Church –Health and Safety - Methodist Insurance · church – health and safety

Guidance NotesChurch –Health and Safety

Version 3

Contents

Introduction 3

Self-assessment form – How safe are your church and church hall? 4

General precautions 13

Safety of church grounds 16

Working at height and the safe use of ladders 18

Interpretation of the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 25

Building works/repairs 27

The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 29

Sale of second-hand goods 33

Preparation and sale of food and drink on church premises 36

Personal safety 41

Environmental protection 44

Reporting and recording accidents and first aid 48

Manual handling 51

Training 52

Sources of information 54

Attachments

Personal safety risk assessment form

Accident and witness report form

Fire risk assessment form

General risk assessment form

Further bespoke information for churches is available on-line at:www.methodistinsurance.co.uk/churchor call 0345 606 1331

FireSecurity FunctionsHealth and Safety Policy with Guidance Notes

Whilst Methodist Insurance PLC has usedreasonable endeavours to ensure that theinformation in this publication is correct at thetime of publication, please note: (a) theinformation is not intended to constitute adefinitive or complete statement of the law onany subject, nor is any part of it intended toconstitute legal advice for any specific situation;(b) the information may over the course of timebecome incorrect or out of date; and (c)Methodist Insurance PLC cannot accept anyresponsibility for action taken as a result ofinformation provided in this publication. Youshould take specific advice when dealing withspecific situations. The information provided in

this publication is general and educational innature and may not reflect all recent legaldevelopments and may not apply to the specificfacts of individual circumstances.

You assume sole responsibility for the use of thisdocument and should obtain specialist advice inrelation to its use in specific circumstances.Accordingly, Methodist Insurance PLC and itssubsidiaries shall not be liable for any losses,damages, charges or expenses, whether direct,indirect, or consequential and howsoeverarising, that you suffer or incur as a result of orin connection with your use or reliance on theinformation provided in this document except forthose which cannot be excluded by law.

CHURCH – HEALTH AND SAFETY GUIDANCE NOTES 3

pg13General precautionsSimple precautions andpreventative measures cansubstantially reduce therisk of damage and injury.

pg18Working at height andthe safe use of laddersEvery year many peopleare injured, sometimesfatally, from using ladders.

pg 29AsbestosThe duty to manageasbestos applies to allplaces of worship.

We have faithfully looked after the insurancerequirements of the Methodist Church in theUK and the Republic of Ireland since 1872.

Our aim is to provide a first-class service toall our customers, satisfying their needs andexpectations, and dealing both promptly andresponsibly with claims.

We ensure that our business is run in a waythat reflects our values, for the well being ofthe Methodist Church and give substantialdonations every year to Methodistcharitable causes.

Useful contacts at MethodistInsurance

EnquiriesTel 0345 606 1331email [email protected] are open 8am to 6pm Monday to Friday (excluding Bank Holidays).

ClaimsTel 0345 606 1331email [email protected] claims can be reported 24 hours a day,7 days a week. Enquiries on existing claimscan be made Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm.

For further information please call uson 0345 606 1331.

Note: Methodist Insurance provides theseguidance notes without additional charge topolicyholders.

This advice is provided to you as best practiceguidance from Methodist Insurance. Pleasecheck your policy documents for details ofany conditions specific to your policy.

Methodist Insurance is the oldestdenominational church insurer in the UK

4 GUIDANCE NOTES CHURCH – HEALTH AND SAFETY

Self-assessment form

For example, if a cleaner, caretaker,organist or other voluntary or paid memberof the church staff is injured and unable tocarry out their normal duties, it may beextremely difficult to find a replacement atshort notice.

As well as the possibility that the injuredperson may make a claim against thechurch for damages in a civil action,criminal prosecutions may be broughtagainst individuals as well as the ManagingTrustees under health and safety law wherepenalties may be as high as a £20,000 fineand two years’ imprisonment.

The Managing Trustees have a duty ofcare to ensure the safety of anyone whomay visit the church, hall or grounds forany purpose. This includes paidemployees, voluntary workers, regularmembers of the congregation, visitors andcontractors who may be working on thebuildings or in the grounds.

This questionnaire is designed to help youpinpoint any potentially hazardous areas sothat the necessary action may be taken toeliminate or reduce as far as possible anyrisk of accident.

Additional information regarding anyrelevant legislation or reference sources isincluded where appropriate.

If you answer ‘NO’ to any of the questions,there is a risk that an accident couldhappen and difficulties could occur indealing with a claim which might be madeagainst you, so some action on your part is necessary.

Having carried out initial assessments it isimportant to monitor your health and safetyprocedures to take account of changingcircumstances. This should be a continuingprocess but at least annually you should gothrough this questionnaire and take anyaction necessary.

How safe are your church and church hall? Every year, a number of accidentsoccur in churches, church halls and grounds. Not only does this cause pain and suffering to those people who are injured, it can often result in seriousdisruption to the smooth running of the church and its various activities.


Do you have a written Health and Safety policy?

Health and safety legislation applies to all places of religious worship. The Healthand Safety at Work etc, Act 1974 requires every employer with five or moreemployees to ‘prepare and bring to the notice of their employees a written statementof their general policy with respect to the health and safety at work of theiremployees and the organisation and arrangements for carrying out that policy’. There will be some large churches where the Managing Trustees actually employfive or more people and in these cases there is no doubt that a written health andsafety policy statement is required. Employers with less than five employees areexempt from the requirement for a written health and safety policy. However, theHealth and Safety Executive now regards volunteers as employees and persons whomake use of volunteers as employers. The same level of training, information andprotection must be given to both volunteers and employees. In the light of this it isgood practice to have a written policy that sets out your organisation and proceduresfor health and safety, even if you employ less than five people.

It is the duty of every employee, including part-time employees such as organists,cleaners and caretakers, to take reasonable care for their own safety and that ofother persons who may be affected by their acts or omissions. The personresponsible for enforcing the requirements of the legislation is the EnvironmentalHealth Officer of the Local Authority.

A health and safety policy for churches is available from Methodist Insurance.

Have you carried out a risk assessment as required by the Managementof Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999?

These regulations require every employer to make ‘a suitable and sufficientassessment of the risks to the health and safety of his employees to which they areexposed whilst they are at work; and the risks to the health and safety of personsnot in his employment arising out of or in connection with the conduct by him of hisundertaking’.

Where five or more people are employed a written record must be made of thesignificant findings of the assessment.

We would advise that it is good practice for all churches to carry out riskassessments and to record the significant findings.

Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 Approved Code ofPractice – ISBN 0 7176 2488 9

5 Steps to Risk Assessment – INDG 163 REV 2 HSE Free Leaflet

The Methodist Insurance Health and Safety Policy includes guidance for churcheson carrying out risk assessments.

NoYes2

NoYes1


Are floor surfaces and floor coverings in good condition and properly maintained?

Slipping, tripping and falling are a major cause of injuries. You must ensure thatthere are no unexpected changes in floor level, and that floor surfaces are notdamaged. Particular attention should be given to stone flags, ceramic and clay tilesand wood blocks.

Loose floor coverings, such as mats and rugs, should be avoided. Carpets must notbe worn and must be securely fixed down.

Preventing slips and trips at work – INDG 225 (rev1) HSE Free leaflet

Are the church grounds, including paths, steps, ramps, driveways, trees, boundary walls, gravestones and monuments, in good order and properly maintained?

Paths and driveways must be free from potholes and steps must be in goodcondition. They must be properly drained to prevent collection of rainwater and thegrowth of algae. Where paths are regularly used at night they must be adequately lit.Steps and steep paths must be fitted with handrails.

Boundary walls and gates must be kept in good repair. Trees must be regularlyinspected by a qualified tree surgeon and any necessary remedial work carried out.In addition to the risk of falling branches, an assessment must be made of the risk ofdamage to neighbouring property caused by the effect of tree roots removingmoisture from the surrounding soil.

Although gravestones are the responsibility of the family of the deceased, the church is responsible where the family cannot be traced and also has a general liability forthe safety of the grounds. Gravestones and monuments must be maintained in asafe condition.

Are all stairways in good condition and adequately lit?

All stairways including those which give access to organ lofts, galleries, boiler rooms or basements, must be in good condition and be adequately lit. Handrailsmust also be fitted.

5 Yes No

NoYes4

NoYes3


Have assessments been carried out of areas where there is a risk of falls from a height and the appropriate measures taken?

Some churches contain areas where there is a risk of falls from a height.Consideration will need to be given to the need to install permanent rails or barriers.The fixing of anchor points for ladders may be sufficient where access is onlyoccasionally required for maintenance purposes, such as the changing of light bulbsor the cleaning of gutters. In other circumstances, the use of tower scaffolds ormobile elevated work platforms may be necessary.

Have you carried out an assessment of all substances hazardous to health, and put in place control measures where necessary as required

by the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH) (as amended)?

The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 requires that ‘an employer shall not carry on any work which is liable to expose any employees toany substance hazardous to health, unless he has made a suitable and sufficientassessment of the risks created by that work to the health of those employees, andof the steps that need to be taken to meet the requirements of these regulations’.

Substances most likely to be found in churches are petrol, pesticides, insecticides,weedkillers, fertilisers and liquid petroleum gases.

All hazardous substances must be stored and used in accordance with themanufacturers’ instructions. Consideration should be given to replacing dangeroussubstances with less-hazardous alternatives.

Has a Competent Person carried out an assessment and survey, if necessary, to determine the location and condition of any asbestos and prepared a management plan to enable asbestos to either remain safely on the premises or to be removed in accordance with regulation 4 of the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012?

A written record (Register) must be maintained, detailing location, condition, type andform of asbestos present.

Some churches may still have asbestos used for insulation, lagging, fire protection or in wall and roof linings. Asbestos is often found in organ blower motor housings. If any removal of asbestos materials is required, this work can only be carried out bycontractors licensed by the HSE for asbestos removal.

The management of asbestos in non-domestic premises, Regulation 4 of the Controlof Asbestos Regulations 2006 – ISBN 9780717662098.

Yes No6

8

NoYes7

NoYes


Are all electrical systems including wiring, switchgear and any fixed machinery such as organ blower motors and all portable electrical

appliances in good condition and properly maintained as required by the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989?

The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 require that all electrical systems shall be of such design, construction and installation as to prevent danger.

It is recommended that fixed installations should be inspected and tested at five-yearly intervals.

Portable electrical appliances need to be examined at regular intervals with thefrequency of such examinations being set by experience. This will probably need tobe at least annually, with equipment which is subject to heavy usage, such asvacuum cleaners, needing to be examined more frequently.

External lighting including floodlighting and associated wiring must be installed toIET Regulations (BS 7671). Temporary wiring is not acceptable.

HSE Guide Maintaining Portable and Transportable Electrical Equipment:1994 HSG 107 – ISBN 0 7176 2805 1

HSR25 Memorandum of Guidance on the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 –ISBN 9 7807 1766 2289

Requirements for Electrical Installations. IET Wiring Regulations. 17th Edition.BS 7671 – ISBN 978 086341 844 0

Do you have formal safety procedures in place if your church is used for public performances and for major services at Christmas and Easter?

If your church is regularly used for large concerts and services, a written procedureshould be in place detailing such matters as the number of stewards required andtheir duties. The procedures should include a detailed evacuation plan. Considerationwill need to be given to the installation of an automatic fire alarm system, the use ofthe public address system for the giving of instructions in the event of anemergency, the installation of emergency lighting, and the training of stewards andother staff or volunteers in the use of firefighting equipment.

NoYes10

NoYes9


Do you have regular inspections of lifting equipment?

Lifting equipment in the building may include passenger lifts and hoists. The LiftingOperations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 require such items to beinspected by a Competent Person at prescribed statutory intervals. An EngineeringInsurance Company surveyor would be a Competent Person.

Safe use of lifting equipment. Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations1998. HSE – L113 – ISBN 0 7176 1628 2

INDG290 Simple guide to the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations1998 – ISBN 0 7176 2430 7

Has an assessment been carried out to ensure there is no risk of injuryfrom glass in doors and windows?

The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 Approved Code ofPractice requires that safety glazing is used in all windows below waist height and in(or next to) doors below shoulder height or elsewhere if there is a likelihood of injury.Safety glass includes toughened or laminated glass. Alternatively barriers may beused to prevent persons falling through vulnerable windows. Church halls built duringthe 1960s and 1970s may well include low-level windows and doors which will needto be upgraded to comply with the regulations.

Workplace Health Safety and Welfare HSE L24 – ISBN 0 7176 0413 6

INDG244 (rev2) Workplace Health, Safety and Welfare – ISBN 978 0 7176 6277 7

Is all plant and machinery in good condition and regularly maintained andare all tools and other items of equipment such as ladders, scaffolding

towers and staging routinely checked and repaired?

The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 require assessmentsto be carried out to ensure that all work equipment is suitable for the purpose and isadequately maintained. People using the equipment must be given adequateinstructions, information and training.

Suitable inspections need to be carried out by a suitably qualified person if workequipment is likely to become unsafe due to the environment, damage or wear.

Boilers should be regularly serviced. Gas boilers should be checked annually by aGas Safe Registered installer, oil systems by an OFTEC registered engineer.Lawnmowers and other items of maintenance equipment must be regularly checkedand serviced. Young persons must not be allowed to operate any machinery withoutproper instruction and supervision. Personal protective equipment, such as visors foruse with strimmers, must be available and be maintained.

Safe Use of Work Equipment HSE L22 – ISBN 978 07176 62951

INDG291 Simple guide to the Provision and use of work equipment Regulations 1998

NoYes

NoYes

13

12

NoYes11


Has an assessment been carried out into any manual handling operations?

In many churches, there is a constant moving of chairs, staging, pianos and so on tocater for different layouts and services.

The Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 (as amended) requireassessments to be carried out of all manual handling operations. If possible manualhandling should be avoided altogether. Where this is not possible, training should begiven and the risk must be reduced as far as possible by the use of mechanical aidsand manual handling kept to an absolute minimum.

Manual Handling HSE L23 – ISBN 0 7176 2823 X

INDG143 (rev2) Getting to grips with manual handling – ISBN 0 7176 2828 0

Has an assessment been carried out on any catering undertaken to ensure compliance with food hygiene regulations?

Catering in churches can range from a one-off event, such as the annual fête, to the regular provision of meals on a daily basis. The Food Standards Agency hasproduced detailed guidance on the requirements of food hygiene legislation that canbe freely downloaded from their website, (www.food.gov.uk). Premises which areused occasionally for food preparation must follow the guidelines for temporarypremises. Where food is prepared on a regular basis the General Requirements willneed to be followed and you may need to register with the Environmental HealthDepartment of the Local Authority.

FSA Guidance on the Requirements of Food Hygiene Legislation

Do you have systems in place for the recording of accidents and the reporting of injuries, diseases and dangerous occurrences?

The HSE Accident Book – ISBN 0 7176 2603 2 Ref BI 510 satisfies theregulations about keeping records of accidents to people at work. The Reporting ofInjuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 2013 (RIDDOR)requires employers and people in control of premises to report certain types of injury,occupational ill health and dangerous occurrences to their enforcing authority. Forplaces of public worship this is the Local Environmental Health Department. Recordsof accidents to members of staff, volunteers and visitors must be kept.

If possible you should obtain written statements from any witnesses and record theirnames and addresses. In the case of back, neck and other serious injuries the injuredperson should be required to visit their General Practitioner as soon as possible.

A Guide to the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous OccurrencesRegulations 2013 – HSE L73 – ISBN 978 07176 62906

NoYes

NoYes

NoYes

16

15

14


Do you have procedures in place for the vetting of persons working with children and vulnerable adults?

It is most important that adequate safeguards are taken in the selection of personswishing to work with children and vulnerable adults. Anyone with a history of childabuse must not be allowed to come into contact with young people.

The Methodist Church has bespoke internal procedures known as ‘Safeguarding’.

The guidelines in the Home Office publication Safe from Harm should be followed.

Another useful publication is: Safe and Alert – Good practice advice on volunteersworking with vulnerable clients. Available from the National Centre for Volunteering.Tel 020 7520 8910

Do you have procedures in place for fêtes and other outdoor activities?

There are various hazards involved with such things as bouncy castles, fireworks and charity walks. Certain events such as abseiling down towers will requirespecialist advice.

Methodist Insurance publishes guidance notes on Church functions with sectionsrelating to a number of activities. These include:

n the use of inflatable bouncy castlesn the organisation of bonfire and firework displays n the organisation of charity walks.

Do you have an individual with responsibility for health and safety matters?

We would suggest that the Church Council appoints a member with specificresponsibility for health and safety, including the carrying out of the variousassessments outlined above and reporting back to the Church Council.

Have you carried out an assessment of your buildings to ensure they can be used by persons with disabilities?

The Equality Act 2010 requires that all disabled persons are able to use a buildingand have access to the services provided within it.

Service providers, which includes churches, have to make ‘reasonable adjustments’ fordisabled people and to provide reasonable means of avoiding physical features thatmake it impossible or unreasonably difficult for disabled people to use its services.

Code of Practice: Rights of Access Services to the Public, Public Authority Functions,Private Clubs and Premises – ISBN 9780117036956

NoYes20

19

18

17

NoYes

NoYes

NoYes


Have you carried out a fire risk assessment?

It is a requirement of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, that youundertake a fire risk assessment and that a responsible person oversees fire safety.

To comply with regulations you must:

n assess the fire risks in the church. If you have five or more employees you mustrecord the findings of the risk assessment, although we would stronglyrecommend recording irrespective of the number of employees

n check that a fire can be detected in a reasonable time and that people can be warned

n check that people who may be in the building can get out safely n provide reasonable firefighting equipment n check that those in the building know what to do if there is a firen check and maintain your fire safety equipmentn check what effect a fire would have on your neighbours.

If you have already taken sensible and appropriate fire safety measures, little or no further action may be necessary.

Further guidance is available from www.gov.uk/workplace-fire-safety

Free advice is also available from your local fire brigade who are responsible forenforcing the regulations. The telephone number for non-emergency calls can befound in your local telephone directory.

NoYes21


If the family cannot be tracedand an injury results from agravestone, the church maybe responsible.

As insurers, we gain a dramatic, if expensive, insight into some commoncauses of loss and it may be useful toManaging Trustees for us to list somepoints of maintenance and management,which may help to avoid an unnecessaryloss or unfortunate injury to a churchofficial, church member or visitor.

Slips, trips and fallsSlips, trips and falls are a major cause ofinjuries to volunteers, church members andvisitors alike.

Hazards are present not just in the churchitself but in church halls, churchyards andcar parks - in fact anywhere where peopleare likely to walk.

While most injuries are minor, seriousinjuries can require hospital treatment orlead to permanent disability. We haveproduced a checklist which is available onour website, highlighting some of the mostcommon hazards and the control measuresthat can be put in place to reduce oreliminate the risk. Some of the itemsincluded are detailed below or in thefollowing pages.

FootpathsRegular maintenance is required to ensurethese remain free from moss, algae, leaves,holes, loose materials, tree roots andobstructions and are reasonably level.Ramps and steps need particular attentionwith hand rails and/or lighting provided, if hazardous. Bear in mind the difficulty the frail, elderly and disabled may have innegotiating access to and from the church.

GravestonesAlthough the maintenance of gravestonesis the responsibility of the deceased’sfamily, the church may be responsible forany injury if the family cannot be traced. It is, therefore, important that all gravestonesare regularly inspected to ensure publicsafety. Please refer to the separate sectionon safety in the church grounds.

Steps, stairs and ladders Steps down to boiler rooms and accessladders should all be inspected at leastannually and any defects remedied. Unevenand worn treads are a positive danger tothe unwary. External steps down to boilerrooms should not be neglected and theserequire frequent and careful attention toremove moss, algae, leaves and otherdebris. They should be protected at the topby railings and a lockable gate, be fittedwith a handrail and if used during the hoursof darkness be well lit.

Litter pickingGreat care needs to be taken when clearinglitter, rubbish and other debris from thechurch grounds. Protective clothingincluding heavy-duty gloves and shoes orboots with protective soles need to be worn.Hypodermic needles, drugs-related litterand hazardous materials must be collectedand removed by the Local Authority.

TreesTrees are a frequent cause of seriousdamage in a variety of ways. During windyconditions they may fall onto or lash againstthe building, and rocking of the roots can

General precautions Often simple precautions and preventative measures involving little in the way of expenditure can substantially reduce the risk of damage to or loss of property and injury to persons.


cause collapse of boundary walls. Leavesand twigs block gutters and undergrounddrains. Roots removing moisture from clay,soils can lead to shrinkage of the claycausing foundations to move and walls tocrack. Branches falling onto visitors,neighbouring property or cars are afrequent source of claims.

Regular inspections of trees, at least every sixmonths, should be considered essential andat least every five years by a tree surgeon.

Boundary walls and fencesWalk the boundary of your church groundsat least two or three times per year. Checkfor leaning pillars, posts, and sections ofwall. Early attention to defects may preventcostly repairs later on.

DrainageAny water penetrating the walls of thechurch via the roof or from below ground islikely to cause extensive damage throughrot to timbers, etc. Gutters, downpipes androof valleys need routine clearance at leastevery six months. Special arrangementsshould be in place for clearance of snowand ice from valleys during wintryconditions. Ensure that water shed from thebuildings drains away from the foundations.

Walls and roof coveringsVisual inspections of the external walls androof coverings should be carried out atfrequent intervals to discover any defectsrequiring attention at an early stage. Lookout particularly for slipped or missing slates.Inspections should be made after everyperiod of stormy weather.

Floors and floor coveringsMost accidents in churches arise fromslips, trips and falls. It is most importantthat all floor surfaces are inspectedregularly and any defective areas madesafe immediately and repairs carried out asquickly as possible. Defective floors includeunfixed, broken and loose tiles and pavingstones. Rotten and loose floorboards and

pew platforms are another hazard. Tripsand falls are also caused by worn, frayed,loose or unfixed rugs, mats and carpets,and by trailing electric leads and cables. All unfixed floor coverings should beremoved or fixed down.

Flammable liquids and polishesA number of major fires have been causedby vapours given off by polishes within aconfined space igniting spontaneously or bya spark from electrical switches. In nocircumstances should polish, polish rags orother flammable liquids be stored anywherenear electrical switches and preferably theyshould be kept in minimum quantities withina metal cabinet in a well-ventilated area.

Paraffin or petrol for lawn mowers must notbe stored within the church.

Despite all reasonable precautions, lossesof varying magnitude may still occur.Sensible forward planning can, however,minimise such losses and some thoughtshould be given to loss reduction measures.These could include:

n preparation of a list of local tradesmen –plumber, roofing contractor, generalbuilder – who can be called upon toassist at short notice;

n provision of, or note of where tarpaulinscan be located to cover holes in the roofor to protect contents removed outsidethe church;

n produce a notice for hanging on thevestry wall to show the position of the water mains stop tap, electricalswitches etc.;

n locate and ensure that water supplies forfire extinguishment are accessible –including the nearest fire hydrant;

n adequately record details of the churchvaluables, portable furniture and stainedglass. Security marking, engraving etc.plus a good description may help thePolice recover stolen property.

In no circumstances should flammable liquids or polishes be stored anywhere near electrical switches.


TreesChurch grounds may contain a largenumber of trees. Although healthy treesmay fall in extreme weather, diseased ordead trees are much more likely to fall,causing damage to the church orneighbouring buildings and presenting apossibility of injury. The roots of trees canalso encroach upon the foundations ofneighbouring buildings causing subsidenceor blockage of drains.

All trees within the grounds should beinspected every six months by a competent person for signs of disease or too close proximity to the church orneighbouring buildings. A record should bekept of the inspection and any subsequentwork. This record will ensure that theinspection is carried out and could proveuseful in defending any legal claim againstthe trustees.

Any required lopping, pruning or fellingshould be carried out without delay. Wheretrees have previously been pollarded, thispractice should be continued at appropriateintervals. Where trees are the subject of aTree Preservation Order, the Local Authorityshould be consulted prior to any work beingcarried out.

Whilst it is accepted that experienced,competent members of the church cancarry out minor work, major felling, pruningor working at height must only be carriedout by a professional contractor. Onlypersons suitably qualified and equippedwith the appropriate safety equipmentshould operate chainsaws.

Any trees on neighbouring land which couldbe a hazard to the church should be visuallyinspected during the regular inspection and,if any give cause for concern, a lettershould be written requesting the landownerto take appropriate remedial action. A copyof the letter should be retained.

Maintenance of church groundsEquipment used to maintain churchgrounds is often more powerful than thatused domestically. A number of injuries arecaused each year that could be avoided by taking simple precautions.

All garden machinery should be inspectedand serviced regularly and any defectsremedied immediately. Appropriate safetyequipment should be used which can rangefrom substantial footwear when usingmowing machinery to ear defenders, safetygoggles or visors, gloves and footwear forusing trimmers and hedge cutters. Themanufacturers’ instructions should alwaysbe followed regarding use and the provisionof safety equipment.

Hand tools should be inspected for defectssuch as damaged blades and loosehandles, and should be kept sharp andclean. Gloves reduce a person’s ability todetect when a tool is slipping and shouldtherefore not be worn when using wooden-handled, sharp-edged tools suchas billhooks and slashers.

Safety of church groundsThere are many hazards associated with church grounds. These notes are intended to provide guidance in order to reduce the likelihood of injury ordamage to property.

Paths should be reasonablylevel and free of anythingthat might cause someone to trip or slip.


Particular care needs to be exercised whenclearing rubbish from around the church.Broken glass and discarded hypodermicneedles may be concealed in long grass.Heavy-duty gloves and other protectiveclothing must be worn and children shouldnot be involved in ‘litter picks’.

All persons involved in church groundsmaintenance should be trained in the use oftools and machinery. When work is beingcarried out at least two persons should bepresent. Any use of ladders should becarefully considered and ladders securedappropriately. Persons under 18 years ofage should not use machinery.

Grass cuttingA principal cause of accidents in churchgrounds is persons tripping over kerbs orgraves that have become obscured by longgrass. There is effectively no defence insuch circumstances to a claim that theManaging Trustees have failed in their dutyunder The Occupiers’ Liability Acts toensure that visitors are reasonably safe forthe purposes they were permitted to be inthe grounds.

If there is a risk of persons tripping overkerbs or graves then the grass must be kept to such a height that the kerb or graveis clearly visible. Regular grass cutting istherefore essential.

GravestonesOver a period of time gravestones sufferthe ravages of frost and water and maybecome unsafe. Serious injuries and evenfatalities have occurred when apparentlysecurely mounted stones have fallen over.

Maintenance of gravestones is theresponsibility of the deceased’s family.However, where the family no longer tendsthe grave or cannot be traced, responsibilityfor any injury may rest with the church.

All gravestones should be inspected atleast annually. The inspection need not becarried out by experts. Each stone shouldbe physically handled to check for loosemountings, disintegrating mortar or unduespalling caused by age or frost, thusrendering the stonework unsafe.

The prime function of the survey is publicsafety. Stones in a dangerous state shouldbe carefully laid on the ground and, whereappropriate, the family contacted to adviseof the action taken, repair costs not beingthe responsibility of the church.

A note of the survey findings should bereported to the Church Council forrecording in the Church Council minutes.Such action would be an important featurein the defence of any legal claim againstthe church.

VisitorsPaths should be reasonably level and freefrom anything that may cause someone totrip or slip. Boundary walls and railingsshould be stable and in a good state ofrepair. Any temporary hazardous areas suchas parts of buildings undergoing repairshould be adequately roped off and suitablewarning signs erected. Any permanenthazardous areas such as boiler housesshould be locked or fenced as appropriate.

Remember that you owe a duty of care totrespassers and in particular to childrenwho may see the church grounds as anexciting place to play.


The Work at Height Regulations 2005subsequently amended by the Work atHeight (Amendment) Regulations 2007apply in England, Wales and Scotland toemployers, persons under their control andto the self-employed.

It is important to remember that the Healthand Safety Executive regard it as goodpractice to provide volunteers with the samelevel of protection as if they were employees.

There is no Approved Code of Practice(ACOP) but the HSE has issued a BriefGuide, Ref: INDG401 (rev1) which can bedownloaded free from the Internet(www.hse.gov.uk).

Definition of ‘work at height’ The regulations define ‘work at height’ as: (a) work in any place, including a place

at or below ground level where, if measures required by theseregulations were not taken, a personcould fall a distance liable to causepersonal injury;

(b) moving around the workplace, except by a staircase in a permanentworkplace where, if measures requiredby these regulations were not taken, a person could fall a distance liable tocause personal injury.

All work at height activities should be risk assessed, in accordance with theManagement of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, to identify andevaluate the hazards and risks. Risks need to be eliminated or suitable controlmeasures introduced.

The Work at Height Regulations set out thefollowing key action points:

Organisation and planning Regulation 4 requires that every employerensures that work at height is properlyplanned, appropriately supervised and carriedout in a manner which, so far as is reasonablypracticable, is safe. Organisation and planningof work at height should also include planningfor emergencies and rescue, and ensurework at height is not undertaken duringadverse weather conditions.

Competence Regulation 5 requires that every employershall ensure that no person engages in anyactivity, including organisation, planning andsupervision, in relation to work at height orequipment for use in such work, unless heis competent to do so or, if being trained, is being supervised by a competent person.

Avoidance of risks from working at height Regulation 6 requires that every employershall ensure that work is not carried out at height where it is reasonably practicableto carry out the work safely otherwise thanat height.

Where work is carried out at height, everyemployer shall take suitable and sufficientmeasures to prevent, so far as is reasonablypracticable, any person falling a distanceliable to cause personal injury.

Working at height and the safe use of laddersAccording to statistics from the Health and Safety Executive during the year2006/2007, falls from a height was the most common cause of fatal injury atwork and accounted for almost 20% of the total number of workplace fatalities.There are also thousands of major injuries every year.

Ladders should be set at anangle of 75º, that is one unitof measure out from the wall,or support for every fourunits of measure up.

Falling from a height is the major cause of workplacefatalities with around 50 people dying each year.


Selection of work equipment forworking at height Regulation 7 requires that employers givepriority to collective protection measuresover personal protection measures. Theymust also take account of the distance andconsequences of a potential fall and theneed for easy and timely evacuation andrescue in an emergency.

Requirements for particular work equipmentRegulation 8 covers requirements forparticular work equipment includingguardrails, toe-boards and barriers, workingplatforms, nets and airbags, personal fallprotection systems and ladders. Schedulescovering these requirements are included in the regulations.

Fragile surfacesRegulation 9 states that no person at workshall pass across or near, or work on, from or near, a fragile surface where it isreasonably practicable to carry out worksafely and under appropriate ergonomicconditions without his doing so.

Employers must ensure, so far as isreasonably practicable, that suitable andsufficient platforms, coverings, guardrails orsimilar means of support or protection areprovided and used so that any foreseeableloading is supported by such supports orborne by such protection.

If a risk of falling remains, employers musttake suitable and sufficient measures tominimise the distance and consequence of a fall.

Prominent warning notices should be fixedon the approach to any fragile surface.

Inspection of places of work at heightRegulation 13 requires that, so far as isreasonably practicable, employers inspectthe surface, and every parapet, permanentrail or other such fall protection measure ofevery place of work at height prior to its use.

Use of laddersEvery year many people are injured, somefatally, while using ladders. More than halfthe accidents occur because ladders arenot securely placed and fixed.

A ladder is a means of access, not a safeworking platform.

Schedule 6 to the regulations is effectivelya checklist to ensure the safe use ofladders and states that a ladder should only be used for work at height if a riskassessment shows that more suitableequipment, such as a tower scaffold ormobile elevated work platform, is notjustified because of the short duration ofthe work or features at the site whichpreclude the use of such equipment. The HSE has indicated that ‘short duration’means anything up to 30 minutes.

Schedule 6Requirements for ladders

Every employer shall ensure that aladder is used for work at height onlyif a risk assessment under Regulation3 of the Management Regulationshas demonstrated that the use ofmore suitable work equipment is notjustified because of the low risk and:

(a) the short duration of use; or (b) existing features on site which

he cannot alter.

Any surface upon which a ladder restsshall be stable, firm, of sufficientstrength and of suitable composition, to safely support the ladder so that itsrungs or stops remain horizontal, andany loading intended to be placed on it.

A ladder shall be so positioned as to ensure its stability during use.

A suspended ladder shall beattached in a secure manner and sothat, with the exception of a flexibleladder, it cannot be displaced andswinging is prevented.

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A portable ladder shall be preventedfrom slipping during use by:

(a) securing the stiles at or near their upper or lower ends;

(b) an effective anti-slip or othereffective stability device; or

(c) any other arrangement ofequivalent effectiveness.

A ladder used for access shall belong enough to protrude sufficientlyabove the place of landing to which itprovides access, unless othermeasures have been taken to ensurea firm handhold.

No interlocking or extension laddershall be used, unless its sections areprevented from moving relative toeach other while in use.

A mobile ladder shall be preventedfrom moving before it is stepped on.

Where a ladder or run of ladders risesa vertical distance of nine metres ormore above its base, there shall,where reasonably practicable, beprovided at suitable intervals sufficientsafe landing areas or rest platforms.

Every ladder shall be used in such a way that:

(a) a secure handhold and securesupport are always available to the user; and

(b) the user can maintain a safehandhold when carrying a loadunless, in the case of a stepladder, the maintenance of ahandhold is not practicable whena load is carried, and a riskassessment under Regulation 3 ofthe Management Regulations hasdemonstrated that the use of astepladder is justified because of:

(i) the low risk; and (ii) the short duration of use.

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Ladder standardsOnly ladders which meet the appropriateBritish or European standards should beused. BS 1129 applies to wooden ladders,BS 2037 applies to metal ladders and BS EN 131 applies to both.

Choice of ladderEnsure the ladder is suitable for the job, is of the correct construction material and is the appropriate length. Ladders should not be painted as this can hide defects. For electrical work only use ladders of anon-conductive material. Allow one metre ofladder length above the highest rung youuse. Never stand on the top three rungs.

StepladdersStepladders are suitable for small jobs ofshort duration where it is not possible torest a ladder against a wall or other support.They should only be used for minormaintenance at low levels. The stepladdershould have an ‘A’ frame with a smallworking platform at the top which can beused to hold tools and materials. Theplatform should never be used to stand on.There must be a mechanism to prevent thelegs from spreading out and a safety catchto prevent the joint opening. They must beplaced on firm, level ground. The height ofthe steps should not exceed three timesthe width of the base.

Routine checksBefore use, the ladder should be checkedto ensure that the general condition issound and that it is clean and dry, free fromwet paint, oil, mud or other slipperysubstances. In addition checks should bemade to ensure that there are:

n no cracks;n no rungs missing, bent or loose;n no stiles (outside uprights) damaged

or bent;

n no warping or splitting of wooden ladders;n no corrosion of metal ladders;n no sharp edges (metal) or splinters (wood);n foot pads, caps and other rubber fittings

are in place and sound.

Safe positioningThe ladder should be placed on a firm, level,dry surface. Where this is not possible, forexample working on grass, the feet shouldbe tied to stakes in the ground to stopslipping and a large, flat board placedunderneath the feet to prevent them sinkinginto the ground. The ladder should only beset against structures capable of supportingthe load that will be imposed upon them.Ensure the ladder cannot be knocked overby passing traffic. Exclusion zones may benecessary to ensure unauthorised peopledo not pass underneath the ladder.

The ladder should be set at an angle of 75º, that is one unit of measure out fromthe wall, or support for every four units ofmeasure up.

Safe useWhen using a ladder the following shouldbe considered:

n keep your body facing the ladder at alltimes, centred between the stiles;

n don’t reach too far forwards or sidewaysor stand with one foot on the ladder andone on something else;

n do not overstretch. Climb down theladder and move it however time-consuming this might be;

n keep both hands free to hold the ladderas much as possible. If you need to carrytools, use a shoulder bag, belt holster orbelt hooks. Use a rung hook for hanginga paint pot;

n hold onto the ladder with one hand when working;

n wear strong, flat shoes or boots with dry soles and a good grip;

n do not wear sandals, slip-ons or havebare feet;


n do not use a ladder in strong winds or if it is raining;

n only use a ladder if you feel completelyconfident;

n don’t use a ladder near overhead power lines.

Fixed laddersThe use of fixed ladders as a means ofaccess between floors should only beconsidered where a conventional staircasecannot be accommodated and their use isconsidered safe, based on risk assessment.

Ladders should be maintained in a goodstate of repair and securely fixed inposition. Rungs should be firmly secured ina horizontal position and provide a goodfoothold. They should extend at least 1.1 metres above any floor accessed by the ladder. Where ladders pass throughfloors, the size of the opening should be as small as practical, fenced and a gateprovided where necessary to prevent falls.

Where possible, safety hoops or apermanently fixed fall arrest system shouldbe fitted to the ladder, as determinedappropriate from risk assessment.

Routine maintenanceLadders should carry an identificationnumber and a maintenance log should bekept. As well as an inspection every timeprior to use, an inspection and maintenanceschedule should be employed to ensureevery ladder is thoroughly inspected on a regular basis, depending on theenvironment where it is used and storedand the frequency of use. If any defects arefound, the ladder should be withdrawn fromuse, suitably labelled and segregated forrepair or safe disposal.

All ladders should be cleaned regularlybefore being stored. Climbing or grippingsurfaces should be free of oil, grease, mud or other slippery substances. Timber laddersmay be coated with a transparent non-conductive finish such as varnish, shellac or a clear preservative but not any opaquecovering such as paint. Aluminiumequipment should be given an adequateprotective coating when it is subject toacids, alkalis or corrosive substances.

StorageStorage areas should be easily accessible.Ladders should be stored in conditionssimilar to those in which they will be used,protected from direct exposure to theelements and well ventilated. Storage racksshould give protection against damage, withsufficient support to prevent excessivesagging. Materials should not be stored ontop of ladders. Ladders should be chainedand locked to prevent unauthorised use.

The object of the CDM Regulations is to reduce thenumber of injuries in the construction industry byestablishing a culture of loss prevention.


Over 40 people were killed as a result ofconstruction work during 2013/4. Theobject of the CDM Regulations is toestablish a culture of loss prevention in theconstruction industry.

The regulations came into effect from April2015 and place legal responsibilities onanyone having construction work completedon non-domestic premises, referred to asthe ‘client’. Compliance with the regulationswill help ensure the construction work iswell organised and managed safely.

The guidance on the legal requirements inThe Construction (Design andManagement) Regulations 2015summarises the role of the client as follows:

n Make suitable arrangements formanaging a project. This includesmaking sure: - other dutyholders are appointed; - sufficient time and resources are

allocated; n Making sure

- relevant information is prepared andprovided to other dutyholders;

- the principal designer and principalcontractor carry out their duties;

- welfare facilities are provided.

A project is notifiable to the HSE if theconstruction phase will be longer than 30 days or 500 person days of constructionwork, and have more than 20 workers onsite simultaneously at any point in theproject.

Clients must appoint principal designersand principal contractors as soon aspracticable and before the start of theconstruction phase, so they have enough

time to carry out their duties to plan andmanage the pre-construction andconstruction phases respectively.

The Principal Designer

These are designers appointed by the clientin projects involving more than onecontractor. They can be an organisation oran individual with sufficient knowledge,experience and ability to carry out the role.Their duties are to:

n Plan, manage, monitor and coordinatehealth and safety in the pre-constructionphase of a project. This includes: - identifying, eliminating or controlling

foreseeable risks; - ensuring designers carry out their

duties; - regularly update, review and revise the

health and safety file for the project;n Prepare and provide relevant information

to other dutyholders; n Liaise with the principal contractor to

help in the planning, management,monitoring and coordination of theconstruction phase.

Principal contractors

These are contractors appointed by the clientto coordinate the construction phase of aproject where it involves more than onecontractor. Their duties are to:

n Plan, manage, monitor and coordinate theconstruction phase of a project. Thisincludes: - liaising with the client and principal

designer; - preparing the construction phase plan; - organising cooperation between

contractors and coordinating their work.

Interpretation of the Construction (Design & Management) Regulations 2015 These regulations commonly known as the CDM Regulations are intended toprotect the health and safety of people working in construction and others who maybe affected by their activities. This section is intended to provide a brief synopsis.

The CDM Regulations applyto ‘construction work’. Thisincludes restoration work toyour church.


n Ensuring that: - suitable site inductions are provided; - reasonable steps are taken to prevent

unauthorised access; - workers are consulted and engaged in

securing their health and safety; and - welfare facilities are provided.

Contractors

Contractors are those who do the actualconstruction work and can be either anindividual or a company. Their duties are to:

n Plan, manage and monitor constructionwork under their control so that it iscarried out without risks to health andsafety;

n For projects involving more than onecontractor, coordinate their activities withothers in the project team – in particular,comply with directions given to them bythe principal designer or principalcontractor;

n For single-contractor projects, prepare aconstruction phase plan.

Paperwork

The regulations require the following two documents:

n health and safety file – this containsinformation regarding the health andsafety issues of all aspects of the designand is in effect a manual for thecompleted project to help you managehealth and safety matters arising fromfuture maintenance, repair and demolitionwork to the building. The file is preparedby the Principal Designer and given toyou at the end of the project

n the Construction Phase Plan – this relatesto health and safety issues duringconstruction and execution of the project.It is developed by the principal contractor.


Plans/specifications should be drawnup of the works to be carried out inconjunction with the Architect. Thespecification should make referenceto site/building security, e.g., laddersto be removed, boarding forscaffolding when necessary.

Questionnaires issued by MethodistInsurance need to be completed andreturned so advice can be givenregarding cover required under theterms of the contract. In some cases ahigher policy excess may be necessarywhilst the works are in operation.

A Hot work permit will be sent withthe questionnaires. Where hot work is being carried out during a contract,it is imperative that the proceduresoutlined in the permit be implementedand the permit completed. Thisdocument should be passed to theArchitect.

If additional cover is requiredMethodist Insurance will advise ofterms and premium involved, andissue the appropriate cover note.

The works are normally carried outover a fixed period of time. If thisperiod is likely to be exceeded thenMethodist Insurance must beinformed so extensions of cover canbe arranged.

Depending on the nature and extentof work, consideration should begiven to requesting a resurvey byMethodist Insurance once the workshave been completed so that arevised scheme of insurance can beprepared, taking into account thealterations that have been made.

The Managing Trustees should ensurethat they comply with the provisions ofthe Construction (Design &Management) Regulations 2015.

It is strongly recommended that onlycontractors who agree to follow theLead Sheet Association standardsand who are experienced in workingwith lead, be asked to undertake any work involving the repair orinstallation of lead.

Lead Sheet AssociationTel 01622 872432Websitewww.leadsheetassociation.org.uk

Lead Contractors AssociationTel 01342 317888Website www.lca.gb.com

Electrical supply installations, bothtemporary and permanent, should be installed in accordance with the ‘Regulations for ElectricalInstallations’ issued by the Institutionof Engineering and Technology (IET), Current Edition, plus any formalamendments, under British StandardBS 7671.

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Building works/repairsThe following points should be considered by the Managing Trustees whensetting out on a programme of works:


All gas supplies should be installed by a Gas Safe Registered gas fitter.Gas supplies to appliances should be by fixed piping or armouredflexible tubing. Gas cylinders shouldbe located outside buildings, secured and protected fromunauthorised interference.

You must ensure that contractorshave Public Liability and Employers’Liability insurance and that theirpolicy covers your interest if claimsare made against the ManagingTrustees. Public Liability insuranceshould be for at least £5,000,000.You should obtain a copy of thepolicy schedule or have writtenconfirmation from their insurers ortheir intermediary, setting out theperiod of insurance, indemnity limitand principal clauses.

Whilst you may not be directlyresponsible for health and safetyarising from the activities ofcontractors you may well be heldliable if things go wrong. As well aschecking the contractors’ insurancesas noted above you should check thatthe following are in place:

n a health and safety plan; n first aid facilities; n site signage warning of the

various hazards and precautionsnecessary;

n a proper signing-in procedure forpersons going on site;

n prevention of access for thegeneral public and children bymeans of adequate hoardings,fences and locked gates;

n that any road closures orrestrictions to pavements havereceived the necessary LocalAuthority approval.

For major works (usually where thecontract value exceeds £1,000,000)Methodist Insurance will require thatthe contract is subject to the JointCode of Practice on the Protectionfrom Fire of Construction Sites andBuildings Undergoing Renovationpublished by the ConstructionConfederation and The FireProtection Association.

Copies are available fromThe Fire Protection AssociationLondon RoadMoreton-in-MarshGloucestershire GL56 0RH.

Tel 01608 812500 Email [email protected] www.thefpa.co.uk

Note

If you have any doubts regarding worksor alterations to be carried out, pleasecontact Methodist Insurance who will be happy to give advice.

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The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 came into force on 6 April 2012,covering the control of asbestos at work and asbestos licensing.

Under Regulation 4, if you are responsiblefor managing the maintenance and repair of a building you have a ‘duty to manage’any asbestos in the building.

Regulation 4 applies to all non-domesticpremises including places of worship.

Persons at greatest risk are those who have been involved in the building trade,particularly those whose work involvesdrilling, sawing or cutting into the fabric of premises, such as plumbers, electricians,carpenters, shopfitters and anyoneundertaking routine maintenance work.

There are three main types of asbestos stillfound in premises. These are commonlycalled ‘blue asbestos’ (crocidolite), ‘brownasbestos’ (amosite) and ‘white asbestos’(chrysotile). All of these are hazardous,although blue and brown asbestos are morehazardous than white. It is impossible toidentify the different types accurately bysight. More often than not, the material willhave been painted or mixed with anothercomponent. To identify accurately the typeof asbestos, it is necessary to carry outlaboratory analysis on a sample.

Asbestos and asbestos-based products have been used as fire breaks in ceilingvoids, fire protection around structuralsteelwork, thermal insulation for pipes andboilers, wall and ceiling panels, partitions,soffit boards, roofing and wall cladding,gutters, rainwater pipes and water tanks,textured coatings and vinyl or thermoplasticfloor tiles.

Duty holders under the regulations must:

n carry out a suitable and sufficientassessment to establish if there isasbestos in the premises, its quantityand what condition it is in;

n presume that materials contain asbestos,unless there is strong evidence that theydo not;

n make and keep up to date a record of the location and condition of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) or presumed ACMs in the premises;

n assess the risk of the likelihood ofanyone being exposed to fibres fromthese materials;

n prepare a plan that sets out in detail howto manage the risk from this material;

n ensure the measures to be specified inthe plan for managing the risk includemonitoring the condition of any asbestosand ensuring that any asbestos isproperly maintained or, where necessary,safely removed;

n take the necessary steps to put the planinto action;

n review and monitor the plan and thearrangements made to put it in place;

n provide information on the location andcondition of the material to anyone whois liable to work on or disturb it, andmake it available to the emergencyservices.

Persons at greatest risk arethose in the building trade,particularly those whosework involves drilling, sawingor cutting.

There are three main types of asbestos still found onpremises. These are ‘blue’, ‘brown’ and ‘white’ asbestos,the latter being the least hazardous.


The duty holder may appoint a competentperson to carry out all or part of the work to meet the requirements of Regulation 4,but final responsibility for complying withthe duty remains with the duty holder.

The duty holder must establish whether or not asbestos is present in the building,and this can be achieved by the following methods:

n looking at building plans and any otherrelevant information, such as builders’invoices, which may indicate if and whereasbestos was used in the construction orrefurbishment of the premises;

n carrying out a thorough inspection of thepremises, both inside and out, to identifymaterials that are, or may be, asbestos;

n consulting with architects, employees orsafety representatives who may be ableto provide more information.

If there are any doubts about any of thematerials in the premises then thepresumption must be made that it contains asbestos.

The only materials where it is safe topresume that they do not contain asbestosare glass, timber, metal and stone.

Asbestos surveys can be undertaken at twodifferent levels, referred to as managementsurveys, and refurbishment and demolitionsurveys.

Management surveysUndertaken to manage the risk from ACMsduring the normal occupation and use of abuilding. This type of survey may involvesome minor intrusive work for sampling andanalysis purposes but can also involvepresuming the presence or absence ofACMs. The survey should also include anassessment of the condition of any ACMsor presumed ACMs to help prioritise thesubsequent asbestos management plan.

Refurbishment and demolitionsurveysUndertaken when a building, or part of abuilding, is going to be refurbished ordemolished. This type of survey should becompleted prior to any work beingundertaken which disturbs the fabric of thebuilding if a previous ‘management survey’of the area was not intrusive. This type ofsurvey is fully intrusive and may involvedestructive inspection to gain access to allareas of a building. This type of survey mustbe completed before any refurbishment ordemolition work is undertaken to locate anddescribe ACMs in areas where this type ofwork is being undertaken. This type ofsurvey should only be undertaken inunoccupied areas of a building to minimisethe risks to others.

It is possible to commission a combinationof survey types for different areas of abuilding.

Regulation 5 requires duty holders toidentify, by analysis or otherwise, the type of asbestos involved in any work whichexposes or is liable to expose individuals to asbestos.

A competent person must be employed toundertake a survey of the premises toidentify ACMs. The survey should be carriedout in accordance with the HSE Guidance‘Asbestos: The survey guide’.

HSE recommends the use of organisationsaccredited by UKAS to ISO/IEC 17020 tocarry out asbestos surveys. Duty holdersare responsible for ensuring they employcompetent surveyors.

Currently there is no single accreditationscheme for independent surveyors but theymust be required to demonstrate that theyhold ‘personnel’ certification from a UKASapproved Certification Body to ISO/IEC17024 standard or that they have achievedthe required level of competence throughan alternative approved route.


Only contractors who are approved andlicensed by the Health and SafetyExecutive are allowed to remove and, inmost cases work on, asbestos. Some tasks,by non-licensed contractors, are permittedbut from April 2012 some of this workbecame notifiable to HSE (notifiable non-licensed work – NNLW). Records of thework must also be kept and from April2015, medical examinations of peopledoing the work will be required.

Only people who have received adequatetraining are permitted to carry out workinvolving asbestos..

The duty holder should ensure that theperson undertaking the survey has theappropriate liability insurance by obtaining a sight of the policy or other evidence.

UKAS operate accreditation schemes forlaboratories and surveyors undertakingasbestos surveys and testing. Details areavailable from UKAS on their websitewww.ukas.com

A former scheme ABICS (AsbestosBuilders Inspection Certification Scheme),was discontinued in October 2010 and isno longer available.

If it is decided to leave ACMs that are ingood condition in place, a note needs to bemade of where they are located on anasbestos register.

ACMs can be labelled with asbestoswarning signs, although this is notmandatory. If asbestos is not labelled, theduty holder must ensure that those whomight work on the material know about itslocation. A Permit to Work system willensure that anyone working on the premisesis alerted to the presence of asbestos.

Where it is not possible to safely manageasbestos left in place it must be removed bya contractor licensed by the HSE.


Sale of second-hand goods Each year many dangerous items (particularly electrical items) are ‘generouslydonated’ to organisations with the end-users often being the most vulnerablemembers of society.

Ensure that any upholsteredfurniture offered for salecomplies with the regulationson fire safety.

Whilst these items are given with the bestof intentions, the end result could be injuryor possibly death. These guidance notes aredesigned to help you avoid accepting themost hazardous items and to ensure thesafety of those who purchase from you.

Sale or supply as a main businessIf you sell or supply second-hand goods as the main or as a substantial part of yourbusiness, you should follow the guidelinesnoted below.

Furniture and soft furnishingsThe Furniture and Furnishings (Fire)(Safety) Regulations 1988 (as amended)govern the sale and supply of new andsecond-hand furniture and furnishings. Thelaw applies to retailers, second-hand shopsand charity shops as well as auctioneers.

The regulations apply to upholstereddomestic furniture, including settees, chairs,bed bases, mattresses, headboards, stools,dining chairs, sofa beds and gardenfurniture suitable for indoor use. Nurseryitems such as prams, pushchairs, playpens,cots and carrycots are also included.Cushions and pillows are controlled as wellas loose covers for upholstered furniture.

Any furniture manufactured and sold since1990 should comply with the regulations.Any upholstered furniture made before1950 is totally exempt, even if it has beenre-upholstered. You should be able to tellthat furniture complies with the regulations

as a ‘permanent’ label should be attached tothe item. This is normally headed‘CARELESSNESS CAUSES FIRE’ and thenstates that the item complies with theFurniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety)Regulations 1988. It also explains in detailthat the various components comply withthe relevant ignitability tests.

Beds and mattresses do not have to havethe permanent label, but usually havesome indications that the regulations havebeen met, such as a blue BS 7177 labelclaiming compliance and showing the dateof manufacture.

As a guide, furniture and furnishingsmanufactured between 1950 and 1990should not be accepted for sale.

Electrical appliancesHeating appliances and electric blanketsshould never be accepted. There is asubstantial risk of these items being faulty and possible serious injuries or death resulting.

Other electrical items may be accepted forsale provided that you have them inspectedand tested by a competent person, such asa suitably qualified and experiencedelectrician, preferably a member of theNational Inspection Council for ElectricalInstallation Contracting (NICEIC), theElectrical Contractors’ Association (ECA) orthe National Association of ProfessionalInspectors and Testers (NAPIT), before the

Heating appliances and electric blankets should not beaccepted. There is a substantial risk of these items beingfaulty and possible serious injuries or death resulting.


goods leave your control. A register shouldbe kept of all items inspected, includingdate of inspection, description and anyserial numbers, and the item should betagged to show that it has been inspected.

Gas appliancesThese items may be accepted for saleprovided that you have them inspected andtested by a competent person, such as agas installer registered with the Gas SafeRegister, and a record is kept of all itemsinspected, including date of inspection,description and any serial numbers, and theitem should be tagged to show that it hasbeen inspected.

ToysToys, including second-hand toys, mustcomply with the Toys (Safety) Regulations2011. Toys that are second-hand do notneed to be labelled with the CE mark or theaddress of the manufacturer or distributor,but they must still meet the legal standards.Special warnings and instructions arerequired for both second-hand and newtoys.

Electrically operated toys (other than batterytoys), must be inspected prior to sale by aqualified and experienced person in thesame way as for other electrical items anddetails recorded as noted above. Any othertoy must be inspected prior to sale by asuitably trained and experienced person toensure it complies with all the relevantregulations. Guidance can be obtained fromyour local Trading Standards Officer.

Children’s clothingIn order to prevent injury and possiblestrangulation in children, the Children’sClothing (Hood Cords) Regulations 1976prohibit the sale or possession of a child’souter garment with a hood, where a hoodcord is fitted. This includes second-handclothing. The regulations apply to raincoats,overcoats, anoraks and other garmentssuitable for outerwear, and includestracksuit tops.

To see if the regulations apply, fasten thegarment and lay it out as flat as possible. If the chest measures less than 44cm(approx 17.5 inches) then the garmentmust not be fitted with a hood cord.

All clothing should be checked to see that itis clean and safe for someone else to wear.

Occasional sales of goods at fêtes and jumble salesYou should try and follow the guidelinesgiven above as far as possible, but weaccept that it is not practical to arrange a professional inspection of electrical andgas equipment. The best thing is to refuse donations of electrical and heating appliances.

For toys and other items, use commonsense. A responsible person should beappointed to check through the items prior to sale to eliminate any which seem dangerous by virtue of their nature or condition.


LegislationProvided certain basic precautions arefollowed there is no reason whatsoever whychurches should not be involved with thepreparation and sale of food.

This may range from the one-off annual event,such as the church fête, a weekly coffeemorning or lunch, or a full-scale cateringoperation providing a large number of mealson a daily basis. Different considerations applydepending on the scale of the operation, andthese are outlined below.

What the law saysThe Food Safety Act and General FoodRegulations 2004 make it an offence foranyone to sell or process for sale, foodwhich is:

n harmful to health;n contaminated to such an extent that it

would be unreasonable to expect it tobe eaten;

n falsely described, advertised or presented;n not what the customer can reasonably

expect.

Unsafe food must be withdrawn from saleor recalled from consumers if it has alreadybeen sold.

Product-specific regulationsThere are a large number of specificregulations relating to various foodstuffssuch as dairy products, eggs, poultry and shellfish.

Premises which are only usedoccasionally for food preparationThe Food Hygiene Regulations 2006

require that premises which are usedoccasionally for food preparation, andmoveable or temporary premises such as marquees, follow the guidance fortemporary premises. The Food StandardsAgency Guidance ‘Food Hygiene –A Guide for Business’ advises that:

n temporary premises must be positioned,designed, constructed, kept clean andmaintained in good repair and conditionto avoid, as far as reasonably practicable,the risk of contamination, particularlyfrom animals and pests;

n appropriate facilities must be provided tomaintain adequate personal hygiene,including hygienic hand washing, toilet,and, where necessary, changing facilities;

n food preparation surfaces must be well maintained and easy to clean and disinfect;

n adequate facilities must be provided forcleaning and disinfection of workutensils and equipment;

n there must be an adequate supply of hot and/or cold water, includingdrinking water;

n there must be adequate arrangementsfor the storage and disposal of waste;

n there must be adequate arrangementsfor the storage of food at suitabletemperatures and the monitoring ofthose temperatures;

n food must be placed in a way that avoidscontamination, so far as is reasonablypracticable;

n if you wash or clean food there must be adequate facilities to do thishygienically.

Preparation and sale of food and drink onchurch premises Following the introduction of recent legislation, there has been a great deal ofconfusion over the position of churches with regard to the provision and sale of food, particularly where this has been produced by voluntary helpers.

Provided certain basicprecautions are followedthere is no reason whychurches should not beinvolved with the preparationand sale of food.


Premises used for regularpreparation of foodWhere premises are used for the regularpreparation of food, Food StandardsAgency guidelines include the followinggeneral requirements:

n you must keep your premises clean andmaintained in good repair and condition;

n the layout, design, construction, site andsize of your premises must:- allow adequate maintenance, cleaning

and/or disinfection; - avoid or minimise air-borne

contamination; - provide enough working space for you

to carry out all tasks hygienically; - protect against the build-up of dirt,

contact with toxic materials, sheddingof particles, including protectionagainst contamination and, in particular,pest control;

- provide, where necessary, suitableconditions for handling and storingfood while keeping it at appropriatetemperatures, designed to allow thosetemperatures to be monitored, andwhere necessary, recorded;

- cleaning chemicals and disinfectantmust not be stored in areas where foodis handled;

- floors must be maintained in a goodcondition and be easy to clean and,where necessary, disinfect;

- walls must be maintained in a soundcondition and be easy to clean and,where necessary, disinfect;

- ceilings and overhead fixtures must bewell maintained;

- any openings to the outside, includingwindows and doors, must be fitted,where necessary, with insect-proofscreens that can be easily removed for cleaning, or where there is a risk of contamination, kept closed during food preparation;

- food preparation and handling surfacesmust be well maintained and easy toclean and disinfect;

- adequate facilities must be provided forcleaning, disinfection and storing of utensils and equipment;

- adequate facilities must be provided,where necessary, for washing food;

- vehicles and containers used totransport foods must be kept clean andwell maintained;

- all items, fittings and equipment thatcome into contact with food must beregularly cleaned to avoid contamination;

- food waste must be removed fromrooms where food is present at theearliest opportunity and disposed of inappropriate waste containers. Wastemust be disposed of in a hygienic andenvironmentally friendly manner;

- raw materials and ingredients must beappropriately stored to prevent harmfuldeterioration and/or contamination;

- food must not be stored at temperaturesthat may cause a risk to health. In mostcircumstances prepared foods must beheld at either HOT (at or above 63ºC) or CHILLED (at or below 8ºC). It isrecommended that fridges and chilleddisplay equipment are set at 5ºC orbelow to ensure chilled food is kept at8ºC or below.

Personal hygieneEvery person working in a food handlingarea must maintain a high level of personalcleanliness. Suitable clothing must be worn,hair should be covered using a hat orhairnet whilst preparing food, and jewellery(except wedding rings) should not be worn.People suffering from, or suspected ofcarrying a disease transmittable by food, or with open wounds, skin infections, sores,or with diarrhoea must not handle food orenter a food handling area.

The Food Hygiene Regulations 2006These regulations set out the basic hygienerequirements for catering businesses,including premises and personal hygienerequirements. Under these regulationscatering businesses must have written ‘food

Everyone involved in foodhandling must have receivedtraining in basic food hygiene.

Food preparation surfacesmust be well maintained andeasy to clean and disinfect.


safety management procedures’ in place tomanage food safety hazards within thebusiness. The procedures should beproportionate to the size of the businessand organisations undertaking very simplefood processes may not need to developsafety management procedures, at thediscretion of the local authority, but stillneed to follow good hygiene practice.

These regulations also require cateringbusinesses to be registered, or approved, bytheir local authority. However, the occasionalpreparation of food by individuals or groupsfor gatherings or sale at charitable events,are excluded from the regulations.

Food hygiene trainingStaff who handle food must either besupervised and instructed, or trained, in theprinciples of food hygiene to an appropriatelevel for the catering operation underconsideration, to enable them to do so safely.

Food allergies When someone eats a food they areallergic to, the body suffers a food allergicreaction, when the immune systemmistakenly believes the food consumed is aharmful substance and creates antibodiesto that food. The body is then sensitized tothat particular food and the next time it iseaten this triggers an acute allergic reactioninvolving the release of histamine andchemicals into the body. Physical symptomsof an allergic reaction include swelling ofthe body, including the mouth and throat,leading to respiratory difficulty, vomiting anda change in skin colour.

Approximately 10 people die each yearfrom an allergic reaction to food.

To prevent food allergic reactions amanagement system should be establishedto avoid/minimise the risk of anyonecoming into contact with identified foods towhich they will suffer an allergic reaction,and the emergency arrangements to becarried out in the event of accidentalexposure to such foods.

If someone with a food allergy asks if a meal contains certain food you shouldcheck the ingredients and let them decide if they can eat it. Never guess!

Churches providing meals to regularcustomers should complete riskassessments to identify anyone with life-threatening allergies, leading to theintroduction of suitable control measures toeliminate or minimise the risk of an allergicreaction occurring.

People working with individuals identified tobe at risk of suffering food allergic reactionsmust be informed and trained in the controlmeasures that need to be followed and theemergency measures to be implemented inthe event of allergic reactions.

Risk assessment, identified controls andemergency arrangements should extend to include any off-site activities, such as day trips.

Control measures to be considered as partof risk assessment in respect of anyonesuffering with food allergies may include:

Use of identification postersincorporating a photograph of theperson, their name, the foods towhich they are allergic, the possiblesymptoms of an allergic reaction andthe emergency measures to beimplemented if this is suspected, e.g., the administration of epinephrine(adrenaline) and immediate transferto hospital. If identification posters of children are to be used, parentalconsent for the child concernedshould be obtained.

The provision of epinephrine inknown locations, which are easilyaccessible. Where epinephrine is tobe administered to children, signedparental consent should be obtained.

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The provision of individual Epi-Pens,or other suitable injection devices for each identified person, labelledwith their personal details and anyexpiry date.

Appropriate first aid training for staff,to include training in theadministration of epinephrine.

The sharing of food, cutlery andcrockery must be prohibited.

Hands should be washed immediatelybefore and after eating food.

A stringent cleaning regime inrespect of food surfaces to reducethe risk of cross-contamination.

Measures to avoid cross-contamination of food during itspreparation and handling.

The clear identification of ingredientsto all foods brought into the premises,undertaken to identify where there isa risk of anyone coming into contactwith allergens.

The prohibition of food being broughtinto the premises by anyone, otherthan when specifically authorisedhaving determined the foodingredients.

The use of a coloured plate systemwhereby anyone with a particularfood allergy eats off a specifiedcoloured plate, which food handlersare trained must not contain any ofthe food to which they are allergic,and which must be handledseparately to other foods to avoidcross-contamination.

Portable hot water boilersThe use of portable hot water boilers withinkitchens is considered extremely hazardous.We suggest that boilers of this type arelocated in a cradle or strapped to the wallwhenever in use, and that a method tocapture spills is in place.

To significantly reduce the risk of accidentsfrom steam and spilt water that can scaldstaff, volunteers and visitors we stronglyrecommend that a fixed, plumbed-in unit is installed.

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A management system mustbe established to avoid therisk of anyone coming intocontact with foods to whichthey are allergic.

Ensure that all entrances to the church and hall,including paths and car parks, are well lit.


Personal safetyIt is a sad fact of modern life that even when in church, we cannot be sure thatwe are entirely safe. The purpose of this section is not to alarm but to give somesimple advice as to what can be done to minimise the risks to your own safetyand that of others in the church environment.

Practices that have been followed for manyyears without incident may no longer besafe and the fact that nothing has gonewrong in the past is no reason to becomplacent. Now is the time to examine theway you do things and make any changesthat are necessary.

You can do this by carrying out simple riskassessments. First of all, you need toidentify what are the hazards. These aresituations where there is the potential forsomeone to be harmed.

Then you must establish what is the risk.This is the actual likelihood of someonebeing harmed, taking into account themeasures you have in place to limit theconsequences. These measures are calledcontrols. Examples of control measures arethe carrying of a personal attack alarm orensuring that there are always two peopleon duty in the church at any one time.

You may find that you have no controls inplace at all or that they are insufficient toprevent someone from being at risk. If thisis the case, you must decide what additionalcontrol measures are necessary to reducethe risk and ensure they are implemented.

The best way of going about this is torecord your findings. This means listing thehazards you have identified, noting the risksand any existing controls and then notingwhat additional controls are necessary toensure personal safety. Finally, you shouldrecord how these new measures are to beimplemented.

Where risks to personal safetymight arise

People in church

People in the church hall

People at home

People walking or travelling between any of the above

People in church

The greatest risk arises when people are on their own. This risk is increased whenpeople are carrying cash or there is cash or other valuables on the premises. You willtherefore need to look at the followingsituations:

(i) Are there any occasions when peopleare in the church on their own?Additional controls that could beconsidered are always having twopeople on duty at any one time orproviding some form of communication.This could be a mobile telephone, two-way radio or personal attack alarmconnected to an alarm system. You willneed to consider, however, who isavailable to respond to an alarm call.

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The greatest risk to personalsafety arises when peopleare on their own.


(ii) When is cash collected? Collections fromSunday services may be held in a safeand then taken to the bank during theweek. How many people are presentwhen the safe is opened and what arethe arrangements for taking the cash tothe bank? If more than one person isinvolved with cash transits, one personcan act as driver so that it is possible tostop directly outside the bank while theother goes inside. One person can act asa ‘lookout’ to ensure the route is safe. It isimportant that times and routes for thetransfer of cash are varied. Assaults onpersons carrying cash often occurbecause a pattern can be established asto when it is going to happen. MethodistInsurance may stipulate the numbers ofpersons who are required to accompanycash transits above certain amounts.

(iii)Are there any areas where it is possiblefor threats to personal safety to occur?Church entrances or other concealedspaces are often used as meetingplaces by persons not authorised to bethere. This can be very intimidating foranyone coming to open up the church.You should do all you can to avoid thepossibility that someone is put at risk.Ensuring all areas are well lit can reducethe practice of people congregatingaround the church. If you are in an areawhere there is a real possibility of peoplebeing threatened by challengingbehaviour then obtain specialist helpfrom the local Crime Reduction Officer,who can be contacted via your localPolice Station, so that church membersand officials have the correct training.

People in the church hall

Here again, the greatest risk arises whenpeople are on their own. This is oftendifficult to avoid, particularly if the hall hasto be opened up in the evening for lettings

or church events. Avoid the collection ofcash at events held in the hall and havesome means of communication in the hallsuch as a separate telephone. Ensure thatall entrances to the hall, including paths andcar parks, and particularly around theentrance door and final exit door, are welllit. Car parks should be overlooked ifpossible and be free from excessivevegetation growth where people can beconcealed. Consider carefully the sort ofactivities for which you allow the hall to beused. Private parties and discos can oftenattract the wrong sort of attention. Ensurethat you have adequate supervision andstewarding for all activities.

People at home

The challenges presented to ministersarising from callers to the manse arealready well known. However, there mayalso be occasions when people call at thehome of any church member.

People in difficulty or distress rightly look tothe church for help. However, this can oftenbe difficult for lay people to deal withadequately if they have not received thecorrect training. If a set of commonguidelines are established to deal with thesesituations and they are known and followedby all members of the congregation, this canconsiderably reduce the possibility ofindividuals being put at risk.

For example, you may decide to have apolicy that you do not give cash to casualcallers but have vouchers available that canbe used in a local shop or café.

Have information sheets available that canbe given to callers detailing local shelters,social services, emergency social workersand other voluntary organisations.

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Collections from Sundayservices may be held in asafe and then taken to thebank during the week.


Arrange ‘another appointment’. Decide onfixed times and places where ministers orothers with specialist skills will be availableto help people in need. Have these detailson a card that can be handed to callers. If possible, keep a log of callers with briefdetails of name and reason for the call.

Church members should never allow callersindoors unless they are well known to them,and they should not attempt to becomeinvolved in counselling unless they aretrained to do so. You have no idea of thebackground or psychiatric condition of theperson at your door. If you have a porch,keep the door to the house locked andconduct any discussions in the porch.

Consideration must also be given to layworkers visiting other peoples’ homes. If youdo not know them well and have any causefor concern, it may be advisable not to visitalone. Always let someone know where youare going and at what time you expect toreturn. Carrying a mobile phone is asensible precaution.

Travelling between home and church

The same rules apply regarding personalsafety as at other times. When walking,keep to busy, well-lit routes and avoidalleyways, subways and shortcuts throughback lanes or wooded areas. Carry apersonal attack alarm. When driving, keepcar doors locked and valuables out of sight.However, churches are often located inremote rural areas or inner city areas. Inboth cases, ensure that church doorwaysand paths are well lit and, if driving, that youpark as close to the church as possible.

If you are travelling alone, tell someone where you are going and what time youexpect to arrive.

Self-defenceDo not play the hero. Do not attempt tohold on to cash if you are threatened. If you are asked to hand over cash thenhand it over. Only sound an alarm if you feel it is safe to do so. If you have not been trained in conciliation techniques, do not get involved in an argument. Avoid confrontation. Do not get involved in a physical situation. Do not try toapprehend anyone even if you have hadtraining in self-defence techniques. If youhave had such training, only use it as a lastresort to defend yourself. Your aim shouldbe to defuse a potentially violent situationand reduce the risk of injury to yourself andother people. As soon as possible, contactthe Police and leave apprehension to them.

Conclusion The key to personal safety is to avoidsituations where a threat to your safetycould occur. Carry out a risk assessment of your church and church hall and identifythose at risk. Establish procedures andintroduce control methods to reduce thepossibility of risks to personal safety asmuch as possible. The key elements are:

n ensure people are not left on their own, particularly when handling cash;

n ensure there is a method of raising thealarm in the event of an emergency;

n ensure all areas of the building, bothinside and outside, are well lit and that there are no places where peoplecan loiter;

n have set procedures and informationavailable for dealing with people looking for help.

A Personal safety risk pro-forma is attached.

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By-products of combustion emitted into theenvironment from vehicles, business anddwellings are now causing concerns overissues such as ozone depletion and globalwarming, and millions of tonnes of wasteare being deposited in landfill sites at anever-increasing rate.

In order to address these concerns the UK has developed its own environmentalstrategy. The principal legislation enforcingthis strategy is the Environmental ProtectionAct 1990, which sets out a three-point plan:

n prevent the generation of waste and itsrelease into the environment by optimisingmachinery design and trade processes;

n if prevention is not feasible, minimise theamount of waste generated and itsrelease into the environment;

n render the waste generated harmless.

A lot of organisations have now developedenvironment management strategies, havingassessed the impact of their business onthe environment. In addition to protectingthe environment, an effective environmentmanagement strategy can also helpimprove an organisation’s operationalefficiency, resulting in savings, and attractnew business opportunities, as well ascompliance with the legislation.

The Environmental Protection Act 1990 isunderpinned by various regulations including:

The Control of Pollution (Oil Storage)(England) Regulations 2001

The Control of Pollution (Oil Storage)(England) Regulations 2001 only apply toEngland and similar regulations apply in

Scotland. However, good practice suggeststhat everyone should follow theseregulations. Even if they don't apply to you,you still have a duty to avoid causingpollution and could be prosecuted forfailure to do so. The Oil StorageRegulations aim to ensure you store oilsafely and minimise the risk of pollution.

The Control of Pollution (Oil Storage)(England) Regulations apply to all oil storeslocated outside and above ground, exceptfor waste mineral oil stores.

The Environment Agency advises that 25% of all pollution incidents involve thespillage of oil every year. Most incidents arecaused by oil leakage from tanks duringstorage or delivery.

The regulations require owners of oil tanksto provide a secondary containment facility,such as a bund or drip tray, to prevent oilescaping into the water environment.

The regulations apply to virtually allpremises where more than 200 litres of oilare stored above ground at an industrial,commercial or institutional site, or morethan 3,500 litres at a domestic site.

The regulations cover all types of oilincluding petrol, diesel, vegetable, syntheticand mineral oil.

The regulations also apply to drums over200 litres and to mobile bowsers. Bowsersthat are not self-bunded will need to be keptin a bunded area or drip tray when not in use.

For single drums, a drip tray with a capacityof 25% is acceptable.

Environmental protectionNot only is the environment at risk from our actions, but our buildings andbusinesses are at ever greater threat from the elements. Whilst we must do allwe can to prevent environmental pollution at a local, national and global level wealso need to ensure that we adapt our buildings and protect them from theimpacts of climate change.

The regulations requireowners of oil tanks toprovide a secondarycontainment facility such asa bund or drip tray.


Double-skinned tanks do not automaticallycomply with the regulations. This is becausethe sight gauge and other pipework areoutside the double skin. If the inner tank,sight gauge and pipework are completelycontained within a totally enclosed unit thenit may comply with the regulations.

The Environment Agency advises that detailsshould be obtained from the manufacturerand referred to them for approval.

The Environment Agency is responsible forenforcing the regulations and will provideadvice and guidance to help withcompliance. Failure to comply could resultin the issue of an improvement notice.Failure to comply with an improvementnotice is a criminal offence, which mayresult in prosecution.

The Waste Electrical and ElectronicEquipment Regulations 2006

In the UK we throw away around two milliontonnes of electrical and electronic wasteevery year. Some electrical items containhazardous substances, such as lead and

mercury. These regulations came into effectin January 2007 and apply to mostelectrical and electronic equipment in use.In most circumstances, if you generate,handle or dispose of electrical and/orelectronic waste you should follow theseregulations. The regulations aim to:

n reduce waste generated from electricaland electronic equipment;

n promote the recycling andenvironmentally safe disposal of wasteelectrical and electronic equipment;

n promote the separate collection of wasteelectrical and electronic equipment;

n assign responsibilities to the producersof electrical and electronic equipment inrespect of its environmental impact.

The Hazardous Waste (England andWales) Regulations 2005 and The Listsof Wastes (England) Regulations 2005

These regulations define hazardous waste,but essentially it can be regarded as anywaste that may be harmful to human healthor the environment, e.g., asbestos, healthcarewaste, chemical wastes and solvents.

The standards required by the regulationsare as follows:

n Tanks, drums or other containers mustbe strong enough to hold the oil withoutleaking or bursting;

n If possible, the oil container must bepositioned away from any vehicle trafficto avoid damage by collision;

n A bund or drip tray must be provided tocatch any oil leaking from the containeror its ancillary pipework and equipment;

n The bund must be sufficient to contain110% of the maximum content of theoil container;

n Where oil is stored in more than onecontainer, the bund should be capableof storing 110% of the largest tank or25% of the total storage capacity,whichever is the greater;

n The bund, base and walls must beimpermeable to water and oil and mustbe checked regularly for leaks;

n Any valve, filter, sight gauge, vent pipe or other ancillary equipment must be kept within the bund when not in use;

n No drainage valve may be fitted to the bund for the purposes of drainingout rainwater;

n Above-ground pipework should beproperly supported;

n Underground pipework should beprotected from physical damage andhave adequate leakage protection;

n If mechanical joints must be used, they should be readily accessible for inspection.


Organisations producing hazardous wastewill usually need to notify their premises tothe Regulator, the Environment Agency forEngland and Wales, so that they canperiodically inspect the premises to ensurehazardous waste is being properly handled.However, there are some exceptions andpremises that produce less than 500kg ofhazardous waste per annum will not needto notify the Regulator.

The Environment Agency can be notified inwriting, by phone, email or online. Furtherinformation can be obtained from theirwebsite, (www.environment-agency.gov.uk). A fee is payable for notification.

Under the regulations consignment notices must usually be completed prior to the disposal of hazardous waste from a premises. In addition waste carriers used to transport hazardous waste shouldbe registered with the Environment Agencyand hazardous waste should only be sent to ‘permit’ waste management facilities.

Records on the movement of hazardouswaste must be retained for at least threeyears from the date on which the wastewas transferred to another person ordisposed of within the premises. Recordsmust be securely stored and readilyretrievable at all times. If you cease tooccupy the premises within the three-yearperiod the Environment Agency must beinformed, who will agree a new location forkeeping the records.

Separate legislation governs the control ofwaste in Northern Ireland, the HazardousWaste Regulations (N.I.) 2005; however,this broadly mirrors the legislation applyingin England and Wales. In Scotland, wastethat may be harmful to human health or theenvironment is known as ‘special waste’ and is regulated by the Special WasteAmendment (Scotland) Regulations 2004.However, as with Northern Ireland, theseregulations broadly mirror the regulationsapplying to England and Wales since they

have been used to implement the sameEuropean Hazardous Waste Directive.

Climate change

It is now generally accepted that we areexperiencing a period of climate changeand we do not have to look far to findexamples of record weather events, both inthe UK and abroad. As insurers we see theeffects of climate change at first hand andthe misery and devastation it causes toboth individuals and businesses. As well asthe damage to buildings themselves we seethe disruption to businesses which mayhave taken years to establish.

Within the last few years we haveexperienced the devastation of Boscastlefollowing flash flooding, flash floodingacross Yorkshire and the north east andrivers bursting their banks. Localisedsummer 'torrential' rainfall events across thecountry, often in the order of 100mm of rainin one hour are now a common event. Thiscauses water run-off problems, with waterrunning through buildings regardless of thepresence of watercourses. Drains are oftenunable to cope, with consequent backing upand overflow of toilets and sewers. Severe wind-storms are also occurring with greaterfrequency. Similar events will continue tohappen in the future and almost certainlywith increasing regularity.

In the event of suffering a water damageloss, you should contact our ClaimsDepartment as soon as possible since thiscan minimise disruption and help to reducethe costs of the claim.

We are unable to change the nature andlocation of these events but individualsand organisations can take basicprecautions by managing their trees toreduce potential damage to buildings andmaking sure that roofs, gutters and drainsare properly maintained.


The importance of maintaining naturalventilation within a building should not be underestimated. Research has shownthat natural ventilation has a considerable effect in reducing moisture content within a building thus reducing the effect ofmoisture ingress. A properly maintainedwall, paying particular attention to themaintenance of mortar joints and leadflashings, should perform well in keeping moisture out even with a high level of rainfall.

Adequate internal ventilation should beensured, gutters and downpipes should beof sufficient size and surrounding drainiageworks should be such that water can be removed without walls becoming totally saturated.

Provided walls are well constructed andmaintained they should keep moisture outof a building under the conditions predictedfor the future. It is not so much thematerials themselves we need to concernourselves with, but rather the mechanismsin place for the removal and dispersal ofwater following bursts of torrential rain.

It is not just attention to the buildingsthemselves which is of concern but theneed to have contingency plans already in place to deal with a disaster when ithappens. Those with responsibility formanaging buildings should have worked outin advance by preparing a disaster recoveryplan how to deal with a severe weatherevent causing flood, storm or other damageso that the effects of this on the structurecan be minimised and the work that goeson in the building can continue.


One monitoring tool is the assessment of accidents and dangerous occurrencesrecorded over a period of time. To be ableto carry out this assessment, all accidentsand potentially dangerous occurrencesneed to be properly investigated andrecorded. Armed with this information, thechurch authorities are then in a position to take corrective action where necessary. The recording of all accidents is alsoessential in the event of civil litigation.

LegislationThere is also a statutory requirement toreport certain types of accident, dangerousoccurrences and disease to the enforcingauthorities as required by the Reporting ofInjuries, Diseases and DangerousOccurrences Regulations 2013 (RIDDOR).

InvestigationThe investigation of accidents anddangerous occurrences should be carriedout as soon as possible after the event.Staff must be trained to react accordingly.The longer the passage of time after theevent, the more information is lost andwitnesses' memories are less accurate.

In addition to the completion of thestatutory accident book the followingshould also be investigated and recorded:

n activity being performed;n contributory factors;n injured person’s work experience;n witness names and details;n witness statements;n preventative measures taken.

The status of the person involved in theaccident is important and must be clearlystated on the investigation report form.

The principle categories are as follows:(a) employees;(b) volunteers;(c) visitors;(d) general public;(e) contractors/other organisations’

employees;(f) young persons (under 18).

WitnessesIt is essential that names and addresses andany other relevant details of any witnessesare recorded and statements obtained assoon as possible after the event. Statementsmust be confined to facts only and noassumptions must be made.

Care must be taken that witnesses selecteddid actually witness the event. People maycome forward to volunteer themselves aswitnesses but who did not actually see theevent, only the aftermath, and who havegiven evidence based on assumptions.

ReportingAs required by the Reporting of Injuries,Diseases and Dangerous OccurrencesRegulations, serious injuries as defined bythe regulations and injuries which involvethe injured person in absence from work formore than seven days must be reported tothe enforcing authorities. So must diseasesand certain dangerous occurrences asdefined by the regulations.

Reporting and recording accidents and first aidNo matter what type of premises you have, and irrespective of the nature of youractivities, first aid facilities should be provided for employees, volunteers andvisitors in the event of illness or injury whilst on your premises. Some of theseincidents will need to be reported.

It is essential that statementsare obtained as soon aspossible after the event.


There are three requirements for reporting, as follows:

Serious injuries or dangerousoccurrences (as defined by theregulations) must be reportedimmediately. This must be followed bya report in writing within ten days onofficial form F2508.

Accidents involving the injured person losing more than sevenconsecutive days’ work (excludingthe day of the accident but includingany days which would not have beenworking days) but which do not fallinto the above category, must bereported in writing within fifteendays on form F2508.

Reportable diseases, as defined by theregulations, must be reported in writingto the enforcing authority on formF2508A. This will be required only if the employer receives a writtendiagnosis of the disease made by adoctor and the person concerned isinvolved with a work activity asspecified in the regulations. Reportablediseases include certain poisonings,infections such as legionellosis andhepatitis, and other conditions such ascertain musculo-skeletal disorders.

Accident reportingGo to www.hse.gov.uk/riddor and completethe appropriate online report form. The formwill then be submitted directly to theRIDDOR database. You will receive a copyfor your records.

All incidents can be reported online but atelephone service remains for reportingfatal and major injuries only. Call theIncident Contact Centre on 0345 3009923 (opening hours Monday to Friday8.30 am to 5 pm).

RecordingFull details of all accidents, diseases anddangerous occurrences should be recordedusing the Data Protection compliant HSEAccident Book. This is necessary for

monitoring purposes and is also arequirement of RIDDOR, as well as theSocial Security (Claims and Payments)Regulations 1979 and Social SecurityAdministration Act 1992.

An Accident and witness report pro-formais attached. This is not a substitute for thestatutory accident book and should be used in addition.

First aidThe type of facilities required depends on a variety of factors. Issues to consider are:

n nature of activities undertaken (high or low risk);

n number of people involved;n distribution of those people;n location of nearest doctor and

ambulance station;n accessibility in the event of an emergency.

First aid arrangementsThe minimum first aid provision in anypremises is:

- a suitably stocked first aid box; and - an appointed person to take charge of

first aid.

All staff and volunteers should be aware ofthe arrangements for administering first aidand the location of any first aid kits and room.This is particularly important if your activitiesare potentially hazardous or are carried outaway from your normal premises.

First aid kitsFirst aid kits should be identified by a whitecross on a green background. They shouldcontain sufficient quantities of the requiredmaterials and be replenished as soon aspossible after use. The items should includeonly those which the nominated first aiderhas been trained to use and must beappropriate for the circumstances of use.

There is no mandatory list of items thatshould be included in a first aid container.The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) inthe Approved Code of Practice to TheHealth and Safety (First Aid) Regulations1981 say that as a guide, where no specialrisk arises in the workplace, a minimum

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stock of first aid items would normally be:

n a leaflet giving general advice on first aid (e.g., HSE leaflet Basic Adviceon First Aid at work);

n 20 individually wrapped sterile dressings(assorted sizes), appropriate to the typeof work (dressings may be of adetectable type for food handlers);

n 2 sterile eye pads;

n 6 safety pins;

n 6 medium-sized individually wrappedsterile, unmedicated wound dressings –approximately 12cm x 12cm;

n 2 large sterile individually wrappedunmedicated wound dressings –approximately 18cm x 18cm;

n 1 pair of disposable gloves;

n individually wrapped wipes.

The Code of Practice says that tablets and medications should not be kept.

First aid kits should be stored in an areawhere conditions will not readily contributeto their deterioration and be checked on a regular basis.

First aid trainingAll first aiders should be trained andcertificates of competence obtained.Certificates are valid for three years.Training should include specialised training on hazards specific to the activities undertaken.

The HSE recommends that first aidersshould undergo annual refresher training.

Emergency first aid at workThis one-day course is ideal for smallerpremises that present few health and safety risks, where a nominated orappointed person is required to take chargein the event of an illness or accident.

The role of the emergency first aider is tomanage the first aid arrangements,including looking after first aid equipmentand facilities, and calling the emergencyservices when required.

First aid at work (HSE approved course)This three day course covers the practicalskills needed by nominated first aiders. In addition to the above, the course coversitems such as heart attacks, burns andscalds, fractures, eye injuries and severeallergic reaction.

First aid co-ordinationWhere first aiders are not available,appointed persons may be nominated totake charge of the co-ordination of activitiesin the event of an emergency occurring.

Appointed persons are only responsible forsummoning trained personnel or professionalassistance and should not administer first aidtreatment other than emergency treatment,and then only when specifically trained.

RecordsRecords of first aid treatment should bemaintained and should contain the following information:

n name and address of person treated;n occupation;n date of entry;n date and time of incident;n place and circumstance of incident;n details of injury and treatment given;n signature and address of person

making entry.


The implementation of a rigorous manualhandling policy will benefit everyone and will lead to a reduction in the number ofdays off by staff and the need to employtemporary workers.

LegislationThe Manual Handling OperationsRegulations 1992 were introduced in orderto reduce the risks from manual handling.Wherever possible, hazardous manualhandling should be eliminated altogether,and where this is not possible, suitable andsufficient assessments need to beundertaken. The regulations requireemployees to make use of appropriateequipment provided for them in accordancewith their training and the instructions theiremployer has given them.

The regulations do not prohibit all manualhandling and a balance needs to be struck toensure that staff are not required to performtasks that put them at unreasonable risk.

Risk assessmentA risk assessment must be undertaken for each task and this must be available to all staff, including temporary staff. Theassessment needs to consider the task, the load, the working environment and theindividual’s capabilities. The control measuresdetailed under the assessments must showthe number of staff and equipment needed.

A Manual handling procedures pro-forma isavailable on request.

The assessment must be regularlyreviewed, signed and dated by the reviewer.

Handling equipmentThe risk must be reduced whereverpossible by the use of hoists, lifts, trolliesand other devices for transferring loads.Staff must be trained in the use ofequipment. All equipment must be regularlymaintained. Lifts and hoists used fortransporting people must be thoroughlyexamined every six months, and all otherpieces of equipment annually, by acompetent person such as an insuranceengineer in accordance with the terms ofthe Lifting Operations and LiftingEquipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER).

TrainingIt is of paramount importance that all staffare properly trained in handling techniquesand that comprehensive records of trainingare maintained. Training must be competencybased, and provided by a recognisedsupplier. This means that the trainee mustdemonstrate to the satisfaction of the trainerthat they have understood the training givenand can actually demonstrate in practice thecorrect technique. The training record mustbe signed and dated by the trainer to theeffect that the trainee has successfullydemonstrated the correct technique, and thetrainee must also sign and date the trainingrecord confirming that they have fullyunderstood the training given. A Trainingrecord pro-forma is available on request.

Manual handling A surveillance scheme, conducted by General Practitioners in 2006, identifiedmusculoskeletal disorders as the most common type of work-related illness,representing more than half of all diagnosed illnesses. Workplace manualhandling operations play a significant contributory part in the development of such conditions.

Wherever possible hazardousmanual handling should beeliminated altogether.


Most accidents, when investigated, showlack of adequate training to be acontributory factor. Lack of, or inadequatetraining, is one of the most commonallegations made by litigants in liabilityclaims. Properly trained staff can, therefore,not only prevent accidents but also preventliability claims.

There is a legal duty under the Health andSafety at Work etc. Act 1974 on employersto provide such information, instruction,training and supervision as is necessary toensure, so far as is reasonably practicable,the health and safety at work of employees.

Training aims

To ensure staff are trained to a levelof competency necessary to carry outtheir job as efficiently and safely aspossible. Training should consider theneeds of all staff, up to and includingsenior management.

To ensure that staff are trained innew working practices or revisedworking practices as these areintroduced or revised.

To ensure that new staff or temporarystaff receive adequate inductiontraining on health and safety issues.

To provide refresher training as andwhen necessary, so as to maintain a satisfactory level of competencyand health and safety awareness.

No task should be attempted untiladequate training has been given andstaff have demonstrated asatisfactory level of competency.

Assessing training needsWhere skilled staff are taken on, anassessment should still be made of their qualifications to determine whethertheir knowledge and training is up to date or whether specific refresher trainingis necessary.

A risk assessment should also be carried out to identify health and safetytraining needs.

This should specifically include manualhandling, emergency procedures, how tocope with violence, fire and evacuationprocedures, etc. A risk assessment of staffneeds should also be carried out where theyare returning to work after a long absence,or where a change of equipment is made ora new working procedure introduced.

It is a statutory requirement under theManagement of Health and Safety at WorkRegulations 1999 that employers shall, inentrusting tasks to an employee, take intoaccount that employee’s capabilities asregards health and safety, and must ensurethat employees are provided with adequatehealth and safety training.

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Training Training of staff, including volunteers, is essential in any organisation in anattempt to reduce human errors and failures. It is necessary, not only from thepoint of view of improving the quality of work performance, but also to reduce therisk of accidents and injury to the staff themselves and to others who may beaffected by their actions.

Training must be competencybased and written recordsmaintained.


Training formatAll training, including induction training,should be given on a formal basis. Trainingschedules should be drawn up, with thetraining progressing through easilyassimilated stages. The trainee should betested at the end of each stage and shouldnot pass on to the next stage until thepreceding one is completed satisfactorily.

A register should be kept for each trainingsession. This should show the printed nameof the delegates, should be signed by thedelegate at the start of the session and anynon-attendees should be noted with anyreasons for non-attendance if given. Wheretrainees have missed the sessioncompletely or arrived more than half anhour late, this should be noted and thedelegate required to attend the nextsession. The register should be attached toa course summary with details of what hasbeen covered and kept as part of thetraining records.

At the conclusion of the course, the trainer should sign and date the trainingprogramme as having been completed to a satisfactory standard. The traineeshould also sign as having received andunderstood the training. A Training recordpro-forma is available on request.

It is recommended that at least one personon the management staff be givenresponsibility for training. This person neednot be the actual trainer, but should beresponsible for assessing training needs,drawing up training programmes, arrangingtraining through outside agencies where

required, monitoring training andmaintaining training records.

Manual handling trainingIt is of paramount importance that all staffare properly trained in handling techniquesand that comprehensive records of trainingare maintained. Training must becompetency based. This means that thetrainee must demonstrate to thesatisfaction of the trainer that they haveunderstood the training given and canactually demonstrate in practice the correcttechnique. The training record must besigned and dated by the trainer to theeffect that the trainee has successfullydemonstrated the correct technique, andthe trainee must also sign and date thetraining record confirming that they havefully understood the training given.

Training must be delivered by someone whois deemed competent in the subject.

The Manual Handling OperationsRegulations 1992 were introduced in orderto reduce the risks from manual handling.Wherever possible, manual handling shouldbe eliminated altogether, and where this isnot possible, suitable and sufficientassessments need to be undertaken. The regulations require staff to make use of appropriate equipment provided for themin accordance with their training and theinstructions they have been given.

It is important to remember that manualhandling assessments are required formoving people as well as objects. Theassessment must be regularly reviewed.


The Health and Safety Executive HSE Information Serviceswww.hse.gov.uk

Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents RoSPA House, 28 Calthorpe Road,Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 1RPTel 0121 248 2000 Fax 0121 248 2001Email [email protected] www.rospa.com

The Fire Protection Association London Road, Moreton-in-MarshGloucestershire, GL56 0RHTel 01608 812500 Fax 01608 812501Email [email protected] www.thefpa.co.uk

Food Standards Agency Aviation House, 125 KingswayLondon, WC2B 6NHTel 020 7276 8829www.food.gov.ukemail: [email protected]

Environment AgencyNational Customer Contact CentrePO Box 544, Rotherham, S60 1BYTel 03708 506506email: [email protected]

Communities and Local Government Eland House, Bressenden PlaceLondon, SW1E 5DUTel 0303 444 0000email: [email protected]

Sources of information

Personal safety risk assessment form

Details of organisation

1 Name of organisation Assessment undertaken by

2 Address

Postcode

3 Date Review date

4 Area assessed

Use the following table to carry out your own risk assessment.

Under additional controls you should note the additional measures that are needed to reduce the risk toan acceptable level and record when they have been implemented.

Risk details

Hazards/risks/persons affected

Existing controls Additional controls

Carry out a risk assessment of your premises and identify those at risk. Establish procedures and introduce control measures to reduce the possibility of risks to personal safety as much as possible.

The key elements are:

n ensure people are not left on their own, particularly when handling cash;

n ensure there is a method of raising the alarm in the event of an emergency;

n ensure all areas of the building, both inside and outside, are well lit and that there are no places where people can loiter.

Have set procedures and information available for dealing with people looking for help.

Example

Unlocking hall for eveningfunctions – caretaker

Caretaker unlocks hall on her own

Additional lighting outside halldoor. Provide caretaker withpersonal attack alarm

Risk details (continued)

Hazards/risks/persons affected

Existing controls Additional controls

THIS FORM MAY BE COPIED

Methodist Insurance PLC, St Ann’s House, St Ann’s Place, Manchester M2 7LP.Tel: 0345 606 1331 Fax: 0345 604 6302 www.methodistinsurance.co.uk

Methodist Insurance PLC (MIC) Reg. No. 6369. Registered in England at Beaufort House, Brunswick Road, Gloucester, GL1 1JZ.

Methodist Insurance PLC is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority in the United Kingdom, and regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland for Conduct of Business rules.

Accident and witness report form

This form should be used for the recording of all accidents, injuries and dangerous occurrences whether or not they need to be reported under the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR) 2013 and should be completed in addition to the Statutory Accident book.

The form should be completed as soon as possible after the occurrence. All details should then be checked by a senior employee. To comply with the Data Protection Act 1998 personal details must be kept confidential.

If there were any witnesses to the accident, they should complete witness statements as soon as possible after the occurrence.


1 Name of organisation

2 Address of organisation

Postcode Telephone

3 Full name of person injured

4 Home address

Postcode Telephone

5 Date of birth

6 Tick appropriate box

Employee Resident Visitor Other (please give details below)

7 Date of occurrence Time of occurrence

8 Place of occurrence

Description of accident

1 Full description of the accident circumstances, including a description of any apparatus or equipment involved

2 Full description of any injuries suffered and treatment given

Employment details

If the injured person was an employee this section is to be completed by the employee’s Manager or Senior employee.

1 State nature of injured person’s employment

2 Was (s)he on or off duty at the time?

3 If on duty did (s)he continue to work or go off duty after the occurrence?

4 If (s)he went off duty at what time and for how long?

5 I/we confirm that as far as I am/we are aware the above details including the description of the accident are true and complete.

Signed (on behalf of the organisation) Print name

Position Date

Any apparatus or equipment involved must be retained for inspection. See overleaf for signed statements.

Statement by witness 1

Signed Print name

Date

Home address

Postcode


Signed Print name

Date

Home address

Postcode


Signed Print name

Date

Home address

Postcode

To comply with the Data Protection Act 1998 (DPA) personal details must be kept confidential.These forms must be stored securely when completed.

Note: this form is not a substitute for the Statutory Accident book record BI 510 and should be completed in addition.





Fire risk assessment form



2 Address

Postcode

3 Date Review date

4 Area assessed

Under additional controls you should note the additional measures that are needed to reduce the risk to an acceptable level and record when they have been implemented.

Fire risk details

Hazards/risks/persons Note existing situation

1 What are the fire risks?Note details of any flammable liquids, combustiblematerials, ignition sources and persons at risk

2 Can a fire be detected in a reasonabletime and people be warned? Note details of any automatic fire detection systemor other means by which fire can be detected

Additional controls Note here the additional measures that are needed to reduce the risk to an acceptable level and recordwhen they have been implemented

Fire risk details (continued)

Hazards/risks/persons Note existing situation

Additional controls Note here the additional measures that are needed to reduce the risk to an acceptable level and recordwhen they have been implemented

3 Can people in the building get out safely? Note details of fire exit doors, escape routes,emergency lighting and signage

4 Is there adequate firefighting equipment? Note details of existing fire extinguishers, hose reels, etc.

5 Do people know what to do if there is a fire?Note details of any written evacuation procedures

6 Is a regular check made that firefightingequipment is in place, are people trainedin its use, is it regularly maintained?Note details of existing procedures for checkingand maintaining firefighting equipment and training

7 What effect would a fire have on ourneighbours?Note risks of spreading fire and evacuation onneighbouring premises




Risk details

General risk assessment form



2 Address

Postcode

3 Date Review date

4 Area assessed

Under additional controls you should note the additional measures that are needed to reduce the riskto an acceptable level and record when they have been implemented.

Hazards/risks/ Existing controls Likelihood Severity Risk Additionalpersons affected (L) (S) rating controls (L x S)

Likelihood Severity Risk rating1 = Low (seldom) 1 = Low (minor cuts and bruises) 1 – 2 = low priority

2 = Medium (frequently) 2 = Medium (serious injury or 3 – 4 = medium priority incapacitated for 3 days or more)

3 = High (certain or near certain) 3 = High (fatality or a number 6 – 9 = high priority of persons seriously injured)

Risk details (continued)

Hazards/risks/ Existing controls Likelihood Severity Risk Additionalpersons affected (L) (S) rating controls (L x S)




Methodist Insurance PLC is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority in the United Kingdom, and regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland for Conduct of Business rules..

Notes

Notes

Methodist Insurance PLC,St Ann’s House,St Ann’s Place,Manchester M2 7LPTel: 0345 606 1331Fax: 0345 604 6302www.methodistinsurance.co.uk

Methodist Insurance PLC (MIC) Reg. No. 6369. Registered inEngland at Beaufort House, Brunswick Road, Gloucester, GL1 1JZ.

Methodist Insurance PLC is authorised by the PrudentialRegulation Authority and regulated by the Financial ConductAuthority and the Prudential Regulation Authority in the UnitedKingdom, and regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland forConduct of Business rules.

PD2643/4/0917

© Methodist Insurance PLC 2017. Printed on paper from sustainable forests.

Contact us

For further information contact your local Insurance Consultant and Surveyor or call us on0345 606 1331Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm (excluding Bank Holidays).We may monitor or record calls to improve our service.

You can email us [email protected]

Or visitwww.methodistinsurance.co.uk

Supporting the Methodist connexionWe’ve been supporting the Methodist community since1872 and have Methodist values at the heart ofeverything we do. That’s why we have developed a widerange of products to provide peace of mind for you:

n Church, Circuit and District insurance n Charity Insurance n Home insurance n Community group insurance

0345 606 1331www.methodistinsurance.co.uk

Documents

Church –Health and Safety - Methodist Insurance · church – health and safety