1. INTRODUCTION
This is the Health & Safety Policy drawn up by the Board of Management of OMS Power Training and Research Institute. This document has been prepared in compliance with the Safety Health & Welfare Law of India.
2. BOARD OF MANAGEMENT POLICY
The Board of Management recognises and accepts not only its statutory responsibilities but also its obligations as an employer to direct manage and achieve the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work of every employee, student/Trainee and visitor alike.
The Board of Management believes that each employee accepts his or her legal and moral responsibilities for improving and maintaining Safety, Health and Welfare in the workplace and for behaviour which does not jeopardise the individual�s personal Safety, Health and Welfare or that of others.

This policy shall be reviewed annually or more frequently if necessary, in the light of experience, changes in legal requirements and operational changes. In that process tasks will include: identifying hazards, carrying out risk assessments, deciding on precautions needed, recording findings and names responsible and updating of policy to reflect the outcome of these tasks.

The aim of the Board of Management is to provide, so far as practicable, a healthy and safe working environment. This can be achieved with the help and assistance of all employees and students/trainees by:

• Observing the general rules of safety.
• Using all plant, machinery and equipment in a safe and proper manner.
• Employing the proper procedures when carrying out tasks and ensuring that no practices are used which may act as a source of danger to themselves and/or others.
• Keeping work areas clean and tidy at all times.
• Making sure all corridors and passages, particularly those leading to escape routes, are kept free of obstructions at all times.
• Taking care that fire points are not blocked or covered up in any way and that they are ready for use if the need arises.

3. SAFETY ORGANISATION
Safety is a line management responsibility. Teaching staff, on-teaching Staffs and Ancillary Staff are responsible for safety in their own areas and for the implementation of relevant safety procedures. The Safety Representative shall monitor safety generally and the operation of safety procedures. The Principal shall ensure that each employee shall obtain a copy of the Health & Safety Policy and shall be familiar with its contents. The Principal will make sure the induction of any new employee will include a review of the policy, and their signature in the Declaration of Sight appendix. The Policy shall also be made available to parents in a folder in the front hall and on the Institute website.

All records of accidents and ill-health will be monitored in order to ensure that any safety measures required can be put in place to minimise the recurrence of such accidents and ill-health.

An accident report form will be completed and filed following an occurrence, in a Health and Safety Report Book.

4. DUTIES OF EMPLOYEES and SERVICE PROVIDERS
It is the duty of every employee while at work:
(a) To take reasonable care for his/her own safety, health and welfare, and that of any person who may be affected by his/her acts or omissions while at work.
(b) To co-operate with his/her employer and any other person to such extent as will enable his/her employer or the other person to comply with any of the relevant statutory provisions.
(c) To use, in such manner so as to provide the protection intended, any suitable appliance, protective clothing, convenience, equipment or thing provided (whether for his/her lone use or for use by him/her in common with others) for securing his/her safety, health or welfare at work.
(d) To report to the Board of Management without unreasonable delay, any defects in plant, equipment, place of work, or system of work, which might endanger safety, health or welfare of which he/she becomes aware.

No person will intentionally or recklessly interfere with or misuse any appliance, protective clothing, convenience or other means or thing provided in pursuance of any of the relevant statutory provisions or otherwise, for securing safety, health or welfare or persons arising out of work activities.

Employees using available facilities and equipment provided should ensure that work practices are performed in the safest manner possible.

5. SAFETY REPRESENTATIVE
The Principal shall be responsible for overseeing the safety provisions on behalf of the Institute and Safety Representative selected under the provision of the Safety, Health and Welfare Policy. They should be consulted if any of the employees have queries regarding any of the safety provisions mentioned in this statement. Their main duties and responsibilities are as follows:-
a) To guide and advise on all health, safety and welfare matters.
b) To ensure that the institute fulfils all statutory requirements in respect of the applicable safety Act.
c) To ensure that the appropriate safety education and training are co-ordinated and carried out using both in-house and external resources.
d) To undertake regular and appropriate revision and auditing of the Institute safety procedures and methods of operation, to ensure that they are kept up to date.
e) To ensure that adequate fire protection and prevention measures are provided.
f) The Safety Representative shall investigate all accidents and dangerous occurrences and shall ensure that appropriate statutory notifications are properly completed.

Particular attention will also be paid by the Safety Representative to the following potential hazards:
a) Access / Egress - floors, steps, ladders
b) Lighting and Ventilation
c) Heat and Humidity
d) Electrical � Sockets, Plugs, Framed Wiring
e) VDU usage, workstation and ergonomics
f) Fire Risk, emergency evacuation procedures, Fire Drills
g) Light machinery safety: photocopiers; fax machines; PCs; laptops; scanners; TVs; video recorders etc. (Staff should treat said equipment with care and report any faults to the relevant personnel who will arrange for the repair / replacement for the equipment)
h) Yard � surfaces, shore coverings etc

6. REPORTING ACCIDENTS AND HAZARDS
Causes of accidents shall be investigated and corrective action shall be initiated to prevent a recurrence.

Staffs have a duty to report directly without delay:
a) Any area which may reasonably be considered a serious and immediate danger to health and safety
b) Any matter which may reasonably be considered a shortcoming in health and safety arrangements

These matters should be reported to the Safety Representative and Principal and written in the Health and Safety Report Book.

The Board of Management of OMS Power Training and Research Institute wishes to ensure that as far as are reasonably practical:

• The design, provision and maintenance of all places in the Institute shall be safe and without risk to health and safety.
• There shall be safe access to and from places of work for staff and students and visitors.
• Equipments, Plant and Machinery may be operated safely in as far as is possible.
• Work systems shall be planned, organised, performed and maintained so as to be safe and without risk to health and safety.
• Staff shall be instructed and supervised in so far as is reasonably possible so as to ensure the health and safety at work of its employees and students/trainees.
• Protective clothing or equivalent shall be provided as is necessary to ensure the safety and health at work of its employees and students/trainees.
• Plans for emergencies shall be complied with, including evacuation drills, fire extinguishers, and accident reporting, and revised as necessary.
• An appendix of Emergency Phone Numbers, including Emergency services, will be appended to the Policy

7. HAZARDS
The following hazards (in as much as can be identified) are considered by the Institute to be a source of potential danger and are brought to the attention of all concerned:-

Main switch/fuse board � No persons other than those qualified will be permitted to work on or repair the main electrical switch board or fuses. The area around the fuse boards will be kept clean and tidy at all times. Nothing should be left on top of the fuse boards. Suitable electrical warning signs will be placed near main electrical switch gear.

Chemical Hazards � The Safety Data Sheet for any and all chemical / cleaning substances is either present with the item or already on the container for it. An inventory of hazardous substances and their locations will be kept with the Safety Policy.

Hazard Symbols � The Caretaker is required to know and be able to identify the meaning of all Hazard Symbols and pictograms. Confirmation of this is required every 2 years or more frequently to accommodate any changes in those standards.

Cleaners� Closet � The Cleaners� closet must be locked during Class hours. Access will be confined to operator only.

Ladders � Ladders must be used with are.

Class Rooms � Class rooms should be kept tidy. The B.O.M.(Board of Management) is aware that the opening/closing of certain windows in each classroom is a hazard and it is B.O.M. policy that these should be marked. The B.O.M. will continue to seek funding to replace these windows as a matter of urgency.

Corridors � Corridors will be kept as clear and tidy as possible.

General Purpose Room � The G.P. room will be kept as free as possible of all non-essential furniture in order to provide a safe environment for all activities

Kitchen and Staffroom � Care must be taken at all times when using water boilers, kettles and other kitchen equipment. Students/trainees will be supervised at all times while using the kitchen or kitchen equipment.

Portable equipment � Portable equipment will be inspected on an annual basis. Faulty equipment should be isolated from the power supply and removed for repair. Persons should check plugs and flexes before using equipment. Trailing leads should be used in such a manner as they do not cause a hazard to people through tripping and should be inspected by the user for faults. All faults should be reported to the Principal or the Safety Representative.

Maintenance Equipment � All tools and materials used in maintaining and cleaning the school shall be tidied away immediately after use, and stored in sheds or cleaners� closet out of students� reach.

Emergency Escape Routes � Escape doors must not be locked during occupation of the building. Staff and students/trainees will be made aware of the escape routes by regular fire drills. All escape routes will be kept clear at all times. It is an offence, under law, to wedge open fire doors.

Fire Safety � An Institute evacuation procedure has been drawn up. A copy of this procedure will be made available to all employees including temporary and part time teachers. A copy will also be displayed in each class room and in the staff room.

• Evacuation drills will take place at least twice a year. It is the responsibility of the Principal and the Safety Representative to ensure that this happens. Employees should familiarise themselves with the procedures so that a fast and effective evacuation of the school can be completed in the event of an emergency. When evacuating the building, the teachers will bring their roll book with them. The Students/trainees will not bring anything with them.
• Evacuation drills will also take place during Extra � Curricular time, and the relevant staff should familiarise themselves with the procedures.
• Fire extinguishers are provided and will be maintained on a regular basis. Employees will be instructed in the safe use of this equipment.
• Position of extinguishers and exit doors will be clearly identified.
• Emergency escape routes will be posted on main notice boards and throughout the building and assembly points.
• Re-Entry to the Institute building is prohibited until the all clear has been given by the Fire Officer attending the fire and in the case of a fire drill, until the Principal has given the all clear.
• Visitors will be made aware of evacuation and emergency procedures
• Signs will be placed around the Institute to show appropriate reaction in the event of a fire or a fire alarm.
• In accordance with the Fire Services Act , it is required that an announcement is made at the commencement of any public event giving directions as to what to do in the event of a fire or alarm being given.

Wet corridors/ floors � It is the policy of the Board of Management of the OMS Power Training and Research Institute that every attempt will be made to avoid the creation of slippery surfaces. Floors will not be polished or a non-slip polish will be used. The washing of floors shall be conducted, as far as is possible, after class hours to eliminate, the danger of slipping. Where floors are wet, warning signs regarding wet floors shall be used. Step edges shall be clearly marked.

Broken Glass - The Board of Management shall minimise the danger arising from broken glass. Staff members are responsible to report broken glass to the Principal so that it may be immediately removed

Infectious Diseases- It is the policy of the Board of Management of OMS Power Training and Research Institute that all infectious diseases shall be notified and steps taken to ensure the safety of staff and students against all such diseases. The Board of Management will endeavour to minimise the risk by adherence to sound principals of cleanliness, hygiene and disinfection and have provided disposable gloves for use in all First Aid applications, cleaning tasks, etc. Toilets and washrooms shall be provided at all times with an adequate supply of water, soap, towels and a facility for the safe disposal of waste.

General � A maintenance log book will be available in the staff room. Members of staff should record any daily maintenance requirements and faults in the book.

8. Office Machinery Office machinery includes photocopying machines, printers, guillotines and binding machines. Students shall not use any machinery unless with the strict permission of the principal or teacher and then only when supervised.

Installation
Machines will be positioned in a well ventilated area away from doorways.
The main on/off switch will be accessible at all times.
The manufacturer�s operating manual will be available at the location of each machine.

Repairs
Minor repairs, such as rectifying paper jams in a photocopier, may be carried out by staff where clear instructions exist and the action presents no hazard.
While machines are fitted with interlocking mechanisms to prevent electrocution, they should still be switched off before accessing the interior. Care must be observed to avoid hot surfaces.
Under no circumstances should staff use screwdrivers or any other article to tamper with the inside of machines.
All persons using the photocopier will be made aware of particular hazards with chemicals relating to this equipment. The areas should be kept tidy at all times.

Major Faults
Major faults, including any electrical faults, frayed wiring, must be reported immediately and the machine must be switched off. A printed notice should be posted on the machine stating �Out of Order� until a fully qualified technician repairs the machine.

Maintenance
Basic maintenance of machinery will be carried out regularly by competent technical contractors.

Light Intensity
Photocopiers and laser printers are provided with strong light sources. Covers must be in place when copies are made.

9. ELECTRICAL APPARATUS
The following precautions must be observed by all staff and employees to minimise the risks associated with electricity:

Any broken, ineffective or damaged electrical equipment, such as loose connections and frayed cables, must be reported immediately.
The electrical unit must be switched off immediately
Care should be observed and assume all electrical circuits are live unless there is absolute certainty that they are not.
Ensure that the equipment is switched off before it is plugged in.

10. MANUAL HANDLING
Always consider whether help is necessary to lift an awkward or heavy load.A trolley or some other mechanized system should be used wherever practicable.Do not allow the load to obstruct your view, particularly when using stairways.Ensure the area in front of you is clear from obstructions.If carrying a load, ensure that you do not proceed backwards.

11. WELFARE
Members of staff, students/ trainees and teachers are reminded that:
a) Any person who is under medical supervision or on prescribed medication and who has been certified fit for work, should notify the Principal of any known side affects or temporary physical disabilities which could hinder their Who and which may be a danger to either themselves or their fellow workers or students. The Principal will arrange or assign appropriate tasks for that person to carry out in the interim.
b) Illicit drugs and alcohol. Staffs are not allowed to attend the premises or carry out duties whilst under the influence of illicit drugs or alcohol.

12. FIRST AID PROCEDURES
The Institute First Aid Box is located in the office and Common room. The person in charge of the common room will be responsible for checking and replacing items in the First Aid boxes. In the case of a graze or minor cut, the wounded part is to be cleaned with antiseptic wipes by a member of staff. Surgical gloves should always be used in treatment of these cuts/grazes. Surgical gloves are part of the First Aid Box equipment. In the case of a more serious cut, the Parent/Guardian is called. In the event of the Parent/Guardian being unavailable the student is taken to a doctor or hospital.

All injuries are to be reported to the Principal and Parents/Guardian. Serious cuts and bumps are to be recorded by the teacher on duty in the Accident Book in the Principal�s Office.

Parents/Guardian is asked to sign a form giving permission to the Institute to have the student taken to hospital if the parent/guardian cannot be contacted.
The Board of Management has the responsibility to encourage an awareness of, and training in First Aid among the staff and student.

13. Administration of Medication
The Institute�s policy on the administration of medication is appended.

14. Medical Conditions including Allergies
All staff members are made aware of students with specific medical conditions and allergies. Parents /guardians are required to inform the institute of such conditions. The Institute�s policy on Medical Conditions and Allergies is appended.

15. ACCIDENT/INCIDENT REPORTING
All accidents, no matter how minor, and whether to employees, students or members of the public must be reported immediately to the Principal. This is necessary to monitor the progress of safety standards and to ensure that proper medical attention is given where required.
An Accident Report Book is kept in the Principal�s Office for recording all accidents

16. VISUAL DISPLAY UNIT (VDU) POLICY
The Institute is fully aware of its obligations on use of VDUs
Lighting - Correct lighting is essential if eye fatigue is to be prevented.
We have ensured that the general level of illumination within the institute premises.

Reflection & Glare - Reflection and glare can cause great discomfort for the operator.
In an effort to reduce problems in this area an anti-glare filter screen is available.

Workstation - The work surface at all workstations is a matte surface finish to prevent any glare that might normally be reflected off a highly glossed veneer finish.

Proper seating posture is essential if the long-term problems of muscular strain and backache are to be avoided. Seats are provided with adjustable; height and tilt for the principal�s secretary and other staff where appropriate.

17. VISION TESTING
All employees who habitually use a VDU screen (more than 50% of average workday or one continuous hour or more as part of every day work routine) will be entitled to an eyesight test paid for by the Board of Management on a bi-annual basis.

18. VISITORS
The Institute has a legal duty to ensure the Health, Safety and Welfare of all guardians/parents/visitors. Therefore any staff member or employee who receives a parent/guardian/visitor is responsible for the parent/guardian/visitors health and safety until they leave the premises.

19. ACCESS TO INSTITUTE
In so far as it is compatible with the practical layout of the Institute premises, anyone entering the institute premises shall be required to identify themselves to the Principal or the Authority as relevant before gaining admittance to the institute. During Extra Curricular Activities (ECAs) anyone entering the institute premises shall be required to identify themselves to the Co-ordinator or the Teacher. Clear signage will be provided. Any contractor must make direct contact with the Principal before initiating any work on the premises and shall be shown a copy of the Safety Statement applying to the school and shall agree to its provisions.

While work is in progress, any noise shall be avoided wherever possible during class hours and shall at all times be reduced to the minimum necessary. The contractor and his workmen shall not create any hazard, permanent or temporary, without informing the principal or his nominated agent and shall mark such hazard with warning signs or other suitable protection.

The students will be advised of the dangers inherent with any construction work and will be advised by the teachers and the principal of the need to �STAY AWAY�. The students are forbidden from going near any construction site and from interacting with the workmen/women during the course of their work.

20. ACCESS TO EMPLOYEES IS BY CONSENT
When an employee feels at risk from, or threatened by, a particular person on institute property, this must be drawn to the attention of the Board of Management. The Board will undertake to ensure that in such circumstances all appropriate measures will be taken to protect employees.

21. CRITICAL INCIDENT POLICY
A Critical Incident Policy is being developed by the staff of OMS Power Training and Research Institute. It is designed to enable the Institute community to cope with a serious event. The policy is being developed by a team of staff led by Principal. The Critical Incident policy document is appended.

22. OTHER POLICY DOCUMENTS
The following Institute policy documents and procedures which have a Health and Safety element are appended:

• Code of Behaviour
• Anti-bullying
• Sexual Harassment
• Workplace anti-bullying
• Working alone
• Risk Assessment for Pregnant Employees
• Internet Usage Policy

23. SAFETY AUDITS
Safety audits will be carried out annually by the Safety Representative.

24. CONSULTATION AND INFORMATION
It is the policy of the Board of Management of the OMS POWER TRAINING AND RESEARCH INSTITUTE to consult with Staff in the preparation and completion of the Health and Safety Policy;

• any additional information or instructions regarding Health, Safety and Welfare at work will be conveyed to Staff as it becomes available;
• that Health, Safety and Welfare will form an integral part of any future staff training and development plans;
• That Health, Safety and Welfare will be an item on the agenda of every Board meeting.

25. CONCLUDING COMMENT
This Safety Statement has been prepared based on conditions existing in the premises of the Institute at the time of writing. It may be altered, revised or updated at a future date so as to comply with any changes in conditions. All amendments and updates will be recorded in the Safety Statement.

Signed:
Date: 03.05.2012