Health & Safety Policy

1. Policy Statement

Brussels College is committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for all students, staff, visitors, and contractors. We recognize our legal and moral duty to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of everyone who uses our facilities or participates in our activities. This policy establishes our commitment to proactive risk management, continuous improvement, and compliance with Belgian health and safety legislation.

2. Scope and Application

This Health & Safety Policy applies to:

• All Brussels College premises, buildings, and facilities
• Students, staff, faculty, contractors, and visitors
• All work-related activities, including teaching, research, and administrative functions
• Off-campus activities organized by Brussels College (field trips, events, placements)
• Remote working arrangements and online learning environments

3. Legal Framework

Brussels College complies with the following Belgian health and safety legislation:

• Law on Well-being of Workers (Wet Welzijn op het Werk, 4 August 1996)
• Royal Decree on Fire Prevention in Buildings (1994)
• Royal Decree on First Aid in the Workplace (15 December 2010)
• Belgian Labor Code (Arbeidsreglement)
• EU Framework Directive on Safety and Health at Work (89/391/EEC)
• GDPR regulations regarding health data processing

4. Roles and Responsibilities

4.1 Senior Management

Health & Safety Officer:
Dr. İbrahim Çıloğlu, Vice Rector
Email: i.chiloglu@brucol.be
Phone: +32 471 09 6641

Responsibilities:

• Provide strategic leadership and allocate resources for health and safety
• Ensure compliance with legal obligations
• Approve health and safety policies and procedures
• Review health and safety performance annually
• Ensure adequate insurance coverage for all activities

4.2 Health & Safety Officer

• Coordinate implementation of health and safety policies
• Conduct regular risk assessments and safety audits
• Organize training for staff and students
• Investigate accidents and incidents
• Maintain health and safety records and documentation
• Liaise with external authorities and emergency services
• Monitor compliance with safety procedures

4.3 Managers and Department Heads

• Implement health and safety policies within their departments
• Conduct local risk assessments for their areas
• Ensure staff under their supervision are properly trained
• Report hazards, incidents, and near-misses promptly
• Maintain safe working conditions in their areas of responsibility

4.4 All Staff and Students

• Take reasonable care of their own health and safety and that of others
• Cooperate with health and safety requirements and instructions
• Report hazards, defects, and incidents immediately
• Use equipment and facilities safely and as instructed
• Not intentionally interfere with or misuse safety equipment
• Attend mandatory health and safety training

5. Risk Assessment and Management

5.1 Risk Assessment Process

Brussels College conducts systematic risk assessments to identify hazards and implement appropriate controls:

1. Identify Hazards: Recognize potential sources of harm in the workplace or activity
2. Determine Who May Be Harmed: Identify students, staff, visitors, or contractors at risk
3. Evaluate Risks: Assess the likelihood and severity of harm
4. Implement Controls: Apply the hierarchy of controls to eliminate or reduce risks
5. Record Findings: Document risk assessments and control measures
6. Review Regularly: Update assessments when circumstances change or annually

5.2 Hierarchy of Controls

Control Level	Description	Example
1. Elimination	Remove the hazard entirely	Stop using a hazardous chemical, redesign a process
2. Substitution	Replace with a less hazardous option	Use water-based paint instead of solvent-based
3. Engineering Controls	Isolate people from the hazard	Install ventilation systems, machine guards, safety barriers
4. Administrative Controls	Change the way people work	Safety procedures, training, signage, work permits
5. Personal Protective Equipment	Protect the individual worker	Safety glasses, gloves, lab coats, hearing protection

5.3 Specific Risk Assessments

Additional risk assessments are conducted for:

• New equipment, substances, or procedures
• Off-campus activities and field trips
• Pregnant staff and students
• Young persons (under 18) and vulnerable individuals
• Lone working situations
• Work at height and confined spaces
• Manual handling activities
• Display screen equipment (DSE) workstations

6. Emergency Procedures

6.1 Emergency Contact Numbers

6.2 Fire Safety

Fire Prevention Measures:

• Regular fire risk assessments and audits
• Maintenance of fire detection and alarm systems
• Inspection and servicing of firefighting equipment (extinguishers, hoses, blankets)
• Clear fire evacuation routes and emergency exits
• Fire safety signage and emergency lighting
• Control of ignition sources and flammable materials

Fire Evacuation Procedures:

1. Upon Hearing the Fire Alarm: Leave the building immediately using the nearest safe exit
2. Do Not Use Elevators: Use stairs only during evacuation
3. Assist Others: Help those who may need assistance but do not put yourself at risk
4. Close Doors: Close doors behind you to prevent fire spread (do not lock)
5. Assembly Point: Report to the designated assembly point and await instruction
6. Do Not Re-Enter: Do not return to the building until authorized by emergency services

Fire Drills: Fire evacuation drills are conducted at least twice per academic year to ensure familiarity with procedures.

6.3 Medical Emergencies

First Aid Provision:

• Trained first aiders available on campus during operational hours
• First aid kits located in designated areas throughout the campus
• Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) installed in accessible locations
• First aid room available for treatment and rest

Response to Medical Emergencies:

1. Assess the Situation: Ensure the area is safe before approaching
2. Call for Help: Contact a first aider or call emergency services (112) if serious
3. Provide First Aid: If trained, provide appropriate first aid until help arrives
4. Do Not Move the Casualty: Unless there is immediate danger
5. Comfort and Reassure: Stay with the person until professional help arrives
6. Report the Incident: Complete an accident report form

6.4 Lockdown Procedures

In the event of a security threat requiring lockdown:

• Alert: Lockdown will be announced via PA system or emergency alert
• Secure Location: Move to the nearest secure room and lock/barricade doors
• Turn Off Lights: Switch off lights and remain silent
• Stay Away from Windows: Move away from windows and doors
• Silence Devices: Turn mobile phones to silent (not vibrate)
• Wait for Instructions: Do not leave until receiving all-clear from authorities

7. Incident Reporting and Investigation

7.1 Reportable Incidents

All of the following must be reported immediately:

• Accidents resulting in injury or illness
• Near-miss incidents (events that could have caused harm)
• Dangerous occurrences (structural failures, gas leaks, chemical spills)
• Violence, threats, or aggressive behavior
• Fire, security breaches, or unauthorized access
• Equipment failure or malfunction

7.2 Reporting Procedure

1. Immediate Action: Ensure the area is safe and provide first aid if needed
2. Report to Supervisor: Notify your line manager or the Health & Safety Officer
3. Complete Incident Form: Submit a detailed incident report within 24 hours
4. Preserve Evidence: Do not disturb the scene unless necessary for safety
5. Seek Medical Attention: If injured, obtain appropriate medical treatment

Report incidents to: i.chiloglu@brucol.be or call +32 471 09 6641

7.3 Investigation Process

All serious incidents are investigated to determine:

• The root cause of the incident
• Whether existing controls were adequate
• What corrective actions are needed
• Whether similar incidents can be prevented

Investigation findings are documented and shared with relevant stakeholders. Corrective actions are tracked to completion.

8. Workplace Hazards and Controls

8.1 Electrical Safety

• All electrical equipment is tested and inspected annually (PAT testing)
• Defective equipment is immediately removed from service and labeled
• Only authorized personnel may perform electrical repairs
• Extension cords and multi-plug adapters are used only when necessary
• Electrical panels and circuits are clearly labeled and accessible

8.2 Slips, Trips, and Falls

• Floors are kept clean, dry, and free from obstructions
• Spills are cleaned up immediately and warning signs displayed
• Adequate lighting is maintained in all areas
• Cables are secured and not left trailing across walkways
• Handrails are installed on stairs and ramps
• Anti-slip mats are used in wet areas

8.3 Manual Handling

• Risk assessments conducted for manual handling tasks
• Training provided on safe lifting techniques
• Mechanical aids (trolleys, lift equipment) available where appropriate
• Heavy or awkward loads are handled by two or more persons

8.4 Display Screen Equipment (DSE)

• Workstation assessments conducted for all regular DSE users
• Adjustable chairs, ergonomic keyboards, and appropriate lighting provided
• Regular breaks encouraged (5-10 minutes per hour)
• Eye tests available for DSE users upon request

8.5 Chemical and Hazardous Substances

• COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) assessments for all chemicals
• Safety Data Sheets (SDS) available for all hazardous substances
• Chemicals stored securely in designated areas with appropriate signage
• Personal protective equipment (PPE) provided where necessary
• Spill kits available and staff trained in spill response

9. Health and Wellbeing

9.1 Mental Health Support

Brussels College recognizes the importance of mental health and provides:

• Confidential counseling services for students and staff
• Mental health awareness training and campaigns
• Stress risk assessments for high-pressure roles
• Flexible working arrangements where appropriate
• Access to employee assistance programs (EAP)

9.2 Occupational Health

• Pre-employment health screening for specific roles
• Health surveillance for staff exposed to specific hazards
• Return-to-work assessments after long-term absence
• Workplace adjustments for staff with health conditions or disabilities
• Vaccination programs where appropriate (e.g., flu vaccinations)

9.3 Substance Abuse

Brussels College maintains a drug and alcohol-free workplace. The possession, use, or distribution of illegal drugs or unauthorized alcohol on campus is strictly prohibited and may result in disciplinary action.

10. Training and Competence

10.1 Mandatory Training

Training Type	Target Audience	Frequency
Health & Safety Induction	All new staff and students	Upon commencement
Fire Safety Training	All staff and students	Annually
First Aid Training	Designated first aiders	Every 3 years (with annual refresher)
Manual Handling	Staff involved in lifting/carrying	Every 2 years
DSE Workstation Training	All office and teaching staff	Upon commencement, then as needed
COSHH Training	Laboratory and technical staff	Annually

10.2 Specialized Training

Additional training is provided for:

• Fire marshals and evacuation coordinators
• Laboratory supervisors and technicians
• Lone workers and security personnel
• Managers with health and safety responsibilities

11. Monitoring and Review

11.1 Health & Safety Audits

• Comprehensive health and safety audits conducted annually
• Regular workplace inspections (monthly for high-risk areas)
• Equipment inspections as per manufacturer recommendations
• Fire safety checks conducted weekly

11.2 Performance Indicators

Brussels College monitors health and safety performance using:

• Accident and incident rates
• Near-miss reporting rates
• Training completion rates
• Audit and inspection outcomes
• Staff and student safety survey results

11.3 Policy Review

This Health & Safety Policy is reviewed annually and updated as necessary to reflect:

• Changes in legislation and best practices
• Lessons learned from incidents and audits
• Feedback from staff, students, and safety representatives
• Changes to operations, facilities, or activities

12. Contact Information

Health & Safety Officer:
Dr. İbrahim Çıloğlu, Vice Rector
Email: i.chiloglu@brucol.be
Phone: +32 471 09 6641

General Enquiries:
Email: office@brucol.be
Phone: +32 471 09 6641

Emergency Services:
Emergency (Fire, Medical, Police): 112
Police (Non-Emergency): 101