The facility manager must receive the following before allowing the contractor access to the school/centre: •COVID-19 measures in method statements and risk assessments submitted •A completed Kerry ETB Contractor COVID-19 Questionnaire for each worker •Acknowledgment that the contractor will comply with Kerry ETB COVID-19 Contractor site rules

Staff In-service N Staff mixing with staff from other

schools L

All non-essential in service cancelled or attended remotely. Staff travel to meetings/ conferences to be decided by managers and only when deemed essential.

Y Management

Staff

Ongoing

Staff teaching between schools

Y

Staff mixing with staff and students

from other schools

Contact tracing

difficult

M No staff will be used between schools where possible. Y

Second Lock-down

N Students unable to attend school.

M Student emails set-up and all students have access to the 365 platform.

Y

HSCL


—— 57

Lack of tuition

Teachers have been given training on MS Teams. Webcam provided for teacher demonstrations in all

classrooms

Devices available for students in need with priority given to

exam classes.

Wellbeing support Team set-up and managed by wellbeing

team.

Access to HSCL by phone

Access to Guidance counsellor through email.

Y Y Y Y Y Y

Guidance Counsellor

Response

Team ICT Co-

Ordinator

Staff

Teaching Rooms

Y

Lack of social distancing

Movement within

classroom

Lack of sanitation

L

Queue markings in use in areas susceptible to congregating at start class. Staff and students wear face coverings Classrooms equipped with hand sanitising station, pedal bin, cleaning products and paper towels/ wipes. Staff and students sanitise hands when entering the classroom. Desk and chair area to be sanitised on arrival by students and staff. Sharing of books and pens etc. should be avoided.

Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

Additional guidance from department on practical rooms expected

Staff

Students

Response Team

Ongoing


—— 58

If a class set of books in use, they are sanitised after use by wiping them down. Staff will allow for adequate ventilation by opening windows as appropriate. Webcam provided for teacher demonstrations in all classrooms Strict seating plan developed for contact tracing. Students seated in their base class ‘pod’. In IT rooms the use of AB Tutor to view students Computer Screen and to prevent need for teacher circulating. In practical classes theory side of curriculum covered in the initial term to reduce interaction. Webcam provided for teacher demonstrations A protection screen for teachers’ desk is available in all classrooms. Single Tables will be used in all general classrooms (300 single desks ordered and arrived) Movement throughout the classroom is restricted. Doors kept open where possible to avoiding having to touch door handles.

Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

Toilet Facilities Y Congregation of

students

Numbers restricted to three at a time in main bathroom units

Y

Students

Ongoing


—— 59

Lack of sanitation

Lack of social

distancing

Students seek permission to access bathrooms during break times and class times. Additional supervision in toilet areas. Congregating in bathrooms is strictly forbidden. Year groups are allocated specific stalls to aid with contact tracing. Sinks have been cordoned off to allow for social distancing. Floor marking at urinals encourage social distancing. Warm water is provided in all bathrooms and are fitted with push taps that can be operated by the elbow. Toilet facilities are priority areas that are cleaned regularly by cleaning staff. Toilet paper and paper towel in sealed units. Anti-bacterial soap in bathrooms. Queue markings outside entrance in place.

Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

Staff

Response Team

Cleaner/

Caretaker

Negative effect on Wellbeing

Y

Staff/ Students concerned and

anxious

Lack of social interaction

M

Student support team in place Guidance counsellor available Employee assistance programme in place Student support pack developed

Y Y Y Y

Staff

Response Team

Student support

team

Ongoing


—— 60

Department guidelines in relation to wellbeing Returning to school will be a difficult transition for some of our student cohort and supporting them will be crucial as they navigate school again. Our Guidance Counsellor, HSCL, Student Support Team and SEN Team will be best placed to put supports in action. Our Student Support Team will identify students and their parents/guardians most in need of support. The SEN Team will work on supporting students with special educational needs, English as an additional language (EAL) or additional learning needs. Moreover, students at risk of educational disadvantage, and students with medical issues sensitive to the pandemic context, are particularly vulnerable and will continue to need targeted support.

Y

Lack of review of procedures

and school protocols

N

Complacency of attitudes

Guidelines not

enforced

Issues highlighted that were missed in initial planning

phase

L

Regular meeting of response team. Staff issues should be raised with Management or LWRs Students Council will garner student views Parents/ Guardians can contact school or liaise with their Parents’ Council

Y Y Y Y

Response Team

Management

Parents

Students

Staff

Ongoing

Documents

Health and Safety Statement - Coláiste Gleann Lígleannli.ie/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Health-Safety...CGL_HS_SS_001 draft 9 4.3 C OLÁISTE G LEANN L Í R OLES AND R ESPONSIBILITIES