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TRANSCRIPT
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EHS Manual
For
Construction
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CONTENTS
Chapter I Page No
Preliminaries 1. Policy and Objective 04
2. Legal Requirements 07
3. Environment, Health and safety Management at Site 10
4. Emergency Preparedness & Fire Control 36
5. Housekeeping 39
6. Training & Induction 42
HEALTH- Chapter II
7. Back care 45
8. First Aid 47
9. Occupational Health 50
EQUIPMENTS- CHAPTER III
10. Personal Protective Equipment 58
a) Respiratory Protection 61
b) Eye Protection 63
c) Foot Protection 64
d) Hearing Protection. 65
11. High Visibility Clothing 70
12. Ladders 71
13. Guard Rails 80
14. Working at Height 111
15. Rigging 124
HAZARDS- CHAPTER IV 16. Electrical Hazards 143
17. Lockout and tag out 146
18. Working in Confined Space 157
19. Trenching 161
20. Traffic Control 170
21. Backing Up 174
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TOOLS AND EQUIPMENTS-CHAPTER V
22. Power Tools-Saws 178
23. Safety in Welding and Gas Cutting Operation 186
ANNEXURES:
ANNEXURE:1 Minimum Requirement of EHS Monitoring &
Audio Visual Equipment 194
ANNEXURE:2 EHS Training details for Managers, Supervisors 197
ANNEXURE: 3 Appendix2: BOCW Act and Rules 200
ANNEXURE: 4 Memorandum of Understanding 205
ANNEXURE: 5 Reporting Formats 209
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OUR SAFETY GOAL
ALL OUR SITES MUST BE
• INCIDENT FREE WITH ZERO ACCIDENT AND ABSOLUTELY SAFE TO WORK
• KEEPING THE ENVIRONMENT ABSOLUTELY POLUTION FREE AND TOTALLY HYGENE
• ZERO VIOLATION ON STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS
IMPLIMENTATION RESPONSIBILTY
PROJECT MANAGER AND HIS TEAM
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1. POLICY & OBJECTIVES
1.1. Purpose of this manual on Construction Safety
The purpose of this Project Construction Safety manual is to describe how Nitesh Estates
will manage and control Safety and Health aspects of the project. It is designed to enable
those involved to enjoy an accident free workplace.
It is not an alternative to ensuring legislative compliance and all parties involved in the project are to ensure compliance with the specific legislative obligations associated with their activities. The Safety manual is intended as a tool to support those requirements.
The Nitesh Estates Safety & Health Management System is the source of the principles
from which this Manual has been developed, along with established approaches used in the
construction industry.
1.2. Objectives
The Project Team has the following objectives with respect to S&H:
Identify and eliminate potential for significant injuries, incidents and occurrences (Called Class 1 and Class 2)
Minimise occurrences of ‗minor‘ accidents (Called Class 3) Maintain statutory compliance with respect to S&H Meet client expectations and contractual requirements Encourage training, skilling, awareness and Best Practice Maintain accurate reporting and record keeping Be committed to continuous improvement in the management of hazards
1.3. Nitesh Estates Safety & Health Policy
The Nitesh Estates Safety and Health Policy is attached for information. It describes the
organization‘s commitment Safety and health excellence and establishes the basis under
which all Nitesh Estates activities are managed.
The policy shall be displayed in the Site Office.
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SAFETY HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT POLICY
Nitesh Estates is India's most recognized Luxury Real Estate Brand, and is responsible for
many of South India's most recognized developments. Superior Quality, Attention to Detail
and Perfection are the standards that Nitesh Estates demands throughout its projects - from
Homes to Hotel and from Office Buildings to Shopping Malls.
Nitesh Estates believes that People are our most important asset and we recognize that
their health, safety and welfare and that of all stakeholders and communities with which we
interact is paramount. Equally we accept our responsibility to provide leadership in
sustainable environmental practice and to minimize environmental impact by controlling
waste, reducing pollution, using energy efficiently and acting as good neighbors and
continually improve our Environment, Health and Safety Performance.
In Achieving this we are committed to:
To prevent injuries and ill health of all our employees and those who work for and on behalf
of our Organization
Strictly comply with legal and other requirements and work with our clients, consultants,
contractors and regulators to raise standards towards best practice. Our performance will be
openly reported.
In developing competency and encourage their personal development through regular
training and recognition.
Achieve and set Objective and targets in eliminating hazards and strive for continual
improvement in achieving excellence in Safety, Health and Environment.
Believe that No process is so urgent and so important that we will not take time to perform it
safely.
The policy will be communicated to all working for and on behalf of the Organization.
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1.4 ‘HSE’ Targets and Goals
1.4.1 The HSE targets, goals and aim for the Works.
i) Zero total recordable injuries.
ii) Zero reportable environmental incidents
iii) All personnel inducted in accordance with the approved contractor HSE plan
iv) Total compliance of conducting inspections and audits as per approved HSE plan
v) 100% incident recording and reporting
vi) 100% adherence of usage of appropriate PPEs at work.
vii) Executing construction work with least disturbance to the environment, adjoining road users and traffic.
1.5 Compliance
1.5.1 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)
1.5.2 A Memorandum of Understanding placed at Appendix No.: 1 shall be executed
before the award of contract by the contractor with regard to various provisions on
Safety, Health and Environment to be practiced during the construction work.
1.5.3 Nitesh Estates HSE Policy and Management Systems
1.5.4 The construction works shall be undertaken in accordance with HSE Policy and
Management Systems as amended from time to time provided in Project HSE
Manual.
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2.LEGAL REQUIREMENTS
2.1 Indian statutory requirement
2.1.1 Primary statutory regulations
2.1.1.1 Contractor shall develop thorough understanding about Building and Other Construction Workers (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) Act 1996, Central Rules 1998, the building & other construction workers welfare cess act 1996 and central welfare rules 1998, Building and Other Construction Workers [RE&C] Karnataka Rules, 2006, Building and Other Construction Workers Welfare Cess act 1996 and Central Rules 1998, Notification [Central & State] – Collection of Cess, not only to satisfy the Inspectors’ perspective but the use of legislation as the strong tool for effective HSE management at construction worksites. Contractor is strongly advised to practice the principle of voluntary compliance.
2.1.1.2 In order to facilitate the contractor for better understanding on the various provisions of the above Act and Rules, a tabulated information highlighting the Sections/Rules referring to the corresponding registration of contractors, maintenance of registers and records, hours of work and wages, cess & welfare, medical facilities and safety requirements
2.1.2 In addition, the construction works shall be undertaken in accordance with all applicable legislation and Indian statutory requirements listed below but not limiting to:
i) Indian Electricity Act 2003 and Rules 1946.
ii) National Building Code, 2004.
iii) Factories Act, 1938, Karnataka Factories Rules 1969.
iv) Motor Vehicles Act as amended in 1993 and The Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989.
v) Indian Road Congress Code IRC: SP: 44-2001 ‗Guidelines on Safety In Road Construction Zones.
vi) The Petroleum Act, 1933 and Rules 1976.
vii) Gas Cylinder Rules, 2003.
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viii) Indian Explosives Act. 1883, along with the Explosives substance Act 1908 and the Explosives Rules 1983
ix) The (Indian) Boilers Act, 1923
x) The Public Liability Insurance Act 1991 and Rules 1991
xi) Minimum Wages Act, 1938 and Rules 1940
xii) Contract Labour Act, 1970 and Rules 1971
xiii) Child Labour (Prohibitions & Regulations) Act, 1986 and Rules 1940
xiv) Environment Protection Act, 1986 and Rules 1986
xv) Air (Prevention and control of Pollution) Act, 1981
xvi) Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1973
xvii) The Noise Pollution (Regulation & Control) Rules, 2000
xviii) Notification on Control of Noise from Diesel Generator (DG) sets, 2002
xix) Recycled Plastic Usage Rules, 1998
xx) Notification, Central Ground Water Board, Act January 1997
xxi) Manufacture, Storage & Import of Hazardous Chemicals Rules, 1989
xxii) The Hazardous Waste (Management & Handling) Rules, 1989
xxiii) Hazardous Waste Management Rules 1989 (as amended in 1999)
xxiv) Karnataka Preservation of Trees act, 1976 & rules, Batteries (Management and Handling) Rules
xxv) Fly ash utilization notification, Sept 1999 as amended in August 2003
xxvi) Guidelines of Karnataka Urban Arts Commission
xxvii) Mysore Tramway Act.
2.1.3 Workman Compensation Act, 1923 along with allied Rules
2.1.3.1 The contractor shall ensure that all his employees / workmen are covered
under ‘Workmen Compensation Act’ and shall pay compensation to his workmen as and when the eventuality for the same arises.
2.1.4 Not withstanding the above Act/Rules, there is nothing in those to exempt the contractor from the purview of any other Act or Rule in Republic of India for the safety of men and materials.
2.1.4.1 If the requirements stated in this document are less stringent than or in conflict with
the country‘s applicable legislation, the latter shall apply.
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2.1.5 PENALTIES: BOCW ACT Whoever contravenes the provisions of any rules under BOCW Act shall be punishable with imprisonment for a term which may extend to three months, or with fine which may extend to two thousand rupees, or with both, and in the case of a continuing contravention, with an additional fine which may extend to one hundred rupees for everyday during which such contravention continues after conviction for the first such contravention. If any person who has been convicted of any offence punishable under the Act is again guilty of an offence involving a contravention or failure of compliance of the same provision, he shall be punishable on a subsequent conviction with imprisonment for a term which may extend to six months or with fine which shall not be less than five hundred rupees but which may extend to two thousand rupees or with both. 2.1.6 PENALTIES: INDIAN ELECTRICITY RULES 2000 2.1.6.1 138A. Penalty for breach of rule 33A. – Where, in contravention of rule 33A,
any Person responsible for the generation, transformation, transmission, conversion, distribution, supply or use of energy fails to report to the Inspector and other authorities concerned the occurrence of accidents, such person shall be punishable with fine which may extend to three hundred rupees.
2.1.6.2 139.Penalty for breach of rule 34. – Where any electrical installation work of
the nature specified in sub-rule (1) of rule 34 has been carried out otherwise than –
(a) Under the direct supervision of a person holding a certificate of competency issued by the State Government under that rule; and (b) In the absence of any applicable exemption under the proviso to sub-rule of that rule, by an electrical contractor licensed by the State Government in this behalf, the consumer owner or occupier, the contractor (if any) or the person through whom the work is being or was carried out and the person under whose immediate supervision the work is being or was carried out, shall each be punishable with fine which may extend to three hundred rupees.
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2.1.7 GAS CYLINDER RULES 2003
Special precautions against accidents : - (1) No person shall commit or attempt to commit any act, which may tend to cause a fire or explosion in or about any place where gas under pressure in a cylinder is stored, handled or transported.(2) Every person storing compressed gas cylinders and every person in charge of or engaged in the storage, handling and transport of such gas cylinders, shall at all times-(a) comply with the provisions of these rules and the conditions of any license relating thereto;(b) observe all precautions for the prevention of accident by fire or explosion;(c) prevent any person from committing any act referred to in sub-rule (1)
ENVIRONMENT, HEALTH AND SAFETY MANAGEMENT AT SITE
3.0 Contractor HSE Policy and Plan
3.1 The contractor as per Section 39 of the BOCW Act shall formulate a HSE policy and get it approved by Nitesh Estates Safety in charge respectively and display it at conspicuous places at work sites in Kannada, Hindi and other languages understood by the majority of construction workers.
3.2 Within 3 weeks of the notification of acceptance of the tender, the Contractor shall submit a detailed and comprehensive Contract specific HSE Plan. The HSE Plan shall include detailed policies, procedures and regulations which, when implemented, will ensure compliance of the contract provisions. The HSE Plan shall include the following but not be restricted to:
i) A statement of the Contractor’s policy, organisation and arrangements for HSE
ii) The name(s) and experience of person(s) within the Contractor’s proposed management who shall be responsible for co-ordinating and monitoring the Contractor’s HSE performance;
iii) The number of HSE staff who shall be employed on the Works, their responsibilities, authority and line of communication with the proposed Contractor's agent;
iv) A statement of the Contractor’s policy and procedures for identifying and estimating hazards, and the measures for addressing the same;
v) A list of HSE hazards anticipated for this Contract and sufficient information to demonstrate the Contractor’s proposals for achieving effective and efficient health and safety procedures;
vi) A description of the HSE training courses and emergency drills which shall be provided by the Contractor, with an outline of the syllabus to be
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followed;
vii) Details of the safety equipment which shall be provided by the Contractor, including personal protective equipment;
viii) A statement of the Contractor’s policy and procedures for ensuring that Contractor's Equipment used on the Project Site are maintained in a safe condition and are operated in a safe manner;
ix) A statement of the Contractor’s policy and procedures for ensuring that sub-contractors comply with the Contractor's safety plan;
x) A statement of the Contractor’s disciplinary procedures with respect to HSE related matters, and
xi) A statement of the Contractor’s procedure for reporting and investigating accidents, dangerous occurrences or occupational illnesses
3.3 The Contractor shall, from time to time and as necessary are required by the Employer to produce supplements to the HSE Plan such that it is at all times a detailed, comprehensive and contemporaneous statement by the Contractor of his site safety, industrial health and environment obligations, responsibilities, policies and procedures relating to work on Site. Any and all submissions of supplements to the HSE Plan shall be made to the Employer in accordance with the agreed procedures.
3.4 If at any time the HSE plan is, in the Employer‘s opinion, insufficient or requires revision or modification to ensure the security of the Works and the safety of all
workmen upon and visitors to the Site, the Employer may instruct the Contractor to
revise the HSE plan and the Contractor shall within 7 days submit the revised plan
to the Employer for review.
3.5 Any omissions, inconsistencies and errors in the HSE Plan or the Employer‘s acceptance or rejection of the HSE Plan and/or supplements thereto shall be
without prejudice to the Contractor's obligations with respect to site safety,
industrial health and environment and shall not excuse any failure by the contractor
to adopt proper and recognized safety practices throughout the execution of the
Work.
3.6 The Contractor shall adhere to the HSE Plan and shall ensure, as far as practically
possible, that all sub-contractors of all tiers require that contracting parties each
have a copy of the Site HSE Plan and comply with its provisions.
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3.7 The details of contents to be covered in the site HSE plan are given in Appendix
No. 3.
3.8 Designer’s role
Designer‘s role in Safety, Health and Environment
3.8.1 Designer‘s primary role includes to minimize the risk to health and safety of those
who are going to construct, maintain, clean, repair, dismantle or demolish the
structures and anyone else like adjoining road users/general public, who might be
affected by the work.
3.9 General philosophy
3.9.1 When considering health and safety in designer’s work, they shall be expected to do what is reasonable at the time the design is prepared. It may
be possible for hazards, which cannot be addressed at the feasibility stage to
be looked at during detailed design. In deciding what is reasonably
practicable, the risk to health and safety produced by a feature of the design
has to be weighed against the cost of excluding the feature. The overall
design process does not need to be dominated by a concern to avoid all
risks during the construction phase and maintenance. However, a judgment
has to be made by weighing up one consideration against another so the
cost is counted not just in financial terms, but also those of fitness for
purpose, aesthetics, build ability or environmental impact. By applying these
principles, it may be possible to make decisions at the design stage, which
will avoid or reduce risks during construction work. In many cases, the large
number of design considerations will allow a number of equally valid design
solutions. What is important is the approach to the solutions of design
problems. This should involve a proper exercise of judgment, which takes
account of health and safety issues.
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3.10 Hierarchy of Risk Control
3.10.1 Designers shall need, so far as reasonably practicable, to avoid or reduce
risks by applying a series of steps known as the hierarchy of risk control or
principles of prevention and protection. The steps to be adopted shall
include the following:
i) consider if the hazard can be prevented from arising so that the risk can be avoided (e.g., alter the design to avoid the risk);
ii) if this cannot be achieved, the risk should be combated at source (e.g., ensure the design details of items to be lifted include attachment points for lifting);
iii) failing this, priority should be given to measures to control the risk that will protect all people;
iv) Only as a last resort should measures to control risk by means of personal protection be assumed (e.g., use of safety harnesses).
3.10.2 Duty to provide health and safety risks in the drawing itself
3.10.3 In case of situations where the designers have carried out the design work and
concluded that there are risks, which are not reasonably practicable to avoid,
detailed information shall be given about the health and safety risks, which remain.
This information needs to be included with the design to alert others to the risks,
which they cannot reasonably be expected to know. This is essential for the parties
who have to use the design information.
3.10.4 If the designers‘ basic design assumptions affect health or safety, or health and safety risks are not obvious from the standard design document, the designer shall
provide additional information. The information shall include a broad indication of
the assumptions about the precautions for dealing with the risks. The information
will need to be conveyed in a clear manner; it shall be included on drawings, in
written specifications or outline method statements. The level of detail to be
recorded will be determined by the nature of the hazards involved and the
associated level of risk.
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3.11 Employer’s approval
3.11.1 Every structure like scaffold, false work, launching girder, earth retaining structures
etc. shall have its design calculations included in the method statements in addition
to health and safety risks. Employers‘ designer or his approved proof check consultants as applicable as per the contract conditions shall approve all these
designs.
3.11.2 Any non-standard structures like trestles made up of re-bars or structures which
are very old, corroded, repaired for many times etc. for which no design
calculations can be made accurately from any national standards, shall not be
allowed to be used at sites even for short duration.
3.11.3 If any of the above-mentioned clauses are not adhered penalty shall be imposed
depending upon the gravity of the unsafe act and or condition
3.12 Contractor HSE Organization
3.12.1 Education and Experience
3.12.2 The contractor shall appoint the required HSE personnel based upon the statutory
requirement and establish the safety organization based upon the contract value.
The minimum educational qualification and the work experience to as per
requirement of Nitesh Estates.
3.12.3 In order to effectively interact on labour welfare matters with the Employer
and the statutory authorities enforcing the labour welfare legislations every
contractor shall employ a full time Labour Welfare Officer duly qualified and
experienced.
3.13 Conduct and competency
3.13.1 The conduct and functioning of the contractor HSE personnel shall be monitored
by the Employer. Any default or deficiency shall attract penalty.
3.13.2 The Contractor shall ensure that all personnel are competent to perform the job
assigned to them. In the event that the Contractor is unable to demonstrate the
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competency of any person whose activities can directly impact on the Works‘ HSE performance, the Employer shall remove that person from the site without any
procedural formalities.
3.14 Approval from Employer
3.14.1 The name, address, educational qualification, work experience and health
condition of each personnel deployed for HSE jobs shall be submitted to the
Employer in the format prescribed for the purpose for comments and approval well
before the start of the work. Only on approval by the Employer these personnel are
authorized to work. In case any of the HSE personnel leaves the contractor the
same shall be intimated to the Employer. The contractor shall recruit new
personnel and fill up the vacancy.
3.15 Responsibility of HSE personnel
3.15.1 For all works carried out by the contractor and his sub-contractors, the
responsibility of ensuring the required HSE manpower lies with the main
contractor only. The minimum required manpower indicated by the Employer
includes the sub-contractors’ work also. It shall be the responsibility of the main contractor to provide required HSE manpower for all the works
executed by all contractors. Necessary conditions shall be included in all
sub-contract documents executed by the main contractor.
3.16 Employment status of HSE personnel
3.16.1 No contractor shall engage HSE manpower from any outsourcing agencies in
which case the effectiveness would be lost. All HSE manpower shall be on
the payroll of the main contractor only and not on the payroll of any
subcontractor or outsourcing manpower agencies etc. This condition does
not apply to positions like traffic marshals who are engaged almost on a
daily requirement basis.
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3.17 Reporting of HSE personnel
3.17.1 All HSE personnel are to report to the Chief Safety Officer who shall report directly
to the Chief Project Manager. The Employer shall monitor adherence to this
procedure at all times. In case of non-adherence penalty shall be levied as
indicated in the penalty clause.
3.18 Inadequate HSE personnel
3.18.1 It shall be ensured by the contractor that the HSE personnel are recruited and
available at site before start of work.
3.19 Prohibition of performance of other duties
3.19.1 As per Schedule VIII of BOCWR no HSE personnel shall be required or permitted
to do any work which is unconnected to, inconsistent with or detrimental to the
performance of the HSE duties for respective category.
3.20 Facilities to be provided to HSE personnel
3.20.1 As per schedule VIII of BOCWR, the contractor shall provide all HSE personnel
with such facilities, equipment and information that are necessary to enable him to dispatch his duties effectively.
3.20.2 The minimum Employer‘s requirements of such facilities / equipments to be
provided for HSE personnel are given in the General Instruction NE/HSE/CONST/001
3.21 Contractor HSE Committee
3.21.1 All employees should be able to participate in the making and monitoring of
arrangements for safety, industrial health and environment at their place of work.
The establishment of site HSE committees in which employees and Contractor and
sub-contractor management are represented can increase the involvement and
commitment of employees. The contractor shall ensure the formation and monitor
the functioning of contractor HSE committees.
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3.22 Terms of Reference
3.22.1 The Terms of Reference for the committee shall be as follows;
i) To establish company safety policies and practices
ii) To monitor the adequacy of the contractor‘s site HSE plan and ensure its implementation
iii) To review HSE training
iv) To review the contractor‘s monthly HSE report. v) To identify probable causes of accident and unsafe practices in building or
other construction work and to suggest remedial measures.
vi) To stimulate interest of Employer and building workers in safety by organizing safety week, safety competition, talks and film-shows on safety, preparing posters or taking similar other measures as and when required or as necessary.
vii) To go round the construction site with a view to check unsafe practices and detect unsafe conditions and to recommend remedial measures for their rectifications including first-aid medical and welfare facilities.
viii) Committee team members should perform a site inspection before every committee meetings and to monitor HSE inspection reports.
ix) To bring to the notice of the Employer the hazards associated with use, handling and maintenance of the equipment used during the course of building and other construction work
x) To suggest measures for improving welfare amenities in the construction site and other miscellaneous aspect of safety, health and welfare in building or other construction work.
xi) To look into the health hazards associated with handling different types of explosives, chemicals and other construction materials and to suggest remedial measures including personal protective equipment.
xii) To review the last safety committee meeting minutes and to take action against persons/sub-contractors for non-compliance if any.
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3.22.2 Within 13 days of award of contract, the HSE committee shall be constituted and
notification regarding the same shall be communicated to the members and
employees
3.23 Site HSE Committee meeting shall be conducted at least once in a month with the
minimum members listed below:
Chairman Project Manager
Secretary HSE Manager (In-charge)
Members i) Safety Officer
ii) In charge of plant and machinery
iii) In charge of site Electrical Power
iv) In charge of stores.
v) Senior Managers/ Engineers heading different sub functions.
vi) Sub – contractor‘s representative
vii) Labour Contractor‘s representative
viii) Workers‘ representative
ix) Co-contractor representative.
x) HSE staffs
Employer‘s Representatives
Nitesh Estates HSE in charge and other
representatives
3.23.1 Construction HSE Committee meeting shall be conducted at least once in a week
with the minimum members listed below:
Chairman HSE Manager
Secretary Safety Officer
Members
i) In charge of plant and machinery
ii) In-charge of site Electrical Power.
iii) Senior Managers / Engineers heading different sub functions
iv) Sub- Contractor‘s representative
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v) Labour contractor‘s representative
vi) Workers‘ representatives
vii) All HSE Staffs
3.24 Co-contractors’ participation
3.24.1 In case of depot, station and other contiguous areas where more than one main
contractors are working together, the Employer shall instruct the other contractors
to join for the monthly HSE committee meeting of the main civil contractor, so as to
discuss and decide about the common provision of security, lighting, toilet, drinking
water etc. and sharing the maintenance cost of the same etc.
3.25 Minimum time between two monthly HSE Committee meetings
3.25.1 A minimum period of 21 days shall be maintained between any two HSE monthly
committee meetings.
3.26 Agenda
3.26.1 The Secretary shall circulate the agenda of the meeting at least seven working
days in advance of the scheduled date of the meeting to all members.
3.26.2 The agenda should broadly cover the following:
i) Confirmation of minutes
ii) Chairman‘s review/overview of site HSE performance / condition
iii) Previous month HSE statistics
iv) Incident and Accident Investigation / dangerous occurrence / near miss report
v) Site HSE inspection
vi) Sub-contractors‘ HSE issues
vii) Safety presentation by Members
viii) Report from Employer
ix) Matters arising
x) Any other business
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3.27 Minutes of the meeting
3.27.1 The Minutes of the meeting shall be prepared and sent to all members within 2
working days preferably by mail/fax followed by hardcopy. Safety Committee
meeting minutes shall also be displayed in the notice board for wider publicity to all
concerned.
3.28 Disciplinary Action
3.28.1 The chairman shall inform the members of any outstanding issues in the meeting
and in case of repeated offence/ non-compliance by some members or other
co/sub contractors and propose suitable disciplinary action including provisions of
monitory penalty as per the relevant contract clauses, the Employer shall ensure
that the same is implemented.
3.29 ID Card and First day at work, HSE orientation training
3.29.1 The Contractor shall ensure that all personnel working at the site receive an induction HSE training explaining the nature of the work, the hazards that may be encountered during the site work and the particular hazards attached to their own function within the operation.
3.29.2 All personnel shall be issued a photo identity card duly signed by the
authorized representative of the contractor before they are engaged for any
work
3.29.3 Contractor shall also issue personnel HSE handbook in a language known to the
workers, which provides information on HSE and emergency procedures that all
personnel working on contract are required to know and the need to follow.
Contractor shall ensure that this is distributed and its content introduced to all
personnel working at the site.
3.30 HSE Training
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3.30.1 The behavior of people at all levels of the contractor is critical for HSE
performance.
3.30.2 The contractor shall organize quality HSE training to engage Managers,
supervisors and other personnel in behavioral change and improve safety
performance.
3.30.3 The Contractor shall analyze the training requirements for all the employees and
initiate a training program to demonstrate that all persons employed, including
subcontractors, are suitably qualified, competent and fit. This will include:
i) Detailed Job descriptions for all personnel, to include their specific HSE responsibilities
ii) Specification of qualifications, competency and training requirements for all personnel
iii) Assessment and recording of training needs for all personnel, including subcontractors‘ employees in the workforce, vendor representatives and site visitors
iv) A system for assessing new hirers e.g. previous training
v) A means of confirming that the system is effective
vi) A matrix and schedule of training requirements, covering general, task–specific and HSE-related training, showing the training frequency and interval between refresher courses
vii) Timely, competent delivery of training courses
3.30.4 The contractor shall arrange behavioral-based training program for all the
executives to identify, recognize and eliminate unsafe act and unsafe conditions.
3.30.5 The minimum Employer‘s requirement of training needs for various categories of
employees
3.30.6 The contents of HSE training to Managers/Supervisors as given in general
instruction NE/HSE/CONST/002 shall be conducted.
3.30.7 The refresher -training program to all employees shall be conducted once in
six months.
3.30.8 Toolbox talk shall be conducted to all high-risk workmen every day.
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3.30.9 On-the spot practical skill development training on height safety including
scaffold safety, crane safety, welding safety, electrical safety, traffic safety
for marshals shall also be conducted to all foremen/ workmen who were
associated to the concerned jobs.
3.30.10 Every employee including workman shall take safety Oath daily without fail.
3.30.11 All the above listed training programmes shall be organized by the contractor only
after taking approval from the Employer for the training faculty / organization,
content and durations.
3.30.12 In case of failure on the part of the contractor to provide all the above-
mentioned training programs to all employees in time, the same shall be
provided by the Employer through accredited agencies if required by
formulating a common scheme to all contractors. Any administrative
expenses and training fee towards the same shall be at the cost of the
contractor.
3.31 HSE Inspection
3.31.1 The contractor shall evolve and administer a system of conducting HSE
inspections and other risk management analysis on a periodical basis.
3.31.2 The purpose of HSE inspection is to identify any variation in construction activities
and operations, machineries, plant and equipment and processes against the HSE
Plan and its supplementary procedures and programs.
3.31.3 Following HSE inspections program shall be adopted.
i) Planned General Inspection
ii) Routine Inspection
iii) Specific Inspection
iv) Other Inspection
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3.31.4 Planned General Inspection
3.31.4.1 Planned general inspections are performed at predetermined intervals and it
usually involves the representation from both Contractor and the Employer.
3.31.4.2 Inspections that will be classified under this inspection program are:
i) Monthly contractor and sub-contractors site safety committee Inspection.
ii) Weekly safety inspection by construction supervisors (Contractors and Sub-contractors).
iii) Daily safety inspection by contractor site HSE team.
3.31.5 Routine Inspection
3.31.5.1 Routine inspections are often referring to the inspection of work site, equipment
and temporary structures performed by site and equipment operators and
temporary structure erectors.
Inspections that will be classified under this inspection program are:
i) Daily Inspection of plant and equipment by operator
ii) Weekly Inspection of scaffold by scaffolding supervisor
iii) Monthly Inspection of electrical hand tools by competent electrical supervisor
iv) Quarterly Inspection of temporary electrical systems by competent electrical supervisor
v) Half-yearly inspection of lifting machinery, lifting appliances, equipment and gears by Govt. approved competent person.
3.31.5.2 The list mentioned above is not exhaustive. Contractor may add additional
categories. Contractors‘ Site HSE Manager will ensure that a system of routine inspections are carried out periodically to all plants, equipment, powered tools and
any other temporary structures that will pose a hazard to operators and workmen.
3.31.6 Specific Inspection
Specific inspections are performed on activities without a predetermined date.
Competent supervisors usually perform inspections for ensuring an activity whether
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it is executed in accordance to a general set of rules; method statement submitted
or developed procedures.
The following are examples that will be commonly performed as required on the
construction site:
i) Inspection performed before a heavy lifting operation.
ii) Inspection performed before and after the entry of person into a confined space.
iii) Inspection performed before and after a welding and gas cutting operation.
iv) Inspection of formwork before concreting by formwork erector.
The list mentioned above is not exhaustive. The contractor shall ensure that a
competent supervisor inspects all high-risk processes and activities.
3.31.7 Other Inspection
Other inspections include the following:
i) Mandatory Inspections by Labour Department of Government.
ii) NITESH ESTATES site HSE management team
3.31.8 The contractor shall prepare all required safety inspection checklist for all activity
operations and equipment. Checklists will be prepared based on the Indian
standards, rules and regulations and Employer‘s requirements. The formats provided in the Project HSE manual may be referred.
3.31.9 All inspection records and reports will be properly kept and filed for audit purpose.
Inspection reports of Planned General Inspection and Routine Inspection will be
used for discussion during Safety Committee Meetings.
3.32 HSE Audit
3.32.1 General
3.32.1.1 The purpose and scope of HSE audit is to assess potential risk, liabilities and the
degree of compliance of construction Safety, Health 7 Environmental plan and its
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supplementary procedures and programs against applicable and current HSE
legalization regulations and requirements of the employer.
3.32.1.2 Project Manager holds the ultimate responsibility in ensuring implementation of
HSE audit program during the construction work.
3.32.1.3 Monthly Audits will be conducted. The Project Manager accompanied by the
Employer‘s representatives shall carry out the Audit. The Contractor‘s senior manager and HSE in-charge should also to attend.
3.32.2 Monthly Electrical Safety Audit
3.32.2.1 A team comprising of contractor’s EHS manager, Electrical engineer and Employer’s representative shall conduct monthly electrical safety audit covering the following and submit the report to Employer.
i) Electrical accidents investigation findings and remedy
ii) Adequacy of power generation and power requirements
iii) Power distribution and transmission system in place
iv) Updated electrical single line diagram showing the current condition of power source and distribution including the IP33 DBs arrangement.
v) Electrical protection devices – selection, installation and maintenance.
vi) Earth or ground connection and earth pit maintenance details
vii) Education and training of electrical personnel undertaken
viii) Routine electrical inspection details
ix) Electrical maintenance system and register.
x) Name plate details of major electrical equipment
xi) Classified zones in the site, if any.
3.32.3 External EHS Audit
3.32.3.1 External EHS audits are to be conducted by Consultant who are competent with
auditors with the prior approval of the Employer.
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3.32.3.2 Areas of competence of Audit team
3.32.3.2.1 Practical understanding of BOCW Act and Rules, statutory requirements on
health/medical and welfare of workmen, construction hazards and its prevention
and control, traffic management, electrical safety, rigging, safety of construction
equipment and environment management.
3.32.3.2.2 Audit shall be conducted as per the guidelines of ISO, ILO, and national
standards. Audit report shall also be presented as per the above formats.
3.32.3.3 External EHS audit shall be conducted on a quarterly basis throughout the
currency of the contract.
3.32.3.4 Targets of EHS Audit:
The contents and coverage of the external audit shall include the following items
3.32.3.5 EHS management:
i) Organization
ii) Communication and Motivation
iii) Time office
iv) Inspection
v) Emergency preparedness
vi) Budget allocation
vii) Education and Training
viii) Work permit system
3.32.3.6 Technical:
i) Building and Structure
ii) Construction operational safety
iii) Material safety
iv) Hand tools and Power tools
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v) Electrical system
vi) Safety Appliances
vii) Fire prevention and control
viii) Housekeeping
ix) Maintenance and Machinery safety
x) First-aid and Medical Facilities
xi) Welfare measures
xii) Environmental Management
3.32.3.7 Audit Documents:
3.32.3.7.1 Contractor shall make the below listed documents available for the review by
the Audit team.
i) EHS policy
ii) EHS manual
iii) EHS Rules and Regulation
iv) EHS organization chart
v) Annual EHS objectives / programs
vi) Accident / near miss statistics and analysis
vii) EHS Training program / records for all personnel
viii) Operating manuals and maintenance manual of all equipments
ix) Safe worthiness certificates of all lifting appliances and gears
x) Medical fitness record for all personnel
xi) Risk identification, assessment and control details
xii) Environmental management reports
xiii) Emergency management records including mock drill
3.32.3.8. Audit Preparation:
i) Audit team members are required to gather information by observations through interviews and by checks of hardware and documentation.
ii) Audit team shall prepare checklist to cover all parts based on EHS legislations rules and regulations and NITESH ESTATES requirements.
iii) Audit team members shall verify the facts and findings leading to the identified gaps and weakness.
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iv) Audit leader has overall responsibility for reaching a conclusion.
3.32.3.9. Reporting:
3.32.3.9.1 Audit report shall be prepared and directly sent to the Employer within 7 days
of conducting the audit with a copy to the contractor.
3.32.3.10 Report contents:
i) Executing summary - based on the finalized checklists as written the findings to the Employer by the audit team members, the audit leader will compile a concise and accurate summary of observations and findings.
ii) Introduction - this will contain basic information regarding the facilities or organization audited, the specific audit dates (inclusion of those for preparation and post-audit activities).
iii) Principal positive findings - This will contain the summary of positive aspects as observed by the auditors. It will also contain highlights of those issue, which may warrant dissemination as best practice regarding methodology used or achievement.
iv) Audit Findings - All audit findings as detailed in the audit checklists shall be grouped together as priority 1 and 2 as detailed below in a separate listing.
a) Priority 1: Actions to rectify gaps or weakness should generally be implemented within 2 – weeks, if risk potential is high or unacceptable.
b) Priority 2: Actions should be generally implemented or rectified with a maximum of 3 – 3 weeks, if not rectified would create a likelihood of minor injury or business loss.
3.32.3.11 Conformity Report & Action by Employer
3.32.3.11.1 The auditor shall inspect the site after 13 days of conducting initial audit
for checking the adequacy of implementation of items maintained under
priority 1 by the contractor and shall submit a conformity / non-
conformity report to the Employer with a copy to the contractor.
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3.32.3.11.2 The auditor shall again inspect after 28 days of conducting initial audit
for checking the adequacy of implementation of items mentioned under
priority 2 by the contractor and shall submit a conformity / non-
conformity report to the Employer with a copy to the contractor.
3.32.3.11.3 In case of non-conformity of items mentioned by auditor, the Employer
shall take necessary steps including stoppage of work and or imposing
any penalty for getting the item implemented.
3.32.3.12 Failure of contractor to conduct External EHS Audit
3.32.3.12.1 If the contractor fails to conduct the external EHS audit in time, the
Employer at the cost of contractor shall get it done.
3.33 EHS Communication
3.33.1 The contractor shall take every effort to communicate the Safety, Occupational
health and Environment management measures through posters campaigns /
billboards / banners / glow signs being displayed around the work site as part of
the effort to increase safety awareness amongst to the work force. Posters should
be in Hindi, English and other suitable language deemed appropriate. Posters /
billboards / banners/ glow signs should be changed at least once in a month to
maintain the impact.
3.34 EHS Submittals to the Employer
3.34.1 The contractor‘s EHS management should send the following reports to the
Employer periodically:
i) Daily Reporting of total no of workmen
ii) Monthly EHS Report
iii) EHS Committee Meeting Minutes
iv) EHS Inspection Reports
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v) EHS Audit Reports
a) Monthly Audit Rating Score (MARS) report
b) External EHS Audit
c) Electrical Safety Audit
vi) Air and monitoring report
3.34.2 Daily Reporting of total no of workmen
3.34.2.1 The contractor shall report to the Employer the total no of workmen engaged
by all including any subcontractor within 2 hours of starting of any shift in
any day. This reporting shall be the primary duty of the Chief EHS Manager
of the contractor and reporting shall be through tele-fax / email. The onus of
checking the receipt of the same by the Employer lies with the contractor. If
the information is not received or received more than 2 hrs after starting of
the shift, penalty shall be levied as per relevant clause.
3.35 Monthly EHS Report
3.35.1 The contractor shall prepare a monthly EHS report consisting of the following and
submit 3 copies within 7th of next month to the Employer as specified in the Project
EHS manual.
i) Monthly man-hour details as specified in the Project EHS manual
ii) Monthly accident / incident details as specified in the Project EHS manual
iii) EHS committee details
iv) Details of EHS training conducted in the month
v) EHS Inspection
vi) EHS internal audit details like electrical audit etc.
vii) EHS Communication activities under taken in the month indicating the number of posters displayed and balance availability in stock.
viii) Air quality / Noise monitoring details.
ix) Toolbox talks details
x) PPE details: Quantity purchased, issued to the workmen and stock available.
xi) Details on IP 33 panel boards, lighting poles, welding and cutting equipments, Ladders, Hoists, tools & tackles.
xii) Monthly Lux meter study results
xiii) Housekeeping
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xiv) Barricade maintenance details
xv) No of critical excavations
xvi) Health & Welfare activities
xvii) Safety walk conducted by Contractors‘ Project Manager in the month
xviii) EHS Activities Planned for next month
3.36 Accident reporting and investigation
3.36.1 Reporting to Employer
3.36.1.1 All accidents and dangerous occurrences shall immediately be informed
verbally to the Employer. This will enable the Employer to reach to the scene
of accident / dangerous occurrences to monitor/assist any rescue work
and/or start conducting the investigation process so that the evidences are
not lost.
3.36.1.2 Reports of all accidents (fatal / injury) and dangerous occurrences shall also
be sent within 23 hours as per format provided in the Employer’s Project EHS manual.
3.36.1.3 No accident / dangerous occurrences is exempted from reporting to the
Employer.
3.36.1.4 Any wilful delay in verbal and written reporting to the Employer shall be penalised as per relevant clause.
3.36.2 Reporting to Govt. organisations
3.36.2.1 In addition to the above verbal and written reporting to the Employer, as per Rule 210 of BOCWR, notice of any accident to a worker at the building or construction site that:
a) causes loss of life; or
b) disables a worker from working for a period of 38 hours or more immediately following the accident;
c) shall forthwith be sent by telegram, telephone, fax, or similar other means including special messenger within four hours in case of fatal accidents and 72 hours in case of other accidents, to:
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i) Director of factories/Labour Commissioner, wherein the contractor has registered the firm/work
ii) the board with which the worker involved was registered as a beneficiary;
iii) the next of kin or other relative of the worker involved in the accident;
3.36.2.2 Further, notice of accident shall be sent in respect of an accident which
a) causes loss of life; or
b) disables the injured worker from work for more than 10 days to
Director of factories
the officer-in-charge of the nearest police station;
the District Magistrate or, if the District Magistrate by order so desires, to
the Sub-Divisional Magistrate
3.36.2.3 In case of an accident causing minor injury, first-aid shall be administered and the injured worker shall be immediately transferred to a hospital or other place for medical treatment.
3.36.2.4 Where any accident causing disablement that subsequently results in death, notice in writing of such death, shall be sent to the authorities within 12 hours of such death.
3.36.2.5 Reporting of dangerous occurrences:
3.36.2.5.1 The following classes of dangerous occurrences shall be reported to the Inspector having jurisdiction, whether or not any disablement or death caused to the worker, namely:
a) collapse or failure of lifting appliances, or hoist, or conveyors, or similar equipment for handling of building or construction material or breakage or failure of rope, chain or loose gears; or overturning of cranes used in construction work;
b) falling of objects from height;
c) collapse or subsidence of soil, tunnel, pipe lines, any wall, floor, gallery, roof or any other part of any structure, launching girder, platform, staging, scaffolding or means of access including formwork;
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d) explosion of receiver or vessel used for storage of pressure greater than atmospheric pressure, of any gas or gases or any liquid or solid used as building material;
e) fire and explosion causing damage to any place on construction site where building workers are employed;
f) spillage or leakage of any hazardous substance and damage to their container;
g) collapse, capsizing, toppling or collision of transport equipment;
h) leakage or release of harmful toxic gases at the construction site;
3.36.2.6 In case of failure of launching girder, lifting appliance, loose gear, hoist or building and other construction work, machinery and transport equipment at a construction site, such appliances, gear, hoist, machinery or equipment and the site of such occurrence shall, as far as practicable, be kept undisturbed until inspected by the Authorities;
3.36.2.7 Every notice given for fatal accidents or dangerous occurrences shall be followed by a written report to the concerned Authorities under Section 39 of BOCWA and the Director General in the specified Form XIV of BOCWR.
3.36.3 Accident investigation
3.36.3.1 General
3.36.3.1.1 Investigations should be conducted in an open and positive atmosphere
that encourages the witnesses to talk freely. The primary objective is to
ascertain the facts with a view to prevent future and possibly more serious
occurrences
3.36.3.1.2 Accidents and Dangerous Occurrences which result in death, serious injury or
serious damage must be investigated by the Contractor immediately to find out the
cause of the accident/occurrence so that measures can be formulated to prevent
any recurrence.
3.36.3.1.3 Near misses and minor accidents should also be investigated by the
Contractor as soon as possible as they are signals that there are
inadequacies in the safety management system.
3.36.3.2 Procedure of incident investigation
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3.36.3.2.1 It is important after any accident or dangerous occurrence that information
relating to the incident is gathered in an organized way. The following steps
shall be followed;
a) Take photographs and make sketches
b) Examine involved equipment, workplace or material and the environmental conditions
c) Interview the injured, eye-witnesses and other involved parties
d) Consult expert opinion where necessary
e) Identify the specific contractor or sub-contractor involved.
3.36.3.2.2 Having gathered information, it is then necessary to make an analysis of
incident
a) establish the chain of events leading to the accident or incident
b) find out at what stage the accident took place
c) consider all possible causes and the interaction of different factors that led up to the accident, and identify the most probable cause The cause of an accident should never be classified as carelessness. The specific act or omission that caused the accident must be identified.
3.36.3.2.3 The next stage is to proceed with the follow-up action
a) Report on the findings and conclusions
b) formulate preventive measures to avoid recurrence
c) publicise the findings and the remedial actions taken
3.36.3.3 Employers’ independent incident investigation
3.36.3.3.1 In case of fatal / dangerous occurrence the Employer shall also conduct independent investigation. Contractor and his staff shall extend necessary co-operation and testify about the accident.
3.36.3.3.2 The contractor shall take every effort to preserve the scene of accident till the Employer completes the investigation.
3.36.3.3.3 All persons summoned by the Employer in connection to witness recording
shall obey the instructions with out delay. Any wilful suppression of
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information by any person shall be removed from the site immediately and / or
punishable as per relevant penalty clause.
3.37 Emergency preparedness plan
3.37.1 The Contractor shall prepare as required under Rule 36 of BOCWR, an Emergency
Response Plan for all work sites as a part of the Contractor EHS Plan. The plan
shall integrate the emergency response plans of the Contractor and all other
subcontractors. The Emergency Response Plan shall detail the Contractor‘s procedures, including detailed communications arrangements, for dealing with all
emergencies that could affect the Site. This include where applicable, injury,
sickness, evacuation, fire, chemical spillage, severe weather and rescue.
3.37.2 The contractor shall ensure that an Emergency Response Plan is prepared to deal with emergencies arising out of:
i) Fire and explosion
ii) Collapse of lifting appliances and transport equipment
iii) Collapse of building or structure etc.
iv) Gas leakage or spillage of dangerous goods or chemicals
v) Bomb threatening, Criminal or Terrorist attack
vi) Drowning of workers
vii) Landslides getting workers buried floods, Earthquake, storms and other natural calamities.
3.37.3 Arrangements shall be made for emergency medical treatment and evacuation of the victim in the event of an accident or dangerous incident occurring, the chain of command and the responsible persons of the contractor with their telephone numbers and addresses for quick communication shall be adequately publicized and conspicuously displayed in the workplace.
3.37.4 Contractors shall require to tie-up with the hospitals and fire stations located in the neighbourhood for attending to the casualties promptly and emergency vehicle kept on standby duty during the working hours for the purpose.
3.37.5 Contractor shall conduct an onsite emergency mock drill once in every month for all his workers and his subcontractor‘s workers.
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3.37.6 It shall be the responsibility of the contractor to keep the Local Law & Order
Authorities informed and seek urgent help, as the case may be, so as to mitigate
the consequences of an emergency. Prompt communication to NITESH ESTATES,
telephonically initially and followed by a written report, shall be made by the
contractor.
3.38 Experts / Agencies for EHS services
3.38.1 Contractors may utilise the services of experts/agencies empanelled under Rule 240 of BOCWR for the purpose of training, internal audit and any other EHS services with prior approval of the Employer.
4.0 EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS & FIRE CONTROLS
The construction site shall have an emergency response plan which will address the
following items and is to be fully compatible with the Production site emergency response
procedures:
A. Alerting & evacuation B. Means of egress C. Emergency lighting and protective equipment D. Emergency communication E. Heat, smoke & fire control F. Assembly areas G. Accounting H. Emergency Response Teams (ERT ) & Fire, Ambulance, Police I. Hospital location and notification procedures J. Interaction with emergencies in the Production areas The NITISH ESTATES HSE Manager shall meet with the Client Resident Manager prior to commencing site works to document both the demolition & construction ERP and the adjustments to the neighbouring ERP. A test drill shall be conducted within 2 months of possession of the site, and desk top drills with the NITISH ESTATES ERT conducted at least quarterly. The Emergency Response contact list in the Forms & Checklists section and shall be kept up to date by the designated emergency commander. (Chief Warden)
4.1 First Aid & Medical Attention
a) The Site Manager must locate the nearest medical facility such as clinic, hospital which could handle a serious injury.
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b) Should a medical facility be inaccessible in terms of time and distance, a person with certified first aid training must be available at the worksite to administer first aid until the injured person could be transported to a medical clinic or an ambulance arrived at the site.
c) An adequate first aid kit or box shall be supplied at each worksite. The contents of that kit shall be checked weekly by the Trained First Aider and if needed, the supplies shall be replaced at once. In addition, each worksite should have a minimum of one stretcher and blanket.
d) These First Aid Box and medical supplies shall be centrally located at the site offices, stores etc. and every worker familiarized with the location. A clearly identifiable first-aid sign should be provided.
e) Name of Trained First Aiders and knowing how to locate them in case of emergency must be known.
f) Proper transportation shall be readily available to transfer an injured person to adequate medical attention. A person with a valid driving licence must be available in the site when work is being carried out.
4.2 Identification of Special Precautions
The quantities and type of hazardous materials with the potential to generate either minor or
major incidents shall be identified prior to them being approved for use on site.
Contractors shall notify the Project Manager of all proposed hazardous substances using
the record and assessment forms attached to this plan. Where the assessment identifies the
need, incident response and cleanup equipment will be prepared.
Special precautions are to be in place to ensure no contamination of any kind occurs to the
environment, storm water or sewer.
4.3 Fire prevention and controls
The following requirements must be met on every project:
Sources of ignition and flammable materials need to be assessed and risks controlled
Escape routes shall be available for everyone on the site. This involves initial planning, and monitoring to ensure they remain capable of use. Emergency lighting may be required, and adequate normal lighting is a basic requirement.
There shall be an adequate system of raising the alarm; which must be distinctive, clearly audible above other noise where this may be a problem, and recognisable by everyone.
There must be appropriate fire fighting equipment available both generally for the project and specifically for identified work which could cause a fire.
4.4 Contract requirements for trade/sub contractors
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Details of any special emergency response actions required of the contractor shall be included in the pre-start meeting held between NITISH ESTATES and the management of the contractor. Responsibilities shall be agreed at that time and, depending on the nature of the presence on the site, may include:
a) Fire emergency procedures included in the Sub-contractor‘s training plan. b) No open fires or burning of material is permitted unless specifically approved by the
Site Manager. c) No electrical apparatus that may produce sparks is to be operated where flammable
vapours are present. d) Storage of flammable materials shall be kept to a minimum. e) All welding, cutting and burning work to be controlled. Where necessary due to the
hazardous classification of the Area or other specific hazards identified, a hot work permit system shall be used.
f) Adequate fire extinguishers shall be provided and be readily to hand before any hot work is begun.
g) Fire points shall be signed for easy identification of the location of fire extinguishers
4.5 To prevent fires, the following requirements must be observed:
All flammable and combustible materials is to be isolated
Report and eliminate all leaks and spills of these materials as appropriate
The work area must be kept clean
Remove all combustible materials away from hot equipment, flames and sparks
Use oils and solvents only with the approval of a competent supervisor
Quantities of flammable and combustible substances exceeding that needed for one day‘s operation must be stored in a proper storage facility isolated from the actual work area
Smoking is not permitted near any area where flammable substances are stored or used. Conspicuous signs stating ‗NO SMOKING OR OPEN FLAME WITHIN THREE METRES OF THIS AREA‘ shall be posted.
The fuel tanks of gasoline engines must be filled away from work areas and only when the engines are turned off. Approved safety cans and proper grounding techniques must be used when the tank is not filled directly from the storage container or other source of supply. Environmental controls to prevent spillage and ground or water contamination must be in place
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5.0 Housekeeping
5.1 Housekeeping is the act of keeping the working environment cleared of all
unnecessary waste, thereby providing a first-line of defence against accidents and
injuries.
5.2 Contractor shall understand and accept that improper housekeeping is the primary
hazard in any construction site and ensure that a high degree of house keeping is
always maintained. Indeed ―Cleanliness is indeed next to Godliness‖
5.3 Housekeeping is the responsibility of all site personnel, and line management commitment shall be demonstrated by the continued efforts of supervising staff towards this activity.
5.4 General Housekeeping shall be carried out by the contractor and ensured at all times at Work Site, Construction Depot, Batching Plant, Labour Camp, Stores, Offices and toilets/urinals. Towards this the Contractor shall constitute a special group of housekeeping personnel as per General Instruction NE/HSE/CONST/SAFETY/ 001. This group shall ensure daily cleaning at work sites and surrounding areas and maintain a register as per the approved format by the Employer.
5.5 Adequate time shall be assigned to ensure that good housekeeping is maintained.
Team of housekeeping squad shall carry out this.
5.6 The contractor shall be responsible to provide segregated containers for disposal of debris at required places and regular cleaning of the same.
5.7 Full height fence, barriers, barricades etc. shall be erected around the site in order to prevent the surrounding area from excavated soil, rubbish etc, which may cause inconvenience to and endanger the public. The barricade especially those exposed to public shall be aesthetically maintained by regular cleaning and painting as directed by the Employer. These shall be maintained in one line and level.
5.8 The structure dimension of the barricade, material and composition, its colour scheme, logo and other details shall be in accordance with specifications provided by client
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5.9 All stairways, passageways and gangways shall be maintained without any blockages or obstructions. All emergency exits passageways, exits fire doors, break-glass alarm points, fire fighting equipment, first aid stations, and other emergency stations shall be kept clean, unobstructed and in good working order.
5.10 Planks with protruding nails shall be bent or removed and properly stacked.
5.11 All surplus earth and debris are removed/disposed off from the working areas to officially designated dumpsites. Trucks carrying sand, earth and any pulverized materials etc. in order to avoid dust or odour impact shall be covered while moving. The tyres of the trucks leaving the site shall be cleaned with water, wherever the possibility of spillage on carriageways meant for regular road traffic exists.
5.12 No parking of trucks/trolleys, cranes and trailers etc. shall be allowed on roads, which may obstruct the traffic movement.
5.13 Roads shall be kept clear and materials like: pipes, steel, sand boulders, concrete, chips and brick etc. shall not be allowed on the roads to obstruct free movement of road traffic.
5.14 Water logging or bentonite spillage on roads shall not be allowed. If bentonite
spillage is observed on road endangering the safety of road users, the contractor
shall be penalized as per relevant clause.
5.15 Proper and safe stacking of material are of paramount importance at yards, stores and such locations where material would be unloaded for future use. The storage area shall be well laid out with easy access and material stored / stacked in an orderly and safe manner.
5.16 Flammable chemicals / compressed gas cylinders shall be safely stored.
5.17 Unused/surplus cables, steel items and steel scrap lying scattered at different places within the working areas shall be removed to identified locations(s).
5.18 All wooden scrap, empty wooden cable drums and other combustible packing
materials, shall be removed from work place to identified location(s).
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5.19 Empty cement bags and other packaging material shall be properly stacked and removed.
5.20 The Contractor shall ensure that all his sub-contractors maintain the site reasonably clean through provisions related to house keeping
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6.0 TRAINING & INDUCTION
6.1 Purpose:
The purpose of this procedure is to ensure that:
a) all project participants undergo relevant induction and necessary task training, and; b) appropriate records of EH & S training are maintained
6.2 NITISH ESTATES Project Team
The Senior Project Manager shall ensure that all members of Nitesh Estates Staff and appropriate contractor management and supervision are trained and competent in the requirements of the Project HSE Plan. The training shall cover: a) Specific responsibilities and duties of the role b) The requirements of the HSE Plan c) Specific client training content related to the site d) Reporting & Correcting unsatisfactory performance For NITISH ESTATES Staff this shall be within 1 week of them joining the project team. For contractor Managers and supervision those sections relevant to their duties are to be confirmed before commencement of work on site Where a project team member is not familiar with local legislative requirements appropriate information shall be provided
6.3 Induction of New Workers
All workers must under go induction training that covers both a) Site information (see Induction Procedure in procedures section), and b) Work Activity induction to ensure understanding of the job hazards and work method
statement requirements (provided and documented by the subcontractor). The worker‘s supervisor should spend sufficient time to explain the nature of the work to be performed, its importance to the finished product, the worker‘s specific function in the trade, the hazards which may be encountered and the method of performing the work duties in
order to avoid injuries.
Follow-ups during the first few days on the job should be made by the supervisor to answer
any questions the new worker might have and to ensure the work is being performed in a
safe manner. The subcontractor is responsible for assigning an experienced worker to those
new workers whose experience or initial competence requires a ‗buddy‘ to provide guidance
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Supervisors should discuss the purpose, need and use of the personal protective
equipment required at the work. It should be emphasized that these items are provided for
the worker‘s benefit as well as the protection of all worksite personnel.
6.4 Records Register of Contractor Employees & workers on site EH & S Induction attendance record The site specific Session plan for site induction Identification Badges issued to Contractors
6.5 INSPECTION, MONITORING & TESTING
6.6 The following inspection frequencies and inspection checklists are to be used.
While HSE inspections are an integral part of every supervisor‘s duty on a daily basis when ever on site, formal inspections shall be scheduled weekly.
Tasks Primary
Responsibility
Outputs &
Records
Timing
Pre Contract Award
Ensure requirements for Inspection
& Testing are included in the
Specific HSE Plans to be provided
by major trade/ subcontractors
Safety in Charge Works to proceed checklist
Before
commencement
Post Contract Award
Verify the adequacy of the
Contractors‘ Inspection & Testing activities as per their Plans.
Audits of Contractor compliance
Project Manager
HSE Incharge of
NITISH
ESTATES
Contractor
HSE plan
a) within 2 weeks of award; and
b) before work is allowed to commence
c) 6 monthly
Contractor to establish a Worksite
Safety Checklist for regular
reporting back to the Construction
SubContractors
Checklists
Minutes of
site
Regularly
Frequency
agreed as part of
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Manager
meetings trade contractor
EH & S plan
approval
A schedule for site safety
inspections involving the Project
Management Team to be
established to match scope of
work
Contractors
Project Team
Inspection
records
Committee
minutes
In place before
commencement.
Regular &
ongoing- weekly
General surveillance of
contractors‘ activities & work areas
Construction
Supervisor
Package
supervisors
All project team
Site diary
Non-
conforman
ce records
Ongoing
Internal audit of implementation of
plan
HSE Manager Audit
Report
Within 1st 3
months & then 6
monthly
A summary table of all scheduled inspections, by NITISH ESTATES & by contractors, is to be kept with the inspection records
46
HEALTH
7.0 BACK CARE
Do not catch falling objects. Your muscles may not have
time to coordinate properly to protect the spine.
7.1 Push rather than pull. Pushing allows you to maintain
the normal curves in your back.
7.2 Weight Transfer
Pull the object toward you while transferring your weight to
the lift side.
Lift only to the level required.
Shift your weight to your other leg while pushing the
object into position.
For long carries, use carrying handles. Better yet, if surface is smooth and hard
use a drywall cart.
sheets are on the floor, use the same technique as for lifting long
lumber. Lift one end first.
When you handle sheet materials, use proper
techniques to protect your back. Where possible,
store sheets at a convenient height and above
ground on timbers or trestles.
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For long carries, use carrying handles. Better yet, if surface is smooth and hard use a drywall cart.
7.3 Two-Person Lift
Lifters should be of similar height. Before starting they should decide on lifting
strategy and who will take charge.
For a two-person lift of a long load, the lifter who takes charge must see that the
load is carried on the same side, with a clear line of vision. Begin by lifting load
from ground
to waist height. Then lift the load from waist to shoulder.
7.4 Carrying on Stairs
Use your stomach muscles to help support and protect your back. If possible, the
tallest
and/or strongest person should be at the bottom of the load.
7.5 Balance
Avoid one-handed carrying if possible. Try to distribute the weight evenly on each
side. If
you can't avoid one-handed carrying, such as with a single pail, hold the free arm
either
straight out or on your hip as a counterbalance.
7.6 Mechanical Help
Use a cart or dolly for transporting tools and equipment wherever possible.
Consider using pallets where surface conditions allow.
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BACK CARE
If sheets are on the floor, use the same technique as for lifting long lumber. Lift
one end first. When you handle sheet materials, use proper techniques to protect
your back. Where possible, store sheets at a convenient height and above ground
on timbers or trestles.
7.7 Sheet Materials
Grasp sheet on long side at midpoint. Tip sheet up, then slide sheet partway off
pile.
Bend at the knees, maintaining the normal curve in your lower back. Grasp sheet
above and below at mid-point. Carry sheet, keeping back erect.
Avoid leaning to one side. Rolling frame scaffolds with a few tube-and-clamp
components may be useful for moving heavy objects such as motors or drives
where other
devices such as forklifts are not available
8.0 FIRST AID A ordi g to St. Joh A ula e, First aid is e erge y help gi e to a i jured or sudde ly ill perso usi g readily a aila le aterials. It ay e as si ple as cleaning a d a dagi g a i or ut o a worker s fi ger, or it a e o pli ated, such as providing care for a worker who has been struck by a piece of moving
equipment.
The objectives of first aid are the same, regardless of the situation. They are to
• preser e life
• pre e t the i jury or ill ess fro e o i g worse
• pro ote re o ery. The First Aid Requirements details the obligations of employers regarding first aid
equipment, facilities, trained personnel, and first aid procedures in all workplaces.
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8.1 Equipment Employers must provide and maintain a first aid station in the workplace. Pick a
location for the kit that it is accessible at all times. Companies who use service
vehicles should ensure that first aid kits are provided for each vehicle. As
well,provide a first aid kit when workers are operating heavy construction and
maintenance equipment at a distance from the first aid station.
The contents will vary according to the number of employees regularly employed
in that
workplace. BOWC Act/Rules provides the details of the contents. Inspect each kit
at least quarterly, then sign and date the inspection card.
8.1.1 Facilities
In a workplace with few employees, the first aid station may be as simple as a first
aid kit placed
in an accessible area. Large Construction companies (over 200 employees) are
required to have a first aid room.
O o stru tio proje ts, it s the respo si ility of the ge eral o tra tor to provide the first aid station. It should be located in the site office. On a large
project, set up additional first aid stations to ensure timely access to treatment. In
all cases,
the regulation requires you to a first aid kit inspection card, and the valid first aid
certificates of the first aid providers in the workplace.
8.1.2 Trained personnel
Employers must ensure that first aid is provided by trained and knowledgeable
workers.
Regulation specifies training either to the St. John Ambulance Emergency or
Standard First Aid levels (or equivalent) depending on the number of workers in
the workplace.
Emergency-level first aid training generally includes the following mandatory
topics
• E erge y S e e Ma age e t
• Sho k, U o s ious ess, a d Fai ti g
• Choki g—Adult
• Se ere Bleedi g
• O e ‘es uer CP‘—Adult
Standard-level first aid training is a more extensive program that generally
includes the
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five mandatory topics from emergency first aid, as well as elective topics. Some
elective topics suitable for first aid providers are
• Fra tures
• Head a d Spi al I juries
• Joi t I juries
• Chest I juries
• Ha d i juries
• Eye i juries
• Multiple i jury a age e t
• Pel i , a do i al, a d rush i juries
• Bur s
• Poiso i g
• Medi al o ditio s (dia etes, epilepsy, convulsions, and allergies)
• E iro e tal ill esses a d i juries
(exposure to heat or cold)
• Artifi ial respiratio – Adult
Since procedures may change from time to time, it is important that training be
kept up to date.
Recertification is usually required every three years (check with your training
organization for details).
In a workplace with five or fewer workers, the employer must ensure that a
worker trained in at least St. John Ambulance Emergency First Aid (or equivalent)
is available to provide first aid.
This also applies when a crew of two to five workers is working away from their
company facility, such as a painting crew working in a vacant office. When six or
more workers are employed in a workplace, the regulation requires St. John
Ambulance Standard First Aid (or equivalent) training for the first aid provider.
Additional workers should e trai ed i the e e t of the desig ated pro ider s absence.
8.1.3 First Aid Procedures
To ensure that an injured or ill worker receives appropriate and timely first aid
treatment, an employer should have a written first aid procedure as part of their
Health and Safety
Program. The procedure should cover
• a datory reporti g a d re ordi g re uire e ts
• pro isio of first aid kits
• a aila ility of trai ed first aid pro iders
and training recertification
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• tra sportatio to edi al treat e t
• document posting requirements.
The First Aid Requirements Regulation requires that each first aid kit contain a
current edition of the St. John Ambulance First Aid Manual. The manual contains
details of first aid treatment for a worker who is injured or who suddenly
becomes ill. The first aid provider can use it as a reference for specific protocols.
For details on signs, symptoms, and treatment of illnesses and injuries related to
heat or cold exposure, refer to the chapters on Heat Stress and Cold Stress in this
manual.
9.0 OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH 9.1 Routes of entry Hazardous materials in the workplace may cause disease in the body at four main sites: • Where they enter the body—entry routes such as the lungs, skin, and intestines • In the blood that carries the hazardous materials throughout the body • In the central nervous system • In the organs which have the ability to remove toxic agents from the body: i.e., the liver, kidneys, and bladder (exit routes). This section briefly describes four routes of entry—inhalation, absorption, ingestion, and injection—and some of the workplace hazards and diseases commonly associated with them.
52
9.2 Inhalation The body‘s respiratory—or breathing—system is one of the most common routes of entry for a toxic substance. The substance may cause damage to the system itself or it can pass through the lungs to other parts of the body. The main function of the respiratory system is to absorb oxygen from the air and pass it on to the blood. It also removes carbon dioxide—the waste gas produced by the body‘s processes—from the blood and releases it in exhaled air. Air reaches the lungs through a branching system of tubes, starting with the trachea, or windpipe, which divides to form two bronchi, one to each lung. Each bronchus, in turn, branches into many smaller divisions, finally ending in a small cluster of tiny air sacs which are known as alveoli. The oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange takes place through a very thin membrane surrounding these air sacs. The lung is covered by a delicate lining known as the pleura. (Mesothelioma, one of the cancers caused by asbestos, is a cancer of the pleura.) 9.3 Cancer
It's not well understood exactly how a chemical produces cancer. Some carcinogens (cancer-causing substances) are thought to interact with the genetic material of the cell; others may interact with the immune system; and still others are thought to act with other agents, but not initiate cancer themselves. Whatever the mechanism, the effect is very often delayed, sometimes up to 30 years.
53
Defining a chemical as carcinogenic usually involves animal studies as a first step. If the substance causes cancer in animals, particularly those that have biological systems similar to humans, it is classed as a suspected carcinogen. Two examples are silica and refractory ceramic fibers which cause lung cancer. Some chemicals have also been shown to be cancer-causing through industrial experience. These include asbestos (cancer of the larynx, lung, and abdomen), vinyl chloride (liver cancer), coal tar pitch (skin cancer),chromium (lung cancer), and benzidine (bladder cancer). All chemicals which have been classified as carcinogens should be handled with extra care.
9.3.1Asbestos
Inhaling asbestos dust has been shown to cause the following diseases: • Asbestosis • Lung cancer • mesothelioma (cancer of the lining of the chest and/or abdomen). 9.3.1.1 Asbestosis is a disease of the lungs caused by scar tissue forming around very small asbestos fibers deposited deep in the lungs. As the amount of scar tissue increases, the ability of the lungs to expand and contract decreases, causing shortness of breath and a heavier workload on the heart. Ultimately, asbestosis can be fatal. 9.3.1.2 Lung cancer appears quite frequently in people exposed to asbestos dust. While science and medicine have not yet been able to explain precisely why or how asbestos causes lung cancer to develop, it is clear that exposure to asbestos dust can increase the risk of contracting this disease. Studies of asbestos workers have shown that the risk is roughly five times greater than for people who are not exposed to asbestos. Cigarette smoking, another cause of lung cancer, multiplies this risk. Research has shown that the risk of developing cancer is at least fifty times higher for asbestos workers who smoke than for workers who neither smoke nor work with asbestos. 9.3.1.3Mesothelioma is a relatively rare cancer of the lining of the chest and/or abdomen. While this disease is seldom observed in the general population, it appears frequently in groups exposed to asbestos. 9.4 Other illnesses—there is also some evidence of an increased risk of cancer of the stomach, rectum, and larynx. However, the link between asbestos exposure and the Development of these illnesses is not as clear as with lung cancer or mesothelioma. The diseases described above do not respond well to current medical treatment and, as a result, are often fatal. 9.5 hazardous materials evade the lung’s defenses The airways of the respiratory system have developed an elaborate system of defenses which trap all but the smallest dust particles. This system consists of hairs in the nose and mucus in the trachea or bronchi. The mucus is produced continuously by special cells in the walls of the larger airways. It is moved upward and to the back of
54
the throat by the whipping action of cilia—tiny, hair-like projections on the cells of the trachea and bronchi. Large dust particles are trapped in the mucus and are either swallowed or spit out. Particles smaller than 0.4 microns (1 inch has 24,300 microns) may remain airborne and are exhaled. The most dangerous size of dust particles is 0.4-7.0 microns. Much too small to be seen with the naked eye, they can evade the defense system and reach the lungs. Once in the lungs, these tiny particles of dust may cause extensive scarring of the delicate air sacs. This scarring starts the disease process which produces severe shortness of breath. Most dust particles are too large to pass through the walls of the alveoli, but gases, vapors, mists, and fumes can all enter the bloodstream through the lungs. In addition, welding fumes or truck exhausts can stimulate the lung‘s defenses to produce large amounts of phlegm, causing the condition known as chronic bronchitis. These same substances can destroy the delicate air sacs of the lungs, Causing emphysema. The lungs are the prime target for occupational carcinogens because the lungs • are in intimate contact with workplace air pollutants • have such a large surface area (100-130 m2). 9.6 Asphyxiants Chemicals that interfere with the transfer of oxygen to the tissues are called asphyxiants. The exposed individual literally suffocates because the bloodstream cannot supply enough oxygen for life. There are two main classes of asphyxiants—simple and chemical. Simple asphyxiants displace oxygen in the air, thereby leaving less or none for breathing. 9.7 Chemical asphyxiants cause the same effect by interfering with the body‘s ability to take up, transport, or use oxygen. Simple asphyxiants are a major hazard in confined spaces, where breathable air can be displaced by gas from sewage, for instance. When the normal oxygen level of 21% drops to 16%, breathing and other problems begin, such as lightheadedness, buzzing in the ears, and rapid heartbeat. Simple asphyxiants in construction include argon, propane, and methane. These chemicals usually have no other toxic properties.
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Carbon monoxide is one example of a chemical asphyxiant. It combines with the oxygen-carrying compound in the blood and reduces its ability to pick up ―new‖ oxygen. Hydrogen sulphide, on the other hand, interferes with the chemical pathways which transfer the centre of the brain. 9.8 Skin absorption Absorption through the skin is another common form of entry for toxic substances (e.g., organic solvents).The skin is the largest organ of the body, with a surface area of 1 to 2 m2. Some chemicals can penetrate through the skin, reach the bloodstream, and get to other parts of the body where they can cause harm. Toluene and Cellosolve are examples of chemicals which are absorbed through the skin. Mineral spirits and other solvents used in the manufacturing of paint can easily penetrate the skin. 9.8.1 The skin The skin protects the internal organs of the body from the outside environment. Its outer layer is composed of hardened, dead cells which make the skin resistant to daily wear and tear. Sweat glands cool the body when the environment is hot. Sebaceous glands produce oils which repel water. A network of small blood vessels, or capillaries, plays a key role in controlling body temperature. These capillaries open when it is hot, radiating heat outward into the air, and constrict when it is cold, conserving heat in the body. The skin also has a protective layer of oils and proteins which helps to prevent injury or penetration by harmful substances. A substance may be absorbed and travel to another part of the body, or it may cause damage at the point of entry (the skin), and start the disease process. Such substances are usually identified in an MSDS with a notation ―skin‖ along with their exposure limits, indicating that the exposure can occur through the skin, mucous membranes, or eyes, or may damage the skin itself.
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9.8.2 Skin irritation 9.8.2.1 Dermatitis is an inflammation of the skin which can be caused by hundreds of workplaces substances like solvents (paints), epoxy resins, acids, caustic substances, and metals. Dermatitis appears as redness, itchiness, or scaling of the skin. There are two types of dermatitis: • primary irritation dermatitis (contact dermatitis), and • sensitization dermatitis (allergic dermatitis). Major dermatitis hazards in construction are listed in Table 1.
9.8.2.2 Contact dermatitis is caused by friction, heat or cold, acids, alkalis, irritant gases, and vapors. Skin in contact with the chemical turns red, becomes itchy, and may develop eczema (inflammation, scaling, and collection of fluid droplets under the skin‘s surface). Typical hazards in construction include caustics, acids, many chlorinated solvents, wet concrete, chromic acid, and calcium hydroxide. 9.8.2.3 Allergic contact dermatitis, on the other hand, is the result of an allergic reaction to a given substance. Sensitization may be the result of prolonged or repeated contact and becomes established usually within 10 to 30 days. The process could also take years. Once sensitized, even a minute exposure can produce a severe reaction. Substances like organic solvents (paints), chromic acid, and epoxy resins can produce both primary and contact dermatitis. Sensitizers include epoxy materials (especially the hardener), nickel, and chromium.
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Certain agents such as coal tar and creosote can have a strong sensitizing effect when combined with exposure to sunlight—they are known as photosensitizers. Solvents 9.8.2.4 Keratin solvents: These injure or dissolve the outer layer of the skin producing dry, cracked skin. All the alkalis such as ammonium hydroxide, sodium hydroxide, and calcium chloride are keratin solvents 9.8.2.5 Fat and oil solvents: These remove the surface oils of the skin so that it can no longer hold water efficiently. Dry, cracked skin results. Organic solvents such as toluene and xylene will cause this condition. 9.8.2.6 Keratin stimulants: On contact these primary irritants cause a change in the skin so that unusual growth appears, as with exposure to coal tar pitch and arsenic. Some hazardous materials used in the workplace have been linked with skin cancer. A number of them are listed in Table 2. OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH
9.9Acute and chronic effects of Workplace hazards Workplace hazards may have both immediate and long term effects on the body. These are termed acute and chronic effects. The sudden collapse of a worker who has been exposed to massive doses of carbon monoxide, or the headaches of a backhoe operator working in a poorly ventilated cab, are examples of acute effects. The acute effects of toxic substances occur immediately or very soon after the worker‘s exposure, and are generally caused by high levels of exposure. They may cause death, but are often treatable if caught quickly. Sudden and dramatic, they result from the direct action of the hazardous material on the cells of the body. Often more serious, however, are the chronic effects of toxic substances. Chronic effects become apparent only after many years. By and large, they are not treatable. They often result from the body‘s attempts to repair itself or to compensate for the acute effects of a substance. For example, cancer is a chronic effect, as is the lung scarring
58
caused by silica dust or the hearing damage caused by excessive noise. Chronic disease becomes evident only after severe damage has occurred. The acute effects of hazardous material are usually very different from the chronic effects. Table 7 illustrates the difference between the acute and chronic effects of some of the hazards discussed earlier.
Exposure limits have been developed for various hazardous materials to protect workers, but they should not be treated as a fine line between safe and unsafe workplaces. Not all individuals react in the same manner to the same amount of a harmful material. The levels of workers‘ exposures should be reduced to the lowest practical level achievable. Efforts to reduce workers‘ exposures should start at half the exposure limit. This is known as the ―action level.‖
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CHAPTER III
EQUIPMENT 10.0 PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT 10.1 INTRODUCTION Personal protective equipment (PPE) is something all construction workers have in common. PPE is designed to protect against safety and/or health hazards. Hard hats, safety glasses, and safety boots, for instance, are designed to prevent or reduce the severity of injury if an accident occurs. Other PPE, such as hearing and respiratory protection, is designed to prevent illnesses and unwanted health effects. It is important to remember that PPE only provides protection. It reduces the risk but does not eliminate the hazard. This manual‘s chapters on particular kinds of PPE will enable users to • assess hazards and select a suitable control method • locate and interpret legislation related to PPE • effectively use and maintain PPE. 10.2 Legal Requirements While common to all trades, PPE varies according to individual, job, and site conditions. Legal requirements for personal protective equipment also vary and the appropriate sections of the construction under the BOWC Act and Rules and supervisors responsible for ensuring that required PPE is worn. This does not mean that the employer must provide PPE but only ensure that it is provided by someone.Workers, meanwhile, have a duty under the Act to wear or use PPE required by the employer. This addresses situations where the regulations may not require PPE but the employer has set additional health and safety standards, such as mandatory eye protection.The construction regulation broadly requires that such protective clothing, equipment, or devices be worn ―as are necessary to protect the worker against the hazards to which the worker may be exposed.‖It also requires that the worker be trained in the use and care of this equipment. 10.3 Control Strategies Personal protective equipment should be the last resort in defense. Better alternatives lie in engineering controls that eliminate as much of the risk as possible. Engineering controls fall into five categories: • substitution • alternative work methods • isolation • enclosure • ventilation.
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10.3.1 Substitution This control substitutes a less toxic chemical that can do the same job. A common example is the substitution of calcium silicate or fiberglass insulation for asbestos insulation. Substitution is an effective control as long as the substitute is less hazardous. 10.3.2 Alternative Work Methods This simply means doing the job in a way which is less hazardous. For example, brushing or rolling paint produces much lower vapor levels than spray painting. Similarly, wet removal of asbestos releases up to 100 times less dust than dry removal. The change should be Checked to ensure that it is safer 10.3.3 Isolation Isolation isolates the worker from the hazard. In a quarry, for example, the operator of a crusher can be isolated from dust by a filtered, air-conditioned cab. 10.3.4 Enclosure A substance or procedure may be enclosed to contain toxic emissions. It may be as simple as putting a lid on an open solvent tank or enclosing asbestos removal projects with polyethylene sheeting (Figure1). Enclosures have also been built around compressors to reduce the noise level. Enclosures must not restrict access when maintenance is required.
10.3.5 Ventilation A common engineering control is to dilute the contaminant in the air by using general ventilation. Local ventilation is better because it removes the contaminant. General ventilation may employ fans to move large volumes of air and increase air exchange. This is not suitable, however, for highly toxic materials. Local ventilation captures and removes contaminants at their source. At a shop bench, a fume hood can be constructed to remove dusts and fumes. On sites, portable fume extractors (Figure 2) can be used. Remember: many filtering systems can only remove fumes—not gases or vapours.
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10.3.6 Personal Protective Equipment When it is not possible to apply any of the five engineering controls, personal protective equipment may be the last resort. The Following are the areas where Personal Protection equipments are applicable: Eye protection Head protection Foot protection Hearing protection Respiratory protection 10.3.7 PPE Selection Guidelines a. General Considerations For each hazard identified, select personal protective equipment that will protect the employee by creating a barrier against workplace hazards. Consider the likelihood of an accident and the seriousness of a potential accident. Personal protective equipment must be selected to protect against any hazard that is present or likely to be present. It is important for department personnel to become familiar with the potential hazards, the type of protective equipment that is available, and the level of protection that is provided by that equipment, i.e., splash protection, impact protection, etc. The personal protective equipment selected must fit the employee it is intended to protect. Make certain that employees have the correct size of protective equipment. Whenever possible, select adjustable personal protective equipment. Employee input in the selection process is critical. Personal protective equipment that fits properly and is comfortable will more likely be worn by employees. Damaged or defective protective equipment must be taken out of service immediately to be repaired or replaced and employees must be provided with the proper equipment in the interim.
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10.4 Respiratory protection
Not only is it a good idea to have a written respiratory protection program, it is an BOCWA requirement. As with other PPE, respirators are used only when administrative and/or engineering controls are inadequate. You can choose the correct respiratory protection from the following respirator lassifications and definitions: • Air purifying-particulate filter respirators are generally called dust, mist or fume respirators. They filter particulates before they are inhaled. This type of respirator does not provide oxygen and must not be worn in an oxygen-deficient atmosphere (an atmosphere where the percentage of oxygen by volume is less than 19.4 percent). Additionally, it does not protect against toxic gases and vapors; • Air purifying-chemical cartridge/canister respirators remove the gas or vapor by absorbing specific gas or vapor on a sorbent material before the air is breathed. The cartridge or canister protects against a single chemical or class of chemicals. Read the label on the cartridge or canister to ascertain the agent against which it will protect, maximum concentration and, in some instances, the service life of the element. Air purifying-chemical cartridge/canister respirators do not supply oxygen. You cannot use them in an Oxygen deficient atmosphere. You must not use them in an atmosphere IDLH or where warning properties of the contaminant are poor, and therefore would not signify that the filter is consumed; • Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) type-C supplied-air respirators allow the user to work independent of the air quality of the work site. You will generally use SCBA as an emergency rescue respirator or for cleaning up chemical spills; • Supplied-air respirators provide the user with grade D certified breathing air from a central source via an air supply line or hose. Supplied air respirators are available in either half-mask or full-face mask. The air-line respirator allows the user to work for extended periods of time in a contaminated atmosphere. This type of respirator is not allowed in an tmosphere
63
classified as IDLH unless it includes a small self-contained source of breathing air for escape purposes and is approved for such use.Respirator need and selection (sample procedure) 10.4.1 To determine the need for respirator protection ineach situation: a) Assess whether potential exposures exist and to what extent; b) Review all available industrial hygiene data to establish need and assist in selecting the correct respiratory protection. Conduct additional industrial hygiene surveys as necessary; c) Assess current engineering and/or administrative controls used to prevent exposure; d) Assess the feasibility of engineering; e) Review in-depth any current work requirements and conditions that may impair an employee‘s ability to wear respiratory protection; f) Assess the characteristics and limitations of available respiratory protection; g) Select and use IS approved PPEs In the absence of ISI marked products the international standard products with CE marking to be used. NIOSH approved products are suitable. a) Examine employees to evaluate their medical status as it relates to respiratory protection, and to ensure they are physically able to perform the work while wearing a respirator. b) Medical examination will consist of: • Completion of respiratory questionnaire; • Pulmonary function test; • Physical examination. c) Review annually the medical status of all employees who use respiratory protection. Training (sample procedure) a) Only medically approved employees will receive training in respiratory protection. b) The training program will include: • Purpose of respiratory protection; • Types of protection available and the limitation of each type; • How to properly don the equipment and check the face-piece fit; • How to properly clean, inspect and store the equipment; • Discussion of the company‘s written respiratory protection program. c) Provide all employees the opportunity to wear the respirator of their choice for 14 minutes before the face fit-testing procedure.
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10.5 Eye and Face Protection 10.5.1 Provide your employees with appropriate protection if they are exposed to hazards that could injure their eyes and/or faces, such as
Flying particles
Liquid chemicals
Acids or caustic liquids
Chemical gases or vapors
Harmful light radiation or any light that could injure the eyes such as lasers, ultraviolet,
or infrared light Blood and other potentially infectious body fluids that might splash,
spray, or splatter
Wear your safety glasses to keep objects - like this staple - out of your eye! Prescription safety glasses with side shields.
10.5.2 Generally,
Safety glasses/goggles are the primary protection for eyes
- Side shields (such as clip-on or slide on side shields) are required for flying objects
A face shield is not sufficient protection for both the face and eyes. If eye protection is required, appropriate eye PPE must also be worn.
Masks and face shields are the primary protection for the face; secondary
protection for the eyes Be aware that you may need to protect against more than one hazard at the same time. E.g., welding rays and flying particles. 36
10.5.3 Whenever possible, consider using engineering controls before resorting to PPE. For example,
The barrier is an engineering control that will prevent splashes back toward the
worker. - A face shield may be needed if there is a potential for material to still strike the worker despite the barrier.
In a machine shop, the clear barrier over the wheel of a grinder would be the engineering control designed to control small metal particles.
65
- However, since its effectiveness is dependent upon how well it is adjusted, safety glasses would still be needed.
- Sometimes face shields would also need to be worn.
10.5.4 Types of Eye/Face Protectors Before outlining the type(s) of eye protectors recommended for a particular work hazard, it is necessary to explain the various types of eye protectors available. Eye protectors are designed to provide protection against three types of hazards — impact, splash, and radiation (visible and invisible light rays) The seven basic classes of eye protectors are: spectacles, goggles, welding helmets, welding hand shields, hoods, face shields, and respirator face pieces. 10.5.5 Spectacles (Figure 3) Spectacles incorporate side protection. Most side shields are permanently attached to the eyewear, but some may be detachable.
10.6 FOOT PROTECTION
The use of foot protection minimizes the potential for occupational foot injuries.
Terms such as "safety shoes" and "protective footwear" refer to shoes which are specifically designed and tested to withstand stimuli defined in Indian Standards..
Managers and employees must review their tasks to determine the potential for exposure to foot hazards and the severity of exposure and assure that foot protection is worn when necessary.
10.6.1 Foot hazards may be posed by:
1. Falling packages/objects (including monitors, raised floor tiles, power supplies, valves, tools, hoist loads, items for demos/expos, etc.)
2. Rolling objects (including manual and powered material handling carts/vehicles, large pipes, large magnets)
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3. Sharp material at foot level 4. Heavy debris/objects which may be kicked (primarily applicable to construction sites,
including lab rearrangements)
10.6.2 Some employees are exposed to potential foot hazards on a daily basis, while others may only be exposed infrequently. The determination as to who must wear safety shoes is based on the frequency of the exposure and the severity of the injury, should an accident occur.
10.6.2.1 Safety shoes must be worn if an employee is frequently (at least once/week) exposed to potential foot hazards. This includes employees who must frequently visit potential foot hazard areas such as the model shop, warehouse, mechanical equipment rooms , shipping/receiving, construction areas, etc. The shoes must be worn during all foot hazard exposures.
10.6.2.2 Safety shoes must be worn if a task is infrequently (less than once/week) but the severity of potential injury, could result in a broken bone.
10.6.3 Selection and Fit
Boots are available in various styles and sole materials for different types of work. For example, Grade 1
rubber boots may be better suited than leather boots for sewer and water main or concrete work. Gum Boots can be used Boots should provide ample ―toe room‖ (toes about 1/2 inch back from the front of steel box toe cap when standing with boots laced). When fitting boots, allow for heavy work socks. If extra sock liners or special arch supports are to be worn in the boots, insert these when fitting boots. Care and Use
There are different brands of Shoes meeting the IS requirement for steel toes in the market, namely Bata safety shoes, Warrior etc. 10.7 HEARING PROTECTION 10.7.1 Introduction
Construction generally produces noise. Typical construction work may involve equipment driven by large and small engines, metal fabrication, power drilling and sawing, air hammering, and blasting — all of which can
67
produce noise at harmful levels. Depending on the noise level, duration of exposure, and other factors, a temporary or permanent hearing loss may result. Temporary hearing losses will usually be restored by the body within a few hours after the exposure has ceased. Hearing losses which cannot be restored by the body over any length of time are termed permanent. A person suffering a hearing loss will frequently not realize it. Noise may be harmful at levels that an exposed person does not consider irritating or annoying. Therefore, despite individual preferences, prevention and control procedures must be based on the general potential for hearing loss. Waiting for personal discomfort before taking preventive measures may be too late to avoid a permanent noise induced hearing loss. 10.7.2 Noise Measurement Measuring sound levels can determine • whether or not a noise hazard is present
• noise exposures of workers
• which workers require hearing protection, hearing tests, education, and training. Measurements are performed with a sound level meter(SLM). The unit used to measure the intensity of sound is the decibel (dB). Intensity is perceived as loudness. Noise levels can‘t be added directly like other numbers. For example, two noise sources producing 90 dB each would have a combined output of 93 dB, not 180 dB. The combined output of 93 dB is actually a doubling of intensity. In many construction situations several different sources each contribute to the overall noise. This means that a worker‘s exposure may be much higher than it would be if only one of the sources was present (Figure 22).
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In addition to intensity, the SLM can detect a wide range of frequencies. Since the human ear tends to filter out the lower frequencies and slightly accentuate the higher ones, SLMs are engineered to do the same. They feature an internal mechanism called "A-weighting." The resulting noise level is expressed as decibels (dB) on the "A" scale or dBA. 10.7.2.1 Two types of noise measurements can be performed: area and personal. An area noise measurement is taken in a specific work area. The measurement is generally used as a preliminary step to determine whether more detailed evaluation involving personal noise measurement is necessary. Area noise readings should not be used to determine what hearing protection is required or who needs a hearing test. Personal exposure measurement should be used for these purposes. 10.7.2.2 Personal noise measurement involves a small device called a noise dosimeter. Workers can wear the device to determine their average noise exposure over a whole shift. Usually worn around the waist, the dosimeter has a microphone that is placed as close to the worker‘s ear as possible. Noise measurements should be carried out in accordance with acceptable standards. Procedures for the Measurements of Occupational Noise Exposure, provides guidance on the type of equipment to use, which workers to test, and how to test. Noise evaluation must be done by a knowledgeable person trained and experienced in conducting noise surveys. 10.7.3 Hearing Process The hearing process begins when the outer ear directs sound waves into the ear canal (Figure 23). The eardrum vibrates as sound waves strike it. This vibration is then trans mitted through the middle ear where it is amplified on a membrane called the oval window. The oval window separates the middle ear from the inner
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ear where the sensitive hearing organs are located. Attached to the other side of the oval window is a tiny, snail-shaped structure called the cochlea. The cochlea contains fluid and hair cells. These thousands of small but highly sensitive hair cells feel the vibration. Responding to the cells are microscopic nerve endings that send messages to the brain, where the signals are interpreted as varieties of sound. 10.7.4 Hearing Loss Any reduction in the normal ability to hear is referred to as a loss of hearing. A hearing loss can be either temporary or permanent. 10.7.4.1 Temporary Threshold Shift With a temporary hearing loss, normal hearing will usually return after a rest period away from all sources of intense or loud noise. The recovery period may be minutes, hours, a day or perhaps even longer. It is believed that a temporary hearing loss occurs when hair cells in the inner ear have been bent by vibrations and need time to bounce back. Most of the temporary hearing loss occurs during the first two hours of exposure and recovery takes place usually within the first two hours after exposure stops. However, the length of time needed for recovery depends primarily on how great the initial loss was. The greater the initial loss the longer the time needed to recuperate. This temporary decrease in hearing ability is called a temporary threshold shift (TTS) because the threshold or level at which sound can be heard has been raised.For instance, to listen to your favorite music at the volume you like, you would have to turn it up a few more notches than usual. This phenomenon explains why some people, particularly those who suffer from some form of hearing loss, claim that they ―get used to the noise.‖If these previous exposures are allowed to continue under the same conditions and without the proper interval of rest, then a certain degree of permanent hearing loss is possible. 10.7.4.2 Permanent Threshold Shift Permanent hearing loss is the result of hair cell or nerve destruction within the cochlea. Once these important parts of the hearing process are destroyed, they can never be restored or regenerated. The resulting permanent hearing loss, also referred to as permanent threshold shift (PTS), can range from slight impairment to nearly total deafness. A symptom of PTS is the inability to pick up sounds with higher frequencies. As damage increases, the reception of speech becomes more difficult. Unfortunately, the damage builds up gradually. Workers may not notice changes from one day to another. But once the damage is done there is no cure. Effects may include the following. • Sounds and speech become muffled so that it‘s hard to tell similar-sounding words apart or to pick out a voice in a crowd.
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• Sufferers ask people to speak up, then complain that they are shouting. • There‘s a permanent ringing in the ears (tinnitus). • Sufferers need to turn the volume on the radio or television way up or find it hard to use the telephone. 10.7.5 Determining Factors The following factors determine the degree and extent of hearing loss: 10.7.5.1 • Type of Noise (continuous, intermittent, impact, high or low frequency) 10.7.5.2 • Intensity of Noise (level of loudness) 10.7.5.3 • Duration of Exposure (length of time worker subjected to noise — for example, during day, on specific shifts) 10.7.5.4 • Employment Duration (years worker subjected to noise) 10.7.5.5 • Type of Noise Environment (character of surroundings – for example, enclosed, open, reflective surfaces) 10.7.5.6 • Source Distance(s) (distance of worker from noise source) 10.7.5.7 • Worker’s Position (position of worker relative to noise source) 10.7.5.8 • Worker’s Age (for instance, a 20-year-old apprentice versus a 40-year-old journeyperson) 10.7.5.9 • Individual Susceptibility (sensitivity difference, physical impairments) 10.7.5.10 • Worker’s Present Health (whether a worker has any detectable losses or ear diseases) 10.7.5.11 • Worker’s Home and Leisure Activities (Exposures to noise other than occupational, such as hunting, skeet shooting, earphone ,music,, etc.) Other prime causes of permanent hearing loss are age, Traumatic injuries (such as from explosions or gunfire), and infection. Noise, however, is the major identifiable cause of hearing loss. Therefore, it is important that controls are exercised wherever possible so that such losses can be prevented.
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11.0 HIGH-VISIBILITY CLOTHING 11.1 The construction regulation (O. Reg. 213/91) requires that any worker who may be endangered by vehicular traffic on a project must wear a garment that provides a high level of visibility. There are two distinct features to high-visibility clothing. 11.2 Background Material This is the fabric from which the garment is made. It must be fluorescent orange or bright orange in colour and afford increased daytime visibility to the wearer. Fluorescent orange provides a higher level of daytime visibility and is recommended. 11.3 Retroreflective Stripes or Bands The stripes or bands must be fluorescent and retroreflective and be arranged on the garment with two vertical stripes down the front and forming an X on the back. The stripes must be yellow and 50 mm wide. Retroreflective stripes are to afford the worker both lowlight and night-time visibility.
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For night-time work, additional stripes or bands are
required on the arms and legs. One way to meet this
requirement is to dress workers in fluorescent orange coveralls with retroreflective bands or stripes attached. 11.4 Risk Assessment Before selecting high-visibility garments, assess the risks to be controlled. Workers who require greater visibility, such as roadway construction workers, should wear clothing that is highly conspicuous under the conditions expected. 12.0 LADDERS 12.1 INTRODUCTION Every year Indian construction industry more than 800 lost-time injuries are caused by ladder accidents. Many of these accidents involve falls resulting in serious injuries and fatalities. Falls from ladders are common to all trades and pose one of the most serious safety problems in construction. The following are major causes of accidents. — Ladders are not held, tied off, or otherwise secured. — Slippery surfaces and un favourable weather conditions cause workers to lose footing on rungs or steps. — Workers fail to grip ladders adequately when climbing up or down. — Workers take unsafe positions on ladders (such as leaning out too far). — Placement on poor footing or at improper angles causes ladders to slide. — Ladders are defective.
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— High winds cause ladders to topple. — Near electrical lines, ladders are carelessly handled or improperly positioned. — Ladder stabilizers are not used where appropriate. To assist supervisors and foremen in preventing such accidents, this chapter provides guidelines for selecting, setting up, maintaining, and using ladders. Because ladders are the most common type of access equipment in the construction industry, thousands are used every working day. As a result, there are many thousands of hours of exposure to ladder hazards every week. The extensive exposure, the high fatality rate, and the large number of lost-time injuries as well as the associated costs and suffering from ladder accidents justify increased training of the workforce and better supervision of ladder use. Worker training alone will not yield sufficient improvement. Any significant reduction in ladder accidents will require regular supervisory reinforcement of training as well as improved site control of operations involving ladders. 12.2 STANDARDS AND MATERIALS The most common materials for ladders are aluminum, wood, steel, and fiberglass-reinforced plastic. Wooden ladders deteriorate more rapidly than those made of more durable materials. They must never be painted because paint hides signs of deterioration and may accelerate rotting by trapping moisture in the wood. However, they may be treated with a clear non-toxic wood preservative or coated with a clear varnish. Inspect wooden ladders frequently for splits, shakes, or cracks in side rails and rungs; warping or loosening of rungs; loosening of attached metal hardware; and deformation of metal parts. Although aluminum ladders are popular and more widely used than wooden ladders in construction, they are also more susceptible to damage by rough usage. Because they conduct electricity well, aluminum ladders must not be used where electrical contact is possible. Check side rails and rungs regularly for dents, bends, and loose rungs. If dented, the ladder should be taken out of service until repaired by a competent person. If repair is not possible, the ladder should be destroyed. Fiberglass-reinforced plastic side rails are becoming more common and are generally used with aluminum rungs. They do not conduct electricity well and are resistant to corrosion. They are lightweight and available in various colours. They are, however, costly and heat-sensitive. They must not be exposed to temperatures above 93.3°C (200°F). Fiberglass ladders should be inspected regularly for cracks and ―blooming.‖ This condition is evidenced by tufts of exposed glass fiber where the mat has worn off. The worn area should be coated with an epoxy material compatible with the fiberglass. Because of their weight, steel ladders are generally not used as portable ladders in the construction industry. They are, however, often fixed to permanent structures or mobile machinery. 12.3 TYPES The many types of ladders used on construction sites range from metal ladders permanently mounted on equipment to job-built wooden ladders.
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12.3.1 Portable Ladders (Figure 1) All portable ladders must have non-slip feet or be set up so that the feet will not slip.. For general construction applications, heavy duty portable ladders are recommended. For certain types of finishing work, however, this degree of ruggedness may not be necessary and medium duty ladders will provide acceptable service. Where medium duty ladders are used, they should be restricted to the application for which they were manufactured and not ―borrowed‖ for rougher service.
12.3.2 Step, Trestle and Platform Ladders (Figure 2) Apart from the standards of sound construction and reliable service that should apply to all ladders used on site, the primary consideration with these ladders is that they have strong spreader arms which lock securely in the open position. 12.3.3 Fixed Ladders (Figure 3) Steel ladders permanently fixed to structures such as stacks and silos are designed for service after construction is complete but are often used by work crews during construction.
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If the ladders are vertical and there is a risk of falling more than 3 meters (10 feet), a body harness and lifeline, or body harness and channel lock device, should be used by workers climbing up and down or working from the ladders. These ladders must have safety cages starting no more than 2.2 meters (7 feet) from the bottom of the ladder and extending at least 0.9 meters (3 feet) above the top landing. Rest platforms with ladder offsets are required at intervals no more than 9 meters (30 feet) apart where a fall arrest system is not used.
12.3.4 Special Purpose Ladders (Figure 4) These ladders should be used in accordance with manufacturers' directions and only for the special applications intended. 12.4 Proper Use of Ladders More than 80 percent of ladder accidents are related to improper use or application of the equipment. Supervisors must control the application of equipment to particular situations. But personnel using the equipment must also be trained to use it. Training should include the following precautions. 12.4.1— Check the ladder for defects at the start of a shift, after it has been used in another location by other workers, or after it has been left in one location for a lengthy period of time. (See the end of this chapter for inspection procedures.) 12.4.2— Areas surrounding the base and top of the ladder should be clear of trash, materials and other obstructions since getting on and off the ladder is relatively more hazardous than other aspects of use. 12.4.3— The base of the ladder should be secured against accidental movement. Use a ladder equipped with non-slip feet appropriate for the situation, nail a cleat to the floor, or otherwise anchor the feet or bottom of the side rails (Figure 6).
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— The ladder must be set up on a firm level surface. If its base is to rest on soft, un compacted or rough soil,
a mud sill should be used (Figure 7). 12.4.5 — The top of the ladder should be tied off or otherwise secured to prevent any movement (Figure 8). If this is not possible, given the type of ladder or circumstances of its use, one worker should hold the base of the ladder while it is being used. 12.4.6 — If a ladder is used for access from one work level to another, the side rails should extend a minimum of 900 millimeters (3 feet) above the landing. Grab rails should be
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installed at the upper landing so that a worker getting on and off the ladder has secure handholds. 12.4.7 — All straight or extension ladders should be erected at an angle such that the horizontal distance between the top support and the base is not less than one quarter or greater than one-third the vertical distance between these points (Figure 9).
12.4.8 — Before setting up straight or extension ladders, check the area for overhead power lines. Ladders made of aluminum or other conductive material should never be used near power lines. Only competent electricians and linemen using ladders made of non-conductive material are allowed to work in close proximity to energized electrical lines. 12.4.9 — Portable ladders should never be used horizontally as substitutes for scaffold planks, runways, or any other service for which they have not been designed. 12.4.10— when a task can only be done while standing on a portable ladder, the length of the ladder must be such that the worker stands on a rung no higher than the fourth from the top. The ladder should also be tied off or equipped with a suitable stabilizer. Short ladders must never be spliced together to make a longer ladder. Side rails will not be strong enough to support the extra loads. 12.4.11— Straight ladders should not be used as bracing, skids, storage racks, or guys. They were not designed for these purposes and the damage caused by such abuse can later result in an accident during normal use. 12.4.12— unless suitable barricades have been erected, ladders should not be set up in passageways, doorways, driveways, or other locations where they can be struck or displaced by persons or vehicles using the access route. 12.4.13— only one person at a time should be allowed on a single-width ladder. In the case of a double-width ladder, no more than two people should be allowed on it at one time and each should be on a separate side. 12.4.14— Ladders should not be placed against flexible or movable surfaces. 12.4.15— Always face the ladder when climbing up or down and when working from it.
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12.4.16— Maintain 3-point contact when climbing up or down a ladder. That means two hands and one foot or two feet and one hand on the ladder at all times. This is especially important when you get on or off a ladder at heights (Figure 10).
12.4.7 When working from a ladder, keep your centre of gravity between the side rails. A person's centre of gravity is approximately in the centre of the body at belt height. The location of your centre of gravity can shift when you reach out to either side of a ladder, especially with materials, tools, or equipment in your hands. As the centre of gravity of your body and Hand-held objects moves beyond the side rails, the ladder is tending toward instability. 12.4.18— Whenever possible, avoid climbing up or down a ladder while carrying anything in your hands. Tools, equipment and materials should be placed in a container and raised or lowered by rope, if necessary. 12.4.19— Workers should be instructed and frequently reminded to keep their boots free of mud, snow, grease, or other slippery materials if they are using ladders. 12.4.20— Always hold onto the ladder with at least one hand. If this is not possible because of the task to be done and in particular if the work is 3 meters (10 feet) or more above the floor, the worker must wear a safety harness and tie the lanyard off to the structure or to a lifeline before beginning work. 12.4.21— Never straddle the space between a ladder and another object (Figure 11).
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Persons frequently required to use or work from ladders should wear protective footwear with soles and heels made of slip-resistant materials such as soft urethane. 12.4.22— Never erect ladders on boxes, carts, tables, or other unstable surfaces. 12.4.23— Fall-arresting equipment such as ladder climbing devices or lifelines should be used when working from long fixed ladders or when climbing vertical fixed ladders. 12.4.24— Never rest a ladder on any of its rungs. Ladders must rest on their side rails. 12.4.25— When erecting long, awkward, or heavy ladders, two or more persons should share the task to avoid injury from over-exertion. 12.4.26— Instruct all personnel to watch for overhead power lines before attempting to erect any ladder. When overhead power lines are in proximity of the work, aluminum ladders must not be used.
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12.5 LADDER INSPECTION CHECKLIST YES NO
1. Are any wooden parts splintered? ■ ■ 2. Are there any defects in side rails, ■ ■ rungs, or other similar parts? 3. Are there any missing or broken rungs? ■ ■ 4. Are there any broken, split, or cracked ■ ■ rails repaired with wire, sheet metal, or other makeshift materials? 5. Are there any worn, damaged, or ■ ■ missing feet? 6. Are there any worn, damaged, or ■ ■ unworkable extension ladder locks, pulleys, or other similar fittings? 7. Is the rope on extension ladders ■ ■ worn, broken, or frayed? 8. Has the rope on extension ladders ■ ■ been replaced by material inferior to the ladder manufacturer's original rope? 9. Are the spreader arms on step ■ ladders bent, worn, broken, or otherwise rendered partly or totally ineffective? If the answer is ―YES‖ to any of the questions on the Inspection Checklist, the ladder should be tagged so that workers will know it is defective and should not be used. It should be taken out of service immediately and placed in a location where it will not be used until repairs are completed. If the ladder is not to be repaired it should be destroyed.
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13.0 GUARDRAILS 13.1 A worker at risk of falling certain distances (see below) must be protected by a guardrail system or, if guardrails are not practical, by a travel-restraint system, fall-restricting system ,fall-arrest system, or safety net. In many cases, guardrails are the most reliable and convenient means of fall protection and they must be your first consideration. Guardrails or, if guardrails are impractical, other appropriate methods of fall protection must be used when • a worker could fall more than 3 metres (10 feet) from any location • there is a fall hazard of more than 1.2 metres, if the work area is used as a path for a wheelbarrow or similar equipment • a worker could have access to the unprotected edge of any of the following work surfaces and is exposed to a fall of 2.4 metres (8 feet) or more: • a floor, including the floor of a mezzanine or balcony • the surface of a bridge • a roof while formwork is in place
• a scaffold platform or other work platform, runway, or ramp. • there are openings in floors, roofs, and other working surfaces not otherwise covered or protected • there are open edges of slab formwork for floors and roofs • a worker may fall into water, operating machinery, or hazardous substances. Basic requirements for wood guardrails (Figure 33) include • top rail, mid rail, and toeboard secured to vertical supports • top rail between 0.9 m (3 feet) and 1.1 m (3 feet 7 inches) high • toeboard at least 100 mm (4 inches) high – 89 mm
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(3 1/2 inches) high if made of wood – and installed flush with the surface • posts no more than 2.4 metres (8 feet) apart. Other systems are acceptable (Figure 34) if they are as strong and durable as wood guardrails with the same minimum dimensions. Guardrails must be installed no farther than 300 mm from an edge.A guardrail must be capable of resisting – anywhere along its length and without exceeding the allowable unit stress for each material used – the following loads when applied separately: • a point load of 675 newtons (150 lb) applied laterally to the top rail • a point load of 450 newtons (100 lb) applied in a vertical downward direction to the top rail • a point load of 450 newtons (100 lb) applied in a lateral or vertical downward direction to the mid-rail • a point load of 225 newtons (50 lb) applied laterally to the toe board. 13.2 Support Typical methods of supporting wood guardrails are shown in Figure 33. Posts extending to top rail height must be braced and solidly fastened to the floor or slab. Shoring jacks used as posts should be fitted with plywood
softener plates top and bottom
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13.3 SCAFFOLDS 13.3.1 Contents 1. Introduction 2. Problem areas 3. Selection 4. Basic types of scaffolds 5. Scaffold components 6. Erecting and dismantling scaffolds 7. Scaffold stability 8. Platforms 9. Proper use of scaffolds 13.3.2 INTRODUCTION More than half of scaffold accidents in construction are falls. Several fatalities are also related toscaffolds each year. The number and severity of injuriesinvolved make scaffold accidents one of the more serioussafety problems in construction. 13.3.3 PROBLEM AREAS The main problem areas are • erecting and dismantling scaffolds • climbing up and down scaffolds • planks sliding off or breaking
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• improper loading or overloading • platforms not fully planked or ―decked‖ • platforms without guardrails • failure to install all required components such as base plates, connections, and braces • moving rolling scaffolds in the vicinity of overhead electrical wires • moving rolling scaffolds with workers on the platform. 13.3.3.1 Erecting and Dismantling From 15 to 20% of scaffold-related injuries involve erecting and dismantling. The most common problem is the failure to provide an adequate working platform for a worker to use when installing the next lift of scaffold. Working from one or two planks is not recommended. The next important consideration involves components, such as tie-ins, which you should install as the assembly progresses. Failure to do so makes the scaffold less stable and, while it may not topple, it may sway or move enough to knock someone off the platform. This happens more often when platforms are only one or two planks wide and guardrails are missing, as is frequently the case during erection and dismantling. 13.3.3.2 Climbing Up and Down Approximately 15% of scaffold-related injuries occur when workers are climbing up and down. Climbing up and down frames is a common but unacceptable practice that has resulted in numerous injuries and fatalities. Climbing up and down braces is also a frequent cause of accidents. You must provide adequate ladders to overcome this problem. In addition, workers must use proper climbing techniques (three-point contact). 13.3.3.3 Planks Sliding Off or Breaking Many scaffold injuries involve problems with planks. If scaffold planks are un cleated or otherwise unsecured they easily slide off – this causes a surprising number of injuries. Scaffold planks can also break if they are in poor condition or overloaded. It is therefore important to use proper grades of lumber and to inspect planks before erection to ensure that there are no weak areas, deterioration, or cracks. Another common problem is insufficient or excessive overhang of planks at their support. Excessive overhang can cause a plank to tip up
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when a worker stands on the overhanging portion.Insufficient overhang is a leading cause of planks slipping off. 13.3.3.4 Improper Loading or Overloading Overloading causes excessive deflection in planks and can lead to deterioration and breaking. Overloading occurs most often in the masonry trade where skids of material can exceed 1500 kg (3000 lb.). If material is left overhanging the scaffold platform it can cause an imbalance leading to the scaffold overturning. 13.3.3.5 Platforms Not Fully Decked This situation is related to injuries not only during erection and dismantling but in general scaffold use. The Construction Regulation (Ontario Regulation 213/91)requires that all scaffold platforms must be at least 450 mm (18 inches) wide. All platforms above 2.4 meters(8 feet) must be fully decked. 13.3.3.6 Platforms without Guardrails Platforms without guardrails are a serious safety problem in construction. Guardrails are an important fall prevention measure not only for high platforms but also for low ones. Over one-third of the falls from scaffolds are from platforms less than 3 meters (10 feet) in height. Therefore, guardrails are recommended during normal use for all scaffold platforms over 1.5 meters (5 feet) high. Guardrails for all working platforms should consist of a top rail, a mid rail, and a toe board. 13.3.3.7 Failure to Install All Required Components Failure to use all of the proper scaffold component is a serious safety problem. Workers are more likely to cut corners when scaffolds are only a few frames in height. All too frequently they fail to install base plates, braces, proper securing devices such as ―banana‖ clips or ―pigtails‖ at the pins of frame scaffolds, and adequate tie-ins. Those erecting the scaffold must have all the necessary components, and must use them to ensure that the scaffold is safe. Furthermore, workers should install these parts as the scaffold erection progresses. 13.3.3.8 Electrical Contact with Overhead Wires Scaffolds seldom make contact with overhead electrical lines, but when it does happen it almost always results in a fatality. Failure to maintain safe distances from overhead power lines while moving scaffolds is a major problem. Before attempting to move rolling scaffolds in outdoor open areas, check the route carefully to ensure that no
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overhead wires are in the immediate vicinity. Partial dismantling may be necessary in some situations to ensure that the scaffold will make the required safe clearances from overhead power lines. The required minimum safe distances are listed in Table 1. Hoisting scaffold material by forklift or other mechanical means requires careful planning and should be avoided in the vicinity of power lines. Transporting already-erected scaffolds by forklift, particularly in residential construction, has been the cause of many electrical contacts — this is a dangerous practice. Workers handling materials or equipment while working on the platform must also take care to avoid electrical contact. Table 1: Minimum distance from power lines Voltage Rating of Power Line Minimum Distance 750 to 150,000 volts 3 meters (10 feet) 150,001 to 250,000 volts 4.5 meters (15 feet) over 250,000 volts 6 meters (20 feet) 13.3.3.9 Moving Rolling Scaffolds with Workers on the Platform Moving rolling scaffolds with workers on the platform can be dangerous. Where it is impractical for workers to climb down, and the scaffold is over 3 meters (10 feet) in height, each worker must be tied off with a full body harness and lanyard. Lifelines must be attached to a suitable anchor point other than the scaffold. Holes, depressions, curbs, etc. have all been responsible for scaffolds overturning while being moved. In some jurisdictions moving a scaffold with workers on the platform is prohibited if the platform exceeds a certain height. 13.3.4 SELECTION The safe and efficient use of scaffolding depends first on choosing the right system for the job. If the scaffold‘s basic characteristics are unsuited to the task, or if all the necessary components are not available, personnel are forced to make do and improvise. These conditions lead to accidents. Proper selection of scaffolding and related components requires basic knowledge about site conditions and the work to be done. Considerations include • weight of workers, tools, materials, and equipment to be carried by the scaffold • site conditions (e.g., interior, exterior, backfill, concrete floors, type and condition of walls, access for the equipment, variations in elevation, anchorage points) • height or heights to which the scaffold may be erected • type of work that will be done from the scaffold (e.g., masonry work, sandblasting, painting, metal siding, mechanical installation, suspended ceiling installation) • duration of work • experience of the supervisor and crew with the types of scaffolds available • requirements for pedestrian traffic through and under the scaffold • anticipated weather conditions • ladders or other access to the platform • obstructions • configuration of the building or structure being worked on • special erection or dismantling problems including
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providing practical fall protection for the erector
• the use of mechanical equipment to aid in erecting the scaffold. 13.3.5 BASIC TYPES OF SCAFFOLDS 13.3.5.1 Standard Tubular Frame Scaffolds This is the most frequently used scaffold in construction. Historically it has been made of steel tubing, but aluminum is gaining popularity. The scaffold is manufactured in various configurations and spans. On some systems, ladder rungs are built into the end frames (Figure 4.1). These ladders are not suitable for tall scaffold towers unless rest platforms are installed at regular intervals and trapdoors are provided in the platforms. Other models are equipped with ladders that attach to the end frames (Figure 4.3). The ladder shown in Figure 4.3 is continuous and workers gain access via gates at the platform level. Again this ladder is not suitable for high scaffolds. Scaffolds in excess of 9 meters (30 feet) should have built-in stairs with rest platforms. Vertical ladders can reach up to 9 meters, but above 2.2 meters (7 feet) they require a safety cage. The advantages of the frame scaffold are that it is simple to assemble, many construction trades are familiar with its use, and the components can be lifted manually by workers. However, as with other systems, all parts must be used. Failure to install any of the components, such as bracing and base plates, may lead to accidents. 13.3.5.2 Standard Walk-through Frame Scaffolds This is a variation of the standard tubular frame scaffold. An example is shown in Figure 4.2. Although primarily designed to accommodate pedestrian traffic at the ground or street level, the walk-through scaffold is frequently used by the masonry trade to provide greater height per tier and easier distribution of materials on platforms at intermediate levels. SCAFFOLDS
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Figure 4.1
13.3.5.3 Spans of Tower Base Span lengths are varied using different lengths of vertical bracing. Most manufacturers have braces providing spans between 5 and 10 feet in length, with 7-foot spans being the most common. The use of 7-foot spans is ideal when using 16-foot planks as this allows a 1-foot overhang at each end. When using spans in excess of 7 feet, the load bearing capacity of the platforms is reduced and must be accounted for in the design.
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13.3.5.4 Mobile/Rolling Scaffolds Rolling scaffolds are best suited where short-duration work must be carried out at multiple locations. They are used mainly by mechanical and electrical trades. There are two main types of rolling scaffold. 13.3.5.4.1 Castor Type. This type of scaffold is best suited for work on smooth floors and is typically used inside buildings. All castors should be equipped with braking devices (Figure 4.3). This kind of scaffold should be erected so that its height-to-width ratio is no greater than 3 to 1. This limits the height of platforms with standard outrigger stabilizers and single span towers to approximately 9 meters (30 feet). 13.3.5.4.2 Farm Wagon Type. Scaffolds erected on farm wagons or other devices with pneumatic tires are frequently used for installing sheet metal siding and similar materials on industrial buildings. For safe, effective use, the area around the building should be well compacted, relatively smooth and level. This type of scaffold must also have outrigger beams with leveling devices (Figure 4.4). It is subject to the 3-to-1 height to- width ratio and is impractical for heights greater than 7.5 meters (25 feet). The scaffold should always be resting on the outriggers while workers are aboard. It should never be used as a work platform while it is ―on rubber.‖Mobile / Rolling scaffolds other than those that are lifted off the ground on outriggers should have brakes on all wheels. All brakes should be applied when the scaffold reaches the desired location
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13.3.6 SCAFFOLD COMPONENTS 13.3.6.1 Tubular Frame Scaffolds: There are many tubular frame scaffold components available (Figures 5.1, 5.2). Some components are necessary in almost all situations; others are optional depending on use and manufacturers‘ instructions. In addition to scaffold end frames, the minimum components required are – base plates or castors – mudsills – adjustable screw jacks
– vertical braces on both sides of frames unless
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• frames are designed with ―non-pinned‖ joints • additional bracing is provided by a designed system using tube-and-clamp accessories – horizontal braces on every third tier of frames – platform materials to fully deck in the intended working level – guardrails complete with toeboards – guardrail posts where working platforms will be at the top level – ladders or stairs for access – intermediate platforms where required—not more than 9 meters (30 feet) apart and adjacent to vertical ladders. 13.3.6.2 Tube-and-Clamp Scaffolds and Systems Scaffolds have individual components unique to each type. These components are identified and discussed in detail in Section 6. 13.3.6.3 Platforms Platforms for frame scaffolds are normally either made of hollow steel tubes called jallies or aluminum/plywood platforms or wood planks. Planks normally come in 8-foot or 16-foot lengths to cover one or two 7-foot bays with adequate overhang. 13.3.6.4 Outrigger/Side Brackets The use of outrigger brackets—also known as side brackets (Figure 5.3)—is very popular in the masonry industry. They are attached to the inside of the frame and accommodate a platform approximately 20" (two planks)wide. They provide a work platform for the mason at an ergonomically convenient location, lower than the material platform. Intended as a work platform only, they are not to be used for material storage.
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Instances have been reported of brackets installed on the ―wrong‖ side of the scaffold—facing the forklift, for example, to provide a landing area for skids of material. This is not acceptable because outrigger brackets are not designed for supporting material. Furthermore, the practice may lead to unbalanced loading of the scaffold, causing tip-over. Figure 5.4 illustrates typical outrigger/side brackets attached to the scaffold for masonry use. For efficient, comfortable work, the brackets should be adjustable in lifts of no more than 600 mm (24 inches). A space no greater than 150 mm (6 inches) should be maintained between the bracket platform and the wall. Although the outrigger brackets illustrated are side brackets, end brackets are also available from most manufacturers 13.3.6.5 Take particular care when erecting scaffolds on frozen ground. Thawing soil is often water-soaked, resulting in considerable loss of bearing capacity. You must take thawing into account when tarps or other covers will be placed around a scaffold and the enclosure will be heated. 13.3.6.6 If the scaffold is inside a building, preparing the foundation may mean • clearing away debris or construction materials and equipment stored in the way • using sills or placing shoring under old wooden floors. For a scaffold on the outside of a building, preparing the foundation may include • replacing mud and soft ground with gravel or crushed stone • leveling and compacting loose backfill • stabilizing or protecting embankments • providing protection against erosion from rain or thawing • using mudsills. 13.3.6.7 Foundation preparation is important with any scaffold. It is especially important when scaffolds will be heavily loaded, as in masonry work. Differential settlement may damage scaffold components even if no serious incident or collapse occurs. SCAFFOLDS
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Figure 6.1 MUDSILL ON SLOPING GROUND Figure 6.2 IMPROPER SUPPORT
13.3.6.8 Use the following good work practices: • Do not drop or roughly handle outrigger/side brackets during erection or dismantling. This can bend or damage hooks. • Use planks that are double-cleated at one end to ensure that the cleats are engaged over a bracket to prevent the bracket from pivoting. • Inspect brackets as they are being installed on the scaffold to ensure that only sound brackets with no defects are used. Tag for repair any brackets that have deformed or cracked hooks, cracked welds, or other defects. • Make sure that brackets are mounted securely on the frame all the way down. • Never stock material on the bracket working platform The working platform is for the worker only.
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• Make sure that planks laid on the brackets extend at least 150 mm (6 inches) beyond the frames at either end. • Place brackets so the level where the worker stands is no more than 1 metre (40 inches) below the level where the material is stored.Beware of common hazards with outrigger/side brackets: • hooks bent or deformed to the extent that they will roll off the frame under load • hooks bent back into place, thereby causing cracks in the metal or welds which then break under load • homemade brackets that are poorly designed and fabricated, too flimsy to bear the load, or not sized properly to hold two planks • failure to inspect brackets during erection to ensure that they are not damaged • failure to use planks that have double cleats on one end.Other features to look for are • manufacturer‘s plate showing name and model number • brackets that are hot-dipped galvanized • manufacturer‘s literature stating that the bracket has been designed and fabricated to meet loading requirements specified in the Indian standards. 13.3.6.9 Ladders Whether built into frames, attached as a separate component, or portable, ladders are an important means of access to scaffold platforms. We would substantially reduce the number of falls connected with climbing up and down scaffolds if workers always used adequate and properly erected ladders. Unfortunately, suitable ladders are not often provided or used. A major problem with ladders built into the frame is that planks sometimes stick out so far that it‘s difficult to get from the ladder to the platform. This situation results in many injuries but can be overcome in one of three ways: • use manufactured platform components which do not project beyond the support • use a portable ladder where platform elevations are less than 9 meters (30 feet) in height (Figure 5.5) • use a stand-off vertical ladder with a cage if the scaffold is above 3 meters (10 feet). Ladder rails should extend at least 900 mm (3 feet) above the platform level to facilitate getting on and off. Injuries are often connected with stepping on and stepping off the ladder at the platform level. Rest stations should be decked in on scaffold towers at intervals no greater than every 9 meters (30 feet). Climbing is strenuous work and accidents happen more frequently when climbers suffer from overexertion. 13.3.6.10 Guardrails Failing to use guardrails is one of the main reasons for
falls from scaffold platforms. Manufacturers of frame scaffolds have guardrail components which can be attached to the scaffold frames. These have posts that sit directly onto the connector pins and to which the rails are attached using wing nuts.
Where manufactured guardrails are not available, guardrails can be constructed from lumber (Figure 5.6) or tube-and-clamp components.
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Tube-and-clamp guardrails may be constructed from standard aluminum scaffold tubing using parallel clamps to attach the vertical posts to each frame leg (Figure 5.6). Top rails and mid-rails should be attached to the vertical posts using right-angle clamps. Connections in these rails should be made with end-to-end clamps. Most manufacturers have toe board clips to fasten toe boards quickly and easily to standard tubular posts on either frames or guardrail posts. A guardrail should consist of: • a top rail about 1 meter (40 inches) above the platform • a mid-rail about halfway between the platform and the top rail • a toe board at least 89 mm (31/2") high at the platform level if made from wood, and • posts no more than 2.4 meters (8 feet) apart if made from wood. Guardrail posts can be farther apart if the materials used are adequate to support the loads specified. Guardrails should be designed to resist the forces specified in the Construction Regulation. Frequently, guardrails must be removed to allow material to be placed on the scaffold platform. Workers must protect themselves from falling by using a fall-arrest system properly worn, used, and tied off. The fall-arrest system should be worn while the worker is removing the guardrail, receiving the material, and replacing the guardrail. Too often, guardrails are removed to receive materials and then not replaced. Many workers have fallen because other workers have left unguarded openings on scaffold platforms. SCAFFOLDS
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Figure 5.5 NOTE: Ladder rails should extend at least 1 m (3 ft) above platform Note: Horizontal bracing omitted for clarity
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13.3.7 ERECTING AND DISMANTLING SCAFFOLDS
13.3.7.1 General Scaffolds should always be erected under the supervision of a competent worker. Although scaffold systems vary between manufacturers, certain fundamental requirements are common to all scaffold systems. Frame scaffolds over 15 meters (50 feet) in height, and tube-and-clamp and systems scaffolds over 10 meters (33 feet), must be designed by a professional engineer. Supervisors must ensure that the scaffolds are constructed in accordance with that design. 13.3.7.2 Foundations and Support Surfaces Scaffolds must be erected on surfaces that can adequately support all loads applied by the scaffold. To support scaffolds, backfilled soils must be well compacted and levelled. Mud and soft soil should be replaced with compacted gravel or crushed stone. Embankments that appear unstable or susceptible to erosion by rain must be contained. Otherwise, the scaffold must be set far enough back to avoid settlement or failure of the embankment. Where mudsills must
be placed on sloping ground, leveling the area should be done, wherever possible, by excavating rather than backfilling (Figure 6.1). In some cases it may be necessary to use half-frames to accommodate grade changes. For these situations the side bracing is usually provided by using tube and-clamp components. Floors are usually adequate to support scaffold loads of workers, tools, and light materials. As loads become greater, floors, especially the older wooden types, should be examined to
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ensure that they will support the anticipated loads. In some cases, shoring below the floor and directly under the scaffold legs may be necessary. In other situations, you may need sills that span the floor support structure. 13.3.7.3 Scaffolds erected on any type of soil should have a mudsill. At minimum the mudsill should be a 48 mm x 248 mm (2" x 10") plank (full size) and should be continuous under at least two consecutive supports. The scaffold feet should rest centrally on the mudsill and the sill should, where possible, project at least 300 mm (1 foot) beyond the scaffold foot at the ends. Mudsills may be placed either along the length or across the width of frames. 13.3.7.4 Do not use blocking or packing such as bricks, short pieces of lumber, or other scrap materials either under scaffold feet or under mudsills (Figure 6.2). If the scaffold is subjected to heavy loading, bricks or blocks can break. Vibration can cause blocking to move or shift, leaving a scaffold leg unsupported. In such conditions the scaffold can topple when heavy loads are applied.
Take particular care when erecting scaffolds on frozen ground. Thawing soil is often water-soaked, resulting in considerable loss of bearing capacity. You must take thawing into account when tarps or other covers will be placed around a scaffold and the enclosure will be heated. If the scaffold is inside a building, preparing the foundation
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may mean • clearing away debris or construction materials and equipment stored in the way • using sills or placing shoring under old wooden floors. For a scaffold on the outside of a building, preparing the foundation may include • replacing mud and soft ground with gravel or crushed stone • leveling and compacting loose backfill • stabilizing or protecting embankments • providing protection against erosion from rain or thawing • using mudsills. 13.3.8 Foundation preparation is important with any scaffold. It isespecially important when scaffolds will be heavily loaded, as in masonry work. Differential settlement may damage scaffold components even if no serious incident or collapse occurs. 13.3.8.1 Inspection Scaffold materials should be inspected before use for • damage to structural components • damage to hooks on manufactured platforms • splits, knots, and dry rot in planks • delaminating in laminated veneer lumber planks • presence of all necessary components for the job • compatibility of components. Structural components which are bent, damaged, or severely rusted should not be used. Similarly, platforms with damaged hooks should not be used until properly repaired. Planks showing damage should be discarded and removed from the site so that they cannot be used for platform material. 13.3.8.2 Location Before erecting a scaffold, check the location for • ground conditions • overhead wires • obstructions • variation in surface elevation • tie-in locations and methods. Checking the location thoroughly beforehand will eliminate many of the problems that develop during erection and will allow erection to proceed smoothly, efficiently, and safely.
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13.3.8.3 Base Plates Base plates and adjustable screw jacks should be used whether the scaffold is outside on rough ground or indoors on a smooth level surface. Base plates should be centered on the width of the sill and nailed securely after the first tier has been erected. Sills may run either across the width or along the length of the scaffold depending on grade conditions and other factors. Generally, bearing capacity will be increased by running sills longitudinally because the sill has more contact with the ground. 13.3.8.4 Plumb When the first tier of scaffold has been erected it should be checked for plumb, alignment, and level. Where necessary, adjustments can be made using the screw jacks. Settlement or slight variations in the fit of the components may require additional adjustments as tiers are added to the scaffold tower. Braces should fit easily if the scaffold tower is level. If braces do not fit easily it is an indication that the scaffold is out of plumb or out of alignment. 13.3.8.5 Hoisting Materials Where scaffolds will be more than three frames high, a well wheel or ―gin‖ wheel and a hoist arm or davit will make the hoisting of materials easier during erection (Figure 6.3). While materials can be pulled up by rope without these devices, the well wheel and hoist arm allow the hoisting to be done by workers on the ground. This is much safer and eliminates the risk of workers falling from the scaffold platform as they pull materials up by rope. Loads lifted by a well wheel should normally be no more than 50 kg (100 lb.) unless special structural provisions are made.SC The use of forklifts or other mechanical means of hoisting scaffold materials has become more common particularly in masonry applications. The use of this type of equipment greatly reduces the potential for overexertion injuries due to lifting and pulling. However, extra precaution must be taken to prevent power line contact and other potential hazards such as overloading. 13.3.8.6 Tie-ins Scaffolds must be tied in to a structure or otherwise stabilized —in accordance with manufacturer‘s instructions and the Construction Regulation—as erection progresses. Leaving such items as tie-ins or positive connections until the scaffold is completely erected will not save time if it results in an accident or injury. Moreover, in most
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jurisdictions it is prohibited. For further information on tie-in requirements see Section 7.6. 13.3.8.9 Fall Protection in Scaffold Erection Providing practical fall protection for workers erecting and dismantling scaffold and shoring has been challenging for the construction industry. In Ontario, Section 26 of the Construction Regulation requires that workers erecting, using, or dismantling scaffolds must be protected from falling by using guardrails, travel restraint, fall-restricting systems, or fall arrest systems. For fall protection while workers are using a scaffold as a work platform, the safest solution is guardrails, provided they can be erected safely. Workers involved in erecting or dismantling scaffolds face a different challenge. Erecting guardrails and using fall-arrest equipment requires specialized procedures since normally there is nothing above the erector on which to anchor the fall protection system.
A FF In all cases ensure that procedures comply with the regulations. You must use engineered design and procedures when required, and competent workers must
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review the installed scaffold before use. Pay special care and attention to anchorages. A competent person must give adequate oral and written instructions to all workers using fall protection systems. Like all scaffolds, this equipment must be used under the supervision of a competent person. 13.3.9 ERECTING FRAME SCAFFOLDS Frame scaffolds are the most common types of scaffolds used in Ontario. Too often they are erected by people who are inexperienced and do not know or recognize the potential hazards. Erectors must be aware of the potential dangers not only to themselves but also to the end user of the scaffold. 13.3.9.1 Fittings and Accessories People are sometimes reluctant to install all the parts, fittings, and accessories required for a properly built frame scaffold. This poor practice continues because parts are frequently lost or otherwise not available at the site. Other times, it is due to haste, lack of training, or carelessness. Always use base plates with adjustable screw jacks. They allow for minor adjustments to keep the scaffold plumb and level. Base plates usually have holes so you can nail them to mudsills. This is good practice and should be done as soon as the first tier is erected and plumbed with base plates centered on the sills. You must brace in the vertical plane on both sides of every frame. Bracing in the horizontal plane should be done at the joint of every third tier of frames starting with the first tier. Horizontal bracing should coincide with the point at which the scaffold is tied to the building. Horizontal bracing is needed to maintain scaffold stability and full load-carrying capacity. The use of horizontal bracing on the first tier helps to square up the scaffold before nailing base plates to mudsills. Every scaffold manufacturer provides coupling devices to connect scaffold frames together vertically. Figure 6.4 illustrates various types. Erectors often ignore these devices, believing that the bearing weight of the scaffold and its load will keep the frame above firmly connected to the frame below. This will probably hold true until the scaffold moves or sways. Then the joint may pull apart, causing a scaffold collapse. Coupling devices should always be used and installed properly on every leg of the scaffold, at every joint, as assembly proceeds.
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If wheels or castors are used they should be securely attached to the scaffold and be equipped with brakes. Failure to attach wheels or castors properly to the frame has been the cause of many serious accidents and fatalities involving rolling scaffolds. Wheels or castors must have brakes which are well maintained and easily applied. Scaffolds should always have guardrails. Unfortunately, people frequently leave them out, especially on scaffolds of low to moderate height. Workers have been seriously injured as a result. 13.3.9.2 Braces Once you have fitted the adjustable base plates on the frames you must then attach the braces for each tower span. The braces should slide into place easily. If force is required, either the braces are bent or damaged or the frames are out of plumb or alignment. Secure braces at each end. The erection crew must ensure that self-locking devices move freely and have fallen into place. Rust or slight damage can prevent some of these devices from working properly and they then require force to secure them in position. Maintain moving parts in good condition to prevent this situation from developing. 13.3.9.3 Platform Erection Ensure that parts and fittings are in place and secure before placing platform components on a scaffold tier. When proceeding with the next tier, workers should use platform sections or planks from the previous tier, leaving behind either one platform section or two planks. While this requires more material it speeds up erection because workers have platforms to stand on when erecting or dismantling the platform above. At heights above 3 meters (10 feet), all workers involved in the erection or dismantling of scaffolds must be protected by a guardrail or by other means of fall protection. Frequently, low scaffolds one or two frames in height are not fully decked in. This can lead to accidents and serious injury. Many lost-time injuries occur each year in Ontario because platforms are inadequately decked. 13.3.9.4 Ladders Where frames are not equipped with ladder rungs, ladders should be installed as the erection of each tier proceeds. Injuries involving scaffolds frequently occur when workers are climbing up or down the scaffold. Providing proper
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ladders will help prevent such injuries. See Section 5.3 for more information on ladders. 13.3.9.5 Guardrails Guardrails must be installed at each working level as the scaffold is erected and also at the top level of the scaffold. This is recommended for all scaffolds regardless of height. Although you do not require guardrails until scaffolds are 2.4 meters (8 feet) high, a considerable number of severe injuries and even fatalities are due to falls from lower scaffolds. Some manufacturers have recently introduced temporary guardrails workers can use when erecting scaffolds. A guardrail can be set in position from the previous level and can provide a protected work platform for the worker to install the next level of components. Each type of guardrail has a unique design and system of attachment to the scaffold. Figure 6.5 shows one example of an ―advanced guardrail‖ with the platform fully enclosed. The guardrail is positioned on a bracket which is mounted from below on the outside of the scaffold, and does not interfere with the placement of subsequent frames and braces. As the scaffold goes up the guardrail may be raised as well, or left in position to form the permanent guardrail. The erector must use another fall protection method— permanent guardrails or a full body harness with a lanyard attached to the scaffold—while moving either the platforms or the temporary guardrail. 13.3.10 ERECTING TUBE-and-CLAMP SCAFFOLDS Most of the general rules that apply to frame scaffolding also apply to tube-and-clamp scaffolding. The requirements for mudsills, platforms, and guardrails are exactly the same for both types. The most important difference between the two is the additional degree of skill and knowledge necessary to erect tube-and-clamp scaffolds safely and efficiently. Tube-and-clamp scaffolds should not be erected by an unskilled or inexperienced crew. Basic terms are identified in Figure 6.6. 13.3.10.1 General Requirements Tube-and-clamp scaffolds are erected plumb and level like frame scaffolds but the erection system is quite different. The scaffold must start with a set of ledgers and transoms
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immediately above the base plates. This is necessary to hold the base plates in their proper position. The typical erection sequence for a simple tower is shown in Figure 6.6. Each vertical and horizontal member should be checked with a spirit level as erection proceeds‘
FO
LD
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13.3.10.2 Materials and Components The tubing normally used for tube-and-clamp scaffolding in Ontario is schedule 40, 1.9‖ OD (11/2 ID) aluminum pipe manufactured of either 6061 or 6063 alloys. Clamps are usually made of steel and have a variety of configurations. Depending on the manufacturer, clamps can be fastened using wedges, bolts, or other methods. The following types are used. • Right-Angle Clamp—a clamp used for connecting tubes at right angles. They maintain the right-angled orientation providing rigidity to the structure. • End-to-End Clamp—an externally applied clamp to connect two tubes end-to-end. • Swivel Clamp—a clamp used to connect two tubes when right-angle clamps cannot be used. They usually connect bracing. • Parallel Clamp—a clamp used for lap jointing two
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tubes together. It can be used to connect short guardrail posts to the standards or legs of frame scaffolds. • Concrete Tie Clamp—a clamp used to connect a tube to concrete or other surfaces using a bolt or concrete anchor. These and other devices are shown in Figure 6.8 depicting a typical tube-and-clamp scaffold. Before using clamps, check them carefully for damage to wedges or threads on bolts and distortion of the clamp body. 13.3.10.3 Spacing of Standards The spacing of standards depends on the load-carrying requirements of the scaffold. Wherever possible, tube-and clamp scaffolding should have bay and elevation spacing of about 2 meters (6'-6") longitudinally and vertically. This allows for the front sway bracing to be located at approximately 45° to the horizontal. It also facilitates the use of 5-metre (16-foot) planks with adequate overhang. The width of these platforms can vary but is usually approximately 1 meter (3 feet). This spacing allows the aluminum tubing specified earlier to carry normal construction loads adequately. An advantage of tube-and clamp scaffolding is that the platform height can be easily adjusted to the most appropriate level for the work being done. 13.3.10.4 Ledgers and Transoms Ledgers should be connected to standards using right angle clamps. These clamps maintain a rigid 90° angle between members. Transoms should be placed above the ledgers and both should be maintained in a horizontal position by leveling with a spirit level. Transoms may be connected to either standards or ledgers by using right-angle clamps. 13.3.10.5 Joints in Standards and Ledgers Joints in standards and ledgers should be made with end to- end clamps. These joints should be as close to the node points as the clamp arrangements will allow. Joints in vertically-adjacent ledgers should not occur in the same bay but should be staggered to provide rigidity. A node point is the point at which the ledger-to-standard, transom-to-standard, and bracing-to-standard connections come together. An example of a node point is shown in
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Figure 4.7 and below.
13.3.10.6 Intermediate Transoms You should install intermediate transoms when the scaffold will be supporting heavy loads. You can also use them to avoid lapping planks and the tripping hazard that comes with it. 13.3.10.7 Tie-ins Tie-ins are required with tube-and-clamp scaffolding. They should be located at every second node vertically and every third standard horizontally. The tie-in tube should be connected to both standards or both ledgers, near the standard to provide rigidity. Connections should be made with right-angle clamps. Tie-ins should be capable of withstanding both tension (pull) and compression (push) forces (Figure 6.8). 13.3.10.8 Bracing Internal bracing (Figure 6.8) is connected standard-to standard using swivel clamps. It should be clamped as close to the node as possible. Internal bracing should normally be placed at every third standard. The location should coincide with tie-in points. You should also install bracing for tube-and-clamp scaffolding as erection progresses. Face sway bracing should be installed to the full height of the scaffold. It may be located in a single bay or extend across several bays (Figure 6.7). Where the bracing is located in single bays it should be in the end bays and at least in every fourth bay longitudinally. In practice, it becomes difficult to get bracing close enough to the node
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points if it extends more than four bays in width (see ends of bracing in Figure 6.7).
13.3.10.9 Drawings and Inspections We strongly recommend that a sketch or drawing be prepared before erecting tube-and-clamp scaffolding. It is important that you place the standard to accommodate the anticipated loads adequately. Bracing must also be designed to provide stability and to transfer horizontal loads to tie-in points.
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14.0 Working at Height
14.1 Definitions
14.1.1 ―Access‖ and ―egress‖ include ascent and descent.
14.1.2 ―fragile surface‖ means a surface, which would be able to fail if any reasonably foreseeable loading were to be applied to it.
14.1.3 ―line‖ includes rope, chain or webbing
14.1.4 ―personal fall protection‖ means - a) a fall prevention, work restraint, work positioning, fall arrest or rescue system,
other than a system in which the only safeguards are collective safeguards; or
b) rope access and positioning techniques;
14.1.5 "work at height" means - a) work in any place, including a place at or below ground level;
b) obtaining access to or egress from such place while at work, except by a
staircase in a permanent workplace,
where, if protective measures were not taken, a person could fall a distance liable to cause personal injury;
14.1.6 "work equipment" means any machinery, appliance, apparatus, tool or installation
for use at work (whether exclusively or not) and includes
a) a guard-rail, toe-board, barrier or similar collective means of protection
b) a working platform
c) a net, airbag or other collective safe guard for arresting falls.
d) personal fall protection system
e) ladders
14.1.7 ―working platform‖ a) means any platform used as a place of work or as a means of access to or
egress from a place of work;
b) includes any scaffold, suspended scaffold, cradle, mobile platforms, trestle,
gangway, gantry and stairway which is so used.
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14.2 Organisation and planning
The contractor shall ensure that work at height is
i) properly planned for any emergencies and rescue
ii) appropriately supervised; and
iii) carried out in a manner, which is reasonably practicable safe.
14.3 The contractor shall ensure that work at height is carried out only when the
weather conditions do not jeopardize the health or safety of persons involved in the
work.
14.4 Competence
The contractor shall ensure that no person engages in any activity, including organization, planning and supervision, in relation to work at height or work equipment for use in such work unless he is competent to do so or, if being trained, is being supervised by a competent person.
14.5 Avoidance of risks from work at height
The contractor shall ensure that work is not carried out at height where it is
reasonably practicable to carry out the work safely otherwise than at height.
14.6 Where work is carried out at height, the contractor shall take suitable and sufficient
measures as given below to prevent, so far as is reasonably practicable, any
person falling a distance liable to cause personal injury.
a) his ensuring that the work is carried out
i) from an existing place of work; or
ii) (in the case of obtaining access or egress) using an existing means, complying to the requirements as given in 15
where it is reasonably practicable to carry it out safely and under appropriate ergonomic conditions; and
b) where it is not reasonably practicable for the work to be carried out in accordance with sub-paragraph (a), his providing sufficient work equipment for preventing, so far as is reasonably practicable, a fall occurring.
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14.7 Where the measures taken under clause 14.6 do not eliminate the risk of a fall occurring, every contractor shall
a) so far as is reasonably practicable, provide sufficient work equipment to
minimize -
i) the distance and consequences; or
ii) where it is not reasonably practicable to minimize the distance, the consequences, of a fall; and
b) Without prejudice to the generality of clause 14.4, provide such additional training and instruction or take other additional suitable and sufficient measures to prevent, so far as is reasonably practicable, any person falling a distance liable to cause personal injury.
14.8 Selection of ‗work equipment‘ for work at height
1) The contractor, in selecting work equipment for use in work at height, shall
a) give collective protection measures priority over personal protection measures; and
b) take account of
i) the working conditions and the risks to the safety of persons at the place where the work equipment is to be used;
ii) in the case of work equipment for access and egress, the distance to be negotiated;
iii) the distance and consequences of a potential fall;
iv) the duration and frequency of use;
v) the need for easy and timely evacuation and rescue in an emergency; and
vi) any additional risk posed by the use, installation or removal of that work equipment or by evacuation and rescue from it;
2) The contractor shall select work equipment for work at height which:
a) has characteristics including dimensions which:
i) are appropriate to the nature of the work to be performed and the foreseeable loadings; and
ii) allow passage without risk; and
b) is in other respects the most suitable work equipment, having regard in particular to the purposes specified in 14.5 and 14.6.
14.9 Fragile surfaces
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14.9.1 The contractor shall ensure that no person at work passes across or near, or working on, from or near, a fragile surface where it is reasonably practicable to carry out work safely and under appropriate ergonomic conditions without his doing so.
14.9.2 Where it is not reasonably practicable to carry out work safely and under appropriate ergonomic conditions without passing across or near, or working on, from or near, a fragile surface, every contractor shall,
a) ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, that suitable and sufficient
platforms, coverings, guard rails or similar means of support or protection are
provided and used so that any foreseeable loading is supported by such
supports or borne by such protection;
b) where a risk of a person at work falling remains despite the measures taken
under the preceding provisions of this regulation, take suitable and sufficient
measures to minimize the distances and consequences of his fall.
14.9.3 Where any person at work may pass across or near, or work on, from or near, a fragile surface, every contractor shall ensure that
a) prominent warning notices are so far as is reasonably practicable affixed at
the approach to the place where the fragile surface is situated; or
b) where that is not reasonably practicable, such persons are made aware of it
by other means.
14.10 Falling objects
14.10.1 The contractor shall, where necessary to prevent injury to any person, take suitable and sufficient steps to prevent, so far as is reasonably practicable, the fall of any material or object.
14.10.2 Where it is not reasonably practicable to comply with the requirements of 14.9, every contractor shall take suitable and sufficient steps to prevent any person being struck by any falling material or object which is liable to cause personal injury.
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14.10.3 The contractor shall ensure that no material or object is thrown or tipped from height in circumstances where it is liable to cause injury to any person.
14.10.4 Every employer shall ensure that materials and objects are stored in such a way as to prevent risk to any person arising from the collapse, overturning or unintended movement of such materials or objects.
14.11 Danger areas
14.11.1 Without prejudice to the preceding requirements of these Regulations, every contractor shall ensure that
a) where a workplace contains an area in which, owing to the nature of the work,
there is a risk of any person at work
i) falling a distance; or
ii) being struck by a falling object,
which is liable to cause personal injury, the workplace is so far as is reasonably practicable equipped with devices preventing unauthorised persons from entering such area; and
b) such area is clearly indicated.
14.12 Inspection of work equipment
14.12.1 The contractor shall ensure that, where the safety of work equipment depends on how it is installed or assembled, it is not used after installation or assembly in any position unless it has been inspected in that position.
14.12.2 The contractor shall ensure that work equipment exposed to conditions causing deterioration which is liable to result in dangerous situations is inspected
a) at suitable intervals; and
b) each time that exceptional circumstances which are liable to jeopardise the
safety of the work equipment have occurred,
to ensure that health and safety conditions are maintained and that any deterioration can be detected and remedied in good time.
14.12.3 Without prejudice to paragraph 14.12.1, the contractor shall ensure that a working platform
a) used for construction work; and
b) from which a person could fall 2 meters or more,
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is not used in any position unless it has been inspected in that position or, in the case of a mobile working platform, inspected on the site, within the previous 7 days.
14.12.4 The contractor shall ensure that the reports of all inspections are properly maintained and shown to the Employer as and when required.
14.12.5 In this clause "inspection",
a) means such visual or more rigorous inspection by a competent person as is
appropriate for safety purposes;
b) includes any testing appropriate for those purposes,
14.13 Inspection of places of work at height
14.13.1 The contractor shall so far as is reasonably practicable ensure that the surface and every parapet, permanent rail or other such fall protection measure of every place of work at height are checked on each occasion before the place is used.
14.14 Duties of persons at work
14.14.1 Any workmen employed by the contractor shall report to the supervisor about any defect relating to work at height which he knows is likely to endanger the safety of himself or another person.
14.14.2 Every workmen shall use any work equipment or safety device provided to him for work at height by the contractor, in accordance with
a) any training in the use of the work equipment or device concerned which have
been received by him; and
b) the instructions respecting that use which have been provided to him by the
contractor as per the requirements of the Employer
14.15 Requirements for existing places of work and means of access or egress at height
Every existing place of work or means of access or egress at height shall
a) be stable and of sufficient strength and rigidity for the purpose for which it is
intended to be or is being used;
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b) where applicable, rest on a stable, sufficiently strong surface;
c) be of sufficient dimensions to permit the safe passage of persons and the
safe use of any plant or materials required to be used and to provide a safe
working area having regard to the work to be carried out there;
d) possess suitable and sufficient means for preventing a fall;
e) possess a surface which has no gap
i) through which a person could fall;
ii) through which any material or object could fall and injure a person; or
iii) giving rise to other risk of injury to any person, unless measures have
been taken to protect persons against such risk;
f) be so constructed and used, and maintained in such condition, as to prevent, so far as is reasonably practicable -
i) the risk of slipping or tripping; or
ii) any person being caught between it and any adjacent structure;
g) where it has moving parts, be prevented by appropriate devices from moving inadvertently during work at height.
14.16 Requirements for guardrails, toe-boards, barriers and similar collective means of
protection
i) Unless the context otherwise requires, any reference in this section to means of protection is to a guardrail, toe-board, barrier or similar collective means of protection.
ii) Means of protection shall
a) be of sufficient dimensions, of sufficient strength and rigidity for the purposes for which they are being used, and otherwise suitable;
b) be so placed, secured and used as to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, that they do not become accidentally displaced; and
c) be so placed as to prevent, so far as is practicable, the fall of any person, or of any material or object, from any place of work.
iii) In relation to work at height involved in construction work
a) the top guard-rail or other similar means of protection shall be at least 950 millimeters above the edge from which any person is liable to fall;
b) toe-boards shall be suitable and sufficient to prevent the fall of any person, or any material or object, from any place of work; and
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c) any intermediate guardrail or similar means of protection shall be positioned so that any gap between it and other means of protection does not exceed 470 millimeters.
iv) Any structure or part of a structure which supports means of protection or to which means of protection are attached shall be of sufficient strength and suitable for the purpose of such support or attachment.
14.17 Requirements for all Working Platforms
i) Every working platforms requires a supporting structure for holding it
ii) Any surface upon which any supporting structure rests shall be stable, of
sufficient strength and of suitable composition safely to support the supporting
structure, the working platform and any loading intended to be placed on the
working platform.
iii). Stability of supporting structure
Any supporting structure shall
a) be suitable and of sufficient strength and rigidity for the purpose for which it is being used;
b) in the case of a wheeled structure, be prevented by appropriate devices from moving inadvertently during work at height;
c) in other cases, be prevented from slipping by secure attachment to the bearing surface or to another structure, provision of an effective anti-slip device or by other means of equivalent effectiveness;
d) be stable while being erected, used and dismantled; and
e) when altered or modified, be so altered or modified as to ensure that it remains stable.
f) Have suitable base plates and properly footed thereby.
iv). Stability of working platforms
A working platform shall
a) be suitable and of sufficient strength and rigidity for the purpose or purposes for which it is intended to be used or is being used;
b) be so erected and used as to ensure that its components do not become accidentally displaced so as to endanger any person;
c) when altered or modified, be so altered or modified as to ensure that it remains stable; and
d) be dismantled in such a way as to prevent accidental displacement.
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v) Safety on working platforms
A working platform shall
a) be of sufficient dimensions to permit the safe passage of persons and the safe use of any plant or materials required to be used and to provide a safe working area having regard to the work being carried out there;
b) possess a suitable surface and, in particular, be so constructed that the surface of the working platform has no gap
i) through which a person could fall;
ii) through which any material or object could fall and injure a person; or
iii) giving rise to other risk of injury to any person, unless measures have been taken to protect persons against such risk; and
c) be so erected and used, and maintained in such condition, as to prevent, so far as is reasonably practicable
i) the risk of slipping or tripping; or
ii) any person being caught between the working platform and any adjacent structure.
vi) Loading
A working platform and any supporting structure shall not be loaded so as to give rise to a risk of collapse or to any deformation, which could affect its safe use.
vii) Additional requirements for scaffolding
Strength and stability calculations for scaffolding shall be carried out unless
a) a note of the calculations, covering the structural arrangements contemplated, is available; or
b) it is assembled in conformity with a generally recognized standard configuration.
viii) Depending on the complexity of the scaffolding selected, a competent person shall draw up an assembly, use and dismantling plan. This may be in the form of a standard plan, supplemented by items relating to specific details of the scaffolding in question.
ix) A copy of the plan, including any instructions it may contain, shall be kept available for the use of persons concerned in the assembly, use, dismantling or alteration of scaffolding until it has been dismantled.
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x) The dimensions form and layout of scaffolding decks shall be appropriate to the nature of the work to be performed and suitable for the loads to be carried and permit work and passage in safety.
xi) While a scaffold is not available for use, including during its assembly, dismantling or alteration, it shall be marked with general warning signs in accordance with and be suitably delineated by physical means preventing access to the danger zone.
xii) Scaffolding may be assembled, dismantled or significantly altered only under the supervision of a competent person and by persons who have received appropriate and specific training in the operations envisaged which addresses specific risks which the operations may entail and precautions to be taken, and more particularly in
a) understanding of the plan for the assembly, dismantling or alteration of the scaffolding concerned;
b) safety during the assembly, dismantling or alteration of the scaffolding concerned;
c) measures to prevent the risk of persons, materials or objects falling;
d) safety measures in the event of changing weather conditions which could adversely affect the safety of the scaffolding concerned;
e) permissible loadings;
f) any other risks which the assembly, dismantling or alteration of the scaffolding may entail.
14.18 Requirements for collective safeguards for arresting falls
i) Collective safeguard are a safety net, airbag or other collective safeguard for
arresting falls
ii) A safeguard shall be used only if
a) a risk assessment has demonstrated that the work activity can so far as is reasonably practicable be performed safely while using it and without affecting its effectiveness;
b) the use of other, safer work equipment is not reasonably practicable; and
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c) a sufficient number of available persons have received adequate training specific to the safeguard, including rescue procedures.
iii) A safeguard shall be suitable and of sufficient strength to arrest safely the fall of any person who is liable to fall.
iv) A safeguard shall
a) in the case of a safeguard which is designed to be attached, be securely attached to all the required anchors, and the anchors and the means of attachment thereto shall be suitable and of sufficient strength and stability for the purpose of safely supporting the foreseeable loading in arresting any fall and during any subsequent rescue;
b) in the case of an airbag, landing mat or similar safeguard, be stable; and
c) in the case of a safeguard, which distorts in arresting a fall, afford sufficient clearance.
v) Suitable and sufficient steps shall be taken to ensure, so far as practicable, that in the event of a fall by any person the safeguard does not itself cause injury to that person.
14.19 Requirements for personal fall protection systems
i) A personal fall protection system shall be used only if
a) a risk assessment has demonstrated that
i) the work can so far as is reasonably practicable be performed safely while using that system; and
ii) the use of other safer work equipment is not reasonably practicable; and
b) the user and a sufficient number of available persons have received adequate training specific to the operations envisaged, including rescue procedures.
ii) A personal fall protection system shall
a) be suitable and of sufficient strength for the purposes for which it is being used having regard to the work being carried out and any foreseeable loading;
b) where necessary, fit the user;
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c) be correctly fitted;
d) be designed to minimize injury to the user and, where necessary, be adjusted to prevent the user falling or slipping from it, should a fall occur; and
e) be so designed, installed and used as to prevent unplanned or uncontrolled movement of the user.
iii) A personal fall protection system designed for use with an anchor shall be securely attached to at least one anchor, and each anchor and the means of attachment thereto shall be suitable and of sufficient strength and stability for the purpose of supporting any foreseeable loading.
iv) Suitable and sufficient steps shall be taken to prevent any person falling or slipping from a personal fall protection system.
14.20 Requirements for Ladders
1) Every contractor shall ensure that a ladder is used for work at height only if a
risk assessment has demonstrated that the use of more suitable work
equipment is not justified because of the low risk and
i) The short duration of use; or
ii) Existing features on site, which he cannot alter.
2) Only metal ladders shall be allowed. Bamboo ladders are prohibited.
3) Any surface upon which a ladder rests shall be stable, firm, of sufficient strength and of suitable composition safely to support the ladder so that its rungs or steps remain horizontal, and any loading intended to be placed on it.
4) A ladder shall be so positioned as to ensure its stability during use
5) A suspended ladder shall be attached in a secure manner and so that, with the exception of a flexible ladder, it cannot be displaced and swinging is prevented.
6) A portable ladder shall be prevented from slipping during use by -
i) securing the stiles at or near their upper or lower ends;
ii) an effective anti-slip or other effective stability device; or
iii) any other arrangement of equivalent effectiveness.
7) A ladder used for access shall be long enough to protrude sufficiently above the place of landing to which it provides access, unless other measures have been taken to ensure a firm handhold.
8) No interlocking or extension ladder shall be used unless its sections are prevented from moving relative to each other while in use.
9) A mobile ladder shall be prevented from moving before it is stepped on.
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10) Where a ladder or run of ladders raises a vertical distance of 9 metres or more above its base, there shall, where reasonably practicable, be provided at suitable intervals sufficient safe landing areas or rest platforms.
11) Every ladder shall be used in such a way that
a) a secure handhold and secure support are always available to the user; and
b) the user can maintain a safe handhold when carrying a load unless, in the case of a step ladder, the maintenance of a handhold is not practicable when a load is carried, and a risk assessment has demonstrated that the use of a stepladder is justified because of
i) the low risk; and
ii) the short duration of use.
14.21 Overhead protection
All contractors shall provide overhead protections as per Rule 41 of BOCWR
i) Overhead protection should be erected along the periphery of every building which is under construction and the building height shall be 9m or above after construction.
ii) Overhead protection shall be minimum 2m wide and the outer edge shall be 90mm higher than the inner edge and an angle not more than 200 to its horizontal sloping into the building.
iii) Overhead protection shall not be erected more than a height of 5m from the base of the building.
iv) Areas of inadvertent hazard of falling of material shall be guarded or barricaded or roped-off thereby by the contractor.
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15.0 RIGGING 15.1 Trades people who are not professional riggers must nonetheless rig loads at times on the job. Carpenters, for instance, are often involved not only in handling but in hoisting and landing material. When in doubt about rigging, consult an experienced rigger or a professional engineer. Information in this chapter covers only the basics of rigging. 15.2 Inspection Use this checklist to inspect rigging components regularly and before each lift.
15.2.2
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128
129
130
131
132
133
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15.3 Hardware Know what hardware to use, how to use it, and how its working load limits (WLLs) compare with the rope or chain used with it. All fittings must be of adequate strength for the application. Only forged alloy steel load-rated hardware should be used for
overhead lifting. Load-rated hardware is stamped with its WLL (Figure 88).
Inspect hardware regularly and before each lift. Telltale signs include – wear – cracks
– severe corrosion – deformation/bends – mismatched parts – obvious damage. Any of these signs indicates a weakened component that should be replaced for safety. figure 89 shows what to check for on a hook. 15.4 Sling Configurations The term ―sling‖ includes a wide variety of configurations for all fibre ropes, wire ropes, chains, and webs. The most commonly used types in construction are explained here.
Single Vertical Hitch
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The total weight of the load is carried by a single leg. This configuration must not be used for lifting loose material, long material, or anything difficult to balance. This hitch provides absolutely no control over the load because it permits rotation. 15.5 Bridle Hitch Two, three, or four single hitches can be used together to form a bridle hitch. They provide excellent stability when the load is distributed equally among the legs, when the hook is directly over the centre of gravity of the load, and the load is raised level. The leg length may need adjustment with turnbuckles to distribute the load.
15.6 Single Basket Hitch This hitch is ideal for loads with inherent stabilizing characteristics. The load is automatically equalized, with each leg supporting half the load. Do not use on loads that are difficult to balance because the load can tilt and slip out of the sling.
15.7 Double Basket Hitch Consists of two single basket hitches passed under the load. The legs of the hitches must be kept far enough apart to provide balance without opening excessive sling
angles
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15.8 Double Wrap Basket Hitch A basket hitch that is wrapped completely around the load. This method is excellent for handling loose materials, pipes, rods, or smooth cylindrical loads because the rope or chain exerts a full 360-degree contact with load and tends to draw it together.
15.9 Single Choker Hitch This forms a noose in the rope and tightens as the load is lifted. It does not provide full contact and must not be used to lift loose bundles or loads difficult to balance.
15.10 Double Choker Hitch Consists of two single chokers attached to the load and spread to provide load stability. Does not grip the load completely but can balance the load. Can be used for handling loose bundles.
15.11 Double Wrap Choker Hitch The rope or chain is wrapped completely around the load before being hooked into the vertical part of the sling. Makes full contact with load and tends to draw it together. If the double wrap choker is incorrectly made and the two eyes are placed on the crane hook, the supporting legs of the sling may not be equal in length and the load may be carried by one leg only. Do not run the sling through the hook, permitting an unbalanced load to tip.
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15.12 Braided Slings Fabricated from six or eight small diameter ropes braided together to form a single rope that provides a large bearing surface, tremendous strength, and flexibility in all directions. They are very easy to handle and almost impossible to kink. Especially useful for basket hitches where low bearing pressure is desirable or where the bend is extremely sharp.
15.13 Metal (Wire or Chain) 15.13.1 Mesh Slings Well adapted for use where loads are abrasive, hot, or tend to cut fabric or wire rope slings. 15.13.2 Chain Slings Made for abrasion and high temperature resistance. The only chain suitable for lifting is grade 80 or 100 alloy steel chain. Grade 80 chain is marked with an 8, 80, or 800. Grade 100 is
marked with a 10, 100, or 1000. The chain must be embossed with this grade marking every 3 feet or 20 links,
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whichever is shorter – although some manufacturers mark every link. Chain must be padded on sharp corners to prevent bending stresses. 15.13.3 Wire Rope Slings The use of wire rope slings for lifting materials provides several advantages over other types of slings. While not as strong as chain, it has good flexibility with minimum weight. Outer wires breaking warn of failure and allow time to react. Properly fabricated wire rope slings are very
safe for general construction use. On smooth surfaces, the basket hitch should be snubbed against a step or change of contour to prevent the rope from slipping as the load is applied. The angle between the load and the sling should be approximately 60 degrees or greater to avoid slippage. On wooden boxes or crates, the rope will dig into the wood sufficiently to prevent slippage. On other rectangular loads, the rope should be protected by guards or load protectors at the edges to prevent kinking.
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Loads should not be allowed to turn or slide along the rope during a lift. The sling or the load may become scuffed or damaged. Use a double
choker if the load must turn.
15.14 Hooking Up • Avoid sharp bends, pinching, and kinks in rigging equipment. Thimbles should be used at all times in sling eyes. • Never wrap a wire rope sling completely around a hook. The tight radius will damage the sling. • Make sure the load is balanced in the hook. Eccentric loading can reduce capacity dangerously. • Never point-load a hook unless it is designed and rated for such use (Figure 91). • Never wrap the crane hoist rope around the load. Attach the load to the hook by slings or other rigging devices adequate for the load. • Avoid bending the eye section of wire rope slings around corners. The bend will weaken the splice or swaging. • Avoid bending wire rope slings near any attached fitting. • Understand the effect of sling angle on sling load (Figure 92) and pull angle on beam load (Figure 93). Rig the load with its centre of gravity directly below the hook to ensure stability. The crane hook should be brought over the load's centre of gravity before the lift is started. Crane hook and load line should be vertical before lifting. Weights of common materials are listed in
Tables 7 to 1
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LADDERS
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CHAPTER- IV 16.0 ELECTRICAL SAFETY 16.1 General Electrical Safety The danger of injury through electrical shock is possible whenever electrical power is present. When a person's body completes a circuit and thus connects a power source with the ground, an electrical burn or injury is imminent. Most fatal injuries result from high-voltage exposure; however, people can sustain severe injuries from low voltage power if it has a high current flow. 16.2 Electrical Safety Guidelines Follow these guidelines for general electrical safety: • Shrouding of all live parts • Bus bar insulation with heat shrinkable sleeve • Compartmental panels • On indication on all o/g feeders • Thermo setting glass reinforced insulators to be used • Shutters to be provided for incoming end • Earthing arrangements to be provided • All equipments to be finger touch proof • All panel doors, dbs doors to be lockable type and kept locked in normal operation • All operating handles to be lockable in ‗off‘ condition • Rubber mats to be provided. • Follow lockout/tag out procedures, as appropriate. • Be aware of overhead power lines when working with tall equipment (e.g., grain augers, cranes, etc.). • Report all electrical problems, including tripped breakers, broken switches, and flickering lights, to the appropriate engineer. EHS Guidelines Page 23 of 77 16.3 Locking Arrangement - All panel doors and DBs shall be lockable. - All switch handles shall be lockable in ‗off‘ condition. - All panels and DBs to be kept locked in normal operating condition. 16.4 Earth Leakage Protection Hazards of earth leakage are • Electrocution • Fire To safeguard against these we require earth leakage circuit breakers. To protect against electrocution 30 mA rated ELCB / RCCB to be used. To protect against fire 100 mA and 300 mA rated ELCB / RCCB to be used. All socket outlets intended to supply portable electrical equipment shall be protected by ELCB / RCCB of 30 mA rating. Provide individual ELCB / RCCB for all equipment in wet areas like kitchen, laundry etc. and individual rooms in hotels. It is recommended to provide individual ELCB / RCCB for PCs also.
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16.5 110 v Double Insulated Hand tools - Only 110 v double insulated hand tools are to be used. - The supply arrangement shall be from a 240 v / 110 v double wound transformer with the secondary winding centre point connected to earth. - The socket outlet shall be protected by 30 mA ELCB / RCCB. 16.6 Cabling • ‗1d‘ gap to be provided between cables. • All cabling to be preferably overhead. • Proper cable trays to be used. • All cables shall have identification tags at both ends and at regular intervals. • Armoured cables to be used otherwise rigid metal conduits to be used. EHS Guidelines Page 24 of 77 16.7 Electrical Wiring Only copper conductors to be used. Rigid metallic conduits to be used. 16.8 Organization and Planning o Assessment of requirement o Substations o Earthing o Competence of contractor o Instruction training and supervision o Testing and commissioning o Operation and maintenance o Documentation o First aid 16.9 Distribution voltages recommended are: Fixed plant 415 v: 3 phase Movable plant supplied By trailing cable 415 v: 3 phase Site offices, stores, Light movable plants 1-2 hp 110 v: 3 phase Portable hand held tools up to 1 hp 110 v:1 phase Site lighting (not fixed) 110 v: 1 phase Portable hand lamps (General use) 24 v-1 phase Portable hand lamps (Damp or confined areas) special considerations apply EHS Guidelines Page 25 of 77 16.10 Assessment of Equipment - First consider size and location of loads - Variation of load with time - To consider welfare facilities
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- For special problems like remote locations etc. a detailed planning is required - Proper drawings to be prepared - Where HV supply is taken proper substation with competent - Staff to be provided - Safe work practices to be adopted and use ―Permit to Work‖ system - Proper earth electrodes to be provided - All equipments to have RCCB‘s protection - Employ competent contractors - Employees should be trained and instructed to ensure they understand all safety procedures. - Adequate supervision to be provided - The responsibilities of supervisors should be clearly specified - All completed electrical installation to be tested and commissioned as per relevant BIS codes and IER. - Regular and routine maintenance of all equipments to be done - All portable tools should be checked regularly - Records of maintenance and test results should be kept throughout the working life of the electrical system. - A record of circuit diagrams, loading diagrams and all other information should be maintained. EHS Guidelines Page 26 of 77 16.11 Electrical Emergency Response The following instructions provide guidelines for handling three types of electrical emergencies: 16.11.1. Electric Shock: When someone suffers serious electrical shock, he or she may be knocked unconscious. If the victim is still in contact with the electrical current, immediately turn off the electrical power source. If you cannot disconnect the power source, try to separate the victim from the power source with a nonconductive object, such as a wood-handled broom. IMPORTANT: Do not touch a victim that is still in contact with a power source; you could electrocute yourself. Have someone call for emergency medical assistance immediately. Administer firstaid, as appropriate. 16.11.2. Electrical Fire: If an electrical fire occurs, try to disconnect the electrical power source, if possible. If the fire is small, you are not in immediate danger, and you have been trained in fighting fires, use any type of fire extinguisher except water to extinguish the fire. IMPORTANT: Do not use water on an electrical fire. 16.11.3. Power Lines: Stay away from live power lines and downed power lines. Be particularly careful if a
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live power line is touching a body of water. The water could conduct electricity. If a power line falls on your car while you are inside, remain in the vehicle until help arrives. 16.12 Lockout/Tag out Procedures 16.12.1Lockout/tag out procedures are used to isolate hazardous energy sources from electrical, hydraulic, or pneumatic machinery. Furthermore, when service or maintenance work is required, lockout and tag out devices help ensure personal safety from possible energy releases. All employees whose work involves hazardous energy sources must be trained in lockout/tag out procedures. Before performing service or maintenance work on machines, turn them off and disconnect them from their energy sources. To further ensure employee safety, lockout and tag out energy-isolating devices. The following sections provide information on lockout/tag out procedures. EHS Guidelines Page 27 of 77 16.13 Applying Lockout/Tag out Devices Only authorized employees may apply lock/out devices. The following steps provide a brief outline of approved application procedures: 1. Notify employees that the equipment requires service or maintenance and is scheduled for shutdown and lockout/tag out. 2. Use established procedures to identify the type, magnitude, and hazards of the equipment's energy source. Make sure you know the proper methods for controlling the energy source. 3. If the equipment is currently operating, shut it down using normal shutdown procedures. 4. Isolate the equipment from its energy source by activating the energyisolating device(s). Either lockout or tagout the energy-isolating device(s). 5. Dissipate or restrain stored and residual energy using methods such as grounding, repositioning, blocking, bleeding, etc. 6. Ensure that all employees are removed from the equipment. Then, test the equipment for successful isolation by attempting to operate it. IMPORTANT: After verifying isolation, return the controls to neutral or off. 16.4 Removing Lockout/Tag out Devices When service and maintenance are complete, authorized employees may remove Lockout/tag out devices and return equipment to normal operations. The following steps provide a brief outline of approved removal procedures: 1. Inspect the work area and remove any nonessential items. Make sure the isolation equipment is intact and in good working condition. 2. Ensure that all employees are safely removed from the equipment. 3. Verify that the equipment controls are in neutral or off. 4. Remove the lockout/tag out devices and re-energize the equipment. NOTE: The removal of some forms of blocking may require the equipment to be reenergized before safe removal.
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5. Notify employees that the equipment is ready for operation. 16.15 High Voltage Procedures In addition to the guidelines associated with general electrical safety and lockout/tag out procedures, there are more stringent safety requirements for high voltage procedures. • Ensure that only authorized employees work around high voltage equipment. • Label entrances with a High Voltage Sign. • Ensure that terminal voltage ratings can withstand surges caused by electrical faults or switching transients. EHS Guidelines Page 28 of 77 • Be careful around output circuits even when the input power is off. Parallel power sources and energy storage devices can still be dangerous. • Be careful when working with power supplies that serve more than one area. • Before working in a high voltage area, inspect the power supply and check all protective devices. • Do not work alone near high voltage. • Label equipment to identify power sources. Label input power sources to identify connected power supply loads. • Attach emergency shutdown instructions and phone numbers to equipment that is remotely controlled or unattended while energized. • Before entering a power supply or associated equipment enclosure to work on hazardous energy sources, complete the following: 1. De-energize the equipment. 2. Open and lockout the main input power circuit breaker. 3. Check for auxiliary power circuits that could still be energized. 4. Inspect automatic shorting devices for proper operation. 5. Short the power supply with grounding hooks. 16.16 Electrical installation: The National Indian electric codes and regulations shall apply to all permanent and temporary electrical installations. A temporary power distribution system shall be installed in accordance with the national codes All other temporary connections and sub distribution systems shall be connected to this main system. All temporary power systems shall be properly grounded. Circuit breakers (incl. fuses) shall be used in all temporary power connections for system and cable protection. All wires shall be colour coded in accordance with the national codes. All electrical cables shall consist of solid copper conductors (stranded wires shall not be used). Only certified electricians will be allowed to enter high tension station, transformer and low voltage areas. All electrical installation work and all connections to the main power distribution system shall be done by qualified electricians from certified contractors.
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Usage of 30Ma ELCB as per IE guidelines
16.17 Operating equipment near
energized power lines Incidental power line contact happens too often, especially considering the potential severity of the consequences.
. Constructors must be aware of electrical hazards when equipment such as a crane, dump truck, or other vehicle is going to be operated near an energized overhead
electrical conductor, or when excavating equipment such as a backhoe will be operated near underground power lines. When equipment operates within reach of, and could therefore encroach on, the minimum to prevent it from
occurring and to have copies of the procedure available for every employer on the project
Overhead power lines are most frequently hit by dump trucks and cranes; however, elevating work platforms and low-tech equipment such as ladders and rolling scaffolds are also involved. Keep in mind that many power line contacts involve low-voltage
service and buried cable.
16.18 Safety measures Written measures and procedures required by the Construction Regulation include the
following:
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• Place enough warning devices in the area of the hazard so at least one is always visible to the operator. The warning devices must be visible to the operator under any
conditions in which the equipment may be operating (night, rain, fog, etc.), and must be specific about the hazard. Provide a sign meeting the requirements of the IE Rules example, “Danger! Electrical power lines overhead.
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17.0 LOCKOUT AND TAGGING 17.1 CONTENTS
• What is lockout and tagging? • Forms of energy • Procedure • Planning steps • Explanation of steps • Summary 17.1.1 WHAT IS LOCKOUT AND TAGGING? Lockout and tagging ensures that hazardous energy sources are under the control of each worker. Serious or fatal accidents can occur when people assume that machinery is turned off or made harmless—but it isn‘t. Lockout is a procedure that prevents the release of hazardous energy. It often involves workers using a padlock to keep a switch in the ―off‖ position, or to isolate the energy of moving parts. This prevents electric shock, sudden movement of components, chemical combustion, falling counterweights, and other actions that can endanger lives. Lockout is a physical way to ensure that the energy source is de-energized, deactivated, or otherwise inoperable. Tagging tells others that the device is locked out, who has locked it out, and why. Tagged devices and systems must not be re-energized without the authority of those named on the tag. 17.1.2 FORMS OF ENERGY When most people think of uncontrolled hazardous energy, they think of electricity. But construction crews doing work in industrial or office settings often have to lock out and tag a variety of energy sources. Here are the main types. • Electrical—electrical panels, generators, lighting systems, etc. • Mechanical (the energy of moving parts)—flywheels, blades, fans, conveyor belts, etc. • Potential (stored energy that can be released during work)—suspended loads, compressed air, electrical capacitors, accumulated bulk goods, coiled springs, chemical reactions, changing states (solid—liquid— gas), etc. • Hydraulic—presses, rams, cylinders, cranes, forklifts ,etc. • Pneumatic—lines, compression tanks, tools, etc. • Thermal—steam, hot water, fire, etc. • Chemical—flammable materials, corrosive substances, vapors, etc. 17.1.3 Some equipment may involve more than one type of energy, and pose unexpected hazards. For example, a machine may have an electrically operated component with a hydraulic or pneumatic primary power source, or it may become activated on a timed schedule. With some equipment, gravity and momentum can present unexpected hazards. You must recognize and control conditions such as these. Switches, power sources, controls, interlocks, pneumatics, hydraulics, computer-controlled sources, gravity-operated sources—all of these must be locked out and appropriately tagged by each worker involved. with a hydraulic or pneumatic primary power source, or it may become activated on a timed schedule. With some equipment, gravity and momentum can present unexpected hazards.
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You must recognize and control conditions such as these. Switches, power sources, controls, interlocks, pneumatics, hydraulics, computer-controlled sources, gravity-operated sources—all of these must be locked out and appropriately tagged by each worker involved. Many plants or industrial establishments will have specific procedures for lockout and tagging. This makes sense because the in-plant workforce will have proven its procedures through use on the particular system or machine in question. Follow these procedures, but also verify that all energy sources have been isolated because construction work may differ from routine plant maintenance. Plant personnel may shut down machines, equipment, or processes. In other cases, plant representatives may issue permits: 1) a work permit to allow work on their equipment and 2) a lockout permit to ensure that all lockout procedures are followed before work begins. A written safe work procedure for lockout and tagging is essential. Once implemented and followed, a good procedure ensures that no form of energy can harm anyone during a lockout. A written procedure helps to ensure that lockout and tagging have been thoroughly and effectively carried out before work begins. It should include • training requirements for workers and supervisors • quality, type, and colour of locks, scissors, chains, blanks, blinds, and other lockout devices • method of identifying lock owners • control of keys for locks • colour, shape, size, and material for tags • method of securing tags and information to be included • communication and authorization procedure for shutting down and starting up machinery and equipment • record-keeping requirements • itemized steps to meet lockout objectives.
17.1.3.1 STEP 6: SHUT DOWN EQUIPMENT AND MACHINERY Qualified personnel must shut down the equipment, machinery, or other system components, placing them in a zero-energy state. Trace all systems to locate and lock out energy sources. The main source may be electrical, for instance, but pneumatic and other forms of energy may also be present. Always look for other possible energy sources. All equipment capable of being energized or activated electrically, pneumatically, or hydraulically must be de energized or de-activated by physically disconnecting or otherwise making the apparatus inoperable. Always ensure that the client and operators are aware of the plan to shut down and lock out equipment, machinery, or other system components. In some cases, operations personnel or equipment operators may be required to shut down components because of their special qualifications or knowledge of the system. In determining what needs to be shut down and locked out, consider the different energy sources that may be found in the system.
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17.1.3.2 STEP 7: INSTALL LOCKOUT DEVICES 17.1.3.2.1 After the circuit has been de-energized and locked out by the person in charge, each worker involved in the lockout must be protected by placing his or her personal lock on the isolating device. Remember—even though the disconnect is already locked out, you are not protected until you attach your own personal safety lock. Each worker must retain his or her key while the lock is in place. Only the worker in charge of the lock should have a key. Remember . . . • Merely removing a fuse doesn‘t constitute lockout. The fuse could be easily replaced. The fuse should be removed and the box locked out. • The lockout devices attached to one system should not prevent access to the controls and Energy-isolating devices of another system. 17.1.3.2.2 Locks Locks should be high-quality pin-type, key-operated, and numbered to identify users. 17.1.3.2.3 Multiple locks and lockout bars When several workers or trades are working on a machine, you can add additional locks by using a lockout bar. You can add any number of locks by inserting another lockout bar into the last hole of the previous bar. 17.1.4
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17.1.5 EXPLANATION OF STEPS 17.1.5.1 STEP 1: LOCATE WORK AREA AND IDENTIFY EQUIPMENT, MACHINERY, OR OTHER SYSTEM COMPONENTS TO BE WORKED ON Identify the area with references such as floor, room name, elevation, or column number. Identify the equipment that is the subject of the work. 17.1.5.2 STEP 2: IDENTIFY ALL ENERGY SOURCES Identify all energy sources affecting the equipment or machinery. Identify the various energy forms to be locked out such as electrical, momentum, pneumatic, hydraulic, steam, and gravity. 17.1.5.3 STEP 3: IDENTIFY THE PARTS TO BE LOCKED OUT OR ISOLATED Identify systems that affect, or are affected by, the work being performed. These may include primary, secondary, backup, or emergency systems and interlocked remote equipment. Review the current system drawings for remote energy sources and, where required, identify and confirm with the client or owner the existence and location of any switches, power sources, controls, interlocks, or other devices necessary to isolate the system. Remember that equipment may also be affected by • time restrictions for completing the work • time-activated devices. 17.1.5.4 STEP 4: DETERMINE LOCKOUT METHODS Confirm that the lockout of all energy sources is possible. Some equipment may have to be kept operational to maintain service to other equipment that cannot be shut down. Take appropriate steps to provide protection for workers while working near operating equipment. Equipment that can be locked out should be locked out by the methods most appropriate to the hazards. 17.1.5.5 STEP 5: NOTIFY ALL PERSONNEL AFFECTED Shutting down equipment may affect operations in other locations, incoming shifts, or other trades who may be planning to operate the locked-out system. Before proceeding with the lockout, inform all personnel who will be affected. At construction sites with a large workforce or at relatively large factories, you may need to have special communication methods and permits or approvals. Other lockout devices Scissors—have holes for locks and should be made of hardened steel.
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Chains—should be high quality and snug fitting. Blocks or cribbing—prevent or restrict movement of parts.
Blanks or blinds—are solid metal plates inserted at flanged connections to prevent the flow of liquids or gases. Pins and clamps—should be of high-quality materials and designed to fit the system. 17.1.5.6 TAGGING Each worker involved in a lockout operation to attach a durable tag to his or her personal lock. The tag must identify the worker‘s name, the worker‘s employer, the date and time of lockout, the work area involved, and the reason for the lockout. A tag in itself offers no guarantee that a machine or system is locked out. It simply provides information Signs must be placed on the system indicating that • it must not be energized or operated • guards, locks, temporary ground cables, chains, tags, and other safeguards must not be tampered with or removed until a) the work is complete, and b) each worker has removed his or her personal lock. A record must be kept of all equipment locked out or otherwise rendered inoperable so that all of these devices can be reactivated once the work is complete. 17.1.5. 7 VERIFY ZERO-ENERGY STATE After any power or product remaining in the equipment has been discharged or disconnected by qualified personnel, verify that all personnel are clear of the equipment.
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Then try, with extreme caution, to start the equipment manually. Look for any movement or functions. If none are observed, confirm that all energy sources are at a zero-energy state. Test the system to ensure that all electrical components are de-energized and de-activated, including interlocking and dependent systems that could feed into the system, either mechanically or electrically. 17.1.5.8 STEP 10: PERFORM THE TASK Carry out and complete the work assignment. 17.1.5.9 STEP 11: COMMUNICATE THAT WORK IS COMPLETE AND THAT ALL PERSONNEL ARE CLEAR • Ensure that personnel are clear of the locked-out equipment, machinery, or system. • Remove only your tags and locks. • Tell personnel that were originally informed of the lockout that the equipment, machinery, or system is no longer locked out. 17.1.5.10 STEP 12: RESTORE POWER Return systems to operational status and the switches to power ON. Have qualified personnel restart machinery or equipment. 17.1.5.11 STEP 13: RETURN CONTROL TO OPERATING PERSONNEL When all work is completed, the person in charge of the lockout operation should formally return control of the equipment or system to plant personnel. 17.1.5.12 STEP 14: RECORD DATE/TIME LOCKOUT REMOVED AND SYSTEM RESTORED This last step is important. It saves valuable information that may be lost if not recorded. Staff involved in the shutdown may not remain at the same jobsite. Owners or operators may require this information to help plan future shutdowns. 17.1.6 SUMMARY Lockout can ensure the safety of a single mechanic working alone or of hundreds of workers in a factory. In either situation, a procedure for safe lockout and tagging must be written, implemented, and followed step by step. Lockout and tagging procedures help to ensure that • all energy sources are identified and locked out • energy is not inadvertently restored while work is proceeding maintenance, repair, installation, and other jobs can
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18.0 Confined Space Entry
This chapter describes the procedures and responsibilities for employees to safely enter
confined spaces and be able to distinguish between permit-required and non-permit-
required confined spaces.
Confined-Space Standard contains any requirements mentioned in this chapter. A separate confined-space rule has not yet been issued for construction, but the regulations in the respirator standard regarding entry into immediately dangerous to life and health (IDLH) atmospheres apply to construction. 18.1 Responsibility The employer will identify and evaluate all confined spaces and whether entry requires a permit. It is the employer‘s responsibility to take all precautionary measures necessary for safe confined-space entry and to instruct employees in the nature of hazards involved, precautions to take, the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and any emergency equipment required. The entry supervisor in charge will have the responsibility of initiating the confined-space entry permit before allowing anyone into the confined space. Employees are responsible for following the guidelines set by management. 18.2 Definitions Confined space means a space that: • Is large enough and so configured that an employee can bodily enter and perform assigned work? • Has limited or restricted means for entry or exit; • Is not designed for continuous employee occupancy. Permit confined space means a confined space that has one or more of the following characteristics: • Contains or has the potential to contain a hazardous atmosphere; • Contains a material that has the potential for engulfing an entrant; • Has an internal configuration, such that an entrant could be trapped or asphyxiated by inwardly converging walls or by a floor that slopes downward and tapers to a smaller cross-section;
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• Contains any other recognized serious safety or health hazard. A hazardous atmosphere is an atmosphere that may expose employees to the risk of death, incapacitation, impairment of ability to escape unaided from a permit space, injury or acute illness from one or more of the following causes: • Flammable gas, vapor or mist in excess of 10 percent of its lower flammable limit (LFL); • Airborne combustible dust at a concentration that meets or exceeds its LFL; • Atmospheric oxygen concentration below 19.5 percent or above 23.5 percent; • Atmospheric concentration of any substance for which a dose or a permissible exposure limit (PEL) is published in OSHA‘s Subpart Z and could result in employee exposure in excess of its dose; • Any other atmospheric condition that is IDLH.
18.4 Examples of confined spaces may include, but are not limited to: • Excavations; • Sewers; • Pipelines; • Storage tanks; • Underground utility vaults; • Pits; • Ventilation and exhaust ducts; • Tunnels; • Bins; 18.5 Hazards Examples of commonly encountered hazards are: • Toxic air contaminants; • Flammable gas; • Insufficient oxygen; • Electric shock from portable lights, tools or assorted electrical equipment; • Physical hazards, such as slipping, falling and falling objects; • Physical deficiencies causing collapse because of fatigue, low resistance to temperature extremes and general poor health; • Mechanical equipment inadvertently activated, such as agitators and mixers; • Inadvertent starting of pump and/or opening of valves leading in or out of tanks or vessels. 18.6 Training The employer will provide adequate training in pre-entry practices and entry practices to all affected employees. He or she will document the training has been accomplished. 18.7 Permit-required confined-space procedure 18.7.1 Pre-entry • Specify acceptable entry conditions. • Identify and evaluate the hazards of permit spaces before employees enter. • You must do periodic or continuous testing must be done the entire time the confined
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space is occupied. When testing for atmospheric hazards, test first for oxygen, then combustible gases and vapors, and then for toxic air contaminants • Isolate the permit space. • Purge, inert, flush or ventilate as needed. • Implement the measures necessary to prevent unauthorized entry. • Provide entry permit identifying the space to be entered, purpose of entry, date(s), authorized entrants and other pertinent information. • Provide barriers to protect entrants from external hazards. • Provide trained attendants capable of rescuing or summoning rescuers outside the space. • Provide the following equipment at no cost to employees, maintain that equipment properly and ensure that employees use it properly: • Testing and monitoring equipment; • Ventilating equipment; • Communications equipment; • PPE; • Lighting equipment; • Barriers and shields; • Equipment for safe entrance and exit; • Rescue and emergency equipment; • Any other equipment necessary for safe entry into and rescue from permit spaces. 18.7.2 Entry If employees detect a hazardous atmosphere to determine how the hazardous atmosphere developed. You must implement measures to protect employees from the hazardous atmosphere before any subsequent entry takes place. Continuous forced-air ventilation is required when alternative entry is permitted under 1910.146 (c) (5). Test the atmosphere within the space at various levels to ensure that the continuous forced air ventilation is preventing the accumulation of a hazardous atmosphere. 18.7.3 Permit-required confined space entry practices • Station one or more attendants at the access opening at all times when employees are working inside; the attendant(s) must be in constant communication with the entrant(s). • No one will enter a confined space under any condition without an outside attendant who is trained and capable of rescuing the entrant. • The attendant(s) must never enter the confined space without self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBAs) or equivalent protection.(This is the cause of most confined-space entrant deaths.) • Use only no spark-producing tools in a potentially explosive atmosphere. • To reduce the risk of electrical shock, consider using low-voltage (12 volts or less) electrical lighting and equipment, or portable battery lights. • Use only approved, grounded electrical equipment. • Consider using air-operated tools where possible. • Do not take cylinders of oxygen and other gases, except SCBAs, into tanks or vessels; • Standard requires retrieval systems or methods, such as a safety harness with
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lifeline, except where it creates a hazard. • Complete and post a confined-space entry permit at the entry point. Use the following personal protective clothing and equipment for employee protection when applicable: • Safety harness with lifeline (except where it creates a hazard itself); • Air-line respirator (with escape bottle in IDLH atmospheres) or SCBA equipment; • Protective suit; • Safety glasses, hard hat, rubber gloves or other equipment appropriate for the environment. The procedures outlined are intended as a minimum precaution; consider carefully each entry. Entering confined spaces, whether permit required or not, may result in injury or death. Circumstances may change; a non-permit required confined space might become permit required and vice versa.
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19.0 TRENCHING 19.1 Contents •Background
•Soil types •Causes of cave-ins •Protection against cave-ins
•Other hazards and safeguards •Emergency procedures
19.2 Background 19.2.1 Fatalities
A significant number of deaths and injuries in sewer and water main work are directly related to trenching. Trenching fatalities are mainly caused by cave-ins. Death occurs by suffocation or
crushing when a worker is buried by falling soil. Over half of all power line contacts involve buried cable. Before excavating, the gas, electrical, and other services in the area must be accurately located and marked. If the service poses a hazard, it must be
shut off and disconnected. 19.2.2 Injuries The following are the main causes of lost-time injuries in the sewer and water main
industry: • materials and equipment falling into the trench • slips and falls as workers climb on and off equipment • unloading pipe • handling and placing frames and covers for manholes and catch basins • handling and placing pipe and other materials
• being struck by moving equipment • falls as workers climb in or out of an Excavation • falling over equipment or excavated material • falling into the trench • exposure to toxic, irritating, or flammable gases. Many of these injuries are directly related to trenching.
19.2.3 Regulations Supervisors and workers in the sewer and Water main industry must be familiar with the “Excavations” section of the Construction Regulation, It is important to understand, for instance, the terms “trench” and “excavation.” An excavation is a hole left in the ground as the result of removing material. A trench is an excavation in which the depth exceeds the width (Figure 1).
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The “Excavations” section of the Construction Regulation identifies the various types of
soils and specifies the type of shoring and timbering to be used for each. It also spells out the requirements for trench support systems that must be designed by a professional engineer.
19.3 Soil types The type of soil determines the strength and stability of trench walls. Identifying soil
types requires knowledge, skill, and experience. Even hard soil may contain faults in seams or layers that make it unstable when excavated. The foreman or supervisor must be knowledgeable about soil types found on a
project and plan protection accordingly. This knowledge must include an awareness that soil types and conditions can change over very short distances. It is not unusual for soil to change completely within 50 meters or for soil to become saturated with moisture
over even smaller distances. The Construction Regulation sets out four soil types. If you are unsure about the soil type, have the soil tested to confirm the type.
19.3.1 Type 1 — It is hard to drive a pick into Type 1soil. Hence, it is often described as “hard ground to dig”. In fact, the material is so hard, it is close to rock.
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When excavated, the sides of the excavation appear smooth and shiny. The sides will remain vertical with no water released from the trench wall.
If exposed to sunlight for several days, the walls of Type 1 soil will lose their shiny appearance but remain intact without cracking and crumbling. If exposed to rain or wet weather, Type 1 soil may break down along the edges of the excavation. Typical Type 1
soils include “hardpan, ”consolidated clay, and some glacial tills. 19.3.2 Type 2 — A pick can be driven into Type 2 soil relatively easily. It can easily be excavated by a backhoe or hand-excavated with some difficulty. In Type 2 soil, the
sides of a trench will remain vertical for a short period of time (perhaps several hours) with no apparent tension cracks. However, if the walls are left exposed to air and sunlight, Tension cracks will appear as the soil starts to dry. The soil will begin cracking
and splaying into the trench. Typical Type 2 soils are silty clay and less dense tills. 19.3.3 Type 3 — Much of the Type 3 soil encountered in construction is previously
excavated material. Type 3 soil can be excavated without difficulty using a hydraulic backhoe. When dry, type 3 soil will flow through fingers and form a conical pile on the ground. Dry Type 3
soil will not stand vertically and the sides of the excavation will cave in to a natural slope of about 1 to 1 depending on moisture. Wet Type 3 soil will yield water when vibrated by hand. When wet, this soil will stand vertically for a short period. It dries
quickly, however, with the vibration during excavation causing chunks or solid slabs to slide into the trench. All backfilled or previously disturbed material should be treated as Type 3. Other typical
Type 3 soil includes sand, granular materials, and silty or wet clays. 19.3.4 Type 4 — Type 4 soil can be excavated with no difficulty using a hydraulic backhoe. The material will flow very easily and must be supported and contained to be
excavated to any significant depth. With its high moisture content, Type 4 soil is very sensitive to vibration and other disturbances which cause the material to flow. Typical Type 4 Material includes muskeg or other organic deposits with high moisture
content, quicksand, silty clays with high moisture content, and leta clays. Leta clays are very sensitive to disturbance of any kind.
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19.4 Causes of Cave-Ins Soil properties often vary widely from the top to the bottom and along the length of a trench.
Many factors such as cracks, water, vibration, weather, and previous excavation can affect trench stability (Figure 2). Time is also a critical factor. Some trenches will remain open for a long period, then suddenly collapse for no apparent reason.
Figure 3 shows the typical causes of cave-ins. The main factors affecting trench stability are soil type, moisture, vibration, surcharge, previous excavation, existing foundations, and weather.
19.4.2 Moisture content The amount of moisture in the soil has a great effect on soil strength. Once a trench is dug, the sides of the open excavation are exposed to the air. Moisture content of the
soil begins to change almost immediately and the strength of the walls may be affected. The longer an excavation is open to the air, the greater the risk of a cave-in.
19.4.3 Vibration Vibration from various sources can affect trench stability. Often trench walls are subject to vibration from vehicular traffic or from construction operations such as earth moving,
compaction, pile driving, and blasting. These can all contribute to the collapse of trench walls. 19.4.4 Surcharge
A surcharge is an excessive load or weight that can affect trench stability. For instance, excavated soil piled next to the trench can exert pressure on the walls. Placement of spoil piles is therefore important. Spoil should be kept as far as is practical from
the edge of the trench. Mobile equipment and other material stored close to the trench also add a surcharge that will affect trench stability. One meter from the edge to the toe of the spoil pile is the minimum distance requirement (Figure 4). The distance should be
greater for deeper trenches.
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19.4.5 Previous excavation Old utility trenches either crossing or running parallel to the new trench can affect the
strength and stability (Figure 5). Soil around and between these old excavations can be very unstable. At best it is considered
Type 3 soil — loose, soft, and low in internal strength. In some unusual circumstances it may be Type 4 — wet, muddy, and unable to support itself. This kind of soil will not stand up unless it is sloped or shored.
19.4.6 Existing foundations
Around most trenches and excavations there is a failure zone where surcharges, changes in soil condition, or other disruptions can cause collapse. When the foundation of a building adjacent to the trench or excavation extends into this
failure zone, the result can be a cave-in (Figure 6). Soil in this situation is usually considered Type 3. 19.4.7 Weather
Rain, thawing earth, and overflow from adjacent streams, storm drains, and sewers all produce changes in soil conditions. In fact, water from any source can reduce soil cohesion
(Figure 7). Existing foundations are surrounded by backfill and may add a surcharge load to the pressure on the trench wall.
Figure 6 Move spoil pile farther back for
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19.4.8 Protection Against Cave-Ins There are three basic methods of protecting workers against trench cave-ins: • sloping
• trench boxes • shoring Most fatal cave-ins occur on small jobs of short duration such as service connections
and excavations for drains and wells. Too often people think that these jobs are not hazardous enough to require safeguards against collapse. Unless the walls are solid rock, never enter a trench deeper than 1.2 meters (4 feet) if it is not properly sloped,
shored, or protected by a trench box. 19.4.8.1 Sloping One way to ensure that a trench will not collapse is to slope the walls. Where space and
other requirements permit sloping, the angle of slope depends on soil conditions (Figures 8, 9 and 10). For Type 1 and 2 soils, cut trench walls back at an angle of 1 to 1 (45 degrees). That's
one meter back for each meter up. Walls should be sloped to within 1.2 meters (4 feet) of the trench bottom (Figure 8).
For Type 3 soil, cut walls back at a gradient of 1to 1 from the trench bottom (Figure 9). For Type 4 soil, slope the walls at 1 to 3. That’s 3 meters back for every 1 meter up from
the trench bottom (Figure 10). Although sloping can reduce the risk of a cave-in, the angle must be sufficient to prevent spoil not only from sliding back but also from exerting too much pressure on the
trench wall (Figure 11).
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Sloping is commonly used with shoring or trench boxes to cut back any soil above the protected zone. It is also good practice to cut a bench at the top of the shoring or trench (Figure 12).
If sloping is to be used above a trench box, the top portion of the cut should first be sloped 1 to 1 (or 1 to 3 for Type 4 soil — see previouspage). Then the box should be
lowered into the trench (Figure 13).
19.4.8.2 Trench boxes
Trench boxes are not usually intended to shore up or otherwise support trench walls. They are meant to protect workers in case of cave-in. Design drawings and specifications for trench boxes must be signed and sealed by the professional engineer
who designed the system and must be kept on site by the constructor. Boxes are normally placed in an excavated but unshored trench and used to protect personnel. A properly designed trench box is capable of withstanding the maximum lateral load
expected at a given depth in a particular soil condition. Trenches near utilities, streets, and buildings may require a shoring system. As long as workers are in the trench they should remain inside the box. Workers must not be inside the trench or the box when
the box is being moved. A ladder must be set up in the trench box at all times. Excavation should be done so that the space between the trench box and the excavation is minimized (Figure 14).
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The two reasons for this are 1) allowing closer access to the top of the box
2) limiting soil movement in case of a cave-in. Check the drawings and specifications for the trench box to see if the space between the box and the trench wall needs to be backfilled and the soil compacted.
19.4.8.3 Shoring Shoring is a system which “shores” up or supports trench walls to prevent movement of soil, underground utilities, roadways, and foundations. Shoring should not be confused with trench boxes. A trench box provides worker safety but gives little or no support to trench walls or existing structures such as foundations and manholes. The two types of
shoring most commonly used are timber and hydraulic. Both consist of posts, Wales, struts, and sheathing.
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20.0 TRAFFIC CONTROL
20.1 Attention: Supervisors Traffic control persons (TCPs) must be given written and oral instructions regarding their duties. This section is designed to help you meet the requirement for written instructions set out in Section 69(4) of the Construction Regulation. A worker who is required to direct vehicular traffic, (a) shall be a competent worker; (b) shall not perform any other work while directing vehicular traffic; (c) shall be positioned in such a way that he or she is endangered as little as possible by vehicular traffic; and (d) shall be given adequate written and oral instructions, in a language that he or she understands, with respect to directing vehicular traffic, and those instructions shall include a description of the signals that are to be used. In addition, the written instructions must be kept on the project. 20.2 What are the objectives of traffic Control? • To protect construction workers and the motoring public by regulating traffic flow. • To stop traffic whenever required by the progress of work. Otherwise to keep traffic moving at reduced speeds to avoid tie-ups and delays. • To allow construction to proceed safely and efficiently. • To ensure that public traffic has priority over construction equipment. 20.3 What equipment do I need? Personal • Hard hat that meets regulated requirements. • Safety boots, CSA-certified, Grade 1 (green triangular CSA patch outside, green rectangular label inside). • Garment, usually a vest, covering upper body and meeting these requirements: - fluorescent or bright orange in colour - two vertical yellow stripes 5 cm wide on front, covering at least 500 cm2 - two diagonal yellow stripes 5 cm wide on back, in an X pattern, covering at least 570 cm2 - stripes retro-reflective and fluorescent - vests to have adjustable fit, and a side and front tear-away feature on vests made of nylon. We recommend that garments comply with CSA standard Z96-02—and in particular a Class 2 garment, Level 1 or Level 2.
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20.4 Sign A sign used to direct traffic must be • octagonal in shape, 450 mm wide, and mounted on a pole 1.2 m long • made of material with at least the rigidity of plywood 6 mm thick • high-intensity retro-reflective red on one side, with STOP printed in high-intensity retro-reflective white 150 mm high • on the other side, high-intensity retro-reflective micro prismatic fluorescent chartreuse, with a black diamond-shaped border at least 317 mm x 317 mm, with SLOW printed in black 120 mm high. 20.5 After Dark Section 69.1(4) of the Construction Regulation requires that you wear retro-reflective silver stripes encircling each arm and leg, or equivalent side visibility-enhancing stripes with a minimum area of 50cm2 per side. The following measures are recommended: • Wear a Helmet with reflective tape. • Use a flashlight with a red cone attachment as well as the sign and carry spare batteries. • Place flashing amber lights ahead of your post. • Stand in a lighted area under temporary or street lighting, or illuminated by light from a parked vehicle (stand fully in the light without creating a silhouette). 20.6 What are the requirements of a good traffic control person? • Sound health, good vision and hearing, mental and physical alertness. • Mature judgment and a pleasant manner. • A good eye for speed and distance to gauge oncoming traffic. • Preferably a driver's license. • The ability to give motorists simple directions, explain hazards, and answer questions. • Liking, understanding, and respect for the responsibilities of the job. 20.7 How do I prepare for each job? Before starting work, make sure that you know • the type of construction you will be involved with — paving, installing pipe, grading, cut and fill, etc. • the type of equipment to be used, such as scrapers, trucks, compactors, and graders • how the equipment will be operating — for instance, crossing the road, along the shoulder, in culverts, or on a bridge • whether you will have to protect workers settling up components of the traffic control system such as signs, delineators, cones, and barriers • any special conditions of the contract governing road use (for instance, many contracts forbid work during urban rush hours)
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• how public traffic will flow — for example, along a two lane highway, around curves or hills, by detour or on a road narrowed to a single lane. This last is a very common situation and requires two traffic control persons to ensure that vehicles do not move in opposing directions at the same time (see next page). In some cases, where the two cannot see one another, a third is necessary to keep both in view and relay instructions (see ―Positioning of Traffic Control Persons). 20.8 What should I check each day? • Make sure that the STOPSLOW sign is clean, undamaged, and meets height and size requirements. • Place the TRAFFIC CONTROL PERSON AHEAD sign at an appropriate distance to afford motorists adequate warning. • Remove or cover all traffic control signs at quitting time or when traffic control is temporarily suspended. • Arrange with the supervisor for meal, coffee, and toilet breaks. 20.9 Where should I stand? • Stand the correct distance from the work area. • Do not stand on the travelled portion of roadway and always face oncoming traffic. • Be alert at all times. Be aware of construction traffic around you and oncoming traffic on the roadway. • Stand alone. Don't allow a group to gather around you. • Stand at your post. Sitting is hazardous because your visibility is reduced and the ability of a motorist to see you is reduced. • Adjust distances to suit road, weather and speed conditions. Remember these points: - Traffic must have room to react to your directions to stop (a vehicle can take at least twice the stopping distance on wet or icy roads). - Stand where you can see and be seen by approaching traffic for at least 150 meters (500 feet). - Avoid the danger of being backed over or hit by your own equipment. • Hills and curves call for three TCPs or some other means of communication. • Once you have been assigned a traffic control position by your supervisor, look over the area for methods of escape — a place to get to in order to avoid being injured by a vehicle heading your way, if for some reason the driver has disregarded your signals. If this should happen, protect yourself by moving out of the path of the vehicle and then warn the crew. 20.10 Where am I not allowed to direct traffic? Section 69 of Ontario Regulation 213/91 specifies that: A worker shall not direct vehicular traffic for more than one lane in the same direction. A worker shall not direct vehicular traffic if the normal posted speed limit of the public way is more than 90 kilometers per hour 20.11 How should I signal? • Use the STOP-SLOW sign and your arms as shown below.TRAFFIC CONTROL
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• Hold your sign firmly in full view of oncoming traffic. • Give the motorist plenty of warning. Don't show the STOP sign when the motorist is too close. The average stopping distance for a vehicle travelling at 50 kilometers per hour (30 miles per hour) is 45 meters (150 feet).Higher speeds require more stopping distance. • When showing the SLOW sign, avoid bringing traffic to a complete halt. When motorists have slowed down, signal them to keep moving slowly. • When showing the STOP sign, use firm hand signals and indicate where you want traffic to stop. After the first few vehicles stop, move to a point on the road where traffic in the queue can see you. • Before moving traffic from a stopped position, make sure the opposing traffic has stopped and that the last opposing vehicle has passed your post. Then turn your sign and step back on the shoulder of the road. • Stay alert, keep your eyes on approaching traffic, make your hand signals crisp and positive. • Coordinate your effort with nearby traffic signals to avoid unnecessary delays, tie-ups, and confusion. • Do not use flags to control traffic. • In some situations, two-way traffic may be allowed through the work zone at reduced speed, with a traffic control person assigned to each direction. Since motorists can be confused or misled by seeing the STOP side of the sign used in the opposite lane, the signs must be modified. The STOP side must be covered to conceal its distinctive shape and command. This should prevent drivers from stopping unexpectedly. your attitude
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21.0 BACKING UP 21.1 Reversing vehicles and equipment on construction projects pose a serious problem for personnel on foot. Fatal accidents resulting from workers being backed over by dump trucks and other equipment occur all too frequently. Anyone on foot in the vicinity of reversing vehicles and equipment is at risk. More then 20 deaths have occurred on construction sites over a ten year period as a result of reversing vehicles. 21.2 Blind Spots The main problem with reversing vehicles and equipment is the driver or operator's restricted view. Around dump trucks and heavy equipment such as bulldozers and graders there are blind spots where the operator has no view or only a very limited view. The operator may not see someone standing in these blind spots. Anyone kneeling or bending over in these areas would be even harder to see. Consequently the driver or operator must rely on mirrors or signalers to back up without running over someone or into something. Figure 1 shows the blind spots for common types of construction equipment. Dump trucks and cranes are the kinds of equipment that hit overhead power lines most often. Beware of power line contact whenever a crane, dump truck, or other vehicle is going to be operated near an overhead electrical conductor. If equipment operates within reach of (and could therefore encroach on) the minimum permitted distance from an overhead power line (see the chapter on Electrical Hazards in this manual), the constructor is required to have written procedures in place to prevent the equipment from encroaching on the minimum m distance. 21.3 Accident Prevention To prevent injuries and deaths caused by vehicles and equipment backing up, there are four basic approaches: 1) site planning 2) signalers 3) training. 21.3.1 Site planning Wherever possible, site planners should arrange for drive through operations to reduce the need for vehicles to back up (Figure 2). Foot traffic should be minimized where trucks and equipment operate in congested areas such as excavations. Where feasible, a barricade can help to protect workers: for example, by keeping excavation work separate from forming operations (Figure 3). The hazards of reversing vehicles can also be reduced through separate access for workers on foot. Where possible, for instance, a scaffold stair system should be provided for worker access to deep excavations. Near loading and unloading areas, pedestrian walkways can be roped off or barricaded.
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21.3.2 Signallers On some projects, you cannot avoid having reversing vehicles or equipment on site. Often, they must share an area with other vehicles and operating equipment – as well as workers on foot. You must have a signaller or spotter when a) a vehicle or equipment operator‘s view of the intended path of travel is obstructed b) a person could be endangered by the operation of the vehicle or equipment, or by its load c) any part of the equipment could encroach on the minimum distance to an overhead power line (see the chapter on Electrical Hazards in this manual for minimum distances). A signaller must be a competent worker and must not have any other duties to fulfill while acting as a signaller. Before a worker can act as a signaller, the employer must ensure that the worker has been given adequate oral and written instructions in a language that he or she understands. The employer must keep, on site, a copy of the written instructions and a record of the training. A signaller must wear a garment – usually a nylon vest – that is fluorescent or bright orange, with 2 vertical 5- centimeter-wide yellow stripes on the front and 2 similar stripes forming a diagonal "X" pattern on the back. These stripes must be retro-reflective and fluorescent. The vest must have an adjustable fit and have a front and side tear away feature. If a signaller has to work during the night, he or she must wear retro-reflective silver stripes around each arm and leg. The signaller must maintain clear view of the path that the vehicle, machine, or load will be travelling and must be able to watch those parts of the vehicle, equipment, or load that the operator cannot see. The signaller must maintain clear and continuous visual contact with the operator at all times while the vehicle or equipment is moving (Figure 5), and must be
177
able to communicate with the operator using clearly understood, standard hand signals (Figure 6). The signaller must warn other workers on foot of the approaching vehicle or equipment, and must alert the operator to any hazards along the route.
21.3.3 Training Instruction for drivers, operators, signallers, and workers on foot is essential to reduce the hazards created by reversing vehicles and equipment. For example, all construction personnel must be made familiar with blind spots – the areas around every vehicle that are partly or completely invisible to the operator or driver, even with the help of mirrors (Figure 1) Specific training can then focus on the following points. 21.4 Workers on Foot • Know how to work safely around trucks and operating equipment. • Understand the effect of blind spots (Figure 7). • Avoid entering or standing in blind spots. 21.5 Make eye contact with the driver or operator before approaching equipment. • Signal intentions to the driver or operator. • When possible, use separate access rather than vehicle ramps to enter and exit the site. • Avoid standing and talking near vehicle paths, grading operations, and other activities where heavy equipment is moving back and forth. 21.6 Drivers and Operators
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• Always obey the signaller or spotter. If more than one person is signaling, stop your vehicle and determine which one to obey. • If possible, remain in the cab in areas where other equipment is likely to be backing up. • Make sure that all mirrors are intact, functional, and properly adjusted for the best view. • Blow the horn twice before backing up. • When no spotter is present, get out and quickly walk around your vehicle. If the way is clear, back up at once (Figure 8). • Stop the vehicle when a spotter, worker, or anyone else disappears from view.
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CHAPTER-V
TOOLS AND TECHNIQUES
22.0 POWER TOOLS SAWS
22.1 Basic Saw Safety
• Wear prote ti e lothi g a d e uip e t (seethe hapters o perso al protective equipment in this manual). Eye protection is essential.
• Where saws are used i o fi ed spa es or for prolo ged periods, wear heari g protection.
• Where e tilatio is i ade uate, wear a dust ask for prote tio agai st dust. Over time, exposure to dust from particle board and other materials may cause
respiratory problems.
• With ele tri saws operated outdoors or i wet lo atio s, you ust use a ground fault circuit interrupter.
• Ne er wear loose lothi g, e k hai s, s ar es, or a ythi g else that can get
caught in the saw.
• Lea e safety de i es i pla e a d i ta t o the saw Ne er re o e, odify, or defeat guards. Keep your free hand away from blade (Figure 144).Always change
and adjust blades with the power OFF. Disconnect electric saws from the power
source before making changes or adjustments
.
22.2 Blades
Blades should be sharpened or changed frequently to prolong saw life, increase
production, and reduce operator fatigue. The teeth on a dull or abused blade will
turn blue from overheating. Cutting will create a burning smell. Such blades
should be discarded or reconditioned.
Before changing or adjusting blades, disconnect the saw from the power source.
Take care to choose the right blade for the job. Blades are available in a variety of
styles and tooth sizes. Combination blades (rip and crosscut) are the most widely
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used. Ensure that arbor diameter and blade diameter are right for the saw.
Because all lumber is not new, make sure it is clean and free of nails, concrete,
and other foreign objects. This precaution not only prolongs blade life but may
also prevent serious injury.
Take special care to ensure that blades are installed in the proper rotational
direction
(Figure 145). Remember that electrical circular handsaws cut with an upward
motion. The
teeth visible between the upper and lower guard should be pointing toward the
front of
the saw. Most models have a directional arrow on both blade and guard to serve
as a guide.
22.3 Blade Guards
Never operate an electric saw with the lower guard tied or wedged open. The saw
may kick back and cut you, or another worker may pick up the saw and – not
knowing that the guard is pinned back – get hurt.
Accidents have also occurred when the operator forgot that the blade was
exposed and put the saw on the floor. The blade, still in motion, forced the saw to
move, cutting anything in its path.
Make sure that the lower guard returns to its proper position after a cut. Never
operate a saw with a defective guard-retracting lever.
On most saws the lower guard is spring-loaded and correct tension in the spring
will automatically close the guard.
However, a spring weakened by use and wear can allow the guard to remain open
after cutting. This creates a potential for injury if the operator inadvertently rests
a still turning
blade against his leg after finishing a cut. Always maintain complete control of the
saw until the blade stops turning. The guard may also be slow to return after
22.4 Choosing the Proper Blade
For safety, saw operators must understand the different designs and uses of
blades (Figure 146). Blades unsuited for the job can be as hazardous as dull
blades. For instance, a saw fitted with the wrong blade for the job can run hot so
quickly that blade tension changes and creates
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a wobbly motion. The saw may kick back dangerously before the operator can
switch it off.
Re-sharpened blades can be substantially reduced in diameter – for instance,
from nine to eight inches. Make sure that the blade diameter and arbor diameter
are right for the saw.
22.5 Carbide-Tipped Blades – Take special care not to strike metal when using a
carbide-tipped blade. The carbide tips can come loose and fly off, ruining
the blade and injuring the operator. Inspect the blade regularly for cracked or
missing tips.
22.6 Crosscut Blade —
The bevelled sharp pointed teeth are designed to cut the cross grain in wood. Size
and bevel of the teeth are important factors in cutting different woods. Softwood
requires bigger teeth to carry off the sawdust. Hardwood requires fine teeth with
many cutting edges. Note the different angles and edges needed for cutting
hardwood and softwood.
Bevelled this side
Bevelled opposite side
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Ripsaw Blade — The flat sharp teeth are designed to cut the
Not Bevelled
. 10° Angle for Hardwood
30°
22.7 Angle for Softwood
Get clogged and the blade would become overheated. Never use a ripsaw blade
for crosscutting or for cutting plywood. The material can jam and overheat the
blade or splinter in long slivers that may seriously injure the operator.
22.8 Changing, Adjusting, and Setting Blades
When changing blades, take the following precautions.
1. Disconnect the saw from the power source.
2. Place the saw blade on a piece of scrap lumber and
press down until the teeth dig into the wood (Figure147). This prevents the blade
from turning when the locking nut is loosened or tightened. Some machines are
provided with a mechanical locking device.
3. Make sure that keys and adjusting wrenches are removed before operating the
saw.
Proper adjustment of cutting depth keeps blade friction to a minimum, removes
sawdust from the cut, and results in cool cutting. The blade should project the
depth of one full tooth below the material to be cut (Figure 148). When using
carbide-tipped blades or mitre blades
let only half a tooth project below the material. If the blade is to run freely in the
kerfs (saw cut), teeth must be set properly, that is, bent alternately (Figure 149).
The setting of teeth
differs from one type of blade to another. Finer toothed blades require less set
than rougher-toothed blades. Generally, teeth should be alternately bent 1/2
times the thickness of the blade. Sharp blades with properly set teeth will reduce
the chance of wood binding. They will also prevent the saw from overheating and
kicking back.
22.9 Cutting
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Place the material to be cut on a rigid support such as a bench or two or more
sawhorses. Make sure that the blade will clear the supporting surface and the
power cord. The wide part of the saw shoe should rest on the supported side of
the cut if possible.
Plywood is one of the most difficult materials to cut with any type of saw.
The overall size of the sheet and the internal stresses released by cutting are the
main causes of difficulty. Large
sheets should be supported in at least three places, with one support next to the
cut.
Short pieces of material should not be held by hand. Use some form of clamping
to hold the material
down when cutting it (Figure 150).
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The material to be cut should be placed with its good side down, if possible.
Because the blade cuts upward into the material, any splintering will be on the
side which is uppermost.
Use just enough force to let the blade cut without labouring. Hardness and
toughness can vary in the same piece of material, and a knotty or wet section can
put a heavier load on the saw. When this happens, reduce pressure to keep the
speed of the blade constant. Forcing
the saw beyond its capacity will result in rough and inaccurate cuts. It will also
overheat the motor and the saw blade.
Take the saw to the material. Never place the saw in a fixed, upside-down
position and feed material into it. Use a table saw instead.
If the ut gets off li e, do t force the saw back onto line. Withdraw the blade and
either start over on the same line or begin on a new line. If cutting right-handed,
keep the cord on that side of your body. Stand to one side of the cutting line.
Never reach under the material being cut.
Always keep your free hand on the long side of the lumber and clear of the saw.
Maintain a firm, well-balanced stance, particularly when working on uneven
footing.
Plywood, wet lumber, and lumber with a twisted grain tend to tighten around a
blade and may cause kickback. Kickback occurs when an electric saw stalls
suddenly and jerks back toward the operator. The momentarily exposed blade
may cause severe injury.
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23.0 SAFETY IN WELDING & GAS CUTTING OPERATIONS
23.1 Introduction
Welding and cutting are common industrial operations, But there is lack
of adequate awareness of the hazards. Injuries are in the form of eye
injuries, infections, burns and injuries are due to lifting, slips, falls, and
dropped or falling objects. It also poses great fire haza rd.
23.2 Gas Welding & Cutting Equipment
23.2.1 Welding Gases:
23.2.1.1 Oxygen is supplied in cylinders under a pressure of 2200 psi.
at 70 degree F.
Acetylene is either supplied in cylinders or generated as needed.
Range of flammable limits of acetylene (2.5 to 81% a cetylene in air) is
greater than that of other commonly used gases, with consequently
greater hazard.
23.2.1.2 Hydrogen is supplied in cylinders under a pressure of 2000
psi at 70 degree F. Hydrogen-air mixture are flammable in
the range from 4 to 74% hydrogen.
23.2.1.3 Other fuel gases propane Butane , and their mixtures are
also used with oxygen in welding touches. These are
supplied in cylinders in liquid form.
Acetylene is the most popular welding gas. When burnt with
oxygen it can produce a higher flame temperature (6000
degrees F) than any other gas used commercially.
23.2.2 Acetylene Generators
Acetylene should never be generated distributed, or utilized at a pressure
in excess of 15 psi. At greater pressure acetylene becomes unstable.
186
All acetylene generators should conform to the requirements specified in
the Calcium Carbide Rules, 1937 issued by Govt. of India.
Anything which may cause a spark must be kept away from generator
room. It is better to install electric or any other lamps outside the
generator room positioned to light inside the room through windows,
doors etc. Charged generators should not be moved by crane or derrick.
Suppliers instructions should be explicitly followed. Generators should be
cleared or repaired during daylight avoiding art ificial light. Whenever
repairs are to be made or the generator is to be charged or carbide is to be
removed the water chamber should be completely filled to avoid the
danger of explosive mixtures of air and acetylene within the water space
and also to prevent the dropping of carbides into insufficient amount of
water.
23.3 Handling, Storage; and use of compressed gas Cylinders:
23.3.1 Handling (some of the important point to remember)
1) No tampering with numbers or marks stamped
2) Mechanical device advisable for carrying. They may be rolled on
bottom edge, but never dragged.
3) Never lift with electromagnet. For handling by crane or derrick
cradle should be used.
4) Never drop cylinders or allow them to strike each other violently.
5) No misuse of cylinder.
6) No tampering with safety devices
7) Before retur i g e pty yli ders positi ely ark the EMPTY with chalk. Close valves and replace valve protection cap.
8) Always consider cylinders full, if not definitely known.
9) When in doubt, ask supplier
23.3.2Storage
1) Keep away from radiators and all sources of heat.
187
2) Inside building, cylinders in a well protected well ventilated dry
location, at least 20 feet away from highly combustible materials,
such as oil. There should be definitely assigned place for storing
away from elevators, stairs, gangways. Never keep at a place where
these can be knocked over or damaged by passing or falling objects.
Never store in unventilated enclosures, such as locker and cup -
boards.
Cylinders containing oxygen and combustible gases, such as acetylene,
hydrogen should not be store in same room. If stored in the same room
under unavoidable circumstances they be kept far apart (20 feet) a
noncombustible barrier in between of at least 5 feet having a fire-
resistance rating of at least half-an-hour.
3) Store Acetylene cylinder always upright,
23.3.3 Use
1) Use cylinders in upright position and secure them against accidentally
being knocked over.
2) Keep metal cap in place to protect valve, when not connected for
use.
3) Do not force connections that do not fit.
4) Open valves slowly. Use opening tool provided by supplier
5) Do: not use a compressed gas cylinder without pressure reducing
regulator device attached to the valve.
6) Use regulators and pressure gauges only with gases only designed.
7) Leaking cylinders must be taken out of use immediately, valve closed
cylinder removed, outdoor and supplier notified.
8) Do not permit any source of ignition to come in contact with the
cylinder or attachment.
9) Never use oil or grease as a lubricant on valves or attachment and do
not handle cylinders with oily hands gloves or clothing.
10) Never use oxygen as a substitute for compressed air.
11) Before removing a regulator from a cylinder valve, close the valve
and release the gas from the regulator.
23.4 Manifolding of Cylinders Distribution Piping
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Manifolds shall be of substantial construction of a design material suitable
for the particular gas and service for which they are to be used.
Distribution piping carrying oxygen from manifolder other centralized
supply should be of steel, wrought iron, brass or copper. For pressure over
150 psi, extra-heavy pipe and fittings should be used. Only steel or
wrought iron piping should be used for acetylene, distribution systems.
Flanged connections in acetylene lines should be electrically bo nded.
23.5 Arc Welding & Cutting Equipment
For arc welding, two welding leads, electrode lead & work lead are
required from source of current supply. One lead is connected to work and
the other to electrode holder. The work lead (Cable) is not satisfacto ry
means of providing return (ground) circuit.
23.6 Convertor: AC or DC may be used. Rectifier for DC and Transformer
for AC supplies used for convertor must be well protected both
mechanically and electrically.
23.7 Voltages: Voltage across welding varies from 15 to 50volts depending
on type and size of electrode used. Welding circuit must supply high
oltage to strike the ar . This oltage is alled the ope ir uit . Or No Load oltage whi h should ot e eed followi g li its:
23.7.1 (a) A.C. Machines
i) Manual Arc welding and cutting – 80 volts
ii) Automatic (or mechanized) arc welding & Cutting –100volts.
23.7.2 D.C. Machines
i) Manual Arc welding & cutting ---100 volts
ii) Automatic arc welding & cutting --- 100 volts
23.8 Currents: With small diameter electrodes used on this sheets for
manual arc welding, current values vary from 10 to 50 amp.
23.9 Service, Cables & connectors
All cables must be of completely insulated, flexible type, capable of
handling the max. current requirements.
Only rubber-covered cable free from splices must be permitted for a
Minimum distance of 10 ft from electrode holder.
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For connecting two lengths of cables substantial insulated connectors of
latest equivalent capacity must be used.
23.10 Electrodes & Holders
Electrodes Holders are used to connect the electrode to the welding cable
supplying secondary current. They should be specifically designed for arc -
welding & capable of safely handling the max. rate of current required by
the electrode. Electrode holders should be fully insulated for providing
superior protection to the operator. Practice of dipping hot electrode
holders in water is dangerous- It may expose worker to electric shock.
23.11 Electric Shock
Work set up is such that the work is ground and if welder is not careful, he
a ot e easily grou ded. Welder ay e e posed to the ope ir uit oltage duri g the off-arc or no-load period while changing electrodes,
setting up work, or changing working position. Danger is more in hot
weather when welder is sweaty.
23.12 Common Hazards
23.12.1 Light Rays: Electric arcs and gas fumes both produce ultraviolet
and infrared rays which are harmful to the eye and skin upon continued or
repeated exposure. Permanent eye injury may result.
Arcs welding should be isolated as far as practicable to safeguard other
worker from direct or indirect exposure from rays. Walls, ceilings,
partitions, etc should be of non-reflective nature. Where work permits
welder should be enclosed in an individual booth painte d with a finish of
low reflectively such as zinc Oxides (an important factor for absorbing UV
Radiation) and lamp black. Booth should be designed to permit circulation
of air at floor level
23.12.2 Fire: No welding near combustible materials, Segregatio n is a
must. No welding near or in room having flammable or combustible
vapors, liquids, or dust, or on or inside closed tanks or other containers
which have held such materials until all fire and explosion hazards have
been eliminated. The surrounding premises should be thoroughly
ventilated and frequent gas testing provided. Local exhaust ventilation
equipment should be used for removal of hazardous air vapor, fumes that
general ventilation fails to dispel. Closed containers that have held
flammable liquids or other combustibles should be thoroughly cleaned
before welding.
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23.12.3 Following steps taken in that order will make the container safe for
welding:
i) Degrease the container thoroughly using an alkaline or any other
degreasing solution
ii) Rinse the container thoroughly with hot water and allow to dry
completely.
iii) After drying and before welding the container should be purged
thoroughly for a period of at least five minutes with an inert gas.
iv) That inert gas should be allowed to flow through the container under
a positive pressure while welding is taking place.
As an added precaution for prevention of fire, a fire watcher equipped with
suitable fir extinguisher should be stationed at or near welding operations
conducted in hazardous locations. Fire watch should be continued for at
least 30 minutes after the job is completed to make sure that smoldering
fire have not started.
23.13 Personnel Protection
Eye and Face Protection
The object of protective equipment here is to protect eyes and face from
the heat and injurious effects of infrared, visible light and ultraviolet rays.
These equipment should, therefore, be-
i) Constructed of heat-resisting non-ignitable material which is also
injurious to harmful rays
ii) Light, but strong enough to withstand rough service.
iii) Goggles, helmets and shields that give max. eye protection for each
welding process should be worn by welders and also their helpers.
iv) Goggles and Spectacles must have side shields.
The following is a guide for the selection of glass with proper shade
numbers. These recommendations can be varied to suit individual needs
Welding operation Shade No. of lenses
191
i)
Shielded metal-arc welding
1 3 1
---------------------------
16 16 8
---- inch electrodes
10
i) Gas-shielded arc welding(non-ferrous)
1/16
3/32
1/8
5/32
--- inch electrodes
11
ii) Gas-shielded arc welding (ferrous)
1 3 1 5
------------------------------------------------
16 32 8 32
-- inch electrodes
12
iii) Shielded metal-arc welding
3 7 1
--------------------------------- inch electrodes
16 32 4
5 7
--------------------------------- inch electrodes
15 8
12
14
iv) Atomic Hydrogen welding 10 - 14
v) Carbon-arc welding 14
vi) Soldering 2
vii) Torch Brazing 3 - 4
viii) Light cutting up to 1-inch 3 - 4
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ix) Medium cutting 1 to 6 inches 4 - 5
x) Heavy cutting 6 inches and over 5 - 6
xi) Gas welding (light) up to 1/8 inch 4 - 5
xii) Gas welding (med) 1/8 to
1/2 inch 5 - 6
xiii) Gas welding (heavy) 1/2 inch and over 6 - 8
Note: In gas welding or oxygen cutting where the torch produces high
yellow light, it is better to use a filter or lens that absorb the yellow light of
operation.
23.13.2 Protective clothing
i) Flame resistant Gauntlet gloves, exception very light work
ii) Apron of leather, asbestos, or other flame-resistant materials to
withstand radiated heat and sparks
iii) For heavy work, fire-resistant leggings, high boots or similar
protection
iv) Safety shoes wherever heavy objects are handled. Low -cut shoes
with unprotected tops should not be used because of spark hazard
v) For overhead work, caps or shoulder covers of leather or other
suitable material
vi) Safety hats or other head protection against sharp or heavy falling
objects.
23.13.3 Respiration Protection
During welding toxic gases, fumes, and dusts may be evolved depending on
the type of electrodes used, the base metal being welded, and whether or
not the base metal is coated with such material as tar, paint, lead or zinc,
gases-the oxides of in varying degrees present inhalation hazards, if
adequate respiratory protection is not used.
Welding or cutting involving zinc lead-sodium or mercury-bearing base or
stainless steel shall be done using mechanical ventilation adequate to
remove the fumes generated. Alternatively use of airline respirator may be
resorted to.
23.14 USES OF WELDING EQUIPMENT SAFELY
DOS AND DON’TS
193
23.14.1. DO: Wear protective equipment, such as leather sleeves,
ja ket, apro a d welder s leather glo es to prote t the ski from intense heat and sparks, protect the eye and fa ce by
means of a suitable helmet or shield equipped with a filter
glass plate. Wear safety shoes, tightly laced.
DON’T: Leave if any portion of protective clothing when
welding, even through the job takes only a few minutes. Do
not leave shirt open at the neck or any other openings
where sparks or globules of molten metal may fall inside the
clothing.
23.14.2. DO: Erect large screen around welding work to protect
nearby employees from arc rays.
DON’T: Weld in an unprotected spot where near by
employees will be exposed to arc rays. Do not weld when
anyone is looking at the arc without wearing helmet or filter
lens goggles of a cup or sides shield design.
23.14.3. DO: Make sure the electrode holder is hung up when not
in use and not left on the table or in touch with a grounded
object.
DON’T: Leave electrode holder on table or in contact with a
grounded metallic surface. These precautions prevent
damaging your equipment and causing injury to yourself.
23.1.4. DO: See that cable connections to electrode holder and
ground are tight and insulated. Make sure electrode holder
is in good condition and grips electrode firmly. Always use
will insulated holders.
DON’T: Use an electrode holder with defective jaws or a
loose cable connection, as this will cause excessive heating.
23.14.5. DO: Erect suitable safeguarding around any flammable
materials near work and keep a handy extinguisher. Where
sparks may come through floor or partition, have helper or
fire watcher stationed where he can control the situation.
DON’T: Weld on any drum or container without first
thoroughly purging it of flammable or explosive vapors.
Many a welder has been seriously injured because of failure
to take the time necessary to thoroughly purge a container.
194
23.14.6. DO: Always wear safety goggles under helmet for
protection when chipping or grinding a weld. Clear or light
tinted goggled will also help to prevent eye flashes when
other welders are working nearby.
23.14.7. DON’T: Chip or grid a weld without wearing proper safety
goggles, even it is only a small job.
***
195
ANNEXURES: 1
General Instruction: NE/HSE/CONST/001
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS OF SHE MONITORING AND AUDIO-VISUAL
EQUIPMENTS
1. For the purpose of minimum requirements of Audio-visual and Other equipment
the contracts are categorized into the following groups:
Contract Value (Initial awarded value of contract) Group
Up to 25 Cr A
Up to 100 Cr B
Up to 250 Cr C
More than 250 Cr D
2. Every contractor falling into the above groups shall provide the following
minimum required audio visual aids for conducting weekly review, monthly
safety committee and other post review meeting of all fatal and major
incidences effectively. These audio-visual equipments are a must for
conducting periodical in-house safety presentations in the training programmes.
3. In addition to the above portable hand held digital sound level meter (SLM) and
portable hand held digital lux meter are also to be provided.
196
Sl.
No
SHE monitoring and Audio-
Visual Equipment details
SHE monitoring and Audio-Visual
equipment required for
Group A
Contract
Group
B
Contra
ct
Group
C
Contra
ct
Group
D
Contrac
t
1. Portable hand held Digital Sound
Level Meter (SLM) Noise
Monitoring deleted
1 1 1 1
2. Portable hand held Digital Lux
Meter 1 1 1 1
3. Laptop Computer with standard
configuration including multi
media facilities
1 1 1 1
4. 23.8 Colour Printer 1 1 1 1
5. Computer projector with screen - 1 1 1
6. Overhead projector 1
7. 35mm Camera (For taking accident investigation photos in which case the images can not be easily altered)
1 1 1 1
8. Digital camera with flash of minimum 4 mega pixel and video facility
1 1 1 2
9. Digital still camera with flash of minimum 4 mega pixel
1 2 4 6
10. Portable loudspeaker (for tool-
box talk and emergency
purpose)
1 1 2 6
197
11. Communication facility like
mobile phone, walky-talky etc
For all supervisors and
managers/engineers working in Safety,
Health & Environment
12. Accident investigation Kit
containing the following:
1 1 1 2
a) Chalk piece for marking
b) Measuring tape for measuring
Flexible tape – 2m length
Metal Foot long scale and
Metal tape – 30m
c) Equipment tags
d) Multipurpose Flash light
e) Barrier tape of 20m length
f) Accident investigation Forms and
checklists
g) Enough Paper for witness
recording and other noting
h) Emergency Phone Numbers list
198
ANNEXURE 2:
General Instructions NE/HSE/CONST/002
23.9 SHE Training details for Managers and Supervisors
1. The Law and Safety 2. Policy and Administration
Statutory requirement Appropriate regulations
Effect of incentive on accident prevention Human relations
Duties of employer and employee Consultation Safety Officer: duties, aims, objectives
3. Safety and the Supervisor 4. Principles of Accident Prevention
Safety and efficient production go together Accidents affect morale and public relations
Attitudes of management, supervision and operations
Methods of achieving safe operations Accident and injury causes
5. Site Inspection 6. Human Behavior
The role of management Motivating agencies Hazard Identification Procedure Individual behavior Records results Environmental effects Follow-up procedures Techniques of persuasion Feedback
7. Site housekeeping 8. Health
Site organization Medical examination Relationship of site housekeeping to accident occurrence
Hazard to health on site Sanitation and welfare
Site access Protective clothing Equipment storage First Aid/CPR Material stacking Materials handling
9. Personal Protective Equipment 10. Electricity
Eye, face, hands, feet and legs Appreciation of electrical hazards Respiratory protective equipment Power tools Protection against ionizing radiation Arc welding Low voltage system Lighting and power system on sites
199
ELCB, RRCB, Grounding/Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs)
11. Oxygen and Acetylene Equipment 12. Equipment
Cylinder storage and maintenance Accidents related to moving parts of machinery
Condition and maintenance of valves, regulators, and gauges
Appreciation of principles of guarding
Condition and maintenance of hoses and fittings
Importance of regular maintenance
Pressures
200
13. Transportation 14. Excavations
Transport to and from site Method of shoring Hazard connected with site transport Precautions while shoring Competent drivers Precautions at edge of excavations Dumpers Removal of shoring Tipping trucks Sheet steel piling Movement near excavations
15. Working platforms, Ladders, and Scaffolding
16. Cranes and other Lifting Machines
Hazards connected with the use of ladders Maintenance and inspection
Licensing, certification and training required for operation of cranes
Type of scaffold Slinging methods Overloading Signaling Work on roofs Access to crane(s) Fragile material Maintenance and examination Openings in walls and floors Ground conditions Use of safety belts and nets Hazards and accident prevention
methods connected with the use of different types of cranes/heavy equipment
Crane Lift Plan for all lifts
17. Lifting Tackle 18. Fire Prevention and Control
Slings - single and multi-legged Principle causes determining fire Safe working loads (SWLs) Understanding fire chemistry Safety hooks and eyebolts Fire fighting equipment Cause of failure Fire fighting training Maintenance and examination
19. Communications 20. Manual Handling
Effective methods of communication (particular interest to non-English speaking workers)
Body posture and procedure for lifting, pushing, pulling, dragging, sitting and walking
Method and preparation of reports Ergonomics Safety committees Stretching exercises Safety meeting
201
ANNEXURE 3
APPENDIX 2
Safety, Welfare and Occupational Health requirements as per BOCW Act 1996 and
Rules 1998 and BOCWKR Rules 2006.
(This list has been prepared in chronological order with primary importance to Section of Act
and secondary importance to Rules)
S - Refers relevant Sections in BOCWA
R - Refers relevant Rules in BOCWR
C - Refers relevant Chapter No. in BOCWR
P - Refers to relevant rules in BOCWWCR 1998
K - Refers to relevant rules in BOCWKR 2006
Sl.
No. Items
Relevant Sections / Rules
in BOCWA and BOCWR
and BOCWKR 2006
1. Registration of establishment S – 7,
R – 23 to 27
2. Display of registration certification at
workplace
R – 26 (5)
3. Hours of work S – 28
R – 234 to 237
4. Register of overtime S – 28; S – 29
R – 241(1) Form XXII
5. Weekly rest and payment at rest R – 235
6. Night shift R – 236
7. Maintenance of workers registers and
records
S – 30
R – 238
8. Notice of commencement and completion S – 46
R – 239
202
9. Register of persons employed as building
workers
R – 240
10. Muster roll and wages register R – 241(1) (a); Form XVI and
XVII
11. Payment of wages R – 248
12. Display of notice of wages regarding R – 249
13. Register of damage or loss R – 241(1)(a); Form XIX, XX,
XXI
14. Issue of wages book R – 241(2)(a); Form XXIII
15. Service certificate for each workers R – 241(2)(b); Form XXIV
16. Display an abstract of BOCWA and
BOCWR
R – 241(5)
17. Deduction of welfare cess by the
government agencies
P – 4(3)
18. Annual return R – 242; Form XXV
19. Drinking water S – 32
20. Latrines and Urinals S – 33
R – 243
21. Accommodation S – 34
22. Creches S – 35
23. First-aid boxes S – 36
R – 231 and Schedule III
24. Canteens S – 37
R – 244
25. Food stuff and other items served in the
canteens
R – 245
26. Supply of tea and snacks in work place R – 246
27. Food charges on no loss no profit basis R – 247
28. BOCWKR 2006 welfare Board Rules K – 261 to 267
29. Safety committee S – 38
203
R – 208
30. Safety officer S – 38
R – 209 and Schedule VII
31. Reporting of accidents and dangerous
occurrences
S – 39
R – 210
32. Procedure for inquiry in to the causes of
accidents
R – 211
33. Responsibility of employer S - 44
R – 5
34. Responsibility of Architects, Project
engineer and Designers
R – 6
35. Responsibility of workmen R – 8
36. Responsibility for payment of wages and
compensation
S – 45
37. Penalties and Procedures S – 47; S – 55
38. Excessive noise, vibration etc R – 34
39. Fire Protection R – 35
40. Emergency action plan R – 36
41. Fencing of motors R – 37
42. Lifting of carrying of excessive weight R – 38
43. Health, Safety and Environmental Policy R – 39
44. Dangerous and Harmful Environment R – 40
45. Overhead protection R – 41
46. Slipping, Tripping, Cutting, Drowning and
Falling Hazards
R – 42
47. Dust, Gases, Fumes, etc R – 43
48. Corrosive substance R – 49
49. Eye Protection R – 45
50. Head Protection and other protection
apparel
R – 46; R – 54
204
51. Electrical Hazards R – 47
52. Vehicular traffic R – 48
53. Stability of structure R – 49
54. Illumination R – 50; R – 124
55. Stacking of materials R – 51
56. Disposal of debris R – 52
57. Numbering and marking of floors R – 53
58. Lifting appliances and gears C – VII; R – 55 to 81
59. Runways and Ramps C – VIII; R – 82 to 85
60. Working on or adjacent to water C – IX; R – 86 & 87
61. Transport and earthmoving equipments C – X; R – 88 to 95
62. Concrete work C – XI; R – 96 to 107
63. Demolition C – XII; R – 108 to 118
64. Excavation and Tunnelling works C – XIII; R – 119 to 168
65. Ventilation R – 153
66. Construction, repair and maintenance of
step roof
C – XIV; R – 169 to 171
67. Ladders and Step ladders C – XV; R – 172 to 174
68. Catch platform and hoardings, chutes,
safety belts and nets
C – XVI; R – 175 to 180
69. Structural frame and formworks C – XVII; R – 181 to 185
70. Stacking and un-stacking C – XVIII; R – 186 & 187
71. Scaffold C – XIX; R – 188 to 205
72. Cofferdams and Caissons C – XX; R – 206 to 211
73. Explosives C – XXI; R – 212 & 213
74. Piling C – XXII; R – 214 to 222
75. Medical Examination for building and other
construction worker, Crane operator an
Transport vehicle drivers
R – 81; R – 223(a)(iii) and
Schedule XII
205
76. Medical examination for occupational
health hazards
R – 223(a)(iv)
77. Charging of workers for Medical
Examination
R – 223(b)
78. Occupational health centers and Medical
officers
R – 225 and Schedule X &XI
79. Ambulance van & room R – 226 & 227 and Schedule
IV & V
80. Stretchers R – 228
81. Occupational health service for building
workers
R – 229
82. Medical examination for occupational
health hazards
R – 223(a)(iv)
83. Emergency care services and emergency
treatment
R – 232
84. Panel of experts and agencies Central Rule 250
85. Power of inspectors Central rule 251
Karnataka Rules 268
206
ANNEXURE IV
APPEDIX 1
Memorandum of Understanding between Nitesh Estates and the Contractor for safe
execution of contract work
This Memorandum of Understanding is made and executed by and between Nitesh Estates, a Company registered under the Companies Act 1956 and having its registered office at xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx Bangalore or their authorized representative(s), hereinafter referred to as ―EMPLOYER‖ (which expression shall wherever the context so requires or admits be deemed to mean and include its successors in business and assigns) of the one party
AND
M/s __________________________________________________________________ having its registered office at ______________________________________________________________ hereinafter referred to as the ―CONTRACTOR‖ (which expression shall wherever the context so requires or admits be deemed to mean and include its successors in business and assigns) of the other party
WITNESSETH THAT
WHEREAS the EMPLOYER gives highest importance to the occupational safety, health and environment during execution of work, seeks cooperation from the CONTRACTOR in this endeavour. Thus, this Memorandum of Understanding is for promoting the safety, health and environment aspects required to be followed at workplace/site and will be applicable to any site job to be done by the CONTRACTOR
AND
WHEREAS the CONTRACTOR has read all the terms and conditions of the EMPLOYER and whereas the CONTRACTOR has studied the following documents:
(a) Tender Documents, including Notice Inviting Tender, General Conditions, Special Conditions,
(b) Conditions of Contract on Safety, Health and Environment and Project Safety, Health and Environment Manual.
(c) Building and Other Construction Workers (Regulations of Employment and Conditions of Service) Act 1996, Central Rules 1998 and subsequent Karnataka Government Rules 2006, Building and Other Construction Workers Welfare Cess Act 1996 and Rules 1998 and notification [Central & State] Collection of cess.
(d) Indian Electricity Act 2003 and Rules 1956. (e) Corresponding International / Bureau of Indian Standard Codes.
The amendments to any of the above rules and any other rules & regulations or procedures, circulars, notices & advices laid down by the EMPLOYER from time to time.
207
Now it is hereby AGREED AND DECLARED by and between the EMPLOYER and the CONTRACTOR as follows: Clause - I The CONTRACTOR shall abide by the terms and conditions
stipulated in Condition of Contract on Safety, Health & Environment and Project Safety, Health & Environment Manual.
Clause - II The CONTRACTOR shall undertake full responsibility for safe execution of job at work place/site and safety of his personnel and adjoining road users during work.
Clause - III Without giving any prior notice, the EMPLOYER shall from time to time be entitled to add/or amend any or all terms and conditions with a view to improving safety and occupational health of personnel and safety of work, with immediate effect and the same shall be binding on the CONTRACTOR. The contractor agrees to implement all such amendments, which shall be laid down by the EMPLOYER.
Clause - IV Besides following the guidelines, safety rules and regulations, safety codes given in various safety procedures/documents mentioned above, the CONTRACTOR shall also prepare detailed method statement which includes job safety analysis wherever there are complicated and hazardous/high risk working involved and get it approved from Employer before execution of work.
Clause - V Any negligence or violation in implementing any of the provision of the conditions of contract on Safety, Health & Environment and BMRC project Safety, Health & Environment Manual shall be viewed seriously and the contractor is liable to compensate the employer for the loss of reputation. The cost of damage shall be fixed on case-to-case basis.
In witness thereof the Parties hereto by representatives duly authorised have executed this Memorandum of Understanding on ____________________ day of ________________ 20____.
Signed on Signed on
For and on behalf of NITESH ESTATES For and on behalf of (Contractor)
__________________________ __________________________
Signature: Signature:
Name: Name:
Title: Title:
208
ANNEXURE V
SELECT INDIAN STANDARDS ON SAFETY IN CONSTRUCTION
Given below are some select Indian standards pertaining to safety in construction and
civil engineering works :
IS 875 : 1987 Structural Safety of
building Loading
standard – Part 1 to 5
IS 7969 : 1975 Safety code for
handling and storage
of building materials
IS 1904 : 1978 Code of practice for
structural safety of
buildings, shallow
foundations
IS 8989 : 1978 Safety code for
erection of concrete
framed structures
IS 1905 : 1987 Structural safety of
buildings masonry walls
IS 9944 : 1992 Recommendations
on safe working load
for natural and man-
made fiber rope
slings
IS 2750 : 1964 Steel scaffoldings
IS 3696 : 1966 Safety code for scaffolds
and ladders Part 1 & 2
IS 10291 : 1982 Safety code for dress
divers in civil
engineering works
IS 3764 : 1966 Safety code for
excavation work
IS 10386 Safety code for
construction,
operation and
maintenance of river
valley projects - Part
1 to 10
IS 4014 : 1967 Code of practice for steel
tubular scaffolding-Part
1& 2
IS 4081 :1967 Safety code for blasting
and related drilling
operations
IS 13415 : 1992 Code of practice on
safety for protective
barriers in and
around building
IS 4130 : 1976 Safety codes for
demolition of buildings
IS 13416 Recommendations
for preventive
measures against
hazards at working
places – Part 1 to 5
209
IS 4138 : 1977 Safety code for working
in compressed air
IS 9706 : 1980 Code of practice for
the construction of
arial ropeways for
the transportation of
material
IS 4756 : 1978 Safety code for tunneling
work
IS 4912 : 1978 Safety requirements for
floor and wall openings,
railings and toe boards
IS 3935 : 1966 Code of practice for
composite
construction
IS 5121 : 1969 Safety code for piling and
other deep foundations
IS 9759 : 1981 Guidelines for de-
watering during
construction
IS 5916 : 1970 Safety code for
constructions involving
use of hot bituminous
materials
IS 4082 : 1977 Recommendation on
staking and storage
of construction
material at site
IS 6922 : 1973 Criteria for safety and
design of structures
subject to underground
blasts
IS 3521 : 1989 Industrial safety belts
and harnesses
IS 7205 : 1973 Safety code for erection
on structural steel work
IS 7155 : 1986 Code of
recommended
practice for conveyor
safety (Part 1 to 8)
IS 7293 : 1974 Safety code for working
with construction
machinery
IS 2925 : 1984 Specification for
industrial safety
helmets
IS 7323 : 1974 Guidelines for operation
of reservoirs
IS 11057 : 1984 Industrial safety acts
210
Annexure 5
1. Weekly Management Report – Format
2. Audit - Format
Nitesh Estates Limited
Safety Audit Report
Project: Nitesh Cape Cod
The following are the contents of this Report:
1. Statutory Requirements
2. Machinaries Calibrations/Fitness Certification
3. Safety Snags
PROJECT NAME :
TYPICAL MONTHLY SAFETY AUDIT FORMAT
Nitesh Estates Limited
Safety Audit Report
Project: Nitesh Cape Cod
Date of Validation
Due date of
Validation
i.
FORM VI
FORM VIA
FORM XIII
FORM XIV
FORM XVI
FORM XVII
FORM XVIII
FORM XIX
FORM XX
FORM XXI
FORM XXII
FORM XXIII
FORM XXIV
ii.
FORM 2
FORM 5
FORM 10
FORM 12A
FORM 3A & 6A
Challans
Comparison
Statement
Notice of Commencement
Register of work men employed by contractor
Employment card
Mustor roll
wage slip
Register of wages cum mustor roll
Register of Damages of loss
Register of voliations & Fines
1. Statutory Complaince Report
Sl.No: Statutory Requirement
Contractor
The contract Labour(Regulation and Abolition) Act 1970 & Karanataka Rule 1974
Labour License
Register of Over Time
Register of Advances
Half Yearly return sent by the contractor
Employees Provident fund
CAR Policy
EMPLOYEES PROVIDENT FUND & MISC. PROVISION
ACT 1952
Employees Nomination form
Details of New Joiners
Details of Left Employees
Monthly Returns
Annual Returns
Monthly Remittance
With PF No for all the Employees who are employed
by contractor
a. Contractors
Nitesh Estates Limited
Safety Audit Report
Project: Nitesh Cape Cod
iii.
FORM IV
FORM I
FORM II
FORM III
iv.
Form 36 -
Abstract of the
ActForm Q
v.
FORM I
FORM VI
FORM IX
FORM XXII
vi.
FORM 01
FORM 1A
FORM 1
FORM 3
FORM 5
FORM 6
FORM 11
FORM 12
FORM 5A
Challans
Inspection Book
vii.
FORM A
FORM B
FORM C
FORM D
Monthly Remittance
To be maintained to enter the notices, Inspection
note of Inspector
THE PAYMENT OF BONUS ACT 1965
Register of allocable Surplus
Register of Set on and Set off
Register of Bonus Payment
Annual Returns
THE EMPLOEES STATE INSURANCE ACT 1948(If applicable)
Employer Registration
Information about organization
Declaration Form
Return of Declaration
Return of Contribution
Register of Employees
Accident Book
Report of accident and dangerous occurrence
Register of Wages
WORKMEN'S COMPENSATION ACT 1923 AND WORKMEN'S COMPENSATION KARNATAKA) RULES 1966
Abstract of the Act
The employer shall report the injury to the LO within
7 days
THE MINIMUM WAGES ACT 1948 AND MINIMUM WAGES (KARNATAKA) RULES 1958
Register of Deduction, Fines and Advances
Wages Slips
Overtime Register
Muster Roll cum Salary/Wage register
Register of Deduction
Advance Payment of Contribution
THE PAYAMENT OF WAGES ACT 1936
Annual Return
Register of Fines
Nitesh Estates Limited
Safety Audit Report
Project: Nitesh Cape Cod
viii.
FORM D
ix.
FORM F / G
x.
FORM D
xi.
Form VI
xii.
Weekly Off
xiii.
FORM 5A
FORM 5
FORM 4
FORM 3
Date of
Validation
Due date of
Validation
a
b
c
d
e
h
i
j
k
l
m
n
S rew gauge – o.
Venier Calipers
Auto Levels
Slump Cone - 2 nos.
Cube Moulds - 72 nos.
Hot Air Oven
Measuring Jars
Total Station
Weighi g ala e of apa ity kg (a ura y – g – o.
Weighing balance of capacity 20 kg (accuracy 0.1gm)
– o.
Fine Aggregate Sieves
Monthly Challans
Yearly consolidated Return
Registration Certificate
Enrolment Certificate
Name of the Machinary Details of the Machinary
Calibration/ Fitness certificate
CTM (2000KN Capacity)
THE PAYMENT OF GRATUITY ACT 1972 AND KARNATAKA RULES 1973
Nomination Form
THE KARNATAKA LABOUR WELFARE FUND ACT, 1965.
Annual Return
THE NATIONAL AND FESTIVAL HOLIDAYS ACT
Register of National and Festival Holiday
THE WEEKLY HOLIDAYS ACT, 1942
Every Person employed shall be allowed in each week
a holiday of One whole day.
KARNATAKA TAX ON PROFESSIONS, TRADES, CALLINGS AND EMPLOYMENTS ACT, 1976 AND RULES 1976(if applicable)
THE EQUAL REMUNERATION ACT 1976
Register to be maintained by Employer
Sl.No:
b. Machinaries
Nitesh Estates Limited
Safety Audit Report
Project: Nitesh Cape Cod
3. Safety Snaglist
Sl. No. Observations Recommendations
Important Instruction
1) The photograph are taken at
some locations only and
rectification given
2) It is the responsibility of the
execution in charge to idetify all
such violations and rectified
3Labours working at site without
safety helmets
All the people present in
site should be provided
and made to wear safety
helmets. People without
safety helmets should not
be allowed to enter site.
4
Workmen are sitting on the
banks of Steep earthcut where
the banks are already collapsed
Workmen should not be
allowed to work under the
steep earth cuts
5 Electrical Sockets lying in water
All electrical lines and
sockets to be placed at
higher, safe and dry
places.
6Under age labour are working at
site
Underage labour shall not
be allowed into the site
7Bad practice which may lead to
dangerious hazard
Bad practices shall be
stopped
Photos
Slope of excavation not as per
GFC. The slopes are steep and
potentially dangerous to people
working in the vicinity.
People working at slopes without
proper safety harness and safety
ropes.
slope to be maintained as
per the GFC with required
berms.
workmen shall not be
allowed near the earth cut
banks.
1
2
Sample 1
Nitesh Estates Limited
Safety Audit Report
Project: Nitesh Cape Cod
8Excavator Working on the edges
of the Earth cut
Excavator Shall not be
allowed near the edges of
earthcut and
Flag'smen/Signal men /
banksmen have to be
monitering this activity
9 Poor house keepingHouse keeping shall be
maintained properly
10 Workmen without safety shoeWorkmen shall be
provided with proper PPE
Project: Name
Sl.No: Safety Inductions Tool box talksNear Miss
Reports
First Aid
ReportsSafety Drills
1 Yes Yes No Yes No
SnagsNote
1 The snags are typical
2 All unbarricaded openings are not captured
3 The site has one Quality engineer who is taking care of Quality monitoring of all activites
so it is not possible to cover all areas
4 It is the responsibilty of the execution block in charge to identify all areas and rectify it
Sl.No: Description Remarks
1Cutout
Barrications
2 Edge protections
3Fall from height
Protection
4 Safety Shoe
5 Housekeeping
6Compitent Safety
Officers
Accident Report
Sl.No: Description Occurance Remarks
1 Minor AccidentsNIL
2Major Accidents -
Personal injuryNIL
3Major Accidents -
Asset DamageNIL
4
Major Accidents -
Injury & Asset
damageNIL
5Accident-Loss of
Limbs NIL
6 Fatal Accidents NIL
Abstract for the week: Period
Details are
mentioned in
Audit reports
Category of Accidents
1. Minor Accident:-
An Accident involving first aid being administered and at least involving loss of one
man day
2. Major Accide t – Perso al I jury:-An accident which results in injury and at least one man day is lost.
3. Major Accide t – Da age to assets:-An accident which results in damage to assets.
4. Major Accide t – I jury a d assets da age:-An accident which results in injury and at least one man day is lost & damage to assets.
5. Accident - Loss of Limb:-
An accident in which a person looses his limb.
6. Fatal Accidents:-
An accident where death occurs
7. Near Miss Report:-
An incident which does not result in injury or damage to assets but has the potential to do so
if it occurres at a different time or location.
