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Question 1

What is soft fall, how deep should it be and when do I use it?

Answer

Question 2

Who do I contact if there are contractors adjacent to school grounds who are removing asbestos sheeting?

Answer

This is a common problem as they are often not aware of the Department's policy and guidelines. In this instance, please contact the Department's Safety Officers who will arrange an onsite inspection with the contractor to remedy the situation. Back to top

Question 3

How do I rid a room of the smell from new carpet adhesive?

Answer

This is another common problem in schools. The best way to remedy it is to ventilate the room as much as possible. Back Back to top

Question 4

Does the school need a qualified first aid person on site?

Answer

Under the Occupational Safety and Health Regulations it states:

"3.12 (2)

A person who, at a workplace, is an employer, the main contractor or a self-employed person -

(b) must ensure that, as far as practicable, persons trained in first aid are available to give first aid at the workplace, having regard to -

(i) the type of hazards to persons at the workplace and the risk of those hazards; and

(ii) the number of persons at the workplace."

The Department encourages people to gain their first aid certificate, however, it is not mandatory for all staff. Departmental policy now requires schools to have at least one member of staff that is trained in first aid. Back to top

Question 5

Do we have to have a safety representative in the school?

Answer

No. The Occupational Safety and Health Act includes provision for the election of a workplace safety representative but it is optional. The Department encourages schools to elect safety representatives. More information on safety representatives is available in the Department's Occupational Safety and Health Policy. Back to top

Question 6

I get a sore neck and shoulders when I use the computer. What can I do?

Answer

You may not be sitting correctly at the computer or your workstation may not be set up right so you can adopt the correct posture. Contact the Safety Unit for information and/or assistance. Back to top

Question 7

There isn't an extractor fan over the photocopier and I am concerned I may be breathing in fumes that may affect my health.

Answer

Ozone is produced during the photocopying process and it can irritate the eyes and throat. Most new photocopiers have inbuilt ozone filters that reduce the amount of ozone emissions. Photocopiers should be located in a well ventilated room with plenty of space around the machine for good airflow. Enclosed rooms should have some form of mechanical extraction. Back to top

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