Dominican College, Sion Hill Safety Statement · 2019-12-16 · Dominican College, Sion Hill, Cross Avenue, Blackrock, Co. Dublin Wright Safety Services December 2017 2 This document

Dominican College, Sion Hill, Cross Avenue, Blackrock, Co. Dublin

Wright Safety Services December 2017

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Dominican College,

Sion Hill

Safety Statement



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This document is the Safety Statement of Dominican College,

Sion Hill as required by The Safety, Health and Welfare at

Work Act 2005. It is based on the Identification of Hazards and

Risks specific to Dominican College, Sion Hill and the

assessment of those risks together with information and

instructions given to Wright Safety Services by the school.

Although every care has been taken to accurately and

comprehensively deal with all foreseeable hazards, risks and

controls, Wright Safety Services’ directors, employees or

agents cannot and will not be responsible for any omissions

which may have taken place.

The Safety Statement was produced in December 2017 and is

required to be reviewed and updated by Wright Safety

Services in December 2018 or following the introduction of

new plant or equipment; improved technical standards or

practices; changes in products and work procedures; and

following the investigation of any accidents or near misses

which may occur.



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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Section 1 - Introduction ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 8

Safety Policy -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 21

Environmental Policy Statement ----------------------------------------------------------------------- 22 Section 2 - Responsibilities -------------------------------------------------------------------------------23

Responsibilities and Arrangements ------------------------------------------------------------------- 24

Management ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 24

Co-Ordinator ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 25

Safety Co-ordinator ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 25

First Aiders --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 26

Fire Marshal -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 26

Designated Personnel – Health & Safety Roles ----------------------------------------------------- 26 Section 3 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------28 Employee -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------28 Co-Operation --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------28

Employee Co-Operation ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 29

Employee Consultation and Representation -------------------------------------------------------- 29

General Safety Rules for all Employees --------------------------------------------------------------- 30

Safety Representatives ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 31

Access and Egress - Checklist ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 33

Accident / Incident Investigation and Reporting -------------------------------------------------- 34 Accidents: Notification and Reporting -----------------------------------------------------------------35

Emergency Services / Telephone Numbers --------------------------------------------------------- 36

Alcohol / Drugs and Smoking --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 37 Alcohol ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------37 Non-Prescription Drugs and Narcotics ----------------------------------------------------------------37 Prescription Drugs ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------37 Testing of Employees for Intoxicants ------------------------------------------------------------------37 Smoking --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------38 Boiler Houses/Switch Room ------------------------------------------------------------------------------42

Bullying and Harassment --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 43 Anti-Bullying Policy -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------43 Informal Procedure -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------43 Formal Procedure -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------44 Forms of Bullying --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------46

Chemical Safety ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 47 Chemical Safety Policy --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------48 Chemical Safety Symbols-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------49 Hazard Labels -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------50 Contractors / Sub-Contractors ---------------------------------------------------------------------------52

Drilling --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 54

Electricity ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 55 Electrical Contractors --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------55 First Aid Requirements ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------55 Portable Equipment -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------55



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Checklist for Inspection of Electrical Equipment ---------------------------------------------------56 Electricity – General guidelines --------------------------------------------------------------------------57

Ergonomics --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 58

Equality Policy ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 59

Fire Prevention ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 59 Fire Safety Equipment --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------60 Fire Extinguishers -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------61

Evacuation Procedures ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 63 Assembly Point -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------63 Fire Drills ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------64 Local Emergency Services Contact Details ------------------------------------------------------------64

First Aid ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 65 Record Keeping-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------65 First Aid Box Contents --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------65 Occupational First Aiders ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------66

Guidelines for Safety on Visits --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 67

Guidelines on Trips/Tours etc. ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 69

Housekeeping ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 71 General Practice ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------71 Inspection Procedures -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------72 Lighting ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------72

Machinery and Equipment ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 77

Manual Handling -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 78 General Guidelines for Manual Handling -------------------------------------------------------------84

Noise ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 85

Office Equipment -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 85

Personal Protective Equipment------------------------------------------------------------------------- 86 Control Measures --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------86 Training --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------86

Protection of Employee Health and Welfare -------------------------------------------------------- 87 Skin Care -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------88 Glove Use -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------89 Welfare Facilities --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------89 Radon -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------92

Procedures for New Staff Members Including Overseas Workers ---------------------------- 93

Revision and Monitoring (of Health & Safety) ------------------------------------------------------ 94

Training ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------101 Induction Training ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 102 Additional Safety Training ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 102 Refresher Training ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 102 Cost of Training -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 102 Training Needs --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 103 Essential Safety Training Checklist ------------------------------------------------------------------- 104

Vulnerable Workers --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------105 Younger Employees --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 105 Foreign National Employees ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 105 Pregnant Employees -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 106 New Staff Members ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 107

Visual Display Units (VDUs) ----------------------------------------------------------------------------108



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Employers Duties ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 108 Eye Fatigue / Eye Tests ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 108 Stress ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 108 Work Related Upper Limb Disorder (WRULD) ---------------------------------------------------- 108 Workstations & Display Screen Equipment -------------------------------------------------------- 109

WORKING AT HEIGHTS - Ladders and Stepladders ----------------------------------------------110 Section 5 – Hazard Identification & Risk Assessments ------------------------------------------ 111 RISK ASSESSMENT & HAZARD IDENTIFICATION -------------------------------------------------- 112

Objective: ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------112

Responsibilities: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------112

Hazard Categorisation ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------113

Definitions ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------114

Risk Quantifying - Criteria & Method -----------------------------------------------------------------115

Risk Rating Level Indicator -----------------------------------------------------------------------------115 Section 6 - Hazard Sheets -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 116

Access & Egress ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------117

Air Conditioning Units ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------118

Air Temperature -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------119

Building Structure & Related Fixtures & Fittings -------------------------------------------------120

Building Structure & Related Fixtures & Fittings -------------------------------------------------121

Driving at Work --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------122 Electricity ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 123 Electricity ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 124

Entrance Doorway -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------125

Fixed Electrical Systems/Fuse Boards ---------------------------------------------------------------126

Floors----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------127

Hockey Pitch / Tennis Courts---------------------------------------------------------------------------127

Lift --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------128

Maintenance Contractors --------------------------------------------------------------------------------129

Mould----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------130

Radon ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------131

Stairs ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------132

Unprotected Edge/Flat Roof ----------------------------------------------------------------------------133

Stores/Resource Rooms ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------134

HOME ECONOMICS ROOM EQUIPMENT USAGE and WORK ACTIVITIES --------------------135 Beater / Mixer ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 135 Electric Cooker Grill/Oven /Hob ---------------------------------------------------------------------- 136 Fridges -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 137 Freezers ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 138 Gas Cooker - Grill / Hot Plate / Oven / Hob --------------------------------------------------------- 139 Gas Cooker - Grill / Hot Plate / Oven / Hob Cont’d ----------------------------------------------- 140

Kettles/Sandwich Maker & Toaster ------------------------------------------------------------------142 KNIVES and SHARP UTENSILS -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 143 Lifting Heavy Loads --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 144 Liquidizers --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 145



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Microwave ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------146 CANTEEN/STAFF ROOM/LEADERSHIP ROOM/BOARD ROOM--------------------------------- 147 Fridges -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 149

General -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------150

Microwave ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------152 Shelves -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 153

Sink ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------153

WORK-ROOMS EQUIPMENT USAGE and WORK ACTIVITIES -----------------------------------154

Art Room -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------154

Art Room -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------155

Communications/Computer Room/Print Room --------------------------------------------------156

Class Rooms -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------157 Deputy Principal / Principal Offices ------------------------------------------------------------------ 158 OFFICES ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 162

General / P.E. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------162

Cable Management ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------163

Chemicals ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------164

Computers / Fax / Printer / Franking Machine /Phones / Intercom System etc. --------165

Ergonomics - Office Furniture --------------------------------------------------------------------------166

Ergonomics – Work Activity ----------------------------------------------------------------------------167

Filing Cabinets ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------168

Fire Alarm System -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------168

Floors----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------169 Fuse Board/Panel ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 169

Guillotine -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------170

Guillotine -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------171

Lighting -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------173

Manual Handling -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------174

Paper Shredder ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------175

Photocopier -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------176

Shelves --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------177

Storage Cabinets -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------177

Visual Display Units ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------178 USE OF CAR PARK ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 179 USE of CHEMICALS ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 180

Communications/Computer Room -------------------------------------------------------------------181

Class Rooms -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------182

Communications/Computer Room -------------------------------------------------------------------183

SLUICE ROOM/CARETAKER’S ROOM - Equipment and associated work activities--184 CHEMICALS -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 184 DERMATITIS ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 185 ELECTRICITY AND WET AREAS ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 186 FLOORS ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 186



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General -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------187

Linen Handling (Tea Towels/Dish Cloths etc.) ----------------------------------------------------189

Linen Storage (Tea Towels/Dish Cloths etc.) ------------------------------------------------------190

Shelves --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------190 Tumble Dryers ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 191 Vacuuming --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 192 Washing Machines ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 193 OFF SITE WORK -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 194

Driving at Work --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------194

Leptospirosis ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------195

Lone Work ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------196

Lone Work ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------197

Lone/Mobile Work ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------198

Lone/Mobile Work ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------199

Lone/Mobile Work ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------200

Members of the Public ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------201

Working Off-Site -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------202

LADIES / GENTS /DISABLED TOILETS ----------------------------------------------------------------203

Sinks -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------204

Untidy Paper ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------204

Section 7 - Appendices------------------------------------------------------------------------------------205 APPENDIX 1 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 206 EMPLOYEE SAFETY STATEMENT ACKNOWLEDGEMENT FORM ------------------------------- 206 HAZARD AUDIT FORM ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 207 APPENDIX 3 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 208 SCHEDULE OF FIRE FIGHTING EQUIPMENT -------------------------------------------------------- 208 APPENDIX 4 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 209 ISSUE OF PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT --------------------------------------------------- 209 APPENDIX 5 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 210 CONTRACTOR'S HEALTH & SAFETY ASSESSMENT FORM --------------------------------------- 210 APPENDIX 6 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 211 TRAINING RECORDS --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 211 APPENDIX 7 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 212 ACCIDENT / INCIDENT INVESTIGATION FORM ---------------------------------------------------- 212 APPENDIX 8 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 216 NOTICE OF ACCIDENT FORM (Form IR1) ------------------------------------------------------------ 216 APPENDIX 9 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 217 SCHEDULE 4 - GENERAL APPLICATION REGS 2007 ----------------------------------------------- 217 APPENDIX 10 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 220 APPENDIX 11 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 226 APPENDIX 12 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 227 APPENDIX 13 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 228



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Section 1 - Introduction



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Dominican College Sion Hill was established in 1836 and is located at Cross Ave, Blackrock, Co. Dublin, A94 TP97. The school is a voluntary, girl’s only secondary school with a student population of approximately 450. There is a teaching-staff of thirty. Additionally, there are three PDGE student teachers, two special needs assistants, two cleaning staff, two secretaries and two caretakers. In addition, a number of adults assist with music and drama teaching throughout the year. General: The Board of Management aims to ensure a safe working environment for both staff and students and to continuously improve safety standards, where possible. Safety begins at management level and so the overall responsibility for the establishment and maintenance of an effective policy for Safety, Health and Welfare at work rests with the Board of Management. Responsibility for health & safety rests with all staff at all levels within the school. A copy of the safety statement will be located in the principal’s office and the staff room. A copy of the safety statement will also be available on the schools website at www.sionhillcollege.ie. There are three hose reels in the main school building, two on the ground floor and one on the first floor. There are Break Glass Units throughout the building. There is a Fire Detection system and sirens in place. There are Fire extinguishers located throughout the buildings. There are First Aid Kits located as required throughout the building. There is a separate safety statement for the science room. There are First Aid Kits, Fire Extinguishers, a Fire Blanket, Eyewash and Disposable Gloves located in the science rooms. There are heat/smoke detectors also. Safety data sheets are maintained for chemicals. Sand buckets are located in the science rooms. Goggles are provided, as required, for students. Gas supply to the science room has an emergency shut off point. There are metal storage cabinets for oxidising, flammable and explosive materials. Apex Fire is engaged for the maintenance of smoke detectors, fire alarms, Hose Reels and fire extinguishers. Fire Drills are undertaken once per term. There is no CCTV on the premises. The school’s sports grounds are on occasion hired out to other sporting schools. On occasion, school tours/field trips are undertaken to Museums, Art Galleries, River/Coastal sites and sporting occasions. For these events a local Coach Company is engaged. Waste Management services are provided by Panda. The school has two large and three small recycling bins together with two waste bins. These are located in the alleyway to the left of the main building.



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Contractors are engaged from time to time for activities such as electrical, plumbing, window cleaning, IT services and ground maintenance. The Layout is as follows: External: There is a Car Park with demarcated parking spaces. Hickey Pitch Tennis Court Assembly points Defibrillator (on wall) Entrance: There are 2 x automatic doors with entrance mat-well. Internal floors are timber. There is a further internal entrance with two glass panel doors Ground Floor: Reception/Front Office: Wall mounted TV screen Display cabinet with glass doors (Displaying the schools trophies and medals). Running Man signage in place Fire Detection system and siren are in place Phone (wall mounted) Burglar Alarm Photocopier/Printer/Fax Computer Cupboard (timber and shelved is approx. 7 ft. high). Electric heater Fire extinguishers Smoke detectors Principal’s Office: Computer, Keyboard, Printer Electric heater Desk & Chairs (5) 2 x Filing Cabinets Shredder P.A. System Cupboard (timber and shelved is approx. 7 ft. high). Post Room: 3 x 4 drawer fining cabinets Tall free standing wall shelving



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Cupboard (timber and shelved is approx. 7 ft. high). (Boxes of stationery stored on top). Stationery storage Ladies Toilets: 3 x Cubicles Sinks Electric hand dryers Sanitary bins Staff kitchen: x 2 Toaster Microwave x 2 Fridge Burco Dishwasher Sink Delph & Cutlery Paper dispenser First Aid Kit Smoke Detector Fire Blanket Staff Room: Seats Approx. 30 persons TV Monitor First Aid Kit Wall attached book shelf (small) Water dispenser Circular tables x 5 (with six chairs at each table) Defibrillator Print Room: Photocopier/Printer x 2 Bin Computers x 3 and keyboards Laminator Guillotine x 2 Shelving Unit (for books, approx. 5 ft. high) Deputy Principal’s Office: Computer x 1 Electric safe x 1 Desk & chair Book shelf



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Phone Smoke detector Gents Changing Room: Seating benches Hooks Bin Store Room: Hockey sticks Gym equipment Hoover Bins Table Tennis tables Ladies changing Rooms: Seating Benches Hooks 2 X bins Classrooms x 2: Classrooms (D1 & D2) Electric heaters Whiteboards Interactive whiteboards Filing Cabinets x 2 (4 drawer) Cupboards Computers & Keyboards Gym: (For training/PE classes) Timber floor Basketball hoops Badminton “Running Man” signage in place. P.E. Office: Desk & Chairs Computer and Keyboards



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Student toilets x 2 7 cubicles, 5 sinks, Electric hand dryers, sanitary bins 9 cubicles, 7 sinks, Electric hand dryers, sanitary bins Open space (lunch room): Lunch room is a supervised dining area, used from 8.00 am to 8.45 am, from 10.45 am to 11.00 am and from 1.00 pm to 1.40 pm. Boiler Houses: (Main plus Sienna house) Electrics Panel Boilers x 2 Timed heating system Oil Fired Heating throughout the school Stepladder stored here CO2 Extinguishers Heat Detectors Sprinkler system (Dry powder) H2O Pressure tank Tank Room: Oil tank x 1 – Kerosene Heat detector in place First Floor: Science Rooms: (Vistec Gas guard system, automatic isolation valve. This is checked annually). First Aid Kits, Fire Extinguishers, Fire Blanket, Eyewash and Disposable Gloves located in the science rooms. There are heat/smoke detectors also. Safety data sheets are maintained. Sand buckets. Goggles are provided. Gas supply to the science room has an emergency shut off point. There are metal storage cabinets for oxidising, flammable and explosive materials. Overhead projector



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Prep Room: Teacher access only. Steel cupboards for flammable/hazardous materials. Teacher access only to this area. SDS sheets maintained Sink Fridges Art Room: Oil and water based paints. High wall mounted shelving for storage. Freestanding high shelving for storage. Fire extinguishers x 2 Electric heater x 1 (Dimplex type) Projector x 1 Shredder x 1 Computer x 2 Printer x 1 Bins Store Room: (adjoining Art Room) Storage of art work Stencilling machine – not in use (omit) Home Economics Room: Electric & Gas cookers (gas emergency shut off point) Fridges Dishwasher Washing machine Microwave Tumble dryer Fire extinguishers Fire blanket First aid kit Overhead projector Comms/Server Room: Servers (for computer Room mainly) Computer Keyboard Desk/Workstation (single user) Wall mounted shelving Fire Extinguisher



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Computer Room: Computers & Keyboards x 30 Workstation x 5 Printer Staff Toilet X 1 cubicle, sink, sanitary bin, Students’ Toilets: X 4 cubicles, x 2 sinks, electric hand dryers, sanitary bins St Thomas’: Ground Floor: Automatic entrance door & mat-well Electrics panel in corridor Smoke detectors There is a lift from the ground to fourth floor. (Students never use the lift). T1, T2, Music Room, Oratory, Canteen, Lockers x 39 Store Room: High free standing wall shelving Storage of paint, chop saw, ceiling panels, wiring and other miscellaneous items Leadership Room: Tables & chairs Microwave Kettle Fridge Fire blanket Lockers in corridor Concert Hall: (seats 220 persons, plus 100 approx. on balcony) Stage Timber floor Overhead lighting “Running Man” in place Emergency lighting in place Speakers Fire extinguishers Projector Radiators



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Gas heating Smoke detection beams Staff Toilets: (Female) Cubicles Sink Electric hand dryer Sanitary bins Staff Toilets (Male) Cubicles Sink Electric hand dryer Music Room: Seats 30 students Free standing wall shelving Floor is timber Computers x 5 with workstations “Running Man” signage in place Piano Guitars T.V. system (touchscreens) Computers Oratory: Floor is timber. (Prayer services & mind, body & soul) Seats approx. 100 persons Electrics panel Emergency lighting “Running Man” signage in place Smoke detectors in place Boiler House: Gas system (for St Thomas’ only) Storage of ride on mower (for Hockey pitch) Fire Extinguishers Electrics panel Gas detection unit Corridor: Electrics Panel Smoke detector Lockers



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First Floor: Library: Librarians Desk 23 x Computer/Keyboards and workstations Free standing shelving throughout Wall attached shelving Large “study” tables, seating 70 persons

Second Floor: Balcony over Concert Hall: Break Glass units Fire Extinguishers Toilets: Disabled Electric hand dryer Sanitary bin Student Canteen: Franchised out to “Get Fresh” (new company being sought presently) Student dining area with seating, no cooking provided for. Seats approx. 180 students, (long benches, tables & chairs) Burco Fridge Microwave Board Room: Desks & Chairs Small kitchen area Sink Kettle Microwave

Third Floor: Auditorium: (Exam Hall) Fire extinguishers Emergency lighting “Running Man” signage in place Fire siren Storage Room: (Auditorium equipment) Only chairs & desks stored here



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Gents Toilets: Unused Ladies Toilets: 4 x Cubicles Electric Hand dryer Sinks Drama Room: Desks & chairs Overhead projector & screen Fire siren Disused offices: Occasional use for storage of props, files etc

Fourth Floor: No access

Sienna House: Mat-well at entrance door Classrooms x 9 Office x 1 Students Toilets x 1 Staff Toilets x 1 Break Glass Units throughout First Aid Kits Fire Extinguishers Hose Reel Electrics panel Phone (on wall) Lockers x 279 – in corridor Classrooms x 9: Whiteboards (interactive) Computers & Keyboards Desks & Chairs Free standing wall shelving (7 ft. high Approx. – for book storage) Smoke detectors Bins



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Corridor: Fire Extinguishers Students Toilets: Cubicles Sinks Electric Hand Dryer Sanitary bins Staff Toilets: Cubicles Sinks Electric Hand Dryer Sanitary bins Office: Desk Chairs Computer & Keyboard Contact details: Principal: Ms. Sheila Drum Address: Cross Avenue, Blackrock, Co Dublin Phone: (01) 288 6791 E-Mail: [email protected]

Website: www.sionhillcollege.ie

Post Code: A94TP97 School Roll Number: 60070K

https://www.google.ie/search?sa=X&biw=1280&bih=854&q=dominican+college+sion+hill+phone&ved=0ahUKEwih3oyap6rXAhVkCMAKHRZUBP8Q6BMIjQEwEQ

http://www.sionhillcollege.ie/



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Health & Safety Management Structure

Health & Safety Personnel

Teachers/ Support Services/ Contractors

Health & Safety Representative

Principal/Deputy Principal

Board of Management



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Safety Policy Management is committed to the continuous improvement of health and safety for all in our workplace. It is our policy to become familiar with all statutory requirements and to comply with primary and secondary legislation as a minimum. This Safety Statement has as its aim a policy of best practice to ensure the protection of the safety, health and welfare of all employees, students and contractors. It is our programme in writing, our action plan for how safety, health and welfare are managed in our school. In accordance with the 2005 Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act, the 2007 General Applications Regulations and HSA guidelines, our Safety Statement is based on the systematic identification and evaluation of all hazards and their associated risks and the implementation of effective control measures to eliminate/reduce those risks in so far as is reasonably practicable. Wherever possible, risk reduction will be attained by careful selection and design of facilities, work equipment and safe systems of work. Safety training, instruction and supervision are an integral part of this provision as are the resources necessary to achieve it i.e. finance, equipment and consultation with Health & Safety consultants. This provision is a reflection of the General Principles of Prevention contained in the First Schedule of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Applications) Regulations 2007. We maintain an open door policy to employees on all matters relating to safety, health and welfare and will regularly review this Safety Statement to ensure continuous effectiveness. To ensure that this document becomes an organic working document, which will be embodied in the day-to-day workings of our premises, it is endorsed and actively promoted by management. Its contents are an integral part of induction training for all new staff and are available to all our employees, students and contractors. As the purpose of this safety statement is to outline how the Safety and Health of employees and others is to be protected and managed in our workplace and work activities, all employees are required to read the safety statement and recognise their duties and responsibilities outlined therein. Employees are also required to acknowledge that they understand and agree to comply with these requirements by signing the form contained in Appendix 1 of this document. _______________________________ ________________

Co-Ordinator: (Date)


Wright Safety Services December 2017 22

Environmental Policy Statement

We are committed to carrying out all our work activities in a manner that minimises the potential adverse impact of those work activities on the environment, employees, and all other personnel affected by our school. We acknowledge that our work activities may have an effect on the environment. This Environmental Policy Statement is our written commitment to the protection of the environment as it may be affected by our work activities. Legislative Compliance

We will comply with all relevant environmental legislation pertaining to our work activities and abide by our legal duties, as a minimum.

Waste Management

Control waste by ensuring our actions are as efficient as possible and by continuously evaluating activities that generate waste with a view to ensuring that waste generation is kept to a minimum

Engage only appropriately regulated and legislatively compliant waste contractors

Actively promote recycling. Promote Awareness

Consult with our employees on matters pertaining to the effect our activities may have on the environment

Provide instruction and information to employees to ensure their awareness of, and enlist their support in, continued improvement in environmental issues.

Suppliers and Students

Use only reputable and legislatively compliant contractors

Review and Continued Improvement

Monitor performance to ensure continued improvement and compliance with environmental legislation as it affects our work activities

Signed _________________________________ Date _____________________

Co-Ordinator:



Section 2 - Responsibilities



Responsibilities and Arrangements

Management

Management is responsible for the day to day running of the school and parallel duties include monitoring of health and safety practices in the work area. The following are a list of Management’s responsibilities:

We will ensure (as a minimum) compliance with all relevant legislation, regulations and codes of practice, specifically the statutory obligations of Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act, 2005 and S.I. 299 General Application Regulations 2007.

We will prepare and implement our Safety Statement in accordance with section 18-24 of 2005 Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act. We will monitor its use to ensure that it is an organic working document.

We will ensure that the Safety Statement is based on accurate hazard identification, risk assessment and the implementation of adequate control measures

We will ensure the allocation of sufficient resources i.e. monies, personnel and adequate time in so far as is reasonably practicable, to protect the health, safety and welfare of all persons associated with our premises.

We will make our Safety Statement available to all staff and ensure its contents are fully understood

We will provide appropriate and regular safety information and training to employees and ensure it is pertinent to the risks to which they are exposed.

We will ensure that all safety training is documented and recorded

We will provide adequate supervision to ensure a competent and safety-conscious workforce.

We will encourage co-operation, consultation and communication between all staff members so that safety and health matters become the responsibility of all.

We will monitor the work environment, equipment, and work systems with a view to continuous improvement in safety and health.

We will ensure effective review of the safety statement on an annual basis, or when necessitated by changes in equipment or work systems



Co-Ordinator The duties of the Co-Ordinator are:

To be familiar with the safety and health regulations and the schools policy applicable to all operations being carried out.

To insist that the prescribed standards and procedures are observed

To ensure that employees implement the company safety policy and comply with statutory requirements

To prepare supplementary information, when necessary, to any new methods of operation introduced as an addendum to the Safety Statement

To ensure that safe systems of work are implemented in so far as is ‘reasonably practicable’.

To ensure the provision and safe use of appropriate PPE for all personnel on site

Safety Co-ordinator

The role of the Safety Co-ordinator is to assist and liaise with Management on day-to-day safety issues. These responsibilities include:

Ensure Safety Inspections are carried out in consultation with staff on a regular basis

Ensure that the Safety Statement is made known to all employees and any/all changes are made known to them

Ensure the policy statement is displayed in a clear and prominent position

Advise Management on all aspects of Safety Training needs

Ensure accurate documentation of Safety Inspections, a copy to be given to Management

Ensure staff report all accidents and incidents

Completing all accident report forms and forwarding to relevant bodies

Regular inspection of First Aid records

Organize a minimum of two fire drills per annum

Keep a Fire Register to record any fire-related matters e.g. fire drills, fire alarms, fire extinguisher inspections

Ensure adequate safety arrangements are in place for all personnel and, where necessary, special arrangements for lone workers, pregnant employees etc.

Ensure that all personnel are familiar with health and safety procedures in the workplace including emergency/evacuation procedures



First Aiders

The duties of the First Aiders are:

Ensure availability of required first aid supplies

Ensure first aid boxes have sufficient stock

Administer first aid treatment when necessary

Liaise with Safety Co-ordinator on all accidents/incidents

Fire Marshal The Fire Marshal shall receive adequate training to perform his/her tasks and will assist in evacuation procedures in the event of a fire alarm being sounded.

Designated Personnel – Health & Safety Roles

The following personnel have responsibilities for Health & Safety roles and for performing emergency and evacuation tasks set out in this Safety Statement: Manager: ___________________ Safety Co-Ordinator: ___________________ Health & Safety Implementation: ___________________ Safety Representative: __________________ Emergency Evacuation Co-Ordinator: ___________________ Fire Marshal: ___________________ First Aider(s) ___________________ ___________________ Fire Team: ___________________ ___________________



Other personnel with designated roles: (Role) _________________________ (Name) _________________________ (Role) _________________________ (Name) _________________________ (Role) _________________________ (Name) _________________________



Section 3

Employee

Co-Operation



Employee Co-Operation

The keystone for the successful implementation of the required Health & Safety is employee co-operation. Our Safety Statement has been developed primarily for employee protection and its contents are fully explained in our induction-training programme. Employees are required to co-operate fully with their employer and comply with the legal Duties as laid down in Section 13 and 14 of the 2005 Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act, as set out in the Duties of the Employee (see Section 4 below).

Employee Consultation and Representation

Management acknowledges their legal obligation under Section 25-26 of the 2005 Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act to provide for employee consultation. Employees are fully consulted on the introduction of any new work system e.g. the introduction of new equipment, use of new procedures, manual handling requirements, etc. A bottom up and top down system of communication and consultation is utilised in all matters of Health & Safety in the School. Where possible, much of this is carried out in an informal manner. In matters formal, we acknowledge the employees’ right to appoint a Safety Representative and / or Safety Committee and management recognises these as a vehicle for communication and consultation. All employees are made aware of their duties pertaining to Health & Safety which are posted and on clear display. Further information is provided as part of the day-to-day operations across all our work activities. Written information e.g. on Evacuation Procedures, Warning Signs and Safety Awareness Posters are clearly displayed at all work areas. We will outline to all employees the content of the Safety Statement and indicate the specific requirements that have a direct impact on their own and our clients’ and students’ Health & Safety. A copy of the Safety Statement is kept at the office and employees are encouraged to consult it as often as they wish.



General Safety Rules for all Employees

1. Always take reasonable care for your own safety and the safety of your fellow employees. Always co-operate with your supervisor/manager in safety matters

2. Always check the label on every substance before use to ensure adequate precautions are taken

3. Always wear the supplied appropriate protective equipment (PPE)

4. Always keep work areas clean and tidy

5. Always lift, carry, push/pull safely and in accordance with recommended Manual Handling techniques

6. Always use electrical & gas equipment in a safe manner

7. Always report any defects in machinery and equipment

8. Never attend work under the influence of alcohol or drugs

9. Employees are required to familiarise themselves with the contents of the Safety Statement and complete the Form outlined in Appendix 1 which acknowledges their having read the Safety Statement and understand their role, duties and responsibilities therein.



Safety Representatives

Management acknowledge their legal obligation under Section 25 of the 2005 Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act to allow the provision of a Safety Representative to represent them at the place of work and to consult with their employer on matters related to safety, health and welfare in the school. Should a Safety Representative be selected, Management will recognise and acknowledge their role and functions as outlined in the legislation and will consult and co-operate with the Safety Representative in all matters of Health & Safety.

The Safety Representative has the right to:

Access information from and make representations to Management on all Safety and Health issues

Carry out general inspections of the workplace subject to agreement from Management

Investigate accidents and dangerous occurrences providing it does not interfere with the performance of statutory obligations

Be informed of any impending visits from HSA inspections

Accompany a HSA inspector on an inspection of the premises (at the discretion of the Inspector) and may make oral/written representation to the inspector

Seek instruction/advice from HSA inspector

Seek reasonable time off, without loss of remuneration, to acquire the knowledge necessary to implement their role

A full list of the rights of Safety Representatives will be provided to the Safety Representative(s) should employees choose to elect one from among their number.



Section 4

Safety Arrangements



Access and Egress - Checklist

Ensure that all floors and access routes are maintained in a safe condition.

Ensure as far as reasonably practical those floors are level and suitable signs are posted where this is not possible.

Ensure the layout of work areas and furniture facilitates safe access and egress to all work and rest areas.

Ensure adequate storage facilities and good housekeeping so that there is free and unimpeded access to and egress from the buildings and all work areas.

Ensure heavy goods are stored no higher than waist level and never above head height

Ensure that floors are maintained in a safe condition so as to prevent slips trips and falls.

Ensure that cables are tidy and not trailing across the floors.

Review the provision of suitable access facilities for the mobility impaired, if appropriate

Keep boxes, files, personal belongings etc. safely stored and tidy so they do not present a tripping hazard.

Keep all fire escape routes and final exits free from obstructions and do not use as storage areas.

Keep drawers and filing cabinets closed when not in use.

Never stretch or lean sideways on a ladder or step.

Do not use furniture to access high areas.

Clean up all spillages immediately to prevent slips and falls where the floor is tiled.

Erect a warning sign when floor cleaning is in progress.

Report any defects or hazards to the Safety Officer.

Keep all workstations and surrounding areas tidy and clear of litter.

Ensure regular disposal of litter and all flammable materials

Ensure adequate levels of lighting are provided and maintained to facilitate safe access and egress.



Accident / Incident Investigation and Reporting

An accident is an unplanned event resulting in injury, damage or loss. Our accident investigation/reporting system, which embodies a no blame culture, is designed to:

Prevent recurrence of the accident by implementing more stringent/appropriate control measures

Discover root cause/causes of the accident

Inform employees of the accident, its causes and the new control measures introduced to eliminate/ reduce the possibility of its recurrence

An incident or near-miss is an unplanned event which has the potential to cause injury, damage or loss. Employees are required to report all incidents/near-misses which management view as an opportunity to prevent future accidents. The following procedure is to be adopted in the event of an accident / incident

Details of all accidents / incidents /near misses must be recorded in the Accident Book

Ensure the area about to be entered is safe

Administer first aid where necessary

Do not move the casualty unless there is immediate danger to persons involved

Summon medical aid if required

If a chemical agent/fuel is involved ensure correctly labelled container and/or Materials Safety Data Sheet is given to medical personnel

Preserve the scene if possible

Complete Accident/Incident Investigation Form – one for each witness to the accident

Forms to be given to Management

Re-commencement of work in accident/incident area must only be done when Management grant permission to do so

Any changes implemented as a result of the accident/incident must be clearly communicated to all employees

See Appendix 7 for copy of Accident / Incident Investigation Form



Accidents: Notification and Reporting The HSA (Health & Safety Authority) must be notified of accidents that cause:

A Fatality, or

Accidents, where a person is injured at a place of work and cannot perform their normal work for more than 3 consecutive days, not including the day of the accident.

The above Accidents should be reported on Form No. IR1 or reported to the HSA using their on-line reporting facility

In the event of a fatality, the HSA must be contacted with the details as soon as possible after the event by the quickest means possible i.e. by phone

The following procedure is to be adopted in the event of a Reportable Accident:

Management will notify all relevant authorities e.g. HSA using the relevant Form – obtainable from the HSA – or reported to the HSA using their on-line reporting facility

Witness statements and photographs of the scene of the accident will be collected

Accident scene must be preserved for inspection by HSA (if requested)

Management must take no action, which interferes with the HSA inspector’s work.

(See Appendix 8 for sample Accident Report Form)



Emergency Services / Telephone Numbers The following information should be on clear display in the building and made available to all employees / relevant personnel:

Place or Name

Telephone Number

Doctor

Hospital / Ambulance

Fire Brigade

Gardaí

Manager



Alcohol / Drugs and Smoking

We are committed to providing a safe working environment and this requires a clear statement of policy on alcohol, drug misuse, and smoking. We operate a ‘zero tolerance’ policy concerning alcohol consumption and drug use for all employees. Alcohol / Drug consumption

Prohibited to all staff & contractors at our place of work

Alcohol Alcohol consumption before or during working hours must be managed by all staff such that: No member of staff may present for work under the influence of alcohol, nor consume alcohol during the working day (including during lunch breaks, etc). Non-Prescription Drugs and Narcotics Drug misuse by staff is strictly prohibited such that:

No member of staff may present for work under the influence of drugs or narcotics, nor may any member of staff use such drugs during the working day.

Drug misuse risks the safety and comfort of employees. Any breach of the above restrictions is regarded as a disciplinary matter which can include immediate dismissal of the employee.

Prescription Drugs Should an employee be taking prescribed medication, this must be reported to Management, where the use of these drugs may have an adverse effect on their work activities. A doctor’s report may be required to ascertain that the taking of such medication would not adversely affect the work performance. Testing of Employees for Intoxicants As is required under the Duties of the Employee (see Section 4 above), employees must, if reasonably required by management, submit to any appropriate, reasonable and proportionate tests for intoxicants by, or under the supervision of, a registered medical practitioner.



Smoking With the advent of legislation prohibiting smoking in the workplace, management will comply with all procedures as outlined by the Office of Tobacco Control and smoking in the workplace or while driving is strictly forbidden. Mandatory ‘No Smoking’ signage should be on clear display, indicating the person in charge and the name of the person to whom a complaint can be made, if necessary. Our Statement of Policy is as follows:

“It is the policy of Dominican College, Sion Hill that its workplace is smoke-free and that all employees have a right to work in a smoke-free environment. Smoking is prohibited throughout the entire workplace. This policy applies to all employees, contractors, visitors and students. Infringements by an employee will be considered a disciplinary offence which can include immediate dismissal of the employee.

Employees who smoke and wish to obtain help to stop smoking can obtain such assistance from the National Smokers' Quitline at CallSave 1850 201

203



Art Classroom: Health and Safety Concerns

The following are examples of the many health and safety concerns of art classrooms:

Exposure to toxic and carcinogenic materials that can be ingested, inhaled or absorbed through the skin

Students not washing their hands properly after working with materials

Teachers allowing eating and drinking while working with art materials

The sink area must be kept clean and any water spills cleaned up immediately to avoid slipping on the wet floor

Rooms must be properly ventilated to ensure adequate fresh air

Electric tools must be in good working order and be well maintained

Teachers must watch for any exposed sores or cuts on a student's hands

Teachers should make an inventory of all art materials and keep it updated as they are used

Students should not wear loose-fitting clothing or dangling jewelry; they should, if appropriate, keep their hair tied back if they are working on a potter's wheel or operating a power tool.

Teachers should not mix dried materials or fire a kiln when students are in the classroom, as this exposes them to hazardous fumes and dust.

Tips for Keeping Art Rooms Safe The following are a few safety tips for teachers for keeping art classrooms safe:

Make sure each student knows the rules of safety and follows them.

Only use materials that are safe for use.

Make sure to read the labels.

Post safety slogans around the room to remind everyone to follow the rules.



Art Room Safety Rules 1. The art staff and students should know the hazards of materials used in the classroom and should follow all manufacturer's instructions for use. These instructions should include personal protective equipment required, guidelines for storage, and procedures for safe use. 2. Safety and health precautions should be posted and reviewed with students prior to any activities. 3. There will be no asbestos-containing materials, lead based glazes, and benzene in the classroom. 4. All spray painting must be done outside or with an approved operational exhaust system, and away from ignition sources. 5. Aisles should be kept clear at all times to ensure prompt evacuation in the event of an emergency. 6. Keep storage of paper goods to a minimum to reduce the potential of fire. 7. Use, storage and disposal of chemicals per manufacturers' recommendations. 8. Knives and other sharp instruments should be maintained, handled, and stored safely. Allow adequate distance between individuals to prevent accidents while in class use. 9. Use of electrical appliances/tools to heat, mix, spray, burn, etc, etc. should be in accordance with the manufacturers' safety instructions. Maintain safe distances between individuals to prevent accidents. 10. All electrical appliances/tools should be turned off when not in use. If appliances/tools are heated, allow them to cool in a safe place before storage. 11. The Chemical Safety programme must be followed



Boiler Room (Main plus Sienna house)

All boilers and ancillary equipment have been properly fitted and are adequately ventilated. The heating systems have been installed and tested by competent qualified personnel and are to be serviced on an annual basis. All records of maintenance, repair and servicing should be retained on file. Access to the boilers should be restricted to authorised personnel and the doors kept locked to restrict access. Only authorised personnel should be admitted to the boiler house/room. The storage of flammable equipment, substances and materials should be prohibited in the boiler houses / room. Appropriate signs should be put in place to inform personnel that there is a source of ignition present and to prohibit smoking and the use of naked flames in the area. A suitable Fire Extinguisher should be located in close proximity to the boiler houses/room and the installation of automatic fire suppressant systems should be located in the boiler houses / rooms.

Breaches of Safety Statement and Disciplinary Action Dominican College, Sion Hill requires all employees and sub-contractors to follow the content of this Safety Statement and its associated risk assessments to ensure their own safety and that of fellow workers. If a person is found to be in breach of the Safety Statement e.g. acting in an unsafe manner, missusing equipment, not reporting accidents etc, the following warning and disciplinary measures shall be implemented: • 1st safety breach – verbal warning • 2nd safety breach - first written warning and full re-training in the Safety Statement incorporating safe work procedures and risk assessments • 3rd safety breach - final written warning - any further safety breaches and the employee is subject to instant dismissal. Safety breaches do not have to be related for the above disciplinary procedure to be implemented. Failure to adhere to safety and health rules may result in the company taking disciplinary action in accordance with the policy and procedure set out in the employee’s contract of employment and/or staff handbook. THIS DISCIPLINARY ACTION CAN BE UP TO AND INCLUDING DISMISSAL



Boiler Houses/Switch Room

The gas boiler for the premises is located at ground level. All boilers and ancillary equipment have been properly fitted and are adequately ventilated. The heating systems have been installed and tested by competent qualified personnel and are to be serviced on an annual basis. All records of maintenance, repair and servicing should be retained on file. Access to the boilers should be restricted to authorised personnel and the doors to the boiler houses kept locked to restrict access. Only authorised personnel should be admitted to the boiler houses / room. The storage of flammable equipment, substances and materials should be prohibited in the boiler houses / room. Appropriate signs should be put in place to inform personnel that there is a source of flammable gas present and to prohibit smoking and the use of naked flames in the area. A suitable Fire Extinguisher should be located in close proximity to the boiler houses and the installation of automatic fire suppressant systems should be considered for installation in the boiler houses / rooms.



Bullying and Harassment

Management is aware that bullying and sexual harassment can be serious psychosocial hazards in any workplace. We are also aware of the need to create a climate where all employees are treated with dignity and respect. It is with this end that we have drawn up a policy on bullying and harassment in accordance with the Code of Practice on Preventing Workplace Bullying, published by the HSA. Bullying, harassment and intimidation -

Are all forms of discrimination and will not be tolerated

Are disciplinary issues

Have adverse effects on employee integrity at work

Affect employee job performance

Instill fear in employees

Have serious effects on employee health

Reduce work productivity

Increase absenteeism/staff turnover All complaints will be investigated seriously, sensitively and swiftly in order to seek a solution. In deciding upon appropriate action, cognisance will be taken of the wishes of the employee making the complaint. If the complaint is substantiated, the disciplinary action will be appropriate to the circumstances. Disciplinary action will be taken against employees, at every level, who are found to be victimising any employee making a complaint.

Records of disciplinary action will be kept on file

Anti-Bullying Policy Management will not tolerate bullying behaviour and will take appropriate steps to resolve any existing bullying problems by either Informal or Formal means (see below).

Informal Procedure While in no way diminishing the issue or the effects on individuals, an informal approach can often resolve matters. As a general rule therefore, an attempt should be made to address an allegation of bullying as informally as possible by means of an agreed informal procedure. The objective of this approach is to resolve the difficulty with the minimum of conflict and stress for the individuals involved.



(a) Any employee who believes he or she is being bullied should explain clearly to the alleged perpetrator(s) that the behaviour in question is unacceptable. In circumstances where the complainant finds it difficult to approach the alleged perpetrator(s) directly, he or she should seek help and advice, on a strictly confidential basis, from a contact person, such as:

Any manager in the workplace; General Manager; Employee’s Representative.

In this situation the contact person should listen patiently, be supportive and discuss the various options open to the employee concerned. (b) Having consulted with the contact person, the complainant may request the assistance of the contact person in raising the issue with the alleged perpetrator(s). In this situation the approach of the contact person should be by way of a confidential, non-confrontational discussion with a view to resolving the issue in an informal low-key manner. (c) A complainant may decide, for whatever reason, to bypass the informal procedure. Choosing not to use the informal procedure should not reflect negatively on a complainant in the formal procedure.

Formal Procedure

If an informal approach is inappropriate or if after the informal stage, the bullying persists, the following formal procedures should be invoked: -

(a) The complainant should make a formal complaint in writing to his/her immediate supervisor, or if preferred, any member of management. The complaint should be confined to precise details of actual incidents of bullying.

(b) The alleged perpetrator(s) should be notified in writing that an

allegation of bullying has been made against him/her. He or she should be given a copy of the complainant’s statement and advised that he or she shall be afforded a fair opportunity to respond to the allegation(s).

(c) The complaint should be subject to an initial examination by a

designated member of management who can be considered impartial with a view to determining an appropriate course of action. An appropriate course of action at this stage, for example, could be exploring a mediated solution or a view that the issue can be resolved informally. Should either of these approaches be deemed inappropriate or inconclusive, a formal investigation of the complaint



should take place with a view to determining the facts and the credibility or otherwise of the allegation(s).

Investigation

(d) The investigation should be conducted by either a designated member(s) of management or, if deemed appropriate, an agreed third party. The investigation should be conducted thoroughly, objectively, with sensitivity, utmost confidentiality and with due respect for the rights of both the complainant and the alleged perpetrator(s). The investigation should be governed by terms of reference, preferably agreed between the parties in advance.

(e) The investigator(s) should meet with the complainant and alleged

perpetrator(s) and any witnesses or relevant persons on an individual confidential basis with a view to establishing the facts surrounding the allegation(s). A work colleague may accompany the complainant and alleged perpetrator(s) or employee/trade union representative if so desired.

(f) Every effort should be made to carry out and complete the

investigation as quickly as possible and preferably within an agreed timeframe.

(g) On completion of the investigation, the investigator(s) should submit

a written report to management containing the findings of the investigation.

(h) Both parties should be given the opportunity to comment on the

findings before management decides upon any action.

(i) The complainant and the alleged perpetrator(s) should be informed in writing of the findings of the investigation.

Outcome on completion of the Investigative Procedures (j) Should management decide that the complaint is well founded; the alleged perpetrator(s) should be given a formal interview to determine an appropriate course of action. Such action could, for example, involve counselling and/or monitoring of the issue and following the disciplinary and grievance procedure of the company. (k) If either party is unhappy with the outcome of the investigation, the issue may be processed through the normal industrial relations mechanisms.



Forms of Bullying

The forms which any of these kinds of bullying may take are:

Physical contact.

Verbal abuse

Implied threats.

Jokes, offensive language, gossip, slander, offensive songs.

Posters, photocopied cartoons, graffiti, obscene gestures, flags,

bunting and emblems.

Isolation or non-cooperation or exclusion from social activities.

Coercion for sexual favours.

Intrusion by pestering, spying and stalking

Repeated requests giving impossible deadlines or impossible tasks.

Repeated unreasonable assignments to duties, which are obviously

unfavourable to one individual.

Vandalism of personal property (destroying clothing, scratching

paintwork on cars).



Chemical Safety

Although our school would be considered ‘low risk’ in the use of chemicals in our work activities, Management acknowledges their legal obligation to comply with all applicable Legislation, Regulations and Approved Codes of Practice pertaining to chemical and hazardous substances used in our work activities. This involves ensuring that exposure of employees to chemical agents is prevented or, where exposure cannot be prevented. Control measures include:

Limitation on the use of the agent in the workplace

Limitation of the number of employees exposed or likely to be exposed

Hygiene measures

Use of warning and safety signage The chemicals used in our work activity are restricted to:

Detergents / Cleaning Agents / Bleach

Inks (computer printers, etc)

A Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for each chemical or substance should be obtained from the manufacturer or the supplier of any chemicals or substances used in the school and the strict adherence to the information outlined therein must always be complied with.



Chemical Safety Policy Our policy on Chemical Safety is as follows:

Where possible, use of chemical agents will be avoided or replaced with a safer alternative

The storage of chemical agents on the premises is kept to a minimum

Safe systems of work must be adhered to with chemical safety usage

Where exposure to chemicals cannot be avoided, PPE will be provided to employees and must be worn

Appropriate signage will be posted Our policy on chemical risk assessment includes the following:

Obtaining and implementing the recommendations in the MSDS for all substances in use on the MSDS

Identification of all potentially hazardous substances

Review of methods of use

Assessing the degree of risk involved in their use

Deciding whether or not protective measures are needed

Deciding on the nature of protective measures

Safe Handling and Storage of Chemicals

The following general precautions should apply:

Chemicals must be stored in clearly/correctly labelled containers

Never store chemicals in unmarked containers e.g. mineral bottles

Chemicals must not come into contact with eyes or skin

Protective clothing must be worn when handling chemicals

Good hygiene practices must be observed at all times, especially thorough washing of hands after use – a wash hand basin, running water, and soap must be provided.

Safe storage of chemicals must be observed, storage should be in well ventilated areas, away from extreme temperatures

Safe and immediate cleaning of chemicals spills, ensuring safe disposal of spilled substances

In event of accidental exposure, refer to MSDS

Bleach and acidic cleaners must not be mixed, this can produce hazardous fumes causing lung damage

Ensure safe and correct disposal of all chemical containers

All employees should receive training in the safe use, storage and disposal of chemicals

Ensure all employees have a clear understanding of the Hazard Symbols and Hazard Labels displayed on chemical substances

Ensure first aiders have received adequate training in the event of an emergency involving chemicals



Chemical Safety Symbols and Hazard Labels

Chemical Safety Symbols

Employees are required to familiarise themselves with the following symbols, and the hazards and risks associated with substances bearing these symbols.

Xn - HARMFUL

These substances cause health risks

T – TOXIC

These substances cause serious health risks

T+ - VERY TOXIC

These substances cause extremely serious health risks

C – CORROSIVE

These substances can cause burns to eyes and the lining of

the throat, nose and lungs.

XI – HARMFUL

These substances can irritate the eyes, throat, nose and skin causing redness and

pain and possibly allergy.

F– FLAMMABLE

The vapours of these substances will catch fire at room temperature, especially

in the presence of a spark or flame.

F+ EXTREMELY

FLAMMABLE

The vapours of these substances are even more

likely to catch fire, even at low

temperatures.

O - OXIDISING

These substances, when in contact

with some other substances – particularly flammable ones – can start a fire or make a fire worse.

E - EXPLOSIVE

These substances have properties that may cause the

contents to explode.



Hazard Labels

A Hazard Label should contain:

o The supplier of the Substance.

o The name of the Substance

o The constituents of the Substances

o ‘Risk Phrases’ – those references in parentheses beginning with the letter R.

o ‘Safety Phrases’ - those references in parenthesis beginning with the

letter S. In the above example, the substance is marked both Flammable and Toxic.



Vehicles All persons who drive on behalf of Dominican College, Sion Hill on the public road are subject to the provisions of the Road Traffic Act 1961. They must, at all times, drive in a manner that is safe, both to themselves and other road users, and at all times observe the "rules of the road". We expect all drivers not to not alone fulfill their obligations under the 1961 Act, but coupled with the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 to observe the following guidelines: Driving may take up a considerable amount of their working hours and should be considered an occupational hazard. The main driving hazards are:

Poor road conditions

Inclement weather

Vehicle defects

Driver error

Excessive speed

Driving while tired Employees are instructed to

Ensure their vehicle is serviced in accordance with the manufacturers requirements

Never use a mobile telephone while driving. Always park the vehicle in a safe manner before using the telephone.

Check lights, tyres, oil, water, windscreen wipers and washer reservoir etc. at regular intervals.

Report all accidents or damage, however minor, to Management.

Ensure before reversing, that there are no obstructions or people behind the vehicle.

Make regular inspections of the vehicles for obvious defects and ensure any defects noticed, are reported to management.

Ensure their driving license is current at all times when driving.

Management must:

Ensure Employees are trained in safe driving practices e.g. wearing of safety belts, speed, breaks and rest periods, use of daily vehicle check list, actions in event of a collision.

Ensure adequate rest breaks are taken by drivers and adequate time is

allowed for journeys, taking account of road, traffic and weather

conditions.

Ensure records are kept of drivers’ licences, training,

accidents/incidents, vehicle checks, maintenance, NCT Test and

insurance.

Ensure vehicles are fully serviced and maintained in a roadworthy

condition, are insured for business use, and are safe and fit for use.



Contractors / Sub-Contractors

Dominican College, Sion Hill may, from time to time, engage contractors’ services for such tasks as equipment maintenance and servicing, window cleaning, decorating, refurbishment and general building maintenance, etc.

Prior to any contract being agreed, management will ensure that contractors are competent to do the work required and agree to adhere to all Health and Safety legislation pertaining to contractors

Management will advise contractors of hazards or risks which may endanger their safety and health

Contractors must submit a copy of their own Safety Statement, Insurance Certificates, any required Permits, Consents and Registrations

Contractor’s Safety Statements must be based on hazard identification and risk assessments e.g. chemicals which may give rise to actual or potential contamination of soils, pollution of waters, escape of noxious fumes or liquids The results of these risk assessments, together with any corrective actions must be available to management for review

Contractors must submit copies of their method statement and their safety records.

Contractors must maintain an up to date register of all of their employees on the premises. This is to enable personnel to be accounted for in the event of an emergency

Contractors are responsible for the quick and efficient cleaning up of spills and/or leaks of any substances. All such incidents must be reported to management

Contractors vehicles must not obstruct other vehicular movements and must comply with road traffic regulations appropriate to the immediate vicinity

Contractors must use their own equipment at all times

Contractors must agree to abide by the contents of our Safety Statement and work within the parameters of our Safety Culture

Contractors must agree to abide by our emergency evacuation procedures to an incident/accident - This includes the allocation of a muster point and the accounting for personnel

Contractors must ensure that all statutory requirements in this document are adhered to

(See Appendix 5 for details of Contractors’ H&S Assessment Form)



Customer Care and Safety and Protection of Visitors Dominican College, Sion Hill is always conscious of the safety of employees, contractors and visitors and in order to achieve the goal of an accident free environment the following procedures have been adopted:

• No access is available to restricted areas • All pathways are kept clear and free from obstacles • Emergency Exit routes are clearly signposted • No hazardous materials or equipment are left in areas to which

the public have access • Every effort is made by all staff members to safeguard visitors • No person can enter the premises without prior authorisation. • All visitors must report to and sign in and out using the visitors

book at the reception. • Visitors must be accompanied at all times by a staff member.

PROCEDURE Every person, at any time, can be the victim of an accident. Therefore visitors should be severely restricted.The following procedure should be adapted.

(a) Visitor’s book registering the person’s name, car reg. no., date of visit, purpose of visit, seen by, time arrived, time departed, section of the works visited.

Receptionist

(b) Preferably the visitor should make an appointment so the visit is expected

All personnel

(c) All visits unless by special permission should take place within the normal working hours.

All personnel



Drilling Management recognise that drilling is part of the works which certain employees may have to carry out from time to time and to ensure their safety we require all employees to be aware or made aware of the controls on drilling as listed below. When using drills:

Always check the drill before plugging in.

If the drill or lead is damaged it must be reported.

Only competent persons can repair the drill.

Always tie up or remove loose clothing, long hair, rings, and jewellery;

Only use electric drills via a 110 volt transformer;

Ensure that drill bits are regularly sharpened / replaced;

Wear eye protection when drilling;

Don't use electric drills with one hand use both hands;

Use cloth or brush provided to clean off machine;

Drilled profile with a file or sandpaper, not by the bare hand;



Electricity

Management acknowledges their legal obligation to comply with Part 3 of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Applications) Regulations 2007, Electricity. The building has a 220 volt mains supply throughout and all electrical equipment/appliances should carry CE marks. Only competent electrical contractors (who are currently members of RECI (The Register of Electrical Contractors of Ireland) are permitted to carry out electrical work. The premises should be inspected annually to ensure the safety of all electrical installations. Records of all maintenance and testing should be kept on file. Employees are expressly forbidden to undertake any repairs or alterations to the electrical system including the repair of any electrical equipment/appliance on the premises.

Electrical Contractors All electrical contractors working on our behalf must be competent to the task and be in possession of their own up-to-date compliant Safety Statement.

First Aid Requirements Those administering First Aid to personnel following an incident involving electricity should be fully trained in the procedures to be followed in the event of electric shock. This includes mouth to mouth resuscitation and cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR)

Portable Equipment

It is management’s policy to ensure that all equipment is kept in good working order to, in so far as is practicable, ensure the safety of employees using any portable equipment. We are committed to training employees using or required to use such equipment. All portable equipment will be purchased from reputable firms or suppliers. The following recommended procedures must be followed when using Portable Equipment:

Ensure that the equipment is fitted with correct plug

Ensure that lead is not cut or frayed and that is effectively clamped to the equipment and plug

Ensure all screws are in place and secure

Ensure the extension lead is suitably rated for the electric current

Ensure the equipment is disconnected before adjusting or working on it

Ensure the equipment is disconnected when not in use

Ensure the equipment is kept clean and free from damp

Ensure safe and correct use of appropriate PPE



Checklist for Inspection of Electrical Equipment

These checks are concerned with the visually accessible parts of the equipment and its cable, plug and any extension cable. The only exception to this is the recommendation that the inside of the plug be examined. Check for the Following Points on these items: Cable

1. Coiling of long lengths of cable. 2. A situation where future mechanical damage or corrosion is likely 3. Hardening of outer insulation kinking of cable. 4. Signs of mechanical damage, overheating, or corrosion.

Plug

1. Signs of mechanical damage or corrosion 2. Signs of overheating, e.g. discoloration or distortion 3. Wires connected to correct terminals and of the correct length 4. Securing screws suitably tight 5. Cable clamp holding cable securely 6. Fuse of correct rating fitted. 7. Un-insulated ends of wires completely covered by the screws

The Equipment

1. Casing damaged 2. Grommet or other protection at place where cable passes through the

casing, damaged or missing 3. Damaged or defective switches 4. Plastic casting of double insulated equipment damaged



Electricity – General guidelines

The following best practice is to be observed at all times:

All new electrical installations and all extensions must be tested and certified as safe, by a competent qualified electrician

Electrical installations must be checked regularly by a competent qualified electrician

Testing, certifying and repairs must be carried out in accordance with appropriate Electro Technical Council of Ireland (E.T.C.I.) standards

Enclosures/covers must be in place to prevent contact with live electrical equipment/parts

Damaged extension leads must be repaired or removed from use

Means of cutting off power to electrical installations and equipment e.g. fuses, trip switches, must be provided and employees made aware of their locations

Work on live electrical equipment must be avoided where reasonably practicable

Fire extinguishers that are suitable for fighting electrical fires must be provided

All circuits supplying socket outlets must be protected by a Residual Current Device (RCD)

Operation of the RCD must be is tested regularly in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions

Where electrical portable equipment is subject to ongoing wear and tear, they must be inspected and tested

Any scorch marks associated with an electrical appliance or electrical wiring must be checked urgently by a competent person

Avoid the use of extension cables where possible. If unavoidable, extension cables must be fitted with the correct earthing

All electrical equipment must be switched off when not in use, especially at the close of the school day

All equipment must be fitted with correctly rated fuses

https://besmart.hsa.ie/risk-assessment/pending/hazard/#hover-phrase-573

https://besmart.hsa.ie/risk-assessment/pending/hazard/#hover-phrase-573



Faulty equipment must be taken out of service and reported to the Manager immediately

Avoid the use of multiple adaptors

Avoid trailing cables where possible. If unavoidable, cables should be securely taped to the ground and appropriate signage posted

Ergonomics Ergonomics is the science of fitting the task to the person. It focuses on human beings and their interaction with products, equipment, facilities, procedures and environments used in everyday life and work. The emphases is on human beings and how the design of things and systems influence people, as opposed to engineering where the emphases is strictly on design without necessarily any regard to how the human body functions. The two main objectives of ergonomics are:

To enhance the effectiveness and efficiency with which work is undertaken

To enhance certain desirable human values such as improved safety, reduced fatigue and stress, increased comfort and increased job satisfaction.

As we work towards continuous improvement, we endeavour to design our work activities encompassing the above principles, in so far as is reasonably practicable:

Employees are provided with varying tasks so as to facilitate the use of a wide range of muscles

Workstation-based employees are familiar with, and implement, the principles of the Reach Envelope

All equipment and furniture is chosen with ergonomic principles in mind (adjustable office chairs, desk height, computer screen angle adjustment, kitchen workstation height, height of shelving, manual handling requirements, etc.)



Equality Policy Dominican College, Sion Hill is an equal opportunities employer and acknowledges its legal responsibilities when hiring employees and when interacting with members of the public. It is the policy of the school to interact with all individuals or groups equally and with dignity regardless of their:

Gender

Marital Status

Family Status

Sexual Orientation

Age

Disability

Religion

Nationality

Race

Membership of the Travelling Community.

Equal Opportunities and Conditions of Employment The organiastion is committed to implementing equal opportunities in all its employment practices, policies and procedures without discrimination on grounds of gender, marital status, family status, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, nationality, race and membership of the travelling community. To this end we will ensure that the principles of employment equality are applied to recruitment, promotion, training and work experience. Specifically this means: Equal access to employment, promotion and training on merit without reference to any other distinguishing criteria.

Fire Prevention

Management acknowledges their legal obligations under the 2005 Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act and the Fire Services Act, 1981 to provide adequate Fire Fighting Equipment and Procedures to be followed in the event of an emergency. Professional advice should be sought from a competent person to indicate the necessary Fire Fighting Equipment, Emergency Lighting, Break Glass Units, Smoke Detectors, Fire Alarm, etc., in order to comply with the statutory obligations in this regard.



In addition to the provision of Fire Fighting Equipment, all employees should receive a basic Fire Safety Training Course, which includes;

An introduction to current fire legislation

Comprehensive explanation on how fires start

Demonstration and practice of safe and correct use of Fire Fighting Equipment

Participation in fire evacuation drills

Actions to be taken in the event of fire. Legislative compliance in fire issues is achieved through:

The provision and regular maintenance of Fire Alarm, Smoke Detectors, Emergency Lighting, adequate Fire Fighting Equipment and Training of staff, Emergency Exits and Emergency Evacuation Procedures for employees.

Regular safety inspections and analysis of fire hazards.

Provision of adequate Fire Fighting Equipment,

Provision of Fire Safety Training for employees

Regular ‘walk through’ of fire exit routes to ensure they are well lit, clearly defined and kept free from obstruction at all times

Meeting the requirements of the provision of Safety Signs.

Ensuring fire instructions are clearly displayed on the premises

Ensuring faulty light fittings, frayed flexes and damaged switches are reported to the manager and promptly repaired / replaced

Ensuring combustible materials are not kept near hot surfaces, sources of ignition or naked flames

Ensuring internal fire doors are operational and kept free from obstruction at all times

Daily removal of rubbish / waste to a designated safe area

Ensuring strict adherence to “Fire Safety Measures” on MSDS

Fire Safety Equipment All Fire Fighting Equipment should be suitable to the type of fire and its associated hazards, as indicated by the chart below. All Fire Fighting Equipment is serviced annually (date of last service is March 2016). Details and records of such servicing should be stated on the labels adhered to the extinguishers and recorded in a Fire Register. Professional advice should be sought from a reputable company on the suitability of the Fire Fighting Equipment already in situ and whether additional Fire Fighting and Emergency Equipment should be provided. (See Appendix 3 for Schedule of Fire Equipment which outlines the location

and service details of Fire Fighting Equipment)



Fire Extinguishers

Types and Use - General Information Fire extinguishers are labelled for the classes of fire they can put out. Using the wrong type of fire extinguisher can be harmful and make the fire worse so always check the label first. Fire extinguishers are usually located along normal paths of travel and egress. The four most common types of fire extinguishers are: (i) Water, (ii) Carbon Dioxide, (iii) Foam, (iv) Dry Powder.

All Fire extinguishers have a red body. However each different type has an accompanying coloured label associated with its type and use:

Water Fire Extinguishers have a RED Label

Carbon Dioxide Extinguishers have a BLACK Label

Dry Powder Extinguishers have a BLUE Label

Foam Extinguishers have a CREAM Label

Class Material Extinguisher Type

A

SOLIDS

such as paper, wood, plastic

Water (Red) Powder (Blue) Foam (Cream)

B

Flammable LIQUIDS such as

paraffin, petrol, oil, fats

Powder (Blue)

Carbon Dioxide (Black) Foam (Cream)

C

Flammable GASES

such as propane and butane

Powder (Blue)

D

METALS

such as Magnesium and Aluminium

Special powder extinguishers:

Graphite, Talc, Sand, Soda

ELECTRICAL FIRES

Powder (Blue) Carbon Dioxide (Black)



Fire Prevention All electrical equipment is protected by a Residual Current Device. This

device cuts off the energy supply in the event of a leak.

Electrical circuits must not be overloaded or interfered with.

Combustible materials may not be stored within 0.5m of heating appliances,

light fittings or hot surfaces.

All flammable fuels/materials are stored in suitable containers

Smoking is not permitted in the vicinity of any fuel containers.

Any defective electrical equipment must be reported to the Management.

Fire extinguishers are supplied.

Strict housekeeping standards are employed in all work environments

associated with Dominican College, Sion Hill

Means of Escape Escape signage is fitted throughout the building where required. These

comply with the General Application Regulations of 2007.

Employees should know the fire escape routes and exits from the building.

Under no circumstances must access to these be obstructed.

Portable fire extinguishers are provided. Only employees that have been

given specific training in the correct selection and use of fire extinguishers

should attempt to use one.

Staff are to go to the assembly point in the event of an emergency.

Assembly points will be marked clearly by signage.



Evacuation Procedures

To facilitate the safe and efficient evacuation of people from the premises, the following is the recommended procedure on the discovery of a fire:

Activate the fire alarm

Notify personnel in immediate area

Call the fire brigade giving exact details of location and address of premises:

“I wish to report a fire at Dominican College, Sion Hill

Cross Ave, Blackrock, Co. Dublin, A94 TP97

(01) 2886791 This is an employee speaking”

(Change in accordance with site address)

Activate electricity shut off point if safe to do so

Close all doors

Leave the building

Gather at nearest assembly point The following is the recommended evacuation procedure on hearing of the occurrence of fire:

Remain calm and leave the premises at once, using the nearest exit

Close all doors

Do not run/delay

Do not return for personal belongings

Gather at the nearest assembly point and remain there until advised to leave

Assembly Point An Assembly Point should be provided and all employees informed of its location. Suitable Signage should be provided at the Assembly Point to indicate its location.

It is essential that clients and contractors are advised of the above



Fire Drills Management is conscious of their requirement to undertake regular fire drills as set out in the relevant legislation

Local Emergency Services Contact Details

The following is a list of our Local Emergency Contact Details which should be on clear display in the building

Name Contact Details:

Doctor:

Fire:

Ambulance:

Gardai:



First Aid Management acknowledges their legal obligation to comply with Part 7 Chapter 2 of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Applications) Regulations 2007, First Aid There is a defibrillator in the school. A fully stocked and clearly marked First Aid Box is located in the school also. Employees are instructed to not interfere with the First Aid Box unless in the event of an emergency requiring First Aid. No medication (pain killing tablets, analgesics, etc.) is included in the contents of first aid boxes and no medications will be given to employees as First Aid. Employees who believe they may require such items must provide their own. The names, addresses and telephone numbers of the local emergency services are clearly displayed in the building and employees are cognisant of the procedures required to contact the emergency services.

Record Keeping If First Aid is required to be provided, the following details should be retained and entered into the Accident Book

Name of patient

Type of injury

Treatment given

Name and signature of First Aider

Signature of person receiving treatment acknowledging receipt of treatment

Date of incident

First Aid Box Contents First aid boxes should be continuously stocked as recommended by the HSA and their contents are outlined below.

ITEM NUMBER OF ITEMS

First aid guidance card

Adhesive plasters

Sterile eye pads (bandage attached)

Individually wrapped triangular bandages

Safety pins

1

20

2

2

6



Individually wrapped sterile unmedicated wound dressings

Medium (13x8cm)

Individually wrapped sterile unmedicated wound dressings

Large (28x17.5cm)

Individually wrapped disinfectant wipes

Paramedic shears

Latex gloves

Sterile eye wash where there is no clear running water

Spray for mild burns/scalds

Pocket Face Mask

Water Based Burns Dressing (10x10) cms.

Water based burns dressing Large

Crepe Bandage (7cm)

2

2

10

1

5

1 x 500mls

1

1

1

1

1

Occupational First Aiders The following is a list of our Occupational First Aid Trained employees and the date of their training:

NAME DATE OF TRAINING



Guidelines for Safety on Visits

All employees encounter a degree of risk to themselves whilst undertaking

their duties.

With the nature of the school’s work it will be necessary at times to be with

students and others in settings away from the school.

The aim of these guidelines is to help those who may work off-site to

understand and minimize the risks involved.

Personal safety is of paramount importance at all times. The aim of this

section is to minimise risk and to determine risk probability.

NEW REFERRALS:

Ensure that you have adequate, relevant and up to date information regarding the person/persons who you will be meeting.

Before you make contact, check to see whether the person(s) is/are known to the school. If they are known, ensure that you have read previous entries and talk to co-workers, particularly any reference to possible previous or current known risk to staff, others or property.

Always discuss concerns with your colleagues prior to making contact. If you are in any doubt, arrangements should be made to see the person at the school, with a colleague or in a public place where the environment is more controlled and back up is available.

Remember not to put yourself at any unnecessary risk.

PRIOR TO ARRANGING HOME VISIT:

If you are planning a home visit and still have some concerns, then arrange to visit with a colleague or in a neutral venue.

Carefully plan your visits – try to avoid visiting after dark on the first visit

Ensure to notify colleagues on where and who you are visiting and estimated time of return.

Any changes to the intended visit are the responsibility of the person carrying out the visit who should phone in and notify colleagues of any changes.

Ensure you have a mobile phone with you – fully charged and with credit.

Ensure your car keys are readily accessible When visiting in pairs, ensure your partner is fully briefed beforehand. Liaise with family members or carers (where appropriate)



GOING TO HOME VISIT:

On reaching the home address, always park your car in the direction in which you will be leaving.

Always try and park in a well-lit area. Always keep your car keys in a place that is easily accessible Be sure of your directions before you start to reduce vulnerability. Carry as little as possible. Leave any unnecessary valuables or cash

behind.

HOME VISITS:

On reaching the front door, if you have any concerns, i.e. person is hostile, potentially threatening or indeed showing any cause for concern. DO NOT ENTER UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES.

Remain calm in tone and move back from the door Return to your car as quickly and as calmly as possible. Confirm that an adult is present in the house before entering; if no adult

is present do not go inside, you may talk on the doorstep in public view or call back.

DURING HOME VISITS:

Always attempt to assess on the doorstep the level of risk. On entering, place yourself between the person and the exit door. When possible avoid the kitchen area (aware of possible dangers that

are in a kitchen) Speak clearly, slowly and calmly Adopt open relaxed posture Be aware of personal safety at all times Note exit areas as soon as you enter the property Be aware of weapons If concerned i.e. potential risk to self or others, ring police and request

immediate assistance, have office number and Garda Station number on speed dial.

DURING ANY VISIT IF YOU ARE THREATENED VERBALLY OR PHYSICALLY YOU

MUST WITHDRAW AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.

AFTER THE VISIT:

On your return always notify colleagues that you are back. If there were concerns during the visit discuss them with team

members. Ensure all documentation is completed as soon as possible after the

visit. Appropriate support and supervision should be sought if necessary. Discussion should take place as to the appropriate follow up for the

person/family visited.



Guidelines on Trips/Tours etc.

Child protection guidelines should be adhered to on trips.

Three adults should attend on each trip or two adults for one to one trips

A paid worker has to be in attendance

A trip sheet should be written up and given to senior staff person on each occasion

Universal consent form should be in place for all children and young people.

Ensure signed permission has been given for the receipt of medical attention.

N.B. When the group is taking place outside the grounds parents/guardians need to be informed where their children / young people will be.

Before going on a trip look over consent and medical forms for allergies, medical information etc.

A designated meeting place should be identified and a worker available at this point at regular intervals for young people to check in.

If a young person goes missing or does not appear at the arranged time, a short time should be given for late comers, the situation should then be reported to the person on call and if agreed then the parents/guardians and Gardai notified. One staff member/volunteer can stay behind if necessary.

If a child/young person gets sick or is injured arrangements need to be made to get them to a doctor or hospital and parents/guardians need to be notified.

A first aid box should be brought on all trips.

If a child/young person is caught breaking the law, a worker needs to remain with that child and parents notified. If the child/young person is arrested they are then in the care of the Gardai. However a worker needs to remain with them until a parent/guardian can get there.

OVERNIGHT TRIPS IN IRELAND/ABROAD

3 or 4 leaders need to be present with single sex groups, based on no more than 12 young people/children.

4 leaders – 2 male and 2 female with mixed groups

Ensure phones, phone chargers, first aid box, contact numbers, consent forms, emergency medical consent form, including health information, dietary info, etc., are brought on trip.

Universal consent form does not cover overnights, parents’ permission needs to be sought

Ensure phone coverage is available in the area you are visiting / staying.

Ensure trip sheet is completed and a full itinerary is given to supervisor/person in authority



Ensure adequate petty cash and emergency funds are available

Ensure risk assessment is carried out before undertaking trip.

Workers need to be aware of any medication required by participants and hold securely such medication

Arrangements should be in place to access transport in case of emergency or if bus is not constantly available during trip

Roles and responsibilities for the adult leaders / staff should be agreed and clearly outlined, including plans for night time supervision, before undertaking the trip

Any particular issues such as bed wetting, nightmares, personal care, etc. should be considered before departure.

All normal guidelines and policies and procedures should be followed during the time spent with children and young people on the overnight trip

Overnight trips provide an opportunity for participants to become involved in

an empowering way in the management of their own group. Therefore, it is

important to actively engage with participants in defining expectations in terms

of behaviour, co-operation, etc. It is also necessary to inform participants of

policies and guidelines by which staff must abide and what the consequences

are for all when or if someone pushes the boundaries.

In the event of anything unusual taking place on a trip the principal /

person on call or member of management team needs to be informed as

soon as possible and if not available a senior colleague or Chairperson

of the Board of Dominican College, Sion Hill.



Housekeeping

Many workplace accidents occur because good housekeeping practices are not observed. These include slips, trips and falls as well as the risk of fire. Therefore a system of good housekeeping practices and procedures should be implemented. This begins with an introduction to the concept of a “safety culture” for all employees. Employees are encouraged to think of possible consequences before they act.

General Practice The goal of developing housekeeping safety awareness among employees includes:

All areas to be kept clean and tidy at all times. A policy of “clean as you go” is fostered.

Ensure immediate cleaning of spillages. When this is not possible, the area of the spill must be cordoned off and made inaccessible until cleaned.

All evacuation routes are kept free from obstruction.

All refuse bins must be emptied on a regular basis, at least daily. Any broken glass must be safely disposed of in designated bins

Wastepaper should be regularly disposed of in the allocated recycling bins. This is to ensure that there is no build-up of paper supplying fuel for a fire

All electric cables must be kept in a tidy position



Inspection Procedures All areas of the premises will be inspected by a representative of Management together with the Safety Representative/s at regular intervals, minimum monthly. Reports of each safety inspection completed will be copied to Management. Management will respond within 24 hours identifying the actions that are to be taken, or have been taken. Where, in the opinion of the Management, there is a risk of serious injury to personnel, they will have the authority to stop any process until adequate steps have been taken to eliminate or reduce the risk. NOTE - Where an employee other than the Principal is fulfilling the role of Safety Officer, these duties and selected other duties in the preceding pages should be appointed as the responsibility of that person. Areas of potential hazards identified by staff members or contractors will be examined in depth during the monthly inspection and the appropriate decisions taken. Please note within this Safety Statement we have set out to identify and classify the various hazards within the operation and this section will be reviewed regularly as changes occur.

Lighting Management is cognizant of the fact that poor or inadequately designed lighting is a significant cause of accidents in the workplace. The following best practice is recommended:

Windows are free from dirt and grime

Immediate replacement of blown light bulbs

Uniformity of lighting within the workplace

Evenness of illumination i.e. the ratio between the height of lighting above the workspace and the layout of fittings.

Several low sources of light instead of one high power source.

The task should be brighter than its surrounds

Light sources are not placed within 60 degrees of working line of sight and are properly shielded

Fluorescent light mounted at right angles to the line of sight and must be at right angles to windows

Provision of window blinds where necessary



Lone Workers

Introduction:

Lone workers are those who work by themselves without close or direct supervision. Examples would be Dominican College, Sion Hill staff members (e.g. Home/School Liaison personnel, chaplain etc.) who carry out off-site duties and persons who stay behind in the office “outside office hours” on their own. Lone working refers to situations whereby employees in the course of their duties work alone in the homes of individuals, in their own home or at other businesses/locations etc. Dominican College, Sion Hill is aware that they have the same responsibility for the safety and health of employees who work from home or at other locations as for any other employee. They may be physically isolated from colleagues and without access to immediate assistance.

Such employees may work by themselves without direct supervision and with a certain degree of autonomy. Certain Dominican College, Sion Hill staff may be deemed to be both ‘Lone Workers’ and ‘Mobile Workers’.

Hazards that lone workers may encounter include:

accidents or emergencies arising out of the work, including inadequate

provision of first aid

sudden illnesses

inadequate provision of rest, hygiene and welfare facilities

physical violence from members of the public and/or intruders

Employees must not assume that having a mobile phone is a sufficient safeguard in itself.

Staff should take all reasonable precautions to ensure their own safety, as they would in any other circumstances. Their responsibilities include:

Take reasonable care to look after their own safety and health

Safeguard the safety and health of other people affected by their work

Co-operate with their employer’s safety and health procedures

Use tools and other equipment properly, in accordance with any

relevant safety instructions and training they have been given

Not misuse equipment provided for their safety and health

Report all accidents, injuries, near-misses and other dangerous

occurrences



Control measures may include:

Mobile phone, telephone or radio (as Communication is very important)

Controlled periodic checks

Automatic warning devices, e.g. Panic alarms, no movement alarms,

automatic distress message systems, i.e. Pre-recorded message sent

if not actively cancelled by operative, etc.

Instruction and training in proper procedures, e.g. Code words for

potentially violent situations when combined with mobile phone

communication.

Use of personal protective equipment (PPE)

Health surveillance

First-aid kits and training

Implementing standard operating procedures (SOP’s)

Locking and securing place of work

Implementing correct incident reporting procedures

Provision of counselling

Management should make provision for regular contact, both to monitor the situation and to counter the effects of working in isolation.

Employees should be issued with a mobile phone; they are responsible for checking that it is charged and in working order. Personal alarms may be provided.

There is no specific H&S Legislation which prohibits a person from working alone. However, Legislation requires that risk assessments are carried out for all hazardous work activities and control measures introduced to reduce risks.

In drawing up and recording an assessment of risk the following issues should be considered, as appropriate to the circumstances:

Environment – location, security, access

Context – Nature of task, any special circumstances

Individuals Concerned – indicators of potential or actual risk

History – any previous incidents in similar situations

Any other special circumstances All available information should be taken into account and checked or updated as necessary. Where there is any reasonable doubt about the safety of a lone worker in a given situation, consideration should be given to sending a second worker or making other arrangements to complete the task. While resource implications cannot be ignored, safety must be the prime concern.



Responsibilities:

Dominican College, Sion Hill has given due consideration to the following:

Does the workplace present a special risk to the lone worker?

Is there a safe way in and a way out for one person? Can any temporary access equipment that is necessary, such as portable ladders or trestles, be safely handled by one person?

Can all the plant, substances and goods involved in the work be safely handled by one person? Consider whether the work involves lifting objects too large for one person or whether more than one person is needed to operate essential controls for the safe running of equipment.

Is there a risk of violence?

Are women especially at risk if they work alone?

Are young workers especially at risk if they work alone?

For a lone worker at a remote location, the following factors have been

considered:

Does the workplace present a specific risk to the lone worker, for example due to temporary access equipment, such as portable ladders or trestles that one person would have difficulty handling?

Is there a safe way in and out for one person, e.g. for a lone person working out of hours where the workplace could be locked up?

Is there machinery involved in the work that one person cannot operate safely?

Are chemicals or hazardous substances being used that may pose a particular risk to the lone worker?

Does the work involve lifting objects too large for one person?

Is there a risk of violence and/or aggression?

Are there any reasons why the individual might be more vulnerable than others and be particularly at risk if they work alone (for example if they are young, pregnant, disabled or a trainee)?

If the lone worker’s first language is not English, are suitable arrangements in place to ensure clear communications, especially in an emergency?

How long should the work take and how frequently should the worker report in?

Has the worker a safe means of travel to and from the location, especially out of normal hours?

Is there access to adequate rest, hygiene, refreshment, welfare and first aid facilities?

Can emergency services approach the location without hindrance? Procedures for responding to “worst-case scenario”.



In the case of an emergency, the following factors have been considered:

Lone workers should be capable of responding correctly to

emergencies. Risk assessment should identify foreseeable events.

Emergency procedures should be established and employees trained

in them.

Information about emergency procedures and danger areas should be

given to lone workers who visit the premises.

Lone workers should have access to adequate first-aid facilities and

mobile workers should carry a first-aid kit suitable for treating minor

injuries.

Occasionally, the risk assessment may indicate that lone workers need

training in first aid.

Management should ensure that the appropriate arrangements are in place for ensuring the safety of staff working alone within their offices/premises and off-site activities.

The Manager should ensure that appropriate arrangements are in place for ensuring the safety of their staff working outside the office.

Management should, prior to setting people to work, ensure that:

1. The risks associated with lone working have been adequately assessed and the risks minimised.

2. Lone Workers are aware of the arrangements for the work to be done and understand the precautions that they must take.

Employees are responsible for taking reasonable care of themselves and others who may be affected by their activities, complying with any necessary H&S procedures and for co-operating with their Managers so that they can comply with the H&S legislation required of them.

Further Guidance is included in Appendix 11 & Appendix 12 of this

Document



Machinery and Equipment

All equipment must be used in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions

The provision of safe plant and equipment is a key obligation on employers in the 2005 Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act and is expanded upon in the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Applications) Regulations 2007 Chapter 2, Work Equipment. Management is cognisant of the following requirements of the SHWW 2007 General Application Regulations:

The need to take account of the working posture and position of employees and their ergonomic requirements

That the areas for working on or maintaining work equipment must be suitably lit having regard to the operation being carried out

The need to ensure that all employees are aware of the hazards associated with various pieces of equipment, whether or not they operate the equipment

The need to maintain a current “maintenance log” for all equipment

The need to record all inspections carried out on equipment, have them available for inspection for 5 years and available for viewing when employees request same

Employees who discover defects are required to bring this to the attention of the manager immediately and the maxim of “no use of defective equipment” must be adhered to at all times. Regular maintenance of equipment is carried out on an annual basis. Records of all maintenance and testing are kept in the safety file.



Manual Handling

At Dominican College, Sion Hill we recognise that the manual handling of loads represents at least some of the work which is undertaken by all staff. Manual handling of loads is recognised as being a consistently large cause of lost time occupational accidents in industry generally, and the management are committed to ensuring that, through risk assessment and management, the risk to staff will be minimized in so far as is practicable.

Management acknowledges their legal obligation under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Applications) Regulations 2007, SI 299, to provide Manual

Handling Training for all employees. At present some employees have been provided with Manual Handling Training. Training for the remaining employees is being arranged. At all times, the principles below must be adhered to by all staff performing manual handling activities at work:

Adopt a good posture When lifting from a low level, bend the knees but Keep your back straight, maintaining its natural curve (tucking in the chin helps). Lean forward a little over the load if necessary to get a good grip. Keep the shoulders level and facing in the same direction as the hips.

Get a firm grip Try to keep the arms within the boundary formed by the legs. The best position and type of grip depends on the circumstances and individual preference; but must be secure. A hook grip is less tiring than keeping the fingers straight. If you need to vary the grip as the lift proceeds, do it as smoothly as possible.

Stop and think Plan the lift. Where is the load to be placed? Use appropriate handling aids if possible. Do you need help with the load? Remove obstructions such as discarded wrapping materials. For a long lift, such as floor to shoulder height, consider resting the load mid-way on a table to change grip.



Manual Handling of Loads

Position the feet Feet apart, giving a balanced and stable base for lifting (tight skirts and unsuitable footwear make this difficult). Leading leg as far forward as is comfortable and if possible, pointing in the direction you intend to go.

Keep close to the load Keep the load close to the trunk for as long as possible. Keep heaviest side of the load next to the trunk. If a close approach to the load is not possible, slide it towards you before trying to lift.

Don’t jerk Lift smoothly; raising the chin as the lift begins, keeping control of the load.

Move the feet Don’t twist the trunk when turning to the side. Put down, then adjust if precise positioning of the load is necessary, put it down first, and then slide it into the desired position.

How do I know if there’s a risk of injury?

It’s a matter of judgment in each case, but there are certain things to look out for, such as people puffing and sweating, excessive fatigue, bad posture, cramped work areas, awkward or heavy loads or a history of back troubles. Operators can often highlight which activities are unpopular, difficult or arduous.



MANUAL HANDLING OF LOADS Cont/d.

General Risk Assessment Guidelines

There is no such thing as a completely ‘safe’ manual handling operation but

working within the following guidelines will cut the risk and reduce the need

for a more detailed assessment.





Management acknowledges their legal obligation under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Applications) Regulations 2007, SI 299, to provide Manual Handling Training for all employees. This involves:

Manual Handling Risk Assessment

Employee The ability to carry out a Manual Handling task varies from person to person. This will also vary depending on weight, height, age and gender. Any task undertaken should not be outside the capability of the person performing it; i.e. it should not require excessive strength. Allowance should be made in assessments in a person with a known health problem. Pregnancy has significance implications for the risk of Manual Handling injuries. Particular care should be taken in the three months either side of the child’s birth. All employees should be suitably trained in safe lifting techniques in order to carry out Manual Handling tasks.

Load The weight of the load is only one factor, other features such as rigidity, size, shape and resistance to movement should also be taken into account. Posture, workplace design and work schedules should be considered. The bulk of the load is important, if it is more than 75cm in one dimension, then handling will be difficult. The load should be easy to grasp and stable, with no intrinsic harm associated with the load i.e. no sharp edges.

Task The load must be kept close to the body; failure to do so will stress the lower back. Good posture is vital in Manual Handling – the lack of control of a load may result in injury. Feet and hands must be well placed to handle the load. No twisting or stooping as this puts additional strain on the back. Loads are most comfortably carried at mid-thigh to waist level. Lifting outside this area increases the risk of injury. Avoid lifting objects that are far away from the body or are very high up or low down. Where lifts are from floor to above waist height or to head height, then ensure that the lift is broken into manageable sections.

Excessive carrying, pushing, pulling or sudden movements must be avoided. Repetitive must also be avoided, especially if a movement is repeated many times per minute – even with very light loads. Appropriate rest and recovery periods should be taken. Handling of loads whilst seated has considerable constraints as use of the strong leg muscles is nullified



Area Is there enough space to carry out the task safely without twisting or stooping? Are the floors and walkways even and clear so that slips, trips and falls are avoided? If slopes, stairs, steps or unsuitable floors are present theses are additional hazards to safe Manual Handling. Fatigue or stress may be caused by extremes of conditions such as temperature or humidity. Manual Handling will be adversely affected due to the difficulty in holding and securing the load. Lighting should be sufficient to allow safe lifting activities. Training which includes:

a. An overview of Manual Handling legislation b. Anatomy and Physiology c. Outline of hazards and risks associated with poor lifting

techniques d. Injuries associated with incorrect manual handling e. Back strain f. Slipped disc g. Crushing of hands and fingers h. Work related upper limb disorder (WRULD) i. Foot injuries j. Information and training on safe lifting techniques k. Practical demonstrations and applications of safe lifting

techniques l. Written test of knowledge



General Guidelines for Manual Handling The following procedures and control measures are recommended when required to use Manual Handling:

Each manual handling task has been assessed using the risk factors and where necessary, control(s) put in place.

Heavy/awkward lifts must not be undertaken by an individual employee

Heavy or large/unwieldy loads are broken down into more manageable weights or are lifted by 2 people

Manual handling is reduced to a minimum in so far as is reasonably practicable. Mechanical handling devices such as hoists must be used where possible

Platform steps are provided to access loads at high levels

Wherever practicable, mobile trolleys must be used to transport heavy loads

Supervision of employees to ensure correct and safe lifting techniques

Task is organised to allow the use of mechanical aids to avoid/reduce the need for manual handling

Task is organised to ensure handling is carried out between waist and shoulder height

Work is planned to prevent handling over long distances or frequent repetitions

Workplace is organised to ensure adequate room to prevent bending, twisting, and/or unstable posture

Employees receive relevant manual handling training where necessary



Noise

The Noise Regulations 2006 reduce employer action levels to 80dB (A) (when hearing protection must be provided) and 85dB(A) (when hearing protection must be worn). The noise levels in our school may exceed the levels where hearing protection is required. Cognisance of these new action levels shapes the purchasing policy of all new equipment. An assessment of noise levels will be undertaken on commissioning of new equipment.

Office Equipment The main hazards associated with office equipment are electricity, hot parts of equipment, trapping by moving parts, tripping, and sharp cutting edges. There are regulations dealing with display screen equipment, in widespread use with personal computers, but also involving such equipment as microfiche readers. Most items of office equipment are well guarded, but if jamming occurs they have to be opened and cleared, exposing heated parts of machinery. Cutting blades are also usually well-guarded - if used correctly. A risk assessment by the Safety Officer/Consultant will identify the hazards and associated risks; all leased and hired equipment must be included in the assessment. All work equipment users must be trained in the use of appropriate items, and should be informed of what they may, and may not, do. They should also know their limits. Although they may know how to solve a simple fault, such as a paper jam on a photocopier, they should know when to call a service engineer. Metal objects should never be 'poked' into items of electrical office equipment. Workers should know not to use unprotected machinery and this is particularly important for new employees/students and young people.



Personal Protective Equipment

Our activities are such that PPE is not generally required to be worn in the course of day-to day work. However, DOMINICAN COLLEGE, SION HILL are aware that PPE may be required for some tasks and shall ensure that all employees use personal protective equipment where required. It is the policy of the management to eliminate all hazards at source where possible and only use PPE when further risk reduction is not feasible.

Control Measures

All safety equipment purchased by the School will be to an approved standard. Dominican College, Sion Hill will ensure that adequate supplies of all the necessary protective clothing and equipment are available for issue as required and that when issued; a signature is obtained for the equipment.

Management shall monitor and check the PPE on a regular basis.

Management will inform any person in the workplace observed carrying out any procedures which require the use of protective clothing or equipment of both statutory and Dominican College, Sion Hill Policy requirements and such persons will be instructed not to continue working until protective clothing or equipment is obtained and used.

Training The provision of PPE should be accompanied by full and regular training in its safe use, maintenance and storage. All employees should be provided with the requisite PPE on commencement of employment. Employees incur no expense for these items. All contractors engaged by management are required to supply the requisite PPE to their employees and ensure that it is worn. PPE should normally be provided for personal use only.

(See Appendix 4 for the form to be completed by employees on receipt of PPE)



Pre-employment Health Screening Prior to being offered a position with Dominican College, Sion Hill all employees are required to undergo a pre-employment health check. This is necessary to ensure staff is not exposed to any conditions during their employment that might further exacerbate any pre-existing condition. EMPLOYEES ARE OBLIGED TO DECLARE ANYTHING WHICH THEY FEEL MAY AFFECT THEM WHILE WORKING FOR DOMINICAN COLLEGE, SION HILL

Protection of Employee Health and Welfare

Management believes that no employee should suffer adverse effects to their health in the course of their employment. Therefore we actively support the promotion and protection of employee health at work. We continually strive to eliminate/minimise the risks to which employees are exposed through regular and effective risk assessments. These risks include:

Exposure to chemical substances e.g. detergents

Asthma

Dermatitis

Non-toxic dusts

Noise

Slips, trips and falls

Burns

Electric shock

Manual Handling

Violence at work

Stress Employees are encouraged to report any adverse effects to their health, which they believe may be caused by their working environment. Employees are given regular work breaks and their work rosters are designed in accordance with the Organisation of Working Time Act and Regulations. Employees are advised that alcohol and drug abuse are known to result in ill health and are encouraged to take cognisance of the various government health warnings. Employee use of alcohol or drugs in the course of their work is strictly forbidden. With the advent of the Public Health Tobacco Act, management complies with all procedures as outlined by the Office of Tobacco Control and smoking on the premises or while driving is strictly forbidden. Good personal hygiene practices are encouraged among employees.



Provision of Practical and Safe Working Systems It is the policy of the school to ensure that tasks are within the competence and capacity of each employee and those systems of work will be designed with that purpose in mind. It is the policy of the company when purchasing new equipment, altering existing equipment or changing a system of work, to study such proposed purchases or changes to ensure so far as is reasonably practicable, that they are without significant hazard. Written safety instructions/safe operating procedures will be provided where necessary. Management will review systems of work on a regular basis as required. To facilitate this process, Task Based Risk Assessments are conducted on each activity in the workplace. Systems of work cover all conventional operations, maintenance work and work by contractors in our premises. They include consideration for the safety and health of visitors/clients/students. Staff visiting other schools and organisations must adhere to their safety requirements, as well as policies set out in this safety statement. Where a member of staff deems a system of work to be inadequate or flawed, this must be reported to management who in turn will bring the matter to the attention of the safety committee.

Skin Care

Repeated skin contact with certain products (such as cleaning agents) may cause irritation and in certain cases dermatitis or sensitisation. The following procedures are recommended:

Wash hands frequently, especially when eating and before and after using lavatory facilities

Always use cleansing creams or soap and water

Dry hands carefully after washing

Keep cuts and abrasions covered with waterproof plasters

Change porous dressing after each work shift

Always use gloves to protect the skin

Gloves must be worn for all activities where there is a potential for contact with hazardous substances



Glove Use The following procedures are recommended for glove use (for use with detergents, etc.):

Care should be taken in the donning, use, removal and storage of

protective gloves. Handle and remove gloves carefully to avoid contamination of hands and the inside of gloves

Gloves should be maintained in good condition, checked regularly and discarded if worn or deteriorated. Gloves should be free of holes or cuts and foreign materials and their shape should not be distorted

Gloves should fit the wearer properly and there should be no gap between the glove and the wearer’s sleeve

Contact between gloves and hazardous substances should be kept to a minimum

All contaminated gloves should be discarded

Ensure hands are clean and free of contamination prior to glove wearing

Do not keep gloves in trousers pockets as they may contaminate the skin

Where the use of gloves is impractical, use recommended barrier creams to protect the skin.

Welfare Facilities Basic welfare facilities are provided – canteen facilities, toilets, wash-hand basin, hot & cold running water.



Statutory Notices

Statutory signage in the Premises will comply with Part 7 Chapter 1 of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Application) regulations, 2007 – Safety Signs

General safety Information and the Duties of the Employee is posted on the staff notice board

Safe use of dangerous machines notices are situated above or near dangerous machinery and equipment. Hygiene signs such as “Now wash your hands” are distributed throughout the Premises where appropriate

Emergency Procedures notices are situated throughout the premises

Notices of First Aiders’ and where to find the nearest First Aid Box are strategically posted throughout the Premises

Posters conveying general Health & Safety tips are displayed

Where appropriate, warning and safe practices signs have been posted

Senior staff is responsible for ensuring that signage in their areas of responsibility is properly displayed (e.g. not obstructed, and is relevant etc).



Stress

Management recognises workplace stress as a very debilitating psychosocial hazard and has drawn up a stress policy in accordance with the HSA recommendations. This includes the following: Identifying the causes of stress in consultation with employees e.g.

Work overload for short but frenetic periods of time

Poorly organised shift work

Faulty work organisation

Changes at work

Poor working relationships

Poor communication

Lack of role clarity

Work environment – too hot at times

Assessing the risks involved:

Physical – fatigue, headaches, general malaise, raised blood pressure,

Heart disease, reduced resistance to infection, digestive Problems, skin problems

Emotional – tearfulness, anger, depression, anxiety, fatigue

Cognitive - mistakes, accidents, poor judgment

Social – inappropriate behaviour, withdrawal

Occupational – absenteeism, poor job performance, increased accident frequency rate, reduced productivity

Implementing adequate control measures:

Encourage employees to be alert to the signs of stress

Continuous development of open communication where stress is discussed

Feedback encouraged from employees

Efficient work systems

Adequate and regular training

Provision of regular, short work breaks to alleviate physical symptoms of stress

Ensure adequate ventilation

Vigilance in the preparation of work rosters

Role Clarification

Compliance with the Organisation of Working Time Acts and various Regulations

Record, monitor and review control measures



Radon

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that results from the decay of uranium in rocks and soils. The gas is colourless, odourless and tasteless and can only be measured using special equipment.

When radon surfaces in the open air, it is quickly diluted to harmless concentrations, but when it enters an enclosed space, such as a house or other building, it can sometimes build up to unacceptably high concentrations. Radon from the ground enters buildings chiefly through cracks in floors or gaps around pipes or cables.

Radon decays to form tiny radioactive particles, some of which stay suspended in the air. When these particles are inhaled into the lungs, they give a radiation dose that may damage cells in the lung.

Radon has been shown to be a cause of cancer, specifically lung cancer; prolonged exposure to elevated levels of radon gas in an enclosed area can be a contributory factor in increasing the risk of lung cancer, particularly where other factors such as cigarette smoking are involved.

(Risk will be reduced when all controls are in place) Control Measures include:

Radon measurements are taken by an accredited radon measurement company (for further information consult the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland (RPII) www.rpii.ie)

The Radiological Protection Institution of Ireland - RPII will be informed of any high radon levels following results of measurements taken and any advice will be followed

Where high radon levels are found, an engineered system will be installed e.g. a sump or an air vent introduced

If an engineered system is fitted to reduce levels, procedures are in place to ensure the system remains mechanically operational and is kept switched on.



Procedures for New Staff Members Including Overseas Workers

As it becomes necessary, the manager ensures that the following procedures are adhered to: 1. Show new employees where the Safety Statement is kept, explain its

purpose and ensure that the new employee is aware of his/her responsibility.

3. Ascertain if a new employee has any disability or illness, which could prevent him/her carrying out certain operations safely, or require additional protective measures.

4. Warn new employee/s of any prohibited actions in the workplace, e.g.

unauthorised operation of machinery 5. Arrange for the provision of appropriate training and instruction

required for each individual. 6. Show new employee/s the location of the First Aid Box and explain

the procedure in the event of an accident, in particular the necessity to record accidents, however trivial they may appear at the time.

7. Describe the fire and evacuation procedure and point out the

assembly point. 8. Describe what action to take in the case of an emergency.

9. Ensure that foreign national workers understand the safety policy of the company.

10. Management wants to ensure the safety of all personnel at all times

and when employing foreign nationals they will endeavour to ensure competency of the personnel being employed.



Revision and Monitoring (of Health & Safety)

Management is committed to a process of continuous improvement where revision and monitoring of Health & Safety are vital components and aims to increase our safety performance. It is based upon quantitative (concrete data) & qualitative (views, questionnaires, attitudes) evaluations. This is management’s responsibility and findings must be made available to employees. The Safety Statement is reviewed annually unless new equipment, new systems of work or new legislation necessitates otherwise. Any revisions are fully communicated to employees. The following sections are of particular concern during a review:

Contact names/telephone numbers

Safety training

Inventory of Material Safety Data Sheets

Risk Assessments

Records of all reviews and revisions should be detailed in the table below.

Reviewed by Date

Details of Revisions

1

2

3

4

5

6

7



Science Room Safety Guidelines

The Science room has a separate Safety Statement, which includes all hazards, risks and control measures to be taken. This is available for inspection in the Science Room. Some general safety guidelines include:

Students should not be allowed to touch any chemicals or lab equipment unless they are instructed to do so.

Students should never ever work in science lab in the absence of their teachers.

Students must follow all the written and verbal instructions when conducting the science experiment. In case they do not follow anything, they must clarify it first.

It is very important to be alert and be cautious when in the science laboratory.

Eating, drinking, playing pranks, using mobile phones, or listening to music should be strictly prohibited.

Before using any chemicals, read the label carefully. When mixing chemicals or conducting the experiment, keep the test tube containing the chemical away from your face, mouth, and body.

Unused chemicals should never be put back in the original bottle. They must be disposed of as per the guidelines given by the lab assistant or science teacher.

Students must be made to wear safety goggles, lab coat, and shoes in the science laboratory. Loose clothes, sandals, and open hairs should be a strict NO in the school’s science labs.

Examine glassware before using. Do not use chipped or cracked test tubes or beakers.

Hot apparatus take time to cool down. Allow time to cool them down and use tongs or heat protective gloves to pick them up.

If any accident takes place, do not panic. Inform your teacher immediately and lab assistants for help.

http://www.sciencefirst.com/

http://www.sciencefirst.com/



Eye and Personal Protection

Teachers should always wear chemical splash-proof safety goggles when

working with chemicals, as should students working or watching in the area.

Teachers and students should wear safety goggles whenever there is a

possibility of flying objects or projectiles, such as when working with rubber

bands.

Safety goggles used by more than one person should be sterilized between

uses. One possible method of sterilization is to immerse the goggles in diluted

laundry bleach followed by thorough rinsing and drying.

Proper precautions must be taken when using sharp objects such as knives,

scalpels, compasses with sharp points, needles, and pins.

Students should not clean up broken glass. Teachers should use a broom

and dustpan without touching the broken glass. Broken glass must be

disposed of in a manner to prevent cuts or injury to the teacher, students, and

custodial staff.

Teachers may decide to wear a laboratory apron or smock to prevent soiling

or damage to clothing; if so, students should be similarly attired.

When working with hot materials, noxious plants, or live animals, teachers

and students should wear appropriate hand protection.

Teachers and students should wash their hands upon completion of any

experimental activity or at the end of the instructional session.

Safety with Fire and Heat Sources

Teachers should never leave the room while any flame is lighted or other heat

source is in use.

Never heat flammable liquids. Heat only water or water solutions.

Use only glassware made from borosilicate glass (Kimax or Pyrex) for

heating.

When working around a heat source, tie back long hair and secure loose

clothing.

The area surrounding a heat source should be clean and have no

combustible materials nearby.

When using a hot plate, locate it so that the student cannot pull it off the

worktop or trip over the power cord.



Never leave the room while the hot plate is plugged in, whether or not it is in

use; never allow students near an in-use hot plate if the teacher is not

immediately beside the students.

Be certain that hot plates have been unplugged and are cool before handling.

Check for residual heat by placing a few drops of water on the hot plate

surface.

Never use alcohol burners.

Students should use candles only under the strict supervision of the teacher.

Candles should be placed in a “drip pan” such as an aluminium pie plate large

enough to contain the candle if it is knocked over.

The teacher should wear safety goggles and use heat-resistant mitts when

working with hot materials. All students near hot liquids should wear safety

goggles.

The teacher should keep a fire extinguisher near the activity area and be

trained in its use.

The teacher should know what to do in case of fire. If a policy does not exist,

check with local fire officials for information.

Procedures for Using Dangerous Materials

Use only safety matches. Even safety matches should be used only with

direct teacher supervision.

Use only non-mercury thermometers. Mercury from broken thermometers is

difficult to clean up and the vapours from spilled mercury are dangerous.

Remember that thermometers are fragile; when students are handling them,

supervise them so that the students won’t use the thermometers as a stirring

rod or allow them to roll off the table.

Store batteries with at least one terminal covered with tape. Batteries

exhibiting any corrosion should be discarded. Because the contents of

batteries are potentially hazardous, batteries should not be cut open or taken

apart. Check to see if batteries can be recycled in your area.

Never tell, encourage, or allow students to place any materials in or near their

mouth, nose, or eyes.

Materials may include household chemicals. Before using household

chemicals or other materials, study the label carefully to learn the hazards and

precautions associated with such materials. Similarly, study the labels of

chemicals purchased.



Do not touch “dry ice” (solid carbon dioxide) with the bare skin. Always wear

cotton or insulated gloves when handling dry ice. Do not store or place dry ice

in a sealed container.

Liquid spills can be slippery. Clean up any spill immediately and properly as

soon as it occurs. Follow the clean-up instructions given on the label for the

substance.

Do not mix or use chemicals in any manner other than that stated in the

approved procedure. At no time should a teacher undertake a new procedure

without prior and full investigation of the chemical and physical properties of

the materials to be used and of the outcomes of the proposed procedures.

When planning to undertake a new procedure, it is a good practice to consult

with a professional who is familiar with any potential problems.

Safety with Plants

Wash hands after working with seeds and plants. Many store-bought seeds

have been coated with insecticides and/or fertilizers.

Never put seeds or plants in the mouth.

Do not handle seeds or plants if there are cuts or sores on the hands.

Be aware of the signs of plant poisoning and act quickly if a student exhibits

such signs after a lesson. Symptoms may include one or more of the

following: headache, nausea, dizziness, vomiting, skin eruption, itching, or

other skin irritation.

Be particularly alert to plant safety on field trips.

Safety with Animals

All handling of animals by students must be done voluntarily and only under

immediate teacher supervision.

Students should not be allowed to mishandle or mistreat animals.

A safety lesson should be given to teach the students how to care for and

treat the animal. A safety lesson on proper care and treatment of the animal

should be given to students, ideally before the animal is brought into the

classroom.

Animals caught in the wild should not be brought into the classroom. For

example, turtles are carriers of salmonella, and many wild animals are subject

to rabies.



On field trips or during other outdoor activities, be aware of the danger of

rabies exposure from wild animals. Also be aware of the potential hazards of

insect bites, such as allergic reactions to bee stings or diseases spread by

ticks or fleas.

At no time should dissection be done on an animal corpse unless it was

specifically purchased for that purpose from a reliable supplier.

Any animal species that has been preserved in formaldehyde should not be

used.

Emergency Procedures

Establish emergency procedures for at least the following: emergency first

aid, electric shock, poisoning, burns, fire, evacuations, spills, and animal bites.

Evaluate each experimental procedure in advance of classroom use so that

plans may be made in advance to handle possible emergencies.

Be sure that equipment and supplies needed for foreseen emergencies are

available in or near the classroom.

Establish procedures for the notification of appropriate authorities and

response agencies in the event of an emergency.

Disposal

Except for the disposal procedures described in the textbook in use, it is

unlikely that any of the wastes generated in science activities will be harmful

to the environment

Specific Safety Precautions Involving Chemicals and Lab Equipment

Avoid inhaling in fumes that may be generated during an activity or

investigation.

Never fill pipettes by mouth suction. Always use the suction bulbs or pumps.

Do not force glass tubing into rubber stoppers. Use glycerine as a lubricant

and hold the tubing with a towel as you ease the glass into the stopper.

Proper procedures shall be followed when using any heating or flame

producing device especially gas burners. Never leave a flame unattended.

Remember that hot glass looks the same as cold glass. After heating, glass

remains hot for a very long time. Determine if an object is hot by placing your

hand close to the object but do not touch it.



Should a fire drill, lockdown, or other emergency occur during an investigation

or activity, make sure you turn off all gas burners and electrical equipment.

During an evacuation emergency, exit the room as directed. During a

lockdown, move out of the line of sight from doors and windows if possible or

as directed.

Always read the reagent bottle labels twice before you use the reagent. Be

certain the chemical you use is the correct one.

Replace the top on any reagent bottle as soon as you have finished using it

and return the reagent to the designated location.

Do not return unused chemicals to the reagent container. Follow the teacher’s

directions for the storage or disposal of these materials.

Standards for Maintaining a Safer Laboratory Environment

Backpacks and books are to remain in an area designated by the teacher and

shall not be brought into the laboratory area.

Never sit on laboratory tables.

Work areas should be kept clean and neat at all times. Work surfaces are to

be cleaned at the end of each laboratory or activity.

Solid chemicals, metals, matches, filter papers, broken glass, and other

materials designated by the teacher are to be deposited in the proper waste

containers, not in the sink.

Follow your teacher’s directions for disposal of waste.

Sinks are to be used for the disposal of water and those solutions designated

by the teacher. Other solutions must be placed in the designated waste

disposal containers.

Glassware is to be washed with hot, soapy water and scrubbed with the

appropriate type and sized brush, rinsed, dried, and returned to its original

location.

Goggles are to be worn during the activity or investigation, clean up, and

through hand washing.

Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) contain critical information about hazardous

chemicals of which students need to be aware. There will be a regular review

of the salient points on the SDSs for the hazardous chemicals students will be

working with and also a posting of the SDSs in the lab for future reference.



Training

Management recognises that employees can be expected to perform tasks safely, when and only when, they have been given full and appropriate training and instruction. Therefore management is committed to the identification and provision of such training. Training should be provided for employees:

a) When an employee starts work for the first time i.e. Induction Training. b) In the event of the transfer of an employee or change of task assigned

to an employee. c) On the introduction of new work equipment, systems of work or

changes in existing work equipment or systems of work. d) On the introduction of new technology. e) When legislation or the work activity requires it.

Training and Instruction should be undertaken by employees in the following areas:

Induction Training – For new employees

Manual Handling – Specific to the work activities

Personal Protective Equipment – Its use, maintenance and storage

Fire Fighting Equipment - The Type and safe Use of Fire Extinguishers etc.

Emergency Procedures - Evacuation / Contacting Emergency Services, etc.

Refresher Training – As required to ensure continued good practice All Training and Instruction should be provided by competent, qualified, personnel. Employees must avail of any training provided – this is a condition of their employment.



Induction Training All new employees must receive comprehensive induction training (C/F Essential Safety Training Checklist below) to ensure that they fully understand the hazards, risks, and safety and emergency procedures of their job. Induction training includes the following:

An overview of Health and Safety legislation

An outline of the Safety Statement

Emergency/fire evacuation procedures

Accident/incident reporting channels

Manual handling training

Personal protective clothing – use, maintenance and storage

Additional Safety Training

Additional Safety Training includes:

General work

Emergency procedures

Manual Handling

First Aid

Fire Safety

General office administration

Refresher Training Refresher courses on safety issues must be offered to employees to ensure they have the necessary skills and knowledge to carry out their job safely and effectively.

Cost of Training All training should be provided during employees’ working hours, where appropriate, and without loss of pay to the employee.



Training Needs

The following factors are used to identify training needs:

Feedback from employees/supervisors

Observation of task/job performed

Changes in work activities/equipment

Review of legislation pertinent to the work activity

Accident/incident analysis data –which identifies inadequate training as a factor in the accident/incident

Whenever refresher courses are required On completion of all and any training, employees are required to complete the

‘Training Records’ form which acknowledges their receipt of such training – see Appendix 6



Essential Safety Training Checklist Employee Responsibilities

Take reasonable care for safety of self and others

Co-operate with employers and others on health safety matters

Use PPE provided

Report any defects that may affect safety

No interference with anything that will endanger persons safety

Report all incidents/accidents to management

Adhere to no smoking/no alcohol rules

Product Handling/Safety

Hazardous activities/areas of exposure

Flammable nature of fuels/ basic precautions to be taken

Skin contact – hazards & controls

Pollution – hazards & controls

Emergency Procedures

Priority of personal safety and safety of others

Inform management of any incident

Record details of incidents/accidents

Emergency services – 999

Action to be taken in the event of: o Fire o Injured person o Road Traffic Accident

Security Procedures

Priority of personal safety

Procedures for lone workers



Vulnerable Workers

Management acknowledges that the safety and health of certain groups of employees require special attention. These groups include Younger Workers and Foreign National Employees. While no younger workers or foreign national employees are engaged at present, should they be employed in the future these groups and their particular requirements will be managed as follows:

Younger Employees

Under Part 6 Chapter 1 and Schedule 7 of the 2007 SHWW (General Applications) the employer is required to protect younger employees in the workplace. Before employing such a person, a specific Risk Assessment must be carried out to identify any specific risks to him or her, bearing in mind their lack of experience and vulnerability.

Young employees need specialised induction training as their age renders them particularly vulnerable to accidents. The following provisions are included in their induction training

A full explanation of their job description, with particular emphasis on the particular hazards and risks associated therein.

They are made aware of the communication channels to be followed if they experience difficulties in their employment

They will not engage in any tasks for which they have not been specifically trained

Cognisance is given to the “Organisation of Working Time Act, 1997” when compiling employee rosters

Foreign National Employees Management wants to ensure the safety of all personnel at all times and when employing foreign nationals we will endeavour to ensure competency of the personnel being employed.



Pregnant Employees Under Part 6 Chapter 2 and Schedule 8 of the SHWW (General Applications) 2007, the employer is required to protect Pregnant, Post Natal and Breastfeeding Employees in the workplace.

The Regulations apply to the following:

A pregnant employee

An employee who has recently given birth – this applies to any employee during the 14 weeks immediately after giving birth and includes incidences of miscarriage or stillbirth

An employee who is breastfeeding – this applies to any employee who is breastfeeding in the 26 weeks immediately after giving birth

We require employees to inform us of the employee’s pregnancy as early as possible - this information is treated confidentially and sensitively. Having been informed of the employee’s pregnancy, we will carry out a Risk Assessment to identify any specific risks to the pregnant or breastfeeding employee and adequately control the identified risks so as not to cause danger or risk to the employee or her pregnancy.

Should the Risk Assessment indicate that there is risk to the mother or her pregnancy, we will adjust temporarily the working conditions or the working hours, or both, of the employee concerned so that exposure to such risk is avoided, and take the measures necessary to provide the employee concerned with other work which does not present a risk to the safety or health of, or any possible adverse effect on, the pregnancy or breastfeeding by the employee. Consideration is given to working hours, the working environment, posture, movement and manual handling. This may necessitate a same job/different area or different job/same area option. Where alternate work is not available we will assist the employee in receiving health and safety leave under Section 18 of the Maternity Protection Act 1994.



New Staff Members

As it becomes necessary, the manager will ensure that the following procedures are adhered to:

1. Show new employees where the Safety Statement is kept, explain its purpose and ensure that the new employee is aware of his/her responsibility.

2. Ensure that the new employee has been issued with adequate

personal protective equipment and is familiar with its usage.

3. Ascertain if a new employee has any disability or illness, which could prevent him/her carrying out certain operations safely, or require additional protective measures.

4. Arrange for the provision of appropriate training and instruction

required for each individual.

5. Show new employee/s the location of the First Aid Box and explain the procedure in the event of an accident, in particular the necessity to record accidents, however trivial they may appear at the time.

6. Describe the fire and evacuation procedure and point out the assembly

point.

7. Describe what action to take in the case of an emergency.

8. Ensure that overseas workers understand the safety policy of the school and that a translated copy of the safety statement is available if required.



Visual Display Units (VDUs) Working with Computers and VDUs forms a major part of the schools work activity. These VDUs are operated taking into account Chapter 5 of the General Application Regulations 2007 and the 4th Schedules thereto. If an employee uses a Visual Display Unit (VDU) for a significant part of the normal working day i.e. if they use a VDU for continuous periods of more than one hour then the requirements under the above legislation must be adhered to.

Employers Duties

The Employer is required to ensure that the use of Display Screen Equipment does not cause a risk to the employee, evaluate (on an on-going basis) the Health & Safety of the workstations users with particular reference to Eyesight, Physical Problems and Mental Stress. The employer must also plan work activities so that adequate breaks from Display Screen Equipment work are provided by the use of other work activities not requiring the use of such equipment. Steps must be taken by the employer to identify any risks associated with their use and control measures put in place. Information and training on Display Screen Equipment must also be provided for employees engaged in such work.

Eye Fatigue / Eye Tests Employees who use VDUs in the workplace may be prone to eye fatigue. This can be due to the improper positioning of the Display Screen Equipment; poor Contrast between screen background and foreground images; inadequate lighting; or screen flickering, among others. Under the legislation, every employee who uses Display Screen Equipment has the right to undergo an eyesight test that will be made available by the school and at the schools expense. Where this eyesight test reveals that prescription glasses are required for Display Screen Equipment work, these glasses or lenses will be provided by the employer, taking into account any social welfare entitlements that the employee may have. Employees cannot be made to take tests against their will. However, they must be informed that they are available. (c/f) APPENDIX 13

Stress Poor organisation of the workload, lack of control by the employee over the pace of the work, high speed repetitive work or working in isolation can be a form of stress for employees.

Work Related Upper Limb Disorder (WRULD) Some work activities may require that the employee remain in a particular position for long periods of time which may result in stiff neck muscles; soreness in arms, tendons and bones; and discomfort in the hands, wrists and shoulders. These effects, which can be linked to work activities, are described as WRULDs.



Management recognises that in order to avoid the above risks, certain control measures have been put in place: the workstation in the office has been set up to maximise ergonomics with good quality office furniture supplied. All chairs for the use at workstations have 5 feet and are fitted with wheels; the seat of the chair is adjustable in height and in angle; the backrest is adjustable in the vertical and horizontal plane. Where possible Display Screen Equipment has been positioned at right angles to windows and between light fittings to minimise glare. Where that has not been possible window blinds are available for use during sunny weather. Display Screen Equipment users carry out a variety of tasks and mix computer work with other activities in order to minimise fatigue, eyestrain and the potential for work related upper limb disorders. Regular breaks are organised as outlined within the regulations.

Workstations & Display Screen Equipment

Work with display screen equipment is now a part of many people's jobs. Those who regularly work for long periods on such equipment may well suffer from a range of problems such as eye strain, musculo-skeletal problems or stress. By carrying out proper assessment of workstations, the potential for these problems can be identified and appropriate steps taken to prevent them occurring.

The principal types of risk relate to physical problems, due for example to poor posture, awkward or repetitive movements, visual fatigue, and mental stress.

The principal areas which must be assessed by the Management are outlined

in Schedule 4 of General Application Regulations 2007

(Schedule 4 is outlined in Appendix 9 of this document)



WORKING AT HEIGHTS - Ladders and Stepladders

Under Part 4 and Schedule 5 of the SHWW (General Applications) 2007, the employer is required to protect employees who are required to work at height in the course of their work activities. Employers have a duty to ensure the safety of employees and other persons required to work at a height and where the Regulations apply, there is a duty ‘to take suitable and effective measures to prevent any person falling a distance likely to cause personal injury’. Regulation requirements are qualified by the phrase ‘so far as is reasonably practicable’. Generally speaking, employees at Dominican College, Sion Hill are not required to work at height except with the requirement to use a ladder or step-ladder to access items on high shelves. Occasionally, maintenance staff may be required to use a ladder or step ladder in the course of their work and we have a clear policy for the use of ladders and stepladders that includes the following:

Inspection of all ladders prior to use to ensure it is undamaged

No materials to be carried by hand when ascending/descending ladders

No makeshift ladders to be used

Never stand on top rung of ladder/stepladder

Ladder must be positioned properly for required work

Ensure step-ladder is fully opened and the struts or top platform are locked in the correct position

Ensure ground beneath stepladder is clean and free from hazards Eg. paper, oil, grease or any other materials

Stepladders must not be used near a closed door

Employees must not overreach whilst using stepladder

Full ladder use necessitates the area at the base of the ladder is guarded and the area must be demarcated and appropriate signage posted

Correct storage for all ladders i.e. on their side or hung by rails on wall brackets

Report defects to the management, never use defective equipment



Section 5 – Hazard Identification & Risk

Assessments



RISK ASSESSMENT & HAZARD IDENTIFICATION

Objective: The following section outlines the findings of the risk assessments carried out on the work activities, procedures and equipment in use at the place of work. These findings of the Risk Assessments are outlined in the form of Hazard Sheets which indicate:

The Hazard

The Risks associated with the hazard

Who may be harmed by the Hazards and Risks and how they may be harmed

The Measures required to Control the Risks

Responsible Person(s) The person responsible for ensuring the Control Measures are in place

Responsibilities: Management is responsible for the execution of risk assessments directly, or via a suitably competent advisor, and for ensuring that the Control Measures indicated within the Hazard Sheets are put in place and maintained thereafter.



Hazard Categorisation

Hazards can generally be categorized or ‘typed’ using the following criteria: Physical Hazards Manual Handling - Electricity / Slips, Trips & Falls - Violence - Falling from heights - Fire - Hot or cold surfaces - Machinery - Tools - Etc. Health Hazards Stress - Noise or Vibration - Fumes and Dusts - Unsuitable Lighting levels - Radiation - environment Too Hot or Too Cold Chemical Hazards Cleaning products - Degreasers - Chemical Disinfectants - Pesticides Acids or Alkalis - Numerous Chemical Substances and Concoctions Human Factor Hazards Young or Older workers - People with disabilities - New or Inexperienced workers - Workers who have recently changed roles or jobs - Workers whose first language is not English Biological Agents Hazards Tuberculosis - Brucellosis - Farmer’s Lung, caused by spores from mouldy hay - Hepatitis from unprotected handling of infected body fluids or waste



Definitions

Terminology used in ‘Health & Safety’ and the process of Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment includes the following:

Health: To ensure that short and long term the physical and mental well-being is not damaged directly by one’s employment

Safety Safety is defined as freedom from injury, danger, or risk

Welfare Welfare involves the provision and use of facilities

Hazard: A source or situation with potential to cause harm in terms of injury or ill-health, damage to property, damage to the workplace environment, or a combination of these

Risk: A combination of the likelihood and the potential consequences of a specified hazardous event occurring

Risk Assessment: A careful process of quantifying the risks and ascertaining the probability and severity of loss/injury (See Appendix 2 for Hazard Audit Form)

Danger: The existence of a distinct possibility of an interchange of energy above a tolerable or acceptable level

Control Measure: That which is required to eliminate completely, or, where elimination is not possible, to do all that is reasonably practicable to adequately control the risks associated with a particular hazard so as to protect the health and safety of those affected by those hazards

Responsible Persons Those persons with the responsibility to ensure that the control measures are put in place and thereafter maintained and continue to remain in place

Competent Person A person is deemed to be competent only when they possess sufficient training and experience and knowledge appropriate to the nature of the work to be undertaken



Risk Quantifying - Criteria & Method There are various systems of assessing or quantifying Risks and allocating Risk Ratings from the quite basic to the very complicated. The assessment criteria outlined below has been customised to meet your needs, has proved efficient and user friendly, and is suitable for the work activity. When using this system, each identified hazard is awarded both a:

a) Category of Severity: Low, Medium, High or Serious

b) Likelihood of Occurrence Number: 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5

Category of Severity

SERIOUS (S) = Serious injury, disease injury may occur

HIGH (H) = Significant injury or longer-term injury may occur

MEDIUM (M) = Minor injury or short-term injury may occur

LOW (L) = Very minor injury may occur

Likelihood of Occurrence

1 = Very unlikely to occur

2 = Small possibility of occurrence

3 = Reasonable possibility of occurrence

4 = Strong possibility of occurrence

5 = Most likely to occur

Risk Rating Level Indicator It is the combination of the Likelihood Number and the Severity Category that denotes the level of the risk (see example below).

1 2 3 4 5

SERIOUS 1 / S 2 / S 3 / S 4 / S 5 / S

HIGH 1 / H 2 / H 3 / H 4 / H 5 / H

MEDIUM 1 / M 2 / M 3 / M 4 / M 5 / M

LOW 1 / L 2 / L 3 / L 4 / L 5 / L

E.g. A Hazard Sheet with a Risk Rating of 4 / H means that there is a strong possibility of this happening and there would be significant consequences to Health & Safety as a result.

Likelihood of Occurrence

Severity



Section 6 - Hazard Sheets



Access & Egress

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk Risk

Rating Control Measures

Responsible Persons


Employees

Students

All other Personnel

with cause to be on the premises

All other persons

who operate the equipment

2/M

Ensure area is adequately lit, clear and

free from obstruction at all times

Ensure provision of adequate lighting throughout

Ensure automatic closure mechanisms set

so as not to cause hands to be trapped

Ensure doors are checked and repaired when necessary

Ensure excessive force is not required to open doors taking into account mobility

impaired users

Ensure electric cables are securely tidied to prevent trip injuries e.g. during

hoovering

Ensure provision of clear fire safety signage

Ensure the provision of Emergency

Lighting

Ensure emergency exit doors are kept unlocked and free from obstruction at all

times

Principal

and Staff



Air Conditioning Units

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk

Risk Rating

Control Measures Responsible

Persons

Legionnaires disease

Airbornes viruses

Respiratory issues

Employees

Contractors

All other persons on

the premises

3 / S

Temperatures required in

offices must be between 18 – 24 degrees for sedentary

work.

Provide adequate cleaning as per requirement of

manufacturer.

Ensure equipment is subject to a planned

preventative maintenance programme.

Repair / replace defective

parts and electrical switches on the unit by competent

persons only.

Periodically test unit parts for safety by competent

persons.

Ensure effective isolation procedure is in place for the

above tasks.

Principal and Staff



Air Temperature

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk

Risk Rating


Persons

Headaches

Lethargy

Eye, nose & throat

problems

Employees

Students

All other Personnel


All other persons

who operate the

equipment

2/L

Ensure the temperature in the workplace is maintained at a

level that provides a comfortable environment suitable to the tasks being

undertaken

Ensure windows can be opened (or other adequate

means of ventilation provided) during excessive temperatures

during hot weather.

Ensure adequate ventilation at all times

Principal and Staff



Building Structure & Related Fixtures & Fittings

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk

Risk Rating


Persons

Falls from a Height

Slips, Trips and Falls

Entrapment

Burns

Fire

Employees

Students

All other Personnel with cause

to be on the premises

All other persons

who operate the

equipment

2/M

Ensure all parts of the buildings are of

sound structure and well maintained by competent contractors.

Ensure the Building is well lit and any

damaged lighting is repaired or replaced promptly.

Draw up a maintenance plan to ensure the

Electrical, Plumbing, Heating, Lighting, Flooring and the General Structure is well

maintained

Ensure all upper floor windows are fitted with opening restrictors that do not allow the possibility of persons falling from the

windows.

Ensure all furniture and equipment purchased is suitable to the task and

sturdy in construction.

Ensure all toilet and washing facilities are maintained in proper working condition.

Ensure the heating system is suitable to

the requirements and is regularly maintained.

(Continued)

Principal and Staff



Building Structure & Related Fixtures & Fittings

(Cont’d).

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk

Risk Rating


Persons

Falls from a Height


Entrapment

Burns

Fire

Employees

Students

All other Personnel with cause to be on the

premises

All other persons


2/M

Ensuring all Carpeting and Floor Coverings are well fitted and

maintained.

Ensure walkways, stairways and escape routes are well maintained and kept free from objects such as luggage,

cleaning equipment, furniture, etc.

Ensure all Fire Exits are in working order and are easily opened in the

event of an emergency.

Ensure all required Fire Alarms and Fire Fighting Equipment is in situ and

regularly maintained. Records of relevant monthly, quarterly and yearly

inspections to be kept on file.

Ensure all stairways and external steps (fire escape) have sound footing, are

fitted with handrails and are well lit at all times.

Ensure adequate ventilation and

extraction is provided.

Principal and Staff



Driving at Work

Risk of Injury Those at

Risk Risk


Responsible Persons

Collision with other vehicles

and pedestrians

Impact injuries

Serious personal

Injury

Death

Employees

Contractors

Visitors

Other Road Users

2/M

Ensure drivers report to school management, without delay, all accidents, traffic violations or damage, however minor or

trivial they may seem.

Ensure drivers do not drink alcohol or take medication that could affect their driving ability,

if in doubt speak to your supervisor.

Advise drivers not to speed.

Ensure handsfree kits are fitted

and used.

Ensure drivers have vehicle insurance appropriate to their

work

Avoid use of phone while driving.

Ensure regular services are

carried out on vehicles.

All Employees must have a full driver’s license and drive only in accordance with the rules of the

road.

When driving company vehicles on public roadways employees will abide by The Road Traffic

Act 2000.

Principal and Staff



Electricity


Risk Risk Rating Control Measures

Responsible Persons

Electric Shock

Fire

Burns

Death

Employees

Students

All other Personnel


All other persons

who operate the

equipment

3 / High

All electrical installations, repairs and maintenance must only be

carried out by a RECI recognised electrician.

After any installation, repair or maintenance work, equipment

must be certified as safe for use by a competent RECI electrician

Details of electrical work

undertaken and certificates issued must be kept on file for future

reference.

All electrical equipment on the premises must be checked

annually by a competent qualified RECI electrician and certified safe

for use.

All faulty equipment must be taken out of use until repaired and

certified safe to be used.

Ensure an adequate number of outlet sockets are provided to eliminate the use of double

adaptors.

Ensure all fixed electrical equipment has means of being isolated from the power supply.

Ensure all Isolating switches are

clearly labelled.

Ensure the First Aider is trained in dealing with Electric Shock. This

will include CPR and Resuscitation methods.

(Continued…)

Principal and Staff



Electricity

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk

Risk Rating


Persons

Electric Shock

Fire

Burns

Death

Employees

Students


premises

All other persons

who operate the

equipment

3 / High.

Ensure MCBs and RCDs are fitted, are

clearly labelled and can be isolated from the power source when required

Ensure all plug-top fuses are correct for

the load being carried

Instruct all employees to immediately report defective electrical equipment to

the School Management.

Instruct all employees to never attempt a repair to electrical equipment.

Ensure all staff members are instructed

in the safe operation of all electrical equipment which they are required to

use.

Instruct staff to inspect all electrical equipment prior to use –plug, cable,

casing. Any damaged equipment must not be used.

Ensure all employees are fully aware of the dangers of electricity and the risks

associated with it.

Electrical equipment must not be handled when hands are wet or when

standing on a wet floor

Principal and Staff



Entrance Doorway

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk

Risk Rating


Persons

Slips trips and fall

Cuts

Lacerations

Employees

Students

All other Personnel


All other persons


2/M

Ensure automatic doors are regularly maintained by a competent person

Ensure floor surface is properly maintained, cleaned regularly and

kept free from obstruction at all times

Ensure adequate lighting

is in place

Ensure flooring at door is

secured

Ensure regular checks of door by competent person

Principal and Staff



Fixed Electrical Systems/Fuse Boards

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk

Risk Rating


Persons

Serious injuries

from burns and

electric shocks

Employees

Students

All other Personnel


All other persons

who operate the

equipment

3/M

Ensure all fixed electrical equipment (distribution panels,

breaker panels etc) are identified and maintained as part of

a preventative maintenance programme (and in agreement

where such equipment is leased).

Ensure operating and maintenance documentation is

available. Records to be maintained of

inspections and checks. Ensure contractors working on

fixed electrical equipment (including electrical generators)

are competent members of RECI. Conduct periodic testing of

RCD's. Ensure that electrical supply

systems at company premises are maintained to ETCI3

standards (in agreement with owners where such equipment is

on leased or rented property).

Ensure no 'live' electrical work is carried out.

Establish a safe system of work for work on fixed electrical

equipment

Principal and Staff



Floors

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk

Risk Rating


Persons


Employees

Students

All other Personnel


All other persons

who operate the

equipment

3/M

Ensure all floor coverings are secure

Observe good housekeeping practices

Ensure immediate cleaning of spillages

Ensure appropriate use of “Wet Floor” signs,

where appropriate

Ensure appropriate footwear worn at all times

Principal and Staff

Hockey Pitch / Tennis Courts

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk

Risk Rating


Persons

Slips trips and fall

Cuts

Lacerations

Employees

Students

All other Personnel


2/M

Ensure ground surface is properly maintained,

maintained regularly and kept free from obstruction at all times

Ensure adequate lighting is in place

Principal and Staff



Lift

Risk of Injury Those at Risk Risk Rating

Control Measures Responsible Persons

Entanglement injuries


Employees

Students

All other Personnel


All other persons who operate the

equipment

2/M

Ensure lift is in good working order and regularly maintained by a competent person

Ensure students are accompanied by an adult when using lift

Ensure alarm system is operational and checked regularly Ensure lift is not used in

the event of a fire

Ensure lift shaft is regularly inspected for fire hazards

Ensure good record keeping of all maintenance checks

Principal and Staff



Maintenance Contractors


Risk Risk


Responsible Persons

Risk of serious

or fatal injury to persons on

inadvertent reactivation

of equipment during

maintenance work

Electrocution

Burns

Trips, Slips &

Falls

Fire

Death

Employees

Students

All other Personnel with cause

to be on the premises

All other persons

who operate the

equipment

3/M

All maintenance workers are

trained, experienced and authorized to carry out the jobs

assigned to them.

Insurance details, safety statement and training records

must be provided prior to contract.

All maintenance personnel are

trained in the Company’s isolation procedure and the

application of these procedures to the jobs they are

doing.

Maintenance is carried out by trained and authorized

persons only.

PPE and adequate equipment is used at all times.

Trip hazards are not created or

left unattended.

The Company’s isolation procedure is always used.

Guards removed from isolated

machinery are always replaced immediately after

maintenance.

Edges or access routes made unsafe through maintenance are cordoned off from use and signed appropriately, until they are made

safe.

Principal and Staff



Mould

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk Risk


Responsible Persons

Lung irritation,

sensitisation, adverse health affects

Contractors

Employees

All other persons on the Premises

2/M

Regular formal inspections, e.g. biannual, undertaken to identify moulds or potential causes of mould, e.g. leaks

Preventative maintenance procedures in place, e.g:

• Check for leaking pipes • Check for condensation build up • Ensure humidity is less than 60%. Humidity can be reduced by repairing leaks in increasing ventilation • Ensure dryers vent externally • Check extraction ventilation are working correctly, e.g. in kitchens • Damp proof courses checked • Check gutters are cleared and in good condition

Remediation plan/procedure in place to deal with identified mould problem, e.g. • Source of moisture been identified and removed prior to remediation • Appropriate PPE and RPE available for persons carrying out cleaning and remediation work • Staff carrying out cleaning are trained and aware of relevant precautions/ controls required for mould growth greater than 3m2 • Professional expertise sought as required

Principal and Staff



Radon

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk Risk


Responsible Persons

Lung Cancer

caused if long time exposure

occurs

Contractors

Employees

All other persons on the Premises

2/L

Radon measurements are taken by an accredited radon measurement company (for further information

consult the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland (RPII) www.rpii.

ie)

Regular radon measurements at indoor areas at ground level

The Radiological Protection

Institution of Ireland - RPII have been informed of any high radon

levels following results of measurements taken and any

advice has been followed

Where reference levels are exceeded, measures are taken to reduce the radon level and areas

are then retested

Where high radon levels were found, an engineered system was installed e.g. a sump or an air vent

was introduced

Measures taken to reduce radon levels are maintained to ensure they

remain effective

Principal and Staff



Stairs

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk Risk


Responsible Persons

Slips, trips and

falls

Musculo-skeletal injuries

Employees

Students

All other Personnel


All other persons


2/M

Ensure all stairways and

landings are clear and free from obstruction at all times –

stairway not to be used as storage areas

Ensure floor covering is

maintained and secure so as not to present a trip hazard

Ensure provision of adequate lighting on complete stair area

Ensure handrail is in place on all

stairways

Ensure regular checks of handrails and security of

brackets

Principal and Staff



Unprotected Edge/Flat Roof

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk

Risk Rating


Death

Crush injuries

Serious personal Injuries

Falls

Employees

Students

All other Personnel with cause to be on

the premises

2/M

Ensure adequate guardrails to

withstand impact, around unprotected edges

Railing to be kept securely locked at times when not in

use

When railing is in use, staff stand clear of unprotected

edge

Only supervised access by members of the public

Staff must report any defects to management immediate.

Principal and Staff



Stores/Resource Rooms Risk of Injury

Those at Risk Risk Rating


Vermin

infestation


Impact Injuries

Contractors

Employees

Patrons

All other personnel

who may be on the premises

3/H

Use good hygiene and housekeeping practices

Ensure shelves are stacked

safely

Ensure hockey sticks are stored in such a way as to

prevent impact injuries

Ensure heavy goods are stored at waist height

Ensure handrail is in place on all stairs to upper levels

Good manual handling

techniques

Principal and Staff



HOME ECONOMICS ROOM EQUIPMENT USAGE and WORK ACTIVITIES

Beater / Mixer

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk

Risk Rating


Persons

Cuts

Amputation


Employees

Contractors

Patrons

All other Personnel with cause to be in the

kitchen

1 / M

Ensure mixers are regularly maintained to

test safety features – e.g. fail to safe button, lever raising guard, protection of the motor from thermal

overload

Ensure appliances are used in accordance with

manufacturer’s instructions

Mixers must be switched off when not in use

Only trained staff to use and clean

Ensure use of pusher device

Ensure mixers are placed on stable surface

Ensure warning signs outlining dangers are

clearly visible


Keep a copy of the Standard Operating

Procedures

(SOP) for the use of equipment on or near the

equipment

Principal and Staff



Electric Cooker Grill/Oven /Hob

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk

Risk Rating


Persons

Burns

Scalds

Hot Liquid Splash

Fire

Gas Explosion

Employees

Students


kitchen

3 / M

Ensure equipment is in good working order and is switched off when not in

use

Ensure the appliance is regularly maintained and serviced on a

regular basis by a competent person

Only trained staff to use or clean equipment

Post warning signs outlining dangers associated with equipment

Ensure staff use heat resisting gloves when removing hot pots from

the hob

Do not leave hot fat or oil unattended

Ensure that electric cables do not come into contact with the hot plates

and do not get caught in the hot oven door

Fire extinguishers to be located in vicinity of equipment and only used

by competent staff

Keep a copy of the Standard Operating Procedures

(SOP) for the use of equipment on or near the equipment

Principal and Staff



Fridges


Risk Risk


Responsible Persons

Food Contamination


Exposure to cold


Employees

Students


kitchen

3 / M

Ensure equipment is in good working order and regularly maintained

Ensure shelves are stacked safely as per HACCP requirements

Ensure all staff are trained in safe food storage and comply to HACCP procedures

Ensure temperatures are recorded twice daily as per HACCP requirements

Ensure fridge floor is free from obstruction and ice

Observe manual handling guidelines

Ensure fridge temperature is always running at 1 – 4 degrees.

Keep all foods stored off the floor.

All dairy products including eggs must be refrigerated.

Keep fridge scrupulously clean at all times.

Always stack food boxes securely and safely. Do not stack too high. If this is

unavoidable the food must be tied off or secured by a racking system.

All fans must be kept clean and filters

checked at least twice annually.

All food stored must be labelled. Always use stock rotation (F.I.F.O) First in, First Out.

Out of Date food must be disposed of

immediately

Conduct PAT tests on all electrical equipment

Principal and Staff



Freezers

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk

Risk Rating


Persons

Food Contamination

Exposure to

Cold Environment


Employees

Patrons

Contractors


the premises

2/M

Ensure freezers are in good working order and regularly

maintained

Ensure all staff are trained in safe food storage and

segregation as per HACCP guidelines

Ensure temperature is always

running at 1 – 4 degrees.

Ensure freezer temperature is always running at – 18 to

- 21 degrees.


Keep scrupulously clean at all

times.

Always stack food boxes securely and safely. Do not

stack too high. If this is unavoidable the food must be

tied off or secured by a racking system.

Temperatures must be

recorded twice a day in the morning and evening.

HACCP Records must be kept on file.

All fans must be kept clean and filters checked at least twice annually. All products

stored must be labelled.

Always use stock rotation (F.I.F.O) First in, First Out.

Out of Date products must be

disposed of immediately.

Principal and Staff



Gas Cooker - Grill / Hot Plate / Oven / Hob

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk

Risk Rating


Persons

Burns Scalds

Hot liquid splash

Fire

Gas Explosion


Employees

Contractors


the premises

3 / H

Ensure equipment is in good working order and is switched off when not in use

Ensure appliance is used in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions

Ensure regular maintenance and safety features on grill/oven by competent person

Ensure all staff are trained in safe use and cleaning of equipment

Ensure grill is never left unattended when in use

Ensure oven floor is free from grease and water before removing trays.

Remove excessive fat from trays before removing from oven

Ensure staff do not lean over drop door on oven when opening – to prevents burns &

scalds from heat blast

Keep a copy of the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for the use of equipment on

or near the equipment


Ensure staff are familiar with procedures on lighting the pilot lights

Ensure staff are familiar with procedures on the discovery of a gas leak and the location of

the gas shut off valve

Ensure fire blankets and extinguishers are located near the equipment and staff are

competent in their use

Principal and Staff



Gas Cooker - Grill / Hot Plate / Oven / Hob Cont’d

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk

Risk Rating


Persons

Burns

Scalds

Hot Liquid Splash

Fire

Gas Explosion

Employees

Contractors


the premises

3 / M

Ensure equipment is in good working order and is switched off when not in

use

Ensure the appliance is regularly maintained and serviced on a

regular basis by a competent person

Check flame failure device and pilot lights before use

Only trained staff to use or clean equipment


Ensure staff use heat resisting gloves when removing hot pots from

the hob

Fire extinguishers to be located in vicinity of equipment and only used

by competent staff

Ensure staff are familiar with procedures on lighting the pilot lights

Ensure staff are familiar with procedures on the discovery of a gas

leak

Ensure staff are familiar with the location of the gas shut off valve

Principal and Staff



GLASS/CROCKERY

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk

Risk Rating


Persons

Cuts

Splinters

Lacerations

Employees

Patrons

Contractors

All other persons

who handle glass/crockery

2 / M

Observe good housekeeping

practices

Ensure staff are trained in the safe disposal of glass

Ensure use of designated bins for broken glass and

crockery

Ensure first aid box is available and properly

stocked

Principal and Staff



Kettles/Sandwich Maker & Toaster

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk

Risk Rating


Persons

Burns

Scalds

Hot Liquid Splash

Fire


Employees

Students

All other Personnel


All other persons

who operate the

equipment

2/M

Ensure equipment is in good

working order Regular checks to ensure

automatic switch is in good working order

Ensure all staff are trained in

safe use of equipment

Fire extinguishers to be located in vicinity of

equipment and staff are competent

Ensure staff are familiar with procedures on the discovery

of an electrical fire

Ensure immediate mopping of all spillages

Toaster kept away from any

curtains, sockets & telephone etc.

Ensure toaster is in good

working order

Regular checks to ensure automatic switch is in good

working order

Ensure all staff are trained in safe use of equipment

Ensure no items are placed

upon toaster


Principal and Staff



KNIVES and SHARP UTENSILS


Risk Risk


Responsible Persons

Severe Cuts

Abrasions

Food contamination

Employees

Contractors

All other persons who use

the equipment


the premises

3 / M

Ensure staff are trained in safe use and storage of sharp utensils –

knives must be stored separately from other kitchen utensils

Ensure that no knives or sharp objects are left in sinks or on

worktops

Ensure sharp knives and other sharp utensils are washed separately from other items

Ensure regular sharpening of knives – blunt knives are more dangerous than sharp knives

Ensure provision of knife sheaths

Ensure staff comply with HACCP procedures

Ensure all staff use correctly coloured chopping boards

Ensure staff wear cut resistant gloves when using sharp knives

Post warning signs outlining dangers associated with sharp

objects

Principal and Staff



Lifting Heavy Loads (Pots/Dishes/Trays etc.)

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk

Risk Rating


Persons


Impact injuries

Back injuries


Employees

Contractors

All other persons

who operate the

equipment

3 / H

Ensure all personnel have successfully completed a Manual

Handling Training course and subsequent refresher course

when required

Ensure a Manual Handling Risk Assessment is carried out by a trained person in relation to the

Load, Individual, Task and Environment

Ensure strict adherence to Manual Handling guidelines in this

document

Ensure provision of mechanical aids for weights too heavy to be

lifted by individual/individuals e.g. cutlery trolley

Ensure all personnel implement safe lifting techniques at all times

Ensure adequate supervision to ensure safe lifting practices

Principal and Staff



Liquidizers

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk

Risk Rating


Persons

Nips

Cuts

Loss of digits

Amputation

Employees

Contractors

All other persons

who operate the

equipment

3 / M

Ensure equipment is in good working order and switched off when not in

use

Ensure appliance is used in accordance with manufacturer’s

instructions

Ensure regular maintenance of liquidizers to ensure safety features are in working order –guarding– by

competent service technician

Ensure liquidizers are placed on stable surface and is located so that

staff have sufficient room to work safely

Only trained staff to use liquidizers

Keep a copy of the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for the

use of equipment on or near the equipment

Ensure staff do not use hands to push food towards blade

Ensure blade is kept sharp and clean

Ensure blades are washed separately from other items

Ensure liquidizers come to a complete stop before removing food

Ensure liquidizers are isolated before dismantling after use

Ensure blade is kept sharp and when using blade sharpener all guards

must be in place

Principal and Staff



Microwave Risk of Injury

Those at Risk Risk


Responsible Persons

Radiation

Burns

Scalds

Fire


, Employees

Students

All other Personnel


All other persons


2/M

Ensure microwave is

positioned to ensure air vents are unobstructed

Ensure microwave door fits

and closes properly

Ensure all staff are trained in safe use of microwave – no

metal dishes

Ensure warning signs associated with equipment

are clearly visible


of a fire

Ensure fire extinguishers are placed near microwave and only used by competent staff

Conduct PAT tests on all

electrical equipment

Principal and Staff



CANTEEN/STAFF ROOM/LEADERSHIP ROOM/BOARD ROOM

Dish-Washing Machines

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk

Risk Rating


Persons

Dermatitis

Working with Chemicals and

Detergents

Burns

Scalds

Entrapment Injuries

Electric shock


Employees

Contractors All other

Personnel with cause to

be in the kitchen

2 / M

Ensure regular maintenance and check safety features

Ensure appliance is used in accordance with manufacturer’s

instructions

Ensure all operatives receive adequate instruction in the safe use of

the machine

Ensure written instructions for operation of the machine are on clear

display

Ensure all staff are trained in the safe use, storage and disposal of

detergents

Ensure provision of non-slip mat

Do not open dishwasher during operation to avoid

scalding.

Discard all damaged dishes and cutlery immediately.

Ensure immediate cleaning of any spillages

Ensure provision and correct use of protective gloves

Ensure adherence to manual handling guidelines whilst stacking and

unstacking machine

Keep a copy of the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for the

use of equipment on or near the equipment

Principal and Staff



Floors

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk Risk


Responsible Persons

Slips, trips

and falls

Employees

Students

All other Personnel


All other persons


3/M

Ensure maintenance of carpets and other floor

coverings


Ensure immediate cleaning of

spillage’s

Ensure appropriate use of “Wet Floor” signs when

cleaning the floor – maintain in place until floor is dry

Principal and Staff



Fridges


Risk Risk


Responsible Persons

Food Contamination


Exposure to cold


Employees

Students


kitchen

3 / M

Ensure equipment is in good working order and regularly maintained

Ensure shelves are stacked safely as per HACCP requirements

Ensure all staff are trained in safe food storage and comply to HACCP procedures

Ensure temperatures are recorded twice daily as per HACCP requirements

Ensure fridge floor is free from obstruction and ice


Ensure fridge temperature is always running at 1 – 4 degrees.


All dairy products including eggs must be refrigerated.

Keep fridge scrupulously clean at all times.

Always stack food boxes securely and safely. Do not stack too high. If this is

unavoidable the food must be tied off or secured by a racking system.

All fans must be kept clean and filters

checked at least twice annually.

All food stored must be labelled. Always use stock rotation (F.I.F.O) First in, First Out.

Out of Date food must be disposed of

immediately


Principal and Staff



General

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk

Risk Rating


Persons


Cuts

Scalds

Employees

Students


premises

All other persons


2 / L

Ensure all equipment is sound and

suitable to the task.

Ensure recommended lighting is in place and in working order.

Ensure equipment is properly

cleaned before use

Ensure utensils, crockery and other items are stored appropriately on

shelves and in cupboards to prevent toppling and unsafe access

Ensure defective electrical equipment shall be clearly identified, labelled as out of use and stored separately to

prevent accidental use. Report defects to person in control of the workplace to ensure all items are

repaired or replaced.

Ensure knives and cutters are checked for damaged blades or

handles once per term and disposed of if damaged

Ensure knives and cutters are stored

separately to other equipment

Ensure knives and cutters are counted out to pupils and counted

back in at end of class

Ensure knives and cutters are washed in sink separately from other

items of equipment and never left soaking in sink

Ensure Smoke detectors are

maintained and serviced regularly

Ensure adequate heating

Ensure all work surfaces are ergonomically designed and at

suitable height.


Principal and Staff



Housekeeping


Risk Risk


Responsible Persons


Musculo- skeletal injuries

Fire

Burns

Electrocution

Employees

Students


premises

All other persons

who operate the

equipment

2/M

Ensure the provision of adequate lighting

Ensure good housekeeping and

area is kept free from obstruction

Any waste material that accumulates should be

removed on a daily basis.

Ensure bins are emptied on a regular basis

Ensure cables from equipment is stored safely to prevent trip

Competent electricians to carry out regular maintenance checks

on electrical equipment

Ensure no socket overload.

Ensure brushes, dustpans are stored neatly and safely to prevent slips, trips and falls

Ensure detergents are used and

stored in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions

Ensure continued provision of

fire extinguishers

Staff must report any defects to management immediately.

Principal and Staff



Microwave Risk of Injury

Those at Risk Risk


Responsible Persons

Radiation

Burns

Scalds

Fire


, Employees

Students

All other Personnel


All other persons


2/M

Ensure microwave is

positioned to ensure air vents are unobstructed

Ensure microwave door fits

and closes properly

Ensure all staff are trained in safe use of microwave – no

metal dishes

Ensure warning signs associated with equipment

are clearly visible


of a fire

Ensure fire extinguishers are placed near microwave and only used by competent staff

Conduct PAT tests on all


Principal and Staff



Shelves


Risk Risk

Rating Control Measures Responsible

Persons

Falls

Splinters

Musclo-skeletal injuries

Employees

Students

All other Personnel

with cause to be in the kitchen

2/L


Ensure no shelf overload

Fixtures maintained in secure condition and monitored by staff.

Unused shelves to be stored flat on

floor

Unsafe fixtures labelled and removed from use

Principal and Staff

Sink


Risk Risk


Responsible Persons

Scalds

Infection

Employees

Students

All other Personnel

with cause to be in the kitchen

2/L

Ensure sinks are cleaned and disinfected regularly

Ensure sink fittings are regularly serviced and water temperature

maintained at less than 55 degrees c

Principal and Staff



WORK-ROOMS EQUIPMENT USAGE and WORK ACTIVITIES

Art Room

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk

Risk Rating


Persons


Fire

Burns

Explosion

Exposure

to hazardous

glazes, fibres

Death

Employees

Students

All other Personnel


3/M

Ensure strict adherence to relevant

pages of this document


Ensure daily cleaning regime in place to minimise clay/silica dust

Ensure protective

clothing/coats/aprons are cleaned regularly to prevent clay dust build up



spillages

Ensure whiteboards are maintained and used in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions

Ensure all furniture is fit for purpose and maintained in a safe and secure

condition

Ensure only non-hazardous/non-toxic glazes are used

Ensure separate storage area for

maintenance equipment is created

Ensure no cables trail across floors

Ensure cables are not twisted to

reduce risk of internal fault developing

(Continued…..)

Principal and Staff



Art Room

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk

Risk Rating


Persons


Fire

Burns

Explosion

Exposure

to hazardous

glazes, fibres

Death

Employees

Students

All other Personnel


3/M

Ensure kiln is interlocked to prevent

opening while operational

Ensure kiln is serviced in line with manufacturer’s recommendations and is serviced regularly by a competent

person

Ensure gas is installed and maintained as per suppliers instructions

Ensure appropriate Personal

Protective Equipment (PPE) provided and worn for use with kiln

Ensure pupils are instructed in safe

use of knives and cutters

Ensure knives and cutters are checked for damaged blades or handles once per term and disposed of if damaged

Ensure knives and cutters are stored

separately to other equipment

Ensure knives and cutters are counted out to pupils and counted back in at

end of class

Ensure knives and cutters are washed in sink separately from other

items of equipment and never left soaking in sink


Principal and Staff



Communications/Computer Room/Print Room

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk

Risk Rating


Persons

Slips, trips and

falls

Fire

Burns

Death

Employees

Students

All other Personnel


3/M

Ensure all floor coverings are

secure



spillages

This room is a major source of heat therefore it must be kept clear of all rubbish especially

combustibles

Ensure separate storage area for maintenance equipment is

created


Ensure cables are not twisted to reduce risk of internal fault

developing

Principal and Staff



Class Rooms - Library

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk

Risk Rating


Persons

Slips, trips and

falls

Fire

Burns

Death

Employees

Students

All other Personnel


3/M


secure



spillages

Ensure whiteboards are maintained and used in

accordance with manufacturer’s instructions

Ensure all furniture is fit for

purpose and maintained in a safe and secure condition

Ensure flip-charts are

maintained in a secure & upright position whilst in use


created



developing

Principal and Staff



Deputy Principal / Principal Offices

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk

Risk Rating


Persons

Slips, trips and

falls

Fire

Burns

Death

Employees

Students

All other Personnel


3/M


secure



spillages


combustibles


Created



developing

Principal and Staff



Science Rooms (A separate Safety Statement has been prepared for this area)

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk

Risk Rating


Persons


Fire

Burns

Death

Employees

Students

All other Personnel


3/M

Ensure strict adherence to guidelines laid down in the relevant pages of this

document


Ensure solvents or other highly flammable materials stored in metal

cabinets

Ensure chemical products are labelled and stored safely in accordance with

Safety Data Sheets (SDS) requirements

Ensure combustible materials must be stored in appropriate conditions as per

manufacturer’s storage guidelines.

Waste materials cleared away after each class and disposed of

appropriately.

Ensure Safety Data Sheets (SDS) sheets are available for all chemicals.

Ensure users and staff who may become into contact with chemicals are aware of the hazards and precautions

that must be taken when using chemical products. All users and

relevant personnel must have access to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS)

Ensure fire extinguisher(s) in place,

suitable for the fire type and serviced annually (at least 1 x 5 kg CO2

extinguisher)

Ensure bunsen burners are placed and used away from the edge of the desk

Ensure lighter or matches used to light

Bunsen - never paper

Ensure teacher sand caretaker know where to isolate Bunsen burner and hot

metal

Principal and Staff



Science Rooms

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk

Risk Rating


Persons


Fire

Burns

Death

Employees

Students

All other Personnel


3/M

Ensure long hair tied back near lit Bunsen,

no dangling jewellery or scarves

IS820 Standard pertaining to Non Domestic Gas Installations, stipulates each

room where gas appliances are used for instruction, gas flow supervisory systems

must be installed

Unauthorised access to the laboratory is controlled e.g. locked when not in use

Ensure all glassware and storage vessels

examined for star cracks

Ensure fume cupboard is fit for purpose and use supervised

Ensure fume cupboard is inspected

regularly, tested and maintained with test label affixed - records stored appropriately

and easily retrievable



Ensure whiteboards are maintained and used in accordance with manufacturer’s

instructions

Ensure all furniture is fit for purpose and maintained in a safe and secure condition

Ensure flip-charts are maintained in a secure & upright position whilst in use




Ensure cables are not twisted to reduce

risk of internal fault developing

Principal and Staff



Television/DVD Player

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk

Risk Rating


Persons

Fire

Electric Shock

Musculo- skeletal injuries

Employees

All other persons


All other persons on the

premises

2 / M

Competent electricians to carry out regular maintenance checks.

All electrical equipment must have CE mark.


Ensure regular checks of wall brackets/surfaces supporting

televisions

Staff to report any defects to management immediately.

Ensure no electrical cables trail across floor

Prohibit use of ‘Double Adaptors’


Principal and Staff



OFFICES

General / P.E.

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk

Risk Rating


Persons



Electric Shock

Employees

Students


premises

2 / Low.

Ensure all office furniture is

ergonomically designed sound and suitable to the task.

Ensure all electrical equipment is

serviced regularly

Ensure all flooring is secured.

Ensure adequate lighting is in place and in working order.

Ensure adequate ventilation.

Ensure no electric cables trail across

floor.

Ensure Smoke detector is maintained and serviced regularly

Ensure adequate heating levels

Ensure good housekeeping practices.

Principal and Staff



Cable Management

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk

Risk Rating


Persons


Damage to Equipment

Electrical Shorting

Electric Shock

Employees

Students


premises

3/M

Ensure cables are routed under desks/furniture


Conduct PAT tests on all electrical

equipment

Principal and Staff



Chemicals

Risk of Injury Those at Risk

Risk

Rating


Chemical spill

Chemical splash

Dermatitis

Eye damage

Inhalation of vapours

Respiratory

disease

Explosion

Fire

Employees

Students

All other Personnel


2/M

Ensure a regular inventory of chemicals to prevent unnecessary long-term

storage and container deterioration

Ensure staff are trained in the safe and correct use of chemicals where

necessary

Ensure all chemicals are stored in designated safe area and are

maintained at correct temperature`

Ensure chemical store is locked to prevent unauthorized access

Ensure all chemicals are stored in correct containers and are clearly

labeled

Ensure staff are aware of chemical symbols

Ensure compliance with MSDS

Ensure provision and safe use of appropriate PPE

Ensure provision of wash facilities near chemical store

Principal and Staff



Computers / Fax / Printer / Franking Machine /Phones /

Intercom System etc.

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk

Risk Rating


Persons

Fire

Electric Shock

Slip, Trip & Fall Injury

Employees

Students


premises

2/M

Ensure competent electricians carry out regular maintenance checks on all



Ensure cables are not twisted to reduce risk of internal fault developing

All electrical equipment must bear the

CE mark

Ensure no socket overload – do not use ‘Double Adaptors’

Ensure all equipment is fitted with the

correct plug and fuse

Ensure equipment is isolated from the electricity supply when not in use

Ensure staff are instructed to never undertake repairs to any electrical

equipment

Staff to report any defects to management immediately

Ensure defective equipment is taken

out of service until repaired by a competent person


equipment

Principal and Staff



Ergonomics - Office Furniture

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk

Risk Rating


Persons

Strain

Muscular Problems

Back Problems

Employees

Students


the premises

2 / Med.

Ensure the provision of suitable office furniture which can be adjusted to the

individual, as required

Ensure Office chairs have 5 feet and are fitted with castors. The chair must

also be able to swivel.

Ensure the Office Chair Seats can be adjusted in the horizontal plane. The seat should slope downwards from

front to back. The seat height should also be adjustable up or down.

Ensure all employees receive training

and instruction in the adjusting of Office Chairs

Ensure Office Chair Backs can be adjusted in height and in forward /

backwards directions

Ensure Desks are stable and at a height where the desk is just below

elbow height and footrests are provided

Ensure VDU operatives use a document holder at screen height, to

reduce neck strain

Ensure the provision of storage shelves at waist level (rather than at ground level), where possible, in order to

prevent bending motion – see Hazard Sheet on Manual Handling

Principal and Staff



Ergonomics – Work Activity

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk

Risk Rating


Persons

Strain

Muscular Problems

Back Problems

Employees

Contractors

2 / M

Ensure Office chairs have 5 feet and

are fitted with castors or pads, as appropriate. The chair must also be

able to swivel.

Ensure the Office Chair Seats can be adjusted in the horizontal plane. The

seat should slope downwards from front to back. The seat height should also be

adjustable up or down.

Ensure Office Chair Backs can be adjusted in height and in forward /

backwards directions

Ensure all employees receive training and instruction in the adjusting of Office

Chairs

Ensure Desks are stable and at a height where the desk is just below

elbow height and footrests are provided

Ensure VDU operatives use a document holder at screen height, to

reduce neck strain

Ensure adequate lighting and room temperature when undertaking any task

Principal and Staff



Filing Cabinets


Risk Risk


Responsible Persons


Musculo-skeletal

injuries

Employees

Students


the premises

2/L

Observe manual handling

guidelines

Ensure no drawer overload Filing cabinet to be maintained in secure condition and monitored

by staff.

Ensue only one drawer is opened at a time

Ensure drawer is closed after use

Principal and Staff

Fire Alarm System


Risk Rating


Fire

Explosion

Electric Shock

Electrocution Serious

Personal Injuries

Burns

Smoke Inhalation

Death

Employees

Students

All other Personnel


3/H

Ensure regular maintenance and check safety features

Only trained staff to use and clean equipment

Ensure adherence to control measures identified for electricity in this document

Principal and Staff



Floors


Risk Risk


Responsible Persons


Employees

Students

All other Personnel


3/M

Ensure all floor surfaces are secure and do

not present a trip hazard




Ensure electrical cables do not trail across

walk ways

Principal and Staff

Fuse Board/Panel


Risk Rating


Fire

Explosion

Electric Shock

Electrocution Serious

Personal Injuries

Burns

Smoke Inhalation

Death

Employees

Students

All other Personnel


3/H

Ensure all fuses are suitable to the load required

Ensure all fuses are properly identified and clearly labeled

Ensure the area around the fuse board is kept free from flammable materials at all times –

especially shredded paper

Ensure adherence to control measures identified for electricity in this document

Ensure no items are stored on top of panel

Principal and Staff



Guillotine

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk Risk


Responsible Persons

Ergonomic hazards;

force (lifting and

pushing), repetitive

movements, posture and

duration.

Machine hazards;

moving parts, sharp blade and absence

of guards.

Energy hazards;

gravity and mechanical

(moving parts).

Materials handling hazards; pushing.

Work

practice hazards; following

established safe work

practices and procedures, and general housekeeping practices.

Contractors

Employees


Premises

2/M

Read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions and warning labels.

All users must know how to safely

operate the paper cutter.

Only use the cutter to cut paper and paper products.

Ensure the cutter is in good working

condition prior to use.

If the cutter is broken then take it out-of-service, attach a warning tag and advise

person in authority.

Ensure that the cutter is used on a flat, stable work surface.

Ensure there is adequate clearance to

safely operate the cutter.

Ensure there is adequate lighting in the work area.

Ensure the tension/compression coil

spring prevents the cutting blade from falling/rushing down when the handle is

released.

Ensure that the blade arm is completely down and locked when not in use.

. Always keep your hands, fingers,

clothing, jewellery and hair away from the cutting blade.

Only one person is permitted to operate

the cutter at one time.

Reduce repetition as much as possible by pacing your work and by varying tasks.

(Continued…..)

Manager



Guillotine


Risk Risk


Responsible Persons

Ergonomic hazards; force

(lifting and pushing), repetitive

movements, posture and

duration.

Machine hazards;

moving parts, sharp blade and absence

of guards.

Energy hazards;

gravity and mechanical

(moving parts).

Materials handling hazards; pushing.

Work practice

hazards; following

established safe work

practices and procedures, and general

housekeeping practices.

Contractors

Employees


the Premises

2/M

Do not grab, touch, stroke or run your fingers along the edge of the blade.

Do not remove the blade or finger safety guards.

Do not operate the cutter if the guards are

missing or damaged.

Do not use a paper cutter when you are distracted or if you cannot give your full

attention to the task at hand.

Do not attempt to cut too much paper at any one time. Refer to the manufacturer’s

instructions for the maximum number of sheets.

Do not operate the cutter in a high-traffic

location.

Do not carry the cutter by the hand grip or the blade arm.


equipment

Safe Use as Follows 1. Inspect the paper cutter prior to use. Do not use the cutter if it is broken. Take it out-of-service, attach a warning tag and advise your supervisor. 2. Place the cutter on a flat, stable surface. 3. Release the blade latch and use the hand grip to lift the blade arm to the cutting position. 4. Use the ruler and/or the grid lines to align the paper stack to the proper position and push the paper up against the paper guide. 5. Keep your hand and fingers behind the finger guard at all times and away from the cutting blade. 6. Hold the paper down with your left hand and use your right hand to push down on the hand grip to cut the paper. 7. When you are finished using the paper cutter, lock the blade in the down position with the blade latch. 8. Store the cutter in a designated storage area away from children.

Manager



Housekeeping

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk

Risk Rating


Persons

Slips, trips and

falls

WRULD

Back Injury

Musclo- skeletal injuries

Fire

Burns

Electric Shock

Employees

Students

All other Personnel


2/M

Ensure no goods are stored on top of electrical appliances

Ensure the provision of adequate

lighting

Ensure good housekeeping and area is kept free from obstructions

Any waste material that accumulates should be removed on a daily basis

Ensure bins are emptied on a

regular basis

Ensure cables from equipment is stored safely to prevent trip injuries

Observe good manual handling

techniques

Ensure heavy goods are stacked at waist level

Ensure no electric cables trail across

floor

Competent electricians to carry out regular maintenance checks

Ensure no socket overload

Ensure continued provision of fire

extinguishers

Staff must report any defects to management immediately

Principal and Staff



Lighting

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk

Risk Rating


Persons


Stress

Eye Strain

Employees

Students


premises

3/M

Lighting should be between 300 and 500 lux and should

be suitable for the workstation involved.

Lighting should not cause reflective glare on the

screen.

Ensure lighting levels are normal throughout

A competent electrician is used for

maintaining the lighting fittings

Principal and Staff



Manual Handling

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk

Risk Rating


Persons


Strain


Employees

Students


premises

2 / M

Ensure all employees receive training in

Manual Handling techniques

Try to eliminate the need to lift at all, if possible

Stand close to the load

Bend knees and keep back straight when lifting

Stand with feet apart facing the load

Grasp the load firmly

Ensure arms are in line with trunk

Lift with the legs and not the back

Carry load close to body

Turn feet in direction of movement

Never lift a load that is too heavy – obtain assistance.

Principal and Staff



Paper Shredder

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk

Risk Rating


Persons

Nips

Cuts

Employees

Students


premises

3/M

Ensure equipment is in good working order

Ensure regular maintenance of

shredding machine to ensure safety features are in working order –

guarding– by competent service technician

Ensure shredder is placed on stable

surface and is located so that staff have sufficient room to work safely

Ensure only trained staff use shredding

machine

Ensure guards are in place

Ensure shredder is isolated from the electricity supply before dismantling to

empty or clear blockages


Principal and Staff



Photocopier

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk

Risk Rating


Persons


Ozone

Inhalation

Electric Shock

Employees

Students


premises

3/M

Ensure equipment is in good working order and is regularly maintained by a

competent person

Ensure the photocopier is operated only by competent staff who have received

instruction in it’s safe use

Ensure the top of the photocopier is closed prior to copying documents

Ensure correct disposal of used toner

and ink cartridges

Ensure adequate airflow in area

Ensure no electric cables trail across floor

Ensure equipment has CE mark




equipment

Principal and Staff



Shelves

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk

Risk Rating


Persons

Falls

Splinters


Employees

Students

All other Personnel


2/L


guidelines


Fixtures maintained in secure condition and monitored by staff

Unused shelves to be stored flat

on floor


Principal and Staff

Storage Cabinets

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk

Risk Rating


Persons


Musclo-skeletal injuries

Employees

Students

All other Personnel


All other persons


2/L

Ensure manual handling guidelines are used when

using storage cabinets

Storage cabinet to be maintained in secure

condition and monitored by staff.

Ensure doors are closed

after use

Ensure goods are not stored on top of storage

cabinets to prevent impact injuries

Principal and Staff



Visual Display Units

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk

Risk Rating


Persons

Eye Strain

WRULD

Slips,

trips and falls

Radiation

Employees

Students


premises

2/M

Provide Eyesight tests for all VDU

operatives, as per regulations

Provide good lighting levels

Ensure the VDU is placed at right angles to window, or provide

window blinds where this is not possible

Ensure the screen is not subject to ‘glare’ from either Office Lighting or

Sunlight

Ensure Screen has adequate contrast between background and

foreground and ensure screen does not flicker

Ensure operatives receive

adequate breaks from VDU work – at least 10 minutes per hour when

other work can be undertaken

Provide VDU users with varied work which does not involve the use of VDU usage i.e. filing etc.

Ensure VDU users know how to

arrange their workstations to avoid awkward movements, reflections,

and aches and pains

Ensure screen is a low radiation model


equipment

Principal and Staff



USE OF CAR PARK

Risk of Injury Those at Risk Risk


Persons

lips trips and fall

Potential Injury due to contact with

cars

Fire

Employees

Patrons

Contractors


premises

2/L

Ensure provision of speed ramp at car park entrance

Ensure provision of speed restriction

signage

Ensure pedestrian routes/parking areas are clearly marked and

appropriate signs in place. Controls in place around appropriate times for

visiting vehicles deliveries and collections

Ensure assembly points for

emergency evacuations are clearly marked and are not located in an area likely to be required by the emergency

services

Ensure ground surface is properly maintained & cleaned regularly

Ensure adequate lighting in place

Ensure grit or salt available for

walkways which are prone to ice

Ensure provision of signage prohibiting ball playing, use of roller

blades and skate boards

Ensure children/students are adequately supervised

Ensure any broken glass is removed

immediately. Replacement glass should be installed in buildings at the

earliest opportunity

Ensure rubbish bins are emptied on a regular basis to prevent malicious fire

setting

Principal and Staff



USE of CHEMICALS

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk Risk


Responsible Persons

Chemical spill

Chemical splash

Dermatitis

Eye damage


Explosion

Fire

Employees

Students

All other Personnel


2 / M

Ensure chemical substances are labeled.

Ensure availability of MSDS for all chemicals

Hold only quantities of flammable liquids required for

immediate use

Ensure containers are sealed immediately after use

Keep flammable liquids away from open flame or hot

surfaces

Ensure chemicals used only by trained employees

Observe chemical use guidelines

Ensure use of appropriate PPE

Principal and Staff



WORKROOOMS

Communications/Computer Room

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk

Risk Rating


Persons


Fire

Burns

Death

Employees

Students

All other Personnel


3/M


secure



spillages


combustibles


Created




Principal and Staff



Class Rooms

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk

Risk Rating


Persons


Fire

Burns

Death

Employees

Students

All other Personnel


3/M


secure



spillages

Ensure whiteboards are maintained and used in

accordance with manufacturer’s instructions

Ensure all furniture is fit for

purpose and maintained in a safe and secure condition

Ensure flip-charts are maintained

in a secure & upright position whilst in use



Ensure no cables trail across

floors


developing

Principal and Staff



Communications/Computer Room

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk

Risk Rating


Persons


Fire

Burns

Death

Employees

Students

All other Personnel


3/M


secure



spillages


combustibles


Created




Principal and Staff



SLUICE ROOM/CARETAKER’S ROOM - Equipment and associated work activities

CHEMICALS

(Bleach, Liquid Detergent, Stain Removers, Starch, Fabric Softener, Sanitiser etc)

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk Risk


Responsible Persons

Chemical spill

Chemical splash

Dermatitis

Eye damage


Explosion

Fire

Employees

Students

All other Personnel


2 / M

Ensure chemical substances are labeled.

Ensure availability of MSDS for all chemicals

Hold only quantities of flammable liquids required for

immediate use

Ensure containers are sealed immediately after use

Keep flammable liquids away from open flame or hot

surfaces

Ensure chemicals used only by trained employees

Observe chemical use guidelines

Ensure use of appropriate PPE

Principal and Staff



DERMATITIS


Risk Risk


Responsible Persons

Irritation and inflammation of

the skin – usually the

hands

Employees

Students

All other persons


2 / H

Ensure all staff are trained in the safe use, storage and

disposal of chemicals


Ensure immediate cleaning of any spillages

Ensure provision and correct use of protective

PVC gloves and clean overalls

Ensure no gaps between cuffs and gloves

Wash hands regularly

Ensure correct use of hot water, cleansers and towels

Ensure use of barrier creams where necessary

Principal and Staff



ELECTRICITY AND WET AREAS



Persons

Electric Shock

Electrocution

Serious personal injury

Death

Employees

Students


the premises


equipment

3 / H

Ensure all staff are fully trained in the safe use of electricity in

wet areas

Ensure all staff are versed in the arrangements for electrical work as laid down in this document

Ensure safe systems of work with all electrical items

Ensure the presence of a first aider on the premises at all

times

Principal and Staff

FLOORS



Responsible Persons


Employees

Students


the premises

3/M

Ensure all floor surfaces are

secure and do not present a trip hazard

Observe good housekeeping

practices



Ensure electrical cables do not

trail across walk ways

Principal and Staff



General

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk

Risk Rating


Persons


Cuts

Scalds

Employees

Students


premises

All other persons


2 / L

Ensure all equipment is sound and suitable

to the task.

Ensure recommended lighting is in place and in working order.

Ensure equipment is properly cleaned

before use

Ensure utensils, crockery and other items are stored appropriately on shelves and in cupboards to prevent toppling and unsafe

access

Ensure defective electrical equipment shall be clearly identified, labelled as out of use and stored separately to prevent accidental use. Report defects to person in control of

the workplace to ensure all items are repaired or replaced.

Ensure storage areas for cleaning supplies, toilet paper etc. are arranged so that items

are readily accessible, not requiring excessive stretching or reaching and not

liable to fall

Ensure broken glassware disposed to a separate waste glass bin and not mixed with general waste. Bin liner should not be used

for glassware disposal bins

When washing floors ‘wet floor’ signs are used

Ensure the condition of toilets and hand

basins checked by cleaner daily (including stability of bowl and cistern, hand basins)

Ensure all work surfaces are ergonomically

designed and at suitable height.


Principal and Staff



LIFTING HEAVY LOADS

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk

Risk Rating


Persons


Impact injuries Back

injuries


Employees

Students

All other Personnel


3 / H

Ensure all personnel have successfully completed a Manual

Handling Training course and subsequent refresher course when

required

Ensure a Manual Handling Risk Assessment is carried out by a trained person in relation to the

Load, Individual, Task and Environment

Ensure strict adherence to Manual Handling guidelines in this

document

Ensure provision of mechanical aids for weights too heavy to be

lifted by individual/individuals

Ensure all personnel implement safe lifting techniques at all times

Ensure adequate supervision to ensure safe lifting practices

Principal and Staff



Linen Handling (Tea Towels/Dish Cloths etc.)



Responsible Persons


Possible transmission of

infection

Employees

Students


the premises


equipment

3/H

Ensure disposable gloves are worn when handling

linen

Always wash hands after handling used linen

In general, infected and fouled linen should be sealed in plastic bags

Linen bags must not be overfilled

Where the sorting of linen is required, it must be

carried out at an ergonomically safe working

height

Where trolleys/bins are used for the transportation

of linen, safe manual handling techniques must

be employed.

Minimum handling of soiled linen must be ensured

Staff must be trained and supervised in handling

linen in relation to infection control and safe manual

handling techniques

Principal and Staff



Linen Storage (Tea Towels/Dish Cloths etc.)



Responsible Persons


Musculo – skeletal Injuries

Employees

Students


the premises

3 / M

Use good hygiene and housekeeping

practices

Ensure shelves are stacked safely

Ensure heavy goods are stored at waist height

Ensure good manual handling techniques

Principal and Staff

Shelves


Risk Risk


Responsible Persons

Falls

Splinters


Employees

Students

All other Personnel


2/L


guidelines


Fixtures maintained in secure condition and monitored by staff

Unused shelves to be stored

flat on floor


Principal and Staff



Tumble Dryers

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk Risk


Responsible Persons

Dermatitis

Burns

Fire

Scalds

Electric shock


Employees

Students

All other Personnel


All other persons


2 / M

Ensure regular maintenance and

check safety features

Ensure ‘Trip Device’ is maintained to ensure machine stops promptly on opening of

door.

Ensure appliance is used in accordance with Manufacturer’s

instructions

Ensure dryers are adequately vented and extraction systems

are maintained



Ensure all filters are kept clean

and free from fluff etc.

Ensure adherence to manual handling guidelines

Prohibit the use of ‘Double

Adaptors’ in the shed

Ensure provision of fire extinguisher in vicinity of tumble

dryers

Principal and Staff



Vacuuming

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk Risk


Responsible Persons

Back Injury

Muscular

Strain

Fire

Trips

Employees

Students

All other Personnel


All other persons


1 / L

Ensure All Employees

receive adequate training in the use of Vacuum Cleaner

Ensure all Vacuums are regularly maintained to

check for loose or frayed wiring

Ensure vacuum cleaners

are returned to the storage areas after use

Principal and Staff



Washing Machines

Risk of Injury Those at Risk Risk Rating


Dermatitis

Working with Chemicals

Burns

Scalds

Electric shock


Housekeeping Staff

All other persons


2 / M

Ensure regular

maintenance and check safety features

Ensure appliances are

used in accordance with Manufacturer’s

instructions


Ensure all staff are

trained in the safe use, storage and disposal of

chemicals and detergents

Ensure provision of non-

slip mat

Ensure immediate cleaning of any spillage’s

Ensure provision and

correct use of protective gloves

Ensure adherence to

manual handling guidelines

Principal and Staff



OFF SITE WORK

Driving at Work


Risk Risk


Responsible Persons

Collision with other vehicles

and pedestrians

Impact injuries

Serious personal

Injury Death

Employees

Clients

Contractors

Visitors

Other Road Users

2/M

Ensure drivers report to supervisor, without delay, all accidents, traffic violations or damage, however minor or

trivial they may seem.

Ensure drivers do not drink alcohol or take medication that could affect their driving ability,

if in doubt speak to your supervisor.

Advise drivers not to speed.

Ensure handsfree kits are fitted

and used.

Ensure drivers have vehicle insurance appropriate to their

work

Avoid use of phone while driving.

Ensure regular services are

carried out on vehicles.

All Employees must have a full driver’s license and drive only in accordance with the rules of the

road.

When driving company vehicles on public roadways employees will abide by The Road Traffic

Act 2000.

Principal and Staff



Leptospirosis


Risk Risk


Responsible Persons

Conjunctivitis

Meningitis

Kidney failure Liver damage

including jaundice.

Transmission of

infection is directly by

contact with blood, tissues,

organs or urine, or indirectly via a

contaminated environment.

Survival of the

organism is encouraged by

warm surroundings and therefore, cases are most

common in warmer months

Employees

Students


premises

2/M

Regular rodent control;

Use of protective clothing;

Good hygiene -e.g. protection of

cuts, provision of good washing

facilities and first aid

arrangements;

Training and information to

make employees and their G.P's

aware of the risk associated

with their occupation.

Use of pocket information cards.

.

Vaccination is possible against

some strains e.g Hepatitis, Polio

.

Principal and Staff



Lone Work


Risk Risk


Responsible Persons

Risk of unknown behaviour

whilst working in residential premises e.g. aggression,

violence, theft

Employees

Clients

Contractors

2/M

Ensure strict adherence to guidelines laid down in the

relevant pages of this document

Training provided to avoid panicking in unusual situations

Staff to be sufficiently experienced and fully

understand the risks and precautions

Dominican College, Sion Hill Manager should set limits to

what can and cannot be done while working alone.

Regular contact between

Principal and Staff.

Principal and Staff



Lone Work


Risk Risk


Responsible Persons

Staff becoming ill/injury or

involved in an accident or

another emergency

Employees

Clients

Contractors

2/M



Ensure access to phone

All staff to be medically fit and suitable to work alone, with

capacity to manage both routine work and foreseeable

emergencies which may pose physical and mental burdens on

the individual

Take prescribed medication as directed or needed

Consider back up arrangements where mobile phone coverage is

poor if working in areas of no coverage (rather than merely

passing through)

First aid kit suitable for treating minor injuries.

Principal and Staff



Lone/Mobile Work


Risk Risk


Responsible Persons

Vehicle breakdown

Accident

Lack of

concentration due to mobile

phone use

Driver fatigue

Employees

Clients

Contractors

Members of the Public

2/M

Ensure strict adherence to guidelines laid down in relevant


Maintain vehicles properly

Carry phone/torch for emergency

Phone head office if plan

changes significantly

Do not leave valuables in car e.g. laptop, personal belongings

Assess further control

measures for known risky areas Plan your route

Ensure adequate fuel in vehicle

Take sensible precautions in adverse weather

Principal and Staff



Lone/Mobile Work


Risk Risk


Responsible Persons

Threat of violence and/or

intimidation, theft, assault

Attack by

animals/dogs

Employees

Clients

Contractors


2/M



Back down from confrontation

Call for help

Use personal alarm.

Keep valuables secure and out of sight or disguised

Surrender valuables if personal

safety is at risk

Appropriate behaviour near animals – avoid alarming them

e.g. sudden movements

Principal and Staff



Lone/Mobile Work


Risk Risk


Responsible Persons

Threat of violence and/or

intimidation, theft, assault

Employees

Clients

Contractors


2/M

Ensure strict adherence to guidelines laid down in relevant


Ensure access to mobile phone

Conflict Awareness Training

Joint visits to areas with high levels of crime

Staff briefings and sharing

information

Exercising appropriate judgment

Principal and Staff




Risk of Injury Risk

Rating Those at

Risk Control Measures Responsible

Persons

Serious personal injuries

Staff subjected to threats/intimidation

resulting in stress/anxiety

3/H

Employees

Contractors

Clients

Procedure to put in place to deal with complaints/disputes,

including dealing with persistent offenders

Consult staff on effectiveness of current procedures

Training of particular staff on identifying and resolving

conflict

All instances of threatening behaviour to be reported and

recorded

Ongoing consultation with staff to manage this risk.

Consider further training for supervisors to enable them to offer the appropriate emotional support to their staff who may

be affected by their work

Principal and Staff



Working Off-Site

Risk of Injury Risk Rating

Those at Risk


Serious personal injuries

Impact injuries

Air Borne Illness

Back injuries


3/H

Employees

Contractors

Clients

Ensure the safety, health and welfare of employees is

considered before assigning anyone to a particular site

Ensure staff maintain the same safe systems of work as they

do on site

Ensure staff use equipment in accordance to manufacturer’s

instructions

Ensure staff do not endanger the safety, health and welfare

of the students in whose homes/premises they are

working

Ensure, if working on another business premises’ that staff

co-operate fully with the emergency arrangements of

that business

In the event of an accident/incident off site, staff are instructed to report such

events to management

Principal and Staff



LADIES / GENTS /DISABLED TOILETS

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk

Risk Rating


Persons


Electric Shock

Scalds

Employees

Students


premises

All other persons


2 / M

Ensure all fittings are sound and

suitable to the task

Ensure all plumbing fixtures are not leaking onto floor

Ensure all flooring is secured.

Ensure all lighting is in place and in

working order.

Ensure hot water temperature is maintained at 55 degrees or below.

Ensure good housekeeping practices

i.e.:

Bins emptied regularly

Floors cleaned

Toilets and sinks maintained in a clean and hygienic condition

Spillages mopped up immediately – with use of ‘wet floor’ signs during cleaning and left in place until floors are dry

Adequate supply of soap

Adequate supply of toilet paper

Adequate supply of hand towels

Principal and Staff



Sinks

Risk of Injury

Those at Risk

Risk Rating


Persons

Scalds

Infection

Employees

Students


premises

All other persons

who operate the

equipment

2/L

Ensure sinks are cleaned and

disinfected regularly

Ensure sink fittings are regularly serviced and water temperature

maintained at less than 55 degrees c

Principal and Staff

Untidy Paper


Risk Risk


Responsible Persons


Employees

Students

All other Personnel


All other persons


2/M

Ensure good Housekeeping

practices

Ensure the provision of adequate waste disposal

bins

Ensure bins are emptied regularly

Principal and Staff



Section 7 - Appendices



APPENDIX 1

EMPLOYEE SAFETY STATEMENT ACKNOWLEDGEMENT FORM

I hereby acknowledge that I have read the

Safety Statement of Dominican College, Sion Hill

I understand that both Employers and Employees have responsibilities and legal duties under Health & Safety legislation and I agree to co-operate with

Management in implementing the Health & Safety requirements outlined within the Safety Statement.

I undertake to seek clarification, advice or information from Management on any requirement, work practice or procedure that I do not fully understand.

Name (Block Capitals): ___________________________________

Signature: _____________________________________________

Position: ______________________________________________

Date: ________________________________________________

(All employees must read the Safety Statement and then sign this form to confirm that they have read it and understand their duties and obligations outlined therein)



APPENDIX 2

HAZARD AUDIT FORM

(This form to be used when assessing new hazards (Risk Assessment) that may arise due to the introduction of new equipment, procedures, products or work activities)

Date ___________________ Sheet No. ______________

HAZARD IDENTIFIED: _______________________________________

LOCATION: _______________________________________

What is

the

Risk?

Risk

Rating Control Measures Required

Person

Responsible for

Implementing

the Control

Measures

Time Period

to Implement

the Control

Measure(s)

Assessor_________________________________________



APPENDIX 3

SCHEDULE OF FIRE FIGHTING EQUIPMENT Date of Inspection _______________________

LOCATION TYPE OF FIRE FIGHTING

EQUIPMENT NO. OF ITEMS

REMARKS



APPENDIX 4

ISSUE OF PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT

Date Name Signature of

Receiver of the PPE Type Of PPE

First Issue Or

Replacement

SIGNED________________________________________ (by the issuer of the PPE) DATE: _________________________



APPENDIX 5

CONTRACTOR'S HEALTH & SAFETY ASSESSMENT

FORM

(Form to be completed to ascertain the suitability for engagement of Sub-Contractors)

Date: ____________________ Name of Company: __________________________

Address: _________________________________________________________________

Type of Work: ______________________________ Telephone No: _________________

1. Have they a Safety Statement and is it adequate? 2. Have they Method Statements for the proposed works if applicable? 3. Do they use external services or in-house staff to meet the required standards? 4. Give details of external services employed 5. What are the qualifications of in-house personnel? 6. Who investigates accidents? 7. Who ensures that work on the premises is carried out in accordance with legal

requirements and your Safety Policy? 8. Has the contractor any membership of Groups etc.? 9. Has the contractor an Accident Summary for the past three years under the following:

a. Fatal Accidents b. Major Injuries c. "Over Three Day" accidents d. Dangerous Occurrences

10. Has the contractor or individuals employed been prosecuted for any breaches of

health and safety legislation within the past three years? 11. Has any Prohibition, Improvement or other enforcement notices been issued against

the contractor within the past three years? 12. Has the contractor previously carried out work of this type? 13. Has the contractor carried out work of this type for any other Company before? 14. Have all Supervisors/Foremen of the contractor attended health and safety courses? 15. Within the last three years? 16. Has the contractor carried out appropriate training for their work? 17. Health and safety aspects of the type of work? 18. Does the contractor sub-contract parts of this type of work and how do you ensure

that subcontractors have an adequate policy for health and safety? 19. Has the contractor any Safety Representatives appointed within his workforce? 20. Has the contractor enclosed details of insurance cover?

Comments: ________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________



APPENDIX 6

TRAINING RECORDS

(To be completed and signed by employees following the provision of Training).

(NOTE: The following Form to be used to record Induction Training and all other Training)

Place held _______________________________ Date _______________ Topics Covered _______________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ Person Conducting the Training __________________________________________

ATTENDANCE RECORD

NAME SIGNATURE of attendee DEPARTMENT

SIGNED______________________________________________ (Trainer) DATE: _______________________



APPENDIX 7

ACCIDENT / INCIDENT INVESTIGATION FORM

Date of Accident ……………………… Time of Accident ……………

1) WHO – Details of the Injured Staff Member or other person:

Name _____________________________________________________

Address _____________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________

Phone Number_________________________________________

(Please Tick one) Employee □, Passenger □, Visitor □, Contractor □, Other □

If Visitor, Contractor or Other was ticked, please state reason for being on the premises:

______________________________________________________________________

If Employee, state RSI Number: ____________________________

If Employee, state Job Title: ____________________________

2) WHAT Details of what occurred and the events leading to the incident:

What Happened? ___________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

INJURIES SUSTAINED (if any) ____________________________________________

3) WHERE Details of exact location where the accident or near miss occurred:

________________________________________________________________

4) WHY - Details of why the accident or near miss occurred:

__________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________



5) HOW - Details of recommendations on how to prevent reoccurrence:

__________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

Person Responsible for Implementing the Required Action: ____________________

Date by when required action will be implemented: ____________________

6) FIRST AID TREATMENT ADMINISTERED: Yes □ No □

If Yes, give details of First Aid required: _________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

By Whom Administered: ____________________________________________________

Was this person a qualified First Aider? : Yes □ No □

Was fully-stocked First Aid Kit available? : Yes □ No □



7) MEDICAL TREATMENT REQUIRED (by doctor): Yes □ No □

If Yes, Give details: __________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

Doctor’s Name ___________________________________________________

Doctor’s Instructions_______________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

Medical Certificate issued by doctor re: recovery time? Yes □ No □

If Yes, state duration: _____________________________________________________

Medications Prescribed: ___________________________________________________

8) HOSPITALISATION REQUIRED? Yes □ No □

Hospital Doctor’s name: _____________________________________________

‘Lost Time’ Accident? Yes □ No □

If yes, state what time was lost Days ____ Hours ___

HSA notification required? Yes □ No □

9) INVESTIGATORS COMMENTS / REMARKS (if any)

__________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________



Signed – (Injured Person)________________________________ Date ___________

Signed – (Witnesses) ___________________________________ Date ___________

___________________________________ Date ___________

__________________________________ Date ___________

Signed – (Investigator) __________________________________ Date ___________

Signed – (Supervisor) __________________________________ Date ___________



APPENDIX 8

NOTICE OF ACCIDENT FORM (Form IR1)

COPIES OF THIS FORM CAN OBTAINED FROM THE HEALTH & SAFETY AUTHORITY (HSA)



APPENDIX 9

SCHEDULE 4 - GENERAL APPLICATION REGS 2007

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS FOR ALL DISPLAY SCREEN EQUIPMENT

1. EQUIPMENT

(A) DISPLAY SCREEN

(i) The characters on the screen shall be well defined and clearly

formed, of adequate size and with adequate spacing between the

characters and lines.

(ii) The image on the screen shall be stable, with no flickering or other

forms of instability.

(iii) The brightness or the contrast (or both) between the characters and the background shall be easily adjustable by the employee and easily adjustable to ambient conditions. (iv) The screen shall be free of reflective glare and reflections liable to

cause discomfort to a user.

(v) The screen shall be able to swivel and tilt easily and freely to suit

the needs of the user.

(vi) It shall be possible to use either a separate base for the screen or

an adjustable table.

(B) KEYBOARD

(i) The keyboard shall have a matt surface to avoid reflective glare.

(ii) The arrangement of the keyboard and the characteristics of the

keys shall be such as to facilitate the use of the keyboard.

(iii) The symbols on the keys shall be adequately contrasted and

legible from the design working position.

(iv) The keyboard shall be tiltable and separate from the screen so as

to allow the user to find a comfortable working position which avoids

fatigue in the arms or hands.

(v) The space in front of the keyboard shall be sufficient to provide

support for the hands and arms of the user.



(C) WORK DESK OR WORK SURFACE

(i) The work desk or work surface shall have a sufficiently large, low-

reflectance surface and allow a flexible arrangement of the screen,

keyboard, documents and related equipment.

(ii) The document holder shall be stable and adjustable and shall be

positioned so as to minimise the need for uncomfortable head and eye

movement.

(iii) There shall be adequate space for users to find a comfortable

position.

(D) WORK CHAIR

(i) The work chair shall be stable and allow the user easy freedom of

movement and a comfortable position.

(ii) The seat shall be adjustable in height.

(iii) The seat back shall be adjustable in both height and tilt.

(iv) A footrest shall be made available to any user who requires one.

2. ENVIRONMENT

(A) SPACE REQUIREMENTS

The workstation shall be dimensioned and designed so as to provide

sufficient space for the user to change position and vary movements.

(B) LIGHTING

(i) Lighting (including room lighting, spot lighting or work lamps) shall

Ensure satisfactory lighting conditions and an appropriate contrast

between the screen and the background environment, taking into

account the type of work and the user's vision requirements.

(ii) Possible disturbing glare and reflections on the screen or other

equipment shall be prevented by co-ordinating the layout of

workstations within the place of work with the positioning and technical

characteristics of the artificial light sources.

(C) REFLECTIONS AND GLARE

(i) Workstations shall be so designed that sources of light, such as

windows and other openings, transparent or translucent walls and



brightly coloured fixtures or walls cause no direct glare and, as far as

possible, no distracting reflections on the screen.

(ii) Windows shall be fitted with a suitable system of adjustable

covering to attenuate the daylight which falls on the workstation.

(d) Radiation

All radiation, with the exception of the visible part of the electromagnetic spectrum, shall be reduced to negligible levels from the point of view of the protection of employees' safety and health.

(E) NOISE Noise emitted by equipment belonging to a workstation shall be taken

into account when a workstation is being equipped, in particular so as

not to distract attention or disturb speech.

(F) HEAT

Equipment belonging to a workstation shall not produce excess heat

which could cause discomfort to employees.

(G) HUMIDITY

An adequate level of humidity shall be established and maintained 3. EMPLOYEE / COMPUTER INTERFACE

In designing, selecting, commissioning and modifying software, and in

designing tasks using display screen equipment, the employer shall

take into account the following principles:

(i) software shall be suitable for the task,

(ii) software shall be easy to use and, where appropriate, adaptable to

the employee's level of knowledge or experience; no quantitative or

qualitative checking facility may be used without the knowledge of the

employees,

(iii) systems shall provide feedback to employees on their performance,

(iv) systems shall display information in a format and at a pace which

are adapted to employees, and

(v) the principles of software ergonomics shall be applied, in particular to human data processing.



APPENDIX 10

25 Office Safety Tips

A surprising number of hazards can be present in an office setting.

According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 80,410 private-industry office and

administrative workers suffered on-the-job injuries in 2008. Many of these injuries could

have been prevented had workers or supervisors recognized the risks and implemented

simple workplace modifications to help mitigate them.

Here are 25 steps you can take to reduce the risk of injury among your office staff.

Falls

Slips, trips and falls, the most common type of office injury, sidelined 25,790 workers in

2008, according to BLS. The National Safety Council says employees are 2.5 times more

likely to suffer a disabling fall in an office setting than anywhere else. Several hazards

contribute to these injuries, although most can be significantly reduced, often by raising

awareness among employees.

1 Stay clutter-free

Boxes, files and various items piled in walkways can create a tripping hazard, according

to OSHA. Be certain that all materials are safely stored in their proper location to prevent

buildup of clutter in walkways. Further, in addition to posing an electrical hazard,

stretching cords across walkways or under rugs creates a tripping hazard, so ensure all

cords are properly secured and covered.

2 Step on up

Standing on chairs – particularly rolling office chairs – is a significant fall hazard. Workers

who need to reach something at an elevated height should use a stepladder. The

Chicago-based American Ladder Institute cautions that stepladders must be fully opened

and placed on level, firm ground. Workers should never climb higher than the step

indicated as the highest safe standing level.

3 Maintain a clear line of vision

Workers can collide when making turns in the hallways and around blind corners or

cubicle walls. The National Safety Council suggests installing convex mirrors at

intersections to help reduce collisions. If workers can see who is coming around the

corner, collisions are less likely to occur.



4 Get a grip

Carpeting and other skid-resistant surfaces can serve to reduce falls. Marble or tile can

become very slippery – particularly when wet, according to the National Safety Council.

Placing carpets down can be especially helpful at entranceways, where workers are likely

to be coming in with shoes wet from rain or snow.

Struck/caught by

Another major type of injury in the office setting comes from workers being struck by or

caught by an object. Incidents of this nature accounted for 15,680 injuries in 2008,

according to BLS.

5 Shut the drawer

File cabinets with too many fully extended drawers could tip over if they are not secured,

the council warns. Additionally, open drawers on desks and file cabinets pose a tripping

hazard, so be sure to always completely close drawers when not in use.

6 Safe stacking

Proper storage of heavy items can help reduce the number of office injuries. Large stacks

of materials and heavy equipment can cause major injuries if they are knocked over.

Guidance for best practice in Manual Handling recommends storing heavy objects close

to the floor, and warns that the load capacity of shelves or storage units should never be

exceeded.

Ergonomics injuries

Perhaps the most prevalent injuries in an office setting are related to ergonomics.

Because office workers spend the bulk of their day seated at a desk and working on a

computer, they are prone to strains and other injuries related to posture and repetitive

movement. Ergonomics hazards can be difficult to detect. Most office conditions that can

be described as hazardous from an ergonomics perspective would appear quite

innocuous to the everyday observer.

7 Provide adjustable equipment

One size does not fit all in an office workstation. Adjustability is the key



8 Train workers on how to use equipment

Providing adjustable furniture and equipment is only the first step in creating an

ergonomically sound workstation. Some workers do not know how to adjust their

equipment, and they do not know the most ergonomically beneficial way to set up their

workstation. Train workers on both the ideal setup and how to operate adjustable

equipment accordingly.

9 Keep your feet on the floor

Recommended options such as adjustable keyboard trays or rolling tables adjusted to

the proper height to eliminate this problem. Although footrests are a “second-best option,”

their small surface may impede some of the worker’s movement.

10 Provide document holders

Frequently typing from hard copy can lead to neck strain if a worker is forced to

repeatedly look down to the desk and back to the computer screen. Best practice

recommends providing document holders to reduce this strain. Document holders also

are good for the eyes. Keeping reference materials close to the monitor reduces the need

for your eyes to change focus as you look from the document to the monitor.

11 Correct mouse placement

The mouse always be placed beside the keyboard.

Vision problems

Although looking at a computer monitor cannot damage your eyes, spending a large

portion of your workday at the computer can cause eyestrain, Eyes can become dry and

irritated, and workers may begin having trouble focusing. A few work area adjustments

can help alleviate some of these issues.

12 Dim the lights and use task lamps

Florescent lights in office buildings often are too bright for optimal vision. Often, light that

is at about half-normal office levels is preferred. This can be achieved by removing some

bulbs from overhead fixtures. If more light is needed for a particular task, providing

individual task lamps rather than increasing overall lighting is recommended. Lightbulbs



in task lamps should be fully recessed to avoid the creation of a bright spot in the

worker’s line of vision.

13 Correctly position monitors

Workers should place their computer monitors slightly below eye level and 20-26 inches

from their eyes. Screens that can tilt or swivel are especially beneficial. The eyes resting

position is a few degrees below the horizon when you’re looking straight ahead.

14 Minimize screen glare

Screen glare as a major cause of eyestrain in the office. To minimize strain, avoid

positioning monitors opposite open windows, or be sure to always close shades or blinds.

A glare reduction filter also can be used.

15 Wear the right glasses

Workers should tell their eye doctor if they spend a large portion of the day working on

the computer, the association recommends. The doctor can check the efficiency of vision

at 20-30 inches – the typical distance a computer monitor should be placed. Glasses are

available for computer use that allow the wearer to see the full monitor without having to

excessively strain the neck.

16 Increase font size on computer

Small font sizes on the computer can strain both your vision and your neck, as workers

tend to pull the head forward to view smaller print. A simple adjustment to the font size on

the computer screen can eliminate the need for this. “In many software programs, you

can use the CTRL-scroll up or down or CTRL+ or CTRL- to increase or reduce the size of

the page you are looking at,” Paquette said.

17 Take a break

Giving your eyes a rest and allowing them to focus on things at varying distances can

help reduce strain and fatigue. Workers should take a 10-minute break for every hour

spent on the computer. These breaks can include working on tasks that require your

eyes to focus on objects at a further range.



Fire safety

Routine inspections around the office can help reduce the likelihood of fire causing such

devastation.

18 Maintain cords in good repair

Damaged and ungrounded power cords pose a serious fire hazard and violate safety

codes. Cords should be inspected regularly for wear and taken out of service if they are

frayed or have exposed wire. Further, cords should never be used if the third prong has

been damaged or removed. Make sure cords are not overloading outlets. The most

common causes of fires started by extension cords are improper use and overloading.

Extension cords should be approved by a certified electrician, and only used temporarily

to connect one device at a time.

19 Inspect space heaters

If employees use space heaters, verify the devices are approved for commercial use and

have a switch that automatically shuts off the heater if the heater is tipped over. Further,

make sure space heaters are not powered through an extension cord or placed near

combustible materials such as paper.

20 Never block fire sprinklers

Furniture and tall stacks of materials can block the range of fire sprinklers, reducing their

effectiveness in the event of an emergency. Objects should never be placed higher than

18 inches below sprinkler heads to allow a full range of coverage

21 Do not block escape routes or prop open fire doors

Items never should be stored along an emergency exit route. These paths should remain

free of clutter. Fire doors should not be held open by unapproved means (such as with a

garbage can or chair), as this creates a significant fire hazard.

Administrative controls

In addition to employee training and improved equipment, certain administrative controls

can aid hazard recognition and the elimination of potentially dangerous situations.



22 Conduct walk-throughs

Periodically walking around the office can help with hazard recognition and maintenance

of ergonomic task design. Employers should conduct an ergonomics screen of every

workstation at least once a year. Employee complaints are invaluable in the process, but

yearly reassessments can help to ensure that a good fit is maintained between employee

and workstation..

23 Monitor signs of musculoskeletal disorders

Recognizing the symptoms of musculoskeletal disorders can alert employees of the need

to make an ergonomics alteration to their workstation. But workers need to know what

those warning signs are. Lots of musculoskeletal injuries developing from poor

ergonomics start out asymptomatically and can become quite severe by the time an

employee starts to experience symptoms. Pay attention to any pain, fatigue, numbness

or weakness, as these may be signs of an ergonomics problem and the start of a more

serious MSD.

24 Talk to employees about their concerns

Simply asking workers how they are feeling can go a long way toward recognizing

hazards. Employers need to take advantage of the cases where employees are

experiencing symptoms like discomfort and fatigue early on, when quick, inexpensive

interventions can usually solve the problem. Ignoring these early warning signs can lead

to employee suffering and astronomical cost in some cases.

25 Establish employee reporting systems

Establishing an employee reporting system can be the best way for organizations to get a

handle on potential hazards before they cause injury. Consider creating an anonymous

reporting process that encourages workers to come forward with their concerns.

Research shows that early intervention yields the most cost-efficient results in all areas.



APPENDIX 11

Lone workers

http://www.hsa.ie/eng/Topics/Hazards/Lone_Workers/#issues



APPENDIX 12

Homeworkers Guidance for Employers on Health and Safety

http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg226.pdf



APPENDIX 13

Display Screen Equipment

http://www.hsa.ie/eng/Publications_and_Forms/Publications/Safety_and_Health_Mana

gement/Section%204%20Display%20Screen%20Equipment.pdf

Documents

Dominican College, Sion Hill Safety Statement · 2019-12-16 · Dominican College, Sion Hill, Cross Avenue, Blackrock, Co. Dublin Wright Safety Services December 2017 2 This document