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Health and Safety

Reading the meter:

The second part of the Water Audit involves taking actual readings from the school’s water meter and although the readings could be taken by teachers or ancillary staff it would be preferable for children to be involved.

There are few dangers associated with the project but it is essential that a full risk assessment be made before starting work as children will spend some time outside the classroom, looking at where water is used in the school during the ‘Estimated’ part of the audit and ideally taking meter readings for the second ‘Measured’ part.

Main Considerations:

Where is the meter located? The site supervisor will be able to help.
If pupils are taking readings, should an adult supervise them?
How will the meter chamber be safely opened?
Is there a risk of traffic being present in the area of the meter?

The meter is likely to be located:

Just after the point where the rising main enters the building
In a small valve chamber of meter chamber outside the school buildings
Inside the school in a specially constructed viewing case if you are really lucky!

Your water supply company may be able to offer advice on meter location, but there may be cost implications. Many water companies are actively supporting their schools in their efforts to encourage water efficiency. The water school website provides links to all partners who have co-funded this website. In the school registration section you will be given the option of submitting your email address.

This data will be held securely and be treated as highly confidential under the terms of the Data Protection Act 1998

This will also allow your water company to contact you by email should there be programmes, schemes, competitions or special offers in which you may wish to participate.

Water Safety

When working on the water conservation project this would be a good opportunity to discuss water safety with the children
Open water can be dangerous, even to a good swimmer
Never swim in rivers, ponds, lakes or reservoirs
Don't play close to the edge of rivers or ponds - they are often muddy and slippery and you could easily fall in
Never walk onto frozen rivers or lakes. The ice could give way under you without warning.
Gardens maybe dangerous too, particularly for pupils' younger family members, particularly toddlers.
A water butt is a great idea in a garden but must be fitted with a sealed lid. Many modern water butts have a lid lock fitted as standard
Paddling pools should be emptied immediately after supervised use when younger children are in the garden.
Garden ponds are a great addition to any garden, but they must be fenced off, or protected with a suitable heavy duty mesh

Visit: http://www.rospa.com for further details.