Thodupuzha: The Department of Health and Family Welfare in Kerala has introduced detailed guidelines aimed at improving safety standards in schools across the state. The new directives focus on preventing hazards, ensuring infrastructure safety, and strengthening emergency preparedness in educational institutions.

A key aspect of the guidelines is the requirement for schools to obtain fitness certification only after meeting multiple conditions and undergoing inspections by various government departments.

Safety measures to prevent snake entry

The guidelines include specific instructions to minimise the risk of snakes entering school premises. Schools are advised to maintain cleanliness and avoid accumulation of food waste and garbage, which can attract rodents and, in turn, snakes.

Structural maintenance is also emphasised. Compound walls, cracks, and holes in buildings must be properly sealed or plastered. Storage of materials such as wood, bricks, or construction supplies near classrooms is discouraged.

Regular maintenance of the campus is required, including trimming overgrown grass and bushes. Schools are also instructed to ensure that doors and windows are properly closed after working hours. Students’ belongings such as bags and shoes should not be left outside classrooms.

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Emergency preparedness and awareness

The guidelines stress the importance of awareness and readiness in handling snakebite incidents. Schools are required to organise awareness programmes on identifying snakes and responding to snakebites.

Mock drills involving teachers, students, and staff should be conducted periodically. Staff members must also be trained in basic first aid procedures relevant to snakebite cases.

Schools are instructed to maintain updated contact information for nearby hospitals, including those with anti-snake venom availability. Details of ambulance services, local medical facilities, and alternative transport options should be displayed prominently in administrative areas.

The services of trained Sarpa Volunteers are also recommended as part of preparedness measures.

Mandatory inspections and certifications

To obtain fitness certification, school buildings must undergo inspections from six departments: Local Self-Government (Engineering Wing), KSEB, Fire and Rescue Services, Health Department, Forest Department, and Motor Vehicles Department.

Each department will assess specific aspects such as building stability, electrical wiring, fire safety systems, sanitation, and availability of drinking water.

In addition, the School Safety Monitoring Committee will conduct inspections to ensure compliance with safety norms. These requirements apply to institutions under various education boards, including state-run schools, CBSE, ICSE, and Anganwadis.

The measures aim to create a safer environment for students by addressing both structural risks and environmental hazards. By introducing multi-level inspections and strict compliance requirements, the state seeks to reduce accidents and improve overall school safety standards.