The Osborne Co-operative Academy Trust (OCAT) believes in providing a safe and healthy environment for students, staff, and visitors across all its schools. This policy is designed to ensure that everyone knows their responsibilities when it comes to health and safety, and to make sure all schools follow high safety standards beyond just legal requirements.
Core Values Behind the Policy
This policy is guided by co-operative values such as:
- Equality and Equity
- Democracy and Solidarity
- Self-help and Self-responsibility
- Honesty, Openness, and Caring for Others
Policy Objectives
The key goals of the policy include:
- Keeping everyone on school premises safe.
- Making sure all contractors follow safety rules.
- Ensuring staff are trained and know their roles.
- Regularly reviewing safety policies and actions.
- Consulting experts for professional safety advice.
Key Responsibilities
Governors
- Allocate resources for health and safety.
- Monitor safety performance termly.
- Ensure regular reviews and inspections take place.
Headteacher
- Promote a culture where safety is a priority.
- Make sure risk assessments are done.
- Provide staff with safety training and information.
- Investigate and report accidents properly.
- Make sure building work is done safely.
Staff
- Follow safety procedures at all times.
- Report hazards and unsafe behaviour.
- Read the school’s safety policy and updates.
- Use equipment and protective gear correctly.
Site Manager
- Carry out regular site checks and inspections.
- Make sure fire exits are clear and systems are tested.
- Oversee contractor work and safety.
- Keep the premises safe and well maintained.
Heads of Department
- Keep risk assessments up to date.
- Ensure equipment is safe and maintained.
- Train staff on department-specific safety.
Teachers
- Know and follow fire and first aid procedures.
- Supervise students and teach safety during lessons.
- Store bags and coats safely to avoid hazards.
Safety Systems and Procedures
Risk Assessments
Every school activity must have a risk assessment to identify possible dangers and how to reduce them.
Fire Safety
Fire drills are conducted termly. Fire alarms and emergency lighting are tested regularly, and evacuation procedures are clearly displayed.
First Aid
- Trained first aiders are always available.
- First aid kits and defibrillators are accessible in key locations.
- Accidents must be recorded using the Trust’s system.
Contractors
Contractors must be vetted and informed about asbestos, emergency procedures, and site rules before starting any work.
Lone Working
Staff working alone must follow risk-assessed procedures to ensure their safety.
Communication and Training
- Safety information is shared through meetings, staff bulletins, and notice boards.
- All staff must complete basic health and safety training every 3 years.
- Key staff roles require additional training from the Trust.
Mental Health and Occupational Support
- Staff can access confidential counselling services.
- Occupational health support is available for work-related health issues.
- Health surveillance is arranged when needed.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Where PPE is required by risk assessment, it is provided by the school and must be worn by staff when needed.
Display Screen Equipment (DSE)
- Staff who use screens regularly are eligible for eye tests.
- The Trust contributes to the cost of eye tests and glasses used for screen work.
Monitoring and Reporting
- Accidents, near-misses, and health-related issues are tracked.
- Termly reports are given to the Governing Body.
- Safety audits and inspections are conducted regularly.
The OCAT Health and Safety Policy 2024 sets clear rules and responsibilities to create a safe learning and working environment. It involves everyone—governors, leaders, staff, and students—working together to prevent accidents and support wellbeing. By following this policy, each school within the Trust ensures that safety comes first in all activities.
