EYE L3 - legislation table
Legal What is this and how does it
requirements influence your role?
and guidance
The EYFS statutory framework is a legal document
that sets the standards for a child's learning and
EYFS statutory development, it ensures that the child is getting a
framework 2024 stimulating and safe environment. safety. It requires practitioners to
make sure that the environment is safe and suitable for children, that
risk assessments are carried out, and that children are protected from
(H&S/security harm. This includes having the right staff-to-child ratios, safe and clean
requirements) premises, secure outdoor areas, and procedures for accidents, illness
and emergencies.
This influences my role because I have to follow these rules
every day to keep children safe and healthy. For example, I
make sure toys and equipment are checked regularly,
cleaning products are locked away, and accident forms are
completed correctly. I also help children learn about their
own safety, such as washing their hands, sitting down while
eating, and tidying away toys to prevent trips. By following
the EYFS requirements, I am supporting children’s
wellbeing and meeting my legal duty of care.
The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 is the main piece
of legislation that makes sure all workplaces, including
early years settings, are safe for staff, children and visitors.
It sets out the responsibilities of employers to provide a
safe environment, safe equipment, proper training, and
Health and clear health and safety policies.
safety at work
This law affects my role because I must always put health
act 1974 and safety first when working with children. For example, I
need to carry out risk assessments, check equipment is
safe, follow hygiene routines, and make sure the
environment is clean and secure
The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH)
Regulations 2002 is a law that requires workplaces to
COSHH 2002 control exposure to harmful substances. COSHH ensures
that these substances are stored safely, used properly, and
that risks are assessed to prevent accidents or illness.
In my role as an early years practitioner, COSHH affects
how I handle and store cleaning products and other
hazardous materials. For example, I must keep chemicals in
locked cupboards, follow instructions when using them,
wear protective equipment if needed, and never leave
substances where children can reach them.
RIDDOR stands for the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and
Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 2013. It is a law that
RIDDOR 2013 requires workplaces to report serious accidents, work-
related illnesses, and dangerous incidents to the Health and
Safety Executive (HSE). This includes things like serious
injuries to staff or children, major accidents, or situations
that could have caused serious harm.
In my role as an early years practitioner, RIDDOR affects
how I respond to accidents and incidents in the setting. I
must make sure that all serious accidents, such as a child
breaking a bone or a staff member being injured at work,
are reported correctly and promptly. This involves
recording details of the accident, notifying managers, and
ensuring the correct forms are sent to the HSE if required.
The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 is a law
that makes sure all workplaces, including early years
settings, have proper fire safety measures in place. It
requires employers to carry out fire risk assessments,
The Regulatory
maintain fire alarms and extinguishers, provide clear
Reform (fire emergency exits, and ensure staff are trained in fire safety
safety) order procedures
2005 In my role as an early years practitioner, this law affects
how I work every day. I must be aware of the fire
evacuation procedures, know where the alarms, exits and
assembly points are, and ensure that children are prepared
for fire drills. I also need to check that fire doors are not
blocked and that equipment and materials are stored safely
to reduce fire risks. During drills and in real emergencies, I
help children evacuate calmly and safely.
The Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992
(amended 2002) is a law that sets out rules for safely lifting,
carrying, pushing or pulling loads in the workplace. Its main
Manual aim is to reduce the risk of injury, particularly to the back,
handling muscles, and joints. Employers are required to assess the
operations risks involved in manual handling tasks and provide
guidance, training, or equipment to make these tasks safer.
regulations
1992 (amended In my role as an early years practitioner, this law affects
how I move and handle objects and children safely. For
2002)
example, I need to use correct lifting techniques when
moving furniture, cots, or heavy equipment, and I should
ask for help if something is too heavy. It also applies when I
help children, such as lifting a child who has fallen or
carrying babies safely. By following the Manual Handling
Regulations, I reduce the risk of injury to myself and others
while ensuring children are cared for safely.
