Health and Safety Policy

1. Statement of Intent

Patheway Health CIC is committed to ensuring the health, safety, and welfare of all employees, volunteers, service users, and visitors. We aim to provide a safe and healthy working environment and comply with all relevant UK health and safety legislation, including the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all advisory board members, employees, volunteers, contractors, and anyone affected by our activities.

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Directors

• Ensure the CIC complies with health and safety legislation
• Provide adequate resources for health and safety
• Review health and safety performance regularly

3.2 Health and Safety Lead

• Oversee implementation of this policy
• Conduct risk assessments and ensure controls are in place
• Investigate incidents and recommend improvements

3.3 Managers / Supervisors

• Ensure safe working practices are followed
• Provide appropriate training and supervision
• Report hazards, incidents, and near misses

3.4 Employees and Volunteers

• Take reasonable care of their own health and safety and that of others
• Follow procedures and training
• Report hazards or concerns promptly

4. Risk Assessments

• Regular risk assessments will be carried out for all activities
• Significant findings will be recorded and reviewed
• Control measures will be implemented to reduce risks

5. Safe Working Practices

We will:

• Maintain safe premises and equipment
• Provide clear procedures for all activities
• Ensure safe handling and storage of materials
• Monitor and review working practices regularly

6. Training and Information

• All staff and volunteers will receive appropriate health and safety training
• Additional training will be provided where risks require it (e.g., manual handling, safeguarding)
• Information and instructions will be clearly communicated

7. Accidents and Incidents

• All accidents, incidents, and near misses must be reported
• Records will be kept in an accident log
• Serious incidents will be reported in line with RIDDOR requirements

8. First Aid

• Adequate first aid arrangements will be in place
• First aid kits will be maintained and accessible
• Trained first aiders will be identified where appropriate

9. Fire Safety

• Fire risk assessments will be conducted
• Emergency procedures and evacuation plans will be in place
• Fire alarms and extinguishers will be regularly checked
• Fire drills will be carried out periodically

10. Safeguarding

Where the CIC works with vulnerable individuals:

• Safeguarding policies and procedures will be followed
• Risks to beneficiaries will be assessed and managed

11. Equipment and Premises

• Equipment will be regularly inspected and maintained
• Unsafe equipment will not be used
• Premises will be kept in a safe condition

12. Contractors and Third Parties

• Contractors must comply with this policy
• Appropriate checks will be carried out before engagement
• Risks arising from contractor activities will be managed

13. Monitoring and Review

• Health and safety performance will be monitored
• This policy will be reviewed annually or after significant changes