Health and Safety Policy & Risk Assessment

1. Statement of Intent

Metal Clay Academy is committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for all workshop participants, instructors, and visitors. Jewellery making involves hazards including sharp tools, high-temperature electric kilns, open-flame butane torches, chemicals, and airborne dust. We will identify, assess, and control these risks to prevent injury, fire, and ill health.

Date: 21 May 2026

Review Date: 21 May 2027

 

Who is responsible?

The studio manager and the specific workshop tutor are jointly responsible for managing various safety checks which should be carried out before the commencement of any workshop or weekly should there be no workshops scheduled.

1. Mandatory Health & Safety Induction

The instructor must deliver this health and safety induction to all participants at the start of every session. No practical work or tool handling may begin until this induction is complete.

Dress Code & Personal Safety Verification

• Hair & Clothes: All long hair must be tied back securely. Loose clothing, scarves, and lanyard-style dangling jewellery must be removed or tucked in.
• Footwear: Open-toed shoes or sandals are strictly prohibited in the workshop area. Sturdy, closed-toe footwear must be worn.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Orientation

• Safety Glasses: Must be worn at all times when using bench polishing equipment, loading or unloading a hot kiln, operating a butane torch or mixing metal clay powders.
• Dust Masks: FFP2 masks must be worn during any prolonged sanding, filing, polishing or mixing metal clay powders..
• Gloves: Heavy-duty heat-resistant gloves are provided and must be worn when loading or unloading a hot electric kiln or handling hot metals.

Equipment Safe-Usage Protocols

• Butane Torches: Always keep the torch upright on its stable base. Never lay a hot or lit torch flat on the bench. Always turn it off completely immediately after use.
• Electric Kiln: A 30cm exclusion zone is marked around the kiln. Do not touch, open, or program the kiln unless you have the express permission and have the authority to do so.
• Pickle Pot: Use the copper tweezers provided to drop pieces in or take them out. Avoid splashing. If you get any solution on your skin, wash it off immediately with water.
• Sharp Tools: Always saw and cut pointing away from your fingers and body.

Emergencies & First Aid Locations

• Alarms: Fire alarms are located at strategic points in the building.  Full instructions on how to activate must be given at briefing.
• Exits: Point out the nearest emergency exit paths and assembly point.
• Fire fighting equipment is available at strategic points around the building.  Only designated fire marshalls are permitted to use fire fighting equipment. 
• First Aid Station: Point out the location of the first aid kit, burn gels, and eye wash bottles.
• Reporting: Report any cut, burn, or equipment malfunction to the instructor immediately, no matter how small.

Fire Alarm Procedure

In the Event of a Fire Being Discovered

1. Raise the Alarm: Immediately shout "FIRE" and press the red button at the fire alarm call point.
2. Isolate Hazards (If Safe): Turn off the electric kiln at the wall socket and ensure any butane torch is extinguished/shut off. Do not delay evacuation to do this.
3. Evacuate: Leave the building immediately using the nearest marked emergency exit. Do not stop to collect tools, jewellery, or personal belongings.
4. Call Emergency Services: Once outside in a safe place, dial 999 and ask for the Fire Service. State the full address of the building clearly.

Upon Hearing the Fire Alarm

1. Stop Work: Stop working immediately. Isolate the butane torch if it is lit.
2. Leave the Area: Follow the green "Running Man" exit signs out of the building. Walk calmly; do not run. Do not use any lifts.
3. Assemble: Report directly to the designated Fire Assembly Point located under the sign on the front fence. 
4. Roll Call: Stay at the assembly point. The instructor will use the Student Sign-In Sheet above to complete a formal roll call. Do not re-enter the building until permitted.

Responsibilities: Workshop Leader / Instructor

• The workshop leader/instructor is responsible for carrying out a risk assessment prior to any workshop commencement if a) a risk assessment hasn’t been carried out within the previous 6 months, b) if the workshop content is significantly different from the standard workshop procedure or c) if the workshop is being conducted at a new venue.
• Deliver the mandatory pre-workshop safety induction before every session.
• Review the Medical & Allergy Disclosure column on the sign-in sheet before work starts to accommodate any high-risk needs (e.g., placing an asthmatic student closest to active ventilation).
• Ensure every student fills out the student sign-in sheet completely prior to any tool use.
• Ensure all escape routes are kept completely clear of obstacles at all times.
• Lead the evacuation, bring the student sign-in sheet, and conduct the roll call at the assembly point.
• Ensure the electric kiln, butane torches, and ventilation systems are regularly inspected and maintained.

Participants / Students (Adults)

• Attend and listen carefully to the pre-workshop safety induction.
• Complete the student sign-in sheet and medical disclosure accurately and truthfully.
• Follow the fire alarm procedure immediately upon discovering a fire or hearing the alarm sound.
• Wear the required PPE at designated stations without exception.

Arrangements & Emergency Procedures

First Aid Requirements

• Burn Care: The first aid kit must contain dedicated burn gel, cooling dressings, and immediate access to clean running water.
• Eye Safety: A minimum of two sealed eye wash bottles must be accessible at all times near the pickle and polishing stations.
• Minor Cuts: Adequate supplies of sterile plasters and antiseptic wipes must be maintained.

Emergency Action Plan

1. In Case of Major Burn: Cool the burn under cold, running water for a minimum of 20 minutes. Do not apply ice, oils, or blankets. Seek emergency medical attention immediately.
2. In Case of Eye Contamination: Flush the eye immediately using the eye wash bottle or running water for 15 minutes while holding the eyelid open. Seek medical attention.

COSHH

It is the intention, where possible, to use low risk chemicals. All MSDS sheets for products used within the studio, whether they are used in that specific workshop or not, are held in the studio for reference.  Any student, workshop tutor or visitor request to see the MSDS sheet for any can specific product.

Equality and Diversity Policy

1. Policy Statement

Metal Clay Academy provides creative jewellery-making workshops both in-person and online. We value every individual. We commit to providing an environment free from discrimination, harassment, and victimisation.

Our goal is to ensure that all students, tutors, staff, contractors and retail customers feel respected, safe, and supported. We operate in full compliance with the UK Equality Act 2010.

Concerns, in the first instance, should be directed to the workshop tutor.  Alternatively, they may be put in writing to the studio manager.

1. Protected Characteristics

We actively prevent discrimination based on the nine protected characteristics defined by law:

• Age
• Disability
• Gender reassignment
• Marriage and civil partnership
• Pregnancy and maternity
• Race (including color, nationality, and ethnic or national origin)
• Religion or belief
• Sex
• Sexual orientation

1. High-Heat Safety & Inclusivity (Torches and Kilns)

Our workshops involve specialised equipment, including handheld torches and high-temperature kilns. We balance strict health and safety requirements with our commitment to inclusivity by implementing the following measures:

• In the first instance, only tutors, authorised staff members and Diploma level students are permitted to use the kiln at any time that the equipment is operating.  There may be instances where it is acceptable for a student to put their own work into a cold kiln, although this must be authorised by the tutor or an authorised member of staff.
• Adaptive Safety Equipment: We provide a range of protective gear, including lightweight heat-resistant gloves, extended safety tongs, and magnifying safety goggles to accommodate different physical sizes, grip strengths, and visual needs.
• Assisted Operation: For participants who cannot safely operate a torch or load a hot kiln independently due to a disability, tremors, or mobility limitations, tutors will step in to operate the equipment on their behalf under direct instruction, ensuring the participant still guides the creative process.
• Clear Visual and Verbal Controls: Kiln areas and torch stations feature high-visibility safety markings, clear tactile boundaries, and step-by-step visual guides alongside verbal instructions to support neurodivergent learners or those with sensory processing differences.
• Online Safety Compliance: For online classes involving home torch or kiln use, participants must verify they have a safe, clear workspace. Tutors will provide an alternative, heat-free design path (such as cold-connections or sending pieces back to our studio for kiln firing) if a home environment or individual capability makes high-heat work unsafe.

1. Age Restrictions and Safety

To ensure a safe environment for all participants, we enforce strict, objective age limits based on risk assessments for tools and machinery:

• Children aged over 12 and under 16: May participate in designated design and creative jewellery making  workshops but are strictly prohibited from using handheld torches, kilns, or heavy polishing machinery. All participants under 16 must be accompanied by a full-paying adult at all times during the workshop.
• Ages 16 and 17: May use torches and machinery under direct, 1-to-1 supervision by a tutor, provided a parent or legal guardian has signed a specific safety waiver.
• Adults (18+): May operate all studio machinery (excluding kiln) independently after completing the mandatory tutor-led safety briefing.
• Inclusive Application: These restrictions apply solely based on safety data and insurance requirements. They are applied equally to all participants without exception.

1. Inclusive Safety: Religious Dress and Headwear

We respect and celebrate the religious diversity of our participants. To ensure the safety of those wearing religious garments (such as hijabs, dastaars/turbans, habits, or loose robes) around open flames and spinning machinery, we apply the following supportive rules:

• Securing Garments: All loose clothing, dangling elements, and headwear must be securely tucked in, pinned, or tied back before entering the active work area to eliminate catch and fire hazards.
• Flame-Retardant Coverings: We provide complimentary, lightweight, flame-retardant standard aprons and cotton neck/head coverings that can be worn over religious dress to ensure safety without requiring removal.
• Private Adjustments: We offer a private space for participants who need to adjust their garments or secure their headwear safely and comfortably before the workshop begins.

1. In-Person Workshops

To ensure physical studio spaces are welcoming and accessible, we:

• Select venues with physical step-free access and accessible facilities wherever possible.
• Provide clear, accurate accessibility information prior to booking.
• Offer specialised, adaptable hand tools for individuals with physical or dexterity disabilities.
• Welcome assistance dogs into the studio space, providing designated safe zones away from active torch and kiln areas.
• Maintain a zero-tolerance policy for discriminatory language or exclusionary behavior between participants.

1. Online Workshops

To ensure digital learning experiences are inclusive, we:

• Use video conferencing platforms that support automated live captioning and screen readers.
• Deliver digital instructional materials and toolkits in clear, high-contrast, accessible formats.
• Create a secure, moderated online space protected against cyber-bullying and harassment.
• Provide flexible scheduling options to accommodate different time zones, caregiving responsibilities, and health needs.
• Ship physical material kits in advance using accessible, easy-to-open packaging where requested.

1. Implementation & Reasonable Adjustments

We proactively remove barriers to learning:

• Booking Requests: Our booking process invites participants to privately share any specific adjustments, fears, or learning support needs they require regarding heat-based tools.
• Tailored Support: We make reasonable adjustments to teaching styles, tool choices, and workshop pacing to accommodate neurodivergent learners and individuals with physical disabilities.
• Where appropriate, carers or partners of visually impaired and blind students are welcome to accompany the student at no extra cost providing we are notified of this intention at the time of booking.
• Accountability: Serious or repeated breaches may result in removal from workshops, restriction of future bookings, or other appropriate action

1. Monitoring and Review

We review this policy annually to incorporate new digital accessibility guidelines and feedback from our community.

Date of Policy: May 2026

Next Review Date: May 2027

Prevent Policy

 

Metal Clay Academy  believes equality and diversity is integral to our inclusive curriculum, creative innovation and for the enjoyment and fulfillment of our courses.. We are committed to providing an environment that promotes safety, positive wellbeing, equality and celebrates diversity. This contributes to sustaining an accessible and inclusive environment for all learners, staff, visitors, community, and commercial partners that we engage with.

Safeguarding and Prevent

 

Key objectives

This Safeguarding and Prevent Policy has five key objectives:

1. To promote and reinforce shared values; to create space for creative learning and to listen and support student comments and concerns.
2. To break down segregation among different learner communities by supporting interfaith and intercultural dialogue and understanding, and to engage all learners in playing a full and active role in wider engagement in society.
3. To ensure the safety of learners and that Metal Clay Academy is free from bullying, harassment and discrimination.
4. To provide support and appropriate sources of advice and guidance for learners who may be at risk. 
5. To ensure that students and tutors are aware of their roles and responsibilities in preventing violent extremism and the process of declaring any concerns.
6. In order to achieve these objectives the strategy will concentrate on six areas.
   
   

1. Leadership, management and values

To provide an ethos which upholds core values of shared responsibility and wellbeing for all learners, staff and visitors and promotes respect, equality and diversity and understanding.  

This will be achieved through:

• Promoting core values of respect, commitment, integrity and innovation including equality and diversity, democratic society, learner voice and participation.
• Building staff and learner understanding of the issues and confidence to deal with them.
• Metal Clay Academy  to implement the PREVENT Duty Risk Action plan.
• Regular reporting from course administration and learning logs.
• Action planning and accountability.
  
  

2. Training

All tutors, staff members and volunteers receive annual Prevent training. Training is provided for new staff as part of the staff training programme and is part of the whole Metal Clay Academy safeguarding and child protection training plan.

All learners receive training on Prevent as part of their induction.

3. Teaching and learning

To provide a curriculum which promotes knowledge, skills and understanding to build the resilience of learners, by undermining extremist ideology and supporting the learner voice.

This will be achieved through:

• Delivering effective training on Prevent to all students.
• Ensuring that regular opportunities arise where reference can be made to Prevent so that these concepts are embedded in the curriculum.
• Embedding equality, diversity and inclusion, wellbeing and community cohesion.
• Promoting wider skill development such as social and emotional aspects of learning.
• A curriculum adapted to recognise local needs, challenge extremist narratives and promote universal rights through various projects, events and campaigns.
• Developing the learner’s critical thinking skills which will support them in resisting extremism.
• Encouraging active citizenship/participation and learner voice.
• Focussing on narrowing the attainment gap for all learners.
• Identifying any vulnerabilities or worrying changes in learner behaviour and reporting it to the Designated Safeguarding Representative.
  
  

4. Learner support

To ensure that staff are confident to take preventative and responsive steps working with partner professionals, families and communities.  

This will be achieved through:

• Establishing strong and effective learner support services and processes.
• Listening to what is happening in the Academy and the community through learner voice mechanisms including learner council and satisfaction surveys.
• Implementing anti-bullying strategies and challenging discriminatory behaviour.
• Helping learners and staff know how to access support from Metal Clay Academy  and/or through community partners.
• Signposting or providing in-house welfare and support that meets the demographic of our learners.

Supporting at-risk learners through safeguarding and crime prevention processes.

• Focussing on narrowing the attainment gap for all learners.
  
  

5. Learner engagement and enrichment

Metal Clay Academy  has a learner engagement and enrichment strategy to enable learners to engage at all levels of the organisation to shape and enhance the learner experience. 

Initiatives are being explored or have been introduced to strengthen the cohesion of our learners and staff including: 

 

• Learner Progress Reviews
• Learner Induction sessions
• Enrichment activities
• Learner social activities 
• Raising awareness and promoting events that celebrate our diverse learner community focusing on cultures and faith as part of the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Calendar.

6. Managing risks and responding to events

To ensure that Metal Clay Academy  monitors risks and is ready to deal appropriately with issues that may arise. 

This will be achieved through:

• Understanding the nature of the threat from violent extremism and how this may impact directly or indirectly on the Academy.
• Understanding and managing potential risks within Metal Clay Academy  and from external influences.
• Metal Clay Academy  must ensure that all students are free from radicalising influences in their learning environment. This must be carried out in progress reviews and ensuring that the employer adheres to our Prevent policy.
• Introducing a new Safe Working Practice Guide which identifies the behaviours it expects from all staff.
• Safer selection and review practice.

• Risk assessments and reviews of students, tutors. visitors, suppliers,  and contractors.
• Creating and monitoring a learner risk register and training admissions staff to be able to identify and raise concerns prior to a candidate enrolling on any of our programmes.
• Supporting and encouraging staff to develop and use the skills required to challenge appropriately.
• Develop learning/expert coaches, delivery staff and class representatives who will have the knowledge, skills and confidence to lead debates about controversial issues.
• Responding appropriately to events in local, national or international news that may impact on learners and communities.
• Ensuring measures are in place to minimise the potential for acts of violent extremism within the Academy.
• Creating an infrastructure and embedding processes and resources that will help to respond appropriately to a threat or incident within the Metal Clay Academy 
• Referring immediate causes for concern, where appropriate to our local Police Force or the Force local to any remote training venue.
• Internal training to ensure that all staff know that they must notify senior management immediately if they have concerns about a learner, a member of staff or an employer.
  
  

Managing disclosures – Receive, Reassure, React and Record

Guidance for staff if a learner comes to them to raise a Prevent concern about either themselves or another student.

Receive

• Do not ask questions or probe for information as this may contaminate evidence and prohibit a police investigation.
• Listen to what is being said, without displaying shock or disbelief.
• Accept what is said.
• Make a note of what has been said as soon as practicable.
  

Reassure

• Reassure the learner, but only so far as is honest and reliable. For example, don’t make promises you may not be able to keep e,g. ‘I’ll stay with you’ or ‘everything will be alright now’.
• Do reassure and alleviate guilt, if the learner refers to it. For example, you could say:
• You have been brave to tell me.
• I am glad you came to me.
• I am sorry this has happened.
• This was not your fault.
• We are going to do something together to get help.
• Do not promise to keep it a secret as your professional responsibilities require you to report the matter.
  

React

• React to the learner only as far as is necessary for you to establish whether or not you need to.
• Do not criticise the alleged perpetrator.
• Do not ask the learner to repeat it all for another member of staff. Explain what you have to do next and who you have to talk to. Reassure the learner that it will be a DSL and no one else. Try to see the matter through yourself and keep in contact with the pupil. Ensure that if an interview undertaken by the police is to follow, that the learner has a support person present if the learner wishes it (possibly yourself).
  

Record

• Make some very brief notes at the time on any paper which comes to hand, and write them up as soon as possible.
• Do not destroy your original notes in case they are required by a court.
• Record statements and observable things, rather than your ‘interpretations’ or ‘assumptions’.
  
  

Recording

Concerns about students should be recorded on the individual/personal chronological form and put in a personal folder and on the BAJ central ‘at risk’ log sheet, which will detail the concerns about a student, discussion with the appropriate Designated Safeguarding Lead, or  in their absence, another appropriate member of the safeguarding team and parents or carers where appropriate, and any agreed actions and outcomes. 

Records should be signed and dated and kept in chronological order. Group actions minutes in child protection conferences/strategy meetings must be implemented.

Recording is a tool of professional accountability and is central to safeguarding and protecting students. It is not always possible to know whether a small or vague concern held today may increase as the days or weeks pass and later form the substance of a child or vulnerable adult protection referral. For this reason it is vital that concerns are recorded accurately so that they can be monitored and emerging patterns noticed. All records will be kept in a secure storage facility that only the DSL and deputy DSL’s will have access to. Private learner information concerning Prevent Issues will not be kept on our IT systems. We will however keep a password protected central log on our system to keep account of learners who have had a Prevent issue. No detailed account of the issue will be kept on this log and only the Designated Safeguarding Lead and the Deputy Safeguarding Leads will have access to the password and central log.

Privacy & GDPR Policy

This Privacy Policy explains how Metal Clay Academy collects, uses, and protects your personal data when you buy our jewellery or jewellery making tools online, book our jewellery-making workshops online, or visit our studio.

1. Data Controller

The data controller is Metal Clay Academy, located at 433 Hedon Road, Hull, HU9 1RA. For privacy inquiries, contact [email protected].

1. What Data We Collect & Why

• E-Commerce Data: Name, email, shipping/billing address, and phone number. We use this to process payments, dispatch orders, and send tracking links.
• Workshop & Training Data: Learner names, emergency contacts, medical disclosures (e.g., severe allergies to chemicals or respiratory issues ), and experience levels. We use this to ensure safety in the studio.
• Bespoke Order Data: Finger sizes, wrist measurements, and engraving details required to manufacture custom pieces.
• Financial Data: Payment details are processed directly by secure, encrypted third parties (e.g., Monzo, Sum Up, Stripe, PayPal). We never store your full card details.
• Technical & Cookie Data: IP addresses and browsing behavior collected via our website to improve your shopping experience.

1. Legal Basis for Processing

• Contractual Necessity: To deliver your purchased jewellery or provide the training course you booked either online or in-person..
• Legal Obligation: To retain transaction records for financial, tax, and insurance purposes.
• Consent: To send you marketing newsletters or jewellery news and tips (only if you actively opt-in).
• Vital Interests: To use your health or emergency contact data in the event of a studio incident or health related concern..

1. Data Sharing & Third Parties

We never sell your data. We only share it with essential third parties:

• E-Commerce Platforms: Our website host, Big Cartel, to manage your account and cart.
• Delivery Services: Insured couriers (e.g., Royal Mail, DHL, FedEx) to deliver jewellery and other goods, such as kits and tools, safely.
• Booking Software: Third-party tools used to manage workshop timetables and student availability.
• Production Partners: External casting houses or hallmarking assay offices (we only share product specifications, never your personal details).
• Guest instructors: for the sole purpose of conducting the workshop.

1. Data Retention

• Retail & Workshop Transactions: Stored for 7 years to comply with tax laws and handle product warranties.
• Studio Health & Safety Logs: Accident records are kept for 3 years for insurance compliance.
• Enrolment data and medical disclosures are kept for a period of 28 days after the workshop
• Marketing Lists: Retained until you click "unsubscribe."

Access to data held by an individual is restricted to the Studio Operations Manager and the Managing Director of Metal Clay Academy to protect data security.

1. Your GDPR Rights

You have the right to access, correct, or delete your personal data, or restrict its processing. You also have the right to withdraw your consent to data processing (unless the information/ data is required to fulfil a contract e.g. to correspond with you regarding workshop arrangements

To make a request, email [email protected].. We will fulfill valid requests free of charge within 30 days.

 

Complaints Policy Statement

Metal Clay Academy is committed to providing high-quality training, workshops and customer service. We welcome feedback and view complaints as an opportunity to improve our services. We are committed to handling complaints fairly, consistently, confidentially and without discrimination.

Complaints Policy & Procedure

This policy ensures all students, workshop participants, and studio members have access to a fair, transparent, and consistent process for raising grievances regarding products, and services provided by Metal Clay Academy including jewellery making courses, workshops, equipment, instructor performance, assessments and feedback. Students, workshop participants, third party tutors, contractors and retail customers may use this complaints procedure.

Phase 1: Informal Resolution

• Speak directly to your workshop instructor or studio manager at the time of the issue.
• Alternatively, email your concern informally within 5 working days of the workshop or session..
• We aim to resolve minor issues immediately or within 2 working days. 

Phase 2: Formal Complaint

• Submit a formal complaint if informal resolution fails, or if the matter is serious (e.g., grading disputes, health and safety issues, or staff misconduct).
• Email [[email protected] with the subject "Formal Complaint – [Your Name]".
• State the specific course name, date, instructor, tools/materials involved, and your desired outcome.

Phase 3: Investigation & Response

• We aim to acknowledge your written complaint within 2 working days.
• A senior member of staff will investigate the matter impartially.
• This may include inspecting studio logs, reviewing safety records, or interviewing staff.
• You will receive a full written decision and resolution proposal within 10 working days.

Phase 4: Final Appeal

• Appeal the decision in writing within 5 working days if you are unsatisfied with the outcome.
• Metal Clay Academy will conduct an independent review of the investigation.
•  Metal Clay Academy will issue a final company decision within 10 working days.