Light’s Hope is committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for all who attend its Churches, use its buildings, or take part in its activities.
2. Responsibilities
- The Trustees are responsible for ensuring that this policy is implemented across the denomination.
- Each Church is responsible for health and safety in its own buildings and activities.
- Each Church shall appoint a Health & Safety Officer (can be combined with another role if necessary).
3. General Principles
- All activities and buildings must be managed in a way that avoids risk of injury or harm.
- Risk assessments will be carried out for buildings, regular activities, and one-off events.
- Fire safety, first aid, and emergency procedures must be in place and clearly displayed.
- Any accidents or near misses must be recorded in an accident book and reported to the denominational Trustees.
4. Buildings and Equipment
- Churches must ensure that their buildings are maintained in a safe condition, with regular checks for hazards.
- Electrical equipment must be tested (PAT tested where required).
- Any hazardous substances (e.g. cleaning products) must be stored safely and labelled.
5. Activities and Events
- All activities involving children, young people, or vulnerable adults must follow safeguarding procedures as well as health and safety requirements.
- Events outside of Church buildings must include appropriate risk assessments.
6. Insurance
- The Trustees shall ensure that appropriate insurance (public liability, employer’s liability, buildings and contents where relevant) is maintained.
7. Reporting and Review
- Accidents or incidents must be reported promptly to the local Health & Safety Officer and recorded in writing.
- Serious incidents must be reported to the denominational Trustees.
- This policy shall be reviewed annually by the Trustees.