In Scotland, school buildings, like any other workplace, are subject to regulations and statutory provisions. The two main ones are the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 and the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999.
These impose duties on all employers (including school authorities) to ensure the health and safety to all employers (including school authorities) to ensure the health and safety of all employees at the school, pupils, and any visitors on school premises. This includes not only school buildings but also outside spaces operated by the school.
Regulations Inspections and Maintenance: The school needs to introduce and implement routine inspections and maintenance of all areas of the school buildings, facilities, and equipment and address any maintenance issues promptly.
Health and Safety Policies: Those with responsibility for the buildings require to develop and communicate clear health and safety policies which outline roles and expectations for everyone on the school premises. These policies should cover areas such as fire safety, evacuation procedures, and accident reporting.
Staff training: The management team require to provide or arrange regular training to staff members on health and safety protocols, including emergency response procedures, first aid, and how to identify and report potential hazards.
Playground safety: The school requires to maintain safe and age-appropriate playground equipment. This needs to be regularly inspected and, if appropriate, repaired to minimise the risk of any foreseeable accidents.
Do I have a claim?
You may be able to claim compensation for an accident in and around a school building. That will depend on several factors including the circumstances of the accident, the extent of the injuries, and confirmation that the accident was someone else’s fault.
This will improve proving that the school, or its employees, failed to take reasonable steps to prevent the accident or maintain a safe environment as is detailed above.
Accidents which might lead to claims include, slips, trips and falls; accidents due to unsafe structures or facilities; inadequate supervision leading to injuries; and other situations where negligence can be demonstrated.
How we can help
Our lawyers will discuss your claim with you and will explain clearly and concisely how best to proceed. We will always be upfront with you about how likely your claim is to succeed and make clear any costs involved. We may be able to work with you on a no-win, no-fee basis.
To discuss your specific circumstances with a member of team, call us on 0800 988 8082 or complete our online enquiry form and we will get back to you right away.
