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Health and Safety
Generally
Practice policy is to encourage awareness of health and safety issues, to provide and maintain safe healthy working conditions, equipment and systems of work for all employees, and to provide such information, training and supervision as is necessary. This policy is reviewed and updated annually; and a copy is held by each staff member. Key items in the policy include:
Safety on Occupied Building Sites
The principal contractor is responsible for safety of all persons visiting his site. Staff visiting sites are advised to report on arrival and abide by all contractor's requests. Clothing suitable for the site and weather conditions, including hard hat, protective boots etc, must always be worn.
Safety on Unoccupied Building Sites
Staff are advised that unoccupied sites must not be visited alone, unless their whereabouts and return time are known to others. Protective clothing (including hard hat) should be worn and a torch carried. Unoccupied buildings must always be entered with extreme care. Smoking on site or use of a naked flame is not permitted.
Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2007
The Practice complies with CDM Regulations when these are in force.
Accidents
A first aid box, manual and record book are kept on each of the office premises in the charge of the Safety Manager.
Premises
Offices, including their windows, kitchens and toilets, are cleaned regularly and inspected annually for defects, including the presence of asbestos.
Fire
Fire/smoke alarms and extinguishers are tested regularly; and a clearly-defined fire drill is followed and practised.
Electrical Equipment
This is looked after by the Safety Manager, who is responsible for visually checking leads, plug sockets etc. All equipment is checked and serviced regularly.
Computer Workstations
The Safety Manager is responsible for ensuring adequate space and lighting; and all computer users are encouraged to take regular breaks. They are also given free eye tests and, if necessary, lenses and frames.
Emergency Preparedness
Each office maintains its own list of emergency contacts and procedures.
