We are always asked this question - what is the difference between an Accessibility Audit and a Health & Safety Audit?
A Health and Safety Audit primarily focuses on identifying and mitigating risks that may cause harm to students, staff, or visitors. Some of the areas that the audit covers include safety hazards such as damaged equipment, unsafe building structures, and hazardous materials. The audit ensures that the school complies with safety regulations and takes corrective actions to prevent accidents, injuries, and illnesses.
On the other hand, an Accessibility Audit addresses issues concerning access to school facilities, curriculum, and information for students with disabilities. The audit identifies physical barriers to accessibility such as wheelchair accessibility and auditory assistance devices. The audit aims to ensure that students with disabilities can access resources, facilities, and services in the school environment.
Although Health and Safety Audit takes priority over Accessibility Audit in terms of physical access, the Accessibility Audit also considers access to curriculum and information. Access to the curriculum and access to all published information are equally weighted counterparts of an Accessibility Plan, along with the building itself. The audit looks at how easy it is for students with disabilities to access information, use resources, and participate in classroom activities. It also checks the compliance of the school with disability-related laws such as the Equality Act 2010.
An Accessibility Audit addresses issues concerning access to school facilities, curriculum, and information for students with disabilities. Basically, the accessibility audit aims to ensure that students with disabilities can access resources, facilities, and services in the school environment.
In conclusion, a Health and Safety Audit and an Accessibility Audit have different focuses, but both are important for ensuring a safe and inclusive school environment. The Health and Safety Audit serves to prevent accidents and injuries, while the Accessibility Audit makes the school environment accessible and inclusive for students with disabilities.