School Risk Assessment Checklist

Use this checklist during a school walkthrough to identify potential risks, ensure compliance with health and safety standards, and create a safer environment for students, staff, and visitors. Each section addresses a critical area to assess.

1. General Building Safety

[ ] Are entrances and exits clearly marked and easily accessible in case of emergencies?
[ ] Are all floors, hallways, and classrooms free of trip hazards (e.g., loose cables, uneven surfaces)?
[ ] Are stairways equipped with secure handrails and well-lit?
[ ] Are fire extinguishers visible, fully charged, and regularly maintained?
[ ] Are emergency exits unlocked and not obstructed?
[ ] Is signage for safety procedures, such as evacuation routes, visible and up-to-date?
[ ] Are all classrooms clearly marked with a teacher and a room number?

2. Fire Safety

[ ] Has the fire alarm been tested recently and found in good working condition?
[ ] Are smoke detectors and sprinkler systems functional and routinely checked?
[ ] Is there an updated fire evacuation plan displayed in every classroom and corridor?
[ ] Are fire drills conducted regularly, with records kept of performance and areas for improvement?
[ ] Are materials and equipment stored properly to avoid fire hazards (e.g., flammable items stored securely)?

3. Classroom and Equipment Safety

[ ] Are desks, chairs, and other furniture in classrooms in good condition and free of sharp edges?
[ ] Is all electrical equipment (e.g., projectors, computers, chargers) in safe working order and PAT-tested if required?
[ ] Are science lab equipment, tools, and chemicals stored securely and handled only by trained personnel?
[ ] Are art and physical education equipment maintained and inspected for safety issues?
[ ] Are first-aid kits available, complete, and accessible in classrooms and communal areas?

4. Play Areas and Outdoor Safety

[ ] Is playground equipment regularly inspected and maintained to ensure safety?
[ ] Are surfaces in outdoor areas free of debris, uneven patches, or slipping hazards?
[ ] Are fences and gates surrounding the school perimeter secure to prevent unauthorized access?
[ ] Is the outdoor space monitored (e.g., supervisory staff, CCTV) during student breaks?
[ ] Are sports fields and gymnasiums adequately maintained and free of hazards?

5. Health and Hygiene

[ ] Are handwashing facilities functional and stocked with soap and paper towels?
[ ] Are restrooms clean and regularly sanitized?
[ ] Is there a policy for illness reporting and containment, including handling communicable diseases?
[ ] Are waste bins emptied regularly, and is proper waste segregation practiced?
[ ] Are food preparation and cafeteria areas up to hygiene standards?

6. Security

[ ] Are visitor procedures in place (e.g., sign-in requirements, ID badges)?
[ ] Is staff adequately trained on lockdown and intruder protocols?
[ ] Are security cameras installed and functioning in key areas (e.g., entrances, hallways)?
[ ] Are background checks and clearance policies in place for all staff and contractors?
[ ] Is there a secure system for handling sensitive information (student records, health info)?

7. Environmental Hazards

[ ] Are all water sources tested for potential hazards (e.g., Legionella bacteria)?
[ ] Is the school free from any visible signs of mold or dampness?
[ ] Are HVAC systems functioning properly and regularly inspected?
[ ] Are hazardous materials (e.g., cleaning agents, lab chemicals) stored securely and labeled correctly?

8. Emergency Preparedness

[ ] Is there a comprehensive emergency response plan covering various scenarios (e.g., fire, natural disasters, active shooter)?
[ ] Are all staff and students familiar with the emergency procedures?
[ ] Are roles and responsibilities during an emergency clearly defined and communicated?
[ ] Is there a designated assembly point that is safe and accessible?
[ ] Are emergency contact details of all students, parents, and staff up-to-date?

9. Student & Staff Wellbeing

[ ] Are protocols in place to address bullying, harassment, and other behavioral issues?
[ ] Are mental health resources available to students and staff?
[ ] Does the school have policies for addressing and supporting students with disabilities or special needs?
[ ] Are staff provided with adequate training on student safety and support?
[ ] Are there channels available for reporting safety or wellbeing concerns anonymously?

10. Transport and Traffic Management

[ ] Are drop-off and pick-up areas organized to prevent congestion and ensure student safety?
[ ] Are school buses maintained, and are drivers properly licensed?
[ ] Are traffic flow signs and speed limits clearly marked and adhered to?
[ ] Are pathways and crossings safe for pedestrians, with proper lighting and signage?

Final Steps:

[ ] Consolidate findings into a detailed report.
[ ] Prioritize and assign actions for any risks identified.
[ ] Schedule deadlines for addressing issues.
[ ] Plan a follow-up walkthrough to ensure risks have been mitigated.

By following this checklist, schools can ensure they’re not only meeting safety standards but also fostering an environment where staff, students, and visitors feel secure and supported.

About Post Author

Joe DeSensi

Joe DeSensi is the president of Educational Directions. He has an undergraduate degree from Bellarmine University, a graduate degree in computer-resource management from Webster University, and a doctorate in leadership education from Spalding University. Dr. DeSensi has worked with Fortune 500 companies, federal and local government, and school districts across the Southeast and Midwest. He developed custom and enterprise software to help districts track data and target students’ needs, and he holds patents in school data-management software and database integration. Dr. DeSensi also teaches graduate classes in leadership, ethics, and strategic planning at Spalding University.

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