Winter Gritting and Snow Clearing Guidance
SOUTH KILWORTH CE PRIMARY SCHOOL
YMD Boon Ltd – Winter Gritting and Snow Clearing Guidance
BMS – H&S – 031
Document Author SB
Authorised by DY
Revision: 2 14.08.15
Introduction
In recent times there has been some confusion regarding the correct action to be taken when routes within a school become affected by snow and ice.
The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 requires that floors and traffic routes are to be kept in a safe condition for employees. The Approved Code of Practice (ACOP) to these regulations makes specific reference to minimising the risk from snow and ice and there is a recommendation regarding snow clearing and gritting.
The Occupiers’ Liability Act 1957 extends a ‘common duty of care’ to all visitors that they will be reasonably safe in using the premises for which they are invited or permitted by the occupier to be on the premises.
Due to the above it is felt an established system for controlling the hazards of snow and ice should be introduced across sites. The guidance below demonstrates reasonable lengths in managing the hazards of snow and ice within the grounds of a site. Establishments should not avoid clearing paths for fear of an injury. People walking on snow and ice have a responsibility to be careful themselves.
This guidance document sets out the arrangements that can be put in place to prevent slips, trips, and falls due to adverse weather conditions. This guidance document also aims to give clear information to staff on suitable control measures and other factors which must be taken into consideration.
Guidance on snow clearing and winter gritting
When routes/paths are affected by snow or ice the following actions are recommended: -
•Clear snow and ice early in the day. It’s easier to move fresh, loose snow rather than hard snow that has packed together from people walking on it. By removing the top layer of snow in the morning, any sunshine during the day will help melt any ice beneath.
•Snow should be removed by using suitable equipment. Hot water should not be used to melt snow, as this may refreeze and turn into black ice. A snow shovel can be used to remove snow, or grit may be used to melt snow and provide grip under foot.
•Inform staff and public (where possible) prior to snow/ice of which routes will be gritted/cleared of snow and instruct them they must keep to these routes. This information could be communicated to parents through a ‘winter newsletter’, which has a plan of the school grounds and shows the routes that will be gritted. Staff can be informed through emails and staff meetings etc.
•Restrict access on to the site to a minimum number of designated routes appropriate to the size of the site and concentrate gritting or snow clearing to these areas, paying particular attention to steps, disabled ramps, fire exits and evacuation routes.
•Warning signs should be erected at the entrances to these designated routes/paths (See appendix 1)
•A written record should be made of which paths are gritted/snow cleared and at what time this took place (see appendix 2). In freezing conditions/snow fall routes/paths will need to be gritted/cleared at regular intervals to ensure ice does not reform.
•Ensure the activity of gritting/snow clearing is risk assessed and the individuals involved understand and follow the control measures in place. A generic risk assessment for gritting/snow clearing is included in appendix 3. This risk assessment should be used as a starting point and modified for each site.
•Suitable doormats should be available within entrances to buildings to enable water and slush to be removed from shoes to prevent individuals slipping on wet floors.
•In the event of staff/public slipping within the grounds the school’s accident reporting procedure should be followed.
Appendix 1 – Warning Sign
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Letter to parents
SOUTH KILWORTH Church of England Primary School.
Procedure for Opening the school in inclement weather.
In the event of snow we will aim to keep the school open but this could become impossible if the conditions prevent staff travelling to work. Please keep this information handy.
How will I be informed about closure?
If we awake to really heavy snow the decision to open or close will be taken by the Head teacher. We will aim to make the decision about opening around 7.30a.m and if the school is closed you will be informed by text message if we have a number for you on our file. Alternatively please listen to Radio Leicester 104.9FM where information will be given out on their snow desk. Please note if you do not receive a message the school is opening.
Do not phone the school itself as this blocks the telephone lines and prevents our staff from contacting school.
What will happen if it snows during the school day?
If it starts to snow during the school day we may contact you to invite you to collect your child early if you are able. The school will remain open until the end of the school day but staff may be sent home if they have a long journey home. Children will be supervised by remaining staff.
What will happen if the school opens?
In the event of snow and the school remaining open we will aim to clear and grit the pavement outside the school gates for the length of the entry barrier, into school up to the log cabin, KS2 block and infant classroom. All children and parents are reminded to keep to the main cleared paths. Please be aware that paths around the school may be slippery and should be used with caution.
Will my child be allowed to play out in the snow?
During the cold snap children may bring wellingtons, warm clothing and waterproofs. This will enable them to play on the field during break should conditions and staffing allow. Children who do not bring suitable clothing will not be able to play outside as we do not have facilities to dry clothing or footwear.
WALCOTE ROAD
We will grit and clear this area, but please
approach cautiously.
School Gates Entry barrier
WALCOTE ROAD
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