Risk Assessments
In 2008 Julie Noble completed her training at DFH Ergonomics Ltd to become a Risk Assessor and Key Trainer in the Handling and Safe Movement of Patients and Loads. The trainer is Danielle Homes who is recognised as a leading expert witness. Julie follows an update programme to further develop her expertise.
Risk assessments are a legal document and can be submitted as admissible evidence in court. In cases where there is issue of liability Julie can act as a legal witness. It is important that risk assessments are read by the intended members of staff and that all guidance and advice is followed.
Julie provides an outreach service for all students attending mainstream settings in Islington who experience physical disabilities and mobility challenges. Her service includes advice and support that covers all aspects of safe moving, handling and transfers.
The outreach service offered by Julie complies with the 1992 Moving and Handling Regulations. Contravention of these guidelines place children and young people and the staff who support their needs at risk of injury.
The primary intention of the 1992 Regulations is to ensure that children and young people and the staff who support them remain safe at school. This is a legal duty of care.
Head teachers and school governors must ensure that the implementation of advice regarding safe moving and handling. A training programme for staff must be in place with risk assessments for those children and young people identified as having physical disabilities / mobility challenges. In compliance with the Regs Julie teaches a range of safe transfer strategies. Julie does not teach lifting techniques as these place both the child and member of staff at risk of injury or accident.
Equipment to meet the moving and handling needs of children and young people should be in place. Schools are required to purchase and install specialist equipment in accordance with the Equality Act 2010. Schools are expected to make Reasonable Adjustments to the school building to enhance access for all groups of pupils.