Toolbox Talk Folder - ebook

The Drilling & Sawing Association Toolbox Talk Directory

The Publication has been created by The Drilling & Sawing Association. We have made every effort to ensure that the information provided is acurrate at time of print. The contents should be used as a guidance and does not replace current or exsisting legislation. This publication will be updated as new information, guidance and legislations are avaialble.

DSA Toolbox Talk Directory Contents Introduction Work Equipment Safety How to Deliver a Toolbox Talk WS1:Check Your Tools Before Use WS2:Electricity and Electric Tools General Safety WS3:Lifting Equipment and Accessories WS4:Lifting Operations – Planning & Control GS1:Accident / Incident Report WS5:LPG, Petrol and Compressed Gases GS2:Confined Space Safety WS6:Safe Use of Quick Hitch Devices GS3:Drugs and Alcohol at Work GS4:Fire Safety - Know Your Extinguisher Working at Heights GS5:First Aid Requirements GS6:Hands- Look After Them! WH1:Fall Arrest or Fall Restraint GS7:Housekeeping – Hose and Cable WH2:Safe Use of Ladders WH3:Safe Use of Scaffolding Management WH4:Safe Use of Steps and Podium GS8:Legal Health & Safety Duties – The Law GS9:Manual Handling Platforms GS10:Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) WH5:Use Of MEWPS – Scissor Lifts and GS11:Safety in and Around Excavations GS12:Safety Signs Cherry Pickers GS13:Workplace Violence WH6:Working in Windy Conditions Vehicle Safety Safe Working Zones VS1:Jump Starting Batteries SZ1:Diamond Drilling – Know Your Safe VS2:Mobile Phone Safety Zones VS3:Preventive Vehicle Maintenance SZ2:Floor Sawing – Know Your Safe Zones Inspections SZ3:Remote Control Plant – Know Your Safe VS4:Tail Lift Safety VS5:Trailer Checks Zones VS6:Vehicle Control – Marshalling SZ4:Track Sawing – Know Your Safe Zones VS7:Winter Travel and Working in Winter SZ5:Wire Sawing – Know Your Safe Zones Environmental Drilling & Sawing Safety E1:Environment – Control of Silt, Dust and DS1:Control of Falling Cores Slurry DS2:Core Drilling – Safety When in Use DS3:Electric Floor Saw Safety E2:Environment – Emergency Spill Control DS4:Eye Bolt Safety E3:Environment – Waste Control DS5:Floor Saw Safety Guard DS6:Hand-Held Abrasive Wheels Occupational Health DS7:Location of Service DS8:Care of Water-cooled motors & E boxes OH1:Asbestos – what to do if it is found OH2:Control of Noise in Winter conditions OH3:Control of Vibration - HAVs DS9:Stability & Moving of the Remote OH4:Face Fit Testing – When and Why? OH5:Leptospirosis – Weil’s Disease Controlled 360 Pedestrian Operated OH6:Protecting Your Eyes Machine OH7:Psittacosis – Pigeons Disease DS10:Exclusion Zone & Manoeuvring Remote OH8:RCS – Respirable Crystalline Silica Controlled 360 Pedestrian Operated (Dust) Machine OH9:Slurry Burns DS11:How To Fit The Blade - Ring Saw DS12:Road Safety Controls DS13:Suspended Slab Safety DS14:Temporary Works – Supporting

DSA Toolbox Talk Directory Contents Structures DS15:Wall Sawing Safety DS16:Weight of Concrete DS17:Wire Sawing Safety Guidance Notes GN1:Floor Saw Blade Bolts and Latch Plate - Husqvarna GN2:DSA Air Monitoring Supporting Document SD1:Sign Off Sheet SD2:Concrete Core Weights SD3:Vehicle Inspection Sheet SD4:HAV’s Daily Record SD5:Floor Saw Mandatory Daily Checklist SD6:Remote Control Plant Mandatory Daily Checklist

Introduction How to Deliver a Toolbox Talk This toolbox talk should be used and read by • Groups should not be greater than Drilling and Sawing Association Members to 10 as this does not allow for two-way confirm understanding and control of toolbox communication. talk delivery. • The toolbox talk should allow for Toolbox talks are used to reinforce known discussion and not be one way or a and predicted hazards and risks that may be ‘lecture’ encountered by operatives and teams on-site during their works. • Open with a statement of fact and the reason for the talk and ask ‘open’ The tool-box talk uses specific themes to focus questions (Where, how, why, when) to get on specific work practices, for example, if a job a response requires core drlling set upto the are then the core drilling - safety when in use toolbox talk • The audience needs to be able to listen, should be provided as it is relevant to the job. no background noise The tool-box talk may be planned not just for • They need to offer responses to questions works predicted, but for themes and events that offered by being able to understand your could have been reported or have occurred statements and questions – speak clearly during the work processes on-site – so they and prepare so the audience can hear and become relevant to experiences from the site understand you operations. How do we confirm the learning from Deliver a toolbox talk when: the toolbox talk? • Specific work activities change to • Distractions need to be removed for the create different work processes and audience circumstances based on the method of work and changes in work operations • Reading a toolbox talk and signing a sheet generate specific hazards or risks not does not constitute positive delivery previously highlighted or discussed. • Listen, be respectful to the delivering • As a response to reported acts or supervisor throughout and offer positive conditions from work processes on-site comments which may have been reported as not following the correct working practices. • If the audience does not listen, stop; use a pause to gain their attention. • From a safety alert or event from site or from another site where lessons need to • Ask direct questions to the group be learnt or discussed to better our own knowledge of these. • If the group do not respond offer the question directly to an individual How to get the attention of the audience: • Offer encouragement by offering some of the details, but try and use this to lead to • The toolbox talk needs to be planned for further confirmation of the answer – for and relevant to the audience example: • The area needs to be free of any Question – how do we check for live distractions, so the focus is on the person services on-site? delivering the toolbox talk No response, then offer do we need service drawing first? • This should encourage further responses • Ask questions throughout

Introduction How to Deliver a Toolbox Talk • Don’t accept head nodding as confirmation of learning, get the delegates to confirm with a response • A signature on a sheet does mean the audience has understood, a toolbox talk is a talk. • Gain signatures for proof of delivery of the toolbox talk Ask these to confirm understanding: Q1. What circumstances may influence when to deliver a tool-box talk? A. When specific work activities planned need to discuss potential hazards and risk exposure. This can include a change of work type, an incident or information about a safety concern from another project. Q2. How do we control and gain the attention of the audience? A. Ensure there are no distractions, offer an example of one of the hazards or risks and open with examples. Ask direct questions and push to get interaction from the audience. Please note: A sign off sheet must be attachedand completed by all candidates after the toolbox talk has been provided.

General Safety

General Safety GS1:Accident / Incident Report So What is an Accident? Accident Reporting: Fatal accident An accident is usually a series of “unplanned Health and safety law requires that the following and uncontrolled series of events”. types of accidents are reported to the HSE (Health and Safety Executive). This will usually In UK law and on Construction sites in the UK be by the sub-contractor who employs the it is expected that all site personnel on arrival worker and is often offered by the on-site on-site should receive site specific accident Principle Contractor where required. and incident processes, including fire and evacuation processes, first aid personnel and • Fatalities and specified injuries facilities on-site, medical facilities, emergency phone numbers and contacts for the local • Injuries resulting in more than seven days hospital as well as the quickest route. off work or with an inability to carry on with normal work For guidance inductions should offer: • Dangerous occurrences. • A way to raise the alarm and get assistance from allocated site team All injuries, however small, will be required to members. be entered in the accident book of the Employer and usually the site accident book as a record • Outline the First Aid and medical facilities, of the event. These details will need to be kept personnel and available equipment on confidential. the Construction site to assist with the accident or incident. • Minor Injury – any injury that may require first aid or where an individual may require • Offer points of access and egress, as minimal time from work as a result of well as evacuation to and from the work the injury sustained. This could lead to areas so that accidents and incidents can being an over seven day event that may be responded to include hospital routes, need reporting under RIDDOR (Reporting phone numbers and medical centres local of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous to the Construction site. Occurrences Regulations 2013) by your Employer. • Major Injury – any injury where first aid, with hospital treatment and/or ambulance, has had to be called or used to help the injured party and the individual has sustained an injury which leaves them off work for a substantial period of time, usually more than seven days again requiring to be reported to the HSE under RIDDOR. • Dangerous Occurrences – Listed in RIDDOR a list of incidents that may occur on-site – such as the displacement of a piece of lifting equipment or a crane where no one was hurt, explains what can be classed as a Dangerous Occurrence.

General Safety GS1:Accident / Incident Report So, what is a Near Miss? Q3.What is a near miss? Near miss is usually something that could have A. Anything that could have led to an injury potentially led to an injury to an individual or an or damage to items or individuals on-site. event to the environment or physical item such as a structure on a Construction site. An example could be an open man-hole cover with no barrier, it would require a barrier to be set up straight away once found rather than leaving and just reporting it. Another example could be an unstable pack of material, some may have fallen from the stack or some may have fallen when moving in and around the stack, but in both cases, no one or nothing was actually struck or hurt as a result. Both of these examples of near misses would need to be addressed, reported to the site and then lessons should be learnt on how to control them in the future. Ask these to confirm understanding: Q1.What information on accident and incident processes and facilities will be required when arriving on a construction site during the induction? A. Induction information to include fire and evacuation processes, first aid personnel and facilities on-site, medical facilities, emergency phone numbers and contacts for the local hospital as well as the quickest route. Q2.Who should an accident or incident on- site be reported to? A. In the first instance your immediate supervisor and/ or a member of the site team on-site. Raise the alarm or contact the emergency services if required. If advised, any incident will be reported by your site team or employer to the HSE (Health and Safety Executive) through RIDDOR.

General Safety GS2:Confined Space Safety Dangerous conditions within confined spaces are a leading cause of death in the workplace. Most of these deaths are due to employees underestimating dangers or due to rescuers who are not prepared to enter the space. Specific risks include; Confined space entry can only be done if • Risk of injury arising from fire or explosion. individuals have been suitably trained; • The loss of consciousness arising from an • For entry – Confined Space Awareness increase in body temperature, from gas, training minimum fume or vapour, or the lack of oxygen. • For monitoring atmospheres where • Risk of drowning due to an increase in the hazards and risks have been identified level of liquid. – Confined space two day to include emergency evacuation and use of • Risk of asphyxiation arising from escape sets entrapment in free-flowing solids For full rescue as a part of the team individuals What is a Confined Space? are now asked to attend a full three to five-day course which includes a full tripod and stretcher A confined space refers to a work area rescue to include the use of full breathing with limited openings for entry and exit and equipment. The City & Guilds Confined Space poor ventilation that can contain or produce course is often a client recommendation. dangerous air contaminants. Examples of confined spaces include storage tanks, pits, vaults, sewers, septic tanks, exhaust ducts, grain bins, boilers, pipelines and reaction vessels. Oxygen Deficiency & Enrichment: Atmospheric Hazards; 23% Oxygen enriched atmosphere • Oxygen deficiency – such as – biological/ 21% chemical processes – displacement – 19% Normal oxygen level depletion of oxygen. Control by - purging 17% with inert gas and/or a continuous airflow. 12% Low oxygen – Alarm – feeling tired • Flammable substances and oxygen 10% Judgement (decision making) affected enrichment due to leaks – adjoining plant/ processes – degradation of organic matter 8% Respiration affected – heart Control by monitoring the atmosphere with co-ordination may be disturbed - gas monitors 6% flames extinguished • Toxic gas, fumes or vapours from Light-headedness – increasingly previous use – sludge deposits – difficult respiration contaminated ground – solvents – products of combustion Control by first Nausea & vomiting – conscious but sending a specialist team in to monitor helpless then clear the source. Respiration stops – cardiac arrest – death in minutes

General Safety GS2:Confined Space Safety The Confined Spaces Regulations require the following; • Provide a definition of a Confined Space and the Foreseeable Risks from a survey. • Define the duty holders and require a risk assessment to be carried out before entry. • Prohibit entry into a confined space where it is reasonably practicable to do the work by other means. (Can the job can be carried out without entry) • Require work to be carried out in accordance with a safe system of work with a permit and monitoring documentation for recording atmosphere levels in place • Require emergency arrangements to be in place for any rescue from the hazards and risks identified. Ask these to confirm understanding: Q1.What can be classed as a confined space area? A. All storage tanks, pits, vaults, sewers, septic tanks, exhaust ducts, grain bins, boilers, pipelines and reaction vessels as well as any enclosed area (which may not be fully enclosed but creates hazardous conditions. Q2.What levels of oxygen in the atmosphere based on a percentage can cause issues to workers in Confined space atmospheres? A. From as little as 19% to 6% of oxygen in the atmosphere can cause fatigue and even death to individuals working in Confined space atmospheres. Q3. What training is required by anyone entering a confined space? A. The minimum for entry is an awareness course. If known atmospheres are noted, then the use of emergency breathing escape sets is required and a full 3 to 5 day course for full rescue.

General Safety GS3:Drugs and Alcohol at Work Alcohol Drugs • In a high-risk industry like Diamond Drilling • Some effects of drugs: slow reaction & Sawing, alcohol and work are not times, clumsiness, poor decision-making compatible. and distorted vision. • Alcohol is a depressant drug, which • You increase the risk of an accident on- depresses parts of the brain function site when under the influence of drugs. producing slower reaction times, this increases the risk of injury to yourself, • Drugs prescribed by your doctor could colleagues, and the public from injury. make you unfit for work, as can illegal drugs. Employees who are taking normal • Some delivery sites may have local limits doses of prescribed medication which may that are below the drink-drive limit. affect their work performance, safety or metabolic behaviour are asked to inform • Remember that drinks the night before can their manager or supervisor. still be in your system putting you over the limit. Alcohol takes time to work out of your • Do not offer drugs or medication to system (1 pint of beer takes approximately colleagues. 2 hours). • If you know somebody is on drugs, tell • Employees should note that it might take your supervisor – help to stamp it out. more than 24 hours for alcohol in blood to disperse. • Signs to look for: watery eyes, pinpoint or dilated pupils, running nose, constant • If you’re found to be intoxicated with drink, sniffing, tight lips, sores, ulcers, trembling, you won’t be allowed on-site. This will fatigue and irritability. If you see it, report result in disciplinary procedures, which it. could include dismissal. • Employees who are taking normal doses of prescribed medication which may affect their work performance, safety or metabolic behaviour are asked to inform their Manger. • If you get a bad reputation for drinking, you may not get another job as you’ll be seen as a liability. • Where Drug and alcohol tests are used, if an individual fails an alcohol or drugs test, or refuses to take a test, the individual risks being permanently excluded from the site. The contractor could also be deemed in breach of their contract. • Promote a culture in which alcohol and drug misuse are discouraged.

General Safety GS4:Fire Safety - Know Your Extinguisher Every year, approximately 350 people in the UK Colour &In addition, the British Standards BS EN: 2 are killed by fire incidents with thousands being Type1992 Classification of fires add the following injured. Solidsinformation in white on the body of the Flammableextinguishers, which uses the letters A, B, Construction sites are very hard to control liquidsC, D and F to clarify the material types that with changes in work operations, changes in Flammablethe extinguisher can be used for: Electrical is structures and routes for access and egress Gaseselectrical on the extinguisher and not the letter and different materials used often leading to MetalsE as many may think: debris and the accumulation of rubbish in areas. Electrical EquipmentClass A - Fires involving SOLID materials, Fire safety and the way we control potential Cookingusually of an organic nature in which fire risks need to be set up, to ensure the right Oils & Fatscombustion normally takes place with the equipment is available to deal with the potential formation of glowing embers such as paper, fire risk from the type of work, materials and wood, plastic etc. situations that Construction workers could be exposed to. Class B - Fires involving FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS such as paraffin, petrol, oil etc. This toolbox talk outlines the types of extinguishers to be available for use for Class C - Fires involving FLAMMABLE GASES Construction operations. such as propane, butane, methane etc. The five main types of extinguisher Class D - Fires involving METALS such as available for use on-site include: aluminium, magnesium, titanium etc. • Water (Red) – for use on paper, wood, Class Electrical – Any fire involving electrical textile and solid material fires apparatus or equipment. • Foam (Cream) – for use on fires caused Class F – High temperature cooking oils or fats by liquid (such as those used in deep fat fryers) • Dry Powder (Blue) – for use on most Red types of materials, liquid and electrical Water fires Cream Foam • CO² (Black - Carbon dioxide) – for use Blue on liquid and electrical fires Dry Poweder • Wet Chemical (Yellow) – for use on Black wood, paper, textiles, cooking oil and solid Carbon material fires Dioxide (C02) All fire extinguishers should be Red in colour with the required contents identified. Yellow Wet In the UK we use a colour Chemical coded band (approx. 10% of the Red surface) on the extinguisher so that we can identify the correct equipment straight away.

General Safety GS5:First Aid Requirements First aid support and site provisions are All site personnel, staff and visitors to site will required on every site regardless of the size of need to know, through induction and specific the project and the number of people working work requirements during briefings: on it. • Who are the site first aiders – check Employers need to ensure that the following is display posters or they may be identified given during Induction on-site; from a label or sticker on their PPE. • The number of fully trained first aiders on- • Who is the site appointed person for first site (minimum 18 hours of training) aid and emergency first aiders • The provision of support Emergency • Where site first aid kits, burns kits and if first aiders on-site (minimum 6 hours of required the site defibrillator is on-site training) Check first aid kits weekly or more regularly if • The Emergency arrangements information used. Ensure the contents are as required. to be provided during induction How to raise the alarm or alert the • The Emergency arrangements information emergency services to be displayed on the site • Call or send someone for medical help • The number and location of First Aid and ensure that your own safety is not at support equipment risk, as you approach the casualty and if required call 999. • Remove any hazard from the casualty, if electricity is involved check the power source first and isolate before approaching or touching the casualty. • Try not to move the casualty unless they are in immediate danger. • Remain with the casualty and try to reassure them, if possible, make them comfortable. • Do not give them food or allow them to smoke, if they need water just moisten their lips and not drink the water as this may affect them. Ensure all incidents are reported to the site team you are working for and directly to your own employer. Enter all accidents in the site accident book and make sure your company does this in their own BI 510 accident book at your main office.

General Safety GS5:First Aid Requirements Ask these to confirm understanding: Q1. What information should you receive on- site about first aid and when? A. You should know who the first aiders are on-site, the location of first equipment and their location on-site as well as whom to report incidents to. This is during the site induction Q2. What ‘non – standard’ first aid equipment may be required or available on- site? A. Burns kits, smaller transportable first aid kits and a defibrillator for heart problems... Q3. What are the steps that should be taken during an emergency first aid incident? A. Raise the alarm and send for a first aider or call the emergency services. Remove the hazard from the casualty if possible, if electricity is involved ensure the power is off before touching or moving the person, and only move them if you and they are not in danger. Remain with them and try to make them comfortable.

General Safety GS6:Hands- Look After Them! Look after your hands, fingers and thumbs. Are our hands the best tools we Most people should have at least eight fingers, have? with two thumbs, and hopefully four on each hand with one thumb on each. When using and holding work Now imagine if you could not use one of your equipment fingers, or that your thumb was in-active or worse you had lost one of your fingers or thumbs! Even slight incidents cause discomfort. Hand Arm Vibration use and When manually lifting exposure to vibrating tools – a load – your hands know and control the rate and need protection. time that held vibrating piece of equipment is used. Dermatitis – exposure How to look after your hands: to sensitising or irritant materials and dust can cause Keep your hands clean cracking of the skin surface and use a barrier cream and severe itching. as protection. Hydraulic oil injection. Oil line projection penetrating the skin and causing infection from oil penetration. Cuts to hands caused by Use protection sleeves not using PPE, poor handling – Kevlar based protects of materials, not securing a from splashes load, using equipment in an un-safe manner, taking care Gloves – select and use and attention when moving the right glove, check for materials or gaining access cut protection to areas. ratings if using sharp implements and Grazes due to moving protection from fluids if blades/drill bits, care when required. handling materials, not using PPE as required. • Around a half of reported ‘over 7-day’ Do you recognise any of injuries in the Construction sector are due to these? either lifting/handling accidents or a ‘slip, trip or fall on the same level’. Ask these to confirm understanding: • Manual handling incidents account for the Q1. What are common injuries that could be second most reported minor incident event gained from not looking after your hands? in UK construction. Q2. What work processes can contribute to hand injuries?

General Safety GS7:Housekeeping – Hose and Cable Management Every year many injuries occur through slips Best Practice Controls: and trips due to hoses and cables not being set up and controlled in the workplace. • Use lighting units and other equipment which is battery powered with no leads or Slips, trips and falls still have the highest cables reported incident causation on Construction sites in the UK. • Use battery operated tools instead of electrical tools Hosess and cables in the workplace need to be managed and controlled during work operations • Set cables over-head so that no slip or to help reduce the risk of slips, trips and falls in trip can occur using parts of the structure, the workplace. cable hangers or tie wire to hold above ground level. Examples of poor practice: • Ensure cable lengths are adequate so not being pulled, putting a strain on the lead or cable connection and housing points. • Make sure all leads are un-coiled to prevent over heating when in use

General Safety GS7:Housekeeping – Hose and Cable Management • Check all of the equipment used has been Ask these to confirm understanding: suitably PAT tested (every three months) and that the date can be seen when Q1. What cable management actions should inspected by the user all operatives take to ensure no risks are left? • Ensure that all hoses and cables are regularly checked by the user, before first Q2. What else on-site can cause a risk of use and daily, especially if the cable runs slips, trips and falls? are moved from time to time during the works • Make sure no cables and leads are crossing an access/ egress point, if so, set a board or cover over the lead or cable to ensure there is no trip hazard left. • Check that leads and cable runs do not pass through water or mud on routes to the place of work as water ingress could cause the cable to short out or blow • Use your Point of Work as a ‘prompt’ to setting up the work area as cable management is very important for preventing slips, trips and falls in the workplace Rubbish and Debris: • Ensure you clear up as you go, remove rubbish and debris as soon as practically possible. • Make sure access/ egress routes are clear to avoid slips, trips and falls. • Ensure concrete is disposed of safely using skips and bins provided.

General Safety GS8:Legal Health & Safety Duties – The Law Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 - foremen were prosecuted under section 7a of Section 7 the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and with reference to section 8. In Law you as an Employee have the duty to ensure your own safety and that of others: A Criminal Breach in Law Section 7a - It shall be the duty of every If you are found guilty of a breach of Health and employee while at work – to take reasonable Safety Law you could: care for the health and safety of himself and of other persons who may be affected by his acts • Be fined by the courts or omissions at work; and • Receive a fine that could be unlimited Section 7b - As regards any duty or requirement or based on the income (weekly) of the imposed on his employer or any other person individual. This could be as little as 25% or by or under any of the relevant statutory as much as 75% of your weekly wage. provisions, to cooperate with him so far as is necessary to enable that duty or requirement to • You could go to jail for up to two years; this be performed or complied with. could be unlimited if linked to Corporate Manslaughter. Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 – Section 8 • You will in all cases be given a Criminal record as a result of a breach of Health No person shall intentionally or recklessly and Safety Law through prosecution interfere with or misuse anything provided in the interests of health safety or welfare. Ask these to confirm understanding: Case Study: Q1. What are the two items in section 7 of the Health and Safety at Work Act that you Six workers were fined between £500 and £750 as an individual be prosecuted for? for breach of section 7a of the Health and safety at work act 1974, from an incident in Wrexham. A. To take reasonable care for the health and safety of himself and of other persons Five men were sitting on the engine housing who may be affected by his acts or at the back of a mechanical digger trying to omissions at work. Also, to cooperate with counter balance the weight of an old road sign him so far as is necessary to enable that they were trying to handle. The road sign with duty or requirement to be performed or its concrete base was far too heavy for the complied with. machine, so the foreman decided to use the men as ballast. Q2. What does a breach of section 8 of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 state? The men could have easily fallen from the machine – which was acting like a ‘bucking A. No person shall intentionally or recklessly bronco’. If the hydraulic system had burst they interfere with or misuse anything provided would have been catapulted from it – they in the interests of health safety or welfare. were attempting to handle 1.6 tonnes when the machine had a safe working load of just 675kg. Q3. What level of fine and potential prison term could be given to individuals if found All four operatives, the machine driver and the guilty? A. Individual fines can be unlimited (or based on a percentage of your weekly income) with a prison or jail term of up to 2 years, as well as gaining a criminal record for what is a criminal breach.

General Safety GS9:Manual Handling Manual handling causes over a third of all • Avoid lifting from floor level or above workplace injuries. This includes work-related shoulder height, especially heavy loads musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) such as pain and injuries to arms, legs and joints, and • Adjust storage areas to minimise the need repetitive strain injuries of various sorts. to carry out such movements The term manual handling covers a wide variety • Consider how you can minimise carrying of activities including lifting, lowering, pushing, distances pulling and carrying. If any of these tasks are not carried out appropriately there is a risk of • Where possible, establish the weight of injury. the load before starting to lift. Manual handling injuries can occur almost • Assess the weight to be carried. NEVER anywhere, in the workplace, heavy manual attempt to lift or move loads that are too labour, awkward postures, repetitive heavy, bulky or uneieldy for you. Know movements of arms, legs and back and/or your limitations and stay within them. If the previous/existing injury can increase the risk. load is to heavy or you have a problem for you seek help. For Any Lifting Activity Always Take Into Account: • If a load is to heavy, bulky or uneieldy, consider seperating large loads into • The individuals capability smaller components. • The nature of the load • Environmental Conditions • Wear gloves to protect your hands against • Training cuts and safety boots to protect your feet • Can the load be carried using a lifting aid. from falling loads. Using Lifting Equipment Good Technique for Manual Handling • Consider whether you can use a lifting aid, 1. Stand reasonably close to the load, feet such as a forklift truck, electric or hand- hip-width apart, one foot slightly forward powered hoist, or a conveyor pointing in the direction you’re going. • Think about storage as part of the delivery 2. Flex your knees and slightly curve your process – maybe heavy items could be back (avoid stooping or a deep squat delivered directly, or closer, to the storage when starting a lift). area 3. Get a secure grip on the load. • Reduce carrying distances where possible 4. A good lifting technique uses the strong Manual Lifting muscles in your legs. Always use mechanical aids instead of manual 5. Keep the load close to your body but don’t handling if possible. carry a load that obscures your vision. • Reduce the amount of twisting, stooping 6. Lift slowly and smoothly, avoiding jerky and reaching movements. 7. Avoid twisting your body when lifting or carrying a load. 8. When lifting to a height from the floor, do it in two stages if possible. 9. When two or more people lift a load, only one person must give directions to co- ordinate the lift

General Safety GS9:Manual Handling Ask these to confirm understanding: Q1. What checks should you carry out before lifting? Q2. What PPE should you wear and why? Q3. Describe how you would lift an object safely. Q4. When two or more people are lifting a load, what should happen?

General Safety GS10:Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Hazards exist in every workplace in different 3. Where PPE is necessary, select appropriate forms: sharp edges, falling objects, flying items that suit the wearer and are CE- sparks, chemicals, noise and a myriad of other marked. potentially dangerous situations. 4. Supply you with the necessary PPE free of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is charge. designed to protect employees from serious workplace injuries or illnesses resulting from 5. Train you to use relevant PPE, explain its contact with chemical, radiological, physical, limitations and explain the implications of not electrical, mechanical, or other workplace using it. hazards. 6. Ensure compatibility if more than one item of The most common PPE is: PPE is worn. • Safety Helmet 7. Ensure that PPE is maintained and replace • High-visibility clothing defective or lost PPE, at no cost to you. • Safety Footwear Ask these to confirm understanding: • Ear Protection (Ear muffs, Ear plugs) Q1: How much can your employer charge you for PPE? • Safety Glasses/Goggles Q2: What factors will determine the life of a • Protective Gloves. safety helmet? • Harness Q3: How do you think wearing PPE could increase the dangers to you? What should • Respirators you do if you find an item of your PPE is damaged? Employees PPE Duties: Q4: What should you look for on any item of 1. It must be used in accordance with the PPE to confirm that it has been made to the manufacturer’s instructions and any training required standard? provided. 2. It must be in good condition to be fully effective; do not mistreat PPE. 3. Take reasonable care of your PPE and report its loss or any damage to it to your employer. 4. Never work without PPE when it is known to be necessary. 5. Use PPE in accordance with instructions and training given. 6. Return PPE to its storage, where provided, after use. Employers PPE Duties: 1. Assess the risks to your health and safety arising from your work activities. 2. Try to organise work activities so that PPE is not necessary.

General Safety GS10:Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

General Safety GS11:Safety in and Around Excavations An excavation is an opening in the ground or in a structure that has been made for Construction or Utility works to be carried out. Often drilling and sawing activities can take place either in or around these once formed. The Construction and Design Management Suitable and sufficient steps must be taken, Regulations 2015 require excavations, as stated where necessary, to prevent any part of an in regulation 22 in that; excavation or ground adjacent to it from being overloaded by work equipment or material. • All practicable steps must be taken to prevent danger to any person. This could be from access or egress to and from and around the excavation.It could be if the individual is required to work in the excavation, where existing gas, services and even confined space work may be required. The sides and nature of controlling the dig out from the required excavation must allow for sufficient designed support to be in place to prevent collapse. • Suitable and sufficient steps must be taken Suitable access and egress routes need to be to prevent any person, work equipment, or made to ensure the sides are supported such any accumulation of material from falling as ‘battering back access routes to stepping into an excavation. sides. The sides of the excavation must prevent Bespoke ladder and/ individual’s traffic and materials used from or steps into and out falling into the excavation. of the excavation with suitable hand- holds The use of barriers, signage, lighting and safety and barriers. blocks or barriers for vehicles should be used to warn and prevent anyone or thing from falling into an excavation.

General Safety GS11:Safety in and Around Excavations Shoring should be in place for any excavation where the soil type cannot be solid and secure. This is determined by the Engineers and then a design to control this should dictate the type of supports used. No soil, spoil, materials or moving loads should be allowed to gain access to the sides of the excavation as pressure can cause the sides to collapse from the imposed loading. Ask these to confirm understanding: Q1. Who and what should be prevented from falling into an excavation? A. Any people, plant, equipment and materials must be protected from falling into an excavation Q2. What can be used to identify and protect people, plant and materials from falling into an excavation? A. Crowd and vehicle barriers should be in place. Signage and stop blocks to prevent vehicles from falling in. Hand-rails and lighting may be required as well as a suitable access and egress point which could be a ladder or pre-cut steps. Q3. What hazards could be found in excavations when entering them? A. Slips, trips and falls could occur if not clear from debris, if services are in the excavation or if it is not well lit. This could be a confined space as gases or the work carried out could cause dust and vapours to be formed.

General Safety GS12:Safety Signs It is important that you are familiar with all sites on-site. You must obey all signs at all time. They are there for your safety. The following table shows the types of signs commonly used on-site: Colour Reason Action Example Blue Mandatory Must Obey Prohibition/ Must not Red Danger perfom the Alarm action shown Yellow Warning Danger - take percautions Green Safety Information Condition Always take note of your risk and/or COSSH assessments.

General Safety GS13:Workplace Violence Workplace violence is violence or the threat of All of the above can interpreted as Gross violence against workers. It can happen at work miss-conduct in the workplace and can very or outside of work and can range from verbal often lead to disciplinary action in the form of abuse and threats to physical assault or even warnings, written warnings, suspension from serious assault. work and often the sacking of individuals from the company. It is important to recognize different behaviours that can disrupt work operations and activities How to React to Disruptive, and potentially endanger the health or safety of Threatening or Violent Behaviour any individual. These include: There is no guarantee that an individual will not Disruptive behaviour - disturbs, interferes or become a victim of workplace violence. prevents normal work functions or activities. Examples are yelling, using profanity, waving arms or fists, verbally abusing others or refusing reasonable requests for identification. Threatening behaviour - includes physical Emotions and Triggers for workplace violence actions short of actual contact or injury. include: Examples are moving closer aggressively, general oral or written threats to people or • Aggression property like “Watch your back” or “This isn’t over.” • Anger Violent behaviour - includes any physical • Frustration assault, with or without weapons. Any behaviour that could be interpreted as violent, including • Alcohol/substance abuse throwing things, pounding on a desk or door, destroying property or specific threats to inflict • Peer pressure physical harm. To reduce the odds of becoming a victim, learn how to recognise, avoid, or diffuse potentially violent situations by attending personal safety training programs. The Health & Safety Executive’s definition of Alert supervisors to any concerns about safety work related violence is: or security and report all incidents immediately in writing. “Any incident, in which an employee is abused, threatened or assaulted by a member of the In the event you experience disruptive, threatening or violent behaviour, try using the public in circumstances arising out of the course general response listed below: of his/her employment.” - HSE - Violence at Work 2008 1. Respond quietly and calmly - Try to defuse the situation. 2. Do not take the behaviour personally. Usually the behaviour has little to do with

General Safety GS13:Workplace Violence you but you are used as a target in the situation. 3. Ask questions. Respectful concern and interest may demonstrate that aggression is not necessary. 4. Consider offering an apology. Even if you have done nothing wrong, an apology may calm the individual. 5. Summarize what you hear the individual saying. Make sure to communicate clearly. In a crisis, a person can feel humiliated and wants respect or attention. Summarizing the individual’s concern shows you are paying attention. If the situation is not appeased and continues to escalate, find a way to excuse yourself, leave the area and immediately call for help. If the situation calls for it, do not hesitate – call 999. Ask these to confirm understanding: Q1. What are the three types of behaviour associated with workplace violence? A. Disruptive behaviour, threatening behaviour and violent behaviour Q2. What types of emotions and triggers often lead to potential violent conflict or behaviour? A. Aggression, anger, frustration, use of drugs or alcohol, peer pressure Q3. What should you do if you find yourself exposed as a victim of violent behaviour? A. Respond quietly and calmly, try to not take it personally and ask questions, consider an apology to empathise, listen and show concern and if this fails leave as soon as possible and call for help.

Vehicle Safety

Vehicle Safety VS1:Jump Starting Batteries Lead-acid batteries, the kind commonly found in How to Jump-Start cars and vans, contain corrosive acids that can cause severe burns. • Make sure that the voltage of the charged battery and the dead one are the same. Burns may also result from contact with the battery if it catches fire. Batteries also give • Attach a red-handled/positive jumper off hydrogen gas that can create inhalation cable clamp to the positive terminal of the hazards. dead battery (+ marking) and attach the red-handled clamp to the other end of the Use caution when “jump-starting” or re-charging positive terminal of the charged battery. a dead battery with jumper cables. It only takes a spark from a cigarette, static electricity or a • Clamp the black/negative cable to the booster cable to ignite the gases emitted by the negative terminal (- marking) of the battery which may result in a serious accident. charging vehicle. • Ground the other end of the black/negative jumper cable on a clean, unpainted part of the disabled vehicle. Wear gloves, safety glasses or even a face shield when working with batteries and do not smoke. After Jump-Starting Before Jump-Starting • With the assisting vehicle’s engine running, start the disabled vehicle’s • Check the terminals and clamps of the engine. If it does not start, wait a few battery to make sure that the battery is moments longer and try a few more times. dead, the terminals and clamps may just need cleaning. • Once the vehicle or unit is running, remove the cables in reverse order by • Check the battery for cracks and loose unclamping the negatives first, then wires; DO NOT jump-start a damaged positives. battery. • Allow the engine to run for approximately • If the battery needs fluid, add enough to half an hour to charge the battery. reach the fill line and if the fluid is frozen, do not jump-start the battery. • Even when the engine is not running, the voltage from the car battery can be dangerous. • NEVER touch the metal ends of the cables or grasp both battery terminals at the same time.

Vehicle Safety VS1:Jump Starting Batteries Ask these to confirm understanding: Q1. What types of hazards can you be exposed to when trying to jump start a battery to a vehicle? A. The battery can contain corrosive acids that can cause burns and fire can happen often. Hydrogen gas can be exposed from the acid and burning, and this gas can ignite if a spark is generated. Q2. What needs to be checked on the battery before attempting to charge it? A. Check that the contact points, terminals, and clamps are clean and that the battery fluid levels are as required. Clean and top them up before attempting to charge the battery. Q3. Where should the battery charging connectors be fixed during the charging process? A. The red lead clamp should be connected to the positive (+) connector on the battery and the black lead clamp should be connected to the negative (-) connector on the battery. The other end of the charging leads red clamp positive (+) should be connected to the powered battery used to charge on the positive (+) connector. The other end of the black lead negative (-) connector should be set to a clean unpainted part of the disabled vehicle.

Vehicle Safety VS2:Mobile Phone Safety It is common knowledge that the number The UK government through the information one cause of work-related fatalities is vehicle offered in the Highway Code include the accidents. Most companies have at least one following as guidance: van, if not a whole fleet of vans and cars, and their drivers face the hazards of the roadway • It is illegal to hold a phone or sat nav while day after day. Sometimes a trip ends tragically driving or riding a motorcycle and sometimes, like now, technology threatens to increase the accident potential for drivers. • Any phone device used must be hands free such as Mobile phones are increasingly being used by construction, service and delivery personnel, as • A bluetooth headset well as by management of all levels. According to one research study, the use of a mobile • Voice command phone while driving increases the risk of having an accident four-fold. • A dashboard holder or mat Reported Hazards Associated with • A windscreen mount Mobile Phones and Sat Nav devices include: • A built-in sat nav • Drivers being distracted from defensive- • Any sat nav used must have a dashboard driving practices and experiencing or windscreen mount/holder or be built into increased reaction times to road traffic the vehicle. situations. • All devices used must not block your view • Drivers concentrating on dialling a number of the road or the traffic ahead or handling the phone may fail to notice a stop traffic light, a traffic sign, or another Many people try to use mobile phones and vehicle or obstacle in front of them. sat-nav systems whilst on the move and the UK law states that any distraction may lead to a • The actions of drivers on the phone prosecution, these include: increasing the risk of injury to both themselves and other road users due • Using a mobile phone or sat-nav system to the users lack of awareness and when stopped at traffic lights concentration. • Using a mobile phone or sat-nav system • Drivers experiencing an increased when in queuing traffic chance of having intense conversations involving problem-solving, causing • Using a mobile phone or sat-nav system greater distractions than small talk with a supervising a learner driver passenger. Penalties if you are caught: • You can get 6 penalty points and a £200 fine. • You will lose your licence if you passed your driving test in the last 2 years, if you use a • handheld device such as a mobile phone or sat nav device when driving. Other penalties • include: • • You can lose your driving licence if you have passed your driving test in the last two years by being caught using a handheld mobile phone or sat nav device. • You can get 3 penalty points on your driving licence if you don’t have a full view of the road and traffic ahead or proper

Vehicle Safety VS2:Mobile Phone Safety control of the vehicle. Construction site with regards to mobile phone use? • If you are taken to Court – you can be banned from driving and get a maximum A. Are they allowed on-site, if so when fine of up to £1,000 (£2,500 if you are (such as for emergencies), are there refuge driving a lorry or a bus) or safe zones for using mobile phones and check the site rules for each individual site during induction. Mobile Phone Use on Construction sites: Most Construction sites in the UK now insist on not being able to use a Mobile phone on-site unless for an emergency situation. This does create problems on managing the situation so many sites now have ‘safe mobile phone use refuges’. Check the site rules for each site when arriving during the induction for mobile phone usage rules! Ask these to confirm understanding: Q1. What are the main hazards that can be created by using a mobile phone or sat nav in a vehicle? A. Distractions, loss of reaction times, failure to notice signs, traffic lights, traffic in front. Q2. What types of penalties could you get if caught using a mobile phone or sat nav in a vehicle? A. 3 or 6 points on your driving licence, fines up to £1000 (or up to £2,500 if in a lorry or bus), loss of license if only gained in the past two years or a driving ban. Q3. What should you ask for on a

Vehicle Safety VS3:Preventive Vehicle Maintenance Inspections Preventive maintenance is a periodically report for consistency. scheduled maintenance function, with a prescribed routine, performed by visual and Never leave sections of a report blank. Mark physical means. Preventive maintenance any sections that are not applicable to a includes: particular vehicle with the appropriate response, to indicate no defects have been found. • Inspecting Depending on the Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) • Adjusting drivers may be required to complete “Pre-Trip” and “Post Trip” inspection reports. • Testing clamping Before a vehicle is moved from a shop or job • Tightening site, the driver should complete the Circle of Safety check. Look for children, other people, • Cleaning vehicles, or obstacles that may be in the immediate path or vicinity of the vehicle and • Draining take the necessary steps to avoid them. • Flushing • Adding fluids and lubricants replacing filters Take a complete walk around the vehicle. Ensure that nothing has been left lying around the vehicle and that there are no loose items on the truck or trailer that may fall off while moving. Here is an example check sheet: for the full vehicle inspection see SD3. The purpose of a preventive maintenance inspection is to detect mechanical problems before they cause a mechanical failure. Breakdowns stop production and cause delays. Work vehicles or equipment need to be available for regular inspections; and should be carried out by the driver, operator and/or the shop mechanic. Each employee is an important part of Ask these to confirm understanding: a company’s maintenance program. All employees are required to perform daily checks Q1. What is the purpose of a Vehicle of their equipment and complete the required Maintenance Inspection? reports. Q2. How often should the Vehicle The inspection reports should be completed on Maintenance inspection take place? a daily or, as a minimum, weekly interval. Q3. What should happen with the document Some items contained in the inspection report when it is completed? may not apply to every vehicle. However, in all cases, it is imperative that each element of the inspection is indicated as complete on the

Vehicle Safety VS4:Tail Lift Safety The regulations for Lifting Operations and controls should be designed to prevent Lifting Equipment Regulations1998 (LOLER) accidental operation, clearly marked to applies to tail-lifts, so where people are lifted by indicate the direction of the movement, the tail-lift (i.e. most deliveries), the tail-lift must and positioned so that the operator has a be thoroughly examined by a competent person clear view of the platform throughout its every six months, or to timing in accordance travel. with an examination scheme, decided by a competent person. 2. Elimination of finger and toes traps. Where minimum safety gaps cannot be provided Routine maintenance should be carried out as (eg on some types of cantilever lift) specified by the manufacturer. More detail can tripping devices are an alternative. be found in the Society of Operations Engineers (SOE) Tail Lift Operators - a simple guide and 3. Providing grab rails and guard rails where Tail Lift. there is the risk of a fall from height. The report of the examination must detail any 4. The safe working load should be clearly repairs, renewals or alterations required to marked and never exceeded. enable the tail lift to continue to be used with safety, specifying whether such work is required 5. Proper maintenance and lubrication immediately or within a specified time. should be carried out in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Maintenance in the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER) require 6. Never drive the vehicle with a loaded tail all work equipment to be maintained in efficient lift. working order and good repair. 7. The platform should be checked to ensure Tail lifts should be maintained in accordance that it is securely stowed away before with the manufacturer’s recommendations. travelling. Any maintenance should be undertaken by a suitably qualified person using appropriate Notices are required next to the repair techniques and procedures. controls advising on the fitting of guard rails such as: The main hazards when using a Tail Lift are: 1. That care is needed when standing by an unguarded edge or opening. 1. People falling from the platform whilst manoeuvring loads from the vehicle to the 2. That loads should be pushed and not tail lift. pulled from the vehicle onto the platform. 2. People being struck by loads falling from 3. About the importance of preventing loads the platform. from rolling, sliding or tripping 3. Trapping feet or toes between the moving Ask these to confirm understanding: platform and the ground or stationary parts of the vehicle. Q1. What two regulations apply to the use of Tail Lifts? 4. Trapping fingers or other parts of the body in the moving mechanisms A. LOLER (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998) and PUWER 5. Trapping people under the platform (Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998) Implements are put into place to help prevent such occurrences such as: Q2. What Tail Lift hazards and risks can be avoided when in use? 1. “Hold to run” controls, which return automatically to “off” when released. All A. Falling people or materials, trapped fingers or hands, trapping in moving parts or under the platform. The vehicle moving when on the platform or a lack of maintenance.

Vehicle Safety VS5:Trailer Checks Aim of the Toolbox Talk Be aware of any pre-use checks and carry them out To provide guidance on: - • The precautions to be taken when working • Always check the means of with Trailers, Plant and Equipment communication required with others during use • Pre-use checks prior to work starting • Do not carry any passengers unless • Securing the load designed to do so • Regulations • Observe site speed limits • The management of Health & Safety at • Always obtain assistance when reversing Work Regulations 1999 Checks to be carried out prior to • Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations operating the equipment 1992 • Has the driver got the correct PPE • Provision and Use of Work Equipment i.e.Hi-Visibility Clothing-Hard Hat-Safety Regulations 1998 Footwear-Gloves • Personal Protective Equipment at Work • Has the driver read and understood the Regulations 1992 operating instructions? Trailers, Plant & Equipment • Has the driver checked and understood the Safe System of Work for the site? Users of Trailers, Plant & Equipment have legal duties • Has the driver carried out the daily checks? • The Aim to prevent accidents/incidents Pre-Use Checks • Work equipment should be safe when supplied At the start of each working day, various areas of the plant item should be checked: • The risks during use need to be controlled • Tyres • Those in control should-Assess the risk- Plan safe systems of work-Ensure that • Wheel Nuts these are communicated and followed • Guards • All drivers should be professionally trained and competent in the operation of all • Lights / Reflectors trailers, plant and equipment • Jockey Wheel/leg • All drivers MUST be over the age of 18years • Break Away Cable General Precautions • Electrics lead • Equipment should only be used by people • All safety decals who have been trained • Locking pins for ramps • Consider the risks to other people who are nearby when operating equipment • Before use, ensure that equipment has no obvious defects • Bring any defects to the attention of your supervisor and where appropriate inform the hire company

Vehicle Safety VS5:Trailer Checks

Vehicle Safety VS6:Vehicle Control – Marshalling The Incidents involving the movement of • If the operator loses sight of the vehicle vehicles and vehicle equipment has accounted marshal they should stop immediately. for the second highest fatality rate during Construction works in recent years. Vehicle Marshal Signals: The Health and Safety (Safety Signs and The recommended signals used for Vehicle Signals) Regulations 1996 offer ‘hand signals’ Marshalling are offered straight from the as guidance for controlling these movements Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) and most Construction sites now require Regulations 1996: ‘Vehicle Marshalling’ to better control the movement of vehicles on-site. The set above indicates to the vehicle driver which direction to move in, but these are often reversed or opposite depending on the Vehicle Marshal’s work position in front of or behind Is a Vehicle Marshal a ‘Banksman’? the vehicle, or if the driver is using the mirror or mirrors to manoeuvre the vehicle. • A Vehicle Marshal can be referred to The above signals indicate operation start, stop as a ‘Banksman’, but this term is often and emergency stop and end the process. confusing as it implies that the individual is or could be a ‘Slinger/Signaller’ Is a ‘Banksman’ a ‘Slinger/Signaller’? It is therefore better to only use the terms • A ‘Banksman’ can often be used as the ‘Vehicle Marshal’ and ‘Banksman’ when term for a person who can ‘control the referring to the movement of vehicles and plant movement of vehicles’, but often, the on-site and not for ‘Slinging/Signalling when term ‘Banksman’ is used for a Lifting lifting. Operations competent individual who does the ‘Slinger/Signaller’ role on-site for lifting. Vehicle Marshal: The final set of signals above show the vehicle • Should always wear a hi-visability jaket or driver that they can either raise or lower the vest and hard hat. This will ensure clear load (such as on forks), with signals to show and easy visability to the operator. horizontal and/or vertical distance to the required destination for either the vehicle or the • Must be in a safe place and not put load (such as with a brock arm). themselves in danger • Must agree on signals and communication with the operator, consider whether portable radios or similar communication systems would be helpful. • Control other vehicles or pedestrian movements within the area. if required set up an exclusion zone.

Vehicle Safety VS6:Vehicle Control – Marshalling Ask these to confirm understanding: Q1. What are the differences between a vehicle marshal, a banksman and a slinger/ signaller? Q2. Which signals can often be affected by the driver and vehicle marshal/banksman’s position?

Vehicle Safety VS7:Winter Travel and Working in Winter Introduction Once you arrive on a Construction site Construction doesn’t take a break in the winter so it’s important at this time of year to think When arriving on a Construction site, cold about the additional hazards that are present on temperatures, wet weather, and frigid winds can our construction sites due to winter weather take a drastic toll on the human body. and the corresponding safety precautions that need to be taken. In these circumstances some of the most effective ways of managing these environments Travelling to and from a Construction are to introduce some simple administrative site controls for example: Winter usually brings with it unsafe road • Ensure the personal protective equipment conditions and hazards. When a need to travel issued is appropriate to site cannot be avoided, prepare in the best way possible: • Wear gloves and hard hat liners to retain the body heat and move about as much as • Plan the route and check for travel possible incidents and regional weather conditions • Provide mobile facilities for warming up, • Check the vehicle, oil levels, tyres, fluids and encourage the drinking of warm fluids for windscreen and antifreeze levels such as soup or hot drinks • Ensure the vehicle has had a service and • Introduce more frequent rest breaks that you carry a ‘jack’, tow rope or chains, jumper cables and a small tool kit. • Educate workers about recognising the early symptoms of cold stress • Make sure tyres are not ‘bald’ or damaged and that the air pressure is as required. Areas on-site to be careful on or around when working • For you and passengers, carry a flashlight, first aid kit, a map and some spare • Access and Egress – Check and monitor clothing in case of breakdown. walkways, work platforms, scaffolds, stairs and ladders. Use rock salt if necessary • Check that phones are charged for and check with the site management emergency contact and that you have on key routes to ensure this has been informed someone at your arrival addressed. destination that you are coming • Welfare Heating – check that heaters provided in welfare units are fit for purpose and maintained. Make sure they work properly, and that ventilation is provided where required. • If plant is used - make the necessary checks as you would to a travel vehicle. Keep checking fluid levels, tyres, windscreens are clear, and the driving route is safe and ‘skid’ free. • Lighting levels – make sure you have ‘task’ lighting for your work. Ensure that the site

Vehicle Safety VS7:Winter Travel and Working in Winter has suitable lighting for walking routes and for access to your work area. • High Winds – Where high winds are experienced check all materials, access route barriers and equipment are suitably secured. Stop work in exposed areas such as on scaffolding or MEWPs and stop lifting operations. • Rainfall and Snow – If heavy rain and/or snow affect the working day ensure that all equipment used is not exposed such as electric leads and equipment. Clear drip trays from water ponding and check the work position of materials and equipment. • Any equipment using high frequency motors must be drained after use to reduce risk of freezing. Pay special attention during the winter months at your construction site to avoid safety Hazards and potential risks. Most importantly, use common sense when working outdoors during the winter months. Take care of yourself and those around you. Ask these to confirm understanding: Q1.What checks should be made prior to travelling in Winter conditions? Q2.Which items need to be checked on-site during inclement weather?

Environmental

Environmental E1:Environment – Control of Silt, Dust and Slurry Silt and dust created from concrete cutting and How to Control Dust from concrete or drilling operations is a common form of water silt created: pollution from the construction industry. • Most site water contains silt, which is • Silt can carry other pollutants with it, such tiny particles of soil in the water making as oils and chemicals. the water look muddy or cloudy or often concrete or cement particulates. • Silty water can arise from cutting and drilling work operations, excavations, • Do not pump silty water into surface water exposed ground, stockpiles, plant and drains or watercourses. wheel washing and site roads. • Silty water can be diverted from drains by • When silt gets into the water it can using sandbags, bunds of earth etc. damage the gills of fish, especially the juveniles. • Keep site roads well maintained and free from mud and dust. This will reduce the • Silt, when deposited on the river bed, can amount of silty runoff. seriously affect fish spawning beds and can smother invertebrate life, which is an • Silty water can be formed from the erosion important source of food for fish. of stockpiles and demolished concrete or structural debris. • Silt can have detrimental impacts on local sensitive species such as Freshwater • Keep direct surface water away from the Pearl Mussel which is a threatened and stockpiles to prevent erosion at the bottom protected species. of the stockpile. All Construction sites are required to have a Site Waste Management Plan which covers estimate of waste to be produced and a record of all waste actually removed off-site. Inert Waste which includes uncontaminated soils (but not topsoil), rocks, concrete, masonry, brick rubble and glass need to be controlled on- sites. Many sites will have a concrete washout area, ensure you are aware of where this is and make sure that any slurry or dust created is controlled as either Inert waste on-site or that it is washed into the concrete washout area.

Environmental E1:Environment – Control of Silt, Dust and Slurry Controlling the dust source is the best Q3. What methods can we use to reduce method used by our industry to control dust and slurry run-off? concrete and cement dust. However, the water run-off will contain silt particulates! A. Water suppression, cake separator machines and use of concrete washout areas on-site rather than allowing for natural run-off during work operations. Ask these to confirm understanding: Q1. What are silt, dust and slurry and what can they affect environmentally? A. Silt, dust and slurry are created from work operations on-sites. It can enter the groundwater, drainage and even rivers, ponds and other water sources causing contamination. Q2. What operations from drilling and sawing can cause the creation of silt or concrete contamination? A. All of them, cutting, drilling, sawing, bursting – all operations generate an element of dust, cement or concrete slurry and encourage or gain silt during the work done.

Environmental E2:Environment – Emergency Spill Control Any spillage can lead to the pollution of water, • These materials should be suitable land and air and can be a danger to us by for the spilt substance (i.e. fuels or causing slips, trips and falls, with the main issue chemicals). in drilling and sawing being slurry and wet dust from cutting and breaking. • Bund or seal drains or manholes to stop the substance entering. Spills must be cleaned up to make sure that the work area remains safe and there is no harm to • Use absorbent socks around the the environment or people’s health. spillage. Main hazards offered by spillages on • Use absorbent pads or materials and Construction sites include: place them over the affected area • Spill enters watercourse or surface water 3. NOTIFY your Supervisor or Site Manager. drain causing pollution and potentially a Remember Water (substance entered fish kill drain or watercourse),What, Where, Why and How Much. • Contamination of land and groundwater The Site Manager or Supervisor will contact the relevant personnel depending • Contamination of drinking water and on whether it is a major or a minor spill. irrigation water used in farming A MAJOR SPILL - one that cannot be • Slippery surfaces for pedestrians, plant controlled and the pollution has entered or and site staff could enter a drain or watercourse. This may require external assistance may be • Exposure to fumes and a possible fire required and the Environmental Regulator such hazard as the EA (Environment Agency) to be contacted. The Spill Response Emergency Plan should follow these steps: 1. STOP work immediately (when safe to do so), identify the source of the pollution and prevent any more material spilling. For example, close valves to all equipment and isolate, close any drain feeds or weep holes to the machinery and ensure all hoses are closed and locked off. Eliminate any sources of ignition e.g. switch off plant, extinguish cigarettes. 2. CONTAIN the spillage immediately e.g. with bunds of earth, sandbags, drip trays or plant nappies. • Do not wash the spillage into the drainage system or onto neighbouring land. • Absorbent materials should be placed over the surface of the affected area.

Environmental E2:Environment – Emergency Spill Control A MINOR spill - one that can be controlled and the pollution has not entered, and cannot enter a drain or watercourse. Ask these to confirm understanding: Q1.What are the main hazards caused by not controlling a spillage on Construction sites? A. A spill enters watercourse or surface water drain causing pollution and potentially contamination of land and groundwater, contamination of drinking water and irrigation or water used in farming. The creation of slippery surfaces for pedestrians, plant and site staff and potential exposure to fumes and a possible fire hazard Q2. What are the three steps that you should take if a spill is created or discovered? A. Stop – the work in the area and the source of the spillage. Contain – use spill kits or other effective methods such as sand and bunds to prevent the spread. Notify – tell your supervisor or site manager as they may need to take further action. Q3. What will be decided once the spill has been contained and notified to the supervisor or site manager? A. If minor, then the clean-up and improvement to the area and process will be made, if major, then the site may need to bring a specialist contractor in to clean up and the Environmental regulator such as the EA (Environment Agency) may need to be informed.

Environmental E3:Environment – Waste Control Legally waste is defined as “any substance or most appropriate manner. object which the holder discards, intends to discard, or is required to discard”. We are required by law to store waste properly All Construction sites are required to have a and to ensure there is no escape of waste, and Site Waste Management Plan which covers it is disposed of to a licenced facility. Illegal estimate of waste to be produced and a record waste disposal can cause pollution and a of all waste actually removed off-site. nuisance to neighbours. Through the SWMP, we can minimise the • Up to 10% of all raw materials on-site end amount of waste on-site by planning and up as waste. finding how to: • The construction industry generates 122 REDUCE, REUSE, or RECYCLE waste. million tonnes of construction, demolition and excavation waste each year. • Only half of this was being recycled or reclaimed back into construction. This is now improving but we need to continue. There are many environmental issues related There are three different categories of to waste such as the wasteful use of natural waste: resources (such as wood, metal and aggregate) and vehicle emissions produced when • Inert Waste which includes transporting waste. uncontaminated soils (but not topsoil), rocks, concrete, masonry, brick rubble and By law, we all have a Duty of Care to prevent glass. the illegal disposal of waste until the waste has been finally disposed of or recycled. • Non-Hazardous waste includes general construction and demolition waste, This means that if a waste carrier takes the uncontaminated topsoil and peat, steel, waste to an illegal landfill site, you or your timber, paper and canteen waste. company can still, be prosecuted. • Hazardous wastes are those that are All companies and site personnel should deemed dangerous to life such as oil- complete checks on all Waste Contractors contaminated materials, asbestos, used to ensure that they comply with the Waste chemicals and pesticides. Regulations. Everyone on-site has a ‘Duty of Care’ to ensure that waste is handled and disposed of in the

Environmental E3:Environment – Waste Control Ask these to confirm understanding: Q1. What methods of control do we use on- site to control waste? A. Segregated skips, signed and separate storage for hazardous waste. Protection of surfaces drainsand other trades when drilling and sawing from dust and debris. Q2. What does the site need to have in place for waste control and what do we need to transport wasteon the road? A. The site must have a Site Waste Management Plan (SWMP) and to transport waste from site youor your company will need an approved waste licence to take away and carry waste. Q3. What type of waste is concrete and how is waste controlled to help the Environment? A. Concrete is an Inert waste. We should try to reduce the waste, if not, try to re-use or re-cycle thewaste and as a last resort send it to landfill.

Occupational Health

Occupational Health OH1:Asbestos – what to do if it is found Asbestos is a known killer in the UK, with over Electrical Switchboard 3,000 products containing asbestos. Panels Asbestos related diseases contribute to up to 5,000 deaths from all industries in the UK, which is more than UK road accidents! There are six main types of asbestos; all are hazardous and all of them can contribute to health issues leading to death: Pipe insulation with coating Lagging to Pipework 1. Asbestos actinolite Rope Lagging to Door 2. Asbestos grunerite (amosite) Seal 3. Asbestos anthophyllite 4. Chrysotile If you suspect or find asbestos you 5. Crocidolite should: 6. Asbestos tremolite • Stop work and secure the area so no one Where can Asbestos be found? else can potentially get contaminated. Asbestos in Construction can be found in many • Ensure that you have not become places including: contaminated; Asbestos particles on clothes for example Spray Concrete Products If your area is contaminated – remove Corrugated Roof Sheets and leave the articles in the area • Tell everyone, colleagues on your way to telling your Manager/Supervisor or the Site Manager or site team. • Once established that asbestos is found the site team should isolate the area. • The area will be surveyed by a licenced Asbestos test company (registered with HSE)