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4.2 GENERAL SAFE WORK PRACTICES
General Safe Work Practices (SWP) are developed and included in this manual. These SWPs include, but are not limited to, the following;
1.
Mobile Equipment Operation.
2.
Motor Vehicle Operation
3.
Forklifts
4.
Scissor lifts, booms and giraffes
5.
Power tools
6.
Pneumatic tools
7.
Hand tools
8.
Grinders
9.
Chainsaws
10.
Propane Tanks
11.
Compressed Gas Cylinders
12.
Flammable Liquids
13.
Fire Protection and Prevention
14.
Housekeeping.
15.
Ladders.
16.
Excavating and Trenching
17.
Manual handling of materials and musculoskeletal injury prevention
18.
Scaffolding.
19.
Fall Protection.
General Safe Work Practices (SWP) are developed and included in this manual. These Safe Work
Practices include, but are not limited to, the following.
These general job procedures cover some basic industry hazards found in construction. Okanagan
Restoration Services has developed specific restoration based safe job procedures/practices.
The Safe Work procedures and practices have been written as one document for ease of reading.
4.2(1) MOBILE EQUIPMENT OPERATION
•
•
Possess the necessary license and/or certificates
Have received adequate instruction and demonstrated that they are able to operate the equipment
•
Are familiar with the operating instructions pertaining to the equipment
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•
•
Have been authorized to operate the equipment
Are familiar with the regulations and policies regarding the safe operation of the mobile equipment.
A.
Operators of mobile equipment are directly responsible for the safe operation of that equipment.
They shall maintain full control of the equipment at all times and comply with all laws and regulations regarding the operation of the equipment. Operators must comply with recommended gross vehicle weight and ensure that the vehicle is not overloaded. Operators must not leave the controls unless the equipment or vehicle has been secured against movement by setting parking brakes and / or transmission lock, lowering any blades, buckets or forks to the ground and chocking wheels where necessary.
B.
Operators of mobile equipment should be familiar with the Workers Compensation Act,
Regulations and Policies with regard to working in proximity of overhead power lines. Project
Coordinators are responsible for obtaining and completing the appropriate forms when required by the regulations.
C.
Where vision is obstructed, mobile equipment operators must not move equipment until suitable precautions have been taken to protect themselves and any other person or property from possible injury or damage.
D.
Operators must examine their equipment before initial daily operation and thereafter as required and report any defects, deficiencies or unsafe conditions to their supervisor or other authorized person.
E.
Mobile equipment MUST NOT BE REFUELED with gasoline or diesel , propane, natural gas or other vaporizing fuels while:
•
The engine is running
•
Anyone is smoking in or about the vehicle
•
There is a known source of ignition present in the immediate area.
F.
No employee shall remain in the cab of any vehicle while loads are elevated over the cab.
G.
When a hazard is created by a swinging load, moving cab, counterweight or any other moving part of the mobile equipment, no worker shall remain within range of the hazard and the operator must not move the equipment while workers are exposed to the hazard.
H.
When an employee is required to work beneath elevated parts of mobile equipment, the parts must be blocked, or otherwise secured to prevent possible injury to the worker.
I.
When materials and equipment are transported, they must be loaded and secured to prevent any movement of the load which could create a hazard to the operator or other workers.
J.
Effective means of restraint must be provided to protect the crew of a vehicle transporting a load which might otherwise shift.
K.
Employees must not stand or sit on the side or the tailgate of any moving equipment.
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L.
Wearing seatbelts in all vehicles and equipment where they are provided is mandatory whenever the vehicle is in motion.
M.
Only the operator of the mobile equipment is allowed to ride the equipment, unless provisions such as seatbelts and other safety devices have been provided to be used by other workers.
4.2(2) MOTOR VEHICLE OPERATION
•
•
All drivers of company vehicles must possess a valid BC driver's license.
Every worker required to drive a company vehicle must have read the safety rules applicable to those vehicles.
•
Workers must not operate company vehicles while impaired by alcohol, fatigue, illness, or drugs or when road authority does not recommend travel.
•
Seat belts must be worn by drivers and all passengers.
•
Operators are encouraged to use head lights during daytime hours.
•
Operators must obey all signs governing the movement, operation, or parking of vehicles on any worksite, public or private road.
•
Vehicles shall be operated in accordance with the law at all times.
•
Illegal operation and resulting fines will be the operator's responsibility.
•
Fuelling and repair procedures as specified by the equipment department must be followed.
•
Report all safety and repair requirements of your machine to your fleet supervisor.
•
Tools and equipment carried in any part of a vehicle where workers are riding must be placed or secured to prevent injury to workers.
OBSTRUCTED VISION
When a vehicle or equipment operator's vision is obstructed the unit should not be moved until suitable precautions have been taken to protect the operator and any other workers from possible injury.
Precautions must include:
•
•
Inspection, on foot, of the area into which the equipment will be moved, or
Direction by a signal person stationed in a safe position in continuous view of the operator and having an unobstructed view of the area into which the equipment will move, or
•
Direction by a traffic control person or auditable warning system, and when reversing, a designated signal person must be used for directing the machine, repeat the sound of an audible warning device while the equipment is in motion.
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VEHICLE BREAKDOWNS AND ACCIDENTS
If a vehicle breaks down, operators must get the vehicle off and away from the travelled portion of the road if possible. If they can't, then they must activate vehicle emergency flashers immediately and keep them on until the vehicle has been repaired, or towed.
All breakdowns involving company vehicles must be immediately reported to the Maintenance
Supervisor.
All accidents involving company vehicles must be reported in accordance with the accident and injury reporting procedure. Give all details, such as width of roads, length of skids, presence of traffic signs, vision obstructions, names and addresses of persons involved, and witnesses. In case of an accident the operator must: a) Pull off the road, if possible, to avoid obstructing traffic b) Place warning reflectors on the road as necessary c) Render first aid to any person who may be injured d) Report the accident to his supervisor as soon as possible e) Refrain from entering into any argument or dispute with the driver of the other vehicle, pedestrians or bystanders f) Make no admission of liability or offer any settlement of claims g) Record license plate numbers and driver's license numbers of any other involved persons h) Report the accident to the necessary authorities or make arrangements with the office to report it.
4.2(3) FORKLIFTS
Forklift operators must follow all applicable vehicle and mobile equipment safety rules. In addition, the following rules apply specifically to forklift operation:
•
Materials and equipment must be loaded on the forklift in a manner that prevents any movement of the load, which could create a hazard to workers.
•
All loads which could be subject to shifting during transportation must be restrained if such
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shifting would result in the forklift becoming unstable.
•
Carry loads as low as possible.
•
Do not drive with arms, head or legs outside the confines of the forklift. Any operator who cannot clearly see the load or off-load points and the full path of travel must use a signal person (see
Obstructed Vision).
•
Sound horn and slow down when approaching pedestrians, doorways, ramps, and other forklifts.
•
Forklifts used indoors must be taken outside for re-fuelling.
•
Forklifts used indoors must be shut down when not in use, to minimize emissions into the work area.
•
Observe and obey the load capacity of the forklift.
•
When shutting a forklift down, level and lower the forks, apply the parking brake and put the controls in neutral.
•
Do not elevate anyone on the forks unless in an approved man cage that is secured to the forklift.
4.2(4) SCISSOR LIFTS, BOOMS AND GIRAFFES
Scissor lift, boom and giraffe operators must follow all applicable vehicles and mobile equipment safety rules. In addition, the following rules apply specifically to their operation:
•
Equipment must be used and maintained in accordance with applicable Work Safe BC regulations.
•
Guardrails and safety chains must be in place.
•
Toe boards must be in place.
•
Safety harness and lanyard must used at all times.
•
If a unit is fitted with outriggers, it must be equipped with notices indicating the circumstances under which the outriggers must be used.
•
Carrier vehicles of elevated work platforms must be immobilized against inadvertent motion before workers occupy the platform.
•
Scissor lifts must be guarded where there is a possibility of workers inadvertently coming into contact with any hazardous moving parts of the lifting mechanism.
•
All vehicle-mounted giraffes or self-propelled boom-supported elevated work platforms must be subject to non destructive testing every 24 months.
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•
Every elevating work platform must be provided with an emergency stop button on the platform and an emergency lowering control.
•
Every elevating work platform must be fitted with a warning system for forward, reverse, up and down motions.
•
All self-propelled elevating work platforms (except truck-mounted platforms) must be fitted with tilt angle indicators or warning devices as described in the government regulations.
4.2(5) POWER TOOLS
GENERAL
•
No worker shall use any power tool, or similar type of equipment, unless they are familiar with the use and operation of the equipment or has received instruction in its use and operation.
•
Instruction in the use, handling and maintenance of power tools, or otherwise similar tools will be provided to workers that require it.
•
Only qualified or specially trained workers may alter, repair, or otherwise tamper with electrical equipment or electrical tools.
•
No workers will commence work on any electrical equipment until the equipment has been shut off and locked out as per Okanagan Restoration Service’s Lock out procedure.
•
Inspect tools, power cords and electrical fittings for damage prior to each use. Repair or replace damaged equipment.
•
Use only approved electrical tools and machinery.
•
Do not wear gloves, loose clothing or jewellery while using revolving power tools.
•
Switch tools off before connecting them to a power supply.
•
Do not use electric tools in wet or damp locations unless tool is connected to a GFCI.
•
Ensure tools are properly grounded (three-prong plug) or are double insulated.
•
Keep power cords clear of tools during use.
•
Suspend power cords over aisles or work areas, when possible, to avert stumbling or tripping hazards.
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•
Do not carry electrical tools by the power cord.
•
Avoid octopus connections.
•
Wear safety glasses or goggles when using power tools for grinding, cutting and sanding operations.
•
Chuck keys must not be taped to cords as electrocution might occur when insulation has worn through.
•
NO EMPLOYEE shall impair, remove, render ineffective, any safeguards provided for the protection of themselves or other workers.
MACHINE GUARDS
Employees, who are responsible for placing equipment into service, are also responsible to ensure that equipment guards are in place. If, due to damage or deterioration, the original guard provided on a piece of equipment cannot be put in place, employees should use a temporary method, offering equal or better protection, as approved by WorkSafeBC
No employee shall impair, remove or render ineffective, any safeguards provided for the protection of themselves, or other workers.
4.2(6) PNEUMATIC TOOLS
GENERAL
Compressed air hoses present a serious hazard when used incorrectly, or when fittings become worn or damaged. Air hoses should not be used to clean floors and should never be used to clean hair, face, arms, hands and clothing. Blowing dust from clothing on the body can cause skin damage, ruptured ear drums, eye injuries and pressure injection injuries.
Horseplay with air hoses, such as disconnecting them with the feet, or startling others by blowing air towards them is extremely dangerous and will not be tolerated.
When using compressed air to clean parts of machinery, protective screening and goggles or a face shield must be worn. Restraining devices shall be used on connections of hoses and/or pipes which are under pressure at all times. Failure to do so could cause the hose to disengage from its connection and cause damage or injury.
Only authorized, experienced and trained workers may use pneumatic nailing and stapling tools.
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•
Inspect the tool before connecting to the air supply. Ensure screws and caps are securely tightened.
Check hoses for cuts or bulges, and replace if defective.
•
Pneumatic tools used for nailing and stapling must be held against the work surface before pulling the trigger.
•
Safety features must not be disengaged or overridden.
•
Shut off equipment while refuelling.
•
Wear suitable clothing and personal protection. Avoid wearing loose fitting clothing around rotating parts.
•
Operating triggers must never be held in the "on" position while moving between work positions.
•
Operating triggers must never be secured in the "on" position under any circumstances.
•
Bleed air before disconnecting hoses.
•
The air supply must be disconnected before adjustments or repairs are made to the tool.
•
The manufacturer-specified air pressure for tools, hoses and fittings must never be exceeded.
•
Do not point the tool towards yourself or others, regardless of whether it is empty or not.
•
Do not use compressed air to blow debris or clean dust from clothes.
•
Do not lay hoses across walkways.
•
Obtain underground utility information when using jackhammers or similar equipment.
4.2(7) HAND TOOLS
GENERAL
•
Do not use tools for jobs they are not intended for.
•
Do not apply excessive pressure on tools.
•
Carry sharp tools in a heavy belt or apron rather than pockets, and hang tools at your sides, not behind your back.
•
Carry tools in a manner that does not interfere with using both hands on a ladder or climbing on a structure.
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•
Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (safety glasses, gloves, etc.).
•
Maintain tools carefully, keep them clean and dry, and store them properly after use.
•
Inspect tools for defects prior to use.
•
Replace cracked and broken handles on files, hammers, sledges and screwdrivers.
•
Re-dress burred or mushroomed heads of striking tools.
•
Exercise extreme caution when using tools near live electrical circuits. Do not use cushion grip handles as a replacement for insulated handles.
•
Always pull on wrenches and pliers. Never push unless you are using an open hand.
•
Face adjustable wrenches forward, and turn wrench so pressure is against permanent jaw.
•
Extensions must not be used on wrench handles to increase leverage unless the wrench is specifically designed for use with such extensions.
•
Do not cut or chip towards yourself when using cutting tools or chisels.
•
Do not re-dress, grind, weld or heat-treat hammer heads.
•
Do not use one hammer to strike another.
•
Do not use a dull chisel. Re-dress heat-treated tools with a whetstone rather than a grinder.
•
Do not use C-clamps to construct scaffolds or platforms for workers.
•
Do not hoist with C-clamps. Use special lifting clamps.
4.2(8) GRINDERS
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Eye protection must be used when operating a grinder.
•
Remove jewellery, confine long hair and roll up sleeves.
•
Adjust and tighten wheel guards in place.
•
If a spark guard is installed, adjust it to the correct place.
•
Check to ensure that blotters and wheel flanges have been used to mount the wheels onto the
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shaft.
•
Adjust and tighten the tool rest to within 1/8" from the wheel.
•
Inspect the wheels to ensure they have a speed rating greater than or equal to the grinder's speed rating and that they are in good condition. Cracked or chipped wheels must be replaced.
•
Do not stand in line with the wheel when starting the grinder.
•
Do not use the side of the wheel when grinding; use the face only.
•
Use pliers or a vice grip to hold small items.
•
If the wheel vibrates, dress it (on the face only); replace it or replace the shaft bearings if they are worn.
•
Allow the object you were grinding to cool before handling it.
•
Unplug or lockout the grinder before doing repairs.
•
Never leave a grinder unattended while the wheels are turning.
4.2(9) CHAINSAW OPERATION
Chainsaw operators must receive training in the safe handling of saws and the proper cutting methods before attempting any cutting tasks. Chainsaw operators must conduct a hazard assessment of the operating area and communicate with all workers involved.
Personal protective equipment required for chainsaw operation: a) Hard hat, face shield and hearing protection b) Steel toed footwear c) Heavy leather gloves d) Ankle length CSA-approved nylon cutting pants or chaps rated to 1,098 m/min (3,600 ft/min) threshold chain speed or higher.
Safe chainsaw operating procedures must include: a) Inspecting the chainsaw for damage prior to use, look for loose or missing parts, leaks, signs of excessive wear, the integrity of the bar and tension of the chain. b) Never operate a chainsaw when you are alone c) Ensuring the chain break is in good working order d) Keeping the saws chain sharp and adjusted, a correctly adjusted chain will stop moving when
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the saw is idling e) Carry the chainsaw with the bar and muffler away from your body f) Always be aware of the bar tip to reduce the chance of kickback g) Always saw with smooth, controlled movement h) Never cut above shoulder height.
4.2(10) PROPANE HANDLING & TANKS
As with any fuel product it is important to respect, understand and follow safe working procedures for this fuel product. Propane is a liquid stored under pressure in cylinders. Propane is vaporized to a gas before it leaves the tank and dispensed through a pressure regulator valve. In its natural state propane is an odourless, colorless gas. A chemical odorant is added to propane to give it a distinctive smell so it can be detected. Propane vapour is heavier than air which means it will lay or accumulate in the lowest spot.
Propane must be treated with the same caution as other flammable gasses. (NO SMOKING)
WHEN HANDLING OR CHANGING PROPANE CYLINDERS:
•
Ensure valves are closed tightly and protect the valve from any danger
•
Avoid skin contact with liquid propane, it is extremely cold and can cause frostbite
•
Wear gloves when making or breaking connections
•
Secure or strap cylinders into the holder
•
Store unused cylinders outside, in an upright position with protection from potential impact.
4.2(11) COMPRESSED GAS CYLINDERS
•
Cylinders must, at all times, be strapped or chained to prevent falling over.
•
Cylinders must not be allowed to drop or bump together during transport.
•
Cylinders must, where practical, be kept on end. Cylinders placed in a horizontal position must stand in a vertical position for at least one hour prior to use.
•
Cylinders must not be placed near excessive heat.
•
Sparks, molten metal, electric current, or flames must not be allowed to come in contact with cylinders or their attachments.
•
Oxygen cylinders and their fittings must not come in contact with grease or oil, including that from hands, gloves or clothing.
•
Oxygen must never be used as a substitute for compressed air.
•
Empty cylinders must have the pressure regulator removed, the valve closed tightly, the protecting cap put on (unless integral guards are provided) and be marked "empty."
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4.2(12) FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS
Flammable liquids must be stored in special storage areas away from heat, spark, flame, and the direct rays of the sun, and in a location where flammable vapours cannot be communicated to open flame.
Bungs must be screwed tightly into barrels to prevent vapour loss.
Gasoline, oil, grease and other flammable liquids must be stored in safe locations, clear of work areas and not in buildings or locations where workers are likely to gather. “NO SMOKING” signs must be prominently placed in such storage areas and the “NO SMOKING” rules enforced. Gasoline and other flammable liquids must be transported in approved metal safety containers.
When flammable liquids must be used or stored inside a building, approved safety cans must be used.
The fuel tanks of mobile equipment must not be filled:
•
While the engine is running
•
While anyone is smoking in or around the vehicle
•
While there is any known spark or flame in the immediate area.
Volatile or flammable materials must not be carried on a vehicle transporting workers unless such materials are carried:
•
In an isolated compartment accessible only from the outside, or
•
In an inside compartment separated from all persons by a firewall.
Gasoline and other flammable liquids may only be transferred from one container to another if steps to prevent static electricity accumulation have been implemented. Static electricity may be controlled through the use of container contact or grounding.
•
Gasoline must be dispensed from the storage container by means of an approved pump.
•
Gasoline must not be used to start fires.
4.2(13) FIRE PROTECTION AND PREVENTION
The risk and cost of fire on a jobsite can be extremely high in economic and human terms. The best means of fighting fires is to prevent them. All employees are responsible for doing everything they can to prevent fires. If you observe a potential fire hazard, report it to your supervisor so that the hazard can be eliminated or fire suppression equipment can be issued and maintained at the hazard location.
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•
Before work is performed, supervisors must check for fire hazards. Some of the most common hazards are wooden forms, scaffolding, scrap lumber, paper wrapping, flammable liquids and oily rags. Previous fire damaged sites may increase the risks.
•
Good housekeeping should be used at all times. Construction buildings and sheds must be kept clean and orderly. Gasoline, oil, grease and other flammable liquids must be stored in safe locations, clear of work areas and not in buildings or locations where workers are likely to gather.
“NO SMOKING” signs must be prominently placed in such storage areas and the “NO
SMOKING” rules enforced. Gasoline and other flammable liquids must be transported in closed metal containers.
•
Heating and lighting equipment must be checked on a regular basis.
•
Portable fire extinguishers must be installed, inspected and maintained on a regular basis to ensure proper operation in an emergency.
•
Smoking is permitted in designated smoking areas only.
•
CO2, foam, or dry chemical type fire extinguishers must be available on all projects and located strategically where the risk of fire exists, particularly near fuel storage and refuelling locations, construction sheds and storage buildings. Be aware of the locations and types of fire extinguishers in your work area.
•
There are four general classes of fires and each requires a particular type of extinguishing agent.
•
Portable fire extinguishers are labelled as to the types or classes of fires they should be used on.
CLASS "A" FIRES occur in materials such as rags, paper, wood and trash.
CLASS "B" FIRES arise from the vapour/air mixtures found with flammable liquids such as gasoline, oil, grease, paints and thinners.
CLASS "C" FIRES are electrical fires, or fires occurring in or near electrical equipment, thereby presenting the additional hazard of electrical shock.
CLASS "D" FIRES involve combustible metals (e.g.: sodium or magnesium).
•
If a fire occurs, summon help and pull the fire alarm, try to extinguish it. If there is any indication that the fire will not be extinguished simply, you must evacuate the area.
•
The worker who first reported the fire must inform his/her Supervisor of the circumstances related to the fire starting.
•
Fire suppression equipment must be readily accessible and in working condition.
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•
Tampering with fire suppression equipment is a prohibited.
•
Aisles, passageways, doorways and stairways must never be obstructed.
HOW TO USE A PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHER
Ensure that you are fully trained with operation and maintenance of fire extinguishers.
P ...Pull the pin.
A ...Aim the extinguisher nozzle at base of the flame.
S ...Squeeze the trigger while holding extinguisher upright.
S ...Sweep the extinguisher from side to side, covering the area at the base of the flame.
REMEMBER:
Should your path of escape be threatened....
Should the extinguisher run out of agent...
Should the extinguisher prove to be ineffective...
Should you no longer be able to safely fight the fire... LEAVE THE AREA IMMEDIATELY.
NOTE: Fire extinguishers and emergency lighting systems must be checked on a monthly basis.
4.2(14) HOUSEKEEPING
Good housekeeping involves everyone in the workplace. Workers are responsible for the maintenance of good housekeeping in all work areas. Poor housekeeping is a proven factor in many industrial accidents and injuries.
In order to maintain good housekeeping practices the following guidelines have been established.
•
Professional restoration workers must have a place for everything and keep everything in its place. Workers must keep their work area clean and tidy at all times. Work areas must be cleaned at the end of a shift, immediately after finishing a job or as necessary.
•
Work areas must be kept clean and free from obstructions at all times. Tools, loose objects, oil, grease, and other materials left lying around are hazards.
•
Work and storage areas should be arranged to allow for the safe movement of workers, equipment and materials.
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•
All material must be properly stacked and secured to prevent sliding, falling or collapse. Pipe, conduit, and bar stock should be stored in racks or stacked and blocked to prevent movement.
Materials, tools and equipment must not be stored in stairways, corridors, catwalks, ramps, passageways, exits, or overhead. All materials must be stacked or stored in a manner that permits safe access to and egress from a work area. Do not store heavy articles on high shelves. Only use the bottom 2 shelves of racks for heavy items.
•
Garbage must be deposited in receptacles provided. Receptacles must be emptied at regular intervals in order to prevent hazardous accumulation of rubbish or waste. Oily rags must be deposited in approved receptacles only.
•
Spilled toxic, flammable or corrosive materials must be cleaned up immediately using the method described in the appropriate Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS).
•
Hoses, cables, ropes, wires, etc. must be recoiled after you are finished using them.
•
Replace all grates and covers on openings as soon as work is completed. If work is not completed,
the openings must be barricaded.
•
Broken glass and other "sharps" must not be disposed of in regular trash containers.
•
Lumber with protruding nails must not be left in work areas. Protruding nails must be removed or bend over.
•
Aerosol cans are dangerous at temperatures over 120°F (48°C). Damage to an aerosol can may increase the pressure inside enough to rupture the can resulting in metal fragments being sprayed in all directions. Puncturing an aerosol can, tampering with the nozzle or leaving it where it can rust may also cause the can to rupture. Empty aerosol cans should be disposed of in appropriate waste receptacles.
4.2(15) LADDERS
GENERAL
Portable ladders should only be used when there are no permanent or temporary stairways or work platforms available for the task. Ladders must conform to the approved specifications of the Canadian
Standards Association safety code.
USE
•
Use as per manufacturers specifications.
•
Ladders must be inspected for defects prior to use. Ladders with broken rungs, split rails, and worn or broken safety feet, frayed or damaged ropes must be taken out of service and reported to a supervisor.
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•
Ladders must always be placed at least 1/4 of their length away from the base of the structure they are leaned against. Ladder feet must be placed on a firm surface. A 2"x6" board should be placed under ladders equipped with spurs.
•
Ladders must not be erected on boxes, tables, scaffold platforms, man lift platforms or on vehicles.
•
Use ladders of sufficient length. Adding makeshift extensions or working from the top two rungs or steps is prohibited. Working on the top two rungs of a single or extension ladder, or the top two steps of a step ladder is prohibited.
•
Ladders used for ascending or descending from one level to another must extend at least three feet above the upper landing. Ladders in use must be secured to prevent movement.
•
Site built ladders must be constructed in accordance with WorkSafeBC regulations.
"Job constructed" ladders must have side rails constructed from #1 Grade 2' x 4's for ladders up to
16 feet in length, and from #1 Grade 2' x 6's for ladders between 16 and 24 foot lengths. Cleats and spacers shall be 1" x 3".
•
Metal ladders or wire reinforced wooden ladders must not be used near energized electrical equipment.
•
Wooden ladders must not be painted.
•
Ladders used in locations where they may be struck by workers or equipment in the area must have a watcher stationed at the bottom. Ladders must not be left standing in such a location when not in use. Ladders should be stored in proper storage areas.
•
Ladders used in corridors, stairwells or aisles must be barricaded.
•
Doorways must be blocked, locked or guarded while ladders are used in front of them.
•
Three points of contact must always be maintained when climbing up and down. Always face the ladder when climbing up or down.
•
Workers on ladders must use suitable hoisting equipment to lift or lower heavy or bulky items.
•
Do not over-reach while working from a ladder.
•
Do not use ladders in a horizontal position as runways or scaffolds.
•
Do not place a ladder against a windows, patio doors, or mirrors
•
Ladders are to be used by one person at a time.
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4.2(16) EXCAVATING AND TRENCHING
The definition of an excavation" means any cut, cavity, trench or depression in the earth's surface resulting from rock or soil removal. Excavations can be defined as two types:
Trench Excavations which are the most common and generally less than 12 ft in width. Some examples are excavations used for pipelines and manholes. They must be engineered if greater than 20 ft in depth.
Bulk Excavations are greater than 12 ft in width and are commonly used for foundations or basements.
They also must be engineered if greater than 20 ft in depth.
Other requirements for engineering on an excavation include;
1.
Excavations greater than 4 ft in depth with sides sloped greater than ¾ to 1.
2.
Excavations greater than 20 ft in depth.
3.
Excavations next to structures.
4.
Excavations in soil subject to vibration or hydrostatic pressure.
5.
Excavations shored in a manner differing from the WorkSafeBC regulation.
6.
Excavations as determined by the Board.
Excavation Pre Planning
There are many factors that need to be considered prior to work being done in or around excavations.
1.
All excavation work must be carried out in accordance to WorkSafeBC regulations or with the specific requirements of a registered engineer. Se above.
1a It will be mandatory that you locate and mark services prior to digging
2.
Utility Services in the area such as electrical, gas, steam, water and sewer, and fibre optic lines must be located and assessed for hazard potential. If this equipment is dug into, undercut or damaged in any way, there may be an injury or death to workers, interruption of service, contamination of water, disruption of processes and expensive delays.
Call BC One Call to get information on these items before you beginning work. Test holes should be dug by hand prior to equipment being used. Pointed tools must not be used for probing to locate underground gas lines or electrical facilities.
3.
How large will the excavation be? This will determine if engineering is required as per above.
4.
Trees, utility poles, rocks and similar objects adjacent to an area to be excavated must be removed or secured if they could endanger workers. A clean area extending two feet back from the edge of a trench must be maintained (4 ft for any other excavation).
4a Proper permits and Authorization will be required prior to any trees or pole removal
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5.
The side of the excavation must be trimmed or scaled to remove any loose rock.
6.
Safe access must be provided in the immediate area where workers are employed in trenches over
4 ft. deep. Ladders must extend from the bottom of the excavation to at least three feet above ground.
7.
Another consideration when excavation work is being done on travelled roadway is the need for traffic control and high visibility clothing for all workers.
8.
Any engineered excavation support system must have certified design documentation on site.
9.
The need to identify which type of barricades should be used to prevent workers and others from falling into the excavation needs to be considered. When an excavation must remain open for the duration of the construction work, barricades, fences, and warning signs are necessary. In some cases watchers and flaggers may be required. Guard the work at night with flares, lanterns or flashing lights.
10.
Consideration should be given to the prevention of excess water accumulation in the excavation if it might affect the stability of the excavation or might endanger workers. Erosion of slopes by surface water must be prevented if workers may be endangered.
10a Appropriate pumping equipment should be on site for emergency use
11.
Excessive rain and thawing soil can compromise the sloping of the excavation. Ground water should be controlled. Freezing, pumping, drainage and similar control measures should be planned and directed by an engineer.
12.
Consideration should be given to the positioning of mobile equipment near the evacuation. For a trench the equipment can be no closer than 2ft from the edge, for a large excavation 4 ft. from the edge.
13.
An excavation could be considered a confined space and thus should be assessed for hazardous atmospheres.
14.
Determine what kind of sloping or shoring is required. Refer to WorkSafeBC regulation Part 20.
Sloping is a system where the sides of the excavation are flared to a safe angle.
Shoring is a support system designed to keep the sides of an excavation from caving in.
Where the cut back method is not possible, shoring, trench jacks, sheet piling, cages or other approved methods must be used to protect workers.
No workers will enter any trench or excavation until the walls have been adequately cut back or temporary protective structures have been installed unless said trench or excavation is shallower that the legal minimums and the soil is stable.
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4.2(17) MANUAL HANDLING OF MATERIALS AND MUSCULOSKELETAL INJURY
PREVENTION
•
Practice good housekeeping.
•
Pre-plan procedures to ensure the proper tools, equipment and number of personnel are available.
•
Ensure that you know your physical limitations and the approximate weight of the materials.
•
Minimize the distance materials have to be moved - plan storage and movements properly.
•
Store materials at or above hip height to minimize unnecessary bending.
•
Break or divide heavy or large loads into smaller loads for easier transport.
•
Use personal protective equipment such as knee-pads and gloves.
•
Don’t swing and throw heavy loads.
•
Talk with your supervisor about alternating activities if you have been assigned repetitive work.
•
Where practicable, use dollies, hoists, forklifts or other equipment to do a job more efficiently.
•
Where practicable, use extended handles on tools to reduce the need for crawling when doing floor level tasks.
•
Take a minute to stretch and warm up before any repetitive or heavy lifting jobs.
•
Do not attempt to lift objects that are obviously too heavy or bulky for one or which require getting into an awkward position. Get help.
•
Be ready to lend a hand to fellow employees with lifting tasks.
•
Ensure you have a firm grip on the object before lifting it, and ensure your hands and body are in the clear.
•
Watch out for slivers, nails and sharp ends when handling objects. If possible these must be removed from the object.
•
Ensure that you have a clear view of your route when carrying materials.
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•
Keep your back as nearly upright as possible, don’t reach.
•
Use leg muscles instead of back or stomach muscles
•
Avoid back twisting motions - turn with your feet.
4.2(18) FALL PROTECTION
GENERAL
WorkSafeBC Regulation 11.2 Obligation to use fall protection
Unless elsewhere provided for in this Regulation, an employer must ensure that a fall protection system is used when work is being done at a place
(a) from which a fall of 3 m (10 ft) or more may occur, or
(b) where a fall from a height of less than 3 m involves a risk of injury greater than the risk of injury from the impact on a flat surface.
Whenever possible ensure that guardrails are used whenever possible and that barricades and signs identify restricted areas.
•
Guardrails must be installed wherever there is a hazard of falling four feet or more from a permanent level or 10 feet or more from a temporary level.
•
Guardrails must be installed for work over water IF A DROWNING HAZARD EXISTS.
•
Guardrails must have top rails, mid rails and toe boards that meet government requirements. Wire rope used as an alternative to rails must meet government requirements.
•
In situations where it is necessary to temporarily bypass guardrails or barriers, workers must use a lifeline, lanyard, and safety harness to prevent them from falling.
•
Where it is impractical to use fall-prevention devices, such as guardrails, fall restraint or fallarresting devices must be used.
•
Where fall-prevention devices must be removed for work to proceed, permission to remove them must be obtained from the job supervisor. When fall-prevention devices are temporarily removed, workers must be protected by fall restraint or fall-arresting equipment.
•
Guardrails and barricades that have been temporarily removed must be replaced immediately after the task has been completed
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•
In situations where fall-prevention equipment is inadequate for fall-protection, workers must wear fall restraint or fall-arresting equipment.
•
•
Fall-prevention and fall-arresting devices must meet CSA and government requirements
Before a worker is allowed into an area where a risk of falling exists, the employer must ensure that the worker is instructed in the fall protection system for the area and the procedures to be followed.
•
A written fall protection plan must be done and present at the site where workers are not protected by permanent guardrails from where there is a potential to fall 25 ft.
•
Anchors used for temporary fall restraint systems must have a load capacity of 800 lbs.
•
Each fall protection system must be connected to an independent point of anchorage.
•
Anchors used for temporary fall arrest systems must have a load capacity of 5000lbs.
•
The anchor systems for fall arrest must have an ultimate load capacity in any direction required to resist a fall.
•
A permanent anchor for a personal fall protection system must have an ultimate load capacity in any direction required to resist a fall of at least 5 000 lbs.
•
All fall restraint and fall arrest equipment must be used in accordance to manufacturer’s instructions and the instructions must be available on site or the system must be used in accordance with written instructions form a professional engineer. These instructions must also be available on site.
The following types of equipment and systems, and their installation, must be certified by a professional engineer:
•
•
Permanent anchors,
Anchors with multiple attachment points,
•
Permanent horizontal lifeline systems, and
•
Support structures for safety nets.
INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE
Equipment used in a fall protection system must be:
•
Inspected before use on each shift
•
Kept free from substances and conditions that could contribute to its deterioration
•
Maintained in good working order
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REMOVAL FROM SERVICE
After a fall protection system has arrested the fall of a worker, it must be removed from service and must not be returned to service until it has been inspected and recertified as safe for use by the manufacturer, its authorized agent, or by a professional engineer.
RESCUE
An emergency response plan should be included in the Fall Protection Plan and ensure that all workers understand the procedures for rescue of workers who may be unable to rescue themselves.
Contact your local Fire Department to see if they have a high angle rescue team.
Job Number: _______________________________ Date: _________________________________
Branch: __________________________________
Work Site: ______________________________Address: ______________________________________
______________________________________
Describe the work being done: ____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Fall Hazards to be protected against: _______________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Fall protection systems to be used: i.e. temporary guardrails, fall restraint, work procedures
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Rescue Plan: i.e. ladder truck, man basket, high angle rescue team
_____________________________________________________________________________________
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_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Workers trained and informed:
Have all workers been trained in the safe use of fall protection equipment? □ YES □ NO
Have all affected workers been made aware of this plan? □ YES □ NO
SUPERVISORS SIGNATURE______________________________ DATE:_______________________
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