As schools across Somerset gear up for a summer of refurbishment and maintenance, Premises Managers are being reminded of their critical role in ensuring health and safety compliance; particularly in three high-risk areas: Working at height, Asbestos management, and Display Screen Equipment (DSE),
Working at Height: A Leading Cause of Injury
Falls from height remain the most common causes of workplace deaths. Somerset Council’s Work at Height Policy (HS027) outlines that any task involving ladders, scaffolding, or elevated platforms must be risk assessed and carried out by trained personnel. Premises managers must ensure that contractors and caretaking staff are briefed on safe practices and that equipment is inspected before use. Guidance is available to help those undertaking tasks to properly assess the risks involved: HSG 27 Working Safety at Height Guidance
Asbestos: Hidden but Deadly
The summer holidays are often a prime opportunity for undertaking construction work in schools. With this in mind, it is essential to consider the potential presence of asbestos within the building. Many school buildings in Somerset were constructed before 2000 and may contain asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). Premises Managers are responsible for ensuring that up-to-date reinspection surveys are available on-site and that no work is undertaken without consulting the Asbestos Team. Guidance on Asbestos can be found here: HS 21 Asbestos Guidance.
It is the responsibility of the Premises Manager to ensure all contractors invited to undertake works are informed of the presence of Asbestos and provided with the site Asbestos Management Plan. Any planned maintenance or refurbishment must be preceded by a check with the Asbestos Team to determine if further surveys are needed.
Display Screen Equipment: Not Just an Office Issue
While DSE risks are often associated with office environments, school staff using computers for extended periods; especially during planning and admin-heavy summer months must be protected. Managers should ensure that DSE assessments are up to date and that staff are aware of ergonomic best practices, as outlined in our HS 30 Display Screen Equipment Policy. A clear and easy to use checklist (previously the DSE 1 form) and guidance has been provided so staff can self-assess their home and school display screen work environment.
Learn More:
HS 27 Working Safety at Height Policy
HSG 27 Working Safety at Height Guidance
HS 21 Asbestos Policy
HS 21 Asbestos Guidance
HS F21A Asbestos Management Plan
HS 30 Display Screen Equipment Policy
DSE Self Assessment Checklist
Adjusting your workstation checklist
