Winnie the pooh

Policy Title Health & Safety

Policy Number 4.3

Date 01.11.2010

Review Date 01.11.2011

Author Mrs. C Johnstone

Mrs. M Froggatt

Miss. E Lazenby

& FCPS Foundation Stage Miss. S Harvey

Miss. M Smith

Definition of Franche 726 & FCPS Foundation Stage:



Franche 726 consists of Tots@726, Little Franche, Wraparound, Chestnut Children’s Centre &

726 unit. Franche 726 provides extended services which integrate with the Franche Community

Primary School Foundation Stage setting. The policy hereon in refers to the aforementioned

settings as applicable to this policy



Statement of intent



The Trustees and management within all settings of 726 believe that the health and safety of

children is of paramount importance. We make our setting a safe and healthy place for children,

parents, staff and volunteers and recognise our responsibilities under the Health and Safety at

work act (1974).



Aim



We aim to make children, parents, staff, students and volunteers aware of health and safety

issues and minimise the hazards and risks to enable the children to thrive in a healthy and safe

environment.



Policy



The Trustees of 726 have overall responsibility for health and safety within the scheme. Each

department manager has responsibility for ensuring their own staff follow the health and safety

policy and to complete training where necessary. The Trustees will ensure they are competent to

uphold their responsibilities.



Procedures



1. Risk Assessment



 Our risk assessments check for hazards and risks both indoors and outdoors, both within

our activities and our equipment. They aim to ensure the safety of children and adults alike.

 The risk assessments form the basis of management control of Health and Safety. Staff

use them to develop action plans that specify the action required, timescales for action, the

people/person responsible and any funding that may be required.

 Each unit carries out a daily risk assessment at the start of each session and have

comprehensive long term risk assessments in place which are reviewed at least annually.

 Each setting manages and monitors risk as a continuous process as risk changes in

relation to different activities offered.

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Insurance Cover



We have Public Liability Insurance and Employers Liability Insurance. The certificate for Public

Liability Insurance is displayed in the settings.





Induction and staff training.



 Our induction training for staff, students and volunteers includes a clear explanation of

health and safety issues so that all adults are able to adhere to our policy and understand

their shared responsibility for health and safety. This induction will be undertaken on their

first day.

 The induction training covers matters of employee well-being, including safe lifting and the

storage of potentially dangerous substances i.e. cleaning materials.

 It is clearly stated to all staff the appropriate use of chemicals and how they should be

stored. Staff are made aware of the purpose for and location of all corresponding COSHH

data sheets relating to cleaning products and chemical based substances that are used.

 Staff have a duty of care to report any health and safety issue immediately to a senior

member of staff.

 Records are kept of the induction training sessions and new staff and volunteers are asked

to sign the records to confirm that they have taken part.

 As necessary, health and safety training is included in the annual training plans of staff and

volunteers. Health and safety is discussed as ongoing issue at staff meetings.

 Raising the Health and safety awareness of the children forms part of our daily routines and

curriculum, this is an ongoing responsibility of all staff.





Childrens safety



 We ensure that all staff employed or volunteers have been checked for criminal records by

an enhanced disclosure from the Criminal Records Bureau.

 Adults do not normally supervise children on their own, in an isolated situation.

 All children are supervised by adults at all times.

 Students must provide their CRB certificate during their initial visit and this is added to the

central list.

 Whenever children are on the premises at least two adults with relevant qualifications to

meet welfare requirements must be present.

(Please also read all policies included within the Safeguarding and promoting children’s

welfare section of the full policy list)



Security



 The premises both indoors and outdoors must be safe and secure.

 Systems are in place for the safe arrival and departure of children. The times of the

children’s arrivals and departures are recorded. (also refer to collections and uncollected

child policy)

 The arrival and departure times of adults – staff, volunteers and students are recorded.







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 All visitors must have identification on arrival and are required to sign in and out in the

visitors book provided. All visitors are logged to include name, purpose for visit, time in and

out and company name

 Providers must only release children into the care of individuals who are named by the

parents/carers. A password system is in place where appropriate.

 Our systems prevent unauthorised access to our premises and parents/carers are required

to collect their children from the designated exits only.

 Our systems prevent children from arriving or leaving our premises un-noticed.

 The personal possessions of staff, students and volunteers are securely stored during

sessions.

 Indoor and outdoor security such as doors locked or unlocked, door alarms, intercoms,

name badges posters, newsletters, general reminders for adults i.e. please shut the gate.

are all in place.

 Staff to ensure other people on site are vetted and do not have unauthorised contact with

children.





Windows



 Low level windows are made from materials that prevent accidental breakage or are made

safe.

 Windows above the ground floor are secured so that children cannot climb through them.

 Should accidental damage occur to a window the area is cordoned off and the caretaker

notified. Repair work will be undertaken to make the area safe as soon as is reasonably

practical.



Doors



 We take precautions to prevent children’s fingers from being trapped indoors with the use

of finger guards for the younger children.



Floors



 All surfaces are checked daily to ensure they are clean and not uneven or damaged.

 Yellow warning signs are used by cleaning staff to indicate wet and slippery floors.

 Long term risk assessments are in place to ensure the safety of all children and staff.





Kitchen



 Children do not have unauthorised access to any Kitchen areas.

 All surfaces are clean and non-porous.

 There are separate facilities for hand-washing and for washing up.

 Cleaning materials and other dangerous materials are stored out of children’s reach.

 When children take part in cooking activities, they:

1. Are supervised at all times

2. Are kept away from hot surfaces and hot water

3. Do not have unsupervised access to electrical equipment.

 Long term risk assessments are in place to ensure the safety of all children and staff.







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Fire Safety (also see Fire Safety policy)



 Fire doors are clearly marked, never obstructed and easily opened from inside.

 Smoke detectors / alarms and fire fighting appliances conform to BSEN standards, are

fitted in appropriate high risk areas of the building and are checked as specified by the

manufacturer.

 Smoke detectors meet regulatory reforms and are checked daily.

 Our emergency evacuation procedures are approved by the Fire Safety Officer and are:

I. Clearly displayed in the premises

II. Explained to new members of staff, volunteers and students on induction.

III. Practiced regularly at least once every six weeks.

 Records are kept of fire drills and the servicing of fire safety equipment.

 Mr. Newton (Caretaker) regularly carries out visual inspections.

 The fire alarm system is tested at a minimum monthly by Mr. Newton (caretaker) and a

record kept in a logbook adjacent to the fire alarm.

 Annual examination of all equipment is met by the local authority.

 Nominated staff are trained in fire marshal procedures.



First Aid and Medication (Also see medications policy)



We meet welfare requirements in relation to first aid qualifications and training at all times.



At the time of admission to the setting, parents/carers written permission for emergency medical

advice or treatment is obtained including where necessary hospital treatment. Parents/carers sign

and date their written approval. Parents/carers of next available emergency contact will be

contacted on the way to the hospital.



Our first aid kit:

 Complies with the Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations..

 Is regularly checked by a designated member of staff and re-stocked as necessary, this

forms part of the daily risk assessment.

 Is easily accessible to adults

 Is kept out if reach of children.



Sickness (Also see managing children who are sick or infectious policy 3.4)



Our policy for the exclusion of ill or infectious children is shared with parents/carers. This includes

procedures for contacting parents/carers – or other authorised adults – if a child becomes ill while

in the setting

 We do not provide care for children who are unwell, have a temperature, sickness and

diarrhoea, or who have an infectious disease unless due to special medical needs i.e.

allergies, irritable bowel. In these cases a GP letter will be required.

 Staff will uphold the government recommendation that children and staff remain absent

from school for 48 hours after their last bout of sickness or diarrhea.

 Children are not allowed to attend swimming lessons for 2 weeks after they have had

sickness or diarrhea.

 Staff will use the infection control guidelines set by the Health Protection Agency.

 Children with head lice are not excluded, but parents are contacted and must the child must

be treated to remedy the condition.

 Parents/carers are notified if there is a case of head lice in the setting.

 Parents/carers are notified if there is a case of infectious disease, such as chicken pox.

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 Children or families are not excluded because of HIV.

 Good hygiene practice concerning the clearing of any spilled bodily fluids is carried out at

all times and staff will wear appropriate PPE i.e. gloves, aprons.

 OFSTED is notified of any infectious diseases that a qualified medical person considers

notifiable.

 All staff / volunteers will be required to attend a back to work interview to discuss illness,

medication, action plan etc.



Any person that may become unwell whilst at the setting will be placed in an area where

possible to prevent / reduce cross-contamination.





Our accident book/sheets are:



 Kept safely and are accessible at all times.

 All staff and volunteers know where it is kept and how to complete it.

 Is reviewed at least half termly to identify actions for change of proforma.

 All accident/incident books/sheets are kept securely for 3 years at a minimum.



Our Incident Book



 We keep an incident book /file for recording incidents including those that are reportable to

the Health and Safety Executive and RIDDOR as above.



 These incidents include:



o Break in/ burglary, theft of personal or setting’s property

o Fire, flood, gas leak or electrical failure

o Attack on member of staff or parent on the premises or near by

o Any racist incident involving a staff member or family on the setting’s premises

o Death of a child.

o A terrorist attack or threat of one.



 In the incident book/sheet we record the date and time of the incident, nature of the event,

who was affected, what was done about it – or if it was reported to the police, and if so a

crime number. Any follow up, or insurance claim made, should also be recorded.

 In the unlikely event of a terrorist attack we follow the advice of the emergency services

with regard to evacuation, medical aid and contacting children’s families. Our standard Fire

Safety/evacuation Policy will be followed and staff will take charge of their key children. The

incident is recorded when the threat is averted.

 In the unlikely event of a child dying on the premises, for example, through cot death in the

case of a baby or by any other means, the emergency services are called, and the advice

of these services is followed.

 The incident book is not for recording issues of concern involving a child. This is recorded

in the child’s own file.

 OFSTED are informed off all serious incidents.









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Dealing with accidents/incident:



We ensure we meet legal requirements for the safety of our employees by complying with

RIDDOR (Reporting of Disease and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations).



We report the following to the Health and Safety Executive:



o Any accidents to a member of staff requiring treatment by a general practitioner or hospital.

o Any dangerous occurrences. This may be an event that causes injury or fatalities either

through an accident (i.e. shelf falling on someone) or incident (i.e. a gas leak.)

o All accidents and incidents are clearly recorded and kept for a minimum of three years.





Electrical / Gas Equipment



 All electrical / gas equipment conforms to safety requirements and is checked on an annual

basis by a Worcestershire County Council approved contractor.

 Our boiler / electrical switch / meter cupboard is not accessible to the children.

 Fires, heaters, electrical sockets, wires and leads are properly guarded and the children are

taught not to touch them.

 All our electrical equipment is PAT tested on an annual basis by a Worcestershire County

approved contractor.

 Storage heaters are checked daily to make sure they are not covered.

 The temperature of hot water is controlled to prevent scalds.

 Lighting and ventilation is adequate in all areas including storage areas.



Storage



 All resources and materials from which children select are stored safely.

 All equipment and resources are stored or stacked safely to prevent them accidentally

falling or collapsing.

 Manual handling training is carried out by staff to ensure their safety when lifting and

moving and appropriate equipment will be used for high storage and the changing of light

bulbs.







Storage and use of Chemicals / Substances



 We recognise that it may on occasions be necessary to seek advice on specialist matters

pertaining to Health and Safety. We will consult the health and safety coordinator of

Hereford and Worcestershire education department or such other persons as may be

necessary.

 We also recognise their responsibilities to ensure that any significant risks arising from

work activities are assessed (as required under the management of health and safety at

work regulation 1992, the control of substances hazardous to health (COSHH) Regulations

1988, the manual handling regulations 1992 and the display screen equipment 1992)

 A daily risk assessment, log is maintained for all areas used by Franche 726.

 This and associated policies are kept in the in the individual settings and in the main office

at all times and are freely available.



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 All chemicals are stored out of the reach of children and in lockable cupboards where

appropriate.

 COSHH sheets are available for chemicals and products used within the scheme.

 Long term risk assessments are in place to ensure the safety of all children and staff.

 Cleaning check sheets are used within the units so that staff are aware of substances used.



Outdoor area



 All outdoor areas are securely fenced with lockable gates.

 Our outdoor area is checked for safety and cleared of rubbish/ faeces before it is used.

 Adults and children are alerted to the dangers of poisonous plants, herbicides and

pesticides.

 Our outdoor water play is supervised at all times and is emptied after use.

 Where water can form a pool on equipment, it is emptied before children start playing

outside.

 Our outdoor sand pit is covered when not in use and is cleaned regularly.

 All outdoor activities are supervised at all times.

 Long term risk assessments are in place to ensure the safety of all children and staff.



Hygiene



 We are registered with the local district council under food handling registration to ensure

that we keep up to date with the latest recommendations.

 Our daily routines encourage the children to learn about personal hygiene.

 We have a daily cleaning routine for the setting which includes play room(s), Kitchen, rest

areas, toilets and nappy changing areas.

 We have a schedule for cleaning resources and equipment, dressing-up clothes and

furnishings.

 The toilet area is regularly checked and has a high standard of hygiene including hand

washing and drying facilities and the disposal of nappies.

 We implement good hygiene practices by:



i. Cleaning tables between activities,

ii. Checking toilets regularly

iii. Wearing protective clothing – such as aprons and disposable gloves as appropriate.

iv. Providing an adequate supply of different colour cloths for different purposes.

v. Providing tissues and wipes.

vi. Ensuring sole use of flannels and towels.

vii. Providing hand washing gel for both children and staff.



Activities



 Before purchase or loan, equipment and resources are checked to ensure that they are

safe for the ages and stages of the children currently attending the setting.

 The layout of play equipment allows adults and children to move safely and freely.

 All equipment is regularly checked for cleanliness and safety and any dangerous items are

repaired or discarded.

 All materials – including paint and glue are non-toxic.

 Sand is clean and suitable for children’s play.

 Physical play is constantly supervised.



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 Children are taught to handle and store tools safely (i.e. scissors to be supervised at all

times).

 Children who are sleeping are checked regularly.

 Children learn about health, safety and personal hygiene through the activities we provide

and the routines we follow.



Food and Drink (also see safe foods policy)



 Staff, that prepare and handle food receive appropriate training and understand and comply

with food safety and hygiene regulations.

 Fresh drinking water to be available at all times

 All food and drink is stored appropriately.

 Adults do not carry hot drinks through the play area(s) and do not place hot drinks within

reach of children.

 Snack and meal times are appropriately supervised and children do not walk about with

food or drinks.

 We operate systems to ensure that children do not have access to food/drinks to which

they are allergic.

 The setting will at all times promote good health of the adults and children by educating

through activities / training of the importance of healthy eating and the necessary hygiene

procedures to prevent the spread of infection.



Aims

i. To provide meals, snacks and drinks that are healthy, balanced and nutritious.

ii. Care and concern will be taken to ensure dietary needs are met i.e. allergies,

religion, preferences etc. Written records will be maintained in order for all

concerned to be informed.

iii. Food / drink sources will be stored appropriately at the correct temperature

(Fridge/Freezer ice packs) and protected to avoid contamination.

iv. Food / drink that requires reheating will be probed and temperature logged (as

per chart)

v. All persons handling food / drink should wear protective clothing i.e. gloves and

aprons and receive relevant training i.e. basic food hygiene etc and training on

induction.

vi. If providers have reason to believe a child is suffering from a notifiable disease

identified as in the Public Health (infectious disease) regulation 1988 RIDDOR,

they will be required to inform OFSTED and Health Protection Agency and act

upon any advice given.





Outings and visits (Also see outings policy 1.8)



 We have agreed procedures for the safe conduct of outings.

 Parents/carers sign a general consent on registration for their children to be taken out as

part of their daily activities of the setting.

 Parents/carers always sign consent forms before major outings.

 A risk assessment is carried out before an outing takes place.

 We always consider the age of our children and their individual needs when planning our

child/adult ratios for outings and trips. We always comply with government standards and

regulations.

 We will use appropriate booster seats and seat belts in line with government legislation.



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 Named children are assigned to individual staff to ensure each child is individually

supervised and to ensure no child gets lost and that there is no unauthorised access to

children.

 Children/Adults with learning difficulties and disabilities will have equal opportunities and all

steps will be implemented to ensure participation, inclusion and safety.

 Outings are recorded in an outings record book/file and state:

i. The date and reasons of outing

ii. The venue and mode of transport

iii. Names of staff assigned to named children.

iv. Time of departure and estimated time of return.

v. Parent / Carer emergency contact details.

vi. Settings mobile telephone number

vii. Designated First Aider

viii. Staff ratios



 Records are kept of the vehicles used to transport children, with named drivers and

appropriate insurance cover.

 All vehicles used for trips/outings are maintained and checked before each outing.





Animals in the setting. (Also see animal in setting policy)



 Companies entering the setting are Worcestershire County Council recommended and

therefore would have to meet a clear criteria in relation to animal welfare, safety and

infection control.

 Our setting’s pets are well cared for and checked for signs of illness/disease on a daily

basis. The cleanliness and condition of the cage and animal are checked through a daily

risk assessment.

 Staff ensure children wash their hands after contact with animals.





Records



We adhere to the EYFS welfare standards in relation to record keeping.



 Names, addresses and telephone numbers of parents and adults authorised to collect

children from the setting

 The names, addresses and telephone numbers of emergency contacts in case of adult /

children’s illness or accident.

 The allergies, dietary requirements and illnesses of individuals.

 The times of attendance of children, staff, volunteers and visitors.

 Accidents and medicine administration records.

 Consents for outings, administration of medication, emergency treatment and

 Incidents.

 Authorisation of photo’s, video etc.

 Any information relating to the welfare of the child i.e. speech and language referrals, family

support etc.

 Special requirements, likes and dislikes, Special needs, Religious background, outside

agency and additional information, Parental responsibility etc







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Staff are made aware of the data protection laws and will always refer enquires about specific

children to a senior member of staff. Information will not be shared without clarification of

identification.





Caretaker is Responsible for:



 Ensuring he is familiar with and complies with the settings health, safety and other related

procedures and policies.

 Bringing to the attention of Health and Safety Executive, any problems or defects affecting

the health and safety of any person on the school premises.

 Bringing the settings safety policies and risk assessments to the attention of cleaning and

grounds staff (including contractors where relevant)

 Ensuring that any staff under his direct control receive adequate training and instruction in

the use of equipment or materials that they are expected to use.

 Ensuring that all equipment and materials received have adequate health and safety

information.

 Ensuring that safe procedures are laid down and used when work of a potentially

hazardous nature is undertaken by him or others working under his direction.

 Ensuring that due warning is given of any caretaking / cleaning operation that could be

constituted as hazardous to other users of the premises.

 Ensuring only county approved contractors are employed onsite.

 Informing the managers of the arrival (or expected arrival) of contractors for maintenance

work.

 Informing contractors of any hazards that could affect their health and safety whilst working

in the setting.

 The safe use of all plant and maintenance equipment and the safe use and storage of all

materials and ensuring the safe maintenance of all plant equipment.

 Informing organisations that may have onsite lettings of any hazards that could affect their

health and safety while using the setting premises.

 Conservation area – The gate is to be kept locked at all times and warning notices posted.

Children are supervised at all times.

 Clearance of ice, snow and leaves – setting grounds.

 Building repairs and contractors.





In addition to the aforementioned the following policies should be considered:



 All policies contained within the within the Safeguarding and promoting children’s

welfare section of the full policy list.

 All policies contained in the suitable premises, people policies and health and hygiene

policies of the full policy list.









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