Introduction
This Health and Safety manual has been prepared by WorkNest on behalf of St Agnes Parish Council. It contains the Council’s Health and Safety Policy as required by the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and defines how we manage health and safety hazards and risks associated with our business, premises and activities.
Policy Review
The Policy will be reviewed annually by WorkNest with our nominated responsible person, signed off by both parties.
Document Control
The electronic copy provided by WorkNest will remain the controlled copy. Controlled copies will be registered and updated. Uncontrolled copies will be marked clearly.
Amendment Record
All amendments are recorded with details of the change. Significant changes are communicated to staff.
Legislation
Legislation is available via WorkNest or legislation.gov.uk.
2.1 Environmental Policy Statement
We aim to protect and improve the environment. Commitments include compliance, waste reduction, pollution prevention, engaging responsible contractors, setting targets and training employees.
3. Organisation for Health and Safety
Overall responsibility rests with the highest management level. Roles: Parish Clerk and Environment & Facilities Manager. Employees and contractors also have defined responsibilities. WorkNest acts as competent advisors.
4. Responsibilities
Parish Clerk
Overall compliance, delegation, ensuring resources, communication and reporting.
Environment & Property Manager
Implementation, supervision, risk assessments, training, PPE, maintenance, contractor management, welfare, fire and first aid.
Employees
Take reasonable care, follow rules, use PPE, report hazards, attend training, follow fire procedures.
Contractors
Comply with Council rules, provide policies/risk assessments, use PPE, report hazards, follow site safety.
WorkNest
Provides documentation, training, audits, advice, and 24/7 support.
5. Health and Safety Rules
Mandatory rules for employees. Misconduct may result in disciplinary action.
Rules Covering Gross Misconduct
Examples include wilful breaches, unauthorised equipment use, horseplay, false statements, or disobedience.
6. Arrangements
The following subsections detail how specific health and safety matters are managed.
Accident, Incident and Ill-Health Reporting (RIDDOR)
All accidents, incidents and near misses must be reported and recorded. Certain events are reportable under RIDDOR. Investigations identify causes and prevent recurrence.
Asbestos
The Council manages asbestos risks by surveying premises, maintaining an asbestos register and ensuring contractors are informed. Employees must not disturb suspected asbestos.
Communication and Consultation
We consult employees on health and safety matters, share updates and encourage feedback. Safety is a shared responsibility.
Contractors
Contractors must comply with Council standards. Risk assessments and method statements are required before work starts.
Disabled Persons
We make reasonable adjustments to ensure safe access, evacuation and working arrangements for disabled employees, contractors and visitors.
Display Screen Equipment (DSE)
DSE assessments are completed for regular users. Breaks and equipment adjustments are encouraged to prevent health issues.
Driving
Employees must hold valid licences, ensure vehicles are roadworthy and follow safe driving practices. Mobile phones must not be used except hands-free where safe.
Drugs and Alcohol
Prohibited in the workplace. Employees must not work under the influence. Prescribed medication affecting performance must be reported.
Electricity
Electrical systems and equipment are tested regularly (PAT and fixed wiring). Employees must not use faulty equipment and must report defects.
Environment
Commitment to minimising environmental impact, reducing waste, and preventing pollution.
Excavations
Risks from excavation work are controlled through risk assessments, safe systems of work and competent contractors.
Fire
Fire risk assessments are carried out. Employees receive training and must follow evacuation procedures. Fire equipment is maintained regularly.
First Aid
Adequate first aiders, equipment and facilities are provided. Employees must know who first aiders are and where equipment is located.
Hazardous Substances (COSHH)
Hazardous substances are risk assessed and controlled. Safety data sheets are available. Employees must follow instructions and wear PPE.
Health and Welfare
Welfare facilities such as toilets, drinking water and rest areas are maintained. Employees should report defects promptly.
Health Surveillance
Where required, health surveillance is provided (e.g., for noise, vibration, hazardous substances). Records are maintained confidentially.
Legionella
Water systems are risk assessed and maintained to prevent Legionella. Monitoring and flushing routines are in place.
Leptospirosis
Employees working outdoors or with watercourses are informed of risks and preventive measures against Leptospirosis (Weil’s Disease).
Lone Working
Lone workers must follow safe systems, maintain communication and avoid unnecessary risks. Risk assessments cover lone working scenarios.
Manual Handling
Manual handling risks are assessed. Employees receive training on safe lifting techniques and use of aids.
New and Expectant Mothers
Specific risk assessments are carried out for new and expectant mothers, with adjustments to duties as required.
Noise
Noise risks are assessed. Hearing protection is provided where necessary. Health surveillance is offered if exposure exceeds limits.
Outdoor Working
Risks from outdoor work (e.g., weather, UV exposure) are managed. PPE and training are provided.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
PPE is provided free of charge where risks cannot be controlled otherwise. Employees must use PPE correctly and report defects.
Radiation
Where applicable, radiation risks are assessed and controlled in line with regulations.
Risk Assessment
General and specific risk assessments are completed, documented, and reviewed regularly. Employees are involved in the process.
Smoking
Smoking (including e-cigarettes) is not permitted inside premises or vehicles. Designated outdoor areas may be provided.
Stress
The Council supports employees with stress issues through risk assessments, management support and access to help.
Training
All employees receive health and safety training at induction and refresher training as required. Records are maintained.
Vibration
Exposure to hand-arm or whole-body vibration is risk assessed. Equipment is maintained and health surveillance offered where needed.
Violence
We do not tolerate violence or aggression. Risk assessments and procedures are in place to protect staff.
Visitors
Visitors must follow safety rules and are supervised as necessary. Information on fire and welfare facilities is provided.
Waste
Waste is disposed of responsibly. Recycling is promoted where possible.
Work at Height
Work at height is risk assessed. Only trained staff may use ladders or access equipment. Fall protection measures are required.
Work Equipment
Work equipment is maintained, inspected and used only by trained employees. Defects must be reported immediately.
Monitoring of Health and Safety
Performance is monitored via accident data, inspections, audits and reviews. Findings are reported and acted upon.