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POLICY 41

HEALTH AND SAFETY

CONTENTS

Section: Title: Page:

1. Health and Safety Policy Statement 2-4

2. The Organisation for the Management of

Health and Safety 4-5

3. Arrangements for Implementing the

Health and Safety Policy 6-9

4. Specific Risk Topics 9-20

Policy Reviewed by: Headteacher Date Reviewed Lent 2016

Next Review Date Lent 2017

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TRURO HIGH SCHOOL

HEALTH AND SAFELY

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 This Policy should be read in conjunction with the policies for Offsite Activities, Visits & Trips, No Smoking,

Critical Incidences & Disaster Recovery, Campus Security and Risk Assessment.

1.2 This Manual sets out Truro High School for Girl’s commitment to ensuring appropriate standards of Health

and Safety are applied in all its activities and describes the systems in place for achieving the objectives

outlined in the Policy Statement.

1.3 The Senior Leadership Team (SLT) will take steps so far as is reasonably practicable to ensure that the

workplace is a safe and healthy environment in which its pupils, employees, contractors and other

persons affected by the School operations can work.

1.4 The SLT will make the necessary assessments, identify safety training and provide information and

supervision for employees at all levels. It will consult on a regular basis with all employees/staff

representatives with regards to health and safety issues. It will provide the necessary safety devices and

protective clothing, provided that a safer working environment cannot be achieved by any other means.

1.5 The Manual is divided into 4 sections:

A. Section 1

The Health and Safety Policy Statement.

This sets out the School’s intent, commitment, ethos and aims and objectives towards H&S.

B. Section 2

The Organisation for the Management of Health and Safety.

This describes the people with health and safety responsibilities and sets out their key responsibilities

within the School H&S structure.

C. Section 3

The Arrangements for Implementing the Health and Safety Policy.

This describes the practical arrangements, systems and procedures in place for managing health and

safety and implementing the Policy.

D. Section 4

Specific Risk Topics.

Describes specific risk topics where there are special Health & Safety procedures.

1.6 An abridged version of this Policy Document will be made available as a quick reference handbook guide

for all Staff on School Health and Safety requirements.

1.7 This policy is applicable to all pupils, including those in the EYFS.

1.8 This policy follows the DfE Health and Safety Advice on Legal Duties and Powers for Headteachers, Staff

and Governing Bodies.

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SECTION 1: HEALTH AND SAFETY POLICY STATEMENT

2. Truro High School attaches the utmost importance to the safety, health and welfare of its pupils, employees, visitors and general public. The School will comply with the provisions of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and all subsequent regulations, including those implementing EC Directives. The School Governors bear ultimate responsibility to provide leadership and day to day responsibilities are delegated to the SLT with the lead responsibility falling to the Headteacher.

2.1 The School’s work programmes will, so far as is reasonably practicable, adopt good safety practices. These

will include:

A. The provision of adequate information, instruction, training and supervision for employees including:

1. Temporary employees and contractors, volunteers and self-employed adults.

2. The provision of safe machinery and equipment regularly maintained, including the operation and

maintenance of plant and systems of work.

3. The provision of a safe and healthy place of work, including access and egress to and from the

premises and adequate facilities and arrangements for the welfare of employees at work.

4. Consider the safety of pupils, parents, contractors and any others accessing the premises including

those who hire or undertake leisure activities.

B. The safe use, storage, handling and transport of articles and substances.

2.2 Co-operation

A. All aspects of health and safety remain an SLT responsibility. However a safe and healthy workplace

can only be achieved with the full co-operation of every employee.

B. Employees are duty bound to act responsibly and to do everything possible to prevent personal injury to themselves and to others. They must also safeguard all persons to whom the school owes a duty of care, namely people who may come into contact with their work; pupils, parents, visitors etc. To achieve this employees must: 1. Obey all the safety rules and procedures, including the wearing of protective clothing and the use

of protective devices if they are specified by the school risk assessments; 2. Exercise their awareness, alertness, self-control and common sense at work;

3. Report promptly to their line manager all hazards, potential hazards, defects in equipment and any

shortcomings in the school’s work systems or procedures.

2.3 Employees should not be in any doubt that the school will apply disciplinary procedures to any employee

who is in breach of the school’s health and safety policy. This includes any specific safe systems of work,

instructions, training and procedures laid down for the protection of those involved in the school’s

operations, and for those who may become involved in them.

2.4 Policy Review

A. This policy will be reviewed annually by the Headteacher. In conducting the policy reviews, due regard

will be given to the following:

1. Planning. The elimination of risks in the workplace by careful selection and design of facilities,

equipment and processes, together with effective control measures and training for employees.

2. If appropriate, the school will consider the risk to safety involved in:

a. Dealing with physical, chemical and biological hazards, such as machinery safety, chemical

safety, asbestos in the school building, water quality, and the use of radioactive material.

b. Contractors in school.

c. Vehicle movements within the school grounds.

d. Workplace arrangements, including housekeeping.

e. School trips.

f. Centres licensed by the Adventure Activity Licensing Authority.

g. Work experience arrangements.

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h. Violence to staff.

i. School security.

j. Stress management.

k. Letting of school premises to outside bodies.

l. Pupils with special needs.

m. Any other site specific area, e.g. swimming pool.

2.5 Organisation

A. School H&S Organisation

The School’s H&S organisation will be reviewed at least annually to ensure that responsibilities for

H&S are clearly defined at all times to all employees at every level.

B. SLT Responsibilities

The SLT will ensure that the safety requirements are implemented throughout the school by all

employees and that training is regularly conducted in support of those standards.

C. Employees’ Responsibilities

All employees have a responsibility for ensuring the health and safety of staff, pupils and visitors to

the site.

D. H&S Advice and Support

A Service Level Agreement (SLA) exists between Cornwall Council Health and Safety (Schools)

Department and Truro High School. The SLA provides for on-site support of a Health and Safety and

Wellbeing Co-coordinator for a number of days per year. The Coordinator will support the School,

particularly Heads of Department, with the completion of risk assessments, the development and

maintenance of safety-critical record systems, site inspections to ensure H&S compliance and ‘tool-

box’ talk training packages. The Coordinator will also provide an annual report regarding H&S

statistics, risk assessment progress, audit performance and other key information. Regular safety

audits will be carried out and a safety report completed each term. These documents will form the

basis for monitoring and review, to ensure that a credible standard of health and safety is achieved.

2.6 Health and Safety Management

A. The School’s Governors have overall responsibility for the implementation of the policy and will

ensure that sufficient finance provision is made available to support the policy.

B. In order to achieve the aims and objectives of the School’s H&S Policy these issues will be brought

regularly to the attention of the SLT and during termly H&S meetings and governors’ board meetings.

SECTION 2: THE ORGANISATION FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF HEALTH AND SAFETY

3. INTRODUCTION

3.1 The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 (HASWA) places a duty on all employers and employees to

safeguard so far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare of those who may be affected

by work activities, such as pupils and visitors. They must ensure that all premises, equipment and

substances are safe and without risk to health.

3.2 Purpose of Section

To define the people with specific health and safety responsibilities and to set out their key

responsibilities within the School H&S structure.

3.3 The Board of Governors

The Governing Body has ultimate responsibility for setting health and safety policy, objectives and targets.

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3.4 The SLT

It is the responsibility of the SLT and in particular, the Headteacher and where appropriate, the Bursar, to

be responsible for the day-to-day compliance with the H&S Policy.

3.5 Headteacher and/or Bursar

The responsibility for the day-to-day H&S compliance rests primarily with the Headteacher. The H&S

responsibilities of the Headteacher are as follows:

A. Co-ordinating the day to day activities of the running of the whole School in accordance with the

Health and Safety Policy.

B. Liaison with Governors, advisers and enforcement agencies on policy issues and any problems

implementing the health and safety policy.

C. Monitoring the H&S SLA (See Paragraph 2.5d above) and programming the on-site support to specific

areas in order of priority.

D. Ensuring the SLA H&S Reports are acted upon promptly and for the presentation of the Annual Report

to the Board of Governors.

E. Ensuring any H&S related action, where appropriate, is taken swiftly.

F. Passing on information received on H&S matters to appropriate people.

G. Carrying out investigations as necessary.

H. Chairing the termly School H&S Committee.

I. Co-operation with and providing necessary facilities for staff and trade union representatives.

3.6 Heads of Departments and the Estates Supervisor

Their main functions are, as follows:

A. Day to day management of H&S activities involved in the running of the whole School in accordance

with the Health and Safety Policy.

B. Drawing-up and reviewing H&S Departmental procedures, including making sure they have conducted

risk assessments for their Departmental Activities where appropriate.

C. Carrying out regular inspections and making reports to the Headteacher, if required.

D. Hazard analysis and assistance in the production of, and the maintenance of, risk assessments related

to their Departmental Activities.

E. Arranging for staff training and information.

F. Maintenance of H&S standards.

G. Passing on any new or revised H&S information to appropriate people.

H. Acting on H&S reports from above or below in the hierarchy.

3.7 Teachers, technicians, non-teaching staff

Their main functions are as follows:

A. Day to day management of health and safety within their departments and the carrying out of active

safety in the school.

B. Checking classrooms/work areas are safe.

C. Checking safety of equipment before and during use.

D. Ensuring safe procedures are used and maintained.

E. Assisting in hazard analysis and risk assessment.

F. Assessing the need for and ensuring that personal protective equipment is used.

G. Defect and hazard reporting.

H. Specialist tasks e.g. first aid, swimming pool safety etc.

I. Participating in inspections and health and safety consultation committee, if appropriate.

J. Bringing problems to the attention of the relevant Head of Department.

3.8 Specialist Safety Advisers/Consultants

Their functions to include:

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A. Establishing, with the Headteacher, timetables and methodology for safety auditing.

B. Carrying out safety audits.

C. Advising on H&S policy revisions.

D. Assisting in the implementation of the H&S policy as necessary.

E. Helping in the investigation of serious incidents where appropriate.

F. Advising on inspection and monitoring procedures.

G. Giving advice on changes in legislation.

SECTION 3: ARRANGEMENTS FOR IMPLEMENTING THE HEALTH AND SAFETY POLICY

4. PURPOSE OF SECTION

4.1 To provide the detail of the practical arrangements and systems in place for managing health and safety

and implementing the Health and Safety Policy.

4.2 Health and Safety Committee

The H&S Committee comprises:

A. Chair (Bursar)

B. Headteacher

C. Deputy Head

D. Head of Upper School

E. Head of Lower School

F. Head of Sport

G. Estate’s Supervisor

H. Head of Science

I. Head of Prep

J. Head of Boarding

K. Head of Art

L. Trade Union Representative

M. Board of Governors’ Member

N. School Nurse

O. Educational Visits Co-ordinator

4.3 Health and Safety Targets & Standard Agenda Items

The H&S Committee is to meet at least once per term and is to report specifically on the following

standing agenda items and record performance against the targets indicated:

A. Reportable Accidents since the last meeting – Target - Zero.

B. Report from School Nurse on sickness and injury since last meeting and any future medical concerns

or shortfalls - Target – a reduction in absence.

C. Report from the SLA H&S Coordinator on Risk Assessments completed, and on findings within

Inspections carried out, during the period. Target – all necessary risk assessments completed and all

findings acted upon swiftly.

D. Increase in the number of personnel trained in Health and Safety – Target all staff at least once per

year.

E. Enforcement notices from the HSE – Target Nil.

4.4 H&S Codes of Practice

The School will comply with the Health and Safety Commission (HSC) and/or Health and Safety Executive

(HSE) Approved Codes of Practice (ACOP) and the HSE publications relevant to the School environment

will be widely available and the content of the relevant ACOP will form part of the training to staff.

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4.5 Accident and Illness Reporting and Investigation Procedures (The Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and

Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 1995 (RIDDOR))

A. These regulations require the reporting of specified accidents, ill-health and dangerous occurrences

to the enforcing authorities. Clearly, there is a need to pay heed to accidents that occur during or due

to work activities and to examine the cause of such accidents to prevent a recurrence. The list

includes death, major injury and over 7 days incapacitation (not counting the day on which the

accident happened. We do not have to report other injuries, but injuries which results in

incapacitation of more than 3 days must be recorded in the accident book. Specifically, the following

accidents and incidents are to be reported:

1. Work Related Death

An employee, or other person working on the premises, is killed as a result of an accident arising

out of or in connection with work. Also if the death occurs within one year of the accident.

2. Serious Injuries

An employee, or other person working on the premises, suffers a major injury as a result of an

accident arising out of or in connection with work. (Major Injury is defined as: any fracture (other

than fingers, thumbs and toes), amputation, dislocation, loss of sight (temporary or otherwise),

chemical burn to the eye, electric shock, hypothermia or loss of consciousness).

3. Injuries to people not at work and cases of diagnosed industrial disease

Where a person not at work suffers an injury, as a result of an accident arising out of or in

connection with work, and is taken to hospital. Employers must report occupational diseases.

4. Dangerous Occurrence (near miss accidents)

There is a dangerous occurrence – or near miss (for a full list see A Guide to The Reporting of

Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrence Regulation 1995).

B. All employers have a duty to report to the relevant enforcing authority.

By Telephone: 0845 300 9923, Monday to Friday, 08:30 to 17:00

The telephone number is to be used only for fatal and major injuries. Out of hours there is a Duty

Officer and he/she can be contacted via the website

www.hse.gov.uk/riddor/report

C. 7 Days Incapacitation

Where an employee is incapacitated for work for more than seven consecutive days (excluding the

day of the accident but including weekends) the School’s insurers should be advised – in accordance

with the guidelines agreed with them. Employers also have a duty in law to investigate the

circumstances of every accident reported (or entered into the accident book) which results in

personal injury to one of its employees.

4.6 Duty of Employee

Every employee, who is injured at work, must inform his/her employer as soon as possible after the

accident took place. The employee will have complied with this duty if he/she enters the required

particulars in the accident book (or by having a colleague or first aid attendant enter those particulars on

his/her behalf).

4.7 Minor Injuries and Accident Book

A. All very minor accidents (minor cuts and bruises) to staff, pupils, sub-contractor's staff or non-

employees should be recorded in the accident book held by the School Nurse in Sick Bay. More

serious accidents or “near misses” (an incident that did not result in injury or damage to property)

should be recorded on the Incident Report Form (Appendix 1) and sent to the Headteacher.

B. In the event that any person suffers an accident arising out of, or in connection with, work which results in that person being off work, the line manager should notify the Headteacher.

C. In the event that any person, including pupils, members of the public or sub-contractor’s employees, suffer an accident arising out of, or in connection with, work which results in a fatality, major injury, certain occupational diseases (as defined by RIDDOR), or where there is a dangerous occurrence which might have caused injury, the Head of Department must immediately notify the Headteacher. In all

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these situations the Headteacher will be responsible for completing RIDDOR Form F2508.

4.8 Pro-active Health and Safety Inspections

A. The School is committed to measure and review Health and Safety using both reactive and proactive

data. The reactive measures will normally be accident and injury reporting. The proactive reporting

measures will be achieved by taking the initiative before things go wrong. This will be conducted by

active monitoring and regular health and safety audits/inspections.

B. Cornwall Council Health and Safety (Schools) SLA.

The Headteacher will identify the schedule of inspections for the Health & Safety and Wellbeing Co-

ordinator according to priority and will liaise with Heads of Department prior to the inspection taking

place. The Coordinator will then produce detailed reports of findings which will be acted upon as

swiftly as possible. These written reports will be one of the main pro-active methods by which

continuous improvement is made to the H&S culture and infrastructure of the school.

C. Inspection Reports

All Inspection Reports are to be discussed at each H&S Committee meeting and, where appropriate,

progress or risk management is to be reported at each subsequent meeting until the issue is fully

resolved.

4: SPECIFIC RISK TOPICS

5. ASBESTOS

5.1 Asbestos appears in three main forms; crocidolite (blue), amosite (brown) and chrysotile (white). The blue

and brown are considered to be the most dangerous and may be found in older buildings. Asbestos

produces a fine fibrous dust which can be breathed-in and can become lodged in the lungs. This can lead

to:

A. Asbestosis (scarring of the lungs).

B. Lung cancer.

C. Mesothelioma (cancer of the lining of the lung).

5.2 The School has a very detailed Asbestos Register (see Paragraph 5.1d below) recording where asbestos is

located around the School and each location will be identified with an appropriate and easily recognisable

label. The School will endeavour to remove asbestos permanently and safely whenever the opportunity

arises. However, the Estate’s Supervisor is to be consulted before any work is carried out by a contractor

or member of staff that involves puncturing any surface identified as containing asbestos. If asbestos is

discovered during school routine or contractual work in the workplace then work is to cease immediately

and the Estates Supervisor and Headteacher are to be informed. Typical sites for asbestos include ceiling

tiles, asbestos cement roves and wall sheets, sprayed asbestos coatings of structural members, loft

insulation and asbestos gaskets. Asbestos has its own set of Regulations (Control of Asbestos

Regulations). These cover the need for a risk assessment, the method statement covering removal and

disposal, air monitoring procedure and the control measures to be used. The HSE Legislative amendment

1992 introduced the need for additional asbestos awareness training covering the following:

A. Health risks caused by exposure to asbestos.

B. Materials likely to contain asbestos and where they may be found.

C. Methods used to reduce asbestos during work.

D. Action to be taken if asbestos is discovered.

5.3 The Asbestos (Prohibitions) (Amendment) Regulations 1999 make it illegal to import, supply or use

Chrysotile in the UK with effect from November 1999. Similarly, it also became illegal to supply or use

second-hand asbestos cement products and to supply or use panels, tiles or boards that are coated or

painted and any plaster compounds containing asbestos. Exempt are products already in use. These

Regulations do not require the removal of asbestos in existing installations.

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5.4 Management of Asbestos in the School

The Estates Supervisor is responsible for the identification, management and where appropriate the

removal of materials containing or suspected of containing asbestos. A register of materials containing or

suspected of containing asbestos is maintained by him. Under no circumstances should any material

containing or suspected of containing asbestos be subject to any maintenance, alteration or removal

without consulting the Estates Supervisor. Should any member of staff, pupil or visitor become aware of

damage to material containing or suspected of containing asbestos the Estates Supervisor should be

informed immediately.

6. Catering & Cleaning Contractors The School recognises its responsibility to provide catering facilities for its pupils and staff and to ensure the safe handling of food. The School’s contractors (Sodexo) have in place their own, full set of H&S policies and procedures. Similarly, the Cleaning Contractors (Churchill) are responsible for the H&S of their employees and particularly in respect of manual handling, working at heights and working with dangerous substances and they also have their own full set of policies and procedures. The principles of cooperation, coordination and communication are to be applied to ensure that all contractors adhere to the most stringent H&S controls between the School H&S Policy and the Contractors own H&S Policy.

7. Contractors A. The School recognises its legal responsibility as an occupier of premises to all who have recourse to those

premises, including contractors undertaking any work. No contractor should be exposed to risk or allowed to knowingly introduce any risk into the premises. The Estates Supervisor will make arrangements for the monitoring of the contractor's operation, and if necessary will require him/her to take steps to remedy any faults identified in the system of work being undertaken.

B. It is to the mutual advantage of the School and the contractor that responsibility to each other and their employees is clearly recognised and understood and that, by co-operation, the highest possible standard of safety and hygienic operation is achieved during the course of the contract. Prior to beginning any work on School premises the contractor is required to complete a “Conditions for Contractors” form and sign an appropriate declaration.

8. Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) A. The object of the COSHH regulations is to prevent ill-health due to the exposure to hazardous

substances. The School is to develop suitable and sufficient control measures to: 1. identify hazards and potentially significant risks. 2. take action to reduce and control risks. 3. keep control measure under regular review.

B. The School must ensure that all chemicals used on the site have been registered and assessed and to ensure they are appropriate to the tasks for which they are required and are the safest available product. Further, to ensure that where an element of risk is present measures have been taken to control that risk.

C. The designated Heads of Departments and the Estates Supervisor are responsible for ensuring that COSHH assessments are carried out and appropriate controls are implemented within their areas of responsibility. They are also responsible for keeping records of the assessments which should be available for inspection when required. The control measures to be adopted are as follows: 1. Eliminate exposure to the substance. 2. Substitute the hazardous substance with a non-hazardous substance. 3. Implement supervisory or engineering (ventilation) controls. 4. Provide PPE.

9. Smoking Policy The School publishes a separate No Smoking Policy.

10. Electrical Safety A. The School recognises the potentially fatal hazards associated with electrical supply. The Electricity at Work

Regulations 1989 requires employers to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, that all electrical

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equipment and installations are safe and without risk to health. The following control measures are to be adhered to: 1. Reporting of Faults

All staff must ensure that electrical faults and hazards are reported immediately to the Estates Supervisor who should ensure that the relevant corrective action is taken immediately.

2. Faulty Equipment Once a faulty piece of equipment is identified it must not be used under any circumstances and if possible (without risk to personal safety) it should be isolated from the mains supply. If there is any likelihood of the equipment being reconnected by mistake then the plug should be removed.

3. PAT Testing (General) Portable and transportable electrical equipment (i.e. not fixed) account for almost 25% of electrical incidents. Therefore, all portable electrical equipment at Truro High School will receive annual portable appliance tests, by a suitably qualified electrician and any defects rectified before being issued or re-issued to staff.

4. PAT Testing (Boarders’ Electrical possessions) Clearly, Boarders will have items within their personal possessions that are electrical (e.g. hair dryers and straighteners, alarm clocks, Ipods, Laptops etc). In order to make sure that these potentially high-risk items do not pose a fire hazard (due to faulty wiring or damaged plugs etc), the item/s will be checked in September as Boarders start or rejoin as residents of the Boarding House and at regular intervals as required.

5. Attempted Repairs No person is to attempt to repair any faulty electrical appliances or carryout any electrical work without being 'competent' and without having management authority, suitable training and correct equipment. When such work has been carried out the equipment must be subject to a relevant test.

6. Record Keeping The Estates Supervisor will keep a record of all formal PAT inspections and repairs carried out to equipment or installations.

B. Under no circumstances must electrical equipment be used if a fault is recognised and repairs may only be carried out by either an approved electrical contractor or a "competent" electrician.

11. Fire Safety Policy A. The School recognises the need to have detailed fire safety procedures in place as a means to preventing

any potential fire or explosion. It also recognises the need to plan for emergency measures to deal with any unforeseen fire/explosion related incidents. These plans include staff and pupil training in fire safety and prevention and emergency evacuation drills. The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (FSO) is the current UK fire safety law. Nearly all other fire safety laws were repealed on its introduction. The FSO introduces a self-compliant, risk-based approach which imposes statutory duties on employers and employees. The duty to comply is absolute. At worst, failure to comply could result in death or injury from fire. Failure could also result in criminal prosecution being brought by the Fire & Rescue Authorities. A separate Fire Safety Policy document exists which is available on the shared area, on notice boards and with heads of department. A Synopsis of that policy follows.

B. FSO The FSO defines a ‘Responsible Person’ who is responsible for: 1. Making sure a Fire Risk Assessment is carried out. 2. Reviewing the Fire Risk Assessment annually or when there have been significant changes. 3. With regard to young persons take into account part 2 of schedule 1. 4. Record the findings. 5. Apply the principles of prevention (reduce the fire risks, establish means of escape (MofE), keep

MofE available for use, enable fire fighting, install fire detection, define action in the event of a fire and training).

6. Set out appropriate fire safety arrangements for planning organisation, control, monitoring and review.

7. Eliminate or reduce risks from dangerous substances.

C. The Deputy Head will ensure that all members of staff are aware of the relevant standing orders for fire control and procedures for fire and emergency evacuation.

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D. Fire Risk Assessments The Fire Risk Assessment is to follow the guidance in the HSE publication ‘Fire Safety An Employer’s Guide’ and is to cover the following steps: 1. Stage 1 – Identify the Fire Hazards. 2. Stage 2 – Identify the location and persons who are at significant risk. 3. Stage 3 – Reduce the Risks. 4. Stage 4 – Record the Findings. 5. Stage 5 – Monitor and Review on a Regular Basis.

E. Management of Fire Risk Assessments and Staff Training. In order to assist the School in maintaining effective fire precaution measures, including up-to-date Fire Risk Assessments, staff training and regular checks (on fire alarms, extinguishers, means of escape, emergency lighting etc), the School employs a Fire Safety Consultancy known as Safesmart. Safesmart have conducted a full review of fire safety of the School and produced Fire Risk Assessments for each building using their software package known as ‘Smartlog’. The Fire Risk Assessments can be found on-line; along with any Action Plans of any ongoing works and checks required to maintain a high standard of fire safety. The School receives automatic updates and reminders as and when checks and works need to be completed – these are sent to the Estates Supervisor and then to the Operations Manager if necessary. Staff can access the Fire Risk Assessments and can also update the system regarding any deficiencies that they may observe – such as a fire door that will not close. All staff have their own access to the site which also shows their training records. The contact details for Safesmart are as follows: Address: Safesmart, Cedar Hs, Breckland, Linford Wood, Milton Keynes MK14 6EX Telephone: 0870 1273999 - (Out of Hours) 07736 238348 Fax: 0870 1272999 Webpage: http://www.safesmart.co.uk/ Log-in Details: As follows (all lower-case): a. Company ID: truro b. Username: ‘your first name and surname’ (no gaps) c. Password: password Asbestosis (scarring of the lungs).

F. Fire Detection System In Rashleigh and Dalvenie Boarding House the automatic fire detection system is mandatory. In all other places an electronically operated fire alarm system operates. A full check of this equipment is to be conducted by a competent service engineer once per year. Monthly checks, as to apparent function, is to be carried out by the Estates Supervisor.

G. Fire Fighting Equipment Fire fighting equipment by way of extinguishers are provided throughout the School with areas of special risks (kitchen, laboratories) with other types of extinguisher. A full check of this equipment is to be conducted by a competent service engineer once per year. Weekly checks, as to correct installation and apparent function, are to be carried out by Heads of Departments.

H. Fire Practices There is to be a full fire practice for the Whole School each term. There is to be a full fire practice for the Boarding Houses each Half Term. Dates of all fire drills and evacuations must be recorded in the "Fire Precautions and Emergency Evacuation Drill Record" held by the Deputy Head. He/She will ensure that the following are brought to the attention of all staff: 1. The steps to be followed as stated in standing orders 2. The procedures for evacuating the building, where to assemble and who to report to.

I. Visitors

All visitors to the site will, before being allowed access, be given information outlining the procedures

to follow in the event of the alarm being raised and the location of the relevant assembly point. All

visitors (other than parents/guardians collecting pupils) arriving at the School should sign-in at the

main reception. The visitors registration book is both a safety and security document and therefore it

is necessary for all non-employees having access to the School to register both their arrival and

departure times. Sodexo and Churchill employees can be treated the same way as the School's own

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employees. Members of staff, at whatever level, will be responsible for the safety of their visitors at all

times.

J. The following fire emergencies are to be complied with and copies are to be displayed throughout the

School:

FIRE Emergency Procedures

Discovering a Fire or Other Emergency

THE PRIORITY IN THE EVENT OF A FIRE IS THE SAFE AND RAPID EVACUATION OF PUPILS AND STAFF

If you see signs of a fire or other emergency which could place employees or pupils in danger, SOUND THE

ALARM.

IF SAFE TO DO SO, attempt to control the fire or other emergency, with assistance if available. Never put

yourself at risk even with the smallest fire. (or other emergency). Never attempt to move burning objects

School Evacuation Procedures (Boarding Houses have additional, more detailed, evacuation

procedures, published and overseen by the house-staff in the Boarding Houses)

On hearing the alarm, or if instructed, switch off any central control switches and/or switch off any equipment

on which you may be working.

IF SAFE TO DO SO, close windows and doors and secure cash and confidential documents. If closed doors feel

warm, DO NOT OPEN THEM.

Leave the building by the nearest available exit. Do not use lifts. Ensure that any visitors you have also leave

the building.

DO NOT RUN. DO NOT COLLECT PERSONAL BELONGINGS.

If You Are Cut Off by a Fire

Close the door, using clothing etc to block any gaps.

Go to the window and attract attention.

If the room becomes smoky, stay low – it is easier to breathe.

If the window is jammed, break it; remove jagged glass from the lower sill and cover it using clothing etc.

If appropriate get out feet first and (if not on the ground floor) lower yourself to the full length of your arms

before dropping.

Make your way to your evacuation assembly point.

DO NOT HINDER ROADWAYS AND ROUTES that may be used by emergency vehicles.

DO NOT RETURN TO THE BUILDING until the all clear has been given and until instructed.

Never assume the evacuation is a drill.

In the unlikely event of a BOMB ALERT inspect your immediate surroundings for unusual articles – boxes, bags,

packages, containers, etc. DO NOT TOUCH. If possible report anything unusual before evacuating.

K. Fire Precautions

Potential fire risks need not be dangerous provided that some simple but important precautions are

observed by all employees:

1. Memorise the evacuation procedure, your emergency exit and assembly point in case of fire.

2. Familiarise yourself with the position of fire fighting equipment and the correct method of

operation of extinguishers and never interfere with, or misuse, the fire equipment.

3. Keep fire exits, routes and access to fire fighting equipment clear of any obstructions; do not

wedge fire doors open.

4. Keep your working area free of waste as far as possible and in particular those areas which are not

easily accessible, e.g. under desks, behind radiators etc.

5. Keep all combustible materials a safe distance from heating appliances and do not place anything

on heaters.

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6. If you see anything which may be a fire hazard, correct it yourself if easy and safe to do so, or report

it immediately.

12. First Aid/Sick Bay Handbook A. The School recognises its responsibility to provide first aid and will ensure that staff and pupils have

access to adequate facilities and materials at all times during the working day. The Health & Safety at Work etc Act 1974 - Imposes a general duty on employers to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare of all their employees. This extends to the provision of appropriate first aid facilities. The Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981 - These regulations set the basic requirements for the provision at work of first aid equipment, facilities and appropriately qualified personnel. These requirements have been further expanded and updated by the production of the First Aid Approved Code of Practice and Guidance1997 (ACOP).

B. The School Nurse is responsible for: 1. An assessment of first aid needs so that adequate provision can be made for the School. 2. Keeping records and monitoring First Aid training. 3. The School’s Sick Bay handbook a copy of which is available to key staff. Further copies are available

from the School Nurse. C. In addition, designated Heads of Department are responsible for ensuring that adequate numbers of

appropriately stocked first aid boxes are available and appropriate first aid signage and information is displayed within their areas of responsibility.

13. Gas Safety

A. The School recognises that gas is an extremely dangerous substance that can be lethal if inhaled, injurious if it burns uncontrolled or explodes; and can affect one or more persons. The basic precautions and maintenance checks contained in this section must be established to ensure that any potential hazards associated with gas are controlled.

B. Gas fittings must be installed and maintained by competent persons trained in accordance with the Approved Code of Practice (ACOP) Standards of Training in safe gas installations. All companies and individuals carrying out gas work must be registered with the appropriate competency authority. On 1 April 2009, the Gas Safe Register took over the statutory gas registration scheme in Great Britain from CORGI. Note: The Regulations define 'gas fittings' as including gas pipework, valves, regulators, meters, and fittings apparatus and appliances designed for use by gas consumers for the purposes of heating, lighting, cooking or other reasons (except for the purpose of an industrial process undertaken on industrial premises). The definition does not include disposable gas cylinders or cartridges, gas storage vessels or any part of a distribution main or other up-stream pipe or service pipe.

C. Gas Inspections

All gas equipment and installations are subject to annual inspection by the approved contractors who

provide a full register of the equipment/fittings. This is kept by the Estates Supervisor.

D. Gas Inspections All gas equipment and installations are subject to annual inspection by the approved contractors who provide a full register of the equipment/fittings. This is kept by the Estates Supervisor.

IN THE EVENT OF AN EMERGENCY 1. Shut off the gas supply at the emergency control point in the event of an escape of gas, and ventilate accordingly;

2. If gas continues to escape after the emergency control has been closed, clear the area and contact the gas

supplier emergency service (the number should be on the emergency control point). Do not smoke, and extinguish

all sources of ignition;

3. Do not re-open the emergency control, until all steps have been taken to prevent the re-escape of gas.

The National Freephone Emergency Service telephone number is: 0800 111999

Under no circumstances must gas equipment be used if a fault is recognised and repairs must only be carried out

by the site gas contractor or a nominated "qualified" gas fitter.

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14. Ground Keeping and Horticultural Safety A. The School recognizes that employees involved in ground keeping or horticultural tasks are exposed to

risks associated with machinery. Other risks associated with chemicals, electrical equipment, noise and manual handling are covered in the relevant sections of the manual. There are no specific regulations relating to the work of ground-keepers and workers in related jobs. Employers are, however, required by the Health & Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health and safety employees and others who may be affected by what they do or fail to do.

B. There are other specific regulations and acts which may also apply to the activities carried out by ground keepers such as the Environment Protection Act 1985 which sets standards for pesticide use and the Control of Pesticides Regulations 1986 which deals with the competence of persons using pesticides.

C. General Guidance The Estates Supervisor is responsible for overseeing the health and safety of staff employed in ground keeping duties. In addition he is responsible for ensuring that machinery and equipment used to carry out ground keeping duties comply with the relevant legislation and more specifically that such work equipment is suitable for the intended use and for the purpose and conditions in which it is used. It is maintained in a safe condition so that staff, pupils and others health and safety is not put at risk. Inspected to ensure that it is and continues to be safe for use. Any inspection should be carried out by a competent person and records kept.

15. Legionella A. Legionella is an airborne bacterium and is found in a variety of water sources. Contact with this

bacterium can cause a form of pneumonia; this disease is known as Legionnaires’ Disease named after the first documented outbreak involving a Convention of the American Legion held in Pennsylvania in 1976 (200 people were infected of which 29 died). The legionella bacterium.

B. Legionnaires' disease is the name commonly given to Pneumonia caused by the organism Legionella pneumophila. The organism is found in most parts of the world, including the United Kingdom, in water supplies, particularly air conditioning cooling towers and plumbing systems. It is thought that the organism gains nutrient from the sludge in the bottom of calorifiers and cooling tower ponds and gains access to the respiratory system of a susceptible person, by inhalation of the droplets in water vapour. The disease cannot be contracted through drinking contaminated water. The Estates Supervisor is responsible for ensuring the proliferation of Legionella Bacteria is controlled in the School’s water supplies and storage systems. The School has a contract with Churchill Cleaning Services to conduct regular safety tests.

16. Manual Handling A. The term ‘Manual Handling’ is defined as the movement of a load by human effort alone; up to 25% of

all reported accidents, particularly back injuries, are caused by poor manual handling techniques. The School recognises that every effort must be made to prevent these injuries. The Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER) provide a structured approach to minimising the risk of injury associated with this common work activity.

B. Every measure should be taken to limit the opportunities for injury as a result of manual handling but it is usually not possible to eliminate all manual handling. It is the responsibility of Heads of Departments to make their staff aware of these procedures. If a member of staff feels the task set is beyond their capability they must bring this to the attention of the Estates Supervisor who will provide the necessary assistance. The following notes outline the correct techniques to follow when handling large or awkward loads.

16.1 Picking Up an Object

A. Preparation

1. NEVER attempt to carry anything too heavy or where the shape inhibits your movement. Get

Help.

2. Plan the move. Determine where you are taking the item and whether there is a clear space

already available to receive it. If lifting to shoulder height, check that there is somewhere to rest it

mid-way, e.g. a bench or shelf. Ensure your vision over the top of the load will not be obstructed.

3. Try the object for weight first by lifting one corner slightly. Determine which side is heaviest.

B. Lifting

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1. Stand firmly - feet about 12 to 15 inches apart.

2. Stand close to the object with one foot slightly in front of the other and pointing in the direction of

the movement.

3. Bend the knees.

4. Back should be held straight with chin tucked in.

5. Grip the object firmly but safely within the bounds of your reach. If this is not possible, get help.

C. Putting down an object

1. Use the whole of the hand and not just the fingertips.

2. Use mainly your leg muscles not your arms or back.

3. Do not jerk the object as you lift, keep your movements smooth.

4. Keep the load close to the body and keep the heaviest side towards your trunk.

5. Keep your back straight and lower the object by bending your knees.

6. Keep the movement as smooth as possible.

7. Avoid trapping your fingers by putting the load down askew and adjusting afterwards.

D. Pushing/pulling a heavy object

1. Ensure the path you intend to push/pull across is clear and smooth.

2. Tuck the chin in.

3. Keep the back and arms as straight as possible.

4. TO PUSH - Thrust with the front-foot and use the back-foot to maintain balance.

5. TO PULL - Thrust with the back-foot and use the front to maintain balance.

E. Some simple practical guidance

1. STOP AND THINK BEFORE YOU LIFT.

2. CHECK THAT THE AREA TO WHERE YOU INTEND TO MOVE THE LOAD IS CLEAR AND NOT

OBSTRUCTED.

3. PLACE YOUR FEET CAREFULLY.

4. GET A FIRM GRIP.

5. BEND YOUR KNEES AND KEEP YOUR BACK AS STRAIGHT AS POSSIBLE.

6. DON'T JERK AS YOU LIFT BUT KEEP A SMOOTH ACTION.

7. MOVE YOUR FEET BUT DON'T TWIST YOUR TRUNK AND KEEP THE LOAD CLOSE TO YOUR BODY.

8. PUT THE LOAD DOWN FIRST, THEN ADJUST IT.

9. IF IN DOUBT, ASK FOR HELP.

17. Mini Bus Procedures

A. The school policy on Minibus operating procedures should be read in conjunction with the DfE publication Advice on Driving School Minibuses Mini Buses (April 2013). Mini buses are vehicles that have been constructed to carry more than 8 persons but not more than 16 passengers in addition to the driver. The School has a duty to take all reasonable precautions to ensure the minibus is operated safely. As a non-profit organisation the School has an exemption from complying fully with the Public Service Vehicle regulations and the Passenger Carrying Vehicle driver licensing requirements. Nonetheless, all drivers of the School minibuses must be over 21 years of age, have held a full driving licence for more than 2 years. Moreover, at Truro High School, we apply a more rigid standard than that required by the DfE guidance; we require regular minibus drivers to have passed the County Minibus Driver Awareness Safety Driving Test (also known as MIDAS). In addition, staff wishing to drive the larger of our two mini buses must hold a D1 endorsement on their licence. In respect of the people carrier or lighter minibus a D1 licence is not required but the MIDAS test still applies. The Operations Manager maintains a register of authorised drivers.

B. The following factors are to be paramount when operating the minibus: 1. Safety of pupils and staff; 2. Reduction of damage to property; 3. Reduction of damage to vehicles and equipment; 4. School minibuses cannot be used on or off School property without prior authorisation and booking

through the Operations Manager; 5. It is the responsibility of each person driving to make simple safety checks before setting off e.g.

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lights, brakes, mirrors, oil, water, tyres and complete the “Minibus Daily Worksheet” at the end of each journey;

6. The Estates Supervisor is responsible for carrying out the weekly routine safety and maintenance

checks and ensuring that the vehicles are serviced in accordance with the manufacturer’s

recommendations.

18. Personal Protective Equipment A. The School recognises that staff must be provided with appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)

for any task requiring it. The general provision and use of personal protective equipment is controlled by the Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992 as amended in 2002. PPE is defined as “all equipment (including clothing affording protection against the weather) which is intended to be worn or held by a person at work and which protects them against one or more risks to their health and safety”. Examples include, eye protection, safety boots, gloves, helmets, aprons etc.

B. The Estates Supervisor and any other designated Head of Department are responsible for the provision and use of PPE within their areas of responsibility and must ensure: 1. PPE is used only as a last resort because other precautions cannot adequately control the risk of

injury or ill-health; 2. PPE is supplied and used by employees, students and other persons where appropriate, wherever

there are risks to health and safety that cannot be adequately controlled in other ways; 3. An assessment is made as to the suitability of the PPE to be provided in controlling the risks of injury

or ill-health. For example the assessment must consider the type and standard of ear defenders or eye protection needed;

4. PPE complies with UK Legislation and is marked accordingly (CE); 5. PPE is maintained to ensure it continues to provide the degree of protection for which it was

designed. Maintenance includes cleaning, disinfecting, examination, replacement, repair and testing. Manufacturers guidelines should also be observed when maintaining PPE;

6. PPE is stored appropriately to protect it from contamination, loss or damage; 7. Suitable information, instruction and training is provided to persons to ensure PPE is used

effectively; 8. PPE is used in accordance with instructions issued by management and the manufacturer and

adequate levels of training and supervision are provided to ensure it is used and used properly.

19. Stress at Work The school is fully committed to introduce measures for combating stress to its employees whilst engaged

on school business and/or on school premises. The school will give full support to any staff who report

mental or physical suffering as a result of work related stress. Any reports of stress will in no way be seen as

an adverse reflection on an individuals' ability to perform his/her duties satisfactorily even though stress is

in part defined as an inability to cope. All reports made will be treated in the strictest confidence unless

otherwise directed by the individual concerned. For all confirmed cases of stress, the School will provide

local support help towards the employee's recovery and make available means for professional counselling

if required.

20. Swimming Pool Safety A. The School recognises that risks to pupils and other users exist in the use and maintenance of the School

swimming pool. The Pool Manager in conjunction with the Estates Supervisor is responsible for carrying out the appropriate risk assessments of the swimming pool and the immediate surroundings (e.g. changing rooms, plant room etc). In addition, they are responsible for compiling, maintaining and communicating the following: 1. The School’s Swimming Pool Operating Procedures. 2. The Emergency Action Plan.

B. A copy of both is located at the pool. Further copies are available from the Pool Manager. All staff who

use the pool should read and understand these procedures. The Estates Supervisor is responsible for

the appropriate plant room procedures and water treatment measures.

21. Display Screen Equipment It is recognised that visual display equipment may affect users and employers therefore must identify how

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many genuine VDU “Users” there are. To assess the risks to the health and safety of those “Users” from the use of display screen equipment and to assess the workstations and identify all necessary ergonomic preventive and protective measures needed. The Safesmart system which provides on-line annual fire safety training also has a facility for staff to undergo DSE training to minimise risks and there is also a self-complete risk assessment. All staff that regularly use DSE (i.e. for more than 4-hours per day but if less they can still opt to complete the training) are to conduct the training and risk assessment using the Safesmart system.

22. Work Experience – Health and Safety Considerations and DBS Checks. Work experience can provide an important opportunity for students to show employers what they are capable of doing and is an important stepping-stone towards employment. However, H&S red tape may prevent them from offering young people work experience placements. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) have produced simpler and clearer health and safety guidance for all those involved in work experience. The new HSE key points in the guidance include: • employers with fewer than 5 employees do not a need a written risk assessment. • repeat assessments are not required for all new work experience students. • the insurance industry has committed to treat work experience students as employees so that they will be covered by existing employers’ liability compulsory insurance policies. DBS Checks Employers are no longer able to carry out checks on staff supervising young people aged 16 to 17 on work experience. If an education provider requested such a check in respect of a person in this group, the employer would be entitled to refuse.

23. Health and Safety Aide Mémoire

A. Code of Safety Conduct All pupils, employees (including contractors), visitors and general public are to conform to the School’s Health and Safety policy. Specifically they are to: 1. ensure you understand and follow the safe operation of your duties (ask if you do not understand

any aspect of these); 2. report all accidents, near misses or potential hazards immediately; 3. if Personal Protective Equipment is provided it must be used, wear it properly and look after it; 4. not interfere with, or misuse, anything that is provided for Health & Safety of everyone; 5. keep your work area tidy and clear of any trip hazards; 6. clean-up any spilt liquids or slip hazards such as rain ingress; 7. not lift heavy objects (unless you have read and complied with the heavy lifting guidance – see H&S

Policy document), do not overreach, do not climb on anything potentially unsafe; 8. not touch electrical equipment with wet hands or allow cables to come into contact with wet areas,

always disconnect electrical appliances after use and before moving any electrical equipment, do not attempt any electrical repair (speak to the Estates staff first);

9. be aware of separate guidance (COSHH) on the safe use and control of hazardous substances.

24. Review This policy is to be reviewed at least annually by the Health and Safety Committee and then ratified and approved, once per year, by the Board of Governors.