Health & Safety Policy

Universe International School (UIS), Erbil

Creating a Safe and Healthy School Environment

1. Policy Statement and Commitment

Universe International School (UIS) is committed to providing a safe, healthy, and secure learning environment for all students, staff, visitors, and community members. We recognize that the health and safety of our school community is fundamental to effective teaching and learning, and we are dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of safety protocols, emergency preparedness, hygiene practices, and campus security.

Our commitment extends to preventing accidents, injuries, and health-related incidents through proactive risk management, comprehensive emergency procedures, and continuous safety education. We believe that creating a culture of safety is a shared responsibility that requires the active participation of all community members.

2. Scope and Application

This policy applies to all individuals on UIS premises and during school-sponsored activities, including:

All students enrolled at UIS
Teaching and administrative staff
Support staff, contractors, and service providers
Parents, guardians, and family members
Visitors, volunteers, and community partners
Board members and governance personnel
External event participants and attendees

The policy covers all locations and activities including:

School buildings and classrooms
Outdoor areas, playgrounds, and sports facilities
Transportation services and field trips
Off-campus educational activities and events
Online and remote learning environments
After-school programs and extracurricular activities

3. Legal Framework and Compliance

UIS operates in accordance with:

Kurdistan Regional Government health and safety regulations
Iraqi federal workplace safety and education laws
International school safety standards and best practices
Local municipal building and fire safety codes
Public health guidelines from relevant authorities
Insurance requirements and risk management standards

4. Health and Safety Objectives

4.1 Primary Objectives

Prevent accidents, injuries, and health emergencies
Maintain a clean, hygienic, and healthy environment
Ensure rapid and effective emergency response
Promote health and safety awareness throughout the community
Comply with all applicable health and safety regulations
Continuously improve safety systems and procedures

4.2 Health Promotion Goals

Support physical and mental wellbeing of all community members
Prevent the spread of infectious diseases
Promote healthy lifestyle choices and behaviors
Provide access to healthcare and wellness resources
Create supportive environments for individuals with health conditions
Foster a culture of health consciousness and responsibility

5. Organizational Structure and Responsibilities

5.1 Board of Directors

Ultimate responsibility for health and safety policy and oversight
Approval of major safety investments and policy changes
Regular review of safety performance and incident reports
Ensuring adequate resources for health and safety programs
Accountability for regulatory compliance and legal obligations

5.2 School Principal

Overall operational responsibility for health and safety implementation
Leadership in promoting safety culture and awareness
Coordination with emergency services and regulatory authorities
Regular reporting to the Board on safety matters
Decision-making authority during emergency situations

5.3 Health and Safety Officer

Day-to-day management of health and safety programs
Conducting risk assessments and safety inspections
Coordinating emergency response procedures and training
Maintaining health and safety records and documentation
Liaising with external health and safety professionals

5.4 All Staff Members

Following all health and safety procedures and protocols
Reporting hazards, incidents, and near-miss events
Participating in safety training and emergency drills
Supervising students and ensuring their safety
Maintaining clean and safe work environments

5.5 Students

Following school safety rules and procedures
Reporting safety concerns to staff members
Participating in safety education and emergency drills
Taking responsibility for personal safety and the safety of others
Using equipment and facilities safely and appropriately

5.6 Parents and Guardians

Providing accurate health information about their children
Supporting school safety initiatives and procedures
Communicating health concerns and changes to school staff
Following visitor safety protocols when on campus
Reinforcing safety messages and behaviors at home

6. Risk Assessment and Management

6.1 Risk Assessment Process

UIS conducts comprehensive risk assessments covering:

Physical Environment Risks:

Building structure and maintenance issues
Electrical systems and equipment safety
Fire hazards and emergency egress routes
Playground and sports equipment condition
Chemical storage and laboratory safety
Environmental hazards and weather-related risks

Health and Medical Risks:

Infectious disease prevention and control
Food safety and nutrition services
Water quality and sanitation systems
Air quality and ventilation adequacy
Pest control and environmental health
Individual student health conditions and needs

Security and Safety Risks:

Unauthorized access and intrusion prevention
Violence prevention and threat assessment
Transportation safety and traffic management
Off-campus activity and field trip risks
Technology safety and cybersecurity
Emergency response and evacuation procedures

6.2 Risk Mitigation Strategies

Regular safety inspections and maintenance schedules
Implementation of engineering controls and safety systems
Development of administrative policies and procedures
Provision of personal protective equipment when necessary
Training and education programs for all stakeholders
Continuous monitoring and improvement of safety measures

6.3 Documentation and Review

Formal risk assessment reports updated annually
Incident investigation and corrective action records
Regular safety committee meetings and minutes
Compliance audits and regulatory inspection reports
Continuous improvement plans and implementation tracking
Emergency drill reports and performance evaluations

7. Emergency Procedures and Crisis Management

7.1 Emergency Response Framework

UIS has established comprehensive emergency procedures for:

Fire Emergency:

Immediate evacuation procedures and assembly points
Fire detection and alarm systems operation
Staff responsibilities during fire emergencies
Coordination with local fire department services
Post-emergency procedures and facility inspection
Fire prevention education and regular drill schedules

Medical Emergency:

First aid response and immediate care procedures
Emergency medical services coordination and contact
Student medication management and administration protocols
Staff training in CPR and basic first aid techniques
Medical emergency communication with parents and authorities
Documentation and follow-up procedures for medical incidents

Security Threats:

Lockdown procedures and secure area protocols
Threat assessment and law enforcement coordination
Communication systems during security emergencies
Visitor screening and access control measures
Emergency notification systems for parents and community
Post-incident support and counseling services

Natural Disasters:

Earthquake response and building evacuation procedures
Severe weather protocols and shelter-in-place procedures
Flooding response and facility protection measures
Power outage procedures and backup systems activation
Communication during extended emergency situations
Recovery and continuity of operations planning

7.2 Emergency Communication Systems

Public address system for immediate announcements
Two-way radio communication between key personnel
Mass notification systems for parents and community
Emergency contact databases and communication trees
Coordination protocols with emergency services
Backup communication systems and redundancy measures

7.3 Emergency Supplies and Equipment

First aid kits strategically located throughout the facility
Emergency medical supplies and automated external defibrillators
Flashlights, batteries, and emergency lighting systems
Emergency food and water supplies for extended situations
Emergency communication devices and backup power sources
Evacuation chairs and assistance equipment for individuals with disabilities

8. Health and Hygiene Protocols

8.1 Infectious Disease Prevention

Daily Health Monitoring:

Health screening procedures for students and staff
Temperature checks and symptom monitoring protocols
Exclusion criteria for illness and return-to-school guidelines
Communication with families regarding health status
Coordination with public health authorities during outbreaks
Documentation and tracking of health-related absences

Hygiene and Sanitation:

Hand washing stations and sanitizer availability throughout campus
Regular cleaning and disinfection schedules for all areas
Personal hygiene education and promotion programs
Respiratory etiquette and cough/sneeze protocols
Food safety and nutrition service hygiene standards
Waste management and disposal procedures

Environmental Health:

Indoor air quality monitoring and ventilation system maintenance
Water quality testing and safe drinking water provision
Pest control programs and environmental hazard management
Chemical safety and hazardous material storage protocols
Noise control and acoustic environment management
Lighting adequacy and ergonomic workplace design

8.2 Student Health Services

Health Clinic Operations:

Qualified nursing staff and medical service provision
Student health record maintenance and confidentiality
Medication administration and storage protocols
Health assessment and screening programs
Chronic condition management and accommodation planning
Health education and wellness promotion programs

Mental Health and Wellbeing:

Counseling services and mental health support resources
Crisis intervention and suicide prevention protocols
Stress management and emotional wellness programs
Social-emotional learning integration and support
Trauma-informed care practices and staff training
Collaboration with external mental health professionals

8.3 Nutrition and Food Safety

Food Service Operations:

Licensed food service providers and staff certification
Food preparation, storage, and serving safety protocols
Allergen management and special dietary accommodation
Kitchen sanitation and equipment maintenance standards
Temperature monitoring and food safety record keeping
Regular inspection and compliance monitoring

Nutrition Education:

Healthy eating promotion and nutrition education programs
School meal nutrition standards and menu planning
Special dietary needs accommodation and support
Food allergy awareness and emergency response training
Collaboration with families on nutrition and wellness goals
Community partnerships for health and nutrition promotion

9. First Aid and Medical Response

9.1 First Aid Capabilities

Staff Training and Certification:

Required first aid and CPR certification for designated staff
Regular training updates and skills assessment
Specialized training for specific health conditions and emergencies
Documentation of training completion and certification status
Ongoing professional development and skill enhancement
Emergency response team designation and role clarity

First Aid Equipment and Supplies:

Comprehensive first aid kits in all major areas
Automated external defibrillators (AEDs) strategically placed
Emergency oxygen and respiratory support equipment
Spinal immobilization and trauma response supplies
Medication storage and administration equipment
Regular inspection and restocking of emergency supplies

9.2 Medical Emergency Response

Immediate Response Protocols:

Assessment and triage procedures for medical emergencies
Emergency medical services activation and coordination
Parent notification and communication procedures
Documentation and incident reporting requirements
Follow-up care coordination and support services
Debriefing and improvement process implementation

Chronic Condition Management:

Individual health care plans for students with chronic conditions
Medication administration training and protocols
Emergency action plans for specific medical conditions
Staff awareness and training on student health needs
Coordination with healthcare providers and families
Regular review and updating of health care plans

10. Campus Safety and Security

10.1 Physical Security Measures

Access Control Systems:

Controlled entry points and visitor management systems
Key card access and security badge requirements
Visitor registration and identification procedures
Security camera monitoring and recording systems
Perimeter security and boundary protection measures
After-hours security protocols and monitoring services

Building and Facility Safety:

Regular safety inspections and maintenance schedules
Lighting adequacy and visibility enhancement measures
Stairway safety and handrail maintenance
Floor surface safety and slip/fall prevention
Window and balcony safety measures
Playground and outdoor area safety standards

10.2 Transportation Safety

School Transportation Services:

Licensed drivers and regular safety training requirements
Vehicle inspection and maintenance schedules
Student transportation safety rules and procedures
Emergency procedures for transportation incidents
Communication systems and GPS tracking capabilities
Regular route safety assessments and improvements

Traffic Management:

Campus traffic flow and parking area safety
Student drop-off and pick-up zone management
Pedestrian safety and crosswalk protection
Speed limit enforcement and traffic calming measures
Emergency vehicle access and evacuation routes
Community traffic safety education and awareness

10.3 Violence Prevention

Threat Assessment and Management:

Behavioral threat assessment team and procedures
Early warning sign recognition and intervention protocols
Conflict resolution and mediation programs
Anti-bullying policies and prevention programs
Staff training on violence prevention and de-escalation
Coordination with law enforcement and mental health professionals

Crisis Intervention:

Emergency lockdown and secure area procedures
Law enforcement coordination and response protocols
Student and staff safety during crisis situations
Post-incident support and counseling services
Community communication during and after crisis events
Recovery and return to normal operations planning

11. Training and Education Programs

11.1 Staff Training Requirements

Mandatory Safety Training:

Annual health and safety orientation for all new staff
Emergency response procedures and drill participation
First aid and CPR certification for designated personnel
Hazard recognition and reporting procedures
Student supervision and duty of care responsibilities
Specific training for high-risk activities and equipment use

Ongoing Professional Development:

Regular safety training updates and refresher courses
Specialized training for specific roles and responsibilities
Safety leadership development for administrative personnel
Incident investigation and corrective action training
Safety committee participation and meeting attendance
External training opportunities and conference participation

11.2 Student Safety Education

Age-Appropriate Safety Curriculum:

Personal safety and stranger danger awareness
Fire safety and emergency evacuation procedures
Basic first aid and emergency response skills
Internet safety and cybersecurity awareness
Playground and sports safety practices
Transportation and pedestrian safety education

Peer Education and Leadership:

Student safety patrol and leadership programs
Peer mediation and conflict resolution training
Student emergency response team participation
Safety poster and awareness campaign development
Student input in safety policy development and review
Recognition programs for safety leadership and achievement

11.3 Community Education and Engagement

Family Safety Education:

Parent workshops on home and school safety topics
Emergency preparedness and family planning resources
Health and wellness education and promotion programs
Communication about school safety policies and procedures
Volunteer training for safety-related activities
Community emergency response and coordination planning

12. Health Records and Documentation

12.1 Student Health Records

Required Health Information:

Pre-enrollment health examinations and immunization records
Ongoing health assessments and screening results
Chronic condition documentation and management plans
Medication administration records and authorization forms
Emergency contact information and medical alert details
Incident reports and injury documentation

Confidentiality and Access:

HIPAA compliance and privacy protection measures
Authorized personnel access and information sharing protocols
Parent consent and release of information procedures
Secure storage and electronic record management
Regular review and updating of health information
Retention and disposal policies for health records

12.2 Incident Reporting and Documentation

Incident Investigation and Analysis:

Comprehensive incident reporting forms and procedures
Immediate response and investigation protocols
Root cause analysis and corrective action development
Trend analysis and pattern identification
Regulatory reporting requirements and timelines
Follow-up monitoring and effectiveness evaluation

Performance Monitoring and Improvement:

Safety performance indicators and benchmarking
Regular safety audits and inspection reports
Corrective action tracking and completion verification
Safety committee review and recommendation development
Annual safety performance reports and presentations
Continuous improvement planning and implementation

13. Environmental Health and Sustainability

13.1 Indoor Environmental Quality

Air Quality Management:

HVAC system maintenance and filter replacement schedules
Indoor air quality monitoring and testing procedures
Ventilation adequacy assessment and improvement measures
Chemical and odor management protocols
Mold prevention and remediation procedures
Smoking prohibition and tobacco-free campus policies

Water and Sanitation:

Potable water quality testing and monitoring programs
Plumbing system maintenance and leak prevention
Restroom sanitation and cleaning schedules
Hand washing facility adequacy and maintenance
Swimming pool and water feature safety management
Waste water management and disposal procedures

13.2 Hazardous Materials Management

Chemical Safety:

Science laboratory safety protocols and equipment
Art room and workshop chemical management procedures
Cleaning product storage and handling protocols
Pesticide and herbicide application safety measures
Asbestos and lead paint management programs
Hazardous waste disposal and environmental compliance

Emergency Spill Response:

Spill containment and cleanup procedures
Emergency notification and evacuation protocols
Personal protective equipment and safety measures
Environmental remediation and restoration procedures
Regulatory reporting and compliance requirements
Staff training and certification for hazardous materials handling

14. Technology Safety and Digital Wellness

14.1 Equipment Safety

Educational Technology:

Computer and electronic device safety protocols
Electrical safety and cord management procedures
Ergonomic workstation setup and posture education
Equipment maintenance and inspection schedules
User training and safe operation procedures
Incident reporting and equipment replacement protocols

Laboratory and Specialized Equipment:

Science laboratory equipment safety training and protocols
Art room tool and equipment safety procedures
Physical education and sports equipment inspection schedules
Playground equipment safety standards and maintenance
Kitchen and food service equipment safety protocols
Workshop and technical education equipment safety measures

14.2 Cybersecurity and Digital Safety

Information Security:

Network security and firewall protection systems
Student data privacy and protection protocols
Password security and access control measures
Malware prevention and system security updates
Backup and disaster recovery procedures
Incident response and cybersecurity breach protocols

Digital Citizenship Education:

Internet safety and appropriate use policies
Cyberbullying prevention and response procedures
Social media safety and digital footprint awareness
Online predator awareness and prevention education
Digital ethics and responsible technology use
Parent education and family digital safety resources

15. Monitoring, Evaluation, and Continuous Improvement

15.1 Performance Measurement

Key Performance Indicators:

Injury and incident rates and severity measures
Emergency response time and effectiveness metrics
Training completion rates and competency assessments
Safety audit and inspection compliance scores
Student and staff satisfaction with safety measures
Regulatory compliance and citation tracking

Data Collection and Analysis:

Regular safety surveys and feedback collection
Incident trend analysis and pattern identification
Benchmark comparison with similar institutions
Cost-benefit analysis of safety investments and improvements
Return on investment for safety training and equipment
Continuous monitoring and real-time performance tracking

15.2 Policy Review and Updates

Regular Review Process:

Annual comprehensive policy review and updating
Quarterly safety committee meetings and recommendations
Incident-driven policy evaluation and modification
Regulatory change assessment and policy alignment
Best practice research and implementation
Stakeholder input and feedback incorporation

Implementation and Communication:

Policy rollout and training programs
Communication strategies for policy changes
Compliance monitoring and enforcement procedures
Feedback collection and continuous improvement
Documentation and record keeping requirements
Regular community updates and transparency reporting

Appendices

Policy Approval and Effective Date This Health & Safety Policy has been reviewed and approved by the Board of Directors of Universe International School.

Approved by: Principal, Board Chair Effective Date: August 2025 Last Reviewed: August 2025 Next Review Date: August 2026

This policy is a living document that will be regularly updated to reflect changes in regulations, best practices, and the needs of our school community. For the most current version, please visit our website or contact the school administration.