Ashburton Repair Cafe is committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for all volunteers, visitors, and participants. We aim to minimise risks and hazards associated with repair activities while promoting a culture of safety and well-being.

This policy applies to any location used by Ashburton Repair Cafe including the workshop at the Old Umber Works and the Church Hall.

This Health & Safety Policy outlines our commitment to ensuring the highest standards of health and safety within our Repair Cafe.

2. Responsibility

2.1 Management Commitment: Co-ordinators at Ashburton Repair Cafe are responsible for creating a safe and healthy working environment and ensuring compliance with all relevant health and safety legislation, regulations, and standards.

2.2 Volunteer Responsibility: Every volunteer has a responsibility to adhere to this Health & Safety Policy, follow safe work practices, and report any hazards or concerns to the management promptly.

3. Risk Assessment and Management

3.1 Hazards Identification: regular assessments will be conducted to identify potential hazards associated with repair activities, such as electrical safety, sharp objects, lifting heavy items, and hazardous materials.

3.2 Risk Evaluation: each identified hazard will be evaluated for the likelihood and severity of potential harm to determine the level of risk.

3.3 Control Measures: appropriate control measures will be implemented to eliminate or minimize identified risks, such as providing personal protective equipment (PPE), conducting training programs, and ensuring proper equipment maintenance.

4. Training and Awareness

4.1 Induction Training all volunteers will receive comprehensive induction training, including health and safety procedures, safe work practices, and emergency response protocols.

5. Emergency Preparedness

5.1 First Aid and Medical Assistance: a well-stocked first aid kit will be readily available at each venue used by the Repair Cafe.

6. Reporting and Investigation

6.1 Incident Reporting: all accidents, near misses, and hazardous situations must be reported to the management immediately using the designated reporting procedures.

6.2 Incident Investigation: the trustees will investigate all incidents promptly to identify root causes and take corrective actions to prevent similar incidents in the future.

7. Consultation and Communication

7.1 Communication Channels: open lines of communication will be maintained between trustees and volunteers to ensure the exchange of health and safety information and address concerns promptly.

Review and Continuous Improvement: This Health & Safety Policy will be reviewed regularly to ensure its ongoing suitability and effectiveness. Changes in legislation, best practices, or organizational structure will be considered, and necessary updates will be made accordingly.

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