One of the main concerns of any management committee is how to reduce the chance of anything going wrong. So what should be put in place to ensure that trustees are meeting their responsibilities when it comes to their duty of care for all users?
What is recommended as good practice and what is essential under the law?
What exactly is a Health & Safety Policy?
What should be in our First Aid kit?
The following documents relating to some safety issues could be useful. Example of fire risk assessment, Fire safety log book, first aid box information.
Fire Extinguishers Part of any strategy designed to reduce risks is to protect your hall & aid your escape with sufficient fire extinguishers of the right type which are serviced regularly. Your Consortium has negotiated a discounted price with a Northumbrian based suppliers. NB It is important you confirm the current charges and discounts with all these companies and explain that you are a member of the Consortium.
Tyne Fire & Safety Ltd Northumberland charges £24.50 for an Annual Fire Extinguisher Service & Certification and £6 for each fire extinguisher serviced inclusive of all the changeable parts. Any replacement units at required BS5306 interval periods (5 and 10 years depending on type) at £65 each. There is a disposal charge of £6.00. All prices quoted are exVAT. Contact: 01665 522 656 or email: tynefiresafety@yahoo.co.uk
Emergency Lights A member has drawn our attention to an excellent guide to the whole issue of emergency lighting (they stay on in the event of the power to the building being terminated). This guide should help you get your system up to standard and the section “locating your emergency lights” acts as a practical check-list.
Photograph: Whittingham Memorial Institute
North Northumberland Village Halls Consortium 