School Library Risk Assessment Template

Typical hazards & measures

• Slips, trips and falls — Conduct a pre-open floor sweep, require bags in marked bays, route cables through covers, secure entrance mats, post wet-floor signs during cleaning or rain, and brief pupils to walk not run while staff promptly spot, cordon and dry any spill.
• Lone working (staff) — Operate a staff check-in/out with timed callbacks, ensure a second keyholder on call, carry a charged phone or radio, keep public doors locked on emergency release, avoid high-risk tasks (ladders, heavy moves) alone, use lit routes to parking, and escalate any missed check-in immediately.
• ICT misuse and online safety — Enforce filtered, logged access, supervise use, display the acceptable use policy, require personal logins, provide privacy screens where appropriate, and route concerns quickly to safeguarding with evidence preserved.
• Electrical safety at ICT areas — PAT-test devices annually, fit RCD protection, ban daisy-chained extensions, isolate and tag any unit with heat, smell or arcing, keep sockets accessible for quick isolation, and site equipment clear of sinks and damp flooring.
• Safeguarding and access control — Keep visitor sign-in and badges, maintain visibility through door glazing, restrict back-of-house rooms, avoid lone-pupil occupancy at closing, and position desks to oversee entries, toilets corridors and blind corners without blocking exits.