Chennai, Nov 2:
The Tamil Nadu School Education Department has issued a fresh set of safety guidelines to government, government-aided and private schools, directing them to inspect buildings and take preventive measures to protect students during the northeast monsoon.
The guidelines require school heads and education officials to thoroughly inspect roofs, walls, parapets, sunshades and other structural components. Damaged portions must be repaired immediately, while rainwater drainage pipes should be kept clear to prevent water stagnation and seepage.
Special attention has been drawn to compound walls, which could weaken and collapse following prolonged rainfall. School authorities have been instructed to barricade damaged or potentially dangerous areas and put up warning signs to prevent students from approaching them.
Buildings with damaged ceilings, leaking roofs or other structural defects must not be used until the necessary repairs are completed and the structures are certified safe by competent authorities. Students should not be allowed near such buildings under any circumstances.
The department has also called for inspections of abandoned and unused structures within school premises. Construction and renovation sites must be properly barricaded, while materials such as cement, steel and bricks should be stored away from areas frequented by students.
Schools have been directed to check the condition of drainage systems, septic tanks, sumps and overhead water tanks as well. Education officials at the district level have been asked to conduct regular inspections, monitor compliance and ensure that deficiencies are rectified without delay.
The department has stressed that school infrastructure must remain safe throughout the rainy season and that preventive action should be taken rather than waiting for accidents to occur.