Sources of Stress on Trainee Lecturers for Further and Higher Education

Abstract

Since incorporation, further education colleges have adopted the role of the employer and have now to manage the health and safety of students, staff and visitors, with the governing body being ultimately responsible. Educational establishments unlike industry and commerce are characterised by a large number of inexperienced students working in a variety of activities, some of which pose a substantial risk. These activities are often concentrated in a relatively small area. This paper explores the moral, legal and business reasons why colleges need to proactively manage health and safety rather than assume it is merely common sense. It will discuss the nature of health and safety legislation and argue that directives from the European Union will continue to make health and safety a priority of future legislation which colleges cannot afford to ignore.