COVID-19 Response Plan for the safe and sustainable reopening of Primary and Special Schools

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Scoil Mhuire Junior

Blakestown, Dublin 15

Telephone/Fax: (01) 8216916

Email: smjblakestown@gmail.com Website : www.scoilmhuirejunior.ie

COVID-19 Response Plan for the safe and sustainable reopening of Primary and Special Schools

Table of Contents:

Introduction
What is a School COVID-19 Response Plan?
School COVID-19 Policy
Planning and Preparing for Return to School
1. Induction Training
1. Procedure for Returning to Work (RTW)
1. Lead Worker Representative (LWR)
1. Display signage
1. Making changes to school layout
1. Update Safety and Risk Assessment
1. Access to the School and Contact Log
Control Measures – To prevent Introduction and Spread of COVID-19 in Schools
1. Know the Symptoms of COVID-19
1. Respiratory Hygiene
1. Hand Hygiene
1. Physical Distancing
1. Use of PPE in Schools
Impact of COVID-19 on certain school activities
Hygiene and Cleaning in School
Dealing with a suspected case
Special Educational Needs
Staff Duties
Absence Management
Employee Assistance and Wellbeing Programme

This is a living document and may be reviewed and amended to take into account new guidance from www.Gov.ie, www.dbei.ie , www.hse.ie, www.hpsc.ie, www.hsa.ie; www.education.ie or agreements with education partners as appropriate for primary and special schools.

Appendices

Appendix 1 Template COVID-19 School Policy Statement

Appendix 2 Pre-Return to Work Questionnaire COVID-19 (1^st September 2021)

Appendix 3 Lead Worker Representative

Appendix 4 Risk Assessment

Appendix 5 School Contact Tracing Log

Appendix 6 Checklist for School Managers

Appendix 7 Checklist for Managing a Suspected Case of COVID-19

Appendix 8 Checklist for Lead Worker Representative

Appendix 9 Checklist for Cleaning

Appendix 10 Links to the detailed documentation including School COVID-19 Response Plans and advice from Public Health (HPSC)

Introduction

The Minister for Education has published the “Framework Plan for phased return of primary school education” on the 23rd February 2021.

Following intensive engagement and input from primary stakeholders this framework has now been developed in order to achieve a phased return to in-school provision for children in junior classes in primary schools (Junior Infants – Second Class). This builds on the earlier phases which saw a return for children in special schools and special classes. Supporting these children remains a high priority for all partners.

The Framework is an interim arrangement as the Department of Education (DE) and the education partners’ work together to ensure that special schools, junior classes in primary schools and special classes in primary schools can open fully in line with public health advice from Monday, 1^stMarch 2021.

The framework sets out three broad areas intended to support planning and clarify certain issues that have arisen since schools closed in late December.

Those areas are:

A. Public health supports, messaging and risk mitigation measures in the classroom and in schools.

B. A model for special schools, junior classes in primary schools (junior infants, senior infants, first class and second class) and special classes in mainstream primary schools including flexible provisions for staff.

C. The current sequencing and timeframe for March 2021.

Risk Mitigation Measures

1. COVID-19 Response Plans:

The COVID-19 Response Plan for the safe and sustainable operation of Primary and Special Schools have been re-examined by DE to ensure that they remain fully in compliance with the Government’s Resilience and Recovery 2020-2021: Plan for Living with COVID-19 and the ‘Work Safely Protocol’ which has been developed by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment and the Department of Health with guidance documents provided by the Health and Safety Authority (HSA).

The ‘Work Safely Protocol’ is a revised version of the ‘Return to Work Safely Protocol’ containing the same elements and features of the original guidance but is updated to reflect the latest advice issued by Government and National Health Emergency Team (NPHET) to reduce the risk of the spread of COVID-19 in the workplace. https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/dd7fb-induction-training-for-reopening schools/

The list of required new additions/revisions are highlighted in the summary document ‘Summary of additions to COVID-19 Response Plan required by Work Safely Protocol’ in section order as they appear in the school COVID-19 response plans. This list will make those changes easily identifiable, and overall they do not introduce significant changes to the current school COVID-19 response plans.

The Minister for Education has published “The Roadmap for the Full Return to School” on the 27^th July. It sets out what the operation of schools will look like and the range of supports which will be available in a COVID-19 context.

It has been developed in line with public health advice issued by the Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC) and in compliance with the “Return to Work Safely Protocols” developed by the Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation and the Department of Health with guidance documents provided by the Health and Safety Authority (HSA). Each workplace is required to have a COVID-19 Response Plan. In addition to being places of learning, schools are also places of work. This document sets out the information that post primary schools need to implement a School COVID-19 Response Plan, including a COVID-19 policy, lead worker representative and process to deal with a suspected case of COVID-19.

The purpose of this document is to provide clear and helpful guidance for the safe operation through the prevention, early detection and control of COVID-19 in primary and special schools. It provides key messages to minimise the risk of COVID-19 for staff, pupils, families and the wider community while recognising the importance of education for the health and wellbeing of pupils and society as a whole.

This document focuses on the practical steps which can be taken in primary and special schools to minimise the risk of the introduction of infection into schools while recognising that no interpersonal activity is without risk of transmission of infection at any time. The documentation and templates in this booklet are supported by the public health advice provided by the Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC) for the safe reopening of schools and educational facilities. That report is available here.

One of the key challenges is to balance the need for a practical and sensible level of caution with the need to provide a supportive environment for teaching and learning. This document identifies the steps schools can take to do everything practical to avoid the introduction of COVID-19 into the school and the steps that can be taken to reduce the likelihood of the spread within the school itself.

The Department has worked intensively with the education partners to develop consistent plans, advice, protocols and guidance for schools, including the School COVID-19 Response plan. There is a suite of documentation available to support schools to reopen safely and fully including guidance on learning, school programmes and wellbeing for the 2020/21 school year. There is also information on funding, staffing and resources to schools to support COVID-19 measures. Schools are advised to familiarise themselves with these documents. All of the documents will be available at gov.ie/backtoschool

In addition the Department has a communication plan for school reopening which focuses on ensuring that schools, school communities and all stakeholders will have the relevant information to support the reopening and continued operation of schools. There is a particular focus on supporting parents and students through the appropriate use of media channels, through schools themselves and on gov.ie

What is a COVID-19 Response Plan?

A Covid-19 Response Plan is designed to support the staff and Board of Management (BOM)/Education Training Board (ETB) in putting measures in place that aim to prevent the spread of Covid-19 in the school environment.

The Covid-19 Response Plan details the policies and practices necessary for a school to meet the Government’s ‘Return to Work Safely Protocol’, (updated to the ‘Work Safely Protocol’) the Department of Education plan for school reopening and to prevent the introduction and spread of Covid-19 in the school environment.

It is important that the resumption of school-based teaching and learning and the reopening of school facilities complies with the public health advice and guidance documents prepared by the Department. Doing so minimises the risk to pupils, staff and others. The response plan supports the sustainable reopening of school where the overriding objective is to protect the health of staff and pupils while promoting the educational and development needs of the pupils in the school. The COVID-19 response plan is a living document and will be updated in line with the public health advice as appropriate for primary and special schools.

In line with the Return to Work Safely Protocol – Updated to the Work Safely Protocol, the key to a safe and sustainable return to work, and reopening of schools requires strong communication and a shared collaborative approach between the BOM/ETB, staff, pupils and parents.

The assistance and cooperation of all staff, pupils, parents, contractors and visitors is critical to the success of the plan.

Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information provided in this document. However, should errors or omissions be identified, please notify us so that appropriate measures can be taken to rectify same.

School COVID-19 Policy

A COVID-19 policy outlines the commitment of the school to implement the plan and help prevent the spread of the virus. The policy will be signed and dated by the chairperson and principal of the BOM/ETB and brought to the attention of the staff, pupils, parents and others. Schools must have a COVID-19 policy in place prior to the reopening of schools on the 1st March 2021. A template of a School COVID-19 policy can be found at Appendix 1.

Planning and Preparing for Return to School

The BOM/ETB aims to facilitate the resumption of school based teaching and learning and the return to the workplace of staff. The return to the workplace must be done safely and in strict adherence to the public health advice and any guidance issued by the Department of Education.

Details for the safe reopening of the school facility and the applicable controls are outlined in this document.

Before reopening schools in March 2021 each school will need to have processes in place to include the following:

Arrangements to keep up to date with public health advice, changes to any Government plans for the safe reopening of society and Department of Education updates;
Arrangements to pass on this information in a timely manner to staff, pupils, parents and others as required;
Ensured that staff have reviewed the training materials provided by the Department of Education (details at Section 4.1);
Provided staff with access to the Return to Work (RTW) form (details at Section 4.2);
Identified a Lead Worker representative (details at Section 4.3);
Displayed posters and other signage to prevent introduction and spread of COVID-19 (details at Section 4.4);
Made the necessary changes to the school or classroom layout if necessary to support the redesign of classrooms to support physical distancing (details at Section 4.5);
Removed unnecessary clutter to facilitate ongoing cleaning of the school taking into account the importance of having educational materials to create a stimulating learning environment;
Updated the health and safety risk assessment (details at Section 4.6);
Made necessary arrangements to limit access to the school to necessary visitors and maintain records of contacts to the school (details at 4.7);
Reviewed the school buildings to check the following:
Does the water system need flushing at outlets following low usage to prevent Legionella disease;
Has school equipment and mechanical ventilation been checked for signs of deterioration or damage before being used again;
Have bin collections and other essential services resumed.

There are checklists in place to assist schools on the details of what is needed for these arrangements in the Appendices of this plan.

Induction Training

All Staff will be reminded to review again the training materials provided by the Department in the Covid 19 Induction Training which include knowledge of symptoms, hand and respiratory hygiene, how to manage a suspected COVID-19 case as well as the specific module for SNAs, cleaners and lead workers before returning to the school building.

The aim of such training is to ensure that staff have full knowledge and understanding of the following:

Latest up to-date advice and guidance on public health;
Covid-19 symptoms;
What to do if a staff member or pupil develops symptoms of Covid-19 while at school;
Outline of the Covid-19 response plan.

Staff will be kept fully informed of the control measures in place in the school and their duties and responsibilities in preventing the spread of Covid-19 and will be updated with any changes to the control measures or guidance available from the public health authorities.

If a staff member is unsure about any aspect of the Covid-19 Response Plan, the associated control measures, or his/her duties, he/she should immediately seek guidance from the Principal, who is supported in this role by the BOM/ETB

Details of the training, once it becomes available, will be found here.

A national information campaign to support parents and pupils will happen in advance of schools reopening on issues such as COVID-19 awareness and to help minimise the risk of introduction and spread of the virus in schools.

Procedure for Returning to Work (RTW)

In order to return to the workplace, staff must complete a Return to Work (RTW) form, which is available online or from the principal. A copy is attached also at Appendix 2.

Schools should request staff to confirm (verbally or in writing) that the details in the pre-return to work form remain unchanged following subsequent periods of closure such as school holidays. ∙ Schools should review their Risk Assessment Template and ensure that it continues to comply with the health and safety requirements as set out in the COVID-19 Response plan;

The principal will also provide details of the Induction Training for to be reviewed by staff and details of any additional health and safety measures in place in the school to facilitate the staff member’s return to the school facility.

There are some school staff who may be unable to return to school. Current public health guidelines have identified these people as being in groups who are defined as being at very high risk. This will be updated in line with public health advice.

People at very high risk (extremely vulnerable):

The list of people in very high risk groups include people who:

are over 70 years of age – even if fit and well
have had an organ transplant
are undergoing active chemotherapy for cancer
are having radical radiotherapy for lung cancer
have cancers of the blood or bone marrow such as leukaemia, lymphoma or myeloma who are at any stage of treatment
are having immunotherapy or other continuing antibody treatments for cancer
are having other targeted cancer treatments which can affect the immune system, such as protein kinase inhibitors or PARP inhibitors
have had bone marrow or stem cell transplants in the last 6 months, or who are still taking immunosuppression drugs
have severe respiratory conditions including cystic fibrosis, severe asthma, pulmonary fibrosis, lung fibrosis, interstitial lung disease and severe COPD
have a condition that means they have a very high risk of getting infections (such as SCID, homozygous sickle cell)
are taking medicine that makes you much more likely to get infections (such as high doses of steroids or immunosuppression therapies)
have a serious heart condition and are pregnant

The advice for this group is available from the HSE. Details of the arrangements that will apply for these staff, which will be in accordance with those applying for the public service generally, will be updated by the Department of Education following consultation with management bodies and unions and a circular will issue to all schools.

Lead Worker Representative

The Protocol provides for the appointment of a Lead Worker Representative (LWR) in each workplace. The LWR will work in collaboration with the employer to assist in the implementation of measures to prevent the spread of COVID -19 and monitor adherence to those measures and to be involved in communicating the health advice around COVID-19 in the workplace.

This section sets out how the provisions will operate in schools. The process for appointment of the lead worker representative in schools has been agreed centrally between the Department of Education and the education partners.

Responsibility for the development and implementation of the Covid-19 Response Plan and the associated control measures lies primarily with the Board of Management/ Education and Training Board and school management.

Strong communication and a shared collaborative approach is key to protecting against the spread of COVID-19 in schools, and looking after the health, safety and wellbeing of staff and students. Adherence to the Return to Work Protocol will only be achieved if everyone has a shared responsibility in implementing the measures contained within the Protocol in their place of work.

If a staff member has any concerns or observations in relation to the Covid-19 Response Plan, control measures or the adherence to such measures by staff, pupils or others he/she should contact the lead worker(s) who will engage with the principal/BOM.

Role of the Lead Worker Representative

In summary, the role of the LWR is to:

Represent all staff in the workplace regardless of role, and be aware of specific issues that may arise in respect of different staff cohorts;
Work collaboratively with school management to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the safety, health and welfare of employees in relation to COVID-19;
Keep up to date with the latest COVID-19 public health advice;
In conjunction with school management, promote good hygiene practices such as washing hands regularly and maintaining good respiratory etiquette along with maintaining social distancing in accordance with public health advice;
Assist school management with the implementation of measures to suppress COVID-19 in the workplace in line with the Return to Work Safely Protocol and current public health advice;
In conjunction with school management, monitor adherence to measures put in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19;
Conduct regular reviews of safety measures;
Report any issues of concern immediately to school management and keep records of such issues and actions taken to rectify them;
Consult with the school management on the school’s COVID-19 Response Plan in the event of someone developing COVID-19 while in school including the location of an isolation area and a safe route to that area;
Following any incident, assess with the school management any follow up action that is required;
Consult with colleagues on matters relating to COVID-19 in the workplace;
Make representations to school management on behalf of their colleagues on matters relating to COVID-19 in the workplace.

Every school will appoint one Lead Worker Representative.

In schools with less than 30 staff, a Deputy Lead Worker Representative will be appointed in addition to the LWR. The role of the Deputy LWR will be to deputise as LWR where the LWR is absent.

In schools with 30 or more staff and in all Special schools, an Assistant Lead Worker Representative will be appointed in addition to the LWR. The role of the Assistant LWR will be to:

assist the LWR in their duties as set out above; and
deputise as LWR where the LWR is absent

Name(s) of lead worker representative:	Contact details:
Edwina Slattery	edwinaslattery@scoilmhuirejunior.com

All staff, pupils, parents, contractors and visitors have a responsibility both as individuals and collectively to have due regard for their own health and safety and that of others and to assist with the implementation of the Covid-19 Response Plan and associated control measures.

Full details of the arrangements which will apply for the LWR in primary and special schools is set out at Appendix 3.

Signage

Schools will be required to display signage outlining the signs and symptoms of COVID-19 and to support good hand and respiratory hygiene.

The Department will provide printed posters to schools, with age appropriate key health messages – hand washing, sneeze and cough etiquette etc.

Please see link below to these posters which will allow schools who may wish to have an additional supply of posters available. Any such supply can be sourced locally.

Schools can then arrange to display the posters in prominent areas such as offices, corridors, staffroom area, classrooms and toilets.

Note: Signage is under development by the Department. This will be made available to all schools and staff in advance of school reopening.

The signage for schools is available here.

Making Changes to School Layout

Maintaining physical distancing in the school environment is recommended as one of the key control measures to minimize the risk of the introduction and spread of COVID-19. Further information on how physical distancing can be used in the school environment is found at Section 5.4 below including a link to the suite of illustrative primary classroom layouts (including special classes).

Schools should reconfigure classrooms and other areas as necessary to support physical distancing in line with the guidance in advance of school reopening.

Health and Safety Risk Assessment

COVID-19 represents a hazard in the context of health and safety in the school environment. A template risk assessment to identify the control measures required to mitigate the risk of COVID-19 in school settings is attached at Appendix 4.

It is important that schools review their emergency procedures involving, fire safety, first aid, accidents and dangerous occurrences to consider any new risks that arise due to the school’s COVID-19 Response Plan. Any changes to the school’s existing emergency procedures should be documented and incorporated into the school’s safety statement.

Schools should also review their existing risk assessments to consider any new risks that arise due to the school’s COVID-19 Response Plan. Any changes to the school’s current risk assessments should also be documented and incorporated into the school safety statement.

First Aid/Emergency Procedure

The standard First Aid/emergency procedure shall continue to apply in schools. In an emergency or in case of a serious incident, schools should call for an ambulance or the fire brigade on 112/999 giving details of location and type of medical incident.

Access to School and Contact Log

Access to the school building will be in line with agreed school procedures.

Arrangements for necessary visitors such as contractors and parents will be restricted to essential purposes and limited to those who have obtained prior approval from the principal. A phone call must be made or email must be sent prior to access to the school building by outside visitors. The Department of Education Inspectorate may also need to visit schools and centres for education to support them as appropriate in the implementation of public health advice relating to creating a safe learning and working environment for all.

The prompt identification and isolation of potentially infectious individuals is a crucial step in restricting the spread of the virus and protecting the health and safety of the individuals themselves and other staff, contractors and visitors at the workplace. A detailed sign in/sign out log of those entering the school facilities should be maintained. The school should maintain a log of staff and pupil contacts. A sample contact log is available at Appendix 5.

The Data Protection Commission has provided guidance on the data protection implications of the return to work protocols. This advice can be found here:

https://www.dataprotection.ie/en/news-media/data-protection-implications-return-work-safely-protocol

Schools are reminded that all school records and data must be maintained and processed in compliance with the GDPR and the Data Protection Acts. The responsibility for compliance with the legislation rests with each school (or ETB) in their role as data controller.

Control Measures – To prevent Introduction and Spread of COVID-19 in Schools

One of the key messages to manage the risks of COVID-19 is to do everything practical to avoid the introduction of COVID-19 into the school. If infection is not introduced it cannot be spread. The risk of spreading the infection once introduced exists in all interpersonal interactions; student-student, teacher-teacher and teacher-student and must be managed in all settings.

A range of essential control measures have been implemented to reduce the risk of the spread of Covid-19 virus and to protect the safety, health and welfare of staff, pupils, parents and visitors as far as possible within the school. The control measures shall continue to be reviewed and updated as required on an ongoing basis.

It is critical that staff, pupils, parents and visitors are aware of, and adhere to, the control measures outlined and that they fully cooperate with all health and safety requirements.

Staff should note that they have a legal obligation under Section 13 of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 to comply with health and safety requirements and to take reasonable care for the health and safety of themselves, their colleagues and other parties within the workplace.

How to Minimise the Risk of Introduction of COVID-19 into Schools:

Promote awareness of COVID-19 symptoms (details at Section 5.1);

Advise staff and pupils that have symptoms not to attend school, to phone their doctor and to follow HSE guidance on self-isolation;
Advise staff and pupils not to attend school if they have been identified by the HSE as a contact for person with COVID-19 and to follow the HSE advice on restriction of movement;
Advise staff and pupils that develop symptoms at school to bring this to the attention of the Principal promptly;
Ensure that staff and pupils know the protocol for managing a suspected case of COVID-19 in school (details at Section 8);
Everyone entering the school building needs to perform hand hygiene with a hand sanitiser;
Visitors to the school during the day shouldbe by prior arrangement and should be received at a specific contact point;
Physical distancing (of 2m) should be maintained between staff and visitors where possible.

Advise staff and pupils to self-isolate or restrict their movements at home if they display any signs or symptoms of COVID-19 and contact their family doctor to arrange a test Advise staff and pupils not to return to or attend school in the event of the following: if they are identified by the HSE as a close contact of a confirmed case of COVID-19 if they live with someone who has symptoms of the virus If they have travelled outside of Ireland; in such instances staff are advised to consult and follow latest Government advice in relation to foreign travel. Advise staff and pupils to cooperate with any public health officials and the school for contact tracing purposes and follow any public health advice in the event of a case or outbreak in the school;

Reducing the Impact of COVID-19 Infection

It is likely that COVID-19 infection will impact on some pupils and SNAs during the coming school year as a result of infection acquired in everyday life or in the educational setting. The likelihood of suffering serious harm as a result of COVID-19 infection depends on the age and general health of the person when they became infected and on access to healthcare if they need it.

1. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle (exercise, nutrition, avoiding exposure to smoke) and good care of any existing medical conditions improves the likelihood of making a good recovery from COVID-19.

2. Early access to appropriate medical care, if required, is important in recovery from COVID-19. All pupils and school staffs should be registered with a GP to provide care if required.

Know the Symptoms of COVID-19

In order to prevent the spread of COVID-19 it is important to know and recognise the symptoms. They are:

High temperature
Cough
Shortness of breath or breathing difficulties
Loss of smell, of taste or distortion of taste

Less common symptoms of COVID-19 include:

Sore throat
Headaches
Feeling sick or vomiting

If your child has any of these symptoms they must be kept them at home until they are 48 hours symptom free. This is 48 hours from when the child was feeling better. If Mary is sent home at 10.30 on Monday and is feeling better by Monday evening at 6pm, then Mary must not return to school until Thursday at the earliest.

After 48 hours it’s OK to send your child back to school or childcare as long as:

Their symptoms do not get worse
They do not develop new symptoms
They have not had paracetamol or ibuprofen during these 48 hours – this may hide a fever if they have one
No one else they live with is ill or has tested positive for COVID-19

When a child returns to school following an illness they must be accompanied by an adult and the declaration form must be signed.

Please contact the school by phone or email your class teacher explaining the reason your child is absent. Failing to receive a reason for a child being absent, the school will contact the parents advising them on how to proceed as per school policy.

Respiratory Hygiene

Make sure you, and the people around you, follow good respiratory hygiene. This means covering your mouth and nose with a tissue or your bent elbow when you cough or sneeze. Then dispose of the used tissue immediately and safely into a nearby bin.

By following good respiratory hygiene, you protect the people around you from viruses such as cold, flu and Covid-19.

Hand Hygiene

Staff and pupils should understand why hand hygiene is important as well as when and how to wash their hands.

Schools should promote good hygiene and display posters throughout the schools on how to wash your hands. Follow the HSE guidelines on handwashing:

https://www2.hse.ie/wellbeing/how-to-wash-your-hands.html

Hand hygiene can be achieved by hand washing or use of a hand sanitiser (when hands look clean).

Use of hand hygiene facilities including wash hand basins needs to be managed so as to avoid congregation of people waiting to use wash hand basins and hand sanitisers.

There is a requirement for access to hand washing facilities after activities that are likely to soil hands, for example playing outside or certain sporting activities as hand sanitiser does not work on dirty hands.

Hand sanitiser dispensers can be deployed more readily at exit and entry points of schools and classrooms and care should be taken to clean up any hand sanitiser spills to prevent risks of falls.

Alcohol-based sanitiser must not be stored or used near heat or naked flame

Warm water is preferable to hot or cold water for hand washing but if the plumbing system only supplies cold water, a soap that emulsifies easily in cold water should be used.

Wash hand basins, running water, liquid soap and hand drying facilities should be provided in all toilets, kitchens and any food preparation areas.

Hand washing facilities should be maintained in good condition and supplies of soap and towels should be topped up regularly to encourage everyone to use them.

Hot air dryers are an acceptable alternative for hand drying but must be regularly maintained. There is no evidence that hand dryers are associated with increased risk of transmission of COVID-19.

Posters displaying hand washing techniques and promoting hand washing should be placed on walls adjacent to washing facilities and can be laminated or placed in a plastic sleeve.

Hand sanitiser is suitable for use for hand hygiene when hands are not visibly soiled (look clean).

Evidence of effectiveness is best for alcohol based hand rubs but non-alcohol based hand rubs can be used too.

When hand rubs/gels are being used in school care should be taken to ensure that pupils do not ingest them as they are flammable and toxic.

Young children should not have independent use of containers of alcohol gel.

Frequency of Hand Hygiene

Pupils and staff should perform hand hygiene:

On arrival at school;
Before eating or drinking;
After using the toilet;
After playing outdoors;
When their hands are physically dirty;
When they cough or sneeze.

The Department has arranged for a drawdown framework to be established to enable schools purchase hand-sanitisers and any other necessary PPE supplies for use in the school. The procurement process for this framework is at an advanced stage and it is intended that these materials will be available for drawdown in early August. Further guidelines will be issued shortly. The Department will provide funding for the costs associated with hand sanitising and PPE requirements in schools. This funding will be available in advance of school reopening at the end of August.

Physical Distancing

Physical distancing can be usefully applied in primary and special school settings allowing for some flexibility when needed. It must be applied in a practical way to recognise that the learning environment cannot be dominated by a potentially counterproductive focus on this issue. Physical distancing will look different across the various ages and stages of learning. Care should be taken to avoid generating tension or potential conflict and some flexibility in the implementation of measures may be required at times.

It is also recognised that it is not always possible for staff to maintain physical distance from pupils and it is not appropriate that they would always be expected to do so where this could have a detrimental impact on the pupil i.e. if a child sustains an injury and requires first aid.

However, where possible staff should maintain a minimum of 1m distance and where possible 2m. They should also take measures to avoid close contact at face to face level such as remaining standing rather than sitting beside/crouching down.

Physical distancing falls into two categories:

Increasing separation
Decreasing interaction

Increasing separation

The guidance documents provided by the Department of Education on optimal school layout and referenced at Section 4.5 above should be used by schools to increase separation to the greatest degree possible

To maintain physical distancing in the classroom, primary schools and special schools should:

Reconfigure class spaces to maximise physical distancing
Utilise and reconfigure all available space in the school in order to maximise physical distancing

To support primary schools and special schools in the implementation of physical distancing in the classroom, the Department has developed a suite of illustrative classroom layouts of potential options (including arrangements for special classes) which are in accordance with the public health advice, and assumes

Room is clear of any unnecessary furniture/shelves etc. on the walls
A variety of classroom sizes.

A link to the suite of illustrative primary classroom layouts is available here.

A link to illustrative special classes is available here.

Funding will be provided under the enhanced minor works grant to facilitate this classroom re-configuration works. This funding will be provided to schools by mid-August.

The teacher’s desk should be at least 1m and where possible 2m away from pupil desks.

Decreasing interaction

The extent to which decreasing interaction is possible in a primary or special school will depend on the school setting and a common-sense approach is required recognising the limits to which this can be achieved between pupils.

In primary and special schools a distance of 1m should be maintained between desks or between individual pupils. It is recognised that younger children are unlikely to maintain physical distancing indoors. Therefore achieving this recommendation in the first four years of primary or special schools, is not a pre-requisite to reopening a primary or special school for all pupils.

Where possible work stations should be allocated consistently to the same staff and children rather than having spaces which are shared.

The risk of infection may be reduced by structuring pupils and their teachers into Class Bubbles (i.e. a class grouping which stays apart from other classes as much as possible) and discrete groups or “Pods” within those class bubbles, to the extent that this is practical.

If the class is divided into Pods, there should be at least (1m distance) between individual Pods within the Class Bubble and between individuals in the pod, whenever possible.

Generally speaking the objective is to limit contact and sharing of common facilities between people in different Class Bubbles (and Pods within those Class Bubbles) as much as possible, rather than to avoid all contact between Pods, as the latter will not always be possible.

The aim of the system within the school is that class grouping mix only with their own class from arrival at school in the morning until departure at the end of the school day. The Pods within those Class Bubbles is an additional measures, to limit the extent of close contact within the Class Bubble.

Pod sizes should be kept as small as is likely to be reasonably practical in the specific classroom context.

To the greatest extent possible, pupils and teaching staff should consistently be in the same Class Bubbles although this will not be possible at all times.

Different Class Bubbles should where possible have separate breaks and meal times or separate areas at break or meal times (or this could be different class years i.e. 2^nd class, 3^rd class etc.)

Sharing educational material between Pods should be avoided/minimised where possible.

Staff members who move from class bubble to class bubble should be limited as much as possible.

Additional measures to decrease interaction include:

Limit interaction on arrival and departure and in hallways and other shared areas.

Social physical contact (hand to hand greetings, hugs) should be discouraged.

Where pupils need to move about within the classroom to perform activities (access to a shared resource) it should be organized to the greatest degree possible to minimize congregation at the shared resource.

Staff and pupils should avoid sharing of personal items.

Encourage pupils to avoid behaviours that involve hand to mouth contact (putting pens/pencils in the mouth).

Where teaching and learning involves use of keyboards or tablets, the contact surface of the device should be cleaned regularly and hand hygiene encouraged.

Ventilation

The Department has published guidance setting out the practical steps for good ventilation in accordance with public health advice ‘Practical Steps for the Deployment of Good Ventilation Practices in Schools’ The guidance sets out an overall approach for schools that windows should be open as fully as possible when classrooms are not in use (e.g. during break-times or lunch-times (assuming not in use) and also at the end of each school day) and partially open when classrooms are in use. The guidance 2 provides that good ventilation can be achieved in classrooms without causing discomfort, particularly during cold weather. CO2 monitors have also been distributed around the school.

Physical Distancing outside of the classroom and within the school

School drop off/collection

Arrangements for dropping off/collecting pupils should be arranged to encourage physical distancing of 2m where possible.

Walking/cycling to school should be encouraged as much as possible.

Arrangements should be made to maintain a distance of 2m between parents and guardians and between parents and guardians and school staff.

Aim of any arrangements is to avoid congregation of people at the school gates where physical distancing may not be respected.

Staggered drop off/pick up times should be considered where practical and feasible.

If schools have additional access points, consideration may be given to whether they can be used to reduce congestion.

Consideration may be given to where pupils congregate as they arrive at school. This could include heading straight to their small group designated learning space/classroom.

Staff

A distance of 2m is recommended for physical distancing by staff. This is particularly relevant to distancing between adults when they are not engaged in teaching such as the staff room and arriving to work.

If 2m cannot be maintained in staff groups, as much as distance as is possible and guidance on face covering should be observed.

Physical distancing should be observed between staff members within the staff room through the use of staggered breaks etc.

Staff meetings should be held remotely or in small groups or in large spaces to facilitate physical distancing.

Implement no hand shaking policy.

Minimise gathering of school staff at the beginning or end of the school day.

Staff can rotate between areas/classes but this should be minimized where possible.

Canteen

Ensure physical distancing is applied in canteen facilities.

Stagger canteen use and extend serving times to align with class groupings.

Implement a queue management system.

Make sure pupils clean their hands before and after entering the canteen area.

Corridors and Stairwells

Briefly passing someone in a hall is very unlikely to contribute significantly to the spread of infection if people do not have physical contact and avoid informal group discussions.

Yard/Supervision

The risk of transmission from contact with outside surfaces or play areas is low.

Adjust play time/outdoor activities to minimise crowding at the entrance and exits.

It is not possible to maintain physical distancing when pupils in primary or special schools play together outdoors, but in so far as practical it is helpful to keep to consistent groups.

Stagger break times and outdoor access.

Children should be encouraged to perform hand hygiene before and after outdoor activities.

Minimise equipment sharing and clean shared equipment between uses by different people.

Use of PPE in Schools

Classroom teachers, secretary, care taker and cleaners have been provided with medical grade masks EN 14683

SETs and SNAs have been provided with surgical grade masks Type IIR.

It is recommended that medical grade masks of the standard EN14683 are provided for SNAs and Special Education teachers. Schools may access the current PPE framework where there are supplies of masks at this grade.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

1. Personal protective equipment in the setting of COVID refers to items that are used to reduce the risk of infection in particular settings.

2. PPE can be of value as an addition to all the other measures outlined here to reduce the risk of infection for SNAs.

3. As with all children, pupils with additional care needs should not be required to wear a face covering if they are under 13 years of age. Those who choose to wear a face covering may do so.

4. Pupils with additional care needs who are 13 years or older should not be required to wear a face covering if the face covering causes distress or is a barrier to their education and care needs.

5. In this context and in association with other measures specified the use of a face covering should be routine for SNAs in accordance with Government guidance.

6. When SNAs are within 2m of a pupil and to whom they are delivering personal care or attention for a period of time the face covering should normally be a surgical mask. If surgical mask are not available a cloth face covering should be used. If for any reason use of a surgical mask or cloth face covering is not practical for any reason, they should use a visor of a quality suitable for use in a healthcare setting however HPSC advice is that a visor does not provide protection equivalent to a mask.

7. Mask and visors should be donned and doffed and disposed of as demonstrated in videos available at https://www.hpsc.ie/a

z/respiratory/coronavirus/novelcoronavirus/guidance/infectionpreventionandcontrolguidance /ppe/. Masks should be removed and disposed of if they are wet or damaged. Masks should be removed and disposed of if going or a break or visiting the toilet.

8. Gloves and aprons should not be used routinely in the educational setting.

9. If providing care that involves specific risk of exposure to blood or body fluids (oral fluids, faeces, urine) use of gloves and a disposable plastic apron is appropriate. These must be removed and disposed of safely and hand hygiene performed after caring for each individual. Note with respect to faeces and urine the risk of infection is related to other infectious organisms rather than COVID-19.

10. Hand hygiene should be performed before donning and after removing gloves.

11. If providing care that involves a risk of splashing of body fluids a visor is required to protect the eyes from splashing even if already wearing a surgical mask.

12. Used PPE is generally discarded directly into domestic waste.

13. PPE used when attending to a person with suspected COVID-19 while waiting for collection can be placed in a separate plastic bag, which is then placed in domestic waste.

PPE will not be required to be worn within schools according to current occupational and public health guidance. However, for a limited number of staff, PPE will need to be used occasionally or constantly due to the nature of certain work activities or work areas. This might include roles such as:

Assisting with intimate care needs
Where a suspected case of COVID-19 is identified while the school is in operation
Where staff are particularly vulnerable to infection but are not on the list of those categorised as people in very high risk groups, or may be living with those who are in the very high risk category.

Appropriate PPE will be available for dealing with suspected COVID-19 cases, intimate care needs and for first aid. Where staff provide healthcare to children with medical needs in the school environment they should apply standard precautions as per usual practice.

Masks

Cloth face coverings are not suitable for children under the age of 13 and anyone who:

Has trouble breathing;
Is unconscious or incapacitated;
Is unable to remove it without help;
Has special needs to who may feel upset or very uncomfortable wearing the face covering.

For staff, face coverings should not be required if physical distancing is possible and practiced appropriately. Wearing a face covering will conceal facial expression and make communication difficult.

The use of a visor as an alternative may be considered where there is a concern regarding prolonged close contact and exposure to fluid/respiratory droplets. Advice on how to properly use face coverings can be found here.

Gloves

The use of disposable gloves in the school by pupils or staff is not generally appropriate but may be necessary for intimate care settings. Routine use does not protect the wearer and may expose others to risk from contaminated gloves.

Routine use of disposable gloves is not a substitute for hand hygiene.

Impact of COVID-19 on certain school activities

The Department will work with stakeholders to provide more detailed advice on certain schools activities in advance of school reopening.

Choir/Music Performance

Choir practices/performances and music practices/performances involving wind instruments may pose a higher level of risk and special consideration should be given to how they are held ensuring that the room is well-ventilated and the distance between performers is maintained.

Sport Activities

Schools should refer to the HPSC guidance on Return to Sport. Link to return to sport protocols is found here.

https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/07253-return-to-sport-protocols/

Shared Equipment

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 bodily 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 to those with special educational needs may be inclined to put into 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 instructions should always be followed.

At this time soft modelling materials and play dough where used should be for individual use only.

Cleaning Procedure for Toys

Wash the toy in warm soapy water, using a brush to get into crevices.
Rinse the toy in clean water.
Thoroughly dry the toy.
Some hard plastic toys may be suitable for cleaning in the dishwasher.
Toys that cannot be immersed in water that is electronic or wind up should be wiped with a damp cloth and dried.
In some situations toys/equipment may need to be disinfected following cleaning for example: toys/equipment that pupils place in their mouths. Toys/equipment that have been soiled with blood or body fluids or toys where a case of COVID-19 has been identified.
If disinfection is required: A chlorine releasing disinfectant should be used diluted to a concentration of 1,000ppm available chlorine. The item should be rinsed and dried thoroughly.

Art – Where possible pupils should be encouraged to have their own individual art and equipment supplies.

Electronics – Shared electronic devices such as tablets, touch screens, keyboards should be cleaned between use and consideration could be given to the use of wipeable covers for electronics to facilitate cleaning.

Musical Equipment/Instruments – To the greatest extent possible, instruments should not be shared between pupils and if sharing is required, the instruments should be cleaned between uses.

Library Policy – Where practical pupils should have their own books. Textbooks that are shared should be covered in a wipeable plastic covering that can be wiped with a suitable household cleaning agent between uses. Pupils should be encouraged to perform hand hygiene after using any shared item.

Shared Sports Equipment – Minimise equipment sharing and clean shared equipment between uses by different people.

Hygiene and Cleaning in Schools

The Department of Education will provide additional funding to schools to support the enhanced cleaning required to minimise the risks of COVID-19. Details of the funding supports will be provided to schools by way of circular and will be updated as required. The funding will be provided in advance of reopening.

The specific advice in relation to school cleaning is set out in the HPSC advice and will be covered in the induction training. This advice sets out the cleaning regime required to support schools to prevent COVID-19 infections and the enhanced cleaning required in the event of a suspected cases of COVID-19. Schools are asked to carefully read and understand the cleaning advice and to apply that to all areas of the school as appropriate.

Schools are reminded to take particular care of the hygiene arrangements for hand washing and toilet facilities.

In summary, each school setting should be cleaned at least once per day. Additional cleaning if available should be focused on frequently touched surfaces – door handles, hand rails, chairs/arm rests, communal eating areas, sink and toilet facilities.

All staff will have access to cleaning products and will be required to maintain cleanliness of their own work area. Under no circumstances should these cleaning materials be removed from the building.

Staff should thoroughly clean and disinfect their work area before and after use each day.

There should be regular collection of used waste disposal bags from offices and other areas within the school facility.

Shower facilities shall not be available for use by staff or pupils due to the increased risk associated with communal shower facilities and areas. This shall be reviewed in line with government guidance.

Staff must use and clean their own equipment and utensils (cup, cutlery, plate etc.)

Environment and cleaning

1. The educational environment should provide discrete rooms for each group to the greatest degree practical and be as spacious as is practical with as much natural ventilation as practical (CO2 monitors distributed around the school).

2. Surfaces should be easy to clean.

3. Outdoor activity is associated with lower risk and should be encouraged where appropriate and weather permits.

4. The highest practical standards of general hygiene should be maintained.

5. The floors, tables, chairs and other items should be easily cleanable and cleaned at least daily.

6. Cleaning is generally with water and detergent or detergent wipes. If disinfection is required in specific circumstances then this is always in addition to and never instead of cleaning.

Cleaning/Disinfecting rooms where a pupil/staff member with suspected COVID-19 was present

The room should be cleaned as soon as practicably possible.

Once the room is vacated the room should not be reused until the room has been thoroughly cleaned and disinfected and all surfaces are dry.

Disinfection only works on things that are clean. When disinfection is required it is always as well as cleaning.

Person assigned to cleaning should avoid touching their face while they are cleaning and should wear household gloves and a plastic apron.

Clean the environment and furniture using disposable cleaning cloths and a household detergent followed by disinfection with a chlorine based product (household bleach).

Pay special attention to frequently touched surfaces, the back of chairs, couches, door handles and any surfaces that are visibly soiled with body fluids.

Once the room has been cleaned and disinfected and all surfaces are dry, the room can be reused.

If a pupil or staff diagnosed with COVID-19 spent time in a communal area like a canteen, play area or if they used the toilet or bathroom facilities, then the areas should be cleaned with household detergent followed by a disinfectant (as outlined in the HPSC interim health advice) as soon as is practically possible.

Dealing with a Suspected Case of COVID-19

School staff should be encouraged to download the HSE COVID-19 tracker app to assist Public Health for contract tracing purposes both in and out of the school setting.

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.

A designated isolation area should be identified within the school building. The possibility of having more than one person displaying signs of COVID-19 should be considered and a contingency plan for dealing with additional cases put in place. The designated isolation area should be behind a closed door and away from other staff and pupils.

If a staff member/pupil displays symptoms of COVID-19 while at school the following are the procedures to be implemented:

If the person with the suspected case is a pupil, the parents/guardians should be contacted immediately;

Isolate the person and have a procedure in place to accompany the individual to the designated isolation area via the isolation route, keeping at least 2m away from the symptomatic person and also making sure that others maintain a distance of at least 2m from the symptomatic person at all times;

The isolation area does not have to be a room but if it is not a room it should be 2m away from others in the room;

Remember that the virus is spread by droplets and is not airborne so physical separation is enough to reduce the risk of spread to others even if they are in the same room;

If it is not possible to maintain a distance of 2m a staff member caring for a pupil should wear a face covering or mask. Gloves should not be used as the virus does not pass through skin;

Provide a mask for the person presenting with symptoms if one is available. He/she should wear the mask if in a common area with other people or while exiting the premises;

Assess whether the individual who is displaying symptoms can immediately be directed to go home/be brought home by parents who will 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 provided;

If the person is well enough to go home, arrange for them to be transported home by a family member, as soon as possible and advise them to inform their general practitioner by phone of their symptoms. Public transport of any kind should not be used;

If they 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;

Carry out an assessment of the incident which will form part of determining follow-up actions and recovery;

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.

Isolation for people who develop symptoms or signs in the educational setting 1. If anyone develops symptoms or signs that cause concern about COVID-19 during the day the person should move as quickly as possible to a separate room or if that is not possible to

a separate area more than 2m away from other people other than the person(s) needed to provide support until they can leave.

2. The parents/guardian should be telephoned to come and take the pupil home as soon as is reasonably practical. This needs to be done reasonably promptly but this is not an emergency. It is important that parents and guardians do not expose themselves and others to other risks (for example road traffic accident) on the understanding that this is an emergency.

3. Parents/guardian should take medical advice regarding the requirement for testing and the duration of exclusion from education.

4. There is no requirement for other pupils or school staffs to interrupt their scheduled activity immediately if one person develops symptoms.

5. Contact surfaces in the immediate vicinity of the person with symptoms should be cleaned/wiped down.

6. The person accompanying a pupil waiting to be collected should limit physical contact as much as is practical consistent with the pupil’s needs and should use a surgical mask, visor and nitrile gloves. Hand hygiene must be performed after removal of gloves.

7. When the pupil is collected, the accompanying person can resume work with other pupils after removing used PPE and performing hand hygiene.

8. It is not appropriate to require certification from a doctor before the pupil returns to education. There is a certificate that parents can be asked to complete on hpsc.ie website.

Special Educational Needs

Additional considerations for those with Special Educational Needs

For children with special educational needs (SEN) maintaining physical distancing in many instances will not be practical or appropriate to implement. The focus should therefore be on emphasising that parents/guardians should have a heightened awareness of signs, symptoms or changes in baseline which suggests illness/COVID-19 infection and where symptoms are present children should not attend school.

Similarly staff should be aware of their responsibility not to attend work if they develop signs or symptoms of respiratory illness.

Hand hygiene

Children who are unable to wash their hands by themselves should be assisted to clean their hands using soap and water or a hand sanitiser (if their hands are visibly clean) as outlined previously.

Equipment

Some children may have care needs (physical or behavioural) which requires the use of aids and appliances and/or medical equipment for example toileting aids, moving and handling equipment, respiratory equipment. Where cleaning of aids and appliances is carried out in the school it is recommended that a cleaning schedule is provided, detailing when and how the equipment is cleaned and the cleaning products to be used in accordance with the manufacturers’ instructions.

The following points can guide the development of such cleaning schedule:

Equipment used to deliver care should be visibly clean;
Care equipment should be cleaned in accordance with the manufacturers’ instructions. Cleaning is generally achieved using a general purpose detergent and warm water.
Equipment that is used on different children must be cleaned and, if required, disinfected immediately after use and before use by another child e.g. toileting aids;
If equipment is soiled with body fluids:
First clean thoroughly with detergent and water;
Then disinfect by wiping with a freshly prepared solution of disinfectant;
Rinse with water and dry.

Specific Advice relating to the work of SNAs in close contact settings and mitigation measures to be observed in those settings

Specific advice has been provided by the HPSC for the work of SNAs (updated January 2021) and it is intended that while directed to SNAs it can also be applicable to all school staff who work delivering personal care or attention within 2metres to a pupil. This advice does not materially differ to the original guidance issued in June 2020 but as it is recently provided by HPSC with a particular focus on special education settings, it is set out below.

It notes that the “guidance is not a rulebook that must be followed to the letter. The appropriate use of this guidance requires the use of compassion and good sense and a reasonable judgment of the level of risk in most situations. If the general principles of this guidance are implemented, the risk that any given pupil or staff member in the educational setting on any given day has infectious COVID-19 is very low. All additional measures are applied as practical to the context with a view to further lowering the risk of transmission to staff or pupils in the event that a person with infectious COVID-19 is at school”. .

The guidance goes onto say:

The role of the Special Needs Assistant and Associated Risks of COVID-19 People living with certain disabilities associated with increased medical vulnerability may be disproportionately affected by COVID-19. The measures taken to control the spread of COVID-19 can also have a very serious impact on people with disability. Some disabled children and young people have additional care needs that must be met to support them in achieving their full potential. Children have a right to education and ensuring continued access to education for people living with disability is critical to managing the public health emergency in an inclusive way.

Special Needs Assistants play a vital role in supporting the additional care needs of some children and young people.

∙ Some parts of the work performed by SNAs are similar to tasks performed by healthcare workers and in particular, the nature of the work is such that it is often not possible to maintain distance;

∙ Some children and young people concerned may display behaviours that are associated with an increased risk of virus transmission if they are infectious; ∙ Some children and young people concerned may have limited ability to self-report symptoms therefore recognising infection may be more difficult;

∙ In this context, there is a requirement for specific guidance to support the work of SNAs and any other people who may provide similar support for children and young people with additional care needs.

Staff Duties

Staff have a statutory obligation to take reasonable care for their own health and safety and that of their colleagues and other parties. The cooperation and assistance of all staff is essential to reduce the risk of spread of COVID-19 and to protect health and safety as far as possible within the school. All staff have a key role to play. In this regard and in order to facilitate a safe return to work, these duties include, but are not limited to, the following:

Adhere to the School COVID-19 Response Plan and the control measures outlined.
Complete the RTW form before they return to work.
Must inform the principal if there are any other circumstances relating to COVID19, not included in the form, which may need to be disclosed to facilitate their safe return to the workplace.
Must complete COVID-19 Induction Training and any other training required prior to their return to school.
Must be aware of, and adhere to, good hygiene and respiratory etiquette practices.
Coordinate and work with their colleagues to ensure that physical distancing is maintained.
Make themselves aware of the symptoms of COVID-19 and monitor their own wellbeing.
Self-isolate at home and contact their GP promptly for further advice if they display any symptoms of COVID-19.
Not return to or attend school if they have symptoms of COVID-19 under any circumstances.
If they develop any symptoms of COVID-19 whilst within the school facility, they should adhere to the procedure outlined above.
Keep informed of the updated advice of the public health authorities and comply with same.

Not to return to or attend school in the event of the following:

if they live with someone who has symptoms of the virus
If they have travelled outside of Ireland; in such instances staff are advised to consult and follow latest Government advice in relation to foreign travel.

Cooperate with any public health personnel and their school for contact tracing purposes and follow any public health advice given in the event of a case or outbreak in their school

Undergo any COVID-19 testing that may be required in their school as part of mass or serial testing as advised by Public Health

COVID-19 related Absence Management

The management of a COVID-19 related absence will be managed in line with agreed procedures with the Department of Education.

Employee Assistance and Wellbeing Programme

The Department recognises the need for school staff wellbeing and collective self-care. Support for school staff wellbeing will be provided by Department Support Services including the PDST and CSL, as well as by the HSE’s Health Promotion Team. An Occupational Health Strategy is in place as a supportive resource for staff in schools. The aim of the Occupational Health Strategy is to promote the health and wellbeing of employees in the workplace, with a strong focus on prevention. The Occupational Health Strategy comprises the Employee Assistance Service and the Occupational Health Service. The Employee Assistance Service (EAS) is provided by Spectrum.Life under the logo of ‘Wellbeing Together: Folláinne Le Chéile’.

Under the EAS, employees have a dedicated free-phone confidential helpline 1800 411 057 available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year providing advice on a range of issues such as wellbeing, legal, financial, mediation, management support etc. Where required, short-term counselling is available to employees and their families (over the age of 18 years and living at home). A bespoke wellbeing portal and app which offers access to podcasts and blogs on topics around wellbeing and mental health, family life, exercise and nutrition is also available. In addition online cognitive behavioural therapy is provided. As part of the services provided by Spectrum.Life a Mental Health Promotion Manager is available to develop and deliver evidence based mental health and wellbeing initiatives to reduce stigma and improve mental health literacy and to increase engagement with the service. They will also be providing a series of webinars and presentations to promote staff wellbeing in schools as schools reopen and during the upcoming school year.

APPENDIX 1 COVID-19 Policy Statement

Scoil Mhuire Junior is committed to providing a safe and healthy workplace for all our staff and a safe learning environment for all our pupils. To ensure that, we have developed the following COVID-19 Response Plan. The BOM and all school staff are responsible for the implementation of this plan and a combined effort will help contain the spread of the virus. We will:

continue to monitor our COVID-19 response and amend this plan in consultation with our staff
provide up to date information to our staff and pupils on the Public Health advice issued by the HSE and Gov.ie
display information on the signs and symptoms of COVID-19 and correct hand-washing techniques
agree with staff, a worker representative who is easily identifiable to carry out the role outlined in this plan
inform all staff and pupils of essential hygiene and respiratory etiquette and physical distancing requirements
adapt the school to facilitate physical distancing as appropriate in line with the guidance and direction of the Department of Education
keep a contact log to help with contact tracing. All visitors will scan the QR code which is on the front door before entering the building.
ensure staff engage with the induction / familiarisation briefing provided by the Department of Education
implement the agreed procedures to be followed in the event of someone showing symptoms of COVID-19 while at school
provide instructions for staff and pupils to follow if they develop signs and symptoms of COVID-19 during school time
implement cleaning in line with Department of Education advice

All school staff will be consulted on an ongoing basis and feedback is encouraged on any concerns, issues or suggestions.

This can be done through the Lead Worker Representative(s), who will be supported in line with the agreement between the Department and education partners.

Signed: ____________________ Date: _____________________

Appendix 2 Pre-Return to Work Questionnaire COVID-19

This questionnaire must be completed by staff at least 3 days in advance of returning to work.

If the answer is Yes to any of the below questions, you are advised to seek medical advice before returning to work.

Name: ________________________

Name of School: Scoil Mhuire Junior Roll Number 19605P

Name of Principal: _Niamh Cronin Date: ________________

	Questions	YES	NO
1.	Do you have symptoms of cough, fever, high temperature, difficulty breathing, loss or change in your sense of smell or taste now or in the past 14 days?
2.	Have you been diagnosed with confirmed or suspected COVID-19 infection in the last 14 days?
3.	In the past 14 days, have you been in contact with a person who is a confirmed or suspected case of COVID-19?
4.	Have you been advised by a doctor to self-isolate at this time?
5.	Have you been advised to restrict your movements at this time?
6.	Have you been advised to cocoon at this time? Note: if you’re at very high risk (extremely vulnerable) from COVID-19 you may be advised to cocoon. If yes, please liaise with Principal re return to work and follow the agreed DES arrangements for very high risk groups

I confirm, to the best of my knowledge that I have no symptoms of COVID-19, am not self-isolating or awaiting results of a COVID-19 test and have not been advised to restrict my movements.

Please note: The school is collecting this sensitive personal data for the purposes of maintaining safety within the workplace in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. The legal basis for collecting this data is based on vital public health interests and maintaining occupational health and this data will be held securely in line with our retention policy.

Signed: ______________________________________

Appendix 3 Lead Worker Representative – Primary and Special Schools

The COVID-19 Return to Work Safely Protocol is designed to support employers and workers to put measures in place that will prevent the spread of COVID-19 in the workplace. The Protocol was developed following discussion and agreement between the Government, Trade Unions and Employers at the Labour Employer Economic Forum.

The purpose of this section is to set out the provisions in respect of the LWR in schools. The operation of these arrangements will be kept under review by the parties.

This document should be read in conjunction with:

the COVID-19 Return to Work Safely Protocol;
the Guidance and FAQs for Public Service Employers during COVID-19;
COVID-19 Response Plan for Primary and Special Schools (available on the Department of Education website).

1. Collaborative Approach

Responsibility for the development and implementation of the COVID-19 Response Plan and the associated control measures lies primarily with the Board of Management/ Education and Training Board and school management.

If a staff member has any concerns or observations in relation to the COVID-19 Response Plan, control measures or the adherence to such measures by staff, students or others, they should contact the LWR who will engage with school management.

2. Role of the Lead Worker Representative

In summary, the role of the LWR is to:

Represent all staff in the workplace regardless of role, and be aware of specific issues that may arise in respect of different staff cohorts;
Work collaboratively with school management to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the safety, health and welfare of employees in relation to COVID-19;
Keep up to date with the latest COVID-19 public health advice;
In conjunction with school management, promote good hygiene practices such as washing hands regularly and maintaining good respiratory etiquette along with maintaining social distancing in accordance with public health advice;
Assist school management with the implementation of measures to suppress COVID-19 in the workplace in line with the Return to Work Safely Protocol and current public health advice;
In conjunction with school management, monitor adherence to measures put in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19;
Conduct regular reviews of safety measures;
Report any issues of concern immediately to school management and keep records of such issues and actions taken to rectify them;
Consult with the school management on the school’s COVID-19 Response Plan in the event of someone developing COVID-19 while in school including the location of an isolation area and a safe route to that area;
Following any incident assess with the school management any follow up action that is required;
Consult with colleagues on matters relating to COVID-19 in the workplace;
Make representations to school management on behalf of their colleagues on matters relating to COVID-19 in the workplace.

3. What can a Lead Worker Representative Do?

The LWR may consult with, and make representations to, school management on any issue of concern in relation to COVID-19. These include issues in relation to:

Cleaning protocols and their implementation
Physical Distancing
Implementation of one-way systems in the school to ensure social distancing including when entering and exiting the school
Hand Hygiene facilities including their location and whether they are stocked and maintained
Hand sanitising
Staff awareness around hand hygiene in the school
Respiratory hygiene
Personal Protective Equipment
At Risk Groups
Visitors/Contractors

4. Lead Worker Representative

Every school will appoint one Lead Worker Representative.

5. Deputy Lead Worker Representative/ Assistant Lead Worker Representative

In schools with less than 30 staff, a Deputy Lead Worker Representative will be appointed in addition to the LWR. The role of the Deputy LWR will be to deputise as LWR where the LWR is absent.

In schools with 30 or more staff and in all Special schools, an Assistant Lead Worker Representative will be appointed in addition to the LWR. The role of the Assistant LWR will be to:

assist the LWR in their duties as set out above; and
deputise as LWR where the LWR is absent

6. Selection of Lead Worker Representative/ Deputy LWR/ Assistant LWR

The school staff are entitled to select staff members for the LWR, Deputy LWR and Assistant LWR positions as appropriate. The LWR/ Deputy LWR/ Assistant LWR represents all staff in the workplace regardless of role and must be aware of specific issues that may arise in respect of different staff cohorts. In this regard, if a teacher is selected for the role of LWR, then the Deputy LWR/ Assistant LWR should be selected from the non-teaching staff where feasible and vice versa.

The process for the selection and appointment of the LWR/ Deputy LWR/ Assistant LWR as appropriate should be arrived at by consultation and consensus at school level, through the seeking of volunteers to act in that capacity. Where there is more than one volunteer, all school staff should vote to select the LWR/ Deputy LWR/ Assistant LWR.

Have you requested confirmation that the details in the pre-return to work form remain unchanged following periods of closure such as school holidays.
Have you advised staff and pupils not to return to or attend school if they are identified by the HSE as a close contact of a confirmed case of COVID-19 or if they live with someone who has symptoms of the virus.
Have you advised staff and pupils not to return or attend school if they have travelled outside of Ireland; in such instances staff are advised to consult and follow latest Government advice in relation to foreign travel
Have you advised staff and pupils to cooperate with any public health officials and the school for contact tracing purposes and follow any public health advice in the event of a case or outbreak in the school;

The LWR/ Deputy LWR/ Assistant LWR has been, following selection by the school staff, formally appointed by the employer. LWR/ Deputy LWR/ Assistant LWR will have confirmed, prior to taking up the role, that they have completed the provided training and that they are fully aware of the requirements of the role.

7. Supports for the Lead Worker Representative/ Deputy LWR/ Assistant LWR

The LWR/ Deputy LWR/ Assistant LWR shall be entitled to:

Receive information and training in respect of their role [further detail to be provided];
Be consulted by school management on the control measures being put in place by the school to minimise the risk of being exposed to COVID-19;
Regular communication with school management on issues related to COVID-19;
Be informed of changes in practice arising from COVID-19 response measures;

Where the LWR/ Assistant LWR is a teacher (including a postholder), the 10 Croke Park hours which can currently be used for planning on other than a whole school basis will be utilised by the LWR and Assistant LWR to carry out their duties in that role.

Where the LWR/ Assistant LWR is an SNA, 10 of the “72 hours” will be utilised by the LWR and Assistant LWR to carry out their duties in that role.

Where the LWR/ Assistant LWR is a Secretary or Caretaker, a re-prioritisation of duties by school management should be carried out to afford the staff member sufficient time to carry out their duties in that role.

8. Procedure for dealing with issues that arise

Where an issue of concern is identified by the LWR (or is notified to the LWR by a staff member), the LWR should bring this to the attention of the Principal. Action points for addressing the issue should where possible be agreed between the LWR and the Principal. Staff should be informed of the outcome.

If agreement cannot be reached, the LWR may notify the Board of Management (Chairperson of the BoM in the first instance)/ Education and Training Board head office of the issue. Action points for addressing the issue should where possible be agreed between the LWR and the BoM/ETB head office. Staff should be informed of the outcome.

Glossary of Terms

COVID-19 Response Plan: plan designed to support the staff and BOM/ ETB in putting measures in place that will prevent the spread of COVID-19 in the school environment. The plan details the policies and practices necessary for a school to meet the Return to Work Safely Protocol, the Department of Education plan for school reopening and to prevent the introduction and spread of COVID-19 in the school environment. COVID-19 Response Plans for Primary and Special Schools are available on the Department’s website.

Labour Employer Economic Forum (LEEF): the forum for high level dialogue between Government, Trade Union and Employer representatives on matters of strategic national importance – involves the Irish Congress of Trade Unions, Government & Employers.

Return to Work Protocol: national protocol designed to support employers and workers to put measures in place that will prevent the spread of COVID-19 in the workplace.

Safety Representative: Section 25 of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 sets out the selection and role of the Safety Representative in the workplace. The rights of the Safety Representative are set out in legislation. (Note: A Safety Representative has rights and not duties under the 2005 Act). This role is separate to the LWR under COVID-19.

Appendix 4 Risk Assessment

COVID-19 Risk Template (List identifies COVID-19 as the hazard and outlines control measures required to deal with this risk)

Hazards	Is the hazard present? Y/N	What is the risk?	Risk rating H=High M=Medium L=Low	Controls (When all controls are in place risk will be reduced)	Is this control in place?	Action/to do list/outstanding controls *Risk rating applies to outstanding controls outlined in this column	Person responsible	Signature and date when action completed
COVID-19	N	Illness	H	School Covid19 Response Plan in place in line with Department of Education guidance and the Return to Work Safely Protocol and public health advice		Examples of Actions Follow public health guidance from HSE re hygiene and respiratory etiquette Complete School COVID-19 Policy Statement Return to Work Forms received and reviewed Induction Training provided Contact log in place Complete checklists as required: School Management How to deal with a suspected case Other school specific checklist	Name of staff member

If there is one or more High Risk (H) actions needed, then the risk of injury could be high and immediate action should be taken. Medium Risk (M) actions should be dealt with as soon as possible. Low Risk (L) actions should be dealt with as soon as practicable.

Risk Assessment carried out by: Date: / /

Appendix 5 Contact Tracing Log

Name of School	SCOIL MHUIRE JUNIOR	School Contact Person
Address of School	BLAKESTOWN WAY, MULHUDDART DUBLIN 15	For Queries only: Phone No
Email
Name of Visitor		Was the visit pre-arranged with the Principal? Yes □ No □
Date of Visit	__ __ / __ __ /________	Time	Entry to school __________ am □ pm □	Exit from School __________ am □ pm □
Visitor Status	Contractor □	Parent/Guardian □	Other □ Please complete: _______________________________________
Contact details of visitor	Company Name ^{(if applicable)}
Address
Contact No.		Email Address
Reason for Visit
Who the visitor met (separate line required for each person the visitor met)
Name of Person visited	Length of time spent with each person in the school

Appendix 6 Checklist for School Management

Composite Checklist for Schools

This checklist supports planning and preparation, control measures and induction needed to support a safe return to school for pupils, staff, parents and others.

For completion by the agreed person with overall responsibility of managing the implementation of the COVID-19 Response plan in line with the supports as agreed with the Department of Education.

Planning and Systems

Is there a system in place to keep up to date with the latest advice from Government and Department of Education, to ensure that advice is made available in a timely manner to staff and pupils and to adjust your plans and procedures in line with that advice? Yes, HSE website and DES website monitored regularly by Covid Response Team and information sent to staff via email. Team meet to amend plans and procedures as necessary and inform staff via email.
Have you prepared a school COVID-19 response plan. Yes
Have you a system in place to provide staff and pupils with information and guidance on the measures that have been put in place to help prevent the spread of the virus and what is expected of them? Yes, staff will have completed induction training prior to return to school, have been sent hygiene guidelines and the Covid Response Plan which contains comprehensive information. Staff will be informed of measures, plans and procedures in staff meeting prior to opening of school. Updated information will be available on website.
Have you displayed the COVID-19 posters in suitable locations highlighting the signs and symptoms of COVID-19? Yes
Have you told staff of the purpose of the COVID-19 contact log? Yes
Have you a COVID-19 contact log in place to support HSE tracing efforts if required? Yes
Have you informed staff on the measures and provided a system for them to raise issues or concerns and to have them responded to? Yes, bring to the attention of LWR who will bring to Covid Response Team.
Have you reviewed and updated risk assessments in line with DES advice to take account of any controls to help prevent the spread of COVID-19? Yes, please see appendix 4
Have you updated emergency plans, if necessary to take account of the COVID-19 response plan? yes

Staff

Have you requested confirmation that the details in the pre-return to work form remain unchanged following periods of closure such as school holidays. Yes
Have you advised staff and pupils not to return to or attend school if they are identified by the HSE as a close contact of a confirmed case of COVID-19 or if they live with someone who has symptoms of the virus. Yes
Have you advised staff and pupils not to return or attend school if they have travelled outside of Ireland; in such instances staff are advised to consult and follow latest Government advice in relation to foreign travel . Yes
Have you advised staff and pupils to cooperate with any public health officials and the school for contact tracing purposes and follow any public health advice in the event of a case or outbreak in the school. Yes
Have you made available to each staff member a COVID-19 return-to-work form to be completed and returned 3 days before they return to the workplace? Yes
Are you aware of staff members who are at very high risk under the HSE guidance on people most at risk (HSE guidance on people most at-risk) and advised them of the DES agreed arrangements for management of those staff? No staff at very High Risk
Have you advised staff and pupils they must stay at home if sick or if they have any symptoms of COVID-19? Yes
Have you told staff and pupils what to do and what to expect if they start to develop symptoms of COVID-19 in school, including where the isolation area is? Yes
Have you advised staff of the availability of the supports of the occupational health and wellbeing programme through Spectrum Life? Yes
Has a lead worker representative been identified (in line with the process agreed with the DES and education partners) and detailed at Section 4.3 of this plan to help advise staff and to monitor compliance with COVID-19 control measures in the school and taken measures to ensure all staff know who the representative is? Yes

Training and Induction

Have you advised staff to view the Department of Education’s training materials which are available online? YES
Have you taken the necessary steps to update your school induction / familiarisation training to include any additional information relating to COVID-19 for your school? Yes
Have first aiders, if available, been given updated training on infection prevention and control re: hand hygiene and use of PPE as appropriate? Staff will partake in Department online training programme when available.

Buildings / Equipment

If you have mechanical ventilation does it need cleaning or maintenance before the school reopens? Non Applicable.
Does your water system need flushing at outlets following low usage to prevent Legionnaire’s Disease? Yes, caretaker flushed every day.
Have you visually checked, or had someone check, all equipment in the school for signs of deterioration or damage before being used again. Continuous and ongoing
Have you arranged for the school, including all equipment, desks, benches, doors and frequent touched surfaces points, to be cleaned before reopening? yes

Control Measures in place

Hand / respiratory hygiene

Have you accessed supplies of hand sanitisers and any necessary PPE equipment in line with the interim HPSC health guidance relating to the reopening of schools, from the national framework provided by the Department? yes

Are there hand washing/hand sanitising stations in place to accommodate staff, pupils and visitors adhering to hand hygiene measures in accordance with Department guidance? Yes, hand sanitiser at entrances of school and in each class. Taps have been changed to push down taps.
Have arrangements been made for staff and pupils to have regular access to hand-washing/hand sanitising facilities as appropriate? Yes, children and staff will regularly use in accordance with guidelines. Teachers referred to handwashing video, and signs put up on sinks.
Are hand sanitisers easily available and accessible for all staff, pupils and visitors – e.g. in each classroom and at entry and exit points to school buildings? Yes
Have you made arrangements to ensure hand hygiene facilities are regularly checked and well-stocked? Yes, caretaker/cleaners will check each day.
Does the alcohol-based hand sanitiser have at least 60% ethanol or 70% isopropanol as the active ingredient? yes
Have you informed staff about the importance of hand washing? Yes
Have you arranged for staff to view how to wash their hands (with soap and water for at least 20 seconds) and dry them correctly through the use of the HSE video resource? Yes sent all staff a link.
Have you shown staff and pupils how to use hand sanitiser correctly and where hand-sanitising stations are located? Teachers will alert pupils on day 1 of school
Have you displayed posters on how to wash hands correctly in appropriate locations? yes
Have you told staff and pupils when they need to wash their hands or use hand sanitiser? This includes:
before and after eating and preparing food
after coughing or sneezing
after using the toilet
where hands are dirty
before and after wearing gloves
before and after being on public transport
before leaving home
when arriving/leaving the school /other sites
after touching potentially contaminated surfaces
When entering and exiting vehicles
When entering and exiting school buildings
if in contact with someone displaying any COVID-19 symptoms Yes
Has you told staff and pupils of the importance of good respiratory measures to limit the spread of the virus?
avoid touching the face, eyes, nose and mouth
cover coughs and sneezes with an elbow or a tissue
dispose of tissues in a covered bin

Yes

Physical Distancing:

Have you identified all available school space to be used to maximise physical distancing? Yes
Have you reviewed the templates provided by the Department of Education which show options for revised layout of school rooms to meet physical distancing requirements? Yes
Have you arranged to revise the layout of the rooms and furniture as per the Department guidelines if necessary? Yes school is Junior School so we are maintaining classroom bubbles, and within that smaller pods.
Have you arranged in each room that the teacher’s desk should be at least 1m and where possible 2m away from pupil desks? Yes
Have you arranged in each room that pupils would be at least 1m away from each other? Not required in Junior School
Have you allocated work stations consistently to the same staff and children rather than having spaces that are shared? Yes
Have you structured pupils and their teachers into Class Bubbles (i.e. a class grouping which stays apart from other classes as much as possible) and discrete groups or “Pods” within those class bubbles to the extent that this is practical? Yes, where possible
If you have divided a class into Pods, have you arranged at least 1m distance between individual Pods within the class bubble and between individuals in the pod, whenever possible? Yes, where possible
Have you taken steps to limit contact and sharing of common facilities between people in different Class Bubbles (and Pods within those class bubbles) as much as possible? Yes each child will have own set of regularly used manipulatives, pencils, erasers, etc.
Have you arranged Pod sizes to be as small as it is likely to be reasonably practical in the specific classroom context? Yes
Have you arranged to the greatest extent possible for pupils and teaching staff to be consistently in the same Class Bubbles acknowledging that this will not be possible at all times? Yes . There will be some crossing of bubbles for learning support, EAL support will be maintained within their own stream. Learning support teachers allocated to Junior Infant and Senior Infant stream will be allocated to the 1st/2^nd class stream between 1.30 and 2.30.
Have you arranged where possible that different class bubbles to have separate breaks and meal times or separate areas at break or meal times? Yes, separate yard times and spaces.
Have you made arrangements to limit interaction on arrival and departure from school and in other shared areas? Yes
One parent will accompany their child/children on school campus
Adhere to one way walk system around the school
line up at designated spot outside the classroom door a metre apart until school opens.
Do not enter the classroom, and keep behind cones.
Keep two metres back from Classroom door.
All adults asked to wear face masks on grounds of school and inside the school.
Parents who cannot wear mask may drop child off at 9.05 am and collect at 2.35 (1.35 JS & SI)
Junior Infants and Early start will have staggered induction times in week one.
Parents are requested to leave grounds immediately after drop off.
Have you encouraged walking or cycling to school as much as possible? Yes parents will no longer use the car park. We encourage walking, cycling and scooting to school through our Green School’s Programmes.
Have you made arrangements, in so far as practicable, to open additional access points to school to reduce congestion? Yes

We have implemented separate entry and exit gates. Entry through main gate and exit through gate opposite office. Back gate remains open but social distancing rules apply.

Can you provide a one system for entering and exiting the school, where practical? Yes
Have you arranged for staff meetings to be held remotely or in small groups or in large spaces to facilitate physical distancing? Yes
Have you a system to regularly remind staff and pupils to maintain physical distancing. Yes, signage and verbal reminders from CRT.
Have you advised staff not to shake hands and to avoid any physical contact? Yes
Have you advised staff of the Department’s guidance to achieve good ventilation Yes
Have you checked any mechanical ventilation systems to ensure an adequate supply of fresh air is used Yes

Visitors to Schools

Have you identified the activities that involve interacting with essential visitors to the school, made arrangements to minimise the number of such visitors and put in place measures to prevent physical contact, as far as possible? Yes, visitors from outside agencies, i.e. HSE Primary Care, School Aged Disability Team, parents, IEP meetings etc will be accommodated in a large staff room, maintaining physical distancing, mandatory face masks and well ventilated room. Meetings will be kept as efficient as possible. Room is ventilated by windows and exit door left open. Onsite meetings will only take place as a last resort. Every effort will be made to conduct any necessary meetings online or by phone. – This wasn’t in guidelines but thought it should be included.
Are there arrangements in place to inform essential visitors to the school of the measures to help prevent the spread of infection? Yes, on entering the school, visitors will be asked to use hand sanitiser, download QR CODE contract tracing and maintain physical distancing. All meetings are kept within a tight timeframe.
Have you a system in place for all visitors who do need to come to the school to make an appointment, arrange to contact a central point and to record their visit using the contact tracing log? Yes, on entering the school, visitors will be asked to use hand sanitiser, maintain physical distancing and wear a mask. All visitors will scan the QR code for contact tracing, which is on the door of the school before entering the building

Appendix 7 Checklist for dealing with a suspected case of COVID-19

Staff members will be required to manage a suspected case in line with the protocol and training.

A nominated member of the school management team will be responsible for ensuring that all aspects of the protocol to deal with suspected cases have been adhered to. To be decided at ISM meeting

Isolation Area

Have you identified a place that can be used as an isolation area, preferably with a door that can close? Yes, for students we will not close the door as this presents a health and safety risk to the child.
The isolation area does not have to be a separate room but if it is not a room it should be 2m away from others in the room. Isolation room is room opposite office on the back corridor opposite side exit door.
Is the isolation area accessible, including to staff and pupils with disabilities? Yes
Is the route to the isolation area accessible? Yes
Have you a contingency plan for dealing with more than one suspected case of COVID-19? Hall, and then classroom with social distancing
Are the following available in the isolation area(s)? Yes
Tissues
Hand sanitiser
Disinfectant/wipes
Gloves/Masks
Waste Bags
Bins

Isolating a Person

Are procedures in place to accompany the infected person to the isolation area, along the isolation route with physical distancing from them? Yes
Are staff familiar with this procedure? Yes
Have others been advised to maintain a distance of at least 2m from the affected person at all times? Yes (it is intended that this will be dealt with as part of the Department’s online training)
Is there a disposable mask to wear for the affected person while in the common area and when exiting the building? Yes

Arranging for the affected person to leave the school

Staff – have you established by asking them if the staff members feel well enough to travel home? Yes, where possible staff will contact office by phone, Allocated SET team member will be dispatched to room to supervise class. Teacher when possible will leave through fire door having been advised not to use public transport. If teacher is incapacitated, teacher will be accompanied with physical distancing by SET teacher to isolation room and next of kin informed. Class supervised by neighbouring teacher.
Pupil – have you immediately contacted their parents/guardians and arranged for them to collect their pupil? Under no circumstances can a pupil use public or school transport to travel home if they are a suspected case of COVID-19. Yes, staff member will be advised.
The affected person should be advised to avoid touching other people, surfaces and objects. Yes, staff member will be advised.
The affected person been advised to cover their mouth and nose with disposable tissue(s) when they cough or sneeze, and to put the tissue in the bin. Yes, staff member will be advised.
Has transport home or to an assessment centre been arranged if the affected person has been directed to go there by their GP? Yes, transport will be arranged.
Has the affected person been advised not to go to their GP’s surgery or any pharmacy or hospital? Yes, staff member will be advised.
Has the affected person been advised they must not use public transport? Yes, staff member will be advised.
Has the affected person been advised to continue wearing the face mask until the reach home? Yes, staff member will be advised.

Follow up

Have you carried out an assessment of the incident to identify any follow-up actions needed? Procedures in place to do so. Cleaning area adhering to HSE guidelines, co-operation with HSE contact tracing if required.
Are you available to provide advice and assistance if contacted by the HSE? Yes, all information requested will be provided as incident will be checklisted and recorded

Cleaning

Have you taken the isolation area out-of-use until cleaned and disinfected?. Isolation area will have out of use sign put on door.
Have you made arrangements to clean and disinfect any classroom space where the staff or pupils were located? Area will be cleaned and disinfected by cleaners that day adhering to guidelines
Have you arranged for cleaning and disinfection of the isolation area and any other areas involved, as soon as practical after the affected person has left the building? This will be done. Area will be cleaned and disinfected by cleaners that day.
Have the cleaners been trained in dealing with contaminated areas and supplied with the appropriate PPE? Awaiting training from DES
Have you put in place a written cleaning schedule to be made available to cleaning staff including: Cleaning of frequently touched surfaces such as vending machines, coffee machines and door handles

Appendix 8 Checklist Lead Worker Representative

Have you agreed with your school to act as a Lead worker representative for your school? (Process for agreeing on lead worker representative/s in schools to be agreed centrally and implemented locally). YES
Have you been provided with information and training in relation to the role of lead worker representative? (Training for this role is currently being explored with the HSA). YES
Are you keeping up to date with the latest COVID-19 advice from Government? YES
Are you aware of the signs and symptoms of COVID-19? YES
Do you know how the virus is spread? YES
Do you know how to help prevent the spread of COVID-19? YES
Have you watched and do you understand the online Induction Training provided by the Department of Education before returning to school? yes
Are you helping in keeping your fellow workers up to date with the latest COVID-19 advice from Government? yes
Have you completed the COVID-19 return-to-work form and given it to your school? (Department template Return-to-Work form available) YES
Are you aware of the control measures your school has put in place to minimise the risk of you and others being exposed to COVID-19? (Checklist for School Management available) YES
Did your school consult with you when putting control measures in place? Control measures will be agreed centrally between the Department and education partners. Consultation at school level should take place on any specific local arrangements necessary to implement the protocol Control measures were put in place in June, prior to appointments of LWR. I assisted with the appendix for Covid Plan, in June and is being updated regularly
Have you a means of regular communication with the person with overall responsibility for the school COVID-19 plan? YES
Are you co-operating with your school to make sure these control measures are maintained? I will
Have you familiarised yourself with the cleaning requirements needed to help prevent cross contamination? (Checklist for Cleaning and Disinfection available) YES
Have you been asked to walk around and check that the control measures are in place and are being maintained? YES
Are you reporting immediately to the person with overall responsibility for the school COVID-19 plan any problems, areas of non-compliance or defects that you see? YES
Are you keeping a record of any problems, areas of non-compliance or defects and what action was taken to remedy the issue? YES
Are you familiar with what to do in the event of someone developing the symptoms of COVID-19 while at school? YES
Are you co-operating with your school in identifying an isolation area and a safe route to that area? (Checklist for dealing with suspected case of COVID-19 available) YES
Are you helping in the management of someone developing symptoms of COVID-19 while at school?YES
Once the affected person has left the school, are you helping in assessing what follow-up action is needed? YES
Are you helping in maintaining the contact log? YES
Have you been made aware of any changes to the emergency plans or first aid procedures for your school? YES
Are you making yourself available to fellow staff to listen to any COVID-19 control concerns or suggestions they may have? YES
Are you raising those control concerns or suggestions with your school and feeding back the response to the worker who raised the issue? YES

Are you aware of the availability of the Spectrum Life Wellbeing Together Programme? YES

Appendix 9 Checklist for Cleaning

Have you a system in place for checking and keeping up to date with the latest public health advice from Government and the Department of Education, to ensure that advice is made available in a timely manner in order to adjust your cleaning procedures in line with that advice? Yes
Have you reviewed the HPSC interim health advice for the safe reopening of schools, in particular Section 5.6 Environmental Hygiene? Staff will be sent and asked to read and pay particular attention to Section 5.6. Section will also be read out on day. Staff will alerted to covid folder on g suite.
Have you explained the need for the enhanced cleaning regime to staff? Yes, during Croke Park training day.
Are you aware that cleaning is best achieved using a general purpose detergent and warm water, clean cloths, mops and the mechanical action of wiping and cleaning, following by rinsing and drying? Yes
Have you sufficient cleaning materials in place to support the enhanced cleaning regime? Yes
Have you provided training for cleaning staff on the enhanced cleaning regime? yes
(Department of Education intends to provide online training for cleaning staff)
Have you made arrangements for the regular and safe emptying of bins? Yes, pedal bins will be in each classroom and Cleaners will collect once a day in accordance with safety guidelines. Suspect Covid case bin will be left in boiler house for 72 hours or as soon as negative test is received.
Are you familiar with the cleaning options for school settings set out in the interim HPSC health advice for schools for surfaces, toilets, cleaning equipment, PPE and waste management? Yes
Are you aware that each school setting should be cleaned once per day? Yes
Have you provided cleaning materials to staff so that they can clean their own desk or immediate workspace? Yes
Have you advised staff that they 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? Yes
Have you advised staff and pupils to avoid sharing items such as cups, bottles, cutlery, and pens? Yes
Have you put in place a written cleaning schedule to be made available to cleaning staff including: Yes
Items and areas to be cleaned
Frequency of cleaning
Cleaning materials to be used
Equipment to be used and method of operation?
Details of how to clean following a suspected case of COVID-19 are at Section 7 of the Plan above Yes
If disinfection of contaminated surfaces is required, is a system in place to do this following cleaning? Yes, follow Covid 19 – Interim Recommendations for the reopening of Schools and Educational Facilities, Section 5.6
If cleaning staff have been instructed to wear gloves when cleaning are they aware of the need to wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water, both before and after wearing gloves? Yes
Have you a system 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 collection.
Have you ensured there is a system in place to make sure reusable cleaning equipment including mop heads and non-disposable cloths are clean before re-use? Yes, follow Covid 19 – Interim Recommendations for the reopening of Schools and Educational Facilities, Section 5.6
Have you ensured there is a system in place to ensure that equipment such as buckets are emptied and cleaned with a fresh solution of disinfectant before re-use? Yes, follow Covid 19 – Interim Recommendations for the reopening of Schools and Educational Facilities, Section 5.6

Appendix 10

Links to the detailed documentation including School COVID-19 Response Plans and advice from Public Health (HPSC)

Relevant section of HPSC website with guidance documents for education settings (updated on ongoing basis)

https://www.hpsc.ie/a

z/respiratory/coronavirus/novelcoronavirus/guidance/educationguidance/

Guidance for Schools Regarding Special Needs Assistants (SNAs) Supporting Children and Young People with Additional Care Needs in the Context of COVID-19 (Updated 7^thJanuary 2021)

https://www.hpsc.ie/a

z/respiratory/coronavirus/novelcoronavirus/guidance/educationguidance/COVID 19%20Education%20SNA.pdf

Definition of Close Contacts in an Educational Setting (30^thOctober 2020)

https://www.hpsc.ie/a-z/respiratory/coronavirus/novelcoronavirus/casedefinitions/covid 19educationalsettingscasesandclosecontactsdefinitions/

Interim HSE advice in relation to return to school and at risk groups (September 2020)

https://www.hpsc.ie/a

z/respiratory/coronavirus/novelcoronavirus/guidance/educationguidance/HSE%20advice%20 on%20return%20to%20school.pdf

Guidance on COVID-19 Respiratory Care in School for Children with Tracheostomy who require suctioning while in school (2^ndSeptember 2020)

https://www.hpsc.ie/a

z/respiratory/coronavirus/novelcoronavirus/guidance/educationguidance/Children%20Trache ostomy%20Suctioning%20Schools.pdf

Guidance Document on Infection Prevention and Control Practices in Relation to Delivering Face to Face Education during the Global COVID-19 Pandemic (30.07.2020)

https://www.hpsc.ie/a

z/respiratory/coronavirus/novelcoronavirus/guidance/educationguidance/IPC%20Guidance% 20for%20delivering%20face%20to%20face%20education.pdf

Guidance on what constitutes Aerosol Generating Procedures (June 2020)

https://www.hpsc.ie/a

z/respiratory/coronavirus/novelcoronavirus/guidance/infectionpreventionandcontrolguidance/ aerosolgeneratingprocedures/

COVID-19 Response Plan for the safe and sustainable reopening of Primary and Special Schools

Blakestown, Dublin 15

Role of the Lead Worker Representative

Appendix 2 Pre-Return to Work Questionnaire COVID-19

1. Collaborative Approach

2. Role of the Lead Worker Representative

4. Lead Worker Representative

6. Selection of Lead Worker Representative/ Deputy LWR/ Assistant LWR

Glossary of Terms

Appendix 4 Risk Assessment

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