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Venue Risk Assessment

Effective Skills Training Ltd.

External Venue Use, Venue Risk Assessment, and Training Standards

This document outlines the procedures and standards Effective Skills Training Ltd. will adhere to when using external venues for training delivery and the associated risk assessment processes. It also highlights the training standards expected of our staff.

1. External Venue Use Policy

When utilising external venues for training, Effective Skills Training Ltd. will prioritise the safety, suitability, and accessibility of the chosen location. The following factors will be considered:

  • Suitability for Training: The venue must have adequate space, appropriate facilities (e.g., training rooms, AV equipment, restrooms), and a suitable learning environment.

  • Accessibility: The venue should be accessible to all learners, including those with disabilities, in compliance with relevant legislation. This includes considerations for parking, entryways, lifts, and facilities.

  • Health and Safety Compliance: The venue must meet all relevant health and safety standards, including fire safety regulations, first aid provisions, and clear emergency procedures. If a serious Health and Safety breach is found, it will be reported to the relevant authorities.

  • Insurance and Liability: Verify the venue's public liability insurance and understand the responsibilities regarding safety and liability.

  • Location and Transport: The venue's location, ease of access for learners via various transport methods, and parking availability should be considered.

  • Cost-Effectiveness: Balancing the suitability and safety of the venue with budgetary constraints.

2. Venue Risk Assessment Process

Before training at an external venue, a thorough risk assessment from Effective Skills Training Ltd will be conducted by a designated competent person. This process will involve the following steps:

  • Hazard Identification: Identifying potential hazards within the venue that could cause harm to learners, trainers, or other individuals. This includes, but is not limited to:

    • Slips, trips, and falls: Uneven surfaces, spills, obstacles, poor lighting.

    • Fire hazards: Inadequate fire safety measures, blocked exits, and flammable materials.

    • Electrical hazards: Damaged equipment, exposed wiring, and overloading sockets.

    • Manual handling: Lifting or moving equipment.

    • Security risks: Unauthorised access, lack of security measures.

    • Hygiene and welfare: Inadequate sanitation, lack of drinking water, poor ventilation.

    • Specific risks related to the training activity: Use of equipment, practical exercises.

  • Identifying Who Might Be Harmed: Determining who could be at risk from the identified hazards (e.g., learners, trainers, venue staff, visitors).

  • Evaluating the Risks: Assessing the likelihood of the harm occurring and the severity of the potential injury or illness. Existing control measures provided by the venue will be considered at this stage.

  • Determining Control Measures: Implementing appropriate control measures to eliminate or reduce the risks to an acceptable level. This may involve:

    • Liaising with the venue management: To address identified hazards and ensure their safety protocols are adequate.

    • Implementing additional safety measures, Such as providing signage, cordoning off hazardous areas, or providing personal protective equipment (PPE) if required for specific training activities.

    • Establishing clear emergency procedures: Including evacuation plans, first aid arrangements, and communication protocols.

  • Recording Findings: Documenting the risk assessment findings, including identified hazards, risks, and control measures. This record will be kept for review and future reference. If a serious breach has been identified, the representative of Effective Skills Training Ltd will notify the relevant authorities.

  • Review and Revision: The risk assessment will be revised if the venue, training activities, or relevant circumstances change. Regular reviews will also be conducted to ensure its ongoing suitability.

3. Training Standards for Effective Skills Training Ltd. Staff

Effective Skills Training Ltd. is committed to maintaining high standards of training delivery, ensuring our staff are competent, knowledgeable, and professional. Our training standards include:

  • Competence and Qualifications: All trainers and assessors will possess the necessary qualifications, skills, and experience relevant to the subject matter they deliver. This includes relevant certifications, professional development, and subject matter expertise.

  • Instructional Skills: Trainers will employ effective teaching methodologies, catering to diverse learning styles and ensuring active participation. They can communicate, manage groups effectively, and provide constructive feedback.

  • Assessment Practices: Assessments will be fair, valid, and reliable, aligned with learning outcomes and relevant standards. Assessors will be qualified and trained in assessment methodologies.

  • Health and Safety Awareness: All staff involved in training delivery, both on and off-site, will be trained in relevant health and safety procedures, including risk assessment principles, emergency procedures, and safe working practices. They will be responsible for promoting a safe learning environment.

  • Equality and Diversity: Training will be delivered inclusively, respecting the diversity of learners and adhering to equality legislation and best practices.

  • Professional Conduct: All staff will maintain high professionalism, acting as ambassadors for Effective Skills Training Ltd. They will adhere to ethical guidelines and company policies.

  • Continuing Professional Development (CPD): As the separate CPD policy outlines, all training staff will continue professional development to maintain and enhance their skills and knowledge. This includes staying up-to-date with industry best practices, new legislation, and advancements in their subject areas.

  • Venue Safety Checks: Before training at an external venue, trainers will conduct a visual check to ensure the environment is safe and the control measures identified in the venue risk assessment are in place. Any immediate concerns will be reported to the designated responsible person.

4. Responsibilities

  • Managing Director (John O'Sullivan): Responsible for ensuring this policy is implemented and adhered to, and allocating resources for risk assessments and staff training.

  • Training Manager (if applicable): Responsible for overseeing the venue risk assessment process, ensuring staff are trained in risk assessment and health and safety, and maintaining training standards.

  • Trainers and Assessors: Responsible for conducting pre-training venue checks, adhering to safety procedures, delivering high-quality training, and participating in relevant health and safety training and CPD.

  • Compliance Department ([email address removed]): Responsible for providing guidance on risk assessment and health and safety matters, maintaining this policy, and ensuring compliance with relevant legislation.

5. Monitoring and Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or as needed in response to changes in legislation, best practices, or operational needs. Feedback from staff and learners will be considered during the review process.

By adhering to these guidelines, Effective Skills Training Ltd. aims to ensure the safety and well-being of all individuals involved in our training programs delivered at external venues, while maintaining the highest standards of training quality and professionalism.

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