Definition
Employer – the term “employer” means
a Vocational Education Committee and in the case of primary, voluntary
secondary, community and comprehensive schools, a Board of Management/Manager.
The Vocational Education Committee or Board of Management/Manager
may delegate responsibility outlined in this guide to the Principal
of the school.
As an employer it is essential that you understand
what your role is and your responsibilities for occupational health
and safety issues in the school environment. This information is
laid out clearly in the ‘occupational health advice on medical fitness to teach’ guide
which you should have already received.
In short, it is essential to ensure:
- That those who teach are medically fit to do so.
- That they remain capable and medically fit.
- That the health, safety and well-being of staff and students
are safeguarded.
- That your school complies with all legislative
requirements including health & safety and disability discrimination
legislation.
- That a consistent quality and standard of education is delivered
to all those for whom there is a responsibility in so far as medical
fitness.
As part of satisfying these requirements you as an employer should
seek specialist advice from us on the medical fitness to teach of
all teaching staff who you intend to employ.
This includes:
- Seeking advice from us in relation to those who have suffered
significant illness or injury to ensure that they are medically
fit to return to teaching duties.
- Identifying concerns regarding an individual’s
apparent lack of medical fitness resulting in performance issues
at an early stage, investigate fully and speedily, seek appropriate
advice including occupational health advice and determine necessary
actions to be taken.
- Inform teachers of arrangements for occupational health advice.
- Ensure that teachers are aware of their responsibility for the
health and safety of students.
For advice and assistance with this area contact us at local
1890 235711 or email: info@medmark4teachers.ie |
