MSE Safety Handbook 2014-2015

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Safety Handbook2014


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EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

FIRE

Raise the Alarm

SHOUT FIRE!

Acti vate the Fire Alarm at a Fire Alarm Point (red box on wall )

EVACUATE THE BUILDING

3333 internal (or if using a mobile 01752 583333) or 9-999

GIVE THE NAME or LOCATION of BUILDING

FLOOR LEVEL AND ROOM NUMBER

Detail f ire if possible people at risk , small, large, paper, oil, gas,etc.

Provide your contact number

DO NOT RE-ENTER THE BUILDING

FIRST AID

Emergency or Out of Office Hours 3333 internal (or if using a mobi le

01752 583333)

A l ist of First Aiders w il l be found on the Health and Safety Noticeboard in each building or onlineathttps://staff.plymouth.ac.uk//intrsafe/FAid/intranet.htm

CASUALTIES WITH EYE INJURIES

Royal Eye Infirmary is based at Derriford Hospital Level 3 for emergency eyecare CALL Tel. 01752 439330 in advance of attendance if possible.Calling Before You ComeStaff would like to remind members of the public needing emergency eye care to callthe accident and emergency (A&E) department before attending. For accident and emergency advice on eye problems please telephone 01752439330

CUMBERLAND CENTRE (MINOR INJURIES)If possible, give a telephone warning that a casualty will arrive.

01752 565655.Address: Damerel Close, Devonport, Plymouth, PL1 4JZ
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SCHOOL SAFETY HANDBOOK

FIRE 3

FIRST AID 3

Forward from Head of School 6

Professor Neil James 6

2 SAFETY STATEMENT 7

2.1

Organisation 7

2.2 Fire, Fire Marshals and Emergency Procedures 8

2.2.1 If you discover a Fire 8

2.3

Accident and Incident Procedure and Reporting 9

2.4

Qualified First Aiders 10

2.5 Duties of Staff 10

2.6 Students / Visitors 11

2.7

Electrical Equipment Owned by Staff and Students 11

2.8

Safety Communications 11

2.9 Annual Inspections 12

2.10 Work Place Tours 12

3 SAFETY IN THE LABORATORIES 12

3.1

Precautions 12

3.2

Laboratory Equipment and Services 13

3.3

People with Known Disorders 15

3.4 Supervision and Working Alone 15

3.5

Access to Laboratories and Out of Hours Working 16

3.6

Unattended Equipment 16

4 CHEMICAL AND OTHER SUBSTANCES HAZARDOUS TO HEALTH 16

4.1

General Chemical Safety 17

4.2 Disposal of Waste 18

4.3 Fume Cupboards and Extraction Systems 19

4.4

Chemical Stores 19

5 OFFICES AND STAFF ROOMS 19

6 SAFETY PRECAUTIONS FOR FIELDWORK 20

6.1 General Instructions 20

6.2

Safety Instructions 21

6.3

Visits to Industrial Sites 21

6.4 Safety Considerations 22


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6.5 Free Time 23

6.6

General Behaviour 23

6.7

On returning from the field: 24

7 DRIVING AT WORK 24

7.1

Definition of a Vocational Driver 25

7.2 Car licences held before 1 January 1997 25

7.3 Car Licences issued on or after 1 January 1997 25

7.4

Risk assessment is required for vehicles and journeys 25

8 DIVING 26

9 BOAT ACTIVITIES 26

10 RISK ASSESSMENT 27

11 COSHH ASSESSMENTS 27

12 HEALTH SURVEILLANCE 28

12.1

Typical hazards where surveillance needs to be considered: 29

APPENDIX A - HEALTH & SAFETY POLICY STATEMENT 31

APPENDIX B 33

FACULTY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY SAFETY POLICY 33


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Forward from Head of School

It is the policy of the School, Faculty and University that, as far as is reasonably practicable,every step will be taken to minimise risk from hazards and ensure the health, safety andwelfare of employees, students and others who may be affected by its activities. This is apolicy that the School wholeheartedly supports, but it also reflects a commitment by the Schoolto provide students, staff and visitors with a safe and healthy environment in which all ourvarious activities can flourish. Safety requires teamwork as well as high levels of individualresponsibility and it is therefore incumbent on staff, students, and visitors to take responsibilityfor their own health and safety and that of other people. This requires co-operation in thefulfilment of statutory duties or requirements and a proactive desire not to intentionally orrecklessly interfere with, or misuse, any item provided in the interest of health and safety.

Accident prevention is mainly about common sense and forethought, but safety in thelaboratory, on boats and in the field requires constant vigilance and care. It is your statutoryduty to conduct all practical work, including fieldwork, with reasonable care for the health and

safety of yourself and those working around you. This means familiarising yourself withrelevant risk assessments and safety protocols, using equipment in a safe manner and beingalert for unintended consequences of actions.

The Policy & Codes of Practice that follow provide a framework in which you may work safely.The University of Plymouth, in common with every other educational establishment or industrialworkplace, have an absolute duty to work within the legislation of the Health and Safety atWork Act 1974, its delegated regulations and approved codes of practice (ACOPs) .

If you fail to work within these Codes of Practice you will be excluded from laboratoriespractical classes or fieldwork and, as an individual, could face prosecution under the Health andSafety at Work Act 1974.

It is particularly important that you inform your Line Manager, or responsible member ofUniversity staff of any health problems that may cause difficulties with practical work both in theSchool and in the field. ALWAYSseek expert advice when in doubt about the safety of anyprocedure.

If you have any concerns about safety matters, please dont hesitate to bring your concerns tome. I need to ensure that we maintain our good safety record, and will treat any comments asconfidential.

In an emergency there will be no time to find out what you have to do and you shouldfamiliarise yourself with emergency procedures before commencing any work. (Students

should ensure that they are familiar with the guidelines in the Student Safety Handbook linkedto your programme on Plymouth DLE (Moodle) and observe University of Plymouth proceduresand codes of practice.)

Professor Neil JamesHead of School and Associate Dean

September 2014


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2 SAFETY STATEMENT

The School safety policy embraces and reinforces the safety policies of the Universityand the Faculty of Science and Environment copies can be accessed on the University

/Faculty Web site. This document identifies the principle safety issues and moredetailed information of the Schools Health and Safety Policies, Procedures andguidance notes can be found on the Schools Communitypages https://staff.plymouth.ac.uk//somse/Health_Safety_Man/intranet.htmor areavailable in other formats, with advanced notice, from the School Office - ReynoldsBuilding. These policies do not supersede any other regulations or universityrequirements.

All work related activities will be covered by a Risk Assessment and, wherehazardous substances are involved, a COSHH assessment. Where the level of riskis deemed to be unacceptable the activity will not be permitted to happen.

In some circumstances, generic risk assessments may be available, for example:

- well established laboratory or work tasks- offices and computer work- travel as would take place in normal everyday life

But all activities need to be assessed for the level of risk involved in accordance withUniversity codes of practice and significant risks recorded and communicated tothose who may be affected.

Activities not covered by generic assessments, for example; project work, mustbesubject to specific assessment as outlined in the relevant University code of practice,available athttps://staff.plymouth.ac.uk//intrsafe/policies/intranet.htm this mayinclude activities carried out within the spaces listed above but which are notincluded in the generic assessment. Examples might include the use of newequipment or require variations from standard methods or materials. Such use mustbe covered by a specific Risk Assessment.

Carrying out a Risk Assessment is essential prior to any practical work associatedwith honours projects, Masters Dissertations, or research.

2.1 Organisation

The Head of School (Head of School) is the School Safety Manager and will chair theSchool Health and Safety Advisory Committee

The School Health and Safety Advisory Committee will comprise of such Safety Co-ordinators and competent people chosen by the Head of School to represent theSchools principal activities. Specialist will be co-opted as necessary to provide specificadvice and guidance.

Membership of this committee is published on the School CommunityPageshttps://staff.plymouth.ac.uk//somse/Health_Safety_Man/intranet.htm at the
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start of each Academic Year and posted on the Health and Safety Notice Boardlocated on the Ground Floor of the School Office Reynolds Building.

The committee will meet on a regular bases and not less than three twice a year. Adhoc meetings will be called for specific purposes. Items of a non-urgent nature to be

discussed can be forwarded to the School Senior [email protected] inclusion on the agenda. Urgentitems should be directed as appropriate to one of the members, the School SafetyCo-ordinator or to the Head of School

For additional information on the latest codes of practice refer to the Healthand Safety Websitehttp://staff.plymouth.ac.uk/intrsafe/

2.2 Fire, Fire Marshals and Emergency Procedures

Fire costs hundreds of lives in the UK each year and is a significant hazard in theworkplace, prevention and fire safety procedures always need to be considered as partof risk assessments and induction programmes.

On hearing fire alarms, you should immediately raise the alarm and evacuate thebuilding and go to the allocated assembly areas. Use stairs, not lifts - walk, dont run- if safe to do so, switch off electrical equipment, and close doors and windows.Assist disabled persons towards the exits or designated refuge points until the FireBrigade arrives.

Note the fire alarm may also be used to evacuate building for other emergencypurposes so you may not always see evidence of a fire but you must alwaysevacuate the building as quickly as possible on hearing the alarm.

Fire Marshals are appointed from the Schools staff to assist in the evacuation ofthose buildings in which we have a significant presence, or by the University wherewe do not. They are identified by their high visibility jackets and work with thedelegated authority of the Head of School, their instructions are to be complied withimmediately; delays incurred debating the need or how to evacuate can cost lives.

If an emergency arises on a boat or during fieldwork where a designated fire marshal

is not present, the instructions of the skipper or fieldwork leader shall be followeduntil the incident is over.ALWAYS CHECK THE FIRE ROUTINE/EVACUATION NOTICES IN YOURWORKING AREA TO IDENTIFY ESCAPE ROUTES AND EMERGENCYASSEMBLY POINTS.

2.2.1 If you discover a Fire

Raise the Alarm by shouting FIRE!Activate the Fire Alarm at a Fire Alarm Point (red box on wall)

EVACUATE THE BUILDING
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As soon as its safe to do so phone security on 3333 on an internal phone (or if usinga mobile 01752 583333) or if working away from the campus follow their proceduresor dial 999Stay calm and give concise but precise details of the location of the incident andwhich services you require. The Emergency Services will arrive at the Campus and

Security will be able to direct them the seat of the emergency by the fastest route. Ifyou have contacted the emergency services directly, you will need to provide themwith the following information:

Location of fire (Room Number and Floor level) Name of Building Describe the incident. E.g. smoke coming from store area etc. Contact Number so they can locate the phoneor call you back if you are cut

off

Fire Marshals will normally take charge of an evacuation and ensure, so far as it is

safe to do, that no one has been left in the building.

DO NOT USE LIFTSDO NOT STOP TO COLLECT PERSONAL BELONGINGSDO NOT RE-ENTER BUILDING UNTIL INSTRUCTED

Familiarise yourself with the instructions and check where emergency exits arelocated for any building that you use.

Also get to know the position of fire extinguishers in your area. Several types areavailable and not all are suitable for all types of fire so only use them in an emergency

and if you feel confident to do so:

i) Carbon dioxide (Coded Black) short term use on electrical fires.

ii) Water (Coded Red) Wood or paper fires (NOTelectrical or liquid fires).

iii) Foam (Coded Cream) all fires but NOTelectrical fires.

iv) Sand Smothering some fires, only medium to be used for metal fires.

iv) Fire blankets - Smothering fires on personnel, or small contained fires.

2.3 Accident and Incident Procedure and Reporting

In the event of an incident requiring the fi re, police or ambulance services dialon an internal telephone 3333 (on a mobile 01752 583333) or 9999, use thenearest telephone availableproviding i t is safe to do so.

All accidents, dangerous incidents, or near misses, must be reported. A First Aidershould be summoned at once for any injuries. All staff telephones may be used inan emergency.

First Aid provision for fieldwork must be considered as part of the risk assessment. Allfieldwork will be accompanied by at least one Emergency First Aid person, and where


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judged appropriate a Fully Qualified First Aid person may be required. A First Aid boxwill be carried on all field work.

If staff or students are injured during an activity for which the School is responsible, thismust be recorded at the earliest opportunity on an Accident Reporting Form and

submitted to the Head of School, an entry must also be made in the Accident Book forall staff accidents. The Accident Book and Accident Reporting Forms are to be held inthe School Office Reynolds Building.

It is also School policy to use accident reporting forms for near miss incidents inorder to note the lessons to be learned from incidents whether injury is incurred ornot.

2.4 Qualified First Aiders

The location of an available First Aider can be found on the Health and Safety NoticeBoard within the building you are located, and viahttp://staff.plymouth.ac.uk/intrsafe/

The University Security staff are also First Aiders and can be contacted 3333 (or ifusing a mobile 01752 583333)

2.5 Duties of Staff

All staff have a duty (HASAWA 1974 section 7) to:

Take reasonable care of their own safety and that of others who may be

affected by their acts or omissions. Co-operate with the employer so as to ensure that the employer can comply

with his statutory obligations.

Those in charge of others have a general duty to take reasonable care of those thatmight be affected by your acts or omissions. This would include responsibility forhealth and safety of those who might be affected by the way in which you do yourjob. Failing to supervise effectively could be an omission while directing someone tocarry out a task without taking reasonable care to consider the risks could be seenas an act.

All staff must be fully conversant with the University, Faculty and Schools SafetyPolicies and Emergency Procedures and ensure that these are communicatedeffectively to students and visitors

More specifically:

What action they, and others, must take on hearing the fire alarm.

The procedures for reporting accidents.

Know where to find first-aid equipment and how to summon the help of atrained first-aider or, in the absence of such help, an ambulance, or doctor.
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That all their students receive relevant safety instruction - it isrecommended that general safety instructions are given at the introductorysession of each module, at a new location or before starting a new activity.

Continually review the Risk Assessments for the work which theythemselves or others are asked to carry out to ensure that it is safe with nounacceptable risks.

Ensure all equipment is used in accordance with the manufacturer'sinstructions. If equipment is to be used by students, staff must ensure thatadequate instruction is given before they are allowed to use the equipmentand all safety measures are adequate and in place.

Ensure that any potentially dangerous situation, equipment, or building isreported to the Head of School.

Al l staffare expected to keep abreast of all safety developments concerning theirown work and bring these to the attention of the Head of School for consideration aspart of the schools safety management systems.

Further details of the Universities policy on Risk Management may be foundathttp://staff.plymouth.ac.uk/intrsafe/. Staff will find all the appropriate formsused by the School on the School of Marine Science & EngineeringCommunity

page.https://staff.plymouth.ac.uk//somse/Health_Safety_Man/intranet.htm

2.6 Students / Visitors

All students and visitors have a duty (HASAWA 1974 section 8) to not intentionallymisuse or interfere with anything provided under the HASWA 1974 and any otherlegislation in the interests of health and safety or welfare.

A breach of this duty might mean not observing safe working procedures or usingsafety equipment provided, e.g. PPE, machine guards, fume cabinets.

2.7 Electrical Equipment Owned by Staff and Students

Staff and Students who wish to run their personal electrical equipment from theUniversity mains power supply MUSThave each item tested and identified with aPAT label prior to plugging it in.

2.8 Safety Communications

Risks associated with any activity shall be communicated during the briefing prior to thecommencement of the activity by the leader(s) supervising. ALL Risk Assessments
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should be submitted to the Head of School, or his nominee, for consideration andapproval, for students projects follow the procedure published on the school safetypages. Approved Risk Assessment will be returned to the assessor and a copy placedon the School H&S pages forreference..https://staff.plymouth.ac.uk//somse/Health_Safety_Man/intranet.htm

2.9 Annual Inspections

The Faculty Safety Coordinator will coordinate and conduct safety inspections with theSchool Safety Coordinator co-opting other specialist as required. The inspection reportwill be produced by the Faculty Safety Coordinator and circulated to the School SafetyManager and Safety Coordinator for action and dissemination to the necessary staff.

2.10 Work Place Tours

It is considered good practice for those with a responsibility for area and activities to

conduct regular informal workplace tours to underpin formal annual inspections takingparticular note of housekeeping, fire risk and significant changes that will require areview of risk assessment.

3 SAFETY IN THE LABORATORIES

The School of Marine Science and Engineering has a very diverse range oflaboratories and workshops a general guide is provided below but you should makeyourself aware of specific codes of practice and good practice guides by accessing

these on the Schools H&S pages.

3.1 Precautions

These requirements and precautions must be observed by everyone at all times.

1. A RISK ASSESSMENT is to be conducted forALLactivities taking place inlaboratories. Any activity with significant risk should have these risks recoded andcommunicated to those undertaking the task. A copy of the assessment should beprovided to the school office to add to the Schools SafetyPages.https://staff.plymouth.ac.uk//somse/Health_Safety_Man/intranet.htm

2. The safety of each activity is the responsibility of the supervising member of staffwho is also responsible for communicating the significant hazards identified in therisk assessments and any control measure required.

3. Smoking, eating, drinking and the unauthorised use of electronic devicessuch as mobi le phones, IPODS/MP3 players etc. are prohibited in anylaboratory.

4. Bags, coats and other bulky personal possessions should be stored in a sensiblemanner keeping all exits, gangways and work surfaces clear. [Remember that all
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such items may be at risk from theft if left in laboratories. Please take care on wetdays when the floors can become slippery from wet clothing or bags.

5. Every student is expectedto behave sensibly and responsibly in the laboratories.Working areas should be maintained in a clean and tidy state. Any person under

the influence of alcohol or non-prescription drugs will be excluded from the activityimmediately. Any person taking prescribed drugs that may affect their abilities orsafety whilst in the laboratory should notify a member of staff before commencingany work.

6. Personal Protective Equipment(PPE) (e.g. Lab coats, spectacles, hard hatsteel toe capped shoes etc.) mustbe worn where the activity requires it or youare instructed to do so. Suitable footwear must be worn in all laboratories.Please noteopen and/or loosely secured sandals are not consideredappropriate footwear.

7. All persons must be familiar with the actions necessary in the event of fire or otheremergency. Fire notices are posted in each room and laboratory and there areregular fire drills in all University buildings.

Knowing what to do in the event of an emergency may save lives.

8. All corridors and passages must be kept clear. Access to fire escapes and fireextinguishers must not be impeded.

REMEMBER

NO LABORATORY MAY BE USED WITHOUT PRIOR PERMISSION FROM AMEMBER OF STAFF.

3.2 Laboratory Equipment and Services

1. Do not use any apparatus until proper instruction has been given and only then ifyou fully understand its operation.

2. Equipment should not be used in such a way that it creates a hazard for others.

3. Gas, water and electric supplies must not be left unattended when switched on,(e.g., microscope lamps, heaters, rotating machinery), and should be turned offafter use. If in doubt seek advice from technical staff.

4. Do not interfere with safety guards or electrical interlocks on equipment. Thiscould result in you being prosecuted under section 8 of the Health and Safety atWork Act 1974

5. Equipment that malfunctions, or is suspect, should be taken out of service andmarked Do Not Use until adequately repaired. A member of technical staffshould be informed of the failure and Noattemptshould be made to examine or

repair the equipment unless competent and authorised to do so.


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All portable electrical equipment is tested by the Plymouth University and willcarry an appropriate tested label. If this is not the case do not use and notify amember of staff.

6. Electrical equipment and water together present a significant risk of electrocution

unless the equipment is designed to work in a wet environment, if a piece ofequipment becomes wet notify a member of staff immediately. Isolate it fromthe mains, only if i t is clearly safe to do so, and report it to a member ofstaff.

7. Portable extension boards must only be used if approved by a member of staff.

8. Personal mains electrical equipment must not be usedin the School withoutpermission and must be appropriately tested.

9. Warning labels on bottles and containers must be heeded. When using toxic,

corrosive, flammable or volatile substances safety gloves and safety glassesmust be worn, liquids should be poured from the side of the bottle that is oppositeto the identification label; all containers should then be closed and returned totheir proper storage place after use.

10. Do not assume seemingly innocuous chemicals are safe to use. Very fewchemicals are completely harmless. .

11. All spillage must be cleared up immediately using the correct procedures youknow better than anyone else what you have spilled dont leave it for others. Ifyou do not know the correct procedures ask the supervisor / technician.

12. All chemical processes / operations involving toxic, corrosive and lachrymatorydusts or gases must be confined to a fume cupboard unless specifically advisedof an alternative safe working arrangement. Ensure that the fan is on andconditions are correct, before commencing work. Refer to the instructions at thefront of the fume cupboard Log Book.

13. Ensure that all connections to water taps are firmly fixed and that drains are clearespecially if the apparatus is to run overnight. Avoid blocking sinks with filterpapers or other similar materials and debris. When removing plastic tubing fromglassware always cut the plastic do not attempt to pull it off.

14. If flooding should occur report it immediately and only attempt to stop furtherflooding if it is safe to do so. In the event of a serious flood, warn the staff of thefloor below. If necessary the caretaking staff will have suitable equipment formopping up.

15. Winchesters of liquid must be transported using the appropriate carrier and notlifted or carried by the neck of the vessel.

16. Bunsens, hot plates, etc., should be positioned so that they do not burn any otherfittings. Bunsens should never be used to heat flammable liquids.


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17. Volatile solvents must not be kept in refrigerators that do not have flameproofmotors. Food must not be stored in refrigerators used for the storage ofchemicals etc.

18. At the end of the practical session, the bench must be left in a clean and tidy

state. Wash your hands!

Remember that Staff are normally on hand to assist and provide advice.

3.3 People with Known Disorders

Students are required to inform their year tutor, or Course Co-ordinator, if theysuffer from any ailments or disorders which could affect performance or safety -

diabetes, epilepsy, allergy and hypersensitivity, colour blindness/poor eyesight,haemophilia, poor hearing, rheumatic/arthritic difficulties, asthma, vertigo etc.

It is the responsibil ity of the Year Tutor or Course Co-ordinator to informappropriate members of academic staff, including fieldwork leaders, of any suchdeclarations. Such leaders should also check with the relevant YearTutor/Course Co-ordinator to ensure that this occurs.

3.4 Supervision and Working Alone

It is University of Plymouth policy to discourage lone working in both laboratory and

field work. This is sometimes unrealistic and impractical for some staff andpostgraduate work, therefore lone working may only be sanctioned after a thoroughassessment of the risks; taking into account the nature of the work, the environmentand the competence of the worker. A safe system of work must be devised tosafeguard the health and safety of the worker and reduce risks to an acceptable level.Lone working may be avoided by the use of a companion who may be a colleague oranother from the University. They need not have detailed knowledge of the work, butthey must be familiar with the hazards and know what to do in an emergency.

1. When advisors are not present in the room, students must restrict their activitiesto those for which instruction has been given.

2. A Student wishing to work unsupervised must obtain permission from his/hersupervisor/advisor. Such work is restricted to normal working hours (09:00-17:00,Monday to Friday) and must be restricted to activities with which the student isfamiliar and which are not hazardous.

3. Staff may not work alone outside normal working hours if the work involves anyhazardous operation unless permission has been granted by the Safety Manager(Head of School).


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4. Employees and students with poorly controlled nervous system, heart or metabolicconditions must not work alone. If in doubt, you should consult the UniversitysOccupational Physician.

3.5 Access to Laboratories and Out of Hours Working

Non Open Access Laboratories will normally be kept locked when not in use. Doorsmust be locked after use, especially when working after hours. Access to somelaboratories is restricted to named groups or individuals and the restrictionsmust be adhered to.

Normal hours in the School are 0830 1700 on Monday to Thursday and 0830 1630 on Friday. Wherever possible, work should be planned to fall within thesecore hours. Persons entering after this time must have security clearance to do so,and must sign the after hours book, and sign out when leaving. Staff andpostgraduates will normally be provided with security passes.

Permission for students to work under safe conditions in laboratories or workshopsat times other than normal working hours (out of hours) must be given by the SchoolTechnical Manager or Safety Manager (Head of School), suitable arrangementsmust be in place for a staff member to be available for supervision.

3.6 Unattended Equipment

Equipment may only be left running overnight if the appropriate assessment has beenrecorded and any University permission required has been obtained. Safeguards mustbe in place, and if there is any risk to cleaning or security staff, the appropriate

warnings and a full description of emergency procedures together with an emergencycontact must also be clearly displayed.

4 CHEMICAL AND OTHER SUBSTANCES HAZARDOUS TO

HEALTH

These must be controlled as required under the Chemicals and Other Substances

Hazardous to Health (COSHH) 2002 regulations and correctly labelled as required inThe Chemicals (Hazards Information & Packaging for Supply) Regulations (CHIPS 4)2009

It applies to a wide range of substances and preparations which includes chemicals,chemical preparations, but also biological agents such as pathogens or cell cultures.

Chemical agents may occur in many forms, Solid, Liquid, Gases, Vapours, Mists andAerosols, Dust, Fibres, Fumes, and Smoke. They can enter the body via variousroutes, Inhalation, Ingestion, Abortion through the skin, and Injection.

Biological agents may take the form of Fungal, Algae, Bacterial, and Viruses.


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The main classifications of substances are Irritant, Corrosive, Harmful, Toxic, VeryToxic and Carcinogenic.

The effects of exposure can be:

Acute: immediately or rapid adverse response to the exposure and can varyfrom minor to death. Usually, with the exception of death these are reversibleand will subside when removed from the exposure.

Chronic effects are normally produces as a result of prolonged or repeatedexposure and can be slow and gradual in producing symptoms and are oftenirreversible.

A thorough and adequate CoSHH assessment should be carried out for all work withsubstances before work commences or before a new chemical is ordered andbrought into the workplace to identify if it is safe to do so.

The principles of good personal hygiene and good laboratory practice should bemaintained at all times when working with CoSHH.

Specific guidance on conducting a CoSHH assessment and Good MicrobiologicalPractice can be found on the Schools community pages.

4.1 General Chemical Safety

Acid/Alkalis Always add strong acids/alkalis to water when diluting, never the

reverse. Keep the dilution container cool. Both will cause burns tothe skin and eyes. Use a fume cupboard where necessary.

Halogens Are extremely poisonous and must be handled in a fume cupboard.Carcinogens some aromatic amines, alkaliating agents, nitro-compounds and

nitroso-compounds are capable of inducing cancer. If you have touse these compounds precautions must be taken to preventcontamination.

Dermatitis The skin can be damaged by many chemicals. Most organic solventsdissolve the protective secretions of the skin and dermatitis, allergic

reactions or even cancer can result after prolonged exposure.Protective ware and cleanliness are the most important factors inavoiding dermatoses.

Poisons Poisons will be stored in a ventilated cupboard. Whenever these areused a Poisons Logbook should be kept in the laboratory at all timesand be completed and signed.

If research requires the handling of any unusual chemicals, advice on short and longterm toxicity must be sought. Think before using and seek a more suitable alternative ifpossible. Appropriate COSHH data is required.


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4.2 Disposal of Waste

Chemicals must NOTbe poured down the sink unless the COSHH assessment andthe supervisor permit you to do so.

Waste Flammable, non-flammable, and chlorinated solvents,should beplaced into their respective waste containers provided.

Acids/alkalis Small quantities may be diluted and poured down the sink wastein a fume cupboard with a steady flow of water. Neutralisation oflarge quantities must take place before the above disposal.

Solids Non-hazardous solid waste should be put in the waste binsprovided but do not overload the container and cause a weighthazard. Hazardous solid or liquid waste must be packaged safelyand be passed on with an appropriate form for disposal by the

Authority. Broken glass and metals are collected in a separatebin.

Radio chemicals The RPA, the RPS (Radiation Protection Advisers/Supervisors )and the assistant RPS have responsibilities for the managementof radiological protection. These responsibilities include those inrelation to environmental protection via the RadioactiveSubstances Act (RSA 93). They also include responsibilities forthe health and safety of employees, students and others asrequired by the Ionising Radiations Regulations (IRR 99).

The functions of Radiation Protection Advisers/Supervisors isdefined in the Ionizing Radiation Regulations (1999) and theassociated Approved Code of Practice (ACoP). Advice may besought from the RPS in the first instance and the RPA, asrequired, in any matter relating to radiological protection. As partof its Safety Policy, the University of Plymouth approved a Codeof Practice in 2008. Copies of the Code of Practice are availablefrom the Safety Office and via the intranet.

The RPS mustbe consulted about any aspect of the use of

radio-isotopes or ionizing radiation by any worker, includingthose in or associated with other collaborating laboratories. Nowork involving radio-isotopes can be undertaken withoutthe approval of the RPS and the Universi ty is not licensedto hold alpha-emitting radionuclides on its premises.TheAssistant RPS manages the radio-isotope store and keepsinventories of radio-isotope use.

Electrical Equipment and asbestos related materials must be disposed of inaccordance with the University of Plymouth and WEE directives, and arrangedthrough Technical staff.


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Dangerous, poisonous, and polluting chemicals MUST NOT be poured down thesink.

4.3 Fume Cupboards and Extraction Systems

1. All chemical processes requiring fume cupboard facilities will require a COSHHassessment and the fume cupboard logbook must be kept up to date, recording allchemical work done.

2. Make sure the fume cupboard is on and set correctly.

3. Hydrofluoric Acid (HF) processes require a qualified HF First Aider to be madeaware of when and where the work is to be carried out, and may require thepresence of the First Aider during the process. The use of this acid is restricted tospecial fume cupboards only. Hydrofluoric Acid should never be used byundergraduates.

4. Access to fume cupboards should be booked/arranged with Technical Staff. Fumecupboards are booked for a set period and must be left clean and emptyimmediately after use for the next process, ie, uncompleted work must not be leftin the fume cupboard.

5. When using a ductless fume cupboard, check that the filter is suitable for thechemical to be used in it, and use only small quantities of chemicals.

6. Extraction systemsare provided for the extraction of hot and/or dangerous fumes,from certain instruments. When using these instruments make sure the extractionsystem is on and set correctly. Any faults must be reported immediately.

7. Check the correct settings for both the safety cut out and the temperature of anoven when used, and that the extraction is turned on.

4.4 Chemical Stores

Undergraduate students are NOTpermitted in these areas. Staff and researchersmust liaise with the member of technical staff responsible for managing the store beforeentering.

It is the responsibility of supervisors of PhD and Masters Research students toensure that they are properly trained in all aspects of the safe handling and disposalof radioisotopes. Undergraduates are not permitted to use radioisotopes, withoutsupervision at any time.

5 OFFICES AND STAFF ROOMS

ALL staff must complete an on-line display screen equipment (DSE)

assessment which should be reviewed when any change in the work


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environment occurs. This can be accessed via the University Safety pagesat https://staff.plymouth.ac.uk//intrsafe/dse5/intranet.htm

Risk Assessment it is likely that a general risk assessment will have beencompleted for standard office environment; however particular care should be

taken with:

Slips, trips and falls, these, account for most accidents in the office,trailing leads, should be avoided.

Not obstructing Fire Exits, corridors and stairways. Housekeeping, keep the area tidy to reduce fire risk Manual handling, moving furniture or lifting heavy boxes can cause

injury, obtain training and do not store heavy items at height.

Lone working (specifically refers to unaccompanied working withoutimmediate access to another person for assistance) When undertaking such

an activity a specific Risk Assessment should be made. Plymouth UniversityCode of Practice on Loan and Out of Hours Working is to be followed at alltimes

REMEMBER

MOST LABORATORIES HOUSE SPECIALIST INSTRUMENTATION WHICHMUST NOT BE USED UNSUPERVISED WITHOUT THE APPROVAL OF ANAUTHORISED PERSON.

6 SAFETY PRECAUTIONS FOR FIELDWORK

6.1 General Instructions

Fieldwork is an activity which involves a wide variety of inherent risks and hazardswhich could result in serious injury or even fatality if correct procedures are notadopted. In practical terms the immediate responsibility for safety on a field courselies with the leader(s) of the party. However, the potential dangers involved make itimperative thatALL PARTIESshould co-operate fully and behave responsibly in orderto reduce the risk of accidents. Under the leadership of the party leader(s) the partyshould adopt an attitude of mutual responsibility for safety. All fieldwork and offsiteactivities should follow the Universitys Policy and Code of Practice Off-site Activitiesand Fieldwork Nov 2013 read alongside the USHA/UCEA Guidance on Health andSafety in Fieldwork available on the Schools Health and Safety Pages..

It is recommendedthat a minimum of two other people accompany you if at allpossible, particularly in hazardous locations, so that in the event of an accident one cango for help and one can stay with the injured person. You should be aware thatdifferent hazards may occur when working in urban or remote areas, which couldinfluence a Risk Assessment. You should carry some means of communication

such as a safety alarm and / or preferably a mobile phone and you must ensure
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that you let a responsible person know where you are going and when you areexpected to return.

A field trip will be deemed to start at the time and place designated for that purpose.This does not however mean that the leader can ignore means to get to the designated

point if other than methods used by a normal person would be required.

6.2 Safety Instructions

The leader's safety briefing should be clear and precise and must be observedby all members of the party. Anyone not conforming to the standards requiredmay be excluded immediately from the fieldwork, and face a disciplinary hearingunder the University Code of Conduct Regulations.Individuals should keep with the party leader while in the field, except by clear andexplicit instruction from the leader. When you are requested to assemble at a particular

point in order to receive safety instructions regarding particular hazards, you must doso.

REMEMBER CARELESS BEHAVOUR MAY PUT OTHERS AT RISK

Before any field activity the leader(s) will have prepared a Risk Assessment. Youwill be informed of any potential risks during your briefing. Students working in a smallgroup may be asked to sign a form to signify that they understand, and agree with theinstructions.

6.3 Visits to Industrial Sites

A visit to an industrial site, for example a working quarry or mine, is a privilege grantedby the owner of the operation. Leaders of field courses wishing to make such visitsmust ensure that proper arrangements have been made.

The leader of the party should seek permission to visit the proposed site with as muchnotice as possible, informing the Manager of the proposed date, time of arrival, lengthof visit, total number in party and purpose of the visit. Permission must be obtainedfrom the Manager, preferably in writing and may require an insurance indemnity signedby the party. Should this be the case it must be checked with the University FinanceOffice as to its contents.

Well run construction sites have established health & safety management rules andprocedures, you can normally expect a thorough induction briefing and informationregarding hazards and any PPE that must be worn. If this is not forthcoming a carefulinvestigation into the H&S management and a thorough risk assessment should beundertaken to ensure adequate measure are in place before leading a visit to such asite..

REMEMBER THE LEADERS BRIEFING IS ESSENTIAL


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THE HEAD OF SCHOOL WILL NOT SANCTION AN INDUSTRIAL VISIT WITHOUTTHE APPROPRIATE PERMISSIONS, INSURANCE, AND RISK ASSESSMENTSBEING IN PLACE.

6.4 Safety Considerations

6.4.1 Considerations for working in small groups

The School does notencourage Lone working in the field. However where it isconsidered necessary it must be rigorouslyassessed and approved by the Head ofSchool. A small group working independently should appoint a leader agreed by thefield course leader(s) or project advisor to ensure that safety procedures are correctlyimplemented.

All the provisions of this section on fieldwork apply to independent fieldwork and the

following further advice is given:

i) Discuss likely safety problems or risks, and check equipment, with relevantmembers of staff before departure or commencement of work.

ii) Plan work carefully, bearing in mind experience and training, the nature of theterrain and the weather. Do not overestimate the amount that can be done.

iii) Do not go into the field without leaving details of your itinerary and preferably amap of your expected location, with either the school office or a responsibleperson, and your estimated time of return. Never carelessly change

arrangements and always report your return.

iv) Ensure that you always carry the necessary first-aid, emergency and survivalequipment.

v) Make sure you know what to do in an emergency.

vi) Know the international distress signal (6 blasts on the whistle with a oneminute pause and then repeat.).

vii) Follow the recognised procedure for the type of visit, quarry, building site etc.

viii) Ensure that you are conversant with the particular health and safety aspects ofthe environment in which you wish to work.

6.4.2 Consideration for Field Course Leaders

Whilst the ultimate responsibility for safety passes along the management chain ofcommand in the University, the immediate practical responsibility normally lies with thefield course leader. Leaders should lead by example on safety matters, keeping a

constant watch for unsafe or irresponsible behaviour and dealing with offenders firmlyand clearly. Every reasonable precaution should be taken to avoid potential hazards.


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Should working conditions change (weather, tides, cliff instability etc.) it is the leader'sresponsibility to take the decision whether to continue or not. It is wise to err on theside of safety.

It is extremely important to remember that not everyone reacts to adverse conditions or

difficulties in the same way or to the same degree. Some people suffer more easilyfrom the effects of 'exposure' than others; some cannot walk fast; some are gripped byfear or even panic when faced with the unexpected. Therefore keep a constant watchfor symptoms of difficulty in the party and do not assume that everyone's reaction to agiven set of circumstances is the same as yours. Encourage the whole party to bevigilant for signs of fatigue, distress etc. in each other and to report them to the leader.

6.5 Free Time

During field trips, students may have periods of free time. This will be the caseduring residential trips in particular. Where University staff are of the opinion thatcertain activities are dangerous, this will be conveyed in the form of advice thatstudents should not pursue such activities. It is very strongly recommended thatstudents heed this advice. Examples may be - where students wish to swim or surf inlarge waves or strong currents; where students wish to hill walk when fog is presentor likely; when students wish to cross open ground where the wind-chill factoris high; or where darkness is likely to fall before an activity can be completed. Incase of any doubt, students should consult staff and discuss their plans beforeengaging in free-time activities.

6.6 General Behaviour

All participants in field courses, or undertaking independent fieldwork, are expected toobserve sensible standards of behaviour, to conduct themselves with consideration forothers, particularly in hotels or other accommodation, and not to damage property inany way (e.g., by climbing over walls, leaving gates open, trampling crops).

Lack of sleep and previous heavy intake of alcohol renders the participant a potentialhazard to themselves and others.

Before leaving the University you should:

1. Ensure that adequate information is left in the School Office. This includes:-

(a) A list of students and staff on the course.(b) Addresses of accommodation with telephone numbers.(c) An itinerary for the trip even if it may be subject to change later.

2. Check access is suitable and particularly check the tides for any day involvingcoastal work.

3. Check that all students are adequately equipped for safe working in the field,

including footwear hard hats and goggles if necessary.


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4. Check that you are supplied with a complete and adequate first aid kit,compasses, maps, torch, watch, and any other specific equipment.

5. Know the international distress signal (6 whistle blasts, torch flashes, orwaves with a light coloured cloth followed by a one minute pause, 6 moreblasts, a minutes rest etc. Three blasts at 20 second intervals is the reply

to the international distress s ignal).6. Make sure you are competent in the treatment of exposure and first aid.7. Complete the appropriate Risk Assessment Form and brief the party on its

outcome.

You are advised, before commencing a days fieldwork to:

1. Leave instructions at your accommodation or elsewhere as to your specificitinerary for the day and your estimated time of return. Take care not to over-estimate what can be achieved.

2. Check the local weather forecast and be prepared to return early if necessary

for safety reasons. This might involve giving careful instructions to a coachdriver.

3. Check tidal data carefully.4. Check that you are carrying into the field adequate first-aid and other

equipment.5. Check the fitness of your party carefully. Get to know each individual as quickly

as possible and ensure that you are aware of any physical ailment or disability inthe party which might prove hazardous (poor eyesight, poor hearing, vertigo,epilepsy, rheumatic or arthritic difficulties, sprained ankles or ligaments,allergies, asthma etc.

6. Instruct the party as to the itinerary and any specific hazards which may beencountered. If you think it possible that any individual could not complete anyparticular aspect of the field programme because of a disability or other difficulty,an alternative should be offered.

6.7 On returning from the field:

The leader should check that the full party is present (this should be checkedregularly while in the field) and inform the necessary person(s) of your return.

6.8 Significant emergency:

In the case of an emergency where staff or local services are not sufficient to managethe situation you are able to call the school office during normal opening hours or theUoP emergency number 01752 583333 where security will help in mobilise backup.This is particularly important if the emergency , for example, will create media interestor there is an outbreak of civil unrest and requires action outside of the scope of localstaff to manage.

7 DRIVING AT WORK


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The University code of practice - Vehicle & Driver Safety is available from theUniversity H&S pages.

7.1 Definition of a Vocational Driver

A vocational driver is defined as any employee who is required to drive a Universityvehicle where it is a core requirement of their job description. Where the Universityeither provides or hires a passenger carrying vehicle (PCV) e.g. a minibus, theUniversity has a duty of care to those passengers. In view of this, an employee who isrequired to drive the vehicle is also classed as a vocational driver.

7.2 Car licences held before 1 January 1997

University vocational drivers, who hold a licence before 1 January 1997, are entitled to

drive a minibus with seating for up to 16 passengers, provided that it is not being usedfor hire or reward and provided that they meet the following criteria:

Car drivers whose licence entitlement is group A (B for automatics) on old licencesOR

Car drivers whose licence is B and D1 not for hire or reward, on new licencesAND

Car drivers are aged 21 or over

From 1 January 1997 the above entitlements remain valid in the UK, or on a temporarybasis abroad, until the licence is renewed on or after that date. If the licence is renewedafter that date, the entitlement to drive a minibus will only be issued if the driver makesa special application to DVLA (which will involve meeting the higher medicalstandards).

7.3 Car Licences issued on or after 1 January 1997

University vocational drivers may only drive vehicles with 8 passenger seats or less. Todrive vehicles with between 9 and 16 passenger seats, drivers will need to meet highermedical standards and pass an appropriate DVLA test.

7.4 Risk assessment is required for vehicles and journeys

In carrying out the risk assessment procedure, the assessment should be relativelystraight forward to complete. For example, key areas include:

The Driver:

Driving in accordance with good practice and limiting driving hours to 6 7hours per day

Inspecting vehicles before driving

Making sure that the registration and experience of the driver is correct

Has contact numbers for assistance if required

The Vehicle:


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fit for purpose

roadworthy

regularly maintained and serviced

easy to drive

The Journey: Adequate rest breaks for the distance to be travelled.

Number of journeys i.e. visiting several placements in one day and then returnjourney home in the same day.

Weather conditions,

Emergency provision: phone, access to a recovery service etc.

Details of journey logged with the school office.

Suitable route.

The school office will need to see and copy driving licences to help ensure drivercompetence.

You MUST exercise proper control of your vehicle at all times. You MUST NOT use ahand-held mobile phone, or similar device, when driving.

All vocational drivers who drive a University vehicle to transport staff and/or studentsare required to undergo a drivers medical to determine their fitness to drive.

8 DIVING

The School supports opportunities for suitably qualified staff and students to dive aspart of their academic studies, students are also offered the opportunity to undertake acourse of HSE approved SCUBA professional diver training subject to availability toattain the qualification.

All divers will be expected to adhere to the UoP Diving at Work code of practice 23-04-2014 or as revised athttps://staff.plymouth.ac.uk//intrsafe/policies/intranet.htm

Prior to the commencing the HSE SCUBA professional diver training students will need

to have prior recreational diving experience, complete a HSE approved First Aidqualification and related training, have a valid medical certificate, pass an aptitude test.

For further details contact SoMSE Admin at Coxside Marine Station

9 BOAT ACTIVITIES

All boat operations fall under the Universitys Safety Policy for Operations Afloat May2012 which is available from the University Health and Safety community pages.

This document sets out the overarching policy, and outlines the procedure fordevolving the Operating Procedures to the separate areas (Sub Groups) in
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respect of boat usage within Plymouth University. It also sets out the requirementsfor the Operating Procedures for all Sub Groups.

The School of Marine Science & Engineering has additionally put in place specificrequirements to cover operation of its own fleet of vessels. These are available from

the safety section of the schools community pages.

10 RISK ASSESSMENT

The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations (MHSWR) 1999 section 3requires employers to assess the risk to health and safety of their employees andanyone else who may be affected by their work activities.

The school places a duty on those engaged in activities on its behalf, staff and

students, to consider and control risk from their activities to ensure that thisrequirement is fully complied with by completing a thorough and sufficient RiskAssessment.https://staff.plymouth.ac.uk//somse/Health_Safety_Man/intranet.htm

Risk assessment should not be considered a paper exercise to only satisfy a regulationit is about taking sensible steps to prevent harm to people and the environment.

Risk assessment is not and should not be a complicated process and can be easilycompleted by following the five steps to risk assessment.

1. Identify the hazards

2. Identify those at risk and who may be harmed3. Evaluate the risks and decide on precautions (probable outcome not

possible)4. Record your findings and implement them5. Review the assessment either routinely or when there are significant

changes.

A Hazard is anything that may cause harm, such as fire, chemicals, electricity, workingat height , , violence the environment,an open drawer etc.

The Risk is the chance (probability) high or low that someone could be harmed by

these and other hazards together with how serious that harm could be.

There is duty to apply specific controls such as Control of Substances Hazardous toHealth (CoSHH) Regulations (2002)

Details of the risk assessment process, record templates and the procedure forUndergraduate Project Assessments is described in the Student Undergraduate andMSc Project Risk-CoSHH Procedure which is available on the University or Schoolcommunity pages.

11 COSHH ASSESSMENTS
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The same principles for a general Risk Assessment can be applied to a CoSHHassessment; there is no need to complete a general risk assessment for a processalready assessed under CoSHH. Details of CoSHH assessment are available on theUniversity and School safety pages.

Key step for any CoSHH assessment:

Identify where there is potential for exposure to substances that might behazardous to health.

You should look for processes that could emit dust, fume, vapour, mist or gasand skin contact with liquids, pastes and dusts.

Any substances with Workplace Exposure Limit (WEL) are hazardous tohealth, there are about 500 listed in the document EH40 workplace exposurelimits available from the HSE website and the school community pages.

Determine by consulting substance data sheets or other reliable sources theeffect these substances could have to health.

These will give possible routes of entry, seriousness of contact and if theeffects will be acute or chronic; exposure controls and protection andinformation on what to do in an emergency.

Identify individuals and groups that may be affected by chemicals in the way that

they are to be used.

Evaluate the risk and decide on precautions based on probable outcome andseverity.

Record the findings and decide on any precautions that need to be taken andimplement them.

Review your assessment either routinely or as significant changes occur. Thesechanges can be advances in knowledge of the affects to health or theenvironment as well as to the process.

12 HEALTH SURVEILLANCE

RISK and COSHH assessments may identify activities where chronic health effectsthrough repeated exposure occur, to help manage this the University has produced aHealth Surveillance CoP, available on the UoP safetypageshttps://staff.plymouth.ac.uk//intrsafe/policies/intranet.htm staff should maketheir line managers aware of any instances where the RISK or CoSHH assessmentssuggest that Health surveillance should be in place and their names added to the

surveillance register.
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12.1 Typical hazards where surveillance needs to be considered:

Skin SurveillanceFor substances detailed as skin irritants or sensitizers

Metal working fluids

Hard/soft woods

Laboratory animals

Cleaning agents

Respiratory ScreeningFor substances detailed as sensitizers or irritants

Laboratory animals

Wood dusts

Isocyanates

Gluteraldehyde

Hand transmitted vibration

Where exposed in excess of daily exposure action value

Where otherwise defined by risk

Audiometry (Noise)

Areas where daily personal exposure to noise exceeds 80dBA

General Health Surveillance

Night workers

Drivers

Food Handlers


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FACULTY OF SCIENCE AND ENVIRONMENT

APPENDICES


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APPENDIX A - HEALTH & SAFETY POLICY STATEMENT

UNIVERSITY SAFETY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

HEALTH & SAFETY POLICY STATEMENT

The University of Plymouth places high value on its staff and the people it serves. Acentral ambition is to become a great University, and by extension, to be a greatplace to work and study. It is recognised that providing the highest possiblestandards of health, safety and wellbeing for the staff, students and other peoplewho may be affected by the Universitys activities, therefore needs to be at the heartof what we do. The University is therefore committed to the following policy

objectives:

1. Pursuing a policy of continual improvement in its health & safety managementarrangements by reviewing legislation and introducing approaches whichensure that legal responsibilities are met. The University will take all suchsteps as are reasonably practicable to meet these responsibilities.

2. Recognising that it has a moral obligation and a Duty of Care to ensure thatall who are affected by its activities are reasonably safe.

3. Providing:

a. workplaces and working conditions which are safe and without risk tohealth.

b. Systems of work that are safe and without risk to health

b. Safe arrangements for the use, handling, storage, transport,and disposal of hazardous substances.

c. Sufficient supervision, instruction and training, to enable all employeesand students, to manage risk and contribute positively to their own health

& safety and that of others

e. An organisational structure which ensures effective delegation ofresponsibility, supported by a professional development programme forthose with management responsibilities for health & safety.

In order to fully deliver these commitments, The University has the followingexpectations of staff and students: -

a. To identify hazards and risks and control them effectively

b. To be responsible for their own safety and that of others, who may beaffected by their acts or omissions at work


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c. To co-operate with others in the University in fulfilling statutory duties

d. Not to interfere with, misuse or wilfully damage, anything provided in theinterests of safety

e. To report accidents and near misses in accordance with the Universityprocedures.

The University will: -

a. Communicate any changes in the Health & Safety Policy to its employeesand students

b. Maintain effective communication and consultation procedures with staffand students on matters of health & safety


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APPENDIX B

FACULTY OF SCIENCE AND ENVIRONMENT SAFETY POLICY

FACULTY OF SCIENCE AND ENVIRONMENT SAFETY POLICY (Extract)Full Policy Document Available at:

https://staff.plymouth.ac.uk//scienv/healthsafety/intranet.htm

1 STATEMENT

The Science and Environment Faculty Safety Policy supports theUniversity Safety Policy and must be read in conjunction with theUniversity Safety Policy and Codes of Practice. The Science and

Environment Faculty seeks to provide a safe, healthy and stimulatingworking environment. All staff, students and visitors must, at all times,take reasonable care for their own safety, and that of any other personwithin their work area, or likely to be affected by their work activities.

2 ORGANISATION

The Universitys General Health and Safety Policy defines theorganisation of roles and responsibilities. This can be found on theUniversity Health and Safety Community pages.

The Dean of the Faculty, as the designated Safety Manager, isresponsible for ensuring compliance with and communication of theUniversity, Faculty and School Safety Policies and is responsible to theVice Chancellor or Deputy Vice Chancellor .

Heads and Acting Heads of Schools are School Safety Managers andwill have their own Safety Policy and Safety Committee, describingorganisation of safety responsibilit ies and arrangements. School SafetyManagers are responsible for the provision of a safe workingenvironment in those parts of the physical accommodation allocated to

their School. Each Safety Manager is also responsible for safety duringactivities, such as field courses, organised by s taff in his/her School.

Safety Managers nominate Safety Co-ordinators to ensureimplementation of the Safety Policy, these are usually the Faculty andSchool Technical Managers who have this role embedded in their JobDescription.


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DRAKE CIRCUSPLYMOUTHPL4 8AA

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[email protected]

https://staff.plymouth.ac.uk//somse/Health_Safety_Man/intranet.htm
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Documents

MSE Safety Handbook 2014-2015