The European Agency for Safety and Health at Work has published three factsheets to help teachers and other staff in the education sector minimise the risk of violence and other health hazards.

The three factsheets include:

• Prevention of violence to staff in the education sector (No. 47): Describes the principal causes of violence against staff and the main steps organizations need to take to assess and minimise the risks. It includes a checklist of issues that should be considered when formulating a plan, such as the design of the premises, behavioural strategies and administrative controls.

• Occupational health and safety in the education sector (No. 46): Highlights the main risks, such as bullying, stress and slips, and the procedures required to control them, including risk assessments. Five of the most common hazards are also identified for action, including the risks of falls, poorly maintained floor surfaces and the need to mark transparent glass to prevent injuries from breakages.

• Management of occupational safety and health in the education sector (No. 45): Provides a framework for evaluating and assessing the risks, from identifying the most vulnerable people and situations to allocating responsibility for managing the risks and monitoring progress. There is also an overview of EC legislation governing safety and health in education, including employers’ and employees’ legal responsibilities.

The Agency has also produced a special Web feature providing more in-depth guidance, case studies of good practice and links to organizations offering relevant information and health and safety advice. It also includes an on-line forum for discussing key issues.