Health & Safety Policy

The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974

Pinehirst Education and through its Board of Directors, has responsibility placed upon it by The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, to provide and maintain safe and healthy working conditions, equipment, and systems of work for all their employees.

And to provide such information, training, and supervision as they need for this purpose.

They also accept responsibility for the health, safety and welfare of other people who may be affected by our activities.

Paul Morton Director Of Curriculum Pinehirst Education

The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974

The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999

Pinehirst Education and through its Board of Directors, has responsibility placed upon it by The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, to provide and maintain safe and healthy working conditions, equipment, and systems of work for all their employees, and to provide such information, training, and supervision as they need for this purpose.

They also accept responsibility for the health, safety and welfare of other people who may be affected by our activities.

The Pinehirst Education will need the support of all their employees in order to achieve the objectives of the safety policy. There will be employer / employee consultation on health and safety matters and individuals will be consulted before allocating particular health and safety functions.

The organisation and arrangements for implementing this policy are set out in the Pinehirst Education Health and Safety Policy.

The Pinehirst Education will ensure that all health and safety arrangements are appropriately implemented for students and staff involved in external work experience or work placement.

The Pinehirst Education will co-operate with its various funding bodies in relation to health and safety matters and embraces the 'Safe Learner Blueprint'.

This Policy Statement and the Pinehirst Education Health and Safety Policy will be regularly reviewed and revised, particularly as the business changes in nature and size.

Signed: Paul Morton Director of Curriculum: Date: June 2022

Signed: Frank Smith Chairperson: Date: June 2022

Responsibilities

Pinehirst Education Board of Directors and Senior Managers are responsible for:

The Director of Curriculum has ultimate responsibility for the health, safety, and welfare of Pinehirst Education employees whilst at work, including visitors, students, and any other person likely to be affected by Pinehirst Education activities. Co-ordinating Health and Safety Policy and practice throughout Pinehirst Educational activities on all sites.

Health and Safety management and consultative processes involving staff and students are in line with guidance ‘Managing for health and safety’ (HSG65) 

www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/priced/hsg65.pdf

· Ensuring that all staff receives appropriate health and safety information and training.

· Monitoring, implementing, and updating changes in health and safety legislation and good practice.

· Monitoring the effective implementation of the Health and Safety Policy

· Allocating staff, funds, and materials, within the approved Pinehirst Education budget, to meet the needs of the Health and Safety programme and Maintenance programme.

· Consulting with all employees on health and safety matters before making any health and safety decisions.

· Ensuring that all staff are aware of the Health and Safety Policy, organisation, and arrangements. 

Ensuring the effective formulation and implementation of:

· Pinehirst Education's Health and Safety Policy

· Safe working process and codes of practice

· Departmental safety using the assistance and expertise of the Safety, Health and Updating Health and Safety information as appropriate and reviewing and amending the policy on a regular basis.

· Ensuring that all risk assessments are carried out in accordance with The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 and the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 

· Ensuring, through appropriate members of staff, that proper process are established and followed concerning the storage, use and disposal of chemicals and hazardous materials in compliance with COSHH. Regulations 2002 and the Environmental Protection Act 1990.

· Liaising with the Department of the Environment to ensure that Pinehirst Education complies with the Ionising Radiation Regulations 1999

· Allocating funds within the approved Pinehirst Education budget or from central funds to meet the needs of the Health and Safety programme and Maintenance programme.

· Study and understand Pinehirst Education Health and Safety Policy

· Ensure that the Area of operation / Department Electronic Health and Safety information is kept current and implemented.

· Ensure that accidents/incidents are recorded and investigated. 

· Ensure that statutory requirements are complied with in all activities and guidance.

Ensure that the staff are aware of, and observe: 

· The Health and Safety Policy

· First Aid Process

· Evacuation Process

· Ensure that reporting and recording process are carefully followed.

· Co-operate with the Safety, Health and Environment Advisor during inspections 

· Ensure that risk assessments are carried out and recorded for their area of responsibility by competent members of staff. Assistance is available if required from the Tutorial or management at Pinehirst Education. 

· Allocate funds from their budgets for the health and safety requirements of their area of responsibility. e.g. The purchase of Personal Protective Equipment, maintenance of specialist equipment

· Ensure when new or second-hand equipment or machinery is purchased, that it complies with the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER)

Implementation

The policy describes a broad range of responsibilities across all levels of Pinehirst Education . The Policy will be delivered and followed at all levels and subject to frequent revisions as appropriate to ensure that Pinehirst Education maintains a safe environment. It is the responsibility of any staff who suspect any reason why the policies or process are no longer effective or are not being followed should address them with their individual line managers and the Safety, Health and Environmental Advisor for potential review.

The full delivery of a safe workplace is supplemented by the carrying out of risk assessments specific to individual work areas generated within faculties/departments which will contain additional controls, process and instructions not detailed in this policy.

Training:

All Pinehirst Education staff and students must have appropriate Health and Safety training as laid down by the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999

· All staff and students as part of their induction program will cover this policy and the General Principals involved in all aspects of Health and Safety at Pinehirst Education. 

· Staff who may be required to change work areas or tasks, must receive safety training before starting.

· Refresher training must be given when and where necessary.

Warning Signs:

· Warning signs must be clear, un-obstructed and easily understood by all staff. 

· Where appropriate, multilingual, or pictorial signs must be displayed Safe Methods of Work.

· Issue written instructions for safe methods of work specific to their areas. 

· Contractors must be aware of and or given instructions where appropriate.

· Ensure that proper precautions are taken in the use of workshop machinery and equipment.

· Ensure that regular Health and Safety audits of machinery are undertaken.

· Arrange for workshop machinery/equipment to be regularly monitored/serviced and records maintained.

· Report any issues to The Director Of Curriculum 

Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH):

All areas must comply with COSHH Regulations, and copy assessments sent to Pinehirst Education Safety, Health and Environment Advisor. Any additional, replacement or discontinued substances must be assessed and recorded.

All safety data sheets for materials in your Area of operation must be obtained from the manufacturer and kept with the assessment and material being used. 

Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992 (PPE):

All staff must observe regulations regarding the use of the above, students must use the appropriate safety clothing and equipment as prescribed.

Teaching staff are responsible through the Director of Curriculum for:

· Familiarising themselves with Pinehirst Education Health and Safety Policy, and to instruct students regarding health and safety within their chosen curriculum area.

· Ensuring Risk Assessments are completed and available for their curriculum area, which cover all significant risks, and control measures in place as required. This information must be forwarded to the Safety, Health and Environment Advisor.

· The safety of students whilst they are in their charge at Pinehirst Education or at external venues or locations.

· Ensuring that clear safety instructions and warnings are given, understood and obeyed.

· Personally following safe working process and observing general safety regulations

· Ensuring that they and their students know the whereabouts of First Aiders and First Aid facilities

· Reporting and taking any practicable steps immediately to remove any hazard, existing or potential, and reporting without delay to the Head of Area of operation / Department.

· Ensuring that protective clothing, safety guards, etc. are used as required and enforcing safe working process.

· Following an accident/incident a member of staff should complete an Accident, Incident and Dangerous Occurrence Report form which must be submitted to Pinehirst Education Safety, Health and Environment Advisor without delay.

· Ensuring that in the event of a serious accident, nothing is moved at the scene of the accident, excepting where it is essential to prevent another accident happening, e.g. an explosion, fire, or electrocution, or to remove a casualty.

· Keeping up to date with health and safety legislation with regard to their curriculum area

· Carrying out the instructions of Pinehirst Education Leadership Team in ensuring observance of health and safety precautions throughout Pinehirst Education sites.

· Where appropriate being aware of the COSHH Regulations and to assist as directed by The Director Of Curriculum or his appointee will make assessments of substances that are hazardous to health.

· Where appropriate ensuring that proper measures are taken for the storage, use and disposal of hazardous material, in accordance with established Pinehirst Education process

· Where appropriate assisting, as directed, in the maintenance of an inventory of hazardous substances.

· Where appropriate carrying out proper process when disposing of waste chemicals and hazardous substances in accordance with the appropriate legislation.

· Maintaining records, as directed by the Head of Area of operation / Department, of all apparatus and checking that all equipment and apparatus is regularly inspected and serviced.

All Employees, including those more specifically identified in this policy statement, are responsible for:

· Familiarising themselves with the Pinehirst Education Health and Safety Policy

· Maintaining good housekeeping and that all work areas are kept clean, tidy, and free from obstruction.

· Personally following safe working process and observing Pinehirst Education and other safety regulations, e.g. Personal Protective Equipment / Clothing (PPE/C).

· Ensuring that safety precautions are observed and that regulations regarding the use of PPE/C and protective clothing etc. are enforced.

· Reporting details of faulty or potentially dangerous equipment to the Safety, Health and Environment Advisor, and person responsible for the work areas and the Head of Area of operation / Department.

· Reporting any accident, however minor on the Pinehirst Education Accident, Incident or Dangerous Occurrence Reporting Form, fully completed, signed, and supported by witness statements where possible.

· Ensuring that in the event of a serious accident, nothing is moved at the scene of the accident, excepting where it is essential to prevent another accident happening, e.g. an explosion, fire, or electrocution, or to remove a casualty.

· Ensuring awareness and compliance with the Pinehirst Education fire drill and fire alarm process

· As far as it is reasonably practicable, ensuring that all work carried out conforms to the requirements of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974

· Observing the No Pinehirst Education Smoking policy

Students are responsible for:

· Co-operating and maintaining a tidy and safe working environment

· Observing Pinehirst Education Health and Safety rules and regulations

· Using the appropriate safety equipment and clothing as directed.

· Using in a safe manner and not wilfully misusing, neglecting, damaging, or interfering with apparatus, equipment, Pinehirst Education premises or services

· Reporting any hazard, dangerous equipment, or service to the Lecturer in charge of their class or to any other member of the Pinehirst Education staff

· Reporting an accident immediately to the Lecturer in charge of their class or to any other member of the Pinehirst Education staff

· Observing the Pinehirst Education No Smoking policy

· All students are responsible to the Director Of Curriculum, Pinehirst Education staff, fellow students and themselves for Health and Safety issues.

The Safety, Health and Environment Advisor for Pinehirst Education nominated by the Director Of Curriculum will be responsible, in consultation Pinehirst Education Health and Safety Advisors Peninsula.

Assisting the planning and monitoring of health and safety policies, particularly to ensure the effective implementation of:

· Pinehirst Education Health and Safety Policy

· Health and Safety Information

· Safe Codes of Practice

· Safe Working Process

· Carrying out cross Pinehirst Education safety audits in conjunction with the relevant 'line manager' Assisting in ensuring Pinehirst Education premises are maintained in a safe condition, which is safe and without risk to health.

· Organising throughout Pinehirst Education a system of reporting accidents, injuries, diseases, and dangerous occurrences

· Advising Heads of Area of operation / Department and Line Managers in undertaking risk assessments for their area in accordance with the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999.

· Ensuring that warning notices, safety signs and posters are maintained and are appropriate and comply with the Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996 

· Monitoring process relating to all current health and safety regulations.

· Assisting in ensuring that the necessary safety precautions are taken by staff.

· Keeping the Principal and Chief Executive, the Safety Committee, senior staff, and other persons as may be necessary, informed of relevant correspondence with regard to health and safety.

· Continually developing safe practices to ensure maximum safety for all staff Assisting managers in investigating accidents/incidents within their area of responsibility.

· Arranging for the upkeep of reporting process throughout Pinehirst Education

· Maintaining relevant safety data for reference, including details of current health and safety legislation

· Forwarding to the various managers responsible for externally funded students, copies of accident notification forms involving their students.

· Assisting the Business Operations and Head of area of operations with the review, update and amendment of health and safety information, policy, and guidance manual. 

· Attending Safety, Health and Environment meetings as an Ex - Officio member as required.

First Aiders

· Should be reliable and able to remain calm in an emergency and fit enough to be able to deal with a first aid situation. 

· Must deal with an accident/injury if others are delayed or unavailable. First aid includes treatment of minor injuries, which will not always need the services of medical or nursing personnel.

· Must be permitted to leave their work immediately and go rapidly to the scene of an emergency when called.

· Must fully complete an Accident, Incident or Dangerous Occurrence Reporting Form to record any treatment given.

· Are responsible in their area for keeping the first aid boxes clean and stocked to the required standard.

· Must hold an approved First Aid at Work Certificate and be prepared to receive approved refresher training every three years and to attend annual refresher courses where possible.

· Must be prepared to take further specific training as approved by the Health and Safety Executive if specific hazards exist in a First Aider's area.

Appointed Persons

· Should have completed training in Emergency First Aid

· Should render emergency first aid when required.

· Take charge of the situation if a serious illness/injury occurs in the absence of a first aider or nurse (e.g. call for an ambulance)

· Be responsible for first aid equipment in his/her area in the absence of a first aider.

The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974

The Act requires all employees to behave safely and responsibly at all times. Any action, or failure to take action, which endangers the safety of employees or other people could lead to disciplinary action, legal action, or both. The employer also has legal obligations under the Act. A poster outlining the Act will be displayed in all workplaces and can be viewed on Pinehirst Education Health and Safety Notice Boards 

Safety Representatives

Regulations have been issued under the provisions of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 for the appointment of safety representatives by 'recognised' Trade Unions, who will represent all employees. Line managers should know who the safety representatives are and what their powers are under the Safety Representatives and Safety Committee Regulations 1977

The functions of the Safety Representatives are:

· To report potential hazards and dangerous occurrences at the workplace to their line manager and the Safety, Health and Environment Advisor without delay;

· To report complaints by any employee he/she represents relating to that employee's health, safety, or welfare at work;

· To make representations to the employer on matters arising and above;

· To inspect the workplace;

· To represent the employees, he/she was appointed to represent in consultations at the workplace with inspectors of the Health and Safety Executive and of any other enforcing authority;

· To receive information from inspectors in accordance with section 28(8) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974;

· To attend meetings of safety committees to which he/she has been appointed in the capacity as a safety representative in connection with any of the above functions.

In order to fulfil their functions safety representatives should take all reasonable practical steps to keep themselves informed of The legal requirements relating to the health and safety of persons at work, particularly the group or groups of persons they directly represent.

The particular hazards of the workplace and the measures deemed necessary to eliminate or minimise the risk deriving from these hazards, and The health and safety policy of their employer and the organisation and arrangements for fulfilling that policy.

· Encourage co-operation between their employer and the employees in promoting and developing essential measures to ensure the health and safety of employees and in checking the effectiveness of those measures.

· Bring to the employer's notice, normally in writing, any unsafe or unhealthy conditions or working practices or unsatisfactory arrangements for welfare at work, which come to their attention whether on an inspection or through day - today observation. Such a report does not imply that all other conditions and working practices within the parameters laid down by the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 are safe and healthy or that the welfare arrangements are satisfactory in other respects. 

· Whilst there is provision for written reports, safety representatives are not precluded from bringing matters to the attention of the employer or his representative by a direct oral approach, particularly in situations where speedy remedial action is necessary. Indeed, it will be appropriate for minor matters to be the subject of direct oral discussion without a formal written approach.

· Representatives should note the emphasis, which has been placed on the encouragement of co-operation between the employer and employee. This need for co-operation has also been written into the Act. Section 2(6) requires an employer to consult safety representatives with a view to the making and maintenance of arrangements which will enable him and his employees to co-operate effectively in promoting and developing measures to ensure the health and safety at work of the employee, and in checking the effectiveness of such measures. It cannot be emphasised too strongly that there is a great need for a true spirit of co-operation in the common cause of health and safety to be nurtured at all levels.

Safety representatives are entitled to carry out inspections of the workplace monthly. This may be varied if the employer agrees to more frequent inspections, or if there has been a substantial change in the conditions of work. The employer is required to provide such facilities and assistance as the safety representatives may reasonably require. There is nothing to prevent the employer or his representatives from being present at these inspections if they wish, but independent investigations may be carried out.

An employer is required to allow a safety representative to take such time off with pay during the employee's working hours as shall be necessary for the purpose of performing his/her function as a safety representative, and as may be reasonable for undergoing training to carry out these functions. It has been recommended that leave of absence with pay should be given on the basis of a mutual recognition that attendance on courses will be subject to the exigencies of service and that any differences will be resolved within the already agreed process for grievances and disputes. On appointment Safety Representatives will be entitled to paid time off in order to attend basic training courses. All time off should be taken subject to reasonable notice being given to the safety representative's line manager, who should keep a record of time absent. 

Similarly, the employer must provide facilities and assistance to safety representatives for carrying out their functions. These will be accorded following consultation as circumstances require in each case.

Information to be provided by Employers to Safety Representative.

The Regulations require employers to make information within their knowledge available to safety representatives to enable them to fulfil their functions. Such information should include:

· Information about the plans and performance of their undertaking and any changes proposed insofar as they affect the health and safety at work of their employees.

· Information of a technical nature about hazards to health and safety and precautions deemed necessary to eliminate or minimise them in respect of machinery, plant, equipment, processes, systems of work and substances in use at work, including any relevant information provided by consultants or designers or by the manufacturer, importer or supplier of any article or substance used, or proposed to be used, at work by their employees.

· Information which the employer keeps relating to the occurrences of any accident, dangerous or notifiable industrial disease and any statistical records relating to such accidents, dangerous occurrences, or cases of notifiable industrial disease.

· Any other information specifically related to matters affecting the health and safety at work of their employees, including the results of any measurements taken by the employer or persons acting on their behalf in the course of checking the effectiveness of their health and safety arrangements.

Health and Safety (Consultation with Employees) Regulations 1996

Although consultation with trade union representatives has been a requirement since 1977, when the Safety Representatives and Safety Committee Regulations (SRSCR) were implemented, there has been no obligation to consult employees who were not affiliated to a trade union. These Regulations require employers who recognise a trade union to consult union-appointed safety representatives on safety matters affecting the group or groups they represent. However, the HSCER 1996 were drawn up after the European Court of Justice ruled in 1994, that it was insufficient for organisations to only consult with trade union representatives. 

Therefore, Pinehirst Education consults with all of its employees either directly or via an appointed representative. The recognised trade unions at Pinehirst Education have agreed to represent non-union employees with respect to Health and Safety matters. 

Illness/Accident

First Aid

Details of Pinehirst Education first aid procedure will be displayed on the H&S Notice Board and throughout Pinehirst Education premises. Rooms containing First Aid boxes are clearly indicated. 

Qualified First Aiders

A list of First-Aiders trained to give assistance if required during the daytime working hours is on Pinehirst Education Notice Board

First Aid Boxes

A list showing the location of the First Aid Boxes/Kits is available on Pinehirst Education Notice Board

Accident and Emergency Procedure

Do not leave the patient alone and render first aid if possible, but only if you are trained to do so.

Following an accident

Complete an Accident, Incident or Dangerous Occurrence Reporting Form and submit to relevant Nominated manager and then the Safety, Health and Environment Advisor without delay.

Report the accident immediately to their Line Manager. If an ambulance is called out of normal working hours, report this to the Appointed person for Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR) 2013.

General

Details of all injuries, however minor, incurred at work must be entered on an Accident / Incident and Dangerous Occurrence form and submitted to the Pinehirst Education Safety, Health and Environment Advisor without delay.

The Safety, Health and Environment Advisor must be informed immediately in the event of a serious accident or incident, including a near miss and also when an employee, student or self-employed person working under Pinehirst Education’s control remains absent for more than seven consecutive days, following an accident at Pinehirst Education or if they have been detained in hospital.

Following an accident, a member of staff must complete an Accident, Incident or Dangerous Occurrence Reporting Form, which must be submitted.

When completing an Accident, Incident or Dangerous Occurrence Reporting Form regarding an accident to a student. If a student is funded through an external contract, this fact must be recorded on the form. All Accident forms must be completed in full.

Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrence Regulations 2013 

All injuries, diseases and dangerous occurrences as specified within the above Regulations shall be reported without delay to the Safety, Health and Environment Advisor, who shall advise the Health and Safety Executive within the specified time schedule.

The Safety, Health and Environment Advisor will take the appropriate reporting action in accordance with the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 2013 (RIDDOR). 

Notification and reporting of injuries and dangerous occurrences.

The Regulations require that the relevant enforcing authority be notified ‘by the quickest possible means e.g. telephone’, and subsequently an official F2508 report will be generated either by the enforcing authority of by the Safety, Health and Environment Advisor regarding incidents including:

· The death of any person as a result of an incident arising out of or in connection with work. 

· Any person at work suffering a specified major injury* as a result of an accident arising out of or in connection with work. 

· Any person who is not at work suffering an injury as a result of an accident arising out of or in connection with work and where that person is taken from the site of the accident to a hospital for treatment in respect of that injury.

Any person who is not at work suffering a specified injury as a result of an accident arising out of or in connection with work at Pinehirst Education.

· Where there is a dangerous occurrence

· Incidents of non-consensual physical violence

Where, as a result of an accident arising out of or in connection with work a person is absent from work for more than 7 consecutive days.

The Safety, Health and Environment Advisor must also report as soon as practicable, and in any case within 10 days of the accident/incident, using the approved form, any situation where a person at work is incapacitated for work of a kind, which they might reasonably be expected to do. Details of Notifiable Injuries and Diseases are available from Pinehirst Education Safety, Health and Environment Advisor.

A specified injury is defined as:

· fractures, other than to fingers, thumbs, and toes amputations

· any injury likely to lead to permanent loss of sight or reduction in sight.

· any crush injury to the head or torso causing damage to the brain or internal organs.

· serious burns (including scalding) which: 

· covers more than 10% of the body.

· causes significant damage to the eyes, respiratory system, or other vital organs.

· any scalping requiring hospital treatment.

· any loss of consciousness caused by head injury or asphyxia.

· any other injury arising from working in an enclosed space which: 

· leads to hypothermia or heat-induced illness. 

· requires resuscitation or admittance to hospital for more than 24 hours.

Fire Process and Guidance

All staff must be familiar with the fire process as required by the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 and the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. Specific Fire Risk Assessments have been completed for each Pinehirst Education property and on these the following general process are based. Process specific to each building are available within the appendices.

Fire process are posted throughout Pinehirst Education and can be found on exit routes normally adjacent to fire alarm call points and are conspicuously placed in all classrooms. All staff must ensure that they are totally familiar with the various means of escape by walking the routes from the area in which they are normally deployed. Staff should know their assembly points, which are also indicated in the fire procedure for the building.

If you have to evacuate the premises:

· Do exit quickly and calmly.

· Do not stop to collect personal belongings.

· Close doors behind you, but do not lock them.

· Do not use any lifts.

· Do go directly to open air.

· Do not enter an adjacent building.

· Do go directly without stopping to your designated fire assembly point.

On hearing the alarm staff not at their usual workstation must evacuate the building and go to the designated fire assembly point for that area. On no account must they return to their own Department.

The 'break glass' fire alarm call points can be found on corridors and adjacent to final exit doors.

Portable firefighting equipment is sighted in 'high risk' rooms and at regular intervals in corridors. 

Under no circumstances should portable firefighting equipment be used by any untrained personnel. Those who have been trained should only use it if it is safe to do so.

Where Pinehirst Education Fire Marshals have been utilised, any instructions they give to staff must be complied with. Fire Marshals are exercising their duties under the direct authority of Pinehirst Education Director of Curriculum. 

FIRE SAFETY

Fire safety is everyone's responsibility. All employees, students, contractors, and visitors are expected to follow established safety process to ensure the safe use of electrical/gas appliances, the safe use, storage and disposal of hazardous/combustible materials and compliance with the requirements of Pinehirst Educations Policy on Smoking.

In addition to the legal fire prevention requirements, advice on specific fire prevention practises is available from Pinehirst Education Safety, Health and Environment Advisor.

FIRE PRECAUTIONS

Fire doors must be kept clear of obstruction and closed at all times unless they are doors which automatically close when the alarm is activated. This is to maintain compartmentalisation of the building and to prevent the spread of the fire and/or toxic smoke.

Corridors, stairways, landings, and escape routes must be kept clear at all times of anything that is likely to cause a fire or accident or to impede evacuation in an emergency.

Hazardous materials must be stored, used, and disposed of in accordance with all legal requirements and safe working practices.

All firefighting equipment must be kept free from obstruction and be readily available for use in an emergency. Portable firefighting equipment must not be removed or repositioned without authority from the Safety, Health and Environment Advisor.

Any obvious or suspected damage to, or misuse of, a fire alarm or firefighting equipment must be reported immediately.

Fire Action Process

Any person suspecting or discovering a fire must:

· Any person discovering a fire must activate the nearest Fire Alarm Call Point. This action will automatically activate the audible / visual alarms.

· If you are last to leave a room, close but do not lock doors behind you.

· Leave the building by the nearest available Exit to the outside

· Do not use any lift.

· Go immediately to the designated Fire Assembly Point

· Await further Instructions. 

Do not re-enter any building until instructed to do so by a Fire Officer, Senior Member of Pinehirst Education Leadership Team. Instructions given by the nominated staff (Fire Marshals) must be followed. Breaches of these process will be considered serious and will be dealt with under the Pinehirst Education’s Disciplinary Process

On hearing or seeing the alarm (Continuous Siren / Flashing Light) any person must:

· Leave immediately by the nearest exit to the outside

· If you are last to leave a room, close but do not lock doors behind you.

· Do not stop to collect belongings.

· Keep moving swiftly, do not run.

· Do not use any lift.

· Go immediately to the designated Fire Assembly Point

· Await further Instructions. Do not re-enter any building until instructed to by a Fire Office, Senior Member of Pinehirst Education Leadership Team Staff.

· Instructions given by the nominated staff (Fire Marshals) must be followed. 

Breaches of these process will be considered serious and will be dealt with under the Pinehirst Educations Disciplinary Process

DUTIES OF TUTORS 

Tutors are responsible for their students when in class and must make themselves aware of fire process for the buildings and sites in which they lecture. Please familiarise yourself with the Fire process notices in the classrooms.

On hearing or seeing the evacuation signal, a continuous sounding of the fire alarm and or flashing beacons, the lecturer must ensure that students under his or her supervision are made aware of the location of the assembly point. Also, that they leave the building by the nearest available exit route in a calm and orderly manner.

EVACUATION PROCEDURE FOR THOSE WITH DISABILITIES

Wheelchair Users or those with mobility issues - Personal Assistant in Attendance (Buddy system)

The tutor is responsible for making sure the person with mobility issues is aware of the evacuation procedure and for appointing a Buddy if appropriate. On hearing the fire alarm, the Buddy in 

attendance will (if situated on the ground floor) evacuate the building with the person with mobility issues by the nearest available exit and proceed to the assembly point. When situated elsewhere than on the ground floor the attendant shall proceed with the person with mobility issues to a fire resisting enclosure (Refuge Point) usually located on a stairwell. The 

Buddy once at a Refuge Point should stay with the person with mobility issues and must ensure that a message is relayed by the fire marshals, tutors or fellow students to the co-ordinator giving the exact location i.e. lift lobby, or stairway, and floor level. Once it is safe to do so the individual with mobility issues should be assisted in exiting the building – this may vary from a supporting arm or the use of the EVAC Chair.

To use the EVAC chair you must be familiar with its operation – the full instructional video is viewable here: 

www.youtube.com/watch?v=vETqg__O_cA

Where the individual cannot safely be assisted out of the building they should stay in the refuge area. The location of any remaining students/staff must be passed on to the Fire Officer in charge of the first fire appliance to arrive so that appropriate rescue can take place.

A Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan (PEEPs) document is available on the Health and Safety Notice Board and must be completed for those with specific needs and effectively communicated to staff/buddies in areas used by the identified students. The Fire Service will normally be in attendance within approximately 3 to 5 minutes of receiving the call.

Deaf/Hearing Impaired Persons.

The majority of Pinehirst Education buildings are fitted with strobe beacons; these are located in public areas and corridors. Deaf or hearing-impaired students who are likely to be working in an isolated area are encouraged to advise an appropriate member of the staff of this fact, so that they may be notified of any alarm. (Buddy system)

Blind/Visually Impaired Persons

Blind/visually impaired persons are advised to locate and become familiar with evacuation routes and assembly points in their early days at Pinehirst Education and should also make special arrangements (Buddy system) for their evacuation in the event of fire. 

Fire marshals

In the majority of Pinehirst Education buildings, it is not practicable to have a roll call or to keep a formal register due to the significant proportion of people coming and going at any one time. As a result 

Fire Marshals are trained and appointed to assist in the safe evacuation of all students, staff and visitors present from predesignated areas of the building.

Fire Marshals have been trained to assist staff, students and visitors evacuate their designated area of the building when the alarm sounds. They will be familiar with all exit points and will direct staff, students, and visitors towards the most appropriate exit. Additionally, their training allows them to act as fire co-ordinator and to be the first point of contact with the emergency services when they arrive on site.

It must be stressed, however that Fire Marshals are not trained to be fire-fighters but may have had portable fire extinguisher training in order to extinguish small fires but only if safe to do so.

When the Alarm Sounds

In the event that the fire alarm sounds, Fire Marshals are to:

· Direct staff, students, and visitors towards the nearest available exit

· Maintain a steady flow of people evacuating the building and to prevent 'bottlenecks' building up by redirecting staff, students, and visitors towards other available exits if safe to do so, so that they are not placed at risk.

· Direct staff, students, and visitors away from potential sources of fire if they are known.

· Actively seek assurance that there are no staff, students or visitors waiting at Refuge

Points under their control.

· Ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, that the floor is clear or is actively. 

evacuating. Closing fire doors behind them.

· Leave the building themselves by the nearest available exit.

· Report to the Fire Co-ordinator, who will be at the fire control point, on the status of 

their area using a pre-determined short checklist. 

· Remain with the Fire Co-ordinator so that they can be re-deployed to aid in controlling other aspects of the evacuation or to be at the disposal of the Senior Officer of the 

emergency services on site.

· Assist once permission has been given on informing those at assembly points to re-enter.

· Take part in a de-brief session with the Fire Co-ordinator once permission to re-enter. 

has been given.

You must read, understand, and obey Pinehirst Education Fire Process. Fire doors must always be unlocked but closed when not in use. They must not be obstructed. Close them behind you. Posters must not be attached to fire doors and the visibility panels must not be obscured. 

Fire Drills

Fire drills (practice emergency evacuations) will take place at the beginning of the new Academic year during Fire Drill Week and at other times if deemed necessary and appropriate.

All new staff and students must be informed of what to do in case of fire / emergency evacuation during their initial induction programme.

Fire Drills are extremely important in order that we may test the process and learn how to evacuate Pinehirst Education quickly and in an orderly fashion. It is important that all staff respond in a positive manner and set an example for students to follow. We test regularly. 

Health and Safety Inspections 

The Director of Curriculum will be responsible for ensuring that regular inspections take place. 

A Record must be kept of inspections in a safety book within their Area of operation / Department. Where hazards are identified, these must be entered on a Pinehirst Education Hazard Form and submitted to the Safety, Health and Environment Advisor immediately

Speed Limits

You must drive at 5 miles per hour SLOW DOWN on Pinehirst Education premises. The speed limit is 5 miles per hour on all Pinehirst Education sites. Be aware of pedestrians, they have the right of way. Always allow for those with sight and hearing impairment.

Gangways, Exits and Entrances

You must not obstruct corridors, exits or staircases. Designated fire exits must be kept clear and free from all obstructions at all times. Fire doors must be kept closed, unless designed to remain open and must be unlocked.

Stairhead Safety

Staircases must always be kept clear. Do not sit on the stairs or on radiators or in or around stair heads.

Running

You must not run on Pinehirst Education premises, in or between the buildings. 

Smoking

Pinehirst Education has a No Smoking Policy in place Section 2 (2) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 places a duty on employers to ‘provide and maintain a safe working environment which, is so far as is reasonably practical, safe, without risks to health’ On the 1st of July 2007, the Health Act 2006 came into effect. This legislation bans smoking in certain premises, places, and vehicles. This ban applies to all workplaces and enclosed public places.

Smoking, this includes ‘Electronic Cigarettes/devices’, is not permitted in any part of Pinehirst Education premises or on any of Pinehirst Education grounds at any time, by any person regardless of their status or business with Pinehirst Education.

Smoking, this includes ‘Electronic Cigarettes/devices’, is not permitted in any vehicles belonging to or leased to Pinehirst Education.

Employees wishing to smoke must do so in their designated break times and must go off-site to do so. This includes those who wish to smoke ‘electronic’ cigarettes.

Assistance can be provided to those employees who wish to give up smoking. Employees wishing to do this should contact the Occupational Health Department or call the NHS Smoking Helpline on 0800 1690169 or visit their website at:

www.nhs.uk/smokefree/help-and-advice/support

All employees are responsible for complying with this policy and also ensuring that students, visitors, and all others, whom they may come into contact with through the course of their employment, also comply with this policy.

Failure to comply with the new law is a criminal offence. Penalties and fines are as follows: For smoking in smoke free premises or work vehicles a fixed penalty notice of £50 imposed on the person smoking, or a maximum fine of £200 if prosecuted and convicted by a court.

Any employee who is found to be smoking on Pinehirst Education premises will also be liable to disciplinary action in accordance with Pinehirst Education’s disciplinary process.

Protecting yourself against infection.

Simple measure such as hand washing will help protect you and others from cross infection. However, blood borne viruses such as Hepatitis B or C and H.I.V. are a risk, which may be spread by body fluid contact. To prevent cross infection you should:

· Wear gloves when carrying out first aid process.

· Cover your own skin sores or wounds with a waterproof plaster.

· Wear a plastic apron when dealing with large quantities of a casualty's body fluids. Plastic glasses will protect your eyes against splashes.

· If your eyes, mouth, or wounds on your skin are splashed by a casualty's blood, wash thoroughly, and contact medical advice immediately.

· All first aiders at Pinehirst Education are issued with face shields which they should use for mouth to mouth ventilation.

· All staff at risk of infection within Pinehirst Education are familiarised with the current process to be employed to control this risk. 

· All staff should take care that they are not pricked by any glass or needles which, they may have to handle at Pinehirst Education. Any accidents involving hypodermic needles must be reported and an accident form completed. 

Pinehirst Education 

Corona Virus Risk Assessment Action Plan

May 2021

This risk assessment & action plan has been established in order to meet government guidelines, in ensuring the correct safeguarding of learners on their return to Pinehirst on 8th March 2021. The Department for Education guidance document ‘Further education coronavirus (COVID-19) operational guidance’ February/March 2021 has been reviewed, considered, and used to inform this risk assessment.

The assessment takes into consideration operations at both of the organisation centres, these being Ferny Knoll (Rainford) and St Anne Street (Liverpool). As well as ensuring the safety of learners, the assessment and plan also intends to ensure as much as feasibly possible that business operations are maintained in an efficient and effective manner. The actions identified will continue until further updates from the Government or through the Education Skills Funding Agency (ESFA) are received prior to the commencement of the academic year. 

At this point in time they will be reviewed and updated in line with requirements. In line with Government guidance, this risk assessment & plan is supported by a number of documents including policies & procedures. The documents are either updated versions of the previously completed policies & procedures including risk assessments (March 23rd, 2020), or new policies & procedures completed based on learning that has taken place since the onset of COVID19.

The risk assessment and plan, in ensuring a safe learning environment, identifies a control system that will be adopted and implemented. The updated system will commence on the 8th of March 2021 when it is expected that students, will move from a distance learning model to a more traditional classroom based delivery model. The system is divided into three main sections these being: 

• Prevention

• Response to any infection

• Additional actions 

These highlight other important actions that will be taken and adhered to during the academic year. 

Prevention

Prevention – We will always: 

Minimise contact with individuals who are required to self-isolate by ensuring they do not attend the setting.

On a daily basis, learners, and visitors (e.g. parents, outside agencies etc) will be asked to answer the questions on the ‘Attendance Risk Assessment Questionnaire’ (see below) with their answers given verbally (yes/no). This should take place either when entering directly onto both centre sites and prior to entering the organisation minibus for those learners travelling using the Pinehirst transport.

‘Attendance Risk Assessment Questionnaire- questions are:

· Have you been tested positive for COVD19?

· Have you had close contact with a person infected with COVID 19?

· Have you any recent history of travel to an affected area?

· Is there anyone that you live with self-isolating?

· Do you have a dry persistent cough or shortness of breath?

· Do you have a fever?

· Have you had a loss or change in your normal sense of taste or smell?

*Individuals will also need to have their temperature taken at this point in time. If the student’s temperature is at 37.8 or above, then they should not be allowed to enter.

If anyone answers yes to any of the above questions this will need to be recorded and the individual must not be allowed onto the site or minibus. If any learners attending the centres become unwell and present any of the above symptoms (cough or high temperature, loss or change in their normal sense of taste of smell) they should be sent home and advised to follow the government ‘stay at home’ guidance. 

www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-stay-at-home-guidance/stay-at-home-guidance-for-households-with-possible-coronavirus-covid-19-infection.

· If a learner is waiting collection they should be moved to a room where they can be isolated or at least moved 2 metres away from other people. Any staff attending to these students should wear protective clothing.

· Ensure face coverings are used at all times. 

· Under the revised guidance, face coverings will be worn by staff and learners when moving around our education centres, both inside and outside of classrooms in corridors and in communal areas where social distancing cannot easily be maintained.

· There are some circumstances where people may not be able to wear a face covering and the reasons for this may not be visible to others. 

· We expect staff and learners to be sensitive to those needs. If a learner is exempt from wearing a face covering, their Teacher should be contacted to request exemption within the education centre. Some learners may feel more comfortable showing something that says they do not have to wear a face covering. This could be in the form of an exemption card or badge. See below guidance on the Safe Wearing of Face Coverings 

(See Appendix Number 1). 

Ensure everyone is advised to clean their hands thoroughly and more often than usual. 

· On entering the school minibus or the centre reception (meeting area) all students should use the sanitisers or soap and water provided to clean their hands.

· Students will be told to clean their hands regularly throughout the day particularly at break times before returning to class, when they change rooms and before and after eating.

Ensure good respiratory hygiene for everyone by promoting the ‘catch it, bin it, kill it’ approach.

· Staff will promote & ensure good respiratory hygiene by promoting the ‘catch it, bin it, kill it approach - Promotion Campaign which will take place:

Maintain enhanced cleaning, including cleaning frequently touched surfaces often, using standard products such as detergents. 

A cleaning Schedule will be established, implemented, and monitored ensuring that the level of cleaning is enhanced. The schedule will ensure that:

· There is more frequent cleaning of all rooms, this is particularly important for rooms with shared usage including toilets, kitchen facility areas and classrooms.

· Frequently touched surfaces will be cleaned more often than normal, this includes in particular, door handles, window handles, desktops, light switches, computers and toilet and wash dispensers.

· The sharing of pens or pencils will not be encouraged, if there is a need they should be sanitised afterwards. 

· Where & when possible doors will be left wide open in order to reduce the need for touching door handles.

· Students will be continuously encouraged to wash their hands more frequently.

· Consider how to minimise contact across the site and maintain social distancing wherever possible. 

· All learners will be allocated a specific ‘Bubble’ - in most cases this will be based on the class they have been placed in for a specific course.

· Learner ‘bubbles’ will be kept separate at all times. This will, where possible include movement between start times, finish times and break times. This will need to be identified on weekly timetables.

· In class Learners will be kept to a minimum of 2 metres apart where this is possible and anytime spent 1 metre apart should be limited. 

· Class sizes will be kept to a minimum taking into account viability of provision and safety of learners and staff. Class size will be maintained to a maximum of 20 learners per class depending on classroom size.

· The layout of the classroom should ensure minimum student contact (students not being face to face), desks to be arranged accordingly. 

· Staff will need to maintain a 2 metre distance from learners where possible. Protective clothing should be worn if this is not possible.

· All classrooms must be kept well ventilated (doors and windows opened to encourage good ventilation). Learners will be informed that they may need to wear warm clothing when necessary. 

· Where possible the practical competencies of the programme should be front end loaded and delivered using the outdoor external teaching resources. The majority of teaching and learning would be delivered this way.

· One way systems with supporting signage should be in place to prevent individuals passing each other in classrooms corridors and entrances.

· Keep occupied spaces well ventilated. In specific circumstances: 

Good ventilation reduces the concentration of the virus in the air, which reduces the risks from airborne transmission. This happens when people breathe in small particles (aerosols) in the air after someone with the virus has occupied an enclosed area.

· Natural ventilation – opening windows (in cooler weather windows should be opened just enough to provide constant background ventilation and opened more fully during breaks to purge the air in the space). Opening internal doors can also assist with creating a throughput of air. 

· Natural ventilation – if necessary external opening doors may also be used (as long as they are not fire doors and where safe to do so)

To balance the need for increased ventilation while maintaining a comfortable temperature, consider: 

• opening high level windows in colder weather in preference to low level to reduce draughts. 

• increasing the ventilation while spaces are unoccupied (for example, between classes, during break and lunch, when a room is unused) 

• providing flexibility to allow additional, suitable indoor clothing. 

• rearranging furniture where possible to avoid direct draughts Heating should be used as necessary to ensure comfort levels are maintained particularly in occupied spaces.

Ensure individuals wear the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) where necessary. 

Additional Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) will be required by staff when:

• As from 08.03.21 Face masks should be worn by all staff and students on all occasions.( see appendix No 1 for guidance)

• There is a suspected case of coronavirus (this is only to allow staff to isolate the individual infected).

• It is not possible to maintain a safe distance.

• Staff are working with a young person that already has routine intimate care needs that involves the use of PPE. 

In any of these situations, staff should ensure they wear face masks, a face shield, and protective gloves. It is also recommended that minibus drivers and reception staff should wear face masks after taking into account the above factors. The alternative will be a plastic shield fitted to the cab separating the driver from the passengers and in the case of reception staff a shield on the front desk.

Promote and engage in asymptomatic testing. 

On 3rd March 2021, all students will have received a letter informing them of Pinehirst Education requirements in relation to COVID Testing. In the letter students will be advised to take a test and report any positive results. The letter also includes a student declaration of understanding of the importance of taking the test before commencing back at Pinehirst and routinely thereafter. 

Response to any infection 

Engage with the NHS Test & Trace process

Pinehirst will promote the NHS ‘Test & Trace’ process, and ensure learners and staff are aware and know how to contact the local Public Health England Health Protection Team.

www.gov.uk/health-protection-team

• The individual will be asked for their post code and be advised as to the nearest local health protection team office to contact. In the case of Pinehirst Education the local offices and contact details for the centres are as follows:

Pinehirst Education 

St Anne Street 

Centre 

Liverpool

Public Health England

Cheshire & Merseyside Health Protection Team

Suite 3B, 3rd Floor Cunard Buildings,

Water Street,

Liverpool L3 IDS

Telephone number- 0344 225 0562

Pinehirst Education Ferny Knoll Centre Rainford

Public Health England

Cumbria & Lancashire Health Protection Team

Lancashire County Council

Pitt Street

Reception County Hall

Preston PR1 8XB

Telephone number- 0344 225 0562

In cases of suspected coronavirus, learners and staff will be advised to take a test and inform the authorities including (Pinehirst) of the outcome.

Learners and parents will be advised to ensure Pinehirst is informed immediately.

Manage confirmed cases of coronavirus (COVID-19)

Pinehirst will contact the Local Health Protection team immediately if a learner or member of staff has tested positive to coronavirus using the address below: 

www.gov.uk/health-protection-team

Contain any outbreak by following local health protection advice If there are two or more confirmed cases of coronavirus within 14 days, or an overall rise in sickness absence where coronavirus is suspected, Pinehirst Education will inform the Local Health Protection Team. 

Additional actions

Transporting learners procedure (Pinehirst Education Minibus)

Pinehirst Education has a dedicated school bus service which runs from the Ferny knoll Centre picking up and dropping off learners from home or a central location. Pinehirst Education Centres also transport learners on educational excursions throughout the year as part of their study programme. The minibus service will continue to operate, however in order to ensure the safety of learners and staff the following procedures will be implemented:

• The grouping of learners on buses will, where appropriate, reflect the ‘bubbles’ that have been adopted during normal timetabled hours.

• Organised queuing and boarding will take place where possible. 

• Learners will need to answer the questions, listed on page 1 and in the attached ‘Learner Attendance Risk Assessment Questionnaire’.

• Learners will have their temperatures taken at this point in time. If any the learner’s temperature is at 37.8 or above they will be sent home and referred to the government ‘Stay at Home’ guidance.

www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-stay-at-home-guidance/stay-at-home-guidance-for-households-with-possible-coronavirus-covid-19-infection.

• Hand sanitiser will be used on boarding and disembarking buses.

• Distancing in buses will take place wherever possible.

• Face coverings to be used if learners are likely to come into close contact with people outside of their bubble who they do not normally meet. 

• All drivers will need to wear face masks.

• There will be on-going additional cleaning of all vehicles.

Communication with learners & Parents (families)

Although learners must attend Pinehirst from March 2021, some will have concerns and still be anxious about their safety in relation to coronavirus. Pinehirst will therefore take the following actions:

• Inform learners of the safety precautions/actions taken to provide a safe environment, specifically targeting coronavirus.

• Discuss with those individuals including parents and outside agencies responsible for individual learners and who still have concerns regarding corona virus safety measures.

• Provide in writing detail of Pinehirst Education response to the corona virus and in particular the safety measures taken for returning students on 8th March 2021. The letter will include a section- declaration for all students to sign agreeing to follow Pinehirst Education guidelines in relation to COVID19. 

Curriculum, behaviour, and pastoral care

Pinehirst will continue to deliver the curriculum as planned prior to the COVID19 pandemic but will also adapt and make changes based on the impact the pandemic is likely to have had with some learners. The changes made will be based on providing additional support for learners ensuring there is a smooth transition from one academic level to another. This is particularly aimed at those returning students but also new starts. The additional support to be provided will include the following actions:

• Reinforcement of previous learning, ensuring learners are prepared for transition onto the next level.

• Individual tutorials/reviews on a 6 weekly basis with a focus on ensuring learners are coping with the potential impact of the corona virus pandemic. This is of particular importance for those SEND and the more vulnerable learners.

• Continue to enhance and build Pinehirst Education’s capacity to deliver distance learning programmes. This will provide the opportunity for learners, where necessary to ‘catch up’ and reinforce previous learning.

Housekeeping

It is essential that all work areas are maintained in a clean and tidy condition, failure to do so may constitute a breach of health and safety process. It is your responsibility to ensure that good housekeeping is applied in your work area and not that of the cleaning staff. Ensure that walkways and fire exits are kept clear of any kind of obstruction and that rubbish, especially combustibles are not allowed to accumulate; it must be cleared daily. Litter can be a hazard causing slips, trips, falls, and fires, do not drop it.

Contractors

All members of staff are asked to co-operate as far as they can in ensuring that contractors follow safe working practices. Any dangerous or potentially dangerous situations should be reported immediately to the Safety, Health and Environment Advisor. Contractors should be provided with a copy of Pinehirst Education Safety process. All contractors must be selected from the list of companies approved by the Corporation and have the necessary insurance requirements in place. 

All queries must be directed to the Head of area of operations.

Safety Process for Contractors.

Contractors appointed to undertake work at Pinehirst Education shall:

Comply with the Health & Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and all relevant subordinate legislation, especially the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 and the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 and approved codes of practice. 

Appointed contractors will at all times comply with Pinehirst Education health and safety process. 

Equality & Diversity Obligations. 

Contractors will ensure at all times the health and safety of themselves and others who may be affected by their undertaking.

Contractors will ensure that Pinehirst Education fire process are followed and that access and egress, to and from all Pinehirst Education sites is not obstructed in any way. 

Pinehirst Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and adults, we are also responsible for promoting equality of opportunity and access to all, irrespective of age, background, race, gender, religion, ability, disability, or sexuality. We fully expect all contractors to share our commitment and responsibility and note that Pinehirst Education will:

· Investigate complaints of discrimination, bullying or harassment and take prompt and appropriate action.

· Ensure that all members of Pinehirst Education, contractors, visitors, and work placement providers are responsible for complying with Pinehirst Education policy

· Inform all people that discrimination is not acceptable.

· Stop discrimination, bullying or harassment and take positive action when it occurs.

Permits to work.

Permits to work are held by the area of operations. These will be issued where the following work is involved:

· Hot Work such as welding, oxyacetylene cutting and disc cutting etc.

· Working in confined spaces

· Working at height

· Excavations

· Removal of Asbestos

· Permits to work must be signed off by a member of the management team.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE / C)

Personal protective equipment / clothing will be supplied free of charge to employees where hazards cannot be controlled by other means. 

Where there is a requirement to use PPE / C, which will be identified on the risk assessment or the COSHH assessment then the PPE / C must be worn, and appropriate training will be given. PPE / C must be suitable for the type of protection required and must be maintained in clean and working order. 

Where students are required to wear PPE / C, staff must ensure that it is worn and that it is worn correctly. The provision and use of PPE / C is the responsibility off the Head of Area of operation / Department or Line Manager. Advice regarding the correct use and choice of PPE / C is available from the Safety, Health and Environment Advisor. 

Hazards and Risks

A Hazard is anything that has the potential to cause harm, such as chemicals, electricity, working from ladders, an open drawer, unsafe acts, or conditions, etc.

The Risk is the chance, high or low, that somebody could be harmed by these and other hazards, together with an indication of how serious the harm could be.

Risk Rating = the probability x the severity x the frequency.

If you discover a potentially serious hazard remove it or deal with it yourself if possible or prevent contact or access to it. Inform the Safety, Health and Environment Advisor or the Deputy Head of area of operations immediately. 

Then complete a Hazard Report Form, which should be submitted to the Safety, Health and Environment Advisor immediately. The form is available on the Health and Safety Notice Boards.

YOU MUST NEVER IGNORE A HAZARD OR DANGEROUS SITUATION

Risk Assessments

The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999

Risk assessments will be carried out in order to:

· Assess the risks to the health and safety of employees to which they are exposed whilst they are at work and Assess the risks to health and safety of persons not employed by Pinehirst Education arising out of or in connection with the work of Pinehirst Education. 

· Record significant findings of the risk assessments to include suitable and sufficient control measures Review and revise risk assessments. 

Additional and specific risk assessments shall be made for Fire, New and Expectant Mothers and for Young Persons, who are defined as under the age of 18 years and are seen as being at particular risk. Every employer shall ensure that young persons employed by him are protected at work from any risks to their health or safety, which is a consequence of their lack of experience, or absence of awareness of existing or potential risks or the fact that young persons have not yet fully matured.

Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) 2002 Regulations

Pinehirst Education will keep records of risk assessments for substances hazardous to health which are being used, and the means by which the risk is eliminated or reduced to an acceptable level. 

Results of any atmospheric or medical monitoring shall be recorded, as will the results from any maintenance checks on ventilation equipment designed to reduce exposure to substances hazardous to health.

COSHH assessments are an integral part of any risk assessment carried out under Regulation 3 of the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999. 

All Pinehirst Education staff will comply with the COSHH Regulations when using substances. Any hazardous substances for disposal, must be stored in the chemical store at the Maths and Science Centre and must clearly state the quantity and its' description.

Asbestos

Due to the age of some of Pinehirst Education’s buildings, there is a certain amount of asbestos containing material present. Pinehirst Education has a legal duty to manage any asbestos containing materials.

The asbestos containing materials have been identified and the information is held in registers that are available Asbestos Registers. These registers( if applicable) are available to all contractors, maintenance staff and anyone else who may need to work on the fabric of Pinehirst Education.

Only authorised staff may carry out invasive work, therefore any work involving demolition, drilling, cutting etc. must not take place without first gaining approval and consulting the register. 

Pinehirst Education has a programme of encapsulating or removing asbestos containing materials. In the meantime, existing materials are marked and managed to ensure they are safe and will not present any risk to those using Pinehirst Education. 

Duty not to misuse.

The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 imposes one duty on all people at work and members of the public, including children, not to intentionally interfere with or misuse anything that has been provided in the interest of health, safety, or welfare, whether it has been provided for the protection of employees or other persons. The provision is clearly to protect things intended to ensure people’s safety and include fire escapes and fire extinguishers, perimeter fencing, warning notices for particular hazards, protective clothing, guards on machinery and special containers for dangerous substances.

Anyone contravening this section of the Act will be liable to a criminal conviction, fine or imprisonment. 

Manual Handling Regulation 4 (1) of the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 establishes a clear hierarchy of measures for the employer:

· Avoid hazardous manual handling operations as far as is reasonably practicable.

· Assess any hazardous manual handling operations that cannot be avoided; and

· Reduce the risk of injury so far as is reasonably practicable.

A good general guide to safe lifting practices is available here. 

www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg143.pdf and all staff should make themselves familiar with it. 

Pinehirst Education will hold regular training sessions on safe manual handling, which all employees are entitled to attend and may be mandatory for higher risk workers. The training sessions will cover amongst other things.

· How potentially hazardous handling operations may be identified.

· How to deal with unfamiliar handling operations

· The proper use of handling aids

· The proper use of personal protective equipment

· Features of the working environment that contributes to safety.

· The importance of good housekeeping

· Factors affecting individual capability.

· Good handling techniques

Electrical Appliances

All electrical installations and the majority of appliances within Pinehirst Education will be tested periodically and maintained as necessary by Pinehirst Education. Personal appliances, such as kettles, televisions etc. should not be brought into Pinehirst Education. However, if it is absolutely necessary, permission must be gained from the Director of Curriculum or is appointee, who will, if appropriate, arrange for the appliance to be tested.

Personal equipment such as smart phones, tablets and laptops may be used as these are very low voltage, however chargers have the potential to represent a significant hazard and must be checked.

Where portable appliances are used, it is the responsibility of those using them to inspect them regularly visually, paying attention to the condition of plug tops, damage to cables and appliance housings. Where damage is found the equipment or appliances must be taken out of use until repaired. 

Work on electrical appliances or installations, can only be undertaken by authorised personnel who have the relevant qualifications or competence. Where work is undertaken it will comply with the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 and associated ACOPs and non - statutory regulations such as the IEE Regulations. Work on live conductors is not permitted. 

Working at Heights 

All care must be taken whilst working at heights, death and serious injuries have occurred when falling only a matter of a few feet. All access equipment such as ladders, towers etc. must be maintained in a safe condition and only suitably trained staff may use them. Any work at height must be carefully planned before being carried out and only by competent persons using the proper equipment. Do not stand on tables or chairs in order to reach anything.

Gas Appliances 

All gas appliances will be serviced annually. Work is not permitted on any gas fitting or gas storage vessel unless carried out by an approved contractor or persons approved by the Health and Safety Executive, such as the Gas Safe Register, which replaced the Council for Registered Gas Installers (CORGI) on 1st April 2009.

Waste Disposal

Pinehirst Education and all employees shall at all times ensure, that the duty of care in respect of controlled waste is observed in compliance with the Environmental Protection Act 1990. Always follow the manufacturer’s information regarding the disposal of waste and make sure that only Pinehirst Education approved licensed contractors are used. The controlled waste transfer note issued by the contractor must be sent to the area of operations. 

The disposal of electrical and electronic equipment is managed in accordance with the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (amendment) Regulations 2015 (WEEE)

Educational Visits

Pinehirst Education recognises that certain trips and visits are of educational benefit to the students taking part. Such activities provide opportunities for the development of the whole student as well as increasing subject knowledge and understanding through first-hand experience. Pinehirst Education has a legal and moral responsibility for the health and safety of students and employees when they are engaged in educational visits and other off-site activities.

It is essential that all educational visits arranged by Pinehirst Education are organised properly within current legal requirements and guidelines. This will include the necessity to undertake a Risk Assessment, which must be recorded and applied before any visit can occur. Information regarding the process to follow for Educational Visits is available on Pinehirst Education Policy Educational Visits.

Educational Visits, where you can also find the necessary forms. Pinehirst Education has a Policy on Educational visits that must be followed for all visits. The Safety, Health and Environment Advisor and the Educational Visits Coordinator are available for advice at any time.

Mobile Telephones

The use of handheld and hands-free mobile phones whilst driving on Pinehirst Education business is prohibited. Failure to observe this ruling will result in disciplinary action being taken in addition to any criminal charges brought.

A substantial body of research shows that using a hand-held or hands-free mobile phone while driving is a significant distraction, and substantially increases the risk of the driver crashing. High mileage and company car drivers are more likely than most to use a mobile phone while driving.

Never use a handheld phone while driving. Making or receiving a call, even with a hands-free kit is dangerous.

On 27th February 2007, the Department of Transport (DfT) introduced tough new penalties for motorists who break the law and use a handheld mobile phone while driving. The fixed penalty charge for using a mobile phone is £100 and 3 penalty points. However, it can be as much as £1,000 or £2,500 if you were driving a bus, coach, or any heavy goods vehicle. Further information on this specific aspect of work related road safety can be found on: 

www.rospa.com/road-safety/advice/drivers/distraction/mobile-phones/

Vehicles

Pinehirst Education vehicles, including cars, minibuses and commercial vehicles are only permitted for use by Pinehirst Education employees, or those authorised by Pinehirst Education, on Pinehirst Education business 

Those who drive a Pinehirst Education vehicle must hold the appropriate valid UK driving licence, or its equivalent and have at least 2 years’ experience. The licence must contain your correct name and address; you are liable to a fine of £1000 if you fail to notify the DVLA of any relevant changes to your details. Prior to driving a Pinehirst Education vehicle, you must bring a copy of your driving licence to the Office, where the copy of your licence will be held securely and will remain confidential in compliance with the Data Protection Act. 

Those who drive a Pinehirst Education vehicle must not have more than 6 penalty points on their licence. If you have previously been disqualified from driving, you must notify the area of operations of the reason for your disqualification.

All staff who drive a Pinehirst Education minibus must be at least 21 years old, hold Category D1 on their driving licence, be considered medically fit and evidence they are competent to drive a minibus. All UK car licence holders who took their test prior to 1st January 1997 will hold Category D1 until their licence expires. The statutory risk assessment process will help indicate which good practice option proving competency is most appropriate and Pinehirst Education policy dictates that one of the options must be undertaken. 

Pinehirst Education staff who hold a car (Class B) licence can legally drive certain minibuses without Category D1 on their licence as long as certain conditions are met. The conditions are: 

· The driver is 21 or over.

· Has held a car driver licence for not less than 2 years.

· The vehicle is being used by a non-commercial body for social purposes but not for hire or reward.

· The minibus driver receives no consideration for driving other than out of pocket expenses.

· The minibus weighs no more than 3,500 kg.

· No trailer must be towed.

Please note: All current Pinehirst Education minibuses weigh in excess of 3500 kg. If your test was taken after 1st January 1997 and you do not have category D1 on your licence then you must take a separate minibus test through the DVLA. 

In order to do this you must apply for a provisional D1 licence before taking lessons through a DSA registered driving school, you must then undertake a medical and pass both a theory and practical driving test. It is not sufficient just to take the DCC or any other minibus test.

Manual Handling

It is the responsibility of managers to ensure that manual handling activities involving inanimate loads (objects) are managed in line with this document in any area under their control. 

It is the responsibility of Heads of Department, or any other people with management responsibility for a service to ensure that this policy is implemented in all premises for which they have overall responsibility. They will

· Ensure assessors are adequately trained to assess moving and handling risks, or that the person you have delegated the responsibility to is suitably trained.

· Identify all manual handling operations within the area under their control.

· Ensure that steps been taken to eliminate manual handing operations.

· Complete risk assessments of unavoidable hazardous manual handling activities

· Supply suitable lifting and carrying equipment such as trolleys, sack barrows and scissor lifts. 

· Implement suitable control measures identified in the risk assessment.

· Ensure employees have been provided with information and/or training on manual handling techniques and lifting and carrying equipment.

· Ensure all employees (including new employees or employees with physical limitations or ill-health) are able to undertake the manual handling duties expected of them safely.

Legionella Control and Water Hygiene Management

What is Legionnaires’ disease?

Legionnaires’ disease is a potentially fatal form of pneumonia which can affect anybody, although some groups of people will be more susceptible to it than others. 

Healthy people may develop Legionnaires’ disease, but the people most likely to be at risk include; smokers, alcoholics and patients with cancer, diabetes, and chronic respiratory complaints or kidney disease. Middle-aged and older people are the most likely to be affected.

The disease begins quite abruptly with flu like symptoms such as high fever, chills, and headache and muscle pains. These symptoms are accompanied by a dry cough which soon develops, and many patients experience difficulty with breathing. The disease is effectively treated with specific antibiotics, but the diagnosis of the disease can only be determined by laboratory tests, which take several days.

Manager’s Checklist

· Appoint a named manager for each of the Pinehirst Education buildings.

· Ensure the nominated person has undertaken training in water system management. 

· Ensure a Legionella risk assessment has been carried out in the last 2 years by a competent person.

· Ensure any remedial actions identified by the risk assessment have been completed.

· Ensure the Legionella site logbook has been created and records are maintained.

· Ensure all maintenance work, additions and modifications to pipework is carried out considering the risk of Legionella.

· Ensure a system is in place for monitoring water systems.

· Ensure the responsible person carries out the correct actions following poor results from checks or notification of a suspected case or cases of Legionella.

Person Handling

· Mechanical handling (such as the use of hoisting equipment) must be prioritised over person handling. 

· There is sometimes a necessity to undertake person handling within Pinehirst Education.

· The protocol that exists to ensure that this is safe for both parties is as follows Completion of a handling plan to include vulnerabilities of the person being lifted, the types of lifts required and the specific method to be used to complete those lifts.

· Staff must be adequately trained before undertaking person handling or hoisting and all equipment must be maintained in line with statutory provisions.

All Pinehirst Education Policies are subject to screening for Equality Impact Assessment 

Equality Impact Assessments are carried out to see whether the policy has, or is likely to have, a negative  impact on grounds of age, disability, gender reassignment, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief,  marriage or civil partnership, sex, or sexual orientation. 

Pinehirst Education not only fulfils its legal position in relation to current and future equality legislation, but  additionally goes beyond compliance in providing and promoting “Opportunities for all to succeed”, free from  any aspect of discrimination, harassment, or victimisation.  

All staff have a duty of care to look after the interests of and support their colleagues. This policy takes account  of our commitment to eliminating discrimination, identifying, and removing barriers and providing equal  opportunities for our learners, staff, and visitors to ensure that no one feels excluded or disadvantaged. 

Safeguarding, Child Protection, Prevent and Missing from Education 

All staff have a responsibility to support and promote Pinehirst Education Education’s commitment to providing a safe  environment for students, staff, and visitors. Additionally, all staff have a responsibility to report any  safeguarding or Prevent issues to the Designated Senior Lead for Safeguarding and Prevent.

• Disciplinary Policy and Process

• (Students) Disciplinary Policy and Process 

• (Staff) Investigation Policy and Process Assessment Policy

• Whistle Blowing Policy

• Open Awards Malpractice and Maladministration Policy and Process

• Complaints Process

Associated Documentation

A range of specific appendices, policies, draft policies, and process are in addition, but not in whole a part of this policy. They include:

· Accident, Incident or Dangerous Occurrence Reporting Forms

· Bomb Threats

· Legionella Management

· Display Screen Equipment

· Drivers of Pinehirst Education Vehicles (including ‘own’ vehicles)

· Educational and Residential Visits and Trips

· Fire Prevention, Precautions and Evacuation Process specific to all properties within 

· Pinehirst Education 

· Generic Risk Assessments

· Hazard Report Forms

· Procurement of Contractors

· Safeguarding (Child Protection / Vulnerable Adults)

· Prevent

· Work Based Learning, Student Placements and Projects

· Dealing with offensive weapons

Document Version: 1 (JUNE 2022) ( REVIEW DATE JUNE 2024 )

Health and Safety Policy and Process  

Author APMc

Quality Assurance 

This Policy and Procedure maps to the following external quality assurance frameworks 

• Ofsted      Inspection Framework 

• MATRIX      

• QAA      

• QIA      

• ESFA