At Every Body Studio, our primary commitment is to provide a safe and healthy environment for all members, teachers, and visitors. We recognise the importance of prioritising the well-being and safety of our community, both physically and mentally. Therefore, our Health and Safety Policy aims to establish clear guidelines, procedures, and practices to prevent accidents, minimise risks, and promote overall wellness within our studio.

Through continuous evaluation, education, and adherence to best practices, we strive to create an atmosphere where everyone can fully engage in the transformative experience of yoga with peace of mind

Although most are freelance, for the purpose of this policy, all teachers, managers, assistants, or other people occupying the studio in a professional capacity, representing Every Body Studio, will be referred to as “staff”.

Procedures in Every Body Studio

At Every Body Studio, the health and safety of our staff and clients are paramount. To ensure a safe environment for all, the following procedures are established:

• Staircase Safety: Handrails are installed on the staircase leading to the studio, and regular inspections are conducted to check for any hazards or damages. Lighting along the staircase is maintained adequately to ensure visibility. Lighting must be on at all times.

• Building Security: The main door must be fully closed at all times, apart from 15 minutes before a class starts, till 5 minutes after a class starts. The door code must be changed at a minimum every 6 months, or when management sees fit.

• Emergency Evacuation Plan: There is only one entrance and exit of the studio, so all staff and studio users know in the case of an emergency to use the main staircase and door. The meeting place for evacuation is the car park of the Magdalen Arms pub

• Studio Layout and Equipment Placement: Yoga mats and equipment are stored securely when not in use to prevent tripping hazards. Clear pathways are maintained throughout the studio to facilitate safe movement during, before and after classes.

• Reception Safety: Regular inspections are conducted to ensure the reception furniture is in good condition. Guidelines for usage, including expected behaviour and noise levels, are communicated to clients.

• Hygiene and Cleanliness: Cleaning and disinfection protocols are implemented for the studio. Hand sanitizer stations are available, and staff and clients are encouraged to practise regular hand hygiene.

• Fire: Candles or incense are allowed in the studio, but only one candle or incense may be burning at any time

• Kitchen: No knives are stored in the studio. The kitchen is only available to staff and people renting the space commercially. This is enforced with a door sign.

Staff Responsibilities

Every Body Studio and staff members commit to maintaining following responsibilities:

• Ensuring the implementation of health and safety procedures outlined in this policy

• Monitoring the condition of the staircase, equipment, and furniture regularly and reporting any hazards or damages promptly

• Ensuring knowledge of the evacuation procedures and guiding studio users safely during evacuations if necessary

• Providing assistance to clients with mobility challenges and ensuring they have access to alternative access options, such as online classes or chairs in the studio

• Maintaining cleanliness and hygiene standards in the studio and reception, including regular cleaning and disinfection of surfaces

• Being knowledgeable about emergency procedures and responding promptly and effectively to any health or safety concerns raised by clients or fellow staff members

• Never accepting cash payments

• Staff may not bring to or consume alcohol or any unlawful drugs in the workplace during work time or during a period prior to work where the effects may carry over to the workplace. This includes business functions where the employee is representing Every Body Studio.

Everyone’s Responsibilities

All individuals who use Every Body Studio are expected to:

• Follow health and safety procedures outlined by staff members

• Respect guidelines for behaviour and noise levels in the reception area

• Communicate any health conditions or safety concerns to staff members promptly

• Practise good hand hygiene by using provided hand sanitiser stations and washing hands regularly

• Be mindful of others and contribute to maintaining a safe and welcoming environment for all

What to do if you have a Health & Safety Concern

If any individual has a health and safety concern, they should:

• Immediately notify a staff member who will notify Katie Gordon at katiegordonyoga@gmail.com

• Providing details of the concern, including the location and nature of the issue

• Refrain from engaging in any activities that may pose a risk to themselves or others until the concern has been addressed

• Cooperate with staff members to resolve the concern and follow any instructions or protocols provided

Contact details and more information

Katie Gordon’s email address: katiegordonyoga@gmail.com

Katie McNeil’s email address: katiemcneilyoga@gmail.com

This document will be given to every staff member, and made available on the Every Body Studio Website.

This document was last reviewed on: 23/03/2024 by Kate Taylor (Admin Assistant).

If you have any comments or would like to speak to us regarding this policy please email hello@everybodystudio.co.uk