HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT SPECIFICATION
Scaffolding, Working at Heights or Over Water, Lifting Operations and Earthworks
DOCUMENT ID - SP 1257
REVISION
- 1.0
DATE
- 15/07/02
HSE – SPECIFICATION
Setting Clear Requirements
Authorised for Issue by the HSE IC 15/07/02
Document Authorisation
Document Authority
‘dapo Oguntoyinbo
Ref. Ind: CSM
Date: 15/07/02
Document Custodian
Hamad Khalfeen
Ref. Ind: CSM/11
Date: 15/07/02
Document Author
Hamad Khalfeen
Ref. Ind: CSM/11
Date: 15/07/02
The following is a brief summary of the four most recent revisions to this document. Details of all revisions prior
to these are held on file by the Document Custodian.
Version No.
Version 1.0
Date
July 2002
Author
Hamad Khalfeen
CSM/11
Scope / Remarks
Original issue. Supersedes HSE Standards Manual Chapter 9 ‘Safety Standards for Scaffolding, Working at
Heights or Over Water, Lifting Operations and
Earthworks’.
User Notes:
The requirements of this document are mandatory. Non-compliance shall only be authorised by CSM through
STEP-OUT approval.
A controlled copy of the current version of this document is on PDO's EDMS. Before making reference to this
document, it is the user's responsibility to ensure that any hard copy, or electronic copy, is current. For
assistance, contact the Document Custodian.
This document is the property of Petroleum Development Oman, LLC. Neither the whole nor any part of this
document may be disclosed to others or reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form by
any means (electronic, mechanical, reprographic recording or otherwise) without prior written consent of the
owner.
Users are encouraged to participate in the ongoing improvement of this document by providing constructive
feedback.
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Setting Clear Requirements
Contents
1.
INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................. 1
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
PURPOSE............................................................................................................... 1
CHANGES TO THE SPECIFICATION ................................................................................ 1
SCOPE .................................................................................................................. 1
DELIVERABLES ........................................................................................................ 1
1.5
1.6
1.7
RESPONSIBILITIES ................................................................................................... 2
PERFORMANCE MONITORING ...................................................................................... 3
REVIEW AND IMPROVEMENT ....................................................................................... 3
1.4.1
1.4.2
2.0
Records ........................................................................................................ 1
Reports ........................................................................................................ 2
PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS .................................................................... 4
2.1
2.2
LEGAL REQUIREMENTS .............................................................................................. 4
WORK ON HIGH STRUCTURES ..................................................................................... 5
2.3
SCAFFOLDING ......................................................................................................... 7
2.2.1
2.2.2
2.2.3
2.2.4
2.2.5
Personnel ..................................................................................................... 5
Means of Access ........................................................................................... 5
The High Structure ........................................................................................ 5
Pre-Work Checks .......................................................................................... 5
Work Practices .............................................................................................. 6
2.3.1
2.3.2
General ........................................................................................................ 7
Personnel ..................................................................................................... 7
2.3.3
2.3.4
Means of Access ........................................................................................... 8
Activity Controls ............................................................................................ 9
2.3.5
2.3.6
2.3.7
Pre Work Checks ......................................................................................... 10
General Access Scaffolds ............................................................................. 11
Scaffold Material Standards ......................................................................... 13
2.3.8
2.3.9
2.3.10
2.3.11
2.3.12
Tower Scaffolds .......................................................................................... 14
System Scaffolds ......................................................................................... 15
Power Operated Mobile Work Platforms ........................................................ 16
Ladders ...................................................................................................... 17
Dismantling ................................................................................................ 17
TABLE 1: TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS ................................................................ 8
TABLE 2: LOADS AND DIMENSIONS FOR SCAFFOLD TUBE AND FITTINGS .......................................... 9
TABLE 3: SCAFFOLD MATERIAL STANDARDS ........................................................................... 14
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2.4
WORK OVER WATER .............................................................................................. 18
2.5
LIFTING OPERATIONS ............................................................................................. 19
2.6
EARTHWORKS ....................................................................................................... 20
2.4.1
2.4.2
General Requirements ................................................................................. 18
Working Outside Handrails .......................................................................... 18
2.5.1
2.5.2
General ...................................................................................................... 19
Gin Blocks .................................................................................................. 20
2.6.1
2.6.2
2.6.3
2.6.4
2.6.5
2.6.6
2.6.7
2.6.8
General ...................................................................................................... 20
Excavation Permit ....................................................................................... 20
Excavation and Trenching ............................................................................ 21
Specifications and Backfilling ....................................................................... 22
Restoration ................................................................................................. 22
Identification of Services ............................................................................. 23
Roadworks ................................................................................................. 23
Rock Breaking ............................................................................................. 23
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1.
Introduction
1.1
Purpose
This Specification describes PDO's requirements for:
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1.2
Working on high structures
Scaffolding
Working over water
Lifting operations
Earthworks, roadworks and excavations.
Changes to the Specification
This Specification replaces Chapter 9 of the HSE Standards Manual – ‘Safety
Standards for Scaffolding, Working at Heights or Over Water, Lifting Operations and
Earthworks’.
1.3
Scope
This Specification applies to all activities involving scaffolding (onshore and
offshore), working at heights or over water, lifting operations and earthworks,
undertaken by PDO, and Contractor/Sub-Contractor personnel authorised to work on
behalf of PDO.
Although this Specification is focused on "Construction Contracts", it applies equally
to all similar activities, whether for maintenance, production operations or any other
purpose.
1.4
Deliverables
1.4.1
Records
Records shall be maintained to document the implementation of this Specification
(refer to CP 122 HSE Management System Manual, Part 2 Chapter 6).
Scaffolding Records
Scaffold Inspectors shall record and maintain records of scaffolding and related
equipment in a site scaffolding/staging inspection log book. Inspectors shall either
accept the scaffold or reject it and detail deficiencies to be corrected in the log book.
Personnel Records for Scaffolders
Personnel records of scaffolders shall be maintained and kept up to date. They shall
show:
 full name of employee
 date of birth
 job category
 employment application or personal data sheet (resumes)
 company service agreement
 copy of employee papers. (with visa page, labour permits, NOC’s)
 authorisation for the release of personal data and record information
 records of disciplinary actions and unsatisfactory performance
 records of exceptional performance and achievements
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medical assessment reports
resignation notices
copy of PDO passes and driving licence.
Excavation Register
An excavation register shall be maintained on site. All inspections, including gas
testing, shall be recorded immediately following the inspection/gas test.
1.4.2
Reports
Data shall be submitted to the CSM Department monthly (refer to CP 122 HSE
Management System Manual, Part 2 Chapter 6). For PDO staff, any non-compliance
with this Specification shall be notified, investigated and reported per the ‘Non
Compliance Report Form’ in CP 122 HSE Management System Manual, Part 2
Chapter 6.
For Contractors, any non-compliances with this Specification shall be reported to the
Contract Holder.
1.5
Responsibilities
Asset Managers
Asset Managers are responsible for ensuring that the activities they control are
managed in accordance with the requirements of this Specification.
In the event that circumstances prevent compliance with this Specification, Asset
Managers shall seek the advice and if necessary, a ‘step-out approval’ from the
Document Authority. This approval requires recording subject areas, which do not
conform as a non-compliance (refer to the ‘Non Compliance Report Form CP 122
HSE Management System Manual, Part 2 Chapter 6).
Corporate Functional Discipline Heads
Corporate Functional Discipline Heads are responsible for ensuring that the
requirements of this Specification are reflected in the documents for which they are
responsible.
Contract Holders
Contract Holders are responsible for communicating this Specification to Contractors,
and for ensuring that the requirements of this Specification are adhered to within
the scope of their contracts.
In the event that circumstances prevent compliance with this Specification, Contract
Holders shall seek the advice and if necessary, a ‘step-out approval’ from the
Document Authority. This approval requires recording subject areas, which do not
conform as a non-compliance (refer to the ‘Non Compliance Report Form CP 122
HSE Management System Manual, Part 2 Chapter 6).
Contractors
Contractors are responsible for ensuring that activities undertaken within the scope
of their contracts are managed in accordance with the requirements of this
Specification and reported, where applicable to the Contract Holder.
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1.6
Performance Monitoring
Compliance with this Specification shall be monitored through workplace
supervision, and periodic site inspection.
1.7
Review and Improvement
Any user of this document who encounters a mistake or confusing entry is
requested to immediately notify CSM using the ‘User Feedback Form’ provided in CP
122 HSE Management System Manual, Part 2 Chapter 3.
This Specification shall be reviewed every 4 years. However changes to the current
version may be made in less than four years as the need arises depending upon the
issue of new and relevant environmental legislation and/or major organisational
changes in PDO.
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2.0
Performance Requirements
2.1
Legal Requirements
Legal requirements for industrial safety in Oman are established in Chapter 7 of
Sultan’s Decree No. 34 1973 “Oman Labour Law”. Legal requirements stipulate:
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Every employer must advise workers about workplace hazards, and the
preventive measures to be employed.
Every employer must take the necessary precautions to protect workers from
injury to their health and safety by making sure that:
Adequate safety and hygienic conditions prevail in all places of work
Machinery, pieces of equipment and tackle are installed and maintained in the
safest possible way
Places of work are clean and comply with conditions of health and comfort
A worker must:
Not carry out an action which is forbidden by workplace instructions and is bad
practice or causes damage.
Not shortcut the means provided for protection of the worker’s health and
safety, or the health and safety of fellow workers.
Use protective methods and undertake to regard them with care, and carry out
instructions laid down for the worker’s protection and the prevention of injury.
Inspectors appointed by the Ministry have the power to examine the worker-related
records of an establishment and to enter places of work. Inspectors also have the
authority to question whoever they wish and to publish reports on the results of
their investigations. On the basis of the reports produced by the inspectors, the
Ministry will issue a written warning to an employer who infringes the regulations,
stating the nature of the offence and the time limit set for it to be discontinued.
If there is danger to the health or safety of workers, and the employer refrains from
carrying out the instructions of the Ministry, the Ministry may order the premises to
be closed down partially or completely, or to stop one or more pieces of equipment
working.
Any employer contravening the health and safety regulations stipulated above is
liable to a fine not exceeding OR 5 for every worker employed. The punishment will
be doubled if the offence is repeated. Any employer who refuses entry to
inspectors, or provides false statements to inspectors is liable to a fine not
exceeding OR 100 or one month imprisonment. The penalty will double if the
offence is repeated.
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2.2
Work on High Structures
2.2.1
Personnel
Personnel shall be adequately trained and experienced in their work, specifically as
applied to operating above ground level. Supervisors, adequate in number, training
and experience shall be provided for the control of work.
Personal Protective Equipment
All persons working above ground level shall be provided with and shall use personal
protective equipment, in accordance with the requirements of SP 1234 Personal
Protective Equipment.
2.2.2
Means of Access
The means of access to high structures such as scaffolding, hydraulically lifted
baskets or suspended baskets, shall be of sound construction, suitable for the
purpose and shall be approved by PDO prior to use.
Where the means of access is of a mobile or portable type, it shall not be moved
either mechanically or manually, whilst personnel are upon it, unless it is specifically
designed and approved for the carriage of persons.
Where the means of access is of a mobile or portable type, any loose articles e.g.
tools, equipment, scaffold boards, etc. shall be removed or securely lashed down,
prior to the means of access being moved.
Where personnel must transfer from the means of access the high structure, or vice
versa, the arrangements at the point of transfer shall be such that personnel are not
at risk.
The means of access shall adequately provide for safe means of egress, for all
personnel, from the high structure.
2.2.3
The High Structure
The integrity of the high structure shall be such that the required operations can be
performed safely. This includes:
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2.2.4
the loading of the structure e.g. men, equipment and materials
the environmental conditions
the forces imposed upon it by any means of access which is connected to it
the forces imposed upon it by any lifting or winching operations in which the
high structure serves as an anchor point, counterweight or tie point.
Pre-Work Checks
Before work commences, the supervisor in charge of the work shall ensure:
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SP 1257
that all necessary permits have been obtained.
that any necessary electrical, mechanical and process isolations have been
positively carried out.
that all static, moving, lifting and anchoring equipment integral to the means of
access and high structure, including those associated with the work task, are
correctly fitted in a sound condition and fit for the intended purpose.
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2.2.5
that all personnel have been provided with the required personal protection.
that all personnel have been briefed in, and understand, the safety aspects of
the job.
Communications drills between members of the work team have been
adequately rehearsed and all communications equipment is functioning.
that suitable emergency transport is permanently available for use on site.
Work Practices
In order to minimise exposure to risk, the minimum practical number of personnel
shall be assigned to the job.
All operations above ground level (including scaffold erection and dismantling) shall
be carried out in such a way that non-involved personnel in the vicinity of the work
are not at risk.
Personnel shall not be permitted to climb whilst carrying tools or heavy loads, the
only exception being tools carried in a waist belt designed specifically for the
purpose. Where necessary, tools shall be hauled up and lowered in a suitable
container.
Electrical, pneumatic and hydraulic tools shall not be hauled up or lowered by their
power lines.
Where practical, personnel shall not be assigned to work directly below the
overhead work positions or other persons. Where this is unavoidable, suitable
precautions shall be taken. Safety nets shall be installed.
All personnel shall be attached to the structure using a suitable harness when not
moving about the structure (ref SP 1234 Personal Protective Equipment).
Tools, equipment etc. shall be kept in such a location that they do not represent a
tripping hazard and cannot fall or be knocked from the structure.
Where no catchment means are located below the workplace, safety lines shall be
attached to tools and similar equipment.
During the possibility of a thunderstorm, no work shall be executed at a height
where a person can be exposed to lightning.
All overhead work shall cease when wind speed reaches 40 km/h. The only
exception being such work which is intended to render the high structure or its
means of access safe.
Any overhead work which must be carried out during the hours of darkness, shall be
subject to written authorisation from the Company Site Representative. Such
authorisation shall include the required standard of illumination. Erection and / or
dismantling of scaffolding during the hours of darkness is only permitted in cases of
extreme urgency and when no other practicable alternative can be identified.
When overhead work is required on wet structures or their means of access, those
facilities shall be inspected by the job supervisor and Company Site Representative
prior to starting the work.
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Where such facilities become wet during the operation, work may continue only in
order to make the structures safe. Work shall then cease until inspection by the job
supervisor and Company Site Representative confirms that it is safe to continue.
Upon completion of the day's work, all ropes and tackles shall be securely tied back
to a permanent structure. The means of access shall be blocked off and any crane
jibs shall be tied down to their resting brackets.
Where there is a risk to third parties, high visibility warning tape, notice boards and
warning lights shall be sited.
2.3
Scaffolding
2.3.1
General
Adequate scaffolding and ladders shall be erected to provide safe access to all parts
of any works situated 1.5 metres or more above ground level.
Personnel, other than the Scaffold Inspectors, Scaffolders and Labourers involved,
shall only be permitted upon scaffolding and staging that has been inspected and
clearly labelled "ready for use" (refer section 2.3.4 of this Specification).
No part of any operational line or pressurised piping shall be used as a support, or
tie point for scaffolds or staging.
All scaffolding and staging equipment shall be of a proprietary manufacture and
shall meet the requirements of this Specification.
The mixing of scaffold or staging types in any one structure (e.g., steel/aluminium
couplers, wooden boards/metal grid boards) shall not be permitted.
Access or general purpose scaffolding, or any part thereof, shall not be used as a
support for any part of process plant.
2.3.2
Personnel
In addition to the general requirements for working at heights, the following
requirements apply to scaffolding work.
Training and Experience
All personnel employed for the purpose of erecting, modifying or dismantling
scaffolding will meet the requirements of Table 1.
The erection of proprietary system scaffold by unqualified personnel shall be an
exception to the above requirement.
All personnel who supervise activities that include the use of scaffolding and access
platforms, including all HSE Advisers, shall complete LXE 044 “Scaffolding
Appreciation” training course.
Personnel who meet the requirements of a Scaffold Inspector in Table 1 (below) do
not need to complete this course. Successful completion of this course does not,
however, qualify personnel as Scaffold Inspectors for erection or dismantling.
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Table 1: Training and Experience Requirements
Job
Category
Qualifications
Scaffold
Inspector
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Advanced
Scaffolder
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Basic
Scaffolder
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Trainee
Scaffolder
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Experience
CITB Advanced Scaffolder, or After qualification, 3 years
working as an Advanced
NVQ level 3 "Accessing"
Scaffolder, the third year of
which must be spent working
with an inspector. Must hold
certificate of demonstrated
competence in scaffold
inspection, as specified by
current employer.
CITB Advance Scaffolder, or Minimum 12 months on-site
experience as a Basic Scaffolder
NVQ Level 3 "Accessing"
CITB Basic Scaffolder Part 2,
or
NVQ level 2 "Accessing"
Minimum 12 months planned onsite experience as a Trainee
Scaffolder.
CITB Basic Scaffolder Part 1, Minimum 6 months continuous
experience on site working
or
alongside Basic Scaffolder.
NVQ level 1 "Accessing”,
continuing towards CITB
Basic Scaffolder part 2, or
NVQ Level 2 “Accessing”
Undertaken with an approved
accredited training institute.
Notes:
 All scaffolding personnel in Table 1 shall complete a PDO HSE Induction Course.
 Scaffolding personnel not holding (CITB) Construction Industry Training Board
or (NVQ) National Vocational Qualification Levels 1, 2, or 3, may provide
evidence of work experience, accompanied by theory based qualifications such
as diplomas, degrees, trade certificates, etc. and seek PDO’s approval for
compliance with Table 1.
Personal Protective Equipment
All persons involved in the erection and dismantling of scaffolding and staging shall
be provided with and shall use personal protective equipment, in accordance with
the requirements of SP 1234 Personal Protective Equipment.
2.3.3
Means of Access
The means of access to, and means of egress from, all scaffolding and staging shall
be via ladder/s or staircases. Ascending and descending any tower by using the
horizontal members shall not be permitted.
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2.3.4
Activity Controls
Design and Approval
The access and working scaffolds listed in Table 2 (below), with their construction
criteria, shall be designed accordance with BS 1139 “Metal Scaffolding”. In all cases
wind force, soil preparation and slope conditions are design criteria and subject to
specific design types.
Table 2: Loads and Dimensions for Scaffold Tube and Fittings
Type of
Scaffold
Use of
Scaffold
loading per
m2
Maximum
number of
working
platforms
Maximum
spacing
between
Standards
Typical load
examples
per bay
Very light
duty
independent
Light duty
independent
Inspection
access and
painting
Power
cleaning,
painting, light
engineering
75 kg
1 working
platform
2.7 m
150 kg
2 working
platforms
2.4 m
1 man and
tools. No
materials
2 men and
tools. No
materials
General
purpose
independent
Light
engineering,
e.g. welding
or electrical
200 kg
2 working
platforms and
1 at very light
duty
2.1 m
2 men and
175 kg of
materials
Heavy duty
independent
Heavy
engineering,
e.g. large
pipework or
structural
250 kg
2 working
platforms and
1 at very light
duty
2.0 m
2 men and
250 kg of
materials
Scaffold
Special purpose
To be stated on design drawings
All scaffolds outside the format of Table 2, shall be designed to BS 5973 “Code of
Practice for Access and Working Scaffolds and Special Scaffold Structures in Steel”
by a competent engineer. The engineer shall prove the design by applying
engineering principles. In addition to the design sketch and calculations, the
engineer shall provide a written erection/dismantling procedure.
In all cases, the following scaffold types are subject to specific design:
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SP 1257
access scaffolds above 50m in height
hanging or slung scaffolds
external free standing scaffolds
scaffolds required to withstand anticipated wind force to safeguard personnel
and equipment
false work and support scaffolds dependant on soil / slope conditions
extra heavy duty scaffolds in excess of the heavy duty specification in Table 2
loading platform for loads exceeding 2.5 kN/m2
lifting access scaffolds
public access scaffolds
temporary roofs
offshore overside scaffolds.
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Note: Hanging or slung scaffolds for onshore application do not normally provide
the facility of conducting a lightning strike to earth and during the design of such
scaffolds, consideration shall be given to suitable earthing arrangements (reference
BS 6651).
Various scaffolding systems are commercially available. However only PDO
approved systems, equipment and material is to be utilised. No combination of
different systems can be made unless approved in writing by PDO.
Erection
Prior to erection, any necessary work permits shall be obtained (ref PR 1172 Permit
To Work System Procedure Manual). The operational and geographical parameters
specified in the permit shall be fully complied with.
2.3.5
Pre Work Checks
Prior to installation
Prior to installation commencing a Scaffold Inspector shall inspect:
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the ground area upon which the scaffold is to be positioned.
all equipment which shall form any part of the scaffold staging, means of
access, work platform and lifting facilities.
If the inspection proves satisfactory, approval shall be given for scaffolding
installation. Such approval shall be recorded in the site scaffold/staging inspection
log book (refer to Section 1.4 of this Specification).
Prior to work each day
For scaffolds outside the format of Table 2, after erection, and before work
commences upon the scaffold, the engineer shall inspect and approve the scaffold
and shall record this inspection in the site scaffold/staging inspection log book (refer
to Section 1.4 of this Specification).
Prior to work each day, a Scaffold Inspector shall inspect all scaffolding, staging and
peripheral equipment.
Where any scaffold or staging is altered or adjusted in any way, it shall be inspected
by the Scaffold Inspector prior to work upon it re-commencing.
Subsequent to rain or heavy wind, a Scaffolding Inspector shall inspect all
scaffolding and staging prior to work re-commencing.
Labelling
A weather-proof plasticised or equivalent label (e.g., SCAFFTAG) shall be placed at
each access point and at the boundary of each scaffold section to clearly indicate if
the scaffold is “ready for use” or “not to be used”. The label shall state:
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SP 1257
Date erected, with name and initials of Scaffolder
Date inspected, with name and initials of Scaffold Inspector
Date modified, with name and initials of Scaffolder
Date re-inspected, with name and initials of Scaffold Inspector (maximum 7
day intervals)
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 Expiry date of label
 Dismantling date
Other Signage
Other signs to be placed at all access points to the scaffold indicate:
 “Incomplete Scaffold – Do Not Use” with a ‘cross’ marked in the centre.
The letters shall be white on a red background and the sign shall be 400mm
long by 300mm wide. Where access in by ladder, the lower section of the
ladder shall be either removed or barricaded in such a way that the ladder
cannot be ascended.
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“Scaffold OK to Use” with a ‘tick’ marked in the centre. The letters shall be
white on a green background and the sign shall be 400mm long by 300mm
wide
Modifications
Where any scaffold or staging is altered or adjusted in any way it shall be inspected
and approved by the Scaffold Inspector prior to work upon it re-commencing.
If unauthorised modifications are observed, they shall be reported to the supervisor
and a “NOT TO BE USED” warning shall be displayed.
2.3.6
General Access Scaffolds
Base
Bases shall be adequate for the load imposed at each standard and for the weight of
the whole scaffold. On hard surfaces, such as steel or good concrete, standards
may be placed directly on the surface. On other surfaces (including soft surfaces
and gratings) the load shall be spread by placing the standards on sole plates and
base plates. The earth beneath shall be firm and level. Sole plates should
preferably support at least two standards.
Standards
Standards shall be vertical or slightly inclined towards the host structure and shall be
spaced to provide adequate support.
Type of Scaffold
Heavy duty scaffold
General purpose
Light duty/access
Spacing
1.8 m
2.1 m
2.4 m
Maximum Load
3.0 kN/m2
2.0 kN/m2
1.5 kN/m2
The joints of standards shall be staggered, so that all vertical joints do not occur in
the same bay.
Ledgers
Ledgers shall be fixed horizontally inside of the standards. They shall be fixed with
load bearing right-angled couplers. The joints of ledgers shall be staggered so that
they do not occur in the same bay.
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Transoms
Transoms shall be fixed to ledgers or standards with right-angled couplers or putlog
clips. The maximum spacing for transoms shall be related to board thickness as
follows:
Board Thickness
32 mm
40 mm
51 mm
63 mm
Transom Spacing
0.9m
1.5m
2.5m
3.2m
Ledger Bracing
Ledger bracing shall be provided between alternate pairs of standards. These shall
start at base level and continue through the full height of the scaffold. They shall
be coupled to the ledgers, close to the node point, using 90 degree couplers.
Facade Bracing
Facade bracing shall be provided to preserve longitudinal stability, unless such
stability is provided by another means. Facade bracing shall start at base plate level
and continue to the top lift, it may zig-zag from bottom to top, or can be a
continuous sloping tube. It shall be tied at every lift to extend transoms, with rightangled couplers or to the standards with swivel couplers.
Guard rails
Guard rails shall be provided where the working platform is above 1.5m. They shall
also be provided, at any height, where the scaffold is over water or where the
person may fall onto dangerous surfaces, a fragile roof, machinery, etc.
Guard rails shall be:
 between 1.0 and 1.2 m above the platform level
 rigid other than on tank/vessel staging, where they may be steel rope.
Persons not moving around the staging shall be attached to the structure using a
suitable harness (ref SP 1234 Personal Protective Equipment).
Work Platforms
Platforms shall be at least 600mm wide and may be made from various materials
such as platform boards, scaffold boards or staging. Full details for various types of
use are listed in the table below.
Function
Minimum Width
Working platform only (no deposit of
material)
Passage of materials
Deposit of materials (a passageway of
430 mm must be maintained)
600mm
600mm
800mm
Note: Notwithstanding the above, the platforms shall be fully boarded between
hand railings.
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Toe Boards
Toe boards shall be provided around all open sides of work platforms, gangways or
runs. They shall normally be placed inside the standards, securely fixed and shall
extend at least 150 mm above the platform. The gap between the toe board and
the guard rail shall not exceed 750 mm. On certain small tank/vessel stagings, toe
boards may be impractical. In this case, written authorisation for exclusion may be
requested from the PDO Company Representative.
Ties
Every scaffold, with the exception of tower scaffolds below 10 metres, shall be
provided with ties fixing the scaffolding to fixed structures. These shall be fitted at
a minimum ratio of one tie for every 40 m sq. of scaffold area and shall be evenly
distributed throughout the scaffold.
Ties shall comply with the requirements of BS 5973 “Code of Practice for Access and
Working Scaffolds and Special Scaffold Structures in Steel” and types may be mixed
where this enhances the integrity of the scaffold.
Fans, Catchment Platforms
Where it may be necessary to protect passing personnel or plant/equipment located
below a scaffold, fans or catchment platforms, of adequate strength and dimension,
shall be provided at optimum positions.
Tube End Caps
Tube end caps are mandatory for all tubes on erected scaffolds where personnel
may come into contact with tube ends and risk injury.
Boards
Boards shall be securely fastened and supported to meet the requirements listed in
the table listed below.
Loose laid plywood sheets are not permitted for use as scaffold boards, staging, or
platform boards.
2.3.7
Nominal
Thickness of
Board (mm)
Maximum Span
Between
Supports (m)
Minimum
Overhang
Maximum
Overhang
38
50
63
1.5
2.6
3.25
50
50
50
150
200
250
Scaffold Material Standards
In all cases access equipment, whether tube and fittings, proprietary systems or
special equipment shall be suitable in all respects for its intended application. For
the majority of applications this will entail the use of steel tube, fittings and boards
in accordance with Table 3 (over). However, the use of proprietary systems
manufactured from steel or aluminium or the use of special equipment shall be
acceptable where the access is required for a short period only, or is required to be
easily moveable and there is a firm footing.
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Aluminium alloy shall not be used in the construction of any type of scaffold in
Zone 0 or Zone 1 hazardous areas.
Table 3: Scaffold Material Standards
2.3.8
Material
Standard
Additional Requirements
Steel tube
BS 1139
Parts 1 and 2
Fittings
BS 1139
Parts 1 and 2
Boards
BS 2482
Only galvanised tube to be used. Tubes
to be regularly inspected and cleaned.
All tubes to be checked before use for
corrosion and general condition.
Defective tubes to be discarded. Butt
welded tubes may be used on condition
that the welding has been carried out to
an approved procedure
All fittings to be examined before use for
damage and wear. Damaged or worn
fittings to be discarded. No heat to be
applied to fittings. Moving parts to be
lubricated.
Where any hot work is to be carried out,
boards shall be protected with a noncombustible covering which shall be laid
and tied in such a way that it shall not
constitute a tripping hazard.
Tower Scaffolds
Where tower scaffolds are used, in addition to all preceding requirements, the
following shall be provided:



The work platform shall be within the base dimension.
The minimum base to height ratio shall be:
- 1:4 (internal)
- 1:3.5 (external)
Where ballast is required, it shall be properly positioned and securely lashed.
Simple tower scaffolds of the prefabricated or system type may be erected, and
altered by persons not qualified as Scaffolders. However, any tower structure more
extensive than a simple 4-legged layout, or a tower constructed from tube and
fittings shall only be erected by qualified Scaffolders and shall be subject to the
requirements below.
Prefabricated and system towers shall be assembled to manufacturer’s specifications
and the manufacturer's maximum permitted loads shall be taken into account when
selecting the type to be used. For towers constructed from tube and fittings, the
maximum loading shall be 75kg/m2.
The tower foundation shall be capable of sustaining the total load at all times so
that a stable condition is maintained. Towers shall not be erected directly on
recently made up ground or on lightweight manhole covers and timber spanning
excavations. The legs of static towers shall always rest on metal base plates or
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castors and the load spread by timber soleplates at least 225mm wide by 40mm
deep and long enough to ensure no undue ground settlement.
All towers, regardless of the type of component used, shall be adequately braced.
Mobile Tower Scaffolds
Mobile scaffolds shall only be used on solid, level surfaces. All necessary
precautions shall be taken when moving the scaffold. No person shall ride on any
part of the scaffold.
Castors/wheels shall be of 125 to 175 mm diameter and shall have effective locking
devices. Wheels shall be locked facing outwards when the scaffold is not being
moved. Foot ties shall be as near to the castor/wheels as is practical.
The access ladder shall be clear of the ground and shall be an integral part of the
scaffold or shall be of proprietary manufacture, and hooked to the scaffold in such
away that it can not move during usage.
The minimum base to height ratio shall be:
 1:3.5 (internal)
 1:3 (external)
2.3.9
System Scaffolds
System scaffolds are proprietary systems fabricated from steel or aluminium alloy
and comprise a complete set of unique components capable of assembly into a
scaffold structure without the use of any other equipment.
Using such systems, structures under 2.0 m in height and not exceeding 18m 3 in
volume may be erected by unqualified personnel, under the guidance of qualified
Scaffolders.
In the case of wireline operations access, structures may be erected and inspected
by Advanced Scaffolders with at least one year experience in that category.
Personnel erecting system scaffold shall be able to read and fully understand the
manufacturer’s instructions and shall follow these instructions at all times. If
instructions are not available, work shall not proceed unless under the supervision of
a qualified person.
When using system scaffold, instructions shall be obtained from the system
manufacturer when:



deviations outside the normal system parameters are required
sheeting or fans are added
other changes are made which will affect the structural loading on the system.
When manufacturer’s instructions are not available, deviations shall be the subject
of specific designs.
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2.3.10 Power Operated Mobile Work Platforms
Personnel
Training of WP operators shall be carried out at an approved Training Institute and
followed by a R.O.P Heavy Equipment test.
Design
All power operated mobile work platforms (WPs) shall be approved by PDO.
The following information shall be conspicuously displayed on the platform of a WP:


the safe working load and the maximum number of persons allowed on the
platform.
the maximum gradient on which the WP may operate.
Inclinometers, spirit levels or other suitable devices with scales, bands or other
markings shall be provided so that the operator can easily see the tilt of the machine
and whether it is within specified limits.
The floor of the platform shall be slip-resistant and designed to prevent the
accumulation of water.
Safety devices shall be fitted to prevent the unwarranted movement of any part of
the WP.
A safe means of access and egress to the platform when at ground level shall be
provided.
Use
Special precautions shall be taken when WPs are used in the vicinity of live electrical
conductors (refer to SP 1242 Activities in the Vicinity of Overhead Power Lines).
Maintenance, Inspection and Testing
Before being put into service for the first time or following any major repair or
alteration, a WP shall be tested over its range of duties with a proof load at least 1.5
times the safe working load by a specialist servicing company under the auspices of
PDO. A certificate of test and thorough examination giving details of the results of
the safe working load and range of duties of the WP shall be issued.
Only qualified and authorised persons shall carry out adjustments and repairs to
WPs.
At the beginning of each work period, the operator shall check:








SP 1257
pneumatic tyres are inflated to the correct pressure and tyres are free from cuts
and damage
the operation of the brakes
the operation of any lights, which include safety warning lights/audibles
lubricant, coolant and fuel levels
the integrity of the supporting structure
for leaks in hydraulic/pneumatic systems
correct functioning of powered mechanisms, e.g. raising, slewing, etc.
correct functioning of communications systems between platform and ground.
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At weekly intervals (or every 50 operational hours/manufacturer’s recommended
intervals) an authorised maintenance person shall carry out:


all checks made at the beginning of each work period and a full operational
check of the appliance
a check of the condition of the chassis, support structure, platform and powered
mechanisms.
At six monthly intervals (or 1000 operational hours/manufacturer’s recommended
interval) a thorough examination shall be carried out by an authorised person. This
type of examination shall also be carried out after an accident, major repair or
modification. A certificate shall be issued by the authorised person stating that the
WP is in safe condition.
2.3.11 Ladders
Ladders shall be of proprietary manufacture and shall be constructed from timber or
aluminium. Timber ladders shall not be painted.
Ladders shall be positioned at 15 degrees off vertical and shall be adequately
secured, with a minimum vertical protrusion of 1 metre at the upper step-off point.
Where a height greater than 9 metres has to be climbed, a series of ladders with
intermediate platforms properly protected with guard rails and toe boards, shall be
provided.
Aluminium ladders shall not be used in Zone 0 or Zone 1 hazardous areas.
2.3.12 Dismantling
No persons other than trained, experienced scaffolders (refer to Table 1 of this
Specification) shall be involved in dismantling scaffolding and staging.
No items shall be thrown to the ground. It is preferable to lower all items by line,
but lowering by hand is permissible if sufficient scaffolders are available.
Relative to the reducing height of the scaffold/staging, boards shall be transferred
down lift by lift to form adequate work platforms for the scaffolders involved in
dismantling.
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2.4
Work Over Water
2.4.1
General Requirements
Structures and walkways over water shall be of suitable construction for their
intended use and, where applicable, shall follow the requirements of this
Specification.
Vehicle access shall be controlled and the weight limit clearly displayed at the
entrance to all such structures.
Handrails shall be fitted and life buoys, with a minimum 27m of buoyant rope, shall
be provided at intervals not exceeding 5m wherever people are regularly required to
work over water.
Effective means of communication (radio or telephone) shall be readily available.
2.4.2
Working Outside Handrails
For construction and maintenance operations which have to be done outside
handrails, or if handrails have to be removed, additional precautions shall be taken
including the most practical of the following:




a 'buddy' system shall be operated and each person required to wear a life
jacket
safety nets fitted, such that persons cannot fall more than 2 m
Safety belts and line worn and attached such that personnel cannot fall into the
water.
a rescue boat, with a minimum crew of 2 men, stationed in the immediate work
area and carrying rescue hooks or hoops.
The action to be taken if a person falls in the water shall be agreed before the work
starts and all personnel are to be made familiar with it.
At least one person in the working group shall be trained in resuscitation.
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2.5
Lifting Operations
2.5.1
General
Lifting operations shall comply with the requirements of:

PR 1508 Procedure for Lifting Operations

SP 1239 Specification for Lifting Equipment and Lifting Operations

SP 1251 Training Requirements for Lifting Operations Personnel.
The Contractor's HSE Plan shall contain a method statement for critical lifting
operations with drawings showing reach load and crane capacity.
The following shall be considered in determining whether a lifting operation is
critical:




Weight of load (Load exceeding 50% of capacity of crane at the required reach
shall be considered critical).
Size of load
Load bearing capacity of ground
Facilities within the reach of the crane boom
Lifting equipment such as cranes, winches, chain blocks, hoists and forklifts shall
comply with SP 1239 Specification for Lifting Equipment and Lifting Operations and
PDO’s SP 2000 Road Transport Manual.
The lifting operator shall be responsible for following approved lifting plans, and
shall discontinue the operation if any parameter deviates from the lifting plan
conditions.
All operators of lifting plant shall:



complete a PDO “Vehicle Mounted Crane Operators” course (ref SP 1157
Specification for HSE Training), or
hold a Level 2 NVQ in Lifting Plant Operations (Construction) awarded by the
Association of Industrial Truck Trainers (AITT) or the Construction Industry
Training Board (CITB), or
have equivalent training and experience approved by PDO.
Operators of other types of lifting equipment shall be trained to the satisfaction of
PDO.
All cranes shall be correctly supported and all outriggers and other lifting aids shall
be deployed before lifting commences. Cranes and other side booms shall be
positioned so that they lift vertically and are not used to pull loads sideways.
Mobile lifting equipment shall not be operated when the top of the jib or fly-jib can
reach within 3m of live overhead power cables. Other special precautions shall be
taken when mobile lifting equipment is used in the vicinity of live electrical
conductors (refer to SP 1242 Activities in the Vicinity of Overhead Power Lines).
All lifting operations shall be controlled by a trained banks man.
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During lifting operations, no person shall be positioned beneath the load, hoist or
jib. Similarly, loads shall not be slewed over the heads of personnel.
2.5.2
Gin Blocks
Gin blocks shall be used to lift materials only when the load to be lifted does not
exceed 50kg. Gin blocks shall never be used for personnel transfer.
A gin block shall be mounted on a cantilever tube projecting outwards from the
scaffold at a distance not exceeding 750mm. This supporting tube shall be attached
to two standards.
2.6
Earthworks
2.6.1
General
Earthworks shall comply with the requirements of:
 SP 1143 Specifications for Earthmoving and Construction Equipment
 ERD-17 01 "Civil and Building Construction Specifications" Section (C) "Excavation
and Earthworks"
 BS 6031 " Code of Practice for Earthworks'
In addition, the following requirements shall apply when performing earthworks:



Position warning signs informing that earthworks are in progress. Such signs
shall be:
- in Arabic/English
- pictorial
- positioned to the satisfaction of the Company Representative.
Ensure that all operators of plant are aware of hazards such as pits and slopes
which may cause the plant to overturn and that these hazards are adequately
marked with drums, stakes and/or bunting.
Ensure that all plant is operated in a safe manner by suitably qualified and
experienced supervisors. The suitability of operators and supervisors shall be
demonstrated to the to the satisfaction of PDO. Under no circumstances shall
any person drive any plant or equipment unless they have in their immediate
possession a current Royal Oman Police licence for driving plant.
Environmental requirements associated with earthworks are defined in SP 1012 Land
Management.
2.6.2
Excavation Permit
An excavation permit shall be obtained prior to the commencement of any
excavation on, or in close proximity to, any camp, industrial area, residential area,
designated road, or access road, temporary or otherwise, serving any facility
previously mentioned. Specific requirements regarding excavation permits are
described in the following documents:



SP 1257
PR 1002 "Operations Excavation Procedure” for excavation where existing lines
or services may be encountered.
PR 1172 Permit to Work System Procedure Manual for excavation in the
proximity of any oil, gas or other facilities
SP 1104 Electrical Safety Rules for excavation at, or in the proximity of, any
electrical facility (including gathering, transformer, feeder or testing facilities),
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HSE – SPECIFICATION
Setting Clear Requirements
sub-surface or overhead electrical transmission systems (including overhead line
rights of way).
Before any excavation or ground levelling is commenced, the Company
Representative shall be consulted as to whether an excavation permit is required.
2.6.3
Excavation and Trenching
Prior to Excavation Commencing
Prior to any excavation commencing, the supervisor in charge of the work shall
ensure that all required equipment is on site before authorising the work to begin.
The excavation shall be carried out in strict accordance with the conditions stated on
the permit. If any marker, pipe, cable or foundation not identified on the excavation
permit is uncovered, work shall stop immediately and a report shall be made to the
person issuing the permit.
Inspections
All excavations shall be inspected daily, before work starts, by a person suitably
qualified and approved by PDO. Such inspections shall include all parts of the
excavation, including of shoring, supports and access.
Where the permit requires the excavation to be gas tested before work starts, the
above mentioned inspection shall not be carried out until the excavation is proven to
be gas free.
All excavations shall be inspected subsequent to any rain, and subsequent to the
ingress of water from other sources. Where the water entering the excavation
appears to be ground water, work shall cease immediately until the excavation has
again been cleared as being gas free.
Work Practices
When hand digging is specified, personnel shall be informed that picks and shovels
can damage cables and GRE and steel pipelines.
Work requiring the digging of trenches shall be programmed so that trenches are
left open for no longer than is essential.
All trenches, slopes or pits, in excess of 1.2m in depth, into which personnel may be
required to enter, shall be suitably shored to prevent cave-ins or sliding materials.
The use of a trench cage or trench box may also be permitted. In all cases the
protection shall be designed by an engineer qualified for such work and endorsed by
the responsible supervisor for the work.
As an alternative, all sides of the excavation, trench or pit in excess of 1.2m in depth
may be sloped back to a safe angle of repose to prevent earth slides. This can vary
in dry conditions from vertical in rock, to 1:1 for sand. In such cases, the angle of
repose shall be determined by an engineer qualified for such work and endorsed by
the supervisor for the work
In the event that an Excavation Permit is required, the design of the cave-in
protection shall be attached to the permit.
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Setting Clear Requirements
Excavated earth shall not be stored close to the trench edges. Where practical, a
one metre wide strip on both sides of the trench shall be levelled and cleared of
loose items/materials. This strip may be used to store materials required in the
excavation for a short period, provided such materials are stored in a safe manner.
If there is a possibility that materials may fall into the excavation or may initiate an
earth slide, then they shall not be placed on this strip.
Personnel shall not work or move close to the edges of excavations. Temporary
crossings for personnel shall be provided over any trench. Such crossings shall be
at least 600 mm wide, of adequate strength and shall have a handrail on at least
one side.
All pits, trenches and excavations (excepting main oil/gas pipelines during
construction stage) shall be roped off and suitable warning notices shall be
provided. Where any excavation is to remain open during the hours of darkness,
warning lights, in sufficient numbers, shall be strategically positioned. All pits,
trenches, and excavations associated with the construction of main underground
pipelines shall conform to the requirements of PCS01"Pipeline Construction
Specification ".
Where any plant (i.e. power shovel, digger, rock breaker, etc.) is working around,
or in an excavation, no person shall be permitted to work in the excavations within
5m of the machine, or within 3m of the maximum reach of the machine. Where
personnel are required to hand trim excavations within 5m of the machine, it shall
be stopped from operating until the hand trimming is complete.
All equipment exhaust gases shall be directed away from the excavation to avoid
accumulation of toxic gases in the excavation. For excavations or pits where natural
oxygen supply might be hampered, tests shall be made to check oxygen levels and
air supply blowers may have to be installed.
2.6.4
Specifications and Backfilling
The following backfilling specifications shall be precisely followed:



Particulate size and depth of bed, overburden and compaction density. The
backfilling of an excavation can affect the integrity of the service lines/cable
within the excavation or trench.
Cable tiles and markers
Separation in common service trenches, whether physical separating or
separation by distance
Where tipper trucks are used to dump fill in or close to trenches, a banks man shall
be available to stop reversing vehicles from getting too close to the excavation.
2.6.5
Restoration
Excess spoil, not backfilled into the excavation, shall be removed from site, unless a
windrow is specified.
The supervisor in charge of the work shall ensure that the backfilled and compacted
excavation matches the level of the surrounding earth, and shall sign to this effect in
the Excavation Register (refer to Section 1.4.1 of this Specification).
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2.6.6
Identification of Services
Mark existing drawings to show where new services have been laid in an area, or
where redundant services have been removed from an area.
2.6.7
Roadworks
Work carried out on, across, or within 2.5 m of a road shall comply with the
requirements ERD-17-08 “Guide to Safe Road Works”. In addition, the following
shall apply:
 Inform the Company Representative and the Royal Oman Police Force of the
location and estimated duration of the work, at least 72 hours before the work
starts.
 If practicable ,construct a by-pass road away from the works as agreed with the
Company Representative.
 Provide warning signs as detailed in the Ministry of Communications Highway
Design Standards, or where necessary, other signs as requested by the
Company Representative.
 Provide flag-men to warn and control traffic. Flag-men shall be competent
persons aware of their responsibilities.
 Provide fluorescent type vests for all personnel involved in the work and ensure
that they are worn at all times.
 During hours of darkness, provide operational flashing lamps, amber in colour,
situated in such a manner as to clearly indicate the hazard to road users.
Ensure the cleanliness of the road immediately adjacent to the area of work and
that no hazard to road users exists.
Where graders are in use, drivers shall maintain a gap of at least 50m between
machines. The leading machine on the team shall drive on the right hand side of
the road.
Where Contractor’s operations cause damage to the roads on, or leading to, a
worksite which is in excess of the regular wear and tear covered by PDO’s normal
road maintenance programme, the Contractor shall repair the damage. On
completion of the work, road(s) shall be left in a safe and satisfactory condition.
Measures shall be taken to prevent debris from falling onto the roads and to
continuously remove any such debris that does fall onto the road during the work.
Environmental requirements associated with roadworks are defined in SP 1012 Land
Management.
2.6.8
Rock Breaking
Hydraulically operated hammers are recommended for all rock-breaking activities.
The alternative of blasting using explosives shall only be applied in those cases
where a clear financial advantage is present (e.g., long buried pipelines) and subject
to prior approval from PDO. In such a case the following shall apply :
 Royal Oman Police "General Rules for Blasting"
 All personnel involved in the blasting site activities shall be approved by PDO
 The Contractor shall submit a safety plan including but not limited to the following
topics:
- receipt of explosives and detonators,
SP 1257
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HSE – SPECIFICATION
Setting Clear Requirements
-
transport and storage
site preparation
demarcation of safe areas
protective equipment
warning signs
detonation
misfiring procedures
emergency contingency procedures.
The Contractor shall have the Safety Plan for blasting verified and signed by an
independent consultant specialised in blasting operations.
SP 1257
REVISION 1.0
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