Chennai: Greater Chennai Corporation’s Gender Policy Lab is conducting safety audits at its 417 schools to identify infrastructure gaps, assess physical and environmental risks, and recommend improvements.The exercise follows reports of shortcomings in some schools, including girls being asked to leave class while menstruating, poor toilet facilities and limited awareness of menstrual health. The audit, which began last month, assesses child protection systems and students’ psychosocial safety too. “This is a continuous process, not a one-time inspection,” said K A N Legis, head of the Gender Policy Lab.The lab is conducting the audit with the Singappen Special Force and departments including social welfare and child protection. Its 95-point checklist covers structural safety, classroom ventilation, electrical wiring and fittings, accessibility features such as ramps and handrails, toilet hygiene, sports equipment, and functioning CCTV cameras.The review examines whether schools have functional Child Protection Committees and prominently display women’s helpline and emergency contact numbers. GCC schools have gender clubs that conduct activities intended to promote gender sensitivity and awareness 140 middle schools and 81 high and higher secondary schools.In one recent inspection, officials found construction debris dumped inside a school campus and noted that workers could enter the premises, Legis said. The problem was addressed immediately. “GCC assistant engineers and school staff are open to our suggestions, so many issues we identify are being resolved quickly,” she said.For safety concerns beyond school grounds, the lab seeks support from the Singappen Special Force. Officials have identified poorly lit areas near schools and asked students whether they feel safe on the journey home. “If there are people causing trouble in those areas, the Singappen Special Force carries out regular patrols there,” Legis said.
