Safety
Rulebook
Revision 2.0
Effective: April 1, 2012
SaskPower Safety Rulebook Receipt
I hereby acknowledge receipt of the SaskPower Safety Rulebook.
I understand that it is my responsibility to become familiar with the
safety rules and regulations specific to my work, as outlined in this
rulebook.
Name:
__________________________________________
Title:
__________________________________________
Registration Unit and Book Number: ______________________
Location:
__________________________________________
Signature: __________________________________________
Date:
__________________________________________
Please fill-out, sign and send a photocopy of this page to your
supervisor upon receipt of this rulebook.
NOTE:
THIS ORIGINAL PAGE MUST STAY WITH THIS
RULEBOOK!
This safety rulebook provides rules, guidelines and
direction to ensure that workers and supervisors are
equipped to make sound safety decisions in their dayto-day work activities. It is also an important guide to
the hazard and risk assessment and work observation
elements of our safety program.
SAFETY RULEBOOK
Robert Watson
President and CEO
Glenda Barton
Chief Safety Officer
Mike Marsh
Vice-President
Transmission and
Distribution
John Lebersback
Vice-President
Power Production
Judy May
Vice-President
Customer Services
Neil Collins
Business Manager &
Financial Secretary
I.B.E.W. Local 2067
Christy Best
President CEP
Local 649
Message from the President
In a business like ours, safety is paramount. Simply put, nothing is
more important than ensuring our employees and contractors go
home safely at the end of each day.
Safety is everyone's responsibility. Whether you work at a power
station, maintain power lines or serve our customers, it’s up to
you to ensure your health and safety is protected.
An important step you can take is to familiarize yourself with
SaskPower’s Safety Rulebook, which explains safe work practices
in all areas of our business. You will find rules, guidelines and
direction to ensure workers and supervisors make sound safety
decisions in day-to-day work activities. The Rulebook also
outlines the hazard analysis and work observation elements of
our safety program. Relevant sections of the provincial safety
regulations are noted.
Thank you for your continued commitment to achieve a safe and
healthy workplace. I encourage you to make safety part of
everything you do.
Robert Watson
President and CEO
SaskPower General Health and Safety Policy
SaskPower is committed to the health, safety and well-being of its
employees, contractors and everyone exposed to our facilities.
We are all responsible for protecting the health and safety of
ourselves and others.
Our vision
Making safety as important as anything we do and a part of
everything we do.
Our beliefs
• Health and safety are an integral part of every job.
• We can conduct our business without injury.
• All incidents are preventable.
In pursuit of our goal of zero incidents, we shall:
• Actively prevent incidents and injuries and improve safety
performance.
• Improve our safety management system continually through
setting and monitoring objectives.
• Comply with occupational health and safety legislation and
corporate commitments.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
SECTION 0
DEFINITIONS
0-1
SECTION 1
ACTIONS FOR SAFETY
1-1
SECTION 2
GENERAL SAFETY RULES
2-1
SECTION 3
PERSONAL PROTECTION
3-1
SECTION 4
PROTECTIVE TOOLS AND
EQUIPMENT
4-1
SECTION 5
TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT
5-1
SECTION 6
VEHICLES, EQUIPMENT AND
TRANSPORTATION
6-1
SECTION 7
CONSTRUCTION AND
MAINTENANCE HAZARD CONTROL
7-1
SECTION 8
OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH
8-1
SECTION 9
HANDLING SAFETY CONCERNS
9-1
SECTION 10 PROCEDURE FOR SAFETY
RULEBOOK REVISIONS AND
INTERPRETATION
10-1
SECTION 11 T & D CONSTRUCTION AND
MAINTENANCE
11-1
DEFINITIONS
For the purposes of this Rulebook the following definitions shall
apply:
Act:
"The Occupational Health and Safety Act,
1993"
Apparatus:
All equipment pertaining to the generation,
transmission, distribution and use of
electrical energy.
Arc Rating:
The maximum incident energy resistance
demonstrated by a material (or layered
system of materials) prior to break open or
at the onset of a second-degree skin burn.
Arc rating is normally expresses in
cal/cm2.
Audit:
Systematic examination to determine
whether activities and related results
conform to planned arrangements and
whether these arrangements are
implemented effectively and are suitable
for achieving the organization’s policy and
objectives.
Combustible liquid: A liquid that has a flash point at or above
37.8° Celsius and below 93.3° Celsius.
Competent:
Possessing knowledge, experience and
training to perform a specific duty.
Confined space:
Confined space means an enclosed or
partially enclosed space that: (i) not
primarily designed or intended for human
occupancy, except for the purpose of
performing work; and (ii) has restricted
means of entrance and exit.
Dangerous
occurrence:
Means any occurrence that does not
result in, but could have resulted in, a
condition or circumstance set out in
subsection 8(1), and includes:
0-1
(a) the structural failure or collapse of: a
structure, scaffold, temporary falsework or
concrete formwork; or
(b) all or any part of an excavated shaft, tunnel,
caisson, coffer dam, trench or excavation;
(c) the failure of a crane or hoist or the
overturning of a crane or unit of powered
mobile equipment;
(d) an accidental contact with an energized
electrical conductor;
(e) the bursting of a grinding wheel;
(f) an uncontrolled spill or escape of a toxic,
corrosive or explosive substance;
(g) a premature detonation or accidental
detonation of explosives;
(h) the failure of an elevated or suspended
platform; and
(i) the failure of an atmosphere-supplying
respirator.
De-energized:
The state that exists when:
(a) electrical apparatus is isolated from all
sources of dynamic energy and grounded.
(b) mechanical apparatus is isolated and/or
(i) at rest
(ii) not spring loaded
(iii) not under a liquid or gaseous pressure
different from that of the atmosphere which
will be harmful to workers or create a
hazardous condition
(iv) free from poisonous, suffocating, or
explosive gases
(v) free from chemical energy
(vi) free from extreme temperature.
[Standard Protection Code]
Designated Signaler:
A worker that is to control traffic through
a work area, providing safety to workers,
the public and pedestrians.
Electrical Work
Safety Perimeter:
A defined or controlled boundary
3.05m [10ft] from exposed current
carrying components the purpose of
which is to ensure that:
0-2
• Unprotected / unauthorized personnel
do not enter the arc flash hazard zone;
and personnel working on equipment
are not distracted.
Ergonomics:
The science of fitting the design of the
working environment to the individual.
Ergonomics considers an individual’s
abilities and limitations for the work.
Flammable liquid:
A liquid that has a flash point below 37.8°
Celsius and has a vapour pressure not
exceeding 275.8 kilopascals at 37.8°
Celsius.
Flash point:
The point of lowest temperature at which
a liquid releases enough vapour to start
burning with exposure to an outside heat
source.
Hazard:
Source or situation with the potential for
harm in terms of injury or ill health,
damage to property, damage to the work
place environment, or a combination of
these.
Hazard analysis:
A systematic evaluation of a condition or
practice with potential for loss.
Hazardous material:
Any material likely to cause harm or injury
in certain circumstances.
Ignition temperature: The point of lowest temperature at which
a liquid releases enough vapour to
continue burning without exposure to an
outside heat source.
Incident:
An event that could or does result in
unintended harm or damage.
Injury:
An instance of physical harm or damage
to a person.
Isolated:
The state that exists when apparatus is
disconnected or interrupted from all
sources of dynamic energy and controls
0-3
have been put in place to prevent the
change of position of the separating
device(s). [Standard Protection Code]
Loss:
Avoidable waste of any resource.
Occupational Health
and Safety:
Means:
(a) the promotion and maintenance of the
highest degree of physical, mental
and social well-being of workers;
(b) the prevention among workers of ill
health caused by their working
conditions
(c) the protection of workers in their
employment from factors adverse to
their health
(d) the placing and maintenance of
workers in working environments that
are adapted to their individual
physiological and psychological
conditions; and
(e) the promotion and maintenance of a
working environment that is free of
harassment
Personal Protective
Equipment (PPE):
Any clothing, device or other article that
is intended to be worn or used by a
worker to prevent injury or to facilitate
rescue.
Power Plant:
The location and infrastructure where
electricity is generated.
Powered Mobile
Equipment:
Is a self propelled machine or a
combination of machines, including a
prime mover, that is designed to
manipulate or move materials or to
provide a work platform for workers.
Regulations:
The Occupational Health and Safety
Regulations, 1996.
0-4
Risk:
A combination of the likelihood and
consequence(s) of a specified hazardous
event occurring.
Risk assessment:
The process of estimating the magnitude
of risk and deciding whether or not the
risk is tolerable.
Qualified:
Means possessing a recognized degree,
a recognized certificate or a recognized
professional standing and demonstrating,
by knowledge, training and experience,
the ability to deal with problems related to
the subject-matter, the work or the
project.
Safety:
Freedom from unacceptable risk or harm.
Safety Talk:
A discussion on any safety topic to
promote workplace safety awareness.
Separated:
The state that exists when apparatus is
disconnected or interrupted from all
sources of dynamic energy and controls
have not been put in place either locally
or remotely, to prevent the change of
position of the separating device(s).
[Standard Protection Code]
Shall:
To be required or compelled to do.
Indicating insistence.
Supervisor:
A person who is authorized by an
employer to oversee or direct the work of
workers.
Tailboard Meeting:
A meeting conducted at the job site by
the workers to assess the adequacy of
the job plan, and to ensure that all
hazards are identified and mitigated.
Tolerable Risk:
Risk that has been reduced to a level that
can be endured by the organization
having regard to its legal obligations and
its own OH&S policy.
0-5
SECTION 1
ACTIONS FOR SAFETY
Page
100
GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES FOR SAFETY
1-2
101
SUPERVISORS’ RESPONSIBILITIES
1-2
1-1
SECTION 1
ACTION FOR SAFETY
100
GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES FOR SAFETY
Compliance with SaskPower Safety Policies and Standards
shall be a condition of employment for all SaskPower
personnel.
It is the responsibility of all employees and contractors to
perform a documented hazard and risk assessment as per
the Registration Unit’s (RU) requirements.
Standards referenced in each section of this Safety
Rulebook are not all inclusive, further standards may apply
based on the hazard and risk assessment.
Safety is part of everything we do. We all have an
obligation to ensure the safety and well being of all
employees, contractors and the public exposed to our
facilities.
Workers witnessing an unsafe act have the responsibility to
bring it to the attention of the supervisor. In case of
imminent danger, a worker may shut down the job until
such time as the supervising line authority can resolve the
situation.
101
SUPERVISORS' RESPONSIBILITIES
.1
All SaskPower supervisors shall understand and comply
with the requirements of the Safety Rulebook, OH&S Act
and Regulations, Safety Standards and Policies applicable
to their work.
.2
Supervisors shall ensure that all work under their direct
control is carried out in a safe manner.
.3
Supervisors shall ensure there is provision for information,
instruction, training, and supervision that is necessary to
protect the health and safety of workers at work.
•
Supervisors shall ensure that all activities are adequately
supervised and only assigned to competent workers.
1-2
•
New and/or transferred employees shall be under direct
supervision until their competence is verified.
.4
Supervisors shall set an example for their workers in their
use of safety equipment and in their work habits, and shall
ensure that all PPE is correctly used.
.5
Supervisors shall ensure that the workers they supervise
comply with the local requirements for Hazard/Risk
Assessment. The procedures for Hazard/Risk Assessment
shall be referenced in the Safety Management System for
each work unit.
.6
Supervisors have the authority to shut down any job they
believe to be unsafe.
.7
Supervisors shall leave work sites in a safe and secure
condition, ensuring that hazardous conditions that may
result in injury to other workers or the general public are
controlled.
Note: For further information see SaskPower Health and Safety
Management System located in SafetyNet Portal under
Safety Processes/Programs/Services.
1-3
SECTION 2
GENERAL SAFETY RULES
Page
200
GENERAL WORKPLACE SAFETY
2-2
201
GENERAL HAZARD CONTROL
2-2
202
FITNESS FOR DUTY
2-3
203
HOUSEKEEPING
2-4
204
SAFETY ON CUSTOMER PREMISES
2-5
205
FIRST AID
2-5
206
FIRE PREVENTION AND PROTECTION
2-6
207
SHIFTWORK
2-6
208
WORKPLACE VISITORS
2-7
209
EMERGENCY RESPONSE
2-7
2-1
SECTION 2
200
GENERAL WORKPLACE SAFETY
.1
SaskPower facilities shall be kept clean and orderly at all
times.
.2
Each worker shall be responsible to keep their work area
clean and orderly.
.3
Lighting shall be sufficient and suitable for the work to be
done.
.4
Workers shall report any damage, abnormal conditions,
incidents or deficiencies to their immediate supervisor.
201
GENERAL HAZARD CONTROL
.1
It is a SaskPower policy that all tasks, assignments and
circumstances are assessed to identify hazards and that
reasonably practicable measures shall be taken to
eliminate, reduce or control those risks.
.2
Methods and frequency of hazard identification at the
facility and job specific level shall be defined in Registration
Unit procedures for hazard and risk assessment. Workers
shall follow their Registration Unit’s procedures.
.3
A documented tailboard / safety plan shall be conducted
when more than one worker is performing a job.
.4
All workers shall be included in the hazard identification
and risk assessment. The supervisor shall review the job
hazard identification and risk assessment with any workers
not present at the original meeting. If job conditions
change, the job hazard identification and risk assessment
shall be reviewed and revised as required.
.5
Safe work procedures shall be developed for critical tasks.
.6
Access to all SaskPower work locations shall be controlled
to protect the public and to secure SaskPower facilities.
.7
SaskPower’s hierarchies of hazard controls are:
• Elimination
2-2
•
•
•
•
Substitution
Engineering controls
Administrative controls
Personal protective equipment
Note: For further information see SaskPower Hazard Control
Policy, SaskPower Job Hazard Assessment Policy, Safety
Management Policy, applicable Standards, SaskPower
Public Safety Policy and Standard Protection Code.
202
FITNESS FOR DUTY:
Any employee suffering from any physical or mental condition that
could affect their ability to safely perform their duties shall inform
the appropriate person of authority.
.1
All SaskPower and contract employees shall report to work
free from the harmful or debilitating effects of drugs and/or
alcohol.
.2
SaskPower and contract employees shall not use, distribute
or offer for sale alcohol or illegal drugs while at a
SaskPower workplace.
.3
All employees shall report known or suspected use of drugs
and/or alcohol at work to the appropriate person of
authority.
.4
SaskPower or contract employees who are taking
prescription or over the counter medications that could
affect their work performance shall inform their immediate
supervisor.
.5
Drug and/or alcohol testing may be required when
reasonable grounds have been established or post incident
when there are reasonable grounds to believe that the use
of drugs and/or alcohol may have been a contributing factor
to an incident.
Note: For further information see the SaskPower Drug and
Alcohol Policy and Standard
2-3
203
HOUSEKEEPING
.1
Workers shall return materials, tools and equipment to their
proper place.
.2
Aisles, stairs and walkways shall be kept clear of
obstructions.
.3
Surfaces shall be kept free of grease and other slippery
substances.
.4
Lockers and washrooms shall be maintained in an orderly
and sanitary condition.
.5
Outside stairs and sidewalks shall be kept clear of ice and
snow.
.6
Where an accumulation of ice and/or snow may pose an
overhead hazard, a suitable protective structure shall be
provided, or the accumulation of snow and ice shall be
removed.
.7
Portable electrical fans and heaters shall be positioned in a
safe manner.
.8
Extension or telephone cords, etc., shall not be stretched
across the floor in a manner that may create a tripping
hazard.
.9
Use of electrical extension cords shall be kept to a
minimum. All electrical office equipment shall be
maintained in good repair.
.10
Broken glass and other sharp objects shall be disposed of
in a safe and prompt manner, and shall not be placed in
wastebaskets.
.11
Drawers of filing cabinets shall be kept closed when not
being used. Overloading of top drawers
or opening more than one drawer at a time shall be
avoided.
2-4
204
SAFETY ON CUSTOMER PREMISES
.1
Workers shall be alert to hazards such as overhanging
icicles, slippery walkways, irregular stairs, awnings,
unprotected shafts and openings in floors.
.2
All workers encountering aggressive animals or who are
threatened or feel endangered on customer premises shall
leave immediately. Workers shall report the incident to their
immediate supervisor, and if applicable enter the incident
into the Safety Management System (SMS)
.3
Workers shall use flashlights for illumination whenever
necessary.
.4
A worker accessing customer premises and/or property
shall carry a two-way communications device. When twoway communication is not available an alternate working
alone procedure or buddy system is required.
.5
Workers entering commercial or industrial sites shall
comply with the site applicable safety procedures and use
PPE as required. Workers shall also participate in an onsite orientation as required.
Note: For further information see the Animal Control Standard,
Working Alone Standard and Workplace Violence
Standard.
205
FIRST AID
.1
First Aid facilities shall be provided and maintained at all
workplaces.
.2
First Aid/CPR/AED training shall be made available as
required. All SaskPower employees will be given the
opportunity to be trained in first aid.
.3
The Intelex reporting module is the SaskPower first aid
register. All first aid incidents shall be recorded in the first
aid register.
.4
Employees shall enter all injuries through SMS Incident
reporting process.
Note: For further information see SaskPower First Aid Standard.
2-5
206
FIRE PREVENTION AND PROTECTION
.1
All SaskPower workplaces shall have a written fire safety
plan.
.2
Approved containers shall be used for the storage of
combustible and flammable substances.
.3
Containers with flammable or combustible substances shall
be stored in approved storage facilities.
.4
Materials or furniture shall not hinder access to fire
extinguishers or exits.
.5
All building exits and entrances shall be clear of
obstructions.
.6
Workers shall be familiar with the operation of portable fire
extinguishers, their workplace fire safety plan and the
location of extinguishers, exits and fire alarm stations.
.7
SaskPower shall ensure that portable fire extinguishers are
inspected and maintained in good working order.
.8
Areas with Halon suppression systems shall be posted and
workers shall be informed of the hazards of Halon.
.9
Any fires involving crown owned or leased buildings and
vehicles that will be submitted for an insurance claim shall
be reported to the Fire Commissioners office (1-800-7393473). No alteration of the scene may occur until the
commissioner releases the scene.
Note: For further information see Safe Work Practice Re-entry
and Clean-up of Fire Damaged Buildings, Emergency
Response Standard
207
SHIFTWORK
.1
All workers who are, or will be, assigned to permanent shift
work, shall be provided with an orientation that informs
them of potential hazards of working shift work, including
methods to reduce or minimize the risk to workers.
Note: For further information see SaskPower Shift Work
Standard.
2-6
208
WORKPLACE VISITORS
.1
Controls shall be in place to minimize the risk exposure to
visitors. Controls include orientation, tour guides,
accounting for visitors while on premises.
.2
The orientation shall be conducted based on the level of
risk, prior to accessing controlled areas.
.3
Visitor access and controls shall be based on the level of
risk and security protocols. This shall include personal
protective equipment (PPE) requirements.
Note: For further information see SaskPower Visitor Standard
209
EMERGENCY RESPONSE
.1
Each Registration Unit shall determine requirements of
emergency response on the worksite and develop
applicable plans.
.2
The Registration Unit shall test their emergency response
plans to ensure continuing suitability, adequacy and
effectiveness.
.3
Testing protocol shall be approved by local management
and exercises carried out at planned intervals and when
significant changes occur.
.4
Testing exercises may include orientation, tabletop
exercises, functional exercises and/or full scale exercises
involving multiple responding organizations and must be
documented.
.5
The requirement for an emergency response team shall be
based on level of risk for work activities and on response
time of external emergency responders.
.6
If an emergency response team is required, members shall
be trained in all duties they are expected to perform.
.7
Emergency responders shall receive additional training
necessary to effectively maintain their skills.
Note: For further information see SaskPower Emergency
Response Testing Protocol Standard and SaskPower
Emergency Response Team Standard.
2-7
SECTION 3
PERSONAL PROTECTION
300
Page
GENERAL
3-2
301
EYE AND FACE PROTECTION
3-2
302
HEAD PROTECTION
3-3
303
FOOT PROTECTION
3-4
304
HAND AND ARM PROTECTION
3-4
305
RESPIRATORY PROTECTION
3-4
306
HEARING PROTECTION
3-5
307
FALL PROTECTION
3-5
308
HIGH VISIBILITY
3-6
309
ARC FLASH-(FRC)
3-6
310
PERSONAL OR PORTABLE GAS MONITOR
3-7
3-1
SECTION 3
PERSONAL PROTECTION
300
GENERAL
SaskPower’s Personal Protective Equipment Policy is to
facilitate the implementation of appropriate PPE that shall
be utilized by SaskPower employees, contractors working
on SaskPower’s behalf, and visitors to our facilities and
worksites.
.1
Employees, contractors and visitors shall use applicable
PPE as per the requirements of the hazard and risk
assessment.
.2
Employees shall be trained in the use of PPE.
.3
Registration Units shall develop and/or maintain a
process(s) whereby SaskPower PPE is inspected,
maintained and returned to, or removed from use.
.4
Damaged PPE shall be removed from service immediately,
repaired by qualified personnel or replaced.
Note: For further information see SaskPower Personal Protective
Equipment Policy and applicable SaskPower Standards.
301
EYE AND FACE PROTECTION
.1
Eye and face protection shall be worn where hazard
identification and risk assessment identifies the
requirement.
.2
Other PPE or equipment must not compromise the level of
protection provided.
.3
Goggles shall be contoured to the face and fit properly.
.4
Eye and face protection shall not be modified. (i.e. removal
of side shields).
.5
Face shields will have appropriate arc rating based on the
hazard.
3-2
.6
Inspect safety glasses and face protectors for damage or
defects that could decrease visibility or affect their ability to
provide protection. If in doubt, replace.
Note: For further information see SaskPower Eye and Face
Protection Standard, SaskPower Prescription Safety
Eyewear Standard, Arc Flash Standard.
302
HEAD PROTECTION
.1
Hard hats shall be worn where a hazard identification and
risk assessment identifies the requirement.
.2
Hard hats shall be used and worn as per the manufacturer
specifications and instructions (as indicated on the
compliance decal on the inside of the shell).
.3
Other PPE or equipment must not compromise the level of
protection provided by the hard hat. A proper fit must be
ensured when using a liner with a hard hat.
.4
Nothing shall be carried inside headwear. Space between
the head and the headwear is needed to absorb the energy
of an impact.
.5
Winter liners must be fire resistant where a hazard
identification and risk assessment identifies the
requirement.
.6
Hard hats shall not be modified and shall be kept clean.
Where identification is required (i.e. trade specific,
apprentice or contractor) on hard hats only approved
stickers shall be used.
.7
All hard hats shall meet the requirements of ANSI Standard
Z89.1-2003 or CSA Standard Z94.1-05.
.8
Hard hats shall be supplied through SaskPower Central
Stores or through the Registration Unit’s (RU) purchasing
process.
.9
Inspect the shell, suspension and liner of the hard hat daily
before use.
.10
Hard hats shall be Type 1 cap (front brim) or hat (full brim),
class E.
3-3
Note: For further information see SaskPower Hard hat Standard
303
FOOT PROTECTION
.1
Protective foot wear shall be worn where hazard
identification and risk assessment identify the requirement.
.2
Workers shall wear appropriate approved electrical shock
resistant protective footwear in designated areas.
.3
Protective footwear shall be in good condition.
Note: For further information see SaskPower Foot Protection
Standard.
304
HAND AND ARM PROTECTION
.1
Hand and arm protection shall be worn based on the
requirements of a hazard identification and risk
assessment.
.2
Hand protection includes gloves that are designed to
protect the hand from electrical, chemical, biological,
thermal conditions and physical hazards.
Note: For further information see Hand and Arm Protection
Standard and Gloves of Insulating Material Standard
305
RESPIRATORY PROTECTION
.1
The appropriate respirator shall be worn, where hazard
identification and risk assessment identifies the
requirement.
.2
Workers shall be trained in the selection, use, fit and
maintenance of respiratory equipment.
.3
Where a worker is likely to be exposed to airborne
contaminants and where there is potential for harm to the
worker, employees shall be fit tested prior to use of the
respirator.
.4
Ensure that nothing interferes with the seal between face
and respirator and that there is no facial hair in the areas
where a specific respirator is to seal to the skin.
.5
Check the seal after donning the respirator.
3-4
Note: For further information see SaskPower Respiratory
Protection Standard, Respiratory Personal Protective
Equipment (PPE) Standard.
306
HEARING PROTECTION
.1
Hearing protection shall be worn where hazard
identification and risk assessment identifies the
requirement.
.2
Hearing protection shall be approved and be adequate to
reduce noise levels entering the workers ear below 85 dBA.
.3
Hearing protection shall be supplied through SaskPower
Central Stores or through the Registration Units (RU)
purchasing process.
Note: For further information see SaskPower Hearing Protection
Standard and the SaskPower Hearing Conservation
Standard.
307
FALL PROTECTION
.1
Fall hazards at a temporary or permanent worksite shall be
identified via a documented hazard identification and risk
assessment. Fall hazards include:
• If employee is elevated at a vertical distance of three
metres or more; or
• Where there is potential of injury from falls at less than
three metres.
.2
Full body harnesses and components shall be supplied
through SaskPower’s stock coded item or through the
Registration Unit’s purchasing process.
.3
A fall protection plan shall be developed, where guardrails
or similar barriers do not protect workers.
.4
Full body harnesses and components shall not be modified
or marked by felt markers, paint, tape etc.
.5
Workers shall be trained in the use of full-body harnesses
and fall-arrest devices.
3-5
.6
Full body harnesses and components shall be inspected by
the user prior to use.
.7
Full body harnesses and components in use shall be
inspected by a competent person:
• Annually, as per manufacturer’s specifications.
• When the harness has been subject to a fall.
.8
Full body harnesses and components that have been
subject to a fall shall be removed from service, tagged and
inspected and/or disposed of through the Registration
Unit’s inspection process.
Note: For further information see SaskPower Full Body Harness,
SaskPower Fall Protection Plan Standard and Personal Fall
Arrest System Components Standard.
308
HIGH VISIBILITY
.1
High visibility clothing shall be worn where hazard
identification and risk assessment identifies the
requirement.
.2
The High visibility clothing worn shall be a minimum of
class 2.
.3
High visibility Class 3 clothing shall be worn by workers
conducting flagging operations or directing traffic.
.4
High visibility clothing shall be required for all work on or
near roadways or highways
Note: For further information see SaskPower High Visibility
Standard and SaskPower Traffic Control Standard and
SaskPower Traffic Control Guidelines.
309
ARC FLASH (FRC)
.1
The Hazard and Risk Assessment process will be used to
assess the potential incident energy for the intended task
and apparatus.
.2
Electrical Safe Work Perimeter shall be established when
work is being performed on apparatus that has not been
verified to be in an Electrically Safe Work Condition
3-6
.3
When it has been determined that elimination of the Arc
Flash Hazard is not practicable the workers shall select Arc
Flash PPE that provides protection from the anticipated
potential incident energy. The tables in CSA Z462-08 Table
4 and the Arc Protection Recommendations for SaskPower
Transmission and Distribution can be used to assist in
selecting PPE of the appropriate protection level.
.4
Flame Resistant Clothing shall be worn as an outer layer,
not worn under other types of non-flame resistant
garments.
.5
Wear protective clothing for maximum protection (i.e.
collars closed, cuffs and sleeves worn down and secured).
Note: For further information see SaskPower ARC FLASH
Standard.
310
PERSONAL OR PORTABLE GAS MONITOR
.1
Personal gas Monitors shall be used where hazard
identification and risk assessment identifies the
requirement.
.2
Gas monitors shall be tested and used as per the
manufacturer specifications
.3
Gas monitors that are used occasionally shall be bump
tested monthly to ensure they continue to remain functional.
.4
Gas monitors shall be calibrated according to the
manufacturer’s specification.
.5
Training is required for all users of the monitors.
• Care and use of monitor.
• Bump testing methods and requirements.
• Calibration intervals.
.6
Equipment used for bump testing must be maintained as
per manufacturing instructions.
Note: For further information see SaskPower Personal Gas
Monitor Standard and SaskPower Bump Testing
Procedure.
3-7
SECTION 4
PROTECTIVE TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT
Page
400
GENERAL
4-2
401
HIGH AND LOW VOLTAGE RUBBER
GLOVES, MITTS AND SLEEVES (GENERAL)
4-2
402
CLASS 0 GLOVES
4-3
403
CLASS I GLOVES
4-3
404
CLASS II GLOVES
4-3
405
CLASS III GLOVES
4-4
406
RUBBER HOSES, HOODS AND BLANKETS
4-4
407
FIBERGLASS REINFORCED PLASTIC
LIVE-LINE TOOLS
4-4
408
MEASURING DEVICES
4-5
409
PHASING EQUIPMENT
4-5
4-1
SECTION 4
ELECTRICAL TOOLS AND PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
400
GENERAL
.1
The Hazard/Risk Analysis process will determine the
protective tools and other PPE that are required for each
job/task. The PPE requirements shall be documented.
.2
Protective tools and equipment shall be made available,
and shall be used at all work locations as required.
.3
Workers shall be trained in the application and use of
protective tools and equipment.
.4
All insulating PPE and tools shall be tested as per
appropriate third party standards.
401
HIGH AND LOW VOLTAGE RUBBER GLOVES, MITTS
AND SLEEVES (GENERAL)
.1
Rubber gloves shall be worn where the hazard and risk
assessment requires them while performing hand contact
work on all electrical apparatus that has not been deenergized.
.2
Rubber gloves and their leather protectors shall be in good
condition and shall only be used with the leather rubber
glove protectors.
.3
Rubber gloves shall be checked before each use by means
of an air test and visual inspection.
.4
Rubber gloves and sleeves shall not be used beyond the
test expiry date.
.5
Workers having reason to believe their gloves or sleeves
are defective shall stop using them and send them in for
testing.
.6
Rubber gloves and sleeves shall not be stored in direct
sunlight and kept in their natural position. Rubber gloves
shall be inserted cuffs first into the supplied container.
.7
Workers shall not wear jewelry on the hands/ arms to avoid
damaging rubber gloves.
4-2
.8
Powdered talc shall be the only lubricant used in rubber
gloves.
.9
Rubber gloves are required when working on any apparatus
that is not in the “verified” de-energized state, unless an
approved work procedure dictates otherwise.
.10
Rubber gloves shall be worn when working on energized
apparatus when adverse weather conditions dictate the use
of additional protection, and/or when the worker or
supervisor deems the additional protection necessary.
402 CLASS 0 GLOVES
.1
Class 0 Rubber Gloves shall be worn when working on
energized equipment in excess of 50 volts but less than
1kV.
403
CLASS I GLOVES
.1
Class I rubber gloves shall be worn during all direct hand
contact with conductors or apparatus from 1KV to 5kV
(phase to phase).
.2
Class I rubber gloves are sufficient to provide protection
when operating any Ground Operated Pole Top (GOPT)
switch unless a visual inspection reveals faulty components
or an incomplete equipotential zone. These conditions must
be corrected before switching can occur.
404
CLASS II GLOVES
.1
Class II rubber gloves shall be worn during direct hand
contact with conductors or apparatus from 1KV to 5KV. The
use of Class II above 5KV will be dictated by approved
work procedures.
.2
Class II rubber gloves shall be used with insulated
wrenches for tightening hardware on
25kV systems.
.3
Class Il rubber gloves shall be worn when stringing or
sagging conductors near live circuits.
4-3
.4
Class ll rubber gloves shall NOT be used to handle
energized 14.4kV underground cable.
405
CLASS III GLOVES
.1
Class III rubber gloves shall be worn when performing 25kV
rubber glove work procedures. High voltage rubber
protective equipment and/or other protective equipment of
the correct voltage range shall also be used as required.
.2
When performing 25kV rubber glove work, Class III gloves
shall be put on before leaving the ground and shall be worn
at all times while performing these work procedures.
.3
Only personnel who have received training in 25kV rubber
glove work procedures may undertake such work.
406
RUBBER HOSES, HOODS AND BLANKETS
.1
Rubber hoses, hoods and blankets shall be used where the
hazard and risk assessment dictates, while performing work
on all electrical apparatus that has not been de-energized.
.2
All rubber equipment shall be stored in containers provided,
and/or in an area not subjected to sun rays, light, corona,
ozone or heat, and in such a manner that no strain is
placed on any part of the rubber equipment. Rubber
blankets shall be rolled and placed in containers. Line hose
shall be stored lying flat.
.3
Rubber equipment shall be inspected and cleaned prior to
each use. Any rubber equipment found defective shall be
tagged and removed from service.
407
FIBERGLASS REINFORCED PLASTIC LIVE-LINE
TOOLS
.1
Hot sticks shall be visually inspected for signs of damage
before each use.
.2
Live-line tools shall not be used past the expiry date label
on the stick.
.3
Alterations or modifications shall not be made to hot sticks.
4-4
.4
A live-line tool shall be removed from service if one of the
following observations is made:
• A tingling sensation when the tool is in contact with an
energized conductor or piece of apparatus.
• Deterioration of the surface of the fiberglass reinforced
plastic (FRP) rod, such as loss of glossy appearance,
cuts, gouges, dents, cracks, fraying or delaminating.
• Evidence of tracking in an electrically stressed tool.
• Evidence of bent or cracked components.
• Evidence of overloading (deformed rivets indicate that
excessive mechanical loading has occurred and has
weakened or sheared the bond between the ferrules and
the FRP rod).
.5
Live-line tools shall be maintained in a clean condition.
.6
Live-line tools shall be kept in weatherproof
enclosures when not in use.
408
MEASURING DEVICES
.1
Approved dielectric measuring devices shall be used when
measuring in the vicinity of any energized electrical
apparatus that has not been confirmed de-energized.
409
PHASING EQUIPMENT
.1
Apparatus Stores shall be the only source of phasing
equipment used for phase verification.
.2
Phase identification shall be performed under the direction
of a qualified person.
.3
Supervisors shall ensure that high potential sticks or
phasing testers used on high-voltage circuits are in good
condition and have non-expired SaskPower test-dated
labels attached.
.4
Phasing equipment shall be stored and transported in the
carrying case provided for this purpose.
4-5
.5
Class ll rubber gloves shall be worn when conducting tests
with this equipment, according to the manufacturer's
specification.
4-6
SECTION 5
TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT
Page
500
GENERAL
5-2
501
LADDERS
5-2
502
SCAFFOLDS
5-3
503
CRANES, HOISTS AND LIFTING
DEVICES
5-3
504
RIGGING
5-4
505
HAND SIGNALS
5-5
506
JACKS (HYDRAULIC OR MECHANICAL)
5-5
507
TOWING DEVICES
5-5
508
ELECTRICALLY OPERATED HAND TOOLS
AND PORTABLE EQUIPMENT
5-6
509
FIXED MACHINE TOOLS
5-6
510
GRINDERS
5-7
511
GASOLINE POWERED PORTABLE
TOOLS
5-7
512
CHAIN SAWS
5-7
513
CHIPPERS
5-8
514
EXPLOSIVE ACTUATED TOOLS AND
THERMAL CHEMICAL WELDING (Cadweld)
5-9
515
COMPRESSED AIR AND PNEUMATIC
TOOLS
5-9
516
WINCHES
5-10
517
BATTERIES AND BATTERY ROOMS
5-10
5-1
SECTION 5
TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT
500
GENERAL
.1
A hazard and risk assessment shall be performed prior to
operating or using the tools and equipment in this section.
.2
Tools and equipment shall be maintained in good working
condition and used for the purpose for which they are
designed.
.3
Workers shall inspect tools and equipment prior to use.
.4
Tools and equipment found to be defective or unsafe shall
be tagged "defective" and shall not be used until repaired or
replaced.
.5
Supervisors shall ensure that workers receive instruction in
the use of tools and equipment.
.6
Tools and equipment shall be stored and handled safely to
avoid injury or damage.
.7
Safety devices, interlocks and guards shall not be removed,
or altered.
501
LADDERS
.1
Ladders shall be selected, used and maintained to perform
their function safely.
.2
Portable ladders other than a step ladder, shall;
• Always maintain a 1 (horizontal) to 4 (vertical) ratio,
• Workers shall face the ladder and maintain three points
of contact.
• Workers shall only extend the arms beyond the rails.
• Ladders must extend a minimum of one meter above any
platform, roof or landing.
.3
All portable ladders shall be equipped with non-slip feet and
be secured against accidental movement during use.
.4
Defective ladders shall be destroyed.
5-2
.5
A worker shall not work from the top two rungs or steps of a
portable ladder.
.6
Stepladders shall be fully opened and in a locked position
when being used.
.7
While ascending or descending a ladder a worker shall
maintain three points of contact.
.8
Ladders being moved in areas of overhead exposed
energized equipment or facilities shall be carried in a
horizontal position.
.9
Use of portable metal ladders near exposed electrical
circuits or equipment is prohibited.
502
SCAFFOLDS
.1
When work cannot be done safely above the ground on a
permanent structure or from a ladder, a temporary work
platform shall be used.
.2
Scaffolds and temporary work platforms shall be erected,
maintained, inspected and approved by a competent
person before use. The inspection tag shall be attached to
the scaffold or work platform on an easily accessible tag.
.3
Scaffolds and temporary work platforms shall be inspected
by a competent person prior to daily use. This inspection
shall be logged on the accessible tag.
Note: For further information see the SaskPower Scaffolding
Erection and Use Standard.
503
CRANES, HOISTS AND LIFTING DEVICES
.1
A documented hazard and risk assessment shall include
the movement, set up, use and break down for mobile
cranes.
.2
The results of the hazard and risk assessment and safe
work procedures shall be reviewed with all workers
including any contracted operators.
.3
Workers and Supervisors shall ensure that all cranes,
hoists and lifting devices are inspected and are of a
capacity that is adequate for the job.
5-3
.4
Only qualified and competent operators shall operate
cranes, hoists and lifting devices rated over 5 tonnes.
.5
Only competent workers shall operate cranes or lifting
devices with a lift capacity of less than 5 tonnes.
.6
An operator's proof of certification shall be readily
accessible.
.7
The operator shall ensure that a logbook is available, and
the required entries are documented as required for every
crane, hoist and lifting device that is rated over 5 tonnes.
.8
A copy of the manufacturer's operating manual shall be
kept with every hoist, crane and lifting device.
.9
Any hoist or crane that is involved in any incident that may
effect the structural integrity of the device shall be
inspected by a competent person prior to completing the lift.
Once the task is completed the lifting device shall be
removed from service till recertified.
504
RIGGING
.1
All rigging shall be assembled, used, maintained and
dismantled by competent personnel in accordance with the
manufacturer's specifications.
.2
All rigging shall be inspected before use, and at appropriate
intervals during use, to determine whether it can safely
perform its functions as per manufacturer's specifications
and load rating.
.3
Workers performing these duties shall be trained in safe
rigging practices.
.4
Damaged rigging components shall be removed from
service and rendered inoperable.
.5
Slings shall be removed from service if they fail to meet
manufacturer’s inspection criteria.
505
HAND SIGNALS
.1
When the nature of the work requires the use of signals,
only one person shall give them.
5-4
.2
Signals shall be rehearsed and thoroughly understood by
the signaler and operator before beginning a job.
.3
The signaler shall be easily identified.
506
JACKS (Hydraulic or Mechanical)
.1
Jacks shall not be subjected to loads in excess of their
rating.
.2
Jacks shall be placed so that a firm footing is assured.
.3
Jacks shall be properly centered under loads.
.4
Jacks shall never be left standing under a load with the
handle in the socket.
.5
Workers shall not rely on jacks alone to support any load
under which they have to work; the load shall be securely
blocked.
507
TOWING DEVICES
.1
Only approved towing devices shall be used.
.2
Metal devices shall not be used for the joining of synthetic
tow ropes. All tow ropes shall be equipped with soft eyes.
.3
The use of a rated shackle shall only be permitted when
terminating a tow rope on a closed eye attachment point.
The use of metal hardware to terminate a synthetic tow
rope shall not be permitted in any other application.
.4
Towing devices shall not be overloaded.
.5
Towing devices that are damaged beyond the manufacturer
inspection criteria shall not be used.
Note: For further information see SaskPower Vehicle Recovery
Standard and/ or Towing/Equipment Retrieval Safe Work
Directive.
508
ELECTRICALLY OPERATED HAND TOOLS AND
PORTABLE EQUIPMENT
.1
All electrical hand tools shall have an identified grounding
conductor installed, to ensure the grounding conductor is
5-5
positively connected to an effective grounding system or,
they shall be of an approved design with built-in double
insulation.
.2
Electrically operated hand tools shall only be operated by
competent personnel.
.3
All electrical tools and portable electrical equipment and
their cords shall be maintained in good condition.
.4
Portable extension lamps used in boilers, penstocks, wet or
damp areas, or other locations where there may be a
significant grounding hazard, shall be equipped with an
isolating transformer at the source end of the cord; or, they
shall be connected to the AC supply through a Ground
Fault Circuit Interrupting (GFCI) device.
.5
Only explosion-proof temporary lighting and equipment
shall be used in hazardous atmospheres.
.6
A portable generator with a rating in excess of: 12KVA or
240 volts to ground shall be connected to ground in an
approved manner pursuant to the Electrical Inspection Act.
509
FIXED MACHINE TOOLS
.1
All shafts, wheels, gears, flywheels and other parts of
rotating machinery shall be guarded.
.2
Fixed machine tools shall be operated by qualified and or
competent personnel.
.3
Fixed machine tools shall be turned off when work is
finished, and shall not be left unattended when they are in
operation.
.4
Operators of fixed machine tools shall wear close-fitting
clothing. They shall not wear jewelry or other items that
may contact moving parts of the machine, and their hair
shall be confined.
.5
Operating controls shall be within easy reach of the
operator, and shall be located or guarded to minimize the
possibility of accidental operation.
.6
Stopping devices shall be readily identifiable and located
within direct view and easy reach of the operator.
5-6
510
GRINDERS
.1
Fixed grinders shall be equipped with shields and material
rests.
.2
The rests on fixed grinders shall not be set more than 3
mm from the face of the wheel.
.3
Blotters (grind stone pads) shall be installed according to
the manufacturer's recommendations.
.4
Grinding discs (wheels) shall not be operated at a speed
that exceeds the manufacturer's recommendations.
.5
Any chipped, cracked or damaged grinding stones or
grinding discs shall be removed from service and discarded
immediately.
.6
Portable grinders shall not be placed in a vice for grinding
hand held work.
511
GASOLINE POWERED PORTABLE TOOLS
.1
Gasoline powered portable tools shall only be used
outdoors or in areas with adequate ventilation.
.2
Gasoline powered portable tools shall not be started in the
confines of a bucket.
.3
Gasoline powered portable tools can be used in aerial
devices only if there is an external shelf available for
starting and storing.
512
CHAIN SAWS
.1
Chain saw operators shall be trained in their safe operation.
.2
Safety devices on chain saws shall be in good working
order, and shall not be tampered with or removed.
.3
An operator shall ensure the chain is stopped while walking
with a chain saw.
.4
Gasoline chain saws may be used in an aerial device if an
external shelf is used for chain saw storage and starting. If
the external shelf cannot be adhered to, a hydraulically
driven chain saw shall be used.
5-7
.5
Chain saws shall not be operated from a ladder, a pole, a
rooftop, or in a tree.
.6
The hands of the chain saw operator shall not be above the
shoulders when operating the chain saw.
.7
When operating an extendable chain saw or bush trimmer
the operator shall ensure that all workers are outside of the
operating range of the saw or trimmer.
.8
When operating chain saws the standard PPE will be
supplemented with chain saw pants, boots and face
protection.
513
CHIPPERS
.1
Chipper operators shall be instructed in their safe
operation.
.2
Operators of chippers shall wear loose fitting gloves or mitts
and not wear loose fitting or baggy clothing.
.3
Trees and branches shall be fed into the chipper butt-end
first. The diameter of logs shall not exceed manufacturers'
recommended specifications.
.5
Prior to feeding material into the chipper, everyone except
the operator performing this work shall be clear of the
immediate area.
.6
Operators shall not stand directly in front of the chipper
intake when feeding it, or pass in front of it while it is
operating.
.7
A softwood push stick shall be used to feed brush into the
feeder. Hands or feet shall not be used to push brush into
the feeder past the protecting apron.
.8
Chippers shall be maintained in accordance with the
manufacturers' recommendation.
.9
The chipper's intake shall be checked for foreign objects
before it is started.
.10
When chipping brush on a traveled roadway, traffic control
devices shall be used.
5-8
.11
Chippers shall be equipped with a kill switch or a quick stop
and a reversing feed control bar of approved design at the
in-feed location. The safety devices shall be tested on startup.
.12
Chipper ignition keys and the starter buttons shall be wired
in series. The key shall be removed before attempting to
perform service, and the person doing the service shall hold
the key.
.13
If the chipper will be used without being attached to the
towing vehicle, the chipper shall be positioned on a level
surface (if possible) with the wheels securely chocked and
the tongue supported with blocking to ensure a level
chipper.
514
EXPLOSIVE ACTUATED TOOLS and THERMAL
CHEMICAL WELDING (Cadweld)
.1
Explosive actuated tools and thermal chemical welding
(Cadweld) shall be conducted in accordance with the
manufacturer's operating instructions.
.2
Workers shall be trained in the use of explosive actuated
tools and thermal chemical welds.
.3
When operating explosive actuated tools the worker shall
not leave the tool or explosive charges unattended. When
not in use, explosive actuated tools and their explosive
charges shall be kept in a locked container.
515
COMPRESSED AIR AND PNEUMATIC TOOLS
.1
Workers who use compressed air and pneumatic tools shall
be instructed in their safe operation.
.2
Compressed air shall never be used to clean clothing or be
directed against the skin.
.3
All air nozzles used for cleaning shall be of an approved
safety type.
.4
All compressed air systems shall have an approved safety
relief device.
5-9
.5
All system components shall be rated to match the system
operating pressure.
.6
All pneumatic couplings shall be equipped with safety
locking devices.
.7
All air line connections shall be secure and checked before
the air pressure is turned on.
.8
Pressure shall be released on air hoses and tools before
they are disconnected or repaired.
.9
Hoses shall be checked for damage and defects.
516
WINCHES
.1
When operating a winch on a vehicle, the operator shall
ensure the vehicle is secured against inadvertent
movement.
.2
No worker shall be permitted to stand near or pass over or
under a winch cable between the winch and its load while it
is in use.
.3
All manually operated winching equipment shall be
inspected prior to use.
.4
A winch shall not be operated beyond it’s safe work load
limit.
517
BATTERIES AND BATTERY ROOMS
.1
Signs shall be posted on battery room doors prohibiting any
unauthorized personnel from entering.
.2
Care shall be taken not to cause any electrostatic discharge
while performing maintenance or work on batteries.
.3
Work shall be limited to absolutely necessary observation
and required maintenance tasks.
.4
Spilled electrolyte shall be cleaned up immediately
according to proper spill control procedures.
.5
Approved emergency shower and/or eyewash equipment
shall be located at all work locations where wet cell
batteries are used and/or stored.
5-10
.6
All maintenance on batteries shall be performed with
insulated tools.
5-11
SECTION 6
VEHICLES, EQUIPMENT AND
TRANSPORTATION
Page
600
GENERAL
6-2
601
FIREARMS
6-3
602
AERIAL DEVICES, MAN BASKETS and
ELEVATING WORK PLATFORMS
6-3
603
POWERED MOBILE EQUIPMENT (PME)
6-4
604
AIR TRANSPORTATION
6-5
605
VEHICLE RECOVERY AND EXTRICATION
6-6
6-1
SECTION 6
VEHICLES, EQUIPMENT AND TRANSPORTATION
600
GENERAL
.1
The unsafe operation of any motor vehicle or the operation
of any unsafe SaskPower motor vehicle, while performing
any job, assignment or task on behalf of SaskPower is
prohibited.
.2
Drivers and/or passengers shall know and comply with
provincial and local traffic laws.
.3
No one shall be allowed to ride on a SaskPower vehicle or
equipment with feet hanging over the sides or end. It is also
prohibited to ride on any exterior portion of a vehicle or
equipment not designed to carry passengers.
.4
Drivers shall not engage in any activities that distract from
driving.
.5
No smoking is allowed in vehicles unless authorized by
employer (e.g. supervisor) or lessee.
.6
Where applicable, vehicle maintenance and driver logs
shall be completed as per the Transportation Code of
Compliance.
.7
Workers who operate snowmobiles and ATVs shall be
instructed in the guidelines for use found in the operator's
manual. They shall perform a hazard and risk assessment
to determine appropriate PPE.
.8
All workers who operate snowmobiles and ATV shall wear
approved protective head gear and face protection.
.9
Workers who operate watercraft shall be licensed and
instructed in the safe operation.
.10
All occupants in the watercraft shall be provided with and
wear approved personal flotation devices (pfd).
Note: For further information see SaskPower Motor Vehicle
Safety Policy and SaskPower Safe Driving Standard.
6-2
601
FIREARMS
.1
It is prohibited for SaskPower employees or Contractors to:
• use firearms or ammunition while on duty.
• transport firearms or ammunition in vehicles.
• store firearms or ammunition on SaskPower property.
Exceptions to rule 601.1 must have written approval from
the Business Unit Vice President, or Manager.
.2
Only Workers that possess a valid Fire Arms License may
receive written approval from the Business Unit Vice
President or Manager.
602
AERIAL DEVICES, MAN BASKETS and ELEVATING
WORK PLATFORMS
.1
Workers shall receive training to ensure competence in the
safe operation of aerial devices. Rescue procedures shall
be developed for all aerial equipment.
.2
When an electrical worker is working on or near exposed
energized electrical conductors, they shall have upper
controls for the aerial device they are operating.
.3
Insulated aerial equipment used in live line work shall
comply with the applicable SaskPower standard and work
procedure test requirements.
.4
Workers shall be provided with and trained in the use of fall
arrest equipment. Workers shall use the fall arrest
equipment provided.
.5
Workers shall be trained in bucket rescue techniques, and
practice the skill annually.
.6
Workers shall not remain in an aerial device that is being
moved unless the aerial device is approved to perform that
function.
.7
Aerial devices, elevating work platforms or personnel lifting
units shall be designed, constructed, erected, operated and
maintained in accordance with the manufacturers’
recommendations.
6-3
.8
The suspended basket shall be erected operated and
maintained according to manufacturer's specifications.
.9
The suspended basket and suspension system shall be
designed and certified by a Professional Engineer.
603
POWERED MOBILE EQUIPMENT (PME)
.1
Powered mobile equipment shall have a documented
inspection prior to daily use and in accordance with the
manufacturer recommendations.
.2
Before an operator starts any PME, they shall conduct a
visual inspection of the equipment and the surrounding
area to ensure that no worker including the operator is in
danger by the start up of the equipment.
.3
Powered mobile equipment found to be unsafe shall be
removed from service.
.4
Seatbelts or other restraining devices shall be used by PME
operators at all times.
.5
Operators and helpers shall keep constant watch for
indications of underground utilities, overhead wires and
other obstructions. When required, a signaler shall be
employed to warn the operator of the presence of workers
or pedestrians.
.6
All work near exposed energized electrical apparatus or
overhead conductor where inadvertent movement may
cause contact the work shall be done under the direction of
a qualified electrical worker.
.7
Operators shall not leave the controls of running mobile
equipment unattended.
.8
Workers shall remain out of range of the swinging
movement of a load or a part of the mobile equipment that
may endanger them.
.9
Working under or on an elevated part of mobile equipment
is prohibited, unless the equipment is securely blocked.
.10
A substantial bulkhead shall be utilized to protect the
operator of equipment from shifting loads.
6-4
.11
Booms, buckets and blades shall be lowered to the ground
or put on skids before an operator leaves the machine.
Loads shall be transported as low as possible.
.12
Manual clearing of trencher chains while the trencher is in
operation is prohibited.
.13
Climbing on or off any machine while it is in motion is
prohibited. Operators shall not allow anyone to stand on the
forks or climb on the upright assembly.
.14
Workers shall wear high visibility clothing when working in
the vicinity of PME.
.15
PME shall be equipped with audible warning devices (horn)
and a reverse motion warning device.
.16
When an operator does not have a clear view to travel,
assistance from another person shall be obtained.
.17
Workers shall be trained and competent in the operation of
powered mobile equipment.
.18
Trucks, trailers and boxcars shall be secured against
accidental movement before a forklift enters or leaves
them.
.19
A forklift may be used to support an approved work
platform.
Note: For further information see SaskPower Operation of
Powered Mobile Equipment Standard and the SaskPower
High Visibility Clothing Standard and the SaskPower Limits
of Approach.
604
AIR TRANSPORTATION
.1
Workers using non-scheduled air transportation shall
participate in a safety orientation from the operator of the
plane prior to take-off.
.2
Workers possessing a pilot license are not permitted to
operate aircraft for SaskPower business.
.3
Workers required to use air transportation for SaskPower
business, shall utilize the services of a commercial
operator.
6-5
.4
Air patrol activities shall be performed in compliance with
SaskPower’ procedure for “Fixed Wing Air Patrol.”
605
VEHICLE RECOVERY AND EXTRICATION
.1
When practicable the use of a commercial vehicle towing
service shall be the preferred method of vehicle recovery
and or extrication.
.2
Winching is the preferred method of vehicle recovery.
.3
Before attempting recovery of any vehicle or equipment, a
hazard identification and risk assessment shall be
completed.
a) Recovery vehicle resistance charts in vehicle logbook
shall be used.
b) Work shall be reassessed and hazard and risk
assessment performed if conditions change.
.4
Recovery system kits (rigging) that have been supplied
shall be based on vehicle being recovered and not the
pulling vehicle.
.5
Recovery vehicle(s) weight should be equal to or of greater
weight than the total vehicle resistance weight of the
vehicle being recovered.
.6
Recovery systems shall be inspected prior to and after use.
.7
Recovery history shall be documented in the vehicle
logbook.
.8
Damaged rigging shall be removed immediately from
service and replaced.
.9
All the slack in a tow rope must be slowly/gradually
removed prior to attempting to extricate a stranded vehicle.
Sling shotting is strictly prohibited under any circumstance.
.10
All property and equipment damage that occurs during a
vehicle recovery or extrication shall be reported in the SMS.
.11
SaskPower vehicles shall not be used to assist in recovery
of 3rd party vehicles.
6-6
Note: For further information see SaskPower Vehicle Recovery
Standard and SaskPower Towing Equipment Retrieval Safe
Work Directive.
6-7
SECTION 7
CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE
HAZARD CONTROL
Page
700
GENERAL HAZARD CONTROL
7-2
701
EXCAVATIONS AND TRENCHING
7-2
702
CONFINED SPACE ENTRY AND RESCUE
7-3
703
WELDING (GENERAL)
7-4
704
GAS WELDING AND CUTTING
7-4
705
BLASTING AND EXPLOSIVES
7-5
706
LIMITS OF APPROACH
7-6
707
ELECTRICAL WORK
7-6
708
BONDING AND GROUNDING
7-7
709
STANDARD PROTECTION CODE
7-7
710
BARRICADES AND SIGNS
7-8
711
WORKPLACE VIOLENCE
7-8
712
WORKING ALONE
7-8
713
ANIMAL CONTROL
7-9
7-1
SECTION 7
700
GENERAL HAZARD CONTROL
.1
For general hazard control please refer to section 200 of
the safety rulebook.
.2
Workers shall not throw anything to the ground from poles,
structures, scaffolds, ladders or any other elevated position,
nor permit anything to be thrown to them.
701
EXCAVATIONS AND TRENCHING
.1
All excavation and trenching hazards shall be determined
by a hazard identification and risk assessment. Prior to
excavation and trenching you shall have all services
identified that may be affected.
.2
If there is contact with or damage to an underground
pipeline, cable or conduit, the affected utility shall be
notified immediately.
.3
Hydrovac equipment may be used to expose underground
cables with the following restrictions:
a) Only those cables specified by SaskPower for hydrovac
exposure in its procedures shall be exposed using
hydrovac equipment.
b) The hydrovac vehicle shall be grounded and/or
barricaded.
c) Hydrovac operators shall stand on an equipotential mat
bonded to the conductive surfaces of the pressure
wand and vacuum tube. Any conductive equipment that
may be a hazard to the operator must also be
connected to the equipotential bond mats.
d) Barricades shall be put in place to prevent workers and
the public from approaching hydrovac equipment and
equipotential mats.
e) The end of the vacuum tube shall have a neoprene or
equivalent tip to eliminate the possibility of mechanical
damage to the cable.
7-2
f)
Hydrovac operators working near energized facilities
shall use:
• water at a temperature appropriate for the soil, frost
condition and cable ratings at a maximum pressure
of 10,000 kPa (1500 psi)
• an oscillating tip on the pressure wand (a single
stream nozzle end should not be allowed);and a
non-stop circular motion to direct the stream
Note: If the maximum pressure is insufficient to remove the soil
around the cable, the cable must be isolated and grounded,
then uncovered using other means.
For further information see SaskPower Excavation and
Trenching Standard.
702
CONFINED SPACE ENTRY AND RESCUE
.1
All confined spaces shall be identified, in consultation with
the OH Committee.
.2
All confined space entry and rescue shall be done in
compliance with an approved local confined space entry
and rescue procedure.
.3
All procedures shall be reviewed at the site of the confined
space to ensure that all hazards and controls have been
identified and implemented.
.4
Only authorized personnel shall be permitted to enter a
confined space or hazardous confined space. All workers
who are required to work in confined spaces shall review
the applicable confined space entry plan and the safe
practices relevant to this work.
.5
Approval by a Supervisor is required for entering into a
confined space that is deemed as immediately dangerous
to life or health (IDLH).
Note: For further information see SaskPower Confined Space
Standard.
7-3
703
WELDING (GENERAL)
.1
Welders and their helpers shall wear PPE, as determined
by the hazard and risk assessment.
.2
Only qualified and competent workers conduct welding.
.3
Only competent workers conduct cutting activities.
.4
When welding or cutting, precautions shall be taken to
prevent sparks or hot metal from falling onto people or
flammable materials.
.5
Local hot work procedures shall be followed when
performing welding or cutting operations.
.6
Matches or disposable lighters shall not be carried by
welders or their helpers when welding or cutting.
.7
Ventilation and respiratory protection shall be used to
control exposure to welding fumes and gases.
.8
Welding screens are to be used in areas where others may
be exposed to welding flash.
.9
Electric welding machines shall be adequately grounded.
.10
When electrode holders are to be left unattended, the
electrodes shall be removed and the holders shall be
placed or protected so that they cannot make electrical
contact with workers or conductive objects.
704
GAS WELDING AND CUTTING
.1
Inspection of all gas welding equipment shall be done prior
to use.
.2
Acetylene cylinders shall be stored securely and used in an
upright position. An acetylene cylinder that has been
accidentally tipped over, transported or stored in the
horizontal position shall not be used until it has been in the
vertical position for a minimum of one hour.
.3
Oxygen cylinders shall be stored separate from fuel-gas
cylinders or combustible materials (especially oil or grease)
at a minimum distance of six (6) metres, or by a 1.5 meter
high noncombustible barrier.
7-4
.4
Vehicular transportation of all cylinders requires the
removal of gauges and the installation of caps, which shall
be secured.
.5
Approved flashback devices shall be installed at the
regulator end on both acetylene and oxygen cylinders.
.6
Only strikers shall be used to light torches.
.7
Regulator valves shall be turned off if the equipment is not
to be used within two hours.
.8
Do not cut or weld within one (1) meter of oxygen or
acetylene cylinders.
.9
Hoses shall be protected from sparks, hot metal.
.10
Oxygen shall not be used as a substitute for compressed
air.
705
BLASTING AND EXPLOSIVES
.1
Only qualified and competent personnel shall be permitted
to perform blasting for SaskPower.
.2
Communication devices shall be turned off in the vicinity of
blasting operations. Radio signals may set off electric
blasting caps prematurely.
7-5
706
SASKPOWER LIMITS OF APPROACH
Note: The above distances for qualified electrical workers may be
reduced with approved rubber insulating barriers as follows:
25kV – 0.15 metres
15kV – 0.15 metres
4.16 kV – 0.10 metres
Note: Direct hand contact may be performed using approved work
methods e.g. bare hand, 25Kv or 4Kv rubber glove work
methods.
Note: These clearances apply to non-electrical workers.
Column 1 – applies to any stationary work being performed
in the area of an energized conductor.
Column 3 – applies to a vehicle or load which is passing
under energized conductor.
707
ELECTRICAL WORK
.1
Electrical workers shall wear PPE, as determined by the
hazard and risk assessment. All electrical apparatus shall
7-6
be considered alive unless they are confirmed deenergized. Test before touch.
.2
When two electrical workers are working within reach of
each other, they shall not work on different energized
phases at the same time.
.3
Compressed air shall not be used to clean alive electrical
machinery. Use of compressed air to clean overhead
insulators is acceptable.
.4
Electrical workers working alone shall not make direct hand
contact on energized apparatus in excess of 750 volts.
.5
Ground wires shall be treated with the same caution as any
other electrical cable, as they can carry the same voltage. If
a ground grid wire is cut, it shall not be handled. In such
situations, the site shall not be left unattended. Qualified
electrical staff shall be called immediately to make repairs.
Note: For further information see the Electrical Safe Work
Standard
708
BONDING AND GROUNDING
.1
Workers shall wear applicable PPE as determined by the
hazard and risk assessment when bonding and grounding.
.2
An approved grounding procedure shall be followed when
electrical de-energization and/or establishment of a safe
work zone is required.
Note: Refer to the Power Production or Transmission and
Distribution Bonding and Grounding manuals for specific
procedures.
709
STANDARD PROTECTION CODE
.1
All system maintenance, commissioning and inspections
that requires lock-out/tag-out to protect workers shall be
performed according to the rules of SaskPower Standard
Protection Code.
.2
Apparatus may be worked-on in the; alive, separated,
isolated or de-energized state. All work shall be performed
in compliance with the Standard Protection Code (SPC).
7-7
Note: For further information see SaskPower Standard Protection
Code
710
BARRICADES AND SIGNS
.1
Barricades and signage shall be placed at openings,
excavations, trenches and other hazardous and restricted
areas to protect workers and the public.
.2
When effective protection can not be provided by the use of
signs or barricades, the site shall not be left unattended.
711
WORKPLACE VIOLENCE
.1
Where practicable, violence exposure hazards shall be
removed. Where violence exposure hazards can not be
removed controls shall be used to reduce the probability of
a violent incident occurring.
.2
Workers shall capture and record pertinent information
concerning incidents of violence and provide the
information to business units and employees who may be
exposed to similar circumstances in the future.
Note: For further information see the Workplace Violence
Standard.
712
WORKING ALONE
.1
Where practicable, working alone exposure hazards shall
be removed. Where exposure hazards can not be removed,
controls shall be used to reduce the probability of an
incident occurring.
.2
Where a task specific hazard and risk assessment
identifies that working alone increases the risk to the
workers :
Appropriate controls shall be determined and reviewed with
the employee’s supervisor.
Where controls are deemed insufficient, the task shall not
be performed until a second hazard and risk assessment
has been performed with the out of scope supervisor or
manager and appropriate controls determined.
7-8
Where an employee(s) still feels the level of risk is too high
the matter must be referred to the local OHC.
.3
The steps to be taken to eliminate or reduce the risks must
include the establishment of an effective communication
system. Steps may also include:
• Limitations on, or prohibitions of, specified activities
• Establishment of minimum training or experience, or
other standards of competency
• Provision of personal protective equipment
• Establishment of safe work practices or procedures
• Provision of emergency supplies for use in traveling
under conditions of extreme cold or other inclement
weather conditions.
Note: For further information see the Working Alone Standard.
713
ANIMAL CONTROL
.1
Where practicable the hazard posed by aggressive animals
shall be removed.
• The worker shall request the animal be detained prior to
entering the site.
• All incidents of dog bites, or other acts of aggression
must be reported to the Animal Control / Local
Municipality or RCMP in your area.
.2
Incidents shall be reported and investigated according to
the Incident Management Process.
Note: For further information see SaskPower Animal Control
Standard
7-9
SECTION 8
OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH
800
Page
GENERAL
8-2
801
HAZARDOUS CHEMICALS
8-3
802
HYDROGEN SULPHIDE (H2S)
8-3
803
FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE
LIQUIDS AND COMPRESSSED GASES
8-4
804
AIR QUALITY
8-5
805
ERGONOMICS
8-5
806
NOISE
8-6
807
HOT AND COLD CONDITIONS
8-7
808
BIOLOGICAL HAZARDS AND INFECTIOUS
MATERIALS
8-7
809
CONTAGIOUS DISEASE
8-7
810
HANTAVIRUS
8-8
811
WEST NILE VIRUS
8-8
812
ASBESTOS
8-8
8-1
SECTION 8
OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH
800
GENERAL
.1
Workers who may be exposed to controlled products are
trained in Workplace Hazardous Materials Information
System (WHMIS).
.2
Workplace Hazardous Material Information System
(WHMIS) shall be strictly adhered to, as follows:
• Supplier labels for all non-consumer products brought
into SaskPower.
• Workplace labels are required for all decanted controlled
products.
• Workplace labels are not required if the product is under
the exclusive control of the worker that decanted it and is
not used longer than one shift.
• Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) shall be available
to those working with hazardous products.
• The most current versions of MSDS will be available in
electronic format for all workers. Workers may print off
hard copies for use at their work locations.
• All workers required to handle hazardous products shall
be trained in the use of MSDS.
.3
Workers, who are required to ship or transport any
dangerous goods, as defined by The Transportation of
Dangerous Goods Act, shall be trained in the
Transportation of The Dangerous Goods Act and
Regulations.
Note: For further information see SaskPower Workplace
Hazardous Material Information System (WHMIS) Standard
and WellNet MSDS.
8-2
801
HAZARDOUS CHEMICALS
.1
Only competent workers shall handle hazardous chemicals.
.2
Documented procedures shall be developed for the safe
handling and storage of chemicals.
.3
Workers handling chemicals shall be trained to respond to
any emergent condition.
.4
Workers handling chemicals shall wear applicable PPE, as
determined by the hazard and risk assessment.
.5
Workers shall review MSDS before using or handling
chemicals.
.6
All chemicals in the workplace shall be stored in
accordance with provincial, federal, and municipal
regulations.
.7
Emergency shower and/or eyewash facilities shall be
available at all work locations where hazardous chemicals
are used and/or stored.
.8
If a hazard and risk assessment indicates that a work area
or field has been contaminated by a hazardous chemical or
pesticide the worker shall;
• Follow the applicable RU EMS procedures.
• Determine what chemical (pesticide) has been applied
and the name of the chemical.
• Check the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS); Follow
the restricted entry interval (REI).
Note: For further information see SaskPower Field Entry Safe
Work Practice.
802
HYDROGEN SULPHIDE (H2S)
.1
Workers shall be aware of the hazards of H2S exposure.
.2
Workers who may be exposed to H2S shall receive
recognized H2S training.
.3
SaskPower shall provide, and workers shall use, a H2S
monitor when entering sites where there is potential for H2S
exposure.
8-3
Note: For further information see SaskPower Personal Gas
Monitor Standard.
803
FLAMMABLE, COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS and
COMPRESSED GASES
.1
Only competent workers shall handle flammable,
combustible liquids and compressed gases.
.2
Workers handling flammable, combustible liquids and
compressed gases shall be aware of the hazards of that
liquid or gas, and the regulations governing its
transportation and storage.
.3
Workers handling flammable, combustible liquids and
compressed gases shall not smoke, use an open flame or
create sparks.
.4
Halogenated solvents (usually containing chlorine or
fluorine) shall be used in areas with ventilation. Although
they are non-flammable, they may form explosive mixtures
in air and produce toxic vapours in fire, heat or strong
ultraviolet light.
.5
In the event a flammable substance is accidentally spilled
on clothing, workers shall avoid any source of ignition
(including static electricity), remove the clothing
immediately and wash skin with soap and water. The
clothing shall be hand-washed in a well-ventilated area
before machine laundering.
.6
Containers shall not be filled to more than 80 per cent of
capacity to avoid spillage and breakage due to thermal
expansion.
.7
Workers decanting flammable liquids from bulk containers
shall ensure the containers are bonded and grounded.
.8
Flammable liquids shall be stored as per MSDS instructions
and/or manufacturers specifications.
.9
Compressed gas cylinders shall have a valve cap or valve
protection device in place when not in use.
.10
Containers used in the transportation of flammable liquids
shall be secured while in transport.
8-4
.11
Compressed gas cylinders shall not be lifted, moved or
rolled by their valve or valve cap. A cart, cradle or other
device shall be used.
.12
Compressed gas cylinders, whether full or empty, shall be
secured.
.13
A sign forbidding smoking, matches or open flame shall be
conspicuously posted in rooms and at entrances to areas
where fuel gas, hydrogen, chlorine, oxygen, anhydrous
ammonia or acetylene is used or stored.
804
AIR QUALITY
.1
SaskPower shall, to the extent that is reasonably
practicable, prevent the accumulation of airborne
contaminants or impurities by maintaining mechanical
ventilation systems to circulate clean, wholesome air.
.2
Where it is not reasonably practicable to ensure acceptable
air quality, respiratory protective equipment and training in
its use shall be provided.
Note: For further information see SaskPower Respiratory
Protection standard, SaskPower Respiratory PPE
Standard.
805
ERGONOMICS
.1
Workers who are at risk of musculoskeletal injury (MSI),
Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI) shall receive an ergonomic
orientation to inform them of the signs, symptoms and
prevention of RSIs / MSI Injury.
.2
Supervisors shall arrange for an ergonomic assessment of
an employees work area/station:
• Upon request.
• Where there has been a significant change in the design.
• When an MSI/RSI injury has been reported.
• Where required by Return to Work Department.
.3
Supervisors shall ensure tools, equipment and physical
adjustments/adaptations are provided to minimize the
8-5
potential for MSI/ RSIs. Employees shall use the equipment
provided to prevent MSI/ RSI's.
.4
Workers shall be instructed in the applicable controls to
prevent MSI/RSI.
.5
Supervisors shall implement work schedules that
incorporate rest and recovery periods, changes in workload
or other arrangements for alternating work, to reduce the
potential harmful effects of RSIs.
.6
An employer in consultation with the occupational health
and safety committee shall regularly review the activities at
the place of employment that may cause or aggravate
MSI/RSI.
Note: For further information see the SaskPower Ergonomic
Standard SaskPower Visual Display Terminal (VDT) Policy.
806
NOISE
.1
A noise survey shall be conducted by a competent person
in workplaces where noise levels may exceed 80 dBA to
determine if a noise exposure hazard exists.
.2
Where practicable noise exposure hazards shall be
minimized. Noise exposure hazard shall be reduced to the
lowest practicable level.
.3
Workers shall be provided and trained in the use, selection,
and maintenance of hearing protection.
.4
Workers shall wear the hearing protection provided by the
employer where noise levels exceed 85 dBA.
.5
Where workplace noise conditions exceed the OH&S
guidelines the supervisor shall ensure that:
• audiometric testing is conducted;
• a hearing conservation plan is developed; and
• the decibel level is posted at work locations where noise
levels exceed 80 dBA.
8-6
Note: For further information see SaskPower Hearing
Conservation and Noise Control Standard and SaskPower
Hearing Protection Standard.
807
HOT AND COLD CONDITIONS
.1
Working in thermal conditions shall begin with the
identification and assessment of heat/ cold exposure
hazards and providing appropriate controls.
.2
Where practicable thermal exposure hazards shall be
removed. Where thermal exposure hazards cannot be
removed controls shall be used to reduce exposure.
.3
Workers and supervisors shall understand the signs and
symptoms of exposure to extreme heat and cold conditions.
Note: For further information see SaskPower Working in Hot and
Cold Conditions Standard.
808
BIOLOGICAL HAZARDS AND INFECTIOUS MATERIALS
.1
Where a hazard and risk assessment identifies a potential
for exposure to biological or infectious material, workers
shall contact their supervisor to determine applicable safe
work procedures.
.2
Employers shall determine and record the hazards
associated with exposures of workers to biological hazards
and provide this information to the workers.
809
CONTAGIOUS DISEASE
.1
When a contagious disease has been identified SaskPower
shall;
• Inform the workers of the hazard;
• Take reasonable measures to reduce worker exposure;
• Provide information to workers on basic controls.
.2
If the employee becomes symptomatic, the employee is to
report the illness to his/her immediate Out of Scope
Supervisor or designate immediately. The Out of Scope
Supervisor will notify the RTW Office.
8-7
Note: For further information see Contagious Illness Procedures.
810
HANTAVIRUS
.1
Where hazard and risk assessment identifies the potential
for Hantavirus, appropriate PPE shall be provided and
used.
.2
Workers who may be exposed to rodent droppings shall be
instructed about the hazards of hantavirus and on
procedures for workplace decontamination.
.3
Personal protective equipment and materials for workplace
decontamination shall be supplied.
811
WEST NILE VIRUS
.1
Where hazard and risk assessment identifies the potential
for West Nile Virus appropriate PPE shall be provided.
.2
Workers, who may be exposed to mosquitoes, shall be
provided with educational materials on the hazards of West
Nile virus.
812
ASBESTOS
.1
SaskPower Asbestos Guidelines for the Identification and
Control of Asbestos shall be referenced when asbestos is
identified.
.2
Asbestos awareness shall be provided to all workers who
may be exposed.
.3
Employees shall be advised of the presence of asbestos in
workplaces known to contain asbestos.
.4
Workers inadvertently exposed to asbestos shall report the
exposure following SaskPower’s Incident Reporting and
Investigation Policy.
.5
Workers who may be exposed to an asbestos process shall
be provided with:
• Awareness of asbestos hazards and asbestos process
work procedures.
8-8
• Written asbestos work procedures, good housekeeping
practices, emergency procedures to be followed in the
event of an uncontrolled release of asbestos fibres,
disposal procedures and asbestos fibre control methods.
• Work areas identified through signage and barricades.
• Personal protective equipment (PPE), respirators and
disposable clothing.
• Decontamination facilities as required and instruction in
its use.
Note: For further information see SaskPower Asbestos Standard
and SaskPower Asbestos Guidelines.
8-9
SECTION 9
HANDLING SAFETY CONCERNS
Page
900
PROCESS FOR HANDLING A SAFETY
CONCERN
9-2
901
WORK REFUSALS
9-3
9-1
SECTION 9
900
PROCESS FOR HANDLING A SAFETY CONCERN
Safety Concern - OHC member can
represent any concerned employee
Most concerns should be
resolved between the employee
and their supervisor
Direct
Supervisor
Resolved
Out of Scope
Supervisor
No
Resolved
Corporate Safety may
be contacted at any
time in the process.
Local
OHC
The OHandS Branch
may be contacted at
any time in the
Resolved
Resolved
No
Safety
Council
9-2
Safety
Network
No
Corporate
Safety
901
WORK REFUSALS
9-3
SECTION 10
PROCEDURE FOR SAFETY RULEBOOK
REVISIONS AND INTERPRETATIONS
1000 PROCEDURE FOR SAFETY RULEBOOK
REVISIONS AND INTERPRETATIONS
10-1
Page
10-2
SECTION 10
1000 PROCEDURE FOR SAFETY RULEBOOK REVISIONS
AND INTERPRETATIONS
.1
All requests for interpretations and revisions are to be
submitted to the Corporate Safety Department attention
SMS Safety Supervisor in Regina (refer to the Safety
Rulebook Revision/Interpretation Request form shown at
the end of this section).
Requests shall include the following information:
a) Name of requestor
b) Position of requestor
c) Location of requestor
d) Request for revision
e) Rule number
f)
Problem
g) Proposed solution
.2
Corporate Safety will acknowledge receipt of each request
for revision and/or interpretation with the sender within
30days of receipt.
.3
Corporate Safety will review and deal with all requests for
revisions and/or interpretations.
.4
If approved, the revision and/or interpretations will then be
included as part of the safety rulebook.
.5
Safety Rulebook Revision/Interpretation Request Form
10-2
Mail to: SaskPower
Corporate Safety Department
2025 Victoria Avenue
Regina, SK. S4P 0S1
Name: _______________________________________________
Position: ____________________________________________
Location: ____________________________________________
Request for Revision: ________________________________
Request for Interpretation: ___________________________
Rule number: ________________________________________
Problem: ____________________________________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
Suggested solution or revision: ______________________
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
10-3
SECTION 11
T & D CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE
1100 GENERAL
Page
11-2
1101 POLE CLIMBING
11-4
1102 OVERHEAD LINE WORKING RULES
11-5
1103 WORKING IN THE VICINITY OF ENERGIZED
APPARATUS
11-7
1104 TREE TRIMMING AND FELLING
11-10
1105 STEEL TOWERS
11-10
1106 APPRENTICE POWERLINE TECHNICIAN
WORK RULES ON ENERGIZED (ALIVE)
APPARATUS
11-11
1107 UNDERGROUND DISTRIBUTION WORKING
RULES
11-12
1108 CONFINED SPACE UNDERGROUND
DISTRIBUTION WORKING RULES
11-13
1109 STANDARD PROTECTION CODE
(LOCK-OUT/TAG-OUT)
11-13
1110 SAFETY BONDING AND GROUNDING
11-13
1111 BARRICADES AND SIGNS
11-14
1112 TRAFFIC CONTROL
11-14
11-1
SECTION 11
CONSTRUCTION, MAINTENANCE AND OPERATING
1100 GENERAL
.1
A job hazard analysis or risk assessment shall be
conducted before commencing any job.
.2
A documented job hazard analysis shall be conducted
when more than one worker is performing a job.
.3
All workers shall be included in the job hazard analysis. The
supervisor shall review the job hazard analysis with any
workers not present at the original meeting. If job conditions
change, the job hazard analysis shall be reviewed and
revised as required.
.4
All workers shall follow the standards established by
SaskPower's Limits of Approach.
.5
Apparatus may be worked-on in the; alive, separated,
isolated or de-energized state. All work shall be performed
in compliance with the Standard Protection Code (SPC).
.6
Access to all SaskPower work locations shall be controlled
to protect the public and to secure SaskPower facilities.
.7
When workers are required to work alone, approved
procedures shall be established to comply with the
SaskPower’s Working Alone Standard.
.8
Workers shall not throw anything to the ground from poles,
structures, scaffolds, ladders or any other elevated position,
nor permit anything to be thrown to them.
.9
The use of suspension trauma relief straps on full body
harnesses shall be mandatory for all SaskPower
Transmission and Distribution (TandD) personnel and
contractors.
.10
Ground wires shall be treated with the same caution as any
other electrical cable, as they can carry the same voltage. If
a ground grid wire is cut, it shall not be handled. In such
situations, the site shall not be left unattended. Qualified
electrical staff shall be called immediately to make repairs.
11-2
.11
Authorized workers performing work in a district shall
communicate with the Issuing Authority to advise them of
their work schedule, prior to commencing work. When this
work will contact and/or possibly affect the electrical
system, the application for a Standard Protection Code
permit will suffice as the required communication with the
Operating Authority. The Issuing Authority of any permit
shall communicate this information to the district
workgroup.
.12
The Hazard and Risk Assessment process will be used to
assess the potential incident energy from arc flash.
.13
Electrical Safe Work Perimeter shall be established when
work is being performed on apparatus that has not been
verified to be in an Electrically Safe Work Condition.
.14
When it has been determined that elimination of the Arc
Flash Hazard is not practicable the workers shall select Arc
Flash PPE that provides protection from the anticipated
potential incident energy.
.15
Face shields will have appropriate arc rating based on the
hazard.
.16
Flame Resistant Clothing (FRC) must be worn as an outer
layer, not worn under other types of non- flame resistant
garments.
.17
Wear protective clothing for maximum protection [i.e.
collars closed, cuffs and sleeves worn down and secured].
.18
Clothing made from non-melting fibre [i.e. cotton, wool, silk
etc.] or flame resistant garments shall be worn under Flame
Resistant Clothing.
Note: For further information see SaskPower ARC FLASH
Standard, SaskPower Standard Protection Code,
SaskPower Electrical Safe Work Standard, SaskPower Fall
Arrest Standard and SaskPower Personal Protective
Equipment Policy and related Standards.
11-3
.2
Before climbing poles Powerline Technicians shall verify:
• Which conductors are alive and at what voltage;
• The types and positions of conductors,;
• The direction of feed; and
• The best way to avoid ground wires and other obstacles.
.3
Powerline Technicians shall not climb poles above a cable
guard that protects energized electrical cable.
.4
Unauthorized material attached to power poles is prohibited
and shall be removed.
.5
Poles shall be completely supported before Powerline
Technicians ascend. When a pole is being replaced,
Powerline Technicians shall work from the new pole where
ever possible. The old pole must be lashed to the new
pole, supported by a digger derrick or guyed in all
directions.
.6
All Powerline Technicians shall use CSA approved fall
protection equipment when working aloft.
.7
When climbing over or around obstacles a fall-limiting
device shall be used. When using the retractable falllimiting device, the snap hook shall only be connected to
the opposite side D-ring.
.8
Powerline Technicians shall avoid the "second point of
contact" while working in the vicinity of energized lines.
.9
Powerline Technicians shall not use pole hardware to assist
in climbing.
.10
When a hook is attached to a body belt, it shall be located
no closer than 6 inches from the D-ring(s).
.11
Body belts, pole straps, and climbers shall not be modified.
.12
Body belts, pole straps, and climbers shall be inspected by
the user prior to use.
.13
All fall protection equipment shall be inspected by a
competent person:
• All inspections shall be tagged and documented.
11-4
.13
All fall protection equipment shall be inspected by a
competent person:
 All inspections shall be tagged and documented.
 Annually, as per manufacturer’s specifications.
 When the harness has been subjected to a fall.
.14
SaskPower Power Line Technicians and Contractors shall
receive training on pole testing and such training shall be
refreshed every 3 years.
1102 OVERHEAD LINE WORKING RULES
.1
Powerline Technicians shall avoid the "second point of
contact" when working on or near alive apparatus.
.2
Where there is danger of incidental contact with alive
apparatus PPE and/or applicable barriers shall be used as
required by the hazard and risk assessment.
.3
When Powerline Technicians are working on energized
apparatus within reach of each other; they shall not work on
different phases.
.4
Powerline Technicians shall work below energized primary
conductors while on the pole. Unless an approved work
procedure dictates otherwise.
.5
Open or floating neutrals, shield wires and system grounds
shall be treated as alive conductors.
.6
All cutouts and disconnects shall be opened and closed
with live-line tools.
.7
Prior to grounds being installed, the isolated circuit shall be
tested for absence of potential by an approved method.
.8
Where rubber glove work methods are used:
 Two Powerline Technicians are required for 750V to
5KV; and
 Work in excess of 750 volts using rubber glove work
methods requires one Powerline Technician on the
ground trained and competent in pole top and/or bucket
rescue to be available in cases of emergency.
11-5
.9
Rubber glove work procedures above 5KV requires
• 3 qualified Powerline Technicians, or
• 2 qualified Powerline Technicians and one qualified 4
year apprentice and who cannot be the observer.
th
.10
Conductors shall not be cut under tension.
.11
Work performed in the vicinity of alive apparatus, where
public safety is a concern, requires a worker to be assigned
to warn people to stay clear.
.12
Powerline Technicians shall not fasten both snaps of their
pole strap in the same "D-ring". They shall use an
extension belt, or take time to let out their pole strap so they
can make the reach with the pole straps snaps fastened to
separate "D-rings."
.13
When raising or lowering a pole between or near alive
circuits the use of rubber gloves and insulated sticks (e.g.
tongs) shall be utilized. Where the limits of approach can
not be maintained line guards or pole guards shall be
utilized.
.14
Conductors being strung close to alive circuits or equipment
shall be considered alive and shall be handled with rubber
gloves and other necessary equipment as the voltage may
require. This precaution applies to both workers on poles
and on the ground handling conductors and reels.
11-6
1103 WORKING IN THE VICINITY OF ENERGIZED
APPARATUS
.1
A hazard and risk assessment shall be conducted any time
work is being performed in the vicinity of energized
apparatus.
.2
When the hazard and risk assessment identifies the
requirement for warning other workers and the public, a
dedicated observer shall be posted to:
 Ensure minimum approach distances to the worksite are
maintained, and;
 Maintain communications with workers, and;
 Be suitably trained and equipped to initiate emergency
response procedures.
.3
When operating any equipment/vehicle that has potential to
contact exposed energized apparatus, the equipment shall
be grounded according to the Transmission and Distribution
Bonding and Grounding procedure.
.4
When conditions do not permit equipment/vehicle
grounding, safe work procedures shall form a part of the
hazard and risk assessment documentation.
When working near energized high voltage electrical conductors,
“near” is defined as where an inadvertent movement can cause
accidental contact of tools, material or equipment with the
energized high voltage electrical conductors.
Limits of Approach have been developed for working “near”
energized high voltage electrical conductors to establish minimum
clearances that must be maintained from the energized high
voltage electrical conductors.
11-7
SaskPower Limits of Approach
Note: The above distances for qualified electrical workers may be
reduced with approved rubber insulating barriers as follows:
25kV – 0.15 metres
15kV – 0.15 metres
4.16 kV – 0.10 metres
Note: Direct hand contact may be performed using approved work
methods e.g. bare hand, 25Kv or 4Kv rubber glove work
methods.
Note: These clearances apply to non-electrical workers.
Column 1 – applies to any stationary work being performed
in the area of an energized conductor.
Column 3 – applies to a vehicle or load which is passing
under energized conductor.
11-8
LIMITS OF APPROACH – SAFETY RULEBOOK
In the above graphic, if a planned procedure would result in the
circles which define the Limits of Approach, and the circle which
defines the reach of the workers tools intersecting, then another
work procedure must be developed to ensure the workers
protection.
11-9
1104 TREE TRIMMING AND FELLING
.1
A hazard and risk assessment shall be completed prior to
conducting tree-felling operations.
.2
If the direction of fall cannot be controlled, the line shall be
isolated before tree-felling operations continue.
.3
Workers shall use the appropriate equipment for supporting
and lowering branches.
.4
All tree felling operations shall be performed in accordance
with SaskPower's Tree Felling Procedures. All personnel
shall be trained in these procedures.
.5
Personal protective equipment shall be worn when
conducting tree trimming/removal operations.
1105 STEEL TOWERS
.1
Access to the upper portion of a tower shall not occur until
a thorough visual inspection has been made to ensure that
the tower base, legs, cross bracing, compression members
and cross-arm sections (wings) are in good condition.
.2
Workers shall use fall protection equipment while
ascending, descending and working on steel towers.
11-10
1106 APPRENTICE POWERLINE TECHNICIAN WORK RULES
ON ENERGIZED (ALIVE) APPARATUS
YEAR
INDIRECT
SUPERVISION
DIRECT
SUPERVISION *
UNSUPER
VISED
A qualified Powerline
Technician is within sight
and sound and ready to
give immediate assistance
to an apprentice
A qualified Powerline
Technician is on the
same pole and can
communicate with an
apprentice in a formal
speaking voice.
1st YEAR (3)
**
• No work on energized
(3) **
• Works voltage up to
NIL
apparatus
240 V
• Works voltages up to 240
(6) **
NIL
V
• May install bonding
and/or grounding leads
nd
2 YEAR (6)
**
• Works voltages up to
NIL
600 V
• Works voltages up to 600
(6) **
V
Upon
successfulco
mpletion of
Level II
Training
rd
3 YEAR (6)
**
• Works live-line
NIL
maintenance (hot stick
and trailer)
• Works voltages up to
4160 V with rubber
gloves
• Works
Does overhead and
underground
Operating Maintenance
voltages up
to 240 V
• Does overhead and
(6)
underground Operating
Maintenance
• Works live-line
Upon
successful
completion
of Level III
Training
th
4 YEAR
upon
successfulco
mpletion of
Level IV
Training
*
**
maintenance (hotstick
and trailer)
• Works voltages up to
4160 V with rubber
gloves
• Works out of the
bucket on 25 kV lines
with two qualified
rubber glove
Powerline Technicians
Direct Supervision means working on the same pole.
(3) means time. For example: 3 months
11-11
1107 UNDERGROUND DISTRIBUTION WORKING RULES
.1
A hazard and risk assessment shall be completed prior to
working on underground apparatus. That shall include:
• Verification of the location,
• Risk to the public and other workers,
• Positive identification of underground cable(s) that are
being worked on.
.2
Workers shall wear the appropriate class of rubber gloves
when any underground distribution compartment or
enclosure containing primary conductors is being opened.
.3
When a worker is required to work in energized
compartments, they shall wear a minimum Class 2 rubber
gloves and PPE as determined by the hazard and risk
assessment.
.4
When a worker is required to work on energized
underground secondary, rubber gloves shall be worn at all
times.
.5
Where there is potential for a hazardous capacitive voltage
on a de-energized cable, work shall not proceed until the
capacitive energy is discharged. Underground cable shall
be grounded and bounded as per SaskPower approved
procedures.
.6
Limits of approach shall be maintained from the primary
voltage points in live front transformers.
.7
When possible all switching of live front transformers shall
be performed from a remote location.
.8
When performing switching operation on underground
equipment workers shall visually check the condition of the
components and use appropriate live line tools.
.9
Workers shall take precautions when moving cable,
including any junction or splice. If racking or handling is
required, hot stick procedures shall be used.
.10
The absence of potential shall be verified by an approved
method before a cable is cut.
11-12
1108 CONFINED SPACE UNDERGROUND DISTRIBUTION
WORKING RULES
.1
A hazard and risk assessment shall be done prior to
working in a confined space. A confined space assessment
shall be used to determine if the confined space is
hazardous.
.2
Primary cables being worked on shall be de-energized and
all other energized primary cable shall not be disturbed
racked or handled except for installing protective barriers.
.3
When installing protective barriers workers shall wear PPE
as per the hazard and risk assessment and confined space
entry plans identifies.
1109 STANDARD PROTECTION CODE
(LOCK-OUT/TAG-OUT)
.1
All system maintenance, commissioning and inspections
that requires lock-out/tag-out to protect workers shall be
performed according to the rules of SaskPower’s Standard
Protection Code.
1110 SAFETY BONDING AND GROUNDING
.1
An approved grounding procedure shall be followed when
electrical de-energization of apparatus is required to create
a Safe Work Zone. The type of electrical hazard is
determined during the Hazard and Risk Assessment:
• Static charge energy-Grounding Procedure.
• Induced energy- Equipotential Bonding and Grounding
Procedure.
• Dynamic energy- Equipotential Bonding and Grounding
Procedure.
Refer to the T and D Bonding and Grounding Procedures
for each of the above.
11-13
1111 BARRICADES AND SIGNS
.1
Barricades and signage shall be placed at openings,
excavations, trenches and other hazardous and restricted
areas to protect workers and the public, in accordance with
provincial regulations and local ordinances.
.2
A signaler shall be used whenever effective protection
cannot be provided by signs, signals or barricades.
.3
Supervisors and workers shall ensure that unattended work
areas are left in a safe, well marked condition.
1112 TRAFFIC CONTROL
.1
Appropriate signs and fluorescent traffic cones shall be
used to direct traffic around a work area on a road or street.
Beacon lights and hazard flasher lights shall be used when
working in these areas.
.2
Signage that complies with the Traffic Control Act shall be
used to establish an Orange Zone.
.3
Flag person training shall be provided to workers required
to create a traffic control plan and/or to control traffic.
.4
When directing traffic, all workers and signalers shall wear
high visibility clothing in accordance with Saskatchewan
Highway and Transportation Regulations and local bylaws.
.5
For short-duration jobs that do not involve lane closure
(fusing, switching, structure moves) the vehicle's four-way
flashers, beacon lights, and/or cones shall be used. This
includes work in right of ways, ditches and the shoulders.
Note: For further information see SaskPower Traffic Control
Planning and Guidelines and the SaskPower Traffic Control
Standard.
11-14