Our Vision

To be recognised as the best by our customers, our people, our

suppliers and the community in which we operate.

Our Mission

Our mission is to deliver best in class performance against our

Three Pillar objectives for profit, safety and environment.

To achieve this we:

• Understand and deliver our customers’ needs.

• Continuously seek ways to improve.

• Believe that each of us can make a difference.

We share our success with our customers, our people and

our environment.

Safety Communication Quality Integrity TeamSpirit Caring Trust Pride

Our Values

• We put safety at the top of every agenda.

• Good communication is important in everything we do.

• We are focused on providing a high quality service.

• We enjoy an excellent teamspirit.

• We adopt a caring approach towards people and our

environment.

• We take pride in what we do.

• Our relationships are based on trust and integrity.

Three Pillars

To develop the business we need to outperform in the three key

areas of Profit, Safety and the Environment.

Our Three Pillars philosophy has been developed in consultation

with key clients. It provides the fundamental means for Barhale to

ensure industry-leading results.

The Three Pillars approach emphasises:

Profitability: Vital for our business to thrive, grow and continually

invest in our people.

Safety: Encouraging a “Zero Accident Culture” through sharing,

learning, training and personal development.

Environment: Improving performance by preventing pollution and

minimising waste. Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do

as we look to develop environmental business opportunities.

People

Our most valuable asset is our people. From the site to the office,

they are the foundation of everything we achieve.

Our policy of direct employment guarantees a skilled and stable

workforce. Our experienced site teams can also call upon a

loyal and dedicated supply chain to provide specialist skills

whenever needed.

Foreword

The health and safety of everyone affected by the work we do is

vitally important to us. At Barhale we are very keen to create an

environment and culture which is accident free. We can only do this

if everyone is committed to working safely and not taking risks.

This handbook has been produced to help everyone working for

Barhale understand their responsibilities with regards to health,

safety and environment. It contains some simple safety rules covering

our range of activities which must be followed to help keep you safe

at work.

We all have a legal obligation to comply with health and safety rules

and to make sure we work in a safe manner. Please ensure that you

have read and understood this handbook and keep it available at all

times so that you can refer to it when you need to. Please talk to your

supervisor if there is anything that you are not sure of.

Good environmental performance should follow from high health

and safety standards. We want to minimise the impact of our work

activities on both the natural environment and local residents.

Everyone can make a difference, protecting the environment from

any adverse effects of our work activities.

Dennis Curran

Chairman

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Contents

Responsibilities 4

Training and Induction 6

Site Rules 7

First Aid 8

Drugs and Alcohol Policy 10

Occupational Health 11

Risk Assessments 12

Method Statements 12

Permits to Work 12

Keeping Records 13

Use of Mobile Phones 14

Vehicle Checks 14

Display Screen Equipment (DSE) 15

Office Safety 16

Accident and Near Miss Reporting 17

Slips, Trips and Falls 18

Hand Held Power Tools 19

Hot Works 20

Fire Precautions 22

Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) 24

Working with Electricity 26

Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) 27

Dust and Fumes 28

Asbestos 30

Noise 31

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Work at Height 34

Access Equipment

Scaffolding

MEWPS

Mobile Scaffold Towers

Ladders/Stepladders

Manual Handling 38

Chemicals or Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) 40

Dermatitis 42

Confined Space 43

Excavations 44

Welfare Facilities 46

Skin Protection 47

Weils Disease 48

Legionellosis 49

Sharps / Needle Stick Injury 49

Moving Vehicles 50

Plant 51

Lifting Operations 52

Waste and Resources 54

Water 55

Spill Response 56

Carbon Footprint 56

Wildlife 57

Contamination of Land 58

Archaeology 59

Driver Safety 60

4

Responsibilities

Barhale are continually striving to improve health, safety and

environmental standards throughout our operations and provide a

safe, healthy and positive working environment.

Site safety is important not only to the individual at work but also to

their colleagues, friends and families. We all have a moral and

legal responsibility to help prevent injury and ill-health and with this

in mind suitable training, instruction and information relating to

health, safety, welfare and the environment are an integral part of

Barhale’s ethos.

Proper healthy and safe conditions require the co-operation of

everyone on site and formal processes to identify, assess and

manage risk across operations. Full training is given to all

employees to ensure that they are capable of doing their jobs in

a safe manner and can operate successfully in a culture of

safety awareness.

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Accidents and incidents cost companies and individuals, millions of

pounds every year through lost wages, medical expenses and

damage claims.

The Health and Safety at Work Act places specific responsibilities

on both the employer and you the employee to prevent accidents

and incidents of ill-health.

The Company

The company are obliged to provide a Safe System of Work

(SSoW), adequate control measures, suitable supervision and a

safe working environment.

You

You are expected to co-operate with the company on all Health and

Safety issues and take reasonable care in order to keep yourself

and others safe and healthy.

You must not interfere with or misuse anything provided in the

interest of Health, Safety or Welfare and you are expected to

protect the environment from potentially harmful actions.

Training and Induction

An awareness of hazards on site and how to deal with them comes

from training and experience.

Everyone, on joining the company, will undergo Health, Safety and

Environment induction training before commencing work on site. In

addition to this, Managers and Supervisors have a legal duty to carry

out appropriate risk assessment before any employee is put to work.

Reading and understanding this booklet also plays a part in

this process.

Awareness Training

Awareness training is carried out at regular intervals - maybe taking

the form of communication through toolbox talks, mailshots or

training sessions - ensuring that all employees are aware of

hazards, risks and control measures in order to keep themselves

safe and healthy. It also ensures that the workforce is kept up-to-

date with any changes in legislation.

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Job Specific Training

Certain activities will require special training and qualifications,

especially those known to present significant risks. These include:

Asbestos awareness, operating plant, lifting operations - slinging

loads and signalling.

Do not undertake any such work unless you are trained and

authorised to do so. If in doubt – ASK!

Barhale are legally required to provide you with the information and

training necessary to do your job properly and safely.

Site Rules

Site safety rules form part of the overall site Health, Safety and

Environment process and are put in place to ensure the protection

of you, your colleagues and members of the public. You are legally

and contractually required to comply with the site safety rules.

Sites will provide workers with inductions covering requirements

specific to them and all site personnel must undertake an induction

before starting work. It will include:

• Safe access and egress routes.

• Welfare facilities.

• Emergency procedures.

• PPE requirements.

• Site operating hours.

• Fuel and waste storage.

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A positive attitude means:

• Being alert to actual and potential hazards.

• Assessing the risks and minimising, removing or

reporting them.

• Having a positive approach to safety and

environment protection.

• Anticipating the safety implications of your job for yourself

and those around you – think of the risks.

• Being aware of what you are and are not capable of.

• Concentrate, organise your work, don’t take shortcuts –

think about what could go wrong and plan for it.

Supervisors / Managers

Supervisors and managers have a duty to carry out risk

assessments and method statements where required and oversee

all work so that it is carried out in an organised, proper and safe

manner throughout.

First Aid

Make sure you know where the first aid stations are located and

who the first aiders are. In the event of an accident the casualty

should be protected from further injury by removing the source of

danger or, if there is no alternative, by removing the casualty.

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REMEMBER:

• Moving the casualty can make injuries worse.

• Do not put yourself at risk.

• Learn the ABC of First Aid - For an unconscious casualty

check the following and take appropriate action if you

are able:

- AIRWAYS

- BREATHING

- CIRCULATION

• To check the state of an unconscious casualty, you should

listen for breathing and feel for a pulse in the neck under

the ear.

• Get help.

• Call the emergency services.

• Use bystanders or work colleagues to summon assistance.

All accidents and

incidents MUST be

reported to your

supervisor and entered in

the accident book. This

helps prevent the same

sort of accident

happening again.

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10

Drugs and Alcohol Policy

The construction industry is a hazardous one which requires

concentration all the time.

For that reason drugs and alcohol use are not compatible with a

safe, healthy environment. Just small amounts will affect both

physical and mental performance and they remain active in the

body for a considerable time after they are taken.

Any person suspected of being under the influence of drugs or

alcohol will be refused entry to site or if already on site, ejected.

Personnel who are on prescribed drugs (medication) should always

inform their supervisor so that there is no confusion or suspicion if

an operative is seen taking prescribed drugs for a medical

condition. Possible side effects such as drowsiness or hyper-

reaction can also be addressed if management are aware that

prescribed drugs are being taken.

Accidents on site can be prevented – your behaviour is a key

factor in this.

11

Occupational Health

Barhale look on the health and wellbeing of our employees as a

key priority in the way we run our business and to its future

sustainability. We aim to minimise occupational health risks.

The way we work and run our daily lives can have a major effect

on our health and our industry loses many people prematurely due

to occupational health issues such as the following:

Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS)

Caused by over exposure to vibration from power tools such as

breakers, drills, scabblers etc.

Muscular Skeletal Disorders

Ranging from sprains and strains to serious problems stemming

from poor work practices.

Contact Dermatitis

A potentially serious skin

condition caused by exposure to

hazardous substances.

Noise Induced Hearing Loss

Caused by over exposure to

noise and can lead to permanent

hearing loss or conditions such

as tinnitus.

Exposure to Asbestos

Inhalation of asbestos fibres can

be fatal, causing irreversible lung

damage and cancer.

Risk Assessments

A risk assessment identifies potential hazards and risks which may

be met when undertaking a work activity and ensures control

measures to be set in place for the duration of the work to prevent

accidents, injury and environmental incidents.

A risk assessment must be completed before any task is

undertaken - employers and employees have a duty to ensure that

a signed, in date, task specific risk assessment is in place before

any work commences.

Method Statements

A method statement is a document which details how a particular

task is to be carried out. It must describe, the sequence of how the

construction/installation task is to be carried out in a safe manner.

It should also detail the possible dangers and associated risks, with

the relevant control measures listed, as identified in the Risk

assessment. It must show how the work will be managed and

supervised safely, with responsible persons named.

Permits to Work

The permit is a written document, part of the overall safe working

system, that gives authorisation to competent persons to carry out

specific, potentially hazardous, tasks within a certain time frame. It

sets out the main precautions required to ensure the work is

completed safely and with minimal risk to the health of the

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personnel doing the work. Examples of work requiring a permit are;

excavations, hot works, confined space entry, electrical etc.

The permit should clearly define the person authorising the

particular work and also the person who is responsible for

specifying and ensuring that the necessary precautions identified

in the risk assessment and method statement are taken.

Specific training may be required for the issuers and users of the

permit. Monitoring is required to ensure the safe system has been

implemented and maintained.

These processes are to ensure that tasks are planned and ...

to reduce health, safety and environmental risks.

Keeping Records

All paperwork to do with the safe

systems of work must be copied

and retained on file for auditing

and record purposes. For the

safe system of work to be

effective and of value, all

personnel engaged in an activity

must have read, understood and

where necessary, commented on

and signed the relevant

paperwork.

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Use of Mobile Phones

We would advise you to never use a mobile phone while driving,

even if a hands free kit is available. Using a mobile phone while

driving increases the risk of you being involved in an accident by

four times.

We do not encourage the use of mobile phones on site unless it is

from within a safe location such as welfare facilities. If you have to

use a mobile for on site communication you should make sure you

are in a safe location and not presenting a danger or distraction

to others.

Remember:

• Don’t respond to calls when driving or

operating equipment.

• Be alert to your circumstances when using a

mobile phone.

• Keep calls as brief as possible.

Vehicle Checks (See also ‘Driver Safety’ page 56)

Driving plays an important part in most of our lives and it is worth

remembering that regular maintenance checks can make the

difference between being safe or not on the roads.

In winter pay particular attention that all vehicle lights are clean and

working properly, that wipers work efficiently and washer reservoir

is topped up. The following regular checks should also be made:

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• Handbrake and footbrake operate efficiently.

• Seatbelts should be fully functioning and moving freely.

• Oil and water should be topped up if required.

• Wipers and washers are in good order.

• Tyres are above the legal minimum tread limit.

• Seats are adjusted to the correct driving position.

• Windows are free of cracks or chips.

Display Screen Equipment (DSE)

Most of us these days use a computer either at work or at home

and it is important to consider the safety aspects of working with

display screen equipment and keyboards.

If your main occupation involves sitting at a desk in an office then a

risk assessment should be carried out to ensure that the equipment

set up is appropriate.

• Adjust your workstation so you don’t need to twist or over

reach to use equipment or documents.

• Keep the space under your desk clear so you can move

your legs around.

• Keep good posture while at your desk and have regular

breaks to aid this and to give your eyes a rest from

the screen.

• Do some stretching exercises every now and then.

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Office Safety

All those employed in an office environment must be aware of their

environment and needs of co-workers - they should not work in an

unsafe manner or leave materials and equipment in a position

which could cause another employee or visitor to slip, trip or fall.

This includes such bad practices as:

• Leaving materials / equipment on the edge of

work surfaces.

• Leaving desk and filing cabinet drawers open.

• Over-riding safety devices on filing cabinet drawers which

make them unstable.

• Standing on operator chairs (with casters).

• Stacking stationery at height.

• Bringing into work untested and unsafe personal

equipment, e.g. heaters, kettles, toasters, etc.

• Leaving cables trailing across walkways.

All employees must keep their areas and the office environment

tidy, using the bins provided.

Managers are to ensure that all office equipment is tested and

regularly maintained. Employees are to notify the management of

any problems so that they can be dealt with effectively.

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Accident and Near Miss Reporting

We can all play our part in helping to prevent accidents and

incidents occurring and to learn from our experiences. By reporting

all accidents and near misses we can hopefully prevent them

happening again and include the lessons to be learnt into our

working practices.

• If you see something that has caused or has the

potential to cause an accident or incident, please report it

to your supervisor immediately.

• Don’t just walk by if you see something that represents a

possible danger. If you can sort it safely then do so before

reporting it. If you can’t then isolate the problem by taping

off or placing warning signs.

• All accidents, no matter how minor should be recorded in

the accident book.

• All accidents, and incidents must be recorded.

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Slips, Trips and Falls

Slips, trips and falls, usually as a result of poor housekeeping,

account for the majority of accidents recorded at work. It is

important therefore to support a culture at work where no-one

accepts poor standards of cleanliness and tidiness.

Personnel are reminded of the following:

• Tidy up after yourself frequently and clear rubbish as it

is created.

• Keep stairways, walkways and emergency routes clear

at all times.

• All waste should be disposed of using the correct

bins/containers.

• Materials and equipment must be stored properly in

agreed designated areas only.

• Never store materials upright against walls.

• Any spillages should be cleaned up straight away and

trailing cables squared away.

Eating and drinking (except for water) must only be done in the

designated welfare areas. Food wrappers and waste containers

must be disposed of properly and in the appropriate receptacles

as discarded food items can be hazards and will attract rats

and vermin.

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Hand Held Power Tools

Hand held power tools, if used in the wrong way, can cause severe

injury. Make sure you are trained in the use of power tools and that

the equipment has the correct certification.

• Use cordless tools wherever possible.

• Inspect tools and report any defects to your supervisor.

• Keep tools in good condition and store them properly.

• Make sure all safety devices and guards are serviceable

and in place prior to use.

• Ensure all power tools are periodically examined and

tested as required by legislation.

• Only authorised and competent people must undertake

maintenance, repairs, testing and installations or

alterations of power tools.

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Hot Works

Before any task involving hot works is undertaken, a risk

assessment must be carried out and a hot work permit must be

issued to ensure that all the necessary control measures are in

place and observed.

Hot works is normally any task which is likely to generate enough

heat to start/ignite a fire, including the emission of hot sparks.

This may include:

• Disc cutting (chop-saw).

• Angle grinding.

• Welding.

• Cutting.

It should be noted that some ‘cold cut’ saws do and will

create a minimal amount of sparks which have the potential

to ignite flammable atmospheres and liquids, as well as

combustible materials.

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A good housekeeping policywith tidy work areas will helpto minimise the possibility of afire breaking out.

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Fire Precautions

What to do in case of fire

If you discover a fire:

• Sound the alarm and call or send for help.

• If you feel you are able to put the fire out, do so, but

never put yourself at risk.

• Leave the area, report to the designated muster point and

await further instructions.

If you hear a fire or emergency alarm:

• Proceed calmly but directly to your muster point and

report to your supervisor.

• Don’t return to your work area until you are told it is safe

to do so.

Learn the emergency procedure drills and the fire drills.

• Listen to the site inductions!

• Read the site instructions!

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Preventing Fires

• Familiarise yourself with the site rules and make sure you follow

them – including no smoking areas and the requirement for ‘hot

work permits’.

• Do not place flammable gas or liquid containers near sources

of heat.

• Do not leave engines running during refuelling operations.

• Keep changing rooms and welfare areas tidy – do not place damp

clothing on heaters.

• Do not overload electric sockets – ‘one socket, one plug’.

• Plan in advance – you won’t have time when fire breaks out.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

You will be provided with the correct PPE for the tasks you are

expected to undertake and instructed on its proper use and care.

You are expected by law to wear it in the correct manner to afford

maximum protection.

Make sure that the PPE provided is in good condition, fits you

properly and can be stored correctly. Damaged or faulty PPE does

not give 100% protection and must be replaced as soon as

practicably possible.

Non-compliance with company PPE policy may well lead to

disciplinary action being taken.

Standard PPE to be worn at ALL times on Barhale sites:

• Hard hats.

• Hi-visibility vests/jackets.

• Protective footwear.

• Gloves and safety glasses as required.

Additional PPE IS required for task specific operations including:

• Hearing protection for any task involving 110 volt

power tools.

• Dust masks for any work which creates air borne particles

e.g. drilling masonry or accessing areas which are

considerably dusty.

• Goggles MUST be worn when drilling, jig-sawing,

grinding or disc cutting.

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25

Working with Electricity

You should not work on live electrical services unless you are

trained to do so. If work has to be carried out suitable precautions

must be in place (e.g. permit to work and fully insulated tools

and equipment).

All electrical power tools and extension leads used on site must

be PAT tested and carry a recognised test label showing the test

and expiry dates (duration between tests). Operatives should

remind supervisors of re-test dates to ensure continuity of use

of equipment.

All tools should be visually inspected before use. Check for

damage to leads, plugs, casing and whether or not parts (including

guards and handles) are missing.

All defects should immediately be reported to a supervisor who

must ensure the defective item is taken out of service and labelled

‘DO NOT USE’.

All tools, including drill bits and blades, must be suitable

for purpose.

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HAVS

Hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) is a disorder caused by over

exposure to equipment which emits vibration. It affects the blood

vessels, nerves, muscles and joints of the hands, wrist and arms

and in its most severe form it can be extremely debilitating and

lead to permanent damage.

Power tools emit different levels of vibration which need to be

managed by wearing the appropriate PPE and strict adherence to

safe time limits in the use of the tools.

It is important to use the right tool for the job and to make sure

cutting tools are sharp. You should reduce the amount of time you

use the tool in any one period and in total if you use it on a regular

basis. Keep your hands warm and always wear gloves.

Typical symptoms are:

• Tingling and numbness in

the fingers.

• Loss of colour to the fingers.

• Loss of feeling.

• Pain, tingling or numbness in

hands, wrists or arms.

• Reduced/weakened grip.

If you suffer from any of the above symptoms you should report it

to your supervisor and seek medical advice.

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Dust and Fumes

Not all dust and fumes are visible to the naked eye, or even

harmful, merely acting as irritants. Some however can cause

serious and permanent damage to you and your lungs so it is

important that we understand the risks and use the correct control

methods. Proper use of correctly selected Respiratory Protective

Equipment (RPE) is essential for your wellbeing, and instruction will

be provided for this.

• Where possible plan to eliminate sources of harmful

dust and fumes. If they cannot be eliminated they must

be controlled.

• Wear an appropriate mask or respirator, making sure it

fits properly and is in good condition.

• Make sure there is adequate ventilation, particularly in

confined spaces.

• Consider others who may be affected by your work.

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Dust, emissions and odours arising from a site may annoy

neighbours and can cause air and light pollution. There is also the

potential for legal action, which will have cost, programme and

implications for reputation.

Annoyance is caused when residents have to re-clean washing and

when they have to wash cars, curtains and windows. Wind-blown

dust can be unsightly over long distances in scenic areas. In

exceptional circumstances dust can affect health by, for example,

causing eye irritation. Asthma can be exacerbated by exposure to

respirable dust.

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Asbestos

Whilst the likelihood of being exposed to asbestos has been greatly

reduced over recent years, it still may present a health hazard,

particularly when working with older buildings, structures and

materials. It is important to have controls in place to identify the

presence of asbestos and to deal with it.

Breathing in asbestos fibres can cause irreversible lung damage,

cancer and can prove fatal.

Asbestos fibres are likely to be found in the following materials:

• Insulation on boilers and pipe work.

• Fire protection coatings on steel beams.

• Cladding affording protection to doors, walls and ceilings.

• Roofing sheet material.

• Floor and ceiling tiles.

If you suspect that you have discovered asbestos or asbestos

containing materials:

• Stop work.

• Do not touch it.

• Inform your supervisor immediately.

• Do not return to the area until told it is safe to do so.

You may only enter asbestos contaminated areas if:

• You are trained and competent to do so.

• You are wearing the correct PPE.

• You are authorised to do so.

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Asbestos is classified as a hazardous waste and must be disposed

of in a controlled manner ensuring it goes to a facility permitted to

accept it.

This needs to be organised by a supervisor.

Noise

Excessive noise exposure, even over relatively short periods, can

lead to noise induced hearing damage. Personnel should be aware

that noise-damaged hearing cannot be repaired and the damage is

irreversible. The effects include:

• Permanent hearing loss.

• Hearing levels which become more sensitive.

• Tinnitus - a permanent ringing in the ears.

Excessive noise will lead to a breakdown of safe and effective

communication and prolonged exposure will lead to hearing

damage such as hearing becoming less sensitive, tinnitus (ringing

in ears) and permanent hearing loss.

As a ‘rough’ guide to noise levels, If you are having to shout to

make yourself heard at a distance of 3 metres then the safe level,

85dB(A), is being exceeded and hearing protection must be worn.

Always wear hearing protection when in a hearing protection zone

as indicated by safety signage. Make sure your hearing protection

is of the correct sort and fits you properly.

As an employer we will make suitable hearing protection available

where required so ask for it and use it.

Remember - THERE IS NO CURE FOR HEARING LOSS.

Excessive noise on site not only represents a major hazard to site

workers but can annoy neighbours and in some cases disturb

adjacent wildlife.

Excessive noise and vibration can cause the following:

• Poor quality of life for affected residents (ie disturbance

and stress).

• Complaints.

• Structural damage to buildings and utilities.

• Wildlife disturbance.

And lead to:

• Statutory enforcement of controls by the local authority or

court, including revisions to working methods, working hours

and even stopping the works.

• Programme delays and associated costs.

• Damage to third party and community relations.

• Damage to corporate/project reputation.

• Damage to wildlife habitats.

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Effective planning, and on-site management of noise, will

significantly reduce the likelihood of any of these actions being

taken, and so reduce the risk of construction noise affecting the

overall performance of a project.

You should also minimise the environmental impact of your work

activities on the local community and particularly those close by.

With this in mind a conscious effort should be made to keep noise

levels at an acceptable level by using the appropriate plant,

equipment and assessment procedures. Avoid undertaking noisy

operations at unsocial times.

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Work at Height

You don’t have to be high off the ground to be ‘working at height’.

Working anywhere from which it is possible to fall to a lower level

constitutes ‘working at height’.

Where work has to be carried out from a height, both you, your

tools and your work materials must be prevented from falling.

Guardrails and toeboards must be provided at any edge from

which things could fall.

Work platforms must be properly constructed and capable of

supporting people, materials and tools.

Always avoid working at height if there is a safer alternative.

Access Equipment

Access equipment should only be erected, altered, dismantled and

used by operatives who are trained and competent. Always use the

correct platform for the task and check that it is sound, free from

defect and is in date for inspection before use. All faults and

defects must be reported immediately and the equipment

withdrawn from use.

- Access scaffolds.

- MEWPS (cherry pickers or scissor lifts).

- Mobile scaffold towers/safety decks.

- Podium steps.

- Safety harnesses

(personal fall protection).

- Ladders/Step ladders (last resort after

completion of a risk assessment).

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Scaffolding

Scaffolding should only be erected and dismantled by competent

and qualified personnel and should be inspected each day prior to

use. You should be especially vigilant when using or working in the

vicinity of scaffolding as its use accounts for a high proportion of

accidents and injuries.

If using scaffolding make sure you remember the following points:

• Never climb up or down the outside of scaffolding, always

use the proper means of access.

• Don’t overload scaffolding and make sure materials are

stacked correctly and not blocking routes.

• Guard rails and toe boards must be fitted to prevent

people or materials from falling. Use brick guards or

netting where required.

• Make sure the scaffolding is certified safe for use - check

the scafftag - and never use incomplete scaffolding.

Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs)

• Maintenance checks are to be undertaken

on a daily and weekly basis.

• A six-monthly examination certificate must

accompany all MEWPs.

• Always consider the working environment,

e.g. ground conditions and obstructions.

Mobile Scaffold Towers

• Must be climbed on the inside, on the narrowest side.

• Must be worked on from a fully decked platform with guardrails

and toeboards.

• Must not exceed the manufacturer’s height to base

ratio recommendations.

Always check that:

• The tower is on

level ground.

• No other activities

near the tower will

affect safety.

• Outriggers or stabilisers

are correctly placed.

• Castors are locked.

Never:

• Move a tower with

people or materials on

the platform.

• Use a tower that

is incomplete.

• Use a ladder or step

ladder to gain extra

height on a tower.

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Ladders/Step Ladders

Before using ladders, a suitable and sufficient risk assessment

which considers the use of a mobile scaffold or an alternative piece

of access equipment such as podium steps should be carried out.

If a ladder has to be used it should only be for short term light work

(10 mins. max.).

• Treads and stiles must be

secure, not split or broken

and free from drill holes.

• Ropes should be of the

same length and not

frayed or cut, legs / stiles

should be fully open.

• Always face the

steps/ladder in the

direction you are working.

Never lean outwards or

sideways and never

over-stretch.

• Only use ladders/step ladders on firm, stable, level surfaces.

• DO NOT use step ladders as a workbench to drill or

saw materials.

• Never use step ladders near leading edges of raised floors, keep

at least 600mm away.

• DO NOT work from the top rungs of a ladder.

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Manual Handling

Poor manual handling is a major cause of injuries at work,

accounting for a third of the total. Try and avoid any unnecessary

manual handling where possible, use mechanical aids instead.

These may include:

• A trolley.

• A sack barrow.

• A fork lift truck.

You should have received training for manual handling

requirements at work. Any manual handling which has to be

undertaken is subject to a strict risk assessment. The items to be

addressed will include:

• The suitability of the person.

• The weight, bulk and centre of gravity of the load.

• Is the load sharp?

• Are the contents likely to shift?

Think about conditions such as lighting levels, ground conditions

and weather. Consideration should be given to PPE requirements,

the distance the load is to be moved and the access around pick

up/drop off areas.

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If possible reduce the weight to be moved, however be aware that

this may mean additional lifts. If the load is too heavy to lift on your

own, get help!

Before and during the lift it is important to ensure you use the

following technique:

• Position your feet either side of the load.

• Adopt a good posture by bending the knees and keeping

the back straight.

• Take a firm grip of the item to be lifted.

• As you lift, keep the load close to the body.

• Turn your feet to change direction as opposed to twisting

the body.

• When putting the load down, do not bend in half; it should

be lowered using the reverse technique of the above

lifting technique.

39

COSHH

The COSHH regulations protect you from chemicals and other

substances which could harm you.

When using substances which are hazardous to health or the

environment, it is important to ensure that the correct control

measures and precautions are in place. It is a legal requirement

that before working with hazardous substances a suitable and

sufficient risk assessment is undertaken. The assessment will

highlight a safe system of work, including the protective measures

required to prevent exposure to the substance. Manufacturers and

suppliers have a legal duty to provide safety data sheets. It should

ensure that immediate and long term health effects are removed.

There are a number of ways in which the substances can cause

problems to health and include:

• Inhalation.

• Skin or eye contact.

• Infection of open wounds or broken skin.

• Ingestion through the mouth.

You should ALWAYS wash your hands before eating, drinking

or smoking.

The symbols below, which can be found on COSHH containers,

are a visual indication that a safe system of work is required.

40

TOXIC HARMFUL IRRITANTCORROSIVE

Always check the label on containers and follow the instructions for

the safe use of substances. Stop work if you feel unwell or suffer a

reaction to them. Wear the correct PPE and make sure the work

area has an adequate supply of fresh air.

Substances should be stored safely, securely and in properly

marked containers then disposed of correctly when finished with.

Never leave containers open or unattended and make sure you

know what to do in the event of a spillage or contact with

a substance.

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Dermatitis

Skin coming into contact with substances may be susceptible to

occupational dermatitis, an inflammation of the skin, which may

remain only temporary if treated early enough or lead to more

persistent problems if not. Prevention is better than cure!

Physical signs of dermatitis may include redness, irritation,

swelling, blisters or thickening of the skin and affected areas will

depend on the type of irritant and its spread.

If symptoms continue to worsen the skin may crack and bleed and

the problem may spread to other parts of the body.

Protective measures include:

• Using the correct gloves and ensuring the hands are clean

and moisturised both before and after work.

• A face shield and overalls will prevent exposure to dust

and liquids.

• Respiratory protection will be required for control of fumes.

• All the PPE used must be kept clean and serviceable.

• Work places/areas must be kept clean and tidy.

42

Confined Space

A work area which is substantially, but not necessarily entirely,

enclosed or a space in an area where there is a reasonably

foreseeable risk of serious injury from hazardous substances or

conditions can be deemed a ‘confined space’.

No work may be undertaken unless a risk assessment, method

statement and access permit are all in place.

Only trained, competent people should enter a confined space,

using the safe system of work identified in the confined space

entry permit.

There are several dangers to bear in mind:

• Possible oxygen depletion or enrichment.

• Toxic and/or flammable atmospheres.

• Extreme environments (very hot).

• Free-flowing liquids or solids.

Before entry, atmospheric monitoring must be undertaken (as

identified in the risk assessment) and rescue procedures including

emergency procedures must be in place where required.

Emergencies

In the event of an accident NO

rescue attempt to retrieve a

casualty should be attempted

unless the rescuer is fully trained

and equipped to do so. Such

attempts can lead to a multiple

casualty situation.

43

Excavations

Excavations of any depth can be very dangerous particularly from

the threat of collapse of the sides of the excavation or live services

being damaged during digging.

Before starting an excavation, the relevant service utility supply

companies should be contacted to gather information and drawings

on the positioning, size and extent of the buried services.

A CAT (cable avoidance tool) should be used to trace underground

utilities at regular intervals throughout the task, and ensure traced

locations are clearly marked using marker points.

44

Prior to digging, a permit to dig must be in place, a trial dig must be

undertaken and where possible, existing services should be

identified and isolated.

Excavations should be inspected before access and particularly

before each shift commences and after any adverse weather

conditions. The sides of an excavation must always be supported

or stepped/battered back to protect it from collapse because there

is no such thing as ‘safe or good’ ground conditions.

If access is required then a tied ladder must be used. Suitable

guardrails (which will prevent people, plant or materials from falling

into the excavation) must also be in place.

One cubic metre of soil weighs in excess of one tonne, which is

more than enough to kill a person. 95% of all persons who are

buried in an excavation

will die with the majority

of fatalities occurring in

trenches less than 1.5

metres deep.

Materials must never be

stacked adjacent to

excavations or thrown

into them.

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46

Welfare Facilities

Welfare facilities including toilets, wash basins, changing rooms

and canteens are provided for your use, unless it is not possible

due to the nature of the work site. It is up to all personnel who use

the facilities to ensure they are kept clean and tidy and not abused.

Hands should always be washed before and after going to the toilet

and washed before eating, drinking or smoking.

Hands should be dried thoroughly using clean paper towels or a

hand drier.

Even if you have been wearing gloves for your work hands will still

need to be washed because contamination may be transferred into

the gloves when they are taken off or it may enter through

perforated cotton sections.

On smaller contracts welfare facilities should not be used to store

plant and materials.

Good personal hygiene standards including regular showering or

bathing is necessary to ensure contamination and bacteria do not

effect healthy skin and cause body odour. Work wear should be

laundered on a regular basis to ensure good hygiene standards

are maintained.

Skin Protection

Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can cause skin

damage including sunburn, premature ageing and skin cancer. Skin

cancer from UV radiation is the most common form of cancer in the

UK with over 40,000 new cases diagnosed each year.

Important:

• Personnel must remember that a sun tan is the sign of

damaged skin.

• The best protection is covered skin using long sleeves

and long trousers.

• Use a sun block cream with a minimum sun protection

factor (SPF) of 15 on all exposed areas of skin.

• Take breaks out of the sun and in the shade.

• Drink plenty of water to stop yourself from dehydrating.

• You should check your skin regularly for unusual spots or

moles. If you discover anything which is changing in size,

shape or colour which may itch or bleed, see your

doctor immediately.

47

Weils Disease

This is a serious disease which can be fatal and may be

transmitted to humans coming into contact with urine from

infected rats.

The bacteria can enter the human body in a number of ways,

primarily via cuts, scratches and open wounds but also through the

mouth, throat or eyes upon contact with contaminated water.

The most common early symptoms of Weils Disease are a sudden

high temperature, an influenza-like illness with joint and muscle

pains along with possible conjunctivitis and jaundice. The first signs

of any illness should be reported to your supervisor immediately

and your GP should be informed immediately, detailing your

occupation and where you have been working.

In order to protect yourself against the disease, remember

the following:

• All cuts and grazes must be treated and covered immediately with

a waterproof dressing.

• Before eating drinking or smoking hands and arms must be

washed thoroughly.

• Always use the waterproof

gloves that must be

provided when working in

wet conditions and

replace them if they

become damaged.

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Legionellosis

Legionnaires’ disease is an uncommon form of pneumonia not

easily distinguished from other types. It normally takes between

2-10 days to develop symptoms (typically five to six days) but two

to three weeks in rarer cases.

Patients usually start with a dry cough, fever, headache and

sometimes diarrhoea and many people go on to get pneumonia.

Effective antibiotic treatment is available if the diagnosis is made

early in the illness.

Infection occurs when air is breathed in that contains tiny droplets

of water known as aerosols, inside of which are the legionella

bacteria. If the bacteria get inhaled into the lungs they can cause

infection. It is not contagious.

Sharps/Needle Stick Injuries

Used syringes and hypodermic needles carry a threat of infection

from infected blood or bodily fluids which can lead to blood-borne

viruses such as Hepatitis or Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)

which can lead to AIDS.

You should maintain vigilance when in situations where needles or

sharps may be present. If you suffer a needle stick injury:

• Squeeze the point of entry to encourage the wound to

bleed - do NOT suck the wound.

• Rinse the area with fresh water.

• Inform your supervisor / manager immediately where,

when and how the accident occurred.

• Go to A & E to get the wound/puncture examined.

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50

Moving Vehicles

As Barhale employees you will receive the correct instruction and

training for the safe use and operation of plant and vehicles.

A vehicle must be road legal if it is going to be used on public

roads and in good condition. It should be inspected everyday

before use and more thoroughly on a weekly basis with a log kept

of the inspections.

Vehicles must not be used or parked on dangerous ground and

must be segregated from pedestrians while in use on site. If you

are working in the vicinity of a vehicle make sure the driver is

aware of your presence.

51

Plant

Plant must be appropriate for the task and only be operated by

trained and authorised people. It should be inspected on a daily

basis prior to work and weekly inspections should be recorded.

Seat belts must be worn where fitted and a roll over protection

structure (ROPS), flashing beacon, reversing alarm and

mirrors/CCTV for all round vision should all be in place.

Make sure there are clear segregation measures to separate plant

and pedestrians and a banksman MUST be present for reversing.

Remember to remove the keys from the ignition when the vehicle

is not being used.

Refueling must be carried out carefully to prevent fuel spills,

particularly on open ground. Plant should also be frequently

inspected to ensure engine and hydraulic oils are not leaking.

52

Lifting Operations

All lifting operations must be properly planned, supervised and

carried out by trained personnel.

It is important to remember the following:

• Chains and lifting tackle must be in good condition.

• Only trained slingers can attach a load to a crane.

• Only trained personnel can act as slinger signaller.

• All outriggers must be fully extended on mobile

cranes and positioned on good ground, using timbers

and/or pads.

• Loads on cranes and hoists must be stable before lifting

begins and within the safe working load.

• Only trained personnel can operate hoists.

• Make sure hoist gates are properly shut.

It is important that you never stand under a suspended load and

that personnel involved in a lift are aware of your presence if you

are in the vicinity.

Never undertake lifting

operations in close proximity

to overhead cables or

obstructions without first taking

suitable precautions.

53

Waste and Resources

Barhale has committed to minimising the amount of waste it sends

to landfill. Remember:

• All waste material must be handled, stored and disposed of in a

safe, approved manner.

• All waste should be disposed of using the correct bins/containers

– look out for colour coded ones.

• Planning your work reduces waste.

• Storing materials and equipment properly helps to prevent

damage, keep them in their packaging until required.

• Keep significant off-cuts for use elsewhere.

• Never dispose of hazardous waste with general waste – all waste

disposals must be in accordance with the relevant legislation.

• Unused materials should be returned or taken to another site -

Don’t just skip it – save it!

• Ensure all fuels, oils and chemicals are stored correctly in a

bunded area or on a drip tray.

The use of recycled and secondary aggregates helps to reduce

the demand for newly quarried materials and can be a cost

effective alternative.

Make sure you minimise the generation of waste and implement the

correct procedures to ensure the safe handling, storage, recycling

and disposal of all

waste products

and materials.

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No waste must be burnt in open fires on site - all waste must be

disposed of correctly and in accordance with the Company Waste

Management Procedure.

Water

Even a small amount of material can be a pollutant. For example,

the normal limits set by the environmental regulator for suspended

solids are typically 30–40 mg/I. This is about the equivalent of

mixing half a tablespoon of soil in a bath full of water.

High levels of silt can clog the gills of fish and ultimately lead to their

death. It can also smother invertebrates and sensitive plant life,

which are themselves a food source for fish. When deposited on the

stream bed, silt may prevent fish spawning successfully and

suffocate eggs. Levels as low as 15 mg/I can harm juvenile fish.

Measures to prevent silt from entering water include the provision of

settlement tanks, tangential separator, pump safe or geotextile

silt traps.

Any discharge to a watercourse, including ditches and drains

MUST be authorised and discharges frequently monitored to

make sure no pollution is occuring. If pollution is spotted

operations must STOP until control can be re-established.

56

Spill Response

In the case of an environmental incident, i.e. major spillage, water or

air pollution, the individual responsible for the incident or for

discovering it should do the following if it is safe to do so:

Stop the source if possible, i.e. turn off the pollutant, erect where

possible a barrier to stop the spread of the pollutant by using an

emergency spill kit.

Inform persons in the immediate vicinity of any exposure they may

come into contact with.

Immediately inform the Company Environmental Manager / HSE

Advisor of the incident either directly or through his Line Manager.

The Company Environmental Manager / HSE Advisor shall

investigate all environmental incidents.

Carbon Footprint

All employees need to be aware of the need to cut out any

unnecessary fuel usage and to work towards maximising energy

efficiency in all areas. All plant equipment, on sites and in offices,

should be switched off when not in use and lights and heating used

only in those areas and at those times when they are necessary.

By regularly maintaining and

servicing plant and machinery

we can keep carbon emmisions

to a minimum.

Wildlife

The level of protection given to wildlife is increasing through legal

controls and contract conditions. The identification and management

of wildlife within a site needs to be undertaken at the planning stage

of a project to ensure delays to the programme and extra costs are

not incurred.

Disturbing protected species or damaging the places where they

live can result in prosecution under a range of Iegislation. The fine

for non-compliance with legislation varies according to the species

and the type of damage caused. For example, if protected species

such as bats, badgers, or great crested newts are disturbed, fines

may be imposed at £5000 per animal. There is also scope for the

confiscation of any vehicles or other equipment used to commit

the offence.

Contract or planning conditions may state that certain trees must

remain undamaged. Replacing damaged mature trees is expensive

– a 10 m-high tree may cost £2000, plus extra expense for delivery,

planting and several years maintenance.

Noxious and Invasive Plants

Ecology is adversely affected through the spreading of noxious and

invasive plants, and it is an offence to cause their spread.

• Japanese knotweed (grows densely, shades out other plants,

reduces biodiversity, penetrates asphalt, walls, and foundations).

• Giant hogweed (poisonous sap).

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It can be very expensive to remove Japanese knotweed through

removal and disposal of surrounding soil 7m around the plant and to

a depth of 3.5m.

If you come across noxious or invasive plants on site it is your

responsibility to inform your supervisor.

Contamination of Land

To prevent land contamination and potential water pollution COSHH

assessments need to be held on site for any potentially hazardous

materials.These provide advice on the type of storage needed for

the chemicals, ie bunded areas, storage of flammable products in

locked cupboards.

Proper storage of hazardous materials reduces wastage and

reduces the risk of spillages that could result in possible ground or

groundwater contamination.

Chemical transfers should be done within a suitably bunded area

otherwise spillages could result in ground or water contamination.

When using fuel, follow the refuelling protocol to minimise the risk

of spillage.

Minimise accidental spillages and have emergency procedures in

place in case of a spill. Ensure there is a spill kit available and

personnel are trained to use it.

Any disposal of product or empty product containers should be in

accordance with waste management legislation and the related

COSHH datasheet.

59

Archaeology

Archaeological remains and built heritage are an irreplaceable and

valuable part of our national heritage. Buildings and structures –

some that are only a few decades old – (or others that are hundreds

of years old) are important assets of the built environment and need

preserving. For this reason archaeology and built heritage are an

important material consideration in the planning process.

If any unexpected finds are encountered:

• Immediately stop work in the area.

• Cordon off and protect the find and contact the

site manager.

• Contact the archaeological officer at the local authority.

• Consider seeking specialist archaeological advice on how

to proceed.

• If human remains are discovered a Home Office licence

will be required before works can continue.

60

Driver Safety

This handbook is for your guidance and should be read in

conjunction with the Driver Safety Programme, which can be found

in employee’s starter packs. If in any doubt please contact your

Line Manager.

You are now in possession of a valuable Company asset and are

requested to read and observe the following regulations, which

apply to all vehicle users.

Drivers

Only persons who hold a FULL current driving licence are

permitted to drive Company vehicles. The permitted drivers are

identified as follows:

Commercials

• The person to whom the vehicle is allocated to with relevant

experience of the vehicle and the permitted licence categories

and is in possession of a Permit to Drive.

• Additional drivers are permitted, who comply with the above

requirement but are subject to prior authorisation by the

Line Manager.

Responsibilities

• The allocated vehicle will be your sole responsibility.

• It is the driver’s responsibility to complete the vehicles log

book daily.

Professional Drivers (HGV)

• The person to whom the vehicle is allocated to with the relevant

licence for the vehicle.

• Must be in possession of a Permit to Drive.

• Will be issued with a professional drivers handbook on induction.

Responsibilities

• The allocated vehicle will be your sole responsibility.

• It is the driver’s responsibility to complete the vehicles log

book daily.

Company Cars

• The person to whom the vehicle is allocated.

• Any employee of the Company who is in possession of a Permit

to Drive.

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62

• Partners and immediate family members are permitted, subject to

prior authorisation by Line Manager & Insurance Department.

Responsibilities

• The allocated vehicle will be your sole responsibility.

Driving Mandate

You will be required to complete a Driver’s Mandate Form and

provide the Company with a copy of your full driving licence, in the

case of the two part licence, both parts must be submitted, for

entry into the Driver Safety Programme (DSP)

You will not be permitted to drive on Company business without a

valid permit to drive.

You must notify Lloyds TSB Autolease (LTSBA) of any change in

licence circumstances (ie: motoring endorsements or any

medical conditions).

Contact telephone number 0870 600 1117 or via email

barhalefleet@lloydstsbautolease.co.uk

Car drivers will have their licence checked on a regular basis.

In line with commercial practice, professional drivers (above 3.5

ton) licences will be checked every three months.

Insurance

Cover

The vehicle is insured for Barhale business use including social,

domestic and pleasure purposes by approved drivers.

Exclusions

Rallying, hiring, carrying passengers for reward, racing, reliability

trails or speed testing.

Insurance Certificates

Insurance certificates are kept at all main offices and

BCS Locations.

Personal Effects

These are not insured under the Company Motor Fleet policy.

You should arrange separate insurance, if so desired, for

personal belongings.

Disclosure of Material Facts

It is a condition of the Company’s Driver Safety Programme that

vehicles are not driven by any person without prior

authorisation who:

• Suffer from any infirmity or disease that impairs the ability

to drive.

• Has been refused motor vehicle insurance cover.

• Has, during the last 5 years, been convicted of any of the

following motoring offences.

- Causing death by dangerous driving

- Dangerous driving (by any terminology)

- Failing to stop after accident

- Any offence which resulted in suspension from driving

- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs

- Has any conviction not disclosed to the Company

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Failure to disclose any pertinent facts could invalidate

the Insurance.

It is better to disclose too much than too little. In the majority of

instances it will not be the conviction that nullifies the insurance,

but the non-disclosure of any such conviction.

Courtesy and Demonstration Vehicles

It is the employee’s responsibility to notify the Insurance

Department if a courtesy or demonstration vehicle is supplied.

Telephone number 08447 360090

European Travel

Commercial Vehicles

The Company does not permit the use of Company commercial

vehicles outside the UK.

Company Cars

If a LTSBA car is taken outside of the UK, you must contact

RAC direct on 0870 9016400 14 days prior to travel and obtain the

necessary Department of Transport Certificate to take a vehicle to

Europe. You must also inform the Barhale Insurance Department.

Please note that all vehicles that are on contract hires with LTSBA

include breakdown cover when vehicles travel into Europe as long

as the necessary documentation has been completed. Additional

drivers may only be authorised to drive the car subject to prior

authorisation and must be accompanied by the designated

Barhale driver.

The European Travel Procedure can also be found on Envoy

CPR162 ‘Procedure for the use of Company cars outside the UK’.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Commercial Vehicles

Inspections will be conducted on a regular basis to

ensure compliance.

All drivers of commercial vehicles must carry out the following:

• Complete daily, the drivers log book provided with

the vehicle.

• Check/top up all fluid levels.

• Check security of wheels.

• Check tyres for pressure, condition and damages.

• Check operation of wipers, washers, demister &

panel lamps.

• Check operation of front, rear, stop, fog and direction

indicator lamps.

• Check condition of all lifting straps, chains, and

ratchet straps.

• Check security of load.

• Clean all lights, reflectors and number plates.

• Check and ensure that all

licences are displayed and

are legible.

• Check vehicle for

cleanliness inside and out

and clean if required.

• Check for, and report all

bodywork damages.

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Report all defects immediately; do not commence driving until

clearance is received from workshops or competent person.

Company Cars

It is the responsibility of the main user to ensure the vehicle is kept

clean at all times. You must also ensure that regular checks are

made on oi/tyres/water etc, as recommended in the manufacturer’s

handbook. The Company has the right to inspect the vehicle at

any time.

• Check/top up all fluid levels.

• Check security of wheels.

• Check tyres for pressure, condition and damages.

• Check operation of wipers, washers, demister & lights.

• Check operation of front, rear, stop, fog and direction

indicator lights.

• Clean all lights, reflectors and number plates.

• Check and ensure that all licences are displayed and

are legible.

• Check vehicle for cleanliness inside and out and clean

if required.

• Check for, and report all bodywork damages.

Commercial Vehicles

Instruction to drivers regarding loading of vehicles.

You must make sure when your vehicle is being loaded that you

know the weight as shown on the department of transport plate. It

is as much of an offence to exceed the axle weight limit as the

gross weight limit.

If in doubt proceed to the nearest approved weighbridge and check

your weights. If overloaded telephone your depot immediately.

Failure to carry out the above mentioned checks on a daily basis

may lead to disciplinary action being taken.

UK Speed Limits – Please refer to the Highway Code in

all instances.

Motorway note: * 60 if articulated or towing a trailer

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Type of Vehicle Built Up Area Single Carriageway Dual Carriageway Motorway

Cars & Motorcycles 30 60 70 70

Cars towing Caravans 30 50 60 60 or Trailers

Mini Buses – not 30 50 60 70exceeding 12 metres in overall length

Transit Type Van 30 50 60 70*

Luton Type Van 30 50 60 70*

Astra Type Van 30 60 70 70(CDV car drive van)

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Fuel

Vehicle users will be issued with a Company Fuel Card, but

drivers are requested to use the Company’s fuel facilities where

available. When purchasing fuel please ensure that the most cost

effective option is used i.e. supermarkets and NOT motorway

service stations.

Consider environmental issues eg: car sharing, not leaving your

engine running when stationary, keeping tyres correctly inflated.

Service and Repairs

Commercial Vehicles

• Submission of monthly mileage to business unit is required.

• In relation to hired commercials please contact the

relevant supplier.

• Authorisation will be sought from the Commercial

Fleet Department.

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Company Cars

• It is the driver’s responsibility to arrange for all necessary services

and repairs to be carried out within the manufacturer’s guidelines.

Refer to vehicle handbook for details. Book all vehicle services

and mechanical repairs through Service Trak on 0870 241 2625

please do not go direct to the vehicle dealer. Services will be

booked at your local facility.

• Prior to any repair work

outside of maintenance

taking place, authorisation

will be sought from Reward

Manager by LTSBA.

Vehicle Breakdown

Commercial Vehicles

Please contact the relevant

supplier for breakdown

assistance and inform your

Line Manager in all cases.

Company Cars

In the event of a vehicle breakdown contact the RAC stating the

car is covered under a LTSBA Breakdown Cover Contract

0800 246 001.

Please be aware that if a replacement vehicle is provided, the

driver will be required to produce an original driving licence

(counterpart, where applicable, is not required). In some cases

production of the Certificate of Insurance may be required.

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Windscreen/Tyres/Batteries/Exhaust Replacement

Commercial Vehicles

To be recorded in the Vehicle Log Book and reported to the

Commercial Fleet Department on: 01923 655655.

Company Cars

In the event of windscreen damage you must contact LTSBA

0800 917 0851.

In the case of tyres/batteries/exhaust must contact LTSBA

0800 028 2848.

Security of Vehicles

It is VITALLY IMPORTANT that the vehicle and its contents are

kept secure at all times. DO NOT under any circumstances leave

the keys in or on the vehicle whilst it is unattended. Where

possible retain the keys on your person and YOU MUST follow the

points below:

• Be aware of your location and area in which you

are parking.

• Always make sure the vehicle is locked and windows

are shut when unattended.

• Personal possessions are not insured in

Company vehicles.

Failure to comply with this section may be seen as a

disciplinary issue.

Motoring Offences

In the case of a Company vehicle being reported for a motoring

offence, it will be deemed that the driver is the main user. Should

another authorised user be driving the vehicle at that point, it will

be the responsibility of the main user to notify the relevant

prosecuting authority of the correct name and confirm that that

person accepts responsibility. For commercial vehicles the vehicle

log book will be referred to for confirmation of driver.

Motoring offences must be notified immediately to LTSBA

0870 600 1117 and updated licence details submitted when

returned by DVLA.

You will be reassessed under the Driver Safety Programme.

If a parking fine is issued it is the responsibility of the driver to pay

the fine immediately to avoid any further costs being incurred.

Bus Lane offences in London will be automatically paid and

deducted from your pay. All other areas the main user will be

nominated to the issuing authority. It is your responsibility to pay

the fine immediately to avoid further costs being incurred.

Where you have not registered for congestion charge, the

Congestion Charge will be automatically paid by the Company and

deducted from pay, unless authorised by the relevant Business

Unit/Dept. Manager.

Additional late payment and administration charges, (currently

between £25 - £30) result in a further deduction being made from

pay for these costs.

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Accident Procedures

All motor accidents MUST be reported immediately. In the event of

an accident:

• Do not panic.

• Do not admit liability or provide any mobile telephone

numbers except the Insurance Department contact details.

• Obtain insurance details of any other vehicle involved -

record number plate details.

• If an accident involves personal injury to a pedestrian or

third party then you must notify the Police immediately

obtaining the full name and address of the Police Station,

the Officer Number and the incident reference number.

• Please obtain the full name and address of any

independent witnesses.

• If possible, take photographs of the damage and location

of accident, using the accident care kit provided with

your vehicle.

• Insurance details must be exchanged with a third party

within 24 hours.

Company Cars

Please contact LTSBA Accident Management in all cases as soon

as possible after the accident has occurred. Tel: 0870 333 6611

available 24/7.

Commercial Vehicles

Please contact the Insurance Department immediately.

Tel: 08447 360090.

Break-In or Theft

In the event of a break-in or theft, the driver must notify the Police

immediately and the following information obtained:

• Crime Reference Number and Police Officer’s Number.

• Name and full address of Police Station including contact number.

Any correspondence, invoices, claims or Notice of Intended

Prosecution relating to an accident must be sent unanswered to

the Insurance Department immediately upon receipt.

Company Cars

Please contact LTSBA Accident Management in all cases as soon

as possible after the accident has occurred. Tel: 0870 333 6611

available 24/7.

Commercial Vehicles

Please contact the Insurance Department immediately.

Tel: 08447 360090.

Mobile Phones

Please refer to the mobile

phone policy which can be

found on Envoy or a copy

can be provided to you.

CG4071 - Guidance on the

use of mobile phones and

other devices in vehicle.

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Towing

Commercial Vehicles

Authorisation is required from the Commercial Fleet Department in

all cases before any commencement of towing. Prior authorisation

must be obtained from the Insurance Department before towing a

caravan for personal use. Insurance cover excludes any loss or

damage to the caravan and the employee is responsible for

insuring their own caravan.

Company Cars

Authorisation must be sort from HR before any towing device is

fitted to the vehicle. The cost of the towing device and fitting will be

the individual’s responsibility and will remain with the vehicle upon

its return.

Employees who Leave the Company

Prior to leaving the Company the driver will be required to make

available their vehicle for a comprehensive inspection.

Your vehicle must be returned on or by your final day of

employment to a regional office or depot.

Any costs of repair/cleaning deemed your responsibility will be

notified to HR who will recover costs from you.

You must not drive the vehicle after your final leaving date as you

are no longer insured to drive.

Driver’s Responsibilities

DO

• Drive safely.

• Remember to keep your Permit to Drive with you.

• Take regular breaks – recommended every two hours.

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DO Cont’d

• Consider car sharing.

• Consider shared driving on long journeys.

• Treat the vehicle with every consideration.

• Check lights, tyres, oil and water on a daily basis.

• Show courtesy and consideration for other road users.

• Ensure that all vehicle occupants wear the appropriate

restraints at all times.

• Obey road signs and regulations.

• Be conversant with the Highway Code.

• Keep the vehicle clean and in good working order.

• Keep this handbook in the vehicle at all times.

• Ensure that a Company sticker is displayed in the rear

window of your car.

• Drive with extreme care when driving in adverse

weather conditions.

DON’T

• Drink and drive.

• Smoke in any Company vehicle.

• Drive if taking any form of medication that may

cause drowsiness.

• Use a handheld mobile phone or other devices

whilst driving.

• Drive the vehicle if it is unroadworthy.

• Drive with animals unless kept secured in estate type cars.

• Leave keys in or on any company vehicle

when unattended.

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76

If you have any concerns with your Company vehicle

please contact: Reward Manager at Barhale House, Walsall.

Tel: 01922 707700

Remember when driving a Company vehicle you are an

ambassador of the Company and should drive accordingly.

Contact Numbers:

Insurance Department 08447 360090

Car Administration 01922 726746

BCS 01923 655655

LloydsTSB Autolease (LTSBA) Cars Only

Service and repair 0870 241 2625

European cover 0870 901 6400

Accident management 0870 333 6611

RAC breakdown 0800 246 001

Windscreens 0800 917 0851

Tyres, batteries and exhausts 0800 028 2848

Customer services 0870 600 1117

BCS Commercial Vehicles Only

Service and repair 01923 655655

Accident management 01923 655655

RAC breakdown 01923 655655

Windscreens 01923 655655

Tyres, batteries and exhausts 01923 655655

Insurance Details:

Insurer: Equity Red Star

Address: PO Box 51,

Swansea, SA7 9LA

Policy Number: PC1707367 (Cars)

CV1707368 (Commercials)

Period of Insurance: 01 Sept to 31 Aug