HC Deb 13 June 2003 vol 406 cc1103-4W
Dr. Cable

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what additional guidance she has given to management units organising outdoor activities for her Department since her Department's recently published accident record. [117712]

Ms Hewitt

Following this incident the department is reviewing its procedures for assessing such events. The Departments Health and Safety team are in the process of devising a checklist for employees carrying out outdoor activities (such as away days). The checklist will ensure that the employees are:

  1. (a) Trained, the method of training, ensure they keep a record of the training session;
  2. (b)Whether all employees are able to take part—i.e. details of fitness, disability etc;
  3. (c)Is there any basic knowledge employees should have prior to the activity?
  4. (d)Are the employees taking part aware of the potential dangers when carrying out the activity?
  5. (e)Have risk assessments been carried out for all activities, these will highlight hazards and risks, and the control methods;
  6. (f)Will the employees be provided with relevant PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)?
  7. (g)Have the employees been made aware of the Emergency Procedures on site i.e. Fire Exits, First Aiders, Assembly Points etc;
  8. (h)The procurement of such activities will also require that the providing company has adequate and suitable insurance and that there is evidence that any equipment used in the course of the activity is fit for purpose.