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General Workplace& Construction Site

Hazards and Controls

GC2 – Element 1

NCC1 – Element 2

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Stress

From

GC2 – Element 8

Did You Know That Stress …

Doubles our risk of heart attack; and

Increases our likelihood of developing

serious illnesses like cancer!

Stress is the reaction people have to

excessive pressures or other types of

demand placed upon them. It arises

when they worry that they can’t cope.

What is Stress?

Common Sources of Stress

Financial worries or concerns about job

security

Leaner workforces and greater workloads

Job burnout

Juggling demands of work and family

Caring for a sick loved one or aging parent

Troubled relationships

How Stress Affects Us at Work

Trouble meeting deadlines

Poor concentration

Difficulty making decisions

Easily irritated

Relationship problems with colleagues

Easily overwhelmed by minor stressors

Fatigue

More backaches, headaches, colds and flus

More sick days

Effects of Stress - 1

Physiological effects:

Increased heart rate

Increased sweating

Headache

Dizziness

Blurred vision

Aching neck and shoulders

Skin rashes

Lowered resistance to

infection

Behavioural effects:

Increased anxiety

Irritability

Increase alcohol intake

Increased smoking

Erratic sleep patterns

Poor concentration

Feeling of inability to cope

with everyday tasks

Effects of Stress - 2

Emotional signs of stress:

Mood swings/irritability

Cynicism

Anxiety, nervousness, apprehension

Loss of confidence

Lack of self-esteem

Lack of concentration

Lack of enthusiasm

Panic attacks

HSE’s 7 Workplace Stressors

The culture of the workplace including communication, if

there is a blame culture and working excessive hours

The demands of the job ~ is the work boring or repetitive, the

amount of training required and the amount of work.

The amount of control the employee has over their work.

Relationships at work can give rise to stress especially if

relationships are poor or involve bullying and harassment.

Change and fears about job security can lead to stress

Confusion about employee’s role & what their objectives are.

Lack of support from managers can increase the employee’s

stress levels, especially if the employee is trying to balance

the demands of work with domestic pressures

In order to identify factors which may cause stress at

work, managers may use any of the following methods

to determine if there is a problem:

Informal discussions between managers and staff

Regular team meetings (such as team-briefing

sessions)

Staff appraisal and / or supervision sessions

Return to work interviews

Sickness absence records

Performance measures e.g. performing below par

Exit interviews and staff turn-over rates

Identify if there is a Problem

No employee is immune from

work-related stress and no job is

stress-free:

Some individuals may be more

vulnerable at certain times as

they may have other stressors

which may or may not be work-

related.

Identify Who Could be Harmed and How

Employer’sStress Preventive Measures?

Take a positive attitude and become familiar with the causes

and controls related to stress issues.

Take employees’ concerns seriously

Develop an effective system of communication

Set out a simple policy on work-related stress

Ensure employees are given adequate and relevant training

Set realistic performance targets

Develop an effective employee appraisal system

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Violence & Abuse at Work

Causes of Workplace Violence/Abuse?

Possible injury from dissatisfied customers,

clients, claimants etc.

Verbal abuse.

Mental abuse.

Discrimination.

Harassment.

Bullying.

Who are at Risk?

Those giving a service

Those caring for others

Those in education

Staff involved in cash transactions

Those involved in delivery/collection activities

People controlling activities

People representing authority

Construction site managers/supervisors

Four Stage Management Process

Find out if you have a problem

Decide what action to take

Take action

Check what you have done

Repeat if there is still a problem

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Substance Misuse at Work

Drugs, Alcohol & Solvents Abuse

Use gives rise to

underperformance

Employees will compromise

their own H&S and that of

other people

Alcohol affects:

– Sensory perception

– Reaction time

Alcohol - How Long to Clear Your System

The generally accepted position is that the liver

breaks down alcohol in a healthy adult body at

around one unit per hour.

This can vary dependent on such things as what

has been eaten and when and how much exercise

has been undertaken.

A person consuming 6 pints of lager would probably

still have alcohol detectable in their bloodstream

after a period of 12 hours.

One unit of alcohol increases the chances of an

accident occurring by up to five times.

Prescription Drugs

As well as illegal drugs,

prescription drugs can also

produce unwanted side effects

Pain-killers and anti-histamines

can cause adverse affects

The affect of drugs mixed with

alcohol can be particularly

dangerous

Solvent Abuse

Inhaled solvent vapours are absorbed through the lungs and

rapidly reach the brain.

Breathing and heart rate slow down and repeated or deeper

inhalation leads to feelings similar to being drunk with loss of co-

ordination and disorientation.

In some cases users momentarily lose consciousness but will

normally come round quickly with no lasting damage.

Users report visual distortions and peculiarities similar to

hallucinations.

The effects are short lived and usually less than 45 minutes

without a repeat dose.

As the effects wear off users often feel tired and drowsy and may

experience a hangover.

Identifying the Problem

Absenteeism

Poor time-keeping

High accident level

Poor work performance

Mood swings

Misconduct

Theft, to feed personal

habits

Possible Control Measures

Education and training

Self-referral systems

Treatment and assistance

Drug screening programmes

Serious misconduct procedures

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Health, Safety and Welfarein the Workplace

Workplace Issues to Consider

Stability and solidity

– Appropriate to the nature of work

Maintenance

– Efficient state including cleaning

Ventilation

– Well ventilated with fresh or

purified air

Temperature

– Inside should be reasonable

Extremes of Temperature

Human body sensitive to small changes in external

temperature.

If the environment is hot the body sweats to promote heat

loss.

In a humid environment sweat evaporation is not effective and

the body overheats leading to heart strain/heat stroke.

In a cold environment the body shivers generating muscular

activity that in turn produces body heat.

At very low temperatures the body will lose heat too rapidly

and the extremities of the body will become very cold.

Cleanliness and waste

materials

– Kept sufficiently clean

– Waste not allowed to

accumulate except in

receptacles

Lighting

– Sufficient

– Natural where possible

– Emergency lighting where

required


Impact of Lighting Levels on Safety

People’s eyesight can vary greatly and older people

develop sight problems from the age of 40 to 50 years.

This can lead to deterioration in visual acuity and

increased likelihood of accidents

Some common problems:

– Incorrect perception or failure to perceive

– Stroboscopic effects / effects on attitudes

– Colour assessment / visual fatigue

– Disabling and discomfort from glare

– Tissue damage from light exposure (UV)


Room dimensions and space

– Sufficient floor area and height

Workstations and seating

– Suitable for any person likely to

work there

– Appropriate to the nature of work

– Enables a person to leave swiftly

in emergency

– Suitable seat and footrest (if

required)


Construction of floors and traffic

routes

– Suitable for purpose

– No holes or slope where a risk

– Adequate drainage

– Kept free from obstructions

– Suitable handrails on staircases


Falling objects

– Provision of suitable storage

facilities for materials etc;

– Racking to be installed and fixed

into place and signed with safe

working load;

– Legs of racking to be protected

from collision (e.g. in forklift

operations areas); and

– System of work should see

heavier items stored lower down.


Windows and translucent doors etc

– Be of safe material

– Protected from breakage

– Be opened safely

– Not expose a person to risk when open

– Be able to be cleaned safely

Organisation of traffic routes

– Allow safe circulation

– Suitable and sufficient

– Vehicles separated from doors

– Suitably signed


Doors and Gates

– Sliding doors not to come off tracks

– Upward opening doors not to fall back

– Powered doors not to injure people

– If opens both ways a clear view of each

side

Escalators and moving walkways

– Function safely

– Have safety devices

– Fitted with emergency stop controls


Sanitary Conveniences

– Readily accessible

– Adequately ventilated and

lit

– Kept clean and orderly

– Separate male and female

unless in a separate room

lockable from inside

– Sufficient in number


Washing facilities

– Includes showers if required

– In immediate vicinity of sanitary

conveniences

– Hot and cold or warm water

– Include soap and means of

drying

– Rooms adequately ventilated

and lit

– Separate male and female


Drinking water

– Adequate supply

– Readily accessible

– Conspicuously marked where necessary

– Provided with cups or from a fountain

Accommodation for clothing

– To be provided for clothing worn to work

but not at work

– For special clothing

Facilities for changing

– Where a person has to wear special

clothing

– For reasons of health or propriety


Facilities for rest and to eat meals

– Provide a room for meals where

required for safety

– Be equipped with

Adequate seating with backs

Sufficient number for the people

Adequate for the number of

disabled persons

– Facilities to be provided for

pregnant women or nursing

mothers if required

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Work at HeightHazards and Controls

What is ‘Work at Height’?

Work at height means:

– work in any place, including a place at or

below ground level;

– obtaining access to or egress from such a

place while at work, except by a staircase in

a permanent workplace,

where, if control measures are not

implemented, a person could fall a distance

liable to cause personal injury.

Example Work Activities

Maintenance/repair work on building roofs including access to plant rooms;

Repairing/replacing light fittings/bulbs etc;

Cleaning of high level areas;

Decoration of walls and ceilings;

Accessing storage racking to store/retrieve articles;

Accessing loft or mezzanine storage areas;

Climbing onto vehicles, use of tail lifts etc;

… and more?

Hazards with Working at Height

• Vertical distance;

• Collision with obstacles either

overhead or on floors;

• Fragile roofs;

• Deterioration of materials;

• Unprotected edges;

• Unstable/poorly maintained

access equipment;

• Weather conditions; and

• Falling objects/materials.

How to Avoid Work at Height?

Make the workplace a normal place of work:

– If a plant room is on the roof, the edge of the roof

should be protected by full height parapet wall and

accessed via a properly constructed staircase;

Carry out the work on the ground and then lift it into

position on completion:

– Assembling the trusses for a roof on the ground and

then lifting the completed assembly into place using

a crane.

Having high level light fittings fitted to a pulley system

that allows them to be lowered to be worked on.

Other suggestions?

Organisation and Planning

Ensure no work is done at height if it is safe and reasonably

practicable to do it other than at height

All work at height is properly planned and organised:

– Risk Assessment and Safe System of Work

Appropriately supervised

Plan for emergencies and rescue

Take account of weather conditions (increased risk)

Those involved are trained and competent

The place where working is safe

Equipment used is appropriately inspected

Risks from fragile surfaces and falling objects are properly

controlled and head protection provisioned.

When to Inspect Access Equipment?

After assembled and/or installed if safety

depends on how it is assembled and /or installed

As often as is necessary to ensure safety

As often as is necessary to detect and remedy

any deterioration

After any event likely to have affected its stability

or strength

Common Access Equipment

Ladders;

Stepladders;

Independent tied scaffolds;

Mobile tower scaffolds:

Mobile elevating work platforms

(MEWP’s);

Trestles and staging platforms; and

Leading edge protection systems.

Minimising Consequences of Falls

In addition to the prevention of falls, control

measures are also needed to minimise the

distance and consequences of a fall.

Methods that can be used include:

– Rigged safety netting below fragile roofs etc;

– Soft landing systems (air bags/bean bags);

– Crash decks rigged immediately below work area;

– Use of fall arrest harness systems; and

– Good house keeping so should someone fall they

land on a flat surface rather than hitting a obstacle

(head injuries are the main cause of fatalities).

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Ladders and Stepladders

Use of Ladders, Steps and Trestles

Used where the work at height

cannot be avoided or done

another way AND the risk

assessment shows that the risks

are low;

Appropriate steps have been

taken to mitigate the effects of a

fall should one occur

Employees are competent and

properly supervised

Where Ladder Use Would be Inappropriate?

When two hands are needed or where the work

area is large

Where the equipment or materials used are

large or awkward

Excessive height

Work of long duration

Where the ladder cannot be secured or made

stable

Where the ladder cannot be protected from

vehicles etc.

Adverse weather conditions

Ladders

• Ladders should be set on a

firm level base

• Ladders should be used

only for short duration work

• Ladders should be set at

the correct angle (75o - 1:4)

• Ladders should be tied at

the top and bottom (footed

as a last resort)

Requirements for Ladders

Access ladders to be long enough to provide a

hand hold when getting off at the top unless

other hand holds provided (1m or 5 rungs)

Interlocking or extension ladders to be

prevented from movement while in use

Mobile ladders to be prevented from moving

before being stepped on

User can maintain a safe handhold while

carrying a load

Step Ladders

Check treads, stiles, hinges

and restraining rope before use

Do not lean outwards or

sideways from the steps

always move them

Work facing the step ladder

Do not work higher than 2/3rds

up the stepladder

Before Use Checks

Damaged or worn stiles, particularly at head

and foot of ladder

Broken, missing, loose or worn rungs

Mud or grease on rungs

Rungs not supported solely by nails, screws

or spikes

Movement in rungs or stiles

Decayed timber, or the corrosion of fittings

Insecure tie wires

Warping, sagging or distortion

Other Considerations

6 metre + should be secured

in middle

Landing distances not to

exceed 9 metres

Access holes to be 500mm

wide max. otherwise should

be gated

Only 1 person to climb at a

time

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Trestles and Staging Systems

Trestles and Staging Systems

Pre-fabricated steel, aluminium

or wood supports of 500mm –

1m width

May be fixed height or

adjustable with sliding struts (pin

method)

They can only be used when

work cannot be carried out

using a safer method like

scaffold

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Mobile Elevated Work Platforms(MEWP’s)

Mobile Elevating Work Platforms

Ensure?

Operators are trained and

competent

MEWP is fully guarded

Used on firm level ground

Tyres inflated

Area cordoned off

Lighting if on public highway

Outriggers extended & chocked

Emergency plan in place

Mobile Elevating Work Platforms

Do not?

Operate close to OH cables

Allow MEWP to over hang

vehicle routes

Move MEWP with platform in

raised position unless designed

for the purpose

Over load platform

Over reach from platform

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System Scaffoldsand Mobile Towers

System Scaffold Specifications

Materials:– components free from defects e.g.

buckled/bent

Reaction to wind speed:– should be secured against possibility of

wind lift

Ties:– should be done in accordance with

manufacturers instructions

Sheeting of scaffold:– caution must be exercised; done in

accordance with manufacturers instructions

Platform width:– minimum for access usually 600 mm.

Mobile Tower Scaffolds

Widely used

Can be:

– Incorrectly erected and/or

– Misused

Often cause accidents e.g.

– Persons or materials falling

– Towers overturning or

collapsing

– ‘Surfing’


To be erected by trained competent

personnel or under the supervision

of the same;

Towers should be erected on firm

level ground;

Wheels turned outwards & locked

prior to access;

Access to working platform should

be by means of internal ladder;

Never access by climbing outside of

tower.


Never move tower with

personnel or material on it

Towers must only be moved

from base level

Never allow operators to pull

tower along whilst on it

Obstructions must be noted

prior to moving

Never use near OH power lines

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Tube and Fitting Scaffolds

Requirements for Scaffold

Top guard rail at least 950 mm

Intermediate guard rail – no gap greater than

470 mm

Toe-boards (minimum 150 mm), but shall be

suitable and sufficient to prevent the fall of any

person, or any material or object, from any

place of work

Scaffold Tagging

Provides an on-site

indication of whether

a scaffold is safe to

use or not

All site personnel

must understand how

the system works

Base Plates & Sole Boards

Sole boards must be used to

spread the weight of the

scaffold

Boards are used to provide a

firm surface on which to erect

the scaffold

Boards must run under at least

two standards at a time

Base plates must be used

under every standard

Component Parts of a Scaffold

Standards

Ledgers

Putlogs and transoms

Boarded lifts

Ledger bracing

Longitude (or façade) bracing

Scaffold ties:– B.A.R.T. (Box / Anchor / Reveal / Through)

Working platform boards

END OF

SCAFFOLD

Sole Board

Base Plates 150 x 150mm

Standard

Transom

Ledger

Ledger Brace

Facade Brace

Scaffolding Planks

(Deck area min of 600 mm wide)

Toe Board (Min 150 mm high)

Intermediate guard rail (Max gap of 470 mm)

Brick Guard

Guard Rail (Approx 950 mm high)

Through Tie

Reveal Tie

Large

Eye Bolt

with

ledger

through it

Eye Bolt

and Strap

Independent

Tied

Scaffold

Couplers at joints

Anchor Ties

Loading Platforms

Need to be designed

accounting for weight that

will be applied

Will often be separate

scaffold structure but tied to

both existing scaffold &

structure

Additional bracing &

sections required to provide

additional support

Loading Platforms

Warning signs displayed

to indicated SWL

Access restricted to area

below loading platform

for workers

Safety gate / barrier may

be required to protect

those working on

platform from falls

Scaffold Hoists

Substantial enclosure guard

required for moving parts of hoist

Gates provided at all access

landings normally interlocking

system

Hoist should be operated from

one position only

Operators should be competent &

trained

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Safe Working on Roofs and at Heightand Leading Edge Protection

Fall Risk Areas

During access to and from landing places

Openings, breaks, edges and joisting in a floor

Falling from flat roofs:

– From the edge of a completed roof

– From the leading edge where work is being carried out

– Through openings and gaps

– Through fragile materials

Falling from sloping roofs:

– Slipping down

– Falling into the structure during construction

– From gable ends during demolition

– Through fragile roofing materials, including roof-lights

Poor weather conditions

Control Measures

Safe working platform

Safety nets

Guard-rail at edge of roof (catch barrier) where working

platform not practicable

Safe stacking of materials on roof

Falling object protection

Use of roof ladders & the securing of ladders

Signage (especially with reference to fragile surfaces)

Permits to work

Use of mobile access platforms (MEWP’s etc)

Use of harnesses and running lines

Safe systems of work in gusty conditions (17 mph stop

lightweight material work, 23 mph general activities)

Fall-Arrest Systems and Harnesses

Formal thorough inspections of

harnesses, anchor points and running

lines.

Before use user checks:

– Connectors; damage, corrosion,

function

– Webbing; cuts, burns, chemical

damage

– Buckles; damage, distortion, corrosion

Practiced rescue procedures.

Suspension Trauma

Suspension Trauma – Orthostatic Intolerance:

– Unless the operative is rescued promptly using

established safe procedures, suspension trauma

caused by orthostatic intolerance could occur.

– Can result in serious or fatal injury as the brain,

kidneys and other organs are deprived of oxygen.

– Most users of fall protection equipment, as well as

rescue personnel and health and safety

professionals are unaware of the hazard of

suspension trauma.

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TransportHazards and Controls

GC2 – Element 2

NCC2 – Element 2

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Safe Movement of People in the Workplace

Movement of People Hazards

Slips, trips and falls:

- On the same level

- As a consequence of changing levels

Falls from height

Collisions:

- Being hit by something such as a moving vehicle

- Being hit by a falling object

- By striking a fixed object

Injury or damage caused by environmental conditions:

- Effects of heat, noise, dust or harmful substances in

the air.

Hazards to Pedestrians

Slips,Trips & Falls - Same Level

Slips, trips and falls account for most of accidents to

pedestrians.

Particularly slip and trip hazards on the same level.

– Caused by:

o Dusty, wet or greasy floors (often from spillages)

o Loose surfaces (including loose mats on slippery floors)

o Wet and/or icy weather conditions

o Unsuitable footwear or floor coverings or sloping floors.

– The main cause of trips are:

o Obstacles on the surface such as trailing leads, boxes etc.

o Obstructions such as low walls, low fixtures etc.

o Poor housekeeping

o Poor lighting levels.

Hazards to Pedestrians

Falls on Change of Level

Most likely to occur on:

– Steps

– Stairs

– Ladders

– Scaffolding

Often cause by:

– Not noticing the change of level on a step or on stairs

– Not working properly

– Ladders slipping

– Clothing being caught

– Poor lighting conditions etc.

General Preventative Measures for Pedestrian Hazards

Slip resistant surfaces; spillage control and drainage;

Adopting and marking designated walkways and

ensuring safe access and egress to all work areas;

Good housekeeping principles (clear walkways, routine

cleaning and cleaning of spillages etc.);

Use of fencing and guarding of high risk areas;

Consideration to environmental issues (e.g. lighting &

temperature), especially during maintenance activities.

Use of signs and personal protective equipment;

Ensuring workers are given information, instruction,

training and appropriate supervision;

Hazards to Pedestrians fromConstruction Activities on Highways

Removal of pedestrian pathways;

Redirection of pedestrians when pathways are closed;

Risks of slips, trips and falls from the construction

activities such as excavations work;

Accumulation of mud and debris on roads and

footpaths;

Exposure of members of public to noise, dust and

fumes from highway activities; and

Construction plant and equipment colliding with passing

pedestrians or public vehicles passing the works.

Controls to Protect Pedestrians fromConstruction Activities on Highways

Provision of suitable signage to warn the public

about the construction hazards they are

approaching;

Provision of suitable lighting to illuminate the

pedestrian routes adjacent to the work activities;

Barriers between pedestrian routes and the

construction works to prevent people and

vehicles from encroaching into the construction

activities; and

Provision of letter drops to local residents.

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Movement of Traffic

General Hazard Situations Associatedwith Vehicle Operations?

Vehicle movement (driving too fast e.g.

around bends and reversing;

Silent operation of machinery;

Poor visibility (around loads etc);

Overturning of vehicles;

Collisions with other vehicles, pedestrians

and fixed objects;

Loading/unloading (including overloading,

securing and sheeting) and unloading;

Coupling; and

Vehicle maintenance work.

General Hazard Situations Associatedwith Vehicle Operations

Poor environmental factors

(lighting, dust, noise etc.).

Ill-defined speed limits/speed

limits not enforced.

Poor/no maintenance checks of

vehicles.

Driven by untrained/unauthorised

personnel.

Poor training or lack of refresher

training.

Drive offs

Control Measures – Safe Site

Suitability of traffic routes (including site access and

egress);

Management of vehicle movements;

Environmental considerations (visibility, gradients,

changes of level, surface conditions);

Segregating of pedestrians and vehicles and measures

to be taken when segregation is not practicable;

Protective measures for people and structures (barriers,

marking signs, warnings of vehicle approach and

reversing); and

Site rules (including speed limits)

Control Measuresfor Vehicles & Drivers

Safe Vehicles:

Suitability of vehicles for activity;

Maintenance and repair of vehicles;

Visibility from vehicles/reversing aids; and

Driver protection (ROPS/FOPS) and restraint

systems

Safe Driver:

Selection and training of drivers;

Banksman (reversing assistant);

Management systems for assuring driver

competence including local codes of practice.

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Driving for Work

Introduction

The tragic human consequences of road traffic

crashes cannot be truly quantified.

It is estimated that 1/3rd of all road accidents

involves someone who is at work at the time.

Putting this another way, this means every

week, whilst at work:

– 20 employees die; and

– 250 employees are seriously injured

What Causes Crashes

Many incidents happen due to inattention and

distraction as well as failure to observe the

Highway Code.

The causes of crashes can be grouped into

three distinct categories:

– The vehicle ~ e.g. mechanical failure

– The journey ~ e.g. time of day, weather, traffic etc.

– The driver ~ attributable to 90% of crashes

We will look at each of these in turn, but first we

will look at employers legal responsibilities.

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Driving for Work

Evaluating

Risks

Evaluating the Risks

The Driver:

– Competency

– Training

– Fitness and health

The Vehicle:

– Suitability

– Condition

– Safety equipment

– Safety critical information

– Ergonomic considerations

The Journey

– Routes

– Distance

– Time

– Scheduling

– Weather conditions

The Driver – Training

Evaluating whether those that drive at work require

additional training other than at induction e.g.:

– high annual mileage drivers, poor accident

records or young drivers.

Checking drivers know how to carry out routine

safety checks e.g. lights, tyres, wheels, seat belts,

head restraints, anti-lock brakes (ABS) etc, and

what to do in the event of a breakdown.

Providing a handbook for drivers giving advice and

information on road safety.

The Driver – Training

Checking drivers fully aware of the height of their

vehicle, both laden and empty (estimated around

three to six major bridge strikes every day);

Periodically assessing training needs, including

refresher training, and budgeting for the training;

Making drivers aware of the dangers of stress and

fatigue;

Ensuring drivers know what to do if they start to feel

sleepy.

The Driver – Fitness & Health

Drivers of heavy lorries, for which there are legal

requirements for medical examination, should

have the appropriate medical certificate;

At-work drivers most at risk may need to undergo

regular medical;

Staff be reminded of the need to satisfy any

eyesight requirements set out in the relevant

legislation;

Staff should be told not drive, or undertake other

duties, while taking medication that might impair

their judgement (if in doubt they should seek the

view of their GP).

The Vehicle

Are vehicles must be fit for purpose.

Vehicles must be insured and if employees are allowed to use their out

vehicles they must also be insured for business use.

Vehicles must have a valid MOT certificate (most cars this means once

they are over 3 years old; other rules apply to some vehicles e.g. taxis).

Vehicles should be adequately maintained and should be subject to

planned/preventative maintenance carried out in accordance with

manufacturers recommendations.

Windscreens checked for chips and cracks and wipers inspected regularly

and replaced as necessary.

Vehicles must not overloaded and be capable of carrying goods securely

and safely.

Loads should be safely distributed in the vehicle important when

undertaking multi-drop operations.

The Journey

Routes should be planned thoroughly:

– Use of safer routes which are more appropriate for

the type of vehicle undertaking the journey;

– Route planning should take sufficient account of

overhead restrictions e.g. bridges and tunnels and

other hazards, such as level crossings, which may

present dangers for long vehicles.

Statistically, motorways are the safest roads to travel

on, however traffic congestion at busy times can cause

its own problems.

The Journey – Scheduling

Work schedules should be realistic:

– Sufficient account of periods when drivers are most

likely to feel sleepy:

Sleep-related accidents are most likely to occur

between 2 & 6 am and between 2 & 4 pm.

– Steps to be taken to stop employees from driving if

they feel sleepy:

If appropriate, checks of tachographs to ensure

drivers are not cutting corners;

– Avoidance of periods of peak traffic flow;

– Sufficient allowances for new trainee drivers.

The Journey – Weather

Consideration of adverse weather when planning journeys:

– Rescheduling of journeys to take account of adverse

weather conditions wherever possible;

– Ensuring vehicles properly equipped to operate in poor

weather conditions, e.g. are anti-lock brakes;

– Ensuring drivers understand the action to take to

reduce risk, e.g. drivers of high-sided vehicles knowing

to take extra care if driving in strong winds with a light

load;

– Ensuring drivers are not pressurised to complete

journeys where weather conditions are exceptionally

difficult.

SuccessfulPractical

Relevant

MusculoskeletalHazards and Controls

GC2 – Element 3

SuccessfulPractical

Relevant

Work Related Upper Limb Disorders(WRULD’s)

Work related upper limb disorders (WRULD’s) are

musculoskeletal diseases relating to repetitive operations

relating to workplace activities such as:

– Keyboard operation, assembly of small components,

bricklaying and checkout operators.

The ill-health effects often arise owing to:

– Poorly designed tasks and workstations;

– Lack of consideration to the factors giving rise to ill-health

conditions:

Task (including repetitive, strenuous);

Environment (including lighting, glare);

Equipment (including user requirements, adjustability)

WRULD’s

Good ergonomic design of the workstation;

Matching the workplace to individual needs of workers:

– Designing workstations that can be adjusted to suit

the needs of the individuals using them;

Ensuring work patterns are organised such that

operatives have frequent breaks from their activities;

Limiting the amount of overtime operatives exposed to

repetitive work can undertake;

Ensuring good environmental conditions in the work

area (lighting, temperature, ventilation etc).

Control Measures

SuccessfulPractical

Relevant

Computer Workstations

DSE Health Hazards

Musculoskeletal problems.

– Tenosynovitis

– Other WRULD pains caused by poor posture

– Mitigated by application of ergonomic principles

Visual problems.

– Visual fatigue resulting in eye strain and/or sore eyes

– Headaches

Psychological problems.

– Generally stress related

– Maybe environmental causes

Noise, heat, humidity, lighting.

Display Screen EquipmentComputer Workstation

Management Considerations

Suitable and sufficient risk assessment of

workstation.

Workstation compliance with minimum laid down

specifications.

A plan of the work programme to ensure that there

are adequate breaks.

Provision of eye sight tests and, if required,

spectacles for users of DSE

Suitable programme of training and sufficient

information to all users.

SuccessfulPractical

Relevant

Manual HandlingHazards & Control

Types of Injurycaused by sudden awkward movements- twisting jerking, lifting loads beyond physical capability

Back injuries (spinal problems):– Acute and chronic long lasting, disc

trouble - accumulative

Sprains & strains:– muscles, tendons, joints, torn

ligaments, abdominal wall particularly vulnerable

Most common:– hands, feet suffer cuts & abrasions

Other - uncommon:– Hernias and bone breakage

This is a misleading term giving rise to the

belief that the disc is like an unstable packing

piece and can be pushed back into place.

A slipped disc is a bulge of the disc usually

caused by increased pressure (bending) or even

a split of the gristle layer allowing the nucleus

to protrude through.

Back Problems ~ “Slipped Disc”

Essential Guide to the SpinePictorial Picture

Neck (cervical)

Lumbar

Thoracic

Neck (cervical) = 7 vertebrae

Thoracic = 12 vertebrae

Lumbar = 5 vertebrae

3rd Lumbar Disc(see next slide diagram)

Muscle strain

Overuse syndrome

Ligament sprain

Over exertion - lifting too much weight

Incorrect lifting - bending the back!

Bad posture - slumping in soft chairs

Common Causes of Back Problems

Manual Handling – Definition?

Includes:

– Lifting

– Putting down

– Pushing

– Pulling

– Carrying

i.e. Moving any load by hand or bodily force

Consider the items you have to lift handle or

move, what does it include?

Employers Duties

Legal requirement

Avoid hazardous manual handling activities

Make suitable and sufficient assessment of

manual handling operations identified has having

an inherent risk

Develop and implement control measures to

reduce risk of injury

Provide employees undertaking manual handling

operations, indications of:

– The weight of each load

– The heaviest side of the load where the centre

of gravity is not positioned centrally etc.

Load. I. T. E.

Hazards:

Heavy

Bulky or unwieldy

Off-centre of gravity

Difficult to grasp

Unstable

Contents likely to shift

Intrinsically harmful:

– Sharp, hot or otherwise

potentially damaging

– External state of the

load, rough surfaces,

cold to touch etc.

Controls:

Break down loads

Make it easier to

grasp

Make it more stable

Make it less

damaging to hold

Team handling

Use of mechanical

aids

Training

Use of PPE

L. Individual. T. E.macho image-macho image-macho image-macho image-macho image

Hazards:

Unusual capability

– Height

– Strength

Gender

Pregnant

Age

Previous injury

Physical fitness /stamina

Lack of training

Lack of people

Controls:

Health screening

Return to work

interviews

Consultation

Team handling

Mechanical aids

Training

PPE

Supervision

The Task

• Holding loads away

from body

• Posture

• Twisting

• Stooping

• Reaching upwards

• Large vertical

movements

• Long travel distances

• Strenuous pushing and

pulling

• Unpredictable movement

of load

• Repetitive handling

• Insufficient rest or

recovery time

• Workrate imposed by the

process

The Task – Possible Control Measures

Use machinery

Improve the layout

Efficient use of the body

Improve work routine

Use of mechanical aids

Team handling

Use of PPE

L. I. T. Environment.

Hazards:

Constraints on posture

– Lack of space etc

Poor floors

– Slippery/uneven/unstable

Variations in level

– Steps / Steep Slopes etc.

Extremes of temperature

– Hot/cold/wind/ice/humid

Strong air movements

– Gusts of wind/ventilation

Poor lighting conditions

Controls:

Remove space constraints

Improve floor condition

Good housekeeping

Avoid outdoor manual

handling in poor weather

conditions

Maintain good environmental

conditions (heating /

ventilation / lighting etc.)

Other Factors

Is movement hindered by clothing or personal

protective equipment?

and people!!

High Stress

Poor Diet

Lack of exercise

Rushing – pressure of work

Showing off

Short cuts

Footwear:

Many injuries caused by poor footwear

Wear flat shoes

Avoid sandals / loose fitting shoes

Check for good condition

Other Factors

Kinetic Lifting

Summarised by:

• Plan the Route

• Assess the load

• Correct position of feet

• Keep knees flexible

• Straight back

• Correct grip arms close to body

• Lift smoothly keep head up

SuccessfulPractical

Relevant

Mechanical HandlingHazards & Control

What You Need to Know

The hazards, precautions and procedures

necessary to ensure safety in the use and

maintenance of:

– Fork-lift trucks

– Manually operated load moving equipment

(sack trolleys, pallet trucks, etc);

– Lifts & hoists

– Conveyors & chutes; and

– Cranes.

Forklift Trucks

Accidents:

– Overturning, due to high speed turns, ramp turns, driving

with raised load, uneven road surface (most fatalities);

– Overloading, unstable loads;

– Collisions with

Overhead obstructions

Racking systems (e.g. Wrexham warehouse);

Pedestrians, other vehicles.

Main causes:

– Lack of driver training

– Lack of maintenance (for safety purposes)

Horizontal instability:

– Tyre pressures

– Centre of gravity

– Live loads

– Turning with raised loads

– Turning at speed

– Driving across inclines

– Uneven ground

Forklift Trucks - Instability

Longitudinal instability:

– Parallel drops

– Over loading

– Braking at speed

– Inclines

– Undercutting loads

– Exceeding safe lift height

Forklift Trucks - Instability

Other hazards:

– Fire and explosion;

Battery re-charging, or;

Flammable atmosphere (e.g. paint factory);

– Exhaust gas/fumes in confined spaces;

– Hydraulic failure on lifting forks;

– Unauthorised use as a working platform.

Forklift Trucks

FLT’s Control Measures

Selection of equipment:

– Type of power source; battery/LPG/diesel

– Size and capacity

– Type of tyres; solid, pneumatic depending of surface

– Height/reach of mast

– Warning systems fitted

– Protective systems fitted; ROPS and/or FOPS

Operators:

– Selection e.g. physical/mental fitness and intelligence

– Training given specific to type of FLT

FLT’s Control Measures

Establishment of:

– Suitable traffic routes

– Parking areas

– Battery charging facilities if applicable

– Storage of LPG gas bottles if applicable

– Operational rules for fork lift trucks

– Procedures for security of keys when not in use

– Maintenance by competent personnel

– Well lit operational areas

– Segregation of vehicles and personnel

– Operator pre-use checklists

Operator Pre-Use Checks?

Safe Working Load (SWL) and size

Lights (including warning beacon)

Brakes

Horn

Seatbelt

Tyre pressures

Hydraulics (leaks)

Condition of mast for chains

Function of controls

Condition of windscreen etc (if applicable)

Pallet Trucks/Sack Barrows etc Hazards

Pallet trucks:

– Overloading & tipping

– Collision & loss of load

– Crushing operative

– Hydraulic lift failure

– Manual handling

Sack Barrows:

– Manual handling

– Loss of load

– Crush injuries

– Falling objects

– Mechanical failure

Lifts and Hoists

Hazards:

– Being trapped in a lift whilst being operated

– Mechanical failure

– Falls from height

– Because loads lifted to height (e.g. materials hoist on

construction site) the loads can fall onto people below if:

Unsecured

People are allowed under hoist while it is working.

Lifts and Hoists

Handbook definition:

– ‘incorporates a platform or cage and is restricted in its movement by guides.’

Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER) – requirements include:

– Sound mechanical construction - strength & stability

– Interlocked doors or gates

– Marked with SWL

– Operated from 1 position

Conveyers and Chutes

Conveyor hazards:

– In-running nip between drive-rollers

and belt (quarry accidents during

cleaning at bottom roller);

– Entanglement;

With transmission machinery (chain &

sprocket drives);

Conveyor belt/slats.

Chute hazards:

– Materials spilling out of the chute

hitting people etc.

– Noise

– Collapse of chute

Definitions

Lifting Equipment

– Work equipment used for

lifting and lowering loads

including attachments used

to fix or support the

equipment (e.g. runway on

an overhead crane)

Lifting Accessory

– Equipment for attaching

loads to machinery for lifting

Lifting Equipment Examples

Cranes

Workplace passenger and goods lifts

Construction hoists

Dumb waiters

Scissor lifts

Vehicle tail lifts

Bath hoists

Telehandlers and industrial lift trucks

Vehicle lifts

Lifting Accessory Examples

Slings

Hooks

Shackles

Eyebolts

Ropes used for climbing or

work positioning

Cranes

Hazards:

– Mechanical failure / collapse

– Failure of lifting ropes, slings etc

– Uneven, unstable ground

– Overturning

– Overloading

– Collision with people

– Collision with fixed/stationery objects

– Unauthorised operation

– Swinging loads

Organisation of Lifting Operations

Every employer shall ensure

that every lifting operation

involving lifting equipment is:

– Properly planned by a

competent person

– Appropriately supervised

– Carried out in a safe

manner

Crane Operation

Outriggers to be extended sufficiently to ease

load on vehicle springs

Area of slew by crane jib to be kept clear at all

times

Crane not to be left with load suspended

Vehicle not to be driven with load suspended

Crane to be stowed safely away prior to

movement of vehicle

Planning the Lift

Person planning the lift should have

practical and theoretical knowledge

The plan will need to address the

– Risks identified by the risk

assessment

– Resources required

– Responsibilities

Plan to ensure that the equipment

remains safe

Where two or more items used

simultaneously for lifting a written plan

is required

Planning Continued

Degree of planning will vary

considerably

Depends on

– Type of lifting equipment

used

– Complexity of operation

Consideration needs to be

given to the load

– Weight

– Size

– Centre of gravity

Routine Lifting Operations

Planning usually a matter for the

people using the lifting equipment

– Slinger

– FLT operator

An initial plan may only be required

once but reviewed occasionally

– FLT in warehouse

– MEWP

– Vehicle tail lift

– Suspended cradle for window cleaning

Special Considerations

Carriage of Persons (Scissors Lift /

Cherry Picker):

– Must, SFARP, prevent a person

using it being crushed, trapped or

struck by or falling from the carrier

– Must have suitable devices to

prevent the risk of the carrier

falling

– Is such that a person trapped in

any carrier is not exposed to

danger and can be freed.

Thorough Examinationof Equipment & Accessories

Equipment (Prime Mover)

– 12 monthly thorough inspection

– 6 monthly thorough inspection if used for

lifting people

– Visual inspection before use

– Recorded every 7 days

Accessory (sling, strop etc.)

– 6 monthly inspection

– Visual inspection before use

Inspection of Lifting Accessories

Lifting Accessories such as:

– Chains

– Slings

These will not normally require an

inspection as long as they receive

a thorough examination

Will need a proper pre-use check

If Defects Are Found

The employer must be informed

immediately; and

Confirmed in the written report

If it involves an existing or imminent

risk of serious personal injury:

– RIDDOR reportable

– Employer must be informed

immediately

Examples of Rope Faults

Other Faults

Textile slings?

– Damaged

– Cut

– Abraded

– Stretched

Chains?

– Deformed

– Stretched links

– Cracks

SuccessfulPractical

Relevant

Work EquipmentHazards and Controls

GC2 – Element 4

Scope of Work Equipment

The definition is extremely wide, it includes:

– Any machinery, appliance, apparatus, tool or installation

for use at work (whether exclusively or not).

This covers:

– Single machines e.g. photocopiers & circular saws

– Hand tools e.g. hammers, screwdrivers, chisels & saws

– Power tools e.g. nails guns, grinders & electric

screwdrivers

– Vehicles where they are used within workplaces e.g. fork

lift trucks, cranes, excavators etc.

Suitability of Work Equipment

Employers to ensure that equipment must be suitable for

the work it is required to do.

Includes both day to day operation and maintenance.

Also very important to take into consideration any hazards

created by the location

Maintenance Operations and Inspection

Need to inspect and maintain equipment to ensure:

– Equipment is kept in an efficient state;

– In efficient working order; and

– In good repair.

(see next slide for example)

With Reference to a Car

Efficient state:

– having bodywork which is not corroded;

– no oil or water leaks;

– correct tyre pressures / tools available, such as a

wheel jack.

Efficient working:

– Lights / horn;

– windscreen wipers / brakes;

– the car’s stopping distance / steering.

In good repair:

– regular servicing;

– repairs carried out at the right time and to an

acceptable standard.

Specific Risks and Hazards

If work equipment presents specific risks i.e. cannot

be adequately controlled by hardware measures,

such as guards or protection devices etc:

– Only to be used by trained authorised operatives

Examples would include:

– Extremes of temperatures (hot/cold) such as liquid

nitrogen/dry ice

– Radiation (both ionizing and non-ionizing)

– Instability of equipment in use i.e. FLT’s & Cranes

Information and Training

Employers to provide

information, instruction and

training to employees using

work equipment

Degree of training relevant

to the degree of risk e.g.

screwdriver verses a lathe

Written instructions may be

required, available at point

of use.

Dangerous Parts (e.g. Rotating Gears)

Effective measures to:

– prevent access to

dangerous parts of

machinery; or

– stop their movement

before any part of a

person enters a

danger zone.

Temperature, High or Very Low

Protection from injuries such as

burns or frostbite which may be

caused by work equipment:

– Furnaces, splashing of molten

process materials, hotplates,

snow-making machine

– Liquid nitrogen tank

– Risk of contact with hot surfaces

In addition to these engineering

controls, personal protection may be

necessary.

Controls

Starting controls:

– Designed to prevent accidental starting by shrouding, a

locking facility either mechanical or by software protection.

Systems Controls:

– respond to input, generates output and signals as well as

feedback information.

Stopping controls:

– bring to a safe condition.

Emergency stop controls:

– to be provided at every control point

– to be easily reached and activated.

Controls Should Be

Visible

Suitable colours

Clearly marked with clear wording/legends

Shapes

Positioning

Isolation from Sources of Energy

All work equipment should be provided with suitable

means to safely isolate it from its source of energy.

– Electrical

– Mechanical via a drive shaft, belt drive

– Hydraulic

– Pneumatic, compressed air system

– Steam

Isolation means establishing a break in the energy supply

in a secure manner, so inadvertent reconnection is not

possible.

May be a requirement for lock-off isolation controls

Stability

Equipment should be stable in

its use e.g.:

– Limitations on the height of

a mobile tower scaffold

– Clamping or stabilising of

equipment which, as a

result of the motions

inherent in its operation

could ‘crawl’ or topple

– Use of stabilisers on mobile

cranes

Lighting

Wherever work equipment is used, there must be

suitable and sufficient lighting.

Where the task involves perception of detail, for

example using certain measuring devices, it may

be necessary to provide additional local lighting.

Markings and Warnings

Where necessary, all work

equipment should be clearly

marked to convey information

that is clear and concise:

– Maximum rotation speed of

an abrasive wheel

– Safe working load of a lifting

device

– Maximum operating pressure

of an air vessel

Mobile Work Equipment

Examples include scissor lifts,

cherry pickers, fork lift trucks etc.

Employer to ensure no employee

is carried unless it is suitable for

carrying persons and reduces risk

to their safety

Employers to ensure that where

there is a risk of mobile work

equipment rolling over fitted with

ROPS and from falling objects

then FOPS

Users Responsibilities

Adhere to proper procedures in respect of:

– general conduct in the workplace; and

– operation of the work equipment.

Using the machine only for the purpose for

which it was intended

Reporting defects/faults

Keeping records of operator checks and

visual inspections in the logs provided

SuccessfulPractical

Relevant

Hand-Held Tools

Hand-Held Tools

Covers all types of movable

equipment used in the workplace.

Hand tools – tools entirely

powered manually, including

anything from picks, shovels,

wrenches to hammers, chisels,

saws etc.

Portable power tools – tools that

have an external power source

such as electricity, compressed air

etc. including electric screwdrivers

and pneumatic drill etc.

Hand Tools - Hazards

Biggest hazard from operator error.

Other hazards include:

– Broken handles

– Poor quality uncomfortable handles

– Tools that slip causing stab wounds

– Poorly insulated tools in hot work

– Mushroomed headed tools (chisels)

– Splayed spanners that slip

– Use of pipes etc as extension handles

that slip

Hand Tools - Misuse

Other hazards of hand tools arise

from misuse, improper maintenance

or using defective equipment e.g.:

– Using a chisel as a screwdriver

– Using a hammer when its wooden

handle is loose, splintered or split

– Using the incorrect type of screwdriver.

Hand Tools – Suitability & Use

– Insulated tools for electricians

– Non-sparking tools in areas where flammable

atmospheres may exist

– Safety knives with enclosed blades

– Using the correct size spanner

– Using mallets on chisel heads etc.

– Appropriate training and information

– Correct maintenance

– Correct storage and cleanliness

– Regular checks and the withdrawal of defective tools

– Appropriate personal protective clothing.

Hand-Held Power Tools Hazards

Specific hazards include:

– Electrical problems

– Noise and vibration

– Manual handling problems

– Puncture wounds

– Entanglement in moving parts of machinery

– Emission of dust, splinters and fragments

– Cables causing a trip hazard

– Fuel spillage and risk of fire from flammable

vapours given off by liquid-fuel-powered tools.

Hand-Held Power ToolsMeans of Control

Safe use is based on training,

information and instruction to

ensure competent operatives and

the correct maintenance,

inspection and use of PPE.

Measures taken to control their

use are more extensive and

stringent than manually-powered

tools because of the greater risk

of injury.

Hand-Held Power ToolsMeans of Control

Measures that may have to be covered in employee

training to ensure safe use could include:

Correct operation

Use of both hands where necessary

Breaks to limit exposure of vibration

Adequate ventilation

Safe use of cartridge-operated tools

Addressing the risk of electrical shock etc.

Engineering controls to be used (switches, LEV

etc.)

Ensuring that all connections are properly clamped

Hand-Held Power ToolsProcedures for Defective Equipment

Defective and damaged equipment should

be taken out of use until repaired.

Inspection, tests and repairs to damaged

or defective equipment should be carried

out by a competent person experienced in

the work.

Inspections records should be kept for

the life of the equipment.

Operators should be instructed to check

equipment before use and never to use

damaged or defective equipment.

SuccessfulPractical

Relevant

Mechanical Machinery Hazards

Mechanical Hazards

Crushing:

– The body or part of the body is trapped between 2

moving parts or a moving part and a static object.

Shearing:

– Part of the body, commonly fingers, is trapped

between 2 parts of the machine, one of which is

moving over the other with some speed (the effect is

like a guillotine).

Cutting or severing:

– Where a sharp edged part of the machine comes in

contact with a person (e.g. the blade of a bandsaw).

Mechanical Hazards (continued)

Entanglement:

– Associated with a single rotating part of a machine,

that usually catches an item of clothing resulting in the

person being rapidly drawn to the machine.

Drawing In or Trapping:

– Part of the body is caught between two moving parts

and drawn into the machine such as between tow in-

running gears or between belts and pulley drives.

Impact:

– Where a powered part of the machine hits a person.

Mechanical Hazards (continued)

Stabbing or Puncture:

– Caused by some sharp part of a machine or

part of the process (flying swarf or broken tool)

penetrating the person.

Friction or Abrasion:

– Caused by coming into contact with a fast

moving surface.

High pressure fluid ejection:

– Caused by a failure of a high pressure

connection such as a hydraulic system leak.

Non-Mechanical Hazards

Access – slips, trips and falls etc.

Lifting and handling

Noise and vibration

Electricity

Temperature

Radiation

Fire and explosion

Biological

Suffocation

Pressure and vacuum

Inhalation of dust, fumes and mist

Hazardous materials and substances

Ergonomics

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Principles of Machinery Guarding

Prevent contact with moving parts

Remove energy from moving parts

Use an alternative form of energy

Provide more reliable machinery

Adjustment and maintenance

Ergonomic principles

Training and work procedures

Machinery – Methods of Protection

PUWER specifies a hierarchy of

protective measures:

– Fixed guards

– Other types of guards

– Protection appliances such as jigs,

pushsticks, holders etc.

– The provision of information,

instruction, training and supervision.

4 Basic Types of Guards - What are these?

Fixed guards:

– Enclosing guards

– Distance guards

– Perimeter fence guard

Interlock guards:

– Links the opening of the

primary guard to the

operation of a second

safety device that either

stops the machine or

operates another guard.

Trip:

– Mechanical or

electronic triggering

– Trip bar guard

– Photo-electric guard

– Pressure pads

– Tripwires

Types of Guards - continued

User Adjustable:

– Requires manual adjustment to give protection

– Only to be used where conditions are suitable

– Examples of use include woodworking machinery,

milling machines, lathes, drills and grinders

Self-Adjusting:

– Fixed or movable guard, which, either in whole or in

part, adjusts itself to accommodate the passage of

material etc.

– Examples include:

Self-adjusting guard on a circular saw

Self-adjusting guard on a metal cutting saw

Other Safety Devices/Measures

Two-handed controls

Hold-to-run controls

Direct Current (DC) Braking

– Provides rapid braking on

electrical powered machines.

– Controlled DC is injected into

the motor to achieve a rapid

stop.

– The power is cut-off once the

motor has stopped

Other Safety Devices/Measures

Protective appliances

– Hand-held tools or hand-

controlled fixed devices to hold

or manipulate a work piece

Shielding – heat, radiation etc.

Personal protective equipment

– Last resort

– Only protects the user and not

other parties.

Examples of Work Equipment

• Office equipment (photocopier, shredder)

• Bench-top grinder

• Pedestal drill

• Cylinder mower

• Strimmer

• Chain-saw

• Compactor

• Checkout conveyor

• Cement mixer

• Circular saw.

Practice Question

Identify the issues that should be considered to

help to ensure that a new item of work equipment

is suitable for use. (4 points)

Identify measures that could be taken to ensure

that an item of work equipment remains in a

suitable condition. (4 points)

SuccessfulPractical

Relevant

Fire Safety

NCC1 – Element 7

NGC2 – Element 6

Accidental Fires

Account for 57% of all fires in the UK

They can be grouped into the following:

– Careless actions (26%)

– Misuse of equipment and appliances

(24%)

– Defective equipment (50%)

78% of these due to faulty appliances

and leads

Fire Procedures and Controls

Suitable/sufficient steps to be taken to prevent fire.

Emergency routes and exits

– must be provided and lead to a safe area.

Emergency procedures

– must be in place and tested.

Provision of suitable fire detection and fire fighting

equipment

Alarm systems

Signage

Information and training

Spread of Fire?

Direct burning

Radiation

Convection

Conduction

Hazards from & Spread of Fire?

Fire Hazards?

Flames and heat

Toxic/combustible

smoke and gases

Oxygen depletion

Structural failure of

buildings

The Fire Triangle

A fire requires:

Ignition/source of heat

– Any heat build up or a spark

can start a fire

Fuel

– All fires require some kind of

fuel, from petrol, material, fats

or chemicals

Oxygen

– Without oxygen a fire cannot be

sustained

Methods of Extinguishing Fire

Remove one element or more of fire

triangle, by:

– starving it of fuel;

– smothering it to exclude oxygen;

– cooling it to reduce temperature.

Fire-fighting revolves around these

principles

Classification of Fires - Summary

A - Free burning materials, paper, wood, cloth etc.

B - Flammable liquids, petrol, meths, solvents etc.

C - Flammable gases, methane, hydrogen etc.

D – Metals: potassium, aluminium, magnesium etc.

F – Deep fat fryer (catering)

Note:

– Electricity can be involved in any class of fire

Types of Fire Extinguisher(BS EN 3) Colour Coding

Water

Carbon Dioxide

Foam

Dry Powder

Wet chemical

Hose reels

Fire blankets

Automatic sprinklers

Carbon Dioxide systems

Drenchers

Other Fire Fighting Equipment

Responsible Person

In relation to a workplace

– the employer, if the workplace is to any extent under his

control

If the premises are not a workplace

– the person who has control of the premises in

connection with carrying on a trade or business

The owner

– where the person in control of the premises does not

have control in connection with the carrying on of a trade

or business

Responsible Person Duties

The responsible person must:

– Take such general fire precautions to ensure, so far as is

reasonably practicable, the safety of any of their

employees; and

– In relation to relevant persons (i.e. not in their employ)

take general fire precautions as may be reasonable to

ensure that the premises are safe

Any duty imposed on the responsible person shall be

imposed on every person who has to any extent control of

those premises so far as the requirements relate to matters

under his control

‘General’ Fire Precautions

In relation to premises, what ‘General Fire Precautions’ do

you think are covered in the new legislation?

– Reducing the risk of fire and spread of fire

– Means of escape from the premises

– Securing that at all material times a means of escape

– Fighting fires on the premises

– Means of detecting fires and giving warning in case of fire

– Instruction and training to employees

– Mitigate the effects of a fire

Above are as a result of carrying out a fire risk assessment

Responsible Person Duties

The responsible person must ensure that:

– The premises are, to the extent as is appropriate,

equipped with appropriate

Fire fighting equipment

Fire detectors

Alarms

– Any non-automatic fire fighting equipment is

Easily accessible

Simple to use

Has suitable signage

Safety Assistance

The responsible person must:

– Nominate competent persons to implement those

measures

– Ensure that the number of person are adequate

– Their training and equipment are adequate

A person is to be regarded as competent where he

has sufficient training and experience or knowledge

and other qualities to enable him to implement the

above measures

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Steps 1 & 2 of aFire Risk Assessment

Step 1 – Possible Sources of Ignition

• Faulty electrical equipment

• Sparks from abrasive work (angle grinders etc.)

• Hot processes (hot works)

• Naked flames (e.g. candles, gas fuelled equipment etc.)

• Cooking equipment

• Smokers material

• Heaters

• Light fittings

• Hot surfaces

• Obstructions to equipment ventilation

• Central heating boilers

• Flares, fireworks, pyrotechnics

• Arson

Step 1 – Possible Sources of Fuel

• Flammable liquids

• Flammable liquid based products such as paint, varnishes etc.

• Display stands

• Costumes, drapes and hangings, scenery, banners etc.

• Package foodstuffs

• Stationery, advertising material and decorations

• Litter and waste, particularly finely divided items such as shredded

paper

• Upholstery, soft furnishings, textiles etc.

• Plastic and rubber, such as video tapes, polyurethane foam filled

furniture and polystyrene-based display materials and rubber or

foam exercise mats

• Fireworks and pyrotechnics

Step 1 – Possible Sources of Oxygen

• Natural air flow through doors windows

and other openings

• Mechanical air handling systems

• Mechanical air conditioning systems

• Some chemicals (oxidising agents) can

provide a fire with additional oxygen to

fuel the fire

• Oxygen supplies from a cylinder

• Pyrotechnics (fireworks) that contain

oxidising materials and require great care.

Step 2 – Possible Groups of People

• Yourself

• Other Company employees

• Employees who work alone and/or in isolated areas

• Unaccompanied children

• People who are unfamiliar with the premises e.g. members of the

public

• People with disabilities

• People who may have some reason for not being able to leave the

premises quickly, e.g. people in a state of undress, elderly

customers, pregnant women or parents with children

• Sensory impaired due to alcohol, drugs or medication

• Other people in the immediate vicinity of the premises who are not

actually using it

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Step 3Evaluation of the Risk

Step 3 - Factors to be Considered?

1. Storage of combustible materials

2. Building features

3. Maintenance

4. Fire detection

5. Means of escape in case of fire

6. Provision of fire-fighting equipment

7. Maintenance of fire-fighting equipment

8. Staff training

Step 3 – Evaluate, Remove, Reduce and Protect from Risk

• How the fire could spread i.e. convection, conduction

and radiation

• The risk to people.

• Those on upper or lower level or long way from the

main exit route

• The likelihood of the fire occurring in space that

people have to pass by to escape.

• The spread of fire or smoke through the building:

• Routes such as shafts, ducts, ventilation systems,

poorly maintained or damaged walls, partitions and

ceilings.

Step 3 - Dangerous Substances

Where used responsible person must

ensure that risk to relevant persons is:

– Eliminated; or

– Reduced

so far as is reasonably practicable, with

suitable processes e.g.

– External storage areas

– No naked flame rules for

flammables

– Earthing of equipment to prevent

static discharge

– Intrinsically safe electrical systems

Prevention of FireIn Use Flammable Materials

In use quantities kept to a minimum, excess

quantities correctly stored

If large quantities used, consider piped systems

Container lids always replaced after use

Rags impregnated with product disposed of safely

(metal bins with lids)

Common electrical earth bonding in areas where

dispensing / charging containers with flammable

materials is carried out

Only trained and competent operatives to use

flammable materials.

Safe Storage

V I C E S Ventilation – provide plenty of fresh air to rapidly

disperse and vapours

Ignition – control ignition sources

Containment – use suitable containers and provide

spillage control

Exchange – consider whether a safer alternative

can be used to do the task

Separation – store away from process areas

(physical barrier, wall or partition where possible)

Step 3 - Emergency Routes and Exits

Must lead as directly as possible to a place of

safety

It must be possible for persons to evacuate the

premises as quickly and safely as possible

The number,distribution and dimensions of the

emergency exits must be adequate

Emergency doors must open in the direction of

the escape

Step 3 - Requirements for Escape

Basic requirements for staff & public there must be an

adequate means of escape to reach safe place

Routes and exits designated must be kept clear at all times

Emergency routes and exits shall lead directly as possible to a

place of safety

Emergency doors will open in the direction of escape or be

kept unlocked (no escape door can be secured)

Other doors, if possible, to be kept unfastened when building

is occupied

Fire doors should be checked for self closing (use of door

wedges is prohibited)

Routes suitably signed with emergency lighting if needed

Step 3 - Escape Times

Everyone in the building should be able to get to the

nearest place of safety in between 2 and 3 minutes

If there is only one means of escape, or where the risk of

fire is high, the escape time should only be 1 minute

Regardless of the nature of the building the means of

escape should be as short as possible

The reaction time of people before they begin a fire

evacuation should also be taken into account

All these points should be considered when carrying out

the Fire Risk Assessment

Fire Emergency Procedures

Have a means of detecting and warning

of fires

Have emergency procedures which are

displayed in prominent locations

Ensure everyone is aware of the

procedures

Nominate a fire coordinator

Display notices

Practice: drills, fire alarms at least

annually, for larger premises more often

Step 3 - Maintenance

The premises, equipment and facilities must be

subject to a system of maintenance

– Efficient state

– Efficient working order

– Good repair

The occupier of the premises must co-operate with

the responsible person

Fire Safety Plans

Fire plans should be produced and attached to the risk

assessment.

A copy of the fire plan should be posted in the workplace.

A single line plan of the area or floor should show:

Escape routes, numbers of exits, number of stairs, fire-resisting

doors, fire-resisting walls and partitions, places of safety etc.

Fire safety signs and notices including pictorial fire exit signs and fire

action notices.

The location of fire warning call points and sounders or rotary gongs.

The location of emergency lights.

The location and type of fire-fighting equipment.

Where you are!

Step 3 - Fire Types of Detection and Alarm Systems

Manual:

– People trigger the alarm system by activating a break-glass, operating a hand bell and/or by shouting ‘FIRE’

Automatic:

– Detectors placed carefully and sensitive to heat, smoke or combustion products (person activating a break-glass will also activate the system)

Audible warning, klaxon or bell:

– Can also be visual (flashing lights) for deaf, or vibrating pagers for deaf/blind.

Step 3 - Housekeeping

Good housekeeping will reduce the likelihood of a fire

Poor housekeeping not only affects the ease with which a

fire can occur, develop and spread, but can lead to:

– Blocked fire exits

– Obstructed escape routes

– Difficulty in accessing fire alarm call points, extinguishers

and hose reels

– Obstruction of vital signs and notices

– A reduction in the effectiveness of automatic fire

detectors and sprinklers.

Fire Safety Checks and Inspections

Fire safety checks and inspections should:

– Help prevent fires in the workplace

– Ensure escape routes are clear of obstructions

– Monitor fire safety standards

– Keep staff aware of fire safety issues

– Reinforce the role of employees, supervisors,

managers and fire marshals

The information required:

– The significant findings

– Measures which have or will be taken

– Any group of persons identified as being

particularly at risk

No new work activity involving a dangerous

substance may commence unless a risk

assessment has been made and the measures

required implemented

Step 4

Record, Inform, Instruct and Train

Step 4Provision of Information to Employees

The responsible person must provide

comprehensible and relevant information on:

– The risks to them identified by the risk

assessment

– The preventive and protective measures

– Any procedures

Before employing a child provide the parent with

the above information

Step 4 - Training

The training must:

– Include suitable and sufficient training on

appropriate precautions and actions

– Be repeated periodically where appropriate

– Be adapted to take account of changed risks

– Take place during working hours

Records of visits from Fire Officers

Records of maintenance and servicing of fire

equipment (alarms, appliances etc.)

Record of staff training

Record of fire drills

Record of fire alarm tests

Record of emergency lighting checks

Record of fire fighting appliance checks

Record of briefings on fire precautions and safety

Step 4 - Fire Records

Practicing Procedures

Do you have regular fire practices where you

work?

Are they unannounced?

Does everybody comply?

Are they realistic?

Do they occasionally involve the fire authority?

Do fire procedures get reviewed if necessary?

Step 5 - Reviewing Risk Assessment

Assessments must be reviewed regularly by the

responsible person and particularly if

– Reason to suspect no longer valid

– Significant change to the matters to which it

relates

Responsible person must not employ young

persons unless he has made or reviewed the

assessment in relation to the risks to young

persons

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Physical and Psychological Health Hazards and Controls

NCC1 – Element 8

NGC2 – Element 7

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Vibration Hazards and Controls

Causes of HAVS

HAVS:

– Caused by holding or working with tools that

vibrate at a frequency of between 2 to 1500

Hertz (Hz)

– Most hazardous range is 5 to 20 Hz

Some examples of tools causing vibration include:

Chainsaws

Angle-grinders

Pneumatic drills

Woodworking machinery

Compressor guns

Concrete vibro thickeners

Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS)

Vascular Component:

– Vibration white

finger

– Episodes of finger

blanching

– Typically cold

induced attacks

Vibration White Finger

Circulation of the blood disorder:

Usually set off by the cold

Early indications - the fingertips rapidly becoming

pale and loss of feeling

Attacks can produce numbness and ‘pins and

needles’

White phase followed by intense red flush

(sometimes preceded by bluish phase) signalling

return of blood

The above accompanied by uncomfortable

throbbing

Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS)

Neurological component:

– Numbness

– Tingling

– Reduced sense of

touch and temperature

Main cause of disability in

advanced cases

Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS)

Musculoskeletal component:

– Pain

– Weak grip

– Painful wrist

(carpal tunnel syndrome)

Whole of Body VibrationSyndrome (WBV)

WBV is the vibrating or jolting of the whole body

through the surface that is supporting the body,

such as a machine seat or floor.

WBV often occurs through from driving or operating

some types of construction plant or vehicles, had

the potential to cause back injury or make an

existing condition more painful.

Mobile machine operators and drivers (especially

those who work off-road) are at increased risk from

back pain.

WBV Syndrome

Most work WBV is unlikely on its own to cause back

pain.

Those most likely to experience high vibration

exposure are regular operators and drivers of off-

road machinery:

– Construction, mining and quarrying machines e.g.

scrapers, bulldozers and building site dumpers;

– Tractors and other agricultural and forestry

machines, particularly turning hay, primary

cultivation and mowing.

Risk of Injury

The risk of vibration-related injury (HAVS and WBVS) depends on

– The amount of vibration

– The length of time the equipment was used

– The conditions of use

– The posture of the operative

– The temperature at which the work is carried out

Duties of Employers

Assess vibration risks to health and

safety

Eliminate vibration risk at source, or

reduce to the lowest level reasonably

practicable

Provide information and training for

employees on vibration risks and

control measures

If any legislative limit value is

exceeded stop work and identify the

reasons.

Traffic Lights System

Some tool suppliers and

hirers use a colour system:

– Green: use up to 8 hours

– Amber: use up to 2 hours

– Red: refer to supervisor

as its use needs to be

risk assessed.

Control Measures for HAVS/WBVS

Selection of equipment that has been designed to

either eliminate or reduce exposure of vibration to

operatives (well designed cabs/seats & tool grips);

Assessing the risks using the manufacturers /

suppliers vibration figures and estimated exposure

times (HAVS calculator on HSE website);

Remoting the operative from the machine, such as

putting a road breaker on the end of a mini-digger;

Ensuring work equipment is maintained to keep it in

good working order to prevent machine vibration

increasing over time;

Control Measures for HAVS/WBV

Ensuring work bits are honed and kept sharp so that the tool

does the job and not the operating applying their weight

onto the tool and thus increasing vibration exposure.

Ensuring that operatives are trained in the correct selection

of tools and posture of use, tense muscles will suffer more

damage;

Reducing the time operatives are expose to the vibration

and employing job rotation; and

Ensuring operatives keep warm and dry, the blood supply is

the body’s protection system and promoting good blood flow

will reduce the likelihood of suffering vibration health issues.

Parts that Contribute to Vibration

Worn bearings;

Dirty fans (unbalancing);

Misaligned shafts;

Unbalanced rotating parts;

Loose bolts;

Damaged gear teeth;

Blunt cutting tools and blades;

Worn suspension components;

Incorrect tyre pressures;

Damaged seats; and

Damaged tyres/tracks.

Information, Instruction and Trainingfor Operators

Correct selection of equipment

Correct operation of equipment

(important with some vibration

reduced designs)

How to recognise and report

symptoms of HAVS / WBVS

How to minimise risk (exercising

finger, breaks from exposure, not

smoking etc)

Health Surveillance

A risk exists with vibration even after all control

measures have been implemented and therefore

a programme of health surveillance is often

required.

Vibration health surveillance would be done as a

part of an overall health surveillance programme

for employees and would include:

– Grip test;

– Dexterity tests; and

– Sense of touch and feeling tests.

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Noise

Noise – Definition and Hazards

What is noise?

– Unpleasant or unwanted sound

What are the possible noise hazards?

– Annoying and irritating

– Affects concentration

– Lowers efficiency

– Increases fatigue and accident

proneness

– Failure to hear warnings

– Can result in

Temporary/permanent hearing loss

Temporary/permanent tinnitus.

Noise

Different sounds are heard different ways

The pitch is how we hear the sound

– High pitched sound has high frequencies and

sounds shrill and piercing

– Low pitched sound has low frequencies and

sounds like a low rumble

Noise

The intensity of the sound is determined by the

amount of energy of the sound wave

The sound power level is the total energy of the

wave that is measured in decibels

Important when measuring noise in the working

environment

Noise

Sound intensity is measured in Bels (B) however

the Bel is very large so it is quoted to the power of

ten to give a decibels (dB) which can be more easily

used and measured

The scale is logarithmic:

– An increase of 3dB doubles the sound intensity

– A decrease of 3dB halves the sound intensity

Nature of Noise

Noise can be:

– Continual or periodic noise; or

– Sudden, loud, short bursts of noise

Frequency weighting of the ear (200Hz to 20KHz)

indicated by term dB (A)

Peak noise measurement indicated by dB (C)

Hearing levels of human ear 0 to 140 dB (A) which

is the threshold where noise becomes painful

Biology of the Ear

Sound waves

collected by the Pinna

Enter the ear canal

Cause eardrum to

vibrate

Vibration passed

along ossicular chain

Pressure doubled as it

enters the Cochlea

The Cochlea

A complex organ

Has numerous fine hair-like cells which respond to different frequencies

The response is to fire up neurons which interpret the impulses as sound

Cochlea Hair Cells

Damaged Cochlea Hair Cells

Before damage After damage

Country Exposure Values

Countries will often have lower and upper

exposure action values for noise, when

employers are required to implement

various control measures.

Additionally there may be a limit value for

the exposure of noise taking into account

any hearing protection provided.

These limits will often be require for dB(A)

and dB(C) measurements.

Rule of Thumb for Levels of Noise

“If noise is intrusive and

normal conversation is

possible”, then the likely

level is 80dB(A)

If you have to shout to

talk to someone 2 metres

away then the level is

likely to be at 85dB(A)

mark

Employer’s Duties

If at or above any set lower exposure action level,

employer will need to:

– Carry out suitable and sufficient assessment of risk

to employees:

Observe work practices

Use manufacturers supplied information

If necessary arrange for noise levels to be

measured

– Generally reduce the risk SFARP

– Ear protection to those who request it

– Train in the use and maintenance

Employer’s Duties

If at or above any upper exposure

action level, employers should:

– Use methods to reduce noise level

other than by the use of PPE

Engineering controls

– Enforce the use of equipment

– Set up hearing protection zones,

suitably marked.

Noise Controls

Engineering controls

enclosure

silencers

lagging

damping

screens

absorption treatment

isolation

– Reduce exposure time

– Personal protection

– Check exposure away from work

Enclosure

One of the best systems

for noise reduction

Gives 10 – 30 dB(A)

attenuation

Need to consider

– Adequate ventilation

– Access for maintenance

– Access for production

Silencers

Suppresses noise when air, gas or steam flows

through a pipe or duct or are exhausted to

atmosphere

– Absorptive ~ sound absorbed by a material

– Reactive ~ noise reflected by change in shape

Lagging

Used on pipes carrying hot

steam or fluids as thermal

lagging:

– Achieve 10 – 20 dB(A)

attenuation

– Only effective above 500Hz

– No contact between the

outer layer and pipe wall

Damping

Where large panels radiate noise

– Proprietary damping pads

– Fit stiffening ribs

– Use double skin construction

Acoustic Screens

Effective in reducing direct

field component

– Up to 15 dB(A)

– Maximum benefit at high

frequencies

– Effectiveness reduces with

distance from screen

Absorption Treatment

Where high degree of reflection

Wall and ceiling treatment

Functional absorbers at ceiling height

Noise Baffles

Industrial Sound Baffles, Wall

Panels, and Ceiling Absorbers:

– used to reduce the

reverberation time, lower

ambient noise levels, and

improve communication in a

variety of applications

– Ambient noise reduction to

10dB

Other Controls

Reduce exposure time

Personal protection

Check exposure away from work

Various types

Making Hearing Protection Effective

Should reduce exposure to below 85 dB and

reduce peak noise exposure to below 137 dB

Not overprotect

Reduce noise level to no less than 70 dB

Be comfortable

Be properly used

Worn at the right time

Be readily available

Be properly maintained, good condition and

undamaged

Noise - Hearing Protection

Must be suitable for the respective frequencies

Must be ergonomically sound

Hygiene to be observed

Should have BS/EN mark

Must be worn 100% of the time

Noise - Hearing Protection Limitations

Cheaper ear defenders can give 8 to 15 dB(A) attenuation at

low frequencies and 35 to 45 dB(A) at high frequencies.

More expensive give 20 to 25 dB(A) attenuation at low

frequencies up to 45 dB(A) at high frequencies.

No ear defenders will give attenuation of more than 45 dB(A):

– noise leaks through bone conductance, imperfect seals etc.

Protection reduced by various factors:

– Long hair, thick spectacle frames or jewellery

– Wearing helmets or face shields can prevent correct fitting

– Ear plugs not being properly inserted into the ear

Noise - Hearing Protection Limitations

Important to remember:

Removing the protection for only 15

minutes in an 8 hour shift can lose the

wearer up to 80% or more of the protection.

Health Surveillance:

– Owing to these limitations it may be necessary

to implement a programme of health

surveillance as a means of ensuring control

measures are working and if necessary to

revise them before permanent serious harm

occurs.

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Radiation

Introduction to Radiation

Ionising radiation:

Causes the production of electrically charged

particles, called ions, in the materials that it

strikes.

It can be man-made such as in medical X-Ray

devices, or occur naturally as with Radon Gas.

Introduction to Radiation

Non-Ionising radiation:

This type of radiation is electromagnetic and can be

divided into distinct types:

o Optical radiation which has the potential to cause

photochemical effects (such as ultra-violet induced

sunburn), and

o Electromagnet fields that are produced as a result of

the movement of electrical charges caused by the

flow of electrical current.

The Electromagnetic Spectrum

Ionising

If an atom does not have an equal

number of electrons and protons the

atom has a negative or positive charge.

This is now ionised

Ionising Radiation

The human body absorbs radiation

Ionising radiation causes the

production of ions, such as when it

strikes cells of a human body

The production of ions in the human

body changes cell DNA leads to

abnormal cell growth

Types of Ionising Radiation

Alpha particles

– Short ranges in dense materials, just

penetrate skin

Beta particles

– Fast moving, smaller particles with a

longer range

Gamma rays

– Excess energy emitted from a

degenerating nucleus. Great

penetrating power and range

Ionising Radiation

Type Distance Stopped

Alpha 5 cm Paper/Skin

Beta 1-2 metres Perspex/Metal

Gamma

X-Rays100 metres

Thick lead/

concrete

Ionising Radiation - Dose Received

Depends on:

– Strength of source (activity)

– Distance from

– Barriers around

– Exposure time

Use protection, distance and limit time

Controls for Ionising Radiation

Elimination of exposure by:

– Restriction of its use

– Shielded enclosures around sources

– Written procedures

Limit exposure times

Identification

Information, instruction and training

Monitoring and health checks

Good hygiene

Disposable PPE

Ionising RadiationWhere are they found?

Industry

– Isotopes

– X-rays

– Non-destructive testing

– Communications equipment

– Laboratory work

– Nuclear power

– Smoke detectors

Ionising Radiation Health Surveillance

Ionising radiation is an invisible hazard which has

chronic ill-health effects.

A risk exists even after all control measures have

been implemented and therefore a programme of

health surveillance is often require.

Health surveillance is primarily achieve by the use

of dosimeters which measure the amount of

ionising radiation a wearer has been exposed to.

Measurement is achieved by sending of the

dosimeter to a laboratory for analysis with results

being returned to the employer.

Ionising Radiation Competent Persons

Radiation Protection Advisor (RPA):

– Helps ensure the radiation employer complies

with the legislative requirements (IRR99 in UK),

and the development of local rules and

procedures.

Radiation Protection Supervisors (RPS)

– Usually a employee in a line management

position closely involved in the work being done,

allowing them to exercise sufficient supervisory

authority over the implementation and operation

of control measures.

Non-Ionising Radiation - Ultraviolet

Ultraviolet

– From the sun

Causes sunburn, skin cancer and blindness

These are thermal and photochemical effects

– Industrial equipment e.g. welding arcs

Causes cataracts to the eye

– Tanning tables / sunbeds

Non-Ionising Radiation - Lasers

Lasers types:

– Low level e.g Bar code equipment

– High level e.g Industrial cutting gear

Radiation converted into heat

Laser beam is concentrated radiation

PPE recommended e.g. goggles & absorbing

materials

Non-Ionising Radiation – Infra-red

Infra-red

– Caused by heat sources

such as furnace or lasers

Easily converted into heat

Causes skin burning and loss

of body fluids

Eyes can be damaged

causing cataracts

Non-Ionising Radiation – RF

Radio Frequency (RF)

– Emitted by microwave transmitters including

ovens and radar

The wave passes through the body and heat is

produce

Body reacts by sweating, blood flow to cool through

evaporation, convection and radiation of heat

Controls for Non-Ionising Radiation

Ultraviolet

– Shielding and partitions

– Sun creams

– Goggles

Infra-red

– Clothing

– Re-hydration

RF and Microwave

– Shielding

– Explosives, flammables etc kept away

Practice NEBOSH Question

Identify two types of non-ionising radiation,

giving an occupational source of each.

(2 points)

Outline the health effects associated with

exposure to non-ionising radiation.

(6 points)

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Chemical and Biological Health Hazards and Control

NCC1 – Element 8

NGC2 – Element 7

Forms of Chemical Agent

Chemical substances and preparations exist in a

variety of physical states.

Different forms of the same substance may present

different Hazards.

The three basic physical states of a substance are:

Solid

Liquid

Gas

Forms of Chemical AgentUseful Terms

For practical purposes, useful terms are:

– Dusts - small particles of solid, suspended in air.

They tend to settle under gravity and accumulate on

surfaces.

– Fumes – are small fine particulate solids, created by

condensation from a vapour.

– Gases – substance at a temperature above its boiling

point. It is a formless chemical occupying the area in

which it is enclosed.

– Mists – consist of finely suspended droplets of liquid

similar to vapours formed by condensation from a gas

or the atomising of a liquid from aerosols.

Forms of Chemical AgentUseful Terms continued

– Vapours – the gaseous form of a liquid below or

close to their boiling point.

– Liquids – form in which many of the chemicals

supplied and used in a workplace come in. They can

vary from the relatively harmless to highly toxic and

corrosive acids and alkalis.

– Aerosols – fine suspension of solid particles or

droplets in a carrier gas.

Others could include:

– Grit

– Fibre

Classification of Hazardous Substances

Physico-Chemical Toxicological Ecological

Explosive

Oxidising

Extremely flammable

Highly flammable

Flammable

Very toxic

Toxic

Harmful

Corrosive

Irritant

Sensitising

Carcinogenic

Mutagenic

Toxic for reproduction

Toxic or harmful to

aquatic organisms

Long-term effects such

as persistence

Toxic to non-aquatic

environment

Dangerous to the ozone

layer

Irritant (Sensitizing or Allergic)

Irritant:

– A non-corrosive substance that

may cause inflammation of the

skin or mucous membrane

Sensitising:

– Elicit a hyper-sensitization so

that further exposure produces

adverse effects (allergic

reaction)

Corrosive and Harmful

Corrosive

– Will destroy living tissue.

Harmful

– Substances which if swallowed,

inhaled or penetrates skin, may pose

limited health risks.

– Occasionally, substances labeled

harmful may also be categorized as

irritant.

Toxic (Very Toxic)

Substance which impedes or prevents the

function of one or more organs within the

body.

A toxic substance is, therefore, a poisonous

one.

The degree of harm depends on its harmful

properties, route and speed of entry.

Examples include: lead, mercury,

pesticides and carbon monoxide.

Carcinogen

Substances that are known or suspected

of inducing cancer

Cancer is the abnormal development of

body cells

Examples of carcinogenic substances

include:

– Asbestos

– Hard wood dust

– Creosote

– Some mineral oils

Biological Health Hazards

Biological hazards mainly relate to illness contracted from

exposure to micro-organisms. Examples include:

– Fungi (including moulds):

a plant lacking in chlorophyll and reproducing by

spores, can be considered as very small organisms

– dry rot / mould in showers / stale food

– Blue-Green Algae:

formed under certain environmental conditions (e.g.

long period of warm weather followed by rain and

more warm still conditions). The algal blooms formed

can be toxic to humans.

Biological Health Hazards ~ 1

– Bacteria:

Microscopic single-celled organisms

Often agents of fermentation and putrification.

Bacterium is a large group of such organisms.

Examples include:

– Legionella:

Airborne bacterium present (given certain

conditions) in cooling towers, water systems

and air-conditioning systems.

Produces a form of pneumonia that affects the

lungs and can be fatal.


Bacteria examples continued:

– Animal bacterial infections that can be transmitted to

humans (Zoonoses) e.g.

Leptospirosis or Weil’s disease – transmitted

through coming into contact with rats or cattle urine.

Tetanus (lock-jaw) - enters the body through cuts,

wounds, splinters, vegetation, contaminated soil and

animal faeces

Anthrax - virulent bacterial infection from infected

animal skins/carcases

Brucellosis – from cattle or pigs


– Virus (minute non-cellular organism). Examples include:

Hepatitis B:

– A disease of the liver common amongst medical staff

and refuse disposal operatives

– Contracted by coming into contact with blood, excreta

or discarded syringes.

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus):

– Passed by passing of infected body fluids into the

blood of another person and can cause AIDS.

– Easily destroyed outside the body, not easily

transmitted and requires direct contact.

Other Health Hazards ~ 1

Organic solvents:

– White spirit, i-butanol, dichloromethane, toluene, xylene

and styrene

Carbon dioxide

Carbon monoxide

Isocyanates:

– used to make adhesives, synthetic rubber, polyurethane

paints and lacquers

Lead

Asbestos

Other Health Hazards ~ 2

Ammonia - colourless gas with distinctive odour

Chlorine - greenish toxic gas with a pungent smell

Silica - when inhaled as a dust and can cause numerous chest

and respiratory tract diseases

Cement dust and wet cement - can cause both dermatitis and

burns, irritates the nose and throat.

Wood dust, can result in:

– Skin disorders

– Obstruction in the nose and rhinitis/asthma

– Nasal and throat cancers

– Wheezing, coughing and breathlessness

– Stomach disorders

– Soreness, watering and conjunctivitis in the eyes.

Respiratory System

Comprises the lungs and associated organs

Air is breathed in passes through the

windpipe (trachea) which branches into the

two lungs

Within each lung, air enters into fine tubes

called bronchioli.

The bronchioli lead to some 300,000

terminal sacs called alveoli.

At the alveoli oxygen is diffused into the

bloodstream and carbon dioxide is effused

from the blood stream.

Possible Damage to theRespiratory System

Soluble dust in the inhaled air can be absorbed into the

bloodstream.

Insoluble dust/fibres may remain permanently, possibly

leading to chronic illness.

– Asbestos fibres

Acute respiratory system effects:

– Bronchitis (inflammation of the mucous membranes)

– Asthma.

Chronic effects can include:

– Fibrosis (excess fibrous tissue)

– Cancer.

Respiratory Defence System

The nose can trap large particles before

entering the trachea.

The respiratory tract dust can trigger

reactions causing sneezing/coughing.

Ciliary escalator trap:

– Fine hairs trap smaller insoluble dust

particles in the trachea.

– With the aid of mucus, the dust is

passed from one hair to the next higher

one to bring it to the back of the throat.

The Cardiovascular System

The three basic cardiovascular system elements:

– Red Cells

To transport oxygen to vital organs, tissues and the

brain and carbon dioxide back to the lungs.

– White Cells

Attack foreign organisms and build up defence

system.

– Platelets

To aid healing of damaged tissue and prevent

excessive bleeding by clotting.

Cardiovascular Systemand Hazardous Substances

Benzene:

– Can affect bone marrow reducing

the number of blood cells produced.

Carbon monoxide:

– Prevents red cells from absorbing

sufficient oxygen and can result in

unconsciousness and possibly

death.

The Liver

The liver:

– Removes toxins from the blood

– Maintains the levels of blood sugars

– Produces protein for the blood plasma

Substances hazardous to the liver:

– Can result in the liver being too active or inactive –

xylene is known to have this affect.

– Can lead to the enlargement of the liver such as

cirrhosis caused by alcohol.

– Can cause liver cancer e.g. vinyl chloride.

The Kidneys

The kidneys:

– Filter waste products from the blood as urine

– Regulate blood pressure and liquid volume in the

body

– Produces hormones for making red blood cells

The operation of the kidneys and their possible failure

can be caused by:

– Heavy metals (e.g. cadmium and lead)

– Organic solvents (e.g. glycol ethers as used in

screen printing)

The Skin

Holds the body together.

Is the first line of defense against infection.

It regulates body temperature.

It is a sensing mechanism.

Provides an emergency food store (fat).

It helps conserve water.

It consists of 2 layers:

– The epidermis (outer layer)

– The dermis (inner layer)

The Skin and Industrial Disease

The most common is non-

infective dermatitis:

– Begins with mild irritation and

develops into blisters

– It can be caused by various

chemicals, solvents and

mineral oils

– Risk of occurring increases

with the presence of abrasions

and cuts to the skin

UK Safety Regulations CoveringChemical and Biological Hazards

The Control Of Substances Hazardous to

Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH) (as

amended)

Control of Lead at Work Regulations 2002

Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012

COSHH - Employers Responsibilities

Avoid use of hazardous substances

Carry out a risk assessment

Prevent exposure of employees

If not reasonably practicable to prevent, adequately

control exposure:

– Substitute substance/process for non-hazardous

– Engineering controls (e.g. ventilation, organisational etc.)

– Last resort, providing suitable PPE

Ensure controls are implemented and maintained

Monitor exposure

Health surveillance

Provide information, training & supervision

COSHH – Responsibility Employees

Cooperate with their employer

Make full and proper use of

control measures, including PPE

Report and defects

Attend, where appropriate,

medical examinations in the

employers time and at employers

expense

Assessor Competence

Understand Regs

Ability to systematically gather relevant

information:

– Observe and understand process

– Obtain information about substance

– Ask questions in workplace

– Make informed ‘What If’ judgments

Specify steps and control measures

Understand own limitations

Ability to make valid conclusions and

communicate findings

Information

Manufacturers instructions

– M.S.D.S. 16 items

– EH 40

Marking on containers

– COSHH & CHIP Regs (Schedule 1)

Route of entry into the body

– Some considered higher risk than others

Place of work

– Inside, outside

Use of the substance

– Physical form

Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) – 16 Items

1. Identification of the substance

2. Composition/information on the ingredients

3. Hazard Identification

4. First Aid Measures

5. Fire Fighting Measures

6. Accidental Release Measures

7. Handling and Storage

8. Control measures / Personal Protective Equipment

9. Physical and Chemical Properties

10. Stability and reactivity

11. Toxicological information

12. Ecological information

13. Disposal information

14. Transport information

15. Regulatory information

16. Other information

COSHH (EH 40 Guidance Note)

Reproduces the statutory list of

Workplace Exposure Level’s

(WEL) these are levels that

workers should not exceed by

inhalation.

Labelling of Containers

European Union Hazardous Substances Labelling System

Toxic Very Toxic Harmful Irritant

Flammable Highly/Extremely Flammable

Explosive Harmful to the Environment

Oxidising Corrosive

Routes of Entry to the Human Body

Inhalation

Skin absorption

Ingestion

Through the eyes

Pressure injection

Health Risk Survey Techniques

Air quality measurement:

– Stain Tube Detectors

– Passive sampling

– Sampling pumps and heads

– Direct reading instruments

Qualitative monitoring:

– Smoke tubes

– Dust observation lamp

Environmental MonitoringAir Measuring Techniques

Grab sampling

– Stain tubes

– Air drawn over a

chemical indicator

– Unable to accurately

measure personal

exposure

– Influenced by human

error, other chemicals in

the air, small air volume

Glass Tube

Prefilter

Crystals

Indicator scale


Long Term Sampling

– Air samples took over

several hours

– Gives an average

concentration

– Personal samples taken

by attaching monitor to

worker or static placed in

workplace

– Same problems as before


Other types

– Charcoal tube samplers

Contaminant absorbed into

charcoal which is sent to

laboratory for accurate

tests

– Dust sampling

Dust sucked onto filter

membrane by pump and

analysed

Measure to Prevent or ControlControl Exposure

Elimination

Substitution

Total or partial enclosure of the process

Local exhaust ventilation

Dilute of general ventilation

Reduce number of employees exposed to a minimum

Reduce time exposed

Housekeeping

Training

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Welfare (including first aid)

Medical records

Health surveillance

Basic Types of Ventilation

Two types used in industrial settings:

– Local exhaust ventilation

Captures contaminates at or

very near the source and

exhausts them outside

– Dilution (or general dilution)

ventilation

Reduces the concentration

of the contaminant by mixing

the contaminated air with

clean, uncontaminated air

Purpose of Ventilation Systems

Four reasons for ventilations systems

– Provide a continuous supply of fresh outside air

– Maintain temperature and humidity at comfortable levels

– Reduce potential fire or explosion hazards

– Remove or dilute airborne contaminants

Industrial Ventilation Systems

A mechanical system in a building that

brings in "fresh" outdoor air and

removes the "contaminated" indoor air.

Used to control exposure to airborne

contaminants

– Fumes / Dusts / Vapours

Provides a healthy and safe

environment

Can be by natural means

– Opening a window

Can be by mechanical means

– Fans and blowers

Local Exhaust Ventilation

Removes air containing contaminants

Contaminant to be suitably disposed of

Needs good design e.g. sufficient power

Consider requirements for maintenance

Local Exhaust Ventilation

Controls air contaminants by trapping them at or near the source

More effective way of controlling highly toxic contaminants before they reach the workers' breathing zones

Preferred method of control where

– Increased heating costs from ventilation in cold weather are a concern

– Emission sources are near the workers' breathing zones

– Large amounts of dusts or fumes are generated

– Air contaminants pose serious health risk

– Emission sources are few in number

Main Parts of LEV

An "air intake" area

such as a hood or an

enclosure

Ducts to move air from

one area to another

Air cleaning device(s)

Fan(s) to bring in

outside air and

exhaust the indoor

contaminated air

LEV System Air Cleaning Device

Captures and removes contaminants

Various types of device are used

depending on whether the

contaminant is a dust, fume, mist, gas

or vapours.

The main types are

fabric filters

charcoal filters

cyclones

electrostatic precipitators

scrubbers.

Limitations of LEV Systems

Systems deteriorate over the years because

of to contaminant build-up within the system,

especially filters

Require ongoing maintenance

Regular and routine testing is needed to

identify problems early and implement

corrective measures

Only qualified persons should make

modifications to a ventilation system to make

sure the system continues to work effectively

– Unauthorised expansion to system

reduces efficiency

Maintenance of LEV

Inspection of ventilation systems involves regular

checks of: Hoods / Filters / Belts / Air-cleaners

Periodic tests of system performance should

include:

– Measurement of air velocities at key locations

such as hoods and ducts

– Smoke tubes or air current tubes may be

used to visually check air flow.

– More sophisticated devices continuously

measure the amount of air flow velocity

(anemometer) and the negative air pressure

in ducts.

Main Features of Dilution Ventilation

Supplies and exhausts large amounts of

air to and from an area or building

It usually involves large exhaust fans

placed in the walls or roof of a room or

building

Controls pollutants generated at a worksite

by ventilating the entire workplace

Distributes pollutants, to some degree,

throughout the entire worksite

Could therefore affect persons who are far

from the source of contamination

When Dilution is Useful

The amounts of pollutants generated

are not very high

Their toxicity is relatively moderate

Workers do not carry out their tasks in

the immediate vicinity of the source of

contamination

Unusual to recommend it for the

control of exposure to chemicals

except solvent which have very low

toxicity and high permitted exposure

levels

Limitations of Dilution Ventilation

Does not completely remove

contaminants

Cannot be used for highly toxic

chemicals

Is not effective for dusts or metal

fumes or large amounts of gases

or vapours

Requires large amounts of

makeup air to be heated or cooled

Is not effective for handling surges

of gases or vapours or irregular

emissions

Supervisory or People Controls

Good supervisory controls will encompass:

– Systems of work

– Established arrangements and procedures

– Effective communication and training

Additional controls for hazardous substances:

– Reduce time exposed

– Reduce number of workers exposed

– Prohibit eating, drinking and smoking in work areas

– Strictly enforce special rules e.g. wearing of PPE

Personal Protective Equipment

The principle requirements of these regulations are:

PPE must be suitable for the wearer and the task.

When multiple items of PPE are used it must be compatible and effective.

A risk assessment to determine the need and suitability of the proposed PPE must be carried out.

A suitable maintenance programme must be established for PPE

Suitable accommodation and storage must be provided for PPE when not in use.

Information, instruction and training must be given to the user

There must be supervision of the use of PPE by employees

There must be a reporting system for defects.

Health Surveillance

Detects the start of ill-health problems

Collects data on ill-health occurrences

Gives an indication of effectiveness of control measures

Required when there appears to be a reasonable chance

of ill-health effects occurring.

Country legislation may also require health surveillance on

certain substances.

Health surveillance includes the requirement for medicals

at intervals not exceeding 12 months.

Records of health surveillance to be kept for 40 years.

Personal Hygiene

Personal hygiene precautions for workers

exposed to hazardous substances should

include:

– The importance of washing their hands

thoroughly before eating, drinking or smoking.

– Be vaccinated against biological hazards if

required.

– Ensure contaminated clothing and overalls are

removed and cleaned on a regular basis.

Practice 8 pt Question

a. Health care workers, paramedics and first

aiders could be exposed to blood-borne

viruses.

Identify other possible workplace

circumstances where a worker could be

exposed to blood-borne viruses. 2 pts

b. Outline precautions that will help reduce the

risk from exposure to blood-borne viruses.

6 pts


Construction workers can be regularly exposed to

airborne dusts, fumes and vapours, many of which are

assigned a workplace exposure limit (WEL). Monitoring

should be carried out to check the levels to which

employees are exposed.

a. Give the meaning of the term ‘WEL’. 4 pts

b. Identify types of monitoring equipment that could be

used to check levels of dusts, fumes and vapours to

which employees are exposed. 4 pts

c. Other than monitoring, outline control measures that

could be used to reduce exposure to dusts, fumes and

vapours. 12 pts

SuccessfulPractical

Relevant

Asbestos

Why is Asbestos so Dangerous?

Asbestos fibres are tiny needle-like in shape.

It is not the chemical composition of the fibres

but their shape/size that cause health problems.

Fibres most likely to damage health can be less

than one thousandth of a millimetre in diameter.

All asbestos is dangerous to health, but blue and

brown are the most hazardous and have been

banned in the UK for many years.

White asbestos only banned in the UK in 1999.

One of 3 open-pit Asbestos mines in Canada which was one the world's largest

exporters of asbestos, second only to Russia. Canada now tightly limits its

domestic use.

Since 2003 exports have reduced significantly owing to a drop in demand.

Exports are primarily to third world countries in Africa and Asia. There, looser

regulations allowed for it to be mixed in with cement, used in insulation or

turned into anti-fire walls

Asbestos Related Diseases

Asbestosis

– Fibres lodge in lungs & cause inflammation that heals leaving scars

and lungs losing ability to deliver oxygen to the blood.

Mesothelioma

– Cancer of the lining of the lung, the lining of the abdomen or of the

heart – can take 20-50 years to develop.

Lung cancer

– Exposure to asbestos increases the risk of lung cancer.

Diffuse Pleural Thickening

– Some asbestos fibres inhaled into the lungs may work their way to

the pleura causing it to thicken leading to breathing difficulties.

Pleural Plaques

– This is the least serious form of asbestos induced disease. ‘Plaques’

are scars in the lining of the lung.

Control of Asbestos

Controllers of non-domestic

premises should:

– Locate asbestos

– Record location

ACM Register

– Assess risks of potential exposure

– Develop management plan to

control exposure

– Implement plan

– Monitor and review

Current European Legislation

Prohibits the use of asbestos in

construction

– Duty to manage

Management Survey

– 2 Stages

Demolition/Renovation

Survey

The problem of removal remains

and it can be difficult to identify

Management Survey – Stage 1

Location & assessment survey or Presumptive

survey

To locate the presence & extent of ACMs and

assess their condition

Defers the need for sampling & analysis

A surveyor should have strong evidence to

support a reasoned argument for presuming a

material does not contain asbestos

Management Survey – Stage 2

Standard Sampling & Assessment survey

Same as type 1 except that samples are taken

from each type of suspect ACM and analysed

An assessment is made of all materials confirmed

to contain asbestos

UKAS accreditation to ISO17025 for analysis

Renovation/Demolition Survey

Full access sampling and

identification

Carried out prior to:

– demolition

– major refurbishment

HSE licensed contractor

UKAS accreditation to ISO17025

for analysis

Air monitoring

– WEL of 0.1 fibres per millilitre of air (f/ml)

averaged over 4 hours

– Above this limit, an asbestos licence will be

required

Unlicensed work – 2 cats

– Notifiable (highly friable)

April 2015 these workers – health

surveillance

– Non-notifiable

Low or non-friability

CAR UK Unlicensed Work

Medical surveillance

Decontamination facilities

– PPE and personal clothing

– Asbestos sludge from showers

Packaging sealing and marking

of waste

Disposal (limited number of land

fill sites)

CAR UK Licensed Work

Chrysotile White Asbestossilicate minerals with naturally occurring flexible fibre

Soft curly appearance,

Flexible with high tensile strength

Susceptible to low level chemical attack

Was the most common form used

Common usage:

– Asbestos cement corrugated sheets

– Asbestos cloth

– Asbestos rope and yarn

– Asbestos flooring tiles

Amosite (Grunerite) Brown Asbestossilicate minerals with naturally occurring flexible fibre

Straight bundles of flexible fibres

Needle like

Easily split

Moderate tensile strength

Resistant to acids

Common usage:

– Asbestos insulating board

– Sprayed asbestos coatings

– Asbestos insulation

Crocidolite Blue Asbestossilicate minerals with naturally occurring flexible fibre

Straight flexible and elastic

Very high tensile strength

Resistant to chemical attack

Very high thermal stability

Common usage:

– Asbestos cement 1950-1969

– Asbestos mill board and paper

– Asbestos mastics, sealers and putties


Asbestos can be found in various

insulating and fire resistant materials.

a. Identify the different types of asbestos.

3 pts

b. Outline the duty to manage asbestos in

non-domestic premises.

5 pts

SuccessfulPractical

Relevant

Lead At Work

Health Problems

Lead can enter the body by inhalation,

absorption or ingestion

It builds up steadily and clears very slowly

It causes:

– Anaemia

– Fatigue

– Damage to the central nervous system

– Long term kidney damage

– Affects the unborn child

Work Producing Exposure Above Significant Levels

High temperature lead work (above

500 degrees C)

Demolition work involving old lead or

lead painted structures

Disc abrasion of lead surfaces and

cutting lead with abrasive wheels

Spray painting with lead based paint

Work in petrol tanks

Work Producing Exposure Below Significant Levels

Low temperature work such as ordinary

plumbing and soldering

Handling clean sheets or pipes of lead

Brush painting with lead based paint

The Control of Lead at Work Regulations 2002

Risk Assessment and prevention or control

Restrictions on eating, drinking and smoking

Air monitoring and medical surveillance

Information, instruction and training

Arrangements to deal with accidents,

incidents and emergencies

Schedule 1:

– covers activities in which the employment

of young persons and women of

reproduction capacity is prohibited

Practice Question

Identify the issues that should be considered to

help to ensure that a new item of work equipment

is suitable for use. (4 points)

Identify measures that could be taken to ensure

that an item of work equipment remains in a

suitable condition. (4 points)

Practice Question

a) Identify health risks associated with exposure to

legionella bacteria. (2 points)

b) Outline circumstances that could cause

legionella bacteria to be present in a water

system. (2 points)

Identify ways in which persons can be exposed

to legionella bacteria. (4 points)

Practice Question

As part of a cleaning process, solvent is to be

sprayed onto components before being painted.

– During the spraying process identify the forms

the solvent could take. (2 points)

– Outline control measures that could be taken to

reduce the risk of exposure to the solvent.

(6 points)

SuccessfulPractical

Relevant

Electrical Safety

NCC1 – Element 6

GC2 – Element 5

What is Electricity?

A source of Energy

Essential to modern life

Extremely Dangerous

– Cannot be seen

– Cannot be smelt

Electric Current

A flow of electrons:

– measured in Amperes (Amps) symbol A or I

i.e. 13A fuse

Certain materials ‘conduct’ better than others

Conductors (soft metals):

– Metals such as copper, silver, gold and aluminium.

– Loose electrons in abundance so charge can be transferred easily.

– Copper very common on cost basis

Voltage or Potential Difference

Charge on an object

Measured with respect to earth in volts (V)

Water Analogy:

– Horizontal pipe – water does not flow

– Raise one end – water flows out

– A pressure difference exists

– Raising pipe created a pressure difference

– Raising electric charge has same effect only electric

current will flow

– Amount of current that flows dependant on conductor

more water could flow in a bigger pipe

Conductors and Insulators

Conductors conduct

electricity

Metals conduct

Insulators don’t

Wood, plastic, air, oil

and rigid glass do not

conduct electricity

(most of the time)

Resistance

Back to the water pipe again!

– A larger diameter pipe allows more water to flow than

a smaller one

– If a small diameter section of pipe is inserted into the

large pipe the flow of water is restricted

Small diameter wires (conductors) allow less

electricity to flow than bigger diameter wires

The ease by which a material conducts electricity

is known as resistance

Resistance is measured in ‘Ohms’ () Symbol R

Relationships

Electric Current – Amperes (Amps) Symbol A or I

Potential Difference – Voltage (Volts) Symbol V

Electrical Resistance – Ohms () Symbol R

V

I R

Relationship know as Ohms Law

Where:

V = I * R

I = V / R

R = V / I

Sources of Power

Battery & Solar Panels (direct current – d.c.)

Mains Supply (alternating current – a.c.)

Portable Generators (alternating current – a.c.)

UK Electrical Supply System:

Electricity supplied to factories, offices and homes at

230 volts

Large factories at 11,000 volts or above

Supply has alternating current (a.c.)

Alternates at (frequency) of 50 cycles per second

(50 Hertz or Hz)

Power

When current flows energy is transmitted and

usually consumed by a load

– Examples – heaters, lights, motion e.g. motors

Such devices must consume electricity because

we have to pay for it!

Power = Volts X Amps (work done)

Measured in Watts (W)

Example – 2300 Watt electric kettle

– Also referred to as 2.3 kilowatt (KW)

Power Relationships

W

V I

There is a relationship for power Watts (W) using Voltage (V) and Current (I):

Where:

W = V * I

V = W / I

I = W / V

Electrical Circuits

Consist of:

– Power Source

– Connecting cables

– Switches and isolators

– Electrical equipment e.g.:

Motors

Lights

Computing equipment

Cash registers

Battery chargers

Heaters

Etc ….

Electrical Hazards

Fires– Over heating/Arcing/Sparking

Arcs– Generated during faults

– Very high temperatures can cause burns

Explosions– Flammable substances give off vapours

– Electrical sparks ignite

Burns– Surface or deep tissue

Electric shock– Muscular Contraction, Asphyxia

– Respiratory Arrest, Ventricular Fibrillation

Ventricular Fibrillation

Factors are Current / Time & Physiological

Structure of body

Can occur at 30mA (0.03 A)

Causes heart to ‘flutter’

Heart muscle cannot open / close properly

Hence, heart does not pump

Lack of oxygen to brain - DEATH

Effect of Electricity on Human Body

Electric Shock - Treatment

Isolate supply immediately – Dial 999

If you cannot isolate DO NOT attempt to touch casualty

Physically remove victim using non-conducting implements

(e.g. wooden chair, wooden/plastic broom)

If breathing place in recovery position

Check for pulse/breathing, give artificial respiration if

necessary

Treat burns by covering with sterile dry dressing

If victim regains consciousness, treat for shock

Remain with the person until medical aid arrives

Electrical Circuits - Earthing

Very important for safety!

Prevents conducting parts of

equipment (i.e. metal frames or

lids), which do not normally

conduct electricity from

becoming live during faults.

No bonding

Person can receive an electric

shock if equipment becomes

faulty

Equipment Bonded Together

All equipment bonded

together

No potential difference

(voltage) between live

casing and handrail

If the case becomes live,

the fuse should blow

Called equi-potential

bonding

Fuses and RCD’s

Fuses:

Essential for safety, will cut off supply at a certain current level

i.e. 13A, 5A, 3A mains supply fuse

Fuse has a ‘fuseable’ wire element which heats up when

current flows

Excessive current = excessive heat & wire melts preventing

current flow

RCD’s:

Residual current device

Compares current in Live & Neutral if different and above a

certain value supply switched off

Double Insulation

Many items of portable

equipment are Double Insulated

This is where an extra layer of

insulating material are applied

over live conductors to prevent

exposure of conductors

Can mean that an earth

conductor is not required – risk

reduced by additional insulation.

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Safe Values of Voltage

55 Volts a.c. systems have not caused anybody

to be electrocuted

Often referred to as a 110V CTE (centre-tapped

earth) supply yellow coloured equipment

Less than 120 Volts d.c. considered to be safe

Work on Electrical Equipment

Always ISOLATE supply:

– Switch OFF

Creates an air gap

– Lock OFF to prevent

inadvertent switching ON

– Always test conductors

before touching

Permit to work may be required

for higher voltage or complex

installations

Practice Question

Outline FOUR ways of protecting against electric

shock when using hand-held portable electrical

appliances that will be connected to a UK mains

(230v) electrical supply. (8 points)

Underground Services

– Safe System of work

Check with the supply company that it is safe

to commence work

Obtain advise on location and ownership

Check plans for routes, depth and voltage

Use location devices and mark the route

Hand digging should be used when nearing

the line

Excavators and power tools should not be

used within 0.5m of the indicated line

Support exposed cables and protect

Overhead Services

Electricity cables present the

obvious risk of electrocution

All cables should be identified

before work starts

Mobile plant & equipment near

overhead cables will increase

the level of risk

Equipment could become live

and also become a conductor

for an electrical current

Overhead Services

Controls measures:

Reposition out of area

Isolate the power

Use cable covers

If not practicable prevent

contact by:

– Use barriers set at a

safe distance from the

overhead services

Overhead Services

- Use barriers set at a safe

distance from the overhead

services

- “Rule of thumb”

- 6 metre minimum

- Wooden pole 9 metres

- Metal pylon 15 metres

- Goal post max 10 metres wide

- Level ground

- Prevent equipment operation

Visual Inspections of Portable Electrical Equipment

Mains cable for damage to insulation?

Bare wires visible (REPAIRED by a competent

person)?

Is the cable too long/too short (trip hazard)?

In date PAT label attached to the equipment?

Outer case of the equipment undamaged or

loose and are all the screws in place?

Any overheating or burn marks on the

equipment, sockets, cable or plug?

Trip devices (RCD’s) working effectively (press

the ‘test’ button)

Maintenance ofPortable Electrical Equipment

Any strategy for the inspection of portable

electrical equipment should consider:

– A means of identifying the equipment

– The number and type of appliances to be tested

– The competence of those doing the testing

– The legal requirements for portable appliance testing

(PAT)

– Test equipment selection and re-calibration

– A recording, monitoring and review system

– Any training requirements to carry out the test

programme.

Frequency of Testing Portable Electrical Equipment

Should be based on risk assessment:

Usage

Type

Operation

Environment etc

Frequently used equipment may need

more regular testing

Guidance:

HSE HS(G) 107 ‘Maintaining

portable and transportable electrical

equipment’

HSG 107

Systems - all electrical systems must be constructed

and maintained at all times to prevent danger.

Equipment to be safe:

Work activities, including operation, use and

maintenance shall be carried out so as not to give rise

to danger.

Electricity at Work Safety Requirements

Environments (access, lighting, space etc.),

Insulation,

Capability,

Earthing,

Connections,

Fusing,

Isolation,

Making dead,

Live working,

Working Space,

Competence.


Whilst using a portable electric grinder to cut a

support beam at height, the operator accidently

makes direct contact with the supply cable.

(a) Identify FOUR possible outcomes associated

with this action. (4 pts)

(b) Identify FOUR protective devices/systems that

could minimise the risk to the operator in these

circumstances. (4 pts)

SuccessfulPractical

Relevant

Temporary Works

Building, Maintenance and Renovation

The client should ensure that any such work is

undertaken in such a manner as to protect the health

and safety of both operatives undertaking the work and

the clients own employees.

Clients should therefore ensure contractors are

competent to undertake any such works.

Contractors work could impact on the clients fire and

emergency procedures and this must be taken into

account before any works commence.

The safest method usually adopted is to completely

separate the contractors activities from those of the

client.

Demolition or Dismantling

Must not be carried out unless the arrangements for

ensuring that it is carried out in a safe manner have be

recorded, in writing, first.

Must be planned and carried out as safely as possible,

under the supervision of a competent person (e.g.

structural engineer)

Demolishing buildings & structures remains high risk work

Client to ensure reasonable information provided

Would probably require an invasive asbestos survey

and information about buried services

A comprehensive method statement cover all aspects of

health and safety would be required.

SuccessfulPractical

Relevant

Excavations

GC2 – Element 1

NCC1 – Element 11

Excavation Hazards

Materials stored to close

Foundations of adjacent buildings being undermined

The edge of excavation not clearly marked

Absence of barriers or lighting

Inadequate access & egress

Absence of crossing points

None or inadequate stop blocks

Traffic routes to close to excavation

Contaminated land

Buried services

Accumulation of gases

Collapse

The soil that makes up the sides of an excavation cannot

always be relied upon to support their own weight leading to

the possibility of collapse. The risk can increase if:

– The soil structure is loose

– The soil is waterlogged

– Materials are stored too close

– Heavy equipment is too close

– Machinery/Vehicle vibrations

– Inadequate shoring up

– Weather conditions are poor

– Surcharge (adjacent structures)

Collapse of Adjacent Structures

Problems can arise when excavation work is carried

out within close proximity of existing buildings or

structures resulting in:

- Foundations becoming undermined

- Settling damage

- Structural collapse

Consideration & controls measures are required to

ensure foundations are not disturbed or undermined

Water ingress hazards

Flooding:

– Heavy rainfall

– Breaking into drains

– Digging below the natural water

table

Deep excavations:

– access and egress not easy when

mud and water is combined

Excavation supports can be

undermined

Contaminated ground

Excavations may uncover materials with the

potential to be hazardous to health

– Old steel works may contain arsenic & cyanide

– Farms; buried animal carcases or pesticides

– Vermin may mean the presence of leptospirosis

Toxic / Asphyxiating Atmospheres

Excavations can be subject to toxic,

asphyxiating or explosive

atmospheres

Chalk/limestone deposits mixed with

acidic water can release:

– Carbon dioxide

Other gases such as:

– Methane gas (rotting vegetation)

– Hydrogen sulphide (sewers)

– Carbon monoxide (vehicle exhaust)

Toxic / Asphyxiating Atmospheres

Excavations should be treated with

the same caution applied to confined

spaces

Suitable assessment should be

carried out prior to works to identify

risk from:

– toxic gas

– oxygen deficiency

– fire

– explosion

Possible Control Measures

gas monitoring equipment

atmosphere testing prior to entry

suitable ventilation equipment

rescue procedures

rescue equipment

training of employees

information for employees

Buried Services

What are they?

Electricity

Gas

Water

Sewer

Telecoms

Pipelines

Identification of Services

A national agreement now exists for identifying

buried services:

– Black: Electricity

– Red: Electricity – High Voltage

– Blue: Water

– Yellow: Gas

– Grey: Telecommunications

– Green: Cable television

Emergency Procedures

If you suspect a gas leak, damaged cable or

damaged water pipe:

– Evacuate everyone from the immediate area

– Do not attempt repairs

– Inform site management immediately

– Ban smoking, naked flames and other sources

of ignition within 5 metres of any gas leak

– Assist relevant utility providers, Police or Fire

Services as requested

– Remember, if in doubt - ASK

Avoiding Danger Before Starting

Provide project induction

Ensure a method statement briefing is given

A permit to dig has been issued and authorised

Correct drawings have been obtained

CAT scan of area by competent operators

Mark the positions of buried services using marker spray,

warning notices and/or stakes (non-conductive)

Hand dig trial holes to confirm the depth and position of

buried services

Continue to scan as you dig

Detection of Buried Services

Hum detection:

– Energised cables will produce

a magnetic field

Radio Frequency

– Telecoms cables will emit a

radio frequency of the signal

being carried

Transmitter and Receiver

A signal is induced onto the

line via a couple and then

detected by a receiver

When You Start Work

Check that cables requiring breaking-out from concrete are

dead

Watch out for signs of services as you progress

– Repeat checks with the pipe & cable locator

Report any damage to a cable, pipe or pipe coating

When digging with a mechanical excavator near buried

services, use a scraper, not bucket teeth

Do not used exposed services as a convenient step or

foothold

Do not handle or attempt to alter the position of an exposed

service

Controls for Plant near Excavations

exclusion zones

use of barriers

warning signs

lighting

competent operators

adequate supervision

good visibility for operators

Excavation Shoring – Factors to Consider

The nature of the subsoil

– dried out soil may require sheeting

Life of the excavation

– trench box may give ready made access if only required

for short duration

Work being done

– trench box for shoring where pipe joints made

Flooding from ground water & heavy rain

– close shoring required

Excavation depth

– battering instead of shoring for shallow excavations

Open sheeting

Handrail

Trench sheetWedge

1.0m Max.

with toe-in

Close sheeting

Trench Box

Means of Access

Ladders are the usual means of

access & egress to excavations

They must be correctly secured,

in good condition & inspected at

regular intervals

Ladders should extend 1 metre

above ground level

For emergency egress ladders

should be place at intervals of

15 metres as laid down in ACoP

Crossing Points

Crossing points should only be

allowed at predetermined points

Crossing points should be capable

of taking the maximum load class of

vehicles on site

Should be provided with guard rails

& toe boards

Sufficient crossing points should be

provided

Other means of crossing the

excavation should be discouraged

Barriers, Lighting & Signs

Where there is a danger that a

person may fall any distance liable

to cause injury, edge protection

must be provided

Guard rail requirements are as for

working platforms

Excavations should be covered

when unattended

Stop blocks must be used that are

suitable to size of vehicle or

equipment

Inspection Requirements

Inspections of excavations

must be carried out as laid

down in CDM 2007 Part 4:

– At the start of each shift

before work begins

– After an event likely to have

affected the strength or

stability of the excavation

– After any accidental fall of

rock, earth or other material

Written report must be made

before the end of shift and

delivered to the person requiring

the reports within 24 hours;

Reports to be kept to end of

project; and

At least last 3 months there

afterwards.

Available for inspection by HSE

Reports of Inspections (Schedule 3 of ACoP):

Inspection Requirements


The water main supplying a school is to be repaired. The work will be

carried out in a 1.5 metre deep excavation, which will be supported in

order to control the risk to the safety of employees working in the

excavation.

(a) Identify the statutory inspection requirements of the supported

excavation that must be carried out by the competent person. (3 pts)

(b) Identify the information that should be recorded in the excavation

inspection report. (5 pts)

(c) Other than the provision of supports for the excavation, outline

additional precautions to be taken during the repair work in order to

reduce the risk of injury to the employees and others who may be

affected by the work. (12 pts)

SuccessfulPractical

Relevant

Confined Spaces

Confined Spaces

Definition ?

a place which is substantially,

though not always entirely,

enclosed; and

a place where there is a

reasonably foreseeable risk of

serious injury from hazardous

substances or conditions

Typical confined spacesfound in construction work?

Chamber – cellar, tunnel

Tank – storage tanks

Silo – used for storing crops

Pit – excavation or trench

Pipe – carry liquid or gas

Sewer – used to carry waste

Flue – exhaust chimney

Well – deep water source

Confined Space - Hazards

Hazards inherent in the space

Hazard introduced into the space due to

work process

5 categories of hazard:

– Toxic gases and vapours

– Explosive atmospheres

– Oxygen deficiency

– Suffocation

– Restricted working space


Some confined spaces are naturally dangerous

because:

– Gases build up in sewers, manholes & pits connected to

them

– Gases seeping into them from contaminated land

– Rust inside tanks which eats up the oxygen

– Liquids or slurries which fill the space or release gases

when disturbed

– Chemical reaction of ground water on chalk & limestone

producing carbon dioxide

Oxygen Deficiency Hazards

21% Oxygen in air is normal

17% brings on the starts of ill

effects

6 to10% brings on breathing

difficulties and death can follow

quite quickly

– Welding

– Consumption by people

Consumption by oxidation

Toxic Gases/Vapour Hazards

Hydrogen sulphide

– usually from sewage

Carbon Monoxide

– from internal combustion

engines

Carbon Dioxide

– from fermentation

Fumes and vapours

– from chemicals


Explosion or Fire hazards

– Petrol & LPG vapours 2%+

– Methane & Hydrogen

sulphide 4%+

– Solvents 2%+

– Oxygen enrichment 23%+

Suffocation Hazards

– Drowning

– Buried in free flowing solids

Confined Space – Other Hazards

Excessive temperature

Falls

Machinery

Noise

Poor lighting

Physical discomfort

Confined Space Monitoring of Safe System of Work

The following must be adequately monitored:

The SSoW

The use of the permit to work

The atmosphere using sampling equipment

Work using communication equipment

The PPE used should be monitored to

ensure adequate maintenance

Confined SpaceEmergency Arrangements

May need to cover:

Rescue & resuscitation equipment

Arrangements with hospitals

Raising the alarm an rescue procedures

Safety of rescuers

Fire fighting procedures

Control of plant & equipment

First aid arrangements

Arrangements with emergency services

Worker wearing full

breathing apparatus and

harness with lanyard

connected to a winch to

enable emergency rescue

to take place without the

need for others to enter the

space

First Aid - Influencing Factors

Type of work or operations being carried out;

Lone workers or scattered isolated locations;

If there are special or unusual hazards;

If shift work is being undertaken;

The maximum number of people on site;

Remoteness to emergency services;

Cover for holidays and sickness;

Presence of workplace trainees;

The history of accidents on site;

The types of people who may need to be treated;

Current 1st aid provision (e.g. shared site); etc.

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