Cambridge Radio is committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for all volunteers, presenters, staff, guests, visitors and members of the public who may be affected by our activities.
We recognise our duties under the Health and Safety Executive framework, including the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, and will take all reasonably practicable steps to prevent accidents, injuries and ill health arising from our operations.
The station is committed to:
- Providing a safe place of work and broadcasting environment.
- Identifying and managing risks associated with our activities.
- Ensuring equipment is maintained and used safely.
- Providing appropriate information, instruction and training.
- Consulting volunteers and staff on health and safety matters.
- Reviewing this policy regularly to ensure it remains effective.
1. Responsibilities
Steering Group / Board
The Steering Group or Board will:
- Maintain overall responsibility for health and safety.
- Ensure suitable risk assessments are completed.
- Ensure appropriate insurance cover is maintained.
- Investigate accidents, incidents and near misses.
- Ensure emergency procedures are in place.
- Review this policy annually.
Presenters, Volunteers and Staff
All volunteers, presenters and staff are expected to:
- Take reasonable care of their own health and safety.
- Take reasonable care of others who may be affected by their actions.
- Follow station procedures and risk assessments.
- Report hazards, accidents and near misses promptly.
- Use equipment only for its intended purpose.
- Cooperate with management on health and safety matters.
2. Risk Assessments
The station will undertake risk assessments for:
- Studio operations.
- Outside broadcasts.
- Live events.
- Fundraising activities.
- Office and administration work.
- Lone working where applicable.
Risk assessments will be reviewed:
- Annually.
- Following significant changes.
- After accidents or near misses.
3. Fire Safety
The station will:
- Maintain clear fire exits and escape routes.
- Ensure fire extinguishers are provided where appropriate.
- Keep electrical equipment in safe condition.
- Display emergency contact information.
- Conduct periodic fire safety reviews.
In the event of fire:
- Raise the alarm immediately.
- Evacuate the building.
- Call 999 if necessary.
- Do not re-enter until authorised.
4. First Aid
The station will:
- Maintain a suitably stocked first aid kit.
- Display emergency contact numbers.
- Record accidents in an accident log.
All accidents, however minor, should be reported to station management.
Serious incidents will be reported in accordance with relevant legislation.
5. Electrical Safety
Electrical equipment presents one of the main risks in a radio environment.
The station will:
- Use equipment supplied by reputable manufacturers.
- Visually inspect equipment regularly.
- Remove damaged equipment from use immediately.
- Avoid overloading sockets and extension leads.
- Ensure portable electrical equipment is checked periodically as appropriate.
Volunteers must not attempt repairs unless authorised and competent to do so.
6. Studio Safety
To maintain a safe broadcasting environment:
- Walkways and exits must remain clear.
- Food and drink should be kept away from technical equipment wherever practical.
- Cables should be routed safely to prevent trips.
- Equipment racks and furniture must remain stable and secure.
- Guests should be supervised when using studio facilities.
7. Manual Handling
Where equipment needs to be moved:
- Assess the weight before lifting.
- Use appropriate lifting techniques.
- Seek assistance for heavy or awkward items.
- Use trolleys or other aids where available.
No volunteer is expected to lift items beyond their capability.
8. Outside Broadcasts and Events
Before outside broadcasts or public events:
- A risk assessment must be completed.
- Site-specific hazards must be identified.
- Weather conditions must be considered.
- Electrical supplies must be checked for suitability.
- Appropriate public liability insurance must be in place.
Volunteers should wear appropriate clothing and footwear for the environment.
9. Lone Working
Where volunteers or staff work alone:
- Someone should be aware of their whereabouts.
- Emergency contact details should be available.
- Individuals should not undertake tasks presenting significant risk while alone.
10. Display Screen Equipment
Volunteers and staff using computers should:
- Adjust seating and screens appropriately.
- Take regular breaks.
- Report any concerns regarding workstation comfort.
11. Welfare
The station aims to provide:
- Access to toilet and handwashing facilities.
- Drinking water.
- A respectful, inclusive working environment.
- Freedom from bullying, harassment and discrimination.
Any concerns should be reported to station management.
12. Accident Reporting
All accidents, incidents and near misses should be reported as soon as possible.
Records should include:
- Date and time.
- Location.
- Persons involved.
- Details of the incident.
- Actions taken.
The station will review incidents to identify lessons learned and prevent recurrence.
13. Review
This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if:
- There are significant changes to activities.
- New premises are occupied.
- Legislation changes.
- An incident indicates a review is necessary.
This policy applies to all employees, volunteers, presenters, board members, contractors, guests and visitors involved with Cambridge Radio activities.