Animals including Humans - Risk Assessment

In Year 3 science classes covering "Animals including Humans," a thorough risk assessment is essential to ensure the safety of pupils, teachers, assistants, and any classroom visitors during practical activities. The Primary Science Advisory Service (PZAZ) emphasises the importance of consulting reliable sources such as the CLEAPSS or SSERC websites for health and safety guidance, particularly when dealing with hazardous substances. It is crucial to note that PZAZ cannot be held responsible for any incidents that may arise from following the advice in their resources, which include lesson plans, CPD videos, and risk assessments.

The risk profile for these lessons is identified as 'Low', and potential hazards include the harmful effects of swallowing iodine solution, slip risks due to liquid spillages, allergic reactions to substances in juices, cuts from sharp bone edges, bacterial transmission from bones, eye damage from flicked elastic bands, and physical injuries from jumping or running into others. To control these risks, a series of measures are recommended: warning pupils about the dangers of iodine, cleaning up spills immediately, being mindful of allergies, using intact bones, wearing gloves and washing hands after handling bones, using safety goggles, instructing careful jumping techniques, and managing running paths to avoid collisions. The use of a 1% iodine solution is noted, and it is advised to attach the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) to the risk assessment. Disposal of waste materials should be carried out responsibly, with clear instructions on whether to use bins, water streams, or sanitary methods.