A Guide Safety

8/9/2019 A Guide Safety

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This booklet should be obtained fromthe Safety Manager

UNIVERSITY COLLEGE LONDONHealth & Safety at Work Act 1974

A Guide to Safety

Maintenance Operatives Handbook

Safety ManagerJune 2000


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MAINTENANCE OPERATIVES HANDBOOK

A GUIDE TO SAFETY

Any works organisation will always face hazards and the possibility of accidents happening.These hazards can and must be kept to a minimum in order to reduce accidents. Accidents canbe greatly reduced by all works staff being aware of potential hazards and following establishedsafety procedures. This guide has been produced to help all members of the works staff to carryout their job safely. The first section of this Guide provides a brief introduction to the safetyrequirements of the law. The second section sets out a number of safety rules with which all staffare requested to study and comply. Separate rules apply to all Contractors personnel workingon UCL premises.

It is not practical to cover every aspect of safety in this Guide. More information can be found inthe Safety Manual, if required. Safety concerns everyone. Many accidents occur because of alack of thought and care. These senseless accidents can be prevented if simple sensible safetyprecautions are observed by all.

REMEMBERALWAYS WORK SAFELY


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CONTENTS

1.0 Safety Legislation

1.1 General1.2 Employer's duties

1.3 Employee's duties

2.0 A Code for Safe Working Procedures

2.1 General2.2 Basic Safety Rules2.3 Safety Manual2.4 New Work carried out by Contractors2.5 Works Requisition Procedure2.6 Planned Preventive Maintenance (PPM)2.7 Visual Inspections2.8 Emergency Services

2.9 Hazard Monitoring2.10 Work in Isolated Areas2.11 Permit to Work Systems2.12 Lifting / Handling2.13 Handling Hazardous Materials2.14 Asbestos2.15 Construction Safety2.16 Fire Precautions2.17 Control of infection2.18 Noise2.19 Alcohol2.20 Machinery Equipment and Tools

2.21 Workshop Facilities2.22 Welfare Facilities2.23 Plant and Service Areas2.24 Protective Clothing and Equipment2.25 Accident Procedures2.26 Safety Information2.27 Instructions to Maintenance Staff When Working in Laboratories2.28 Radiation Laboratories


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INTRODUCTION

SECTION 1- SAFETY LEGISLATION

1.1 GENERAL

During the last two hundred years there has been a large number of laws passed in this countryrelating to Healthy and Safety at Work. However the main laws that relate to us today werepredominantly passed in the last twenty five years. Safety Laws have been passed because ofthe large numbers of workers who have been killed or maimed whilst at work. The largenumbers of injuries and deaths to workers have resulted in misery and financial loss for theirfamilies. In the vast majority of cases the deaths and injuries have been needless. Safety lawsseek to protect individuals and groups of workers from needless injury. The law requiresemployers and employees to ensure that these needless injuries do not occur. Therefore thelaw requires both UCL and its employees to ensure that safe working practices are followed.

1.2 EMPLOYERS DUTIES

The law places a number of duties on UCL and the Estates & Facilities Division as employers.This is to protect their employees, students and staff at the university as well as the generalpublic. These duties include providing safe systems of work for employees, providing safe andmaintained plant and equipment, and the provision of training where appropriate. Details of howthe University and the Estates & Facilities Division carry out these duties can be found in theUniversity Safety Policy and the Safety Manual, copies of which are held by supervisors and inworkshops.

1.3 EMPLOYEES DUTIES

In addition to imposing duties on employers, safety legislation imposes certain duties on

employees. Safety at work cannot be guaranteed solely by employers. There is a legalrequirement for employees to co-operate with employers in the implementation of safety policies.Furthermore there is a requirement for employees to work safely in order to protect themselves,and others effected by their work.

SECTION 2 - A CODE FOR SAFE WORKING PROCEDURES

2.1 GENERAL

Maintenance and Construction work undertaken on behalf of the UCL whether carried out bydirect labour or contract must be executed safety. The following procedures form a safety guideof good practices designed to prevent accidents and to maintain a safe, healthy and efficientenvironment for maintenance operatives. Separate guidelines exist for contractors working in theUniversity.

These procedures do not replace the employee's, the supervisor's or the manager'sresponsibility to take all reasonable care to protect themselves and others by their actions.Working in a safe manner is always the same as working in an effective manner.


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2.2 BASIC SAFETY RULES

Operatives should:

ALWAYS use correct equipment or clothing provided.

ALWAYS use protective equipment for the job where required.

ALWAYS keep their work area tidy.

ALWAYS stack material in a safe manner.

ALWAYS use the correct access equipment when working at height.

ALWAYS report defects in plant and tools immediately.

ALWAYS wear good condition issued safety footwear.

ALWAYS use approved equipment, plant or tools.

ALWAYS check with a Supervisor, before carrying out any task or operation if you feel

your personal safety, or the safety of others, may be at risk.

NEVER do anything that is likely to endanger you or other persons.

2.3 SAFETY MANUAL

The Safety Manual contains a lot of safety information relevant to maintenance operatives.Copies of this Safety Manual are held in workshops and by supervisors and foremen.Maintenance operatives must know where they will be able to have access to a copy of theSafety Manual. If any operative is not able to have access to a copy of the Safety Manual heshould inform the Safety Manager.

2.4 NEW WORKS CARRIED OUT BY CONTRACTORS

Where new construction or adaptation work is being carried out by contractors, maintenanceoperatives must not enter into or onto the site without prior written authorisation from asupervisor, except in an emergency. Primary responsibility for safety lies with the contractorwho is also responsible for insuring against injury to persons necessarily engaged in the work.

Should any operative note a dangerous or potentially dangerous situation on any site or location,for which an outside contractor is responsible, he should report it to his supervisor immediately.The supervisor will inform the Project Officer responsible for the contract, who will ensure thataction is taken to ensure that nobody is injured.

2.5 WORKS REQUISITION PROCEDURE

The requisition is the formal system used for initiating work and must be adhered to. A workdocket will normally be obtained from your supervisor. No work should be undertaken without awork docket except in an emergency when a docket will be issued retrospectively.

2.6 PLANNED PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE (PPM)

Systems of planned preventive maintenance are an essential part of the overall maintenancerequirement. This is because PPM reduces unnecessary mechanical and structural failure, thissaves money, effort and time. Therefore PPM will be given a high priority. Operatives must makethemselves aware of the aims, procedures and requirements involved in such systems so thatthe optimum benefits can be obtained.


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2.7 VISUAL INSPECTIONS

Maintenance operatives before their use should visually inspect all tools and work equipment.Tools and equipment that appear to be unsafe should be reported to the appropriate supervisorand not used.

2.8 EMERGENCY SERVICES

A system of call-out for dealing with building and engineering emergencies is provided inaccordance with UCL requirements. Remedial action will normally be limited to making thesituation safe and not necessarily restoring to full service. All such work must be recorded andreported in accordance with existing procedures.

2.9 HAZARD MONITORING

All plant, equipment or services considered to be a potential hazard must be reported to theSupervisor immediately and the situation made safe. All engineering hazards must be notified tothe Supervisor who is required to notify the Chief Maintenance Engineer.

2.10 WORK IN ISOLATED AREAS

In the interests of safety, operatives must inform their supervisor before undertaking work inisolated areas. In high-risk situations such as working at heights off a ladder, or in confinedspaces, ensure that assistance is available if needed. This may necessitate double manning;check with your Supervisor.

2.11 PERMIT TO WORK SYSTEMS

A permit to work system will be operated in all potentially hazardous situations. This is to ensurethat no operative can be injured in a location where the operatives training did not prepare him towork safely. Operatives will not carry out any such work without a signed and approved permit

to do so. Supervisors will issue permits. Further details on permits can be found in the SafetyManual

Operatives must obtain permits to work, prior to work starting, for work to be carried out in thefollowing locations:

a. All laboratories.

b. Biological Services Units.

c. Boilers.

d. Ventilation flues.

e. Service ducts.

f. Main stacks.

g. Enclosed tanks.

h. Sewers and manholes.


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2.13 HANDLING HAZARDOUS MATERIALS

Operatives must familiarise themselves with the hazards likely to be encountered whilsthandling hazardous materials, such as acids or materials that give off noxious fumes. It isessential to know what the dangers are from a material so that the correct methods of workmay be used. Guidance can be found from COSHH assessment sheets, manufacturershazard data sheet, a supervisor or the Safety Manager. NEVER ASSUME THAT A

MATERIAL IS SAFE TO USE BECAUSE YOU CAN'T FIND ANY SAFETY INFORMATIONON IT, IF IN DOUBT ASK. The following general guidelines should be observed:

Always use barrier and cleansing cream provided.

Wash thoroughly after using hazardous materials.

Ensure that all containers are properly labelled and stored. Do not leave open containersunattended.

Store flammable liquids only in the special buildings and tanks provided, not in workshopsor cupboards.

Use only sufficient liquid required for the process in hand and strictly to the supplier'sinstructions.

Keep away from substances marked radioactive, toxic or biohazard.

Report any signs of ill health that may reflect association with hazardous materials, to yoursupervisor.

Wood preservatives contain solvents, which can de-fat or dry your skin. Frequent orprolonged contact may cause dermatitis. Protective clothing, eye protection and facemasksmust be worn to minimise risk. Splashes on skin must be removed with soap and water

immediately.

Caustic soda may be used as a degreasing agent and is included in most proprietarydegreasers. It is corrosive to body tissue and the degree of burning is proportional to theconcentration and exposure. When using this, or any type of degreasing agent, ensurethat protective clothing including a facemask is worn.

Care should be taken when welding, brazing and soldering copper; although copper itself isvirtually non-toxic, the salts including copper sulphate are toxic it inhaled or swallowed.Always ensure that the area is well ventilated.

Polyurethane paints and varnishes contain substances that give off fumes, which, if

concentrated, can irritate respiratory tracts. Do note use in confined spaces unless wearingprotective clothing and full-face masks.

Adhesives can cause skin and eye irritation and when used in confined spaces may causebreathlessness and dizziness. Many are highly inflammable and must not be used or storedin areas where a source of ignition is present. Adequate ventilation is essential. Always usein accordance with the manufacturer's instructions or consult your supervisor if unsure of thesituation.

Turpentine and white spirit are unlikely to cause ill health from inhalation, but unless usedwith care can cause skin irritation, which could lead to dermatitis. Never wash your handswith these solvents.


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2.14 ASBESTOSThe dangers of working with asbestos are well known. Asbestos fibres cause cancers andasbestosis, both of which can be incapacitating and fatal. Maintenance Operatives are not towork on any asbestos products without the express authority of the Estates & Facilities DivisionSafety Manager. All asbestos work will be carried out by specialist asbestos removalcontractors. If it is suspected that the presence of asbestos will interfere with any work, theMaintenance Operative must inform his supervisor immediately who must then approach the

Safety Manager for advice. NO WORK MUST BE DONE ON ASBESTOS WITHOUT THEEXPRESS AUTHORITY OF THE SAFETY MANAGER.

2.15 CONSTRUCTION SAFETY

The following highlight those operations responsible for the majority of accidents in theConstruction/Engineering Industry. These operations together with the plant used to undertakethem, are very important and should be treated with respect and care.

More detailed information can be obtained by referring to the Safety Manual.

WORKING AT HEIGHTS

a. LADDERS

Ensure that there is safe and secure means of access and egress to and from the work place

at all times.

Ensure ladders or steps are in a safe condition before use and are stood on a firm even base.

Beware of wet or slippery rungs particularly in bad weather, Set at correct angle 4 up to 1

out.

Never climb a ladder unless it is securely lashed or footed.

The ladder should project at least 3' 6" (1066mm) above any landing place.

Check your boots or shoes and remove mud and dirt before climbing.

Never lash a ladder at the top without a man at the foot to steady it.

Never support a ladder on its rungs.

Do not carry materials up a ladder use a hoist line.

Do not over reach from ladder - move it.

Any two handed job of long duration requires a platform and not ladders.

The height limitation for ladder work is 30' (9 metres) although any work from a ladder 25'

(7.620 metres) or more should be restricted to short periods, say 20-15 minutes


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b. SCAFFOLDING AND WORKING PLATFORMS

Experienced and trained operatives shall only do erection and dismantling of scaffolding.

Keep walkways free from obstruction and slippery substances.

Never overload a scaffold or platform.

Use authorised means of access and egress only: do not climb the side of a scaffold use theladder access that is provided.

Incomplete scaffolds must not be used. Handrails and toe boards and correct bracing mustbe in place.

Ensure scaffold boards are sound and properly supported.

Always check with your supervisor that the scaffold has been inspected for safety beforeuse and a handing over certificate has been obtained where appropriate.

c. CATWALKS

Ensure that catwalks are in sound condition and securely fixed before using. Safe widthshould not be less that 1' 6" (457mm) wide.

Ensure that open ends and sides are fitted with securely fixed handrails.

Decking must be of sound material and with non-slip qualities.

Toe boards must be provided when there is a danger of tools, etc., falling.

Warning notices must be displayed and where possible adjacent circulation areas ropedoff.

d. ROOFWORK

Never venture on to or attempt to cross any roof other than flat concrete without the aid ofsecurely fixed crawling boards.

Crawling boards should be not less than 1' 6" (457mm) wide with securely fixed cleats or toeholds at 11" (297mm) intervals throughout the length of the board.

Never work close to the edge of a roof without the knowledge of your supervisor, edgeprotection must be provided. For works of short duration a safety harness will be acceptableproviding there is adequate securing points


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e. MOBILE SCAFFOLD (TOWERS)

Competent trained persons must only erect mobile towers.

Ensure that the tower is standing on a level even base with the outriggers fully extended.

Do not use blocks to stabilise on uneven ground. In these circumstances screw-jack

adjustments are required. Ensure that the working height of the tower does not exceed three times the smallest base

dimension, e.g., smallest base dimension 4' or (1.2m) therefore maximum working height

12' or (3.6m).

Ensure that wheels are locked and the tower is stable before personnel ascend the tower.

Never remain on the working platform when the tower is being moved.

Ensure that the tower is never overloaded.

f. TELESCOPIC TRESTLES (Bandstands)

Ensure that the trestle is sound and well maintained and check the condition of the locating

pins.

Do not use makeshift pins or nails for elevating trestles.

Before erecting scaffold boards on telescopic trestles the ground must be levelled and

compacted to ensure stability.

Working platform must be 4 boards wide using minimum 1.5 inch thick scaffold boards.

The maximum span between bearing points should not exceed 4' (1.2m). The overhang of

boards must not exceed 3 times the thickness of the boards i.e. 4.5 inches and that the

working platform is not overloaded.

Use a safe means of access to reach working platform.

g. LADDERS, STEPS AND TRESTLES

Ensure that the steps or trestles are in good condition and only use on a firm level footing

spread to their fullest extent.

Ensure that cords are in good condition and of the correct length. Never work at top of steps,

at least three steps should be above the one on which your feet rest, unless fitted with a

handrail.

When trestles are used as a working platform the platforms are to be of the "Youngman" type.

Scaffold boards are not suitable.

Never use steps or ladders to support working platforms.

Do not over reach from steps.


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h. EXCAVATIONS

Provide timbering or other supports for all vertical sided excavations over 1.2m in depth.

Operatives erecting supports must be in a protected position only, and warning notices

must be posted to this effect.

Operatives must not walk or clamber about on the support timbering as this weakens it.

Creaks in timbering can indicate a danger of collapse and so excavations should beevacuated if creaking can be heard.

Do not place the excavated soil or other materials or plant close to the edges of

excavations. Do not allow plant to move close to edges of excavations.

The sides of large open excavations must be battered or adequately shored where soil

conditions require it and where men have to work in close proximity to the face.

i. CONFINED SPACES

Operatives must advise the Supervisor before entering into confined spaces such asmanholes, ducts, tanks, pressure vessels or underground chambers. Thesupervisor must ensure that procedure laid down in the safety manual is followedand the operatives are fully briefed on safety requirements.

j. BARRIERS, WARNING NOTICES ETC.

During the progress of construction work or repairs, ensure that proper screens, barriers,guard rails, platforms, hoardings, gangways, coverings, etc., are in place at all times for theprotection of yourself and other workers and passers-by.

Adequate warning notices must be displayed at all times and barriers must be illuminatedovernight if work is still in progress.

2.16 FIRE PRECAUTIONS

Operatives must note and obey the fire notices and instructions posted in the area in whichthey are working. Building debris, rubbish and other unnecessary materials or equipmentmust be removed from site as soon as possible to reduce the risk of fire.

Fire escape routes must be kept clear at all times and fire exit doors closed wheneverpossible. Advise your supervisor in cases of difficulty.

Observe "No smoking" rules and where smoking is permitted use the proper receptaclesfor depositing matches, cigarette ash or butts.

Ensure that the requirements of UCL hot work permits are followed.

Liquid petroleum gas and cylinders should always be stored in a safe place after use.

The use of the correct type of fire extinguisher is vital if as the use of the wrong type canlead to injury. The type of extinguisher to be used is given below:


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ALL FIRE EXTINGUISHERS HAVE RED BODIES WITH COLOURED BANDS

TYPE COLOURBAND

FOR USE ON FIRE TYPE

Water RED For general uses such as onwood, paper, textiles etc.

Water must not to be used onelectrical fires or onflammable liquid fires.

Foam CREAM Flammable liquids.

CarbonDioxide(CO2)

BLACK Electrical or contained electricfires

Dry Powder BLUE Flammable liquids fires andmetal swarf.

2.17 CONTROL OF INFECTION

A BIOLOGICAL SERVICE UNITS AND LABORATORIES

Before carrying out any work in Biological Service Units (BSUs) and or laboratories,operatives will require a permit to enter, Permit D. This must be signed by the clientdepartment in the appropriate part, Part C, and no work must be undertaken in areas notlisted on the permit.

B HEPATITIS B AND AIDS

AIDS or Hepatitis B are diseases that are passed onto people by the introduction of infectedblood into the body. The spread of these diseases is mainly due to sexual practices and thesharing of hypodermic needles. The risk to Maintenance operatives through their normaloccupation is very small providing that normal good hygiene practices are followed. Wherethere is a risk of a maintenance operative coming into contact with infected blood, no workshould be done unless there has been a method of work agreed with the Safety Manager. Forgeneral guidance the following precautions must be taken.

All cuts and abrasions must be covered with a waterproof dressing.

Appropriate protective clothing must be worn.

Hands and forearms should be washed with soap and water at the end of a job.

In cases of injury with a needle or injury with another sharp instruments which might becontaminated with blood the wound site should be washed with soap and waterimmediately and any bleeding encouraged The Supervisor and Safety Manager should beinformed, and the injured operative referred immediately for medical advice.

Allergy to animals. Any operative suffering a reaction after working in an animal houseshould report this to his supervisor.Operatives who are aware of allergy to animals should inform their supervisor.


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c Blow Lamps

Blow lamps should only be filled when cold and should only be lit in the open.

Never attempt to refill a blow lamp while it is alight, and only use the authorised fuel.

Butane or propane blow lamps must be stored in a cold, airy place that will not allow gas

pockets to form.

d Grinding Machines

Trained personnel must only operate grinders.

Eye Protection Must Be Worn

Grinding wheels must only be changed by an authorised person who has attended an

approved training scheme and is certified to do so.

The use of these machines is subject to the Abrasive Wheel Regulations, which must be

followed at all times.

E Woodworking Machines

Only authorised and trained operatives may use woodworking machinery.

Guards must be in position and secured at all times.

Working area must be regularly swept clean and any obstructions removed immediately.

When run for prolonged periods, ear protection must be used.

If an operator is unsure about the use of a machine, working procedures and/or the

condition of the machine: the operator must not use the machine.

Any defects on the machine should be reported immediately to the supervisor responsible.

2.21 WORKSHOP FACILITIES

Operatives are responsible for ensuring that workshops and all associated areas are kept

clean and tidy at all times. In particular circulation spaces are to be kept clear.

Operatives are responsible for ensuring that tools and materials are kept tidily.

Operatives should ensure that the lighting and ventilation are adequate.

Workshops must be kept locked whenever possible to prevent unauthorised entry and

notices should be posted to this effect.

Operatives must ensure that all workshop equipment is properly guarded and that

protective clothing is worn where required.

Each workshop shall be provided with a noticeboard exhibiting statutory safety notices and

properly stocked first aid box, together with details of where further medical aid can be

obtained. Operatives must familiarise themselves with these details.

Workshop tools or equipment must NOT be loaned out for use by unauthorised persons.


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2.27 INSTRUCTIONS TO MAINTENANCE STAFF WHEN WORKING IN LABORATORIES

a GENERAL

The first duty of any member of Maintenance entering a laboratory is to ensure his own healthand safety. You must refuse to work in any area that has not been adequately cleared ofhazardous materials and not move any materials, which may be hazardous.

The Head of the Department in which the work is being carried out is responsible for all safetyin that department including that of Maintenance staff when working there. Heads ofDepartment should know all the hazards in their departments and so are in the best position toensure that areas where maintenance staff will be working are safe.Laboratory departments must make arrangements to make safe any area in whichmaintenance work needs to be done. If this is not done you should consult your supervisorand not work until the area is made safe.

b WORK OUTSIDE NORMAL WORKING HOURS

Safe practices are especially important outside normal working hours, when assistance is less

likely in case of emergency. Any activities in laboratories should be restricted to make-safeoperations only.

When flooding is the problem the usual protection of boots should be worn and gloves shouldbe available in case contaminated surfaces have to be handled. If flooding has caused large-scale disruption and left chemicals, laboratory materials etc., floating about, then the mattershould be treated as a chemical or hazardous materials spillage and the Fire Brigade shouldbe asked to deal with it.

In attempting to make-safe by shutting down services, night emergency staff should notattempt to reach the most obvious control if it is hazardous to do so. The nearest safeshutdown control should be used even though this would shut down a larger area than strictly

necessary.

2.28RADIATION LABORATORIES

a GENERAL

Great care should be taken with radiation, as it is hazardous to health. In addition it ispossible to contaminate areas outside radiation laboratories if care is not taken.Decontamination is expensive. The following guidelines are intended to ensure the safety ofmaintenance operatives working in radiation laboratories or on radioactive drainage runs.

Safety within any department is the responsibility of the Head of Department. Eachdepartment that uses radioisotopes also has a Departmental Radiation Supervisor who isappointed by the Head of Department. The Departmental Radiation Supervisor is trained inradiation safety and has the responsibility to maintain radiation safety in laboratories. Inaddition it is the responsibility of the Departmental Radiation Supervisorto ensure that areaswhere maintenance operatives are required to work, are safe.Maintenance operatives should on no account commence work in radiation laboratories untilthey have received authorisation from the Departmental Radiation Supervisor stating that it issafe for them to proceed.

The Radiation Safety Officer (telephone 6944) is available to provide assistance should thisbe necessary. He should always be consulted before work commences on a radioactive

drainage run.

IF IN DOUBT ASK. You must not take responsibility for radiation safety upon yourself.


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b DEALING WITH EMERGENCIES

Normal Working Hours

Immediately contact the Departmental Radiation Supervisorof the department concerned.

Contact the UCL Radiation SafetyOfficer( telephone 46944).

Proceed only with their advice.

Out Of Normal Working Hours

Arrangements exist for a Radiation Protection Advisor (RPA) to be on call at all times. Thetelephone number of the UCL RPA is held by the Front Lodge and the Hospital switchboardhas a rota of telephone numbers of RPA's who are 'on call'.

The 'on call' RPA should be contacted if maintenance staff have any queries concerning apotential radiation hazard associated with the emergency.

Do not proceed with any work in a radiation laboratory unless you are certain it is safe to doso. Do not assume that an area is safe because the RPA can't be contacted.

c RADIATION HAZARDS - A GENERAL COMMENT FOR INFORMATION

The quantities of radioactive materials used in the laboratories in the UCL are small.Concentrated stock solutions are kept in locked stores or refrigerators so that the externalradiation hazards to maintenance operatives entering laboratories are insignificant. Thepossible hazard to maintenance staff is therefore contamination of the skin and ingestion orinhalation of small amounts of radioactive material. In spite of this specialist advice shouldalways be taken before working in any radiation laboratory or radioactive drainage run.

Contamination can be prevented by the sensible use of wellington boots, overalls and rubbergloves. Normal hygiene and cleanliness (i.e., washing hands) will prevent ingestion.Inhalation would only occur in the event of fire causing vaporisation of radioactive material -the Fire Brigade is equipped to deal with this problem.

A Guide Safety

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