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Get an 'A' on classroom safety

Get an 'A' on classroom safety

Keeping your classroom safe – and focused on learning – doesn’t have to be complicated. Just follow the guidelines here.

Brush up on classroom cleaners.

  • Keep cleaners stored out of reach of young students.
  • Only use cleaners provided by your school.
  • Make sure each product label details chemical hazards, handling and storage, and medical treatment in case of accident.

Plug-in wisely to avoid fires and shocks.

  • Use commercial-grade extension cords provided by building services.
  • Use extension cords only for short-term use, like powering a projector.
  • Don’t run cords over ceiling grids or under rugs.
  • Don’t hang cords from nails or staples.
  • Disconnect and store extension cords after use.
  • Inspect cord insulation and prongs before and after each use; discard damaged cords immediately. 
  • Don’t use multi-tap outlets and power strips – you could overload a circuit.

Be sharp about classroom tools.

  • Know that everyday items like scissors and paperweights can become dangerous during playful roughhousing or arguments.
  • Store these items out of sight.
  • Science and vocational teachers: Use extra caution with sharp instruments. Make sure students return all equipment at the end of class.   

Use your smarts with extra plug-ins.

  • Keep coffeemakers, microwave ovens and the like in teachers’ lounges or other student-free areas.
  • Keep portable heaters a safe distance from students and flammable materials.

Get hung up on classroom décor and artwork.

  • Limit paper decorations and student artwork to no more than 20% of wall area.
  • Never cover exit signs or doorways.
  • Never hang items from fire sprinkler heads, and do not hang decorations or plants from ceilings or ceiling tile grids.
  • Hang decorations and plants within reach.
  • Use flame-retardant decorations when possible.

Keep personal safety top of mind.

  • Know school policy for locking classroom doors during class and when working alone.
  • Do not cover or block windows on classroom doors.

This website is general in nature, and is provided as a courtesy to you. Information is accurate to the best of Liberty Mutual’s knowledge, but companies and individuals should not rely on it to prevent and mitigate all risks as an explanation of coverage or benefits under an insurance policy. Consult your professional advisor regarding your particular facts and circumstance. By citing external authorities or linking to other websites, Liberty Mutual is not endorsing them.