What is Health and Safety?

Health and safety in a children's activity business encompasses the legal requirements, policies, and practical measures that protect everyone involved — children, staff, parents, and visitors. The primary legislation is the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, supported by specific regulations such as the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, COSHH Regulations, and the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.

If you employ five or more people, you are legally required to have a written health and safety policy. Even if you have fewer than five employees, documenting your approach is strongly recommended. Your policy should cover risk assessment procedures, accident reporting and investigation (RIDDOR reporting for serious incidents), fire safety and evacuation procedures, equipment inspection and maintenance schedules, first aid provision, manual handling, and any substance hazards (such as pool chemicals or cleaning products).

Practical health and safety measures for activity businesses include: pre-session venue checks (is the space clean, is equipment in good condition, are fire exits clear?), maintaining an accident book, regular equipment inspections, ensuring adequate ventilation and temperature control, providing safe storage for personal belongings, and managing allergies and medical conditions.