School Library Risk Assessment Template

Typical hazards & measures

• Fire load and evacuation — Use flame-retardant displays, keep alarm points and extinguishers visible, maintain clear gangways and exits, unplug idle heaters, rehearse termly evacuation, and store bulk paper away from sockets and radiators to limit ignition sources and spread.
• Lifts, stairs and accessible routes — Service lifts to schedule, test evacuation chairs, keep ramps and handrails clear, provide refuge points with two-way comms, and brief staff on assisting mobility users during drills without blocking primary egress.
• Shelving stability and toppling — Bolt stacks to walls or floor, label shelf load limits, keep heavy items on lower levels, fit anti-tip brackets on mobile units, inspect for wobble each term, and forbid climbing or using shelves as ladders or seatbacks.
• Cleaning chemicals and wet floors — Schedule mopping outside peak times, place high-visibility signs, cordon drying zones, store chemicals locked with SDS available, and train staff to neutralise and report spills promptly while rerouting foot traffic until fully dry.
• Lighting levels and glare — Maintain target lux across stacks and desks, replace failed bulbs promptly, use blinds to control glare, add task lighting where needed, and mark stair edges with contrasting nosings to support safe movement and comfortable reading.