Many schools may continue to be affected by the consequences of Storm Ophelia. As part of any decision to re-open schools tomorrow, school management should consider the following from the point of view of the health and safety of pupils and staff, and the duty of care owed by the Board of Management towards both groups:

1. Structural damage to the school – this may necessitate the continuing closure of school pending remedial works or the closing off areas in the school building or grounds as necessary with the advice of the school insurers and appropriate arrangements being put in place;
2. Loss of Water Supply – given the potentially serious impact on hygiene in the absence of a water supply, schools may well have to close pending restoration of service. Such cuts relate to the loss of power to pumping stations and ESB Networks have advised that restoration of power to water supplies to be among their highest priorities;  
3. Safety of pupils and staff in travelling to schools – school management need to consider local conditions with regard to road closures and the impact of fallen trees, flooding or power lines.
4. Loss of electrical supply – management will need to consider the health and safety impact of the loss of light and heat to their school with regard to the particular conditions of their school. A failure of electrical supply does not necessarily require a closure as the particular condition of a school may still allow for the school to operate safely.

NB: Where a school has suffered a cut to their supply of electricity, it is advisable to check the school grounds and immediate area for fallen power lines. These should not be approached and fallen lines should be treated as if they are live and ESB Networks informed immediately – 1850 372 999.

Storm Ophelia – How to make a property Damage Claim

Storm Ophelia – Scheme of Capital Grants for Emergency Works

Storm Ophelia – Statement from the Department of Education and Skills 17^th October, 2017