Africentric Arts Heath and Safety Policy

Africentric Arts provides recreational activities for children and youth in a safe and healthy environment. Our health and safety program aims to protect and maintain the well-being of all participants, staff, volunteers, and partners across our various locations.

 Health and Safety Commitment

 Africentric Arts is committed to:

  • Ensuring the health, safety, and welfare of all participants, staff, and volunteers.

  • Protecting the health and safety of all individuals present at our activity sites, including contractors, partners, and the public.

  • Promoting the highest degree of physical, psychological, and social well-being among our participants and staff.

 Our goal is to create a healthy, injury-free environment for all. By working together, we can achieve this goal.

 Responsibilities

Organization's Responsibilities:

  • Ensure the health, safety, and welfare of everyone at our activity sites.

  • Make sure that all participants, staff, and volunteers are aware of their health and safety rights and responsibilities.

  • Prevent and address workplace harassment or violence.

  • Ensure supervisors are competent and familiar with health and safety legislation.

  • Provide necessary training to all staff and volunteers.

  • Ensure that only competent individuals or those under direct supervision perform hazardous tasks.

  • Ensure the health and safety committee or representative meets legislative requirements.

  • Address health and safety concerns promptly.

  • Provide access to information related to workplace hazards, controls, and procedures.

  • Ensure health and safety legislation is readily accessible.

 Supervisors' Responsibilities:

  • Take all necessary precautions to protect the health and safety of those under their supervision.

  • Ensure staff and volunteers follow health and safety procedures and legislation.

  • Prevent workplace harassment or violence.

  • Inform staff and volunteers of all known or foreseeable hazards in their work area.

  • Report health and safety concerns to the organization.

 Staff and Volunteers' Responsibilities:

  • Protect their own health and safety, as well as that of others at the activity site.

  • Cooperate with supervisors and the organization to ensure a safe environment.

  • Use all required personal protective equipment and follow safety procedures.

  • Refrain from participating in or causing workplace harassment or violence.

  • Report health and safety concerns to supervisors or the organization.

  • Participate in provided training.

  • Avoid performing work that may endanger themselves or others unless supervised by a competent worker.

 Additional Responsibilities

Everyone involved will:

  • Cooperate with anyone performing duties under health and safety legislation.

  • Comply with the Occupational Health and Safety Act, relevant codes, and work site policies.

  • Ensure that other parties (e.g., contractors, suppliers) comply with health and safety legislation and work site policies.

 Emergency Procedures:

  • First Aid: Each activity area has a fully stocked first aid kit, and all staff and volunteer are trained in first aid and CPR.

  • Emergency Contacts: Up-to-date emergency contact information is maintained and used promptly when necessary.

  • Incident Reporting: All incidents are documented and reported. Parents or guardians are informed promptly.

  • Evacuation Plan: Clear evacuation routes are established and regularly practiced.

 Material and Personal Protective Equipment Safety

  • Non-Toxic Materials: Only non-toxic and child-safe materials are used.

  • Proper Use: Instructions are provided, and staff supervise material usage.

  • Storage: Secure and organized storage of materials.

PPE:

  • Availability of necessary PPE such as gloves and safety goggles.

  • Instructions on proper PPE usage.

COVID-19 Related Guidelines (If applicable)

In the event of a health advisory or pandemic, Africentric Arts will implement additional safety measures, including:

  • Health Screenings: Regular health screenings, including temperature checks and symptom assessments.

  • Enhanced Sanitization: Increased cleaning and disinfection of high-touch surfaces.

  • Face Coverings: Mandatory masks for all participants when social distancing is not possible.

  • Social Distancing: Greater spacing between participants and limited group sizes.

  • Isolation Protocols: Immediate isolation and notification of parents if a participant shows symptoms of illness.

  • Vaccination Encouragement: Encouragement of vaccination according to public health guidelines.

 By adhering to these health and safety protocols, Africentric Arts ensures a safe, welcoming, and enjoyable environment for all participants. Thank you for your cooperation and commitment to maintaining a positive and secure environment.