Wraysbury & Horton Resilience Health & Safety Policy
Date adopted: 1st April 2025
Review date: 31st March 2026
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1. Statement of Intent
Wraysbury & Horton Resilience (WHR) is committed to ensuring the health, safety and welfare of its volunteers, members, and the public during all activities and operations. We aim to provide a safe environment and promote a culture of awareness and prevention.
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2. Legal Framework
This policy is informed by the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and relevant associated legislation, even where WHR is not an employer under the Act. We adopt good practice guidance to fulfil our duty of care to volunteers and the public.
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3. Responsibilities
WHR Committee:
– Ensure health and safety arrangements are in place for all organised activities
– Conduct risk assessments for planned events and operations
– Appoint a Health & Safety Lead to oversee implementation
Volunteers:
– Take reasonable care for their own safety and that of others
– Follow safety instructions and report hazards or concerns
– Use protective equipment or clothing where provided
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4. Risk Assessments
– A written risk assessment will be prepared for all WHR-led activities
– Hazards will be identified, risks evaluated, and mitigation measures put in place
– Dynamic (on-the-day) risk assessments will be encouraged when appropriate
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5. Emergency Procedures
– WHR activities will include clear procedures for emergencies (e.g. medical incidents, flooding)
– Volunteers will be briefed on roles and responsibilities in emergencies
– Emergency contact numbers and location-specific protocols will be available
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6. First Aid
– WHR will endeavour to have trained first aiders present at events
– First aid kits will be provided for planned operations
– Incidents requiring first aid will be logged and reviewed
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7. Equipment and PPE
– Volunteers will be provided with appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) for their roles (e.g. hi-vis jackets, gloves, torches) when required.
– Equipment must be checked before use and returned in good condition
– Faulty equipment must be reported immediately
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8. Training and Supervision
– Volunteers will receive instruction and guidance for their roles
– Specialist roles (e.g. directing traffic) will require appropriate training
– New volunteers may be paired with experienced members during activities
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9. Incident Reporting
– All accidents, near-misses, and health & safety concerns must be reported to the Health & Safety Lead (See below)
– An incident log will be maintained and reviewed regularly
– Learning from incidents will inform future risk mitigation
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10. Policy Review
This policy will be reviewed annually or following any significant incident, change in legislation, or activity scope.
Health & Safety Lead: Dianne Cranmer Dianne.Cranmer@Wraysbury.com