Code Revamp - ebook

04Operating Procedures Wall sawing equipment consists of two main components: - 4.3 Sawing - Wall Saws (Rail Mounted) a) The travelling rail mounted on feet or brackets which 4.3.1 Introduction are attached to the wall, together with the saw head This equipment was developed to which is mounted on the enable cutting of door and window rail. Apart from the standard openings through reinforced wall saw, there are plunge concrete, brick and granite walls as saws and corner cutting saws well as through floors for stairways, lifts, which operate in a similar etc., without the need to stitch drill, i.e. manner. Any special health a series of interlocking holes. and safety factors relating to these two types are covered The track saw consists of a metal rail below. which has a set of supporting feet that are secured to the concrete b) The hydraulic drive unit which by means of an anchoring system. can be electrically, or diesel The track has a toothed rack for the driven. Where, the drive unit sprocket / cog wheel seated in the is electrically driven, it will motor house to traverse on. need a 415/440-volt, 3 phase supply and must be installed The travelling bogey / motor house is by a qualified electrician, secured to the track by runners and using an earth leakage a cog wheel engages the ‘rack’ to protection device. enable it to travel backwards and forwards along the track or tracks. 4.3.2 Installation The bogey also houses the hydraulic motor which powers the diamond saw - When installing the rail, follow the blade. This blade can be as small as manufacturer’s instructions. Small 450mm dia. to as large as 2m or more. test holes may be drilled if steel The smaller the diameter the faster reinforcing bar is present in the wall, the r.p.m. and vice-versa. The power to ensure that the bar does not lie in unit is hydraulic – either electric, diesel the plane of the cut. or petrol powered, and is operated using the latest equipment by remote - It is preferable that the surface is control away from the surface being smooth and level; if not, packers worked upon. must be used to ensure that the track is not distorted when being The cutting is carried out by making a fixed. Particular attention must be series of passes along the length being paid to: - cut. The depth of each pass depends upon the type of material, the blade a) Ensuring that all supporting and the operative. feet are in contact with the surface without distortion and The operator starts with a small are securely anchored using diameter blade and works upwards anchor bolts; to finish with one suitable to complete the depth required. b) Ensuring that all rails are properly joined allowing the It is vital to ensure that all sections saw head to pass freely; being cut or worked upon are adequately supported, and all c) Checking that the rail is at services made safe. right angles to the surface, if necessary, using a spirit level; REVISED APRIL 2020 d) Inspecting the complete saw assembly including the 50

blade flanges, shaft and onto the blade for cooling. Never 04 saw blade for damage or run the unit without connecting an malfunctioning. adequate water supply. Operating Procedures - Once the saw head is mounted on - The manufacturer’s instructions the rail, the blade can then be fitted, must be followed regarding the and the angle checked again with a connection of hydraulic hoses spirit level. A check must be made to between the drive unit and the ensure that the pinion gear meshes saw head. Hoses should never be properly with the track rack and that dragged over floors because of the retention rollers are in the locked the risk of damage to the hose or position. The blade must be securely coupling, and all dirt should be mounted on the shaft and the blade removed from couplings prior to nut properly tightened. Ensure that connection. Hose connections the blade guard is fitted and locked should be checked to make sure in place before starting the motor that they are correctly made. and that an adequate water supply is connected. - Prior to sawing, also check that the following are tightly fastened: - - SAFETY STOPS MUST BE USED AT EACH END OF THE TRACK. These prevent - The bolts and anchors securing the the saw running off the track. Under rail frames and rails certain circumstances, the blade can drive itself along the rail, thereby - The nut or bolt securing the blade. presenting a considerable health and safety hazard. If safety stops are - Ensure that the correct blade guard not available, operators must not use is fitted. A machine should never be the machine until these are fitted. operated without guards, and the correct size of guard must be fitted - The area around the wall saw to match the blade size. The special must be cordoned off to prevent flush cutting guard should only be bystanders approaching. With used for this application. remote controlled saws, the operator must locate the controls in such a 4.3.3 Operating Procedures position that he can see the saw operating but which is outside the - The first saw cut should be made to immediate area of the saw and a cutting depth of 3 - 5 cm to ensure blade. Any assistants must also stay that the blade has a guide and saws outside the immediate area of the in a straight line. saw whilst it is in operation. - The operative should position The area behind the wall must be themselves, i.e. as close to a checked to ensure that there is 90-degree angle as possible enough clearance area for the saw blade and that it will not interfere with - The second cut can then be to any installations. a greater depth depending on the quality of the concrete and When a wall saw is used to cut the degree of reinforcement. an opening in a suspended floor, When longitudinal reinforcement adequate supports must be provided is encountered, it should, as far to prevent the cut section from as possible, be cut through in one dropping causing damage or injury. movement. Start with the smallest Safety barriers both on the floor and size of blade and step up the blade below are required to prevent injury to size gradually by regular increments, fellow workers or visitors. as suggested by the manufacturer. When doing this, ensure that the - Water is used for cooling the blade width is greater on the smaller hydraulic unit and for applying diameters to allow the blade to sit into the cut. REVISED APRIL 2020 51

04 - When cutting out a wall section, remember the final cut should not be Operating Procedures the bottom cut as the weight of the slab will trap the blade. 4.3.4 Plunge Saws and Corner Cutting Saws - As an opening is being cut, thin wedges must be used to restrain the - When using a plunge saw, a hole is slab. drilled through the concrete with a 250 mm diameter core drill. The saw Alternatively, the slab must be tied track is then inserted in this hole so into the surrounding wall. Great care that the saw blade will cut through should be used when removing the the full depth of the concrete using wedges or tilting a slab out of the a range of starter and step cutting opening. A 15 cm thick slab will tilt out blades. This method of sawing does without touching the surrounding wall. away with over-cutting, but if the blade is to protrude into a working Proper safe rigging and handling area behind a wall or slab, the techniques must be used when operator must ensure that there is removing slabs. a 70 cm wide safety area in order to provide clearance for the blade - If a blade jams, the manufacturer’s when cutting to full width. instructions should be carefully followed to avoid damage to the - A corner cutting saw is normally hydraulic motor. Before removing chain driven. Prior to assembly, a blade guard, ensure that the the chain and chain bar must blade has stopped rotating and the be thoroughly clean and machine is switched off. Avoid: - undamaged. When working, the operator should avoid dropping a) Jamming the blade when the saw on the chain and chain running at high speed; bar. Jamming the chain in the cut should also be avoided. b) Traversing the saw rapidly Should jamming occur, switch off with the blade in the cut the machine, remove the chain and jamming it at either bar and sprocket. Do not release end; by using the controls. c) Cranking the blade in or out 4.4 Sawing – Hand-Held Saws of the cut too fast. These machines are by hand and - Should a blade become wedged in used to form cuts into brick or the cut, do not attempt to un-jam it concrete using an electric/hydraulic/ is using Manual Travel or Depth-of- High Frequency power supply. Cut controls. Remove the blade from the saw and use other means. 4.4.1 Introduction - Where the saw is powered by an air - Hand-held saws can be divided into motor, remember that the motor is two categories: ungoverned and can over speed under no-load conditions. This can a) The traditional disc cutter result in blade damage and possible with a centre driven injury. disc/blade, commonly known as a Cut-off saw, - It is essential that a rail mounted saw driven either by a small is maintained properly. For example, integral petrol engine check oil levels in the gear box. or electrically. Chasing machines and angle - After use, all hoses should be grinders fall into this disconnected carefully, avoiding category. These can be dropping couplings. 52 REVISED APRIL 2020

used to form shallow cuts use proper eye and ear protection 04 into brick or concrete. and must always wear a safety helmet. Most materials create dust, Operating Procedures b) The ring saw is a hydraulic/ particularly when these tools are petrol-powered or high used for cutting ‘dry’. This process frequency hand-held should be the subject of a COSHH unit which gives a cutting Risk Assessment. Wear a respirator depth of 300 mm from a and/or face mask in these situations. 400 mm diameter blade. This is achieved by a - Before using a hand-held saw, unique design where the ensure that it has been checked diamond blade is driven over prior to issue and that the from the periphery instead electrical leads and plugs are of the centre. It is generally undamaged. Also, be sure that all used hand-held but can the controls and health and safety be rail mounted. Pre- cuts devices function properly and that can be carried out by the guards are securely fixed. power saw, ensuring cost effective production and - Never carry a hand saw by the easier, safer results. blade or guard, as this may damage the blade and/or the machine. If This machine is ideal for use in, for it shatters, a damaged blade can instance, restricted areas of space, or represent a considerable hazard. on low volume low quantity cutting contracts, due to its size, its ease of - The saw must be fitted with a blade operation and its short set-up time. or disc which is suitable for cutting the material involved. Diamond Items a) and b) above can be fitted and reinforced abrasive cutting with diamond tipped laser-welded discs are available and these may blades, usually running dry or fitted be used wet or dry. Make sure that with an abrasive cutting / grinding the maximum speed marked on the disc for cutting stone or metal. They disc is equal to or above the spindle are often used to cut re-enforcement speed of the machine. when crushing or bursting. 4.4.3 Operating Procedures - Although hand-held tools are flexible and easy to use, the operator can - Start the machine in accordance soon become tired. Accidents can with the manufacturer’s instructions. occur through fatigue as a result of a slip or mishandling. - Both hands should be used when operating the power saw and the - Remember the operator should guard must be adjusted to suit the have a certificate for the safe use job, so that sparks, material particles of diamond tipped segmented or pieces of damaged disc cannot blades. This allows the changing endanger the operator. Hydraulic of the blades and understanding hoses and electric leads must of machine operations. However, always be kept well away from the the employer is the person operator’s feet possibly by passing who is responsible for ensuring them over the shoulder. competency. - To achieve a clean cut, move the 4.4.2 Installation blade / disc forwards in the cutting direction and do not force the wheel - In particular, the operator’s clothing into the material. Do not change the must be strong and close fitting. cutting direction as this can place Heavy-duty, non-slip gloves must be undue strain on the blade causing it worn, together with safety boots with to shatter or break. non-slip soles. The operator must also - Cut in a forward motion and use REVISED APRIL 2020 53

04 shallow and intermittent cutting only.Operating Proceduressleeves or by crimped connections to form a variable length of wire, - The operator should have a firm depending on the sawing application. foothold and must not work from a The wire has diamond impregnated ladder or other insecure support. Do beads along its length approximately not over-reach with the machine 30mm apart and 10mm diameter. The and never operate it above head beads are separated by small springs, height. Great caution should be plastic or rubber, depending upon the used when inserting the blade into type of wire and the manufacturer. an existing cut as kickback can occur. To prevent this, keep a firm 4.5.2 Installation / Operation grip on the machine and check that the cut width is greater than the The wire is positioned over the pulleys blade width if different blades are through pre-drilled holes in the used. For example, a starter blade concrete that is being cut and back can be wider than a ring saw blade. over the drive pulley. The wire can be of almost any length and is joined by - Work should be properly supported special crimps. so that the cut does not close, pinching the blade. The wire is rotated, held under tension and pulled through the material being - Where tools are electrically driven, cut. Water must always be used. This care should be taken to ensure that machine is remote controlled by the the cable is not cut or damaged operator, who should be in a position by the saw blade. If damage does adequate to view the wire and drive occur, the tool must be exchanged wheel, but not directly in line. or repair to the cable must be done by a competent person. Beware also - The machine must be installed in line of water that might reach electrical with the manufacturer’s instructions. parts of the machine as this can Providing it is installed properly, it is cause shocks to the operator and safe to use and suffers from a low damage to the machinery. level of noise and vibration when compared with other methods. 4.5 Sawing - Wire Saws - As the pulleys are unguarded and 4.5.1 Introduction the wire exposed, care should be taken to isolate the working area to Some track saws or drill rigs and prevent persons coming into contact motors can be converted to work as with the wire or other moving parts a wire saw. Alternatively, there are i.e. the area should be cordoned off wire sawing machines specifically with warning notices so that there manufactured for this application. is no risk of injury should the wire break or become disconnected. The operative should position Consideration should also be given themselves, i.e. as close to a to the risk of injury should a bead or 90-degree angle as possible segment become detached from a moving wire. Because of the flexible The method of setting up is like that nature of the equipment and its of the track saw but in lieu of the saw installation, wire sawing machines blade, grooved pulley wheels are must only be set up and operated by fitted which take the diamond wire. experienced personnel. This wire is passed over any number of small idler pulleys to the surface being - The specification of diamond wire cut. can vary and must be suitable for cutting the material. The The wire consists of sections of a manufacturer’s advice should be steel core of strands approx. 6mm. sought. diameter and of almost any length. These sections are joined by screwed 54 REVISED APRIL 2020

- An adequate water supply must be 4.6.2 Installation 04 fed to the wire during cutting. - Careful consideration must be given Operating Procedures 4.6 Controlled Demolition - to the composition of material that Bursting is being split. The concrete mass behind the burster head must be 4.6.1 Introduction larger and stronger than the portion being burst. Otherwise the wrong Hydraulic bursters are intended for use piece of concrete may be burst. A in rock or concrete breaking where separation line is required to avoid explosives cannot be used. They will damage to structural walls or floors. break up large blocks of material into manageable pieces which would - Before using the wedge type burster, be uneconomical or impractical to the pump unit and the burster tool demolish by other means such as rock must be checked to ensure that the drills etc. Bursters have the advantage operating pressure conforms to the that they are relatively quiet and safe manufacturer’s recommendations to use. and that the tool works satisfactorily. There are two types of burster; the - A liberal coating of special grease wedge type working on the plug and should be applied to the wedges. feather principle and the plunger type which is a steel circular head 4.6.3 Operating Procedures with several sideways facing pistons along its length. Both models are - For both types of burster, a suitable hydraulically operated, and the size hole is drilled in the material at power unit can be air, petrol/ diesel an appropriate distance from the or electrically driven. Operation is free face. The wedge type unit is remote controlled. then inserted so that one of the outer wedges is towards the free face. It is necessary to drill holes with Ensure that the ends of the wedges a diamond drill for the burster are within the concrete and not to fit in. These holes are drilled in protruding into free space or into either a straight line or a diamond softer material. configuration, and again the distance between holes varies from 450mm to - - Wedges should never be used to 1m depending upon type, method lever out broken concrete as this and strength of concrete. will result in bending of the wedges. Great care should be taken when Once the holes have been inserting the burster in a crack to completed, the burster head is obtain more spread, as there is a risk inserted into the holes. of the wedges displacing sideways. Pressure is applied from the hydraulic a) When using the plunger type power pack via the hoses to the burster, a burster plate should be splitter / burster which induces cracks. inserted between the plungers Providing the splitter / burster head and the side of the hole. The is correctly positioned, the cracking pressure can then be applied, will follow a plane of weakness to and the material broken. Check the adjacent hole. The process is that the burster plates are always repeated until the whole area is correctly positioned. fractured and ready for removal. This is a quiet, vibration free and efficient b) Always check that debris is method of demolition and is now in cleared away from the burster general use. between bursts. REVISED APRIL 2020 4.6.4 Cracking Agents a) Material can also be split by using a non- explosive cracking 55

04 agent. This is supplied in powder crushing piston at one end of the form. When mixed with water jaw and Operating Procedures a chemical reaction occurs, b) The hydraulic power pack for operating the piston. expanding the material to split c) The body of the crusher has the concrete. Inserted into been designed and tested to the highest engineering pre-drilled holes, after several standards. Therefore, its strength must not be weakened by hours the agent develops modifications, by drilling holes in the body, by the fitting an extremely high expansion of additional handles or by engraving company names, pressure. A recent accident, numbers etc. on the body. For health and safety reasons, any involving this method of splitting modifications or alterations must be authorised by the material, has highlighted manufacturers in writing and carried out by them. The the need for manufacturer’s manufacturers or their agents should also carry out any recommendations to be repairs. followed precisely. Also, the Hydraulic power packs can either be electric, diesel or petrol powered. importance of wearing proper The main difference from bursting is personal protection equipment. that it does not need any diamond holes to be pre-drilled and the - The following health and safety rules resulting rubble is of much smaller should be followed: - dimensions. a) Keep the site closed to people Providing a free or open edge is during the cracking process. The available (If not, one has to be made expansion process may release by sawing or drilling a separation fragments of material. line), the jaws which look either like a large letter ‘C’ or a crab’s claw, b) Cover holes during cracking are installed over the concrete to be process using plywood sheeting. removed. The power unit is operated, the jaws come together, and the c) Do not investigate the filled holes concrete is crushed. This process for the first six to eight hours after is repeated until the whole area is filling. Extra care must be taken removed. when using a cracking agent during a period of abnormally high A selection of crushers is available climactic temperatures. Excessive ranging from lightweight, portable heat can affect the rate at which units, through to remotely controlled the process takes place. machine mounted machines. d) Follow the manufacturer’s The advantages of this technique are instructions with care. no vibration, almost no noise and no water. e) Avoid contact between the cracking agent and the skin. Wear 4.7.2 Installation protective clothing, particularly goggles, industrial gloves, safety - When moving the crusher, never footwear and a helmet. lift or drag it by its hydraulic hoses. f) Keep the agent away from 56 children and in a safe store when not in use. 4.7 Controlled Demolition - Crushing 4.7.1 Introduction A crusher unit consists of two main components: - a) The crusher itself complete with a REVISED APRIL 2020

Always use the frame or handles. 2. Advance the crushing 04 It can weigh up to 45 kg, and care should therefore be exercised when piston to the point where it Operating Procedures lifting. touches the wall. - The power pack may require a flow 3. Stop the piston and check of cooling water. If this is the case, it must never be operated without it. the correct positioning of the crusher and - A crusher can be dangerous is ensure that further piston used incorrectly, so follow the movement will be safe. manufacturer’s instructions carefully. The energy generated by the 4. Make sure that hands are crusher can dislodge small pieces of concrete which burst away at high removed from the area of speeds. These can be dangerous the piston. if the correct protective clothing is not worn. Always wear a safety 5. Continue the piston stroke helmet with visor, safety goggles, gloves, apron, shin protection and and resume crushing. protective footwear. - When operating the crusher, - Equipment is generally designed take care that nothing is trapped for 24 hour operation. For maximum between the cylinder and the performance, there should be two crusher arms. well-trained operators. The cutting of reinforcing bar etc. may require 4.7.4 Other Applications a further operator. Use an abrasive wheel or cutting torch for this Hydraulically operated crushing jaws purpose. may also be fitted to an excavator boom for use in the general 4.7.3 Operating Procedures demolition of overhead structures. This application will be subject to the safe - Ensure that all hydraulic hoses are working practices governing general coupled up securely. demolition work. - When the crusher is positioned over 4.8 Thermic Lancing the concrete, there should be a gap between the concrete and 4.8.1 Installation the bottom rim of the crusher. The crusher must be positioned squarely - The conventional thermic lance is on the concrete and at right angles a length of seam welded mild steel to it and must never be operated tube, usually a basic 3 metres long, whilst it is at an angle either although several lances may be diagonally or axially. The crusher can coupled together to increase the be forced off the concrete causing length. This tube, which is normally serious damage to the operator available in two sizes, 3/8” (10 and the machine. This kickback is a mm) and 3/4” (20 mm) diameter, serious risk. is threaded at both ends and is packed with rods, normally strands of - To ensure that the crusher is properly iron wire. Other sizes of tube i.e. 1/4” located, comply with the following and 5/8” may also be available. cycle: - - The tube is screwed into a lance 1. Position the crusher holder to which a supply of oxygen is also connected by means of a hose, correctly and at right preferably of the armoured variety, in angle to the concrete which case a hose protection valve (diagonally and axially. is not needed. This lance holder will also have a guard to protect the REVISED APRIL 2020 operator. Do not use oil, grease or other hydrocarbon materials on any of the cutting equipment, pipe work or fittings. If necessary, equipment 57

04 must be degreased.Operating Procedures and metal sparks. In addition, a dusk mask or a helmet with a - A reaction is then caused by filtered air supply should be used preheating the lance tip until ignition depending on the nature of the takes place, thereby producing working environment. This and other temperatures in the region of 2200 safety equipment should only be degrees centigrade. When applied obtained from a recognised supplier. to the material to be bored, the Equipment for eye, neck and face intense heat coupled with the protection should comply with chemical reaction results in the BS1542 and BS679. formation of a fluid slag which flows from the point of boring, aided - The basic clothing worn by the by the oxygen pressure, thereby operators must be of a kind producing a cutting action. which will not easily ignite or burn. Donkey jackets will usually provide - Thermic lancing is a powerful satisfactory protection, although method of cutting holes in most long sleeve leather jackets and materials especially concrete, stone leather trousers are recommended. and metal. Cutting reinforcing rods in In addition, leather gloves and concrete is one typical application. aprons together with safety boots However, care should be taken should be worn. Clothes made from not to cut asbestos or any material flame retardant material may be containing asbestos. Check with the used but it should be remembered client’s health and safety officer that that processes such as laundering asbestos products are not present in can impair the flame retardant the working area. properties. - The advantages of this method are - The working area must be cleared lack of noise and vibration coupled of any combustible material, with speed and mobility. However, particularly in the place where there is a serious fire risk associated slag and sparks may fall and the with thermic lancing, because of spot where the lance will emerge the high temperatures being used. through the material. The area must Therefore, the operatives and the always also be free from water as surrounding area must be protected. the molten concrete will explode creating serious risks for the operator. - For reasons of personal health and It may be necessary to use screens or safety, there must always be two fire retardant sheets as a precaution. operators present at any thermic lancing operation, as a second man - Warning signs should be prominently is required to heat the tip of the posted, and the working area kept lance, to control the oxygen system clear of non- operating personnel. in an emergency and to maintain a safe working environment. Operators - Also ensure that the correct grade must be aware of the risks and of fire extinguisher i.e. dry powder is precautions associated with the use immediately available. Sand should of compressed gases and know how also be provided to contain any to deal with hazards. molten material from the lancing operations. - Operators must be properly protected whilst working. The most - The lancing process will produce important requirement is a safety clouds of dense smoke and helmet with a full face visor. This fumes which hinder visibility. The visor should either be tinted, or application of intense heat to the tinted goggles should be worn. material or any coating may create The equipment must be capable toxic fumes. In this situation, exhaust of withstanding high temperatures ventilation must be provided, and REVISED APRIL 2020 58

respiratory equipment worn. Also, PARTICULARLY WHEN LIT. 04 anything which could create a dust cloud should be removed from the - It is strongly recommended Operating Procedures working area. There is also a danger that a fire warden is posted where molten material is liable to at the working site for one meet water. This contact causes hour afterwards to ensure the material to solidify and explode, that there is no risk of fire. with a serious risk of injury from flying particles. 4.9 Hydraulic Power Packs - Care should be taken not to carry - Hydraulic power packs are out thermic lancing in an area where generally diesel driven and are damage to electrical installations, designed to power wall saws gas pipelines or other service ducts is and other equipment and tools a possibility. The location of services with corresponding power should be checked with the client. requirements. However, units powered by a 440-volt 3 phase 4.8.2 Operating Procedures electrical supply provide an option where noise or fumes - Once boring with the lance etc. are a consideration. has started, the reaction is self-generating, and the a) Although these units are velocity of the expelled relatively safe to operate, gases and vapours assists care should be taken with the flow of slag from the the following: -Hydraulic hole. Holes up to 3 metres hoses and fittings/couplings can be bored, but the etc. must be checked process is facilitated if the regularly for damage holes are inclined upwards and must be changed at 5 - 10 degrees to help the at the manufacturer’s flow of slag. Holes can be recommended intervals; bored downwards but the consumption of lance and b) During transport and oxygen will increase due to storage, hoses should the extra pressure required not be unduly stressed or to lift the slag clear. At the kinked; start of lancing concrete, red hot debris will be thrown c) The hose couplings and the back at the operator and a oil must be kept free from temporary protection barrier contamination, and the correct must therefore be erected in grade of oil must be used; front of the operator. d) The manufacturer’s - It is essential that the instructions must be operative has a firm foothold followed regarding oil and will not trip or fall over operating temperatures protruding objects. and pressures. It is advisable to run the motor for 5 - 10 - Periods of work should be minutes without pressure. governed by the operator’s fatigue as it is dangerous e) Machines should not be to carry out this task when operated until the oil physically tired. If for any has reached the correct reason the operator feels temperature. When external unwell, a doctor must be temperatures are low, consulted immediately. preheating of the oil may be recommended. NEVER POINT A LANCE AT ANYBODY, f) Where extension hoses are REVISED APRIL 2020 59

04 used, there will be pressure remember that there may be losses from a certain a voltage drop. The extension leads must be of the same duty Operating Procedures distance onwards. Check cable as the main lead; this situation with the h) Do not force a tool as this can be dangerous; manufacturers. i) Never leave power tools 4.10 Portable Electric Tools running when unattended; - Operators may be required to j) Be sure that the tool is used use a variety of small power in a comfortable position. Do tools in support of the main not over-reach and only work work. Electric drills will be in above shoulder height where regular use. this can be done safely. - The following basic instructions k) When operating any must always be adhered to: - electric tool there is a risk of fire, electric shock and a) The tool must not be abused. personal injury through Never carry it by its cable and carelessness or misuse. take care not to drop it. The This risk is increased when cable should be kept away working in wet or cold from heat, oil and sharp edges; conditions. b) Before servicing or repairing l) The operator must always a tool and when changing be conscious of the accessories such as bits or location of the cable when blades, the tool must be operating the tool. If the disconnected from the cable becomes damaged power; or cut, either the tool should be immediately exchanged c) Before switching a tool on, for a replacement or the ensure that all keys, wrenches damage should be repaired and spanners etc. are by a qualified electrician. removed. the equipment Makeshift cable repairs should have a valid PAT tag or are not allowed in any sticker. The operative should circumstances. check the PAT test before use and more importantly before m) All equipment used on putting away as this gives them site should be suitable for to get it change or retested 110 volt supply, even if it before they need to use it means using a transformer. again Plugs must also be of the appropriate type. d) Ensure that the switch works properly and is turned off 4.11 Diamond Chain Saws before plugging the tool in. Never carry a plugged-in tool 4.11.1 Introduction with your finger on the switch; - These work on a similar principle to agricultural chain saws from which e) Keep hands well away from they were originally adapted, except all moving parts and do not that: - operate tools when you are tired; - The chain has diamond impregnated segments welded to the chain; f) Use only approved manufacturer’s accessories; - The unit is mechanically driven from g) If extension leads are used, 60 REVISED APRIL 2020

a hydraulic power pack or internal not designed to cut wood. Make 04 petrol engine converted from a sure that you know the exact nature petrol driven hand saw; of the material you are about to cut. Operating Procedures - Water cooling/lubrication is supplied - Check that the water supply to the to the chain when cutting. blade is adequate. - However, chain saws are now 4.11.3 Operating Procedures available that have been specifically designed for construction Cutting must always be planned to applications. prevent injury and to prevent trapping of the chain and bar in falling pieces - They are very useful for cutting of concrete. One cubic foot of window and doorway openings in concrete weighs approx. 70 kgs. For brick and block because straight long cuts, it is advisable to score the lines can be cut with right angled cutting line with the nose of the bar to corners, eliminating over cutting. provide a guide groove. They can be operated hand-held or track / rail mounted and cut up to A track can be fitted to assist the 600mm deep. operator with fatigue and keeping a straight line. In addition: - 4.11.2 Installation - Ensure that the hydraulic and water - Before operating the tool, attention hoses are correctly coupled, that the must be paid to the manufacturer’s chain guard is in place and that the operating manual and to any blade has the correct tension. stickers or tags attached to the tool or hose. These refer mainly to - Make sure that the working area is precautions regarding the use of free from obstructions and does not hydraulic systems including non- include dangerous terrain including conductive cables. excessive slopes. Do not overreach or cut above shoulder height. - This tool can be extremely dangerous if handled carelessly. - Always maintain a safe footing and Operators should always wear balance. full safety equipment including: - goggles, ear and head protection, - There should be a well-marked and leg protection, gloves, snug fitting signed working safety zone that clothing and safety shoes. warns other people against entry. - Check the working area carefully for - Keep a firm grip on the saw with both live electrical wiring or other services hands. This helps reduce kickbacks in or adjacent to the material being and maintain control. Do not let go. cut. The area must also be properly ventilated. - Always operate the saw for two or three minutes away from the - Before energising the power source, intended cut and then check the hoses must be connected to the chain tension. Remember that the chain saw hose couplers and chain is designed to operate in one properly tightened. The chainsaw direction only. handles must be kept free of hydraulic fluid and clean. Make sure - Ensure that the working area is kept that the power source develops the clear of correct flow and pressure. - bystanders when starting or cutting. - Diamond chain saws must only be used for applications for which they - Always observe the rated operating are designed i.e. cutting concrete, speeds. Turn off the power source bricks, natural stone etc. They are or set the hydraulic control valve REVISED APRIL 2020 61

04 to neutral before setting down the by anybody lacking the necessary machine. competence or experience in demolition work. Operating Procedures - Ensure that the chain and other components are regularly checked Controlled demolition of structures for condition and wear. must only be undertaken as specified and marked out by the client. Prior to Diamond chains are extremely any work taking place, the client must expensive. The manufacturer’s be responsible for ensuring the safety instructions must be followed carefully, of the working area and any services if chain life is to be maximised and affecting this work. damage is to be avoided. Do not use excessive force when cutting and General Requirements. maintain a high chain speed. Avoid heavy plunge forces as this creates - Undertake a training course on the spalling of the concrete on exit, specific machine resulting in premature chain wear. - Newly trained operatives require 4.12 Demolition Plant-360 supervision Pedestrian for Crushing & Breaking - Undertake a DSA Test and relevant qualification 4.12.1 Introduction - Read and fully understand the This type of machine is an electrically operator’s manual and all the signs powered hydraulic machine mounted on the unit before operating the on tracks and used mainly for machine. controlled demolition. Its compact construction in combination with its - The machine must not be operated electric drive and remote control at locations classed as an “explosion makes it especially suitable for working hazard”. in confined spaces and hazardous environments. It is track-driven for Checking for damage maximum accessibility. - The operator is responsible for The machine can operate in any checking the condition of the direction as the arm system rotates machine regularly, carrying out daily continuously. It can be fitted with inspections and rectifying any faults. several tools, such as an impact This ensures that the machine is in breaker, concrete crusher or drilling such a condition that his health and head and is equipped with a quick safety, and that of any other person, hitch for quick and easy tool change. is not put at risk. The machine is manoeuvred with - Arrange for repair of any faults or a portable control box, which is damage as soon as they occur. Do connected by a control cable, and not operate the machine until such may also be supplied with radio faults have been rectified. control. - Never try to stop a leaking hose The work often involves demolishing with your hand. Atomized oil can old and substandard building penetrate the skin, causing serious structures where materials such as injury. reinforcing bars and pipes can jam and cause pieces of concrete to fly - Regularly check the function and around uncontrollably. condition of the control box. Therefore, the operation of the - Replace defective levers and machine must never be undertaken pushbuttons immediately. REVISED APRIL 2020 - Never start the motor if water has entered the electrical equipment 62

while the machine has not been truck or crane being used for hoisting 04 in operation. Repairs must be is adequate. This also applies to lifting undertaken by a qualified person. straps and other lifting gear. Operating Procedures Repairs - Never attempt to carry out repairs if - Always secure the machine you lack the required competence. as described in the operating Call for a service technician. instructions when transporting on a trailer or truck platform. Steel bands - Only qualified personnel may carry have very low friction on a platform. out repairs or servicing on the machine’s high- tension circuit. 4.12.3 Moving - Be aware of the risks involved with - The arm must be fully retracted when working on the hydraulic system. the outriggers are raised. Follow the service instructions carefully. Cleanliness is extremely - Always keep your concentration important. Beware of components on the machine when the control that may still be pressurized even circuit is connected. Always wait when the machine is shut down. until the control circuit has been Always secure moveable parts when disconnected before entering the servicing the machine. working radius of the machine. Moving control cables or doing Personal Protection anything else that can lead to inadvertent movement of the control - Always wear suitable personal levers while the control circuit is protection equipment. In certain connected can result in serious injury. environments, breathing protection or a gas mask will be necessary. - When moving the machine in areas where there is a risk of it falling, the Electrical Connection operator must be free from the control box. - Always handle electrical equipment with respect. This applies specially to - Always stand above the machine leads and connectors. while manoeuvring on gradients. The machine can start to slide down the - Check that voltage and fuse values gradient. are correct before connecting. - Never manoeuvre the machine into - Always connect the cable through deep water so that water enters an earth fault relay. electrical couplings, mains cable, electric motor or any other electrical - Make sure the main cable is not equipment, which can then be damaged and that the cable is damaged. the correct dimension in relation to its length as recommended by the - Use the arm as an extra support manufacturers. A long cable should while moving on gradients. have a greater cross-sectional area. 4.12.4 Before Operating 4.12.2 Transporting and Hoisting - Follow the directions in the operating - Directions for changing tools must be instructions. followed carefully. - Lift the machine only by the lifting - Coupling tools manually while the eyes provided. The machine must control circuit is connected could not be lifted by the arm system. cause fatal injury. Make sure nobody is standing under a suspended machine. - Make sure the machine is standing securely. - Make sure that the capacity of the - Make sure nobody is standing within REVISED APRIL 2020 the operating radius of the machine. 63

04 4.12.5 During OperationOperating Procedures - NO ONE MUST ENTER THIS RISK ZONE. - Follow the directors in the operating - This zone protects both the instructions operator and other personnel in the surrounding area that could be at - Never stand within the operating risk of injury from the machine such radius of the machine. A burst hose as: or a wrong manoeuvre can have serious consequences. - Surface giving way - Try to stand in a position where a - Machine moving suddenly wall, a column of some other object can protect you if an accident - Power cable entanglements should occur. - The operator must always be - Always keep your concentration on independent of the control unit the machine while the control circuit when there is a risk of the machine is connected. Wait until the control shifting suddenly. circuit has been disconnected (indicator light off) before entering - A stand must be used if the control the operating radius of the machine. unit is connected to the machine by a cable (The machine must be - Never operate the machine with the independent from the operator outriggers raised. when there is a risk of the machine suddenly shifting.) - Do not stand on the control cable or mains lead. - NEVER stand beneath the work object - Always keep power and control cables away from the operating - The machine can change position zone. very quickly due to external circumstances, breakdowns or - When operating the areas where incorrect operations there is a risk of the machine failing, the operator must be free from the - NEVER stand under a raised arm control box. even if the machine is unpowered. - Never go under a raised boom. - NEVER stand where there is a risk of being crushed by the machine, for - Never stand where there is a risk example between a wall or a pillar. of being jammed between the machine and another obstacle, e.g. 4.13.2 Machine Stability a wall or post. Note that the machine - The machine can tip whilst operating can quickly change position due to and/or whilst being moved. unforeseen loads on the arm. - The stability of the machine is - Note that it is always the responsibility affected by the ground surface, the of the operator to ensure that tool in use, the distance of the tool work is carried out safely and in from the machine and the ability of accordance with the instructions of the operator to control the machine site management. in a safe manner. 4.13 Stability and Moving of - The machine MUST ALWAYS be The Remote Controlled 360 positioned as level as possible with Pedestrian Operated Machine outriggers fully deployed 4.13.1 Operators position – Risk - The machine can tip whilst being Zone moved - Define the risk zone, size varies - The narrow track gauge of the machine means that a small REVISED APRIL 2020 64

irregularity in the ground surface can by the hydraulic breaker does not 04 cause such a large degree of lean cause any cracking to the incorrect the machine tips part of the object, stones or other Operating Procedures material and do not loosen or cause - The track gauge can be narrowed personal injury or damage to the further for use in confined spaces property. - The stability of the machine is 4.13.4 Operating impaired with the tracks on the inner - There is a risk of accidental operation position (in these circumstances the therefore: arm must not be swung out beyond the outriggers/ Tracks.) - Do not activate control circuits until you are sure that the correct - Ensure arm is folded fully folded machine will be operated. and take caution when driving the machine around corners and over - Always concentrate on the machine uneven surfaces when the control circuit is switched on. - Move the outriggers to just above ground level - Before entering the risk zone of the machine, ensure that the control - In situations where outriggers can’t circuit is switched off, preferably with be deployed the machine can tip the motor stopped, before entering Such as: in confined spaces or when the risk zone of the machine working close to an obstacle. - The controls or power cables - The machine can tip in situations must not be driven over where the outriggers cannot be when working or moving the deployed. machine - The risk of the machine tipping is 4.13.5 Moving the Machine greatly increased when the arm is - When the machine is driven on swung out to the side inclined surfaces there is a risk of the machine tipping or sliding. - The machine may start unexpectedly moving because of an inclined - Check the ramp/ steps can bear the surface weight of the machine - Stand uphill of the machine - Driving up or down ramps and steps carries the risk of the machine 4.13.3 Falling Objects tipping and sliding. - During operation the materials will splinter, and debris will be scattered - Anchor the Machine haphazardly. - Use the arm as additional support - When chipping upwards the when moving on inclined surfaces. demolished material spreads within a radius approximately the same - Always stand uphill of the machine distance to the area being chipped. and outside the risk zone when driving on inclined surfaces. - When demolishing tile linings in kilns the machine operation directly - The machine must be independent affects the risk of collapse. from the operator when there is a risk of the machine suddenly shifting. - The tile linings above and beside the operator can be shaken loose some - Some manufacturers supply a stand distance from the area where the for the controller unit to prevent chipping occurs. the operator being pulled into the - The operator is responsible for 65 checking the vibrations caused REVISED APRIL 2020

Operating Procedures04 danger zone. 4.13.6 After working - Risk of compression injury. If a hose to a cylinder on the arm system fails, the arm system can sink rapidly. - Never stand under a raised arm. - Always position the tool on the machine on the floor or ground when work is complete. - Risk of accidental operation. Press the safety stop button before removing the control unit or leaving the machine. - Ensure that the control circuit has been disconnected (indicate light off) before taking off the control box. - Always keep the control box in a safe place and away from unauthorised personnel. - Always disconnect the mains power to the machine before leaving it. REVISED APRIL 2020 66

05 Core Drill Bits & Cutting Blades Drill Drills 68 Cutting Blades 68 Diamond Blades 70

05 It is recommended that all super and strength of the concrete. abrasive or diamond products used in Caution should be used when the bit encounters steel reinforcing. It may Core Drill Bits and Cutting Blades stone and construction work complies be necessary to use a lower rpm. When drilling steel, with a continuous with the European Standard EN 13236. firm pressure but without force. Attention is also drawn to the FEPA 5.2 Cutting Blades Publication – Health and safety - Cutting or sawing blades fall into three basic groups: - Code for Super Abrasive Products on Stone and Construction. a) Reinforce Silicon Carbide Blades. Although they are 5.1 Drill Bits sometimes referred to as Abrasive Wheels or Cutting - A core drill consists of a steel tube Discs, these are general with a driving adaptor at one terms covering all types of end. Onto the other end is brazed cutting blades and wheels. a crown or matrix into which the The reinforced silicon carbide diamonds are set. Surface-set bits blade is most used on portable have the diamonds set in patterns hand tools, for light cutting on the surface of the crown, and duties. The blade material impregnated bits have diamonds consists of abrasive grains distributed throughout a matrix. held together by a bonding Care must be taken to use the agent, and reinforcement is correct diamond bond for the provided by a fabric or filament material being drilled, consulting the within the blade. These are manufacturer, if necessary. considerably cheaper than diamond blades but only have The diamond bit should be limited wear properties, making maintained with the diamonds them suitable for tasks of short exposed. A soft abrasive brick will duration. When fitted to an expose the new diamonds. Under electric hand tool this type of no circumstances should the bit be blade is usually used ‘dry’ i.e. tapped up with a file to sharpen it. without a supply of cooling water. Certain wheels may be - A core drill must be rotated at a used wet, subject to advice from the manufacturers. Non- given r.p.m. and the incorrect choice reinforced blades should not of speed will affect the performance be used on portable machines of the bit. Too low a speed will cause as they are only designed for rapid wear and too high will cause fixed units, as specified by the polishing rather than cutting. manufacturers. However, for the type of work undertaken - Water is passed down the centre of by members of the Association, the bit, through castellated slots at diamond blades will usually be the end and back up the outside to the most suitable. the surface carrying the slurry and spoil. Check that the manufacturer’s b) Conventional ‘Wet’ Diamond recommendations regarding water Blades. These blades flow are complied with. Should are made to be used in the water be cut off, stop drilling conjunction with a continuous immediately or the segments will water supply for ‘wet’ cutting. overheat and fall off. They are the most used for general purpose duties where - Before doing any drilling, check a water supply can be made that the bit is rotating in a clockwise direction and that it is running 68 concentrically. The life of a bit will depend on the aggregate type and size, the nature and depth of any reinforcement and the age REVISED APRIL 2020

available. The segments are be used. Don’t start the 05 either brazed or laser welded. machine until this is in place. Core Drill Bits and Cutting Blades c) ‘Dry’ cutting Diamond Blades. e) All blades must be inspected These are laser welded, either for damage prior to use, single or twin meaning both and care must be used in sides of the segment are handling. Don’t use one that welded for stronger bonding. has been dropped. Never The segment is specially use the side of the blade for constructed to cope with dry grinding. cutting. f) Once a blade is fitted, Cutting wheels or blades of any sort allow the machine to run can be dangerous if used improperly, for a minute or two at the whether they are the diamond variety operating speed with the or are reinforced abrasive. There are guard in place to check therefore several general rules which that it is properly fitted. The apply to all types of blade. blade should be in balance and running true. A blade a) Only use the blade to cut which is out of balance material for which it has means excessive wear and been designed. All the unnecessary health and manufacturers provide safety risks. detailed information on the various types of blade they g) Don’t force the blade into the offer and the materials for cut and avoid tilting it when which they are suitable. cutting. Don’t allow the blade to be trapped or pinched in b) The operating speed marked the cut. on the blade must always be equal to or exceed the h) Do wear the correct eye speed for the machine. Don’t protection and proper safety ever exceed the maximum attire. operating speed established for the blade. Also, the i) The fitting and use of all direction of rotation of the discs and blades are arrow on the blade must now covered by the correspond with the direction Provision and Use of Work of rotation of the machine. Equipment Regulations whereby operators must c) Ensure that the mounting be competent to use flanges are of equal diameter equipment. To meet and are clean. The flange this requirement, it is diameters should be at least recommended that abrasive one third of the diameter of discs and diamond blades the blade, except in the case are only fitted and used by of diamond blades where this persons who have been requirement does not apply, properly trained and that a but as a guide approximately record of training is kept like 1/3rd up to say 600 mm the previous Abrasive Wheels diameter, 1/4 above this size. Regulations. Therefore, all Do not force a blade on to wheels / blades can only a machine spindle or mount be fitted by a person who a blade on an undersized has been suitably trained spindle. and appointed. If in doubt, consult The Drilling & Sawing d) A correctly designed and Association. adjusted guard must always 69 REVISED APRIL 2020

05 j) Remove the blade from the This grinding process cuts the material machine during transit. and at the same time the material wears the metal bond, which exposes Core Drill Bits and Cutting Blades The British Abrasive Federation publish diamonds to the surface, refreshing several leaflets governing the safe the blade and extending its useful life. storage, mounting and use of cutting blades of both abrasive and diamond Segments varieties. For example, they publish specific advice on the storage of abrasive The mixture of diamond crystals and wheels, which can be susceptible to bonding metal powders is hot pressed changes in temperatures and humidity. into segments. These segments The Drilling & Sawing Association also are wider than the core to provide publishes health and safety leaflets on the clearance during cutting. use of diamond saw blades. These segments are specifically 5.3 Diamond Blades designed to wear at a rate appropriate to the aggregate What is a diamond blade? being cut. Diamond concentration in the segment can vary from Diamond blades consist of four low to very high, depending on components. specific requirements (e.g. lower horsepower saws generally require low - Diamond crystals (also known as concentration blades for best overall diamond grit or “Diamonds”) performance, high horsepower saws generally require high concentration - A bonding system (also known as a blades for best overall performance). matrix) Steel Core - A segment The segments are attached to a - Steel core. premium steel alloy core. Diamond Crystals The steel core is a precision-made steel disc that has slots. The slots (also Diamond grit used in blades is called “gullets” provide faster cooling manufactured in various grit sizes and by allowing water or air to flow quality grades. between the segments. Bonding Matrix Most blade cores are tensioned at the factory so the blade will run straight at A metal bonding matrix holds diamond cutting speeds. Proper tension allows crystals in place. Metal powders such the blade to remain flexible enough as cobalt, iron, nickel, tungsten, bronze to bend slightly under cutting pressure and other metals are used in various and snap back into position. An combinations. The bonding matrix plays arbour hole is precisely bored into the several vital roles: centre. - Disperses and supports the diamonds HOW DO DIAMOND BLADES WORK? - Provides controlled wear while Diamond blades do not really “cut” allowing diamond protrusion like a knife…. they grind. During the manufacturing process, individual - Prevents diamond pull-out diamond crystals are exposed on the outside edge and sides of the - Acts as a heat sink diamond segments or rim. These exposed diamonds do the grinding - Distributes impact and load as the work. diamond crystals grind the cutting surface. The metal bond locks each diamond In the cutting process, the diamonds 70 in the metal bond grind the material. REVISED APRIL 2020

in place. Trailing behind each exposed material being cut. If in any doubt, 05 diamond is “bond tail” which helps consult the manufacturers or their support the diamond. agents. Core Drill Bits and Cutting Blades While the blade rotates on the arbour - A constant check should be kept shaft of the saw, the operator pushes the on the condition of the blade and blade into the material. The blade begins attention should be paid to: - to cut (grind) through the material, whilst the material begins wearing away the - Uneven or excessive wear blade (segment). - Undercutting Exposed surface diamonds score the material, grinding it into a fine powder. - A cracked blade core or segment Embedded diamonds remain beneath - Segment loss the surface. - Overheating (blue blade) Exposed diamonds crack or fracture as they cut, breaking down into even smaller - Eccentricity and the arbour hole out pieces. Hard, dense materials cause the of round. diamonds to fracture even faster. - The British Standard BS 2064 Part 3 The metal bond also begins to wear, lays down dimensions of segmented allowing new layers of diamond exposure steel blades. to continue cutting. 71 This continuous grinding and wearing process continues until the blade is “worn out”. Sometimes a small, unusable part of the segments or rim may remain. It is important to understand that the diamond blade and the material must work together (or intact) for the blade to cut effectively. For a diamond tool to work properly, the diamond type, quality and grit size must be suited for the saw and the material. The metal matrix must be matched to the material to be cut. The following points are also important: - Using wet cutting blades without water, even for a very short period can cause excessive heat, blade damage, and result in a health and safety hazard. Although dry cutting blades will run without water, they should only be used intermittently for shallow cutting i.e. up to 5 cm maximum, or step cutting. Dry cutting blades can usually cut equally well when used wet. - Choosing the right blade is a critical decision depending on the type of saw, the nature of the job and the REVISED APRIL 2020

06 Legislation The Health & Safety at Work Etc. Act. 1974 73 Regulations 77 EU “Six Pack” 83 Legal Publication 86

6.1 The Health and Safety at contained in the regulations but also 06 Work Etc. Act. 1974 in sections 2 to 7 of the Act. The Act was also used to implement the EU Legislation 6.1.1 Scope and Objectives framework and its daughter directives. This led to a “Six Pack” of regulations This Act is the major piece of being introduced in 1992, some of legislation in the United Kingdom for which have already been updated. Health and safety. It provides the legal Refer to section 2.3 for further details. framework to promote, stimulate and encourage high standards of Health, Details of current regulations, codes of safety and Welfare whilst at work. practice, etc. are available from the DSA Office. Details are not included The act was created to replace the in this publication as they change mass of existing safety legislation regularly. with one Act applying generally to all persons at work, and in doing so 6.1.2 The Health and Safety replaced a mass of detail with a few Executive simple and easily assimilated precepts of general application. It established These two separate bodies (The the principle that prosecution was not HSE and H&S Commission) were always the first resort and led to the merged in recent years to become formation of the Health and Safety the Health and Safety Executive. The Commission (HSC) and its executive Health and Safety Board through arm the Health and Safety Executive the HSE Executive takes over the (HSE) which now operate as one body role for Health and Safety policy called HSE. The Act ensured for the first setting and has overall responsibility time that occupational safety should for occupational health and safety also protect visitors and members regulations in Great Britain. The of the public from work activities. It Health and Safety Executive and also placed more emphasis on the Local Authorities are the enforcing requirement to develop and maintain authorities that work in support of the safe systems of work rather than board. industry specific technical standards. The Act requires that workers are The Health and Safety Executive is actively involved in the procedures the principal authority responsible for accident prevention in their for the enforcement of the Act and workplace. any associated legislation. Provision is made for the appointment of The Act was originally drafted as an inspectors who have wide ranging enabling Act. This meant that the powers to enter and inspect Secretary of State or other Ministers premises at any reasonable time, are permitted to make regulations accompanied if appropriate by the under the Act. The enabling powers of police or other authorised person. the Act are exercised through section 15 of the Act whereby either the Inspectors can basically undertake Secretary of State or other Ministers any investigation considered may without referring the matter to necessary. They have greater powers Parliament require regulations to than the Police or Customs and can be drawn up by the Executive and demand entry at any time. If entry is submitted through the Executive to denied the Police will do it for them. him. Their powers include: - The need to provide guidance on the regulations is recognised in section 16 1. The taking of measurements, of the Act which gives the Commission photographs and recordings; power to prepare and approve Codes of Practice on matter not only 2. The taking of samples of items found on the premises; REVISED APRIL 2020 73

06 3. The dismantling, processing or testing injury, he has the power to seize it of any article; and have it made harmless but must prepare a written report for the owner. Legislation 4. The interviewing and taking of signed written statements from any one they It is an offence under Section 33 of think might give information relevant the Health and Safety at Work Act to their examination; to obstruct or fail to comply with any requirements imposed by an HSE 5. The inspection and copying of any Inspector. books or documents; 6.1.3 Enforcement 6. The ability to do anything else necessary to enable them to carry An inspector has two main methods of out their duties. enforcement: - In addition, the inspectors have an a) Improvement Notices - advisory role on matters affecting health and safety at work. From The inspector may serve a notice October 1st, 2012 the HSE introduced on any person contravening the a fee for ‘intervention’ which enforces Act requiring them to comply with the new ‘Health and Safety Fees for the legislation within a specified Intervention Regulations’. period which must be at least 21 days. This allows the HSE to charge and recover any costs from an b) Prohibition Notices - intervention required which will involve investigating a breach, site visits, letter If an inspector considers that writing and items such as drafting an an activity involves or is likely improvement or prohibition notice. to involve personal injury, he may serve a prohibition notice From time to time the HSE publishes terminating that activity until the the above- mentioned Codes of regulations have been complied Practice and Guidance Notes with. This may come into effect in support of specific aspects of immediately or after a specified health and safety covered by the period. Act. A schedule of HSE offices and information points is detailed in In the case of both these notices Appendix 10.1. there is a process for lodging an appeal within 21 days. In the case Apart from the Inspectors appointed of the Improvement Notice, after under the Act, local authorities an appeal, which can be made continue to have a role in enforcing immediately, it is suspended until certain aspects of the legislation. the appeal is heard. The Act also gives powers to the Executive, and Employers to ensure, Failure to comply with the in relation to fire precautions that requirements of the Act or to the requirements within the CDM comply with a Notice also renders regulations, specifically in relation to a person liable to prosecution and regulations 38, 39 and 40 regarding a substantial fine. general fire precautions, control of work premises such as construction 6.1.4 The Duties of Employers sites for fire and appointments for fire control are enforced and that the Generally, under Section 3 of the Regulatory Reform Fire Order 2005 is Act, it is the duty of every employer enforced. to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and Where an inspector believes that an welfare at work of all his employees article or substance is a source of including the requirement to: - immediate danger or serious personal a) Provide and maintain safe plant REVISED APRIL 2020 and safe systems of work; 74

b) Ensure that the use, handling, 6.1.5 The Duties of Employees 06 storage, maintenance and transport of articles and It is the duty of every employee under Legislation substances is safe and without Sections 10 & 11 of the Act whilst at risk to health; work to: - c) Provide such necessary Take reasonable care for the health information, instruction, training and safety of himself and of other and supervision to enable persons who may be affected by his employees to carry out their acts or omissions at work; work safely; Co-operate with his employer so far d) Ensure a safe place of work with as is necessary to enable any duty safe access and egress; or requirement under the Act or relevant legislation to be performed or e) Provide a safe working complied with. In addition, no person environment with adequate shall intentionally or recklessly interfere welfare facilities. with, or misuse, anything provided in the interests of health, safety or Employers also have a duty to ensure welfare. The term ‘employee’ now that persons not in their employ, who includes all people receiving training may be affected by their activities, or work experience. are not exposed to risks to their health and safety. 6.1.6 The General Duties of Manufacturers, etc. regarding However, the introduction of the articles and substances for use at Management of Health and safety work at Work Regulations in 1993 revised in 1999, brought in specific requirements Under Section 7 of the Act, it is the for employers as set out in Section duty of any person who designs, 2.3.1 of this code. manufactures, imports or supplies any article i.e. plant, machinery or When it is proved that an offence is equipment for use at work, to: - committed by a limited company through the neglect of a director or a) Ensure, so far as is reasonably other official, the person as well as the practicable, that it is designed and company will be considered guilty constructed to be safe and without and liable to prosecution. This is also risk to health when being set up, the case where the offence occurs used, cleaned or maintained by a with the consent or connivance of person at work. Emphasis is required an official. Steps have been taken of manufacturers to continually to introduce stronger legislation on reduce noise and vibration corporate liability for health and exposure levels. safety, and there have been many principals denied their liberty! b) Carry out, or arrange for the carrying out, of such testing and These include the Corporate Man- examination as may be necessary; slaughter Act and the Health and Safety (Offences Act) both of which c) Carry out such steps as are express clearer accountability to reasonably practicable to make individuals and the structured penalty sure that adequate information that can be imposed. about the use for which the article is designed and has been tested REVISED APRIL 2020 is provided to persons who will be using it; d) Take such steps as are reasonably practicable to ensure that persons provided with such information are 75

06 also provided with any revisions publishes a set of guidelines for use to that information, should new by its members, copies of which is available from the Secretary. Legislation evidence come to light of anything Alternatively, advice may be sought from a recognised firm of health which gives rise to a serious risk to and safety consultants or the HSE publishes a document explaining the health or health and safety. requirements for smaller companies. e) Necessary research. The Act requires the employer to control, monitor and review the The above has now been supported effectiveness of its policy, and all by the Provision and Use of Work employees are therefore encouraged Equipment Regulations 1998, which to review the health and safety lay down specific requirements in performance of their organisation and areas such as suitability, maintenance, to make recommendations for new or etc. improved safe working practices. In addition, the Supply of Machinery Where a company employs, (safety) Regulations places an compliance with the employer’s obligation on employers to ensure health and safety policy should be that work equipment complies with a condition of the sub-contract any legislation which implements the agreement. appropriate EU product directives. When buying equipment, members 6.1.8 Health and Safety should check whether items conform Committees &Representatives to these directives and are fitted with a CE mark. This requirement There is provision under the Act for complements the duties placed on recognised Trade Unions to appoint manufacturers and suppliers. health and safety representatives to represent employees in negotiations The Act also places the same with employers. The Health and safety obligations upon manufacturers etc. Representatives and Health and of substances for use at work, when safety Committees Regulations 1977, these are being used, handled, as amended by the Management of processed, stored or transported. Health and safety at Work Regulations 1999, lay down requirements covering: Designers and manufacturers are also required to arrange for appropriate - Representatives’ experience; research to minimise any health and safety risk. - Information and documents; 6.1.7 Health and Safety Policy - Time off work; Any employer who has five or more - The functions and liabilities of the employees at any one time must representatives. have a written statement of general policy with respect to their health and - The same regulations cover the safety at work, and the arrangements rules governing the establishment in force for carrying out that policy. and conduct of health and There is a need to continually update safety committees, including a policy especially when legislation their objectives, functions and changes or there is material change in membership. the nature of the business. Generally, this tends to be done annually. Regular Health and safety Forums, keeping a record of attendees, are Each company should prepare and an excellent way of communication in bring to the notice of the workforce its discussing any item of health, safety or own policy based on its requirements. procedure. To enable members to prepare a health and safety Policy document, 76 the Drilling and Sawing Association REVISED APRIL 2020

6.1.9 Charges c) Where control measures are used, 06 to ensure that they are properly Section 9 of the Act forbids an employer applied. Equipment must also be Legislation to charge employees for any measures properly maintained, and records which they are required by statute to kept of examination and testing. provide in the interests of health and safety i.e. personal protection equipment d) Where necessary, to monitor the or training. exposure of workers and carry out health surveillance. 6.2 Regulations e) To inform, instruct and train Most of the main Regulations relevant to employees about the risks and the construction work are identified at the precautions to be taken. relevant place in this Code. Further details of the overall list of current Regulations f) For drilling and sawing contractors, are available on application to the DSA. substances hazardous to health More detailed information may also occur both in the construction be available in one of the reference workplace and in the office publications mentioned in section 1.6 of and workshop environment this code. etc. Dust, slurries and lubricants caused by cutting operations are Specific attention is drawn to the following typical examples. Therefore, it is Regulations which have a major impact mandatory that members prepare on our work. a COSHH assessment either separately or as part of an overall 6.2.1 Control of Substances risk assessment. Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH) 6.2.2 Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 This is the latest set of COSHH regulations which incorporate The regulations lay down duties previous amendments. The regulations on employers and employees impose duties on employers for the regarding electrical equipment protection of employees who may and the use of electricity, with the be exposed at work to substances purpose of avoiding personal injury hazardous to health and of other or death. Specific areas covered persons who may be affected by such by the Regulations are Selection of work i.e. third parties. The requirements Equipment, Testing, Responsibilities for employers are as follows: - including Supervision and Training, Precautions and Protection (Earthing, a) An employer must not carry on Insulation etc.) any work which is liable to expose any employee to a substance The HSE also publish a range of hazardous to health unless a Guidance Notes on electricity at suitable and enough assessment work, portable and transportable has been made of the risks to electric equipment i.e. the electrically health created by the substance. operated tools and machines used in our industry. b) To introduce appropriate measures to prevent or control These Regulations require that “all the risk. Control is only permitted electrical systems be maintained so where prevention is impractical, as to prevent, so far as is reasonably and adequate control must be practicable, danger”. This applies achieved, if possible, by means to all workplaces and requires other than personal protection. proper standards of maintenance; It is only where control measures particularly as far as portable on their own are inadequate that electrical equipment is concerned. employers may resort to personal protection. 77 REVISED APRIL 2020

06 The HSE have published a Booklet No. electrical test which should be carried HS(G)107 out by a trained person at pre- determined intervals using a portable Legislation “Maintaining Portable & Transportable appliance tester or other instrument. Electrical Equipment” – (third edition) 2013. This confirms that Electric Cables As far as Portable Electric Tools are and Extension Leads are included in concerned, the testing requirements the requirements of the Regulations, may be different for Class 1 Tools as they are part of the electrical which are earthed and Class 2 Tools apparatus. In fact, they are one of the which are double insulated. The latter main sources of hazard. give added protection against the risk of electrical shock. In practice, portable electrical equipment can best be maintained There are reputable manufacturers of by carrying out regular inspection and Portable Appliance Test equipment testing as described in the Booklet. who will advise on the appropriate It is recommended that companies tests which consist mainly of have a system of inspection, testing earth bonding and high voltage and recording of results, particularly insulation tests. You should consult for portable electrical tools, although the manufacturers or a health and technically other appliances such safety advisor regarding suitable as kettles and copiers should also be test equipment. The manufacturers regularly inspected and tested. can also supply standard forms for recording inspections and tests, Although the Regulations do require including data on the actual test the keeping of maintenance records results. They can also provide labels for the EAW memorandum does attaching to the tools once they have refer to the benefits of recording been tested. maintenance including test results. Therefore, it is recommended that all The manufacturers will also advise on portable electrical equipment should the safe conditions for the use of test be identified by a serial number which equipment i.e. insulated mats and should be recorded in a register. For bench tops. Members may find that each item, there should be a job card it is more practical to have their tools which states details of the inspection, tested by an outside company. testing and maintenance to be carried out. A dated record should About the frequency of inspection be kept of the work done signed by a and testing, it is recommended by competent person. the Health and safety Executive that, in the construction industry, a At a practical level, inspection may simple visual inspection of equipment be a simple visual task which is carried is carried out daily and that full out daily, but which does not need inspection and testing is performed on to be performed by a highly- trained each tool every three months. Indeed, person in order to detect possible most management of construction faults. During inspection, the item is sites require this to be done at these being checked for damage to the intervals and records kept. These unit together with any connection intervals are not laid down in the leads and plugs. If there is any Regulations but should be adhered to. evidence of damage the equipment should be withdrawn from use and Office electrical equipment is identified in some way to prevent it subject to the Regulations but being used until repairs have been the recommendations regarding carried out. inspection and testing are stated in table 1 of the HSG 107 document Testing is a more detailed inspection from the HSE. Office equipment incorporating an appropriate should be visually inspected 2-4-year REVISED APRIL 2020 78

intervals and not tested at all if double the use of noisy plant, unless there 06 insulated. If not double insulated is reasonable evidence of known tested very 5 years or less. emissions which fall into or below the Legislation first action level. To calculate the level Also, the Electrical Equipment (safety) of protection required employers Regulations 1994 require equipment to can use “the estimated noise value be of safe construction. All equipment minus 76 = SNR value for protection put on for sale must have a CE i.e. 100dB-76=34dB” This ensures that identification. Electrical equipment the level of noise exposure is below will also be covered by the Provision 80dB with protection in place. The & Use of Work Equipment Regulations regulations require the employer to 1998. make an estimate of the noise value for the Risk Assessment an actual 6.2.3 Noise at Work Regulations measurement is not required. 2005 6.2.4 Reporting of Injuries, Employers are required under this Diseases and Dangerous legislation, which came into force on Occurrences Regulations 2013 6 April 2006, to protect workers who (RIDDOR 2013) are exposed to noise. Employees are required to make proper use These regulations require an employer to of equipment provided for their report certain incidents and occupational protection. When the sound pressure diseases to the Health and safety level measure at the operator’s ear Executive. exceeds 80 dB(A) (the first action level), noise levels have to be The following types of incidents require measured, records have to be kept, reporting: - workers advised, and ear protectors issued to anyone who requests them. - Death (must be reported In addition, all machinery should immediately to the HSE, usually by be marked with its noise level and phone). Death is also reported to the maintained to stay within it, although HSE if it occurs within 12 months of an this tends to be impracticable, due accident at work. to the differing nature of tool usage. Good risk assessment may alleviate - Specified injuries to Workers this problem. (regulation 4). This includes: Any fracture other than to a finger, Above 85 dB (A), the second action thumb or toe; level, employers should attempt to suppress the plant, mark out high Amputations; noise zones or machines where ear protectors must be worn, and insist - Any injury likely to lead to permanent that they are worn. loss of sight or reduction in sight As well as defining sound ‘action - Any crush injury to the head or torso levels’, the Regulations also deal with Noise Assessments and Reduction, - Serious burns which cover more than Training in the wearing of Ear 10% of the body Protection particularly plugs, Provision of Information to Employees and - Serious burns that causes significant Medical Supervision. damage to the eyes, respiratory system or other vital organs The measurement of sound is a technical operation requiring - Any scalping requiring hospital specialist knowledge and equipment. treatment If necessary, call in an independent assessor. Noise assessments are now - Any loss of consciousness caused by a mandatory requirement prior to head injury or asphyxia REVISED APRIL 2020 - Any injury arising from working in an 79

06 enclosed space which leads to;Legislation 6.2.5 Construction Regulations - General - Hypothermia or heat induced illness Although members are covered - Requires resuscitation or admittance generally by the requirements of to hospital for more than 24 hours. the Act, when they are working on construction sites, they must - These must be reported immediately conform to the Regulations which to the HSE, usually undertaken by are specifically designed to deal with phone and then followed up in hazards on construction sites. In April writing on form F2508 within 10 days 2015, the Construction (Design and of the incident. Management) regulations 2015 came into force. - An accident which results in someone being absent from work 6.2.6 The Construction (Design for more than seven days must be and Management) regulations reported on the F2508 within 15 2015 (from 6th April 2015) require days of the date of the injury, not that: including the day of the injury. - There will still be five duty holders, - Members of the public who The Client, the principal Contractor, are injured and require hospital Contractors and Designers, with the treatment as a result of your work CDM Coordinator being re-named activities. Over 3 day injuries do not from the 2007 regulations as the have to be reported but do need to Principle Designer. be recorded. - The ACOP’s (approved code of - These must be reported immediately practice) will be removed and to the HSE, usually undertaken by may not be replaced as ‘Industry phone and then followed up in Guidance Documents’ will be writing on form F2508. produced by the Construction Industry - Injuries which are a result of physical violence at work. - Training Board (CITB) for the duty holders as follows – - Dangerous occurrences (schedule 2 of RIDDOR 2013). - CDM 2015 – Industry Guidance for Clients For the members of the Association, the type of Reportable Dangerous - CDM 2015 – Industry Guidance for Occurrences which may be relevant Principal Designers would be a fire explosion or an incident where a live electric cable is - CDM 2015 – Industry Guidance for struck or accidentally cut. Designers Reporting Form F2508 must be - CDM 2015 – Industry Guidance for completed by the employer and Principal Contractors submitted to the HSE within 10 days for Death, Major (Specified) Injuries & - CDM 2105 – Industry Guidance for Dangerous occurrences and within 15 Contractors days for an over seven-day injury In addition to the Duty Holders, Occupational Diseases specific reference in the New CDM 2015 regulations is given to ‘Workers’. - Any disease which has been They in themselves will also have diagnosed as being induced an ‘Industry Guidance Document’ through work related activities and produced by the Construction Industry is specified in regulations 8 or 9 in Training Board (CITB) RIDDOR 2015, need to be reported using the form F2508a. - CDM 2015 – Industry Guidance for REVISED APRIL 2020 80

Workers Principal designers**: 06 The term ‘domestic client’ has been Designers appointed by the client Legislation re-visited and now allows a ‘house- in projects involving more than holder’ to expect the contractor or one contractor. They can be an principal contractor to assume the organisation or an individual with duties of a ‘client’ as the industry enough knowledge, experience and experts. The Domestic Client can ability to carry out the role. appoint themselves as a client subject to written notice of this from the Plan, manage, monitor and co- Principle Designer. ordinate health and safety in the preconstruction phase of a project. This is a summary of roles and duties This includes: under CDM 2015: - Identifying, eliminating or controlling Clients foreseeable risks Organisations or individuals for whom - Ensuring designers carry out their a construction project is carried out. duties. Make suitable arrangements for Prepare and provide relevant managing a project. This includes information to other duty holders. making sure that: Liaise with the principal contractor to - Other duty holders are appointed help in the planning, management, monitoring and co- ordination of the - Enough time and resources are construction phase. allocated. Clients must also make sure that: Designers: - Relevant information is prepared Those who, as part of a business, and provided to other duty holders prepare or modify designs for a building, product or prepare or - The principal designer and principal modify designs to system relating to contractor carry out their duties construction work. - Welfare facilities are provided. When preparing or modifying designs, eliminate, reduce or control Domestic clients foreseeable risks that may arise during: People who have construction work - Construction carried out on their own home, or the home of a family member, that is not - The maintenance and use of a done in furtherance of a business, building once are built. whether for profit or not. Provide information to other members Domestic clients are in scope of CDM of the project team to help them fulfil 2015, but their duties as a client are their duties. normally transferred to: Principal contractors: Contractors - The contractor, on a single appointed by the client to co- contractor project, or the principal ordinate the construction phase of a contractor, on a project involving project where it involves more than more than one contractor. one contractor. However, the domestic client can Plan, manage, monitor and co- choose to have a written agreement ordinate the construction phase of a the principal designer to carry out the project. This includes: client duties. - Liaising with the client and principal REVISED APRIL 2020 designer 81

06 - Preparing the construction phase * Organisations or individuals can plan carry out the role of more than one duty holder, provided they have the Legislation - Organising co-operation between skills, knowledge, experience and (if contractors and co-ordinating their an organisation) the organisational work. capability necessary to carry out those roles in a way that secures Ensure that: health and safety. - Suitable site inductions are provided ** Principal designers replace the role undertaken by CDM co-ordinators - Reasonable steps are taken to under CDM 2007. prevent unauthorised access All duty holders within the regulations - Workers are consulted and engaged must comply with the general duties. in securing their health and safety These are: - Welfare facilities are provided. - Check own competence. Contractors: - Co-operate with others and co- Those who do the actual construction ordinate work to ensure the health work. They can be either an individual and safety of construction workers or a company. and others who may be affected by the work. Plan manage and monitor construction work under their control - Report obvious risks. so that it is carried out without risks to health and safety. - Comply with the requirements in schedule 3 and part 4 of the For projects involving more than one regulations for any work under their contractor, co-ordinate their activities control. with others in the project team – in particular, comply with directions - Take account of and apply the given to them by the principal general principles of prevention designer or principal contractor. when carrying out their duties. For single-contractor projects, prepare For DSA members, the most important a construction phase plan. practical aspect of the Regulations is the need to prepare risk assessments Workers: and health and safety method statements for each individual The people who work for or under project, particularly where that the control of contractors on a project covers any unusual risks and construction site hazards. However, the Association has prepared several standard generic risk They must: assessments and method statement forms covering the various drilling and - Be consulted about matters which sawing activities and techniques. affect their health, safety and welfare These standard documents are for use by members where the project only - Take care of their own health and involves basic drilling and sawing tasks safety and that of others who may based on marking out by the client’s be affected by their actions representative. Copies of these Standard Risk Assessment and Health - Report anything, they see which is and safety Method Statement forms likely to endanger either their own or are available from the DSA office. others’ health and safety Where a job goes beyond simple drilling and sawing or where there is - Co-operate with their employer, fellow workers, contractors and other 82 duty holders. REVISED APRIL 2020

any doubt about site conditions a site on health and safety risks identified 06 inspection should be carried out. A from the assessment and organise specific risk assessment and method procedures and training for Legislation statement should then be prepared undertaking the work safely. for that job. Where there are more than 5 It is recommended that members employees, the assessment and the prepare a Risk Assessment and arrangements for implementation Method Statement for every job that must be recorded in writing. The they undertake and that the Method process of risk assessment need not Statement is incorporated in the Job be complicated, providing it identifies Sheet supplied to the operatives. This hazards and estimates the amount file is a record of work undertaken of risk attached. It is only a means to and or conditions found, which need an end whereby the employer can to be given to new building owners implement the necessary measures on completion. It is a Client duty to to protect employees and others. The ensure that a Construction Phase measures should then be monitored Health & Safety Plan is prepared by for effectiveness and reviewed the contractor. If they do not do this, it periodically. Competent people automatically falls to the contractor to should be appointed to assist with do so. This includes Domestic clients. this implementation, monitoring and review. 6.3 EU “Six Pack” Separate written assessments must Several Regulations came into force be undertaken in respect of specific from 1st January 1993, mainly in order regulations dealing with COSHH, to implement European directives, as Noise, Vibration, Manual Handling follows. and Personal Protection Equipment. Alternatively, these may form part of 6.3.1 Management ofHealth and the general risk assessment. Members Safety at Work Regulations 1999 requiring further advice on risk assessments should contact the DSA. The main requirements on employers are to: - 6.3.2 Provision & Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 a) Undertake risk assessments; These Regulations apply to work b) Manage those risks through equipment provided by employers effective Planning, Organisation, or by self- employed persons for their Control and Monitoring and Review own work. Work equipment must of health and safety arrangements; be suitable for the work which it is intended. c) Provide health surveillance where required by COSHH or other The Regulations then lay down regulations; detailed requirements for employers in relation to: d) Appoint a competent person (health and safety advisor) to assist - Maintenance on complying with Health and safety legal requirements; - Inspection e) Organise emergency procedures - Information and Training to deal with serious and imminent danger; - Dangerous Parts of Machinery and Guards f) Co-operate with other employees at a shared workplace such as a - Controls and Control Systems construction site; - Stability g) Provide employees with information 83 REVISED APRIL 2020

Legislation06 - Conformity with EU Requirements. 6.3.4 Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 Plus, several other areas. The Approved Code of Practice and As far as possible, employers must Guidance Document L22 (fourth protect their employees by avoiding edition 2014) is available from HSE the need for manual handling. Where Books and gives detailed guidance this cannot be done, they must on each of the Regulations and drill undertake a thorough assessment guarding. of the risks and adopt procedures designed to reduce the risk of injury. 6.3.3 Personal Protective For example, mechanisation can be Equipment Regulations 1992 used, and loads can be spilt. Unless risks can be adequately controlled by other means, PPE must The employer should consider the be supplied by employers. Therefore, following factors: PPE is a last resort or is a temporary protection. These are general - The size and nature of the load; Regulations and there are more specific - The nature of the task; Regulations dealing with areas such - The working environment. as Noise, Vibration etc. Employees also have a duty of care The employer must ensure that: - for them own health and that of others. The HSE publish guidance on - Risks are assessed; manual handling. - PPE is selected which gives 6.3.5 Workplace (Health, safety & protection and which fits properly, Welfare) Regulations 1992 is compatible with the work and complies with design requirements; In most workplaces, except Construction Sites and certain other - PPE is provided free of charge; special locations, employers and others will have to comply with - PPE is maintained in good order; requirements on health, safety and welfare. - Workers are involved in selection; This is for fixed premises and does - There is information and instruction not include Construction site welfare on its use. which is outlined within the CDM Regulations 2015. This will include items There is an obligation on employees such as ventilation, temperature, to use PPE in compliance with lighting, cleanliness, washing facilities instructions. etc. An approved Code of Practice No. L24 (second edition 2013) from All PPE purchased must carry a CE HSE Books offers practical guidance. mark confirming that it complies with the latest European Standards. If in 6.3.6 The Work at Height any doubt regarding the standard Regulations 2005 of any PPE, members should speak to the Trading Standard Department Working at height means working in of their local authority who enforce any position above or below ground these Regulations. Supplies should be level at a height which an injury may bought from a reputable company occur in the event of a fall from it. and appropriate PPE should be worn for the task. PPE should be compatible The Regulations set out a simple with other PPE where there is an hierarchy for managing and selecting interface on the wearer. equipment for working at height. REVISED APRIL 2020 Everyone must avoid working at height if they can. Use work 84

equipment to prevent falls where action value (EAV) (see below), and 06 they cannot avoid working at height if they are, introduce a programme and where the risk of a fall cannot be of controls. Legislation eliminated, to minimise the distance and consequences of a fall should - Decide if operatives are likely to be one occur. exposed above the daily exposure limit value (ELV) (see below), and if The Regulations require: they are, reduce their exposure to below that value. - All work at height is properly planned and organised. - Provide information and training on health risks. - All work at height takes account of weather that could endanger health - Keep a record of risk assessments and safety. and control factors. - Those involved at working at height - Keep health records for operatives are properly trained and competent. under health surveillance. - The place where work is done at - Review and update assessments height is safe. regularly. - Equipment for work is appropriately The exposure action value (EAV), is inspected. the daily amount of vibration above which employers are required to take - The risks from fragile surfaces are action to control exposure. properly controlled. The exposure limit value (ELV), is the - The risks from falling objects are maximum amount of vibration may properly controlled. be exposed to in any 8-hr day. The Regulation allow for a transitional 6.3.7 The Control of Vibration at period until July 2010, for the limit Work Regulations 2005 value. This only applies to work Vibration at work in our activity will equipment in use before July 2007. generally be restricted to Hand Arm Vibration. The problem at the present time is working out the values. Manufacturers Hand Arm vibration can be caused by are obliged to give vibration levels, the holding of any type and hand tool but these are based on factory tests that transmits vibration. on brand new equipment. The effects on people include: The vibration levels are measured in metres per second square m/s2, and - Pain, distress and sleep discomfort. the level for (EAV) is 2.5 and for (ELV) 5. - Inability to do fine work. The difficulty therefore is to get an - Reduced ability to work in cold accurate amount of vibration level or damp conditions, which would when the tool is being used in site trigger painful finger blanching conditions. The only way one can do attacks. this is by attaching an accelerometer to the tool, but conditions of tool use - Reduced grip strength on the hand can vary every minute. tool might affect the ability to work safely. The best advice at present is to always have tools in tip-top condition, assess - The Regulations require employers to: risks and above all apply frequent job rotation to reduce exposure levels. - Assess the vibration risk. Always encourage operatives to keep hands warm and fingers moving. - Decide if operatives are likely to be exposed above the daily exposed 85 REVISED APRIL 2020

06 Continual monitoring i.e. rotation logs, HAV meters etc. HSE guidance: Legislation Vibration exposure monitoring Q&A released 18/08/2011 indicates that this practice is not necessary, planning of the activity so as not to exceed exposure is what is required to comply with the Regulations, based on the information available and should be the basis of a risk assessment. 6.4 Legal Publications In general, official copies of Acts of Parliament and their accompanying official Regulations can be obtained through HMSO - see details of addresses in Appendix 10.1. However Approved Codes of Practice and other documents produced by the HSE covering the implementation of health and safety legislation can be obtained through HSE website - also see address in Appendix 10.1. Approved Codes of Practice are free to download or can be purchased as a printed copy. British Standards which define technical and manufacturing specifications can be obtained from BSI - Information Services - see Appendix 10.1. for details these are not regulations but provide guidance If you are in any doubt about the source of any health and safety documentation, contact the DSA Head Office. REVISED APRIL 2020 86

07 Policies Policies 88

Policies07 Policies This is a sample of recommended policies, which is not exhaustive: - Integrated Management Policy - Training Policy Statement - Drugs& Alcohol Policy Statement - Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Policy Statement - Disciplinary Policy - Grievances Policy - Zero Tolerance Policy - Stress and Wellbeing Policy - Bribery Act 2010 Policy Statement - Anti-Slavery and Human Trafficking Policy - Fatigue Management - GDPR Data Retention Policy - GDPR Data Protection Policy - Social Media Policy - Information Security Policy Statement REVISED APRIL 2020 88

08 The Drilling & Sawing Industry & The Cost Benefits of Diamond Cutting The Driling & Sawing Association 90 90 DSA Information Services 92 The Benefits of Diamond Cutting Techniques

08 8.1 The Drilling & Sawing industry, in conjunction with the Association Construction Industry Training Board. In 2001, the DSA Scheme for Certification The Drilling and Sawing Association The Association was established in was integrated into the CSCS Card 1984 to group together organisations Scheme based on the achievement engaged in: - of an NVQ Diploma Level 2 in Drilling and Sawing. - Supplying a professional drilling and sawing service using Any person requiring further diamond cutting equipment information on the activities of the and technology i.e. specialist DSA should contact: - contractors. The Drilling and Sawing Association - Supplying the specialist machines, tools and accessories Unit 3 Brand Street Nottingham NG2 3GW used in this work i.e. Tel: 0844 8793452/ 01159867029 Manufacturers and distributors. Fax: 0115 9850341 The aim of the Association is to promote the use of diamond drilling E-Mail: [email protected] and sawing techniques, both for the Website: www.drillandsaw.org.uk benefit of members and their clients. 8.2 DSA Information Services The objectives of the Association include: - In order to promote the use of drilling and sawing techniques, the DSA - The provision of Codes of Practice publishes a Journal “The Concrete where appropriate; Cutter” and circulates it widely in the construction industry. - The encouragement of training and education of members’ personnel; Further details of the journal are available on our website. We also - The improvement of efficiency; publish a periodic Newsletter for members. - The dissemination of information; The DSA can provide information and - The encouragement of the use of documentation which may be of new equipment and methods. benefit to members in the following areas: - Membership is open to all contractors and suppliers engaged in the - Risk Assessments / Method diamond drilling and sawing industry, Statements providing that they have been trading for at least two years in that industry - Health and safety Policy and agree to comply with the Rules of the Association and its Code of - Accident Reporting Conduct. Prospective members are also required to complete an - Sources of external publications and Application Form, which asks for information on Health and safety. details of two existing members as sponsors. A current list of members - Insurance can be obtained by applying to the Head Office of the Association - Full details of member benefits are or accessing the website at www. available from the DSA office in drillandsaw.org.uk. booklet form. Apart from the Code of Safe Working Members are encouraged to raise Practice, the DSA introduced queries regarding health and safety a Certification/Accreditation and other matters with the Association Programme for operators in the as we may be able to offer guidance or help. The DSA maintains a REVISED APRIL 2020 comprehensive Website with details 90

of: 08 - List of members on a Regional basis The Drilling and Sawing Association with addresses, etc. - Information on drilling and sawing techniques. - The Concrete Cutter Journal - Membership - Case studies of drilling and sawing applications. This website is regularly updated, but please advise us if you have any suggestions for improving its content or layout. REVISED APRIL 2020 91

The Drilling and Sawing Association08 8.3 The Benefits of Diamond Cutting Techniques Increasingly clients, professional advisers and main contractors are recognising the benefits of using diamond cutting techniques as opposed to conventional systems for the removal of concrete and other construction materials. The chart below illustrates some of these benefits: CUTTING TECHNIQUES CONVENTIONAL METHODS TIME Fast Slow and repetitive Reduced labour costs Labour-intensive Reinforcing bar can be cut Separate cutting required TOLERANCES Accurate cuts Limited control of tolerances Minimum making good required Extensive making good likely STRUCTURAL Limited vibration Risk of vibration damage to surrounding structure Removal of large sections will not affect structure Potential damage to adjacent ENVIRONMENTAL structures Low noise levels Minimum amount of debris High noise levels Dust free Creation of large-scale debris Ease of removal of debris Very dusty ACCESS Expensive cleaning up Remote machine operation possible Cutting possible in confined spaces Inflexibility of machinery Possibility of underwater operations Working in confined spaces difficult Ease of cutting around existing Underwater operations difficult services Problems working in areas where OPERATOR services are located Less fatigue Minimal vibration Fatigue causing accidents High vibration causing HAVS Downtime due to vibration ratings. In addition, drilling and sawing and allied techniques can supply a possible solution to Hand/Arm Vibration by providing an alternative to more traditional methods of concrete cutting and treatment. For further details of the benefits of Diamond Cutting please contact the Drilling & Sawing Association Head Office. REVISED APRIL 2020 92

09 Appendicies Appendix 1 94 Appendix 2 96

09 APPENDIX1Appendices Head Office Sources of Information Daniel House Trinity Road Bootle 1. HEALTH AND SAFETY EXECUTIVE Merseyside L20 3TW (PUBLIC ENQUIRIES) Tel: 0151 951 4000 2. FIELD OPERATIONS DIRECTORATE The office for the South covers: 3. HM INSPECTORATE OF MINES Berkshire, Hampshire, Isle of Wight, 4. HM NUCLEAR SAFETY DIVISION Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire (except construction-related enquiries, as 5. RAILWAY INSPECTORATE these should be referred to Luton). Regional Office - London and the 6. THE EVIRONMENT AGENCY South 7. SCOTTISH ENVIRONMENT 3. HM INSPECTORATE OF MINES PROTECTION AGENCY Headquarters: 8. EMPLOYMENT TRIBUNALS SERVICE Edgar Allen House 241 (EMPLOYMENT TRIBUNALS) Glossop Road 9. EMPLOYMENT TRIBUNALS SERVICE (EMPLOYMENT APPEAL TRIBUNALS) Sheffield 10 HSE BOOKS S1Q 2GW 10. 11 THE STATIONERY OFFICE Tel: 0114 291 2390 Addresses are taken from the latest available information provided by Fax: 0114 291 2399 the organisations listed. Individual addresses are listed in alphabetical Website: www.hse.gov.uk/mining/ order. contacts.htm. 1. HEALTH AND SAFETY EXECUTIVE 4. HM NUCLEAR SAFETY DIVISION Website for all branches of the HSE: Rose Court www.hse. gov.uk. 2 Southwark Bridge London Public Enquiries (written) SE1 9HS HSE Office & Information Centre Bootle Information Centre Health and Tel: 020 7717 6000 safety Executive Magdalen House Fax: 020 7717 6717 Trinity Road 5. HM RAILWAY INSPECTORATE Bootle, Merseyside L20 3QZ 2SW Rose Court HSE Infoline 2 Southwark Bridge London Tel: 08701 545500 SE1 9HS 2. FIELD OPERATIONS Tel: 020 7717 6533 DIRECTORATE (FOD) This Directorate incorporates the Fax: 020 7717 6548 factory, agricultural and quarries inspectorates, as well as the 6. ENVIRONMENT AGENCY Employment Medical Advisory Service Website: www.environment-agency. (EMAS). Communications should be gov.uk. addressed to the nearest office. E-Mail: enquiries@environment- agency.gov.uk. REVISED APRIL 2020 94

7. SCOTTISH ENVIRONMENT 10. HSE Books 09 PROTECTION AGENCY P O Box 1999 Sudbury Website: www.sepa.org.uk Appendices Suffolk CO10 2WA E-mail: [email protected] Tel: 01787 881165 Head Office Fax: 01787 313995 Erskine Court Website: www.hsebooks.com Castle Business Park Stirling FK9 4TR 11. THE STATIONERYOFFICE Tel: 01786 457700 (Formerly HMSO) Website for all branches: Fax: 01786 446885 www. thestationeryoffice.com. 8. EMPLOYMENT TRIBUNALS SERVICE (EMPLOYMENT TRIBUNALS) Employment Tribunals Service Head Office: Ground Floor 19 - 29 Woburn Place London, WC1H 0LU Tel: 020 7273 8575 Fax: 020 7273 8686 E-mail: [email protected]. uk Website: www.employmenttribunals. gov.uk 9. EMPLOYMENT TRIBUNALS SERVICE (EMPLOYMENT APPEALS TRIBUNAL) England & Wales Audit House, 58 Victoria Embankment London EC4Y 0DS Tel: 020 7273 1041 Fax: 020 7273 1045 Website: www.employmentappeals. gov.uk Scotland 52 Melville Street Edinburgh EH3 7HS Tel: 0131 225 3963 Fax: 0131 220 6694 REVISED APRIL 2020 95

Appendices09 Appendix 2 9.1 Recommended Blade Speeds & Cutting Depths For Segmented Diamond Saw Blades The following figures are produced for general guidance but the DSA cannot accept responsibility for their accuracy. If necessary, the suitability of any blade for an operation must be checked with the blade manufacturer. DRY CUTTING Most portable machines run at speeds between 60 and 80 metres per second. These speeds are suitable for virtually all applications. Speeds higher than those recommended should not be used, but lower speeds may be used safely. For blades to run at speeds higher than 80 metres per second, you should contact your blade manufacturer. Below is a guide to recommended operating speeds for various materials: - MATERIAL MACHINE TYPE RECOMMENDED OPERATING SPEEDS Refractory Bricks Masonry Saw 40 – 50 m.p.s. Building Materials Masonry Saw 40 – 50 m.p.s. Concrete / Asphalt Floor Saw 60 – 80 m.p.s. General Handheld Saw 40 – 80 m.p.s. SPEED CONVERSION TABLE – RPM DRY CUTTING BLADES Nominal Diameter mm Peripheral Speed - Metres per Second 40 50 60 70 80 13370 15280 100 7640 9550 11460 11620 13280 10690 12220 115 6640 8300 9960 8910 10190 7640 8490 125 6110 7640 9170 6680 7640 5940 6640 150 5090 6370 7640 5350 6110 4460 5090 175 4240 5310 6550 3820 4290 3340 3760 200 3820 4780 5730 2970 3340 230 3320 5150 5090 250 3060 3820 4580 300 2550 3180 3820 350 / 356 2150 2680 3270 400 / 406 1880 2350 2860 450 / 457 1670 2090 2550 REVISED APRIL 2020 96

9.2 Wet Cutting 09 Most machines designed for wet cutting operate between 36 – 60 metres per second. The Appendices table below gives the recommended operating speeds for various materials. Speeds higher than these should not be used, but lower speeds may be used safely. For blades to run at speeds higher than 60 metres per second, contact your blade manufacturer. MATERIAL MACHINE TYPE RECOMMENDED OPERATING SPEEDS Bricks / Blocks / General Masonry Masonry Saw Hard Reinforced Concrete Floor Saw 40 – 50 m.p. s Medium Concrete Floor Saw 35 – 40 m.p.s. Soft / Green Concrete Floor Saw 40 – 50 m.p.s. Asphalt Floor Saw 45 – 55 m.p.s. Concrete Wall Saw 50 – 60 m.p.s. Bricks / Blocks Wall Saw 30 – 45 m.p.s. High Quartziferous Granite Stone Saw 40 – 50 m.p.s. Low Quartziferous Granite Stone Saw 25 – 30 m.p.s. Marble / Hard Limestone / Hard Stone Saw 30 – 35 m.p. s Sandstone 45 – 50 m.p.s. Soft Limestone/ Soft Sandstone Stone Saw 50 – 60 m.p.s. REVISED APRIL 2020 97

09 9.3 Speed Conversion Table – Rpm Wet Cutting Blades Appendices Nominal Peripheral Speed - Metres perSecond 300 30 35 40 45 50 55 60 350 / 356 1910 2230 2550 2860 3180 3500 3820 400 / 406 1610 1880 2150 2410 2680 2950 3220 450 / 457 1410 1650 1880 2120 2350 2590 2820 500 / 508 1250 1460 1670 1880 2090 2300 2510 600 / 610 1130 1320 1500 1690 1880 2070 2260 700 940 1100 1250 1410 1570 1720 1880 750 / 762 820 950 1090 1230 1360 1500 1640 800 / 813 750 880 1000 1130 1250 1380 1500 900 / 915 700 820 940 1060 1170 1290 1410 1000 / 1020 620 730 830 940 1040 1140 1250 1060 / 1066 560 650 750 840 930 1030 1120 1100 540 620 710 800 890 980 1070 1200 / 1220 520 610 690 780 860 950 1037 1350 470 550 620 700 780 860 940 1500 420 490 560 630 700 770 850 1600 380 440 510 570 630 700 760 1750 360 420 480 530 590 650 710 2000 330 380 430 490 540 600 650 2500 290 330 380 430 480 520 570 2700 230 270 300 340 380 420 460 3000 210 250 280 320 350 390 420 190 220 250 290 320 350 380 REVISED APRIL 2020 98

9.4 Cutting Depths - Operating Speeds 09 Diameter Operating Maximum Safe Maximum Cutting Appendices Speed* Speed ** Depths 4” (102mm) 9,072 RPM 15,000 RPM 1” (25mm) 4-1/2” (114mm) 8,063 RPM 13,300 RPM 1-1/4” (32mm) 5” (127mm) 7,257 RPM 12,000 RPM 1-1/2” (38mm) 6” (152mm) 6,048 RPM 10,000 RPM 1-3/4” (45mm) 7” (178mm) 5,184 RPM 8,500 RPM 2-1/2” (63mm) 8” (203mm) 4,536 RPM 7,500 RPM 3” (76mm) 9” (228mm) 4,032 RPM 6,800 RPM 3-1/4” (83mm) 10” (254mm) 3,629 RPM 6,100 RPM 3-3/4” (95mm) 12” (305mm) 3,024 RPM 5,100 RPM 4” (101mm) 12” (305mm HS) 6,300 RPM 14” (356mm) 2,592 RPM 4,400 RPM 5” (127mm) 14” (356mm HS) 5,400 RPM 16” (406mm) 2,268 RPM 3,800 RPM 5-5/8” (143mm) 18” (457mm) 2,016 RPM 3,400 RPM 6-6/8” (168mm) 20” (508mm) 1,814 RPM 3,000 RPM 8” (203mm) 22” (558mm) 1,649 RPM 2,800 RPM 8-1/2” (216mm) 24” (610mm) 1,512 RPM 2,500 RPM 9-5/8” (241mm) 26” (660mm) 1,396 RPM 2,300 RPM 10-5/8” (270mm) 28” (711mm) 1,296 RPM 2,300 RPM 11” (279mm) 30” (762mm) 1,210 RPM 2,000 RPM 11-5/8” (292mm) 32” (813mm) 1,134 RPM 1,900 RPM 12-5/8” (321mm) 36” (914mm) 1,008 RPM 1,800 RPM 14-5/8” (368mm) 42” (1067mm) 8,64 RPM 1,500 RPM 17-3/4” (450mm) 48” (1219mm) 7,56 RPM 1,200 RPM 20-3/4” (527mm) NOTE: Diamond blade cutting depths listed above are approximate. Actual cutting depths will vary with the exact blade diameter or saw type (or brand), or the exact diameter of the blade collars (flanges). Cutting depths will also be reduced if saw components (motor housing, blade guard, etc.) extend below the blade collars. For the tile saws and power hand saws, it is recommended to cut no more than ¾” (20mm) deep with each pass for small diameter blades [up to 5” (125mm)]. For 6” (150mm) diameter and larger, the cutting depth should be no more than 1-1/8” (30mm) with each pass. *Based on 9,500 SFPM (surface feet per minute) (48 meters per second) – the general optimum performance range for cutting concrete and masonry products is +/- 10%. For hard, dense materials such as stone and tile, the optimum performance speed is 10-25% less than the speed shown above. Blade shaft speeds (RPMs at no load) for most tools will be higher than the recommended operating speeds shown above. Under normal sawing conditions, the actual blade shaft speed of the tool will slow down under load and should fall within the optimum speed range. ** The speed (RPM) represents the maximum safe speed (in revolutions per minute) at which each blade can be used. Before using any blade, make sure the blade shaft (arbour) speed of the tool is within the maximum safe limit of that blade. HS – High Speed diamond blades. REVISED APRIL 2020 99