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DS Risk Assessment: School operation during June/July 2020 Issue 2.1 180520 of 47

Risk Assessment: School operation during June/ July 2020: response to Coronavirus (COVID-19). Issue 2 incorporating government guidance to 18/05/20

This risk assessment will be reviewed and updated on a regular basis

School: Saltford Primary School Date of Assessment: 20th May Review date:

(Complete once the action plan section below is addressed)

Assessed by:

Please note all those involved should sign up to this assessment. Print below:

NAME: DATE:

1. D Sage – 20th May 2020

2. SLT (J Godwin, G Godwin, E Spincer, E Davis, G Donovan, P Nethercott) 1st Juen 2020

3.

etc


BACKGROUND AND CONTEXT:

From Monday 1 June 2020 (at the earliest) schools are expected to reopen for pupils in the Nursery, Reception, Year 1 and Year 6 age groups. Secondary schools are asked to offer some face to face support to supplement the remote education of pupils in Years 10 and 12. Special schools will work towards a phased return of more pupils without a focus on specific year groups. This will be in addition to the existing full-time provision already in place for priority groups. Numbers accessing this provision are likely to increase as more parents and carers return to work.

This model risk assessment has been developed to support schools in:

1. Implementing government guidance for the reopening of schools first issued on 11 May:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-implementing-protective-measures-in-education-and-childcare-settings

2. Continuing to provide provision for vulnerable children and other children who are still working at home 3. Facilitating home working for staff

The risk assessment will be reviewed in response to updates to government guidance and any examples of shared ‘best practice’ that we receive. Schools must adapt this risk assessment in consultation with relevant partners including trade union representatives where available.

In line with government guidance to other businesses that are advised to go back to work, we recommend that once complete, this risk assessment is made publicly available to those who wish to see it. The same guidance also provides those employers with a downloadable notice they should display to show people they have followed the guidance. We suggest you use it too. It should be tailored for outward and inward facing 'audiences'.

The risk assessment takes into account the revised list of most common symptoms to look out for as updated on the 18th May 2020 as follows:




England's deputy chief medical officer, Prof Jonathan Van-Tam said it was important to update advice at the right time "when we think it's going to make a difference moving forwards to how we pick up cases".

The World Health Organisation says along with the most common symptoms of fever, cough and tiredness, people may have:

aches and pains

sore throat

diarrhoea

conjunctivitis (red eye)

headache

loss of taste or smell

a rash on skin, or discolouration of fingers or toes.

Completing this risk assessment – instructions for Headteachers and Principals

- fill out the school details at the top of the form

- please do not change anything in the first four columns

- in the Precautions / Existing Controls column complete the details required where there is black font highlighted in purple – this is

where you will put specific arrangements for your school

- in the Precautions / Existing Controls column do not amend anything that has been pre-populated in red font

- for each risk, enter the ‘likelihood of harm’ in the 6th column – high, medium or low – see Table 1

- use the ‘likelihood of harm’ you have just entered together with the ‘severity of harm’ which has been pre-populated, to assess the

overall ‘risk rating’ for each risk (see table 2) and enter this in the 7th column

- complete the action plan for all risks with an overall risk rating of amber or red


Table 1: Definitions

Potential Severity of Harm Meaning of the harm description Likelihood of Harm Meaning of likelihood

Fatal/Major Injury Death, major injuries or ill health causing long term disability/absence from work.

High (frequent) Occurs repeatedly/ to be

expected.

Serious Injury Injuries or ill health causing short-term disability/absences from work (over three days absence)

Medium (possible)

Moderate chance/could occur

sometimes.

Minor Injury Injuries or ill health causing no significant long-term effects and no significant absence from work.

Low (unlikely) Not Likely to occur

Table 2: Risk rating matrix: Potential severity of Harm + Likelihood of Harm = Risk rating

+ High (Likely) + Medium (Possible) + Low (Improbable)

Fatal/Major Injury VERY HIGH Risk HIGH Risk MEDIUM Risk

Serious Injury HIGH Risk MEDIUM Risk LOW Risk

Minor Injury MEDIUM Risk LOW Risk No Significant Risk

Table 3: Action required: Key to Ranking and what action to take.

VERY HIGH Risk STOP ACTIVITY! Take action to reassess the work/activity and apply reduction hierarchy before proceeding.

HIGH Risk Action MUST be taken as soon as possible to reduce the risks and before activity is allowed to continue.

MEDIUM Risk Implement all additional precautions that are not unreasonably costly or troublesome and monitor the situation on an agreed frequency.

LOW Risk Monitor and review your rolling programme.


Ropening schools from 1 June 2020

The rationale for schools re-opening for more groups of pupils is based on the implementation of the following infection protection

and control measures as described in the guidance Coronavirus (COVID-19): implementing protective measures in education and

childcare settings.

The overview of scientific advice used to underpin this guidance on which this risk assessment is based can be found at :

https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/885631/Overview_of_scientific_advice_and_

information_on_coronavirus_COVID19.pdf

Further supporting information is available here:

https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/887247/Department_for_Education_explanat

ory_note_on_SAGE_modelling.pdf

“There are important actions that children and young people, their parents and those who work with them can take during the coronavirus outbreak, to help prevent the spread of the virus.

In all education, childcare and social care settings, preventing the spread of coronavirus involves dealing with direct transmission (for instance, when in close contact with those sneezing and coughing) and indirect transmission (via touching contaminated surfaces). A range of approaches and actions should be employed to do this. These can be seen as a hierarchy of controls that, when implemented, creates an inherently safer system, where the risk of transmission of infection is substantially reduced. These include:

minimising contact with individuals who are unwell by ensuring that those who have coronavirus symptoms, or who have someone in their household who does, do not attend childcare settings, schools or colleges

cleaning hands more often than usual - wash hands thoroughly for 20 seconds with running water and soap and dry them thoroughly or use alcohol hand rub or sanitiser ensuring that all parts of the hands are covered

ensuring good respiratory hygiene by promoting the ‘catch it, bin it, kill it’ approach

cleaning frequently touched surfaces often using standard products, such as detergents and bleach

minimising contact and mixing by altering, as much as possible, the environment (such as classroom layout) and timetables (such as staggered break times)”

https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/885631/Overview_of_scientific_advice_and_information_on_coronavirus_COVID19.pdf

https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/885631/Overview_of_scientific_advice_and_information_on_coronavirus_COVID19.pdf

https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/887247/Department_for_Education_explanatory_note_on_SAGE_modelling.pdf

https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/887247/Department_for_Education_explanatory_note_on_SAGE_modelling.pdf


What is the Task/Activity or Environment you are

assessing?

What Hazards are present or

may be generated?

Look at the activity, processes or substances used that could cause harm to health or injury. Use a row for each one identified

Who is affected or exposed to

hazards?

(Staff Students Visitors Contractors Etc.)

What Severity of Harm can

reasonably be expected?

(See Definitions Table 1)

What Precautions (Existing Controls) are

already in place to either Eliminate or Reduce the risk of an accident happening?

What Likelihood

is there of an accident occurring?

(See Definitions Table 1)

What is the Risk Rating?

(See Risk Rating Matrix Table 2)

Preparation for reopening

Preparation of school building

Failure to complete compliance checks renders the building unfit for use.

All premises occupants

Serious Before resuming normal operation, we have commissioned a water treatment specialist to chlorinate and flush the complete system for all hot and cold-water systems (including drinking water) and certify the water system is safe before the buildings are reoccupied.

All systems have been recommissioned before re-opening, as would normally be done after a long holiday period. This includes gas, heating, water supply, mechanical and electrical systems, and catering equipment.

Our fire safety systems have been checked including and making sure: all fire doors are operational

the fire alarm system and emergency lights are operational

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All areas and surfaces have been cleaned and disinfected prior to reopening and if necessary, pest control deployed for insect infestations, particularly in the kitchen and/or food preparation areas. The kitchen has been deep cleaned too prior to reopening and before food preparation resumes.

Action in this section will be carried out by Area Estates Manager See: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/managing-school-premises-during-the-coronavirus-outbreak

Ventilation (Open windows and doors are recommended as a means of improving air circulation within the building)

Risk of falls from height (open windows)


Whilst taking into consideration the necessity to increase ventilation by improving air circulation within the building we have advised staff that window opening restrictors must not be removed. Specific arrangements for this school are: rooms in new building well ventilated as they have roof openings also.

Main block – due to nature of the windows more challenging – will ensure all windows and doors are open.

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Use of air conditioning accelerates the spread of coronavirus


We have taken advice from our contractors re: the suitability of our air conditioning system for use at this time and taken the following action: A checklist will be completed and signed by the Area Estates Manager prior to reopening to confirm that all essential premises compliance requirements have been carried out.

Air Handling Units

Recirculation of air will be stopped - any ventilation or air conditioning system that normally runs with a recirculation mode will be set to run on full outside air where this is possible, where not possible the AHU will be shut down.

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Virus particles in return ducts can also re-enter a building when centralized air handling units are equipped with recirculation sectors. Therefore central recirculation will be avoided, recirculation dampers will be closed via the Building Management System or manually.

Air Conditioning

Fan coil units - If the unit serves an area occupied by one person with access of other persons limited or prohibited, and the air recirculation is local to that zone, the fan coil can remain operational. The fan coil must be switched off when that person leaves the zone. If the unit serves an area occupied by more than one person then it must not be used.

Use of fans in classrooms and other enclosed spaces is not permitted unless occupied by only one person. To be completed by Area Estates Manager

Additional doors and windows are left open compromising site security/fire safety.


We have reviewed our site and identified doors that could remain open without compromising fire safety/ and or security. Here, for high risk areas such as kitchens and boiler rooms fire doors will be kept in the closed position. Lower risk rooms such as classrooms and offices may be propped open with removeable things - a weight or wedge - if there are people present who will be tasked with removing it if the alarm goes off and at the end of the day. Door guards etc, will continue to be used to improve circulation in the building (and also reduce the need for touching the door handles).

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All staff have been reminded about the arrangements in place in the event of a fire evacuation and lockdown. Specific arrangements for this school are: as above – all rooms have signage for fire and lock door arrangements and these are well rehearsed.

Management of expectations within the school community

Anxiety within school community re: prevalence and effectiveness of infection control and social distancing measures

All members of the school community

Serious Our communication with parents and children prior to reopening will include information about:

Arrival and departure from school and arrangements for parents to access the site

Arrangements for infection control

Pupil groupings

What school day will look like

Attendance and non-attendance

The avoidance of travel to school via public transport at peak times and measure the school are taking to work with parents to alleviate this

Expectations re: any new behaviour systems that we have put in place to support our work in infection control and social distancing

What will happen if there is a case of coronavirus at the school.

Arrangements for food and drink

We are using this as an opportunity to ensure that pupils’ emergency contact details are up to date.

Government guidance for parents is available at:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/closure-of-educational-settings-information-for-parents-and-carers

A template letter to parents will be provided by the central team for schools to adapt

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Individual staff will be spoken to understand anxieties and to explain the measures in place. Staff who are extremely anxious will not have face to face contact with children

The risk assessment and mitigating measures will be explained to staff during the training days on 4/5 June

Specific arrangements for this school: please see detailed action plan to go alongside this report.

School Arrival: Saltford will operate a staggered system.

Parents/Children will enter the school via three gates and make their way to four different drop off /pick up zones.

Y6 & Keyworkers- 9am – 3pm

Y1 – 8:45am – 2:45pm

Reception – 8:30am – 2:30pm

Pupil Groupings

Year 6: 4 groups with no more than 15 children

Year 1: 4 groups with no more than 15 children

Reception: 4 groups with no more than 15 children

Keyworkers: 3 groups of no more than 15 children

Responding to Coronavirus in School

If a child or adult displays symptoms of Coronavirus they will be isolated in the first aid bay which has been moved to outside the front of the office.

A member of staff will be assigned to the child/adult wearing appropriate PPE. Social distancing will be


appropriate to the age of the child. Parents of the child will be encouraged to take their child for testing and advised to inform the school once they have received the result.

In the event of a child or member of staff from a class pod testing positive all those involved or who have had close contact with that pod will have to isolate for 14 days.

Arrangements for Food and Drink

Reception/Year 1 – Are eligible for Universal Free School Meals and a packed lunch will be provided. However, should they wish not to have a school packed lunch then they must provide their own.

Children who are eligible for Free School Meals will be provided with a school packed lunch. However, should they wish not to have a school packed lunch then they must provide their own in a small lunchbox.

Each child will be required to bring in a clearly labelled drinks bottle.

Individual food and drink will be kept on the child’s individual workstation.

Lunches provided on site will be delivered to each individual learning pods.

Children will not be eating in the main hall and will use their classroom or outside area (weather permitting).

Staff:

All staff who come into school will be given 2 days training that will also enable them to prepare for wider opening. The training will cover all the actions, processes and


procedures being put in place to manage infection control and social distancing.

Afterschool and Breakfast Clubs

Arrangements for infection control, social distancing etc are not practised at Breakfast and Afterschool Club thus increasing the risk of infection within the school community.

All members of the school community

Serious We note that there is no requirement for schools to run these at the moment. We will not be providing these for the time being.

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Staff wellbeing Staff anxiety re: returning to work and potential exposure to the virus.

All staff Serious Individual discussions have been/are held with staff to identify concerns/ barriers re: returning to work. (NB: recognising that some could be experiencing bereavement, mental health issues, etc.).

We have signposted to relevant counselling services.

HR advice is available if required.

We are working with the trade unions.

https://www.hse.gov.uk/news/assets/docs/talking-with-your-workers.pdf

NB: Retain for future reference with this risk assessment as an appendix.

All staff who come into school will be given 2 days training that will also enable them to prepare for wider opening. The training will cover all the actions, processes and procedures being put in place to manage infection control and social distancing.

Individual staff will be spoken to understand anxieties and to explain the measures in place. Staff who are extremely anxious will not have face to face contact with children

The risk assessment and mitigating measures will be explained to staff during the training days

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We have developed this risk assessment with reference to our Equalities Polices and Procedures to ensure that that those affected by the control measures in this risk assessment are not unlawfully discriminated against.

Specific arrangements for this school: Staff who fall within the clinically vulnerable group will not attend site – please see detailed spreadsheet updated on a weekly basis by HR.

Staff training Staff are not aware or do not understand the requirements for working safely when returning to work

Training and written instruction has been provided re: operating procedures to all staff. This includes:

What to do if they suspect that they or a member of their household has coronavirus (including testing arrangements)

Day to day organisations and procedures including arrangements for cleaning, staff welfare facilities, travel to work

The importance of keeping teaching groups separate during the day

Arrangements for breaktimes and lunchtimes

Safeguarding

Procedures to follow if they suspect that a child in their group is displaying coronavirus symptoms

Changes to school behaviour policies

Curriculum adaptations required re: social distancing

Site security and fire safety including evacuation and lockdown procedures.

Use of PPE (where applicable).

Prior to returning to work at the school site all staff have been given the opportunity to attend two training days at the school.

Specific arrangements for this school: as above – WMAT support with power point which we will populate, these will also be recorded for staff guidance. Two training days allocated to ensure consistent approach.

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Staff transport to and from work

Potential for increased exposure to coronavirus (and potential for introduction into the school) through use of public transport at peak times.

All staff Serious Where staff would normally use public transport to travel to work, we will discuss options to alleviate this eg: provision of parking or parking permits, or facilities such as secure cycle storage to support people to walk, run or cycle to work where possible. If there is no option but to use public transport we will confirm the individual safety actions staff will take while travelling to and from work with them.

Specific arrangements for this school: two teaching staff previously used public transport have other arrangements in place to attend work.

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Individual staff requirements

Concerns from staff in identified work groups

Clinically extremely vulnerable

(Shielding)

Serious Have been advised not to return to work and will work from home.

NB: the school is unable to mitigate risks occurring within the home environment that do not originate from the employee’s work activities.

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Clinically vulnerable including pregnant women

Serious Have been advised to take extra care in observing social distancing and will work from home where possible.

Clinically vulnerable staff who cannot work from home will be offered the safest available on-site roles, staying 2m away from others etc. Individual risk assessment has been carried out.

A risk assessment template is available for this

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Those living in a household with a person who is extremely clinically vulnerable.

Serious These staff will only attend if stringent social distancing can be adhered to and if we have found this is not possible the staff member is working from home.

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Those living in a household with a person who is clinically vulnerable. (Including pregnant)

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Staffing availability and ratios

Staffing ratios insufficient for pupil numbers and grouping arrangements. Need to consider safe levels of supervision and social distancing arrangements.

Pupils and staff

Serious Daily/ weekly review of staffing to ensure that we can cover each group of children. In our school this will require:

For (15 GROUPS provisionally) teaching groups:

13 teachers (not all full time)

15 teaching assistants / HLTAs

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4 support staff

9 lunchtime staff

in addition to admin, cleaning and senior leadership team and DSL/Deputy DSL /SENDCO availability.

Primary

Where we are not able to maintain this provision, we will prioritise pupils as follows:

1. Vulnerable pupils and those whose parents are critical workers.

2. Early years settings – 3 and 4 year olds followed by younger age groups

3. Infant schools – Nursery (where applicable) and then reception

4. Primary schools – nursery (where applicable) Reception and Year 1.

The use of rotas for staff and pupils must be avoided in order to reduce the risk of infection.

Secondary

As we are able to have small group provision with students old enough to understand and follow social distancing, rotas will be allowed.


Specific arrangements for this school: 4 zones each having currently 3 or 4 rooms in each pod

We will have a plan in place for scaling back on provision if staffing levels fall. Our process for informing parents of this is as follows:

Daily variation in staffing means that the school is unable to operate safely for all groups of pupils.

Staff have been advised that they must inform D Sage as soon as possible if there are any changes in their circumstances that will affect their ability to work.

We will close parts of the provision if we have insufficient staff available to allow essential social distancing and infection control measures.

We have prepared a contingency plan to inform affected members of the school community if full or partial closure is required at short notice i.e. via ParentMail or similar

Specific arrangements for this school: as above.

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Pupil Welfare Pupil welfare - changing family circumstances likely to have an adverse effect of pupil’s ability to reengage with school

Pupils and staff

Serious Contact with families has been made by school staff to ensure that they are aware of any potential issues and that relevant support is made available.

Staff responsible for pupil groups have been briefed in advance and made aware of any existing support plans/ risk assessments etc, for individual pupils. Plans will be reviewed

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before the start of term 6 to ensure that pupil’s needs are met.

Specific arrangements for this school: DS and GG will oversee pastoral care and reviews when necessary of any care plans. Arrangements for EHC and their keyworkers are already in place.

Anxiety re: coronavirus and constraints of new learning environments

Pupils will have been told about what to expect when they return to school.

Behaviour expectations will be explained to all pupils and reinforced by all staff to support pupils in gaining an understanding that it is safe to be in school.

Specific arrangements for this school: we will continue to follow our Positive Behaviour plan albeit all assemblies will be class based.

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School is unable to meet the needs of pupils with an EHP

We have reviewed our existing risk assessments of children with an EHC plan and will follow guidance set out below to tailor provision to meet the needs of individual pupils as far as possible.

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-send-risk-assessment-guidance

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Ineffective reintegration of young/ vulnerable pupils who have not been attending school for a number of weeks causes anxiety and distress for parents and pupils

As parents will not be able to stay with their children to support their reintegration, we will discuss arrangements on an individual basis where we anticipate difficulties in this area. We will ensure that we have a contact number for the parent so that we can call to

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https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-send-risk-assessment-guidance/coronavirus-covid-19-send-risk-assessment-guidance




ask them to collect their child or provide reassurance to the parent if required.

Individual pupil medical requirements

Pupils (or their family members) in identified groups.

Extremely clinically vulnerable pupils (shielded)

Serious We have made clear these pupils are not expected to attend and will continue to be supported at home.

If parent / carer insists on sending their child, school will send letter to be sent to parents as per Stone King instructions re-emphasising the reasons why we do not recommend the child returning at this stage and that they will be sending them at their own risk

NB: School is unable to mitigate risks occurring within the home environment that do not originate from school activities.

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Clinically vulnerable pupils

Serious Parents have been advised to follow medical advice before sending their children to school.

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Pupils living in a household with a person who is extremely clinically vulnerable.

Serious We will only invite these children to attend if stringent social distancing can be adhered to and the child or young person is able to understand and follow those instructions.

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Those living in a household with a person who is clinically

Serious These pupils have been invited to attend school – however parents have decided that children in this position will not be attending.

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vulnerable. (Including pregnant)

Provision of first aid Pupils and staff

Serious Qualified first aiders are available as required (see below re: EYFS requirements).

Reasonably practicable arrangements for accessing first aid ensures that the opportunity for anyone needing assistance does not come into contact with others who are not in their ‘group’/opportunities are limited.

Normal hygiene precautions (handwashing and use of gloves) are taken when administering first aid.

See below re: use of PPE.

Specific arrangements for this school: First bay moved into the covered area outside the office. PPE will be provided for staff carrying out first aid duties

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Provision for first aid in the EYFS

Inadequate first aid treatment exacerbates injury or pre-existing conditions.

EYFS pupils

Serious EYFS requirements: A Paediatric trained first aider is present when EYFS pupils are on site. We note that Gov’t stated that from 24 April 2020 this remains the case where children aged 0-24 months are on site.

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We also note the requirement is modified where children aged 2-5 are on site (with no children under 24 months) to a ‘best endeavours duty’ to have someone with a full PFA certificate on site. If we cannot meet the steps set out in the guidance at:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/early-years-foundation-stage-framework--2

We will carry out a written risk assessment (content specified in link above) and ensure that someone with a current First Aid at Work (3 day) or emergency PFA certificate is on site at all times.

We note and have actioned where necessary that the validity of certificates expiring on or after 16 March 2020 can be extended by up to three months.

Specific arrangements for this school: Saltford have paediatric first aid available on a daily basis.

Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

(Mainstream)

Incorrect use exacerbates the risk of further infection.

Pupils and staff

Serious We are taking into account that Government guidance (11/05/20) does not recommend the use of a face covering or face masks in educational settings as follows:

“The majority of staff in education settings will not require PPE beyond what they would normally need for their work, even if they are not always able to maintain a distance of 2 metres from others. PPE is only needed in a very small number of cases including:

children, young people and students whose care routinely already involves the use of PPE due to their intimate care needs should continue to receive their care in the same way

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if a child, young person or other learner becomes unwell with symptoms of coronavirus while in their setting and needs direct personal care until they can return home, a fluid-resistant surgical face mask should be worn by the supervising adult if a distance of 2 metres cannot be maintained. If contact with the child or young person is necessary, then disposable gloves, a disposable apron and a fluid-resistant surgical face mask should be worn by the supervising adult. If a risk assessment determines that there is a risk of splashing to the eyes, for example from coughing, spitting, or vomiting, then eye protection should also be worn”

We are complying with the above and are using our local supply chains to obtain PPE. We have noted where this is not possible, and there is unmet urgent need for PPE in order to operate safely, we may approach our local resilience forum.

We will ensure that, regardless of the 2m social distancing guidance staff who are likely to have to support pupils in the circumstances identified above and potentially in the administration of some first aid have access to appropriate equipment and training in its correct use and disposal.

Staff undertaking first aid or administering personal care will be instructed that the use of full PPE is compulsory. Arrangements are in place for the safe disposal of PPE after use. All schools will be provided with instructions on how to use PPE including safe disposal. Schools will have a large pedal bin with lid in which to put tied bags of used PPE.

See: Guide on Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for the COVID-19 Pandemic Education and Childcare Settings

https://www.wellswaymat.com/assets/uploads/news/2020/WMAT/LA-PPE-Guidance-for-education-and-early-years-setting-29.5.2020.pdf

https://www.wellswaymat.com/assets/uploads/news/2020/WMAT/LA-PPE-Guidance-for-education-and-early-years-setting-29.5.2020.pdf


Resources available from central team: face masks, face shields, medical gowns, non-latex disposable gloves, non - contact thermometers

Specific arrangements for this school: It will be made clear to staff who carry out intimate care on our high needs children and for our first aid that the wearing of full PPE is essential. Stringent measures will be in place to dispose of PPE once used.

Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) in Special Schools

Incorrect use exacerbates the risk of further infection.

Pupils and staff

Serious The above applies, however, the increased likelihood that staff will be exposed to bodily fluids in the course of their work will mean that the use of PPE will be risk assessed and relevant equipment provided where applicable.

The following link is used as our guidance at present:


Specific arrangements for this school: N/A

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Emergency Evacuation and lockdown

Failure to follow procedures leads to injury or loss of life.

Pupils and staff

Serious Measures necessary for additional ventilation of the building have been and will be assessed and will not compromise fire safety or site security arrangements.

We have briefed staff who are aware of the measures to take in the event of an emergency evacuation or lockdown. Registers for different groups will be required.

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Safe evacuation/ lockdown takes priority over the maintenance of social distancing arrangements temporarily.

The school will carry out a fire drill during the first and second weeks of expanded provision and once each term thereafter

Specific arrangements for this school: Procedures are well rehearsed and will be followed should this be needed.

Home to school transport

Risk of exposure to coronavirus

Pupils Serious We will ensure that transport providers are aware of any changes to start and finishing times.

We will liaise with transport providers and any relevant LA department if applicable to ensure that their drivers/escorts do not work if they have symptoms of the virus, hygiene rules are followed and appropriate distance kept between passengers.

Specific arrangements for this school: N/A for this site – children will encouraged to walk to school as our cycle and scooter storage pods are closed.

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Contact with those with symptoms of coronavirus (including testing)

Contact with infected persons/ exposure to the

Person contracts COVID 19 as a result of direct contact with an infected

Pupils and staff

Serious Guidance has been issued to the entire school community. Here, anyone affected must stay at home if they (or their family members) have any of the following symptoms: a

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virus within the school building

person (or a symptomatic person)

high temperature, a new continuous cough, a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste

Those affected must follow government stay at home guidance as follows

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-stay-at-home-guidance

Those who feel unwell should stay at home, should not attend work or any education or childcare setting and make arrangements to be tested for coronavirus. (see below).

Temperature testing is not recommended on its own. Guidance states that it is not a reliable method for identifying coronavirus.

When we reopen to the wider cohort of children, all those eligible to attend and members of their households will have access to testing if they display symptoms of coronavirus.

Where a pupil or staff member tests positive, the rest of their class or group will be sent home and advised to self-isolate for 14 days. The other household members of the wider class or group do not need to self-isolate unless the pupil or staff member they live with in that group subsequently develops symptoms.

As part of the national track and trace programme if other cases are detected within a school or cohort or wider setting Public Health England will conduct a rapid investigation and advise on the appropriate course of action to take.

NB: This area of the government guidance is underdeveloped at the moment. (13/05/20)

We have a process in place to inform parents testing is required and how to book tests.

We will ask for evidence that pupils recommended to have a test have done so and that the test is clear before they return to school.


We will book tests for staff requiring them under the category of essential workers.

Contact with those developing symptoms of the virus during the working day.

Pupils and staff

Serious If anyone becomes unwell with a new, continuous cough or a high temperature we will send them home and advise them to follow


If a child is awaiting collection, they will be moved, if possible, to a room where they can be isolated behind a closed door, depending on the age of the child and with appropriate adult supervision if required. Ideally, a window will be opened for ventilation. If it is not possible to isolate them, we will move them to an area which is at least 2 metres away from other people.

If they need to go to the bathroom while waiting to be collected, we endeavour that they will use a separate bathroom if possible. The bathroom will be cleaned and disinfected using standard cleaning products before being used by anyone else.

PPE will be worn by staff caring for the child while they await collection if a distance of 2 metres cannot be maintained (such as for a very young child or a child with complex needs).

In an emergency we will call 999 if they are seriously ill or injured or their life is at risk. We will not suggest a visit to the GP, pharmacy, urgent care centre or a hospital.

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If a member of staff has helped someone who was unwell with a new, continuous cough or a high temperature, we have noted they do not need to go home unless they develop symptoms themselves (and in which case, a test is available) or the child subsequently tests positive (‘What happens if there is a confirmed case of coronavirus in a setting?’ refers set out below). They are instructed to wash their hands thoroughly for 20 seconds after any contact with someone who is unwell. We will clean the affected area with normal household disinfectant after someone with symptoms has left to reduce the risk of passing the infection on to other people. See


Specific arrangements for this school: For Saltford, this is going to be moved to an outside but covered area which is directly in front of the school office but separated by glass due to the open nature of our current first aid facility.

Cleaning and hygiene

Cleaning Person contracts COVID 19 as a result of inadequate cleaning

Pupils and staff

Serious For schools with contract cleaning: We have reviewed the cleaning specification with our cleaning contractor to ensure that this meets requirements set out in

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Where our own cleaners and/or additional staff are required to undertake cleaning duties we have ensured that they have received appropriate training and are provided with PPE, as set out in guidelines above. This also applies to other staff who may be asked to carry out cleaning duties during this period.

We have identified cleaning of high-risk areas to be undertaken throughout the school day to include:

Door handles

Kettles

Taps

Switches

Phones

Laptops /

Printers and photocopiers

Staffroom/ food preparation

Surfaces that pupils are touching e.g.: toys, books, chairs, tables, doors, sinks, toilets, bannisters, light switches, etc.

Resources available from central team: Evans Safe Zone spray disinfectant and cleaning cloths


The Area Estates Manager will coordinate with Churchill in terms of routine deep cleaning based on the school’s needs

Specific arrangements for this school: DS to liaise with SS as Saltford use Cleaning Logistics. DS in contact with them re confirmation of training received.

DS also liaise with caretaker re cleaning during the day and staying on site.

The Area Estates Manager will coordinate with Cleaning Logistics in terms of routine deep cleaning based on the school’s needs

Inappropriate exposure to cleaning product results in allergic reaction/ poisoning etc

Storage arrangements of cleaning product change increasing potential for unauthorised ‘use’ by pupils.

Pupils and staff

Serious All staff involved in cleaning duties will receive training re: safe use and storage of cleaning materials.

PPE will be provided for all cleaning activities.

Safety data sheets for cleaning products are available.

Only recommended cleaning products will be used.

Resources available from central team: Safe Zone spray disinfectant and cleaning

cloths, face masks, face shields, medical gowns, non-latex disposable gloves, non - contact thermometers

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Use of hand sanitiser potential for improper use and ingestion.

Pupils and staff

Serious We are providing/allowing the use of hand sanitisers that contain at least 60% alcohol.

Recognising it is not possible to follow the hand wash advice everywhere, a hand sanitiser is next best and unless there's some allergy, and depending on the age of our pupils, they could use their own/ours under supervision through to it being 'dispensed' so the young, or over enthusiastic don't get carried away.

We have obtained the Safety Data Sheet for the product(s) They advise on action to be followed if the sanitiser is not used as designed i.e. a child drinks some; it gets in eyes etc.

This will also help with potential reactions to the product.

We have and will secure adequate supplies of the product and provide it, especially in areas such as reception to the building(s).

We will not make our own having addressed the national CLEAPSS guidance.

Resources available from central team: Wall mounted 900ml dispensers, hand sanitiser, E45 hand cream (staff only)

Location of hand sanitiser in this school will be: in each classroom, staff toilets and school office area.

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Risk of infection from use of communal water fountains

Pupils Serious Only non - contact fountains to be used – ie. those that require no contact with hand or mouth. Use to fill bottles only. Parents to be asked to send child with a named refillable bottle. Consider refilling at set times under supervision

Specific arrangements for this school: Refillable water units will only be used under supervision to ensure social distancing is adhered to. Only staff will operate the unit, using disposable gloves

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Hand hygiene Pupils and staff

Serious Opportunities are provided for staff and pupils to clean their hands with soap and water and dry thoroughly:

on arrival at school

after using the toilet

after breaks and sporting activities

before food preparation

before eating any food, including snacks

before leaving school

after sneezing/coughing.

Covered bins available for disposal of paper towels will be emptied periodically during the day.

Supervision by staff is provided as needed.

Signage about how to wash hands properly, is on display and reinforced with pupils.

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Catch it, kill it, Bin it – tissues are available in all classrooms, staffroom and reception at a minimum. The message is reinforced with the pupils.

Where sinks are not easily accessible from the room used by a ‘group’ of pupils hand sanitiser will be available.

Resources available from central team: lidded 50L bins, tissues, 20L classroom bins

Specific arrangements for this school: Process built into staff training/guidelines – especially arrivals, post breaktime and post lunchtime. Additional handwashing stations will be needed to support this (DS emailed TH and sourced these – awaiting decision.)

Measures to reduce contamination

Use of shared resources Pupils and staff

Serious Staff are limiting or stopping the amount of shared resources that are taken home.

Pupils are not required to bring items in from home eg: for ‘showing’ etc. Reading books will be cleaned/ quarantined when they are returned to school for 3 days.

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School will provide all stationery (no pencil cases from home).

Shared modelling equipment eg: plasticine, play dough etc will not be available

Shared use of stationery and other equipment has been stopped where possible.

Shared equipment and surfaces are disinfected more frequently.

Staff have been advised that they must wash their hands and surfaces before and after handling pupils’ books.

Specific arrangements for this school: Stationery resources ordered and will be kept in each child’s locker. Children will be reminded on a daily basis that they must not share resources and equipment with anybody

:

Harder to clean items Pupils and staff

Serious We have removed soft furnishings, soft toys and toys that are harder to clean (such as those with intricate parts) from classrooms and teaching spaces until further notice.

Where these remain, they will be subject to regular cleaning and disinfection.

No IT equipment will be used in school in year groups R, 1 and 6. Where used in other groups the use of tablets should be encouraged and use of keyboards and mice minimised.

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Outdoor equipment will only be used if it can be sanitised after usage. Sandpits will not be available

Resources available from central team: cleaning wipes

Specific arrangements for this school:

Resources removed and covered. No IT as advised.

Outdoor equipment will only be used if it can be wiped down after usage

Minimising contact (social distancing)

Social distancing across the site

Too many people on site increases likelihood of exposure to coronavirus

Pupils and staff

Serious We have taken the following measures to reduce footfall and maintain social distancing on site including:

Staggering opening and departure times

Opening up playgrounds etc, to increase opportunities for parents to wait separately.

Advising parents that only one person should attend to deliver/pick up their child, they cannot gather at entrance gates and doors and must respect social distancing rules whilst on the school site.

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Parents are not permitted in the school building without a specific appointment made by telephone or email.

Erected signage and barriers to remind those visiting the site of social distancing requirements.

Using a one way system through the site for parents where possible.

Resources available from central team are: posters – see https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/preparing-for-the-wider-opening-of-schools-from-1-june/planning-guide-for-primary-schools#annex-c-posters

Specific arrangements for this school: Staggered start and end times planned. Drop off and pick up points zoned into four areas of the school.

Children and staff will not mix outside of their group and will remain in their classroom or play area throughout the day

Social distancing for large groups of pupils

Assemblies, performances, visiting groups etc will not take place until further notice.

Specific arrangements for this school are: Assemblies will take place in each classroom using a variety of resources.

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Increased risk of contact in the toilets

We will ensure that toilets do not become crowded by limiting the number using them.

Toilet arrangements and handwashing will be organised to minimise the risk of children having contact with others outside of their

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group. Where hand towel dispensers are in place alongside hand dryers the hand dyers will be disconnected. Where hand towels are in use a pedal bin will be available.

A 1 in 1 out system may be necessary and the toilets will be regularly cleaned and levels of soap etc checked frequently

Specific arrangements for this school: Toilet arrangements and handwashing will be organised to minimise the risk of children having contact with others outside of their group

Social distancing and curriculum delivery

Exposure to infection

Classroom teaching

Primary

Pupils and staff

Serious Early years staff to child ratios have been used to determine group size.

Primary schools – classes have no more than 15 pupils per group with one teacher (and teaching assistant if necessary).

Teaching assistants may lead a group working under the direction of a teacher.

We will ensure pupils and staff, where possible, only mix in a small, consistent group and that that group stays away from other people and groups. Different groups will not be mixed on the same or subsequent days. We will use the same staff each day as far as possible. Groups will use the same room or area of the school. We will seek to achieve the sitting of pupils at the same desk each day.

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Pupils from other year groups attending will also be grouped in consistent groups as described above.

Desks are set apart where possible.

Activities for pupils will be non-contact and will not involve more than one temporary group.

We appropriate, the curriculum will be delivered outdoors whilst maintaining separate groupings of pupils.

Specific arrangements for this school: Rooms at Saltford will be set up as above. Rooms in the new build and main block will be reconfigured to ensure the arrangements work.


Classroom teaching

Secondary

Pupils and staff

Serious Classes will have no more than 15 pupils per group with one teacher (and teaching assistant if necessary).

We ensure pupils and staff, where possible, only mix in a small, consistent group and that that group stays away from other people and groups. Different groups will not be mixed on the same or subsequent days. We will use the same staff each day as far as possible (subject to subject specialism requirements). Groups will use the same room or area of the school. We will seek to achieve the sitting of pupils at the same desk each day.

Pupils from other year groups attending must also be grouped in consistent groups as described above.

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Classrooms and workshops are rearranged so sitting positions are 2m apart.

Activities for pupils will be non-contact and will not involve more than one temporary group.

If there is to be rotation of rooms eg: use of a science lab for different groups of pupils, all resources and the room will be cleaned thoroughly between groups.

Teaching assistants may lead a group working under the direction of a teacher.

We are referring to CLEAPS/DATA/ afPE guidance available for specialist areas.



Classroom teaching

Special schools

Pupils and staff

Serious We note that further guidance from government will follow.

Existing risk assessments continue to apply.



N/A to Saltford

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Circulation within the building

Exposure to infection from inadequate social distancing

Pupils and staff

Serious We will arrange for pupils to access rooms directly from outside where possible.

Circulation routes around the school have been reviewed. Where possible there are

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one-way circulation routes in corridors and stairways.

Arrangements are in place to stagger breaktimes and lunchtimes to reduce numbers accessing circulation routes.

Resources available from central team: high visibility floor tape


The children will be reminded on a daily basis of the importance of social distancing and floor tape will be used to reinforce this. Each zone will stagger its break and lunch times including using an allotted space for this purpose.

Lunchtimes Exposure to infection from inadequate social distancing during preparation and serving of food (catering staff)

Pupils and staff

Serious Our own catering staff arrangements for social distancing have been implemented.

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Payment for food (secondary)

Pupils and staff

Students and staff will be asked to bring their own food

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Exposure to infection from inadequate social distancing: Collection of food by pupils and eating arrangements

Pupils and staff

Serious Pupils will enter the lunch area in their existing groups or eat outside or in their classroom. Supervision at all times.

Pupils will be told not to share food and dining will be supervised to ensure children do not share food.

Groups to be kept apart as far as possible.

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We have addressed the potential for eating in classrooms and will use this option if necessary, as long as suitable levels of supervision can be achieved.

Specific arrangements for this school: The school hall will be used at lunchtimes for keyworker and vulnerable children only from this zone in the school. The other three zones and their associated “pods” will eat their lunch either in their rooms or in a designated outside part of the school. Grab bags will be provided for KS2 children who order them and DS will confirm arrangements for grab bags for FS/Y1 children re universal free schools meals.

Playworker staff will be assigned to each zone to oversee the arrangements.

Breaktimes Exposure to infection from inadequate social distancing: breaktimes

Pupils and staff

Serious We will use external areas at half capacity. Areas can be shared but pupils will remain in their distinct groups. Different groups of pupils must not play sports or games together.

Outdoor equipment will not be used unless we ensure that it is appropriately cleaned between groups of children using it and multiple groups of children do not use it simultaneously.

Specific arrangements for this school: Each zone will have their own time and space and use of the equipment within the school site.

Only equipment that can be easily cleaned will be used and this will be wiped down after each group has used it.

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School Reception areas

Exposure to infection from inadequate social distancing: visitors to school.

Pupils and staff

Serious Any visitors to site are to be by appointment only. Parents have been advised that they should call the office rather than coming into school.

Door entry systems to be adjusted so that visitors cannot enter the reception area where there is not a physical barrier between office staff and visitors.

Glass / Perspex screens where they are fitted should be kept closed wherever possible

Signage has been erected to advise visitors of social distancing protocols.

Consultations with parents/ outside agencies etc, to take place over the phone/ video conferencing where feasible. If this is not possible 2m social distancing will be observed in any consultation room and the room cleaned after use.

Hand sanitiser will be provided to all persons entering premises with signage to explain control measures etc.

Deliveries will be managed in such a way as to ensure social distancing is maintained including that they are arranged for off peak times where possible. Clear guidance for delivery drivers to be placed at the school entrance to include advising the school reception by phone of their arrival.

School staff will advise the delivery driver of a safe space to leave the goods and must not come into contact with the driver.

Staff must wash their hands after unpacking items and dealing with waste packaging.

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Specific arrangements for this school: all guidance followed as above – including deliveries.

Violence and aggression towards school staff causes injury and distress

We will maintain transparency and regular contact with all members of the school community.

Regular briefings/updates for all staff so that they are aware of school response to the COVID 19 virus and can communicate consistently to those who ask.

Readiness to deploy the range of behaviour remedies if behaviour becomes unacceptable from warning to full banning from site/sect 547 warnings/action.

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Other work areas Exposure to infection from inadequate social distancing: other work areas

Staff Serious We are continuing the opportunity for working from home for PPA time/ office staff where work does not involve direct contact with pupils, etc.

Staff PPA time will be taken on Friday afternoon when the school is closed to all but key worker and vulnerable children

Furniture reconfigured in staff areas to allow 2m distancing; screens between office workers etc, has been implemented.

All areas are cleaned regularly, a dishwasher is available for cleaning crockery, utensils etc. No tea towels or hand towels are to be used.

ICT equipment should not be shared. If this is not possible keyboards and work areas must be cleaned between use.

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Specific arrangements for this school: as above. Staff PPA time will be taken on Friday afternoon when the school is closed to all but key worker and vulnerable children.

Contractors working on the premises.

Exposure to infection from inadequate social distancing/ hygiene arrangements

All Serious All contractors working on the premises will be required to follow control measures listed for visitors above. Where possible they will be required to visit after school hours.

For areas where there are larger scale building projects in place, contractors will remain entirely separate from the school community.

All contractor visits will be coordinated by the Area Estates Manager

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ACTION PLAN

Instructions for completion 1. Any item that has a risk rating of Red or Amber in section 2 above - the right-hand risk rating column needs to be addressed in this action plan. When

you have completed this section, then decide and complete the box on page 2 that confirms when you will review this whole assessment. When you then review the assessment: 1. clear the review date box and 2. Move all the controls in the action plan section up into the main section to show they are now incorporated into what you do. Now reassess and see if you can decrease the risk rating conclusions?

2. When an item can be removed altogether (e.g. a dangerous staircase is removed) it can be deleted but there must be a historic evidence trail (see point 4)

3. Some items are so high hazard that they will never be reduced to a risk rating lower than Medium – these must be kept in the action plan but can be marked as addressed and all being done that is reasonably practicable.

4. The original document and any changes to the Risk Assessment, over time, need to be documented for record-keeping purposes. This is especially relevant in the event of any legal claims.

Action Plan

What is the Hazard you need to Control? (high or amber from the risk

rating column above)

What Additional Precautions do you need to either eliminate or reduce the risk to an acceptable level.

Who is Responsible for implementing these controls?

When are these controls to be implemented (Date)?

When Were these controls implemented (Date)?

HIGH item 1

HIGH item 2

MEDIUM item 1 Management of expectations within the school community

Risk assessments and operating plans shared with AGC chairs and in school union reps. Curriculum adaptations to meet social and emotional anxieties of pupils on return to school. Fortnightly parent newsletter will continue to provide updates on school life.

Exec Ongoing

MEDIUM item 2

Staff anxiety

We have taken steps to understand staff anxiety and

will continue to do so. Eg cleaning regular spot

checks, staff able to wear PPE if an individual wishes

to do so even if not provided

Exec Ongoing


MEDIUM item 3 Contact with infected persons/ exposure to the virus within the school building

The Trust is developing a flow chart to assist schools in their response to Covid -19

Exec 08/06

References: Describe what standards are being applied (such as HSE Approved code of practice or Design and technology association training course guidance etc.) other supporting material. This can of course include the MAT/Establishment’s own policies and guidance. For major risk assessments notes of consultation or other discussion may also be useful.

1. .

2. .

3. .

4. .

Information to Aid the completion of the Risk Assessment format

Table 1: Definitions

Potential Severity of Harm Meaning of the harm description Likelihood of Harm Meaning of likelihood

Fatal/Major Injury Death, major injuries or ill health causing long term disability/absence from work.

High (frequent) Occurs repeatedly/ to be

expected.

Serious Injury Injuries or ill health causing short-term disability/absences from work (over three days absence)

Medium (possible)

Moderate chance/could occur

sometimes.

Minor Injury Injuries or ill health causing no significant long-term effects and no significant absence from work.

Low (unlikely) Not Likely to occur

Table 2: Risk rating matrix: Potential severity of Harm + Likelihood of Harm = Risk rating

+ High (Likely) + Medium (Possible) + Low (Improbable)

Fatal/Major Injury VERY HIGH Risk HIGH Risk MEDIUM Risk

Serious Injury HIGH Risk MEDIUM Risk LOW Risk

Minor Injury MEDIUM Risk LOW Risk No Significant Risk


Table 3: Action required: Key to Ranking and what action to take.

VERY HIGH Risk STOP ACTIVITY! Take action to reassess the work/activity and apply reduction hierarchy before proceeding.

HIGH Risk Action MUST be taken as soon as possible to reduce the risks and before activity is allowed to continue.

MEDIUM Risk Implement all additional precautions that are not unreasonably costly or troublesome and monitor the situation on an agreed frequency.

LOW Risk Monitor and review your rolling programme.

DS Risk Assessment: School operation during June/July 2020 Issue 2.1 180520 Page 1 of 47

risk assessment: school operation during june/ july 2020 ... · age groups. secondary schools are...

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