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BALOU MAINTENANCE SERVICES LIMITED

HSE MANUAL

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Balou Maintenance Services Limited HSSE Manual

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Balou Maintenance Services Limited (Golden Rules)

All accidents and incidents must be reported to the person immediate supervisor and/or any

HSE personnel so that all necessary action can be taken and forms filled out. Also, it must be

reported to management immediately and a report submitted with 24hrs of accident or

incident taken.

It is compulsory that Personnel Protective Equipment (PPE) be worn based the minimum

prerequisites (Gloves, glasses, Helmet and boots).Additional PPE shall be worn based on the

risk assessment performed.

Smoking is forbidden on all Company sites and offices apart from in clearly marked

authorized smoking areas.

No employee or sub contractor shall report or attempt to report for work whilst being under

the influence of forbidden drugs or alcohol, or be in the acquisition of drugs or alcohol at the

workplace, or use drugs or alcohol whilst on duty

Excavations

Check for buried services and get “permit to dig” before staring the job

Barriers must be placed around the excavation work area to avoid vehicles or people from

falling in

If people need to enter excavations ensure the sides are properly supported and supported and

a secure access ladder is installed

Housekeeping

Cover or secure opening and holes in floors

Keep access areas well lit and free of debris

Do not leave materials where they could block an escape route


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Working on heights

Keep edge protection in place and openings carefully covered

Do not use access equipment if it is damaged of malfunctioning

Check all fall restraint and fall arrest equipment prior to use

Safety Harness must be worn at all times when working on heights where the center of your

back is 6ft above the ground

Working with electricity

Switch off equipment before unplugging and cleaning

Ensure that fuses and circuit breakers are correctly rated for the circuit they protect

Check to make sure that plugs and cables are secure and free of faults prior to use

Work place Transport – Pedestrian

Use designated pedestrian routes and crossing points

Before crossing, make sure to stop, look and listen

Workplace Transport –Driver

Only operate vehicles you are taught and capable to drive

Only use the designated traffic routes and follow sped limits

Check vehicle blind spots and use a banks-man

Manual Handling

Plan your lift and check the weight of the load before you begin to work

Before you lift, think about if there is a safer way of moving the load


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Check to make sure your route is clear of obstacles before you begin and carry the load close

to your body

Fire Safety

Make sure you are aware of what to do in case of a fire and find out where the nearest fire

point is located

Check work area prior to and after performing hot works

Always handle flammable liquids and gases cautiously and only use the appropriate container

to store flammable liquids

Health

Use protective equipment such as gloves, coveralls, glasses, helmets and ear defenders

Protect your back, muscles and joints by maximizing the use of handling aids and by using a

good handling technique

Decrease the risk of hand arm vibration (HAVS) by keeping power tools well kept and use

hem properly

Welfare

Check to make sure that your welfare facilities are easily available

Make sure to wash your hands before eating or preparing food and drinks.

Clean up after eating or preparing foods and drink and put the waste in the bins supplied

Only use wash rooms and toilets for their intended use

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Only use the PPE you have been instructed or taught to use

Recognize the risk involved and the limitations your of PPE

Check and examine all PPE before use, and never use it if faulty


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Follow the manufactures instructions on how to clean your PPE

Make sure your PPE is fitted properly; it could save your life

Induction

GENERAL

This procedure provides a description of project specific health, safety and environmental

(HSE) orientation and training for employees and visitors. Everyone who enters the Project

or Company for the first time following an absence of three (3) months or more, must receive

an orientation suitable to their position and purpose. Purpose and Scope

Pre warning of arrivals shall be endorsed so that presentations can be made to the groups

each day

Each individual has a duty to be present at and to constructively participate in the training, at

the time and location, as informed by their direct supervisor or other authorized person.

Trainers

A capable person(s) shall be appointed to carry out the Standard Site HSE Orientation /

General Orientation and Visitors Site HSE Orientation. A substitute(s) will also be chosen to

fill the role in the absence of the appointed person(s).

2.3 Timing of Orientation Training

All personnel must complete the HSE Orientation or the Visitors Site HSE Orientation. In

addition to a Visitors Site HSE Orientation, some individuals may need a more precise

orientation, pertinent to the dangers they are likely to be exposed.

Verification of Training

Each Project orientation attendee (including visitors) must sign an acknowledgment that they

have attended the orientation, have had the applicable topics discussed with them, and that

they comprehended the material discussed.

Each Orientation attendee must sign an attendance sheet.


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A copy of the acknowledgements must be submitted to the HSE representative within 24

hours and kept for auditing purposes.

Records

The Trainer carrying out the orientation training must keep (or forward to the Fluor HSE

departments

ORIENTATION

Employee Orientation

Orientation is the programmed advancement of a new or transferred employee to the

standards and prerequisites in his or her job description. This orientation process has been

created to help Construction Managers and Supervisors in verifying that employee

orientation is conducted in an orderly and comprehensive manner.

The reason for orientation training is to make each person acquainted with the following:

The Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) Management System

Individual functions and responsibilities in managing health, safety and environmental

issues;

General workplace requirements

Specific dangers that may be inherent in a process, equipment or substance that may be

present at or in a work method used at a project work site.

Project Orientation

The orientation will comprise the following points:

Concise explanation of activities;

Site rules should be pin pointed during orientation and a copy should be given to those

present.

Introduce the new employee to his/her relevant Supervisor, coworkers, and HSE

representatives;

Discuss the location of First Aid facilities, amenities, lockers, eating areas, parking areas, and

notice boards;


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Notify employees of their duty to immediately report to their direct supervisor/foreman all

accidents and/or incidents that have or could have resulted in personal injury or property

damage;

Identify emergency and fire fighting services and equipment locations; illustrate how to raise

an alarm;

Identify emergency exits and assembly locations and discuss evacuation procedures;

Talk about general workplace dangers and demonstrate how they are dealt with, including

equipment safety devices, lockouts and location of safety and protective equipment, safety

signs, and notice board;

Housekeeping;

Provide personal protective equipment and clothing and illustrate its use and care; and

Illustrate/discuss safe work practices and hazard control procedures that are pertinent to the

job, including the use of safety equipment, location of emergency stop switches, nearest fire

extinguishers, safe handling of materials, explanation of Material Safety Data Sheets, manual

handling practices, etc.

To make sure the employee comprehends the orientation material, a comprehension test is

necessary.

Management Responsibilities

The duties of the management team are essential to let the policies and practices of Balou

Maintenance Services Ltd to be trickled down and incorporated by the general work force

Provide a secure working environment and make sure that the necessary systems, procedures

and training is in place to promote a safe working environment

Communicate the pre requisites for all employees in carrying out duty of care to themselves,

each other, third parties and property

Put systems in place to rectify and address concerns to ensure continuous enhancement and

feedback.


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To employ qualified and experienced HSE staffing in order to efficiently manage the HSE

performance of projects in the absence of the information. The recommended ratios of HSE

Advisors to work force are as follows.

Category of Risk

Suggested Ratio (HSE Advisor)

Low

1 to 60- 80

Medium

1 to 40 -60

High

1 to 30 -40

Employees Responsibilities

The specific duties of staff are given Appropriate Company Procedures

The duties of key personal within Departments and Projects are described in the appropriate

Department Procedures and Project QA/QC Plans

While at work, every employee is required to:

To take sensible care for the safety and health of himself and of other persons who may be

affected by his actions or omissions at work; and complete any duty/ task assigned to him/

her by the employer and to co operate to ensure that the task is performed.

Not to deliberately or irresponsibly interfere with or misuse any thing provided in the

interests of Health, Safety or welfare in pursuance of any of the applicable statutory or

company polices.

To inform his employer of any infringement under this Act or any regulations made there

under, the existence of which he knows; and


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To use appropriately, the personal protection equipment supplied for his/ her use.

To take all practical steps to make sure that their actions are not dangerous or where

unavoidable take steps to diminish the danger of injury to persons. Each employee should

study Balou Maintenance Services Limited HSE policy which explains the agreements made

for Health and Safety.

Employees should wear/ use Personal Protective Equipment provided for them as instructed.

Help to keep the site tidy and safe, whilst observing for warning notices and obey all

warnings given

Director

The Director of the Company has the overall responsibility for the management of Business

Units which comprises overall duties for the management of Health, Safety, Security and

Environmental System (HSSE). Additionally, the Director has the general duty to ensure the

realization of the Quality, Safety and Environment Policies and Objectives throughout.

Some pre requisites are:

Make sure that the policies outlined within the HSSE System are implemented and

adhered to.

Participate in revising and consenting the outputs from revision of the HSSE System

Create and agree upon the criteria for performance Contact in the construction with other

managers

Oversee meetings applicable Health, Safety, Quality and Environment issues

Revise Outputs from statistically generated information on Health, Safety, Quality and

Environment Measurements

HSE Manager

The HSE Manager is the representative directly responsible to the Director.


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To provide and independent reporting line to the Director regarding all aspects of

HSSE System

To provide staff with suitable quality, safety and environment qualifications as

necessary

To communicate with external certification bodies as required in order to organize

and maintain contacts pertaining to third party certification bodies

To help and inform the Director in Management Review by providing required

documentation and proposals for change

To make sure that HSE System is prepared, established, put into practice and

maintained

To put together, update and issue the HSE Manual and procedures

To help with Assessment of Sub contractors and Supplies

To make sure awareness of customer requirements throughout the organization is

encouraged

Project Managers

Project Managers are in charge of the management of those functions that are pertinent

within their operation .This includes the responsibility for the management of the HSE

System applicable to their operations .The duties are but not limited to

Have general and final responsibility for Health, Safety and Environment for this

contract.

Make sure that all employees under his/her control are aware, clearly comprehend, and

accept their duties under the Company’s Health, Safety and Environment Policy and that

they are prepared to play their part.

Make sure that sufficient resources are supplied to meet Health, Safety and


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Environment prerequisites.

Make sure that the Company’s Health, Safety and Environment Policy are correctly

and successfully carried out.

Make sure conditions are made to provide for the health of workers under their

control, by maintaining adequate First Aid facilities on the work site.

Inform on proper disciplinary action when HSE rules are breeched.

Perform workplace inspections at agreed intervals, to make sure the persons conform

to the Company’s HSE policy, and any legal requirements in force.

Put together and keep accident reports and statistics for efficient accident prevention

Entrust responsibilities as may be required to guarantee the effectiveness of the Policy

Supervisors /Foremen

Supervisors/Foremen are responsible to their Project Managers for making sure that there is

conformity to the requirements of the Company’s Health, Safety and Environment Policy,

within the areas under their control.

Particularly these responsibilities are:

To make themselves fully aware of the Company’s Health, Safety and

Environment Policy and make sure of its execution at their level.

To make sure persons under their control are sufficiently trained and fully

cognizant of any hazards in their department.

To report, document and investigate all accidents and near misses in their

department and suggest corrective action for execution.

To make sure employees utilize and / or wear all protective clothing and


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equipment necessary for particular jobs and to arrange replacements as required.

To instruct all employees under their control of the suggested safe job procedures

relevant to particular operations.

To implement all Health, Safety and Environment rules and regulations as they

pertain to their area of responsibility or as directed by Management.

To keep good housekeeping conditions within the work area.

To perform regular inspections of the work so as to make sure the Company’s

Health, Safety and Environment Policy is adhered to.

To point out training needs with regard to Health, Safety and Environment.

To inform the HSE officer of any insecure conditions which may have an effect on the health

and safety of workers or which may damage the environment

Everyone

Employees have a responsibility to take care of their own health and safety and the health

and safety of anyone who may be affected by their actions or omissions.

As a result employees will:

Act safely with regard to themselves and others in the work place.

Carry out work based on established safe work procedures.

Co-operate with management and supervision in satisfying the requirements of the

Company’s Health, Safety and Environment Policy, particularly as it relates to this

project.

Operate only equipment and machinery that they are qualified and allowed to use,

and make sure safe operating procedures are complied with.

Take care of safety equipment supplied for their use and make sure it is not altered

or abused.

Report all accidents at once, near misses and misconduct to their direct Supervisor

or other responsible persons.

Wear personal protective equipment as necessary and documents any defects likely

to minimize protection.


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Keenly participate in all safety meetings.

Employees exposed in vehicular traffic shall wear reflective of highly visible

warning vest

Employees have a responsibility to take care of their own health and safety and the health

and safety of anyone who may be affected by their actions or omissions.

As a result employees will:

Act safely with regard to themselves and others in the work place.

Carry out work based on established safe work procedures.

Co-operate with management and supervision in satisfying the requirements of the

Company’s Health, Safety and Environment Policy, particularly as it relates to this project.

Operate only equipment and machinery that they are qualified and allowed to use,

and make sure safe operating procedures are complied with.

Take care of safety equipment supplied for their use and make sure it is not altered

or abused.

Report all accidents at once, near misses and misconduct to their direct Supervisor

or other responsible persons.

Wear personal protective equipment as necessary and documents any defects likely

to minimize protection.

Keenly participate in all safety meetings.

Employees exposed in vehicular traffic shall wear reflective of highly visible

warning vest


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Communication

Balou’s Maintenance Services Ltd will take a practical approach in dealing with

previous incidents and corresponding the lessons learned from these incidents to enhance the

safety performance of its projects.

The lessons learned will be clarified in toolbox talk, Risk assessment, Safety alerts

Team Briefing, incident reporting and any other successful means of communication to the

work force.

Trends and pattern development will also be in a managerial context to decide on

the need for training or early warning signals

Pre –Employment

All applicants who are offered employment must be informed that they will

need to do a drug and alcohol test

Where employees are employed continuously from one project to another the

requirement of pre employment testing will be decided by the Project Manager

and the HSE Advisor

Persons who are to be employed by Balou Maintenance Services Limited must be

informed -

of the prerequisites of the Drug and Alcohol policy

Sign a statement indicating that they are aware of the Drug and

Alcohol Policy and approve the collection of a specimen for the

purpose of performing the drug and alcohol tests

Upon successfully passing the drug test you are acceptable for

employment at Balou Maintenance Services Limited

The drug and alcohol test result must be recorded and signed by the

official person who provides professional medical or other services

relative to controlled substances.

Relative to this negative drug test results reports without supporting medical

documentation will meet these requirements and is also applied to persons who

have failed a random are post incident drug and alcohol screening

Post incident testing must be done within a 24 hour period

Sub Contractors

Sub contractors and vendors conducting business on the company

property are to be subject to the same safety and job rules as Balou

Maintenance Services Limited employees. This shall include drug

screening and random searches in compliance with the procedure

and this HSSE manual


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Record Keeping and Confidentiality

All testing records and personal information shall be kept and

locked in the employees personal file .These files shall be strictly

confidential unless ordered to be released by court or applicable

jurisdiction. Only authorized personnel will be permitted to view

these records

Visitors

Anyone entering the construction site or a work area must wear

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).Exceptions to this rule will be

decided by the Project Manger and the HSE Personnel. In cases

where the visitor is wearing corrective lens, specific eye wear

designed for use over the corrective lens will be provided

In specific cases requirements for orientation and /or induction shall

be adhered to

Security Searches

The procedure within Balou Maintenance Services Limited

management systems is created to attain the goals of Balou

Maintenance Services Limited relative to encouraging and ensuring

employee safety, providing an accident free working environment,

preventing drug and alcohol use, and encouraging employers to

assist employees with seeking professional guidance for the purpose

of education, counseling and rehabilitation.

If Suspect items are discovered during a search, the individual will

be removed from Balou Maintenance Services Limited compound

The following procedure is achieved through a monitoring procedure –

Random systematic physical searches, inspections or investigation may be conducted with

a professional consultant who may use dogs and other special techniques to spot the

presence of drugs, alcohol, controlled substances and weapons. Such searches, inspections

and investigations will be coordinated with the approval of the project manager and the HSE Advisor and

the client prior to enforcement.

Sub contractors, their agents or any other persons are subject to

voluntary body searches or personnel searches by an authorized

Company representative or agent. Persons who refuse to voluntary

submit searches will be outside Balou Maintenance Services

Limited property and permanently denied re-admittance.

Whenever a search involving an individual is carried out, the following procedure will be

followed


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A request is made by person in authority to search the individual

Personal searches will never be conducted without the permission

of the individual .At least a company representative or a person

from the employer will be present during a search

Before the start of an individual search, the individual will be alerted as

to what will take place during the search, why the search is performed and what

action will be taken if suspected items or materials are found

The individual will be asked to voluntarily give up any substances and materials

in their ownership that may be in infringement of the site rules .If this request is

denied, the individual will be asked to empty all pockets of materials

and items

Any suspected materials and substances will be placed in a sealed

envelope. The sealed envelope will be handed over to the Project

Manager or the persons’ employer .Under no situations is the

package or envelope containing suspected items or substances to be

given to a law enforcement agency with identification of the

involved individual

The Project Manager or Person in authority or Client will advise the

individual where the seized items may be redeemed .These items

will not be moved from the project or transported in any company

management vehicle or project representative under any

circumstances

If a female individual is discovered during the search, the individual will be removed

from Balou Maintenance Services Limited compound

Searches of personal items, vehicles, lockers and other physical

areas will be performed on a random basis. On these occasions

Balou Maintenance Services Limited will use an autonomous body.

This body may use dogs or other specialized detectors or search

methods. These inspections will be coordinated in advance and

sanctioned by the Project/Department Manager and either the HSE

Adviser.

The following procedures will be used on these occasions:

Physical searches will be performed by a professional consultant with a Company

Representative present. Suspect items discovered during these searches will be seized and

placed into seal type envelopes or packages upon their detection. The envelope or package

will be given an identification number and presented to the Project/Department Manager

or employer if known, or a local enforcement agency.

Suspect material found within the limits of an individual’s locker, personal item or other

area exclusively controlled or inhabited by the individual will be handled in the same

manner as defined in this Manual. Under no situations is the package or envelope


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containing suspect items or substances to be presented to a law enforcement agency with

identification of involved individual.

In situations or incidents where suspect items have been identified

the individual involved will be escorted from Company premises.

Individuals who deny knowledge of, or use of, discovered suspect

items may submit proof to Balou Maintenance Services Limited of

their non-involvement. Examples of proof would be a urinalysis or

blood test supervised by Balou Maintenance Services Ltd and/or a

qualified professional.

If the individual provides Balou Maintenance Services with substantial

proof of non-involvement; the employee may be readmitted to the company’s

compound. Toolbox Talks

Responsibility

Supervisors or foremen must conduct toolbox talks with the

employees under their supervision. These meetings must include

information regarding potentially hazardous operations, accident

prevention methods, lessons learned, accident statistics, and other

such accident prevention techniques.

These meetings should maintain a positive attitude and should provide an opportunity for

an open discussion by employees.

Tool Box Talks

A Tool Box Talk shall be carried out by the Supervisor or Foreman covering prepared

safety material that was distributed and discussed by the HSE Adviser.

The reason for the Tool Box Talk is to supply employees with

information and instructions relative to accident prevention,

procedures, safety performance and general precautions to be taken

during the course of construction activities.

The general guidelines are:

It is compulsory for all employees to attend the Tool Box Meeting.

It is compulsory for all employees in attendance to sign the meeting record form.

The safety material covered should be relevant to the work being executed and each

employee must be able to hear the material being discussed.

Employees should be given the chance to ask questions concerning safety. Questions outside

the safety discipline should not be allowed.

The actual meeting time, including time for questions and answers, should not surpass 30

minutes.


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A copy of these documents will be kept by the HSE Adviser.

GENERAL

A risk assessment of the workplace will be carried out to determine the need for adequate

personal protective equipment (PPE).Detailed PPE requirements will be site-specific.

Personnel will be issued with PPE to protect them from workplace hazards which cannot be

eliminated or reduced to an acceptable level by other controls.

COMMUNICATION AND TRAINING

PPE requirements will be communicated to all affected employees at the Project. Employees

who are required to wear PPE will be trained. This training must include:

When PPE is required;

What PPE is required?

How to wear, adjust, and maintain PPE;

How to determine if PPE is damaged or defective; and

The limitations of the PPE.

Employees must show comprehension of this training and the ability to use PPE correctly

before starting work that needs PPE. If a trained employee later illustrates a lack of

understanding or skill in PPE, they must be retrained.

HEAD PROTECTION

Employees shall wear hard hats that are in good condition and meet appropriate regulatory

standards (i.e., ANSI [American National Standard Institute] Z89.1-1981 and ANSI Z89.2-

1971). Alteration of hard hats is forbidden. Hard hats shall be worn in the correct manner

(brim to the front). The only exception is for welders whose hard hats may have to be

reversed to accommodate welding shields while carrying out welding operations. If hard hats

cannot be worn during welding operations, other means of overhead protection must be

supplied. When not welding, welders must wear hard hats with brim to the front.

HEARING PROTECTION

Hearing protection is essential where high levels of noise are present (i.e., above 85 decibels).

EYE AND/OR FACE PROTECTION


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Employees shall wear approved ANSI Z87.1-1989 safety glasses with side shields in all work

areas except offices. Additional eye and/or face protection, such as goggles, face shields, and

welding shields, shall be necessary when engaged in operations such as welding, burning,

grinding, chipping, handling chemicals, (i.e., corrosive liquids or molten materials), drilling

overhead, using powder-actuated tools, and pouring concrete.

Employees and visitors may wear photo-gray safety lenses, where allowed, anywhere on

the jobsite, but permanently tinted lenses may be worn only in outside work areas.

Wearing of contact lenses shall be addressed in the site-specific safety rules.

Prescription glasses must satisfy the approved pertinent regulatory standards. Cover-all

glasses or goggles shall be necessary for prescription glasses that do not satisfy the standard.

Employees engaged in welding shall use filter lenses or plates specified by the pertinent

regulatory standards. These lenses shall be guarded by safety plates on both sides.

Employees helping welders should not look directly at the welding process and shall use

approved eye protection.

Employees engaged in operations using lasers shall use laser safety goggles appropriate for

the density of the laser beam being used. Such goggles shall be marked showing the visible

light transmission, the laser wavelength for which such goggles were designed, and their

optical density.

Employees shall be informed of the exact location of eye wash stations.

The following table shall be used as a guide for the selection of the proper shade numbers of

filter lenses or plates used in welding.

Welding Operation

Shade Number

Shielded metal-arc welding 1/16, 3/32, 1/8, 5/32 inch diameter

Electrodes 10

Gas-shielded arc welding (non-ferrous) 1/16, 3/32, 1/8, 5/32-inch diameter electrodes

11

Gas-shielded arc welding (ferrous) 1/16, 3/32, 1/8, 5/32-inch

diameter electrodes 12

Shielded metal-arc welding 3/16, 7/32, ¼ inch diameter


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Electrodes

12

5/16, 3/8-inch diameter electrodes 14

Atomic hydrogen welding 10-14

Carbon arc welding 14

Soldering 14

Torch brazing 3 or 4

Light cutting, up to one inch 3 or 4

Medium cutting, 1 inch to 6 inches 4 or 5

Heavy cutting, over 6 inches 5 or 6

Gas welding (light), up to 1/8 inch 4 or 5

Gas welding (medium), 1/8 inch to ½ inch 5 or 6

Gas welding (heavy), over ½ inch 6 or 8

FOOT PROTECTION

Steel-toed boots are necessary

Additional foot protection, such as metatarsal foot guards, must be worn when operating

tamps, jackhammers, or when it is possible for a foot injury.

RESPIRATORS

Respirators shall be worn and used in accordance with

HAND PROTECTION


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Gloves shall be worn when handling material that could burn, cut, tear or cause injury to the

skin. Use caution when wearing gloves around certain machinery. Protect hands from nip or

pinch points.

Leather work gloves will be made available where needed by construction plan(s);

Anti-vibration gloves will be supplied for all suitable employees during operations such as

chipping and drilling;

Rubber, neoprene or vinyl gloves will be made available to protect against chemicals;

Check MSDS’s for specific instructions on which type you need for protection; and for best

protection:

Check in the gloves before wearing them to make sure that they are not damaged, cracked or

torn in any way;

Make sure that the gloves fit properly (they should cover hands completely and fit

comfortably); and

Gloves with straps used as tightening devices should never be used as they may get entangled

in machinery or equipment.

Dress Requirements

Employees are required to wear clothing appropriate for the work being carried out

All site personnel will be provided with and shall wear the applicable PPE

As a minimum five (5) items of PPE will be required for personnel to wear when entering

areas that require PPE. They are safety helmets, safety boots, gloves, safety glasses and Hi

Vis Vests Fire resistant coveralls, nominally made of NOMEX.

The coveralls are to be worn with sleeves rolled down and the front to be button up closed.

WORKING ON HEIGHTS

The reason for this procedure is to provide for the safety of persons that may need to work at

height, use ladders, scaffolding, and/or fall arrest systems. Wherever practicable, the need for

personnel to work at height should be eliminated.


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SCOPE

This procedure outlines controls for working at height and associated risk assessments

DEFINITIONS

Anchor Point

A secure point of attachment for lifelines, lanyards, or deceleration devices. An anchorage

must able to support a minimum dead weight of five thousand (5,000) pounds (2,268

kilograms) for each person attached to it.

Competent Person

Any person who has been trained and authorized to inspect fall arresting equipment such as

lifelines. A single individual can be both qualified and competent. All projects/sites shall

maintain a list of competent and qualified persons.

Floor Hole

An opening measuring less than twelve (12) inches (30.47 centimeters) but more than one (1)

inch (2.54 centimeters) in its least dimension, in any floor, platform, pavement, or yard,

through which materials but not persons may fall; such as a belt hole, pipe opening, or slot

opening.

Floor Opening

An opening measuring twelve (12) inches (30.47 centimeters) or more in its least dimension,

in any floor, platform, pavement, or yard through which persons may fall; such as a

hatchway, stair or ladder opening, pit, or large manhole. Floor openings occupied by

elevators, dumb waiters, conveyors, machinery, or containers are excluded.

Guardrail

A barrier secured to uprights and erected along the exposed sides and ends of platforms to

avoid falls of persons.

Floor Opening Covers


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The construction of floor opening covers may be of any material that meets the strength

requirements. Covers projecting not more than one (1) inch (2.54 centimeters) above the

floor level may be used providing all edges are chamfered to an angle with the horizontal of

not over 30 degrees. All hinges, handles, bolts, or other parts shall set flush with the floor or

cover surface.

Guardrail

A barrier secured to uprights and erected along the exposed sides and ends of platforms to

avoid falls of persons.

Lanyard

A rope (nylon or steel cable) appropriate for supporting one person.

Lifeline

A vertically suspended rope with one end attached to a stationary object (such as a structural

member), capable of supporting at least five thousand (5000) pounds (2,268 kilograms) of

dead weight, with the other end attached to a lanyard or safety harness.

Open Sides and End

The edges of a platform that are more than fourteen (14) inches (36 centimeters) away

horizontally from a sturdy, continuous, vertical surface (such as a building wall) or a sturdy,

continuous horizontal surface (such as a floor), or a point of access. Exception: For plastering

and lathing operations, the horizontal threshold distance is eighteen (18) inches (46

centimeters).

Qualified Person

One who, by possession of a renowned degree, certificate, or professional standing, or who

by extensive knowledge, training, and experience, has successfully illustrated his/her ability

to solve or resolve problems pertinent to the subject matter, the work, or the Project/Site.

Retractable Lifeline or Inertia Reel

A fall-arrest device that permits free travel, without slack rope, but locks instantly when a fall

begins. Retractable lifelines may be used, but horizontal movement must be limited.

Rope Grabs (Fall Arrester)


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Automatic lifeline devices that act by inertia (resistance to movement) to grab the lifeline if a

fall occurs. Rope grabs are used when vertical movement is necessary, such as work from

boatswain chairs or suspended scaffolds.

Safety Harness

A safety harness is an approved design of straps that may be secured about the employee’s

body in a manner to distribute the fall-arrest forces over at least the thighs, pelvis, waist,

chest, and shoulders, with a means for attaching it to other components of a personal fall-

arrest system.

Static Line or Centenary Line

A cable or rope strung horizontally and/or vertically from one substantial object to another,

providing a means of traveling between those two objects while maintaining fall protection

between those objects.

Type I Ladder

Portable ladder which can support at least two hundred fifty (250) pounds (113kilograms)

weight.

Wall Opening

An opening at least thirty (30) inches (76.2 centimeters) high and eighteen (18) inches (45.72

centimeters) wide, in any wall or partition, through which persons may fall; such as a yard-

arm doorway or chute opening.

Working at Height

Access or egress to/from, ascending, descending or working in any position where a person

can fall from one level to another and injure himself or herself.

GENERAL

Training must be completed and recorded.

In all pre-engineered building structures (100%), safety harnesses and / or scaffolds will be

used by all employees exposed to a fall hazard of six (6) feet (2 meters) or more. Static lines

and lifelines will be installed as needed within the structure to facilitate tying-off.

A risk assessment must be carried out for work at height.

Rescue equipment and vertical rescue trained personnel must be available.


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CONTROL MECHANISM

Each working at height scenario shall have a risk assessment conducted. Every effort must be

made to provide fall protection for people who need to work at height. If, however, a fall

restraint device is identified as being important, personnel who are taught, assessed, and

considered capable to work at height must be used. Contractors are in charge of the training

and competency of their employees to carry out their designated tasks in accordance to the

relevant standards. Documented proof of this training must be made available to the HSE

department before working at height.

A person will use both a fall-arrest harness and attachment device with a shock-absorbing

lanyard or an inertia reel whenever they are at risk of falling and incurring injury. The

lanyard or reel must be attached to an appropriate anchorage at all times while the person is

in an exposed position. At times, this requirement may require the use of two lanyards so that

one can be left attached while the second is being moved to the next anchorage. Back

hooking and the tying of knots in a lanyard are not allowed. An inertia reel device may be

used in place of a shock-absorbing lanyard.

Safety harnesses and other fall protection devices shall be used in accordance with this

procedure. There may be situations when fall arrest harnesses are used in addition to other

control measures (e.g., harnesses must always be worn when operating boom type Elevated

Work Platforms).

However, when any person is working in an area where there is a likelihood that he/she may

fall and is not protected by existing fall protection, he/she must use a fall arrest harness.

PERMANENT MEANS OF CONTROL

Guardrails / Handrails

A guardrail, handrail system is an edge protection rail system with the top edge height of top

rails at forty-two (42) inches (1.1 meters) plus or minus three (3) inches (8 centimeters)

above the walking/working level. A top-rail shall be capable of withstanding without failure

a force of at least 200 pounds (2.191kN/m) applied within two inches of the top edge in any

outward or downward direction (not to go below 39 inches [99.1 centimeters]), at any point

along the top edge. A mid-rail or mesh panel and a fender (toe) board must be securely fixed

and designed to withstand, without failure, a force of at least 150 pounds (2.189 KN) applied

in any downward or outward direction at any point along the mid-rail or other member.

Permanent Fixed Platform / Walkway

A permanently engineered standard platform with handrails attached to a permanent structure

(e.g., work platform or access way may be used).


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Permanent Industrial Fall Arrest System

An engineer-designed permanent system attached to suitable anchor points that can withstand

a minimum breaking force of 3,380 pounds (15 kN) can be used. (e.g., steel cable static

lines, steel cable ladder climbing systems and rigid rail ladder-climbing systems).

Anchor Points

Anchor points may be an existing structure, a pipe, or a temporary or permanent engineered

device such as an installed eyebolt, slide rail, or cable arrangement (e.g., static line). These

anchor points must be inspected daily prior to use, by a qualified inspector. Engineered

anchor points must be inspected by a capable person.

Anchor points for lanyards/harnesses and vertical lifelines must meet the following criteria:

Be able to safely support one person falling six (6) feet (1.8 meters);

Be installed in a manner that prevents accidental disengagement from support structures;

Be inspected by a capable person on a periodic basis;

Be placed where attachment and detachment can be done without causing loss of balance;

Be placed above shoulder height to lessen fall distance; and

Be free of sharp edges to avoid cutting the lanyard.

The following are examples of anchor points for individuals using harnesses, lanyards or

vertical lifelines:

A. Adequate For Use

Structural beams six (6) inches (15.24 centimeters) or greater in depth for one (1) or more

people

Pipes four (4) inches (10.16 centimeters) or greater for one (1) person

Pipes six (6) inches (15.24 centimeters) or greater for two (2) people

Fixed permanent ladder rails and clips for one (1) person

Permanent platform handrail post below mid-rail for one (1) person

B. Not Adequate For Use


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Platform or scaffold handrails (except as noted above);

Scaffold ladders;

Conduit/instruments;

Any part of a valve; and

Ladder cages and rungs.

TEMPORARY OR MOBILE MEANS OF CONTROL

Mobile Platforms

A mobile-engineered platform that is not mechanically driven and not extendable, (e.g.,

wheel skid mounted platform and workshop platform) may be used.

Scaffolding

Scaffolding includes tube and couplers, modular frames, drop staging, swing stages, purpose

design stages all with full decking, guardrails, and fender boards.

Scaffolding in light, medium, and heavy-duty applications must comply and be constructed

in accordance with local procedures.

Mechanical Elevating Work Platforms

Mechanical elevating platforms include cherry pickers, boom arms, scissors lifts, order

pickers, and building maintenance units.

Ladders

Portable ladders include stepladders and extension ladders. Generally, ladders must:

Be secured to structures with rope or wire;

Be positioned on a solid stable base or be fitted with foot plates;

Are not to be used near electrical services or welding, if ladders are metal;

Be inspected before use;

Be positioned at a ratio of 4:1; and

Be inspected on a frequent basis and taken out of service if faulty.


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A ladder inspection guide is included as Form 000 653 F0116.

Man Cage/Work Box

A certified lifting cage suitable to lift personnel, that is constructed to satisfy local standards

and is designed by the manufacturer for use as a personnel hoist may be used.

Note!!! Permits for use are required for each occasion when using a man cage with crane

or other lifting equipment.

Work from a man cage /work box or suspended platform is discussed in detail in Procedure

000 653 8132, Cranes and Lifting Equipment.

Fall Arrest Systems

A. Work Positioning / Fall Arrest Full-Body Harness

Fluor and all Contractors / Subcontractors will provide full-body harnesses meeting local

legislation and / or client requirements. Safety belts are NOT permitted.

B. Fall Arresters

Equipment such as harnesses, lanyards, shock absorbers, fall-arresters, lifelines, anchorages,

and safety nets can minimize the risk of injury if a fall occurs.

C. Lanyards

Must meet the following criteria:

Maximum length of a lanyard is six (6) feet (1.8 meters) in length, and it must be equipped

with self-locking hooks on each end.

The lanyard must be equipped with shock absorber.

Snap hooks must be of a double-locking design to avoid accidental disengagement. When not

in use, the lanyard must be secured and attached to the harness to avoid tripping or snagging.

The lanyard must not be dragged.

The lanyard must not be hooked back into itself unless created for that purpose.

Knots must not be tied in a lanyard. This will decrease the strength of the lanyard.

Energy Absorbers (Personal / Industrial)

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Any mechanism, such as a rope grab, rip-stitch lanyard, specially-woven lanyard, tearing or

deforming lanyards, automatic self-retracting lifelines / lanyards, etc. that serves to dissipate

a substantial amount of energy during a fall arrest, or otherwise limit the energy imposed on

an employee during fall arrest.

Retractable Lifelines

A retractable lifeline is a fall-arresting device used together with other components of a fall-

arrest system. A retractable lifeline should be used by only one (1) person at a time.

A properly inspected and maintained retractable lifeline, when correctly installed and used

within the fall- arrest system, automatically stops a person’s descent a short distance after the

onset of an accidental fall.

Retractable lifelines should be considered for use when working in areas such as roofs and

scaffolds, tanks, towers, vessels, and manholes. Also, retractable lifelines should be

considered when climbing such equipment as vertical fixed ladders and telescoping derricks.

Before using a retractable lifeline, the Supervisor and/or the user must deal with the

following:

Has the user been trained to use a retractable lifeline correctly?

Is the retractable lifeline being used together with a complete fall-arrest system?

Is the equipment under a regular maintenance program?

Other considerations include:

DO NOT USE ROPE.

Attach self-retracting devices using shackles or carabineer.

Equipment must be hung up or placed loosely in a clean, dry area when storing.

Horizontal and Vertical Lifeline

Horizontal lifelines must be installed and used based on manufacturer’s specifications. The

following guidelines should also be followed:


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Softeners must be used where lifelines contact sharp edges, such as beam flanges.

Temporary lifelines must be removed at the completion of a job.

Anchor points, connectors, and other system components must be capable of safely

supporting one (1) person falling six (6) feet (1.8 meters).

A vertical lifeline shall be used by only one (1) person at a time.

Rope Grab

The rope grab must be used with a rope that satisfies or exceeds the following criteria:

Rope grab size must match rope size;

Minimum diameter of five-eighths (5/8) inch (1.59 centimeters) rope;

Made of polypropylene, nylon, or polyester;

Minimum tensile strength of five thousand (5,000) pounds (2,268 kilograms); and

When rope grabs are used with wire rope, it must be a complete system. (Rope grab must be

designed for a specific type and size of wire rope.)

WORKING AT HEIGHTS AND WORKING BELOW

Balou Maintenance Services Limited has a pledge to attain the highest possible level of

prevention of falls from heights. Consistent with this pledge, Fluor will strive to exceed the

minimum standard of the current legislation, standards, and codes of practice.

When any employee is working over operational equipment, they shall be protected from

falling.

Balou Maintenance Services Limited will carry out regular audits of existing workplaces and

will continually identify hazards, assess these risks, and instigate suitable control measures,

followed by constant monitoring. We will revise the procedures to confirm that the process is

working successfully and that risks are managed and control measures are enforced.

The hierarchy of control of these identified hazards is:

Elimination;

Substitution;


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Isolation;

Engineering Controls;

Administration; and

Personal Protective Equipment.

Elimination

Where possible, remove the need to complete tasks at height.

Substitution

Complete the task in a less dangerous location or manner (e.g., building as much of a

structure on the ground in preference to at height or use an elevating work platform).

Isolation

Isolate the hazard or hazardous area (install handrails, edge protection, cages on

ladders, etc.).

Engineering Controls

Engineer or redesign the structure or equipment to lessen the hazard involved in the task

(e.g., move valves from height to a lower level for operation, install remote valve operation

devices, design and install walkways, and use fixed ladders instead of using temporary

staging). Consideration must be given to the erection of structures and the provision of

suitable anchor points for the steel erectors.

Note!!! An anchorage must be capable of supporting a minimum dead weight of five

thousand (5,000) pounds (2,268 kilograms) for each person attached to it. An anchor point

must be an integral part of the structure and is often a beam, girder, column, or floor beam.

Handrails are not appropriate anchor points.

Administration

Research and develop safe work procedures for tasks, provide training, and use warning

signs and barricades to control the hazard.

Personal Protective Equipment


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PPE should be used only as a last resort or to increase the protection of one of the above

controls. PPE is limited to a full body or parachute type harness, with a proper means of

attachment to a suitable anchor point by a shock absorbing lanyard or an inertia reel.

Note!!! The date of manufacture must be printed on a label attached to the harness.

Maintenance of fall Protection

Harness, lanyards and other equipment used to prevent or arrest a fall must be inspected

before use by the person using it. Each three (3) months (quarterly) in compliance with the

electrical and rigging equipment procedure

Each harness and lanyard must have a label that displays the manufacturing date. If the date

is more than five (5) years from the current date, the harness or lanyard must be destroyed

and a new one obtained.

Equipment unfit for use will be sent to the manufacturer.

Work Practices

The following are special prerequisites associated with working at elevated locations or while

using fall-arresting equipment:

Workers must avoid climbing on equipment such as pumps, exchangers, valve hand wheels,

transformers, electric motors, handrails, structures, or any other facilities not specifically

intended for climbing.

Climbing on conduit, cable trays, or other similar equipment is not allowed. Climbing of

vertical beams is not allowed.

Workers must not climb a ladder while another person is above or below on the same ladder.

WORKING BELOW

Personnel working below another work area must inform the people above of their presence.

Should tools and equipment be raised or lowered to the upper work area, this work will be

performed by crane or be raised and lowered by hand using a rope (minimum 16 mm/0.64

inches diameter) with the tools and equipment securely tied. These lifting areas shall be

barricaded to prevent unintentional access beneath the suspended load.

GRID MESH/HANDRAIL REMOVAL

Before the removal of any part of any access walkway or handrail, a floor grating/handrail

removal permit shall be completed and approved, and prior to the work starting:


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A hazard checklist and JRA shall be completed;

A substantial barricade with suitable signage shall be erected at all approaches to the area

where the grating will be removed

Any personnel working inside the barricaded area shall wear suitable fall protection; and

The area below the intended opening that may be affected by overhead hazards shall be

barricaded and sign-posted to avoid access.

After work has been completed and prior to the barricade being removed, all grating or floor

plates and handrails are to be checked to make sure that all clamps and clips have been

secured.

TRAINING

Balou Maintenance Services Limited and all contractors will allow only persons with the

appropriate and current accreditation/certification training specific to the task(s) required of

them to work in an area where there is a probability of being injured from a fall from one

level to another. This training may include current scaffolding, rigging, dogging, or Elevating

Work Platform certificates of competency. All persons required to use industrial fall arrest

equipment must be trained to personally inspect, fit, maintain, and use such equipment.

Training in the event of an emergency such as rescue from height, accident, or injury must be

completed by all personnel entrusted with this responsibility on site. These persons must

have a current recognized certificate of competency to perform these tasks.

Note!!! All personnel required to use industrial fall arrest equipment must undergo refresher

training as required by changes in the workplace and / or equipment, or as other events

indicate that refresher training may be required.

RISK ASSESSMENT CONSIDERATIONS

All working at height must be preceded by a risk assessment. The personnel and their

supervisor must perform a risk assessment of the work, duration, frequency, and potential

consequences prior to the starting of work. This assessment may include the following

factors.

If a person were to fall what severity of injury would result?

How often will personnel be exposed to the hazard?


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What is the potential/probability of a fall occurring?

Perform a thorough risk assessment of the hazards by considering the following contributing

factors.

Injury Outcomes

How far would a person fall?

What would the person fall onto / into?

What injuries may result from the fall?

Frequency of Exposure

How often is the person likely to be exposed to the hazard?

How many persons at any given time are exposed to the hazard?

Potential/Probability/Causes of A Fall Occurring

A person will fall if his/her center of gravity (postural stability) is affected in an uncontrolled

manner. The mechanism to maintain and control stability receives sensory input from three

sources:

Vision;

Inner ear; and

Skin/weight bearing joints.

There are numerous factors that can affect the above sensory control mechanisms. Listed

below are some of the factors that can affect these control mechanisms, and a fall may result.

Will personnel need to move from one surface to another unprotected area?

Will all the surfaces support the intended load?

Are there any holes or opening in the surface?

Are there any unprotected edges, openings?

Do any levels change?

Is the surface slippery or steep (over 30%)?


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Will ladders need to be used?

Are the surfaces unstable?

Is the existing lighting a problem?

Will adverse weather affect the site conditions?

Will falling objects affect the safety of people or equipment?

Are there any other identified hazards that may affect the job, (e.g., chemical, electrical,

mechanical, noise, pressure, radiant, biochemical, or microbiological hazards)?

Will any step of the task involve or introduce an instability/stability factor?

If the answer is YES to any of the above, then further details will be needed.

Consider Control Measures

At this point, a hazard of falling has been identified, and the risk assessment requires that a

suitable control measure be enforced.

There are numerous control measures available. To establish the most efficient, suitable, and

feasible control measure by preferred order consider the following points.

Can the need for the work be eliminated? (There are many tasks still conducted at height

because that is the way we have always done them.) Consider does the task still need to be

completed at height.

Can the work be substituted or completed another way?

Can the process be altered, redesigned?

Can the equipment be changed?

Can the equipment or job relocate to another safer area?

Time and Further Considerations

Is time a factor?

What is the frequency of exposure?

What is the duration of exposure?


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Does the job need to be done before elimination or an alternative is implemented?

Eliminate, Substitute, Isolate, or Redesign

Enforce a more effective means of control of the identified risk eliminating the task.

Complete the task another way.

Engineer or redesign the equipment to eliminate the need for the task.

Move the equipment to a safe level where height is not a risk.

Separate the risk by installing a handrail.

Begin a detailed analysis into alternative controls.

At this point it is clear that the task still needs to be completed and that it is not possible to

remove, substitute, redesign, or separate the risk.

It is now essential to begin a detailed study into the task.

The Job Risk Analysis will detail the steps involved in the task. It is essential to consider the

following questions to help with a suitable solution to the risk involved.

Time and financial considerations:

Is time a limiting factor? Does the job need to be completed before a permanent solution is

designed, constructed, and installed?

Is money to design, construct, and install the control measure a limiting factor that may take

time to be provided?

Engineer, design, construct, and install the control solution.

The permanent control measure is now clearly identified, the finances are available, and the

identified hazard is isolated awaiting the completion of the installation.

Temporary control measure:

Due to financial or time barriers to the ultimate control measure, it is essential to still

complete the task while the permanent solution is engineered, designed, constructed, and

installed. A temporary control measure must be used at this point while the permanent

control measure is commissioned.


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Alternative Control Measures

By referring to the current Job Risk Analysis, the risk assessment of the hazard combined

with detailed suggestions from the risk analysis process, it should be possible to select an

appropriate alternative control measure such as:

Using a mobile platform;

Erecting suitable scaffolding to the area;

Using a suitable elevating work platform;

Using another type of mechanical platform;

Using a Fall Arrest System and Fall Arrest Harness;

Using mobile ladders with suitable safety equipment and a safe working procedure to provide

adequate protection; and

Enlisting the services of a specialized industrial rope access team.

Complete a New Job Risk Analysis on the Task

The use of an alternative control measure may have introduced further safety considerations

that may still need attention.

Perform or revise the existing JRA to complete the task.

Produce an area-specific procedure.

The control measure now chosen may need a detailed area-specific procedure to establish

exact details on the new process.

This area-specific procedure should include details on any new HSE requirements, additional

equipment, and specific training requirements.

Proceed with the task and constantly revise for improvements to the system.

SCAFFOLDING

Access

Don’t climb up or down scaffolding, use ladders or stairs provided.


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Make sure the ladder is at the correct angle, one unit out to four units up

Make sure ladders are tied in at both styles, not the rungs, and extend a safe distance above

landing stage.

At the end of the day remove access ladders or board them up to avoid children playing on

them.

Loading

Make sure you know the loading capacity of the scaffold you are working with and do not

surpass this under any circumstances. Distribute load around the standards as they are the

load-bearing members, not in the centre of bays.

When stacking materials always leave a passageway at least two boards wide for other

people to pass.

Make sure that materials are stacked correctly and can’t fall, use brick guards or netting

where required.

Don’t leave tools or materials lying about on the platform.

Hazards

Don’t remove or interfere with ties, guardrails, bracing, toe boards and ladders.

Modifications must only be made by competent persons.

Don’t throw, drop or tip materials from heights — either lower or dispose of them through a

chute.

Inspection

Carry out a visual inspection at the start of each shift prior to use.

Report all faults or defects immediately to a supervisor.

Scaffolding should be inspected every 7 days by a competent person and details of inspection

recorded.

Remember scaffolding provides you with a safe working platform - don’t abuse it

Scaffolds and Platforms

This standard covers safe practices that shall be followed in the erection and use of scaffolds.

All scaffolds shall be erected in accordance to BS 1129, 1139, 2482, 5973, 5974 and 5975.


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These rules are not all inclusive and good judgments should be used to supplement but not

displace these rules and to provide additional safety and precautionary measures to cover

unusual conditions.

Unless stated otherwise, h-frame scaffolding is not permitted on the project sites except to be

used as hard barriers.

Scaffold Tag Procedures

During scaffold erection, a red tag - DO NOT USE - SCAFFOLD BEING ERECTED OR

TORN DOWN must be attached on the scaffold in a readily noticeable area. Only scaffold

erectors are permitted on the scaffold during the construction phase.

The green tag - SCAFFOLD SAFE FOR ALL CRAFT WORK - must be signed and dated by

the scaffold foreman and attached to the scaffold in a readily visible area prior to use of the

scaffold.

The red tag - DO NOT USE - SCAFFOLD BEING ERECTED OR TORN DOWN - must be

attached on the scaffold in a readily visible area prior to any dismantling of the scaffold.

Only scaffold erectors are allowed on the scaffold during the dismantling phase.

Scaffolds and platforms are to be erected, moved, modified and dismantled by capable and

experienced personnel.

Inspect all equipment before using. If the equipment is damaged or deteriorated so that it

cannot be safely used, it should be immediately removed from the job site.

Dismantle scaffolds as soon as the job is finished. The equipment shall be handled carefully

to minimize damage and should be returned to the appropriate storage area as soon as

practical.

Guardrails shall be 50mm x 100mm, or the equivalent, approximately 1.05m, with a mid-rail.

Supports shall be at intervals not to exceed 2.4m.

Toe-boards shall be a minimum of 100mm.

All planking shall be scaffold grade or equivalent.

When scaffold heights exceed three times the smallest base dimension, it must be secured to

the building or structure at the second lift and every other lift thereafter. Running scaffold is

to be anchored every 9m horizontally at the heights established in the preceding sentence.

“Outriggers” or guys may be used where it is impossible to secure scaffolds to a building or

structure.


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The footing or anchorage for scaffolds shall be sound, rigid and capable of supporting four

(4) times the maximum intended load without settling or displacement. Unstable objects such

as barrels, boxes loose bricks or concrete blocks shall not be used to support scaffolds. 12” x

12” mud sills and base plates are suggested.

The poles, legs or uprights of scaffolds shall be plumb and securely and rigidly braced to

avoid swaying and displacement.

Do not stack brick, tile, block or similar material higher than 24” on the scaffold deck.

An access ladder shall be provided and securely attached to the scaffold and shall extend a

minimum of 0.9m above the landing.

Overhead protection shall be provided for men on a scaffold exposed to overhead hazards.

Material being hoisted onto a scaffold shall have a tag line to keep load from striking the side

of the scaffold.

A minimum of 2.4m shall be provided from any point of scaffold or above scaffold to nearest

electrical line up to 2400 volts. This clearance shall be increased to 3.6m for 13.8 kvA lines.

If employees are working at the base of a scaffold and there is any likelihood for objects

falling off the scaffold a screen shall be installed (18 gauge % inch wire mesh or equivalent)

extending from top rail to the toe-board

Specialty scaffolds should be designed by a registered professional engineer proficient in this

field and approved by Engineers and Constructors Site Management prior to erection and

use.

Metal Type Scaffolds

Before erecting the scaffold, inspect all components to be sure they are in good condition and

of proper rating for the job. Although maximum safe uniform loads vary for each type of

metal panel type scaffold, a maximum safe uniform loading of 50 pounds per square foot can

be safely used for all types.

Provide firm footing under each leg. If scaffolding is not located on concrete slab, use base

plates under each leg. If the ground is unstable, install continuous sills extending under both

legs of each panel. The base plates should be nailed to the sills to avoid plates from slipping

off the sills.


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Use screw jacks to adjust to uneven grade conditions. Do not use blocking. Note that these

jacks are for leveling - they are not to be used for extending the height of the scaffold.

Plumb, square and level scaffold as erection proceeds. Do not force the frame to fit: level

scaffold until fit can be made easily Cross braces, pinned at the center, are necessary on both

sides of each bay. Horizontal diagonal braces are required at top of second frame and at

every second frame thereafter, until desired height is reached. Frames should be locked

together by inserting pins through holes drilled in the coupling pins.

Running scaffolds shall be anchored every 9m in length and 7.75m in height.

Free-standing scaffolds 9m and higher must be guyed at 9m intervals.

Mobile Scaffold Towers

The platform height must not exceed four times the smallest base dimension.

Install horizontal diagonal braces at bottom of first frame and top of every second frame

thereafter.

All wheels are to be locked while employees are on a rolling scaffold

No one is to ride on a scaffold that is being moved.

Rolling scaffolds are to be used only on level, smooth surfaces, or the wheels must be

contained in wood or channel iron runners.

All castors used with scaffolding shall be rubber tired and provided with a positive locking

device to hold the scaffold in position.

Refer to CITB GE 700 – Construction Industry Training Board (can be found on the

Intranet).

Scaffold Planking

All scaffold planking will be scaffold grade or equivalent.

Under no circumstances will less than two boards be used for a walkway or working

platform.

Scaffold planks are not to extend over their end supports more than 300mm or less than

150mm (except cleated boards).


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All planking on platforms shall not be overlapped unless there is no alternative then

planking on platforms can be overlapped at a minimum of 300mm or secured from

movement.

Suspended Scaffolds

Safety harnesses are necessary and are to be tied to a structure, other than the scaffold, or to a

life line having a minimum breaking strength of 2450kg.

Wire or fiber rope used for scaffold suspension shall be capable of supporting at least six (6)

times the intended load.

Scaffolding shall be removed based on construction requirements when work has been

finished.

Tube and Fitting Scaffolds

Refer to CITB GE 700 – Construction Industry Training Board

Bearers shall be at least 100mm but not more than 300mm longer than the post spacing or

runner spacing.

Cross bracing shall be installed across the width of the scaffold at least every third set of

posts horizontally and every fourth runner vertically. Such bracing shall extend diagonally

from-the inner and outer runners upward to the next outer and inner runners.

Longitudinal diagonal bracing on the inner and outer rows of poles shall be installed at

approximately a 45 degree angle from near the base of the first outer post upward to the

extreme top of the scaffold.

Where the longitudinal length of the scaffold permits, such bracing shall be duplicated

beginning at every fifth post.

In a like manner, longitudinal bracing shall also be installed from the last post extending back

and upward toward the first post.

Where conditions preclude the attachment of this bracing to the posts, it maybe attached to

the runners.

The entire scaffold shall be tied to and securely braced against the building at intervals not to

exceed 9m horizontal and 7.75m vertically.

Guardrails and toe-boards shall be installed in compliance to this manual.


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MANUAL HANDLING

Take up position, feet hip width apart, one foot slightly advanced pointing in direction it is

intended to move. Bend the knees; back muscles should be relaxed. Get a secure grip of the

load. Lift, keeping the back straight, arms close to body, leg muscles taking the strain.

Step off in direction advance foot is pointing, load held close to body. Avoid twisting the

trunk whilst lifting or carrying a load

Do not carry a load that blocks the vision.

When lifting to a height from the floor, do it in two stages.

LADDERS

The ladder must be set on a firm level base and pitched nominally at a ratio of 0.30m out at

the base for every 1.2m vertical height, or 1 horizontal to 4 vertical

Make sure the ladder reaches a sufficient height above landing platform (minimum 3 rungs)

unless an alternative hand hold is available. Ladders longer than 3m in length should be

secured or footed when this is not practical.

Two ladders should not be strung together to provide a longer reach or pitch.

When ascending or descending, face into the pitch of the ladder. If work has to be sideways,

the ladder should be moved to the location rather than having the employee stretch sideways.

Loads should not be carried on ladders.

Inspect ladders and rungs before use and regularly when stored. Wet or greasy rungs should

be cleaned and dried before use. Use clear varnish to protect a ladder as painting may cover a

fault.


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Work should only be performed from a ladder when the job is of short duration and can be

carried out safely.

Any ladder used for temporary access to the roof must be sound and placed on a firm level

base. Until a ladder is lashed into position, it must be footed by a person at its base.

When ladders run to over 9 meters, an intermediate platform equipped with guardrails and

toe boards must be erected.

HAND TOOLS

General

Chisels and punches should be ground to avoid mushrooming. Protect sharp edges of tools

that are to be stored or carried. All files shall have a working handle.

Hammer heads shall be tightly wedged on their shafts and wooden handles that are split are

to be fixed.

Screwdrivers are not to be used on work or pieces held in the hand.

Keep tools in boxes or racks when not in use. Tools that are worn or damaged beyond repair

shall be scrapped.

All tools and equipment should be checked before use.

Cartridge Tools

Cartridge tools should only be used if an employee has been taught and approved to do so.

General guidelines for cartridge tool use are:

Read makers’ instructions carefully before using gun

Before handling gun make sure it is not loaded, and load gun with barrel pointing in safe

position away from the operator

Never place hands over the end of the barrel, nor walk around with a loaded gun. Always

load at area of use.

Check material into which bolt is to be fired to guarantee the safety of persons on the other

side


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Allow at least 80mm from edges of concrete or brickwork.

Hold the gun at right angles to the job when firing.

Wear goggles and ear defenders.

In the event of a misfire, wait a minute before unloading. Never leave gun loaded when not

in use

Always clean up used cartridges and look out for any misfires. Dispose of these safely.

Abrasive Wheel Machinery

The employee using the tool will securely anchor fixed machines to avoid movement or

tipping, and will put guards in place for each abrasive wheel and brush.

The employee using the tool will regularly check abrasive wheels to make sure they are in

good condition and not imbalanced, fractured or in any way likely to shatter during operation

Before taking any abrasive wheel equipment for work on the project, electrical checks will be

carried out and documented to note the status of the equipment. Operators of rotating

equipment such as grinders will be trained periodically on abrasive wheel equipment safety

and be fully informed of the relevant PPE requirements.

Abrasive wheel Usage

Heavy pressure on the wheel will not be exerted, and the side of the wheel is not considered a

tool for Abrasion.

For bench mounted abrasive wheels, the following guidelines to operators apply:

The wheel must not be more than 1/8” from tool rest.

Keep the glass screen in the safety position.

Keep fingers below the tool rest level.

Use the correct grade of wheel for the work in hand.

Keep the face of the wheel evenly dressed.


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Run a replacement wheel for a full minute after fitting before attempting to use it. Stand

clear during the test

Stop the wheel when not in use

Cutting tools

Extreme pressure should not be exerted on a blade. The edges of cutting tools are to be kept

sharp, and hands kept behind the cutting edges when working.

Correct blades shall be used at all times. When not in use, blades should be removed or

retracted if this is not possible, sheathed or protected.

If cutting tools have to be carried they should have their blades removed, retracted or

protected, or held downwards.

HAZARDOUS MATERIAL HANDLING

A material handling assessment must be performed for substances covered by a hazard

warning sheet, label or those other substances known to cause health risks, such as welding

fumes, brick dust, etc.

Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) must be provided for all materials used on the Project.

A central library will be kept by the HSE Adviser on the site for immediate access and

reference.

Known examples of hazardous substances are:

Contaminated ground

All forms of dust

Epoxy based products

Concrete

Solvents

Oils and lubricants

Cement and mortar

Welding fumes


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The MSDS assessment will dictate the precautions to be taken when handling any particular

material.

Employees are informed not to eat, drink or smoke when handling substances and always to

wash thoroughly at the end of a shift or before eating.

ASBESTOS

General

Asbestos is a common, naturally occurring group of fibrous minerals. Asbestos fibers have

been used on a variety of building materials; however, BMSL does not use any asbestos

containing materials.

Once asbestos is found on site, work must stop and a specific contractor will be contacted for

elimination.

Refer to CITB GE 700 – Construction Industry Training Board for further reference.

FIRE

Fire prevention & protection

Fire prevention refers to the precautions which need to be taken to avoid a fire from starting

or to avoid a ‘useful’ fire from getting out of control.

Fire protection also refers to the equipment and methods available to put out an uncontrolled

fire, and to the equipment and methods available to safely permit people to leave a fire area.

Fire Protection

In case of fire, or probable fire, the first task should be to make sure that all personnel are out

of danger, including those who stay to extinguish the fire.

FIRE EXTINGUISHERS

Type

Fire extinguishers are the main type of fire protection for projects.


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Fire extinguishers are officially rated by tests conducted by independent agencies. The

results of these tests are the official ratings, and are known as the UL Rating. Typical UL

ratings are 2-A, 4-B: C 16-B: C2 and 4A-30 B: C. The number refers to the relative size of

the extinguisher and the letters refer to the type of fire that is best controlled by that

particular extinguisher.

A = Combustible material paper, wood, etc.

B = Flammable liquids (gasoline, diesel, solvent etc.)

C = Electrical

Mounting and Location

Extinguishers are not to be left on the floor, on a scaffold or on the ground. They are to be

mounted on a wall, handrail, barricade, etc. temporary use for short term protection of work

area does not necessitate mounting of extinguisher.

Extinguishers that have a total weight of more than 18kg are to be mounted with the top of

the extinguisher no more than 1.0m above the floor. Extinguishers weighing 18kg or less

may be mounted with the top as high as 1.50m above the floor.

Extinguishers should be located where they are can be easily observed. In cases where this is

not practical, signs or red paint markings need to be added to identify the location of the

extinguisher

Garbage and stored material must be kept away from extinguishers to avoid blockage of the

access to the extinguisher.

Inspection and Testing

Every fire extinguisher must be visually inspected at least once each month. A written

document of the monthly inspection is not needed. The inspection is to include:

Location

Fully charged


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Seal wire not broken

Free of any obvious defects or damage

A thorough examination of each extinguisher is to be performed annually by an individual

trained to examine, repair, and recharge extinguisher. A written document is necessary. An

inspection tag is to be attached to each extinguisher showing the date of the annual

inspection, the date of recharge, and the initials of the individual making the examination. If

site personnel are not qualified to make this examination, an outside inspection agency will

have to be used.

Extinguishers more than five years old may need a hydrostatic test if they are to remain in

service.

WASTE

Skips

Skips should not be overfilled, and the area around a skip must be kept tidy

Hazardous Waste

Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) is designed to

control the health and safety of workers who may be exposed to hazardous waste. This could

happen as a result of:

Fire which presents an explosion hazard;

Oil, condensate or hazardous chemical spills which cannot be contained by the personnel on

hand;

Release of gas (including carbon dioxide, helium or nitrogen)

Balou Maintenance Services Limited will create and enforce a written emergency response

plan to handle anticipated emergencies based on the contract requirements.

Recycle bins

Balou Maintenance Services Limited in its effort to be more sustainable has authorized the

use of recycle bins to separate waste in offices and sites. The red bin is used for glass, blue

for plastic, yellow for foil/tin cans and green for paper. All employees are encouraged to

separate their waste both at work and home.


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POLLUTION CONTROL

Site Control

Water will be used to damp down haul roads but we will make sure this does not aggravate

pollution of water courses. Water will not be used without authorization if a hose pipe ban is

in force.

Drivers of transport used to move dusty materials, will make surer that loads are sheeted or

does not create dust blow.

Employees are encouraged to shut down or turn off plant and vehicles when not in use, and

to report any faults to plant exhaust systems immediately to management.

If approached by a member of the public or a member of the EMA with a complaint,

employees are encouraged to be diplomatic and take them to see Site Management.

Water Pollution

Settling tanks, ponds and catch pits should be constructed where appropriate, to lessen the

effect of discharge into public watercourses.

Any item of plant or machinery that starts to leak oil or fuel, or if drip trays become full or

ineffective must be reported.

Any empty drums, having contained fuels or chemicals, must be returned to the “empty

drum” storage area.

If there is an oil/fuel/chemical spillage, report this to Site Management at once.

PLANT AND TRANSPORT

Operators

Operators should be trained and qualified to operate the appropriate items of plant and

equipment Such training shall be evidenced by relevant permits, licenses or other provisions

as established by statutory regulations or Balou Maintenance Services Limited

The operator shall understand the boundaries of the machine, both loaded and unloaded and

the operating parameters shall never be surpassed.


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Passengers shall not be permitted to ride on mobile plant unless there is a specific seat and

seatbelt for passengers.

At the start of each day/shift, the operator/driver of each vehicle, item of plant and equipment

should check, as a minimum, the following items:

Tyre pressures and condition

Wheel nuts

Brakes and steering

Mirrors, lights, horn, reversing light and alarms

Fluid levels and condition

Visual inspection of the vehicle appearance

Integrity of pipes and hoses.

All visible faults must be reported immediately and the item of plant not be permitted to

operate if in a dangerous condition until the fault is fixed.

Operators should be informed of other personnel and plant in the working area. Audible horn

and light signals should be used whenever to warn of approach.

The use of cell phones or headphone accessories during operation of the commercial plant

and vehicle is forbidden. Note that operation of a vehicle may also signify moving, idling, or

other activities that demand full concentration from the operator. It is suggested that where

required, an operator uses a cell phone outside of the cab only whilst the vehicle or

equipment is not being used and switched off.

Banks-man

General

A banks person should be suitably qualified for the position evident from undergoing training

specific to his/her task. A banks person should be used where heavy equipment and plant

and/or moving vehicles are present and operational within the Project.


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Main responsibilities of a banks person are to:

Stand where the load and driver are clearly visible during the complete lift.

Make sure that no-one is in the path of the load.

Never allow the equipment encroach near to overhead lines.

Use clear and distinct signals.

Traveling

Views are to be kept clear and operators must look and move in the direction of travel. Loads

must be kept low and fully tilted back during travel. Travel speeds must be consistent with

signage, conditions and pedestrian movement.

All loads must be secured before traveling.

If traveling in reverse, make sure that the view is clear and if needed, use a banks man to

guide

Movement

Unless the vehicle is fitted for Public Roads Operation, do not use on public roads

Excavators

On completion of work, ground the bucket and immobilize the machine. Always make sure

buckets, booms and jibs are supported when raised for maintenance.

When plant and equipment is to be left unattended the parking brake shall be set. The starter

key shall be removed.

Mobile Cranes

Check all wire ropes for wear at frequent intervals.

Before operating, test/check the safe load indicator and all crane motions. Make sure crane is

on firm and

Level ground: Use mats if necessary


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Before hoisting make sure that the load is correctly slung, balanced and secured. Never

surpass the safe working load. Obey warning devices and notice.

When assessing the total load to be lifted, allow for the weight of the appropriate lifting gear.

Stacking of Materials

Only stack material in official areas. Never near doorways, access ways or on fire escape

routes.

Stack on a level surface and provide packing.

Stacks should not be made higher than 3 times the minimum base width.

Consider in what order materials will be unloaded from a stack and then load it accordingly.

Stack close to work area to lessen amount of handling.

Don’t lean materials against parts of semi-constructed structures or temporary facilities.

Adequate space should be left between pallets and loads for safe removal.

Prefabricated panels should not be stacked where they can be affected by wind.

Where pipes are small in diameter, stack in racks. If large in diameter, securely chock at the

base.

Pipe-work should not be stacked in pyramids except as per the manufacturer’s guidance.

Large concrete rings must be laid flat.

Forklifts

Loading should be done with the mast vertical or tilted slightly back, and the forks should be

as widely spaced as practicable to give maximum stability to the load.

The load should be moved over the stack, mast vertical, and lowered until forks are free of

load. Stop at face of stack and raise load to stacking height still tilted back. Forks are to be

withdrawn and lowered just clear of floor before traveling away.

Cranes


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Only authorized personnel shall enter the crane cab or operate the crane.

On pneumatic-tired crane, tires must be in good condition and properly inflated. Cables,

blocks and rigging must be in good condition. Tyres must not touch ground when lifting.

Before actual use for lifting work operator shall check operation of crane, clutches, brakes

and operating controls to be sure they are in good working order.

Current annual inspection records as required by the OSH Act (2004) or other legislation

shall be located in the Project Office for all cranes in use.

Guards shall be in place on pulleys, sprockets, drums, fly wheels and other such rotating

equipment where persons may be exposed to contact or otherwise create a hazard.

Rate of capacities, special warnings and instructions shall be posted on all equipment so they

are noticeable by the operator at their control station.

Guardrails, handholds, steps or other safe means shall be made available on cranes for easy

access to the operating cab. Platforms and walkways shall have anti-skid surfaces. Proper

barricades shall be placed around the swing radius of cranes or other lifting equipment.

An accessible fire extinguisher shall be placed on the equipment.

Cranes shall be grounded through the superstructure whenever they could possibly make

contact with an electrical energy source.

Crane booms shall be lowered when they are in transit.

Do not exceed 80 percent of the capacity shown on load chart. Do not depend on machine

tipping to determine the maximum lifting capacity.

The weight of the hook, load block and any material handling devices must be included when

calculating the total weight of a load.

Outriggers must be fully extended when the load to be handled at that particular radius

exceeds the rated load without outriggers as given by the manufacturer or on the load chart.

Always use pads or mats under outriggers when setting crane up on unstable ground or in

areas where the strength of the slab/roadway is not known. Outriggers on hydraulic cranes

must be fully extended before extending long cantilever booms.

Crane gantries must be in the up position when:

Hoisting loads with the boom in a horizontal position.


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Raising a boom that is longer than the machine is equipped to travel with.

Hoisting near-capacity loads.

When handling near-capacity loads, the stability of the machine shall be checked by hoisting

the load slightly, holding with the brakes, and then slowly lowering the load back down,

using the lowering device and brakes.

Swing speed must be controlled so that the load does not swing out beyond the radius at

which it can safely be handled.

Always position the boom tip directly above the load being hoisted. Never use a crane boom

for dragging loads sideways.

Boatswain chair lifts with a crane are forbidden. The use of boatswain chairs on crane load

lines will be limited to special circumstances such as internal inspection of a vessel, but only

after approval of the

HSE Department

Prevent hoisting and carrying loads over personnel and equipment.

The operator must not leave his position at the controls while a load is suspended. Never

climb on or off a crane while it is in motion.

Keep at least 3m clearance between the load, boom, hoist cables and any electric power lines.

If it is necessary to work closer, first contact the supervisor.

Truck and Crawler Cranes

Mobile truck cranes are not to travel with a load without the consent from the Rigging

Supervisor.

When lowering the boom on truck and crawler cranes, let out the hoisting cables to avoid

double blocking the whip-line ball and the main fall block.

Hydraulic Cranes

When extending the boom on hydraulic cranes, let out the load cable simultaneously to avoid

double blocking against the boom tip sheaves.


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When retracting the boom on hydraulic cranes, the load cable must be retracted

simultaneously or the load will lower.

Never extend a manual boom section of a hydraulic crane unless you have been properly

instructed in the correct procedure.

Pre-Lift Check of Conventional Cranes

A pre-lift check must be conducted at the beginning of each shift and/or by the oncoming

operator whenever the operator changes.

The objectives of the pre-lift check are:

Dry out brakes in damp weather.

Identify unknown mechanical problems.

Confirm all adjustments are correct.

Freefall brakes testing must be conducted with each pre-lift check unless otherwise waived

by the

Rigging Supervisor

Free-fall tests should be made in an open area whenever possible. Area should be clear of

operating equipment, personnel, pipelines and other obstructions.

The signal person on the ground is responsible for keeping the area clear while the free-fall

test is being performed.

All crane functions except those needed to perform the free-fall test must be locked when the

free-fall brake test is performed.

All lifting equipment must be certified annually by a certified competent authority.

Inspection after Major Repair or Modification

If a crane needs major structural repairs or modifications, it is to be inspected by the

“Manufacturer’s representative” before being placed back into service. A written document

of such special inspection is to be filed on the Project.

Materials Handling

Tag lines shall be used when lifting materials with any crane or other lifting device.


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Procedures concerning the use of softeners, slings, and wire ropes shall be in compliance

with regulatory statutes.

Wire Ropes, Chains, Slings and Shackles

The safe working loads of wire ropes should be determined by capacities as indicated.

Wire rope should not be secured by knots.

Wire rope should consist of one continuous piece without knots or splices.

Regular application of the proper lubricant to the exterior of the rope helps keep the original

lubricant in the rope.

Rigging should be visually inspected each day before use by an experienced person selected

by management.

Slings and chokers should be inspected thoroughly once per week by thee selected person.

Colour coding of slings is recommended in order to make sure that the inspections are

performed.

Sudden stresses due to impact or acceleration can increase the dead load two to three times.

LIFTING ACCESSORIES

Pre-load

When in doubt and before all specified lifts, a lifting checklist shall be carried and

documented

Check SWL (Safe Working Load) on equipment before use, and make sure that the operator

knows the weight of the load before lifting.

Make sure a current test certificate is available for the equipment in use. 6 months is usually

the accepted certification period.

Make sure there is no damage to the equipment. Reject any that are damaged, and return

lifting equipment to the store after use.

Slings

Do not use fiber or wire rope slings for hot loads and keep them away from welding or

burning.


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Protect slings from sharp edges. Make sure there are no broken ends in wires or chafing on

fiber slings.

Synthetic web slings should satisfy the following requirements:

Marked with date of manufacture, type of material and load capacity

The sling is considered faulty when the core yarn is visible to the naked eye

Not to be exposed or come in contact with corrosives, acids etc.

These slings must never be ‘married’ or joined

Slings to be removed upon signs of kinking, crushing or bird-caging

Sheaves

Undersized sheaves are directly responsible for many rope failures. Under no circumstances

should a rope be operated over a sheave smaller than the “critical” diameter of the rope. A

sharper bend results in displacement of the strands and over-stressing of the wires.

The grooves in the sheaves should be the right size for the rope. Undersized grooves cause a

pinching action that literally eats up the rope and sleeves. Oversized grooves result in the

rope becoming flattened and distorted.

Crosby Clips

Clips should be at least six rope diameters apart.

The “U” bolts should bear upon the “dead” end of the rope.

A heavy-duty thimble for the eye is suggested.

Any item found to be faulty should be removed from service and destroyed.

Equipment not in use will be removed from the immediate work area to the allocated storage

racks.

Chain

A permanent tag should be affixed to each chain stating size, grade, rated capacity and

manufacturer’s name.


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Attachments should have a rated capacity at least equal to the chain.

Makeshift hooks, links, or fasteners should not be used.

Chains should be inspected on a daily basis. If the links show any sign of wear, the chain

should be immediately discarded.

Safety latches should be installed on all hooks.

Shackles

Only shackles that are stamped/ tested will be used. Also, if the width between eyes is greater

than that listed, the shackle has been overstrained and MUST NOT be used.

All shackle pins must be straight and all pins of the screw - in type must be screwed in all the

way.

Makeshift devices (pins, nuts, bolts, etc.) are not to be used as substitutes.

Nylon Slings

Slewing motions should be operated gently to decrease load swing to a minimum. Before

travelling, make sure that the slewing lock is engaged.

Load sharing between cranes should only be done under planned and supervised conditions.

Never leave the crane with a load suspended.

When leaving the crane, make sure the power is off, the hook is unloaded, and out of the

way, the brakes are on, and the cab is locked so that no unauthorized person can interfere

with the crane.

If persons have to be lifted, they must travel in an approved chair, cage or skip, and the crane

must be equipped with power lowering and automatic breaking.

Hoists

Do not exceed the safe working load displayed on the hoist.

Gates must be kept closed at ground level and at all landings when the platform is in motion.

Keep landing stages free from obstruction by materials or plant.

No hoist should be left unattended with the motor running.

No unauthorized person is allowed to operate or interfere with the hoist.


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Make sure that the hoist is inspected at least once a week and details of the inspection entered

in the relevant register.

When not in use, the hoist platform should be kept at ground level. At the end of normal

working hours, the hoist should be effectively immobilized - seek advice or instruction if

required.

Earthmoving

Vehicles must not be driven when the body is in the raised tipping position. Blades, buckets

etc of machines must be lowered to the ground before the driver leaves the cab.

When separated from the power unit, towing arms must be lowered to the ground.

MOBILE ELEVATING WORK PLATFORMS

Hazards

Operative falling from height

Overturning of the machine due to poor operation or ground conditions

Collision with other vehicles (elbow of boom moving into the path of other traffic)

Tools and materials etc. falling from height

Contact with high level electrical cables and other obstructions.

Exhaust gases if using in a confined area.

High wind speeds and other unfavorable weather conditions.

Precautions

All operators of mobile elevating work platforms must be properly trained card holders.

Operators should only operate the types of mobile elevating platform for which they have

been taught.

Always check that the machine is stable before use.

Use outriggers or stabilizers, where required.

Except for scissor lifts, users must wear a safety harness clipped to machine.


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Make sure that the ground conditions are appropriate for the type of machine in use.

Do not load the machine beyond its safe working load.

If work involves removing equipment or materials from a structure, do not exceed the SWL

of machine.

When maneuvering in a confined area or where members of the public are at risk, always use

a banks man.

Be prepared to stop work and return to ground level if the wind speed or weather conditions

worsen to an unacceptable level.

Refueling

Always turn the engine off before refueling.

LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) powered machines must be refueled in open spaces where

any spillage can easily and quickly disperse.

It is good practice to carry out refueling of all machines in the open air.

Avoid skin contact if refueling diesel oil, and clean up any spillage to prevent a slipping

hazard.

Generally slings should comply with OSHA 1910.184, Subpart N – Material Handling &

Storage

Lower load onto suitable battens to avoid damage to slings

Chains

Make sure chain is not kinked or twisted.

Chains should not be shortened by knotting, nor should they be lengthened by joining pieces

together.

Chains should not be lubricated as oil can pick up abrasive materials such as sand and grit.

Similarly, chains should not be exposed to acids or corrosive substances.

RIGGING

General


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This safety standard covers the basic practices to be followed for the safe operation of lifting

equipment and the rigging operations that support the lifting operation.

Proper Use of Slings and Guide Lines

Inspect slings and guides daily. Use slings of proper diameter and strength. Never use two

slings in parallel to get double strength.

Never use a rope sling on material contaminated with caustic or acids.

When ropes are used in acid or caustic areas, they must be discarded based on site procedures

on proper disposal of hazardous chemicals.

Do not position hands so they can be caught between the load and adjacent objects when

guiding a load. Attach (hand guide) ropes to loads, never to slings.

When rope is not in use, store so that it will stay dry.

Never use rope on hot loads or around burning.

Protect slings from being cut on sharp edges.

TEMPORARY ROAD WORKS

Before Commencement

Before starting any road works which may cause obstruction or pose a hazard to public

safety, the police should be alerted.

Signs must be placed so they can be easily seen by road users and give adequate warning of

road works ahead.

Diversion signs must give adequate warning.

All vehicles must display suitable ‘Contractors’ or ‘Road works Vehicle” notice at rear of

vehicle.

During Road Works

As work progresses, signs should be moved forward.

Adequate illumination should be provided for signs and they should indicate extent or work.

Frequent checks should be performed to make sure that signs and warning lights are in

position and working.


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Temporary traffic signals must have red, amber and green lights and a time mechanism to

suit traffic flow.

Hazards on Road Works

Safety barriers must protect public and workers.

Wear high-visibility clothing and safety helmets always. You must be attentive at all times

and keep a sharp look out.

All vehicles are to be fitted with amber flashing lights on top and switched on when entering

or leaving works area.

Only enter and leave site at the authorized points - don’t enter or leave site by any other

route.

Don’t move cones or signs unless required for operational reasons. Always replace in

original position.

Buffer lanes must be kept clear at all times.

Observe speed limits.

Take caution when leaving site if merging with motorway traffic.

Lorry drivers - don’t reverse without the aid of a signaler.

EXCAVATIONS, TRENCHING AND SHORING

Rigid barriers shall be provided for excavations that are greater than 1.2m in depth at ground

level.

All excavations in public places, regardless of depth, should be provided with substantial

hard barriers.

Starter bar ends should be protected so as to avoid puncture injuries in excavations should

persons fall in.

Soil heaps should be kept back at least 1.0m from the excavation edge.

For access across excavations, appropriate bridges or platforms should be made available.

Vehicular traffic should be kept a safe minimum distance of at least 1m from the edge of

excavations, or further away depending on ground conditions.

Never remove or modify any supports or braces.


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Ensure excavations do not undermine the footings or scaffolds or the foundations of nearby

buildings or walls.

Definitions

Competent Person - One who is competent in identifying present and potential hazards in the

surroundings, or working conditions which are unsanitary, dangerous, or unsafe to

employees, and who has the permission to take quick corrective measures to remove them.

Angle of Repose - The greatest angle above the horizontal plane at which a material will lie

with out sliding.

Excavation - Any man-made opening or depression in the earth’s surface, including its sides,

walls or faces, formed by earth removal and producing unsupported earth conditions by

reasons of the excavation. If installed forms or similar structures reduce the depth-to-width

relationship, an excavation may become a trench.

Hard Compact Soil - All earth materials not categorized as running or unstable.

Trench - A narrow excavation made below the surface of the ground. In general, the depth is

greater than the width, but the width of a trench is not greater than 4.5m.

Unstable Soil - Earth material, other than running, that because of its nature or the influence

of related conditions cannot be relied upon to stay in place without extra support, such as

would be furnished by a system of shoring.

Requirements

Daily inspections of excavations shall be made by a capable person. If evidence of possible

cave-ins or slides is obvious, all work in the excavation shall stop until the required

precautions have been taken to safeguard employees.

Specific Requirements

Before opening an excavation, efforts shall be made to decide whether underground

installations i.e. sewer, telephone, water, fuel, electric lines, etc., will be encountered, and if

so, where such underground installations are located. These services shall be determined

whether they are live or dead, and if unknown, regarded as live.

The exact location and depth of these lines shall be marked by stakes indicating type of

service. After all underground services have been checked and marked; a written excavation


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permit should be issued by the Supervisor. If this permit is necessary, where pertinent, no

work is to be done until the permit has been issued.

Where an excavation is consistent with the definition of a confined space, the rules for the

latter shall apply.

Emergency rescue equipment, such as breathing apparatus, a safety harness and line, basket

stretcher, shall be readily available where hazardous atmospheric conditions exist or may

reasonably be expected to develop during work in an excavation. The equipment shall be

attended when in use.

Employees entering bell-bottom pier holes or other similar deep and confined footing

excavations shall wear a harness with a lifeline securely attached to it. The lifeline shall be

separate from any line used to handle materials, and shall be individually attended at all times

while the employee wearing the lifeline is in the excavation.

Employees shall not work in excavations in which there is accumulated water, or in

excavations in which water is accumulating unless adequate precautions have been taken to

protect employees against the hazards posed by water accumulation, i.e. special support,

shields systems to protect from cave-ins, water removal to control the accumulating water, or

use of a safety harness and lifeline.

If excavation work interrupts the natural drainage of surface water (such as streams),

diversion ditches, dikes, or other appropriate means shall be used to avoid surface water from

entering the excavation and to provide adequate drainage of the area next to the excavation.

Excavations subject to runoff from heavy rains will need an inspection by a capable person.

Where the stability of adjoining buildings, walls, or other structures is endangered by

excavation operations, support systems such as shoring, bracing, or underpinning shall be

made available to guarantee the stability of such structures for the protection of employees.

Employees shall be protected from excavated or other materials or equipment that could pose

a threat by falling or rolling into excavations. Protection shall be provided by placing and

keeping such materials or equipment at least 0.6m from the edge of excavations, or by the

use of retaining devices that are adequate to avoid materials or equipment from falling or

rolling into excavations, or by a combination of both is required.

Where employees or equipment are required or allowed to cross over excavations, walkways

or bridges with standard guardrails shall be provided.

Protection


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All excavations over 1.2m deep should be sloped, shored, sheeted, braced or otherwise

supported.

When soil conditions are unstable, excavations shallower than 1.2m also must be sloped

supported or shored.

One method of guaranteeing the safety and health of workers in a trench or excavation is to

slope the sides of the cut to the “angle of repose”. The angle of repose varies with different

kinds of soil, and must be determined on each individual Project. When an excavation has

water conditions, silty material, or loose boulders, or when it is being dug in areas where

erosion, deep frost or slide planes are obvious, the angle of repose must be flattened.

A second method of support is shoring-sheeting, tightly placed timber shores, bracing, trench

jacks, piles or other materials installed in a manner strong enough to resist the pressures

surrounding the excavation.

A third method of support may be the use of a trench box, a prefabricated movable trench

shield composed of steel plates welded to a heavy steel frame. Current standards allow the

use of a trench box as long as the protection it provides is equal to or greater than the

protection that would be provided by the proper shoring system.

Protection of Employees in Excavations

Each employee in an excavation shall be protected from cave-ins by a sufficient protective

system created in compliance with the Temporary Works requirements except when:

Excavations are made entirely in stable rock.

Excavations are less that 1.2m in depth and examination of the ground by a competent person

provides no indication of a potential cave-in.

Protective systems shall have the capacity to resist without failure all loads that are intended

or could reasonably be expected to be applied or transmitted to the system.

Slopes and Configuration of Slopes

The slopes and configurations of sloping and benching systems shall be selected and

constructed by the following options:

Option (1) - Allowable configurations and slopes:

Excavations shall be sloped at an angle not steeper than one and one-half horizontal to one

vertical (34 degrees measured from the horizontal).


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Option (2) - Determination of slopes and configurations

Maximum allowable slopes, and allowable configurations for sloping and benching systems,

shall be determined in compliance with the conditions and requirements.

Option (3) – Designs using other tabulated data

Designs of sloping or benching systems shall be selected from and be in accordance with

tabulated data.

The tabulated data shall be in written form and shall include all of the following:

Identification of the parameters that affect the selection of a sloping of benching system

drawn from such data

Identification of the limits of use of the data, to include the magnitude and configuration of

slopes determined to be safe.

Explanatory information as may be required to aid the user in making a correct selection of a

protective system from the data.

At least one copy of the tabulated data which identifies the registered professional engineer,

who approved that data, shall be maintained at the job-site during construction of the

protective system.

Option (4) – Design by a Registered Professional Engineer

Sloping and benching systems not utilizing options 1, 2 or 3 shall be approved by a

Registered

Engineer

Designs shall be in written form and shall include at least the following:

The magnitude of the slopes that were deemed to be safe for the particular Project

The configurations that were deemed to be safe for the particular Project

The identity of the registered professional engineer approving the design

At least one copy of the design shall be maintained at the job-site while the slope is being

constructed.

Design


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Designs of support systems, shield systems, and other protective systems shall be selected

and constructed in accordance with options 1, 2 or 3.

Option (1) – Designs using Appendices A, C and D

Designs for timber shoring in trenches shall be determined in accordance with the Temporary

Works

Designs for aluminum hydraulic shoring shall be in accordance with manufacturer’s

tabulated data.

Option (2) - Designs using manufacturer’s tabulated data

Design of support systems, shield systems or other protective systems that are drawn from

manufacturer’s tabulated data shall be in compliance with the specifications,

recommendations and limitations issued or made by the manufacturer.

Deviation from the specifications, recommendations and limitations issued or made by the

manufacturer shall only be permitted after the manufacturer issues specific written approval.

Manufacturer’s specification recommendations and limitations and manufacturer’s consent to

deviate from the specifications recommendations and limitations shall be in written form at

the job-site during construction of the protective system.

Option (3) Designs using other tabulated data

Designs of support systems, shield systems, or other protective systems shall be chosen from

and be in accordance with tabulated data.

The tabulated data shall be in written form and include the following:

Identification of the parameters that affect the selection of a protective system drawn from

such data

Identification of the limits of use of the data

Explanatory information as may be required to aid the user in making a correct selection of a

protective system from the data.

Option (4) - Design by a Registered Engineer

Support systems, shield systems, and other protective systems not utilizing option 1, 2 or 3,

shall be approved by a Registered Engineer.


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Designs shall be in written form and shall include the following:

A plan indicating the sizes, types and configurations of the material to be use the protective

system.

The identity of the Registered Engineer approving the design

At least one copy of the design shall be kept at the job-site during construction of the

protective system.

Design Considerations

Designing a support system can be a complex operation because of the number of factors

involved.

Some of the considerations taken into account are:

Soil Structure

Depth of cut

Water Content of Soil

Changes due to weather and climate

Superimposed load

Vibrations

Other operations in the vicinity

Typical failure mode

The soil structure must be carefully identified. Excavations in wet soil, sandy soil or areas

that have been back filled are relatively unstable and must have strong support. Even hard

rock sometimes can be hazardous; faults in the strata can make it unstable when cut.

Changing weather conditions and climate also greatly affect how strong a shoring system

must be.

Excess surface or ground water can increase the pressure on a shoring system, as well as

excessively dry conditions can minimize the cohesiveness of the soil.

Large excavations, in particular, are subject to changing weather conditions because they are

generally open for longer periods of time than are trenches. Shoring for these excavations


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should provide long-range protection for a variety of weather conditions. In some cases,

additional precautions are required to protect excavation walls, such as covering them with

plastic sheeting or spraying the soil bank with a moisture limiting chemical.

Superimposed loads in the vicinity of a trench or excavation increase the pressure on

excavation walls. Heavy equipment and materials such as pipe or timbers should be kept as

far back from the excavation as possible. When heavy loads must be loaded near an

excavation, the walls must be braced, sheet-piled, or shored to safely support the extra

weight. In some cases, it may be necessary to lessen the pressure of these loads. Pile drivers

or cranes, for example, would be mounted on wooden mats or heavy planking to spread the

weight more evenly.

Buildings, curbs, trees, utility poles and other structures adjoining the excavation area also

can place more stress on a trench side than it can safely accommodate. Current practice

requires that shoring, bracing or underpinning be provided as necessary to protect workers

but also to avoid the dislocation of the soil beneath the structures in the vicinity.

In addition, spoil, which is the excavation material, can exert great pressure on the

excavation walls.

Spoil must be stored 0.6m or more from the edge of the excavation, and be barricaded or

retained in an efficient manner.

Vibrations or sudden shock from passing vehicles or railways, blasting, equipment such as

trucks, or pile drivers, and some tools can contribute to cave-ins by loosening the soil. Even

machines operated in nearby buildings, such as punch presses; can create enough vibration to

endanger a shoring system. If these conditions exist near an excavation, robust shoring and

excavation support will be required.

Materials and Equipment

Materials and equipment used for protective systems shall be free from damage or faults that

might impair their proper function.

Manufactured materials and equipment used for protective systems shall be used and kept in

a manner that is consistent with the recommendations of the manufacturer, and in a manner

that will avoid employee exposure to hazards.

When material or equipment that is used for protective systems is damaged, a capable person

shall examine the material or equipment and assess its suitability for continued use. If the

competent person cannot assure the material or equipment is able to support the intended

loads or is otherwise suitable for safe use, then such material or equipment shall be removed


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from service, and shall be assessed and approved by a registered professional engineer before

being returned to service.

Installation and Removal

Members of support systems shall be securely connected together to prevent sliding, falling,

kick-outs or other predictable failures.

Support systems shall be installed and removed in a manner that protects employees from

cave-ins, structural collapses, or from being struck by members of the support system.

Individual members of support systems shall not be subjected to loads exceeding those which

the members were designed to withstand.

When installing a support system, workers should always apply shoring starting from the top

of the trench or excavation and working down. In installing the shoring, care must be taken to

place the cross beams or trench jacks in true horizontal position and to space them vertically

at appropriate falling or kick-outs.

Before temporary removal of individual members begins, additional precautions shall be

taken to ensure the safety of employees, such as installing other structural members to carry

the loads imposed on the support systems.

Removal shall begin at, and progress from, the bottom of the excavation. Members shall be

released slowly so as to note any indication of possible failure of the remaining members of

the structure or possible cave-in of the sides of the excavation.

Backfilling shall progress together with the removal of support systems from excavations.

Excavation of material to a level no greater than 0.6m below the bottom of the members of a

support system shall be allowed, but only, if the system is built to resist the forces calculated

for the full depth of the trench, and there are no indications while the trench is open of a

possible loss of soil from behind or below the bottom of the support system.

Installation of a support system shall closely follow the excavation work. It is dangerous to

allow trenches to remain unshod even if no work is being done in them. The longer a trench

is left unsupported, the greater the chance of a cave-in

Employees shall not be allowed to work on the faces of sloped or benched excavations at

levels above other employees except when employees at the lower levels are adequately

protected from the hazard of falling, rolling, or sliding material or equipment.

Shield Systems


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Shield systems shall not be subjected to loads exceeding those which the system was built to

withstand.

Shields shall be installed in a manner to restrict lateral or other hazardous movement of the

shield in the event of the application of sudden lateral loads.

Employees shall be protected from the hazard of cave-ins when entering or exciting the

areas protected by shields.

Employees shall not be allowed in shields when shields are being installed, removed or

moved vertically.

Excavations of earth material to a level not greater than 0.6m below the bottom of a shield

shall be allowed, but only if the shield is built to resist the forces calculated for the depth of

the trench, and there are no indications while the trench is open of a likely loss of soil from

behind or below the bottom of the shield.

Precautions

Diversion dikes and ditches or other appropriate means shall be used to prevent surface water

from entering an excavation and to provide adequate drainage of the area adjacent to the

excavation.

Water should not be allowed to accumulate in a trench or excavation.

If trenches are left open overnight, barriers should be constructed around the opening to warn

the public of the danger. Barriers could consist of reinforcing rods of 2 x 4’s buried in ground

on 6m centers. Rope with colored flags attached should be strung between uprights.

If excavations are located close to vehicular traffic, the HSE Department should be contacted

for location of signs and barriers.

Inspections

Shoring systems must be inspected daily by the HSE Adviser.

Inspections are also necessary after rainfall or any change in conditions that can increase the

likelihood of a cave-in or slide.

If dangerous ground movements are obvious, such as subsidence or tension cracks, all work

in the excavation must be stopped until the problem is rectified.

Exits


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In case of an emergency, workers must be able to leave the trench quickly. When employees

are required to be in trenches 1.2m deep or more, adequate means of exit, such as a ladder or

steps, shall be provided and located so as to require no more than 7.5m lateral travel.

Ladders must be in good condition, extend from the floor of the trench to 0.90m above the

top of the excavation and be secured at the top.

Wrap-up

As soon as work is finished, the trench should be back-filled as the shoring is dismantled.

After the trench has been cleared, workers should remove the shoring from the bottom up,

taking care to release jacks or braces slowly.

In unstable soil, ropes should be used to pull out the jacks or braces from above.

SIGNAGE

Signage requirements

Appropriate signs must be placed before work starts and removed to proper storage when no

longer necessary.

Signs should be placed on properly supported infrastructure and protected from damage,

obscurity and removal.

Clear boundary definitions shall be established to indicate the area within which the sign

operates.

Safe Conditions signs

All green and white signs indicate a safe condition. Examples are fire exists, first aid and eye

wash.

Mandatory Signs

Blue and white signs tell you something that you must do, for example wear eye wear

protection.

They are called compulsory.

Warning Signs


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Yellow and black signs warn you of danger. This sign warns you to be cautious about

something that could cause you harm.

Prohibition Signs

Red and white signs alert you of something that you must not do.

Categories

Danger signs – to be used only to warn against immediate danger and hazards

Caution Signs – used to warn against possible hazards or caution against unsafe practices

Exit signs – used to identify means of egress where those means may be obscured

Safety Instruction Signs – To be used where relevant to make objects and systems obvious

Directional Signs – To be used as necessary

Traffic Signs – All areas shall be posted with appropriate signs indicating both vehicular and

pedestrian traffic routes

Accident Prevention Signs – To be used as temporary means of warning

Danger, Do Not Operate – Used to indicate a dangerous situation and never to be breeched

GENERAL

Barricades are required around excavations, openings in floors, walls, or roof areas, edges of

platforms and certain types of overhead work.

BARRICADES

Three categories exist:

Warning Barricades

These offer no physical protection but serve to inform personnel in the area that a hazard is

present.

Warning Barricades must be set back 5 feet (1.5 meters) minimum from the hazard.

If 5 feet (1.5 meters) is not available, a protective barricade must be used.

Protective Barricades

These not only warn of a hazard, but provide physical isolation or protection from the hazard.


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Examples include guardrails or cables set at the proper height around an opening or anchored

railroad ties to avoid driving into a culvert.

All protective barricades shall be built to satisfy their intended purpose.

Example 1: If the barricade is to avoid personnel from walking into a floor hole, it must

meet all requirements for a guardrail (top and mid rails and toe board designed to resist a 200

pound or 85 kilogram force).

Example 2: If the barricade is to stop equipment from running into a ditch, etc., it must be

the equivalent of railroad ties or 6 (15.24 cm) inch-ID concrete-filled pipe posts, set 3 (91.44

cm) feet deep in concrete, spaced 3 (91.44 cm) feet apart.

A swinging entrance gate through the railing or an offset so employees cannot walk directly

into the opening must be provided.

Hole Covers

A hole cover conforming to the following is acceptable:

If one dimension of the opening is 18 inches (45.5 centimeters) or less, use plywood at least

¾ inch (2 centimeters) thick.

If both dimensions of the opening exceed 18 inches (45.5 centimeters), use two layers of ¾

inch (2 centimeter) plywood or material at least 2 inches (5 centimeters) thick.

Construct covers over large floor openings to the same loading specification as scaffold

decking.

Secure (cleat, wire, or nail) all covers to avoid displacement.

Clearly mark all covers with a “Danger – Hole Cover – Do Not Remove” sign.

BARRICADE TAPE

All barricade tape shall be one of several colors that convey different levels of hazard

warning.

Red tape is used to convey “DANGER – DO NOT ENTER”, which means no one, is to

enter without the consent of the foreman/craftsman in charge and must wear all necessary

personal protective equipment indicated for the hazard.

Yellow or Yellow/Black is used to convey “CAUTION”. Personnel are permitted to enter

the barricade only after they have read the tag to understand the purpose of the barricade and

are informed of the hazards within the area.


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Yellow and Magenta tape means that radioactive material is present. Only authorized persons

are permitted to enter.

Barricade tape requirements must be implemented.

Barricade tape must be removed by the supervisor who placed it as soon as the hazard is

removed. This will maintain the importance of barricades, improve access and minimize

clutter.

IDENTIFICATION TAGS

The Correct type of Barricade Tag will be utilized that corresponds to the nature of the

hazard

Red “Danger

Yellow “Caution”

Tags shall be placed on all barricades to show:

Supervisor who placed the barricade tape

Purpose or reason for the barricade

What PPE is required to enter

Date placed

STEEL ERECTION

Risks

Possible risks associated with steelwork erection are collapsing during lifting, fitting or

connecting, falling objects, falling personnel, and unstable platforms.

Planning

Minimize the possibility for overhead loads and employee access under these loads. Proper

site planning and lifting plans (single and multiple lifts) should be performed to address this

issue.

Good practice is to provide at least 4 column anchor bolts along with other requirements for

stability such as guys’ ropes, bracing etc.

Double connections on beams are to be minimized whilst elevated. Where possible, these

should be facilitated on the ground.


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Erection and Assembly

During the final placing of solid web structural steel members, the load shall not be released

from the hoisting line until the members are secured with not less than two bolts, or the

equivalent at each connection and drawn up wrench tight

Open web steel joists shall not be placed on any structural steel frame unless such frame is

securely bolted and/or welded.

Where bar joists are used and columns are not framed in at least two direction with structural

steel members, a bar joist shall be field-bolted at columns to provide lateral stability during

construction

Where long-span trusses (over 13m) are used, a centre row of bolted bridging shall be

installed to provide lateral stability during construction prior to slacking of the hoisting line.

No load shall be placed on open web steel joists until safety requirements are satisfied

Tag lines shall be used during erection and assembly for controlling loads.

Bolting and Fitting

When bolts or drift pins are knocked out for their temporary positions, all necessary

measures shall be taken to avoid the risk of falling onto persons or property.

Wrenches shall be fitted with a locking device for retaining the socket.

Connections for equipment used in plumbing-up shall be secured against falling or slipping

Turnbuckles shall be secured to avoid unwinding whilst under tension

Plumbing-up guy ropes shall be located in a manner that permits easy and safe access to

connection points, and such guys shall not be removed without the consent of the Supervisor.

ELECTRIC ARC WELDING

Make sure that correct PPE is being worn. For electric arc welding as a minimum, this should

be hard hat, safety glasses, safety boots, and welders’ helmet.

When required, screens should be used to protect other persons from the arc.

Make sure that cables and connections are in good condition and firmly attached.

Ensure that the welding equipment, bench or work piece is properly earthed.


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Check that the electrode holder is fully insulated and always place it in an unearthed surface

when not in use.

Stand on an insulated mat when the ground is damp.

Arrange good ventilation in the welding area but do not use oxygen to ventilate confined

spaces.

Keep away from welding near flammable materials.

Never weld enclosed vessels, drums or tanks which have contained flammable materials

unless they have been purged by steaming or boiling or filled with inert gas and tested and

certified safe to work on.

Do not weld inside enclosed vessels unless precautions have been taken for personal safety.

Keep trailing welding cables clear of roads and walkways. Secure to overhead fixtures where

possible.

ELECTRICAL SAFETY

Equipment Grounding

Balou Maintenance Services Limited will visually inspect, before each day’s use, all

electrical cord sets, portable electric hand tools and any equipment connected by cord and

plug (except those permanently attached and not exposed) for external faults.

Balou Maintenance Services Limited will provide ground fault protection for personnel on

such equipment by using either ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI) or an assured

equipment grounding conductor inspection program (double insulated tools need not be

grounded or tested).

Underground Cables

Before digging, check plans and use cable locating devices such as a Cable Avoidance Tool

(CAT)

Note that there may be additional cables that will not be represented on any drawings. CAT

locators will not identify multiple cables that are close together.

Assume that all cables are live unless proven otherwise by the relevant Authority


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Hand-dig trial holes to expose cables. Power tools should not be used within 1 meter of any

underground power cable. When exposed, protect any exposed cable from damage and

support it.

Put warning tape on exposed live cables. For cables that are embedded or covered in concrete

or other protective device, no attempt should be made to break out or remove, but further

assistance should be sought from the pertinent authorities.

If cable is accidentally damaged, keep all persons clear until the responsible Authority has

inspected it.

Overhead Power Lines

All overhead lines should be treated as live and carrying power.

Make sure that all employees know the maximum clearance distances specified by TTEC and

any other special precautions.

Goal posts, barriers or other warnings should be constructed to serve as physical warnings on

height and width restrictions.

Check that the route is clear of overhead power lines before moving any materials likely to

come into contact with lines.

Portable Electric Tools

Check that the supply and the tool are both 110V with the suitable plug and socket.

Disconnect tools when not in use.

Before using a portable electric tool check to see it is properly earthed, unless it is an

approved type that does not need earthen.

Before using an electric tool, make sure that the casing is undamaged. If it is damaged, do not

use the tool. Never use worn, blunt or damaged bits or other accessories.

Ensure that all cables, plugs or connectors are sound and properly wired up, and make sure

that the power cable is long enough to reach the workplace without straining.

Make sure that switches are working smoothly and freely before connecting to the supply.

Power cables should be kept off the floor to minimize the possibility for tripping hazards.

Where this is not feasible, clearly marked utility routes should be used, with sufficient

warning signs for pedestrian traffic.


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Never stand on a damp or wet surface when using electrical equipment and keep equipment

clean and dry.

Never connect a portable electric tool to a lighting socket.

Electrical power tools should be regularly inspected and maintained by a competent

electrician.

Report all faults immediately.

GAS WELDING

HSE Advisor and Supervisors are to make sure that the user of the equipment is aware of the

requirements of any permit systems.

Materials that have been degreased with solvents should not be welded until absolutely dry.

Use goggles, face shields or helmet with dark lenses. Use screens to protect other personnel

and make sure that hose lines are kept clear of vehicular and pedestrian traffic lanes.

When welding near flammable materials, beware of flying sparks and hot slag. Keep fire

extinguishing equipment available and check area before leaving.

Do not try to weld in enclosed vessels or tanks until safety precautions have been taken.

Torches should not be left in enclosed vessels when not in use.

Do not weld galvanized or coated metals without taking proper precautions against fumes.

WELDING AND BURNING

Fuel Gas and Oxygen Manifolds

Fuel gas and oxygen manifolds shall bear the name of the substance they contain in letters at

least 25mm high which shall be either painted on the manifold or on a sign permanently

attached to it.

Fuel and oxygen manifolds shall be placed in safe, well ventilated and accessible locations.

They shall not be located within enclosed spaces.

Manifold hose connections, including both ends of the supply hose that lead to the manifold,

shall be such that the hose cannot be interchanged between fuel gas and oxygen manifolds

and supply header.


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Adapters shall not be used to allow the interchange of hose.

Hose connections shall be kept free of grease and oil.

When not in use, manifold and header hose connections shall be capped.

Nothing shall be placed on top of a manifold, when in use, which will damage the manifold

or interfere with the quick closing of the valve.

Hose

Fuel gas hose and oxygen hose shall be easily discernible from each other.

The contrast maybe made by different colors or by surface characteristics readily discernable

by the sense of touch.

Oxygen and fuel gas hoses shall not be interchangeable. A single hose having more than one

gas passage shall not be used.

When parallel sections of oxygen and fuel gas hose are taped together, not more 100mm out

of 300mm shall be covered by tape.

All hose in use, carrying acetylene, oxygen, natural or manufactured fuel gas, or any gas

substance which may ignite or enter into combustion, or be in anyway harmful to employees,

shall be inspected at the start of each working shift.

Hose which has been subject to flashback, or which shows evidence of severe wear or

damage, shall be tested to twice the normal pressure to which it is subject, but in no case less

than 300 psi.

Defective hose, or hose in doubtful condition, shall not be used. Defective hoses shall be

removed from service.

Hose couplings shall be of the type that cannot be unlocked or disconnected by means of a

straight pull without rotary motion.

Boxes used for the storage of gas hose shall be ventilated.

Hoses, cables and other equipment shall be kept clear of passageways, ladders and stairs.

Torches

Clogged torch tip openings shall be cleaned with suitable tip cleaning wires, drills or other

devices built for such purposes.


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Torches in use shall be inspected at the beginning of each working shift for leaking shutoff

valves, hose couplings, and tip connections. Defective torches shall not be used.

Torches shall be lighted by friction lighters or other approved devices and not by matches or

from hot work.

Regulators and Gauges

Oxygen and fuel gas pressure regulators, including their related gauges, shall be in proper

working order while in use.

Oil and Grease Hazards

Oxygen shall not be directed at oily surfaces, greasy clothes, or within a fuel oil or other

storage tank or vessel.

Arc Welding and Cutting

Only manual electrode holders which are specifically built for arc welding and cutting, and

are capable of safety handling the maximum rated current required by the electrodes, shall be

used.

Any current carrying parts passing through the portion of the holder which the arc welder or

cutter grips in his hand, and the outer surfaces of the jaws of the holder, shall be fully

insulated against the maximum voltage encountered to ground.

Welding Cables and Connectors

All arc welding and cutting cables shall be of the completely insulated, flexible type, capable

of handling the maximum current requirements of the work in progress, taking into account

the duty cycle under which the arc welder or cutter is working.

Only cable free of repair or splices for a minimum distance of 3m from the cable end to

which the electrode holder is connected shall be use, except that cables with standard

insulated connectors or with splices whose insulating quality is equal to that of the cable are

permitted.

When it becomes necessary to connect or splice lengths of cable one to another, substantial

insulated connectors of a capacity at least equivalent to that of the cable shall be used.

If connections are affected by means of cable lugs, they shall be securely fastened together to

give good electrical contact and the exposed metal parts of the lugs shall be completely

insulated.


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Cables in need of repair shall not be used. When a cable, other than the cable lead referred to

in subparagraph b.2 of this section, becomes worn to the extent of exposing bare conductors,

the portion thus exposed shall be protected by means of rubber and friction tape or other

equivalent insulation.

Ground Returns and Machine Grounding

A ground return cable shall have a safe current-carrying capacity equal to or exceeding the

specified maximum output capacity of the arc welding or cutting unit which is services.

(a) When a single ground return cable services more than one unit, its safe current - carrying

capacity shall equal or exceed the total specified maximum output capacities of all the units it

services.

Pipelines containing gases or flammable liquids, or conduits containing electrical circuits,

shall not be used as a ground return.

For welding on natural gas pipelines, the technical portions of regulations issues in 49 CFR

Part 192,

Minimum Federal Safety Standards for Gas Pipelines shall apply.

When a structure or pipeline is utilized as a round and return circuit, it shall be determined

that the required electrical contact exists at all joints.

The generation of an arc, sparks, or heat at any point shall cause rejection of the structures as

a ground circuit.

When a structure or pipeline is continuously utilized as a ground return circuit, all joints shall

be bonded, and periodic inspections shall be performed to make sure that no condition of

electrolysis or fire hazard exists by virtue of such use.

The frames of all arc welding and cutting machines shall be grounded either through a third

wire in the cable containing the circuit conductor or through a separate wire which is

grounded at the source of the current.

Grounding circuits, other than by means of the structure, shall be checked to make sure that

the circuit between the ground and the grounded power conductor has a resistance low

enough to allow ample current flow to cause the fuse or circuit breaker to interrupt the

current. Ground connections shall be inspected to make sure that they are mechanically

strong and electrically adequate for the required current.

Operating Instructions


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When electrode holders are to be left unattended, the electrodes shall be removed and the

holders shall be so placed or protected that they cannot make electrical contact with

employees or conducting objects.

Hot electrode holders shall not be dipped in water; to do so may expose the arc welder or

cutter to electric shock.

Any faulty or defective equipment shall be reported to the supervisor.

Other requirements; as outlined in Article 630, National Electric Code NFPA 70 - 1971;

ANSI C 1 - 1971, Electric Welders, Shall be used when applicable.

Fire Prevention

When practical, objects to be welded, cut or heated shall be moved to an allocated safe

location or, if the objects to be welded, cut or heated cannot be readily moved, all movable

fire hazards in the vicinity shall be taken to a safe location or otherwise protected.

No welding, cutting or heating shall be done where the application of flammable paints, r the

presence of other flammable compounds, or heavy dust concentrations creates a hazard.

When welding, cutting or heating is performed on wall, floors and ceilings, since direct

penetration of sparks or heat transfer may introduce a fire hazard to an adjacent area, the

same precautions shall be taken on the opposite side as are taken on the side which the

welding is being carried out.

For the removal of possible fire in enclosed spaces as a result of gas escaping through leaking

or improperly closed torch valves, the gas supply to the torch shall be positively shut off at

some point outside the enclosed space whenever the torch is not to be used or whenever the

torch is left unattended for a substantial period of time such as during the lunch period.

Overnight and at the end of shifts, the torch and hose shall be removed from the confined

space.

Open end fuel gas and oxygen hoses shall be immediately removed from enclosed spaces

when they are disconnected from the torch or other gas-consuming device.

Except when the contents are being removed or transferred, drums, pails, and other

containers, which contain or have contained flammable liquids, shall be kept closed. Empty

containers shall be removed to a safe area apart from hot work operations or open flames.

Before heat is applied to a drum, container, or hollow structure, a vent or opening shall be

provided for the release of any built-up pressure during the application of heat.


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Ventilation and Protection

Mechanical ventilation shall consist of either general mechanical ventilation systems or local

exhaust systems.

General mechanical ventilation shall be of sufficient capacity and so arranged as to generate

the number of air changes required to keep welding fumes and smoke within safe limits.

Local exhaust ventilation shall consist of freely movable hoods intended to be placed by the

welder or burner as close as practicable to the work.

This system shall be of sufficient capacity and so arranged as to remove fumes and smoke at

the source and keep the concentrations of them in the breathing zone within safe limits.

Contaminated air exhausted from a working space shall be released into the open air or

otherwise clear of the source of intake air.

All air replacing that is withdrawn shall be clean and suitable for respiratory purposes.

Oxygen shall not be used for ventilation purposes, comfort cooling, blowing dust from

clothing, or for cleaning the work area.

Welding, Cutting or Heating of Metals of Toxic Significance

Welding, cutting or heating in any enclosed spaces involving the metals specified in this

subparagraph shall be conducted with either general mechanical or local exhaust ventilation

satisfying the requirements of this Manual.

Zinc–bearing base or filler metals or metals coated with zinc-bearing materials;

Lead base metals;

Cadmium-bearing materials;

Chromium-bearing metals coated with chromium-bearing materials.

Welding, cutting or heating in any enclosed spaces involving the metals specified in this

subparagraph shall be conducted with local exhaust ventilation according to the prerequisites

of this Manual, or employees shall be protected by airline respirators.

Metals containing lead, other than as an impurity, or metals coated with lead-bearing

materials;


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Cadmium-bearing or cadmium coated base metals; Metals coated with mercury-bearing

metals; Beryllium-containing base or filler metals. Because of its high toxicity, work

involving beryllium shall be done with local exhaust ventilation and air line respirators.

Employees conducting such operations in the open air shall be protected by filter-type

respirators, except that employees conducting such operations on beryllium-containing base

or filler metals shall be protected by airline respirators.

Other employees exposed to the same atmosphere as the welders or burners shall be

protected in the same manner as the welder or burner.

Inert Gas Metal - Arc Welding

Since the inert gas metal - arc welding process involves the production of ultra-violet

radiation of intensities of 5 to 30 times that produced during shielded metal-arc welding, the

decomposition of chlorinated solvents by ultra-violet rays, and the liberation of toxic fumes

and gases, employees shall not be allowed to take part in, or be exposed to the process until

the under mentioned special precautions have been taken:

The use of chlorinated solvents shall be kept at least 60m, unless shielded, of the exposed

arc, and surfaces prepared with chlorinated solvents shall be thoroughly dry before welding is

allowed on such surfaces.

Employees in the area not protected from the arc by screening shall be protected by filter

lenses.

When two or more welders are exposed to each other’s arc, filter lens goggles of an

appropriate type shall be work under welding helmets. Hand shields to protect the welder

against flashes and radiant energy shall be used when either the helmet is lifted or the shield

is removed.

Welders and other employees who are exposed to radiation shall be protected so that the skin

is covered completely to avoid burns and other damage by ultra-violet rays. Welding helmets

and hand shields shall be free of leaks and openings, and free of highly reflective surfaces.

When inert - gas metal - arc welding is being carried out on stainless steel, the requirements

of M.5.c.2 shall be satisfied to protect against dangerous concentrations of nitrogen dioxide.

General Welding, Cutting and Heating

Welding, cutting and heating, not involving conditions of materials described in this Manual

or may normally be done without mechanical ventilation or respiratory protective equipment,

but where, because of unusual physical or atmospheric conditions, an unsafe accumulation of


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contaminants exists, suitable mechanical ventilation or respiratory protective equipment shall

be made available.

Employees conducting any type of welding, cutting or heating shall be protected by

appropriate eye protective equipment.

Preservative Coatings

Before welding, cutting or heating is started on any surface covered by a preservative whose

flammability is not known, a test shall be performed by a capable person to determine its

flammability.

Preservative coatings shall be considered to be highly flammable when scrapings burn with

extreme rapidity.

Precautions shall be taken to prevent ignition of highly flammable hardened preservative

coatings.

When coatings are determined to be highly flammable, they shall be stripped from the area to

be heated to avoid ignition.

Protection against toxic preservative coatings:

In enclosed spaces, all surfaces coated with toxic preservatives shall be stripped of all toxic

coatings for a distance of at least 100mm from the area of heat application or the employees

shall be protected by airline respirators.

LOCK OUT/TAG OUT

Purpose

To provide construction personnel with policies and procedures which will avoid the

“accidental” energizing of equipment while work is being carried out on it.

Scope

All energy sources which require work to be conducted on it by BMSL employees

Policy


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Danger tags and locks shall be employed to avoid operation of a valve, switch, or piece of

equipment when work is being carried out on it. No work is to be performed on any operable

equipment until operation of same is prevented by use of this procedure.

General

A standard “DANGER - DO NOT OPERATE” tag will be used on each Project.

All tags utilized will be dated, signed and a description of the work being performed shown

on the tag and securely attached to the equipment/lock.

No device shall be used with a tag or lock attached regardless of circumstances.

No person shall remove another’s tag or lock unless the owner is off site and cannot be

reached; then the Project/Department Manager together with the Project Safety Supervisor

may remove the lock/tag after all related systems have been checked and cleared.

It is the Supervisor’s duty to make sure that no work is carried out beyond the protection of

locks and tags installed.

Tags required beyond one shift must be replaced by the oncoming shift or by the responsible

Supervisor if no work is scheduled. In no case will locks/tags be allowed to stay for more

than 7 days without re-inspection and re-dating with signatures.

Each person conducting work on a system is required to affix a lock and tag on the system

even though the equipment or system is already locked-out. In these situations, a multiple

locking device shall be employed.

Electrical Operated Systems

The Electrical Superintendent or his designee will de-energize any power panel, distribution

panel or equipment controller and place his lock and tag to the switch.

Each employee conducting work on the system or equipment will then affix his lock and tag

to the device.

The Electrical Superintendent or his designee will create and keep a locked log.

The lockout log shall list all craft-workers applying a lock and tag on any power panel,

distribution panel or equipment-controlling device.

Each employee shall detail in the lockout log, the time of day s/he applied the lock, the

necessity for the lockout, the area or machine where the work is being performed and the


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approximate length of time that the power panel, distribution panel or equipment controller

will be de-energized.

When the work is completed, the employees will report this information to the Electrical

Superintendent before removing his lock. The employees will log the time the work was

completed in the “lockout log” and the time the removed his lock.

The last lock on the lockout device shall not be removed until the power panel, distribution

panel or equipment controller is inspected by the Electrical Superintendent.

All face plates, doors and covers must be installed and in place before the panels are re-

energized.

The Electrical Superintendent shall inform all craft workers in the area that the power panel,

distribution panel or controller is about to be re-energized. The Electrical Superintendent or

his designee may then remove the last lock

The Electrical Superintendent or his designee shall check the re-energized power panel,

distribution panel or equipment controller for proper operation.

The date and time of day when these panels or equipment controllers were restored to

service shall be documented in the lockout log.

Completion

Once construction work is finished on the system, the appropriate construction supervision

assures the system clear, all work is finished and then removes his lock and tag in the

presence of the plant operator.

CONFINED SPACE

47.1 Definitions

A confined space is defined as one where:

There is limited means of access and egress

There is the risk of a low oxygen environment that is unable to support life

Working room is restricted

There is a risk that sudden change in climatic conditions could endanger

employees within that space


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The space has not been built to support continuous work

Confined or enclosed spaces include exhaust ducts, sewers, underground utility vaults,

tunnels, pipelines, and open top spaces that are more than 1.2m in depth, such as pits, tubs,

vessels, vaults and sumps.

Entry into a confined space should not be undertaken unless and until a full assessment is

carried out by a capable person certified to perform such inspections.

Trained to work within a confined space

Procedures

Confined space procedures shall: provide construction personnel with the basic minimum

requirements for entering and working within a confined space.

Confined space entry and work procedures must be in accordance with current OSHA and

other regulatory standards as they apply to the scope of work. In cases where work is

conducted in an operating plant, the plant’s confined space Procedure as well as these

procedures shall be followed and a confined space Entry Permit issued where required.

Requirements

Persons required to enter a confined space must be instructed by the HSE Adviser and

Supervisor as to the type of hazards involved, safety precautions to be taken, and the

emergency and protective equipment needed before entry into the confined space.

Before directing employees to enter a confined space, the HSE Adviser will determine that

the necessary ventilation, protective clothing, respiratory equipment, monitoring devices,

emergency standby equipment, and fire prevention precautions are specified and provided

This will also include necessary precautions when welding or burning inside or on the

outside of the confined space.

Before entering a confined space, as outlined above, for any purpose, all possible exposures

must be evaluated by the HSE Adviser, Supervisor and Project/Department Manager to

identify the hazards associated with:

Flammable vapors

Toxic Substances

Oxygen deficient atmospheres

Sudden climatic changes that can cause flooding or collapses.


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The following should be revised during the pre-planning:

Previous contents of vessel.

Oxygen content in air.

Access and Egress

Welding which can use up oxygen and create toxic atmosphere.

Types of chemical to be used inside vessel.

Number of men and duration of job.

Accidental leaks into “confined space”.

The HSE Adviser should be consulted where there are any questions as to sufficiency of

protective measures or where toxicity oxygen content and explosive information is needed.

The initial and continuous use of gas monitors is mandatory for this activity.

When in doubt to whether or not a particular location is covered by this procedure, check

with the HSE Department before permitting personnel to enter.

All pipelines and electrical lines should be disconnected before entering the confined space.

If this is impossible, then they should be blanked off, and the valves or switches locked and

tagged.

If the lines are not disconnected then continuous monitoring devices for flammable gases and

oxygen deficient atmospheres should be used.

A means of quick and safe access and egress shall be provided and in place at all times

during confined space occupancy.

When there is danger from flammable vapors, toxic substances or oxygen deficient

atmospheres, all persons entering a confined space shall wear safety harnesses continuously

from entrance, during work and exit. The safety harness shall be attached to a lifeline leading

out of the confined space.

A suitably trained standby shall be posted at the entrance of the confined space. S/he shall

stay at this position throughout occupation of the confined space. Under no situation is

entrance to be made until a standby has been posted.

Electrical service leads above 12V are not to be pulled into a confined space without the

consent of the HSE Adviser.


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If mechanical ventilation is used, it should not interfere with the means of egress from a

confined space.

Permits

A confined space entry permit system shall be employed to approve the entry into, and

working within a confined space.

Atmosphere Testing

Depending on the type of operation being conducted in the confined space, a continuous

oxygen monitoring device may be necessary.

During inert gas welding or other work that could create an oxygen deficient atmosphere,

portable or fixed oxygen analyzers with visual or audible alarms must be employed to

monitor atmospheric conditions in the confined space.

Ventilation and/or Exhaust

Pre-ventilation before the entry of employees should be adopted where possible and kept

throughout the activity.

Ventilation and/or exhaust must be kept in all confined or enclosed areas to prevent

concentrations of toxic and hazardous gases and dust that surpass prescribed limits.

Mechanical ventilation should be used whenever men are working in a vessel, which contains

flammable liquids.

WORKING OVER WATER

Prevention of Drowning

Working platforms must be properly constructed - at least 4 boards wide and secured. Leave

space to permit for tide surge, if relevant.

Ladders should be lashed and safety harnesses must be available for emergency.

Lighting must be adequate for night work and must illuminate the immediate surrounding

water surface.

Check on your workmates at regular intervals.

Tools not in use must be stowed away.


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Make sure that pontoons are properly loaded, stable and securely moored.

Make sure deck access and egress are clean and don’t become slippery. Deal quickly with

hazards.

In tidal waters, strong currents, or any other foreseeable situation, lifejackets must be worn at

all times.

Make sure you only embark at suitable landing places.

Don’t remove guardrails.

Rescue from the Water

Make sure you don’t work alone, so that one of you can always raise the alarm.

Make sure your life-saving equipment is on hand and checked at the start of every shift.

Where a safety boat is available; check the equipment at the start of every shift.

Rescue boats must be manned by capable persons during night work and in tidal water.

Powerful spotlights should also be provided.

Make sure you are familiar with emergency drills.

Report faults to person in charge immediately.

DEMOLITION

Pre-planning

A documented survey by a capable person shall be conducted before demolition planning to

identify the likelihood of unplanned collapse of any part of the whole of the structure.

Services shall be closed off, capped or otherwise controlled before work begins. Utility

companies shall be informed before demolition.

Protective equipment shall always be utilized, and structural members shall be adequately

supported.

For areas that are not to be demolished, these shall be protected.


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The agreed method of demolition must be followed. This shall be documented via a Method

Statement with additional calculations if required. Floors should not be overloaded with

demolished materials to the point of collapse.

A hazard analysis shall be performed to determine the presence of chemicals, gases,

explosives or other substances that could adversely affect the operations. If found or

suspected, testing or purging shall be carried before beginning.

Execution

A safe means of access and egress must be made available. Access ways shall be kept clear

of demolition operations or covered. Areas adjacent to other workers must be taped off, and

chute openings should be protected.

A safe place of work must be guaranteed in terms of correctly erected scaffold platforms or

towers and hydraulic or crane handled workbaskets.

COMPRESSED AIR

Compressed air shall not be used for any other purpose than that for which it is intended, and

not used to blow dust off clothes or hair, or for cleaning purposes.

Make certain that prior to use, the air tool, hose and fittings are working properly. Report any

faults to the Supervisor.

Before changing tools, the supply line must be closed or must be equipped with an automatic

shut-off valve. Similarly, make sure that the control valve is shut before starting any

compressor.

Hoses must be closed using the valve and not by kinking. Hoses also pose a tripping hazard

and should be controlled.

Always make sure that connectors are fully “home” and safely latched. Whip checks must be

fitted at all connection points.

COMPRESSED GAS CYLINDERS

Usage

All cylinders shall meet the requirements of 49 CFR Part 178, Subpart C., and Specifications

for Cylinders.

Open cylinder valves slowly and close sufficiently to shut off gas - never use force. Keep

hose lines clear of traffic lanes. Valve protection caps shall be in place and secure.


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Cylinders shall be kept far enough away from the actual welding or cutting operation so that

sparks, hot slag or flame will not reach them, when this is not practical, fire resistant shields

shall be used.

Fuel gas cylinders shall be placed with valve end up whenever they are in use. They shall not

be placed in a location where they will be subject to open flame, hot metal or other sources of

artificial heat.

Transport

Unless cylinders are firmly secured on a special carrier intended for this purpose, regulators

shall be removed before cylinders are moved.

When cylinders are hoisted, they shall be secured on racks or stands specifically created and

built for this purpose. They shall not be hoisted by slings or magnets.

When cylinders are transported by powered vehicles, they shall be secured in an upright and

vertical position.

Cylinders are to be transported using a secured carrier. Always lift cylinders from trucks - do

not drop slide them. Cylinders are not to be used as rollers or supports.

Valves and fittings are not to be used for lifting or carrying, and must be kept free from oil

and grease.

This is particularly pertinent for oxygen cylinders.

When work is completed cylinders are empty or when cylinders are moved at anytime, the

cylinder valve shall be closed and caps placed on

LPG or oxygen cylinders are not to be used without flashback arrestors. There must be a

minimum of two (2) flashback arrestors fitted on all cutting sets.

Storage

Compressed gas cylinders shall be secured in an upright position at all times except, if

necessary, for short periods of time while cylinders are actually being hoisted or carried.

Cylinders shall be placed where they cannot strike against another cylinder thereby causing

an arc.

All cylinders must be stored so that they cannot fall or roll. Keep them away from sun,

artificial heat, flammable materials, corrosive chemicals and fumes.


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An appropriate cylinder chuck or chain shall be used to keep cylinders from being knocked

over while in use.

Use of Fuel Gas

Before a regulator is connected to a cylinder, the valve shall be opened slightly and closed

immediately. (This action is generally termed “cracking” and is intended to clear the valve of

dust or dirt that might otherwise enter the regulator).

A person cracking the valve shall stand to one side of the outlet, not in front of it.

The valve of a fuel gas cylinder shall not be cracked where the gas would reach welding

work, flame or other possible source of ignition.

For quick closing, valves on fuel gas cylinders shall be opened more than 1-1/2 turns.

When a special wrench is needed, it shall be left in position on the stem of the valve while

the cylinder is in use so that the fuel gas flow can be shut off quickly in case of an

emergency.

In the case of manifolds or coupled cylinders, at least one wrench shall always be available

for immediate use.

Nothing shall be placed on the top of a fuel gas cylinder when in use.

Fuel gas shall not be used from cylinders through torches or other devices which are

equipped with shut off valves without decreasing the pressure through an appropriate

regulator attached to the cylinder valve or manifold.

Before a regulator is removed from a cylinder base, the cylinder valve shall always be closed

and the gas released from the regulator.

If when the valve on a fuel gas cylinder is opened, there is found to be a leak around the

valve stem, the valve shall be closed and the gland nut tightened.

If this action does not stop the leak, the use of the cylinder shall be discontinued, and it shall

be properly tagged and removed from the work area.

In the event that the fuel gas should leak from the cylinder valve, rather than from the valve

stem, and the gas cannot be shut off, the cylinder shall be properly tagged and removed from

the work area.

If a regulator attached to a cylinder valve will effectively stop a leak through the valve seat,

the cylinder need not be removed from the work area.


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If a leak should develop at a fuse plug or other safety devices, the cylinder shall be removed

from the work area.

OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH

Contact Hazards to Skin

Mineral oils, including fuel oils and mould oils, can lead to bad skin conditions, oil acne or

even cancer. In addition, constant skin contact with oily rags can also lead to a skin hazard.

Chemicals, including alkalis, acids and chromate can penetrate the skin causing ulcers and

dermatitis.

Cement can cause chronic dermatitis. Wet cement has high alkaline and is more dangerous to

the skin.

Solvents and de-greasers, including paraffin and thinners, dissolve natural oils in skin leaving

it open to infection.

Tar, pitch and bitumen products cause blisters and oil acne. They can cause tar warts, leading

to cancer.

Epoxy-resin hardeners, glass fiber, some hard woods and fungicides irritate the skin and can

lead to dermatitis.

Extremes of sunshine, temperature and humidity make the skin more vulnerable to dermatitis

and other skin problems.

Precautions to Protect Skin

Avoid or minimize skin contact with hazardous substances as noted above.

Keep skin clean and use after-wash skin cream. Keep your workplace clean.

Get first aid for cuts and grazes and keep them covered.

Don’t use abrasives or solvents to clean skin. Don’t let synthetic resins or glue harden on

skin.

Examine skin for the appearance of warts, especially on the scrotum (if applicable).

Sun and Skin Protection

Cover up - ordinary clothing made from close woven fabric such as a long sleeved work shirt

and jeans will protect the most.


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Wear your hard hat - the peak at the front will offer some shade and a hanging flap at the

back can protect your neck

Keep top on - especially around the middle of the day when the sun is at its most fierce

Sunscreen creams and lotions - can add useful protection for parts of the body not easy to

shade from the sun; look for a sun protection factor of 10 or more

Check skin - the first warning is often a small scabby spot, which does not clear after a few

weeks.

Look for changed or newly formed moles or any skin discoloration.

If in doubt - consult a doctor. Even if a spot is cancerous, simple modern treatments can

usually cure it provided it is caught early.

NOISE

Good practice

Good practices for the minimization of damage due to noise are:

Wear ear protectors if the noise is such that you to shout to someone 1 meter away

to be heard.

Machine covers closed when operating.

Don’t keep machinery running unnecessarily. Make sure that ear plugs are a good

fit in each ear and are correctly inserted. Use disposable ear plugs only. Hands should be

clean when handling all types of ear plugs.

Ear muffs should be a good fit to the head all round the seal. See that muff seals

are always in a serviceable condition. Do not modify the pressure of ear muffs by bending

the head band.

Report damaged ear protection and replace.

Hearing conservation program (HCP)

HCP will be established at those locations where personnel encounter noise levels of 85 dB

time weighted average (“TWA”) for an 8-hour shift or 85 dB TWA for a 12-hour shift.

The HCP will comprise the following elements:


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Noise monitoring for personnel will take place to determine if certain locations

will be included in the HCP;

Proper selection and fitting of hearing protection devices reducing employee

exposure levels to below the levels set forth above.

Evaluation and enforcement of controls to lessen noise exposure. It is essential

that the instruments used to measure noise are correctly calibrated in compliance with the

manufacturer’s instructions. Documented proof of these calibrations (Form HSE001-GE09)

must be kept available for inspection and verification.

For general activities, noise audits will be performed by HSE Advisor at random to

determine the need for more regular testing.

Work should not be done outside stipulated site hours that may be directed by the

need for noise control. Work outside these hours will only be granted by consent from the

Client.

Items of plant or a vehicle that appear and sound noisier than usual must be

reported to the HSE Adviser, and noise screens are to be used where appropriate and

practical.

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