To effect the provisions of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 every effort will be made by the company to ensure the health safety and welfare at work of it’s members and further, ensure that persons not in it’s employment, who may be affected by it’s work activities are not thereby exposed to risks to their health and safety.
Particular attention will be paid to the provision and maintenance of:-
It is the duty of all employees to conform to this policy and carry out their responsibilities as detailed in this document. Management are called upon to make themselves feel as responsible for safety as they do for their other functions. They should see poor health and safety performance as a reflection on their ability to manage. To this end management will therefore by expected to acquire the knowledge of health and safety regulations and codes of practice necessary to ensure the safety of those under their control.
Those who authorise work to be carried out at any time must ensure that all aspects of health and safety are taken fully into account when formulating their instructions.
The company has in force a number of safe working practices regarding site operations (See Appendix C). These will be amended or added to as may be necessary from time to time. They are published in a separate document and must be known and adhered to by all employees concerned.
The Company has issued separate documents under the ‘COSHH Regulations’, ‘Noise Regulations’, and the ‘Electricity at Work Regulations’. These documents are available on sites and from the Safety Officer.
The Company is committed to providing such information instruction and training as is necessary to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare of all its employees.
Whilst the company accepts its prime responsibility for ensuring the health, safety and welfare of its employees it is expected that all employees accept their responsibilities under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 to:
Take reasonable care for their own health and safety and that of others who may be affected by their acts or omissions.
Co-operate with management and any other persons to enable the company to fulfil its legal obligations.
Not to interfere with or misuse anything provided in the interests of health, safety or welfare.
There are other specific employee duties laid down in the COSHH, Noise and Electricity at Work regulations, and these are addressed in their own respective documents.
All work undertaken by the company shall as far as is reasonably practicable be carried out with the minimum risk to health and safety. In pursuance of this objective all operations will be carried out with the knowledge and awareness of the hazards involved and the means by which the same can be avoided or reduced to acceptable levels.
The company will provide the necessary resources to ensure the full implementation of the Policy -and the Board of Directors will give full backing to all those committed to achieving the policy objectives.
2.1 Managing Director - Mr G S Higgins
The Board is committed to the Health and Safety Policy set out in this document, and each member of the Board will support those aims and objectives.
The ultimate responsibility for the Policy rests with the Managing Director, Mr G S Higgins, and in periods of temporary absence the Chairman, Deputy Chairman or General Manager (Safety) will assume those responsibilities.
The implementation and enforcement of the Health and Safety Policy is the responsibility of the Production Director and through him to the Contracts Managers and ultimately to the Site Agents, Site Managers and Foremen, and those duties are set out in detail in the following sections.
2.2 Production Director (with responsibility for site safety) Mr M Stevenson
As the Board Member responsible for the overall effectiveness of the Company’s Policy for health, safety, and welfare out on site, he is charged with:
Periodically approving the effectiveness of the Policy and ensuring any necessary changes are made.
Ensuring that all employees are informed of the Policy and any revisions of it and that they receive adequate instruction and training regarding it’s effective implementation.
Receiving the Safety Officer’s reports and ensuring action is taken to remedy unfavourable trends.
In conjunction with the Safety Officer and Contracts Managers continually evaluate all risks relating to hazards in the work place and potential risks to the public from company activities.
Ensure each contract is subject to competent supervision.
2.3 Personnel & Training Manager - Mr B Bradford
Mr Bradford is responsible for ensuring that adequate arrangements exist for training. He will ensure:
All training needs are-implemented.
That employees are trained in accordance with Company Policy and Statutory Requirements.
That courses are arranged for specialist training either in house or externally as appropriate.
That records of Training are maintained.
2.4 Contracts Manager
It is the responsibility of Contracts Managers to ensure that work is carried out in accordance with the principals and objectives of the Policy. They are required to:
Have an understanding of the Policy and an appreciation of the responsibilities delegated to each level of employee and ensure that all sub-contractors are aware of these responsibilities.
Have a working knowledge of the Health and Safety at Work Act and associated legislation and be familiar with the general duties imposed by that legislation.
Ensure that a Health and Safety Plan has been produced and developed sufficiently for the construction phase of a project to begin, thereafter that it is reviewed and updated as required.
Ensure that the Company only uses competent sub-contractors which have been selected from the approved list.
Ensure that at pre-commencement of contract meetings full account is taken of all health and safety requirements.
Continually assess the training needs of staff and operatives under their control and communicate these to the Training and Personnel Officer.
Ensure sub-contractors fulfil their health and safety obligations under the terms of our contract with them.
Ensure adequate arrangements exist for first aid.
Ensure that adequate arrangements exist for Welfare to meet the requirements of the (Construction Health Safety and Welfare) Regulations.
Ensure that a Fire Safety Plan has been produced for each project.
Maintain regular contact with the Safety Officer.
When visiting sites ensure that all aspects of safety and health requirements are complied with and that any breaches are addressed immediately and to complete bi-monthly, a Health and Safety Report.
Inform the Safety Officer whenever new plant or equipment is to be introduced so that hazards, if any, can be eliminated.
Ensure risk assessments have been carried out on all significant hazards and that the results are communicated to the operatives concerned.
Attend quarterly meetings to discuss health and safety on site.
2.5 Site Managers/Agents/Foremen
To be familiar with the Company’s Health and Safety Policy and ensure that its principles and objectives are observed on all works under their control. It is their duty to:
Ensure that all personnel under their control have access to a copy of this Policy.
Ensure that the Health and Safety plan is on site and continually reviewed and updated as the project work progresses.
Ensure that all personnel under their control work in a safe manner and carry out their duties as required by the Company’s Health and Safety Policy.
As far as is reasonably practicable, eliminate from works under their control any risks to health and safety of employees and others who may be affected by the works, i.e. ensure risk assessments are available for all significant hazards and that any precautions/control measures specified are communicated to operatives and implemented. Inform the Contracts Manager immediately if an assessment is not available.
Ensure that the Site Notification Form is displayed.
Ensure that the safety induction training is carried out for all operatives and visitors.
Ensure that all plant defects requiring plant department attention are reported forthwith.
Ensure that all machinery and equipment is maintained in a safe condition and that any safety devices fitted are used and maintained.
Ensure that safety equipment and clothing is provided to prevent injury or ill health and is worn by those whose health and safety is at risk.
Establish a tidy site and maintain a system of good house-keeping.
Ensure that weekly inspections of scaffolds /lifting appliances are carried out and that entries in the appropriate registers are kept up to date.
Ensure that only suitable and certified lifting equipment is used on site.
Ensure that adequate provision is made for first aid and that operatives are informed of arrangements.
Ensure that welfare facilities are adequate and maintained in a clean and hygienic state at all times.
Ensure that all plant and equipment is used in a proper and safe manner.
Ensure that all statutory notices are clearly displayed together with the company safety posters (see Appendix ‘B’)
Accompany the Safety Officer on his inspections and co-operate on safety matters by implementing his recommendations immediately or ceasing work on that area until it meets the required standard.
Ensure that hired plant complies with all statutory provisions.
Ensure that items of plant requiring weekly inspections by operator or other competent persons have the inspection recorded in the site register regardless of any register kept by operator or plant hire company.
To notify the Safety Department of any visit made by the Health and Safety Executive, whether or not any recommendations were made.
2.6 General Manager for Environment, Safety and Plant - Mr K Diamond, or in his absence, Mr P Bivins (Plant), or Mr C Szychowski (Safety)
The General Manager will have the responsibility of implementing the Company’s Health and Safety Policy and will ensure the observance of all statutory responsibilities in respect of Plant and Transport.
Mr K Diamond, or in his absence, Mr P Bivins, will ensure:
2.7 Electrical Department
Mr G Long or in his absence Mr M Bryan will be responsible for the safety procedures and safe working methods of electrical personnel directly employed by the dept. In particular they are required to:
Have an understanding of its policy and a working knowledge of both the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Electricity at Work Regulations.1989
Ensure risk assessments are carried out on all significant hazards and that the results are communicated to staff.
When visiting sites ensure that all aspects of health and safety requirements relating to the departments activities are complied with and complete bi-monthly Health and Safety Reports.
Comply with other specific duties laid down in the Company Code of Practice on the Electricity at Work regulations.
Attend quarterly meetings to discuss health and safety on site.
Ensure that all statutory requirements are complied with.
Ensure that all temporary supplies of electricity comply with the relevant statutory requirements including completion of Test Certificates.
2.8 Plumbing Department
Mr R Halford, or is his absence, Mr A Ramsay or Mr L Shaw will be responsible for the safe working methods of employees working directly for the plumbing department. In particular they shall:
Be familiar with the Company’s Health and Safety Policy and ensure that its principles and objectives are observed on all works under their control.
Ensure Risk Assessments are carried out on all significant hazards and that results are communicated to staff.
When visiting sites ensure that all health and safety requirements relating to the departments activities are complied with.
Complete bi-monthly a Health and Safety Report.
Attend quarterly meetings to discuss health and safety on site.
Ensure that all statutory requirements are complied with.
2.9 Quantity Surveyors/Estimators
To ensure that safety, health and welfare is considered when compiling tenders. To ensure sub-contractors are issued with all ‘project relevant’ health and safety information.
To ensure that sub-contractors submit information requested under C.D.M. regulations.
To request information from sub-contractors for inclusion into project health and safety files and to forward same to Planning Supervisor.
To discuss with the Safety Officer any special requirements set down by clients.
2.10 All Employees
Make themselves familiar with and conform to the Company’s Health and Safety Policy at all times and the directions given by the site supervisor.
Observe all safety rules at all times and report , immediately, any unsafe practices or conditions.
Where applicable, to wear the appropriate safety equipment and use the appropriate safety devices at all times e.g. guards, silencers, safety helmets, eye, ear, respiratory and foot protection.
Conform to instructions given by the Contracts Manager, Site Manager and Safety Officer in respect of safe methods or working at all times.
Report all accidents or damage to company property to the Site Manager, whether persons are injured or not.
Report defects on plant or equipment to the Site Manager.
Where employees consider that there is a serious hazard in the work area or there are problems with the Company’s safety measures or would like to make a suggestion on health and safety they should do so as soon as they can to their Site Manager or Supervisor.
Breaches of statutory and / or Company safety rules will be dealt with under the normal Company Disciplinary Procedures.
2.11 Safety Department
The Safety Department is required to advise on all aspects of health, safety and welfare. Monitor implementation of the policy to ensure that all works, sites, etc. are conversant with existing legal requirements, inspect and submit written reports on all findings and ensure, where necessary, that action is taken to remedy and fault, deviation or contravention of the statutory obligations or company safety rules.
The Safety Department will have the following duties:
To keep the Board informed:
Specifically to:
2.12 Applications of The Policy to Main Office
The Company Safety Policy is applicable to the Main Office as to any other aspect of the Company’s operations.
Mr A Lorrimer (or in his absence Mr B Bradford) will assume responsibility for the implementation of the general principles embodied in the Policy statement in the Main offices.
In particular he will:
Promote health and safety within the office environment.
Prepare a safety policy defining the responsibility of all levels of staff regarding health and safety at work and include the structure and arrangements that have been made to enable the policy to become effective.
Ensure risk assessments are made on all significant hazards and that the results are communicated to all employees.
Ensure that arrangements exist for bringing the policy and any revision of it to the attention of all employees.
Ensure that all office-based activities are carried out in accordance with all relevant statutory provisions.
Office based staff will accordingly:
Make themselves familiar with the requirements of the policy.
Understand the hazards of their work place and comply with the Company’s Health and Safety Policy at all times.
2.13 Sub -Contractors
Shall observe the requirements of the Company’s Health and Safety Policy and the instructions given by persons enforcing the Company’s safety standards.
Shall accept the Company’s Safety Officers inspection reports and when necessary take immediate action.
Where applicable, comply in full with duties imposed by the C.D.M. regulations and all requirements / restrictions specified by the project’s Health and Safety Plan.
Provide risk assessments on all activities where there is a significant risk of injury, together with procedures for eliminating or reducing them.
Where any substances covered by the COSHH regulations are used to provide a written assessment.
Where necessary provide suitable method statements.
2.14 Maintenance Department
Mr. J. Shaw or in his absence Mr. K. Hopkinson will be responsible for the safety procedures and safe working methods of maintenance personnel employed by the department. In particular they are required to:-
Be familiar with the Company’s Health and Safety Policy and ensure that its principles and objectives are observed on all works under their control.
Ensure Risk Assessments are carried out on all significant hazards and that the results are communicated to staff.
When visiting sites ensure that all health and safety requirements are complied with.
3.1 Arrangements in Respect of Compliance with the Key Requirements of the Construction (Design & Management) Regulations 1994
Before appointment to a project, contractors will be required to satisfy William Davis Limited, as the principal contractor, that they are competent, adequately resourced and committed to carrying out the proposed work safely and in accordance with all relevant statutory provisions.
To verify competence etc. in relation to a particular project, the tender documents issued to prospective contractors will include the following:-
Health and safety competence resource questionnaire
Information from pre-tender health and safety plans relevant to contractors assessment of risk, precautions and resources
Request for copies of contractors risk assessments and safety method statements, including assessments of all materials, substances and procedures under the COSHH regulations
The Production Director in conjunction with the project management team will use the information provided to assess competency etc. and to help plan and co-ordinate the activities of contractors during the construction phase.
When tendering, contractors must take into account and make provisions for the standards set by William Davis Limited as principal contractor in respect of the following:-
How they will be expected to co-operate in achieving safe and healthy site conditions.
The arrangements for controlling site wide hazards and common usage of equipment provided.
The site rules specified for the project.
The development and implementation of the construction phase health and safety plan will be the responsibility of a group of individuals assigned to the project, collectively able to bring to the function all the necessary skills and expertise, e.g. design, construction, health and safety. Among those involved will be:
Production Director
Production Manager
Post Contract Surveyor
Buyer
General Manager for Environment, Safety and Plant
Health & Safety Officer
Site Manager
The Team will:
Address content of pre-contract health and safety plan, site survey, reports, drawings, etc.
Carry out preliminary assessments of hazards on information available and experience of the various work activities involved.
Select competent subcontractors.
NB - Risk assessment procedure to incorporate those prepared by subcontractors to identify the main hazards associated with their work and any possible interaction between other operations likely to be undertaken at the same time.
Carry out detailed risk assessments of the hazards identified.
Determine site rules.
The company’s current health and safety management strategy provides for the issue of ‘safety instruction cards’ for significant site wide hazards, e.g. overhead cables, contaminated land etc. A general health and safety card is also issued to all new employees. In both cases operatives are given these when first attending site and are to confirm receipt and understanding by signing the attached acknowledgement slip. In-house posters giving information on various hazards, e.g. noise, COSHH, manual handling, are to be displayed on notice boards. Site induction training and regular tool box talks given by the site management team / contractor will in conjunction with the above, ensure that everyone has the information they need about the risks.
Site activities will be monitored to ensure everyone complies with the requirements of the Health & Safety Plan. In addition to daily checks carried out by the Site Manager, periodic health and safety checks will be made by the visiting Contracts Manager and the company Safety Officer. All will record the results of their inspections and a copy of the safety report will be retained on site.
Contractors will be required to accept these reports and when necessary take immediate and proper action. These inspections will not relieve contractors of their responsibility for inspecting their own work or from co-operating with the Site Manager by reporting any unsafe conditions/practices identified in this way.
Contractors must forward copies of their safety inspection reports to the Site Manager.
The Contracts Manager is responsible for informing the Planning Supervisor through the Post Contract Surveyor of any significant deviation from planned procedures and programme or when changes in design are required.
Where monitoring arrangements identify breaches/unsatisfactory conditions e.g., the appropriate remedial action proportional to the risk will be recorded alongside on the site safety report. It is incumbent on the recipient to carry out the instructions given. The content of these reports will be discussed at site safety meetings where overall performance and standards will be monitored and reviewed. Data recorded in the minutes of these meetings will be used to help review the project at the end of the construction phase.
3.1.1 Managing Health and Safety:- Risk Assessment
The identification of hazards and the assessment of risks is a key part of this Company’s policy for safety. Risk assessment will be carried out on an ongoing basis and to be effective it is essential that all employees co-operate wherever they can in the risk assessment process.
Directors with responsibility for safety will ensure that all managers are briefed and trained on the risk assessment process. The techniques, forms and records for risk assessment are set out in the Company Risk Assessment Manual.
Management will ensure that the results of risk assessments, and in particular, the measures necessary to ensure health and safety are communicated to all employees. This will be achieved by:-
3.2 Monitoring of Health and Safety
3.2.1 Health & Safety Reviews
An ‘Information & Policy Meeting’ involving key Directors and chaired by the Company Chairman will be held every 6 months to review corporate health and safety performance and ensure that an effective Company Policy for Occupational Health, Safety & Welfare is maintained.
In addition, a safety meeting of all senior production management and chaired by the production director will be held every three months to monitor safety performance, standards etc on all Company sites.
Minutes of the above meetings will be distributed accordingly and any action required communicated in writing to the persons concerned.
3.3 Safety Inspection and Report Procedures
Procedure During and Following a Safety Adviser’s Site Inspection.
Safety Officers will make routine inspections of the site to monitor working practices and report on their findings. They will also advise the site manager and operatives of any health and safety issues as they arise. As well as monitoring work in progress they will be concerned with work to be completed in the immediate future, discussing with the site manager the items that should be included in the risk assessment, and what job planning has been carried out.
On completion of the visit a written report will be produced, and the findings will be discussed with the Site Manager who will sign a copy of the Report.
If on a subsequent visit a Safety Officer is of the opinion that adequate action has not been, and will not be taken, he must inform the Production Director as quickly as possible.
If the Safety Officer is of the opinion that an operation constitutes a risk of serious injury to any person then he will take whatever action he feels necessary, which may include the suspension of operations. If the Site Manager disagrees with this action, the Safety Officer will record his opinion in his written report and inform the Production Director as quickly as possible and copy him the report by the quickest possible means. The Production Director will then resolve the issue. In cases where the Safety Officer has suspended operations, work will not re-commence until the Production Director has resolved the issue. Simultaneously with the Safety Officer’s report being sent to the Production Department, a copy will be sent to the Managing Director.
3.4 Consultation with Employee
The company has a pro-active approach to health & safety, and recognises the benefits of employees having a significant input into the company’s health & safety procedures. They also play a vital role in providing feedback on actual performance, and identifying hazards that may have been previously missed. Therefore, the company will encourage participation.
Furthermore, in accordance with the Health and Safety (Consultation with Employees) Regulations 1996, the Company will consult directly with all employees on matters specified by the Regulations. The arrangements will be determined in project’s Health and Safety Plans and an explanation of them given during site induction.
On sites, all employees (and sub-contractors) will receive a site induction talk. On major sites this will be undertaken by the safety adviser or the site manager, on small projects, by the site manager.
Throughout the project, all employees and contractors will be encouraged to continually liase with the site manager, to assist in the identification of any health & safety hazard that has not previously been identified.
3.5 Consultation with Sub-Contractors
Under the Construction (Design & Management) Regulations, sub-contractors have to be competent
In addition the company has to provide details of the significant risks that they will encounter on site.
This will be achieved via the project health & safety plan.
When contractors are submitting their proposals to the company they will be asked to inform us about any significant risks their work will produce. These will be subject to an agreed method statement and, if required an amendment or addition to the project safety plan.
3.6 Recording and Reporting Procedures for Accidents, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences
3.6.1 Recording
All accidents resulting in personal injury, however slight must be recorded in the Accident Book
(BI 510) in accordance with the Social Security Act 1975. All accidents will also be reported to the Safety Officer using the internal accident report form. Note It is a requirement that all accidents be investigated to ascertain the cause and to prevent a re-occurrence.
3.6.2 Legal Requirements
All notifiable accidents must be reported, the manner of reporting depends on the nature and severity of the injury.
Accidents are listed in clearly defined groups as detailed below:
3.6.3 Fatality/Major Injury.
3.6.4 Over Three Day Injury
Any accident resulting in death or major injury must be reported to the Health and Safety Executive immediately by the quickest method possible, i.e. telephone and confirm in writing on Form 2508 within 10 days.
The following personnel should also be notified immediately in the case of a fatal accident or major injury:
Note
The requirement for reporting fatalities or major injuries refers to all persons and not just employees. This means visitors, clients, self-employed and the public etc., but does not refer to direct employees of subcontractors. The responsibility in this case rests with the person’s employer (but we should ensure that this has been done).
3.7 Other Notifiable Accidents
Where, as a result of an accident, an employee is unable to carry out his normal work for more than three days (not counting the day of the accident) but including any days which are not normal working days, the accident must be reported to the Health and Safety Executive within 10 days on Form 2508.
3.8 Dangerous Occurrences
A list of the types of occurrences deemed ‘Dangerous Occurrences’ is found in RIDDOR 95.
If any of these are experienced they must be reported immediately to the Factory Inspector by the quickest possible means, i.e. telephone (record kept of details given by phone and to whom).
It must be confirmed in writing within 10 days on Form 2508.
3.9 Diseases
Certain diseases, resulting from particular work activities are reportable to the authorities when a written diagnosis of the employee’s complaint (e.g. a sick note) is received from a Medical Practitioner and complaint has resulted from one of the work activities specified. The official report must be made on Form 2508 A.
3.10 Reporting
Official reporting will be undertaken by the Safety Department. Sites must contact the Safety Department by the quickest possible means, immediately (or as soon as possible) after a reportable incident has occurred.
The action is to be taken in the event of an accident, dangerous occurrence or reportable disease as detailed in Appendix A.
3.11 Hazards of the Workplace
The following list, though not exhaustive gives some idea of the hazards to look out for:
It is necessary to control and guard against hazards by implementing safe systems of work and ensuring they are adhered to.
The arrangements set out in the following pages are designed to address these hazards and attempt to eliminate risks to employees and others caused by work activities.
3.12 Good Housekeeping
Good housekeeping is one of the most important single items influencing safety on a construction site. Good housekeeping shall be practised on a regular basis.
All stairways, passageways and gangways shall be kept free from materials, rubbish, obstructions of any kind.
Materials and equipment shall be kept away from edges of hoistways, ladder access, stairways and floor openings.
When protruding nails are found they should be bent flush, hammered in or removed.
Tools shall not be strewn about where they may cause tripping or other hazards.
Job area to be kept clean, scrap and rubbish to be removed regularly.
Toilets/washing facilities, to be kept clean and sanitary.
Mess rooms to be kept clean. Do not allow soiled clothes, tools, food scraps etc. to accumulate, especially around hot pipes or electric heaters.
All flammable liquids shall be stored properly in accordance with legislation.
Stores/Containers must be kept tidy with designated areas for specific equipment / materials.
Cables, hoses, pipes, must be routed in such a way as to reduce tripping hazards.
3.13 Scaffolding
All scaffolds erected on company sites or used by employees will be erected in accordance with the Construction (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1996 and the British Standards Code of Practice 5973:1990 and any subsequent legislation..
The Site Manager will ensure that all scaffolds are erected in accordance with the above standards and at the beginning of each week will inspect the scaffold and ensure that any defect is rectified .
A report of the inspection and any action taken will be entered in the Site Inspection register .A similar inspection will also be carried out after high winds or other adverse weather conditions.
Site Managers responsible for inspecting scaffolds will be given training in the requirements of the Regulations and the Codes of Practice.
Only persons deemed to be competent and authorised by the Site Manager will be permitted to alter, erect, dismantle or otherwise interfere with any scaffold erected.
The Site Manager will ensure that all scaffolds are erected on ground that has been levelled and consolidated.
Scaffolders erecting scaffolds with platforms more than 5 metres high must hold a current C.I.T.B. certificate of competence.
All scaffolds must be tied in accordance with the Code of Practice requirements. Where the provision of ties is impracticable then the method of ensuring that the scaffold is adequately supported must be determined and recorded.
Any scaffold being erected, altered or dismantled or otherwise not suitable for use must have a notice displayed warning that it is not be used.
All scaffolding materials will be maintained in efficient working order and in good repair. The Yard Foreman will ensure that all such materials are despatched to site in accordance with the above requirement.
All materials will be checked before use by scaffolder. All working platforms must be kept clear of debris or obstructions and must never be overloaded. The use of bandstands/H frames to extend the height of existing lifts is prohibited.
3.14 Ladders
All ladders must be provided and used in accordance with the requirements of the Construction (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulation 1996.
All ladders used on site must be in accordance with the British Standard BS 1129.
Copies of the regulations are available on each site and any further information on the requirements of the regulations or the British Standard can be obtained from the Safety Officer.
All ladders before issue to site must be checked for defects by the Yard Foreman or other persons appointed.
Site Managers must ensure that ladders are at all times used correctly, without defect, and secured and are not used is such a way that they are likely to be damaged e.g. as a ramp with board on rungs, or boards placed on lower rungs as run ups.
Ladders must be included in the weekly scaffold inspection and a report on any defects noted must be entered in the scaffolding register.
Proper storage will be provided for all ladders, preferably under cover and with the ladder supported throughout it’s length.
At the end of each working day all ladder’s will be removed to storage or made inaccessible .
All ladders must be secured near the top (including those used for short periods). If a ladder cannot be secured near the top then it must be secured near the bottom or footed.
3.15 Personal Protective Equipment
Where risks to health and safety cannot be reduced to acceptable levels by other means, personal protective equipment will be issued and worn.
All such equipment will be selected, provided, used and maintained in accordance with the requirements detailed in the ‘Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992’.
The Safety Officer will assist the Stores Manager in ensuring that all personnel protective equipment issued complies with the above regulations.
Before work starts the Site Manager will ensure that adequate supplies of all necessary protective equipment are available on site for issue by him as required.
Instructions to employees where to obtain protective equipment will be displayed in site offices and mess rooms.
SITUATIONS WHERE PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT MUST BE PROVIDED AND WORN
3.15.1 Head Protection
Suitable head protection to be worn by all personnel on company sites at all times i.e. safety helmet manufactured to BS. EN 397.
3.15.2 Eye Protection - - B.S. EN 166, 167, 168
To everyone employed in any of the processes specified.
For example:-
Eye protectors must be provided both for persons directly involved in the work and also for others not directly involved or employed but who may come into contact with the process and be at risk from the hazards.
3.15.3 Ear Protection
In those situations specified by Company noise assessments made under the Noise at Work, Regulations.
3.15.4 Respiratory Protection
Where specified in COSHH assessments.
3.15.5 Footwear
Work on building and demolition sites will usually require safety footwear to protect the feet against a variety of hazards, particularly objects falling on them, or sharp objects (eg nails) on the ground piercing the shoe and injuring the sole of the foot.
3.16 Overhead Electric Cables
The Construction (Health, Safety & Welfare) Regulations 1996 require precautions to be taken where overhead cables could be a source of danger.
The main hazards are contact with the cables by plant or vehicles or by operatives handling long objects e.g. scaffold poles, ladders etc. The fact that electricity can ‘arc’ across gaps must always be taken into account.
The Health and Safety Executive guidance Note GS6, ‘Avoidance of Danger from Overhead Electric Lines’ gives guidance on the precautions to be taken and will be complied with on all company sites.
At tender or negotiation stages the existence of any overhead cables will be noted and allowed for in accordance with the above standards.
At pre-contract stage the Contracts Manager will arrange for any possible diversions or confirm safe distances, clearances, precautions etc. with the Electricity Board.
Before personnel are sent to site the Contracts Manager will ensure that the required precautions have been implemented.
The Site Manager will ensure that the necessary protection is erected in accordance with the above standards.
The protection provided will be checked by the Site Manager at regular intervals and maintained.
Company Safe Working Practice WSP 06 also refers and must be read in conjunction with this section.
3.17 Mobile Cranes
All lifting operations including the use of mobile cranes will be carried out in strict accordance with the Construction (Lifting Operations) Regulations 1961 and the British Standards Code of Practice No.7121 1989 ‘Safe Use of Cranes’.
A copy of the Regulations will be available on site for reference and any information required on the British Standard will be provided by the Safety Officer.
The Site Manager will ensure that all lifting operations are properly planned and executed in accordance with the regulations and the British Standards Code of Practice.
Site Managers will be given training in the requirements of the above standards.
3.17.1 Planning Procedure
The Site Manager will consult with the crane hire company so as to establish:-
The type and size of crane best suited for the work in hand.
The correct siting of the crane when carrying out the lift.
In deciding upon the type and the positioning of the crane the following factors will be considered.
The weight of the load to be lifted. This must include the weight of the hook block and lifting gear to be used. Cranes will always be selected to handle the maximum anticipated load with capacity to spare.
Ground Conditions. The ground should be level and capable of supporting the full weight of the crane and its load. Timbers should be placed under the outriggers to evenly distribute the load.
Operating space. The driver must have a clear view of the operation. Cranes must be positioned well away from:-
The edges of excavations.
Fixed structures against which people may be trapped by moving parts such as counterweights etc.
Overhead electric power lines.
A suitably trained banksman must be provided where the driver does not have a clear line of vision for the whole of the lift.
3.17.2 Provision of Test Certificates and other Relevant Documentation
Site Managers will ensure that all relevant documentation is sighted and found in order before a crane is taken into use.
Drivers must be asked to produce the following:-
Form F91
Section C - Record of weekly examinations.
Section G - Record of thorough examinations (once every 14 months)
Form F96
Record of a test and thorough examination during the last 4 years.
Form F87 and F97
Records of inspection showing that all lifting gear e.g. chains slings, shackles etc. have been inspected within the last 6 months.
Certificate of Competence of the Operator.
When ordering the crane the plant department will advise the crane company that the production of these documents will be required.
3.17.3 Plant on Site
The Contracts Manager will ensure that competent operators and banksmen are provided.
The Plant Manager will ensure that a planned servicing schedule is prepared for all company plant on site.
The Site Manager will ensure that plant delivered to site is in good order and fitted with any necessary safety devices and guards.
Any defects noted will be reported to the Plant Manager or Hire Company immediately. The Site Manager will ensure that where defects could affect safety on site, the item of plant is not used until the repairs are carried out.
The Site Manager will ensure that only competent operators are permitted to operate any item of plant. Where any doubt of the competency of an operator exists, the Site Manager will report to the Contracts Manager immediately.
No young person (under 18 years of age) is permitted to operate any item of plant or act as a banksman unless being trained and under direct supervision.
All plant will be properly secured and immobilised at the end of each working day.
All items of plant requiring weekly inspections by operator or other competent person will have the inspection recorded in the appropriate register, regardless of any register kept by operator or plant hire company.
3.18 Use of Electricity and Electrical Power Tools Standards Required
The following regulations etc. apply to the use of electricity and electrical power tools on site.
The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989
The Construction (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1996.
The IEE Regulations 16th Edition
British Standard Code of Practice CP 1017 - distribution of electricity on construction and building sites. British Standards 4343 - Industrial plugs, socket outlets etc.
Company Code of Practice on Electricity at Work Regulations.
All electrical equipment and systems employed on Company sites will be supplied, installed, maintained and used in accordance with the above standards.
The Contracts Manager, in conjunction with the Site Manager and Electrical Manager will plan any temporary electricity supply and distribution required on site in accordance with the above standards.
All temporary supplies will be installed by competent electricians and tested in accordance with the I.E.E regulations and statutory requirements and a copy of the completion certificate made available.
The Contracts Manager and Site Manager will ensure that all power tools provided for use on site are in accordance with the relevant British Standards.
No power tools or electrical equipment of greater voltage than 110 volts shall be used on sites unless special arrangements have been made and discussed with the Safety Officer.
Low voltage tools, lighting etc. may be required in damp or confined working environments. The Safety Officer must be consulted in these situations.
The Site Manager will as far as is possible ensure that all distribution cables are routed clear of access ways, routes used by site traffic etc.
Only authorised persons are permitted to repair or alter electrical equipment. Faults must be reported so that immediate steps can be taken to have defects remedied by a competent electrician.
Under no circumstances is insulation tape to be used for any repair or joint in extension cables.
Regular inspection of all electrical power tools used on sites will be carried out by the plant department.
All sub-contractors will be informed of the Company policy on the use of electricity on site and will be expected to comply with these requirements.
Further instructions and guidance on compliance with standards required is given in Instruction Note WD 1 Electricity at Work Regs. and must be read in conjunction with this section.
3.19 Abrasive Wheels
The Contracts Manager and Site Manager will ensure that sufficient operatives have been trained in accordance with the Abrasive Wheels Regulations in the mounting of Abrasive Wheels and discs on the type of machine to be used and that the names of the persons trained are entered in the Register F2345.
The Site Manager will ensure that suitable storage facilities are available for the abrasive wheels and that sufficient quantities of suitable eye protection and other protective equipment i.e. ear and respiratory protection is available and issued when required.
3.20 Substances Hazardous to Health (C.O.S.H.H)
In accordance with the above regulations all appropriate measures will be adopted to protect any person from levels of exposure to any substance likely to cause ill health.
Written assessments will be made detailing the risks associated with any hazardous material used on site and the precautions needed to be taken to reduce or avoid them.
Copies of assessments will be kept on all sites.
The Site Manager will ensure that all precautions deemed appropriate are carried out fully and that any protective clothing, equipment or hygiene measures are provided and maintained.
Further instructions and guidance on compliance with standards required in the Company Code of Practice on the ‘Control of Substances Hazardous to Health’, and must be read in conjunction with this section. The document is available on all sites.
3.21 Noise
The requirements of the Noise at Work Regulations 1989, the precautions to be taken and noise assessments are set out in their own separate document, a copy of which is available on all sites.
3.22 Storage of L.P.G.
L.P.G. will be stored in accordance with the Highly Flammable Liquid regulations i.e. in a cage in ‘open air’ and as far away as possible from accommodation units.
‘No Smoking’ or ‘Naked Flame’ signs will be displayed and a dry powder extinguisher will be sited close to the cages where L.P.G. is stored.
L.P.G. must be stored well away from sources of ignition and kept well away from excavation. Company safe working practice no.10 also refers.
3.23 First Aid
In accordance with the First Aid Regulations 1981 and the Approved Code of Practice, First Aid facilities will be provided and maintained. Sufficient trained first aid personnel: will be provided to comply with legislation.
3.24 General Health and Welfare
Sufficient toilets and washing facilities will be provided and must be kept in a clean and hygienic condition at all times.
Welfare facilities will be provided in accordance with the Construction (Health Safety, and Welfare) Regulations 1996.
3.25 Buried Services
Precautions to be taken when excavating in areas where buried services may exist are given in Safe Working Practice WD No.4. Copies of this are available on all sites.
3.26 Confined Spaces
No employee shall undertake, supervise or attend work in a confined space unless he has first satisfactorily completed a Company approved training course.
3.27 Roof Work
All roofwork undertaken by the Company will be in accordance with the Construction (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1996 and the Health and Safety guidance notes HSG 33 ‘Safety in Roof Work’.
A copy of regulations will be available on all sites and information from the guidance note can be obtained from the Safety Officer.
In all roof work where a person can fall more than 2 metres precautions must be taken to prevent his falling.
Precautions, depending on the type of roof and the nature of work are described in the Company’s Safe Working Practice WD No.7.
3.28 Fragile Material
Before any roof is used as a means of access or as a place of work, or during any operation whether it be construction, repair, maintenance or demolition it will be essential to identify the parts covered with fragile material, e.g. asbestos, cement sheeting, wired glass, plastic sheeting, corrugated steel sheeting, reduced in strength by rust etc.
NOTE: Fragile materials will not carry a concentrated load such as that applied by a persons foot.
Any person working on or near fragile roofing materials must be provided with crawling boards/ladders.
All roof lights must be properly covered or provided with barriers.
Roof Work will only be undertaken by personnel who have the knowledge, or experience and equipment necessary for the work to be completed in a safe manner.
The Site Manager or person authorising roof work is responsible for ensuring all necessary precautions are taken.
3.29 Excavations
All excavation work undertaken on Company sites will be carried out in strict accordance with the Construction (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1996.
3.29.1 Planning
As soon as practical the Contracts Manager will discuss with site management and any sub-contractor involved the requirements in respect of the above standard.
The objective in mind at all times will be to provide a safe place of work by ensuring:
The sides of every excavation are adequately supported to prevent collapse.
The decision as to what amounts to adequate support will depend on the type of excavation, the nature of the ground and ground water conditions. Where there is any doubt then the advice of a specialist engineer must be sought.
The Contracts Manager will ensure that all support materials/systems are available for use on site before excavation work commences.
The Site Manager/person in control of excavation work is responsible for ensuring the necessary precautions are adhered to at all times.
3.29.2 Precautions
Support materials/systems will be fixed securely to prevent displacement and will only be erected/altered/dismantled by competent workmen.
Support materials etc. will be free from defects, be of adequate strength, good construction and properly maintained. Under no circumstances will scaffold battens be used to support the side of an excavation.
If excavations are left open for any length of time they must:
Excavations must be kept clear of toxic or explosive gases, eg. L.P.G., fumes from plant/machinery.
Ensure that the stability of the excavation is not undermined by vehicles coming too close to the edge. If there is a possibility that vehicles can tip into an excavation then properly secured stop blocks must be provided.
3.30 Hoists
Where hoists are provided they will be protected by a substantial enclosure which must be fitted with gates where access is needed. Hoists will be inspected weekly by the Site Manager and inspections recorded in Form F91.
Hoists must be examined by a competent person every six months and a certificate of examination issued. Orders for hoists will be accompanied by a request for a copy of the current certificate. This will be kept on site and made available if requested by H.S.E. inspectors.
The Site Manager must ensure that:
An enclosure is provided to prevent people being struck by any moving part of the hoist or materials on it.
Gates are provided at all landings.
Gates are kept shut except when the platform is at the landing.
The safe working load is clearly marked on the hoist.
If the hoist is for materials only, there must be a notice on each platform or cage prohibiting persons from riding on it and that the notice is obeyed.
3.31 Manual Handling
Governing Regulations:- “Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992”
The Regulations require the Company to:-
Compliance with Regulations
Management will ensure that materials etc. are handled as far as possible by machine, and where the use of a machine is not a reasonably practical solution, undertake an assessment of the task to determine the precautions, measures, etc. required to ensure the task is executed with the risk of injury reduced to a minimum.
Where assessments conclude assistance is required, Management will ensure that sufficient labour is available and that instructions are issued to employees on the safe handling of these loads. No Operative will be required to lift a load which is likely to cause injury.
All work will be tendered for or negotiated taking into account the above requirements.
Training in the correct methods of handling and lifting loads will be given to all employees as part of their normal safety training. Management will receive training on how to carry out assessments.
Management will ensure that suitable protection is worn by Operatives when handling materials which could cause injury to the hands and feet.
3.32 Emergency Procedures (construction sites)
Emergency procedures specific to each project will be detailed in the projects health and safety plan and an explanation of them given to all employees during site induction.