Risk Assessment

Foreword

This document is provided as an example risk assessment for the use of sensory integration equipment and frames within a school setting. It is intended as a guide only.

Each school, setting, and Local Authority has differing environments, pupils, equipment, staffing arrangements, and policies. Users of this document must generate and adapt their own risk assessment to reflect their specific circumstances, needs, and statutory responsibilities.

This example does not replace the requirement for schools to:

  • Carry out site-specific risk assessments
  • Follow their own Local Authority guidance and procedures
  • Adhere to manufacturer instructions for all equipment
  • Consider individual pupil needs, including EHCPs and medical or sensory profiles

Responsibility for ensuring the suitability, accuracy, and implementation of any risk assessment remains with the school or setting.

Risk Assessment (UK School – Ofsted / Local Authority Compliant)

This risk assessment has been written in line with:

  • Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
  • Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999
  • Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER) 1998
  • Ofsted Education Inspection Framework (safeguarding and welfare)
  • Local Authority health and safety guidance
  • Manufacturer's installation and usage instructions

Activity / Equipment

Use of Sensory Integration Equipment and Frame (e.g. swings, hammocks, lycra, trapeze bars, therapy accessories) within a school setting.

Location

School sensory room / therapy room / designated indoor space.

Persons at Risk

  • Children and young people using the equipment (with a range of sensory needs, physical abilities, and body weights)
  • School staff, therapists, teaching assistants
  • Visitors (if present in the room)

Description of Users

Children with a range of sensory processing difficulties, neurodivergent profiles, physical needs, and varying body weights. Some children may have reduced risk awareness, impaired balance, reduced muscle tone, heightened sensory seeking or sensory avoidance behaviours.

Hazards, Risks, and Control Measures

1. Equipment Failure (frame, fixings, attachments)

Risks: Falls, impact injuries, serious harm.

Control Measures:

  • Equipment and frame installed by a competent, approved installer in line with manufacturer guidance.
  • Clear maximum weight limits displayed and strictly adhered to (including combined weight of child + equipment).
  • Only compatible accessories used with the frame.
  • Daily visual checks by trained staff before use.
  • Formal inspections carried out at least every 6 months (or in line with manufacturer guidance) and recorded.
  • Any damaged, worn, or loose equipment removed from use immediately.

2. Incorrect Use of Equipment

Risks: Falls, collisions, entrapment, over-stimulation.

Control Measures:

  • Children only use equipment under direct supervision by trained staff.
  • Individual risk assessments / sensory profiles in place for each child.
  • Equipment selected to meet the child's sensory needs and physical abilities.
  • Clear rules for use explained in a child-appropriate way (visual supports where needed).
  • One child at a time on suspended equipment unless designed for group use.

3. Falls From Height or Swinging Equipment

Risks: Head injury, fractures, bruising.

Control Measures:

  • Impact-absorbing flooring or mats placed under and around equipment.
  • Adequate clearance space maintained in all directions.
  • Staff positioned close enough to support or spot the child if required.
  • Helmets or additional protective equipment considered where clinically recommended.
  • Children assisted on and off equipment safely.

4. Weight Variations Between Users

Risks: Overloading of frame or attachments, instability.

Control Measures:

  • Accurate and up-to-date knowledge of each child's weight.
  • Staff trained to calculate combined load (child + equipment).
  • Strict adherence to lowest stated weight limit of frame or accessory.
  • No improvisation or modification of equipment.

5. Entrapment, Strangulation, or Pinching

Risks: Serious injury or distress.

Control Measures:

  • No scarves, hood strings, jewellery, or loose clothing during use.
  • Long hair tied back where necessary.
  • Equipment checked for loops, knots, or worn fabric before use.
  • Children never left unattended on equipment.

6. Sensory Overload or Emotional Distress

Risks: Anxiety, meltdowns, unsafe behaviour.

Control Measures:

  • Sessions planned and structured, with clear start and end points.
  • Close monitoring of child's emotional and sensory responses.
  • Ability to stop activity immediately if child shows signs of distress.
  • Calm environment maintained (lighting, noise, room temperature considered).
  • Gradual introduction of new equipment.

7. Manual Handling by Staff

Risks: Musculoskeletal injuries to staff.

Control Measures:

  • Manual handling risk assessments in place.
  • Staff trained in safe moving and handling techniques.
  • Use of additional staff or aids where required.
  • Staff encouraged not to lift beyond their capability.

8. Inadequate Supervision or Training

Risks: Unsafe use, delayed response to incidents.

Control Measures:

  • Only trained staff permitted to set up or supervise equipment.
  • Training includes equipment use, sensory needs awareness, and emergency procedures.
  • Clear staff-to-child ratios maintained.
  • Written procedures available in the sensory room.

Emergency Procedures

  • First aid provision available nearby.
  • Staff trained in first aid and emergency response.
  • Emergency stop procedures known by all supervising staff.
  • Incidents and near misses recorded and reviewed.

Residual Risk Level

Low, when all control measures are followed and equipment is used as intended.

Safeguarding Considerations

  • Use of sensory equipment forms part of the school's safeguarding responsibilities.
  • Children are never left unsupervised while using equipment.
  • Any concerns regarding a child's physical or emotional response are recorded and shared with the SENCo and relevant professionals.

Record Keeping and Monitoring

  • Daily checks logged in a visual or written checklist.
  • Formal inspection records retained on site.
  • Training records for staff available for inspection.
  • Incidents, accidents, and near misses recorded in line with school and LA procedures.

Review

Risk assessment reviewed annually as a minimum.

Reviewed immediately following:

  • An accident or near miss
  • Changes to equipment or layout
  • Changes in pupil needs
  • Updated LA or Ofsted guidance

Sign-Off

Assessor Name: ____________________________
Role: ____________________________
Date: ____________________________
Review Date: ____________________________