The Board of Management of Scoil/Coláiste Eoin will ensure that in so far as is practicable, the highest standards of safety shall prevail and that at a minimum, the provision of the Safety, Health and Welfare Act (1989) are applied.
Specifically, the Board of Management wishes to ensure so far as is reasonable practicable:
- The design, provision and maintenance of all places in a condition that is safe and without risk to health.
- The design, provision and maintenance of safe means of access to and exit from place of work.
- The design, provision and maintenance of plant, machinery and equipment.
- The provision of systems at work that are planned, organised, performed and maintained so as to be safe and without risk to health.
- The provision of information and support with the aim of ensuring safety and health at work of its employees.
- The preparation and revision of adequate plans to be followed in emergencies, e.g. Fire Drill, Injuries etc.
- The continuing updating of the Safety Statement.
The Board of Management recognises that its statutory obligations under legislation extend to employees, students, any person legitimately conduction school business and the public.
The Board of Management will ensure that the provisions of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act (1989) are adhered to.
Duties of Employees
It is the duty of every employee while at work:
- To take reasonable care for his/her own safety, health and welfare and that of any person who may be affected by his/her acts or omissions while at work.
- To co-operate with his/her employer and any other person to such extent as will enable his/her employer or the other person to comply with any of the relevant statutory provisions.
- To use in such manner so as to provide the protection intended, any suitable appliance, protective clothing, equipment or anything provided ( whether for his/her use alone or for use by him/her in common with others) for securing his/her safety, health and welfare while at work.
- To report to the Safety Officer or other management personnel without unreasonable delay, any defects in plant, equipment, place of work or system of work which might endanger safety, health and welfare, or which he/she becomes aware of.
No person will intentionally or recklessly interfere with or misuse any appliance, protective clothing, equipment or anything provided in pursuance of any of the relevant statutory provisions or otherwise, for securing safety, health or welfare of persons arising out of work activities.
Employees will, by using available facilities and equipment provided, ensure that work practices are performed in the safest manner possible.
Consultation and Information
It is the policy of the Board of Management:
- To consult with staff in the preparation and completion of the Health and Safety Statement.
- To give a copy of the Safety Statement to all present and future staff.
- That any additional information or instructions regarding Health, Safety and Welfare at work not contained in the document will be conveyed to staff when it becomes available.
Hazards
Staff have been consulted regarding hazards. Some hazards can be rectified but others remain constant. The hazards have been divided into two categories.
- Constant Hazards
The following hazards (in as much as can be identified) are considered by the school to be a source of potential danger and are brought to the attention of all concerned:
- Kitchen
- Photocopiers
- Hall
- Computers
- Trailing leads
- Entrance steps
- Drains in yard
- Boiler room area
- Floor surfaces and stairways during wet weather.
- Specific Hazards
- Fire
It is the policy of the Board of Management that:
- There is adequate supply of fire extinguishers and fire blankets 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.
- An assembly area is designated inside the playground.
- 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.
- Other specific hazards
Condition of school buildings, dampness, draughts, roof-slates, leaks, electric fittings, window opening out at head level, yard surface etc.
Storage, maintenance and appropriate use of P.E. equipment.
Individual classrooms, sockets, lights.
Slippery floor surface, protruding units such as coat rails, T.V tables etc.
Toilets, water, towels, floors, cleaning policy etc. Arrangements for separate staff toilets etc.
Staff room facilities, safety measures etc. See I.N.T.O checklist.
Ice/flooding on yard/steps.
- Chemicals, solvents, detergents, copier toner etc.
Members of staff using these materials should familiarise themselves with the hazards associated with the materials and precautions to be taken in the event of spillage, splashes etc. All flammable, toxic and corrosive substances must be stored in clearly identifiable containers bearing instructions and kept in a locked area and protection must be provided for use when handling them.
- Drugs, Medications
Agreed I.N.T.O. / C.P.S.M.A. policy will be respected.
- Highly polished or wet floors.
It is the policy of the Board of Management that:
Floors will not be made slippery if possible. That washing of floors is conducted after school hours to ensure, as far as is reasonably practicable, elimination of danger of slipping.
- Code of Discipline
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 if 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 measure will be taken to protect employees.
- Electrical Appliances
Arrangements will be made for electrical appliances to be checked on a regular basis by a competent person, i.e. maintenance person, the supplier or his agent. Before using any appliance, the user should check that:
All safety guards which are a normal part of the appliance are fitted and in working order.
Power supply cables/leads are intact and free of cuts and abrasions.
Suitable undamaged fused plug tops are used and fitted with the current fuse.
- Welfare
Staff must co-operate in maintaining a high standard of hygiene. Any per who is under medical supervision or on prescribed medication and who has been certified fit for work should notify the principal of any known side effects or temporary physical disabilities which could hinder their work performance.
- Smoking
Smoking is not permitted in the school building or grounds.
- First Aid
There is a First Aid Kit available. The box contains:
- Plasters
- Antiseptic cream
- Eye Pads
- Sterile Dressing
- Gloves
- Burn Spray
- Burn Dressing
- Pain relief tablets
- Thermometer
- Cotton Buds
Disposable gloves must be worn at all times when administering First Aid. Hands should be washed before and after administering First Aid.
Safety Statement
Statement on General Policy
The Board of Management of Scoil Eoin/Coláiste Eoin recognises the importance of the Legislation enacted in the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act (1989).
This Safety Statement sets out the Safety Policy of the Board of Management of Scoil Eoin / Coláiste Eoin and sets out the means to achieve that policy. The Board of Management’s objective is to endeavour to provide a safe and healthy work environment for all employees and pupils and to meet our duties to members of the public with whom we come in contact.
This policy requires the co-operation of all employees.
It is our intention to undertake regular reviews of the statement in light of experience, changes in legal requirements and operational changes.
A person designated by the Board of Management will undertake to carry out an inspection once per term.
An Accident Report Book is retained in the office for recording all serious accidents and incidents. This will ensure that any safety measures required can be put in place, wherever possible, to minimise the recurrence of such accidents and ill health.
Aims
The aim of the Safety Statement is to ensure the safety of children, staff and pupils in Scoil Eoin / Coláiste Eoin.
The Principal
The principal acting on behalf of the B.O.M. is responsible for the implementation of the Health and Safety Act on a daily basis.
His responsibilities are:
- To make teachers and ancillary staff aware of their responsibilities under the act.
- To inform all staff of the correct way to use an item of equipment, plant materials or safety equipment provided by the school.
- To meet with Staff Safety Officer regularly.
- To draw up rules and regulations in consultation with staff and B.O.M to ensure that the children are safe in school as far as possible.
- To direct maintenance staff to carry out repairs needed and to ensure that it is done to the satisfaction of the B.O.M.
- To ensure that all staff are aware of the procedures to follow in case of fire ( the procedure to follow is attached)
This principal is responsible for dealing with children who have been injured or are sick. While a member of the ancillary staff or teaching staff may deal with the child, they may do so only on his behalf or direction. (procedures to be followed are attached).
Role of the teacher
It is the teacher’s responsibility to:
- Familiarise him/herself with his/her obligations under the Act.
- To carry out his/her duties with due regard to the safety of him/herself and to the children in his/her care.
- To implement the rules and regulations of the school.
- To bring to the attention of the Staff Safety Officer, any defect or danger that comes to his /her attention.
To familiarise him/her with the procedures to be followed in:
- The event of a fire starting
- The event of a child being injured or taken ill.
Role of ancillary staff.
It is the duty of all ancillary staff to:
- Familiarise him/herself with his/her obligations under the Act.
- To carry out his/her duties with due regard to his/her own safety.
- To bring to the attention of the Safety Officer any defect or danger that comes to his/her attention.
- To use any piece of equipment provided by the school properly and with due regard to his/her safety.
Maintenance
The premises, both internal and external, grounds and equipment are to be maintained to such a standard as to minimise the danger to children, staff and visitors. The board will consider all reports submitted to them by the Staff Safety Officer, outlining what are seen to be damages or defects. The Board will then decide whether the work to be carried out is to be given short term, medium term or long term priority.
Vehicles, traffic movement, parking access
Parents and visitors to the school are to observe the parking restrictions notices.
Fire
The procedures to be followed are outlined separately. Fire drills are to be held at least twice a year. Fire safety equipment is tested and serviced regularly.
Electrical Safety
Staff and children are expected to be especially careful in their use of electrical equipment. Electrical repairs other than the changing of light bulbs or fuses are to be carried out by a qualified electrical contractor employed by the Board. A qualified electrician is to inspect the electrical works in the school every five years and provide a written report for the Board of Management.
Extra Curricular activities, out of school activities, tours, trips etc.
Children and teachers going on out of school activities are covered by the Boards insurance policy. A supervision rate of ———- is to be in operation.
Contractors and others providing services, goods to the school.
Contractors carrying out work on behalf of the Board of Management are expected to carry out their work with due regard to the safety of the staff, children and visitors. Special care should be taken to ensure that no equipment or tools are left where children interfere with them. Before any work commences, the principal, his deputy or a member of the Board should inform the contractor of the safety standard expected. Clearly such a list cannot cover every situation that may arise. The Board stresses the need for everybody to work safely.
Safety Representatives Checklist for School Inspection
Inspection Checklist
- Circulation areas
Passages
Check that:
- 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 not areas of loose, flaking or damaged paint, plaster or plasterboard.
Doors and windows
Check that:
- doors are unobstructed.
- doors with glass windows have toughened or laminated glass.
- doors with a fire resistance requirement have wire reinforced glass.
- there are not doors with:
loose or broken hinges
damaged or sticking catches
broken wood or glass panels
loose or stiff handles
- doors are not allowed to swing freely without resistance.
- windows are not broken or cracked.
- windows open easily without undue force being applied.
- windows do not jut out dangerously when open.
- windows are cleaned regularly.
- windows do not have broken fastenings.
B. Heating and ventilation
Check that:
- the heating system is regularly serviced and maintained in good order.
- the heating system is adequate.
- where there are large areas of glass facing direct sunlight, there is provision for shading e.g. blinds etc.
- windows can be easily opened to allow for adequate ventilation.
Further advice on heating and ventilation is given in the next section.
- Fire Safety
Check that:
- the fire exits and escape routes are clear from obstructions.
- staff and children are familiar with evacuation procedures.
- staff are familiar with and have been adequately trained in the procedure to be followed when using fire fighting equipment.
- there have been practice evacuations / fire drills held every term.
- fire doors open outwards and are not held or wedged open.
- fire extinguishers and fire blankets are checked and maintained in accordance with the manufactures instructions.
- the fire fighting equipment available is that recommended by the local authority’s fire officer and is located in accordance with the fire officers recommendations.
- Flammable substances e.g. cleaning fluids, photocopying chemicals etc, are stored correctly, away from any sources of heat.
- Electrical Equipment
- General
All electrical equipment should be maintained and checked regularly by a competent person. Such maintenance should include checking that:
- Equipment is correctly wired and earthed.
- Plugs are correctly wired.
- Use ratings that are correct for the type of equipment being used ( fuse rating should be marked on the equipment ad the plug).
- The mains supply is still capable of meeting the maximum demand.
- The distribution system (i.e. sockets, bench supplies etc) is suitable for the type of work being carried out.
- The isolation switches are marked, well sited, accessible.
- Residual current (earth leakage) circuit breakers are used where appropriate.
2. Lighting
Visually check that:
- all the light fittings are working and are kept in a clean condition.
- light switches are not broken and appear to be in a safe condition.
- the lighting is adequate for the type of work being undertaken.
- Plugs/Sockets/Leads
Visually check that:
- plugs are in good condition with no cracks or pieces missing.
- sockets are in good condition
- socket screws and mountings are secure.
- Sockets are situated in safe positions, convenient for the equipment to be used and not subject to damp.
- indicator lights on sockets function correctly.
- insulation on leads is not cracked or frayed.
- leads are without knots or joins and are reasonably free of “kinks”.
- leads are the correct length for the equipment being used.
- there are no trailing leads.
- multi-point adapters are being used only when necessary.
- leads and flexible cable are securely fixed on both equipment and plug ends.
- Equipment
Check that:
- fixed and portable electrical equipment is not damaged and, as far as you are aware, is operating correctly.
- Copies of manufacturers’ instructions/operating manuals are easily accessible.
- Equipment is only being uses for purposes for which it was intended.
- Where appropriate, all electrical equipment is switched off and unplugged when not in use.
- On/off indicator lights function correctly.
- Equipment incorporating heating has a thermal safety cut-out in addition to a thermostat.
- Equipment containing liquid has a leakage detector.
- All items of electrical equipment are properly and regularly cleaned/maintained and serviced as necessary.
- First Aid
Check that:
- a first aid box is readily available and adequately stocked with:
Plasters Ice cube tray/ice pack in fridge
Wasp Eze Rubber gloves
Tape Antiseptic Disinfectant
Bandages Cotton Wool
Antiseptic Wipes Burn Eze
Tweezers Scissors
- the accident book is readily available.
- Education e.g. inhalers are stored safely whilst remaining accessible to owners during school hours. These are then locked after school.
- Art Facilities
Check that:
- all containers are labelled clearly
- all foam materials are stored away from heat sources.
- Materials and partly finished work are stored safely.
- Adhesives and Tippex are stored in a locked press when not in use.
- Non teaching areas
Offices:
Check that:
- substances for use with photocopying/duplicating machines are stored correctly and that the room where these machines are operated is adequately ventilated.
- Fire fighting equipment and first aid box are easily accessible.
- Kitchen Areas
Check that:
- The kitchen area is kept clean.
- The kitchen floors are sound and non-slip, especially when wet.
- First aid box and fire fighting equipment are available.
- Equipment is adequately guarded.
- Working surfaces are in good condition and are impermeable.
- Refrigerators and freezers are operating within safety temperature ranges and are only used for the storage of foods.
- There is a wash hand basin with hot water, soap, nail brush and disposable towels for washing hands prior to handling food.
- All cleaning materials and other potentially dangerous substances are stored correctly, clearly labelled and the shelf life is known and kept in check.
Staff Facilities
Check that:
- the staff room is clean, warm and well lit.
- there are adequate cloakroom facilities and storage facilities for personal belongings, books etc.
- the staff room is large enough for the numbers to be accommodated and sufficient seating is provided, both with upright chairs and tables for working and with comfortable seating.
- There is provision for tea and coffee to be made.
- Hygiene
Check that the following are available:
- soap
- hand drying facilities
- hot water
- toilet paper
- litter bin per classroom
- Outside Area
Check that:
- there are no uneven/broken/cracked paving slabs.
- Outside steps are secure.
- Roofs, guttering, drainpipes etc are as far as can be seen, sound and well maintained.
- All play areas are kept clean and free from glass. All builders materials, caretakers maintenance equipment are kept securely.
Communication, Monitoring and Review
This policy will be communicated to staff and the school community as appropriate and will be monitored and subjected to regular review.