NEBOSH IGC Question Paper (6 December 2023)
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Nebosh Paper Solution 6 December 2023
Task 1: Health and safety morals
Question 1
| The nursery’s health and safety moral management had several unacceptable characteristics: Failure to Maintain Equipment: The previous owner’s refusal to accept requests from workers for the replacement of a broken ladder rung, failure to solve their safety concerns, and putting workers and children at risk. Neglecting to Put Health and Safety First: The DM’s response, in which he expressed relief that the review was finished and mentioned other activities that were more important, shows that workers and children’s safety is not given enough priority. Insufficient Number of Workers: The nursery was using an apprentice with no expertise to watch over a group of children, especially when there wasn’t enough staff. Maintaining efficient oversight and swiftly handling situations are made more difficult by a lack of workers. Insufficient Reaction to Equipment Problems: Even after it became apparent that the climbing frame was not safe to use and replacements were requested, nothing was done to address the problem. This demonstrates a systemic failure to identify and swiftly resolve safety risks that have been detected, which may have put workers and children in danger. Inadequate Exchange of Safety Rules: The apprentice was unaware of the rule that whenever children are taken outside, there must always be two workers present in garden areas. This demonstrates how poorly safety policies and procedures have been communicated and implemented. Absence of First Aid Supplies: The staff was unprepared to deal with the injured apprentice because there was no first-aider available at the place. This suggests that the nursery’s workers were not given the necessary safety training or support to handle any emergency situation. Insufficient Worker Training and Introduction: The apprentice’s first day of work, after a short induction with the DM, was immediately sent to work without getting any training. This later led to the apprentice’s fractured wrist because he was not aware of any hazards at the nursery and did not know how to handle them. Lack of Accessible Health and Safety Data: The absence of health and safety policies, signage, or emergency notices in the nursery was observed during the visit. As a result of this neglect, staff members are less aware of important safety procedures and protocols. Absence of Up-to-Date Records: Both the risk assessment and the health and safety policy are out of date, they were created in January 2020. This shows a lack of dedication to reviewing and updating important safety documentation on a regular basis. Insufficient Number of Employees: An unskilled apprentice was given more responsibility than they could handle on the day of the incident because the nursery had insufficient number of workers. It may become more difficult to implement safety procedures and provide children with appropriate supervision if staff levels are insufficient. Bad Reporting Culture: The nursery has a bad reporting culture; when workers pointed out the faulty climbing frame, they were ignored and nothing was done about it; instead, they were asked to use common sense. |
Task 2: The approach taken to the review
Question 2 (a)
Following are the positive aspects of the review:
Active Reviewing Method: To make sure the workers and children are safe, SMT has taken a proactive stance to review the current organisational processes and work patterns at the nursery. This shows a dedication to upholding a safe and secure work environment.
Hiring a Health and Safety Consultant: Choosing a qualified health and safety advisor to lead the review demonstrates a dedication to acquiring expert knowledge. This implies that BB is considering the review carefully and respects the opinions of experts in the subject.
Currently Available Documentation: Although the paperwork was insufficient, the existence of a general risk assessment and an antiquated health and safety policy suggests an effort was made to create and record safety protocols. Instead of starting from zero, this offers a base for improvement.
Keeping Accident Records: Despite the extremely high number of mishaps, the presence of accident reports indicates that the nursery is at least monitoring safety-related accidents. The areas that require improvement can be determined using this information as a starting point.
Openness and Transparency: Even though DM was busy with calls, he provided all the required documentation and asked for work to help DM show openness and transparency.
Recognising Staff Concerns: The worker shared all the information about past incidents, hazards, and safety issues at the nursery, like requests for a new climbing frame. This positive attitude demonstrates a dedication to the other workers children’s welfare.
Dedication to Reporting: The health and safety adviser is taking the evaluation very seriously and statement that they would get in touch with the DM to share the results. This pledge implies that measures will be taken to deal with concerns that have been identified.
Recording of Near Misses and Accidents: The recording of near-misses and accidents indicates a reporting culture, which is a positive approach to nursery safety. This offers the chance to draw lessons from the past and implement preventative measures to avoid repeating problems.
Question 2 (b)
| Several issues are brought up by the Deputy Manager’s (DM) approach of the review: Absence of Up-to-Date Records: Both the risk assessment and the health and safety policy are out of date, they were created in January 2020.This suggests that the DM did not make the necessary updates or modifications to the policy to reflect the new ownership and the existing situation. Ineffective Management Approaches: The workers regularly raised their concerns related to broken ladder rungs, but their safety was not taken seriously. The apprentice was injured as a result of the DM’s lack of initiative in addressing the situation, even though it was clearly harmful. |
Task 3: Benefits of combined worker and employer involvement
Question 3
| Following are the potential benefits of worker and employer involvement in Workplace health and safety at the nursery: Improved Culture of Safety: With hazards and out-of-date documentation, the nursery needs a boost in its safety. Engaging supervisors and employees in workplace health and safety promotes a positive safety culture by ensuring that all employees are aware of and obedient to safety regulations. Prevent Mishaps by Taking Action: The faulty climbing frame revealed weaknesses in safety. When workers participate in safety discussions, they can identify and address issues early on, reducing the risk of accidents. They also promptly address problems by being transparent about dangers and near-misses. Self-Assured and Obey the Rules: The worker who was in charge was unaware of the rule for having two workers present in garden areas. When workers participate in decision-making, they feel content and confident. This promotes compliance to the rules and ensures everyone’s safety. In addition, it satisfies requirements for legal safety. Prepare for Safety: There was a climbing frame known problem that was neglected. When workers participate in planning, issues are resolved before they arise. In order to ensure that they can perform their duties safely, they also receive specialised training. Respond Swiftly to Emergencies: The accident’s late response was an issue. By planning ahead for emergencies with the involvement of both workers and management, regular communication can lead to gradual improvements and prevent the recurrence of mishaps. People Adore Safe Environments: Parents and staff find it attractive when a nursery is safer. A happy nursery results from supervisors and workers focusing on safety. Emergency Preparedness: The worker and manager’s involvement in nursery health and safety by making arrangements for workers first aid training and making sure a first aider is always available at the nursing home. This promotes everyone’s safety and demonstrates the nursery’s concern for everyone. Prioritising Work place Safety: The DM’s response, in which he expressed relief that the review was finished and they had more important things to do, shows their prioritising other work over nursery safety. Instead, work-place safety should be prioritised by the manager, and the nursery should be developed into a wonderful location to visit and work promoting positive safety culture. Solve Issues Together: The previous owner’s refusal to accept requests from workers for the replacement of a broken ladder rung means that the owner should consult with the workers to solve their safety concerns which develops a safe workplace environment. Detailed Introduction and Interview: The apprentice was sent to work right away after his short indoctrination with the DM; instead, there should have been a detailed introduction and interview. Workers perform better at work when they all feel valued and secure. DM’s Collaboration with Workers: Throughout the health and safety evaluation, the DM was busy with recruitment-related responsibilities. Rather, DM needs to engage with his workers and help with inspection to ensure that potential hazards are identified and the work place is safe for everyone. This enhances everyone’s safety and demonstrates the management’s concern for everyone at the nursery. |
Task 4: Accident investigation procedure and communicating health and safety
Question 4 (a)
| The following considerations indicate why the scene of the accident should have been secured immediately after the accident: Rapid Medical Attention: By securing the scene, it would have been possible to inspect the workers right away and provide first aid, making sure that the apprentice with the fractured wrist received adequate medical attention. Maintaining Evidence: Securing the scene of the accident immediately is important to protect the evidence, like a broken ladder. For the investigation of the root cause of the accident, this evidence will be required. Stopping Additional Injuries: Securing the scene will make it possible to stop anybody, including kids and workers, from getting to the broken climbing frame right away, which would have ensured that the scene was secured. By taking this action, the chance of more incidents or harm occurring in the same place is decreased. Informing and Communicating: By securing the scene, workers can be quickly notified of the occurrence and that garden access has been temporarily restricted. Reliable communication is essential to preserving a secure environment. Adherence to Procedures: Securing the accident scene is part of adhering to health and safety regulations. By securing the area right away, the nursery is committing to safety norms and rules. Stopping Modification or Tampering: By securing the accident scene, investigators and other pertinent authorities can make sure that the scene is as it was at the time of the incident so that it is correctly evaluated. Safety of Children and Workers: Getting the accident scene secured immediately shows the nursery’s concern for workers and children’s safety and wellbeing. Adopting these actions demonstrates positive safety culture at the nursery. |
Question 4 (b)
| The following are some ways that improved communication has contributed to preventing the accident: Verbal Communication: Verbally Emphasize: During the induction process, the DM had the opportunity to verbally emphasize the significance of following the two-worker rule when the apprentice is working in the park. Review Meeting: Conducting a review meeting at the nursery to discuss the lessons learned from incidents or near misses is helpful in communication about safety related matters. Written Communication: Witten Guide: During the induction process, providing the apprentice with a written guide that outlines safety procedures, like the two-worker rule, and other instructions related to workplace safety can be very helpful for the newly hired workers. Safety Documents: Make sure all the safety documents, like health and safety posters, policies, or emergency notices, are easily accessible by all the workers. Visual Communication: Use of Signage: Use bright coloured signage at the nursery with certain safety instructions and symbols so that all workers can quickly recognise them. Applying Safety Label: Apply a safety label to the equipment, like the faulty climbing frame, with caution labels to make sure that workers and apprentices are aware of any potential risks. |
Task 5: Identifying the influence of organisational and job factors
Question 5 (a)
| The following organisational factors may have had a negative influence on health and safety behaviour at the nursery: Absence of Up-to-Date Records: Both the risk assessment and the health and safety policy are out of date, they were created in January 2020. This shows a lack of dedication to reviewing and updating important safety documentation on a regular basis. Unsuitable Health and Safety Protocol: There is a lack of modification for the particular demands of the nursery; as mentioned in the scenario, the risk assessment is generic and refers to a different school, which leaves staff members confused regarding the appropriate safety protocols. Poor Training and Communication: During their induction, the apprentice did not receive sufficient information regarding safety procedures. An important factor in mishaps and near-misses is inadequate safety protocol training, particularly for newly hired personnel. Insufficient Number of Employees: An unskilled apprentice was given more responsibility than they could handle on the day of the incident because the nursery had insufficient number of workers. It may become more difficult to implement safety procedures and provide children with appropriate supervision if staff levels are insufficient. Inadequate Reaction to Safety Issues: The previous owner has continuously refused requests from workers for a replacement, despite the broken ladder rung being a known safety hazard for more than a year. This indicates that worker and child safety are not given enough priority, nor are recognised hazards addressed immediately and adequately. Inadequate Resources for First Aid: There was no first-aider on the site when the apprentice was hurt, which indicates a lack of emergency response capability. This delay in seeking help could make injuries worse and take longer to heal. Insufficient supervision and implementation of safety regulations: The apprentice was permitted to watch over the kids, and he was not aware of the rule requiring two workers to be present in garden areas. This increases the possibility of workers and kids being at risk due to a lack of supervision and the implementation of safety regulations. Ineffective Past Management Approaches: It’s possible that the previous owner’s refusal to accept requests from workers for the replacement of a broken ladder rung and failure to solve their safety concerns fostered a culture in which safety is not taken seriously. This may be a factor in the employees’ careless behavior towards safety. Absence of Clear Safety Information: No health and safety posters, policies, or emergency notices were visible at the building, which may be a factor in the staff’s lack of knowledge and attention to safety protocols. Top Priorities for Management: The DM’s response, in which he expressed relief that the review was finished and mentioned other activities that were more important, raises the possibility that health and safety were not given enough priority. Inefficient Interaction Between Employees and Management: During the health and safety evaluation, the DM was busy with recruitment-related responsibilities. This means that safety issues may not be given enough attention and that workers and management may not be communicating about safety priorities. Insufficient Training for Newly Hired Workers: The new apprentices, after a short induction with the DM, were given the responsibility of supervising a group of kids on their first day of work. Unsafe circumstances may result from this lack of assistance for new hires. Inadequate Safety Precautions: Accessing restricted regions of the building with electronic security cards may present difficulties in an emergency situation if quick access is required. Addressing critical safety issues could be delayed if an attendant is required to navigate certain locations. Excessive Focus on Recruiting: The DM’s statement about ongoing hiring requirements raises the possibility that employing fresh workers is given more priority than resolving ongoing safety issues. This emphasis on hiring could take attention away from important safety and training programmes. Insufficient Documentation: The thin folder with accident reports and health and safety paperwork shows inadequate record-keeping. Precise and comprehensive documentation is crucial for monitoring occurrences, recognising patterns, and executing efficient remedial actions. Neglecting to Put Child Safety First: Despite the demand of workers for a replacement of a defective climbing frame for more than a year, the safety issues were not addressed, which shows a disregard for children’s safety. This can point to a lack of dedication to giving the kids in the nursery a safe environment. Poor Planning for Emergency Response: There was insufficient emergency response planning demonstrated by the fact that there was no first-aider present at the scene of the accident and that it was unclear how to react. |
Question 5 (b)
| The following job factors are likely to have influenced the behaviour of the injured worker: Inadequate On boarding and Training: After the short induction with the DM apprentice, he was sent to work in the classroom. Since the apprentice did not receive any detailed training, he was unaware of the rule of two workers present in garden areas when kids are brought outdoors. Insufficient Guidance: On his first day, the apprentice was given the job of supervising a small group of kids because there wasn’t enough personnel. Because there was probably not enough monitoring, the apprentice was probably unaware of safety procedures, especially the requirement for two workers in the garden areas. Safety Rules Not Sufficiently Communicated: The apprentice was unaware of the particular safety measures relating to the climbing frame because worker A stated that the nursery has been asking for another climbing frame for more than a year. Accidents may result from a lack of openness and discussion about safety concerns. Poor Health and Safety Regulations: The risk assessment and safety policy were dated January 2020; the reports have not been updated since then, and the risk assessment only refers to the building ignoring outside areas like gardens. Inadequate and antiquated policies may be a factor in workers not being aware of and following safety procedures. Inadequate Reaction to Safety Concerns: The workers have been asking the previous owner for the replacement of a broken ladder rung for more than a year, but he has continuously refused. This indicates that worker and child safety are not given enough priority, nor are recognized hazards addressed immediately and adequately. Not Enough Facilities: The climbing rungs of the ladder were loose and worn. Even though the nursery was asked for a new climbing frame, they decided to use the faulty one. Perhaps the apprentice chose to use the faulty climbing frame since he didn’t have the proper equipment. Workers Not Provided with First Aid: There was not a first responder on the scene when the accident occurred. The consequences for the injured worker would have been different if there had been proper medical attention and emergency staff with the necessary training on hand. No Efficient Emergency Response Plan: There was no efficient emergency response plan in place when the accident happened, as mentioned in the scenario, there was a lack of a first-aider on the scene, and the workers were confused about what to do. This lack of planning might have made the occurrence more stressful and confusing, which would have affected the injured worker’s experience. Top Priorities for Management: The DM’s response, in which he expressed relief that the review was finished and mentioned other activities that were more important, raises the possibility that health and safety were not given enough priority. The general view of workplace safety may be affected by manager’s attitudes. Excessive Focus on Recruiting: The DM’s statement about ongoing hiring requirements raises the possibility that employing fresh workers is given more priority than resolving ongoing safety issues. This regular turnover might lead to gaps in the workforce’s knowledge, expertise, and training about safety procedures, which could endanger safety in the workplace. Insufficient Number of Employees: An unskilled apprentice was given more responsibility than they could handle on the day of the incident because the nursery had insufficient number of workers. It may become more difficult to implement safety procedures and provide children with appropriate supervision if staff levels are insufficient. |
Task 6: Determining uninsured costs incurred from the accident
Question 6
| The possible uninsured costs for the nursery from this accident can be as follows: Costs of Medical Care for the Hurt Apprentice: Due to the apprentice’s fractured wrist, the nursery might be responsible for paying for his medical bills. This covers any medical services as well as emergency medical attention, hospital costs, and tests for diagnosis. Suffering Compensation: Compensation for suffering and discomfort caused by an incident may be available to the apprentice who was injured. If it is shown that the nursery was negligent, there may be a legal case against them. Earnings and Wages Lost: In the event that the apprentice’s injuries required time away from work, the nursery might be held liable for covering the apprentice’s lost wages. Possible Attorney Costs: In the event that the injured apprentice chooses to sue the nursery, the nursery might have to pay defence costs and other legal expenditures. Effect on Employee Morale and Efficiency: Workers morale and efficiency may suffer as a result of workplace accidents. The event might make the nursery workers more stressed and anxious, which could harm their general wellbeing and ability to perform their jobs at work. Reputational Harm: The nursery’s reputation could suffer as a result of the news of the mishap and any ensuing legal actions. This can cause parents and new students to lose faith in the nursery, which would be detrimental to its long-term survival and financial success. Additional Cost and Delay to Operation: Nursery activities may be disrupted, and additional expenses may arise from hiring new workers, handling employee turnover, and attending to any modifications in work procedures. Cost of Replacing or Fixing Equipment: There might be extra costs if the damaged climbing frame needs to be replaced or fixed. The price of purchasing a brand-new, secure climbing frame to guarantee the kids’ security. Increasing Costs of Insurance: For the nursery, the mishap might mean increases in insurance costs in the future. Insurance providers might view the nursery as a higher risk and may demand higher rates. Consequences and fines for Noncompliance: If the safety guidelines were not fulfilled by the nursery, the nursery could face penalties and other costs from the legal authorities. Expenses Related to Hiring and Training Replacement Workers: As mentioned in the scenario, the nursery’s persistent problem with employee turnover could lead to extra expenses for finding, employing, providing training, and on boarding new workers to take the place of departing workers. Business Decrease: Parents may choose to remove their children from the nursery if they learn about the accident and its legal issues. This could result in a significant loss of business for the nursery. It may also be extremely difficult for the nursery to generate adequate revenue in the future if it loses clients. |
Task 7: Determining the benefits of inspections
Question 7
| The nursery would have significantly benefited from carrying out health and safety inspections, prior to this accident occurring, in the following ways: Hazard Identification and Risk Evaluation: It could have been possible for the nursery to discover possible risks, including the defective climbing frame through routine health and safety inspection before it did damage. Updating Risk Assessments: A regular update to the risk assessments might have ensured that possible hazards were minimized by taking into account modifications to the facilities or setting at the nursery. Proactive Inspection Strategy: A proactive inspection strategy could have made it easier to conduct routine checking of equipment, such as the climbing frame, guaranteeing that any problems were found and fixed right away. Workers Understanding and Training: Evaluating staff knowledge and understanding of safety procedures is possible through inspections. As mentioned in the scenario, the apprentice’s ignorance of the rules requiring two workers to be present in garden areas indicates the need for improved communication and training. Being Ready for Emergencies: In order to guarantee a rapid and suitable response to incidents, health and safety inspections might have pushed the nursery to set up and implement emergency response measures, including first-aid training. Evaluate the Induction Procedures: The apprentice’s accident at the park reveals weaknesses in the induction procedure. Inspections would have brought attention to the necessity of thorough inductions that emphasize safety protocols, especially for recently hired workers. Verification of Documents: During regular inspections, all documents would be carefully reviewed to make sure that any rules and regulations are current and applicable, not as mentioned in the scenario where the risk assessment was outdated. Workload management and worker levels: Inspections offer the opportunity to evaluate workforce numbers and the distribution of tasks. As mentioned in the scenario, the nursery was understaffed on the day of the incident, resulting in the apprentice ending up in a difficult situation. Sharing Safety Policy Information: Conducting inspections could have brought attention to the fact that no health and safety posters, policies, or emergency notices were visible at the nursery, requiring the nursery to enhance its staff training on safety procedures and display an emergency plan. Upkeep of Facilities: Frequent inspections would involve checking the building’s general upkeep to make sure there are no physical barriers that could obstruct an emergency’s escape. As mentioned in the scenario, several large boxes were partially across the doorway. Organising Equipment Replacement: Conducting inspection could have revealed the climbing frame’s fragility and damaged rungs, allowing the new owner to replace them right away instead of waiting more than a year. Promoting Reporting Culture: Health and safety inspections promote a reporting culture where workers are at ease raising issues. This might have caused the climbing frame’s problems to be reported sooner to the new owner, avoiding the accident. Providing First-Aid: As mentioned in the scenario during the apprentice’s accident, there was no first-aider present. Conducting routine inspections would have required the nursery to guarantee the availability of trained first-aiders at the workplace. Constant Enhancement: Conducting health and safety inspections plays a part in the cycle of ongoing development. The flaws that have been identified are resolved, and the knowledge gained is applied to improve safety protocols, making the environment safer for kids and workers. Managing Employee turnover: The worker retention rate is higher at the nursery. Frequent health and safety inspections help create a productive work environment by lessening stress associated with safety issues and possibly cutting employee turnover. |
Conclusion
Successfully navigating NEBOSH papers requires a combination of thorough understanding, preparation, and effective time management. By following the tips outlined in this blog post and utilizing available study resources, you can approach your NEBOSH exams with confidence. Remember to stay calm, read the questions carefully, and demonstrate your understanding of health and safety principles through practical solutions. Best of luck on your NEBOSH journey and congratulations on taking a significant step towards a rewarding career in occupational health and safety!
