Approved by:
Board of Governors
Date of Approval:
01/09/2025
Next Review Date:
01/09/2026
Responsible:
Academic Director / Head of Logistics and Operations

Health and Safety Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure the safety, health, and welfare of all students, staff, visitors, and contractors at EISB.

The School is committed to maintaining a safe, secure, and healthy environment in line with local Iraqi legislation and international best practices, including standards aligned with the UK Department for Education (DfE) and BSO inspection framework.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all staff, students, visitors, contractors, and anyone present on EISB premises, as well as during off-site trips and school-organised activities.

3. Policy Statement

EISB is committed to:

  • Providing a safe and healthy learning and working environment for all members of its community.
  • Preventing accidents, injuries, and work-related ill health through effective planning and supervision.
  • Complying with all relevant health and safety legislation and inspection requirements.
  • Promoting a positive culture of safety through regular staff training, communication, and risk awareness.

4. Roles and Responsibilities

4.1 Board of Governors

  • Ensure effective health and safety policies are in place and implemented.
  • Monitor the application of these policies and review them annually.

4.2 Academic Director

  • Hold overall responsibility for the School's health and safety standards.
  • Ensure all staff receive appropriate training and that resources are allocated for maintaining safety.
  • Ensure risk assessments are completed, reviewed, and acted upon.

4.3 Head of Logistics and Operations

  • Conduct regular safety inspections and audits.
  • Maintain accurate records of incidents, accidents, maintenance, and risk assessments.
  • Advise and support staff on health and safety matters.

4.4 Staff

  • Take reasonable care for their own health and safety and that of others.
  • Follow all school safety procedures and report hazards immediately.
  • Participate in safety drills and required training sessions.

4.5 Students

  • Follow safety rules and staff instructions at all times.
  • Report unsafe behaviour or hazards to a member of staff.

4.6 Contractors and Visitors

  • Comply with all school safety requirements and site-specific instructions.
  • Report any hazards or incidents to school staff.

5. Risk Management and Assessments

  • Regular risk assessments are conducted across all school areas, facilities, and activities, including off-site trips.
  • Hazards identified are mitigated through appropriate control measures.
  • Staff are trained to recognise and report potential hazards promptly.

6. Fire Safety

  • A fire risk assessment is carried out annually.
  • Evacuation routes and assembly points are clearly displayed throughout the school.
  • Fire drills are held at least once per term, with outcomes reviewed.
  • Fire extinguishers and alarms are inspected and serviced regularly.

7. First Aid and Medical Provision

  • Adequate first aid kits and trained personnel are available during all school hours and activities.
  • Accidents and incidents are recorded in the School Accident Log and reported to senior leadership.
  • Parents/guardians are notified immediately of any serious injury or medical emergency.
  • First aid boxes are checked weekly, replenished, and signed off by the responsible staff member.

8. Premises and Equipment Safety

  • Routine maintenance and safety checks are carried out on buildings, furniture, and equipment.
  • Portable electrical equipment is tested and maintained in accordance with local safety regulations.
  • Defective or unsafe equipment is immediately removed from use.

9. Security

  • Access to the premises is controlled to safeguard students and staff.
  • All visitors must sign in, wear identification badges, and be accompanied by authorised personnel.
  • Security procedures are periodically reviewed and updated as required.

10. Health and Hygiene

  • The school provides clean drinking water, well-maintained toilet facilities, and adequate ventilation.
  • Infection control measures are in place to prevent the spread of communicable diseases.
  • Staff and students are encouraged to maintain good hygiene and cleanliness practices.

11. Training and Awareness

  • All staff receive health and safety induction training upon appointment.
  • Refresher training, evacuation drills, and awareness sessions are conducted regularly.
  • Safety signage and information are displayed prominently throughout the school.

12. Monitoring and Review

  • The Head of Logistics and Operations monitors compliance and reports to the Academic Director.
  • This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner following any significant incident or change in legislation.
  • Trends in incidents or near-misses will be analysed to identify areas for improvement.