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CLEAPSS and COSHH

CLEAPSS

CLEAPSS works in the field of school and college science, Design and technology and art, from foundation stage through to GCE A-level or equivalent. They provide general support and advice for all aspects of practical work. This includes information, advice and training about laboratory and workshop design and working practices, technicians and their jobs, equipment, tools, materials, living organisms, and practical activities for students, as well as about disinfection with an over-arching focus on health and safety.

See CLEAPSS’ guides to joining their service for more information.

All Suffolk County Council LA schools are signed up to CLEAPSS via the Council. For other schools and settings, please contact CLEAPSS directly to sign up.

One of the most useful resources from CLEAPSS is their guidance on making and recording risk assessments in school science.

CLEAPSS’ Warmer weather and chemicals guidance is important for all schools to ensure they store their chemicals safely, especially during the summer break when temperatures are rising.

CLEAPPS Services

CLEAPSS Science Site – Information for science teachers and technicians on all aspects of secondary science, including Bulletins, HazCards, Practical Procedures etc.

CLEAPSS Primary Site – Information for primary teachers of science, technology, art and design. Includes teaching ideas, doing things safely, primary competition and leadership guidance.

CLEAPSS Technology Site – Information for teachers and managers of resistant materials, textiles, food, art and design and construction. Includes project ideas, model risk assessments, FutureMinds newsletter and management guidance.

Radiation Protection Officer

Advice can be sought from the County RPOs: Nina Bickerton – [email protected] / 01473 260 399 and Martin Fisher – [email protected].

March 2024: New and revised guidance from CLEAPSS: There is a NEW version of L93 and its associated guidance. Maintained schools can receive a copy from Nina or Martin / CLEAPSS, and all other education settings directly from CLEAPSS.

Ionising radiation inspections in schools

The Health and Safety Executive are undertaking inspections of Secondary Schools (HSE Education Bulletin dated 29 March 2022) who work with ionising radiation in science labs. If you are a member of CLEAPSS please access document the NEW L93 and ensure you are adhering to that guidance, alongside IRR17. Details of the inspections and further guidance can be found via the link above.

COSHH

Control of Substances Hazedous to Health (COSHH) relates to the materials used in science, art and design and technology as well as cleaning products used at the school, and the various chemicals and products the caretaker and maintenance staff use.

COSHH guidance