Hazardous activities

Many churches are allowing or making provisions for community-led enterprises, activities and church-led initiatives which have introduced additional hazards and risks into what would be considered a relatively low-risk church environment. These include foodbanks, woodworking classes, arts and crafts, childcare facilities and organised sales, food fairs, sports and recreation and bouncy castles.

The Charity Trustees must ensure that the activities are suitably risk assessed and that they are fully aware of any hazardous activities, materials, equipment, tools, chemicals or gases introduced into the buildings by others. They must consider the safety implications for fire and general building safety for others and seek approval from the General Trustees and COSIS Insurance.

Please seek further advice and guidance from the presbytery or General Trustees health and safety team if you need any assistance with hazardous activities or planned church-led initiatives that may need specific considerations for health and safety planning.