Studied "science-based" and "research-based" as criteria for the evaluation of exemplary programs under the Safe, Disciplined and Drug-Free Schools Program through an examination of the evaluations of two such programs. Findings suggest that the "exemplary" criteria were either poorly defined or not well…

This article draws upon ongoing lessons for dealing with campus emergencies from a series of incidents, some high-profile, that occurred at the University of California, Santa Barbara, during the 2000-2001 academic year. (Contains 12 references.) (Author)

An effective program to cope with student misbehavior should include a range of sanctions. Proposes that the juvenile justice system and school districts work together to develop an intermediate punishment of coerced community service for serious disciplinary infractions. (MLF)

A comprehensive safety program includes use of consent forms and safety tests, posting and enforcement of safety rules, inspections, established emergency procedures, documentation of safety education, well-maintained equipment, adequate supervision, and modeling of safe behavior and proper attitudes. (SK)

A Colorado school district chose self-testing, self-diagnostic emergency lighting equipment, specially designed to monitor all phases of an emergency lighting unit's operation and performance. (MLF)

Because potentially hazardous noises abound in schools, especially in technical areas, this article describes ways to identify problems and help students and employees protect their hearing. Also looks at legislated requirements for blood-borne pathogens, laboratory safety, hazardous waste disposal, personal protective equipment, and other areas.…

A program of periodic inspection, maintenance, and repair or replacement of school furniture and equipment will ensure safety as well as reduce the threat of lawsuits and workers' compensation claims. (MLF)

Describes and assesses the health and safety implications of school practical work involving the use of DNA. Includes a table of hazards, risks, and preventive or protective measures to limit risks in some educational activities using DNA. (MKR)

After tornado leveled Grand Prairie Elementary School (Joliet, Illinois), concerted effort by architects and the school community paid off when new school was opened two years later. Hallways in new building are staggered throughout school to avoid the creation of wind tunnels in event of another tornado. Guidelines for disaster preparations…

Discusses the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) and how effective it is in the schools. The article describes a 1991 evaluation of AHERA which found that it had been generally successful (with notable exceptions). It also considers the school reinspection process which will be completed by July 1992. (SM)

School crises may be categorized as emergency situations, human-made crises, natural events, medical emergencies, and mechanical crises. Central to any successful crisis-management plan are onsite and district-level crisis response teams. Plans should specify staff responsibilities; provide for communication codes, devices, and procedures;…

Increasing insulation in schools as an energy-saving measure has given rise to the Sick Building Syndrome (SBS), which afflicts roughly one-third of the nation's schools. This article examines asbestos, radon, electromagnetic radiation, and chemical pollutants and describes steps to make schools environmentally safe for students. School officials…

An American Association of University Women study indicates that 85% of girls and 76% of boys in grades 8-11 have experienced some form of sexual harassment. Recent court decisions underline schools' responsibility for ensuring a safe school environment. Administrators should act to eliminate sexual harassment, educate students, involve parents,…

The Consumer Product Safety Commission's "Handbook for Public Playground Safety" stands as the industry's reference tool and is a primary source for measuring liability in accident claims. Today's playground accidents are usually caused by poor maintenance, antiquated design, or layout problems. A series of tests are available for…

Describes some of the dangers involved in working with gas discharge tubes in the laboratory. (ZWH)