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Health and safety: how to show Ofsted you're fulfilling your duties

Ofsted doesn't have set criteria for evaluating health and safety, but inspectors expect you to meet your statutory requirements. Be clear on what inspectors are looking for, and how to demonstrate good, compliant practice.

Last reviewed on 22 October 2025See updates
School types: All•School phases: All•Ref: 5569
Contents
  1. Show you understand your key responsibilities
  2. Show that you identify and mitigate hazards
  3. Understand what Ofsted is looking for
  4. Communicate effectively to all stakeholders

Show you understand your key responsibilities

As the headteacher and senior leadership team (SLT), it’s your responsibility (in most cases) to make sure risks are managed effectively day to day.

In order to receive grades of 'expected standard' or higher across the evaluation areas, you must meet your legal requirements as set out in statutory guidance – this is explained in the 2025 Education Inspection Framework. This includes health and safety requirements.

Find details of the risks you need to consider in our model health and safety policy.

Appoint a competent person* to be your health and safety lead Have a compliant health and safety policy – adapt our model health and safety policy to save you time Comply with health and safety law (your school should be 'familiar with' relevant legislation such as the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999) and put appropriate