Physical Education Class (PE) Risk Assessment Template

Typical hazards & measures

• Inappropriate footwear and clothing — Publish a clear PE kit policy: supportive footwear, hair tied back, no jewellery, nails short; provide spare kit where possible. Check compliance at the start, issue tape for newly pierced ears only when sport-appropriate, and adapt tasks where clothing/footwear is marginal.
• Behaviour and horseplay — Set clear conduct rules and consequences; enforce no-contact or controlled-contact expectations as appropriate; remove unsafe participants from play to reset; use engaging, competitive but fair structures; and build reflection routines that reward safe decision-making and teamwork.
• Inadequate emergency response and first aid — Ensure a qualified first aider, stocked kits and ice are on hand; carry a charged phone or radio; display grid reference or what3words; brief evacuation routes; practise summon-and-stay protocols; record incidents and near misses; and review controls after each significant event.
• Improper equipment setup and handling — Only trained staff set out large apparatus; pupils assist with age-appropriate roles after instruction. Use lifting techniques, spotters and safe routes; secure posts and mats; verify stability and clearances before use. Dismantle methodically and return items to designated storage.
• Overexertion and fatigue — Differentiate workloads using timed intervals, RPE cues and heart-rate recovery; schedule water breaks; watch for dizziness, pale skin or shortness of breath; build intensity gradually across weeks; and allow self-pace or alternative tasks for pupils returning from illness or inactivity.