SHOWOFF DANCE HEALTH & SAFETY POLICY

PART 1 – STATEMENT OF INTENT

 

Statement of policy on health and safety at work SHOWOFF DANCE has a responsibility to ensure the Health and Safety of all its employees including volunteer workers (hereinafter referred to as employees) whilst working in or out (performances/displays/events) of SHOWOFF DANCE classes and all its customers whilst in attendance. SHOWOFF DANCE –through management at all levels, will provide, as far as is reasonably practicable, a safe working environment and with minimum risk to employees, students, visitors and members of the public. Showoff Dance will fulfil its responsibilities by taking steps to work in accordance with current relative Health and Safety legislation, published Approved Codes of Practice and good working practices.

This will be achieved by:

•          Seeking at all times to provide safe working procedures, good working conditions and a healthy working environment.

•          Ensuring that employees know of the potential hazards associated with the various activities undertaken by SHOWOFF DANCE and are aware of how to avoid associated risks.

•          Providing training and instruction to enable employees to perform their work safely and efficiently.

•          Promoting the maximum individual attention and effort on behalf of employees at all levels to avoid and prevent accidents.

•          While the overall responsibility for Health and Safety rests with SHOWOFF DANCE, all employees at every level have a duty to fulfil their legal obligations and responsibilities.

•          A list of the Health and Safety responsibilities of employees is set out in this Health and Safety Policy.

•          This policy also provides further information on responsibilities in relation to Health and Safety at Work together with the administration systems and procedures that are in force. SHOWOFF DANCE is required to undertake statutory Risk Assessments of all workplace Health and Safety risks. The significant findings of these statutory Risk Assessments are communicated to all those at risk, and are reflected in this Health and Safety Policy.

Signature

Liam Abram-Smith, CEO, Founder, Choreographer and Teacher of Showoff Dance ©2020Showoff Dance

 

RESPONSIBILITIES OF SHOWOFF DANCE

 

SHOWOFF DANCE will:

•          Maintain overall responsibility for health and safety by ensuring that the Health and Safety Policy and procedures and monitoring are in operation, all necessary risk assessments are carried out within the business and any necessary control measures are implemented and monitored.

•          Ensure arrangements for the supervision of the implementation of the Health and Safety Policy and monitoring of its adequacy are in place.

•          Ensure that adequate resources, reviews, procedures and records are identified and maintained.

•          Ensure that that all employees and freelance workers are made aware of the contents of this policy and their responsibilities in relation to health and safety.

•          Ensure that a system of accident reporting, investigation and analysis of all accidents that occur in the workplace is maintained.

•          Ensure that information from the Health and Safety Executive / Local Health Authority is disseminated to the relevant people and that any necessary action is specified and taken.

•          Ensure that no employee or freelance worker is instructed to carry out any action or operate any machinery, plant or equipment for which they have not been adequately trained.

•          Ensure that all employees, freelance workers, students, visitors, contractors and members of the public are made aware of any risks that may affect them and of any necessary preventive action required.

•          Organise an annual safety audit of the business’ activities and premises and ensure that any necessary safety improvements are implemented.

•          Ensure that any suggestions made to improve health and safety are considered and implemented where appropriate.

•          Ensure that there is access to a competent person as defined by The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999

 

RESPONSIBILITIES OF CEO

 

The CEO shall:

•          Supervise the implementation of the Health and Safety policy and monitor its adequacy.

•          Ensure that adequate resources, reviews, procedures and records are identified and maintained.

•          Ensure that that all employees and freelance workers are made aware of the contents of this policy and their responsibilities in relation to health and safety.

•          Maintain a system of accident reporting, investigation and analysis of all accidents that occur in the workplace.

•          Ensure that information from the Health and Safety Executive / Local Health Authority is disseminated to the relevant people and that any necessary action is specified and taken.

•         

•          Ensure that no employee or freelance workers is instructed to carry out any action or operate any machinery or equipment for which they have not been adequately trained.

•          Ensure that all employees, freelance workers, students, visitors, contractors and members of the public are made aware of any risks that may affect them and of any necessary preventive action required.

•          Organise an annual safety audit of the business’ activities and premises and ensure that any necessary safety improvements are implemented.

•          Ensure that any suggestions made to improve health and safety are considered and implemented where appropriate.

•          Ensure that there is access to a competent person as defined by The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999.

 

RESPONSIBILITIES OF SECRETARY

 

The Secretary shall:

•          Supervise the implementation of the Health and Safety Policy and monitor its adequacy.

•          Ensure that adequate resources, reviews, procedures and records, in areas under their control, are identified and maintained.

•          The SECRETARY shall make employees and freelance workers aware of the contents of this policy and their responsibilities in relation to health and safety.

•          Maintain a system of accident reporting, investigation and analysis of all accidents that occur in the workplace, within areas of their responsibility.

•          Ensure that information from the Health and Safety Executive / Local Health Authority is disseminated to the relevant people and that any necessary action is specified and taken.

•          Ensure that no employees or freelance workers, within their area of responsibility are instructed to carry out any action or operate any machinery, plant or equipment for which they have not been adequately trained.

•          Ensure that all employees, students, visitors, contractors and members of the public are made aware of any risks that may affect them and of any necessary preventive action required.

•          May participate in and/or Chair a Health and Safety MEETING within the organisation as considered appropriate and in accordance with statutory provisions.

•          Assist in organising an annual safety audit of the business’ activities and premises and ensure that any necessary safety improvements are implemented, within their area of control.

•          Ensure that any suggestions made to improve health and safety are considered and implemented where appropriate.

•          Ensure that there is access to a competent person as defined by The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999.

 

RESPONSIBILITIES OF PERSONAL ASSISTANT

 

The personal assistant shall:

•          Ensure that the Health and Safety Policy is fully implemented within their area of responsibility.

•          Ensure that all employees and freelance workers under their supervision are aware of the contents of the safety policy and the duties imposed upon them.

•          Ensure that all subordinates receive adequate information, instruction, training and supervision to ensure that all work activities are conducted in a safe manner.

•          Take and initiate action required to ensure health and safety risks arising from work activity or within the workplace are fully investigated and dealt with.

•          Ensure that no subordinates are instructed to carry out any action, or operate any machinery or equipment for which they have not been adequately trained.

•          Ensure that any defect in equipment, work area or work activity that is reported to them is investigated and dealt with.

•          Ensure that all workplaces within their designated area of responsibility are monitored to ensure that safe conditions are maintained.

•          Ensure that all incidents causing injury or damage to property, machinery or equipment are investigated, reported and correctly documented.

•          Ensure that employees including volunteers, students, visitors, and contractors are aware of any risks in the area and of established safety procedures.

 

RESPONSIBILITIES OF EMPLOYEES (PAID OR VOLUNTEERS)

 

Employees and volunteers shall:

Employees Health and safety affects all personnel at all levels within the organisation. To achieve and maintain high standards of health and safety within the business, all employees (including volunteers) shall, in accordance with sections 7 and 8 of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974:

•          Be aware that they have a duty under legislation and codes of practice to take reasonable care for their own health and safety, safe practice and the safety of others that may be affected by their acts or omissions.

•          Comply with the safety policy, procedures and regulations designed to protect the health, safety and welfare of everyone affected by the business’ undertakings.

•          Neither intentionally nor recklessly interfere with nor mis-use any equipment, provided for the protection of health and safety.

•          Be aware of emergency procedures including the evacuation and fire precaution procedures.

•          Conduct themselves, whilst at work, in such a manner as not to compromise themselves or others who their actions may affect.

•          Co-operate with managers and supervisors in preventing accidents or health risks to themselves, other employees, students, members of the public or visitors.

•          Wear personal protective equipment whenever instructed to do so or in circumstances that require its use.

•          Report any work conditions that they consider being unsafe or unhealthy at once to their manager.

•          Any employee who fails to comply with the Health and Safety Policy, or who intentionally or recklessly interferes with or misuses any equipment provided for the protection of health and safety will be subject to disciplinary action.

 

ARRANGEMENTS FOR HEALTH & SAFETY

 

Accident / Injury Reporting Procedures

•          All accidents and near misses that occur at work will be recorded using an accident form available in the Accident book, located on the premises being used.

•          The Head of HR will analyse the accident reports on a regular basis and together with the CEO and then decide on the next course of action.

•          Where the Local Authority requires notification the Head of HR will complete the necessary forms online at www.riddor.gov.uk within the required timescale.

•          RIDDOR reportable incidents /injuries are: –

•          Fatalities – all deaths of workers and non-workers if they arise from a work place accident, including an act of physical violence to an employee / worker.

•          – “Specified” injuries as defined in RIDDOR 2013 (replacing RIDDOR 1995), which are: o fractures, other than to fingers, thumbs and toes to amputations to any injury likely to lead to permanent loss of sight or reduction in sight to any crush injury to the head or torso causing damage to the brain or internal organs or serious burns (including scalding) which:

•          covers more than 10% of the body

•          causes significant damage to the eyes, respiratory system or other vital organs or any scalping requiring hospital treatment or any loss of consciousness caused by head injury or asphyxia o any other injury arising from working in an enclosed space which:

•          leads to hypothermia or heat-induced illness

•          requires resuscitation or admittance to hospital for more than 24 hours – Accidents involving an employee being incapacitated and away from work for a period of seven or more days (to be reported within 15 days of the accident.) –

•          Occupational Diseases (full list available at www.hse.gov.uk/riddor/occupational-diseases – Dangerous occurrences, including specified near-miss events (full list available at www.hse.gov.uk/riddor/dangerous-occurences

Where serious accidents or near-miss events occur, the CEO and SECRETARY with the assistance of the PA should immediately organise an accident investigation with a view to determining the cause(s) of the accident and to identify any remedial action to prevent recurrence. A ‘SHOWOFF DANCE Incident/Accident Report Form should be used for this purpose. Once investigation is completed any identified actions should be carried out within an agreed timeframe. The completed Incident/Accident Report Form should be retained along with any accompanying documentation and kept on file.

•          Accidents involving children or young persons shall be reported using the Accident book forms.  In addition, the child’s parent or legal guardian will also be informed and sent or given a copy of the Accident form.

•          Where applicable the first aider should also inform the relevant Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO) at SHOWOFF DANCE when a child or student under 18 has been involved in an accident and there appears to be some safeguarding concerns.

•          Details of the names of DSOs may be found in the Safeguarding Policy and Procedures available at request.

 

FIRST AID

 

Showoff Dance will comply with the requirements of the Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981. Sufficient personnel are nominated as First Aiders and are suitably trained and certificated by attending a three day First Aid at Work course. HSE guidance in selecting a competent training provider will be followed. These people will be known as qualified First Aiders.

Copies of the training certificates will be kept on file within the HR Department. Qualified First Aiders attend an annual refresher course and a requalification course at the end of the three year qualification period.

Additional employees will attend annual First Aid training courses, Emergency First Aid training courses or Paediatric First Aid training courses to supplement the first aid team and to comply with the SHOWOFF DANCE Safeguarding Policy & Procedures.

Suitable and sufficient notices are posted around the premises indicating the name, location and internal contact telephone number of all First Aiders.

Information about qualified First Aiders is also kept in the people directory.

First aid boxes are located throughout SHOWOFF DANCE premises. First aid boxes are checked on a monthly basis by the Facilities Department and where necessary the contents replenished. The minimum legal provision of a suitably stocked first aid box will always be met.

Where a member of staff or student is taken to hospital (by ambulance, taxi or other form of transport), where possible, the qualified first aider who attended the individual’s first aid needs will accompany the individual to hospital. If this is not possible, an alternative qualified first aider will where possible accompany the individual.

Where a child or young student needs to be taken to hospital they will be accompanied by their parent/guardian, but where this is not immediately possible, a qualified first aider will attend and the parent/guardian will be immediately notified. Home workers are supplied with First Aid boxes who should request further supplies from the Head of Facilities as necessary.

Where a first aider is tending to an individual and an ambulance is required, the first aider should where possible be the person to call 999 or ask someone close to them to call. It is always better, for the first aider to be with the patient when calling as this allows the call handler to ask specific questions which will enable life threatening conditions to be prioritised. If a first aider is not immediately available, it is permissible for anyone to call as the call handler will give relevant instructions. It is often quicker to call direct rather than asking reception to make the call, as this will delay the process and they will also be isolated from the incident with no information on the individual case.

When calling 999 the following information should be given:

•          The location or address including the postcode or exactly where you are

•          The telephone number you are calling from.

•          Brief explanation of what has happened.

•          The patient’s age, gender and any medical history (if known)

•          Whether the patient is awake/conscious, breathing and if there is any serious bleeding or chest injury.

•          Details of the injury and how it happened. Providing this information will not delay the ambulance but it will help the emergency services to provide the caller with first aid advice and to send the most appropriate help.

•          If someone is not breathing the call handler will talk the caller through what can be done to help, which will include instructions on how to commence Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and to do this the caller will need to be next to the patient.

•          You may be asked to the put the phone on loudspeaker and be asked to shout out the press compressions as you give them, so that the call handler knows what is happening. CPR should continue until a paramedic tells you to stop.

 

FIRE

•          A Fire Risk Assessment has been completed for the premises, which gives details of the controls in place in order to minimise risk to life in the event of fire.

•          All employees are instructed on the action to be taken in the event of a fire or other emergency. All employees will be fully conversant with procedures for fire prevention, detection and evacuation.

•      Wherever necessary, sufficient personnel will be nominated to act as Fire Officers. They will attend suitable training on a regular basis. Certificates confirming training course attendance will be kept on file within the HR Department. The names of trained Fire Officers will be included on notices located throughout the building.

•          Regular visitors to the premises including, parents/guardians are to be sent the Fire Evacuation Procedure document available upon request.

•          Employees are not to interfere with any equipment provided to detect or fight fires.

•          Employees noticing any shortcomings in firefighting equipment are to report the matter immediately to the Head of Facilities.

•          Action on discovering a fire

•          Raise the alarm by using the nearest alarm call point.

•      Shout “FIRE FIRE FIRE”. Trained Fire Officers may attempt to put out the fire, but only if safe to do so.

•          All occupants should evacuate the building, without using the lift via the safest route to the nearest fire exit and assemble in their departmental group.

•          Avoid using mobile telephones and carrying hot drinks while evacuating the building, and be alert for further instructions.

•          Once clear of danger, the Fire Brigade should be called.

•      Directors, Heads of Depts. and Managers should check that all those for whom they are responsible in his / her department are safe and present at the Assembly point (far side of car park) and inform the Lead Fire Officer accordingly.

•      Teachers / Lecturers and/or anyone responsible for a studio activity should check that all those who are recorded in the register for the activity are present and inform the Lead Fire Officer accordingly.

•      Anyone using toilet or shower facilities whilst the evacuation is taking place, should leave as soon as possible and notify the Lead fire Officer as soon as they have been able to exit the building.

•          NO ONE SHOULD RE ENTER THE BUILDING OR LEAVE THE FIRE ASSEMBLY POINTS, UNTIL INSTRUCTED BY THE FIRE BRIGADE THAT IT IS SAFE TO DO SO.

 

RISK ASSESSMENTS

 

It is Showoff Dance’s policy that formal written risk assessments will be undertaken prior to commencement of any work, which is potentially harmful to health.

Relevant employees receive training in risk assessment techniques organised by the CEO. Risk assessments, once completed, will be brought to the attention of any person who may be affected by the work to which the risk assessment relates.

Risk assessments will be reviewed at least annually by the person responsible for the work / activity or as required due to a change in the risk severity or a change in the working procedures. Any changes made will be brought to the attention of all people who may be affected by the change.

There is a standard Showoff dance Risk Assessment and standard Risk Assessment form which should be completed referring to the Risk Assessment Matrix for all activities. Once completed the forms should be filed as Risk Assessments.

•          Assessments shall include: 

•          The nature of the potential risk (Operational, Mechanical, Biological, Chemical etc.)

•          Who is at risk

•          The control measures present

•          Any further and necessary control measures.

•          All Department Heads/ Managers are required to complete an annual Risk Assessment Compliance Form that confirms that risk assessments for their area of responsibility are up to date and remain relevant.

•          The form is to be completed by 31 December each year for review by the CEO in January and any necessary action taken. Completed Risk Assessment Compliance Forms are to be stored under Risk Assessments

 

MEDICAL / INFECTIOUS DISEASES

 

Employees must disclose information about medical conditions from which they suffer if it is likely to affect them whilst at work, if it should be known in the event of them being involved in an accident or incident or if they need to carry medication with them (see Drugs & Alcohol Policy).

Disclosure should be made to the HR Department. All information will be treated with confidence, unless it is necessary to advise a First Aider or other qualified practitioner.

Employees must inform the HR Department if they have contracted or been in contact with an infectious or contagious disease, by producing a current Fit Note or certificate.

•          If required the employee may be sent home with pay for a specific time. 3.11.3 Examples of the infectious or contagious diseases which must be notified are:

•      Chickenpox

•          Cholera

•          Covid-19

•          Food Poisoning

•          Hepatitis

•          Impetigo

•          Jaundice

•          Malaria

•          Measles

•          Ringworm

•          Scabies

•          Tuberculosis 

•          Typhoid and Whooping Cough

 

•          Influenza H1N1 (swine flu) 

"Showoff Dance is for all people of all ages and all abilities" My daughter has an acquired brain injury and has limited mobility. This has made no difference as she joins in where she can and really enjoys the class. Liam and the group are warm and welcoming and he embraces her attendance. Liam truly does believe Showoff Dance is for all people of all ages and all abilities. Before her brain injury my daughter loved music and dancing and now can once again enjoy it, lose weight and get fit in a fun environment. Showoff dance has demonstrated such a refreshing attitude, thanks Liam!
Alison C
"My son has really loved Show off dance classes! He made some good friends and has learnt some dance skills. But most of all and importantly he's had great fun. Liam is fantastic at engaging with all the children and making them all feel equally special and worthy and in turn they enjoy his classes a lot. Definitely recommend these classes for all ages, (Including adults!)"
Sarah P
"You don't really see many mixed dance classes" Being in the army and moving around, I thought this would be another club my wife and children would join and not stick with it, but how wrong was I? My children and wife go twice a week. I think the dance fitness is amazing. I have no problem in telling my friends about this, When away on exercise, and my wife is working someone will always come and collect my children, so they don’t miss out. You don't really see many mixed dance classes, and its great the way that Liam welcomes men & women into the class. One of my daughters is not a very active person, but she is one of the first in the house to be in the car waiting to go.
Jeff D
"My son who has got cerebral palsy had his first session today and what can i say, Liam and bernie has welcomed him in and he really enjoyed it thankyou so much for giving him this opportunity to be part of something special you wouldnt believe how overwhelmed and happy i am that we have found something he can do and be a part of i cant recommend these enough thankyou!"
Natalie C
"Our daughter is painfully shy but after 2 failed attempts she's absolutely loving the Saturday Tikes class now. Liam and Bernie's patience is second to none and they make every child feel like one of the team! So important in helping children enjoy the class."
Tori L
"I enrolled my daughter to help build her confidence and self esteem. Showoff dance has acheived both and much more. Mia loves attending classes, making new friends and learning new dances routines. In Mia's own words "she loves the dances, singing and drama."
Claire S
"I could probably write an essay on how great ShowOff Dance Fitness is and why, but I will try and keep it short and sweet. My aim when starting the fitness class was to get fit as opposed to losing weight, after four weeks of classes though I noticed a change in muscle tone and body shape and a reduction of cellulite on my thighs and bum. And it has continued :) The classes are fun, you really don't feel like you are working out, although I am usually drenched in sweat by the end! When I look around during the class everyone else appears to be having fun too, and that is one of the main reasons I keep going. Thank you Liam."
Gail J
"An absolutely awesome end of year show. Every year it gets better and better all the performers were incredible and the variety of performances kept the audience on their toes. Liam is an inspiration and makes all his classes so enjoyable with his unique humour. I only do the fitness classes at the moment and I love being part of the Showoff Dance family."
Vicky W
"My 2 year old loves these dance classes and being in the show. The enthusiasm, patience and skills that are shown on Saturday mornings to teach toddlers and pre-schoolers is impressive."
Rachel G
"I wish I had found and joined Showoff Dance sooner. Joining has changed my life. I have made some fantastic new friends, got fit and had great fun learning dance routines. I even surprised my self so much by what I can actually do. I thought I would not have the courage to take part in the end of year show, but I was wrong. I took part in last years show, it was amazing. I am so proud of myself and its all thanks to Liam pushing me to do my best and believing in me."
Monica C
"Showoff Dance, the place that has made me a much better dancer that's for sure, built my confidence up loads, where I have met wonderful new people and felt so welcome right from day 1! This is all down to the lovely atmosphere and community that Liam has created at Showoff! I love going to all the classes. Anyone who is interested in dance should definitely come and give Showoff a go!"
Laura S
"Liam personally coached me and my husband for a waltz for our first dance. He choreographed a routine to our chosen piece of music and at very short notice took time out of his busy schedule to train us. The results were nothing short of outstanding. From 2 sessions (and some self practice) we had a wonderful first dance which wowed our guests and which went seamlessly. Liam was professional, committed and an excellent teacher. The first dance was something my husband had been dreading, but Liam gave us confidence and helped turn that moment into a joyful experience. More importantly, he helped ensure we had a lasting and beautiful memory of our first dance and hopefully more dancing together in the future. Thank you!"
Jeannie S
"I genuinely can't recommend Showoff Dance enough! Our daughter started attending the tiny tots class at 21 months old - she absolutely loves it and will ask to go dancing most mornings! Liam is incredible with the children - he is full of praise and makes each session full of enjoyment for them. Our daughter has developed in her confidence and independence and has found such enjoyment in dance it really is wonderful to watch. She will dance to Liam's choreography at home as well as making up her own routines (Bless her!) and has thoroughly enjoyed taking part in all the displays that Showoff Dance takes part in locally for fetes and festivals. If you are looking for something for your child to take part in outside of the usual playgroups etc, I really would suggest you give Showoff Dance a try"
Alicia P
Liam has been working with the Tidworth community and surrounding villages for the last 8 years introducing young and older people into various modes of dance. His vision is to foster an all inclusive dance project to integrate military and civilian people, from all walks of life and all different ages. He has successfully done this through his sheer hard work and determination to make his classes affordable, fun and interesting. Liam now has a dance company called ‘Showoff Dance’ and his reputation and popularity as a dance teacher has become widely known. Liam is able to work with all abilities and ages and has excellent choreographic skills in combining all the different dance classes into one when asked to a community performance. This has happened on many occasions with performances in London, Essex, Salisbury and various charity and community events, quite often with very short notice. Showoff Dance has worked closely with the Army Welfare Service (AWS) in delivering dance sessions for children, teenagers and Tidworth Mums through the AWS multisport and alternative sports sessions. Liam’s classes are diverse ranging from his youngest dancer who are under 1 years old, to his eldest dancers who is 75 years plus which are very popular. Liam’s community dance vision has had a huge, positive impact on this community, raising self esteem, confidence and fitness levels as well as giving people the opportunity to learn many different dance routines. Liam has the determination, motivation, personality and drives to give this community many opportunities in dance.
Army Welfare ServiceJoyce Stretton
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