An assessment of health and safety in a secondary school's science section with a special focus on biological activities

Abstract

The practical component in secondary school science laboratories requires students and staff to work with materials and apparatus which have the potential to be hazardous. Thus the school community must ensure that a healthy and safe environment is provided and maintained. This essay identifies a number of issues that should be considered in relation to health and safety (H&S) in secondary school science departments. It also highlights various H&S aspects in relation to the different types of practicals in the teaching of Biology. Research was then conducted (1) amongst the members of the science staff to assess their H&S awareness, and (2) in the biology laboratory, preparation room and chemicals store to identify the H&S risks present. A number of methods of good practise were identified; however it was also found that a formal system for the implementation of H&S was not in place. A draft general statement of an H&S policy, a draft organisational structure and a list of guidelines and procedures to be included in an H&S manual has been compiled. Other recommendations, urgent and longer term, have also been identified.