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, pool facility requirements, and insurance obligations. We are dedicated to regularly reviewing and updating our practices to maintain a safe working and learning environment during instructional activities.
1. General Safety Guidelines
• Always follow the safety rules and procedures set by the swimming pool facility
• Be aware of emergency exits and first aid locations
• Keep all working areas clean and free of hazards
2. Poolside Safety
• Running on the pool deck is not permitted due to slip risk
• Equipment must be stored correctly to prevent tripping hazards
• Children must be supervised closely to prevent unsafe behaviour in or around the pool
3. Water Safety
• Ensure children enter and exit the pool safely and in an orderly manner
• Provide physical assistance only when necessary and appropriate to instruction
• Be aware of pool depth changes and designated shallow and deep-water areas
4. Emergency Procedures
• In the event of an emergency, follow the pool facility’s emergency response plan
• Know the location of lifeguards and how to alert them immediately
• If a child is in distress, alert the lifeguard without delay and follow pool emergency procedures
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5. First Aid and Medical Emergencies
• Any injuries or incidents must be reported to the Employer immediately
• First aid must not be administered unless appropriately trained
• Accident and incident reports must be completed and submitted as required
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6. Working with Pool Staff
• Maintain professional communication with pool management and lifeguards
• Follow all safety instructions issued by pool staff
• Report any hazards or concerns to the Employer promptly
7. Reporting Safety Concerns
• Faulty equipment, unsafe behaviour, or hazardous conditions must be reported immediately
• All incidents must be documented and submitted 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 in its care. We aim to create a safe, positive, and encouraging environment where children can learn to swim and develop essential aquatic skills. 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 wellbeing of children is the highest priority
• All interactions with children must be respectful, appropriate, and professional
• Children must be treated with dignity, fairness, and respect at all times
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2. Supervision & Attendance
• Children must be supervised at all times until collected by a parent or guardian
• Attendance must be taken before each lesson
• No child may leave the pool area alone or with an unauthorised person
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3. Physical Contact
• Physical contact should be kept to a minimum and only used where necessary
• Any required contact must support safe participation in instructional activities
• Contact must be explained clearly and appropriately to the child beforehand
• Actions that could be misinterpreted must be avoided
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4. Communication with Children & Parents
• Communication with children should be clear, positive, and age-appropriate
• Discussions regarding a child’s progress must be directed to parents or guardians
• Direct communication with children outside of lessons (e.g. messaging apps or social media) is not permitted
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5. Dealing with Incidents & Concerns• If a child appears distressed or reports a concern, listen carefully and respond calmly
• Do not promise confidentiality — explain that concerns must be shared to ensure safety
• Report all concerns, accidents, or unusual incidents to the DLP as soon as possible
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6. Behaviour Management
• Encourage positive behaviour through clear expectations and reinforcement
• Use calm, consistent, and respectful instructions
• Physical discipline, shouting, or humiliation are strictly prohibited
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7. Reporting & Documentation
• All safeguarding concerns and incidents must be documented and reported to the DLP
• Records must be factual, accurate, and professional
• Serious welfare concerns must be escalated through appropriate safeguarding channels
Signed: Rafal Lechicki
Date: 01.02.2025