This section contains notes on a variety of topics some of which are covered in greater detail in the section on 'Risk control policies, arrangements, and guidance'.
Concerned about risks to your health or safety at work?
If you are concerned about risks to your health or safety at work, you should in the first place raise the matter with your supervisor / Manager or head of department. Further guidance and advice is available via the Health & Safety Department.
Computers
The risk control policy on 'Computers and display screen equipment' contains detailed guidance for staff on the use and risks associated with computers. You should make sure that your are following the guidance on 'Good practice when using computers'. You should also complete the Computer Use Assessment Form and submit it to your head of Department.
If you are a computer "user" (i.e. use the computer more or less daily for continual periods of an hour or more) you are entitled to a contribution towards an eyesight test on request. Further details and the required forms are available via the online Human Resources staff pages.
Further guidance is available via the Health and Safety Department.
After the initial eyesight test, it should not be necessary to have a further test for at least two years. Exceptions to this would be if you are advised by your doctor or optician to have an earlier test or, following consultation with agreement from your head of department.
Where special spectacles or other 'corrective appliances' are required solely for computer use, the University will contribute to the cost.
Fire Anyone discovering a fire must immediately raise the alarm, break the glass of the nearest fire call point, and call the local Fire and Rescue Service on 999.
On hearing a fire alarm:
No one is allowed back into a building until the Building Evacuation Controller has authorised it (staff first).
Do make sure that you know the escape routes (and alternatives) from buildings that you enter.
Don't lock yourself into a room: areas that are locked cannot be swept during an evacuation.
Don't use lifts or otherwise put yourself or others at risk when evacuating premises.
Injuries and serious illness
If you are injured at work it is very important that you obtain assistance from a first aider and complete an Accident and Incident Report form. Names, locations and telephone numbers of first aiders are available from Security / Reception staff, dial 4444 (or the number printed on the back of your ID card) for emergency contact. Security staff are also trained first aiders.
If you find someone who is seriously injured, unconscious, or otherwise seriously ill, then summon help immediately by phoning 9-999 and requesting the ambulance service. You must also obtain assistance from a local first aider as above. You will need to arrange for someone to meet the paramedics when they arrive. Normally you can do this by informing the receptionist / security staff in your building. You should also notify the Health & Safety department (ext 9356) after the event.
Health
Look after your health. If you are concerned that your work may be affecting your health, you should inform your Head of Department immediately. Health issues relating to work activities may also be referred through to the Occupational Health Adviser via the agreed process detailed on the Human Resources staff pages.
New and Expectant mothers
As soon as you become aware that you are pregnant, it is important that you obtain advice on issues related to work by informing the Human Resources Department in writing.
Premises problems
Any problems with University premises should be raised through the Facilities Helpdesk on the online staff pages.
In the case of an emergency such as a suspected gas leak, mains water leak, or electricity failure, call the University's internal emergency telephone number (extension 4444) and ask for emergency support from the Facilities and Estates Department.
Stress
If you believe you are feeling stressed or pressured, you must discuss the situation with your line manager / Head of Department in the first instance, in efforts to resolve any work based issues. Staff also have full 24 hour 365 days per year access to an Empoloyee Assistance Programme (EAP), this programme offers free 3rd party confidential and independent support / guidance to all staff members, across a large variety of professional and personal topics. Support is also offered specifically to Managers who are supporting staff with wellbeing issues.
The EAP Helpline telephone number is - 0800 328 1437
EAP support can also be accessed via - www.employeeassistance.org/uk using the access code - UoB
Travelling abroad on University business
If you are travelling overseas on University business you must have appropriate medical and travel insurance. Guidance is available from the legal office via your line manager.
An appropriate University risk assessment must be completed with sufficient time in advance, to enable all identified controls to be fully implemented, prior to travel, covering all relevant aspects of the travel and associated activities.
Terrorism
Terrorist or criminal incidents where letters or packages are booby-trapped with bombs or biological or chemical agents are extremely rare. Most bomb threats are made by callers who want to create an atmosphere of general anxiety and panic. The University has arrangements for dealing with such events.
If you receive a bomb threat or warning over the phone, remain calm and take notes of the message. Phone the Emergency Hotline (ext 4444 or 01582 743000) advise them of the situation but DO NOT use a radio or mobile phone if there is likely to be a bomb in the vicinity.
There are general precautions that you can take when handling envelopes and packages:
Look out unattended baggage and for envelopes or packages with:
Do
Do Not
If you suspect that a letter or package may contain a bomb or incendiary device:
Do Not use radios or mobile phones
If you suspect that you have received a biological/chemical letter or package:
Do Not touch or open the package or move it to another location
If you suspect that you have been exposed to a biological/chemical agent:
Do Not touch eyes, nose, or any other part of the body