At Be. Independent Day Nursery, we are committed to ensuring the health, safety, and welfare of all children, staff, and visitors. This procedure outlines the measures we will take to promote a safe environment, in compliance with relevant legislation and government guidelines.

1. Legal Framework

This procedure is guided by the following legislation and guidelines:

• The Children Act 1989 and 2004
• The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974
• The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999
• The Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)
• Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) 2023
• Local Safeguarding Children Board (LSCB) guidelines

2. Aims of the Procedure

• To create a safe and healthy environment for children, staff, and visitors.
• To ensure compliance with health and safety legislation.
• To promote the physical and emotional wellbeing of all children in our care.

3. Health and Safety Responsibilities

3.1 Management Responsibilities:

• The Nursery Manager is responsible for implementing and reviewing this procedure and ensuring that all staff are aware of their responsibilities regarding health and safety.

3.2 Staff Responsibilities:

• All staff members are required to adhere to health and safety policies and report any concerns to the management immediately.

4. Risk Assessment

• Conduct regular risk assessments for all areas of the nursery, including outdoor spaces and equipment. Assessments will cover potential hazards and outline measures to mitigate risks.
• Risk assessments will be reviewed annually or sooner if there are significant changes to the environment or activities.

5. First Aid and Medical Emergencies

Be. Independent Day Nursery – Policies for Website, updated October 2024

5.1 First Aid:

• At least one member of staff will hold a current first aid qualification suitable for early years.
• First aid kits will be accessible and regularly checked to ensure they are fully stocked.

5.2 Medical Emergencies:

• Procedures for dealing with medical emergencies, including severe allergies or other health conditions, will be documented and communicated to all staff.
• Parents/guardians will be required to complete medical consent forms for medication administration.

6. Hygiene and Infection Control

• Maintain high standards of hygiene throughout the nursery, including regular cleaning of toys, surfaces, and equipment.
• Encourage handwashing among children and staff, particularly before meals and after using the toilet.
• Follow Public Health England guidelines on infection control and reporting any outbreaks of communicable diseases.

7. Fire Safety

• Conduct regular fire drills to ensure all staff and children are familiar with evacuation procedures.
• Maintain clear signage for emergency exits and ensure all fire safety equipment is regularly checked and serviced.

8. Food Safety

• Ensure all food served meets health and safety regulations. Staff responsible for food preparation will receive appropriate training.
• Keep records of allergies and dietary requirements for all children.

9. Child Supervision and Safety

• Maintain appropriate adult-to-child ratios in line with the EYFS requirements to always ensure adequate supervision.
• Conduct regular safety checks of the indoor and outdoor environments to ensure they are safe for children.

10. Training and Awareness

• Provide regular training for all staff on health and safety, child safeguarding, and emergency procedures.
• Foster a culture of health and safety awareness among staff and children through regular discussions and activities.

Be. Independent Day Nursery – Policies for Website, updated October 2024

11. Monitoring and Review

• This procedure will be reviewed annually or sooner if necessary to reflect changes in legislation or practice.
• Regular audits will be conducted to ensure compliance with health and safety regulations