§ Mr. McAllionTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will list the safety laws and regulations which apply to schools in Scotland.
§ Mr. LangThe Education (Scotland) Act 1980 requires education authorities to ensure that the premises and equipment of all educational establishments under their management are maintained in a condition conducive to the good health and safety of everyone on the premises. The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 also applies in schools. In addition, there is an extensive range of regulations relating to safety considerations which could apply to schools as to other institutions in particular circumstances.
§ Mr. McAllionTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland whether schools in Scotland are exempted from fire regulations requiring buildings to have a fire certificate; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. LangSchools are not required to have fire certificates. Only a limited number of types of premises is designated as requiring fire certificates under section 1 of the Fire Precautions Act 1971. The Government have no plans to extend the range of designation. The question of fire safety in schools is the subject of guidance to education authorities issued in 1982.