Church Health & Safety Policy with guidance notes - Ecclesiastical ...

CHURCH – HEALTH AND SAFETY POLICY & GUIDANCE NOTES 172 Where it is not possible to avoid theneed to move loads, we will carry outrisk assessments and make use oflifting aids, including trolleys, lifts andhoists as far as possible3 The necessary training will be givento all those employees and voluntaryworkers who are required to undertakemanual handling4 Only those persons who have receivedthe appropriate training are authorisedto undertake manual handling tasks.12Display screen equipmentOur policy is to assess the risks to all habitualusers of computer workstations and to reducethose risks to the lowest level possible.The following factors will be consideredwhen carrying out risk assessments:■■■■■■stability and legibility of the screencontrast and brightness of the screentilt and swivel of the screensuitability of keyboards, desks and chairsthe work station environmentthe user-friendliness of the software.Daily work routines will involve periods awayfrom the screen. Where necessary, riskassessments will be carried out by theresponsible person.13Hazardous buildings/glazing1 Our policy is to ensure that our buildingsare safe and without risks to the health,safety and welfare of all who work in anduse them. In order to achieve this, thebuildings are inspected every(eg quarter) by the responsible person2 Any defects noted are immediatelyreported toand the procedures put in hand for repairs3 Where necessary, temporary measuresare taken to ensure that there is no riskof accident or injury until permanentrepairs can be carried out4 A check is made of any asbestos in thebuilding by a competent person notingits location, type and condition. Wherenecessary, asbestos will be removed by alicensed contractor. Information regardingany asbestos remaining in the building isgiven to all contractors and anyone elsewho may be affected5 A check is made of all glazing in thebuildings to ensure that any glassin windows below waist height and indoors and beside doors below shoulderheight is of a safety material or isprotected against breakageRemember that a Faculty application maybe necessary. Archdeacons can oftensanction temporary repairs pendingpermanent arrangements being approved.14Child protectionYour procedures should include a policy onchild protection issues as set out in the currentChurch of England House of Bishop’s PolicyDocument or The Church in Wales documentThe Cure of Souls. The activities undertaken byyouth groups require special attention. Detailsof the numbers and ages of the young peopleinvolved in each group and details of adultsupervisors must be maintained. Parentalconsent forms should be obtained for tripsaway from the parish and any particular needsof individual children noted.A statement upholding our procedures willbe made at each annual church meeting andbe suitably recorded.A permanent record will be maintained ofall accidents involving children.15Personal safetyRisk assessments need to be undertakento assess the risks to persons workingalone in the church, travelling to and fromchurch, accepting persons into their homesand handling cash and other valuables.