Finger Trap Injuries in Schools – Reducing the Risk

Published: 31 May 2023

Colleagues,

There have been several reported injuries in recent months relating to trapped fingers in doors and gates at schools. A number of these incidents have caused serious injuries. It is important that the risk of finger traps is assessed and where risks are identified, controls are implemented to reduce the risk of further injuries.

Understanding the Risk

The potential for finger entrapment arises from door & gate faults, the rapid closing and heavy weight of doors, coupled with the frequency of use & quick movements of pupils & staff. High use areas clearly experience a greater frequency of door use, increasing the likelihood of accidents occurring.

Actions for School Heads & Business Managers:

Risk Assessment:

• Carry out a review of your school risk assessment,
• check if the risk from finger traps is included
• conduct a detailed risk assessment of doors and gates to identify high risk doors and gates and those which create areas of concern by:
  • identify high-risk areas - pay particular attention to high traffic areas, including dinner queues, doors leading into corridors, and toilet areas.
  • assess doors and their operation - evaluate the functionality of doors, looking for potential pinch points or gaps that may increase the risk of finger entrapment.
  • consider door closers - assess the suitability and functionality of door closers, ensuring they operate smoothly and avoid sudden, forceful closures.

Control Measures

Review controls currently in place, implement appropriate control measures to reduce the risk of injuries – consider the following:

• raise awareness - inform staff & pupils about the risks associated with finger entrapment and encourage responsible door usage.
• install finger protection devices - consider installing finger protection devices on doors with a high risk of entrapment. These devices act as a barrier, preventing fingers from being caught in the door's closing mechanism.
• regular maintenance and inspections - establish a schedule for regular door maintenance and inspections, ensuring hinges, closers, and other components are functioning correctly.
• adequate signage - install clear and visible signage near doors to remind students and staff to exercise caution and avoid placing fingers near closing edges.
• supervision and monitoring - implement appropriate supervision in high-risk areas, particularly during busy periods such as lunchtimes or breaks, to ensure doors are used safely.
• seek advice - speak to the council’s health and safety team or you’re H&S consultant. If door faults are identified or as part of any maintenance, upgrade, or project work to doors, contact your school surveyor or company engaged to undertake the work.
• record and report – should further incidents occur remember to complete accident report forms or near miss forms and send into the health and safety team.

Should you require further information, please get in touch by emailing employee.healthandsafety@derby.gov.uk or your school’s health and safety provider.

Darren Allsobrook
Darren.allsobrook@derby.gov.uk
Health and Safety Team Manager

Education