Risk Assessments in ECE: Protecting Children and Teachers

When we talk about risk assessments in early childhood education, the focus is often on keeping children safe—and rightly so. But a complete risk assessment also considers teachers and staff, because their safety directly impacts the children in their care.

1. Hazards Affect Everyone

Classrooms, playgrounds, and activity areas aren’t just hazards for children. Teachers can face risks such as:

• Slips and trips on wet floors or scattered toys

• Lifting or bending injuries when helping children

• Trips over cords, furniture, or equipment

• Exposure to cleaning chemicals or craft materials

If staff get injured, supervision and care for children can be compromised, creating additional safety risks.

2. Supporting Staff Confidence

When teachers know hazards are being assessed and addressed for both themselves and children, they can focus on teaching, supervising, and engaging with the children, instead of constantly worrying about their own safety.

3. Practical Steps for Centres

• Conduct risk assessments jointly for children and staff—look at floor surfaces, furniture, equipment, and activity areas.

• Include staff input—they often notice risks that aren’t obvious on paper.

• Update assessments regularly, especially after near misses, incidents, or changes to the environment.

• Use simple checklists that cover both children and adult hazards.

4. Compliance and Best Practice

Considering staff in your risk assessments isn’t just good sense—it aligns with HSWA obligations and best practice. A safe workplace ensures that both children and adults can thrive.

✅ Bottom line: Risk assessments in ECE centres are about everyone’s safety. Protecting staff protects children, and involving teachers in the process makes your centre safer, more confident, and more prepared for anything the day might bring.