2365-02 diploma in electrical installations buildings and ... · 2365-02 diploma in electrical...

2365-02

Diploma in Electrical Installations

(Buildings and Structures)

Unit 201 Workbook

PRE-ATTENDANCE REVISION V1

Welcome

This booklet is designed to outline the areas that you will study when you complete unit 201 at the centre.

Throughout your time in centre you will have a qualified assessor there to help and advise you.

We want you to achieve the best possible benefits from your time in centre, therefore before attending we would like you to revise by carrying out the work detailed in this booklet. Studying this workbook will ensure that you are properly prepared before attending centre and therefore help you achieve the best possible results from your time in centre.

Please remember that you should not carry out any electrical practical work unless you are in class with one of our qualified assessors.

We very much look forward to welcoming you at the centre.

SmartScreen Level 2 Diploma in Electrical Installations (Buildings and Structures) Unit 201 Handout 2

© 2015 City and Guilds of London Institute. All rights reserved. www.SmartScreen.co.uk

201: Health and safety in building services engineering Handout 2: Hazardous situations and safe systems at work

Learning outcome The learner will: 2. know how to handle hazardous situations.

Assessment criteria The learner can: 2.1. identify common hazardous situations found on site 2.2. describe safe systems at work.

Range • Hazardous situations: Trailing leads, slippery or uneven surfaces, presence of dust

and fumes, handling and transporting equipment or materials, contaminants and irritants,fire, working at heights, malfunctioning equipment, improper use and storage of toolsand equipment, potential presence of asbestos.

• Safe systems at work: Method statements, permit to work systems, risk assessments,safety signs and notices.

Hazardous situations and safe systems at work

Hazardous situations When working in the building services industry, you will encounter many potentially hazardous situations, all of which can cause you (or others) harm if not dealt with appropriately. Some examples of hazardous situations are given below.

• Trailing leads: In most environments, portable electrical equipment will be usedextensively and the leads for this equipment will generally trail across the floor. Thesetrailing leads are obviously a trip hazard and care must be taken when moving about inareas where they can be found. Furthermore, you must ensure that any trailing leadsthat you use do not, as far as reasonably practicable, present a trip hazard to others.Additionally, trailing leads, if damaged, can result in a risk of electric shock so care mustbe taken to ensure that they are not subject to damage.

• Slippery or uneven surfaces: Falls are a common safety hazard at work, often due touneven flooring, torn carpet, spills on uncarpeted surfaces and waxed floors. Falls areone of the main reasons for employee compensation filings. In order to prevent falls inyour workplace, make sure that all flooring is kept in good repair; mop up spillsimmediately and place signs on freshly washed or waxed floors.

• Presence of dust and fumes: In many work environments there may be dust or fumespresent in the atmosphere, as a result of the processes being carried out. For example,working in a flour or saw mill means that there is the potential for airborne dust. This canat best be annoying, causing coughing and throat irritation but some airborne particlescan have much more serious consequences if breathed in. The hazards of breathing inMDF dust when it is being cut is obvious since MDF (Medium Density Fibreboard) usesresins to bond the wood fibres together which are thought to be carcinogenic (causing



cancer). Also, the risks from asbestos are now widely advertised and will be dealt with separately in this course. Something that not many people know is the fact that fine dust in suspension in the air can be extremely explosive if ignited. Flour mills are classified as explosive atmospheres and, as electricians, we must ensure that the electrical equipment we install is ‘intrinsically safe’, ie no spark or ignition, whether caused during normal use or under fault conditions, can ignite the explosive atmosphere outside the enclosure. Fumes from processes can also be extremely hazardous, particularly when materials are heated and burnt. The age-old practice of burning off PVC insulation from cables to increase the return on scrap cable should be avoided, as burning PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) produces dioxins that have been considered highly toxic and able to cause reproductive and developmental problems, to damage the immune system, to interfere with hormones and also to cause cancer.

• Handling and transporting equipment or materials: Many injuries happen whenhandling or transporting equipment or materials on site which are quite often heavy and/or awkwardly shaped. Do not try to lift items that are beyond your capability and, even if they are within your lifting capability, consider its location or situation. If you have to stretch in order to lift the item you could cause serious injury that could be life-changing. For example, if you sustain a back injury you are likely to suffer with that problem for the rest of your life. Ensure that you always use recognised lifting techniques, get help when necessary and use lifting aids where possible. Also, be mindful of injuries that could result from the items dropping on your feet, for example, and remember that some items may have sharp edges that could damage your hands.

• Contaminants and irritants: A type of atmospheric hazard that causes inflammation orirritation to the eyes, skin or respiratory system. Chemical gases are a type of irritant. There are many forms, which are too numerous to include here. You should be aware of whether they occur in an area you are going to work from appropriate signage and risk assessments, and take the appropriate steps.

• Fire: For fire to occur there must be a source of ignition, fuel and oxygen. If all three arepresent and in close proximity then the fire risk could increase as a result. Potential sources of ignition could include:

o naked flames, eg smokers’ materials, matches, pilot lights, gas/oil heaters, gaswelding, cookers, etc

o hot surfaces, eg heaters, engines, boilers, machinery, lighting (such as halogenlamps), electrical equipment, etc

o hot work, eg welding, grinding, flame cuttingo friction, eg drive belts, worn bearings, etco sparks, eg static electricity, metal impact, grinding, electrical contacts/switches,

etc o arson, eg deliberate ignition.

Potential sources of fuel (anything that burns is a potential fuel) examples include: o solids, eg textiles, wood, paper, card, plastics, rubber, PU foam, furniture,

fixtures/fittings, packaging, waste materials, etc o liquids, eg solvents (petrol, white spirit, methylated spirits, paraffin, thinners, etc),

paints, varnish, adhesives, etc o gases, eg LPG, acetylene.

Your risk assessment should list the potential sources of ignition and fuels that are present in your premises.



• Working at heights: The greatest proportion of accidents occurring on constructionsites are a result of falls from height, including the obvious falling from ladders, towers and buildings. However, serious injuries can also be sustained by falling from much lower heights, including falls from hop-ups and step ladders. The Work at Height Regulations 2005 was introduced to reduce the risk of injury from falls.

• Malfunctioning equipment: This is a source of workplace safety hazards that cancause massive amounts of harm in a short period of time. From simple shredders to forklifts and poorly constructed scaffolding, all employees should be properly trained on how to operate the equipment they use, as well as request repairs as soon as they are needed.

• Improper use and storage of tools and equipment: This can lead to injuries to thoseusing the tools or to those nearby. The following simple rules will avoid this:

o use tools for their intended purposeo clean the tools immediately after using themo keep tools in their proper placeso always cover sharp pointed tools with cork or similaro be sure tools are in good working condition before using themo handle and use tools property.

• Potential presence of asbestos: Asbestos is responsible for over 4,500 deaths everyyear. Asbestos was a widely used material within commercial buildings, homes and machinery until 1999, when it was banned. This means that asbestos is common in the general environment and you are likely to encounter it on a regular basis during your work in the building services industry. This topic will be dealt with in much greater detail later in the course.

Safe systems at work

Method statements The purpose of a method statement is to ensure that safety-critical work is carried out in a particular sequence. There are few examples where their definitive requirements are laid down by statute or other regulatory standard and, where they do exist, they are predominantly for high-risk activities, such as licensed asbestos removal, demolition and steel erection. In these cases, not only is a method statement a legal requirement, but also its structure and format are clearly defined.

The general principle is to ensure that a safe system of work applies to all work activities and, as such, a method statement is an ideal way to prove that the risks associated with a particular activity have been carefully considered and appropriate controls implemented.

Format The actual format is dependent on the work being undertaken and the organisational arrangements put in place; however, as a minimum it must achieve the following objectives. • It should be up to date, identifiable and its source accountable.• It should contain the sequence of works.• It should identify the associated risks and control measures.• It should state actions/authorisation required to deviate from method statement.

Below is an example method statement for relatively low-risk activities. It can be as simple or as detailed as the job/risk requires, so long as it meets the four main objectives.



Method statement Originator: Mr D Jones Position: Contracts Director Date: 15/08/2012 This method statement is critical to the health and safety of the activity(ies) it relates to. It is to be strictly adhered to. Any deviation must first be authorised by the Site Supervisor. Planned Task/Activity Description: Modifying/extending/relocating existing lighting circuits and points (single core cables in trunking and conduit) Location and Access: (attached plan as appropriate) Main office area Working Environment & Restrictions: Open plan office. Only Electrical Contractors allowed to be present during operation. Existing sections of ceiling will be removed by others. Protection of others: Work undertaken out of hours. Only contractors and client representative present. Emergency Procedures: Normal site emergency procedures followed Operatives/Competence: C&G Qualified Electricians Personal Protective Equipment: Safety footwear, gloves, goggles Plant & Equipment: Steps, cordless drill Materials Handling/Storage & Safety Information: All material in manageable individual lengths Critical Stages: (must be undertaken in correct sequence) 1. On arrival, site contact made and site induction undertaken2. Work area cleared for safe access3. Final circuit arrangements will be determined as indicated on the installation drawings4. Obtain permit to work5. Circuits to be modified will be identified, isolated from the electrical supply by the turning off

and locking the relevant circuit protective devices and fuses removed, danger label fitted and circuit verified dead.

6. Existing luminaires will be unplugged and removed to allow access to ceiling roses asrequired

7. Ceiling roses will be disconnected and removed8. All wiring contained within the conduits will be pulled back to the nearest convenient point

and left neatly coiled 9. The existing conduit/trunking installation will be amended to suit the new layout as

indicated on the installation drawings 10. When the amended conduit installation is complete the cables will be drawn back in11. Circuits will be rewired/amended as necessary to suit the new layout12. The complete circuit will be tested in accordance with B.S.7671 17th Edition I.E.T. Wiring

Regulations prior to connection 13. Accessories/equipment will be second fixed. Luminaires will be replaced and repositioned/new

luminaires will be installed 14. When all accessories are fitted and it is safe to do so the circuits will be re-energised and

danger label removed 15. Final live tests will be carried out16. Site will be cleared and equipment replaced17. Site contact notified of work finished

18. Cancel permit to work

Final Clearance: (Work/Activity completed to satisfaction).

Name: Position: Date:



Permit to work systems Instructions or procedures are adequate for most work activities, but some require extra care. A permit to work is a more formal system stating exactly what work is to be carried out and when, and which parts are safe. A responsible person should assess the work and check safety at each stage. The people doing the job sign the permit to show that they understand the risks and precautions necessary.

Permits are effectively a means of communication between site management, plant supervisors and operators, and those who carry out the work. Examples of high-risk jobs where a written permit to work procedure may need to be used include hot work, such as welding, vessel entry, cutting into pipe work carrying hazardous substances, and work that requires electrical or mechanical isolation. It is also a means of coordinating different work activities to avoid conflicts.

It should be emphasised, though, that a permit to work is not a replacement for robust risk assessment, but it can help bring the risk assessment ‘to life’ at the sharp end, where it matters.

Risk assessments As already mentioned earlier, all workplaces will have hazards that have the potential to cause harm. Some of the hazards will carry a high risk of causing harm, whilst others will have a low risk. We need to carry out risk assessments to determine the hazards and their likelihood to cause harm, and then implement steps to control the risk.

In order to control the risk of an accident we usually: • eliminate the cause• substitute a procedure or product with a less risky one• enclose the dangerous situation• put guards around the hazard• use safe systems of work• supervise, train and give information to staff• provide PPE if the hazard cannot be removed or minimised.

Hazard and risk A hazard is something with the ‘potential’ to cause harm, eg chemicals, electricity or working above ground.

A risk is the ‘likelihood’ of harm actually being done.

Competent persons are often referred to in the Health and Safety at Work Regulations, but who is ‘competent’? For the purposes of the Act, a competent person is anyone who has the necessary technical skills, training and expertise to carry out the particular activity safely. Therefore, a competent person dealing with a hazardous situation reduces the risk.

Think about your workplace and at each stage of what you do – and think about what might go wrong.

How high are the risks? Think about what might be the worst result. • Is it a broken finger or someone suffering permanent lung damage or being killed?• How likely is it to happen?• How often is that type of work carried out and how close do people get to the hazard?



• How likely is it that something will go wrong?• How many people might be injured if things go wrong?• If so, would this also include people who do not work for your company?

Employers of more than five people must document the risks at work and the process is known as Hazard Risk Assessment.

Hazard Risk Assessment – the process The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 tells us that employers must systematically examine the workplace, the work activity and the management of safety in the establishment through a process of risk assessments. A record of all significant risk assessment findings must be kept in a safe place and be made available to an HSE Inspector if required.

Information based on the risk assessment findings must be communicated to the relevant staff and if changes in work behaviour patterns are recommended in the interests of safety then they must be put in place.

So risk assessment must form a part of any employer’s robust policy of health and safety. However, an employer only needs to ‘formally’ assess the significant risks; he is not expected to assess the trivial and minor types of household risks.

Staff are expected to read and to act upon these formal risk assessments and they are unlikely to do so enthusiastically if the file is full of trivia. An assessment of risk is nothing more than a careful examination of what, in your work, could cause harm to people. It is a record that shows whether sufficient precautions have been taken to prevent harm.

The HSE recommends five steps to any risk assessment.

• Step 1 – Identify the hazards. Firstly, work out how people could be harmed. Whenworking in a place every day, it is easy to overlook some hazards, so here are some tips to help to identify the ones that matter.

o Walk around the workplace and look at what could reasonably be expected tocause harm.

o Ask employees or their representatives what they think; they may have noticedthings that are not immediately obvious.

o Visit the HSE website (www.hse.gov.uk). HSE publishes practical guidance onwhere hazards occur and how to control them.

o If you are a member of a trade association then contact them, as many producevery helpful guidance.

o Check manufacturers’ instructions or data sheets for chemicals and equipment,as they can be very helpful in spelling out the hazards and putting them in their true perspective.

o Have a look back at your accident and ill-health records; these often help toidentify the less obvious hazards.

o Remember to think about long-term hazards to health (eg high levels of noise orexposure to harmful substances) as well as safety hazards.



• Step 2 – Decide who might be harmed and how. For each hazard, be clear about whomight be harmed; it will help to identify the best way of managing the risk. That doesn’t mean listing everyone by name but rather identifying groups of people (eg ‘people working in the storeroom’ or ‘passers-by’).

In each case, identify how they might be harmed, ie what type of injury or ill health might occur. For example: ‘Shelf stackers may suffer back injury from repeated lifting of boxes.’

Don’t forget the following:

o some workers have particular requirements, eg new and young workers, new orexpectant mothers and people with disabilities may be at particular risk and therefore extra thought will be needed for some hazards

o cleaners, visitors, contractors, maintenance workers, etc who may not be in theworkplace all the time

o members of the public, if they could be hurt by your activitieso if you share your workplace, you will need to think about how your work affects

others present, as well as how their work affects your staff – talk to them o ask the staff if they can think of anyone you may have missed.

• Step 3 – Evaluate the risks and decide on precautions. Having spotted the hazardsthe next step is to decide what to do about them. The law requires that everything ‘reasonably practicable’ to protect people from harm is implemented. The easiest way is to compare what is being done with good practice.

There are many sources of good practice, such as HSE’s website (www.hse.gov.uk).

First of all, look at what you’re already doing and then think about what controls are in place and how the work is organised. Then compare this with good practice and see if there is more that should be done to bring the situation up to standard. In asking these questions, consider:

o can the hazard be eliminated altogether?o if not, how can the risks be controlled so that harm is unlikely?

When controlling risks, apply the principles below, if possible in the following order:

o try a less risky option (eg switch to using a less hazardous chemical)o prevent access to the hazard (eg by guarding)o organise work to reduce exposure to the hazard (eg put barriers between

pedestrians and traffic) o issue personal protective equipment (eg clothing, footwear, goggles, etc)o provide welfare facilities (eg first aid and washing facilities for removal of

contamination).

Improving health and safety need not cost a lot. For instance, placing a mirror on a dangerous blind corner to help to prevent vehicle accidents is a low-cost precaution, considering the risks. Failure to take simple precautions can cost a lot more if an accident does happen.

Involve staff, so that what is proposed will work in practice and won’t introduce any new hazards.



• Step 4 – Record your findings and implement them. Putting the results of the riskassessment into practice will make a difference when looking after people and the business.

Writing down the results of the risk assessment, and sharing them with staff, encourages this. If a business has fewer than five employees then it is not necessary to write anything down, though it is useful so that reviews can be carried out at a later date if, for example, something changes.

When writing down your results, keep it simple; for example, ‘Tripping over rubbish: bins provided, staff instructed, weekly housekeeping checks’ or ‘Fumes from welding: local exhaust ventilation used and regularly checked.’

The HSE does do not expect a risk assessment to be perfect, but it must be suitable and sufficient. It must be shown that:

o a proper check was madeo you asked who might be affectedo all the significant hazards were dealt with, taking into account the number of

people who could be involved o the precautions are reasonable, and the remaining risk is lowo staff or their representatives were involved in the process.

There is a template on the following page that can be used when conducting a risk assessment.

• Step 5 – Review your risk assessment and update if necessary. Few workplacesstay the same. Sooner or later, new equipment will be brought in, as well as substances and procedures that could lead to new hazards. It makes sense, therefore, to review what is being done on an ongoing basis. Every year or so formally review the situation to make sure that improvements are still being made or at least that things are not sliding back.

Look at the risk assessment again. Have there been any changes? Are there improvements that still need to be made? Have the workers spotted a problem? Have lessons been learnt from accidents or near misses? Make sure the risk assessment stays up to date.

When you are running a business, it’s all too easy to forget about reviewing your risk assessments on a regular basis.



Company name: Date of risk assessment: Step 1 What are the hazards?

Step 2 Who might be harmed and how?

Step 3 What are you already doing?

What further action is necessary

Step 4 How will you put the assessment into action?

Spot hazards by: • walking around your workplace• asking your employees what they

think • visiting the Your industry areas of

the HSE website • checking manufacturers’

instructions • contacting your trade

association. Don’t forget long-term health hazards.

Identify groups of people. Remember: • some workers have particular

needs • people who may not be in the

workplace all the time • members of the public• if you share your workplace think

about how your work affects others present.

Say how the hazard could cause harm.

List what is already in place to reduce the likelihood of harm or to make any harm less serious.

You need to make sure that you have reduced risks ‘so far as is reasonably practicable’. An easy way of doing this is to compare what you are already doing with good practice. If there is a difference, list what needs to be done.

Remember to prioritise. Deal with those hazards that are high-risk and have serious consequences first.

Action by whom

Action by when Done

___________________ ___________________ ___________________ ___________________ _____ _____ _____ ___________________ ___________________ ___________________ ___________________ _____ _____ _____ ___________________ ___________________ ___________________ ___________________ _____ _____ _____ ___________________ ___________________ ___________________ ___________________ _____ _____ _____ ___________________ ___________________ ___________________ ___________________ _____ _____ _____ ___________________ ___________________ ___________________ ___________________ _____ _____ _____ ___________________ ___________________ ___________________ ___________________ _____ _____ _____ ___________________ ___________________ ___________________ ___________________ _____ _____ _____ ___________________ ___________________ ___________________ ___________________ _____ _____ _____ ___________________ ___________________ ___________________ ___________________ _____ _____ _____

Step 5 Review date: • Review your assessment to make sure you are still improving, or at least not sliding back.• If there is a significant change in your workplace, remember to check your risk assessment

and, where necessary, amend it.

SmartScreen Level 2 Diploma in Electrical Installations (Buildings and Structures) Unit 201 Handout 3a


201: Health and safety in building services engineering Handout 3a: Manual handling

Learning outcome The learner will: 2. know how to handle hazardous situations.

Assessment criteria The learner can: 2.11. identify the procedures for manually handling heavy and bulky items.

Range • Procedures for manually handling: Single, two-person lift, mechanical lift.

Manual handling All building work involves lifting and manual handling to some extent and millions of working days are lost each year through injuries caused by incorrect lifting. A large percentage of all accidents in the construction industry each year involves injuries sustained while manually lifting and handling materials or equipment.

• Often manual handling and lifting can cause immediate pain and injury; this type of injuryis called acute injury.

• Sometimes the result of an injury can take weeks, months or even years to develop;these types of injuries are called chronic injuries.

The most common injuries are: • torn ligaments and tendons• hernias• slipped discs• sprains to muscles and joints.

The Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 This is specific legislation that controls manual handling and lifting. These regulations require employers to reduce the risks from manual handling by: • avoiding it if possible• where it cannot be avoided, automating or mechanising the lifting process as much as

possible to reduce risk of injury.

Employers assessing the risk of injury from manual handling must consider: • load• working environment• employee• task.



The Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 also require all employees to adopt the safe working practices set by the employer. Here are some points for you to consider before attempting any lifting or handling operation: • be aware of your own strength and limitations• decide if it is a one-man operation or whether you require help• always use mechanical equipment or aids, if available• be sure of the weight of the item before lifting• wear gloves to protect your hands• wear safety boots to protect your feet• check that the area is clear and safe to carry out lifting.

Before you attempt any lifting or handling operation, you should select and use appropriate personal protective equipment for handling different materials. Here is a selection of safety clothing and equipment that you may require. • Footwear: safety footwear with reinforced toe caps and soles should always be worn in

the workplace. • Eye protection: although extraction systems minimise the risk of flying chips and so on,

it is strongly advised that eye protection be provided to operatives at risk. • Respirators: these should be used when moving fine materials to protect from dust.• Safety helmets: these should be worn when working in compounds or storage areas

where materials are stacked, for protection from falling objects. • Industrial gloves: for protection when handling rough materials such as concrete and

steel. • Protective clothing: such as a strong pair of overalls or a dust coat.

Handling techniques In order to avoid injury, the following principles should be followed.

Plan the lift • Know where the load is going to be placed.• Plan the route – remove any obstacles and discard any

wrapping materials. • Place the feet correctly: feet apart, giving a balanced

and stable base for lifting, with leading leg as far forward as is comfortable.

Lifting • Crouch down in front of the object with feet apart and

one foot alongside the object in front of the other. • Hold the load as close to your body as possible.• Keep the back straight at all times – let the leg muscles

do the work. • Push off with rear foot and move off in one smooth

movement.



Carrying • Keep your arms close to the body. • Take a good hold of the object: grip with

the palms and the roots of the fingers. • Avoid twisting or leaning, as this will

strain your back. Turn by moving your feet, not your body. • Avoid pinching fingers when releasing

the object. • Hold the load so that a clear view ahead

is possible. • Put the load down carefully. If necessary,

adjust the position after the load has been put down.

Carrying loads on the back Keep your back straight by raising the top of the head slightly and by tucking in the chin.

Two-person lift Awkwardly shaped and very heavy objects should be moved or carried only with the help of other workmates. Appoint a team leader and obey their instructions. The same rules should be obeyed and the effort of each person should be the same.



Lifting gear There are numerous items of small lifting equipment available to assist with handling materials on site and the workshop. These range from the small brick lifts, slings, barrows and dumpers through to mechanical forklift trucks. Only use this equipment if you are qualified to do so.

Many materials are delivered to the site on lorries equipped with mechanical off-loaders. Once offloaded, it is the builder’s responsibility to move the materials to a secure place until required for use.

Barrows are the most common form of equipment for moving materials on site.

A pallet truck can be used on hard areas for moving heavy loads.

A sack truck can be used for moving bagged materials and paving slabs.

A hod can be used for moving bricks on to higher levels such as scaffolds.



Rollers used to move heavy loads

Heavy loads that are impossible to move by lifting can sometimes be moved on rollers; short scaffold poles are ideal for this purpose.

• When heavy items are delivered to the site, they should be unloaded on to timberbearers to allow them to be moved easily when required.

• In order to move them at a later date, the front end should be lifted up and a steel tubeplaced under. The rear end is then lifted and another steel tube placed under the load.

• The load is then gently pushed forward by your helpers. As the object moves forward,another roller should be ready to place under the front end of the load and the one freed at the rear should then be brought to the front.

• The steel tubes can be slanted slightly to alter the direction of travel.• This sequence should continue until the load is where it is required.

SmartScreen Level 2 Diploma in Electrical Installations (Buildings and Structures) Unit 201 Handout 3b


201: Health and safety in building services engineering Handout 3b: Access equipment

Learning outcome The learner will: 5. know the safety requirements for using access equipment in the building services

industry.

Assessment criteria The learner can: 5.1 identify different types of access equipment 5.2 select suitable equipment for carrying out work at heights based on the work being

carried out 5.3 describe the safety checks to be carried out on access equipment 5.4 describe safe erection methods for access equipment.

Range • Types of access equipment: Step ladders, ladders, roof ladders and crawling boards,

mobile tower scaffolds, podiums fixed scaffolds and edge protection, mobile elevated work platforms including scissor lifts and cherry pickers, telescopic ladders.

• Work being carried out: Duration at work, action points for heights.• Safety checks: Visual, tagging, fit for purpose, secure level ground.• Access equipment: Step ladders, ladders, roof ladders, mobile tower scaffolds,

podiums, telescopic ladders.

Access equipment Most construction work is carried out above ground level. Work that is carried out at heights of up to 1.5m can be done without using ladders; for work above this height the use of ladders and scaffolds will be required.

Ladders Ladders are used to gain access to scaffolds or light work at high levels. They can be made from either timber or aluminium and are available in various lengths depending on the requirements of the job you are doing.

Pole ladders • Used to access scaffolds.• Can be up to 12m in length.



Extension ladders Extension – or multi-section – ladders are split into sections which can be extended to reach the required height.

Step ladders These are used mainly for indoor work but can also be used outside, as long as they are standing on a firm base.

Roof ladders • For use on sloped roofs. • Must be accessed from a scaffold, not a ladder. • Hooked end prevents the ladder slipping down the roof.

Using ladders safely • Should be inspected before every use (see

below). • Ladders must only be used on firm, hard

ground. • Never try to raise an extended ladder –

extension ladders must be raised one section at a time.

• Don’t raise a heavy ladder on your own – two people should raise and lower ladders.

• Ladders should stand at an angle of 75° for safe use – ratio of 1:4 (1 out for every 4 up).

• Ladders longer than 3m must be secured, preferably at the top, or – if this is not possible – at the bottom. If neither way is possible, someone must ‘foot’ the ladder by standing with one foot on the bottom rung and the other placed firmly on the ground to prevent the ladder slipping outwards or falling sideways.

• Ladders should extend at least 5 rungs (or 1.07m) above the landing platform.

• When moving ladders more than a few metres, they should be lowered and carried on the shoulders by two people – one on either end.

• Never overreach when working on a ladder.



Pre-use checks: does the ladder/step ladder have any of the following? • missing, damaged or worn anti-slip feet on metal and fibreglass ladders/step ladders

(essential for a good grip) • items stuck in or adhered to the feet, such as stones, grease, dirt or other debris,

preventing the feet from making direct contact with the ground • mud, grease, oil or wet paint either on the rungs, stiles, steps or platform • cracks, splits, bends or warps in the rungs, stiles, steps or platform • missing, broken or weakened rungs or steps • missing or damaged tie rods • cracked or damaged welds, missing or loose screws or rivets, corrosion, sharp edges,

dents • painted surfaces*.

* Ladders/stepladders should never be painted, as this could hide dangerous defects from view. Wooden ladders/stepladders can be protected with a clear, non-slip varnish or transparent rot-proofing product.

If the answer to any of these is ‘Yes’ then the ladder/stepladder should be taken out of use.

Scaffold There are two kinds of tower scaffolds: • static – stationary; it remains in one place and cannot be

moved • mobile – can be moved to a different locations when needed. Both kinds of tower scaffold can be either: • tailor-made – made for a particular job and constructed in situ

(in the original place) • proprietary – made by a manufacturer with standard sections

which fit together.

Scaffold requirements • Tubes must be straight. • Tubes and fittings must be undamaged and free from corrosion. • The ground on which the scaffold is placed must be firm and even. • Base plates must be used. Adjustable base plates can be used on ground which has

different levels. • Sole plates must be used to provide even weight distribution if the tower is to be used on

soft ground. • Foot ties or plan bracing must be fitted as low as possible. • Working platforms must be close boarded. • Overhang boards must not exceed four times the thickness of the boards and must not

be less than 50mm past the support. • Working platforms higher than 2m must have toe boards fitted at least 150mm high and

guard rails between 920mm and 1,150mm high.



Podiums Podium steps are much better than step ladders; they offer trouble-free and secure access to ceilings and walls, and reduce the odds of falling from just a metre.

Telescopic ladders One version is just 780mm when closed but stretching to 3.3m when extended. This ladder will fit easily in the boot of the car. It is also very portable, thus making it a good choice for tight spaces.

Mobile scissor lifts A scissor lift is a type of platform that can usually only move vertically. The mechanism to achieve this is the use of linked, folding supports in a criss-cross ‘X’ pattern, known as a pantograph (or scissor mechanism). The upward motion is achieved by the application of pressure to the outside of the lowest set of supports, elongating the crossing pattern and propelling the work platform vertically.

Cherry picker A cherry picker (also known as a boom lift, man lift, basket crane or hydraladder) is a type of aerial work platform that consists of a platform or bucket at the end of a hydraulic lifting system.

Crawling boards Crawl boards are designed to be lightweight but very robust. They will enable operatives to work safely within loft spaces.



201: Health and safety in building services engineering Handout 4: Safety signs and symbols Learning outcome The learner will: 2. know how to handle hazardous situations. Assessment criteria The learner can: 2.3. identify the categories of safety signs 2.4. identify symbols for hazardous substances. Range • Categories: Mandatory, prohibition, information, warning. • Symbols: Toxic, harmful, corrosive, irritant, oxidising, extremely flammable. Safety signs and symbols The Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996 states that all new health and safety signs must contain pictorial symbols in addition to text. Other requirements contained in these regulations include the following. • If a hazard cannot be adequately controlled by any other means then it must be marked

with a safety sign. • Every employer must ensure that their employees are trained in the meaning of safety

signs. • Any emergency escape route and firefighting equipment must have their location

identified with safety signs. Most workplaces have safety signs and posters to alert you of any dangers. These are grouped into four categories:

• warning signs • information signs • mandatory signs • prohibition signs

and in addition there are location signs for firefighting equipment.



Warning signs Warning signs are triangular and yellow with a black border. They mean: caution, risk of danger or hazard ahead.

Danger

Electricity Drop General

Information signs Safe condition signs are rectangular and white on a green background and indicate the correct place to go or the correct action to be taken in an emergency. They give information about safe conditions. You are likely to find extra information included with any of the safety signs, such as the type of first aid available, the particular type of eye protection required, the clearance height of an obstacle, etc.

Fire Exit First Aid Fire Assembly

Point

Mandatory signs Mandatory signs are white on a blue background, circular and mean you must do.

Safety helmet must be worn

Ear protection must be worn

Eye protection must be worn

Prohibition signs Prohibition signs are circular in shape, have a crossbar through the centre and mean stop or do not. They are red on a white background and must be obeyed.

No Smoking Do Not

Extinguish With Water

No Unauthorised

Persons Firefighting equipment signs The Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations require the location of all firefighting equipment to be marked in red. Typical signs are shown on the right.



Hazardous substances You may encounter hazardous substances during your day-to-day work in the building services industry and they will be identified by appropriate signs that are square and orange with a black border and symbol/writing. The main ones to remember are listed below.

Toxic: Chemicals that at low levels cause damage to health.

Harmful: Chemicals that may cause damage to health.

Corrosive: Chemicals that may destroy living tissue on contact.

Irritant: Chemicals that may cause inflammation to the skin or other mucous membranes.

Oxidising: Chemicals that react exothermically with other chemicals.

Highly flammable: Chemicals that may catch fire in contact with air, only need brief contact with an ignition source, have a very low flash point or evolve highly flammable gases in contact with water.

Extremely flammable: Chemicals that have an extremely low flash point and boiling point, and gases that catch fire in contact with air.



201: Health and safety in building services engineering Handout 5: Personal protective equipment Learning outcome The learner will: 2. know how to handle hazardous situations. Assessment criteria The learner can: 2.10. state the application of different types of personal protective equipment. Range • Personal protective equipment: Clothing protection including high visibility, eye

protection, hand protection, head protection, foot protection, hearing protection, respiratory protection.

Personal protective equipment PPE is designed to protect against workplace hazards. Health and Safety at Work Regulations require employers to provide:

• protective clothing for working outdoors • eye protection from dust, sparks or flying objects • respirators to protect from dust and fumes • ear defenders where noise levels are above 80dB • protective clothing when exposed to hazardous substances such as lead • shelter for use during bad weather • storage equipment for PPE.

High-visibility clothing High-visibility clothing is worn by those who need to be seen during poor lighting or weather conditions, or when working in environments where there is a lot of moving machinery. Most construction sites require all persons to wear high-visibility clothing whilst on site.

Hand protection A wide assortment of gloves, hand pads, sleeves and wristlets can be used where there are hazards present that can cause arm and hand injuries, such as burns, electrical shock or absorption of chemicals. Wearing the wrong sort of glove or defective gloves is a major problem.



Eye protection Forms of eye protection include goggles, visors, shields and face screens. Eye protection is required by law when working in hazardous areas and should be worn to protect from possible injuries caused by corrosive substances, welding/soldering, and using hammers, chisels and power drills.

Head protection Helmets protect from falling objects and the risk of hitting your head on objects such as scaffolding. Head protection is also required when working in confined spaces, as the likelihood of banging your head on the structure where you are working is greatly increased.

Foot protection These will protect against heavy objects falling on your feet, and boots can also provide ankle and lower leg protection. Boots, such as wellington style boots, can also provide protection against chemicals and other unpleasant substances.

Hearing protection Noise is an invisible enemy. Hearing protection, such as ear defenders, is required if noise levels are above 80dB.

Respiratory protection Cutting and grinding materials, such as wood and cement, create a large amount of dust and fumes. Moreover, materials such as solvents can also cause respiratory problems. Respirators and dust masks protect from airborne particles which can cause serious lung damage and breathing problems.

Protective clothing Overalls are not worn just to keep you clean but also to protect from injuries such as burns. Boiler suits are the safest option, as they provide full body protection. High-visibility clothing also needs to be worn when working in hazardous areas, such as next to a busy road.



201: Health and safety in building services engineering Handout 6a: Accident & emergency and firefighting procedures Learning outcome The learner will: 2. know how to handle hazardous situations. Assessment criteria The learner can: 2.12. identify the actions that should be taken when an accident or emergency is discovered 2.13. state procedures for handling injuries sustained on-site 2.14. state the procedures for recording accidents and near misses at work. Range • Actions: Stop working immediately, report to supervisor. • Procedures for handling injuries: Make self safe, make area safe, administer first aid

where appropriate, contact emergency services, contact nominated first aid person, contact supervisor.

• Procedures for recording accidents: RIDDOR, the use of company accident books, details to be recorded.

Accident & emergency and firefighting procedures

This handout deals briefly with the procedure which should be followed when an emergency situation occurs in the worksite. Note: Always attend safety briefings and updates provided by your company.

1) Know your company’s procedures for summoning emergency services. 2) Do you know your immediate contact point from where you are working? 3) Remember: time is essential. You do not have time to walk around looking for someone. 4) Use your mobile phone to summon help in an emergency; do not spend time walking

around the site looking for a phone. 5) Information that the emergency services will require includes:

a) address of site b) nature of emergency (to get correct emergency service) c) exact location of the emergency d) your name and phone number e) name of person injured (if applicable) f) the person’s exact injuries and whether they are conscious, etc.

6) Refer to the internet for other suggestions: type ‘Calling 999’ into a search engine, eg Google.

7) Understand how and when to set off an alarm. 8) Know and recognise the alarm signal. 9) Know escape routes on your construction site. 10) Be aware of the emergency meeting points on site.



Procedures for handling injuries If you discover someone who has sustained injuries the following procedure must be carried out: • make self safe • make area safe • administer first aid where appropriate • contact emergency services • contact nominated first aid person • contact supervisor. Obviously, it is not always necessary to cal the emergency services, particularly for minor injuries. However, if in doubt, contact the emergency operator who will tell you whether the emergency services are required. Procedures for recording accidents Depending on the nature of the incident, it will need to be recorded. Incidents of a serious nature will need to be reported under RIDDOR (Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations). These regulations put duties on employers, the self-employed and people in control of work premises (the Responsible Person) to report serious workplace accidents, occupational diseases and specified dangerous occurrences (near misses). What must be reported? • deaths and injuries

• occupational diseases

• dangerous occurrences

• gas incidents. If someone has died or has been injured because of a work-related accident this may have to be reported. Types of reportable injury: • deaths

• major injuries

• over-seven-day injuries. Reportable injuries are: • fracture, other than to fingers, thumbs and toes • amputation • dislocation of the shoulder, hip, knee or spine • loss of sight (temporary or permanent) • chemical or hot metal burn to the eye or any penetrating injury to the eye • injury resulting from an electric shock or electrical burn leading to unconsciousness, or

requiring resuscitation or admittance to hospital for more than 24 hours • any other injury leading to hypothermia, heat-induced illness or unconsciousness, or

requiring resuscitation or admittance to hospital for more than 24 hours • unconsciousness caused by asphyxia or exposure to a harmful substance or biological

agent • acute illness requiring medical treatment, or loss of consciousness arising from

absorption of any substance by inhalation, ingestion or through the skin • acute illness requiring medical treatment where there is reason to believe that this

resulted from exposure to a biological agent or its toxins or infected material



Over-seven-day injuries As of 6 April 2012, the over-three-day reporting requirement for people injured at work changed to more than seven days. Now you only have to report injuries that lead to an employee or self-employed person being away from work, or unable to perform their normal work duties, for more than seven consecutive days as the result of an occupational accident or injury (not counting the day of the accident but including weekends and rest days). The report must be made within 15 days of the accident. Occupational diseases A list of these can be found at: www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/1995/3163/schedule/3/made. Dangerous occurrences Dangerous occurrences are certain listed near-miss events. Not every near-miss event must be reported. Here is a list of those that are reportable: • collapse, overturning or failure of load-bearing parts of lifts and lifting equipment • explosion, collapse or bursting of any closed vessel or associated pipe work • failure of any freight container in any of its load-bearing parts • plant or equipment coming into contact with overhead power lines • electrical short circuit or overload causing fire or explosion • any unintentional explosion, misfire, failure of demolition to cause the intended collapse,

projection of material beyond a site boundary, injury caused by an explosion • accidental release of a biological agent likely to cause severe human illness • failure of industrial radiography or irradiation equipment to de-energise or return to its

safe position after the intended exposure period • malfunction of breathing apparatus while in use or during testing immediately before use • failure or endangering of diving equipment, the trapping of a diver, an explosion near a

diver or an uncontrolled ascent • collapse or partial collapse of a scaffold over five metres high or erected near water

where there could be a risk of drowning after a fall • unintended collision of a train with any vehicle • dangerous occurrence at a well (other than a water well) • dangerous occurrence at a pipeline • failure of any load-bearing fairground equipment, or derailment or unintended collision of

cars or trains • a road tanker carrying a dangerous substance overturns, suffers serious damage,

catches fire or the substance is released • a dangerous substance being conveyed by road is involved in a fire or released.

Gas incidents If you are a gas engineer registered with the Gas Safe Register, you must provide details of any gas appliances or fittings that you consider to be dangerous, to such an extent that people could die or suffer a ‘major injury’ because the design, construction, installation, modification or servicing could result in: • an accidental leakage of gas • inadequate combustion of gas • inadequate removal of products of the combustion of gas.



Accident books If you have more than 10 employees, or own or occupy a mine, quarry or factory, you must keep an accident book under social security law. All accidents, whether or not they fall into the scope of RIDDOR, must be recorded in the company accident book. The accident book is mainly for the benefit of staff, as it provides a useful record of what happened in case they need time off work or need to claim compensation later on. However, recording accidents also helps the employer to learn lessons and take action to stop accidents in future. If you employ fewer than 10 people at the same time, it is recommended that you provide an accident book where details are kept of all accidents which result in injury to employees (whilst at work) and others. What details should be included in the accident book? The appropriate details to include are: • name and address of injured person

• date and time of accident

• location of accident

• cause and nature of injury

• name and address of person recording the details. You must keep a record of any reportable injury, disease or dangerous occurrence (RIDDOR). This must include: • the date and method of reporting • the date, time and place of the event • personal details of those involved • a brief description of the nature of the event or

disease.



201: Health and safety in building services engineering Handout 6b: Accident & emergency and firefighting procedures Learning outcome The learner will: 4. know the safety requirements for working with gases and heat producing equipment. Assessment criteria The learner can: 4.4 describe how combustion takes place 4.6 state the procedures to follow on discovery of fires on site 4.7 identify different classifications of fires 4.8 identify types of fire extinguisher for different classifications of fires. Range • Combustion: Three elements of the fire triangle. • Procedures: Raise the alarm, follow safety evacuation procedures, fight fire if trained to

do so. • Classifications of fires: Class A, B, C, D, electrical fires. • Fire extinguisher: Carbon dioxide, water, powder, foam. Fire and firefighting Combustion is a chemical reaction in which a substance reacts violently with oxygen to produce heat and light. The three elements of fuel, oxygen and heat all need to be in place in order for combustion to occur; this is known as the fire triangle. Many materials that contain highly flammable solvents may be found in the workplace, alongside equipment which produces sparks. The combination of the two can cause a fire, unless great care is taken. Fire triangle

OXYGEN: all fires need a supply of oxygen to burn. Smother a fire by isolating the fire from the supply of oxygen.

HEAT: a naked flame, match or spark is sufficient to start a fire, especially if in contact with something which is flammable. Cool a fire by using water to lower the temperature.

FUEL: can be anything that will burn, eg wood, furniture, flammable liquid, gas, etc.

Starve a fire by removing fuel.



If you discover a fire: • raise the alarm • close doors and windows to prevent fire

spreading • evacuate the area • fight the fire with an extinguisher, fire

blanket, water or sand only if you have been trained to do so

• never put your own safety at risk.

Firefighting should not continue if: • the fire becomes too dangerous • there is a possibility that any escape

route might be cut off • the fire continues to spread and

becomes out of control • there are gas cylinders or other highly

flammable materials in the immediate fire area that cannot be removed or protected.

Classification of fires This system classifies the different types of materials that may be used in fires.

Fires involving wood, paper, textiles and other carbonaceous materials.

Fires involving flammable liquids, petrol and spirits.

Fires involving flammable gases, eg propane and butane.

Fires involving burning metals, eg aluminium, magnesium (where water is generally ineffective and/or dangerous).

Electrical fires are not considered to constitute a fire class of their own, as electricity is a source of ignition that will feed a fire until removed. When the electrical supply has been isolated, the fire can be treated (generally) as a ‘Class A’ for extinguishing purposes. Make sure the supply is isolated and if not, a non-electrical conducting extinguishing agent should be used.

Fires involving cooking oil and fat, eg olive oil, maize oil, lard and butter.

Fire extinguishers • When using flammable materials, a suitable fire extinguisher must always be kept handy

and ready for use. • Make sure that the extinguisher is the right type for the fire that may occur. • Before starting work on any job, make sure that the extinguisher’s operating instructions

are fully understood. • Fire extinguishers are colour coded for easy recognition and you should familiarise

yourself with the codes and their uses.



The following chart shows which extinguisher should be used for different types of fires:

Old

colour BS5406

New colour

BS EN3

Class A paper or

wood, etc

Class B flammable

liquids

Class C flammable gas fires

Class D metal fires

Electrical fires



201: Health and safety in building services engineering Handout 7: Electrical safety requirements Learning outcome The learner will: 3. know electrical safety requirements when working in the building services industry. Assessment criteria The learner can: 3.1 identify the common electrical dangers to be aware of on site 3.2 list different sources of electrical supply for tools and equipment 3.3 describe reasons for using reduced low voltage electrical supplies for tool and

equipment on site 3.4 identify how to conduct a visual inspection of portable electrical equipment for safe

condition before use 3.5 state actions to take when portable electrical equipment fails visual inspection 3.6 outline the Safe Isolation Procedure 3.7 state the procedures for dealing with electric shocks. Range • Electrical dangers: Faulty electrical equipment, damaged electrical equipment,

exposed conductors, damaged insulation, worn electrical cables and cords, trailing cables, proximity of cables, buried/hidden cables.

• Sources: Battery powered supplies, 110 volt supplies, 230 volt supplies, generating sets.

• Reasons: Increased likelihood for damage to equipment, operative in better contact with earth, protect from electric shock, reduces trailing leads.

• Visual inspection: Checking for a valid PAT test, inspection for general condition. • Actions: Remove from use, report to supervisor. • Procedures: Removal from supply, CPR method, contact emergency services, report to

supervisors, treatment of minor burns. Electrical safety requirements The risks inherent with electricity can generally be divided into two categories: • direct • indirect. The direct danger is the damage that the power itself can do to the human body, such as stoppage of breathing or regular heartbeats, or burns. The indirect dangers of electricity include the damages that can result to the human body as a result of something caused by electric shock, such as a fall, an explosion or a fire. Electricity at any voltage can be dangerous and should always be approached with caution. An electric shock can occur upon contact of a human or animal body with any source of voltage high enough to cause sufficient current flow through the muscles or nerves. The minimum current a human can feel is thought to be about 1 milliampere (mA). As little as 80 milliamperes can seize the heart muscle. The current may cause tissue damage or heart fibrillation if it is sufficiently high. A fatal electric shock is referred to as electrocution.



Electrical dangers There are many dangers related to electricity: • faulty electrical equipment • damaged electrical equipment • exposed conductors • damaged insulation • worn electrical cables and cords • trailing cables • proximity of cables • buried/hidden cables.

Sources of electrical supply A number of sources of electricity are available to operatives within the building services industry as follows.

Battery powered supplies Battery powered tools are now used widely in the building services industry. Using these has many advantages, including: • no trailing leads

• voltage levels that mean there is no risk of electric shock

• can be used where there are no mains supplies (assuming batteries are charged elsewhere)

• greater mobility. Remember that a mains supply will still be needed to charge the batteries via a battery charger.

110 volt supplies • The use of reduced voltage power tools and equipment

on site reduces the risk of electric shock.

• The 110V supply is derived from a transformer.

• The secondary is centre-tapped and connected to earth, ie touching either pole and earth results in a shock of 55V that in most cases will not cause harm.

• The transformer diagram is shown below:



230 volt supplies • Most premises will have socket outlets at 230V only.

• Real danger of electric shock with this level of voltage so RCD protection should be used, even indoors.

• If not using battery powered tools, it is not unusual for engineers to plug a 230/110V transformer in and use 110V.

• Most battery chargers for battery tools will need a 230V supply for charging.

Generating sets • On sites where a mains supply is not available,

generators will be used to power tools, site lighting and plant.

• Usually, powered by petrol engines for smaller generators and diesel for larger ones.

• Cables will radiate from the generator to feed equipment and care must be taken not to create a hazard with these trailing leads.

Reduced voltage is used on site to lessen the risk of electric shock. Construction sites are hazardous and the likelihood of cable damage is greatly increased. Also, due to construction areas being generally wet, operatives’ body resistance and hence their susceptibility to electric shock is increased. The hazards can be summarised as: • increased likelihood for damage to equipment • operative in better contact with earth • more susceptible to electric shock • trailing leads. A visual inspection should be carried out on portable electrical equipment before use to ensure its safe condition. Checks should include: • checking for a valid PAT label • inspection for general condition to include:

o any damage to equipment casing o any damage to the flexible cord (lead) o any damage to the plug top and any obvious connection issues, eg cord grip not

properly used. If a piece of portable electrical equipment fails the above checks it should be immediately removed from use and the matter reported to your supervisor.



Safe isolation procedure



Procedures for dealing with electric shocks • Removal from supply:

o isolate supply or o remove casualty from live parts using an insulated item (a piece of dry wood, for

example). • Carry out cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR):

o Airway o Breathing o Circulation.

• Contact emergency services: o call 999 or 112.

• Report to supervisors. • Treatment of minor burns.



201: Health and safety in building services engineering Handout 8: Hazardous substances Learning outcome The learner will: 2. know how to handle hazardous situations. Assessment criteria The learner can: 2.5 list common hazardous substances used in the building services industry 2.6 list precautions to be taken when working with hazardous substances. Range • Hazardous substances: Lead (solid and fume), solvents and lubricants, fluxes, jointing

compounds, sealants, gases (LPG, oxy-acetylene and carbon dioxide), cleaning agents. • Precautions: PPE, ventilation, risk assessment, method statements, safe systems of

work. Hazardous substances When working in the building services industry, you will encounter many potentially hazardous substances, all of which can cause you (or others) harm if not dealt with appropriately. You will need to be able to list the relevant hazardous substance in your assessments. These hazardous substances include the following: • lead (solid and fume) • solvents • lubricants • fluxes • jointing compounds • sealants • gases (LPG, oxy-acetylene and carbon dioxide) • cleaning agents. Precautions that should be taken to minimise the risk from hazardous substances include: • PPE • ventilation • risk assessment • Method Statements • safe systems of work. Lead Working with lead can put your health at risk, causing diseases including headaches, stomach pains and anaemia. Other serious symptoms include kidney damage, nerve and brain damage, and infertility. The Control of Lead at Work Regulations requires employers to control workers’ exposure to lead. Your body absorbs lead: • when you breathe in lead dust fume or vapour



• when you swallow any lead, for example if you eat, drink, smoke or bite you nails without washing your hands and face

• through the skin, when handling lead regularly. Here is what you should do to protect your health. • Make sure that you have all of the information and training you need to work safely with

lead. • Use all of the equipment provided by your employer and follow the instructions for use. • Make sure all protective equipment fits correctly and is in good condition. • Keep your immediate work area clean and tidy. • Clear up and get rid of any lead waste at the end of the day. • Do not take home any protective clothing or footwear for washing or cleaning. • Wear any necessary protective equipment or clothing and return it to the proper place

provided by your employer. • Report any damaged or defective equipment to your employer. • Only eat and drink in designated areas that are free from lead contamination. • Keep any medical appointments with the doctor where you work. • Practise a high standard of personal hygiene:

o use barrier cream applied before working with lead o wash your hands and face, and scrub your nails before eating o wash and/or shower before you go home.

Solvents A solvent is a substance that dissolves a chemically different liquid, solid or gas, resulting in a solution. A solvent is usually a liquid but can also be a solid or a gas. Common uses for solvents are in: • dry cleaning fluid • paint thinners • nail polish removers and glue solvents • spot removers • detergents • perfumes • nail polish. There are a number of hazards associated with solvents, including: • normally flammable or highly flammable • some can be explosive • toxic • the fumes can cause unconsciousness and death • some are carcinogenic • can have environmental effects. Here are some general precautions. • Avoid being exposed to solvent vapours by working in a fume hood or with local exhaust

ventilation (LEV) or in a well-ventilated area. • Keep the storage containers tightly closed. • Never use open flames near flammable solvents; use electrical heating instead. • Never flush solvents down the drain; read safety data sheets for proper disposal

information. • Avoid the inhalation of solvent vapours. • Avoid contact of the solvent with the skin – many solvents are easily absorbed through

the skin. They also tend to dry the skin and may cause sores and wounds.



Lubricants A lubricant is a substance introduced to reduce friction between moving surfaces. Hazards resulting from lubricants include the following: • slip hazard, when spilt on surfaces • dermatitis • flammability. Here are some general precautions. • Never use open flames near flammable lubricants. • Never flush lubricants down the drain; read safety data sheets for proper disposal

information. • Avoid contact of the lubricant with the skin; wear gloves or barrier cream. Fluxes Flux is a chemical cleaning agent, flowing agent or purifying agent used in soldering. Fluxes can be ‘active’ or ‘passive’. Active fluxes are generally corrosive and most will give off fumes during soldering operations. Here are some dangers. • Acid flux types (not used in electronics) may contain hydrochloric acid, zinc chloride or

ammonium chloride, which are harmful to humans. Therefore, flux should be handled with gloves and goggles, and used with adequate ventilation.

• Prolonged exposure to rosin fumes released during soldering can cause occupational asthma in sensitive individuals, although it is not known which component of the fumes causes the problem.

• While molten solder has low tendency to adhere to organic materials, molten fluxes, especially of the resin/rosin type, adhere well to fingers. A mass of hot sticky flux can transfer more heat to skin and cause more serious burns than a comparable particle of non-adhering molten metal, which can be quickly shaken off. In this regard, molten flux is similar to molten hot glue.

Jointing compounds They are used to ensure that plumbing joints are watertight. The preparation is not classified as dangerous. Here are the first-aid measures. • Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting unless directed to do so by medical personnel. Never

give anything by mouth to an unconscious person. Loosen tight clothing, such as a collar, tie, belt or waistband. Get medical attention if symptoms appear.

• Eye contact: Check for and remove any contact lenses. In case of contact, immediately flush eyes with a copious amount of water for at least 15 minutes. Obtain medical attention.

Sealants These are generally used in the building services industry to seal items to prevent moisture and water penetrating vulnerable equipment. The most commonly used sealer is generally silicon sealant. Silicon sealant is not regarded as a health or environmental hazard under current legislation but should be used in well-ventilated areas. Eye contacted should be avoided.



Gases (LPG, oxy-acetylene and carbon dioxide) The obvious hazards with gases are that most are highly flammable, although carbon dioxide is used as an extinguishant. Gases and heat-producing equipment are dealt with elsewhere in this unit. Cleaning agents Cleaning agents are substances – usually liquids – that are used to remove dirt, including dust, stains, bad smells and clutter on surfaces. The purposes of cleaning agents include: health, beauty, removing offensive odours and avoiding the spreading of dirt and contaminants to oneself and others. Some cleaning agents can kill bacteria and clean at the same time. Cleaning agents normally water solutions that might be acidic, alkaline or neutral, depending on the use. Cleaning agents may also be solvent-based or solvent-containing and are then called degreasers.



201: Health and safety in building services engineering Handout 9: Asbestos Learning outcome The learner will: 2. know how to handle hazardous situations. Assessment criteria The learner can: 2.7 identify the types of asbestos that may be encountered in the workplace 2.8 identify the actions to be taken if the presence of asbestos is suspected 2.9 describe the implications of being exposed to asbestos. Range • Types of asbestos: White asbestos (Chrysotile), brown or grey asbestos (Amosite),

blue asbestos (Crocidolite), asbestos cement materials. • Actions: Stop working immediately, report to supervisor. • Implications: Long-term health implications (mesothelioma, asbestosis). Asbestos

What is asbestos? Asbestos is a fibrous material that is opencast mined from the ground. Asbestos is naturally occurring and deposits can be found in most countries around the world. There are three main types of asbestos you may come across: chrysolite, amosite and crocidolite. How does it get into your body? The body will get rid of most large fibres that enter via the nose and mouth, however tiny fibres can pass into lower parts of the lung. They stay there for years and in some cases work through the lung lining. Asbestos cannot be absorbed through your skin.

What are the effects of asbestos? Breathing in asbestos fibres can lead to diseases, such lung cancer, mesothelioma and asbestosis. The delay between first exposure and the start of the disease can vary from 15 to 60 years. The majority of people now dying from asbestos-related diseases were exposed during the 1950s and 1960s. Asbestos is no longer used, but it was used extensively in the construction industry in the past, particularly in homes built or refurbished between 1950 and 1980.



Workers in building maintenance and refurbishment trades come into contact with asbestos frequently. Since it was often mixed with materials such as cement, it is not always easy to identify asbestos. Asbestos was used in a variety of applications, including: • steel frames • guttering • rainwater pipework • boiler insulation • pipe lagging • wall, ceiling and door lining • corrugated roofing • ceiling and floor tiles.

What do I do if I suspect asbestos? • If you are in any doubt about whether the material you are working with contains

asbestos, stop work and find out. • Assume that anything that looks like asbestos is asbestos. • The person in charge of the job must investigate whether there is any asbestos on site. Do • Keep asbestos-containing materials

damp whilst you work on them. • Only use hand tools. • Use PPE, including a respirator – a dust

mask will not provide adequate protection.

• Clean up as you go along; don’t pile up waste.

• Use a special ‘Type H’ vacuum cleaner. • Always wash your hands and face if you

take a break and at the end of the day.

Don’t • Use power tools, as they create more

dust. • Take home overalls to wash – use only

the disposable type. • Eat or drink in the work area. • Smoke, as the risk of lung cancer from

asbestos is higher among smokers.

What do I do if I’m in charge? • Prevent exposure to asbestos or reduce it to the lowest level possible by using suitable

control methods. • Ban the use of power tools. • Dampen the material. • Enclose the work and use dust extraction equipment. • Identify the area of concern. How should asbestos be disposed of? Asbestos is hazardous waste; it must be packaged and labelled as such and taken to a licensed waste disposal site.



201: Health and safety in building services engineering Handout 10: Gases and heat producing equipment Learning outcome The learner will: 4. know the safety requirements for working with gases and heat producing equipment. Assessment criteria The learner can: 4.1 identify different types of gases used on site 4.2 describe how bottled gases and equipment should be safely transported and stored 4.3 describe how to conduct a visual inspection on heat producing equipment for safe

condition 4.5 state the dangers of working with heat producing equipment. Range • Types of gases: Propane, butane, oxy-acetylene, nitrogen. • Visual inspection: Inspection for general condition. • Dangers: Fires, burns, fumes, equipment damage, explosions. Gases and heat producing equipment Whilst working in the building services industry you will encounter a number of gases, mainly used for soldering, welding and cutting. These can be summarised as follows: • propane • butane • oxy-acetylene • nitrogen. They are identified by colour, as shown below.

Bottles gas Cylinder colour Thread direction

Propane Red Left hand

Butane Blue Left hand

MAPP (mix) Yellow Left hand

Acetylene Maroon Left hand

Oxygen Black With white shoulder Right hand

Nitrogen Grey With black shoulder Right hand



Oxy-acetylene

Main components: • main control valve • pressure regulator • gauges • flash back arrestor • hoses • torch • torch control valve • nozzle.

LPG Equipment Liquefied Petroleum Gas – a group of gases which includes propane and butane. • Highly flammable when mixed correctly with air. • Heavier than air. • Propane turns from liquid to gas at -42°C. • If drawn off too quickly, the valves can freeze. • Used and stored in well-ventilated areas displaying the appropriate warning sign. • CO2 can build up in confined spaces. • When in use, a CO2 fire extinguisher must be present. Gas equipment Visually inspect equipment and look for: • damage to hoses • damage to valves • damage to gauges • damage to threaded connectors • leak detection fluid on joints. Gas storage and transportation Store the cylinder upright, outside, in a well-ventilated lockable store with labels. • If transporting gas, keep cylinders upright with ventilation in an enclosed vehicle and

label on outside. • If transporting quantities of gas, the driver must be in possession of a ‘transport

emergency card’ (TREMCARD) covered by Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road Regs.



Dangers of gas • LPG in cellars. • Stored near drain entrances. • Flammable. • Flames in loft areas – dust and insulation. • Build-up of CO2 or CO in confined spaces. • Burns to property and persons – nozzle and component. • Cold burns from valve and cylinder. • Leaks. Fire prevention • Carry a dry powder or CO2 extinguisher when soldering. • Use a heatproof mat next to building fabrics (resistant). • Move furniture away from soldering area. • Do not point a blowtorch directly at combustible material. • When soldering under a suspended floor, check for anything that could catch fire. • Do not replace floorboards until you have inspected for smouldering under the boards. • When lead welding on a roof, damp off the substrate. • Stop soldering an hour before you leave.



201: Health and safety in building services engineering Handout 11: Working safely in excavations and confined spaces Learning outcome The learner will: 6. know the safety requirements for working safely in excavations and confined spaces in

the building services industry. Assessment criteria The learner can: 6.1 identify the situations in which it may be necessary to work in excavations 6.2 describe how excavations should be prepared for safe working 6.3 state precautions to be taken to make excavations safe 6.4 identify areas where working in confined space may be a consideration 6.5 state safety considerations when working in confined spaces. Range • Prepared: Safe access into the excavation, trench support systems. • Precautions: Use of warning signs, use of barriers, vehicle proximity to excavation

edges. • Confined space: Drainage systems, Plant rooms, Main service duct-rooms, In tanks,

cylinders, boilers or cisterns, Under suspended timber floors, In roof spaces. • Safety considerations: Ventilation, lighting, PPE, evacuation procedures, medical

conditions, lone working. Working safely in excavations and confined spaces Working in excavations Occasionally, it may be necessary for building services engineers to work in excavations below ground. This may be to: • install new buried cables or pipework • maintain or repair existing buried cables or pipework. Every year people are killed or seriously injured by collapses and falling materials while working in excavations. They are at risk from: • excavations collapsing and burying or injuring people

working in them • material falling from the sides into any excavation • people or plant falling into excavations.

Remember the following. • No ground can be relied upon to stand unsupported in all circumstances. • One cubic metre of soil can weigh as much as one tonne. Trenchless techniques should always be considered at the design stage, as they replace the need for major excavations. Underground and overhead services may also present a fire, explosion, electrical or other hazard and will need to be assessed and managed.



Collapse of excavations • Temporary support: Before digging any trench pit, tunnel or other

excavations, decide what temporary support will be required and plan the precautions to be taken. Make sure that the equipment and precautions needed (trench sheets, props, baulks, etc) are available on site before work starts.

• Battering the excavation sides: Battering the excavation sides to a

safe angle of repose may also make the excavation safer.

In granular soils, the angle of slope should be less than the natural angle of repose of the material being excavated. In wet ground a considerably flatter slope will be required.

Falling or dislodging material • Loose materials: May fall from spoil heaps into the excavation. Edge protection should

include toe boards or other means, such as projecting trench sheets or box sides to protect against falling materials. Head protection should be worn.

• Undermining other structures: Check that excavations do not undermine scaffold

footings, buried services or the foundations of nearby buildings or walls. Decide if extra support for the structure is needed before you start. Surveys of the foundations and the advice of a structural engineer may be required.

• Effect of plant and vehicles: Do not park plant and vehicles close to the sides of

excavations. The extra loadings can make the sides of excavations more likely to collapse.

Falling into excavations In order to prevent people from falling, the edges of excavations should be protected with substantial barriers where people are liable to fall into them. In order to achieve this, use: • guard rails and toe boards inserted into the ground immediately next to the supported

excavation side or • fabricated guard rail assemblies that connect to the sides of the trench box • the support system itself, eg using trench box extensions or trench sheets longer than

the trench depth. Inspection A competent person who fully understands the dangers and necessary precautions should inspect the excavation at the start of each shift. Excavations should also be inspected after any event that may have affected their strength or stability, or after a fall of rock or earth. A record of the inspections will be required and any faults that are found should be corrected immediately.



Working in confined spaces Occasionally, it may be necessary for building services engineers to work in confined spaces. Such locations include: • drainage systems • plant rooms • main service duct-rooms • in tanks, cylinders, boilers or cisterns • under suspended timber floors • in roof spaces. Confined spaces can be deadly A number of people are killed or seriously injured in confined spaces each year in the UK. This happens in a wide range of industries, from those involving complex plant to simple storage vessels. Those killed include not only people working in the confined space but also those who try to rescue them without proper training and equipment. What is a confined space? It can be any space of an enclosed nature where there is a risk of death or serious injury from hazardous substances or dangerous conditions (eg lack of oxygen).Some confined spaces are fairly easy to identify, such as enclosures with limited openings: • storage tanks • silos • reaction vessels • enclosed drains • sewers. Others may be less obvious but can be equally dangerous; for example: • open-topped chambers • vats • combustion chambers in furnaces, etc • ductwork • unventilated or poorly ventilated rooms. It is not possible to provide a comprehensive list of confined spaces. Some places may become confined spaces when work is carried out, or during their construction, fabrication or subsequent modification. What are the dangers from confined spaces? Dangers can arise in confined spaces because of the following. • A lack of oxygen. This can occur:

o where there is a reaction between some soils and the oxygen in the atmosphere o following the action of groundwater on chalk and limestone which can produce carbon

dioxide and displace normal air o in ships’ holds, freight containers, lorries, etc as a result of the cargo reacting with

oxygen inside the space o inside steel tanks and vessels when rust forms.

• Poisonous gas, fume or vapour. These can:

o build up in sewers, manholes and in pits connected to the system o enter tanks or vessels from connecting pipes o leak into trenches and pits in contaminated land, such as old refuse tips and old gas

works.



• Liquids and solids which can suddenly fill the space, or release gases into it, when disturbed. Free-flowing solids such as grain can also partially solidify or ‘bridge’ in silos, causing blockages which can collapse unexpectedly.

• Fire and explosions (eg from flammable vapours, excess oxygen, etc). • Residues left in tanks, vessels, etc or remaining on internal surfaces which can give off

gas, fume or vapour. • Dust may be present in high concentrations, eg in flour silos. • Hot conditions leading to a dangerous increase in body temperature. Some of the above conditions may already be present in the confined space. However, some may arise through the work being carried out or because of ineffective isolation of plant nearby, eg leakage from a pipe connected to the confined space. The enclosure and working space may increase other dangers arising through the work being carried out; for example: • machinery being used may require special precautions, such as provision of dust

extraction for a portable grinder or special precautions against electric shock • gas, fume or vapour can arise from welding, or by use of volatile and often flammable

solvents, adhesives, etc • if access to the space is through a restricted entrance, such as a manhole, escape or

rescue in an emergency will be more difficult. If your assessment identifies risks of serious injury from work in confined spaces, such as the dangers highlighted above, the Confined Spaces Regulations 1997 apply. These regulations contain the following key duties: • avoid entry to confined spaces, eg by doing the work from outside • if entry to a confined space is unavoidable, follow a safe system of work and • put in place adequate emergency arrangements before the work starts. Safety considerations These should include the following: • ventilation • lighting • PPE • evacuation procedures • medical conditions • lone working.

www.SmartScreen.co.uk Level 2 Diploma in Electrical Installations (Buildings and Structures) Unit 201 Handout 1

201: Health and safety in building services engineering Handout 1: Health and safety legislation Learning outcome The learner will: 1. Know health and safety legislation Assessment Criteria The learner can: 1.1. State the aims of health and safety legislation 1.2. Identify the responsibilities of individuals under health and safety legislation 1.3. Identify statutory and non-statutory health and safety materials 1.4. Identify the different roles of Health and Safety Executive in enforcing health and

safety legislation Range Health and safety legislation: The Health & Safety at Work Act, The Electricity at Work Regulations, Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations, Working at Heights Regulations, Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations (PPE), Lifting and Manual handling Operations Regulations, Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations, Control of Asbestos at Work Regulations, Health, Safety and Welfare Regulations, Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations, Confined Spaces Regulations. Individuals: Employers, employees and contractors, visitors to site. Health and safety materials: Acts of Parliament, Regulations, Approved Codes of Practice, HS.

Health and Safety Legislation Health, safety and welfare legislation has increased the awareness of everyone to the risks involved in the workplace. All Acts of Parliament must be obeyed and, therefore, we all need an understanding of the laws as they apply to the building services industry. There are several pieces of legislation that, directly or indirectly, impact on safety in the workplace. Statutory legislation results from the passing of an Act of Parliament. It may be interpreted by the courts as the result of test cases brought before them. Such Acts are supported by Regulations which, although not in themselves statutory, amplify the law.

When interpreting these Acts and Regulations the following definitions apply: Employer – A person or body that employs one or more persons under a contract of employment. Employee – A person employed by an employer under a contract of employment. Self-employed – This covers anyone who works for gain or reward other than under a contract of employment. Visitors to Site – This covers any person who comes on to the site who is not usually there and so is unlikely to be familiar with the site and its Health and Safety requirements. Statutory – This means that it is binding in law and is a criminal act to contravene it. Non-statutory – Not legally binding. However, many non-statutory regulations are based on statutory ones so breaking them could mean that a law may have been broken somewhere.

www.SmartScreen.co.uk Level 2 Diploma in Electrical Installations (Buildings and Structures) Unit 201 Handout 1 Status of Acts & Regulations Acts (of Parliament) are ‘statutory’ that means they are legally binding and therefore enforceable by law. Certain Regulations are made under Acts of Parliament and, as a result, are also statutory. Regulations made under health and safety legislation are sometimes supplemented by Codes of Practice approved and/or issued by the Health and Safety Commission. Approved Codes of Practice gives practical guidance on compliance. Failure to comply with an Approved Code of Practice is not an offence in itself. However, these codes have special legal status. If an employer/individual faces criminal prosecution under health and safety law, and it is proved that the advice of the Approved Code of Practice has not been followed, a court can regard it as evidence of guilt unless it is satisfied that the employer/individual has complied with the law in some other way. Following Approved Codes of Practice is therefore regarded as best practice. Other Regulations have advisory/guidance purposes only and as a result they are ‘non-statutory’, that is, they cannot be enforced by law. However, non-statutory Regulations are generally considered to reflect standards of good practice and may be cited in a court of law. Additionally, although certain Regulations have no legal status themselves, they are based on Acts/Regulations that are statutory and consequently, breaking the non-statutory Regulations will often result in breaking one or more statutory Acts or Regulations. The Health and Safety at work etc Act This covers all places where work is carried out. The ‘etc’ was added to cover voluntary work etc. All persons are responsible for their own and others safety. The Electricity at work regulations There are currently 33 regulations of which 1-16 and 29 are the most relevant to most electricians. This is a legal (statutory) document whereas the wiring regulations (BS 7671) are not. Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations As the name suggests, these regulations cover anything used in the workplace that could be considered hazardous to health. This would include chemicals, cements, oils, sprays etc.

Working at Height Regulations Again the title adequately describes the area that the regulations cover. More people are killed and injured by falls than any other cause. This document summarises what you need to do to comply with the Work at Height Regulations 2005. Some industry/trade associations may have produced more detailed guidance about working at height. You can also find more information on the HSE website. Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations Requires an assessment of PPE requirements to be carried out, the employer to supply the PPE and the employee to wear the protective equipment. Manual handling Operations Regulations These Regulations aim to reduce the very large incidence of injury and ill health caused by the manual handling of loads at work. Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations Covers the supply and use of equipment in the workplace. Equipment must be safe to use and used safely by the operatives.

www.SmartScreen.co.uk Level 2 Diploma in Electrical Installations (Buildings and Structures) Unit 201 Handout 1 Control of asbestos at Work Regulations The name again clearly explains the coverage of the regulations. Asbestos is an extremely dangerous material when disturbed and any possible exposure to or presence of asbestos should be reported immediately. Workplace (Health and Safety and Welfare) Regulations Employers have a general duty under section 2 of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 to ensure, as far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare of their employees at work. People in control of non-domestic premises have a duty towards people who are not their employees but use their premises. The Regulations expand on these duties and are intended to protect the health and safety of everyone in the workplace, and ensure that adequate welfare facilities are provided for people at work. The Regulations aim to ensure that workplaces meet the health, safety and welfare needs of all members of a workforce, including people with disabilities. Workstations should be made accessible for disabled people. Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations These Regulations place a duty on employers to make adequate first aid provision for their employees, in case they become ill or injured at work. Confined Spaces Regulations Confined Space refers to any place, including any vessel, tank, container, pit, bund, chamber, cellar or any other similar space which, by virtue of its enclosed nature, creates conditions that give rise to a likelihood of an accident, harm or injury of such a nature as to require emergency action due to: • the presence or reasonable foreseeable presence of:

o flammable or explosive atmospheres o harmful gas, fume or vapour o free flowing solid or an increasing level of liquid o excess of oxygen o excessively high temperature

• the lack or reasonably foreseeable lack of oxygen

SmartScreen Level 2 Diploma in Electrical Installations (Buildings and Structures) Unit 201 Worksheet 1


201: Health and safety in building services engineering Worksheet 1: Health and safety legislation

Using your notes and the internet (refer to Resource 1: Useful health and safety legislation websites), answer the following questions.

1. Who and what, according to the Health and Safety at Work etc Act, are:

a) the employees’ responsibilities with regard to health and safety?

b) the employers’ responsibilities towards the employees?

2. Under the Electricity at Work Regulations, state:

a) when live working is permitted.

b) the regulation that provides a defence, provided that all practical steps have beentaken.

c) what must be provided in the way of isolation.

d) in what conductor protective devices must be inserted.

e) the requirement for equipment to be maintained.

3. State the main requirements of the Management of Health and Safety at WorkRegulations.



4. Which regulations cover the provision of health, safety and welfare in the workplace?

5. Identify five common materials which come under the Control of SubstancesHazardous to Health (COSHH) regulations.

6. Under the Working at Height Regulations:

a) what is the minimum height at which precautions should be taken.

b) what are the duty holders’ responsibilities.

7. Under the Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations, name four pieces oftypical PPE required when working on a construction site.

8. What percentage of accidents is caused by manual handling, as recorded for 2001/2under the Manual Handling Operations Regulations (do a search in the HSE website)?

9. State the main difference between the terms ‘statutory’ and ‘non-statutory’.



201: Health and safety in building services engineering Worksheet 2: Hazardous situations and safe systems at work

You have been asked to carry out work in a small domestic extension. Using the form below, prepare a method statement to carry out this work.

Method statement Originator: Position: Date: This method statement is critical to the health and safety of the activity(ies) it relates to. It is to be strictly adhered to. Any deviation must first be authorised by the Site Supervisor. Planned Task/Activity Description:

Location and Access: (attached plan as appropriate)

Working Environment & Restrictions:

Protection of others:

Emergency Procedures: Operatives/Competence: Personal Protective Equipment:

Plant & Equipment: Materials Handling/Storage & Safety Information:

Critical Stages: (must be undertaken in correct sequence)

Final Clearance: (Work/Activity completed to satisfaction).

Name: Position: Date:



You have been asked to carry out some work requiring you to work at height from a wooden extension ladder. Carry out a risk assessment for this activity using the form below:

Company name: Date of risk assessment: Step 1 What are the hazards?

Step 2 Who might be harmed and how?

Step 3 What are you already doing?

What further action is necessary

Step 4 How will you put the assessment into action?

Spot hazards by: • walking around your workplace• asking your employees what they

think • visiting the Your industry areas of

the HSE website • checking manufacturers’

instructions • contacting your trade

association. Don’t forget long-term health hazards.

Identify groups of people. Remember: • some workers have particular

needs • people who may not be in the

workplace all the time • members of the public• if you share your workplace think

about how your work affects others present.

Say how the hazard could cause harm.

List what is already in place to reduce the likelihood of harm or make any harm less serious.

You need to make sure that you have reduced risks ‘so far as is reasonably practicable’. An easy way of doing this is to compare what you are already doing with good practice. If there is a difference, list what needs to be done.

Remember to prioritise. Deal with those hazards that are high-risk and have serious consequences first.

Action by whom

Action by when Done

___________________ ___________________ ___________________ ___________________ _____ _____ _____ ___________________ ___________________ ___________________ ___________________ _____ _____ _____ ___________________ ___________________ ___________________ ___________________ _____ _____ _____ ___________________ ___________________ ___________________ ___________________ _____ _____ _____ ___________________ ___________________ ___________________ ___________________ _____ _____ _____ ___________________ ___________________ ___________________ ___________________ _____ _____ _____ ___________________ ___________________ ___________________ ___________________ _____ _____ _____ ___________________ ___________________ ___________________ ___________________ _____ _____ _____ ___________________ ___________________ ___________________ ___________________ _____ _____ _____ ___________________ ___________________ ___________________ ___________________ _____ _____ _____

Step 5 Review date: • Review your assessment to make sure you are still improving, or at least not sliding back.• If there is a significant change in your workplace, remember to check your risk assessment

and, where necessary, amend it.

SmartScreen Level 2 Diploma in Electrical Installations (Buildings and Structures) Unit 201 Worksheet 3a


201: Health and safety in building services engineering Worksheet 3a: Manual handling

Demonstrate the correct procedure for lifting a large, bulky item, as instructed by your tutor.

1. State four things you should do before lifting.

2. Outline the key techniques you will use to ensure safe lifting and handling procedures.

3. If the item is too heavy to lift on your own, outline the lifting procedure you will use.

4. If the use of lifting equipment is required for this task, what additional procedures willyou need to carry out?

•

www.SmartScreen.co.uk Level 2 Diploma in Electrical Installations (Buildings and Structures) Unit 201 Worksheet 3b


201: Health and safety in building services engineering Worksheet 3b: Access equipment

1. State five things you should do to ensure ladders are used safely.

2. State five checks you should make before using a ladder.

www.SmartScreen.co.uk Level 2 Diploma in Electrical Installations (Buildings and Structures) Unit 201 Worksheet 3b


3. State five requirements for scaffolding.

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•

•

•

•

•

•

•



201: Health and safety in building services engineering Worksheet 4: Safety signs and symbols

Identifying warning signs and labels For each warning sign in this table, describe the type of hazard and give an example of a material to which it might be applicable.

Warning sign

Type of hazard

Example of material



Identifying hazardous substances For each hazardous substance sign in this table, describe the type of hazard substance and give an example of a material to which it might be applicable.

Hazardous substance

sign Type of

hazard substance Example of

material

www.SmartScreen.co.uk Level 2 Diploma in Electrical Installations (Buildings and Structures) Unit 201 Worksheet 5


201: Health and safety in building services engineering Handout 5: Personal protective equipment

Complete the chart by identifying the hazards associated with the protection of certain parts of the body and list the PPE equipment required. You should list two hazards and two items of PPE for each part of the body.

Part of the body Hazard PPE

Head

Eyes

Ears

Lungs

Hands

Feet

Skin

Trunk and body

Whole body

Candidate’s name: ........................................................................



201: Health and safety in building services engineering Worksheet 6: Firefighting

1. What are the three elements that make up the fire triangle?

2. Identify which class of fire each of the descriptions below refers to:

a) fires involving liquids or liquefiable solids.

b) fires involving cooking oil or fat.

c) fires involving solid materials, usually of an organic nature.

d) fires involving gases.

e) fires involving metals.

3. A wood fire has started in your place of work.

a) Which type of fire extinguisher should be used to put out the fire?

b) How would the correct extinguisher to be used on this fire be identified?

c) What are the possible risks of using this fire extinguisher?



4. An electrical fire has started in your place of work.

a) Which type of fire extinguisher should be used to put out the fire?

b) How would the correct extinguisher to be used on this fire be identified?

c) What are the possible risks of using this fire extinguisher?



201: Health and safety in building services engineering Worksheet 7: Electrical safety

In the space below list the steps to take when carrying out a safe isolation procedure.



201: Health and safety in building services engineering Worksheet 8: Asbestos

1. Identify the name and colour of the three most common types of asbestos you mayencounter in the workplace:

2. Which regulations outline how to deal with asbestos?

3. Identify three types of building components which may contain asbestos:

4. Correctly fill in the gaps below with either ‘do’ or ‘don’t’.

_______________ stop work _______________ tell your supervisor _______________ use power tools _______________ wash your hands _______________ take clothes home to wash _______________ use a respirator _______________ dampen the material

5. Where should asbestos be disposed of?



201: Health and safety in building services engineering Worksheet 9: Gases and heat producing equipment

1. Identify the cylinder shoulder or body colour for the following bottled gases:

Propane

Butane

MAPP (mix)

Acetylene

Oxygen

Nitrogen

2. Identify four characteristics of liquefied petroleum gas:

3. Identify four items to be visually inspected on gas equipment:



201: Health and safety in building services engineering Worksheet 10: Working safely in excavations and confined spaces

1. Identify how excavations should be prepared prior to working in them:

2. Identify three precautions to be taken to make excavations safe:

3. Identify four situations that could be described as confined spaces:

4. State six safety considerations when working in confined spaces:

Please make sure you thoroughly study all the necessary workbooks before you contact us to request a date to attend centre for the practical

elements relating to the workbooks.

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