THE ORCHARD PLAYERS HEALTH AND SAFETY POLICY

Our policy sets out how we endeavour to prevent accidents and ill health, moving us ever closer
to our goal of Zero Harm. It will also set out the responsibilities of all relevant parties with
regards to the health and safety of our members and visitors. This policy applies to all activities
including rehearsals, performances, set construction, technical work and any events
associated with/arranged by the group.

This policy is guided by the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and other relevant legislation.

Overall Objective

To promote a supportive and inclusive environment that protects not only physical wellbeing but
also good mental health and wellbeing by providing and maintaining safe and healthy
conditions, support, equipment and systems for all our cast and visitors to our rehearsals and
shows and to provide such information, training and supervision as they need for this purpose.

Key Responsibilities

Health and Safety Officer:

  • Complete annual review of health and safety policy
  • Review risk assessments for each show and ensure they are updated and shared with all relevant parties and key stages including rehearsals & performances.
  • Complete pre-show risk checks to ensure current risk assessment is being followed and all members/volunteers are acting in a way that promotes excellent health and safety
  • Liase with Directors of each show to ensure rehearsals are being run in accordance with Health and Safety Policy
  • Brief Cast, Crew and Volunteers on health and safety expectations at the start of each “show week” before rehearsals take place
  • Ensure all Cast, Crew and Volunteers are aware or emergency evacuation procedures, including fire exits and assembly points
  • Maintain and manage all health and safety documents / records
  • Investigate incidents and near misses and implement corrective actions
  • Inform committee of any actions that are required
  • Update list of fire wardens and first aiders for each show
  • Has authority to stop rehearsals/performances if deemed unsafe / stop any unsafe activities

The Orchard Players Committee:

  • Be available to record and pass on information regarding accidents, incidents or
    hazards
  • Ensure members are kept informed of any changes to health and safety policy / risk
    assessments
  • Provide clear guidance and expectations around mental wellbeing
  • Enforce a zero-tolerance policy with regards to bullying, harassment, or discrimination
  • Appoint a nominated contact to be available for wellbeing concerns/mental health first
    aid and communicate to members
  • Liaise with community centre/trust over any issues that may arise
  • Provide any required information to third parties with regards to health and safety
  • Act in a manner that promotes, encourages, and enforces good health & safety
    practices, and member wellbeing.
  • Liase with trust regarding first aid box (moved from HSO)

Members:

  • Follow all guidance given in risk assessments or by HSO/Committee
  • Report all accidents, hazards, incidents, or near misses to HSO/Committee in a timely manner to prevent reoccurrence
  • Take reasonable care for their safety and the safety of others

The committee accepts overall responsibility for this policy, its implementation and compliance.

This policy applies to all Orchard Players members, cast, crew, and volunteers.

This Health & Safety Policy Statement will be reviewed annually and revised, as necessary.

Dated: 01/04/2026

Review: 01/04/2027