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Scoil Bhride Boys National School
Kilcruttin
Tullamore
Co. Offaly
18524K
Health & Safety Statement
CONTENTS
General Policy Statement
Implementing the Safety System 3
Responsibilities of all employees 4
Responsibilities towards Third Parties 5
Fire and Emergency Programme 6
Electrical Safety 8
Heating and Ventilation 9
Hazardous Chemicals 10
First Aid 11
Accident Analysis 12
Drugs/Medications 13
Staff Facilities/Welfare 14
Code of Discipline / Access to employees 15
Non-teaching areas Kitchen/Offices 16
Classrooms 17
Circulation Areas 18
Wet Floors 19
Non Employees on Premises 20
Children with Special Needs 21
External Car Park, Yard, Field 22
Routines of Movement 23
Health and Safety Inspection Checklist
IMPLEMENTATION OF GENERAL POLICY STATEMENT
ON SAFETY, HEALTH AND WELFARE AT WORK AT :
Scoil Bhride Boys National School
The school's policy of Safety, health and welfare will be administered as follows:
(a) By the provision and maintenance of a working environment that is so far as is reasonably practicable, safe, healthy and without risks and which is satisfactory as regards facilities and arrangements for the welfare of all people affected by our work practices.
(b) By providing and maintaining as far as is reasonably practicable premises together with means of entry thereto and exit therefrom which are safe and without risks.
(c) By providing and maintaining as far as is reasonably practicable that machinery, equipment or appliances for the time being on the school premises are safe and without risks to the safety, health and welfare at work of all people affected by work practices.
(d) By providing information, training and supervision in the use of equipment as is in the opinion of the Board of management necessary.
(e) By ensuring that suitable protective clothing and equipment is available where appropriate and that it is used.
DUTIES OF EMPLOYEES
All employees are reminded that the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 1989 imposes a duty upon them while at work to:
(1) Take responsible care for the safety, health and welfare of her/himself and all other persons who may be affected by their acts or omissions at work.
(2) To co-operate with the Board of Management or anyone else concerned so that their respective duties and obligations under the Act are performed and complied with.
It is an offence under the Act for an employee to fail to discharge the above duties or intentionally or recklessly to interfere with or misuse anything provided in the interests of health, safety or welfare under the relevant statutory provisions.
RESPONSIBILITIES TOWARDS THIRD PARTIES
The person responsible for the application of the leglisation in accordance with this policy statement must ensure that :
(a) All third party visitors including contractors, visitors and other members of the general public are made aware of all known hazards of the premises and also means of escape by use of notice.
(b) Where contractors and sub-contractors are on the premises employees and all other third parties likely to be affected are advised of all hazards arising from the work undertaken.
(c) There is no interference with contractors staff in the performance of their duties, but where it appears that unsafe practices are being followed, they should contact the main contractor and the party engaging the contractor where appropriate.
(d) That the school's equipment and the contractors or sub-contractors equipment is in good repair and in a safe condition.
(e) All of the contractors and sub-tractors have a Safety Statement.
FIRE
It is the policy of the Board of Management Scoil Bhride Boys National School that: -
* there is an adequate supply of fire extinguishers which will deal with any type of fire,
* all fire equipment is identified and regularly serviced,
* regular Fire drills take place at least once a term,
* instruction is given in the use of Fire Extinguishers for specific materials/equipment,
* fire alarms are clearly marked,
* signs will be clearly visible to ensure visitors are aware of exit doors,
* all electrical equipment be unplugged or turned off outside office hours and when offices are vacated for lengthy periods,
* an assembly area is designated outside building -
* those leaving buildings/classrooms should let someone know, and that all departures from site are noted,
* exit signs are clearly marked,
* the school and equipment have been checked by a fire officer and all recommendations made by him/her have been implemented.
Fire Drill
In the event of a fire:
*Respond to the Fire Alarm.
*Line up the pupils.
*Bringing your Roll Book follow your class, out of the school, through the designated Exit.
*Rooms 5, 6, 9, 10, 11, 12 Exit Main Front Doors
*Rooms 1, 2, 13 Exit Side Doors (opposite classroom 13)
*Rooms 3, 4, 7, 8 and Hall Exit Back Doors
*Principal: Ring Fire Service / Check Toilets
Assist in leading out lines in orderly fashion.
*Assemble at appropriate Assembly Point, ie
o Point 1 - at Statue canal end ….. Rooms 1,2,13
o Point 2 - at Scoil Mhuire back gate ….. Rooms 3,4,7,8, and hall,
o Point 3 - at Play shelter….. Rooms 5, 6, 9,10, 11, 12
*Call the Roll to ensure that all pupils are present and accounted for.
*In the event of discovering that a pupil is missing, inform the Principal immediately.
*Wait at Assembly Point for further instructions.
ELECTRICAL SAFETY
It is the policy of the Board of Management Scoil Bhride Boys National School that:-
" all electrical equipment is correctly wired and earthed;
" the mains supply is still capable of meeting the maximum demand;
" all plugs are correctly wired, in good condition with no cracks or pieces missing:
" all the light fittings are working and are kept in a clean condition;
" the lighting is adequate for the type of work being undertaken;
" insulation on leads is not cracked or frayed;
" leads are without knots or joins and are the correct length for the equipment being used;
" electrical equipment is only being used for purposes for which it is intended;
" where appropriate, all electrical equipment is switched off and unplugged when not in use;
" all items of electrical equipment are properly and regularly maintained and serviced;
HEATING AND VENTILATION
It is the policy of the Board of Management Scoil Bhride Boys National School that: -
" the heating system is regularly serviced and maintained in good order;
" where there are large areas of glass facing direct sunlight, there is provision for shading, e.g. venetian blinds;
" windows can be easily opened to allow for adequate ventilation;
CHEMICALS
It is the policy of the Board of Management Scoil Bhride Boys National School that: -
* all chemicals, detergents etc., are kept under lock and key in cupboard under backstairs out of reach of children,
* all chemicals, detergents etc., are stored in clearly identifiable containers bearing instructions and precautions for their use,
" all employees handling such chemicals, detergents etc., are advised to wear protective gloves at all times.
FIRST AID
It is the policy of the Board of Management Scoil Bhride Boys National School that: -
All required remedies and equipment are made available for first aid function.
There will be an adequate supply of properly equipped First Aid boxes available at all times to staff which will contain:
* Elastoplast,
* Wasp Eze,
* Tape,
* Savlon Antiseptic Disinfectant,
* Cotton Bandage,
* Burn Eze,
* Antiseptic Wipes,
* Scissors,
* First Aid Chart,
* Disposable gloves which must be used at all times when administering First Aid.
Hot water and soap will be available and should be used before and after administering First Aid.
IN THE EVENT OF ACCIDENTS
Protocol and Procedures: -
It is the policy of the Board of Management Scoil Bhride Boys National School that: -
* on discovery/in event of accident, teachers will, in consultation with Principal decide appropriate remedy for the situation,
* in the case of minor/superficial injury, wounds will be cleaned and plasters applied, (superficial - eg. graizes, scrapes etc.)
* it is considered advisable to contact parents on occasions when injuries are not merely superficial,
* when injury is considered serious and parents are not contactable, Principal or Postholder will proceed to the Casualty Unit (local hospital), while efforts are being made to contact parents.
* all accidents will be recorded in Accident Report Book.
DRUGS / MEDICATIONS
It is the policy of the Board of Management Scoil Bhride Boys National School that:-
" all medications, drugs etc., be kept in a proper medication cabinet, locked at all times, key to which is kept in a secure and safe place.
* no medication is administered to pupils during school hours, unless with the expressed consent of parents.
STAFF FACILITIES
It is the policy of the Board of Management Scoil Bhride Boys National School that;
" the staffroom is clean, warm and well lit;
" the staffroom is large enough for the numbers to be accomodated and that comfortable seating is provided;
" drinking water is available;
" there is provision for tea and coffee to be made;
The Code of Discipline
It is the policy of the Board of Management Scoil Bhride Boys National School that: -
" the Code of Discipline in the school provides for a level of behaviour to minimise personal risk or stress to any employee.
Access to Employees is by Consent
When the employee feels at risk from or threatened by a particular person on school property, this must be drawn to the Board of Management's attention. The Board of Management will undertake to ensure that in such circumstances all appropriate measures will be taken to protect employees.
Anti-Bullying Policy
It is the policy of the Board of Management Scoil Bhride Boys National School that:-
" All employees be entitled to a safe stress- free environment.
Machinery, Kitchen Equipment and Electrical Appliances
It is the policy of the Board of Management Scoil Bhride Boys National School that:
" Machinery, kitchen Equipment and Electrical Appliances are used only by competent
persons.
" such appliances and equipment will be subject to regular maintenance checks.
" electrical equipment should not be used with wet hands.
" knives should be safely stored ie. in drawers when not in use.
" detergents should be stored separately from food products.
" care must be taken when dispensing boiling water.
" broken glass or crockery should be cleaned up immediately and disposed of in a puncture proof container.
" fridge to be kept clean of spills and debris at all times.
" fridge to be checked annually to ensure thermostat operable.
" fire extinguisher and fire blanket to be easily accessible at all times.
CLASSROOMS
It is the policy of the Board of Management Scoil Bhride Boys Ntional School that: -
" hazards are not arising from overcrowded classrooms;
" all cupboards, fixed blackboards, display units are stable;
" classroom furniture is not damaged;
" wherever possible, there are no sharp edges or corners on the furniture;
" furniture is positioned safely;
" all shelf mountings are secure.
CIRCULATION AREAS
It is the policy of the Board of Management Scoil Bhride Boys National School that: -
" stairways are fitted with sound banisters or rails;
" steps are not worn or broken or slippery;
" floor surfaces are even and are not slippery;
" litter or rubbish has not been allowed to accumulate;
" mats, etc, are not positioned in such a way as to be tripping hazards;
" there are no areas of loose, flaking or damaged paint, plaster or plasterboard;
" doors are unobstructed and allowed to swing freely;
" windows are not cracked or broken;
" windows open easily without undue force being applied;
" windows are cleaned regularly;
" windows do not have broken fastenings or cords;
" where necessary a window pole is available.
Highly Polished or Wet Floors
It is the policy of the Board of Management Scoil Bhride Boys National School that: -
* floors will not be polished or made slippery,
* the washing of floors is conducted after school hours to ensure, as far as is reasonably practicable, elimination of danger of slipping,
* warning signs regarding wet floors will be used,
* your attention is drawn to the fact that the stairway steps may be slippery in cold weather,
VISITORS / CONTRACTORS ETC.
It is the policy of the Board of Management Scoil Bhride Boys National School that: -
" Persons coming onto the school premises would identify themselves clearly before gaining admittance.
" Contractors would make direct contact with the Principal, or Vice-Principal before initiating any work on the school premises.
" When people are working on the premises with drills or other loud implements they must wear protective ear muffs. Where such work is taking place which constitutes any threat to Health and Safety the school will be closed or the work will not take place during school hours.
* Visitors / Contractors are obliged to provide public liability insurance certificate.
CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS
It is the policy of the Board of Management Scoil Bhride Boys National School that: -
" When a child who needs to be lifted is enrolled in the school, suitable support services must be provided, arrangements made and training provided for the lifting of the child in order to minimise strain on staff.
" Arrangements will be made to ensure the protection of staff from violent or disturbed children.
OUTSIDE AREAS
It is the policy of the Board of Management Scoil Bhride Boys National School that: -
* all roofs, guttering, drain pipes etc. are sound and well maintained;
* all play areas are kept clean and free from glass;
* holes for goalposts, netball posts are covered when posts are not in position;
* outside lighting works and is sufficient;
* all parking facilities for cars and cycles are safe in regard to the presence of pedestrians;
* all builders' materials, caretakers' maintenance equipment etc. are kept securely.
ROUTINES OF MOVEMENT IN SCHOOL
It is the policy of the Board of Management Scoil Bhride Boys National School that: -
" there be strict zoning of classes during playtime to minimise high incidence of injury.
" no class be left unsupervised.
Inspection Checklist
ITEM Yes No Comments on Deficiencies
Noted and Action Required Date
Corrected
1 Classrooms - general
* Are any hazards arising from overcrowded classrooms?
* Are all cupboards, fixed blackboards, display units stable?
* Is classroom furniture damaged?
* Are there any sharp edges or corners on furniture?
* Are all shelf mountings secure?
* Are floors kept free from tripping hazards?
* Are floors in good condition and non-slip?
* Are proper waste-bins provided and used?
1.1 Doors and Windows
* Is there a window pole available?
* Do windows open easily without undue force being applied?
* Do windows have broken fastenings or cords?
* Are there any windows broken/cracked?
* Has door: loose or broken hinges;
loose or stiff handles;
* Can windows be easily opened to allow for adequate ventilation?
1.2 Lighting
Visually checking:
* Are all light fittings working and in a clean condition?
* Do light switches appear to be in a safe condition?
1.3 Plugs / Sockets / Leads
Visually checking
* Are plugs in good condition with no cracks or pieces missing?
* Are sockets in good condition with no cracks or pieces missing?
* Is insulation on leads cracked or frayed?
* Are leads without knots or joins?
* Are there any trailing leads?
* Are leads correct length for the equipment being used?
1.4 Equipment
* Is equipment being used for purpose for which it was intended?
* As far as you are aware is all fixed and portable electrical equipment operating correctly?
* Where appropriate - is all electrical equipment being switched off and unplugged when not in use?
Signed:_________________________
Date:___________________
Working Safely in the Outdoor Environment
1. Knowing the Environment
2. Identifying the Hazards
It is the policy of the Board of Management Scoil Bhride Boys National School that: -
" A thorough familiarity on the part of the teacher with the places to be visited and explored be essential;
" A number of visits to be made to the area, perhaps in the company of another teacher or a person with local knowledge to provide vital information for the planning of safe and educationally sound activities;
" Preliminary visits be used to identify dangerous locations and potential sources of danger, all of which should be carefully noted;
Working Safely in the Outdoor Environment
3. Consulting within the School
4. Informing Parents
It is the policy of the Board of Management Scoil Bhride Boys National School that: -
" Teachers should consult the principal (and if necessary the board of management) whenever it is proposed to engage in activities in the environment.
" Provision be made for insurance, transport and other requirements.
" Advice may be sought from other teachers who may have completed similar work.
" Parents be given advance notification of any proposed out-of-school activities
" Teachers seek information from parents on any relevant medical and dietary details concerning pupils (for example allergies, medical conditions, restrictions on medical treatment, etc.) and contact telephone numbers in case of emergencies.
" This information be retained by the teacher in overall charge of the class.
Working Safely in the Outdoor Environment
5. Choosing the Activities in which Pupils will Engage
6. Preparing the Pupils
It is the policy of the Board of Management Scoil Bhride Boys National School that: -
" A clear sense of the purpose of the fieldwork be a major contributory factor in ensuring safe and worthwhile activity in the environment.
" The selection of the tasks be appropriate to the nature of the environment, the theme or focus of the investigation, and the ability, age, and experience of the children.
" The success of the activities and the safety of the pupils be enhanced by adequate preparatory work in the classroom prior to undertaking any visit.
" Discussion of important attitudes and behaviours in advance of trip be an important aspect of good fieldwork e.g.,
˘ children's willingness to obey the instructions of teachers and other adult helpers,
˘ the respect they demonstrate for the privacy of others,
˘ the care they show for the environment,
˘ the respect and courtesy they evince toward other pupils and the people they encounter on the trip.
Working Safely in the Outdoor Environment
7. Ensuring Adequate Supervision
It is the policy of the Board of Management Scoil Bhride Boys National School that: -
" Adequate supervision of children be ensured, when they are working in the environment.
" When the need arises for children to engage in small-group work, the relevant number of helper adults be available to accompany each class.
" Parents who help in this way should be briefed thoroughly on the location to be used and the nature of the activities which the children will undertake.
" Parent helpers should be made aware of any hazards that could be encountered and the procedures to be adopted in the event of accidents and emergencies.
" Parents and other helpers must be clear about the names (and perhaps ages) of the children for whom they are assuming responsibility and they should be familiar with the pupil behaviour which teachers find acceptable.
" 'Reporting back' locations and times should be clearly understood by all teachers and helpers.
" The teacher who is in overall charge of the class should have a written record of the names of pupils in each group and their leaders and should know the location of each group and the activity in which they should be engaged at all times.
" If children are working in the environment for an extended period, time for snacks, breaks and the use of toilets will need to be included in the programme of work.
" Supervision at these times be particularly important as accidents may happen more easily when a learning activity has been completed or when pupils and adults are more relaxed.
Working Safely in the Outdoor Environment
8. Organising what to bring: check-lists for teachers and pupils
It is the policy of the Board of Management Scoil Bhride Boys National School that: -
" The check-lists overleaf be a practical summary of the equipment that might prove useful during out-of-classroom activities.
" Some of the items will be used with older pupils and on all-day visits rather than during short periods in the immediate environs of the school.
Investigating the Environment
Check-list for Teachers
" information on the latest weather forecast.
" parental consent forms for each pupil on which medical details and parental contact numbers are recorded.
" telephone numbers of local doctors, hospitals, Gardai, rescue services and your school.
" on longer trips the home telephone numbers of the principal and/or chairperson of the board of management may be useful.
" mobile phone
" first aid kit
" list of all helpers and the groups assigned to them
" a detailed programme of activities which indicates where each group should be and what its members should be doing at all times
" activity sheets, work directives or trail booklets for pupils
" map of the area
" maps, check-lists of pupils' names and safety instructions for helpers
" equipment needed for investigations (e.g. compasses, trundle wheel, plastic containers for specimens)
" spare pencils and erasers
" warm waterproof clothing and strong footwear
" Lunch and drink
" Some children may require access to medication and, depending on the school policy, this may be held by the teacher.
" Sacks for litter and refuse
" A rucksack to carry all these bits and pieces!
Investigating the Environment
Check-list for Pupils
" a clear understanding of the activities which they will undertake
" a clear understanding of the group to which they are allocated and the name of its leader
" school, class or group badge to help with identification in crowded areas
" warm waterproof clothing and strong footwear
" copy of work directive or trail booklet
" map
" pencils (not ballpoint pens) and eraser
" extra paper and crayons to take rubbings and make sketches
" small camera
" plastic containers to collect specimens
" compass and other equipment for investigations
" lunch and drink
" a rucksack to carry items and keep hands free for work
Safety in Science Activities
It is the policy of the Board of Management Scoil Bhride Boys National School that: -
" During practical work teachers should be aware of the safety implications of any exploratory or investigative work to be undertaken;
" Science activities should not involve the use of chemicals or other hazardous materials;
" Safety should permeate all aspects of the teaching of science;
" Children should be encouraged to observe safety procedures during all tasks;
Safety and Care of Equipment
Work on electricity at all levels will involve the use of batteries.
It is the policy of the Board of Management Scoil Bhride Boys National School that the following safety procedures should be observed:
" Batteries must not be cut open;
" Batteries should be disposed of in a safe manner;
" Rechargeable batteries should not be used for investigations;
" The teacher or a specially designated adult strip the plastic covering from leads using wire cutters and strippers or a sharp scissors, when making circuits;
" Children should never undertake the above task.
" Magnets need to be stored carefully to preserve their magnetism;
" Magnets should be stored with their keepers;
" If magnets are stored in pairs, unlike poles should be put together in the box;
" Heating, hammering or repeatedly dropping magnets will cause them to lose their magnetic properties.
Learning about Electricity
It is the policy of the Board of Management Scoil Bhride Boys National School that: -
" Children realise the dangers of mains electricity and become aware of and discuss safety issues associated with the use of mains electricity and electrical appliances;
" Batteries should be used for activities based on electric current. Mains electricity should never be used during science investigations;
" Children be aware of the dangers of touching the bare metal of a plug or a switch especially when hands are wet;
" Pupils be aware of the importance of not using electrical appliances without adult supervision;
" Children be aware of the dangers associated with flying kites or using fishing rods near overhead wires;
" Pupils be aware of the risks attached to playing near electricity sub-stations;
Learning about Forces
It is the policy of the Board of Management Scoil Bhride Boys National School that: -
" Care should be taken during work on forces, because of the risk of injury resulting from moving objects.
Learning about Heat and using Thermometers
It is the policy of the Board of Management Scoil Bhride Boys National School that: -
" The teacher be very careful in the organisation of tests involving the use of hot water;
" Children should use water that is safe for them;
" Thermometers must not be heated above their maximum temperatures;
" Thermometers are never cooled rapidly or ordinary thermometers used for stirring;
" Thermometers should be placed on the bench in such a way as to prevent them rolling off;
" Mercury thermometers should not be used where alcohol thermometers could be used, as in the case of breakage it is difficult to ensure complete recovery of the mercury;
" In the event of a mercury thermometer breaking, then any mercury spilled should be recovered as thoroughly as possible.
Learning about Light
It is the policy of the Board of Management Scoil Bhride Boys National School that: -
" The teacher will ensure that the children are aware of and adhere to the following safety procedures:
" Children should not look at the sun or at very bright beams of light, such as projector beams;
" Plastic mirrors should be used for investigations, and children should avoid using glass mirrors;
" Pupils should never look at the sun through lenses;
" Children should be made aware of the dangers of sunburn;
Approaches to Designing and Making
It is the policy of the Board of Management Scoil Bhride Boys National School that: -
" A safe working environment and safe ways of working should be encouraged at all levels;
" Tools such as craft knives, glue guns or hacksaws must only be used by children who are under the direct supervision of the teacher or a specially designated adult;
" The teacher should demonstrate the safe use of tools before allowing their use in designing and making tasks;
" Tools need to be stored in a secure area and children should only have access to tools when supervised;
" The cultivation of a safe working environment should be considered by the teacher and the school when planning and organising learning in science and technology.