BRACKENWOOD CLUBHOUSE
Health & Safety Policy
1. INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES
This Policy outlines the general principles and procedures that are essential to the safe running of Brackenwood Clubhouse and to meeting the legislative requirements with regard to Health, Safety and Welfare. A list of applicable legislation is found in Appendix 3. Brackenwood Clubhouse accepts its legal obligation to provide safe systems of work and a safe environment and will ensure staff, volunteers and members fully implement this policy.
The policy will cover all matters with Health and Safety that apply to the Clubhouse.
2. STATEMENT OF INTENT Brackenwood Golf Club recognises and accepts responsibilities, as a business, under the Health and Safety at Work Act, 1974 and other existing legislation. We maintain a high standard of health and welfare through training and the provision of:
Safety of building We meet the requirements of the ‘The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992) by providing a well ventilated building, temperatures controlled to meet the needs of users, sufficient lighting and well maintained floor surfaces to enable safe working. Water systems are monitored and treated to prevent Legionella and other contaminations.
Safe Equipment/Machinery Equipment will be maintained in keeping with current legislation and manufacturer’s guidance. This will include all equipment used under fire regulations.
Safe Procedures Members are trained in awareness of risk to themselves and others in the undertaking of tasks and in awareness of safe storage of materials to include the prevention of items stored in such a way that they could cause injury to another. They receive adequate information, instruction, training and supervision. Safe systems that ensure safety and welfare of people members are trained to care for their own health and welfare in the workplace as well as that of others. Brackenwood Clubhouse has suitable clean sanitary facilities, an adequate supply of drinking water, adequate ventilation and facilities to rest and eat. Safe systems are in place for use, handling, storage and transportation of items used within the premises. Regular Health and Safety reviews are undertaken.
In order to provide and maintain safety we have: Specific codes of practice/procedures relating to activities undertaken. Clear instruction so that every member is aware of his/her own responsibilities and is able to act appropriately in the prevention injuries and in any emergency. Awareness raising of health and safety issues and the legislation that governs practice. This is achieved by actively involving members in assessment of risks to health and safety within their own work area and project.
Clear Emergency Procedures. Information provided for contractors, who in turn provide their method statement for the work undertaken. Clearly recorded allocation of responsibilities. Communication with staff about Health and Safety Matters.
BRACKENWOOD CLUBHOUSE
ORGANISATIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES
A. Management Committee Reviews this policy on a regular basis and ensures that is being implemented. Detailed lists of responsibilities are found in Appendix 2.
B. SECRETARY The Club Secretary is the key principal officer in all matters of Health and Safety and is responsible under Health and Safety at work legislation. The applicable duties are listed in Appendix 2.
C.COMMITTEE MEMBERS The Committee Members will ensure present legislation is brought to the attention of members. Procedures and Practices will be written and revised by the Secretary.
D. VOLUNTEERS/MEMBERS Health and Safety Legislation puts responsibility on all to take responsible care of self and of other persons who may be affected by his acts of omission at work.” (Health and Safety at Work 1974, Section 7). To cooperate with his/her mentor and others in meeting statutory obligations. Not do anything that will “intentionally or recklessly interfere with or misuse anything provided for in the interests of the health, safety or welfare”. (Health and Safety at Work 1974, Section 8). Attend training provided by the club. Every volunteer/member is responsible for knowing his or her own responsibility. All volunteers are expected to report any incidents, hazards or situations that they feel are in breach of this policy. All volunteers will be made aware of Health and Safety policy.
E.Health and Safety Representative The representative will have the responsibility of working with volunteers /members to ensure the implementation of the Health and Safety Policy. The representative works with managers when safety procedures are being breached to ensure remedial action. The representative conducts Health and Safety Risk assessments of the building and works with volunteers/users to help them with the risk assessment process.
MANAGING THE WORKPLACE The Clubhouse management is committed to promoting the well-being of staff by valuing, respecting and supporting them. All volunteers/members will be expected to implement the Health and Safety Policy and implement its requirements.
Managing
Support Management will always respond to and react appropriately to any concerns raised or issues highlighted by Volunteers/Members about any issues relating to Health and Safety.
Health Volunteers/Members must inform Management of any personal health issues or concerns that may compromise the implementation of this Health and Safety Policy in all its regards. Management will fully and appropriately support Volunteers/Members.
Members, Visitors and contractors Are informed of essential information pertinent to Health and Safety.
People with Disabilities The Clubhouse offers disabled access through a central sliding door. A removable ramp is available to permit wheelchair access and egress.
Physical Management of the Premises Legionella Legionella Risk Assessment has been conducted and risks are monitored in line with the remedial actions identified.
Asbestos An Asbestos survey has been completed and no asbestos was found in any areas. Any contractors who work in the club will be advised of this
Work off site Risk assessments have been undertaken for any work conducted off site.
Induction Procedures All new Volunteers/Members undergo a comprehensive induction procedure including Health and Safety.
Contractors All Contractors must use safe systems of work and full details must be given to the Secretary before any relevant work is undertaken.
Security of the Building Members need to be vigilant and aware of any security issues and take action as appropriate. A general statement on security is found at the front of the Health and Safety folder. The entry code system and door alarm enable the control of entry to the building when activated.
House Keeping Volunteers/Members are required to maintain a high standard of house-keeping (both during and at completion of any work sessions) to maintain a good standard of health and safety. If housekeeping was required prior to starting a work session, housekeeping must be performed and a report make to Management.
Working from Home The Health and Safety at Work Act places responsibility on the club to protect the health, safety and welfare of members working at home (on Club business) and to carry out an appropriate Risk Assessment. We undertake to encourage those working from home (on Club business) to ensure that their working environments are suitable and to advise of the need monitor their environment and take regular breaks. Members working from home (on Club business) have corresponding duties and responsibilities under the Health and Safety at Work Act as do their counterparts in offices.
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES Full provision for fire and any other emergencies is in place at all times to include fire detection and fire fighting equipment. Fire Action Notices and Emergency Plan (including evacuation procedures) are posted prominently throughout the building; all members are required to be familiar with Evacuation Procedures.
Fire These Emergency Fire procedures are recorded in the Fire Manual. All members are given information and training in such procedures; The Fire Policy must be read by all members who must familiarise themselves with preventative measures and procedures to follow in the event of an alarm or a fire. Members receive training in use of fire equipment. Members participate in Fire drills, these are recorded. New volunteers receive instruction at induction including location of alarms, fire equipment and exits. The Fire Manual is stored in the Procedure File Box behind the Bar The Fire Log book is located at the Fire Panel: all tests, drills and false alarms are recorded in this book.
Other Emergencies The Secretary deals with problems as they arise and takes remedial action as appropriate (if the Secretary is not on site then the next House Chairman). These could include security problems, structural problems etc.
Accidents and Incidents All accidents and incidents occurring in the workplace must be recorded and reported, even if there was no injury. This is important because these can be reviewed to establish causes, particular problem areas or trends and thus future prevention. The main causes of accidents are Unsafe systems of work, including improperly maintained equipment/ machinery. If you notice something is broken, report it. Insufficient training or information if you do not know how to undertake a procedure do not do it ASK!! Members error or carelessness/inattention.
Member responsibilities: To report and record any accident/incident that you are involved in or witness, even if it appears minor, and whether it is affecting your ability to work as problems may not arise immediately. To identify any potential risk and report it immediately. The Accident Book is located above the Procedure File Box behind the Bar
RIDDOR 1995 (Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations) specifies that accidents, incidents/near misses and reportable ill health should be recorded, investigated and notified. Accidents resulting in serious injury or absence from work of three days or more must be reported to your manager who will contact the Health and Safety Executive Incident Control Centre (0845 300 923) The notification can also be completed on line using Form 2508 or a copy put in the post.
First Aid The Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981 state that the club must provide suitably trained persons to provide first aid. The Clubhouse has Trained First Aiders, whose names are posted on the wall of the kitchen room and club noticeboard. First Aid boxes are located in the kitchen and the Bar. Boxes are clearly visible, clearly identified (white on green) and made in a way that protect contents from damage. The House Chairman is responsible for restocking the boxes.
RISK ASSESSMENTS The Health and Safety at Work Act requires suitable recorded assessments of risk (Regulations 3) and Risk Assessments (Regulation 4) for all identified hazards and areas of risk
The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 also puts legal requirements on employers of more than 5 people to conduct risk assessments. Risks are part of everyday life and cannot always be avoided. Risk Assessments are fundamental to establishing safe systems of work.
As the club does not employ any staff the duty for a risk assessment is abrogated.
SAFETY IN THE KITCHEN The Food Hygiene (England) Regulations 2005 and Statutory Instrument 2005, number 2059, Regulation EC) No. 852/2004 (Article 3) require that organisations providing food identify the steps that are needed to ensure that adequate procedures are in place to ensure the provision of safe food in their premises. The inspecting body are Wirral Borough Council Environmental Officers. The Club, as a food provider, has systems in place that ensure the production and provision of food that is safe for human consumption.
Written procedures are in place for all kitchen/food, appropriate risk Instructions regarding food hygiene and hand washing are posted in the kitchen.assessments are undertaken to establish any areas of risk. All persons who work in food preparation and/or in the kitchen have been fully inducted regarding correct procedures and policy (Food Hygiene, COSHH, Health and Safety). Instructions regarding food hygiene and hand washing are posted in the kitchen.
HANDLING OF SUBSTANCES HAZARDOUS TO HEALTH (COSHH) The COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) Regulations 1994 places responsibility on the club to provide a work area that protects members from hazardous substances. Brackenwood Golf Club ensures that systems are in place that encourage good practice and correct procedure for hazardous substances. Manufacturers Safety Sheets and instructions for use are available for all products. COSHH products which may be harmfull are held in locked cupboards with limited access. Any who use products that can harm will follow the guidance provided and have a duty of care, to protect themselves and others. Additional consideration is taken with the repercussions of activities upon the wider environment. The Poison Control Information Centre contact number 0800 222 1222. Health and Safety Executive Incident Control Centre contact 0845 300 9924. More detailed guidance is found in Appendix 4
WARNING SIGNS Safety signs will be used that are in keeping with the Safety Signs and Signals regulations 1996: these will include warning and directional signs for fire, presence of chemicals and other matters such as for wet floors, work being undertaken on the premises (i.e. work on the roof, hot works etc).
MOVING AND HANDLING In keeping with the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992(Revised October 2011) the Club conducts risk assessments in order to remove hazards and minimise risks. Upon induction all staff are trained in correct Manual Handling. Specific guidance is given relating to exceptional circumstances.
DISPLAY SCREEN EQUIPMENT (VDU’s) The Health and Safety Regulations (Visual Display Equipment) 1992 makes employers responsible for safe working conditions for using VDU equipment by providing; Appropriately ergonomic workstations Information about the potential hazards, risks and control measures relating to workstations Each member conducts their own ergonomic assessment of their workstation using the forms provided. Any identified issues are addressed by management. Members must ensure that they know how to use equipment correctly following the correct procedure. Staff must be aware of the risks of RSI (repetitive strain injury).
EQUIPMENT Equipment used at the Clubhouse includes electrical equipment and furnishings Most of these can present varying levels of risk.
Electrical Equipment The use of electrical equipment carries a significant risk and staff must be aware of this. Please refer to ‘Use of Electrical Equipment’. If any personally owned electrical equipment is used it should be submitted for PAT testing. The Secretary ensures the safety of electrical equipment by conducting periodic Portable Appliance (PAT) Testing on all portable appliances at the Club, in keeping with the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 Only Competent Persons, as defined in the Electricity at Work regulations 1989, carry out electrical work on the premises.
TRAINING The Club is committed to ensuring that appropriate training is provided. This will occur through formal and informal sessions and will include giving information and training on risks and precautions as specified in Reg. 7 of the Health and Safety at Work Act. Health and Safety Training will include: General training at Induction giving an overview of Fire: emergency procedures. Hazards, risks and precautions Health and safety at Work (Reg.7). Precautions and prevention. Individual Responsibilities to self and others. Where to source needed information. Training that is required regularly Fire lecture and Drills. Health and Safety Lecture to include Manual Handling. In house updates on Food Hygiene. Date agreed by the Committee(September 2015)
APPENDIX 1: Named individuals with responsibilities for Health and Safety in the Workplace Overall responsibility for Health and Safety Keith Marsh, Secretary Update of policies and procedures Keith Marsh, Secretary Health and Safety person Keith Marsh, Secretary Responsibility for ensuring that Health and Safety risk assessments are in place and are adhered to Mark Farmer, House Chairman Management of the Building: Mrs S Duncan, Catering Manager Management of Health and Safety in the kitchen: Keith Marsh, Secretary COSHH assessments:
APPENDIX 2
Organisational Responsibilities/duties The Management Committee is responsible for reviewing this policy on a regular basis and for ensuring that it is being implemented. The Secretary is the key principal officer in all matters of Health and Safety. The Secretary is responsible under Health and Safety at Work legislation for
General overview of safety.
The overall management responsibility of the Clubhouse is to ensure that in so far as is practicable the premises will be free from risks to the health and safety of members, volunteers, contractors and anyone visiting Brackenwood Golf Club.
Appointment of competent persons to assist with meeting statutory duties (Reg.6). A Safety Representative who will be responsible for overview of safety in the Club. This person will receive regular training.
Communicate with employees about potential risks.
Providing a written Health and Safety policy.
Assessing risks to employees and users of the premises or delegate this assessment to others who are under his supervision.
Seeing that actions on identified risks are implemented
Ensuring that equipment and machinery is maintained.
Review and coordination of risk assessments conducted by Project Leaders in their areas of work.
Setting up Emergency Contingency Plans (Reg.7).
Making available to employees information and training about Health and Safety.
Ensuring that external parts of the building are kept in a good state of repair and free from hazards.
Provide appropriate information to all contractors.
Committee Members
The Committee Members will ensure all Health and Safety requirements are fully implemented in their area of responsibility including the provision of relevant procedures.
They are responsible for:
Implementing Health and Safety Policy and procedures in their respective areas.
Undertaking Health and Safety checks/risk assessments on their own areas of work; assessing all risks relating to use, handling, transport and storage of equipment and substances.
Considering the capabilities of volunteers when assigning duties/ tasks (Reg11).
Keeping General Manager and Health and Safety Representative notified of any problems.
Ensuring that their team receive Health and Safety instruction during induction.
Ensuring accidents/incidents are correctly recorded as per current legislation and that the necessary notifications occur immediately for serious incidents and after three days if an incident causes staff to be away from work for more than 3 days.
Ensuring that equipment used in their department is maintained and that safe systems of working with equipment are in place.
APPENDIX 3:
Legislation relating to Health and Safety in the Workplace
The Health and Safety at Work Etc A ct, 1974 The Management of Health and Safety at Work regulations 1999
The Construction (Design and Management) Regulations, 1994
The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1999
The Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER) 1988
The Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrence Regulations 1995
The Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992
The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989
The Noise at Work Regulations 1989
The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 1999
The Food Hygiene (England) Regulations 2005
The Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992
Statutory Instrument 2005, No. 2059, Regulation (EC) 825/2004 2059 (Article 3)
HSE Guidance Notes
APPENDIX 4
ARRANGEMENTS FOR IDENTIFYING HAZARDS & CONTROLLING RISKS
RISK ASSESSMENTS
The Health and Safety at Work Act requires suitable recorded assessments of risk (Regulations 3) and Risk Assessments (Regulation 4) for all hazards and areas of risk. As the club does not employ any staff the duty for a risk assessment is abrogated.
However Brackenwood Clubhouse is committed to supporting a culture of risk control. Members should undertake an empirical risk assessments for their areas of responsibility.
Responsibilities for Reporting of Hazards
The following must be notified immediately:
If you are not provided with sufficient information about a hazard/ substance you need to use.
If you are not aware of the correct method of using or handling the substance.
If there is a spillage or other contamination.
No substance must be used until the individual has received the required information/guidance.
The absence of information/guidance must be reported to the Secretary/House Chairman.
Responsibilities and procedures for Recording Hazards:
The procedures for reporting hazards includes a system for members to record those found in their workplace, after communicating them to the Secretary/House Chairman. On the hazard sheet, they must record the date, the nature of the hazard and their name
The Secretary/House Chairman will then investigate the hazard detailing the remedial action or indicating why no action was necessary. The Secretary/House Chairman will then report this to the Committee with any recommendation for further investigation or action.
For additional information see the instructions posted in areas where chemicals are used (e.g. kitchen and cleaning cupboard.
APPENDIX 5
EQUIPMENT AND MACHINERY
The Work Equipment Regulations, 1992 and Use of Work Equipment
Regulations 1998 were aimed to ensure safe provision and use of equipment (regularly maintained, fit for purpose and safe/free from risks in so far as is reasonably practicable).
The responsibilities for equipment lie with the Committee Members/Secretary
These regulations apply to:
Plant: any large plant such as a passenger lift.
Machinery: this applies to equipment such as fax machines as well as more dangerous equipment such as saws and soldering irons.
Tools: any item used in completing a task.
Electrical items
Are dealt with separately under ‘Electrical Equipment’ on page 7 and in the ‘Use of Electrical Equipment’ procedure.
All who work with ladders are given information of current guidance from the Health and Safety Executive that must be followed:
ladders should be inspected prior to each use. Contractors should provide their own ladders with evidence that they are safe to use.
All purchased, rented or leased equipment must comply with legal requirements and any standards or codes of practice and must be checked to ensure that any needed safety devices are in place and operational.
Training must be in place for all staff using equipment.
Warning notices must be posted where applicable
A qualified competent person under takes Portable Appliance Testing on electrical equipment and provides certification for such.
Records of checks undertaken are held with the Fire and Health and Safety
files.
Member Responsibilities:
To wear any protective clothing or equipment required.
To make notification of any fault in the equipment, especially faults that could affect its safe operation.
Contractors
Contractors to provide their own method statement and identify risk from works to include preventative measures to be employed under Construction (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1996.
Contractors advised of need to follow current HSE guidance on use of ladders and scaffolding.
Contractors using high risk equipment (e.g. acetylene torches or other gas cutting equipment must have the appropriate fire equipment immediately available) are made aware of need to follow the precautions as indicated in the Clubhouse
guidelines, risk assessments and their own method statements and Risk Assessment
Only chainsaw user with full certification allowed to do such work.
WELDING OR OTHER HOT WORKS
Any hot works undertaken will only be undertaken by a qualified/competent contractor who gives evidence of his training and provides a risk assessment and method statement for the work to be done.
The General Manager or designated individual will carry out any assessment of the risks and discuss this with the contractor.
Current guidance must be followed.
ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT
The General Manager ensures the safety of electrical equipment by conducting periodic Portable Appliance (PAT) Testing on all portable appliances at the Clubhouse, in keeping with the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989
Any personally owned electrical equipment that is used it should be submitted for
PAT testing.
Management also ensures that the needed safeguards are in place (i.e. correct fuses, proper earthing and circuit breakers).
Only Competent Persons, as defined in the Electricity at Work regulations 1989, access the electric panel.
Electrical work is carried out by Qualified Persons.
IF YOU SEE A PROBLEM REPORT IT. THIS COULD PREVENT A FIRE.
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
The Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992 requires employers to provide suitable equipment where needed to protect employees from exposure to risk from procedures undertaken.
Equipment must be cleaned, maintained and stored appropriately and staff must be trained to use the appropriate PPE correctly.
Staff are responsible to:
To wear any protective clothing or equipment required.
To report to Managers anyone seen not wearing protective clothing appropriately (i.e. hard hat for contractor).
To report if any protective clothing is inadequate, ineffective, damaged or missing.