POLICIES
SWIM SCOIL HEALTH & SAFETY POLICY
Statement of Commitment
At Swim Scoil, we are committed to ensuring a safe and healthy environment for all children, staff, and visitors. This Health & Safety Policy outlines our procedures and responsibilities in line with Irish legislation and insurance requirements. We are dedicated to regularly reviewing and updating our practices to maintain a safe working and learning environment.
1. General Safety Guidelines
- Always follow the safety rules set by the swimming pool facility. - Be aware of emergency exits and first aid locations.
- Keep the working area clean and free of hazards.
2. Poolside Safety
- No running on the pool deck to prevent slips and falls.
- Ensure equipment is stored properly to avoid tripping hazards.
- Monitor children closely to prevent unsafe behaviour in or around the pool.
3. Water Safety
- Ensure children enter and exit the pool safely.
- Assist only when necessary and avoid unnecessary physical contact. - Be aware of deep and shallow areas of the pool to prevent accidents.
4. Emergency Procedures
- In case of an emergency, follow the pool's emergency response plan.
- Know the location of lifeguards and how to call for assistance.
- If a child is in distress, alert the lifeguard immediately and provide support as trained.
5. First Aid and Medical Emergencies
- Report any injuries to the Employer immediately.
- Do not administer first aid unless trained to do so.
- Ensure accident reports are filled out and submitted to the Employer as required.
6. Working with Pool Staff
- Maintain professional communication with pool facility staff.
- Follow the instructions of lifeguards and pool managers regarding safety regulations. - Report any concerns or hazards to the Employer immediately.
7. Reporting Safety Concerns
- Any issues regarding faulty equipment, unsafe behaviour, or hazardous conditions must be reported promptly.
- Document any incidents and submit reports directly to the Employer.
Signed: Rafal Lechicki
Date: 01.02.2025
SWIM SCOIL SAFEGUARDING POLICY
Statement of Commitment
Swim Scoil is fully committed to safeguarding the wellbeing of all children. We aim to create a safe, positive, and encouraging environment where children can learn to swim and grow in confidence. This policy follows the principles of Children First: National Guidance for the Protection and Welfare of Children and the Children First Act 2015.
Designated Liaison Person (DLP)
Rafal Lechicki is the Designated Liaison Person (DLP) responsible for safeguarding matters at Swim Scoil.
1. General Principles
- The safety and well-being of children is the top priority.
- All interactions with children should be respectful, appropriate, and professional. - Children should always be treated with dignity and fairness.
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2. Supervision & Attendance
- Children must be supervised at all times until collected by a parent/guardian.
- Attendance should be taken before each lesson.
- No child should be allowed to leave the pool area alone or with an unauthorised person.
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3. Physical Contact
- Physical contact should be minimised and only appropriate (e.g., assisting with safety in the water).
- Any necessary contact should be explained beforehand to the child in a clear and reassuring manner. - Avoid actions that could be misinterpreted.
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4. Communication with Children & Parents
- Use positive and encouraging language when speaking to children.
- Any discussions about a child's progress should be directed to the parent/guardian.
- Communication with children outside of lessons (e.g., social media or messaging apps) is not permitted.
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5. Dealing with Incidents & Concerns
- If a child appears distressed or reports a concern, listen carefully and reassure them.
- Do not promise confidentiality; explain that the concern will be shared with the Employer to ensure safety. - Report any concerns, accidents, or unusual incidents to the DLP as soon as possible.
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6. Behaviour Management
- Encourage positive behaviour through praise and reinforcement. - Use calm and clear instructions to manage behaviour.
- Never use physical discipline, shouting, or humiliation.
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7. Reporting & Documentation
- All safeguarding concerns, accidents, or incidents must be documented and reported to the DLP.
- Keep records factual and professional.
- Serious concerns about a child's welfare must be escalated through appropriate safeguarding channels.
Signed: Rafal Lechicki
Date: 01.02.2025