In schools where pupils eat their packed lunches at their desk, are they obliged to create the facilities and time so pupils can wash their hands and clean their desks before eating?
The employer or governing body must provide facilities for pupils not taking school meals to eat meals that they bring to school. The employer can decide what facilities are appropriate. These facilities include accommodation, furniture and supervision so pupils can eat food they have brought from home in suitable, i.e. safe and social, conditions. See Chapter 15 of the Guide to the Law for School Governors at www.governet.co.uk. Under health and safety legislation the employer or governing body is responsible for ensuring, as far as reasonably practicable, the health and safety of the staff and pupils. The employer / governing body is required to ensure that a risk assessment is conducted and measures are put in place to minimise any known risk. As this is a local issue parents may wish to discuss their concerns with the headteacher and/or the LA if they are concerned about school facilities for pupils bringing packed lunches.
