ciga-working at height.pdf
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CWI - Guide to best practice Version 1.0 - Issued May 2008
Working at heightin the retrofitCWI industry
Published by: Cavity Insulation Guarantee Agency, CIGA House, 3 Vimy Court, Vimy Road, Leighton Buzzard LU7 1FG Tel: 01525 853300 Fax: 01525 385926 Email:[email protected] www.ciga.co.uk
Published by: Cavity Insulation Guarantee Agency, CIGA House, 3 Vimy Court, Vimy Road, Leighton Buzzard, LU7 IFG. Tel: 01525 853300 Fax: 01525 385926 E-mail: [email protected]
This guide is published by the Cavity InsulationGuarantee Agency (CIGA). Whilst every care hasbeen taken in its preparation, CIGA and itsauthors specifically exclude any liability for errorsand omissions or otherwise arising from thecontents of this guide. Readers must understandthe principles and practices described in relationto any particular application and, wherenecessary, take professional advice.
The guide represents good practice for theindustry. It is aimed at people working in theretrofit cavity wall insulation sector, including thedrilling, filling, and making good processes
© All rights reserved. No part of this publication may bereproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted inany form, or by any means electronic, mechanical recordingor otherwise – without the written permission of thecopyright holders.
PREFACE
In producing this guide our overall aims are:
• To reduce the number of falls from height.
• To lessen the severity of injuries resulting from falls from height.
• To encourage best practice within the industry.
• To develop a practical guide for safer workingat height.
• To introduce industry-recognised standard training schemes.
• To introduce processes for verifying the technician’s competence and ability to work at height safely.
• To support management in its responsibilitiesfor health and safety.
It is recognised that falls from height are stillthe biggest single cause of workplace deaths andinjuries. “Working at height” has been producedby CIGA’s health & safety working group. Itoffers general guidance to installationtechnicians and their managers on working atheight; including the various access methods,and safe systems of work for installing retrofitCWI.
CONTENTS
1. WORKING AT HEIGHT
1.1 The Work at Height Regulations (amended) 2005.
1.2 Summary of the Regulations
1.3 Scope
1.4 General principles
2. WORK AT HEIGHT HEIRARCHY
2.1 Avoid the risk - by not working at height
2.2 Prevent falls – when working at height is unavoidable
2.3 Mitigate the consequences of a fall
3. RISK ASSESSMENT
3.1 General principles
3.2 Site hazards and constraints
4. EQUIPMENT
4.1 Selecting access equipment
4.2 Scaffolding and mobile tower systems.
4.3 Mobile elevated work platforms (MEWP) e.g. ‘Cherry pickers’
5. LADDERS
5.1 General
5.2 Ladder restraint systems with fall protection
5.3 Choosing suitable ladders
5.3.1 Ladder standards
5.3.2 Policy & documentation
5.3.3 Ladder lengths
5.3.4 Ladder identification
6. LADDER RESTRAINT EQUIPMENT
6.1. Securing the ladder
7. HEIGHT SAFETY EQUIPMENT
7.1 Work positioning equipment
7.2 Fall protection equipment
8. EQUIPMENT OVERVIEW
9. STORAGE, TRANSPORT & USE OF LADDERS
9.1 Storage
9.2 Transport
9.2.1 Transport on-site
9.3 Using ladders
9.3.1 General positioning
9.3.2 Overlap of extension ladders
9.4 Good practice
9.4.1 Tools and equipment
9.5 Checks, inspection and maintenance
9.5.1 Checking ladders
9.5.2 Periodic inspection and maintenance
9.5.3 Checking harnesses
10. APPENDICES
10.1 Ladder check sheet
10.2 Harness check sheet
10.3 Hazard identification & risk assessment
11. FURTHER READING LIST
12. DEFINITION OF TERMS USED
1. WORKING AT HEIGHT
The Regulations define ‘work at height’ as:
"work in any place, including a place at or belowground level or obtaining access to or egress fromsuch place while at work, except by a staircase ina permanent workplace where, if measuresrequired by the Regulations were not taken, aperson could fall a distance liable to causepersonal injury."
The Work at Height Regulations 2005.Regulation.2
(Full text at www.hse.gov.uk)
1.1 The Work at HeightRegulations 2005.
These regulations consolidate and replaceprevious legislation on working at height.They implement European Council Directive2001/45/EC concerning minimumrequirements for the use of equipment forwork at height (The Temporary Work atHeight Directive).
The regulations cover all industries and apply toall work at height where there is a risk of a fallresulting in personal injury. They place a dutyon employers, the self employed and; “anyperson that controls the work of others to theextent of their control.” This includes buildingowners and facilities mangers that may contractothers to work at height.
1.2 Summary of the Regulations
In essence, the regulations say that you must doall that is reasonably practicable to preventanyone falling. The emphasis is on thecontinuing and effective application of riskassessment, planning, management and control.
Duty holders must ensure that:
• All work at height is properly planned, organized, and supervised.
• Work is carried out in a manner which is, so far as is reasonably practicable, safe.
• Those involved in work at height are competent.
• Risks are assessed and appropriate work equipment selected and used.
• Objects are prevented from falling and where necessary, areas below are adequately protected or access restricted.
• Risks from fragile surfaces are properly controlled.
• Equipment for work at height is properly inspected and maintained.
• There is planning for emergencies and rescue.
1.3 Scope
“Working at height in the retrofit CWIindustry” is the latest in a series of guides tobest practice produced by CIGA. It is aimed atmanagement, supervisors, and techniciansworking in the CWI sector: including thedrillling, filling, and making-good processes.The guidelines represent best practice for theindustry.
The guide should be read in conjunction withladder and other equipment manufacturers’instructions and current legislation.
This guide is not exhaustive. Readers mustunderstand the principles and practicesdescribed in relation to any particularapplication, and where necessary, takeprofessional advice.
1.4 General principles
The traditional approach to working at height inthe CWI industry involves a variety of accessequipment. The general principles detailedwithin the guide are based on current bestpractice, which should be followed at all times.
When technicians install CWI they will normallybe working at height, with the attendant risk ofpersonal injury from falls e.g.:
• When using any access equipment.
• Working close to an edge, an opening or a fragile surface.
• Working at ground level near an opening in afloor or a hole in the ground.
• When entering or leaving a loft, or the vehicle.
• Being struck by falling objects.
Everyone involved in the planning andmanagement of the work should therefore beaware of the HSE hierarchy for working atheight and ensure that it is observed for every job.
2. WORK AT HEIGHT HEIRARCHY
2.1 Avoid the risk - by not working atheight
It is acknowledged that CWI cannot normally beinstalled other than by technicians working atheight. However, where it is reasonably practicalto carry out the work safely without working atheight, then you must do so.
2.2 Prevent falls – when working atheight is unavoidable
Assess the risks and take measures to preventpeople or objects from falling whilst the work isbeing undertaken. This might include carryingout the work safely from an existing place ofwork, or choosing the right work equipment toprevent falls.
Identify and assess the risks present. Thesemust be detailed in worksheets before the startof work.
2.3 Mitigate the consequences of a fall
If there is still a risk of people or objects falling,steps should be taken to minimise the distanceand consequences of such falls. This involvesboth the selection and use of work equipment,and stopping people not involved with the workfrom entering the hazardous area.
Provide suitable and sufficient risk assessments,instructions, and method statements. Ensurethe use of all safety equipment necessary toreduce the risk of falls.
3. RISK ASSESSMENT
3.1 General principles
Each job must be risk-assessed prior toinstallation.
Photographs should be taken to expand theinformation on the form.
After establishing the drilling pattern layout,including any extra holes, assess and definewhat access equipment is required for the site,using a hazard identification and riskassessment form.
A model hazard identification and riskassessment form is contained in Appendix 10.3
3.2 Site hazards and constraints
Before selecting equipment for working atheight, the site conditions and constraintsshould be taken into account, including:
• How the drilling, filling and making-good operations can be safely carried out.
• The environment and site conditions e.g. location, access/exit, climate, ground conditions, site activities.
• Complexity, duration and frequency of the task being performed.
• Number of people exposed to risk: their competence, supervision: e.g. technicians.
• Risks to those not directly involved e.g. householders, visitors.
• Consider the weight, shape and centre of gravity of the drill, filling pipe, mortar container and associated tools, and the possible effects of drill snatching/clutch failure.
• Assess the type and structural condition of the building, and in particular any loose brickwork, structures or rendering.
4. EQUIPMENT4.1 Selecting access equipment
Access equipment must comply with currentlegislation, be suitable for purpose and becompatible with other components.
The following considerations must be applied tothe choice of access equipment:
• Site access in terms of time constraints, deliveries, temporary storage, erection & dismantling, collection.
• Ground conditions re load bearing capacity for any portable plant requirements.
• Existing structures on site.
• Internal drilling.
• Edge protection requirements.
• Type and condition of flat and pitched roofs where access is required.
• Weight to be supported by access equipment.
• Overhead cables or power lines.
• Duration of project.
• Need for equipment security and maintenance.
• Methods for erecting & dismantling the accessequipment.
• Arrangements for security in respect of unauthorized access and the protection of ‘others.’
• Qualifications, training, supervision, and any special skills required to erect, use and dismantle access equipment.
4.2 Scaffolding and mobile tower systems.
When considering the use of scaffolding andmobile tower systems as a means of temporaryaccess for short duration work, the benefits thatthe systems can provide are weighed against:
• Logistical issues – the necessity for statutory inspections and re--inspection, as well as planning, lead times, availability, effects of adverse weather, delay and cancellation.
• Security issues - in particular those associatedwith unsupervised scaffolding and mobile towers e.g. out of working hours, when accessequipment can offer easy access to property or a dangerous playground for children.
• On-site constraints - location, access, varying ground conditions/levels, the customer's/neighbour's concerns, including obstruction.
• Time - for safe delivery, assembly, dismantlingand collection, together with the extra time that the equipment may present a hazard.
• Hazards and additional/residual risks - associated with the handling, erection, movement, dismantling and use, to scaffolders, technicians and members of the public.
• Scaffolding should not be erected within three metres of an overhead power line feeding houses, or within 15 metres of a highvoltage overhead line, unless the local electricity company confirms that it is safe to do so.
• Utilisation of scaffolding or access towers – the relatively short period of time for which access is required.
Scaffolding and mobile tower systems may offercollective protection against falls on site.However they take up to eight hours to erect anddismantle, and normally require severaloperatives, all exposed to risk.
Using ladder restraint systems with fallprotection typically calls for two CWI techniciansto attend site, and the job can be completed intwo hours.
Therefore, unless more complex buildingfeatures such as conservatories exist, then theuse of scaffold or tower systems may not be areasonably practicable alternative.
Nevertheless, where there is particular accessproblems highlighted by the hazardidentification and risk assessment process, accesstowers, or scaffolding platforms must be used, orthe job must not be done.
4.3 Mobile elevated work platforms(MEWP) e.g. ‘Cherry pickers’
Most domestic properties will not be closeenough to access routes for a MEWP to be areasonably practicable choice. However theymay offer the best option for multiple residencyand multi-floor situations.
They must only be operated by fully trained,qualified and competent personnel with theappropriate safeguards in place. They aresubject to inspection by a competent person.
5. LADDERS
The use of ladders has not been banned underthe Work at Height Regulations, but carefulconsideration must be given to the ways inwhich they are used. Ladders should only beconsidered when the use of other accessequipment has been discounted asinappropriate. When used, three points ofcontact must be maintained at all times.
5.1 General
Historically ladders have been the most commonaccess equipment used for undertaking the shortduration work associated with injected CWI.
During normal installation procedures, much ofthe installation work is undertaken at groundlevel (up to 1/3rd of the work for a house and2/3rd for a bungalow).
The choice and use of ladders must becontrolled, to prevent falls and to minimise thepotential risk for serious injury.
Most common accidents with ladders and theiraccessories result from the ladder beingimproperly used, poorly secured, or thetechnician over-reaching.
Installing firms must assess each job carefullyand use the most reasonably practicable meansof access, consistent with safety.
Unsecured and unrestrained ladders are notbanned for low risk, short duration work;however their use would be hard to defend formost CWI installations
To comply with regulations, where reasonablypracticable, secured ladders should be used.
5.2 Ladder restraint systems with fallprotection
Where the risk assessment indicates the use ofladders, it must only be as part of a CWI accesssystem, with compatible components,comprising:
• Correctly specified ladders.
• Ladder restraint equipment.
• Fall protection equipment.
The system must only be used by competenttechnicians who have undergone suitable andsufficient training.
The ladder restraint equipment (See page 6.1)includes a strapping system using expandingfixings to secure the ladder to the property.
The use of a stand off or grip wheels at the topof the ladder, and a levelling device at thebottom, ensures maximum stability.
The technician should be further protected bythe use of a fall restraint or a work positioningdevice. (See 7.1 and 7.2)
5.3 Choosing suitable ladders
It is important to choose the correct type ofladder for the work along with the correctspecification. Apart from putting technicians atrisk, the use of incorrect equipment mayinvalidate a firm’s insurance.
All employees involved in ladder selection, (aswell as ladder maintenance and use) must becompetent.
Suitable and sufficient information, instructionand training will be required.
Refresher and additional training may benecessary, especially where different equipmentis used, or the activities alter in any way.
Complete training records must be kept
5.3.1 Ladder standards
Ladders should be approved to British orEuropean Standards. The following standardscurrently apply:
• BS1129:1990 (British) Applies to timber ladders.
Stiles secured by ladderyoke system.
Stiles secured byadjustable strap system.
• BS2037:1994 (British) Applies to aluminium ladders.
• EN131 (European) Applies to both timber and aluminium ladders.
Within the British Standards there are now onlytwo classes of ladder. These are defined as Class1 and Class 3. Note that Class 3 ladders arenot suitable for injected CWI work.
The European Standard EN131 incorporates theearlier Class 2, light trade standard, which is nolonger used as a classification. EN131 alsospecifies a safe working load that exceeds theClass 3 Standard, but is below the British Class1 Standard.
An important aspect of ladder quality andstrength is the load rating, which is themaximum load that a ladder can safely support.The load ratings under the above standards are:
• Class 1 (Industrial) maximum static load is 175kg (27.5 stones).
• EN131 (European Standard) maximum static load is 150kg (23.5 stones).
• Class 3 (Domestic) maximum static load is 125kg (19.5 stones).
Ladders should always be colour coded (asabove) to make sure that the technician is awareof the standard of ladder that is being used.
Factors that need to be taken into account whenselecting the duty rating are as follows:
• The diversity of sites on which ladders are used.
• The potential weather conditions experienced.
• The repeated movement and placement of access equipment.
• The static loading (remembering that the combined weight of a technician and equipment could compromise the ladder’s duty rating.
5.3.2 Policy and documentation
Taking all the above factors into account eachfirm must clearly define and document theunderlying considerations underpinning itsladder selection policy. Particular reference
should be made to anticipated duty loadings.
5.3.3 Ladder lengths
Choosing the right length of ladder is just asimportant as its strength. A common andpotentially serious issue is purchasing a ladderthat is either too long or too short.
Taking into account that the typical height of ahouse to apex is 7 metres, the following isprovided as a guide for the purposes ofselection:
Ladders used for access to a separate workingplatform should be secured. They must extendabout 1m above the working platform to providea handhold for people getting on and off.
5.3.4 Ladder identification
Individual ladders must be identifiable to aidroutine inspection. Where doubles or triples areused, each extension should carry the sameidentifying mark to ensure compatible sectionsare always used together.
This information must be recorded in a ladderregister and used as part of the ladderinspection procedure.
Suitable identification methods include indeliblemarking or engraving, through to more complextagging arrangements.
2.72.7to
3.9
3.9to
5.1
5.1to
6.4
6.4to
7.6
7.6to
8.5
8.5to
9.0
Height to top support point (metres)
4.8 6.0 7.3 8.5 9.7 10.9 12.1
Length of extension ladder (metres)
6 LADDER RESTRAINTEQUIPMENT
6.1. Securing the ladder
An appropriate ladder is the basis of a CWIaccess system, but the ladder must be preventedfrom falling or slipping in any direction.
This can be achieved by the use of a suitablerestraint system to secure the stiles.
The system consists of adjustable fixings, whichare inserted into the existing CWI drill holes oralternatives.
When correctly installed the fixings providesecure attachment points for adjustable strapsand/or a ladder yoke.
Secure attachment points
Adjustable fixings
Adjustable strap restraints
Adjustable yoke restraint
Ladder yoke system
In many cases the ladders used for injectedcavity wall insulation will be more than threemetres long. Where possible, the security of aladder head should be enhanced, e.g. by the useof a stand off, or a specifically designedattachment, such as deformable grip wheels
The bottom of the stiles must rest upon suitablesecure footings, so that the rungs are horizontalto the wall.
Where the feet are unable to rest on level groundit is important to provide and use a suitableladder-levelling device. This should be properlyfixed to the ladder in accordance with themanufacturers’ specifications, and correctly used. Ladder feet must be levelled by appropriate
means, and suitable devices. Care should betaken not to use unsuitable materials andad-hoc items.
Once the webbing straps are properlytightened, the ladder is secured to theproperty.
Deformable grip wheels
7 HEIGHT SAFETY EQUIPMENT
Having secured the ladder, the technician mustbe prevented from falling a distance likely tocause injury, or protected from theconsequences of a fall. Both circumstancesrequire the wearing of a suitable body harness.
Height safety equipment must never be usedwith an unsecured ladder
7.1 Work positioning equipment
To mitigate or minimise the consequences of afall, the body harness is secured to the ladderusing a short strap. It has an auto-lockingkarabiner which the technician can snap ontothe rungs as the job progresses.
7.2 Fall protection equipment
Vertical fall protection is provided by attachingthe body harness to a self-locking, metal ropegrab – using an additional karabiner. The ropegrab is linked to a length of nylon rope, which isattached to the head of the ladder.
In the event of a slip, the rope grab locks ontothe vertical rope, keeping the fall distance (andthe snatch load) minimal.
Body harness attachment
Fall protection equipment
All accessories must be compatible with theladders in use and reference should be made tothe ladder manufacturer’s instructions toconfirm compatibility in all cases.
All systems must allow self-rescue after a fall.
8. EQUIPMENT OVERVIEW
• Ladders should be purchased or selected, based on suitability for the task, probable usage, wear and robustness. Domestic class ladders are not considered suitable.
• Management must ensure that the use of access equipment, and all related procedures,are supervised, monitored and the results recorded.
• Disciplinary procedures should be in place tomaintain technician compliance.
• All technicians must be suitably trained and competent. In certain cases it will be
necessary for technicians to have a qualification prior to using equipment.
• All access equipment must be fit for purpose.It should be regularly checked and properly maintained, in accordance with the manufacturer's/supplier's instructions.
• Technicians should carry out daily visual checks of all equipment, and refrain from using defective equipment.
• Damaged or defective equipment should be reported to management who should ensure that it is taken out of use.
• Records must be kept of inspection and maintenance activity.
• Access equipment, should be inspected in relation to its usage and conditions of use.
9. STORAGE, TRANSPORT & USEOF LADDERS
9.1 Storage
Ladders must be safely and securely stored whennot in use, particularly when held andtransported in the vehicle.
Always store ladders in a dry, covered area,protected from the elements and away fromextremes of temperature. Where possible,natural ventilation should be maintained.
When not on the vehicle, ladders storedvertically should be secured near to their headso that they cannot fall backwards. Never hanga ladder from its rungs when stored vertically orsolely by its upper stile when being storedhorizontally.
9.2 Transport
In most cases, ladders will be stored in thevehicle. They should be properly supported soas to avoid sagging and hogging.
Ladders should be tied to each point of supportto minimise rubbing and the effects of roadshock, which could lead to damage. Otherequipment should be carefully loaded in therear of the vehicle, to eliminate damage toladders whilst in transit.
Fall protectionequipment
9.2.1 Transport on-site
Whenever possible, ladders should be carriedhorizontally. The person carrying needs to beaware of the length of the ladder, particularlythe section behind.
Two people should carry long or heavy ladders.
Extreme care must be taken when walkingbeneath overhead services. You must alwaysassume that they are ‘electrically live’, unless itis confirmed otherwise by a competent thirdparty.
9.3 Using ladders
Depending upon which ladders are in use, eachinstalling firm must establish a safe procedurefor erecting the ladder in all circumstanceswhich technicians can reasonably be expected toencounter. General training in the siting and useof ladders will provide an informed approachshould unforeseen circumstances be faced.
9.3.1 General positioning
A ladder should be placed at an angle tominimise the risk of its slipping outwards(ideally about 75o to the horizontal, i.e. 1m outfrom the building for every 4m in height).
A ladder should not be placed where there is arisk of it being struck by a vehicle or a doorbeing opened, unless additional precautionshave been taken to minimise this risk.
The top of a ladder must be placed against asolid surface. It should not rest against anyfragile or deformable materials such as plasticgutters, fascias and sills, nor should it rest onfragile materials such as cast iron gutters. Asuitable stand off should be used.
Do not rest ladders against any cable boxes,cables or connections.
9.3.2 Overlap of extension ladders
Sections of extension ladders should overlap inline with the following:
Always ensure that the rung hooks are fullyengaged before carrying out any furthersecuring.
9.4 Good practice
Only one person should be on a ladder at anyone time. Ladders should never be extendedwhilst standing on the ladder and ladders mustnot be ‘bounced’ to achieve a different position.
Closed ladder Minimum runglength overlapUnder 5m 1.55m to 6m 2.5more than 6m 3.5
Technicians must:
• Keep their body facing the ladder at all times,with their centre of gravity between the stiles.
• Move the ladder to avoid overstretching, and re-secure it whenever necessary - however frustrating this may be.
• Keep both hands free to hold the ladder rungs whilst climbing or descending. If a tool has to be carried, consider using belt hooks or a holster. Alternatively, hoist the tool using a securely attached rope.
• Maintain three points of contact with the ladder, especially when drilling.
• Wear stout, heeled work shoes or boots, with rigid soles: make sure soles are clean and dry to provide a good grip.
Head protection should be worn, particularlywhen there is a risk of objects falling fromabove. Wearing gloves not only keeps handswarm but also assists in maintaining grip.
Technicians must not:
• Reach too far.
• Stand with one foot on the ladder with the other foot on another support.
• Use a ladder close (within a 2m radius) to anyun-insulated power lines unless these have been confirmed as ‘electrically dead’ or madesafe with insulation sheathing by a competentthird party.
9.4.1 Tools and equipment
When working from a ladder, whereverpracticable, pass the drill by hand or lift thedrill to the point of work using a light rope. Ifthis is not possible, extreme care must be takento ensure that the drill does not compromisesafe access.
Never lift or lower a drill by its power cable.
Some drill manufacturers have developedholsters for the carrying of drills on ladders;safety harness manufacturers offer lanyards.
Firms should evaluate the safe use andeffectiveness of these items.
9.5 Checks, inspection andmaintenance
The technician should check ladders andaccessories before use, to identify any potentialdefects in line with the following principles:
9.5.1 Checking laddersSee Appendix 10.1:
The ladder should be free from:
• Flaws and cracks.
• Missing, damaged, loose or bent rungs.
• Damaged or bent stiles.
• Sharp edges and dents.
• Excessive ‘creak’.
• Corrosion.
• Distortion and deformation.
Check ropes, pulleys and fittings for security andserviceability.
Accessories should also be checked inaccordance with the good practice outlinedabove.
Where ladders are removed from service owingto damage, they should be stored securely andmarked “Do not use,” or rendered unusable.
9.5.2 Periodic inspection andmaintenance
A competent person must inspect all ladders andaccessories quarterly. Records must bemaintained of all inspections and any itemfound to be defective must be removed from useimmediately.
In this context, a competent person must havethe theoretical knowledge and experience toexamine ladders, detect defects, and to judge theimplications of the defects.
Daily inspections must be supplemented by aregular formal documented ladder inspectionregime which includes the destruction ofdefective equipment, or its repair by competentpersons.
A ladder inspection sheet template may be foundat the back of this document, Appendix no 10.1
9.5.3 Checking harnesses
Each technician should be issued with their ownpersonal harness, which should be adjusted to fitthem properly. The harness must carry anidentifying mark or label (marker pens shouldnot be used on the webbing).
The harness must be clean and serviceable in allrespects, and must have a front chest "D ring"attachment.
New harnesses should be delivered with acertificate of conformity, a serial number anddate of manufacture. They should be subject tothorough, documented inspections before firstuse, and at subsequent three-monthly intervals.
Harnesses have a limited shelf life set by themanufacturer, and a maximum shelf life fromdate of first use - subject to inspections as detailedin Appendix 10.2
Prior to daily use, all harnesses must be checkedby the technician for:
• Missing or damaged parts.
• Loose stitching.
• Rubbing, wear or cuts.
• Fit, especially with regard to clothing worn indiffering weather conditions.
Daily inspections must be supplemented by theformal documented harness inspection regimedetailed above. Defective equipment must bedestroyed or repaired by competent persons.
A harness inspection sheet template may befound at the back of this document, Appendix10.2.
10. APPENDICES
10.1 Ladder check list
Remove and prevent use if any item fails
Company name, depot:
Ladder
Result
Identity number: Initials of checker: Date: Pass Fail
Yes No
Check feet are present. They should be slip resistant plastic or rubber
Check for damage, wear of feet
Make sure nothing is stuck to/in the feet preventing contact with the ground
Check the ladder is straight and not bent or twisted
Check that the rungs are clean with no grease, mud, dirt, or swarf.
Check there are no bent or cracked rungs
Check the rungs are not loose and are rigidly connected
Check there is no cracking where rungs connect to styles (uprights)
Check for signs of corrosion (metal ladders)
Check for signs of warping ( wooden ladders)
Make sure there are no sharp edges or dents
Make sure there is no paint which could obscure problems
Make sure there are no "ad-hoc" repairs.
Check for missing screws or rivets.
Check extension locks and connectors are in place and work.
Check that rung hooks are present, unbent and fitted correctly
Check that guides at the top are fitted correctly and unbent, so that the ladder slides smoothly.
Check for cracked or damaged welds
Ladder approved for use
Ladder sent for repair to (detail company)
Ladder removed from use and locked away
Ladder scrapped and disposed of.
Comments:
Repaired ladder returned on (date)
10.2 Harness check list
Rope & grabIdentity number Pass Fail Comments
General appearanceRope frayMetal fittingsMechanical operation Initials of checker Date
3 metre strapIdentity number Pass Fail Comments
General appearanceVisual inspection web & stitchingPhysical inspection web & stitchingCheck operation, slippage test Initials of checker Date
Ladder yokeIdentity number Pass Fail Comments
General appearanceVisual inspection web & stitchingPhysical inspection web & stitching Initials of checker Date
Cows tailIdentity number Pass Fail Comments
General appearanceEye loops, stitchingVisual inspection web & stitchingPhysical inspection web & stitchingGeneral appearanceOperationMechanical damageCorrosionPinLatch Initials of checker Date
Eyebolt 1Identity number Pass Fail Comments
General appearanceMale thread conditionMetal, rubber bond on elastomerAdapter tightHanger nut tightRe-assemble & check operation Initials of checker Date
Eyebolt 2Identity number Pass Fail Comments
General appearanceMale thread conditionMetal, rubber bond on elastomerAdapter tightHanger nut tightRe-assemble & check operation Initials of checker Date
HarnessIdentity number Pass Fail Comments
General appearanceMetal fittingsBuckles & fastningsRip stich intactVisual inspection web & stitchingPhysical inspection web & stitching Initials of checker Date
Karabiners
Company name, depotName of person this system is issued to
10.3 Hazard identification & risk assessment
MEWPSCAFFOLDTOWERLADDER/FALL RESTRAINTPPE-HEADSIGNAGE/EXCLUSION ZONESREGULAR TOOL CHECKSENFORCED WORK ROTATIONEXCLUSION ZONESPPE-EYE/HAND/EARSCUSTOMER ADVICEEXCLUSION ZONESWET &/or VACUUM CLEANINGPPE-MOUTH/NOSE. EYE110V TOOLSRCDs for 240VDAILY CHECKSPAT TESTINGHOUSEKEEPINGHOUSEKEEPINGEXCLUSION ZONESPATH BRIDGESWARNING SIGNAGETRAININGMECHANICAL ASSISTANCEMATERIAL PACK SIZESTEAM LIFTINGTRAININGSPILLAGE TEST (pre)SPILLAGE TEST (post)OFF ROAD PARKINGEXCLUSION ZONESBARRIERS & SIGNAGEPPE- BODY (hi-viz)USE OF HAND TOOLSPPE-HANDS.EYE.NOSE/MOUTH
MEWP/SCAFFOLD/TOWERACCESS SYSTEMINTERNAL DRILLINGBRUSH OFF AREAANGLED DRILLINGFALL RESTRAINT EQUIPMENTMEWP/SCAFFOLDMOBILE TOWERLADDER BASEMATE /STABILISERISOLATE/SHEATH SUPPLYDETECT CONCEALED SERVICESMOBILE TOWERACCESS SYSTEMBRUSH OFF AREADISMANTLE FENCENEIGHBOUR ACCESSMEWP/SCAFFOLDACCESS SYSTEMINTERNAL DRILLINGBRUSH OFF AREAANGLED DRILLINGMEWPS/SCAFFOLDACCESS SYSTEMINTERNAL DRILLINGBRUSH OFF AREAEDGE DEFINITIONRESTRAINT SYSTEMMEWP/SCAFFOLDACCESS SYSTEMINTERNAL DRILLINGBRUSH OFF AREAANGLED DRILLINGRESTRAINT SYSTEMCUSTOMER/NEIGHBOUR CONTROLSTOP WORK IF PRESENCE SUSPECTED
Generic Hazards
Specific site imposed hazards
Perceivedhazardsidentified
Surveyor �if hazardpresent
Tick �if to be used
Persons who maybe affected
Possibleresult oreffect
Control measuresto be considered Comments
Falls of persons,material,equipment.
HAV's, eyeinjury, hearingimpairment.
Respiratorydisease,eyeinjury.
Electrocution,burns, death.
Cuts, bruises,broken bones.
Musculo- skeletal injury.
Poisoning,death.
Impact, brokenbones,death.
Burns, skinsensitisation.
Work at height
Power tools-noise & vibration
Dust & fibreinhalation, eye injury
Electricity
Slips, trips & falls
Manual handling
Carbon monoxide
Vehicle movement
Cement & mortar
Conservatory, lean-to, verandah,(provide photographs)
Uneven, slopingground, steps
Electricity- overhead,concealedGarden features-fixed or imovable-(provide photographs)Flat extensionroof(provide photographs)
Flat garage roof(provide photographs)
Drill area aboveroof(providephotographs)
PetsAsbestos(fiborous)Other (define)Other (define)Other (define)
Over-reachingfalls throughglass, cuts,broken bones,death.
Equipmentinstability, falls.
Electrocution,burns, death.Over-reaching,falls, cuts, broken bones,death.
Over-reaching,falls, cuts, broken bones,death.
Over-reaching,stepping back,falls, cuts, broken bones,death.
Over-reaching,stepping back,falls, cuts, broken bones,death.
Bites, diseaseRespiratorydisease, death
Technicians,householders,public.
Technicians
Technicians,householders,public.
Technicians,householders,public.
Technicians,householders,public.
Technicians
Householder
Technicians,householders,public.
Technicians
Technicians
Technicians
Technicians
Technicians
Technicians
Technicians
Technicians
TechniciansTechnicians
11. FURTHER READING LIST & LINKS
General – Regulations and HSEguidance
The Work at Height Regulations 2005 (andHSE Operational Circular), SI 2005,No.735, www.opsi.gov.uk/SI/si2005/20050735.htm
indg401The Work at Height Regulations 2005 (asamended) A brief guide
L21Management of Health and Safety at WorkRegulations 1999. Approved Code ofPractice and guidance (Second edition) -HSE Books 2000 ISBN 0 7176 2488 9
L22Provision and Use of Work EquipmentRegulations 1998, Approved Code ofPractice and guidance (Second edition) -HSE Books, ISBN 0 7176 1626 6
L25Personal Equipment at Work Regulations1992 (as amended): Guidance onRegulations (Second edition) - HSE Books,ISBN 0 7176 0415 2
HSG 150 (rev3)Managing Health & Safety in ConstructionISBN 0 7176 61822
HSE Video“A Head for Heights” ISBN 0 7176 2217 7
Falls from height, inspection topic pack,www.hse.gov.uk/foi/internalops/fod/inspect/falls.pdf
“Height safe” - Absolutely essential healthand safety information for people who workat height.
indg163Five Steps to Risk Assessmentindg174 (rev)A short guide to the Personal ProtectiveEquipment at Work Regulations 1992
indg284Working on roofs
indg345Health and safety training: What you needto know.
indg367Inspecting fall arrest equipment made fromwebbing or rope,
indg395Avoiding falls from vehicles
HSG151Protecting the Public: “Your next move”
Mobile Elevated Work Platforms(MEWPs)
BS 8460:2005Safe use of MEWPs Code of Practice
MISC 614Preventing falls from boom-type MEWPs
IPAFInternational Powered Access Federation(www.ipaf.org)
Scaffolding:
BS EN 12811-1:2003Temporary Works Equipment: Scaffolds,Performance Requirements and GeneralDesign (supersedes BS 5973:1993 nowwithdrawn)
BS 2482:1981Scaffold Boards.
BS 5975:2008Code of practice for the procedural controlof temporary works and the permissiblestress design of falsework.
BS 1139-6:2005Metal Scaffolding -Part 6 : Specification forprefabricated tower scaffolds outside thescope of BS EN 1004, but utilizingcomponents from such systems.
BS EN 13374:2004Temporary edge protection systems –Product specification, test methods.
CIS 17Construction health and safety checklist.
CIS 47Inspections and reports
CIS 49General Access and Scaffolds andLadders
National Access & ScaffoldingConfederation (NASC) guidance:
TG 20:05Guide to good practice for scaffolding withtubes and fittings
TG20:08Scaffolding Guidance – (Publication mid2008)
SG4:05Preventing Falls in Scaffolding andFalsework
SG5:02Overhead Power Lines
SG23:03Safe system of work for birdcage scaffolds
Portable Access Towers:
BS EN 1004:2004Mobile Access and Working Towers - madeof prefabricated elements - Materials,dimensions, design loads, safety andperformance requirements
CIS 10 revTower ScaffoldsPASMAPrefabricated Access Suppliers andmanufacturers Association - OperatorsCode of Practice (www.pasma.org.uk)
Ladders
BS 1129:1990British Standard Specification for PortableTimber Ladders, Steps,Trestles andLightweight Stagings
BS 2037:1994Specification for Portable AluminiumLadders, Steps, Trestles and LightweightStagings
BS EN 131-1:1993Ladders Part 1: Specification for Terms,Types, Functional Sizes
BS EN 131-2:1993Ladders Part 2: Specification forRequirements, Testing, Marking.
indg402 Safe Use of Ladders and Stepladders
indg403A Toolbox Talk on Leaning Ladder andStepladder Safety
indg405Top Tips for Ladder Safety – Pocket guidecard
The Ladder Association - Ladder Usersguide www.ladders-blma.co.uk/
Fall Protection equipment
EN 361:2002PPE against falls from a height - Full BodyHarness.
EN 353-1:2002PPE against falls from a height - Guidedtype fall arresters including a rigid anchorline.
EN 353-2: 2002PPE against falls from height - Guidedtype fall arresters including a flexibleanchor line.
EN 354:2002PPE against Falls from a Height -Lanyards.
EN 355:2002PPE against falls from a height - Energyabsorbers.
EN 360:2002PPE against falls from a height -Retractable type fall arresters.
EN 362:2004PPE against falls from a height -Connectors (e.g. karabiner or hook)
EN 363:2002PPE against falls from a height - Fall arrestsystems.
EN 364:1993PPE against falls from a height - Testmethods.
EN 365:2004PPE against falls from a height - Generalrequirements for instructions for use,maintenance, periodic examination, repair,marking and packaging.
EN 795:1997Protection against falls from a height -Anchor devices - Requirements andtesting.
EN 1891:1998PPE for the prevention of falls from aheight - Low stretch kernmantel ropes.
BS 8437:2005 Code of practice for selection, use andmaintenance of personal fall protectionsystems and equipment for use in theworkplace.
BS 8454:2006Code of practice for the delivery of trainingand education for work at height andrescue.
Further useful HSE guidance:
L23Manual Handling Operations Regulations1992 (as amended). Guidance onRegulations (Third edition) - HSE Books,ISBN 0 7176 2823 X
L24Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare)Regulations 1992. Approved Code ofPractice - HSE Books, ISBN 0 7176 0413 6
L73A guide to the Reporting of Injuries,Diseases and Dangerous OccurrencesRegulations 1995 (Second edition) - HSEBooks, ISBN 0 7176 2431 5
L144Managing Health and Safety inConstruction the CDM Regulations 2007the Approved Code of Practice - HSEBooks ISBN 978 0 7176 6223 4.
Indg259(rev)An introduction to health and safety: Healthand safety in small businesses, HSEBooks 2003 (single copy free) Webversion:www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg259.pdf
indg143 (rev2)Getting to Grips with Manual Handling
12. DEFINITIONS OF TERMS USED
In putting this Guide together, we havetried to use easily-understood terms andeveryday language. However, some termshave quite specific meanings in the contextof Health & Safety regulations and otherstatutory requirements.
Since there could be legal implications forinstalling companies, it may be useful todefine some of the terms, and the wordsused.
Agreed levels of Statutory Duty undercriminal law as written:
• Absolute duty – denoted by the use of words such as “shall” and “must.”
• Practicable – technically or scientificallyfeasible.
• Reasonably practicable – a balance ofcost against risk.
The term “reasonably practicable,” meansthat the degree of risk in a particularsituation can be balanced against the time,trouble, cost, and physical difficulty oftaking measures to avoid the risk. If theseresources are so disproportionate to therisk that it would be unreasonable toexpect any employer to have to incur themto prevent it, the employer is not obliged todo so, unless there is a specificrequirement that he does.
A “fall arrest system,” is a personal fallprotection system that uses a harnessconnected to a reliable anchor to arrestand restrict a fall, so as to prevent thecollision of the user with the ground orstructures, whilst limiting the forces on thebody.
A “work restraint system,” is a personal fallprotection system that uses a body holdingdevice connected to a reliable anchor, toprevent a person reaching zones wherethe risk of a fall exists.
“Personal fall protection” is a collectiveterm to describe systems that can preventor arrest falls.
NOTES
This guide is published by the Cavity Insulation Guarantee Agency (CIGA), as a contribution to bestpractice in cavity wall insulation. Whilst every care has been taken in its preparation, CIGA and itsauthors specifically exclude any liability for errors and omissions or otherwise arising from thecontents of this guide. Readers must understand the principles and practices described in relation toany particular application and, where necessary, take professional advice.
© . . .All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means electronic,mechanical recording or otherwise without the prior written permission of the copyright holder.
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