ETS Health & Safty Policy

Introduction

This policy has been created to support and promote the safe and sustainable travel of pupils. ETS Surrey Ltd comply with health and safety regulations and ensuring health and safety for school transport is crucial for protecting students during their daily commutes.

ETS Surrey Ltd

is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of pupils.
Recognises that additional support is required for the transport of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
Ensures that any transport arranged by the TCC is suitable for the intended purpose.
Works to ensure a consistent process regarding the transportation of pupils with the TCC.
Provide a safe and suitable service to vulnerable passengers of all ages.
Protects students from harm and has a duty to report matters of concern that could relate to the safety and/or welfare of children and vulnerable persons to the relevant authorities/TCC.
Ensure vehicles used to convey passengers are safe and fit for the purpose.

Here are several key considerations and practices that are implemented:
Driver and passenger assistant training: Drivers and passenger assistants must undergo mandatory training on child protection, safeguarding, and disability awareness.
Enhanced DBS checks: Drivers and passenger assistants must undergo enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks by TCC.
Qualified Drivers: Drivers should be carefully screened and licenced by the local authority as taxi drivers or private hire drivers and have a clear understanding of safety protocols. Regular training updates can help ensure they remain proficient in safe driving practices.
Risk assessments: ETS Surrey Ltd completes the risk assessments when required for their school transport services and submits them to the TCC. Risk assessments may be reviewed annually, after an incident, or when there are changes to the service.
Safety Equipment: All vehicles should be equipped with essential safety equipment, such as first aid kits, fire extinguishers, spare tyres and seat belts. Emergency exits should be clearly marked and unobstructed.
Supervision and Conduct: Implementing TCC guidelines for student behaviour on school transport can help maintain order and safety. Transport assistant supervisors can ensure these rules are followed and provide assistance in case of emergencies. Emergency Procedures: Clear procedures should be established and communicated for various emergencies, such as accidents, severe weather, or other unexpected situations. Regular drills can help prepare both students and staff to respond effectively.
Health Protocols: Especially in light of recent global health concerns, maintaining cleanliness and hygiene on school transport is essential. This includes regular sanitisation of surfaces, enforcing mask-wearing if necessary, and ensuring proper ventilation.
Passenger assistants: Passenger assistants may be provided for children with special educational needs or medical needs. Clear Communication Channels: Establish clear communication channels between the school, drivers, students, and parents. Providing updates on routes, delays, or any issues that arise during transportation helps keep everyone informed and prepared.
Safe Boarding and Alighting Practices: Implement safe practices for students boarding and alighting from the transport. This can involve designated pick-up and drop-off points, supervision by school staff, and ensuring that students cross roads safely.
Late Collection: ETS Surrey Ltd and parents/carers must work together to ensure pupils are safe. It must be made clear to the driver/ transport assistant that the office should be notified immediately should it become apparent that the person collecting will be late or not present at the transport destination address. Following this, we will attempt to contact the parents at the phone numbers provided to the ETS Services. If this is unsuccessful, we will attempt to contact the emergency
contacts. The ETS will keep a record of incidents where parents are late/unavailable for no explanation or where there are repeated incidents, and information will be shared immediately with TCC.
Regular Vehicle Maintenance: School buses and other transport vehicles should undergo routine maintenance checks to ensure they are in safe working condition. This includes checking brakes, tyres, lights, and engine performance to prevent malfunctions or breakdowns.
Route Planning: Efficient and safe route planning can minimise travel time and reduce the risk of traffic-related incidents. Routes should be regularly reviewed and adjusted as needed to account for construction, traffic patterns, and other variables.