from www.healthandsafetytips.co.uk 1. When is a manual handling risk assessment required? Before the task is carried out and no other option is available 2. What are the FOUR Elements of a Manual Handling Risk Assessment? T…………….Task I……………..Individual L…………….Load E…………….Environment 3. What should you do when confronted by a large or awkward load that has to be manually handled? Stop and assess whether there is an alternative method Assess the load to see if it can be handled safely, Ask for assistance 4. Name 2 of an EMPLOYER'S Duties? Tasks should be assessed with a view to using alternative methods where possible Ensure personnel requested to complete the task have had adequate training and capable of completing the task without injury 5. Name 2 of an EMPLOYEE'S Duties? To ensure that the correct methods of manual handling techniques are adopted 6. Name 2 parts of the body you may injure during Manual Handling Activities Spine , Abdomen / groin 7. List 3 Key points of KINETIC lifting The load should be lifted whilst keeping the back straight , feet correctly placed, and perform a clean lift without twisting Manual Handling Questions Model Answers 1. When it is not reasonably practical to avoid an activity that may result in injury to the employee. When it is not reasonably practical to use mechanical means for the operation. 2. Task, Individual, Load, Environment. 3. Seek Assistance and Use team Lifting Methods. 4. Safe Appliances and Equipment Safe Handling of Materials Information, Instruction and Training A SAFE Place of Work and Safe Working Equipment A Safe Means of Access and Egress A Suitable and Sufficient Risk Assessment for all Work Activities 5. Take reasonable care of their own safety and that of others. Co-operate with their employer to enable him to meet their legal obligations. Bring to the attention of the employer any concerns regarding health and safety standards. To use equipment provided for your health and safety. 6. Back, Hands, Knees, Arms, Legs. 7. Position and Plant Feet, Bend Knees, Straight Back, Arms Close to Body, Good Grip of the Load, Chin In, Head Up, No jerking or twisting, clean lift.
Saturday, 29 March 2008
Manual Handling Quiz
Element 5: Work equipment - hazards and control
Element covers: The main thrust of this element is to highlight the hazards which are associated with the provision and use of work equipment. The regulations that cover this are Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER) The general requirement for work equipment is that it should be well maintained and fit for purpose, those who are to operate the equipment must be experienced and correctly trained in it safe use. The regulations cover all work equipment for woodworking planes, circular saws, bench and hand held grinders, drill, chainsaws, masonry cutting equipment and electric drills. The list is to provided an indication to the types of equipment and is in no way complete. The hazards mainly associated with work equipment can include cut and abrasions, entanglement with rotary equipment, ingress of foreign body, crush, severe lacerations from chain saws and grinders along with noise vibration. There are other hazards that might not be directly attributable to the equipment, such as hazards from frayed or damaged electrical cables, ingress of water into electrical equipment and some more which may have long term effects i.e. dust, and vibration. Hand held tools such as hammer chisels files saw can all be hazardous if not used and maintained correctly, Files should always have handles, hammers and chisels should always be ground to remove mushroom effect etc. It is essential that the risk from the use of work equipment is identified and controlled. The correct use of PPE when use of equipment is essential. Eye, ear, hand and repertory (dust masks) should all be considered when use any equipment. The start stop and emergency stop controls for powered equipment must be at all time clearly identifiable and in good working order. Guarding of machinery can remove significant hazards from work equipment as long as the guard completely cover the rotating parts and are not easily removable. Chuck guards for dill and lathes blade guards for circular saws and guards over drive pulley's are all examples where guarding should be used.
ESSENTIAL BASICS
Simply put these are things that you will know off by heart after the course and as such I think are a good tool to learn before you start the course or to test yourself on while your taking the course.
RISK: The likelihood that the hazard will cause harm in the particular circumstances.
HAZARD: Anything with the potential to cause harm.
ACCIDENT: Unplanned event leading to loss, damage or harm.
PRACTICABLE: Capable of being carried out or feasible (given current technology/knowledge)
REASONABLY PRACTICABLE: Where it is technically possible without incurring excessive costs.
ABSOLUTE DUTY: Must comply with.
HIERARCHY OF CONTROL: A list of measures designed to control risks which are considered in order of importance, effectiveness and priority.
NOISE: Unwanted sound.
HEALTH AND SAFETY AT WORK ACT 1974 GENERAL DUTIES:
Section 2.1: It shall be the duty of every employer to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health and safety and welfare at work of all his employees.
Section 2.2a: Provision and maintenance of safe plant and equipment and a safe system of work.
Section 2.2b: Safe arrangements and absence of risks to health for storage, transport, handling and use of articles and substances.
Section 2.2c: Provision of information, instruction, training and supervision.
Section 2.2d: Provision and maintenance of a safe workplace including a safe means of access and egress.
Section 2.2e: Provision and maintenance of a safe working environment and adequate welfare facilities.
Section 2.3: Policy. To provide a written statement of a safety policy where there are 5 or more employee's
Section 2.4/6/7: Access and Consultation with safety representatives.
Section 2.7: Establish a safety committee if requested in writing by at least 2 safety representatives.
Section 3: Employers/Self employed duties to others.
Section 3.1: To protect non employees from their undertakings
Section 3.2: To conduct their activities without introducing risk.
Section 3.3: To provide information
Section 4: Duties of controllers of premises to non-employees, including safe access and egress.
Section 6: Duties of manufacturers, suppliers, designers, importers etc. To ensure all articles and substances are safe and without risk when used at work.
Section 7: General duties of employees:
Section 7a: To take reasonable care for the health and safety of himself and others who may be affected by his acts or omissions at work.
Section 7b: To co-operate with his employer and comply with any requirement or duty imposed under a relevant statutory provision.
Section 8: Misuse. Places a duty on everyone not to intentionally or recklessly interfere with or misuse anything provided in the interests of health, safety and welfare.
Section 9: Charges. Provides that an employer may not charge his employees for anything done, or equipment provided for health and safety purposes under a relevant statutory provision.
Section 20: Powers of HSE inspectors. They may enter the premises at any time; if necessary take a constable along. Take any authorised person or equipment required. Direct the premises to be left undisturbed while they examine and investigate. Take measurements, photographs and recordings. Seize, destroy or render harmless.
Section 37: Prosecution of Managers/Directors
Section 40: Places the onus on the defendant to prove that all reasonably practicable measures were taken. Any employer who is accused by an inspector or non-compliance under HSWA 1974 is guilty unless they prove otherwise.
BREACHES OF HSWA CAN LEAD TO:
CRIMINAL LAW: State v Individual
Source of Law = statute law & legislation
Burden of proof = Beyond all reasonable doubt
Remedy sought = Punishment of Guilty
Instigator = HSE / EHO / CPS (crown prosecution service)
1 Magistrates Court: Summary convictions (petty crimes) maximum penalties of £20'000 / 6 months in Jail.
2 Crown Court: Tried on Indictment (serious crimes) maximum penalties Unlimited fines / 2yrs in Jail
3 Court of appeal
4 House of Lords
5 European Courts
STATUTE LAW: is the written law of the land and consists of Acts of Parliament and the rules, regulations or orders made within the parameters of the acts.
CIVIL LAW: Individual v individual/company
Source of Law = Common law
Burden of proof = Balance of probabilities
Remedy sought = Compensation for injury or loss
Instigator = Aggrieved person
1 Small claims court
2 County Court: compensation up to £50'000
3 High Court: compensation from £50'000 to Unlimited
4 Court of appeal
5 House of Lords
6 European Courts
COMMON LAW: has evolved over hundreds of years as a result of the decisions of courts and judges - Set by precedence.
VICARIOUS LIABILITY: To sue the employer for the employees wrong doing.
NEGLIGENCE: is a common law tort (the law of civil wrongs.)
Test for negligence: That a duty of care was owed, that there was a breach of that duty and that the breach led directly to the harm.
Defences for negligence: Denial, Causation (damage not caused by the breach) Contributory negligence, Volenti non fit injurie (employee knowingly accepted the risk) Time limit, must be within 3years.
ACTS OF PARLIAMENT AND REGULATIONS: these are legally binding and give details to act on and exemptions.
ACOPs: (Approved Codes of Practice) – these are an accepted way to meet regulations, they are not legally binding but are quasi legal. You must provide proof of using a method as suiteable or better if you don't use the ACOP.
GUIDANCE NOTES: these are not legally binding and have no legal standing but are recognised as a supplement to ACOPs.
PRACTICABLE: capable of being carried out or feasible given current knowledge, finance, information etc.
REASONABLY PRACTICABLE: must be technically possible, and the risk assessed against the cost. Where cost is disproportionately high, can be deemed not to be reasonably practical.
HSE INSPECTOR POWERS: They may enter the premises at any time, if necessary take a constable along. Take any authorised person or equipment required. Direct the premises to be left undisturbed while they examine and investigate. Take measurements, photographs and recordings. Seize, destroy or render harmless. Prosecute if necessary.
THE SIX PACK REGULATIONS: The 'six-pack' is the name given to the half-dozen most widely quoted health and safety Regulations.
Management of Health and Safety at Work Regs 1999 (MHSWR)
Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regs 1992 (WHSWR)
Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992 (DSE Regs)
Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992 (PPE Regs)
Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 (MHOR)
Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER)
MANAGEMENT OF HEALTH AND SAFETY AT WORK REGS 1999
Regulation 3 Risk assessment (significant risks to be recorded)
Regulation 4 Implementation of protective or preventive measures:
1. Avoid risk
2. Evaluate risk
3. Combat risk at source
4. Adapt the work of an individual
5. Adapt to technical advances
6. Replace dangerous with non/less dangerous
7. Develop policy which influences the factors relating to working environment
8. Give collective measures priority
9. Give appropriate instructions to employees
Regulation 5: Make proper arrangements for all aspects of H&S
Regulation 6: Health surveillance (where appropriate)
Regulation 7: Appointment of competent persons
Regulation 8: Procedures to be developed for particular dangers which may arise (ie: fire)
Regulation 9: Information for employees
Regulation 10: Information to be provided to employees for:·
Identified risks·
Preventive/protective measures·
Procedures and name of nominated responsible person as required under Fire Precautions (Workplace) Regs 1997
Regulation 11: Where more than one employer, they must co-operate over H&S matters
Regulation 12: Working on other peoples premises – must provide them with info and details of risks etc.
Regulation 13: Employers to take into account employees capabilities
Regulation 14: Employees responsibilities to use tools and equipment etc safely
Regulation 16-18: New & expectant mothers
Regulation 19: Young person's
MANUAL HANDLING OPERATIONS REGULATIONS 1992
Injury Includes muscoskeletal, cuts, bruises, broken toes etc.
Transporting, lifting, supporting, pushing, pulling, carrying, loading by hand or bodily force
Size and Weight of Loads.
Regulation 4: Requires employers to avoid manual handling and to undertake risk assessment
Regulation 5: Duty on employees to make full and proper use of all equipment provided
PROVISION AND USE OF WORK EQUIPMENT REGULATIONS 1998 (PUWER)
Regulation 4: Equip to be suitable
Regulation 5: Properly and effectively maintained
Regulation 6: Inspections and recording of inspections
Regulation 7: Identified specific risks
Regulation 8: Information & instruction
Regulation 9: Training
Regulation 11-20: Deal with machine guarding – basically requires all dangerous parts of any machine or piece of equipment to be effectively and properly guarded at all times
Regulation 21: Suitable and sufficient lighting
Regulation 22: Must be Safe to maintain
Regulation 23 & 24: Markings an warnings
Regulation 25 to 30: Deal with plant and plant safety
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT AT WORK REGULATIONS 1992
Regulation 4: Provision of PPE (Employers to ensure it is available and is suitable)
Regulation 5: Compatibility
Regulation 6: Assessment/Suitability – with regards to the nature of the task
Regulation 7: Properly maintained, cleaned or replaced; and that
Regulation 8: Suitable accommodation is provided
Regulation 9: Employees are provided with all necessary information, instruction and training
Regulation 10: Employees to use in accordance with training provided
Regulation 11: To report any loss or defects
THE HEALTH & SAFETY (DISPLAY SCREEN EQUIPMENT) REGS 1992
Regulation 1: Definitions (user – someone who habitually uses DSE)
Regulation 2: Risk Assessment of workstations
Regulation 3: Specific workstation requirements (ie: adjustable chairs, screens etc)
Regulation 4: Rest breaks
Regulation 5: Eyes and eye tests
Regulation 6: Training
Regulation 7: Provision of information
THE WORKPLACE (HEALTH, SAFETY AND WELFARE) REGS 1992
Regulation 5: Maintenance of the workplace
Regulation 6: Ventilation
Regulation 7: Temperature
Regulation 8: Lighting
Regulation 9: Cleanliness
Regulation 10: Room dimensions and space (11m3 per person excluding area above 3m)
Regulation 11: Workstations and seating
Regulation 12: Condition of floors and traffic routes
Regulation 13: Falls or falling objects
Regulation 14: Windows and translucent surfaces
Regulation 15: Windows, skylights and ventilators
Regulation 16: Ability to clean windows etc safely
Regulation 17: Organisation of traffic routes
Regulation 18: Doors and gates
Regulation 19: Escalators and moving walkways
Regulation 20: Sanitary conveniences
Regulation 21: Washing facilities
Regulation 22: Drinking water
Regulation 23: Accommodation for clothing
Regulation 24: Facilities for changing clothes
Regulation 25: Facilities to rest and eat meals
RISK ASSESSMENTS (5 Steps):
1. Identify Hazards
2. Identify Persons Exposed
3. Evaluate Risks & Controls
4. Record the findings
5. Review and Revise
RISK ASSESSMENT:
PEME
People Equipment Material Environment
TYPES OF HAZARDS:
Chemical
Biological
Physical
Ergonomic
Psycho-Social
MECHANICAL HAZARDS:
Crushing
Shearing
Cutting/Severing
Entanglement
Drawing In
Ejection of Material
Abrasion
Stabbing/Puncturing
MACHINE HAZARDS:
ENTICCE
Entanglement Nips Traps Impact Contact Cutting Ejection
NON-MECHANICAL HAZARDS:
Noise
Temperature
Vibration
Electricity
Radiation
Hazardous Substances
Ergonomic Factors (inc. Manual Handling)
Psycho-Social (Bullying, assault)
HAZARD PREVENTION
1. Eliminate the hazard
2. Substitution
3. Use of barriers (Isolation/segregation)
4. Procedures (SSW/Dilution)
5. Warning systems (Instruction/Training/Signs/Markings)
6. PPE
MACHINE GUARDING:
FIAT
Fixed Interlocking Automatic Trip
TYPES OF GUARDS:
Fixed
Interlocked
Control
Automatic
Distance guard
Adjustable
Self adjusting
Trip devices
Two handed devices
COSHH ASSESSMENTS:
Type of substance (Toxic/Harmful/Sensitiser/Irritant)
Chronic (prolonged exposure, long term effects)
Acute (Short term exposure, immediate effect)
Routes of entry into body (Absorbtion/ingestion/inhalation)
Concentration in relation to exposure limits
No of persons exposed (identify vulnerable persons)
Duration of exposure
Adequacy of control measures
Compliance with control measures
HIERARCHY OF CONTROL:
Elimination by design
Substitution with less hazardous substance
Automation of process
Reducing exposure by process change
Engineering controls (ie: LEV)
Minimising exposure
PPE
Monitoring/Health surveillance
PERMIT TO WORK:
Permit title
Reference No.
Job location
Plant/Task identification
Description of work and any limitations
Identified hazards
Necessary precautions
Protective equipment
Authorisation
Acceptance
Extension
Hand back/completion
Cancellation
MANUAL HANDLING:
TILE
Task Individual Load Environment
TRAINING:
IITS
Instruction Information Training Supervision
HSG65: 5 STEPS TO SUCCESSFUL SAFETY MANAGEMENT
POPIMAR
1. Policy: written statement of policy, procedures and commitment to HSW. Assigns responsibilities and explains duties etc.
2. Organising: structures to assist in:
Control
Co-operation
Communication
Co-ordination
Competence
3. Planning and Implementation: establish, operate and maintain systems that:
- Identify objectives and targets
- Set performance standards
- Consider and control risks
- Document performance
- React to change
- Sustain positive safety culture
4. Monitoring: Active and Reactive systems:
Active: Measuring achievements against specified standards before things go wrong. Ensures controls are working correctly.
Reactive: Collection of information about failures. Involves learning from mistakes.
5. Review and Audit: Ensures policy is being carried out and is having the desired effect.
5 STEPS IN DEVISING A SSW:
AIDIM
1. Assess the task
2. Identify the Hazards and assess the risks
3. Definition of the Safe Method
4. Implementation of the SSW
5. Monitoring the System
SAFETY CULTURE (KEY ELEMENTS):
Good communications between and with employees and management
Ensuring a real and visible commitment to high standards by senior management
Maintaining good training standards to achieve competence
Achievement of good working conditions
WORK EQUIPMENT
1. Suitable for the purpose
2. Installed, located and used so as to reduce the risk to operators & others
3. Substances – safe supply and/or removal
4. Maintained
5. Inspected by competent persons
6. Information, instruction and training
REPORTING OF INJURIES DISEASES and DANGEROUS OCCURANCES REGULATIONS 1995
RIDDOR
Enforcing authority: HSE or the local authorities environmental dept.
Major Injury: Any fracture (except fingers, thumbs or toes), Amputation, Eye injuries, Loss of consciences caused by asphyxia or biological agent, Acute illness requiring medical treatment. Death.
Major injuries should be reported straight away by telephone, fax or email.
Then a F2508A form should be provided within 10days.
F2508: is the approved form for reporting injuries and dangerous occurrences.
Sunday, 23 March 2008
Typical Examination Questions based on Element 4 Manual and mechanical handling hazards and control
1. Identify the main items to be checked by the person appointed to have overall control of a lifting operation which is to be carried out with the use of a crane hired for the purpose. Items such as; the need to carry out an overall assessment of the operation to take account of the ground conditions for the proposed site of the crane and the presence of any overhead obstructions such as power lines; the suitability of the lifting appliance and associated equipment selected with particular reference to their safe working loads; the documentary evidence to prove that the required examinations, inspections and maintenance had been carried out; the competence of all personnel involved in the operation such as the crane driver, slinger and banksmen and their familiarity with the hand signals or other means of communication that were to be used. 2. List the range of defects that might be observed in a wire rope sling during routine inspection prior to use. Defects such as kinking, broken wires ('needles'), ovalling caused by external wear or stretching, corrosion, damage to thimbles and ferrules, 'birdcaging' and the lack of any identification or indication of the sling's safe working load. 3. Concrete building blocks are to be moved on a construction site. Outline the key issues to be addressed if the blocks are to be moved by mechanical and manual means. Give practical examples within your answer. A manual handling assessment would have to be carried out to determine if mechanical or manual means were to be used. The assessment would consider the issues relating to the load (number and weight of blocks to be moved), the task (horizontal and vertical distances to be moved), the environment (ground conditions, lighting and space to maneuver), and the individual (physical characteristics and training in manual handling). If the decision was then taken to use mechanical means the key issues include the selection of suitable equipment, the competence of operators, and issues connected with ensuring safe stacking and storage. Provision of adequate access routes that are free from obstruction is an important issue for both manual and mechanical handling 4. Outline the measures required to ensure the safe operation of an inclined hoist used to raise and lower roofing materials. Measures such as the importance of the hoist being in good state of repair, well maintained and with its controls marked to indicate their functions; inspected when in use by a competent person; positioned on stable ground and erected according to the manufacturers' instructions; protected with barriers at both top and bottom levels; attended at all times whilst in use, with care being taken to ensure that the load was secured and not in excess of the safe working load of the hoist 5. Outline
the factors that might cause a mobile crane to overturn during use.Factors such as the failure to set the crane on a level footing, siting it on poor and unstable ground and failing to distribute the weight of the crane by providing adequate timber beneath outriggers would be likely to cause it to overturn. Additional factors affecting the stability would be overloading, incorrect slinging resulting in an unstable load, operating when winds are too strong and driver error such as slewing too quickly or causing an abrupt movement of the jib.
Element 4 Manual and mechanical handling hazards and control Part 2
Mechanical Handling Mechanical Handling is probably the most widespread activity on a construction site, and the amount of equipment used to facilitate this is very large. Item include pallet and sack trucks, Forklifts (rough terrain, tele-hoist, standard etc.) , hoists , lifts and cranes (mobile, tower, overhead, gantry) . The single most cause of accidents using mechanical handling equipment is poorly trained or in experienced operators, it is essential that the correct personnel are selected for the job, this is the responsibility of the management. Equipment must be check and maintained in accordance with manufacturers information. Risk assessment must be carried out on all mechanical handling tasks. Maintenance records should be kept for all equipment, whether it is the property of the company of hired, the hirer must ensure that the equipment has been maintained and is in a safe condition at the time of hire, it then becomes the responsibility of the hirer to perform checks to ensure the equipment does not become damaged worn or generally unsafe to use, any defects should be recorded and the equipment labelled as not safe for use until the defect has been rectified. The most common injuries associated with mechanical handling are crushing, broken limbs, cots, falls, drawing in etc. These mainly are caused by firstly operator error and secondly by poorly maintained equipment, guards must be checked on a regular basis for damage especially on hoists, conveyors or any part the equipment which may give rise to risk of injury. The use of powered mechanical handling equipment presents more hazards and again the importance of experienced and trained operatives is essential in there safe use. Forklift drivers should always be vigilant when driving around the site, just because they may be on a roadway doesn't mean pedestrians may not be there, they should be very aware of the load stability and never travel with a raised load. The ground they travel over must be suitable as to the type of forklift being used. Lifts and hoists provide specific hazards as they can be used to transport both people and materials, Lift doors must close correctly and all associated safety systems must be operational, Hoists used for carrying equipment on construction site are commonly fixed either to the structure or scaffolding this must not overload either. Overload of equipment is another major cause of accidents and care must be taken when assessing equipment and load capabilities. Cranes and lifting equipment Lifting operations on sites must be planned before they go ahead, the crane should sufficient for the load it has to lift the equipment should be check and ensure no SWLs are exceeded, all shackles strop, chains and sling should be certificated and this should be inspected before they lift takes place, Properly trained banksmen who are familiar with the correct hand signalling techniques should be employed along with riggers. Mobile cranes should ensure that the ground condition is adequate for the machine; drivers should ensure outriggers are fully extended and all safety equipment i.e. load indicators warning systems are operating they should aware of the slew radius and and obstructions from the jib or the counterweight as slewing takes pale they should leave sufficient room for pedestrians to pass by i.e. 600mm. Towers cranes must also be aware of the load restrictions, weather conditions, 0 and potential obstructions as they cross over the site these can come in all possible shape. Different level in the structure power lines and mobile crane are all hazards that operators should be aware of. Rules for safe Operations of a Crane ALWAYS NEVER Lifting operations should be planned and supervised factors that should be considered when formulating a plan include: There are various appointments with specified responsibilities in order to ensure the safety of lifting operations on site, these are as follows.
Saturday, 22 March 2008
Element 4 Manual and mechanical handling hazards and control part 1
This element looks at the associated hazards of manual and mechanical handling and how to control these.
Manual Handling
Manual handling on a construction is an activity it is impossible to remove, and due to this it is also one that causes more injuries than any other single hazards. Many times people may be unaware of injuries they are causing but will be felt in later life.
The Manual Handling Operations Regulations state that manual handling risks should be assessed in a four step approach
L. I. T. E.
Thursday, 20 March 2008
Six Pack Regulations
Introduced in 1992, implementing EU H&S directives, and intended to provide a level playing field across Europe. In UK they were already effectively in place under the HSW etc Act 1974.
The six pack are
Typical Examination Questions based on Element 3
1. Outline the measures to be taken to prevent falls associated with stairwells and other holes in (8) The provision of guard rails for stairwells and lift shafts, hand rails on stairs, fixing covers over other holes in floors, providing adequate levels of lighting, ensuring a good standard of housekeeping and a high level of supervision and control. 2. Outline the hazards associated with small dumper trucks. (8) Hazards include, amongst others: collisions with pedestrians, other vehicles or structures; overturning due to uneven ground or excavations; falls of materials or persons from truck; contact with moving parts or hot surfaces; and noise and vibration. 3. A significant number of the accidents associated with work on construction sites are associated with plant and vehicle movement. Outline the control measures that should be adopted to prevent such accidents occurring. (8) Control measures such as site planning and maintenance of traffic routes to segregate pedestrians and vehicles; imposing site speed restrictions and preventing unauthorised use or movement of plant; compliance with general safety requirements in respect of all plant and machinery such as the proper selection of equipment, the need to ensure that dangerous parts of machines were properly guarded, and that a regime of planned inspections and maintenance and procedures for reporting defects was put in place and finally ensuring that all operators were competent to perform the tasks allotted to them. 4. Outline a hierarchy of measures to minimize the risks from reversing vehicles on a construction site. (8) One of the first measures is to eliminate or reduce the need for reversing by introducing a one way system and providing turning circles or loading/unloading areas. In circumstances where this might not be possible, it would be necessary to ensure that safe systems of work were in place and followed. Such systems would include the exclusion of pedestrians from site traffic areas, the use of banksmen, the provision of information, instructions and training and the mandatory wearing of hi-visibility clothing. The vehicles would need to be fitted with audible/visual reversing warning devices and features such as CCTV and Fresnel lens and mirrors 5. The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 require that work equipment used in hostile environments is inspected at suitable intervals. Identify the items on a small dumper truck that should be the subject of such an inspection. (8) Items include the provision and condition of roll over protection and driver restraints (e.g. seat belts); the condition of the bodywork and seats; the condition of the tyres; the effectiveness of the braking system, steering and warning devices; the performance of the bucket release and tilt mechanisms; the integrity of fuel, oil and hydraulic systems and the legibility of labels and signs.
floors during the construction of a multi-storey building.
Element 3 Movement of People and vehicles – Hazards and Control
Element 3 Movement of People and vehicles – Hazards and Control This Element of the NCC1 over how to recognise and control hazards associated with the movement of vehicles and people around a construction site. Movement of People One of the hazards that is associated with the movement of people, is falls and can be caused by trips on uneven surfaces or trips from cables , kerbs, no guard rails on scaffolding or missing / displaced covers over holes along with the human factors of not paying attention, being distracted etc. Provision of proper access and egress from work station, provision of dedicated walkways or routes and good housekeeping can help avoid these. Person being struck by objects can be avoided, again if good housekeeping philosophy is in place along with the correct prevention methods for scaffolding (toe boards, brick screens, nets etc,) storage of material in safe place with correct stacking can also help avoid accidents. A good general site control strategy for the site is required segregating the movement of people and vehicles. Movement of Vehicles The major hazards provided by vehicles on a construction site include, speeding, tipping or toppling over, collisions, which in turn may be caused by having poor roads, bad site lighting and signage, poor maintenance of vehicles and untrained operatives. Suggested control measures include a risk assessment covering the purchase, maintenance and use of site vehicles. A strict traffic management regime which includes speed limit , correctly signed, designated areas for loading and unloading, the use of correctly marked parking areas and encourage people to reverse park. Keeping of a site accident log and publication of the stats can help raise awareness of traffic movement dangers, correct and adequate selection criteria of driver based on competence to carry out the tasks etc. Site vehicles such as dumper truck are one of the main contributing vehicles to site accident often caused by untrained drivers (accidental use of controls), driving too close to edge of excavations. Travelling with high lift skip raised, or driver thrown when travelling over rough ground The law requires that hirers and users of site dumpers both have legal duties to ensure that the equipment should be in a safe condition at all times and the risks are assessed and a safe system of work in place which driver are required to follow , all site workers should be aware of the SSW and follow them Driver protection for site dumpers include rollover bars, seatbelts Site management requires that all vehicles are maintained in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions, site rules which detail the hazards and their control measures. Security of site vehicles when not in use (immobilised) Driver daily checks and safe driving practices. Read the instruction manuals. Understand the difference in braking response of laden and un-laden vehicles, wear appropriate PPE i.e. goggles ear defenders against noise high visibility jackets, keep to designated routes, care when approaching excavations on slopes or embankments, load only at ground level and never travel with a raised load, use correct towing pins and stop and apply park brake before tipping loads. Drivers should never carry passengers, operate the dumper controls unless seated, drive with raised skip, and operate with tyre pressures outside manufactures specifications. Some applicable legislation The New Roads and Streets Works Act (NRSWA) 1991 Code of practice Safety at Street works and Roadwork's Can be viewed here
Tuesday, 18 March 2008
Typical Examination Questions based on Element 2
1 Site preparation work involves the removal of topsoil from land known to be contaminated with heavy metals. Outline the specific requirements for this work in relation to: welfare facilities. 4 Facilities such as a decontamination unit with a dirty area where contaminated clothing can be removed after work, an area with a shower or other means of washing and a clean area where normal clothes can be stored. Additionally, there should be arrangements in place in order to prevent contamination when eating and smoking, and first-aid and emergency decontamination should be made available. 2 Describe the shape and colours of the following classes of safety sign prescribed by the Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996. (i) Prohibition (ii) Warning (iii) Mandatory (iv) Emergency escape / first-aid (2) 2 2 2 2 3 A tank that measures 4 meters long, 3 meters wide and 2 meters deep is to be buried in a Outline the principle hazards that should be considered when planning the work. 8 Hazards such as ground conditions, type of ground, possible presence of contaminants; the excavation work with the risk of collapse of the sides, persons or vehicles falling in, the presence of groundwater, possible flooding; health hazards such as leptospirosis; the lowering of the tank, crane overturning if it is not correctly rated for the job or properly sited; the presence of underground and overhead services 4 Outline the precautions to be taken before lifting operations are carried out adjacent to high voltage overhead power lines. To consult the electricity supply company, to make lines dead where possible, goalpost barriers, height restriction placed on vehicles, the use of banksmen, the placing of warning signs and barriers, communication of safety precautions to all involved and to have emergency procedures in place. 8
green field site as part of a surface water drainage system.
Saturday, 15 March 2008
Construction Site – Hazards and Control Element 2
This element describes the features and items to identify factors which should be considered when carrying out an initial site assessment.
Identification of site appropriate control measures required when setting up sites, also being able to identify the required welfare facilities.
Initial this to look at before
History of the site, area of the site and any restrictions, the topography and the ground conditions, and other activities on site which may not be construction related,
The nature of the surroundings, the access to the site, any roads, footpaths railways, waterways adjacent properties, i.e. residential, industrial or commercial.
When assessing it is important to consider buried services and or overhead power cables.
The initial site assessment should identify the hazards that require control measures, these controls measure, it should have noticed the requirements for fencing and site security, identified the general risks associated with construction sites therefore the placing of mandatory warnings and general information signs,
The site access and egress means of vehicular access and planning takes place with the implementation of a traffic management system, designated areas for the storage, loading and unloading have been identified taking note of any associated risks that might be present when carrying out lifting operations. Other areas which should be planned at this stage are the services required for the site office and welfare facilities. Security arrangements for plant equipment or any chemicals on site, the storage of flammable liquids and method and strategy for dealing with waste either general of special which arise from the construction activities.
The site security measures that are put in place should take in to consideration of not only the site and equipment stored there but should also consider people outside the site and any possible intentional or unintentional access by third parties.
Welfare faculties should be sited in a suitable place and should consist of latrines, rest area , cloakroom and washing facilities, the actual extent of the welfare facilities in particular the washing would depend on the type of activities, if say the site was a general site with only decorating or shop fitting etc then hand washing facilities might be sufficient whist if the area is an excavation site of contaminated land in might be better served by the provision of showering facilities as well as hand washing etc, Adequate first aid provision must be made
Site rules must be written and form part of any site induction training
All these item and more are required to be considered, identified any implemented when assessing, starting or preparing a construction site.
Exam Question “Action Verbs”
One of my problems when sitting an exam has always been interpreting exactly what the question is asking, I have found that examiners post questions which always seem to be a little ambiguous in their meaning. Well at the back of my study book "A Study Book for the NEBOSH National Certificate in Construction Health & Safety" I came across a description of what the examiners means by their "action verbs" which a commonly in bold at the beginning of a question.
Define: - provide a generally recognisable or accepted definition
State: - a less demanding form of define, or where there is no generally accepted definition
Sketch: - provide a simple line drawing using labels to call attention to specific features
Explain: - give a clear account or reason for
Describe: - give a word picture
Outline: - give the most important features of (less depth than either 'explain' or 'describe')
List: - produce a list without explanation
Give: - provide without explanation used normally like 'give an example of'
Identify: - select and name
These seem to be the main "action verbs" used other question begin with "what, when, how" etc. When this occurs candidates should give their own explanations.
Thursday, 13 March 2008
Example Examination Questions for Element 1
List Four duties of the CDM coordinator under the (Design and Management) Regulations 2007 Outline the principle duties of a client under the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2007
The client duties under the CDM 2007 Regs include the assessment of competence of all appointed contractors, it is his duty to ensure there are sufficient resources and time scales for the project to complete safely including the provision welfare facilities. Provide all relevant pre-construction information is passed on to relevant parties.
Additional duties for notifiable projects include the appointment of the Principle contractor and the CDM Co-ordinator whilst ensuring there is a proper project management plan in place, and the construction phase is in place and retains the health and safety plan whilst providing access to the CDM Co-ordinator and other concerned parties.
List Four duties of the Designers under the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2007
- Review and remove hazards at the design stage
- Provide information as to any remaining hazards
- Advise the client of their duties under the CDM 2007 Regs.
- Provide information relevant to the CDM coordinator for the H$S file
In relation to the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2007 outline the meaning of "notifiable Project"
In relation to the CDM 2007 Regs the term "notifiable project" refers to project which a construction phase which is longer than 30 days and or 500 man days, then the project is notifiable to the HSE using form F10 and this is the responsibility of the CDM Coordinator who is required to be appointed for notifiable projects.
Wednesday, 12 March 2008
NCC1 Section 1 Construction Law and Management part 2
Section 1 Construction Law and Management
Responsibilities
The CDM 2007 Regulations place legal responsibilities on the different groups who are involved in a construction project, some of these responsibilities have been around for some time and some are new, but what the CDM regulations try to do here is clarify both the responsibilities and the roles each party has to play on successfully managed project throughout its many phases.
Groups
Client Responsibilities
Additional responsibilities for notifiable projects,
Designers
Additional responsibilities for notifiable projects,
CDM –Co-ordinator
Principle contractor
Site inductions should also include
so that it can be seen by all working on the contract
Contractors
This section of the course goes on to describe competence this will be discussed in a further post.
reduced health and safety risks by, Planning, managing and then monitoring their work
Monday, 10 March 2008
NCC1 Section 1 Construction Law and Management part 1
Section 1 Construction Law and Management The element gives an understanding of the law and management of health and safety, by identifying the scope, definition and nature of construction work and activities, outlines the legal, moral and financial consequences of failing to manage health and safety within the construction industry. It continues on to identify the scope and application of the CDM regulations 2007 and gives clear pointers into obtaining external sources of health and safety information. Types of work that defined by this section are work of engineering or building, including maintenance and demolition. This can cover a wide range of activities. Types of work The activities these work types cover is quite extensive and include This list is by no means complete and only serves to highlight some of the construction activities the CDM 2007 cover. Domestic Activities are no longer covered by the CDM regulations, all other project are, and in the case of the project exceeding 500 man days or a 30 day construction period these are now required to be notified to the HSE by completion of form F10. The scope and application of the 2007 CDM regulations places certain responsibilities on groups who control construction activities. These are namely, client, designer, principle contractor and contractor Responsibilities Client Additional Client responsibilities under notifiable projects. ensure the construction starts only when there are adequate Designers Under notifiable projects the additional duties of a designer are To be cont............
Saturday, 8 March 2008
NGC1 Test Paper 2
Management of Health and Safety
1) A contractor has been engaged by a manufacturing company to undertake extensive maintenance work on the interior of the walls of a factory workshop. a) State the legal duties that the manufacturing company owes the contractor's employees under the Health and Safety at Work act 1974 The company has the obligation under section 3 of the HSWA'74 to ensure that none of the activities carried out by that employer affect the contractors employed to carry out the works, under section 4 of the Act the company also has the obligation to ensure that all and any equipment used by the contractor is safe and fit for purpose and its use and operation would not cause harm to anyone working with the building. b) Outline the information relevant to health and safety that should be provided before work commences by: i) The manufacturing company to the contactor, AND; The company should provide detailed plans for the required work, they should highlight any particular hazards that may be present during their operations and any controls that are used i.e. ear defenders if it's a noisy area, they should provide details of entry and exit to the place of work, emergency procedure, location of first aid any amenities that are available for use, most of this information should be included in the health and safety plan for the works. ii) The
contractor to the manufacturing companyThe contractor should provide detail methods statement on how they intend to do the work have carried out risk assessment and recorded the findings, prepared a health and safety plan for all the works, which should included the contractors information for first aid reporting of incidents emergency contacts and details of amenities.etc. c) Describe additional procedural measures that the manufacturing company should take to help ensure the health and safety of their own and the contractor's employees The company should clearly notify its own employees of what and where the works that is taking place and take steps to ensure that they are kept away by usage of barriers signs etc. For the contractor they company should look at induction training, permit to work systems and keep regular contact with the contracting company and monitor the activities as they develop. 2) a) Giving a practical example , explain the meaning of the term 'human error Human error can be defined as a mistake by an operative rather than by a process or machinery i.e. failing to set the chuck guard on a centre lathe and this resulted in an accident it would be due to human error. b) Outline individual factors that may contribute to human errors occurring at work Most human errors that occur can be attributed to things like over confidence and familiarity by operatives, Monotonous or routine of operation, also by lack of training in the process and or lack of supervision. Other factors could be outdated processes and machinery could contribute to the likelihood of human error, or even if workers are under the influence of alcohol or drugs. 3) Outline the factors to consider when making an assessment of first-aid provision in a workplace When providing first aid in a workplace factors that should be considered include
How many staff are employed, how many trained first raiders are required, what are the main risks with the operation, are there any special risks that require specialist training for first aiders, what type of accident are most likely to occur, Where are the nearest emergency services located,4) a) Explain, using a relevant example, the circumstance under which a health and safety inspector may serve am improvement notice An improvement notice can be issued if an inspector judges that there is a breach of regulations and this breach would continue unless some action was taken, i.e. a company had not completed a risk assessment for an operation or process under the management of Health and Safety regulations 1999 b) Identify the time period within which an appeal may be lodged against an improvement notice AND state the effect the appeal will have on the notice The time period in which an appeal can be lodged is 21 days and they operation can continue whilst the appeal is being decided. c) State the penalties for contravening the requirements of an improvement notice when heard BOTH summarily AND on indictment If tried summarily the fine is £20 000 and or 6 months imprisonment
When tries on indictment the maximum fine is unlimited with up to 2 years imprisonment.5) Outline the criteria that will determine whether a risk assessment undertaken to comply with the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999
'Suitable and sufficientA risk assessment can be deemed "suitable and sufficient" if it meets the following criteria. That all risks have been identified and they have been assessed all the people who could be at risk have been identified including other employees members of the public or any other groups and the current control measures assess against their effectiveness and any changes to these documented. These all must be relevant to the type of work being undertaken and be sufficient to last a reasonable amount of time. 6) Sate the issues that should be included in a typical workplace accident reporting procedure. Accident reporting could be split into two areas Internal and external
For internal reporting the procedure should detail when to fill in accident reports or near misses in to the register, it could detail the procedure to follow depending on the type of accident. Identify who might have to inform next of kin.
For External reporting this would address the responsibilities required under Reporting of Incidents, Diseases or Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR).
Details of who would make such a report and what kind of data should be included; it should also include confidentiality of the data under the data protection act.7) In order to meet a production deadline, a supervisor instructed an employee to operate a machine, which they both knew to be defected Giving reasons in EACH case, identify possible breaches of the Heath and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 in relation to this scenario Several breaches of the Act can be identified here mainly, the company's responsibility to provide and maintain adequate plant and machinery (section 2), also provide adequate supervision, senior management could be at fault here if they knew about the defects and the intention to use the machine. The supervisor and operative failed to comply with act because they failed to take reasonable care and work in a safe manner (sections 7 and 8), the wilful misuse of machinery therefore putting themselves and others at risk. 8) Outline the reasons why an organisation should monitor and review its health and safety performance Apart from the fact that monitoring and reviewing of H&S performance being an essential part of any good H&S management system, it also offers insight into how well a company's performance is against targets set or benchmarks and comparison it allows trend analysis to determine possible deficiencies or area of improvement in a process or operation. It also provides the required detail to enable the production of an H&S report for senior management. 9) With respect to the Safety Representatives and Safety Committees Regulations 1977 a) State when a safety representative is legally entitled to inspect the workplace After any significant change in legislation that effects the work place at the behest of colleagues if reasonable ground can be given i.e. identified an unsafe practice. Or after either a reportable incident or dangerous occurrence. Written notice to the employer if an inspection has not been carried out in the previous 3 months b) Describe the facilities that an employer may need to provide to safety representatives The employer must provide access to phones and fax provide access to a computer and any relevant data i.e. safety inspection records accident book
10)Outline the factors that may determine the level of supervision an employee should receive during their initial period within a company Determining the amount of supervision an employee should receive would depend on the amount of experience that individual has of the task they are being asked to do their qualifications and knowledge level. Whether they are familiar with the working practices, their age and any special needs they may have or any specific safety concerns 11) Identify the issues that should be contained in the 'arrangements' section of a health and safety policy The arrangement section of the H&S policy is the area of the policy where thinks such as risk assessments, reporting of incidents procedure , the wearing of PPE, identification of particular hazards i.e., noise, radiation, it is also the area where the procedure for controlling contractors, work permits , visitors, Emergency procedures for fire or evacuation etc, should also be detailed here
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