Newsflash - H&S HSE School Spot Checks

As Dutyholders, Head Teachers/Principals and those delegated with health and safety responsibilities within schools have an important role to play to ensure that the risks of coronavirus transmission are adequately controlled in line with government guidance. The HSE have announced that they will be carrying out spot-checks in schools to commence in England and Wales from 7 September. These spot checks will take the form of an initial phone call to review the measures taken for reopening to minimise the spread of COVID-19.

The HSE will be looking for schools to demonstrate their knowledge and awareness of the relevant government guidance (DfE Guidance for full opening - School (England), Operational guidance for schools and settings from the autumn term (Wales)) and how each school has implemented the required control measures. As well as knowledge of the government guidance, schools should be aware of the additional COVID-19 guidance provided by CLEAPSS which covers science and technology activities and the afPE (Association for Physical Education) who have provided national COVID-19 guidance for physical education. If the initial call raises concerns about a school’s approach, the HSE inspector may decide to visit the school. Inspectors will check that the school has carried out a suitable and sufficient risk assessment and put in place measures to make the school COVID-secure in line with the latest government guidance.

The HSE and their inspectors will take into account the ongoing changes to government guidance and understand schools are working hard to respond to these changes. However, if inspectors encounter serious risks, they will take enforcement action to ensure people’s health and safety is protected.

Judicium Educations Advice

It is essential that schools cooperate with the HSE regarding these spot checks.  Schools must ensure they have undertaken a schools re-opening COVID-19 risk assessment. 

In addition, risk assessments should be in place for all high risk departments and related activities e.g. Science, D&T, Art, Food Technology, Physical Education, Music, Performing Arts etc. High risk department risk assessment templates can be found on the Judicium Template Website. Please note that schools are responsible for amending these template to reflect COVID-19 control measures as arrangements for each school are unique. Schools should refer to guidance provided by the Government, CLEAPSS and the afPE when completing these risk assessments.

Schools must ensure they have a full understanding of these documents and the specific arrangements in place and are able to communicate these to the HSE. In preparation for an HSE spot check at your school, Judicium recommend that risk assessments and any supporting health and safety documentation are readily available to demonstrate that you are COVID secure.

Please consult your Judicium Education consultant for further advice if required.