Health & Safety Policy

Explains how we manage health and safety responsibilities within the college.

1. Statement of Intent

The Ark Specialist College is committed to ensuring the health, safety and welfare of all learners, staff, visitors and contractors. We will so far as is reasonably practicable provide and maintain safe working and learning conditions, equipment and systems.

2. Responsibilities

The Principal holds overall responsibility for health and safety at the college. Day-to-day health and safety management is delegated to a named Health and Safety Lead. All staff have a responsibility to follow safe working practices, report hazards and cooperate with health and safety arrangements.

3. Risk Assessment

Risk assessments are completed for all activities, environments and community sessions. They are reviewed at least annually and following any incident or significant change. All risk assessments are held on file and available on request.

4. First Aid

Trained first aiders are present in the college at all times during operating hours. First aid kits are maintained and accessible. All staff are briefed on emergency procedures during induction.

5. Medication

Where learners require medication during the college day, a Medication Administration Record (MAR) is maintained and medication is administered only by authorised and trained staff. Written consent is obtained from families before any medication is administered.

6. Fire Safety

Fire safety arrangements comply with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. Fire drills are conducted at least termly and records are maintained. Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs) are in place for all learners and staff who require them.

7. Incident Reporting

All accidents, incidents and near-misses are recorded. Serious incidents are reported to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) under RIDDOR (Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 2013) where required.