Updated Risk Assessments to minimise the risk of being exposed to Covid-19

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Scoil Mhuire Junior

Updated Risk Assessments to minimise the risk of being exposed to Covid-19

The process involved consultation with all school staff.

Methodology used for hazard identification and control

In line with the requirements of Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 (section 19) it is the policy of the BoM in Scoil Mhuire Junior to address significant hazards and risks in the workplace, to access the risks to safety, health and welfare and to control these risks as far as is reasonably practicable.

The Board is committed to the ongoing identification of hazards, the assessment of the appropriate risks and the introduction of controls to deal with them. In addition, staff are involved and participate in safety, health and welfare issues within the school and are encouraged to identify and report any potential hazards that may exist and to ensure that a risk assessment is carried out.

This revised Risk Assessment includes all relevant updates and necessary control measures to minimise the risk of staff and others being exposed to Covid-19 and these will be incorporated into the Safety Statement for Scoil Mhuire Junior in line with requirements of section 20 of the 2005 Act.

It is envisaged that additional reviews will be undertaken on a regular basis and in line with Government and public health advice to ensure that all information remains accurate, that controls are appropriate and where necessary risks are reassessed.

A hazard is anything with the potential to cause harm to the safety, health or welfare of staff, students, visitors and contractors – a wet or slippery floor, an unguarded machine, stressful work, a blocked entrance, hazardous chemicals etc. Hazards may be classified as physical, chemical, biological, environmental or human.

A risk is the likelihood that someone will be harmed by a hazard and the severity of that harm.

Control measures:

A control measure is an applied measure that reduces the level of risk. Control measures can be applied at the planning stage, can comprise physical measures, can be management issues and can include training. Good control measures will require a combination of some or all of these.

Control measure principles:

Schedule 3 of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 lists the Principles of Prevention and the Board of Management undertakes to apply these principles (where practicable) in dealing with all risks within the school:

Avoidance of risks
Evaluation of unavoidable risks
Combating of risks at source
Adaptation of work to the individual
Adaptation of workplace to technical progress
Replacement of dangerous articles, substances or systems of work by safe or less dangerous articles, substances or systems of work
Priority to collective protective measures over individual protective measures
Development of an adequate prevention policy which takes account of technology, organisation of work, working conditions, social factors and the influence of factors relating to the working environment
Appropriate training and instructions to employees.

When the safety audit identifies hazards, it is necessary to evaluate and rank them so that they can be controlled in an orderly way. The risk of a hazard is a measure of the likelihood or probability of an accident coupled with the severity of the injury or loss. The risk potential of each hazard was assessed (by ranking) by giving numerical values of between 1 and 5 to both the severity of the consequences and the probability of the event occurring. When the severity numerical factor and the probability numerical factor were multiplied together, they produced a number between 1 and 25 thereby producing the numerical values outlined in risk rating chart below.

Severity x Probability = Risk Rating

Severity

Severity Rating	Interpretation	Numerical Value
Fatality or Catastrophic	Single or multiple fatalities, widespread illness, large scale property or equipment damage	5
Major	Serious injury or illness, significant property or equipment damage	4
Moderate	Injury and damage to property	3
Minor	Minor injury or illness, minor property or equipment damage	2
Trivial	No significant injury or illness, no significant property or equipment damage	1

Probability/Likelihood

Probability Rating	Interpretation	Numerical Value
Inevitable	Likely to occur either immediately or in the short term	5
Very Likely	Could occur in time or if repeated enough	4
Likely	Likely to occur	3
Unlikely	Though unlikely, may occur over time	2
Rare	Unlikely to occur at all	1

Risk Rating

Numerical Value Severity x Probability	Descriptive risk rating	Interpretation
16 – 25	Emergency – Extremely serious If an incident were to occur, it would be likely that a permanent, debilitating injury or death would result	Risks are unacceptable and immediate action required justifying special maintenance. Activity should be halted and stopped until the hazard is eliminated or appropriate risk controls are put in place.
11 – 15	Severe and Serious If an incident were to occur, it would be likely that an injury requiring medical treatment would result.	Activity can proceed but substantial efforts should be made to reduce the risk. Risk reduction measures should be implemented urgently within a defined time period and it might be necessary to consider suspending or restricting the activity or to apply interim control measures until this has been completed.
6 – 10	Medium If an incident were to occur, there would be some chance that an injury requiring First Aid treatment would result	Activity can proceed but consideration should be given as to whether the risks can be lowered. Control measures must be monitored and reviewed as required to ensure they remain suitable and sufficient.
1 – 5	Trivial or Negligible If an incident were to occur, there would be little likelihood that an injury would result	No additional controls are necessary as these risks are considered acceptable. Activity should be regularly reviewed to ensure there is no change to the risk rating and that controls are maintained.

*Note: A numerical rating has been used in column 4 of the risk assessment sheets to describe the risk potential for the hazard identified This method has been used in an attempt to ensure that the levels of risk will be understood and clear to all those operating within the school.

Who may be affected?	Identified Risks	Risk Communication, Education and Training, Wellbeing	Risk Rating with controls	Action implementation
Controls
Staff Pupils	Spread of Covid-19 virus Persons currently deemed most at risk of complications if they catch the coronavirus are: • 60 years of age and over • have long-term medical conditions – i.e. heart disease, lung disease, high blood pressure, diabetes or cancer • pregnant women Known effects of the coronavirus: • A fever (high temperature of 37.5 degrees Celsius or above) • A cough – this can be any kind of cough, not just a dry cough • Shortness of breath or breathing difficulties • Loss of sense of smell • Loss of sense of taste or distortion of sense of taste •Death School Closure: Staff may become despondent, anxious and isolated as a result of school closures. Teachers cannot identify child protection issues in usual way Pupils may be exposed to inappropriate content online	The Board of Management will develop a response plan for the prevention and mitigation of Covid-19 following a risk assessment of the school facility. This plan will highlight the measures necessary to protect the health and safety of staff in re-opening and modifying the work arrangements within the school. The staff representative(s) will be properly consulted when developing and implementing the action plan for the prevention and mitigation of Covid-19 within the school and all staff will be informed about the measures being introduced, using specific risk communication and staff engagement approaches. The Board of Management will: Ensure that all staff receive necessary training prior to returning to work Our principal, Niamh Cronin will advise staff to view the Department of Education’s training materials when they are available online.When available, staff will be given updated training on infection prevention and control re: hand hygiene and use of PPE as appropriate. (It is intended that training will be provided as part of the Department’s online training programme). Provide posters, information and electronic message boards to increase awareness of Covid-19 among staff and pupils Promote safe individual practices within the school campusEngage with staff in providing feedback on the preventive measures and their effectivenessProvide regular information about the risk of Covid-19 using official sources, such as government agencies (HSE, HSA, etc.) and the World Health OrganisationEmphasise the effectiveness of adopting protective measures especially good personal hygiene Provide specific training in the proper use of PPE for staff, where required Principal will Link in by phone with staff periodically to ensure they are doing well.Encourage all staff to be in touch with each otherAdvise staff of Spectrum health service Teachers will ensure regular contact via phone, email/ google classroom.Alert HSCL / Principal if they have any concerns. report any Child Protection concerns to DLP or DDLP HSCL to monitor and link in with families.report to principal School will ensure Acceptable Use Policy identifies Internet safety Rules for children. Develop and enforce Remote Learning Policy	Negligible Severe	Board of Management Principal Staff
Risk Level Calculation (a) Severity of risk/injury 1=trivial, 2=slight, 3=moderate, 4=major, 5=fatality (b) Likelihood of event 1=rare, 2=unlikely, 3=likely, 4=very likely, 5=inevitable (c) Risk Rating = (a) X (b)	Risk Level Action 1-5 Trivial risk Acceptable 6-10 Medium risk Requires monitoring 11-15 Severe risk Requires immediate further action and control 16-25 Emergency risk Halt activity and review immediately
Assessment Date: August 2020	Assessor’s Name:
Who may be affected?	Identified Risks	Hygiene	Risk Rating with controls	Action implementation
Controls
All staff Pupils Visitors Contractors Public	Spread of Covid-19 virus Persons currently deemed most at risk of complications if they catch the coronavirus are: • 60 years of age and over • have long-term medical conditions – i.e. heart disease, lung disease, high blood pressure, diabetes or cancer • pregnant women Known effects of the coronavirus: • A fever (high temperature of 37.5 degrees Celsius or above) • A cough – this can be any kind of cough, not just a dry cough • Shortness of breath or breathing difficulties • Loss of sense of smell • Loss of sense of taste or distortion of sense of taste •Death	The BoM will ensure that all staff can wash their hands regularly. Water and appropriate santitisers (i.e. hand gel dispensers, etc.) will be available throughout the school. Staff should: Wash their hands properly and often. Hands should be washed:After coughing and sneezingBefore and after eating or preparing foodBefore and after using protective glovesBefore and after being on public transport or getting in and out of carsWhen arriving and leaving the school campusAfter toilet useCover their mouth and nose with a tissue or their sleeve when coughing and sneezing.Put used tissues into a bin and wash their handsDevelop a routine of increased cleaning and disinfecting of frequently touched objects and surfaces The BoM will supply required cleaning products, will ensure the correct use and storage of disinfectants and will ensure all products are stored safely and securely. No employees are permitted to attend work if they display any of the symptoms below: – Fever (temperature of 37.5 degrees or above)CoughShortness of breathBreathing difficulties Any Staff Member displaying symptoms must self-isolate, must stay at home and contact their GP Any staff member living with someone who is self-isolating or waiting for a Covid-19 test must restrict their movement until the person they are living with has negative test result. Any Staff Member who has tested positive for Covid-19 must not return to work until deemed fit to do so and upon approval of their medical advisor Staff can follow https://www2.hse.ie/ for regular updates or can contact HSELive for advice 1850 241850	Requires monitoring	Board of Management Principal Staff Visitors
Risk Level Calculation (a) Severity of risk/injury 1=trivial, 2=slight, 3=moderate, 4=major, 5=fatality (b) Likelihood of event 1=rare, 2=unlikely, 3=likely, 4=very likely, 5=inevitable (c) Risk Rating = (a) X (b)	Risk Level Action 1-5 Trivial risk Acceptable 6-10 Medium risk Requires monitoring 11-15 Severe risk Requires immediate further action and control 16-25 Emergency risk Halt activity and review immediately
Assessment Date: August 2020	Assessor’s Name:

Who may be affected?	Identified Risks	Hygiene	Risk Rating with controls	Action implementation
Controls
All staff Pupils Visitors Contractors Public	Spread of Covid-19 virus Persons currently deemed most at risk of complications if they catch the coronavirus are: • 60 years of age and over • have long-term medical conditions – i.e. heart disease, lung disease, high blood pressure, diabetes or cancer • pregnant women Known effects of the coronavirus: • A fever (high temperature of 37.5 degrees Celsius or above) • A cough – this can be any kind of cough, not just a dry cough • Shortness of breath or breathing difficulties • Loss of sense of smell • Loss of sense of taste or distortion of sense of taste •Death	The Board of Management will ensure that: Appropriate signage in line with public health guidelines will be displayed throughout school facility (buildings and grounds). Appropriate social distancing markings are in place Necessary PPE is available to staff Standard cleaning and maintenance regimes are put in place and detailed records retained Toilet facilities are cleaned regularly Children are required to bring in their own water bottleEquipment sharing is minimised. Staff are encouraged not to share equipment There is regular cleaning of frequently touched surfaces and that staff are provided with essential cleaning materials to keep their own work areas clean (for example wipes/disinfection products, paper towels and waste bins/bags)All school equipment is sanitised – cleaning programmes to be devised to ensure that shared equipment is cleaned and disinfected between use by different people Staff will have lunches in their designated hubs. Bins are provided for disposal of waste materials (tissues, paper towels, wipes, etc.) and that adequate waste collection arrangements to be put in place to ensure they do not overflow All waste collection points are emptied at the end of each day and a second time during the day as required. Staff use gloves when removing rubbish bags or handling and disposing of any Rubbish and they wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds afterwards INDIVIDUAL STAFF: CLEANING AND PROCEDURES RESPONSIBILITIES Each staff member is responsible for cleaning their immediate work-space (table, chair, materials used etc.) Disinfectant and paper towels will be supplied to each teacher/SNA. Staff members are required to disinfect their lunch area after eating. Materials will be provided as above. Staff members should clean their work-station before work and when leaving work.Staff members are responsible for cleaning personal items that have been brought to work and are likely to be handled at work or during breaks (for example, mobile phone and laptops) and to avoid leaving them down on communal surfaces or they will need to clean the surface after the personal item is removed.Cleaning staff will be in the school from 11 – 5.30pm daily. Checklists of required PPR will be displayed outside each room & cleaning staff will be required to complete these checklists daily. If a staff member has any concerns about the cleaning that is taking place/non-compliance they should contact the LWR as soon as possible who will liaise with principalStaff members are responsible for ensuring that their covid equipment, (masks & covid case box etc) are replenished. Staff will fill out their cleaning checklist and leave for cleaners to replenish.	Requires monitoring [1] [2]	Board of Management Principal Staff Visitors
Risk Level Calculation (a) Severity of risk/injury 1=trivial, 2=slight, 3=moderate, 4=major, 5=fatality (b) Likelihood of event 1=rare, 2=unlikely, 3=likely, 4=very likely, 5=inevitable (c) Risk Rating = (a) X (b)	Risk Level Action 1-5 Trivial risk Acceptable 6-10 Medium risk Requires monitoring 11-15 Severe risk Requires immediate further action and control 16-25 Emergency risk Halt activity and review immediately
Assessment Date: August 2020	Assessor’s Name:

Who may be affected?	Identified Risks	Social Distancing	Risk Rating with controls	Action implementation
Controls
All staff Pupils Visitors Contractors Public	Spread of Covid-19 virus Persons currently deemed most at risk of complications if they catch the coronavirus are: • 60 years of age and over • have long-term medical conditions – i.e. heart disease, lung disease, high blood pressure, diabetes or cancer • pregnant women Known effects of the coronavirus: • A fever (high temperature of 37.5 degrees Celsius or above) • A cough – this can be any kind of cough, not just a dry cough • Shortness of breath or breathing difficulties • Loss of sense of smell • Loss of sense of taste or distortion of sense of taste •Death	Physical distancing is currently a key control measure in reducing the spread of infection. The Board of Mangement will ensure that: all persons will adhere to relevant social distancing rules in relation to entering the school, use of welfare facilities and while working in the school Physical spacing (2 metres apart currently) for work-stations and common spaces, such as entrances/exits, kitchen area, staffroom, where congregation or queuing of staff, or students of visitors might occurA one way system will be in place in the school, all adults to adhere to 2metre social distancing at all timesPupils will be encouraged to walk independently from their gate to their exit door of their classrooms to line up.Appropriate signage in line with public health guidelines will be displayed throughout school facility (buildings and grounds) Appropriate social distancing arrangements will be in place throughout the facility Meetings of staff will take place online and by using teleconferencing facilitiesThere is currently a strict no handshaking policy in place within the school All staff, contractors and visitors should avoid direct physical contact with any other persons as far as possible All regular visitors will be informed of school safety proceduresAll visitors will enter and exit through main door, wear face covering, sanitise hands, scan QR code at the front office for contact tracing purposes. There is only one visitor allowed in office area at a time.All parents are requested to ring office/send an email on Google Classroom to relay messages/ to make an appointment to speak to teacher. Meetings will be conducted over the phone where possible.If a child needs to go home early for medical appointments, a note/ email on google Classroom is to be given to the teacher. The pupil will be ready for collection at exit door of classroom at appropriate time, keeping 2 metre distancing. Where 2 metre distance cannot be maintained Requirements for personnel working within 2 metres of each other (where activity cannot be suspended): No worker has symptoms of Covid-19The close contact work cannot be avoidedUse of face coveringsPPE is present in line with the approved risk assessment (full face mask, gloves, etc) and public health advicePrior to donning appropriate PPE, staff will wash/sanitise their hands thoroughly	Requires monitoring Serious	Board of Management Principal Staff Visitors
Risk Level Calculation (a) Severity of risk/injury 1=trivial, 2=slight, 3=moderate, 4=major, 5=fatality (b) Likelihood of event 1=rare, 2=unlikely, 3=likely, 4=very likely, 5=inevitable (c) Risk Rating = (a) X (b)	Risk Level Action 1-5 Trivial risk Acceptable 6-10 Medium risk Requires monitoring 11-15 Severe risk Requires immediate further action and control 16-25 Emergency risk Halt activity and review immediately
Assessment Date: August 2020	Assessor’s Name:

Who may be affected?	Identified Risks	Cleaning	Risk Rating with controls	Action implementation
Controls
Staff especially cleaning staff	Spread of Covid-19 virus Persons currently deemed most at risk of complications if they catch the coronavirus are: • 60 years of age and over • have long-term medical conditions – i.e. heart disease, lung disease, high blood pressure, diabetes or cancer • pregnant women Known effects of the coronavirus: • A fever (high temperature of 37.5 degrees Celsius or above) • A cough – this can be any kind of cough, not just a dry cough • Shortness of breath or breathing difficulties • Loss of sense of smell • Loss of sense of taste or distortion of sense of taste •Death	All cleaning will be undertaken in line with DES and public health guidance. Staff are responsible for cleaning personal items that have been brought to work and items handled at work or during breaks. Staff advised to clean personal items that they have bring to work (e.g. mobile phones) and to avoid leaving them down on communal surfaces or they will need to clean the surface after the personal item is removedStaff will clean down personal areas at the start and end of the day.Staff will clean tables and chairs in SET settings between groups.Use of pedal bins to dispose of hand paper towels and tissues, will be collected at the end of each day and during the day when required. Cleaning Staff: Cleaning staff will be trained in the new cleaning arrangements for the schoolSufficient cleaning materials and PPE will be available to allow for increased cleaningCleaning staff will be instructed to wear gloves when cleaning and are aware of the need to wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water, both before and after wearing gloves Regular cleaning of surface areas – door handles, doors, taps, toiletsSystem in place for the disposable of cleaning cloths and used wipes in a rubbish bag Current HSE guidance recommends waste such as cleaning waste, tissues etc. from a person suspected of having Covid-19 should be double bagged and stored in a secure area for 72 hours before being presented for general waste collectionSystem in place to make sure reusable cleaning equipment including mop heads and non-disposable cloths are clean before re-useSystem in place to ensure that equipment such as buckets are emptied and cleaned with a fresh solution of disinfectant before re-use CLEANING CLASSROOM EQUIPMENT General Guidelines for Toys ✔ All toys should be cleaned on a regular basis for example weekly. This will remove dust and dirt that can harbour germs. ✔ Toys that are visibly dirty or contaminated with blood or body fluids should be taken out of use immediately for cleaning or disposal. When purchasing toys choose ones that are easy to clean and disinfect (when necessary).If cloth or soft toys are used they should be machine washable. Jigsaws, puzzles and toys that young pupils or those with Special Educational Needs may be inclined to put in their mouths should be capable of being washed and disinfected. All play equipment should be checked for signs of damage for example breaks or cracks. If they cannot be repaired or cleaned, they should be discarded. Clean toys and equipment should be stored in a clean container or clean cupboard. The manufacturer’s cleaning instructions should always be followed. At this time, soft modelling materials and play dough where used should be for individual use only.	Requires monitoring	Board of Management Principal Staff
Risk Level Calculation (a) Severity of risk/injury 1=trivial, 2=slight, 3=moderate, 4=major, 5=fatality (b) Likelihood of event 1=rare, 2=unlikely, 3=likely, 4=very likely, 5=inevitable (c) Risk Rating = (a) X (b)	Risk Level Action 1-5 Trivial risk Acceptable 6-10 Medium risk Requires monitoring 11-15 Severe risk Requires immediate further action and control 16-25 Emergency risk Halt activity and review immediately
Assessment Date: August 2020	Assessor’s Name:

Who may be affected?	Identified Risks	Office and administration areas	Risk Rating with controls	Action implementation
Controls
Staff	Spread of Covid-19 virus Persons currently deemed most at risk of complications if they catch the coronavirus are: • 60 years of age and over • have long-term medical conditions – i.e. heart disease, lung disease, high blood pressure, diabetes or cancer • pregnant women Known effects of the coronavirus: • A fever (high temperature of 37.5 degrees Celsius or above) • A cough – this can be any kind of cough, not just a dry cough • Shortness of breath or breathing difficulties • Loss of sense of smell • Loss of sense of taste or distortion of sense of taste •Death	Office capacity to be limited to facilitate the maintenance of physical distancing between designated workstations and staff The number of employees permitted to work in an office at any particular time shall be limited as a necessary control measure to protect health and safety. Staff contact with office will be limited, staff are encouraged to ring office in cases of emergency. Photocopying is limited to before 8.50 in the morning and after class in afternoons.	Requires monitoring	Board of Management Principal Administration staff
Risk Level Calculation (a) Severity of risk/injury 1=trivial, 2=slight, 3=moderate, 4=major, 5=fatality (b) Likelihood of event 1=rare, 2=unlikely, 3=likely, 4=very likely, 5=inevitable (c) Risk Rating = (a) X (b)	Risk Level Action 1-5 Trivial risk Acceptable 6-10 Medium risk Requires monitoring 11-15 Severe risk Requires immediate further action and control 16-25 Emergency risk Halt activity and review immediately
Assessment Date: August 2020	Assessor’s Name:

Who may be affected?	Identified Risks	Use of PPE	Risk Rating with controls	Action implementation
Controls
Staff	Spread of Covid-19 virus Persons currently deemed most at risk of complications if they catch the coronavirus are: • 60 years of age and over • have long-term medical conditions – i.e. heart disease, lung disease, high blood pressure, diabetes or cancer • pregnant women Known effects of the coronavirus: • A fever (high temperature of 37.5 degrees Celsius or above) • A cough – this can be any kind of cough, not just a dry cough • Shortness of breath or breathing difficulties • Loss of sense of smell • Loss of sense of taste or distortion of sense of taste •Death	The correct use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as face shields/visors or clear plastic barriers or Perspex screens etc. may be required in some circumstances to address identified risks of spread of the virus. Where PPE is required by staff, they will be notified accordingly and be provided with the necessary PPE and provided with training and information in the proper use, cleaning, storage and disposal of PPE. PPE needs to be consistently and properly worn when required. In addition, it must be regularly inspected, cleaned, maintained and replaced as necessary. Each class has a covid equipment folder to be used when there is a suspected covid case within class. Staff are familiarized with covid response procedures. Current general guidance from the HSE in relation to the wearing of face coverings, masks and gloves is available at the following Link:https://www2.hse.ie/conditions/coronavirus/face-masks-disposable-gloves.html Face coverings are not recommended to be worn by children under 13 years however if a child wishes to do so, they are permitted to do so. All staff must wear face coverings throughout the day. Mainstream Class teachers will be provided with medical masks – EN 14683 and S.N.A.’s and SET teachers will be provided with surgical Face masks Type 11 or Type 11 R because of close proximity to pupils at certain times. All adults on school grounds must wear face coverings	Requires monitoring	Board of Management Principal Staff
Risk Level Calculation (a) Severity of risk/injury 1=trivial, 2=slight, 3=moderate, 4=major, 5=fatality (b) Likelihood of event 1=rare, 2=unlikely, 3=likely, 4=very likely, 5=inevitable (c) Risk Rating = (a) X (b)	Risk Level Action 1-5 Trivial risk Acceptable 6-10 Medium risk Requires monitoring 11-15 Severe risk Requires immediate further action and control 16-25 Emergency risk Halt activity and review immediately
Assessment Date: August 200	Assessor’s Name:

Who may be affected?	Identified Risks	Handling books and other resources during Covid-19	Risk Rating with controls	Action implementation
Controls
Staff (particularly SNAs, school secretaries and school book rental co-ordinator)	Spread of Covid-19 virus Persons currently deemed most at risk of complications if they catch the coronavirus are: • 60 years of age and over • have long-term medical conditions – i.e. heart disease, lung disease, high blood pressure, diabetes or cancer • pregnant women Known effects of the coronavirus: • A fever (high temperature of 37.5 degrees Celsius or above) • A cough – this can be any kind of cough, not just a dry cough • Shortness of breath or breathing difficulties • Loss of sense of smell • Loss of sense of taste or distortion of sense of taste •Death	The Board of Management has to prepare for the return of school books (book rental scheme) and other resource materials (including IT equipment) so that these will be available to pupils for the start of the new school year. The following guidelines are recommended for staff when receiving or assisting in compiling resource packs: Maintain physical distancing (currently 2 metres) Observe good hygiene (hand washing and respiratory etiquette, do not touch your eyes, nose, mouth with unwashed hands, etc.) before and after handling books and other materials returned to the schoolFollow the agreed school protocols if you are displaying symptoms of Covid-19Any books or other items (resource packs, computers, etc.) being returned to the school should be quarantined for 72 hours. Quarantining means placing these items in sealed boxes that are labelled with the time and date of the start of the 72-hour quarantine period. These boxes should be stored in a separate location away from active work areas within the schoolFollowing the expiry of the 72-hour quarantine period the items may be unboxed, cleaned and prepared for the next school year Hands should be washed in line with relevant guidanceReading and Homework will be assigned via our distance learning platforms to avoid bringing items back into school.	Requires monitoring	Board of Management Principal Staff
Risk Level Calculation (a) Severity of risk/injury 1=trivial, 2=slight, 3=moderate, 4=major, 5=fatality (b) Likelihood of event 1=rare, 2=unlikely, 3=likely, 4=very likely, 5=inevitable (c) Risk Rating = (a) X (b)	Risk Level Action 1-5 Trivial risk Acceptable 6-10 Medium risk Requires monitoring 11-15 Severe risk Requires immediate further action and control 16-25 Emergency risk Halt activity and review immediately
Assessment Date: August 2020	Assessor’s Name:
Who may be affected?	Identified Risks	Using hand tools or equipment	Risk Rating with controls	Action implementation
Controls
All staff	Spread of Covid-19 virus Persons currently deemed most at risk of complications if they catch the coronavirus are: • 60 years of age and over • have long-term medical conditions – i.e. heart disease, lung disease, high blood pressure, diabetes or cancer • pregnant women Known effects of the coronavirus: • A fever (high temperature of 37.5 degrees Celsius or above) • A cough – this can be any kind of cough, not just a dry cough • Shortness of breath or breathing difficulties • Loss of sense of smell • Loss of sense of taste or distortion of sense of taste •Death	Staff must wear the appropriate PPE for the nature of the work that they are undertaking All tools and equipment must be properly sanitised to prevent cross contaminationArrangements should be put in place for one individual to use the same tool, equipment and machinery as far as is reasonably practicableCleaning material will be available so that all tools can be wiped down with disinfectant between each useAll mobile machinery must be thoroughly cleaned and sanitised prior to use BUILDINGS / EQUIPMENT Our water system has been flushed at outlets following low usage to prevent Legionnaires Disease.The caretaker has checked all equipment in the school for signs of deterioration or damage before being used againThe entire school, including all equipment, desks, benches, doors and frequently touched surfaces points are to be thoroughly cleaned before opening. Staff should continuously check all equipment they use for signs of deterioration or damage before being used again.	Requires monitoring	Board of Management Principal Staff
Risk Level Calculation (a) Severity of risk/injury 1=trivial, 2=slight, 3=moderate, 4=major, 5=fatality (b) Likelihood of event 1=rare, 2=unlikely, 3=likely, 4=very likely, 5=inevitable (c) Risk Rating = (a) X (b)	Risk Level Action 1-5 Trivial risk Acceptable 6-10 Medium risk Requires monitoring 11-15 Severe risk Requires immediate further action and control 16-25 Emergency risk Halt activity and review immediately
Assessment Date: August 2020	Assessor’s Name:

Who may be affected?	Identified Risks	Dealing with a suspected case of Covid-19	Risk Rating with controls	Action implementation
Controls
Staff Pupils Visitors Contractors	Spread of Covid-19 virus Persons currently deemed most at risk of complications if they catch the coronavirus are: • 60 years of age and over • have long-term medical conditions – i.e. heart disease, lung disease, high blood pressure, diabetes or cancer • pregnant women Known effects of the coronavirus: • A fever (high temperature of 37.5 degrees Celsius or above) • A cough – this can be any kind of cough, not just a dry cough • Shortness of breath or breathing difficulties • Loss of sense of smell • Loss of sense of taste or distortion of sense of taste •Death	The Board of Management will: Has engaged a Covid Response teamHas assigned designated lead worker representatives for dealing with suspected Covid 19 cases – Lead worker representative – Edwina Slattery They will report to the principal. The designated isolation area is the room in between the Learning Support Rooms and the staffroom on the back corridorThe designated area and the route to the designated area is easily accessible.A second designated area is for child to remain in the classroom, the suspected case is kept 2 metres away from others on the wet area. Structured P.E. lessons will take place twice a week outside in the school yards weather permitting. PROTOCOL FOR DEALING WITH SUSPECTED CASES Staff or pupils should not attend school if displaying any symptoms of COVID-19. The following outlines how a school should deal with a suspected case that may arise in a school setting.Principal will oversee the protocol re. suspect cases and will ensure that this is carried out correctly. Staff members must read and familiarize themselves with the guidelines below for dealing with a suspected covid -19 case (DES Covid-19 Response Plan for the safe and sustainable re-opening of Primary and Special Schools) & Interim recommendations for the re-opening of schools and educational facilities (HSE / HSPC) page 23/24Staff must be aware that in order to prevent the spread of COVID-19 it is important to know and recognise the symptoms. They are: High temperatureCoughShortness of breath or breathing difficultiesLoss of smell, taste or distortion of taste Procedures for suspected covid-19 case If a child develops any symptoms of acute respiratory infection including cough, fever, shortness of breath or sudden loss of taste or smell while in the care facility, a SET teacher will escort them to the isolation room.. *This should be a room if possible but if that is not possible it should be in a place 2m away from others in the classroom.* A mask may be provided for the pupil/person Cleaner will clean room as per guidelines.Teacher should wear a mask..Assess whether the individual who is displaying symptoms can immediately be directed to go home and call their doctor and continue self-isolation at home. Facilitate the person presenting with symptoms remaining in isolation if they cannot immediately go home and facilitate them calling their doctor. The individual should avoid touching people, surfaces and objects. Advice should be given to the person presenting with symptoms to cover their mouth and nose with the disposable tissue provided when they cough or sneeze and put the tissue in the waste bag providedEach class will be provided with wipes, masks, gloves and aprons.SET teacher from the bubble will accompany the suspected case to the designated isolation room – the room opposite Science equipment on the back corridor. The class teacher will remain with the rest of the class. If there is a suspected case, teacher rings office and SET teacher will be contacted to go to the class.Class teacher will then ask Secretary to call their parent or guardian and ask them to collect their child as soon as possible. The staff member should be aware that it is essential to avoid touching their own nose, mouth or eyes while caring for a symptomatic child and to perform hand hygiene. If a member of staff has helped someone with symptoms they do not need to go home unless they develop symptoms themselves or unless they are subsequently advised to by public health. Procedures if a staff member is in the school at the time that they feel upwell and develop symptoms If a staff member develops symptoms of acute respiratory infection including cough, fever or shortness of breath ask them to go home, via fire door, without delay and contact their GP by telephone. Facilitate the person presenting with symptoms remaining in isolation if they cannot immediately go home and facilitate them calling their doctorIf staff are too unwell to go home or advice is required, contact 999 or 112 and inform them that the sick person is a Covid-19 suspect; While waiting:- They should remain 2 m away from others if possible. they should avoid touching people, surfaces and objects and be advised to cover their mouth and nose with a disposable tissue when they cough or sneeze and put the tissue in the bin. If tissues are not available, they should cough and sneeze into the crook of their elbow. If they can tolerate doing so and one is available they should wear a clean cloth face covering or a surgical mask. If they must wait, then they should do so in isolation room or other area away from others, mindful of the need to observe good respiratory and hand hygiene. If they need to use toilet facilities they should wipe contact surfaces for example taps clean and clean their hands after attending the toilet. Principal & LWR will carry out an assessment of the incident which will form part of determining follow-up actions and recovery Principal will arrange for appropriate cleaning of the isolation area and work areas involved – (details at Section 7**). The HSE will inform any staff/parents who have come into close contact with a diagnosed case via the contact tracing process. The HSE will contact all relevant persons where a diagnosis of COVID-19 is made. The instructions of the HSE should be followed and staff and pupil confidentiality is essential at all times.	Requires monitoring	Board of Management Principal Staff
Risk Level Calculation (a) Severity of risk/injury 1=trivial, 2=slight, 3=moderate, 4=major, 5=fatality (b) Likelihood of event 1=rare, 2=unlikely, 3=likely, 4=very likely, 5=inevitable (c) Risk Rating = (a) X (b)	Risk Level Action 1-5 Trivial risk Acceptable 6-10 Medium risk Requires monitoring 11-15 Severe risk Requires immediate further action and control 16-25 Emergency risk Halt activity and review immediately
Assessment Date: August 2020	Assessor’s Name:

Who may be affected?	Identified Risks	Covid-19 cleaning	Risk Rating with controls	Action implementation
Controls
Staff Pupils Visitors	Spread of Covid-19 virus Persons currently deemed most at risk of complications if they catch the coronavirus are: • 60 years of age and over • have long-term medical conditions – i.e. heart disease, lung disease, high blood pressure, diabetes or cancer • pregnant women Known effects of the coronavirus: • A fever (high temperature of 37.5 degrees Celsius or above) • A cough – this can be any kind of cough, not just a dry cough • Shortness of breath or breathing difficulties • Loss of sense of smell • Loss of sense of taste or distortion of sense of taste •Death	All cleaning will be undertaken in line with DES and public health guidance. It is recommended cleaning an area with normal household disinfectant after a suspected coronavirus (Covid-19) case. This will reduce the risk of passing the infection on to other people The area is cleaned and disinfected by the cleaner/ teacher, once the suspected covid case has left.H.S.E [H.P.S.E][Covid 19 – interim recommendations for the reopening of schools and educational facilities, page 22For cleaning purposes, wear a face mask, disposable or washing up gloves. These should be double-bagged, then stored securely for 72 hours and then put with the regular rubbish after cleaning is finished Using a disposable cloth, first clean hard surfaces with warm soapy water. Then disinfect these surfaces with the cleaning products you normally use. Pay particular attention to frequently touched areas and surfaces, such as toilets, banisters on stairwells and door handlesIf an area has been heavily contaminated, such as with visible bodily fluids, from a person with coronavirus (Covid-19) consider using protection for the eyes, mouth and nose, as well as wearing gloves and apronWash hands regularly with soap and water for 20 seconds and after removing gloves, aprons and other protection used while cleaningPublic areas where a symptomatic individual has passed through and spent minimal time, such as corridors, but which are not visibly contaminated with body fluids can be cleaned as normalAll surfaces that the symptomatic person has come into contact with must be cleaned and disinfected, including objects which are visibly contaminated with body fluids	Serious Requires monitoring	Board of Management Principal Cleaning staff
Risk Level Calculation (a) Severity of risk/injury 1=trivial, 2=slight, 3=moderate, 4=major, 5=fatality (b) Likelihood of event 1=rare, 2=unlikely, 3=likely, 4=very likely, 5=inevitable (c) Risk Rating = (a) X (b)	Risk Level Action 1-5 Trivial risk Acceptable 6-10 Medium risk Requires monitoring 11-15 Severe risk Requires immediate further action and control 16-25 Emergency risk Halt activity and review immediately
Assessment Date: August 2020	Assessor’s Name:

Who may be affected? –	Identified Risks	Cleaning a space with a suspected/confirmed case of Covid-19	Risk Rating with controls	Action implementation
Controls
Staff Pupils Visitors	Spread of Covid-19 virus Persons currently deemed most at risk of complications if they catch the coronavirus are: • 60 years of age and over • have long-term medical conditions – i.e. heart disease, lung disease, high blood pressure, diabetes or cancer • pregnant women Known effects of the coronavirus: • A fever (high temperature of 37.5 degrees Celsius or above) • A cough – this can be any kind of cough, not just a dry cough • Shortness of breath or breathing difficulties • Loss of sense of smell • Loss of sense of taste or distortion of sense of taste •Death	All cleaning will be undertaken in line with DES and public health guidance. Use disposable cloths or paper roll and disposable mop heads to clean all hard surfaces, floors, chairs, door handles and sanitary fittings, using an approved and recognised detergent and disinfectant in line with the manufacturer’s instructions for dilution, application and contact times Disinfectants used should be effective against viruses. Additionally: Avoid creating splashes and spray when cleaning. Any cloths and mop heads used must be disposed of and should be put into waste bags as outlined below. When items cannot be cleaned using detergents or laundered (upholstered furniture of mattresses for example) steam cleaning should be used Any items that have been heavily contaminated with body fluids and that cannot be cleaned by washing should be disposed of	Serious Requires monitoring	Board of Management Principal Cleaning staff
Risk Level Calculation (a) Severity of risk/injury 1=trivial, 2=slight, 3=moderate, 4=major, 5=fatality (b) Likelihood of event 1=rare, 2=unlikely, 3=likely, 4=very likely, 5=inevitable (c) Risk Rating = (a) X (b)	Risk Level Action 1-5 Trivial risk Acceptable 6-10 Medium risk Requires monitoring 11-15 Severe risk Requires immediate further action and control 16-25 Emergency risk Halt activity and review immediately
Assessment Date: August 2020	Assessor’s Name:

Who may be affected?	Identified Risks	Cleaning a space with a suspected/confirmed case of Covid-19 (continued)	Risk Rating with controls	Action implementation
Controls
Staff Pupils Visitors	Spread of Covid-19 virus Persons currently deemed most at risk of complications if they catch the coronavirus are: • 60 years of age and over • have long-term medical conditions – i.e. heart disease, lung disease, high blood pressure, diabetes or cancer • pregnant women Known effects of the coronavirus: • A fever (high temperature of 37.5 degrees Celsius or above) • A cough – this can be any kind of cough, not just a dry cough • Shortness of breath or breathing difficulties • Loss of sense of smell • Loss of sense of taste or distortion of sense of taste •Death	Laundry Wash items in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Use the warmest water setting and dry items completely. Dirty laundry that has been in contact with an unwell person can be washed with other people’s items. Do not shake dirty laundry as this minimises the possibility of dispersing the virus through the air Clean and disinfect anything used for transporting laundry with your usual products, in line with the cleaning guidance outlined above Waste Management Waste in regards to a suspected Covid 19 case:Waste should be put in a plastic rubbish bag andThe plastic bag should then be placed in a second bin bag and tiedIt should be put in a suitable and secure place and marked for storage All waste should be stored safely behind the prefab and kept away from children. You should not put waste in communal waste areas for at least 72 hours	Serious Requires monitoring	Board of Management Principal Cleaning staff
Risk Level Calculation (a) Severity of risk/injury 1=trivial, 2=slight, 3=moderate, 4=major, 5=fatality (b) Likelihood of event 1=rare, 2=unlikely, 3=likely, 4=very likely, 5=inevitable (c) Risk Rating = (a) X (b)	Risk Level Action 1-5 Trivial risk Acceptable 6-10 Medium risk Requires monitoring 11-15 Severe risk Requires immediate further action and control 16-25 Emergency risk Halt activity and review immediately
Assessment Date: August 2020	Assessor’s Name:

Who may be affected?	Identified Risks	Travel to and from work	Risk Rating with controls	Action implementation
Controls
Staff	Spread of Covid-19 virus Persons currently deemed most at risk of complications if they catch the coronavirus are: • 60 years of age and over • have long-term medical conditions – i.e. heart disease, lung disease, high blood pressure, diabetes or cancer • pregnant women Known effects of the coronavirus: • A fever (high temperature of 37.5 degrees Celsius or above) • A cough – this can be any kind of cough, not just a dry cough • Shortness of breath or breathing difficulties • Loss of sense of smell • Loss of sense of taste or distortion of sense of taste •Death	Where a staff member exhibits any signs of Covid-19 or is a close contact they should not travel to work. Wherever possible, staff should travel to work alone using their own means of transport – staff should not share transport to or from work. If availing of public transport, sit down to minimise contact with frequently touched surfaces, handles,roofstraps,isolation bars, etc. Wear a face mask and carry hand santiser (at least 60% alcohol) and use it regularly throughout your journey. Hands must be washed on entering and exiting all vehicles.	Requires monitoring	All staff
Risk Level Calculation (a) Severity of risk/injury 1=trivial, 2=slight, 3=moderate, 4=major, 5=fatality (b) Likelihood of event 1=rare, 2=unlikely, 3=likely, 4=very likely, 5=inevitable (c) Risk Rating = (a) X (b)	Risk Level Action 1-5 Trivial risk Acceptable 6-10 Medium risk Requires monitoring 11-15 Severe risk Requires immediate further action and control 16-25 Emergency risk Halt activity and review immediately
Assessment Date: August 2020	Assessor’s Name:
Who may be affected?	Identified Risks	Dropping off and picking up of pupils	Risk Rating with controls	Action implementation
Controls
Staff Pupils Parents/guardians Bus and taxi drivers Wider Community	Spread of Covid-19 virus Persons currently deemed most at risk of complications if they catch the coronavirus are: • 60 years of age and over • have long-term medical conditions – i.e. heart disease, lung disease, high blood pressure, diabetes or cancer • pregnant women Known effects of the coronavirus: • A fever (high temperature of 37.5 degrees Celsius or above) • A cough – this can be any kind of cough, not just a dry cough • Shortness of breath or breathing difficulties • Loss of sense of smell • Loss of sense of taste or distortion of sense of taste •Death	All adults to wear face coverings on school premises.Due to Covid restrictions cars will not be allowed access to the carpark.One Parents/guardian only will be permitted to enter the schoolyard to collect/drop their child.Pupils and parents are encouraged to walk/cycle/scoot to school where possible.Parents and pupils will adhere to a one-way system, entering through the main gate and exiting through gate opposite main office.The back gate is used as an entrance and exit gate with people adhering to social distancing of 2metres.Parents who are unable to wear a face covering are asked to wait for 10 minutes to drop their children to school and collect them ten minutes later.The pedestrian gate will be open from 8.40am to allow children access to the school. Any child using a bike/scooter must proceed straight to the bike rack no earlier than 8.40am, secure their bike quickly and make their way directly to their line. No child is allowed to enter the school grounds before 8.40am and are expected to be in their line by 8.50am sharp.Pupils will line up at their designated line at their classroom fire door. These lines will be clearly marked and social distancing will be observed between pupils and accompanying adult.Class teachers will collect their classes promptly at 8.50am from the fire door of their classroom. Any child that is late arriving to school must proceed to the emergency door of their classroom in order to enter the building. They must not enter through the front door as would have previously been the case. Children should have all required materials in school with them in the morning as parents will not be permitted to drop lunches/materials off during the school day. All additional access points to school to reduce congestion have been considered in this procedure.Junior infants and Early Start will adhere to staggered opening times in week one as per bookletsFirst and Second Class students are being encouraged to walk independently from the school gate into their designated class line, maintaining social distancing.Parents/guardians are requested not to linger/congregate at the school gates/ on school premises and to leave promptly after drop off. Regulations and advice on social distancing requirements MUST be followed at all times by parents/guardians. Home-time procedures Early start Class will go home at 11.20pm and will be collected from their classroom fire doors Junior and Senior Infant Classes will go home at 1.30pm and will be collected from their classroom fire doors First and Second Classes will go home at 2.30pm and will be collected from their classroom fire doors Any child from Second class that is allowed walk home alone must furnish their teacher with written permission to do so. Any child using a bike/scooter must proceed straight to the bike rack, take their bike immediately and make their way on foot using one-way system to the exit point at the front gate. Children to be collected promptly and thus ensure that there is no lingering at the school gate.Children who are not collected promptly will be kept in their classroom and their parents will be notified and can collect them from their classroom and not the front office. Procedures for early collection of pupils (** exceptional circumstances only)* ● In a case where a child has a medical appointment/dental appointment and must be collected early, parents are asked to write a note/ email using google Classroom for the attention of the class teacher. When collecting your child, parents will wait outside the classroom fire door and collect their child there. Early collection will be noted on Aladdin. In the rare and exceptional circumstance where there is an emergency; parents must ring the office in advance to allow sufficient time for the child to be ready for collection at their classroom fire door.	Requires monitoring	Board of Management Principal Staff Bus and taxi drivers
Risk Level Calculation (a) Severity of risk/injury 1=trivial, 2=slight, 3=moderate, 4=major, 5=fatality (b) Likelihood of event 1=rare, 2=unlikely, 3=likely, 4=very likely, 5=inevitable (c) Risk Rating = (a) X (b)	Risk Level Action 1-5 Trivial risk Acceptable 6-10 Medium risk Requires monitoring 11-15 Severe risk Requires immediate further action and control 16-25 Emergency risk Halt activity and review immediately
Assessment Date: August 2020	Assessor’s Name:

Who may be affected?	Identified Risks	Visitors to school	Risk Rating with controls	Action implementation
Controls
Staff Pupils Wider Community	Spread of Covid-19 virus Persons currently deemed most at risk of complications if they catch the coronavirus are: • 60 years of age and over • have long-term medical conditions – i.e. heart disease, lung disease, high blood pressure, diabetes or cancer • pregnant women Known effects of the coronavirus: • A fever (high temperature of 37.5 degrees Celsius or above) • A cough – this can be any kind of cough, not just a dry cough • Shortness of breath or breathing difficulties • Loss of sense of smell • Loss of sense of taste or distortion of sense of taste •Death	The Board of Management will ensure the safety and wellbeing of all visitors to the school premises. Visits to the school will be severely restricted and visitors will be asked to: Make a prior appointment before visiting the school Remain at home if they have any Covid-19 symptomsFollow the agreed Covid-19 protocols for the school Sanitise before entering the premisesAttendance to be recorded on entry to buildingOne person only admitted at a time.Wear PPE if instructedAdhere to social distancing requirementsNot to loiter – complete their business and leave premises Procedures for logging visitors to the school A QR code is available at the front office for visitors to scan for contact tracing purposes. The school will maintain a log of staff and pupil contacts/other visitors to the school. This is vital to ensure effective contact tracing.All visitors are by prior appointment only. Alternative service providers who must enter the school must scan the QR code upon entry to the school. School gates will be locked at all times and nobody will be allowed to enter the school grounds without consent by secretary/principal.Signage will be apparent to all visitors to the school and this will clearly indicate all measures to be taken to prevent the spread of infection. Visitors to the school must make a prior appointment to meet with a teacher/principal. The visitor will scan the QR code upon revival. The principal keeps a record of contact tracing. Visitors must wear masks. Amy from EOP will use the parents’ room. She will be made aware of our School Covid Response Plan. Visitors to the school will be minimised where possible.	Requires monitoring	Board of Management Principal
Risk Level Calculation (a) Severity of risk/injury 1=trivial, 2=slight, 3=moderate, 4=major, 5=fatality (b) Likelihood of event 1=rare, 2=unlikely, 3=likely, 4=very likely, 5=inevitable (c) Risk Rating = (a) X (b)	Risk Level Action 1-5 Trivial risk Acceptable 6-10 Medium risk Requires monitoring 11-15 Severe risk Requires immediate further action and control 16-25 Emergency risk Halt activity and review immediately
Assessment Date: August 2020	Assessor’s Name:

Who may be affected?	Identified Risks	Management of deliveries and supplies to school	Risk Rating with controls	Action implementation
Controls
Staff Pupils Drivers Wider Community	Spread of Covid-19 virus Persons currently deemed most at risk of complications if they catch the coronavirus are: • 60 years of age and over • have long-term medical conditions – i.e. heart disease, lung disease, high blood pressure, diabetes or cancer • pregnant women Known effects of the coronavirus: • A fever (high temperature of 37.5 degrees Celsius or above) • A cough – this can be any kind of cough, not just a dry cough • Shortness of breath or breathing difficulties • Loss of sense of smell • Loss of sense of taste or distortion of sense of taste •Death	Ensure that all delivery transactions comply with physical distancing requirements Agree a delivery protocol with suppliersArrangements to be made for paperless deliveries System to be agreed with suppliers to ensure reconciliations are accurate Appropriate sanitising arrangements at set down areas (for materials and stock) and at access and exit points.	Requires monitoring	Board of Management Principal Staff Delivery personnel
Risk Level Calculation (a) Severity of risk/injury 1=trivial, 2=slight, 3=moderate, 4=major, 5=fatality (b) Likelihood of event 1=rare, 2=unlikely, 3=likely, 4=very likely, 5=inevitable (c) Risk Rating = (a) X (b)	Risk Level Action 1-5 Trivial risk Acceptable 6-10 Medium risk Requires monitoring 11-15 Severe risk Requires immediate further action and control 16-25 Emergency risk Halt activity and review immediately
Assessment Date: August 2020	Assessor’s Name:

Declaration of Sight

I have read and understand the contents of this document.

Signed: _________________________________ Dated: _______________________

Signed: _________________________________ Dated: ________________________

Signed: _________________________________ Dated________________________

Signed: __________________________________ Dated: ________________________