Case Study 2: Broken Gate Latch

A hazard identification check has found that the latch on Little.ly's front gate is faulty. This means that the gate no longer closes automatically.

This has been recorded and Hayley Schramm (Director) has been advised.

Hayley said that the usual maintenance repairer is away on holiday. The other repairer in town is more expensive so she will wait until the usual one is back, then have him fix the gate.

In the meantime, staff have been asked to keep an eye on the gate to make sure it is closed after people have used it.

Today a disaster nearly happened. As parents were bringing in children in the morning, the gate did not shut properly behind one of them. Andrew (four years old), a boy who loves to explore, saw his opportunity and quickly slipped out of the gate.

Luckily another parent saw this happen and brought Andrew straight back into the service.

Hayley said it was the your fault as you were supposed to watch the gate.

The team were really busy in the morning and couldn't watch it all the time.

Question 2.1

What is the responsibility of the service Director/owners for health and safety in the service?

Question 2.3

What is the responsibility of the employees for health and safety in the workplace?

Question 2.4

Do you think the employees have shown sufficient duty of care? Why? Why not?