With local schools opening their doors for a new school year, children and parents are being reminded of dangers associated with the return to school and to take the necessary precautions. Maurice Buckley, CEO, National Standards Authority of Ireland, says there are a number of safety issues that parents need to be aware of. “The start of a new school year can make many parents nervous as they will not be able to keep as close an eye on their children as they were during the holidays. As Ireland’s official standards body, NSAI aims to inspire consumer confidence and to help protect the public. The following safety tips will help ensure you and your kids have a safe return to school.”
Check the weight of school bags
The bag should not be more than 15 percent of the child’s body weight. A backpack with two straps that go over the shoulders can help distribute this weight evenly. The bag should be packed so that heavier items are closer to the back of the backpack, next to the body, and all compartments are used. Unnecessary items, such as text books only used on certain days should either be left at home or in a school locker.
Check uniform length
Although it is always wise to choose a uniform size that allows for a child’s growth during the school year, uniforms that are especially long can make children more susceptible to tripping and falling. Adjust the uniform so that it does not drag on the ground and trip the child up.
Check the label on child’s car seats
The return to school will mean the return to the “school run” for many families. As well as making sure school children are properly seat belted, parents should make sure that car seats for younger children comply with the European standard requirement.
Check all sports equipment for the CE mark
The CE mark on a product is an indication that the product meets the essential safety requirements of the relevant directives, set down by EU law.
Always wear a helmet when riding a bike, hurling or playing camogie
Research indicates that a properly fitted helmet can reduce the risk of head injury by up to 85 per cent. Helmets should be placed high on the head to protect the frontal lobes of the brain. It’s vital that the helmet has passed demanding testing and bears the CE Mark or has an NSAI standard.
Ensure goalposts meet safety standards
The return to school will also mean the return to team sports for many children. NSAI developed standards in response to fatal accidents that occurred when people came in contact with goalposts that were defective, unstable or modified. These standards put codes of practice in place for sporting teams and bodies to adhere to across all sports.
For more information on safety and accident prevention, visit www.nsai.ie
