A risk assessment is an assessment of any potential risks or dangers that may occur at any time during the summer programme. They range from excursions through to bathroom fittings and are created by either Language in Action or an external group/contractor.
Risk assessments show due diligence, planning, and provide evidence of our procedures. It also provides a framework for the organisation and running of excursions and activities.
The risk assessment is broken down into five sections as follows;
Identified Hazard / Risk A basic description of the hazard/risk
Risk Rating Rated as Low, Medium or High and gauged on the risk prior to action. L = Likelihood, S = Severity (1-5)
Control Measures A detailed summary of each step taken to minimise the risk of the hazard/risk/situation taking place
Revised Risk Rating Rated as Low, Medium or High, and gauged on the risk after all action points are complete
Action to be Taken The steps that must be taken by the present member of staff if the risk affects a member of the group.
NOTE: The safety rating is determined using a formula that assesses likelihood of the risk against the severity of the risk.
Below you can see the first risk identified for travelling on public transport in London. Each document can list any number of risks identified, and there is no limit – but it must contain all potential risks and hazards that may occur in any given situation.
The risk assessment folder should be shared with each member of the team, who should familiarise themselves with any relevant documents pertaining to their role. For example, if an activity leader is scheduled to lead a group to the London Eye, they should read the risk assessment for the London Eye, as well as the risk assessment for using public transport. They should then sign the Risk Assessment Acknowledgement Form (this should be available in the office)
All risk assessments must be reviewed before being used, and amended to account for any changes or variations to that specific day’s activities. E.g. changes in travel plans or locations need fully reassessing.
From time to time, you might have to create a risk assessment for an activity at the centre or an excursion off site. In the Staff Drive there is a template of a risk assessment, and your Programme Manager will help you create it.
NOTE: when visiting public attractions, restaurants, or other bookable events the venue will be able to provide you with a generic risk assessment for visitors, you should contact them with plenty of notice to get the document sent to you. You can then make a smaller risk assessment accounting for specifics that affect Language in Action that are absent from the external risk assessment i.e. young children, action procedures etc.