General Risk Assessment Management Unit University of Glasgow Location (Site / Building / Room) All units – generic assessmentAssessment Date 14th July 2020 Review Date Monthly Issue 3 (v1.6a)

Assessor’s NameSelina WoolcottDavid McLean Job Title

Director of Health, Safety and Wellbeing.Head of Safety and Environmental Protection Service

Description of Task Return to campus during Covid 19 control measures

Risk identification Risk assessment Risk managementHazard Potential

consequencesInherent

riskRisk Control measures Residual

riskAdditional control measures

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Individual risk factorsStaff and students with severe chronic or underlying health conditions falling into the Government defined “clinically extremely vulnerable” category may

Severe illness if infected.Risk of non-compliance with Government guidance.

5 5 25 Eliminate the risk by allowing employees to continue to work from home in accordance with Government guidance. (NHS registered individual will normally have had a personal NHS letter advising them that they are in this group.)

Their individual situation should be discussed with students falling into this category via their Adviser of Studies, Course Co-ordinator or through Student Services. In many cases students will be unable to attend on

1 5 5 Risk cannot be mitigated any further by the University at present.

Discussion with individuals about working arrangements and specific protection measures as threat reduces.

As the restrictions for those “shielding” are lifted, return to workplace for employees only permitted after an individual risk assessment has been conducted with their line manager, in consultation with HR and Occupational Health as appropriate.

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be at high risk. campus until medical advice allows this. (NHS registered individual will normally have had a personal NHS letter advising them that they are in this group.)

Likewise, individual risk assessments with their Adviser of Studies/ Course Co-ordinator will be required before students return from “shielding” to study venues.

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guidance-on-shielding-and-protecting-extremely-vulnerable-persons-from-covid-19/guidance-on-shielding-and-protecting-extremely-vulnerable-persons-from-covid-19#who-is-clinically-extremely-vulnerable

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guidance-on-shielding-and-protecting-extremely-vulnerable-persons-from-covid-19/guidance-on-shielding-and-protecting-extremely-vulnerable-persons-from-covid-19

Staff and students with underlying defined health conditions, including expectant mothers, falling into Government defined “clinically vulnerable category” may be at above average risk. (Includes all people over 70’s)

Unknown impact to the unborn baby.

Severe illness to the mother if immune compromised due to pregnancy or other associated health condition.

Likelihood of more severe illness for those with underlying health conditions and for older people.

5 4 20 Staff and students in this category may feel unable to attend on campus. This can be discussed in consultation with their line manager or Adviser of Studies, Course Co-ordinator or through Student Services. If possible, measures should be put in place to avoid the need for on-campus attendance.

If this is not possible: Try to minimise the time that must be

spent on campus Try to enable the member of staff or

student to work at different times/shifts to others

Consider timetabling to avoid contact with large numbers of other people

Try to provide a separated workspace away from others (by agreement)

1 4 4 https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/staying-alert-and-safe-social-distancing/staying-alert-and-safe-social-distancing#clinically-vulnerable-people

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guidance-on-shielding-and-protecting-extremely-vulnerable-persons-from-covid-19/guidance-on-shielding-and-protecting-extremely-vulnerable-persons-from-covid-19

It is noted that younger people are generally at lower risk of suffering severe consequences from Covid-19 infection and so most students will be at a lower population risk than predominantly older groups, such as staff. However, this is on average only. A minority of students are older or may have specific health conditions which may place then at higher risk. It is important that the individual risk of both staff and students is considered rather than just the group risk.

As the restrictions for those who are “clinically

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vulnerable” are lifted, return to workplace for employees only permitted after an individual risk assessment has been conducted with their line manager, in consultation with HR and Occupational Health as appropriate.

Likewise, individual risk assessments with their Adviser of Studies/ Course Co-ordinator will be required before “clinically vulnerable” students return to study venues.

Staff and students with visual, hearing or mobility impairments

The person may be less adept at moving quickly; may not see or hear clearly; to help them avoid other people.

May need assistance to carry out certain tasks which breaches social distancing.

May need to touch items and surfaces that others would not.

4 3 12 Eliminate the risk by enabling the person to continue their work or studies off- campus, if possible

Reduce the risk by ensuring special needs are considered in all areas the person may need to use through discussions with HR/Disability Advisers Adviser of Studies, Course Co-ordinator Student Services or other support services and local managers.

Ensure suitable access and egress, including to support to safely use a lift, if this is required.

Ensure pathways, one-way systems etc are wide enough to allow for wheelchairs

Ensure disabled toilets available nearby and have a suitable cleaning regime.

Ensure safe emergency evacuation arrangements are in place. Security can still provide emergency evacuation support as part of the generic assisted evacuation arrangement.

2 3 6 Consider whether there is a need to prepare a revised Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan (PEEP) if arrangements have been altered from those previously in place.

Ensure that any individuals requiring assistance are informed of the standard procedures and of any variation to these.

Staff and Anxiety about safety 4 3 12 Regular communication by the 2 3 6 SEPS monitor Government Covid-19 modelling data and

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student wellbeing

on return to campus, stress due to changes in work patterns, activities and the work environment. Reduced social interaction with others.

University to ensure that staff and students are informed about returning to campus safely. A staff/ PGR student video has been made available. An undergraduate and PGT student focussed induction programme is planned

New workplace/controls have been put in place to reduce risk of exposure to COVID 19. Information on these will be disseminated to staff and students through line managers/HR and via Adviser of Studies/ Course Coordinator or Student Services.

Line managers and student support and teaching staff must remain aware of how changes to working arrangements may cause additional stress and affect staff and student mental health and wellbeing and are asked to take a sympathetic approach to those experiencing difficulties.

Concerns on stress, workload issues or support needs should be discussed with line manager, supervisor and/or Adviser of Studies, as applicable.

Line managers supervisors and advisors of studies should be sensitive to signs and symptoms that an individual may be working beyond their capacity to cope and should deal sensitively with members of staff or students experiencing anxiety whether associated with their work, studies or

note that current estimates (Issue 7) report a very low population incidence of Covid-19 infection within Scotland. (Mid-range estimate = 400 cases at 24th July 2020) Source: “ https://www.gov.scot/publications/coronavirus-covid- 19-modelling-epidemic-scotland-issue-no-9/ ” ( See also subsequent issues for changes in estimated incidence.)

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from other causes. Staff members and students who are in

vulnerable groups or are caring for others in such groups are encouraged to contact their Line Manager/ Supervisor/ Adviser of Studies to discuss their support needs

Staff and students should be aware of the practical and mental health support mechanisms available to them (e.g. Employee Assistance Programme, Student Services support.)

Travel to the UniversityTravelling to the University

Risk of viral infection if using public transport or there is increased contact with others. Increased potential for viral spread on campus.

3 3 9 Public transport providers are operating procedures to minimise the risk of viral spread.

Use of face coverings is currently now mandatory on public transport, reducing infection risk.

Falling population incidence lowers the infection risk.

Some staff and students can travel to campus on foot, or may cycle, reducing the need for public transport use.

Where possible, enabling employees and students to work and study off campus will reduce the need for non-essential travel.

Easing of parking restrictions may allow car travel as an option for staff and some students attending on campus.

Where possible, allowing flexibility in attendance times will enable staff and students to travel at times that avoid

2 3 6 Consider options such as longer days/ compressed hours to reduce the number of days that an individual need to travel to campus.

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busy commuter periodsInduction and trainingReturn to campus- based work with new infection control protocols in place

There is a risk that staff and students returning will not understand new protocols and procedures that they must follow to ensure infection control is maintained.

3 3 9 A video training package is available for use at University level by all staff and PGR students. Written guides aimed at staff, students and researchers are available on the University website.

An induction programme for UG Students and PGTs will be in place for the start of the academic session.

Managers are required to establish local processes to brief returning individuals on the procedures that are to be operated within individual work areas and for specific work tasks.

Managers are required to undertake a Covid specific risk assessment for areas opening within Phase 2 and 3 recovery periods.

Risk assessments for specific tasks may need to be reviewed if there are changes in the working method.

2 3 6 Students and their Supervisors should jointly review working practices and risk assessments to identify whether there is a need to change working arrangements to for specific tasks to maintain effective infection control practices, including physical distancing.

Students should be informed by the local unit of any changes in risk assessments and subsequent alterations to required work and study practices.

Work and study environmentEntry and exit to and from buildings

High risk contact surfaces can spread the infection to anyone who touches them.

3 3 9 Entry and exits to the more complex buildings/sites may be limited to the minimum number of points required with access controlled to minimise staff and student occupancy, where appropriate.

Access to buildings is restricted for visitors and contractors etc.

Visitors confined to strictly defined

2 3 6 Hand sanitisers have been provided at entrances of open buildings and will be kept stocked so far as is practicable. These are considered a supplement to existing handwashing facilities.

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areas and unnecessary movements around the building avoided.

Visitor and contractor attendance are managed, and attendance is recorded by managing unit.

Hand sanitiser is available in key communal work areas and on main travel routes through the building/site including access and egress areas

Advisory hand washing signage is displayed throughout the building, especially at entrances and exits and were people congregate.

A guide to campus signage is displayed at entry points to major buildings.

Use of communal spaces and travel around campus/buildings

Spread of Covid-19 infection

4 3 12 Physical distancing is in place across open buildings: Staff and students who are on campus

are advised to maintain physical distance (currently 2m but may reduce with changes in Government guidance.)

One-way routes have been identified and marked in some areas.

Floor signage is in use in corridors and in stairways to remind building users of safe travel and distancing requirements.

Signage is in place to remind building users of the need for regular hand washing.

Enhanced cleaning is in place in communal areas e.g. corridors, doors, toilets, kitchens.

Occupancy limits are marked on key rooms in open buildings.

2 3 6 Spacing of workstations in common areas has been reviewed by Estates in relation to larger centrally controlled spaces. A similar exercise will be required by local units as part of their Covid-19 risk assessment of local areas.

Consider keeping doors open (where fire-safety requirements permit) to reduce need to touch doors after washing hands.

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Security and local management are monitoring use of communal areas to ensure physical distancing is observed.

Residual virus on surfaces within buildings

Ill-health due to viral spread. Sickness absence. Spread of infection to others. Productivity loss.

4 3 12 A clean of the building common areas is carried out before buildings are re-opened.

Regular cleaning of communal student study areas is carried out. In addition, cleaning materials are provided within centrally managed communal study areas to allow user cleaning and sanitisation of equipment between users.

A minimum of daily cleaning procedure for toilets and kitchens is undertaken.

Where possible, cleaning frequency is increased so that cleaning can be undertaken while the building is occupied.

Regular hand contact points are cleaned on a regular basis including, door handles, light switches, handrails, lift buttons, taps, dispensers, toilets. Enhanced techniques using ozone and electrostatic spray is in use.

Cleaners who are currently at work have been instructed in use of the new techniques and enhance cleaning protocols.

Use of common work equipment (e.g. printers) should be locally managed and a suitable after-use cleaning and hand-washing procedure put in place. Staff and students are asked to carry out local cleaning of their own work areas

2 3 6 Schools, Institutes and Services should ensure that cleaning procedures are supported locally by unit staff and students and that cleaning products are available to allow them to do this.

Users of communal study areas should sanitise equipment before and after use, using any cleaning materials provided.

Kitchen surfaces used by Schools, Institutes and Services should be regularly cleaned by users.

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in support of Estates-led cleaning regimes.

Cleaning products are provided in some communal areas, so that staff and students can frequently clean elements of their own workspaces and communal items during the day. E.g. wipes

Plant, equipment and services

Equipment and building services may not be fully functional after a period of non-use and will require checks of re-commissioning before use.

There is a risk that statutory examination periods have expired or that equipment expire dates have passed.

Water systems may present a potential legionella risk.

3 3 9 Estates have continued to carry out maintenance on building services throughout lockdown and have established checklists and procedures to ensure that buildings are in a suitable condition for re-opening. This includes statutory examination of items of plant and equipment where accessible. Fire detection systems have been

maintained throughout lockdown and remain functional.

Emergency lighting has been maintained or will be checked prior to building reoccupation.

Water systems have been subject to checks and maintenance during lockdown and prior to reoccupation.

Showers, bathrooms and kitchens in accommodation areas require specific (but established) reoccupation procedures.

1 3 3 Schools, Institutes and Services should note the following requirements and establish procedures to carry out these tasks. Thorough examination, inspection, test and

maintenance certificates should be checked by School/Institute/ Service staff to ensure that equipment they are responsible for remains within its relevant test date.

Specifically, checks are needed on local exhaust ventilation equipment - fume cupboards, microbiological safety cabinets etc - and on lifting equipment, pressure systems.

All users should run taps within their area to flush systems unless otherwise advised by Estates that this has been done.

Check and flush eyewash systems in labs. Check first aid equipment and other emergency kits. Managers of research and teaching labs and

workshop users are advised to carry out a full area safety inspection prior to beginning work. Student users should also inspect any equipment they are responsible for before use.

Work and study activitiesBuilding users working together in a

Spread of Covid-19 among users of an area

4 3 12 Implement physical distancing: Reduce occupancy in room to allow for

a minimum 2 metre distance around

2 3 6 Consider mitigation measures where physical distancing cannot be readily maintained. This may include:

Use of Perspex screens or other room divisions

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shared area (offices, teaching rooms, study spaces, labs, workshops)

each workspace. Some rooms have occupancy limits set and displayed on room signage.

Ensure each person has a dedicated workspace

Identify a separate entrance and exit to the space if possible or identify a suitable system to avoid sustained close contact

Remind people to stay home if symptomatic

Both staff and students on campus will be supervised/monitored to ensure they adhere to the controls in place.

Provide one workspace per person to avoid sharing of items.

Remind people not to share equipment or, where this is necessary, establish a pre-use/post use sanitising procedure.

Building users should aim to maintain social distancing during breaks.

Activities should be scheduled so that time spent by in proximity to others is minimised.

Try to reduce the need for on campus work through measures such as staggered attendances and through arrangement with other users who can undertake some experimental or maintenance work on behalf of others. This may be via a rota arrangement.

Where possible the number of people each person has contact with should be reduced by using "fixed teams or partnering" (so each person works with

Working back-to-back instead of face-to-face Limiting contact time Maintaining a robust hygiene and handwashing

regime Use of face coverings

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only a few others).Building users working closely on specific work tasks

Spread of Covid-19 among task participants and to others.

5 3 15 Schools, Institutes and Services have been asked to review activities to identify any task that requires communal working or otherwise puts individuals at increased risk.E.g. group work in labs, lifting a heavy item, travel in a vehicle with another person, working together on a shared piece of equipment or specimen.

Where possible, such work should be done with physical distancing in place. If that is not possible, and the task is essential, other mitigating measures will be needed. In that situation the task risk assessment MUST be formally reviewed, and the new precautionary measure included within it. Mitigating measures may include such precautions as: Limiting the number of people

involved. Using fixed teams or partnering, rather

than mixing larger numbers of people. Keeping the duration of the close

contact as short as possible. Keeping people as far apart as possible. Using screens or barriers or, where

possible, positional controls such as back-to-back or side-by-side working.

Increasing handwashing and surface cleaning frequencies.

Use of face coverings can also be considered as an additional protection but is not a substitute for other distancing measures.

3 3 9 Research students must review their own activities in conjunction with their supervisor to identify tasks where close contact is unavoidable. These should be discussed with supervisory staff to agree suitable, documented working arrangements. Likewise teaching leads must review and agree suitable precautionary measures and documentation that covers specific skills- based teaching where close contact is unavoidable.

Task- specific risk assessments will normally be required for any long duration (>15 minutes) close contact work and may also be appropriate for some shorter tasks where specific precautions are considered necessary to protect those involved.

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Undertaking work in the open air or in a well-ventilated area can be helpful, where this is possible.

Attending meetings groups and training events.

Spread of Covid-19 among task participants and to others.

3 3 9 The requirement for face to face meetings should be minimised, if possible, by using video meeting systems such as Zoom, Teams, Skype. & etc. If face to face meetings are essential: Ensure all attendees use a hand

sanitiser when entering the meeting room and when leaving the room (or ensure hand washing in closest facilities if sanitiser is not available)

Avoid shaking hands, use other greeting methods

Maintain social distancing (e.g. keep 2m between each meeting attendees, especially face-to-face)

Consider meeting in the open air for site activities, if this is practical.

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Provision of teaching through lectures, seminar and small group teaching

Spread of Covid-19 among participants and to the wider community.

Face-to-face large-group teaching is currently suspended but the arrangements for this are being separately reviewed by the University.

Currently, the University has agreed that mass lectures will not take place in the foreseeable future unless measures can be established that allow physical distancing and meet Government guidance. This position may change as Government guidelines are changed and risk reduces. Instead, lectures will be delivered by online routes or in smaller groups.

Teaching will normally be limited to

Teaching protocols are being constantly reviewed and developed by a workstream group focussed on these activities. Procedures will be updated and modified by this group as Government guidance is changed and as infection risks change.

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groups of no more than 25 people. An exception is within any teaching laboratory areas or other areas where a greater designated capacity has been formally agreed by Estates with the managing department.

Potential for non-compliance by building users within work and study areas

There is a risk that as staff and students return to campus it will be difficult to sustain physical distancing and other behaviours due to potential for increasing non-compliant behaviours as the risk is perceived to reduce.

4 3 12 Return to campus is being staged and aligned to Scottish Government Covid recovery Phases with an initial low occupancy that can be more directly managed in the early stages. Induction training has been launched

and is mandatory for all returning staff and PGR students. This provides information on the behaviours required and of the measures in place on campus. This is supported by campus signage.

Staff cards will be deactivated if the induction is not completed within an agreed period. Similar measures can be applied where students have permissions granted to access University buildings.

Guides for Managers, Staff, Researchers and Students are available on the University Covid website together with a published Campus Management Plan.

An undergraduate student induction/briefing will be provided to students in relation to on campus behaviour and in residences. This will support the student campus guide.

The importance of supervision by managers, Security and peers is

3 3 9 Risk levels and controls required will become less stringent in the later stages of the control phases when greater numbers of people are permitted to return to the campus. This is subject to Government guidance and reduction in Covid risk. Although restrictions may eb eased, compliance with those that remain may become more difficult as perceived risks reduce in later phases.

SRC support and media messaging should be used to encourage compliance as a social norm. This may already be the case with some groups of international students.

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emphasised in the Campus Guides to maintain a suitable level of compliance.

Comparable standards of building management are expected to be in place within NHS-run buildings that are occupied in part by University staff.

Potential for infection spread by building users within student social and recreational areas

There is a risk that it will be difficult to sustain physical distancing and other behaviours within social and recreational areas such as University Unions, in UoG Sport facilities and in hospitality areas as the risk is perceived to reduce.

4 3 12 At present, Government guidelines prevent the opening of some type of venue due to the difficulties of ensuring physical distancing is observed. The University continues to observe these requirements and recommendations.

Student Unions and University sports facilities will only be opened when the Government guidelines permit this. Any distancing procedures or operating restrictions in force at this point will be addressed.

Catering areas can already open but in a limited manner. On site venues run directly by the University have distancing measures in place.

3 3 9 The Government appears to recognise the difficulties of ensuring distancing is maintained in a social context such as a busy pub or social gathering. it is likely that by the time opening is permitted, some further relaxation of distancing rules may be in place making operation more feasible than at present.

Managers responsible for running higher risk activities, whether directly (such as UoG Sport) or indirectly (such as GUU and QMU) should develop detailed operating plans and supporting risk assessments for their areas before re-opening is permitted, in cases where the University has such control. These plans should demonstrate how Scot Gov guidance on safe operation of these areas will be met and maintained.

Operation of Union buildings is expected to closely resemble that of the UoG managed premises.

Potential for infection spread through student club activities

There is a risk that physical distancing and will be difficult to achieve and maintain in student club activities.

3 3 9 Sports based clubs At a national level, some sporting

activities have been permitted to recommence where the sport allows for distancing. Scot Gov have published general guidance, and this should be used as a benchmark when considering the feasibility of club activities. (see link to right)

A detailed list of the recommendations for specific sports is published by Sport Scotland together with a more general

2 3 6 https://www.gov.scot/publications/coronavirus- covid-19-what-you-can-and-cannot-do/pages/sport-culture-and-leisure/

https://sportscotland.org.uk/covid-19/latest-sport- and-physical-activity-guidance/

https://sportscotland.org.uk/media/5906/phase-3- return-to-sport-and-physical-activity-guidance-final-100720.pdf

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guide on re-commencement. (see link to right) This guidance should be followed.

Sports club activity on campus using University facilities should only recommence with the agreement of UoG Sport and in accordance with any procedures they require.

A written risk assessment and operating arrangements must be prepared detailing any proposed club events/activity.

Difficulties in ensuring distancing during group travel is expected to restrict the feasibility of group travel and club trips for some time yet.

Non sport clubs Very limited small group activities not

involving communal group travel may be able to take place provided 2m physical distancing (or alternative Scot Gov approved option) can be maintained during the activity.

Scot Gov guidance on seeing friends and family provides a benchmark on permitted group sizes for outdoor and indoor gatherings, including household numbers involved, and the precautions required. This should be applied as guidance for club activities. (see link)

A written risk assessment of the proposed activity must be prepared explaining how the required physical distancing, hygiene and other specified

https://www.gov.scot/publications/coronavirus- covid-19-what-you-can-and-cannot-do/pages/seeing-friends-and-family/

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measures will be maintained. Hand washing or hand sanitisation

procedures must be in place. Permission will be required from

Estates to access any University building. Many of these are not currently open or available for club activity due to occupancy restrictions.

Potential for non-compliance (suppliers and contractors)

There is a risk that visiting suppliers and contractors will not meet UoG guidelines on distancing and/ or face-coverings due to either differences with their own employers' requirements or non-compliant behaviours.

3 3 9 Return to campus will be staged and aligned to Scottish Government phases with an initial low occupancy. This will mean reduced numbers of contractors within University occupied buildings and a level of ability to supervise and monitor them.

Contractors and suppliers will generally be employees and so potentially subject to action by their employer in the event of non-compliance. Their employers will be subject to similar Government requirements to the University and so share an interest in ensuring compliant behaviour. The likelihood of widespread non-compliance is therefore judged lower than may be the case for students.

Signage within buildings provides information for visitors on the basic procedures.

The importance of supervision by managers, Security and peers is emphasised in the Campus Guides and to staff managing contractors to ensure that a suitable level of compliance is

2 3 6 The University could contact key contractors likely to work within occupied parts of the campus to set out our access standards and requirements.

An induction briefing, or information pack, could be considered for key contractors/suppliers based on the existing staff campus user guide. It is noted that some contractors are asking for information on University site access arrangements and procedures.

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maintained.Increased risk of lone working.

Physical distancing and lower occupancy may result in lone working with increased difficulty in getting help in an emergency

3 3 9 Line Managers and Supervisors must take the risk of lone working into account when arranging and agreeing staff and student activities. With reduced building occupancies, it likely that more lone working may take place.

Lone working does not make the risk of injury any more likely at an individual level for most tasks although obtaining help in an emergency can be more difficult.

The University has both lone working and lone study policies. Covid-19 does not significantly change these and the recommendations in these documents should continue to be applied.

Through risk assessment processes and discussion with those involved, identify any foreseeable tasks that members of staff or students may need to undertake whist working alone.

Higher risk tasks should not be done while working alone. The Line Manager/Supervisor should identify these in consultation with the members of staff/student and agree alternative working arrangements for these.

Brief staff and students on any changes in working practice or arrangements needed due to lone working.

A system of contact should be established for those who may be working alone. – e.g. phone contact, check-in system etc.

1 3 3

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Use of vehicles Spread of Covid-19 among those involved due to inability to fully maintain physical distancing.

5 3 15 Some University activities including teaching involve the use of shared vehicles for travel or delivery purposes. This should be avoided if possible, during the early Covid control phases, so far as practicable. Avoid multiple occupancy of vehicles

where possible. Consider use of more than one vehicle to travel.

If sharing of vehicles is unavoidable and essential for the task, consider fixed partnering/ pairing systems.

Maintain maximum available separation within the vehicle.

Keep windows open, to ensure thorough ventilation, if possible.

Use face coverings to reduce risk of transmission.

Ensure thorough cleaning of contact surfaces between users.

Work in accordance with published guideshttps://www.gov.uk/guidance/working-safely-during-coronavirus-covid-19/vehicles

3 3 9

Personal protective equipment (PPE)Use of PPE in appropriately or incorrectly, or confusion over function and level of protection offered.

There is a risk that PPE will be ineffective without training and monitoring of use.

Incorrect use may increase the

4 3 12 Line managers, supervisors and course leaders must consider, by risk assessment, when PPE will be needed to protect workers and students undertaking practical activities under their supervision. This is an existing supervisory duty and is not specifically Covid-19 derived although Covid-19

2 3 6 Face coverings can increase the risk of transferring contamination from the face covering to surfaces that are touched by the wearer. This can occur if the user handles a used mask without following the correct removal procedures, including hand washing. Incorrect storage of used face coverings can also result in contamination of objects that they are in contact with in bags or pockets.

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infection risk. may present an additional risk to be considered.

PPE includes gloves, visors and aprons. It is likely that gloves will be the most commonly used item of PPE, although it is important to note that Covid-19 does not infect through intact skin and so gloves are not required for protection solely against this perceived risk.

Respiratory protective equipment (RPE) may be appropriate in some situations but is expected only to be needed for a few very specific tasks where physical distancing is not possible and there is a foreseeable infection risk to the student, or they are at higher health risk.

Face fit testing and training in use is necessary (and a legal requirement) if negative pressure RPE is provided as a primary control measure. (i.e. for use of FFP2 or FFP3 respirators)

Face coverings are NOT PPE and are likely to be used extensively. These do not protect the wearer to a high degree but do help prevent the spread of virus to others and are beneficial in some circumstances. Face coverings do not require a face fit test.

The University is investigating the provision of face coverings as a support to staff and students.

The University may require the use of face-coverings within certain areas where this is required by law, by Government recommendation or by University policy.

Use of face coverings is encouraged while in busier areas where physical distancing may be compromised.

Work-related travel and fieldwork

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Travel within the UK

Possible increased risk of spread, or of personal infection risk, if travelling due to contact with greater numbers of people.

Infection risk level may be higher (or lower) in other areas of the UK.

3 3 9 Travel within Scotland is now permitted to a greater degree than in the earlier stages of lockdown. The University position remains that only necessary work-related travel should be undertaken, including research fieldwork.University guidance on international travel, on UK research fieldwork and on student mobility has been prepared and sets guiding principles regarding these types of travel. Supervisors should assess whether any

proposes student UK travel is necessary/appropriate. Risk assessment forms are available within the SEPS website to assist with the risk assessment and with the approval process. The potential infection risk should not disproportionately outweigh the gains and benefits of the travel

If using public transport, ensure that physical distancing can be achieved. Note that the use of face coverings on public transport and in shops is now mandatory.

If using private transport, assess whether physical distancing be maintained if there is more than one traveller. This will not normally be possible within a private car

Any national rules on travel must be followed.

2 3 6 If travelling, check local rules regarding use of face coverings in other areas, including shops – about to become mandatory in Scotland

Work related international travel

Possible increased risk of spread, or of personal infection

3 4 12 If international travel is considered essential: Investigate FCO and local advice in

2 4 8 See University FAQ and Covid website advice regarding travel, mobility and fieldwork.

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risk, if travelling due to contact with greater numbers of people.

Infection risk level may be higher (or lower) in other areas of the world.

Health services support available to the traveller may be more/less good than UK. Costs may be involved in accessing this support. Other additional costs may be incurred if infected overseas.

relation to the safety or the destination and identify whether the proposed destination is an exempt country to which travel is permitted.

Compile case demonstrating that the travel is essential.

Discuss the trip with line manager/supervisor and senior manager to obtain agreement in principle.

Complete University Overseas Travel Risk assessment and Covid 19 supplement.

Submit for formal approval. This should only be granted if the trip is judged essential and appropriate insurance and safety measures are in place.

Approval can be granted at Head of School/ Institute/ Service level if the destination is not subject to FCO advisory notices against travel or is an exempt destination.

Where there are FCO warnings against travel, approval at Head of College/Chief Operation Officer level is needed.

Emergency supportFire/emergency evacuation

Increased likelihood and spread of fire because reduced numbers of trained personnel to address it.

2 4 8 Fire evacuation arrangements remain largely unchanged from pre-Covid systems with only minor variation. (underlined) Fire alarm function and fire service

attendance as normal. Fire alarm testing and maintenance is

being undertaken via an Estates

1 3 3

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Increased risk that not everyone will evacuate safely because of a lack of fire wardens or changed procedures.

Risk of physical distancing being compromised during fire evacuations.

contractor supported in a few areas by SEPS Fire Safety Adviser. AFOs are mainly now returning to work and resuming this function again.

Where one-way travel systems are in place within buildings these will cease on activation of the fire alarm and users should exit as normal by the nearest evacuation route.

If occupancy is kept low and there is no crowding, infection risk during an evacuation will be low as all users will travel in the same direction with minimal face-to-face contact. If possible, they should try to maintain a 2m separation.

It is beneficial if face coverings are worn during an evacuation where normal distancing may be compromised, if these are immediately available.

Building users should be instructed not to congregate close together at any assembly points. 2m separation should be maintained.

Managers should review their assembly points to check that this is possible with the likely numbers of people within the building. It is beneficial if face coverings are worn in assembly areas as a protection to others.

Those returning will generally be familiar with the buildings they are working in. Overall occupancy numbers will be low therefore the need for fire

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wardens is minimal in the early recovery phases.

Responsible local staff should be directed to check fire exit routes regularly if there is no Area Fire Officer presence amongst the returned key staff.

Other than in exceptional circumstances, no planned fire drills will be undertaken during the initial phases of Covid 19 control to avoid unnecessary physical contact between building occupants. Fire drills may recommence in early Autumn subject to continued recovery progress.

Managers, Supervisors and research students must ensure that any essential higher risk work is sufficiently supported on site with suitable technical expertise.

First aid and emergency support

Reduced numbers of staff on campus will reduce the number of first aiders available.

Anxiety over infection risk and need to maintain social distancing may make deliver of assistance more difficult or restrict this.

4 3 12 Should an individual need emergency support or first aid, this is still available via the University Security team as a primary emergency support. Concerns over potential infection risk

may exist and additional PPE for key first aiders such as Security may be appropriate as an additional provision. It is noted that this risk is reducing as infection rates continue to fall.

Both the Gilmorehill emergency number (0141 330 4444) and Garscube emergency numbers (0141 330 2222) remain fully functional.

Security staff can assist with attendance

2 3 6 A first aid risk assessment has been prepared and is published on SEPS website. An email communication has been sent to all first aiders.

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at an incident, first aid provision or with summoning any of the emergency services.

Reduced activity on campus does mean that first aid needs will be considerably reduced from normal.

Although Covid 19 presents a current infection risk, first aiders should be aware through their training that other human infections have always presented a risk during first aid and can apply this training to minimise infection risks.

Community incident is very low and so the likelihood of dealing with a Covid-19 infected person is correspondingly low.

Where possible, first aiders should try to assist while maintaining a 2m distance. Unless direct intervention is needed e.g. for CPR or other direct physical assistance, much non-emergency advice and support can be provided without close contact.

Where close contact is needed to assist an on-site judgement (dynamic risk assessment) should be made on the likely risk presented by the individual, the urgency of their need for first aid assistance and the consequence if that is not provided.

Chest compression CPR only can be performed as an alternative to mouth-to-mouth in accordance with current first aid organisation guidance.

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The risk from providing first aid support will normally be relatively low, unless the casualty has an active Covid 19 infection. Where the casualty has no infection, there is no Covid 19 risk from providing first aid.

In many cases, help can often be provided at close quarters without those involved directly breathing onto one another. Close contact should be for as short a time as is possible.

If any form of PPE is available, disposable gloves, masks/PPE or eye protection, these should be worn during any close contact.

HSE have granted an extension, valid until 30th September 2020, for any first aid qualifications that have expired since 16th March.

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Risk Rating CalculatorLikelihood that hazardous event will occur Consequence of hazardous event

1 Very unlikely 1 Insignificant (no injury)2 Unlikely 2 Minor (minor injury requiring first aid only)3 Fairly likely 3 Moderate (Up to three days absence)4 Likely 4 Major (More than seven days absence)5 Very likely 5 Catastrophic (Permanent injury or death)

Action Level TableRisk Rating Risk Level Actions to be taken

20 – 25 Very High Risk STOP! Stop the activity and take immediate action to reduce the risk, a detailed plan should be developed and implemented before work commences or continues. Senior management should monitor the plan.

15 – 16 High Risk Urgent Action! Take immediate action and stop the activity if necessary, maintain existing controls rigorously. The continued effectiveness of control measures should be monitored periodically.

8 – 12 Moderate Risk Action Moderate risks may be tolerated for short periods while further control measures to reduce the risk are being planned and implemented. Improvements should be made within the specified timescale, if these are possible.

3 – 6 Low Risk Monitor Look to improve at the next review or if there is a significant change. Monitor the situation periodically to determine if new control measures are required.

1 – 2 Very Low Risk No Action No further action is usually required but ensure that existing controls are maintained and reviewed regularly.

Some example hazards that may apply to the activity (not exhaustive)Working at height Noise Lighting (including strobe lighting) Fire and explosion

Falling objects Vibration Compressed air Hazardous chemicals

Slippery, uneven or worn floors Hand tools Magnetic fields Biological risks / disease

Obstructions and projections Repetitive hand / arm movement Pressure systems Animals

Confined spaces Machine operation Needles and sharps Compressed Air

Mechanical Lifting Manual Handling Lasers Hydraulic systems

Poor housekeeping Vehicle movements Ionising and non-ionising radiation Other (please specify on assessment)

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Version Control Sheet

Version Issue date Key changes from previous versionVersion 1.5 9th July 2020 Updated to reflect implementation of control measures indicated in previous version as proposed.

First aid certificate extension information updated to new extension date of 30th September 2020.

Version 1.6 13th July 2020 (draft) Text amended throughout to include students within scope of the assessment as well as staff.New hazard associated with student social and recreational areas added.Version control sheet added to document.

Version 1.6a 24th July 2020 Minor amendments to text to more fully refer to student/teaching areas and to specifically reference student study areas.Two new sections added within “Work and Study Activities” on 1) Teaching activities and 2) Student club activities.Additional control measures for staff and students in extremely vulnerable/ vulnerable categories for return to campusSlight modification to exits and entrances to buildings

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