Health & Safety Policy

Church of Christ Southend-on-Sea

Effective Date: 05/05/2026

The Church of Christ Southend-on-Sea is dedicated to creating a safe, healthy, and welcoming environment for all members, visitors, volunteers, children, and staff who participate in our services, meetings, and activities. We acknowledge our responsibility to implement reasonable measures to ensure the wellbeing of everyone using our premises or engaging in church activities, as outlined in our church safety policy.

1. Our Commitment

We aim to:

- Maintain safe church premises and activities

- Reduce the risk of accidents, injuries, and hazards

- Promote health, safety, and wellbeing

- Comply with relevant UK health and safety legislation

- Encourage a culture of care and responsibility

2. Responsibilities

Church Leadership

Church leadership is responsible for:

- Ensuring reasonable health and safety measures are in place

- Monitoring the safety of church premises

- Carrying out risk assessments where appropriate

- Addressing reported hazards promptly

- Ensuring emergency procedures are understood

Volunteers and Members

All volunteers, members, and visitors are expected to:

- Take reasonable care for their own safety and the safety of others

- Report accidents, hazards, or concerns promptly

- Follow health and safety guidance during church activities

- Use church equipment responsibly

3. Fire Safety

The church will:

- Maintain clear fire exits and evacuation routes

- Ensure fire extinguishers are regularly checked and serviced

- Display emergency exit signage where required

- Conduct fire safety checks periodically

In the event of an emergency, attendees should follow instructions from church leaders or designated fire marshals.

4. First Aid and Accidents

A first aid kit will be available on the premises. Accidents or injuries should be reported as soon as possible. Serious incidents may be recorded in an accident log, and emergency services will be contacted where necessary.

5. Risk Assessments

Risk assessments may be carried out for:

- Worship services and gatherings

- Children’s and youth activities

- Community outreach programmes

- Trips, events, and special activities

- Use of church facilities and equipment

6. Safeguarding

The church is committed to safeguarding policies for children, young people, and vulnerable adults. All safeguarding concerns should be reported immediately according to the church’s Safeguarding & Child Protection Policy.

7. Food Hygiene

Where food is prepared or served during church activities:

- Reasonable hygiene standards will be maintained

- Food handlers should follow safe food practices

- Allergies and dietary requirements should be considered where possible

8. Slips, Trips, and Premises Safety

We will seek to minimise common hazards by:

- Keeping walkways clear

- Cleaning spills promptly

- Maintaining lighting where possible

- Reporting damaged flooring or equipment

9. Electrical and Equipment Safety

Church equipment should be used safely and responsibly. Where appropriate:

- Electrical items may be checked regularly

- Faulty equipment should not be used

- Repairs should only be carried out by qualified persons

10. Reporting Concerns

Anyone with a health or safety concern should report it promptly to church leadership or the designated responsible person.

11. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed periodically to ensure it remains appropriate and effective.

Contact Information

For health and safety enquiries, please contact:

Church of Christ Southend-on-Sea