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School Playground Risk Assessments

Risk Assessment for Sports Clubs on Primary School Playground

1. Hazard Identification:

1.1 Surface Hazards:

  • Tripping hazards such as uneven surfaces, loose gravel, or worn-out playground flooring.

1.2 Equipment Hazards:

  • Risks associated with using playground equipment during sports activities.

1.3 Collision Hazards:

  • Participants colliding during activities.

  • Contact with other players, structures, or fixed equipment.

1.4 Weather-Related Hazards:

  • Exposure to extreme heat, cold, rain, or lightning during outdoor activities.

1.5 First Aid and Emergency Access:

  • Inadequate access to first aid supplies.

  • Clear communication of emergency procedures.

1.6 Allergies and Medical Conditions:

  • Unawareness of participants' allergies or medical conditions.

2. Risk Evaluation:

2.1 Surface Hazards:

  • Likelihood: Moderate

  • Severity: Low to Moderate

2.2 Equipment Hazards:

  • Likelihood: Moderate

  • Severity: Low to Moderate

2.3 Collision Hazards:

  • Likelihood: Moderate

  • Severity: Moderate

2.4 Weather-Related Hazards:

  • Likelihood: Moderate

  • Severity: Moderate to High

2.5 First Aid and Emergency Access:

  • Likelihood: Low

  • Severity: Moderate

2.6 Allergies and Medical Conditions:

  • Likelihood: Low

  • Severity: Moderate

3. Control Measures:

3.1 Surface Hazards:

  • Regular inspection of the playground for hazards.

  • Immediate repair of uneven surfaces and worn-out flooring.

  • Clear markings for play areas.

3.2 Equipment Hazards:

  • Regular inspection and maintenance of playground equipment.

  • Adequate supervision during equipment use.

  • Proper instruction on equipment usage.

3.3 Collision Hazards:

  • Participants to be grouped by age and skill level.

  • Clear communication of activity boundaries.

  • Use of proper padding on structures and equipment.

3.4 Weather-Related Hazards:

  • Regular weather monitoring before and during activities.

  • Implementation of heat and cold policies.

  • Clear evacuation procedures in case of lightning.

3.5 First Aid and Emergency Access:

  • Designated first aid area with easy access to supplies.

  • Trained staff or volunteers with knowledge of first aid procedures.

  • Clearly marked emergency exits.

3.6 Allergies and Medical Conditions:

  • Participants to provide medical information upon registration.

  • Allergic reactions and medical conditions communicated to staff.

  • First aid staff informed of participants with specific needs.

4. Monitoring and Review:

4.1 Regular Inspections:

  • Conduct regular inspections of the playground for hazards.

  • Update risk assessment as needed.

4.2 Emergency Drills:

  • Conduct emergency evacuation drills.

  • Ensure all participants are familiar with emergency procedures.

4.3 Feedback and Communication:

  • Encourage feedback from participants and staff regarding safety concerns.

  • Maintain open communication channels for reporting hazards.

This risk assessment is a living document and will be reviewed annually or as circumstances change. All staff and volunteers involved in running sports clubs on the primary school playground are expected to familiarize themselves with this assessment and adhere to the outlined control measures.

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