Below are just a selection of the frequently asked questions we get asked by Schools. At Cousins Safety we offer Connect service that enables schools to email or call us with their questions and queries.
How many trained FAW First Aiders do we need at school?
There is no set number of First Aiders based on size or numbers of pupils in schools it is all about completing a first aid needs risk assessment specific to your school. The First Aid at Work Regulations 1981 do not place a legal duty on employers to make first-aid provision for non-employees such as the public or children in schools. However the HSE strongly recommends that non-employees are included in an assessment of first-aid needs and that provision is made for them.
Things to consider in the assessment:
– Location and proximity to emergency services
– Activities in school (Science and D&T) which increases the risk
– Working arrangements (time of days are covered for example someone on site to cover cleaners)
You may only decide to have a few FAW First Aiders and more staff with the one day Emergency First Aid at work training who can attend trips etc.
Additional specific First Aid training requirements: Nurseries and Foundation stage are required to have at least one member of staff with paediatric First Aid training.
For more guidance on First Aid see HSE website
What is the minimum temperature for classrooms?
The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 stipulate that during working hours, temperatures in workplaces (including maintained and independent schools, and FE colleges) should be reasonable. The employer must provide a suitable number of thermometers to enable the temperature to be checked throughout the workplace.
The Approved Code of Practice (L24) to the regulations state a normal temperature for workplaces of at least 16°C. Where physical exercise if involved then a minimum of 13°C is required.
However, these temperatures may not provide reasonable comfort depending on other factors such as air movement, relative humidity and clothing.
These temperatures provide a guide:
Use of area
Minimum temperature
Lower than normal level of physical activity, e.g., sick rooms 21°C
Normal level of physical activity, e.g., classrooms and libraries 18°C
Higher than normal levels of physical activity, e.g., gyms and drama workshops 15°C
Where the temperature in a room used for teaching falls significantly below 16°c. The schools should look at additional heating.
Electric convector heaters are preferred for supplementary or emergency heating, provided there are sufficient electrical circuits.
Calor gas heaters are a possible alternative, provided strict safety precautions are in force. The room must be adequately ventilated. Fuel for the heater must be stored outside the building. Guards should be placed around the heaters to prevent pupils from touching them. Heaters must not block fire escape routes. The lighting and control of heaters, as well as the changing of cylinders, must be undertaken by a trained, authorised person.
Staff should not be bringing in and using their own heaters in school.
What is the maximum temperature for a workplace and classrooms?
There is no Maximum temperature for the workplace. The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 stipulate that during working hours, temperatures in workplaces (including maintained and independent schools, and FE colleges) should be reasonable. The employer must provide a suitable number of thermometers to enable the temperature to be checked throughout the workplace.
How often should we retrain fire wardens – some training certificates run out after 2 years and some 3 years??
There is no legal time for refresher training for fire wardens although the recommendation/good practice is every 3 years. It’s important for schools to practice their evacuation termly to check it works properly. Schools should obtain feedback from the fire wardens after each evacuation to help improve their evacuation plans. All staff should have an annual update on your school’s fire evacuation procedures, keeping fire exits clear, good housekeeping practices etc.– 5 minutes on the September training day is a good way to deliver this message to any new and existing staff.
Details of Fire Warden Training
Can we take some spare Calpol or paracetamol on a school trip or does all medication require a prescription for each child??
Yes as long as your School Supporting Pupils with Medical Conditions Policy outlines your school’s procedures for school trips – then this is fine. Of course, you will need to obtain written consent from parents to administer before the trip. For further advice on your school policy refer to www.oeapng.info and specifically their guidance on medication.
How long should a pupil be excluded from school following symptoms of vomiting or diarrhea?
48 hours once symptoms have ceased. Details on exclusions are detailed on government website. Health protection in education and childcare settings – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Can staff wear open toe sandals in school?
It really does depend on their role and your own assessment of risk. As a general rule: Yes – if they work in classrooms except where they may be dealing with a pupil that is physical No – Cleaners using hoovers and moving furniture, Site Agents or those working in kitchens.
Who is responsible for completing Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans PEEPS?
In most small schools the class teacher or SENDCO completes the PEEP for pupils with a disability in larger schools this is the school nurse. Staff PEEPS are usually completed by the School Business Manager.
Do we need to provide personal protective equipment to our site agent?
Yes – A risk assessment should identify what PPE is required but this usually gloves, safety boots/trainers, trousers and a warm jacket and hi vis.