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Introduction
At Waimairi Toy Library, we are committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for our members, volunteers, and staff. This Health & Safety Policy outlines our commitment to maintaining high standards of health and safety within our toy library operations. The policy applies to all individuals involved in our activities, including employees, volunteers, and members.
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Responsibilities
2.1 Management Responsibilities
Management is responsible for:
a. Ensuring compliance with all applicable health and safety laws, regulations, and standards.
b. Providing necessary resources, training, and information to employees and volunteers to carry out their duties safely.
c. Regularly reviewing and updating the health and safety policy as needed.
d. Investigating and addressing all reported health and safety concerns promptly.
e. Encouraging a culture of safety awareness and promoting best practices.
2.2 Employee and Volunteer Responsibilities
Employees and volunteers are responsible for:
a. Complying with all health and safety policies and procedures.
b. Reporting any hazards, incidents, or near-miss occurrences to management immediately.
c. Using equipment, tools, and materials safely and as instructed.
d. Participating in health and safety training and actively applying the knowledge gained.
e. Promoting a safe and healthy environment for all members, volunteers, and staff.
2.3 Member Responsibilities
Members are responsible for:
a. Following all toy library rules and guidelines to ensure their own safety and the safety of others.
b. Reporting any safety concerns or incidents to the toy library staff immediately.
c. Using toys and equipment as intended, adhering to age recommendations and any usage instructions provided.
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Risk Assessment
Regular risk assessments will be conducted to identify potential hazards and assess associated risks within the toy library. The findings of the risk assessments will be documented, and appropriate control measures will be implemented to minimize or eliminate risks. Risk assessments will cover areas such as:
a. Toy safety and maintenance
b. Manual handling and lifting
c. Storage and shelving
d. Fire safety
e. Electrical safety
f. First aid provision
g. Infection control
h. Emergency evacuation procedures
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Toy Safety and Maintenance
4.1 Toy Selection
a. Toys will be selected with consideration for age appropriateness, safety standards, and potential hazards.
b. Age recommendations, warnings, and usage instructions will be clearly displayed for each toy.
c. Toys with small parts or potential choking hazards will be clearly labeled and kept out of reach of young children.
4.2 Toy Maintenance
a. Toys will be regularly inspected for damage, wear, or potential safety concerns. Things to consider include:
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Risk of injury from moving parts
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Risk of injury from broken or jagged fixtures
b. Damaged or broken toys will be removed from circulation until repaired or replaced.
c. Cleaning and sanitizing procedures will be implemented to ensure hygiene and prevent the spread of germs.
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Emergency Procedures
a. Adequate fire detection and suppression systems will be installed and maintained.
b. Emergency escape routes and evacuation procedures will be clearly displayed and communicated to all occupants.
c. Regular fire drills and emergency preparedness training will be conducted for employees and volunteers.
d. First aid kits, fire extinguishers, and other safety equipment will be readily available and regularly inspected.
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Training and Communication
a. All employees, volunteers, and relevant stakeholders will receive appropriate health and safety training.
b. Information and guidance on health and safety matters will be communicated regularly through staff meetings, training sessions, and written materials.
c. Any updates or changes to the health and safety policy will be promptly communicated to all relevant parties.
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Incident Reporting and Investigation
a. All incidents, accidents, near misses, and hazardous conditions will be reported to management immediately.
b. Thorough investigations will be conducted to determine the root causes of incidents and identify corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
c. Incident records and findings will be documented for future reference and improvement. Accidents should be listed on the Accident Register on Google Drive and an incident report should be completed and saved in the Accident Register folder.
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Policy Review
This Health & Safety Policy will be reviewed periodically, or as needed, to ensure its continued suitability, effectiveness, and compliance with relevant legislation. Updates and improvements will be made as necessary to promote a safe and healthy environment for all.