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Health, Safety and Environmental Policy J & E Regan (Builders & Contractors) Ltd 4, Barncoose Industrial Estate, Pool, Redruth, Cornwall, TR15 3RQ Revision Date: June 2009
Contents
Section 1 Health, Safety and Environmental Policy Statement
Section 2 Organisation and Responsibilities for Health, Safety and the Environment
Section 3 Arrangements for Health, Safety and the Environment General
Section 1 Health, Safety and Environmental Policy Statement
As Director responsible for safety, I have overall responsibility for the health, safety and welfare of employees of J & E Regan (Builders & Contractors) Ltd. This Safety Policy will be adhered to by all persons conducting activities under this name. The Company will comply with the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974; Regulations subsequently laid under it and meet the standards required therein. The objective of this policy is to attain and maintain high standards of health and safety performance throughout J & E Regan (Builders & Contractors) Ltd. Hazards will be identified and the risk of injury, disease or dangerous occurrence will be minimised by the achievement and maintenance of high standards of health and safety. These standards will be achieved, so far as is reasonably practicable, in particular by:
Mr P Crane Director responsible for safety
1.2 Environmental Policy Statement
1.2.2 During the execution of projects, J & E Regan (Builders and Contractors) Ltd will promote the protection and care of the environment by advising the client and contractors of the legislation and best practice. It will, so far as is practicable, within its responsibility make every effort to ensure compliance with legislation and minimise:
1.2.3 J & E Regan (Builders and Contractors) Ltd will promote the implementation of:
Mr P Crane Director responsible for safety
2.1.1 Responsible overall for the health, safety and welfare of all employees of J & E Regan (Builders & Contractors) Ltd and for the environmental impact of company activities. He will fulfil all legal duties imposed on him, as the Employer, by relevant legislation. 2.1.2 In recognition of the legal duties imposed upon him the Director responsible for safety will:
2.2.1 In recognition of the legal duties imposed under the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2007, for projects where the Company is the Client, the Director Responsible for Safety will ensure that:
In addition, for works that are notifiable the Company will:
In recognition of the legal duties imposed under the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2007, for projects where the Company is the Designer, the Director Responsible for Safety will:
In addition, where the project is notifiable, the Company will:
In recognition of the legal duties imposed under the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2007, for projects where the Company is the Principal Contractor, the Director Responsible for Safety will:
In recognition of the legal duties imposed under the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2007, for projects where the Company is a Contractor, the Director Responsible for Safety will:
In addition, on notifiable projects we will:
In recognition of the legal duties imposed under the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2007, for projects where the Company is the CDM coordinator, the Director Responsible for Safety will:
2.3 Company Safety Managers 2.3.1 Authority is delegated to the company Safety Managers, Mr T Pike based in Redruth and Mr G Bray in Saltash, to oversee and enforce the implementation of the Company Health, Safety and Environmental Policy throughout the company in relation to company activities. The Company Safety Managers will report to the Director responsible for safety. 2.3.2 The Company Safety Managers will:
2.4 Contracts Managers, Project / Site Managers and Site Supervisors 2.4.1 Authority is delegated to the Contracts Managers, Project/Site Managers and Site Supervisors to oversee and enforce the implementation of the Company Health, Safety and Environmental Policy on site. 2.4.2 The Contracts Managers, Project/Site Managers and Site Supervisors will be responsible to the Director responsible for safety and the Company Safety Managers for ensuring that the provisions of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974, environmental legislation, associated regulations and the Company Health, Safety and Environmental Policy are observed throughout the Company. 2.4.3 In particular, the Contracts Managers, Project / Site Managers and Site Supervisors will:
2.5 All employees of J & E Regan (Builders & Contractors) Ltd Employees are deemed to be those persons in the full time employment of J & E Regan (Builders & Contractors) Ltd and self-employed persons who undertake work on behalf of J & E Regan (Builders & Contractors) Ltd. 2.5.1 All employees of J & E Regan (Builders & Contractors) Ltd have legal duties under health and safety legislation while at work to ensure the health and safety of themselves and others that may be affected by their acts or omissions. They also have duties under environmental legislation to protect the environment. 2.5.2 In recognition of the legal duties imposed upon them, all employees of J & E Regan (Builders & Contractors) Ltd will:
2.6 All sub contractors who undertake work on behalf of J & E Regan (Builders & Contractors) Ltd 2.6.1 All sub contractors of J & E Regan (Builders & Contractors) Ltd have legal duties under health and safety legislation while at work to ensure the health and safety of themselves and others that may be affected by their acts or omissions. 2.6.2 In recognition of the legal duties imposed upon them, all sub contractors of J & E Regan (Builders & Contractors) Ltd will:
Section 3 Arrangements for Health, Safety and the Environment Section 3a General The attainment and maintenance of high standards of health, safety and environmental matters within J & E Regan (Builders & Contractors) Ltd will be achieved by the identification of hazards associated with the activities undertaken by the Company. Effective precautions and control measures to eliminate, reduce or control the risk of harm to ALL persons exposed to the hazards, or the environmental impact created by them, will be identified and implemented.
3.1.1 The Health, Safety and Environmental Adviser to J & E Regan (Builders & Contractors) Ltd is SSG Training and Consultancy of Plymouth who are available on 01752 201616.
3.2.1 The Company’s Health, Safety and Environmental Policy and performance will be reviewed annually. 3.2.2 Concerns over the standards of health, safety and the environment within the Company or issues relating to health, safety and the environment are to be brought immediately to the attention of the Director responsible for safety. 3.2.3 Health, safety and environmental information, where it relates to the activities of J & E Regan (Builders & Contractors) Ltd will be communicated throughout the Company as it becomes available by the quickest possible means. 3.3 Training and Competence 3.3.1 All new employees of the Company will receive induction training as soon as reasonably practicable. 3.3.2 Site specific induction training will be given to employees whenever work commences on site. 3.3.3 The training requirements of Company employees will be identified and appropriate training provided to ensure that all employees are qualified and competent to undertake the work they are engaged in. 3.3.4 It is the aim that as far as is reasonably practicable that all employees of J & E Regan (Builders & Contractors) Ltd (and sub-contractors) who carry out their duties on-site (construction sites) will hold a current CSCS or CPCS (or equivalent). The specific card held must accurately reflect the occupation of the cardholder. 3.3.5 Where issued, copies of certificates and records of training, qualifications and competence will be held in the Main Office. 3.3.6 Training standards will be kept under review to ensure that the requirements of current legislation and risk assessments are met. 3.4 Risk Assessments, Method Statements and Safe Systems of Work 3.4.1 J & E Regan (Builders & Contractors) Ltd will ensure;
3.5 Personal Protective Equipment 3.5.1 The Company will provide Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to employees of J & E Regan (Builders & Contractors) Ltd where it is required by current legislation and as identified by risk assessment. 3.5.2 PPE will be provided in circumstances where exposure to hazards cannot be effected by other means or to supplement existing control measures identified by a risk assessment. An assessment will be made to ensure that the PPE is suitable for purpose and is appropriate to the risk involved. 3.5.3 Safety Footwear shall be worn at all times on site without exception. 3.5.4 Protective goggles (and gloves, subject to risk assessment) shall be worn when using cutting, drilling or grinding equipment. 3.5.5 Hard hats and other PPE shall be worn where identified as a requirement by risk assessment or a requirement of statutory provision. Hard hats shall be worn without exception whilst operating plant or whilst scaffolding is erected. 3.5.6 Site Management will ensure that suitable facilities for the storage of PPE are provided. 3.5.7 Information, instruction and training will be given to all employees on the safe use of PPE. 3.5.8 Employees will, in accordance with instructions given, make full use of all PPE provided and maintain it in a serviceable condition and report its loss or defect immediately. 3.6 Employment of Young Persons
Children below the MSLA must never do work involving these risks whether they are employed or under training such as work experience. 3.6.5 As per HSE guidance, J & E Regan (Builders & Contractors) Ltd will contact the appropriate local authorities when employing young people (children). Detailed guidelines for the safety of young workers are contained in the HSE publication "The Right Start – Work experience for young people" (indg364) 3.7 Employment of Persons with Disabilities 3.7.1 The Director responsible for safety will ensure that risk assessments of the activities undertaken by J & E Regan (Builders & Contractors) Ltd take into account the needs of employees with disabilities. 3.7.2 Employees are to ensure that J & E Regan (Builders & Contractors) Ltd, as their employer, are made aware of any form of disablement that is likely to affect their ability to undertake the work they are assigned. This information is to be communicated to Managers and Agents where appropriate. 3.7.3 Where appropriate, employees with disabilities will be monitored at regular intervals (e.g. by routine medical examination) to ensure their suitability for the work on which they are employed. 3.8 Employment of Pregnant Women 3.8.1 The Director responsible for safety will ensure that risk assessments of the activities undertaken by J & E Regan (Builders & Contractors) Ltd take into account the needs of pregnant employees and new mothers. The assessment will identify and address the risks to the unborn child, a child of a woman who is still breastfeeding and to the mother. 3.8.2 The assessment will ensure that adequate steps are taken to avoid the risk to pregnant employees, new and breastfeeding mothers arising from exposure to physical, biological and chemical agents and from working conditions. 3.8.3 Where the risk cannot be avoided then the working hours may be temporarily adjusted or suitable alternative work will be offered. If this is not viable then suspension on full pay will be exercised for as long as is necessary to protect the health and safety of the mother or the child. 3.9 Health Monitoring and Surveillance 3.9.1 Employees of J & E Regan (Builders & Contractors) Ltd are to declare any aspect relating to their health that may put them at risk while undertaking the work for which they are employed or that may be affected by the environment in which it is to be undertaken. This information is to be communicated to Managers and Agents where appropriate. 3.9.2 Employees will be provided with health surveillance appropriate to the risks to health and safety resulting from their employment. 3.10 First Aid Provision 3.10.1 As Principal Contractor, the Director responsible for safety will nominate suitably trained persons as qualified first aiders or Appointed Persons to ensure adequate provision of first aid. These details will be prominently displayed on the site, where practicable, and communicated through induction training. 3.10.2 In the absence of the nominated first aider, the Appointed Person or other qualified first aid personnel will be available on site at all times whilst routine work is being conducted. The name of this person shall be communicated to all persons affected. 3.10.3 Personnel undertaking short term projects will be briefed, with regard to first aid provisions, prior to undertaking work. 3.10.4 While employed on site, sub contractors of J & E Regan (Builders & Contractors) Ltd are to familiarise themselves with the first aid facilities on site. 3.10.5 All injuries occurring on site, no matter how trivial, are to be recorded in the Accident Book. No identifiable details of persons entered in the accident book may be kept on site. 3.11 Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences 3.11.1 As Principal Contractor, the Director responsible for safety will ensure that all accidents, near misses and dangerous occurrences on site are thoroughly investigated. 3.11.2 In the event of major injury or fatality occurring to an employee of J & E Regan (Builders & Contractors) Ltd, the Director responsible for safety will ensure statutory reporting requirements under the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 1995 are met. 3.11.3 As Principal Contractor, J & E Regan (Builders & Contractors) Ltd will ensure that the person controlling the premises will report any accidents under Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 1995. 3.11.4 All accidents, dangerous occurrences and near misses occurring on site are to be reported to the Contracts Manager/Project/Site Managers/Site Supervisor, the Company Safety Managers and the Director responsible for safety so that an investigation can be conducted. 3.12 Fire Precautions and Prevention 3.12.1 A Fire Risk Assessment will be carried out for sites and offices under the control of J & E Regan (Builders & Contractors) Ltd. Fire precautions and prevention measures will be taken appropriate to the level of risk assessed. 3.12.2 The Responsible Person on site and drivers of vehicles under the control of J & E Regan (Builders & Contractors) Ltd. will be instructed on the use of portable fire fighting appliances. Emergency procedures and evacuation routes will be communicated to all employees as part of their site induction training. 3.12.3 As Principal Contractor, the Director responsible for safety will ensure that an adequate fire plan is in place and prominently displayed in the Offices and on site and communicated to all employees, sub contractors and visitors through induction training. 3.12.4 In the event of a fire in the any of the offices or on site, the priority will be to raise the alarm and ensure all personnel are evacuated safely. The alarm is to be raised and the local fire authorities summoned. 3.12.5 The person discovering the fire may attempt to extinguish the fire using portable appliances if the fire is of a small nature and personnel are not put at risk and is to remain available to brief the fire authorities on arrival. 3.12.6 Consideration will be given to neighbours who may be affected by a fire to ensure that they are made aware of the fire and evacuated safely. 3.13 Smoking Policy 3.13.1 In accordance with English Law (Smoke-free Regulations 2006), J & E Regan (Builders & Contractors) Ltd has a strict no smoking policy. This applies to all company vehicles, offices and messrooms on site and, as such, all employees and sub-contractors who undertake work on behalf of J & E Regan (Builders & Contractors) Ltd are to adhere to that policy. 3.13.2 Smoking will only be permitted in external areas designated by site management. 3.14 Alcohol and Controlled Substances 3.14.1 The Company has adopted a No Alcohol or Controlled Substances Policy. Disciplinary action may be exercised if, while under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances (e.g drugs), employees or sub contractors enter a workplace under the control of J & E Regan (Builders & Contractors) Ltd. 3.15 Violence towards Employees 3.15.1 In the event that employees of J & E Regan (Builders & Contractors) Ltd are faced with aggression or threat of violence, a non-confrontational attitude is to be adopted. 3.15.2 Where matters of dispute or disagreement giving rise to aggression or threat of violence cannot be resolved locally by peaceful negotiation they are to immediately be referred to the Site Management or the Directors of the Company. 3.16 Lone Workers 3.16.1 Wherever practicable, employees of J & E Regan (Builders & Contractors) Ltd are not to work alone in high-risk activities or areas. 3.16.2 Where it is unavoidable, the lone worker will ensure that J & E Regan (Builders & Contractors) Ltd or the Site Management is aware of their whereabouts and the nature of the work being undertaken. The lone worker will make contact with J & E Regan (Builders & Contractors) Ltd or the Site Management at pre-arranged times throughout, and on completion, of the activity. 3.17 Mobile Phones 3.17.1 Mobile phones must not be used in the vicinity of gas storage areas, chemical and oil storage areas or in the vicinity of other flammable substances. 3.17.2 Private mobile phones shall only be used in designated areas, and at designated times, whilst working on site. These places and times shall be specified in site rules and communicated by the site manager as part of site induction training. 3.17.3 Mobile phones are not to be used by the driver of a moving vehicle unless the vehicle is fitted with a working ‘hands free’ kit and it is considered that it is safe to do so. Where such equipment is not available, the driver must stop and switch off the vehicle in a safe place before using the phone. 3.17.4 Mobile phones are not to be used while operating any plant machinery. The driver/operator must stop and switch off the vehicle / machine in a safe place before using the phone. 3.17.5 Mobile phones are not to be used while operating any work equipment. 3.18 Waste Policy 3.18.1 The Director responsible for safety shall ensure that routes exist for the legal disposal of waste arising form all materials in use by the company, in accordance with current legislation and best practice including meeting the requirements of the Waste Management Regulations 2008. 3.18.2 For projects in excess of £300,000 a Site Waste Management Plan will be produced and implemented in accordance with the Site Waste Management Plan Regulations. 3.18.4 Where practicable, inventories shall be reduced and managed so as to minimise waste production. 3.18.5 All waste shall be disposed of via the authorised disposal route. 3.18.6 Waste shall not be illegally deposited, disposed of or treated by any person where that waste has been, or will be, under the control of the Company.
3.18.11 Waste materials will be removed under contract by a licensed operator, and where appropriate, in accordance with the Hazardous Waste Regulations.
Section 3 Arrangements for Health, Safety and the Environment Section 3b Site Safety
Section 3 Arrangements for Health, Safety and the Environment Section 3b Site Safety The following topics have been identified as significant in terms of hazards on site and detail the Company’s policy on how the risk to personnel exposed to them will be reduced or controlled. 3.19 Abrasive Wheels 3.19.1 Only trained personnel who have been appointed by J & E Regan (Builders & Contractors) Ltd may change any class of abrasive wheel. 3.19.2 The Company will ensure that suitable storage facilities to keep the wheels clean and free from damage are available and that a sufficient quantity of suitable eye protection to BSEN 166B is available when required. 3.19.3 Guards or shields supplied by the manufacturer must be correctly fitted to all machines while in use and not altered in any way. 3.19.4 Employees are to ensure that any defective abrasive wheel machine is taken out of use immediately. 3.20 Asbestos 3.20.1 Confirmation will be obtained from the Client, if practicable, that the nature of the work does not involve exposure to asbestos prior to work commencing. If the presence is of asbestos is unknown, an appropriate Type 2 or Type 3 survey will be conducted to establish, or refute, the presence of Asbestos Containing Materials. 3.20.2 Work involving exposure to, or removal of, asbestos will be the subject of a formal risk assessment to identify the type of asbestos and the degree of exposure. Compliance with the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2006 will be achieved. 3.20.3 All work involving asbestos will be conducted in accordance with a safe system of work and, where appropriate, a licensed asbestos removal company will undertake removal and disposal. 3.20.4 If material suspected of being or containing asbestos is discovered during demolition or refurbishment work, the following action is to be taken:
3.20.5 In accordance with the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2006, Employees must be provided with suitable information, instruction and training so that they are aware of:in order to safeguard themselves and other employees. The information, instruction and training shall be: - the significant findings of the risk assessment, and - the results of any air monitoring carried out with an explanation of the findings. 3.21 Cartridge Operated Tools 3.21.1 Only low velocity, indirect type cartridge operated tools will be used on site. 3.21.2 Only trained personnel who have been authorised by the Contracts Manager, Project/Site Manager or Person-in-Charge may operate cartridge operated tools. 3.21.3 Suitable ear protection and eye protection to BSEN 166B must be worn when operating these tools. 3.21.4 Explosive charges shall be stored in a secure stowage separate to the tool. 3.21.5 Only the required amount of charges to complete the task shall be issued to authorised persons by the Site Manager, or Site Supervisor in his absence. 3.21.6 Operators must ensure that the work area is clear of other persons or flammable vapours prior to using these tools. 3.21.7 Spent cartridges shall be returned to the issuer immediately on completion of use.
3.22 Compressor and Compressed Air Tools 3.22.1 Compressors under contract of hire will have a current Certificate of Thorough Examination. 3.22.2 All safety valves and gauges will be functioning correctly with the safe working pressure clearly marked on the air receiver. 3.22.3 Compressors and compressed air tools are only to be operated by trained and competent persons. 3.22.4 Defective compressors, hoses or tools are to be removed from service immediately to a place where they cannot be introduced back into service until a repair has been affected by a competent person. 3.22.5 Only trained personnel who have been authorised by the by the Contracts Manager, Project/Site Manager or Person-in-Charge may operate gas cartridge operated and portable compressed air tools i.e. nail guns, etc. 3.22.6 Operators must ensure that the work area is clear of other persons, all guards are be fitted and interlocks checked in a serviceable condition prior to using these tools. 3.23 Confined Spaces 3.23.1 Where work in a confined space is unavoidable it is only be conducted in accordance with a Safe System of Work as required under the Confined Spaces Regulations 1997. 3.23.2 Activities to be conducted within the confined space are to be the subject of a risk assessment to ensure adequate control measures are in place to protect personnel involved or affected by the activity. Where a significant risk is identified a formal permit to work system will be in operation. 3.23.3 No person shall work alone when working in a confined space. All persons will be trained for confined space work and a trained competent ‘Topman’ will always be in attendance when confined space work is being undertaken. 3.23.4 Sub contractors who undertake work on behalf of J & E Regan (Builders and Contractors) Ltd are to comply with the policy of J & E Regan (Builders and Contractors) Ltd and follow the site procedures when working in confined spaces. 3.24 Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres 3.24.1 In accordance with the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002 (DSEAR) a dangerous substance is defined as:
3.24.2 An explosive atmosphere is defined as ‘a mixture, under atmospheric conditions of air, of one or more dangerous substances in the form of gasses, vapours, mists or dust in which, after ignition has occurred, combustion spreads to the unburned mixture. 3.24.3 If dangerous substances are present on a site under the control of J & E Regan (Builders and Contractors) Ltd the following actions must be taken:
3.25 Demolition 3.25.1 All demolition work will be planned prior to commencement on site and the plan will include a thorough survey and inspection of the structure to determine the nature of the original construction, the potential effects on adjoining properties and scaffolding requirements. 3.25.2 The survey will identify structural problems and the risks associated with any flammable or hazardous substances. The survey will also take into account confined spaces, overhead or underground services, health hazards and access and waste removal. 3.25.3 All demolition work will only be undertaken by a competent person in accordance with a written Safe System of Work. 3.26 Dust and Fumes 3.26.1 All processes conducted by J & E Regan (Builders & Contractors) Ltd employees and sub contractors that result in the generation of dust or fumes will be subject to an assessment under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2005 and, if required, DSEAR. 3.26.2 Control measures to protect personnel and the environment exposed to dust or fumes will be identified and put in place. All personnel likely to be exposed to the dust are to be informed of the harmful effects and of the precautions and control measures to be implemented to prevent, reduce or control exposure to the dust or fumes. 3.26.3 Where identified by the risk assessment, suitable personal protective equipment will be provided to supplement other control measures. Personal protective equipment is to be worn by all personnel identified in the assessment in accordance with the training and instruction provided. 3.27 Electricity and Portable Electrical Appliances 3.27.1 All work involving potential contact with overhead or underground electrical cables or services will be properly planned and be subject to a detailed risk assessment in order to identify and implement appropriate control measures to ensure the safety of all personnel associated with the work. 3.27.2 The Company recognises the need to ensure that all electrical equipment shall be safe at all times. This will be achieved by;
3.28 Excavations 3.28.1 Activities to be conducted within or adjacent to excavations are to be the subject of a risk assessment to ensure adequate control measures are in place to protect personnel involved or affected by the activity. 3.28.2 Adequate arrangements shall be implemented to ensure that the risk of persons, materials and vehicles falling into excavations is minimised and the risk of the excavation collapsing is minimised. 3.28.3 Excavations shall be inspected by a competent person:
3.28.4 Records and reports shall be kept of inspections in accordance with legislative requirements. 3.28.5 When employed on the site under the control of J & E Regan (Builders & Contractors) Ltd, employees and sub contractors are to follow the site procedures when working in or adjacent to excavations. 3.29 Fire 3.29.1 A fire risk assessment on site will be undertaken prior to commencement of work. As Principal Contractor, the Contracts Manager, Project/Site Manager or Person-in-Charge will ensure that an adequate fire plan is in place and prominently displayed on site and communicated to all employees, sub contractors and visitors through induction training. 3.29.2 Based on the results of the risk assessment, adequate means of raising the alarm, fighting the fire and means of escape will be provided to ensure the safe evacuation of personnel in the event that a fire occurs on site. 3.30 Gases, Fuels and LPG 3.30.1 All fuels shall be kept in approved containments and stored in accordance with current legislation. The storage areas shall be designated as a ‘No Smoking Area’ with risk assessments conducted as required by DSEAR. 3.30.2 Only the required quantity of petrol shall be stored for immediate use on site in an approved stowage, in approved containers. 3.30.3 All diesel containers capable of holding 200ltrs capacity, or more, shall be stored in a bunded area capable of containing 110% of the capacity of the largest container. 3.30.4 Bulk diesel will be stored in a proprietary bunded or double skinned tank 3.30.5 Compressed gas cylinders shall be stored in a designated, secure stowage when not in use observing segregation rules at all times. 3.30.6 If LPG is present on site; LPG cylinders shall be stored in a designated stowage in the open air that shall satisfy the requirements of current legislation when not in use. LPG cylinders shall not be stored within 3 metres of any other compressed gas cylinders. 3.30.7 Vehicles, plant and equipment must be fuelled outdoors or in a well ventilated area. 3.31 Hazardous Substances
3.31.2 As identified by the COSHH Assessment, work involving substances or materials, or generating hazardous by-products that require specialist personal protection to be used, appropriate information, instruction and training will be given to all employees.
3.32 Hot Work 3.32.1 Hot work results from equipment utilising a naked flame or generating heat and sparks and includes the following:
3.32.2 All hot work will be the subject of an assessment and if it is considered foreseeable that accidental injury or damage is likely to occur as a result of the hot work, a hot work permit system will be employed.
3.32.4 All hot work conducted by sub-contractors shall be subject to a safe system of work approved by the site management. 3.33 Housekeeping 3.33.1 In order to promote a safe working environment and good hygiene standards high standards of housekeeping will be maintained at all times throughout the site. 3.33.2 All materials will be stored to reduce the risk injury to personnel and to minimise the fire risk. 3.33.3 Clear accesses and egresses and emergency routes shall be maintained at all times. 3.33.4 Combustible materials will not be stored adjacent to heat sources. 3.33.5 Rubbish will not be allowed to accumulate and will be safely disposed of regularly and all spillages will be cleared up immediately. 3.34 Lasers – Non Ionising Radiation 3.34.1 Equipment fitted with a laser (e.g. laser leveller) is only to be operated by competent and authorised personnel. The laser beam should be terminated at the end of its useful path and should not be aimed at vehicles or personnel, particularly at head height. 3.34.2 Areas where lasers are to be used are to be designated Controlled Areas and access restricted to authorised personnel who have been instructed in the necessary precautions to be taken. 3.34.3 When not in use laser equipment is to be securely stored and access formally control to prevent unauthorised use.
3.35 Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment 3.35.1 All lifting operations and lifting equipment will conform to the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998. 3.35.2 All lifting gear and equipment will be marked with a means of identification and will show its safe working load. 3.35.3 All goods and passenger hoists will be suitable for the purpose and will be erected and operated by competent personnel at all times. All goods hoists will be clearly marked with their safe working load and all passenger hoists will clearly state the maximum number of persons to be carried. 3.35.4 All lifting equipment will be the subject of a thorough test and examination by a competent person at periods as detailed in the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998. Records of such tests and examinations will be kept and made available for inspection. 3.35.5 Wire ropes and chains will be fitted to crane hooks correctly; they will be inspected and tested, and the results recorded as necessary. 3.35.6 All lifting gear will be fit for the purpose and capable of safely carrying out the work it is employed to do. 3.35.7 Before any lift is carried out a risk assessment will be carried out to identify the measures required to protect those involved with the lift. 3.35.8 A Safe System of Work will be established and effectively communicated to all personnel involved with the lift which will include:
3.36 Manual Handling Operations 3.36.1 Wherever possible, the requirement to conduct manual handling operations will be avoided. Where manual-handling operations cannot be avoided, then the risk of injury due to manual handling tasks, will be reduced to the lowest reasonably practicable level, using kinetic lifting techniques, mechanical aids, or the load split to reduce the risk of harm, or group-handling techniques. 3.36.2 Appropriate information relating to the weight, centre of gravity or the heaviest side of the load will be provided to those personnel involved in the manual handling of the load. 3.36.3 An assessment of all manual-handling operations will be conducted to identify control measures required to protect those at risk from the manual handling operation, and communicated to them. 3.36.3 Suitable manual handling training will be provided to employees involved in manual handling activities. 3.37 Noise and Vibration 3.37.1 The Company will seek to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, that all equipment used, hired or purchased will only generate noise levels below those recommended by various approved codes of practice and official guidance notes. 3.37.2 Where noise levels are likely to exceed the Lower Exposure Action Level of 80 dB(A) perceived at the operator's ear an assessment will be conducted and control measures identified and implemented to reduce or control personal exposure. 3.37.3 Where noise levels are likely to exceed the Upper Exposure Action Level of 85 dB(A) perceived at the operator's ear the wearing of suitable hearing protection will be mandatory for specified activities and zones. 3.37.4 Suitable ear defenders providing adequate attenuation will be provided where appropriate to all affected personnel, at no cost to them, together with appropriate instructions on their use. All employees will use hearing protection provided for their protection.
In accordance with the Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005, management will:
3.38 Overhead and Underground Services 3.38.1 Before any excavation work commences, all available information on existing underground services is to have been obtained. All services are to be located by means of location equipment and drawings etc. Appropriate markings are to be used to identify location and routes of all services. 3.38.2 When nearing an assumed underground service (cable or pipe) no mechanical means of digging shall be used within 500 mm of the line of that service. Hand digging will be used to avoid possible contact. 3.38.3 Any service installed as temporary supplies or as a part of the permanent works is to be accurately detailed on the site plan and physically marked along its route by means of timber stakes and notices. 3.38.4 Where overhead power lines pose a risk the local electricity company is to be consulted in order to determine safe distances. Where appropriate goal posts and barriers will be placed to prevent contact. 3.38.5 All distances and safety requirements shall be conducted in accordance with the HSE publication, GS 6 or with close consultation with the local electricity company with accompanying risk assessments, method statements & appropriate control measures. 3.39 Plant and Equipment 3.39.1 J & E Regan (Builders & Contractors) Ltd employees will only use work equipment that is correct and suitable for the job and will ensure that the equipment is maintained in an efficient state, in efficient working order and in good repair. 3.39.2 When plant and equipment is hired in for use by the Company, suitable instruction and demonstration of its safe use is to be provided by the Hire Company before it is operated by employees. 3.39.3 If employees are not deemed competent to operate the hired plant or equipment, a competent operator will be obtained to operate that equipment. 3.39.4 Plant and equipment will be regularly inspected and tested as required by current legislation and defects or loss reported immediately. 3.39.5 Defective equipment will be taken out of service immediately to a place where it cannot be brought back into use until it has been repaired by a competent person. 3.39.6 Only an authorised and competent person will undertake maintenance, repairs, testing, installation or alterations of any nature to any plant or equipment. 3.39.7 Where required all safety devices and guards will be operable and in use. 3.39.8 Where the use of the equipment involves a specific risk to the health and safety, the use of the equipment will be restricted to personnel who are trained, competent and authorised in its use. 3.39.9 All employees will receive adequate training and instruction in the use and safe operation of all plant and equipment. 3.40 Pressure Washers 3.40.1 Pressure Cleaners will be installed, maintained, tested and repaired by a competent person, and records of maintenance and test kept. 3.40.2 Equipment is to be operated by trained, authorised and competent personnel. 3.40.3 Pressure cleaning equipment may only be used in the area designated for use. 3.40.4 Gloves and eye protection shall be worn at all times by operators to protect from flying debris. 3.40.5 Before operation of electrical pressure washers, the RCD trip must be checked for correct operation where the use of a 240v supply is necessary. 3.40.6 Pressure washers shall not be used when members of the public or persons not involved with the task are within the immediate working area. 3.41 Roadworks 3.41.1 Where roadworks are being undertaken, or there is a risk that affects other road users a risk assessment will be conducted. 3.41.2 All roadworks and warnings shall be in accordance with the provisions laid out in the New Roads and Street Works Act 1991, The Highways Act and the accompanying Approved Codes of Practice. 3.41.3 Where works affect other road users such traffic signs and barriers shall be erected to guide and warn traffic and pedestrians. 3.41.4 The works shall be suitably lighted and guarded in hours of darkness. 3.41.5 All traffic signs and barriers shall be removed immediately on ompletion of their requirement. 3.42 Welfare Facilities 3.42.1 The following facilities will be provided for employees and sub contractors of J & E Regan (Builders & Contractors) Ltd in accordance with Schedule 2 of the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2007:
3.42.2 Welfare facilities will be kept clean, adequately stocked and in a good condition.
3.43 Working at Height 3.43.1 Before carrying out any work at height, including the use of ladders, a risk assessment of the work to be undertaken will be conducted. The risk assessment will take into account weather conditions and other aspects of the environment to ensure the safety of personnel at height and identify the measures required to protect persons working at height. 3.43.2 All equipment identified by the risk assessment and provided for working at height will be sound and fit for purpose and be the subject of regular inspection and testing to ensure its continued suitability for the job. 3.43.3 It is prohibited to drop or throw anything from a height. Employees and sub contractors are to lower items down using ropes and, if necessary, smaller items lowered down in a bucket. 3.43.4 Ladders used by the Company will be of the correct type, in good condition and effectively secured to prevent movement. 3.43.5 Ladders will be the subject of regular inspection by a competent person and defective ladders will be taken out of service immediately. 3.43.6 Only a competent person will erect access scaffolds and tower scaffolds. All scaffolds will be inspected by a competent person, and records of such inspections kept;
3.43.7 Edge protection shall be provided, where practicable, to prevent falls from occurring in the first instance. 3.43.8 When safety harnesses/man anchor systems are being worn whilst working at height they shall be attached to suitable anchor points. All safety harnesses/man anchor systems shall be tested, certified and checked ‘in date’ for test prior to use. 3.43.9 All safety netting shall be manufactured and erected in accordance with EN 1263 by a suitable, competent contractor. Hand over certification and test certification shall be received from the erecting contractor prior to inclusion as a risk control measure.
Section 3 Arrangements for Health, Safety and the Environment Section 3c General The following topics have been identified as significant in terms of office related hazards and detail the Company’s policy for the health, safety and welfare in the Company Offices. 3.44 Chemicals 3.44.1 Hazards exist from small quantities of chemicals in the office such as printing inks, photocopier toners, cleaning chemicals and correction fluids. 3.44.2 Material safety data sheets for such hazardous substances will be obtained from the supplier to enable an assessment of potential exposure to be made and the identification and implementation of suitable precautions to be taken to reduce the risk of harm occurring.
3.45.1 All workstations under the control of J & E Regan (Builders & Contractors) Ltd consisting of Display Screen Equipment (DSE) will be the subject of an ergonomic assessment to identify the measures required to reduce the risk of harm occurring to the users of such workstations. 3.45.2 Employees whose work requires them to operate their DSE workstation daily for a significant part of the day will be entitled to a free vision screening or eye test. Where such examinations identify the requirement, the Company will provide, free of charge, corrective appliances required specifically for DSE work. 3.45.3 Employees whose work requires them to be at their DSE workstation for a significant part of their working day are to vary their work routine such that they perform other work activities away from their display screen equipment for approximately 10 –15 minutes per hour. 3.46 Electricity 3.46.1 Sufficient socket outlets will be provided and the use of adaptors and extension leads is to be discouraged. Sockets are not to be overloaded.
3.47.1 Ventilation will be adequate to ensure the comfort of employees. Where mechanical ventilation or air conditioning is provided, regular cleaning, maintenance and inspection will be conducted. 3.47.2 Temperature will be maintained not less than 16°c but whenever practicable will be maintained in the range 19.4°c – 22.8°c. Windows, skylights or glass partitions will not allow excessive temperatures to be reached in the offices during hot weather. 3.47.3 Lighting will be suitable and sufficient and, so far as is reasonably practicable be from natural light to enable people to work, use facilities and move from place to place safely and without experiencing eye strain. 3.47.4 Eating facilities with adequate access to boiling water will be provided. 3.47.5 Welfare facilities will be adequate with sufficient toilets, hand washing and drying facilities. A wholesome supply of drinking water will be available. 3.47.6 Workstations will be comfortable with safe and suitable chairs and sufficient space. 3.48 Manual Handling
3.48.4 Manual handling training will be provided to employees involved in manual handling activities. 3.49 Slips, Trips and Falls 3.49.1 Trailing leads are not permitted unless they are fitted with adequate cable protection to reduce the risk of tripping. 3.49.2 Floor coverings will be sound and in good state of repair. All spillage will be cleared away immediately. 3.49.3 All stairwells will be adequately lit and kept clear of obstacles and rubbish. 3.49.4Offices will be kept tidy at all times and all rubbish will be removed at the end of each day. 3.50 Work Equipment 3.50.1 Employees will only use work equipment that is correct and suitable for the job and will ensure that the equipment is maintained in an efficient state, in efficient working order and in good repair. 3.50.2 Work equipment will be regularly inspected and tested as required by current legislation and defects or loss reported immediately. 3.50.3 Defective equipment will be taken out of service immediately to a place where it cannot be brought back into use until it has been repaired. 3.50.4 Only an authorised and competent person is to undertake maintenance, repairs, testing, installation or alterations of any nature to any plant or equipment. 3.50.5 Where required all safety devices and guards will be operable and in use. 3.50.6 Where the use of the equipment involves a specific risk to the health and safety, the use of the equipment will be restricted to personnel who are trained, competent and authorised in its use. |
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