Last updated: 15 January 2026 (Next review 14 January 2027)
1. General Statement of Intent
The policy of River Voices is to provide and maintain safe conditions, equipment, and systems for all volunteers, paid staff, audience members and service users. We are committed to identifying risks associated with rehearsals and performances and taking reasonable steps to minimize them. To meet our responsibilities under the ‘Health and Safety at Work Act (1974)’ and ‘Management Regulations (1999)’, we will provide necessary information, training, and supervision.
The ‘Health and Safety Policy’ is written in conjunction with River Voices ‘Data and Privacy Policy’
2. Responsibilities
- The Committee: Responsible for ensuring the health and safety of volunteers and service users. They must perform risk assessments, maintain written procedures, and ensure environments have adequate heating, lighting, ventilation, and fire exits.
- Volunteers and Staff: Expected to take reasonable care of their own safety and that of others, cooperate with the Committee, and use equipment correctly.
- Service Users: Must agree to participate in activities and use equipment in a safe manner. They are required to report any hazards to the Committee.
3. Venue Safety and Risk Management
Before each rehearsal or performance, a designated Lead will ensure the following:
- Fire Safety: All fire exits must be unlocked and clear of obstructions. All participants must be aware of fire procedures, alarm locations, and equipment.
- Trip Hazards: Trailing cables from keyboards or lamps must be taped down or moved away from walkways.
- Access and Capacity: Entry points must be well-lit. The number of people present must not exceed the legal limit set by the venue owner.
- Equipment Maintenance: All choir-owned equipment must be suitable for use and properly maintained. Electrical items should be visually inspected for frayed wires before use.
4. Physical and Vocal Wellbeing
The primary concern of the choir is the health of its singers:
- Vocal Health: The Musical Director will conduct physical and vocal warm-ups at the start of every session to prevent strain.
- Hydration and Posture: Members are encouraged to bring water and may sit or stand as their physical needs require.
- Hearing: In small spaces with high volume, members are encouraged to use musician’s earplugs.
- Manual Handling: Members should not lift heavy equipment alone; a ‘team lift’ or trolley should be used. Staging and risers should only be set up by those briefed on safe assembly.
5. Incident Reporting and First Aid
- First Aid: A first aid box will always be available. The choir will identify the venue’s first aid kit location at the start of each term.
- Reporting: All accidents, ‘near-misses’, or issues must be recorded in the choir’s accident book and reported to the Secretary.
- Emergency Contacts: An up-to-date list of emergency contact numbers for all members will be maintained securely in accordance with GDPR (General Data Protection Regulations.) Please refer to River Voices ‘Data and Privacy Policy’
6. Implementation and Review
The Committee will review this policy annually to ensure all legislative responsibilities are met.
| Task | Frequency | Responsible Person |
| Venue risk assessment | Once per term / New venue | Designated Member |
| Check fire exits | Every rehearsal | Designated Member |
| Update member contacts | Annually | Designated Member |
| Policy review | Annually | The Committee |
On behalf of River Voices:
Name: ____________ Position: ____________
Date: ____________ Signed: ____________
Document created: 15 January 2026
Document review date: 14 January 2027