Risk Assessment

Appropriate written risk assessments will be completed before programme activities take place.

Assessments will consider:

• International travel and airports
• Transport and road safety
• Accommodation and fire safety
• University laboratories
• Engineering facilities and industrial sites
• Group activities and excursions
• Medical and individual support needs
• Environmental and security risks
• Emergency and evacuation arrangements

Risk assessments will identify hazards, assess risks, establish control measures and allocate responsibilities.

They will be reviewed when circumstances change.

Student Supervision

Each programme will have a documented supervision plan with appropriately trained and screened adults.

Staffing ratios will be determined by the age and needs of participants, the activities undertaken and relevant risk assessments.

Students will receive clear safety briefings and must follow reasonable instructions.

Industry and Laboratory Safety

University and engineering activities may involve specialist equipment, machinery or restricted areas.

Students will only participate in activities assessed as appropriate for their age and abilities.

Relevant venue rules, protective equipment requirements, access restrictions and safety instructions must be followed.

Medical Information and First Aid

Parents and guardians will be asked to provide relevant medical information before travel.

Appropriate arrangements will be made for:

• First aid
• Medication management
• Allergies and medical conditions
• Access to healthcare
• Medical emergencies
• Emergency parent or guardian contact

Individual support arrangements will be assessed confidentially and sensitively.

Accommodation and Transport

Accommodation and transport providers will be assessed for suitability and relevant safety arrangements.

Procedures will address fire evacuation, room security, emergency contact, safe transport and student welfare.

Emergency Response

A programme-specific emergency plan will be prepared before departure.

The plan will cover serious injury or illness, missing students, transport disruption, fire, security incidents and other significant emergencies.

Staff will receive appropriate briefings on their responsibilities.

Incident Reporting

Accidents, near misses, safeguarding incidents and significant safety concerns must be reported promptly.

Records will be maintained securely and incidents reviewed to identify necessary improvements.

Responsibilities

The Programme Director will oversee the organisation’s health and safety arrangements.

Programme leaders, staff, volunteers and contracted providers will be responsible for carrying out their assigned duties and reporting concerns.

Review

This policy will be reviewed annually and before each programme where necessary.