Light - Risk Assessment

In the context of Year 3 science lessons focusing on Light, the Primary Science Advisory Service (PZAZ) provides a risk assessment to ensure the safety and well-being of pupils, teachers, assistants, and any classroom visitors during practical activities. The risk profile for these lessons is classified as low. However, it's important to be aware of potential hazards and implement the necessary controls to mitigate risks. Hazards identified include the risk of eye damage from looking directly at the Sun or from laser devices, as well as the possibility of cuts from handling chipped or broken materials. Temporary sight loss can also occur from inappropriate use of light sources such as torches.

To manage these risks, PZAZ recommends several control measures. Pupils should be instructed not to look directly at the Sun under any circumstances. All materials should be checked for damage before being handled by pupils, with any damaged items being discarded. Pupils must avoid shining light sources into each other’s eyes and use lasers only as directed in the experiment, ensuring they do not point them at individuals or around the room. Laser pens should be accounted for by the teacher both before and after the lesson. The risk assessment does not indicate the use of chemicals or biological matter, nor the use of mains appliances, thus no specific disposal methods are outlined for these categories. This guidance has been prepared with careful consideration and is based on the information available at the time of its creation.