Back-to-School Safety Tips for School Operations Teams

The back-to-school season brings a surge of activity and risk for operations teams. From lifting boxes to setting up classrooms, rushing through tasks can lead to serious injuries that delay your district’s momentum.

Top Hazards:

• Lifting without assistance or proper technique
• Improper ladder use or climbing on furniture
• Slips, trips, and falls on wet or cluttered floors

Injury Prevention Tips:

• Promote team lifts, teach proper technique, and use dollies and carts
• Require ladder safety refreshers for staff
• Encourage frequent breaks and hydration to protect against heat stress
• Ensure clear walkways, especially near entry zones, to control slips, trips, and falls
• Train staff to report near misses, not just injuries
• Make sure food service teams have the right footwear for the job.
• Use daily huddles to model a culture of safety. Discuss near-misses and lessons learned to show staff that reporting is valued and actionable.

In Texas, employee injury rates in August are among the highest of the year. A safe start sets the tone for a productive school year. By recognizing common hazards and reinforcing safe practices—from proper lifting to ladder safety and hydration—you can protect your operations team and keep your district running smoothly. Daily huddles, clear communication, and a culture that values reporting near-misses all contribute to a safer, more productive environment.