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Health and Safety Policy

DATE: JULY 2012

Unit 20 Northwest Business Complex, Skeoge Industrial Estate

Beraghmore Road, Derry BT488SE

Website: www.ryanventilationservices.co.uk

1Health and Safety Policy 2012 RVS ltd

Contents Page

Section 1: Health and Safety Policy Statement

Section 2: Organisation

Section 3: Health and Safety staff responsibilities

Section 4: Health and Safety arrangements


Statement of IntentRVS recognizes the importance of providing a working environment that is safe and healthy for all employees, contractors, and visitors and undertake to comply with all relevant legal requirements.

The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 requires that our company prepares and revises a written statement on our general policy on Health and Safety and to bring it to the attention of all who may be affected by it.

The managing director is aware of his/ her responsibilities under Health and Safety legislation and shall, so far as is reasonably practicable, ensure the health, safety and welfare of people at work by the adhering the following:

Assess risks to the health and safety of their employees and non-employees arising in, or from, the workshop, and review them when there is significant change. Records of significant findings of the assessment must be kept where there are five or more employees

Plan, organise, control, monitor and review the preventative and protective measures taken as a result of the assessment

Provide health surveillance where necessary (see pages 30–31), for example to help control health risks from metalworking fluids

Appoint any competent person(s) needed to help them comply with legal obligations, for example, when having lifting equipment thoroughly examined

Set out what should be done in case of serious and imminent danger in the workshop, such as the spillage of a large amount of degreasing solvent

Tell employees about the risks and precautions involved in their work Train employees to work safely.

All employees have a duty to cooperation in operation of this policy by: Taking reasonable care of themselves and others to avoid injury; Adhering to the job responsibilities as indicated within the arrangements contained

within the Health and Safety Policy.

The Managing Director regards the promotion of Health and Safety as a mutual objective for management and employees at all levels and will do all that is reasonably to prevent personal injury and damage to property and protect everyone from foreseeable work hazards including members of the public insofar as they come into contact with the company or its services.


Signed ……………………………………………….

Position held……………………………………….

Date……………………………………………………


Organisation and levels of responsibility

Managing Director (Caroline Irwin)

Estating Dept(Bernard Sheerin)

Workshop supervisor

(Brendan Watson)

Workshop employees Sub Contractors

Site Foreman(Eugene Devlin)

Office Manager (Caroline Irwin)

Accounts (Lorraine Irwin) Adminstation

Project Manager (Robbie Irwin)


HEALTH AND SAFETY RESPONSBILITIES

Managing Director

The Managing Director will have responsibility to:

Follow RVS ‘s aims and objectives as stated in Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 in compliance with the Health and Safety at Work (Northern Ireland) Order 1993

Delegate authority to line management on all matters relating to Health and Safety Provide adequate resources to meet the commitments contained within the General

Statement on Health and Safety including any forward planning proposals Communicate with all employees and/ or their representatives’ information relating to

Health and Safety within the workplace. Co ordinate Health and Safety activities between main or principle contractor, subcontractor and any other individual contractors who may be working on the same site.

Monitor and review the effectiveness the Policy Statement and associated organization and arrangements.

Discuss at Director/ manager meetings or when requested by appointed Safety Representatives the general area of Health and Safety

Make certain that in tendering, at planning and in production processes allowance is made for adequate welfare facilities and equipment to avoid injury, ill health, damage, and wastage.

Set a personal example on site visits by wearing appropriate protective clothing.

Office Manager

The Office Manager will undertake the following range of duties:

To ensure that each member of staff is issued with the Employees Health and Safety Booklet

To inform all staff of their Health and Safety responsibilities and keep health surveillance and personal records of all information and instructions issued including safety/ hazard sheets given as well as any training received.

To ensure that all accidents are recorded, monitor performance and examine trends as well as investigating accidents to establish causes and recommend protective and preventive measures necessary to minimize lose.


To liaise with enforcing authorities regarding reporting of accidents and other legislative requirements including summoning of emergency services.

To ensure that adequate financial resources are made available to improve standards. To arrange for Safety Audits, Risk assessments and COSHH assessments throughout the

office, workshop, and sites. To ensure that statutory examinations of plant and equipment are carried out and that

records of inspection and examination are kept, particularly in relation to Local Exhaust Ventilation Systems and lifting equipment.

To assist in the drawing up of safe systems of work and the implementation of the same into the workplace.

Providing first aid equipment and facilities for all persons using the premises in accordance with the Health and Safety (First aid) regulations and to inform all staff of arrangements made in connection with the provision of first aid including the location of equipment, facilities and personnel where appropriate.

Carrying out regular tests on the fire alarm equipment and keeping records of same as well as ensuring that all staff are aware of the procedures to be employed in the event of a fire/ emergency occurring. Fire arrangements to be issued to all staff and procedures to be displayed at prominent places throughout the premises with drills being carried out not less than once per day. Adhere to conditions contained within fire certificate/ arrangements.

Contracts manager

The contracts manager shall be responsible to the managing director for the effective implementation of the company safety policy within the area of control or department. He shall be familiar with the legislation affecting health and safety at work. He shall ensure that all new employees, particularly those under 18 years of age, learn safe working practices. He will be responsible for reporting any defects in plant and equipment to the appropriate quarters. He shall keep management informed of any incidents or accidents occurring within their areas of control, and of the action taken to prevent a reoccurrence of the incident.

Their main responsibilities are to:

Receive and act upon the instruction of the safety officer Ensure that protective clothing and equipment is issued as and when required and that

employees are instructed on its use, also that protective clothing and equipment is not abused or destroyed.


Instruct those under their control precisely and clearly on their duties with regard to the safety of themselves and others, and shall institute as appropriate any additional measures deemed necessary for safe working.

Inform employees of any potential hazards to health and safety encountered during the course of their work.

Ensure that the persons under their control, appointed to operate plant and machinery, have had sufficient training to operate safely.

Ensure that areas under their control are kept tidy, and that materials and equipment are stacked or stored safely and neatly and will set a personal example by co operating with all safety policies of the company

Ensure that first aiders or appointed persons and all items of first aid equipment are available and their location known to employees

Accompany HSE inspectors on site visits and act on his recommendations and liaise with the Fire Brigade on fire prevention

Select, co ordinate and monitor competent sub contractors who properly supervise health and safety control measures

Workshop ForemanThe workshop foreman is responsible to the managing director and whose main responsibilities are to:

Be familiar with the provision and use of work equipment regulations and other legislation applicable to the work on which his operatives are engaged and insist that those regulations are observed

Incorporate health and safety instructions in routine orders and see that they are obeyed

Restrain all employees from taking unnecessary risks by adhering to risk assessments.

Ensure that new employees, particularly apprentices, learn to take health and safety precautions in accordance with training provided.

Commend operatives who, by action or initiative, eliminate hazards Discourage horseplay and reprimand those who consistently fail to consider their

own well being and that of others around them Report defects in plant or equipment and arrange for all necessary tests,

examinations and inspections to be carried out in accordance with legislation Set a personal example Ensure that protective clothing and equipment is issued as and when required and

that employees are instructed on its use, also that protective clothing and equipment is not abused or destroyed


Carry out workplace inspections to keep standards of housekeeping high. Arrange for all waste materials are removed on a daily basis and that washing and sanitary conveniences are maintained

Keep first aid boxes fully stocked and report all accidents and near misses to the office manager to ensure that all necessary paperwork is completed

Ensure that all equipment associated with welding, gouging and cutting are inspected on a regular basis and that all controls associated with the use of such equipment are strictly adhered to including the removal of all flammable materials and fumes by ventilation or extraction

Machine/ plant operators and vehicle drivers

All operators and drivers shall make themselves familiar with and conform to company safety policy and set a personal example in seeing the policy is carried out

They shall not use any item of plant or vehicle, which is known to have a defect which could cause injury or accident. They shall only use plant and vehicles for the purpose they were designed for, and only use them in the correct matter

They shall keep machines and vehicles clean inside and out and be capable of carrying out routine maintenance

Machine operators shall check with the site supervisor the position of all overhead and underground cables before commencing work

They shall report all accidents and incidents to the site supervisor promptly

Forklift/ crane drivers Forklift and crane drivers must be over 18 years of age, if they are required to drive a

crane as well as a vehicle on the highway they must be over 21 years of age and possess an HGV license

They shall ensure that all lifting gear is adequate for the loads imposed They shall check with site supervision the proximity of all overhead cables, instructions

etc. They shall report that all accidents and incidents to the site supervision promptly They are to plan daily, routine, and major servicing to maintain safety.

Supervisor/ general employee


All employees have legal duty to comply with the Health and Safety at Work (Northern Ireland) Order 1993, which places a general duty on the individual to look after their own safety and the safety of others as well as co-operating with management on all areas regarding health and safety within the workplace. Failing to comply with RVS’s general policy and arrangements could lead to a conviction in a criminal court and/ or disciplinary proceedings being taken against the individual concerned.

The following are the general duties of all staff employed with RVS:

To make themselves familiar and ensure compliance with the contents of the general policy, organisation and arrangements as well as the detailed arrangements issued by the office manager specific to the individuals job.

To be familiar with the statutory health and safety requirements and recognized codes of practice which have a bearing on their work

To undertake training courses as directed by management To use all protective clothing/ equipment issued and not to misuse or interfere with it or

anything else provided in the interests of health and safety e.g. roof ladders, safety helmets, goggles, etc.

To report any defect/ problem arising from the use/ operation of vehicle, plant, machine equipment, appliance, fixture or fitting and system to the relevant line manager

To bring unsafe conditions/ practices to the attention of the appropriate person To report any accidents/ incidents which result in or may have resulted in personal

injury or damage to plant, equipment or property to the relevant line manager To ensure that all staff under their control are properly supervised, instructed and

trained in their particular work activities To assist in the investigation of accidents/ incidents in order to prevent reoccurrence To put forward ideas/ suggestions to line management which could improve standards

to an even higher level To encourage a positive attitude to health and safety matters and set a good personal

example to others especially to our valued customer

Health and Safety Arrangements

List of Arrangements:

Accident report proceduresSpecific proceduresHealth and hygiene


FireSafety trainingLegal dutiesGeneral safety and welfareHousekeepingContracts- contractor/ sub contractorWorking at heights : - scaffolding

- roofs and ladders- - excavations

Protective clothingElectricityMachineryPlant and equipmentMaintenance of plant and equipment Power pressesHazardous substancesCutting, gouging and weldingYoung people

Accident Reporting Procedures

This policy outlines the procedures, which are to be adopted when any employee, visitor, or contractor experiences an accident, near miss, or dangerous occurrence on the company’s premises during the course of their employment. This will also apply to visitors who are members of the public and therefore not at work.


For the purpose of this policy, brief definitions and example of an accident and a near miss are given below.Accident- an unplanned event which causes injury to persons, damages to property or a combination of both. Examples include: a fall resulting in a fracture, incorrect operation of machinery leading to breakdown.Near miss- an unplanned event which does not cause injury or damage, but could do so. Examples include: articles falling near to people, short-circuits on electrical equipment.

The person responsible for co coordinating all incident reporting is: Caroline Irwin- office manager.

Accident BookAll accidents resulting in personal injury must be recorded in the company accident book. This is located in the office and contains information, which must be recorded under law. The accident book will be regularly reviewed by senior management to ascertain the nature of incidents, which have occurred in the workplace. This review will be in addition to an individual investigation of the circumstances surrounding each incident. All near misses must also be reported to management as soon as possible so that action can be taken to investigate the causes and to prevent recurrence.

NI 2508 FormIf the incident results in over 3 consecutive days of incapacity to work it is reportable under HSENI and the local enforcing authority must be informed on a prescribed form (NI 2508 revised) within ten days. This form can be found on https://www.secure.hseni.gov.uk/forms/NI2508.aspx and can be completed online. Major incidents must also be reported to the enforcing authority immediately by telephone and be followed within 10 days by a completed NI2508 form online. A copy should be kept, including documents relating to the accident investigation and to advise the insurers of a potential claim.

All accidents and near miss incidents must be reported, however minor. In order to achieve this, the following procedure should be adopted.

1. Obtain treatment for the injury from a first aider or other appointed person2. Make the area safe following the incident, to safeguard other personnel in the vicinity3. Enter details in the accident book4. Inform the injured person’s manager (or a responsible person) of the incident5. Keep the company informed of any after effects of the incident, including periods of

total or partial incapacity for work


https://www.secure.hseni.gov.uk/forms/NI2508.aspx

6. Review existing workplace risk assessments and safe systems of work in light of the accident investigation results

Specific procedures

Safety InspectionsRegular and systematic safety inspections will be carried out by either the Workshop Foreman, the office manager or the contracts manager and reports sent to the managing director. It shall be the responsibility of the site management to ensure that the items reported as needing attention are dealt with immediately.

Company safety rulesThese are included with the safety policy and are available to all employees

Machinery and equipment- protectionStatue law prescribes a standard of protecting our company and as such this is the minimum level acceptable. The company will ensure that a program exists to cover the systematic maintenance and proper functioning of all equipment. It will also ensure that the necessary tests, examinations, and inspections required by law will be carried out.

Personal protective clothingThere are areas of risk where the provision of protective clothing is a statutory requirement. Employees shall wear any protective clothing or equipment provided for their safety.

Health and Hygiene

Industrial DermatitisDermatitis is an inflammatory condition of the skin. It is caused by a wide variety of substances used in industry. To prevent it, wash thoroughly when you stop work and were gloves provided. If you contract a skin rash, report it to your site supervisor and seek medical advice.

AsbestosisAsbestosis is a lung condition caused by the inhalation of asbestos dust. The company when using asbestosis-based materials shall comply with the regulations currently in force in relation to asbestosis.

Welding


Two of the most important hazards arising from welding are fumes and radiation. The company will endeavor to reduce fumes at source, where this is impracticable, adequate protection will be provided. Radiation cannot be reduced at the source and persons involved in the welding processes shall be required to wear any protective equipment and clothing supplied to prevent radiation burns.

Potentially Harmful SubstancesWith the introduction of new materials and substances, it is necessary for the company to be constantly vigilant in order to ensure that adequate precautions are taken to prevent injury to health.

First AidAdequate first aid facilities as required by statute law shall be provided on each site.

Personal CleanlinessYour health may be affected if you do not keep yourself , workplace and canteen facilities clean.

Always wash your hands before handling food Use gloves whenever possible Never use solvents or abrasives to clean your hands

WelfareIn accordance with regulations, first aid, toilets, and the canteen are provided. Please look after these facilities, and to prevent unhealthy conditions, eat only in the canteen.

FireFire prevention and controlThe company has a substantial capital investment in its buildings, equipment, and stock. It is essential to protect this investment against loss due to fire, and to ensure that no person is at risk due to fire or explosions. There must always be adequate protection against these hazards.

Training in fire preventionThe most important part of our fire policy is fire prevention. To this end we require all levels of management and employees to take all possible precautions to prevent fires and become thoroughly familiar with the fire fighting appliances.

A substantial proportion of the company’s activities are carried out on occupied premises. Management and supervisors should acquaint themselves with the occupier’s fire precautions


and procedures and ensure that all persons on the premises know what to do in the event of fire.

Fire Prevention and DrillRead operating instructions on fire extinguishers. Obey the No Smoking signs where necessary and dispose of cigarettes carefully. No smoking inside the office or workshop.

Do not hang clothing near heaters Do not use flammable near a naked flame Do not open containers e.g. buckets, for starting flammable liquids Always store gas bottles, fuel containers etc. in a safe compound Always check hoists and connections to all appliances

IF YOU SEE A FIRE- SHOUT AN ALARMExtinguish the fire, but only if you decide it is safe to do so. If the fire can not be controlled, leave the area and tell your foreman.

Safety Training

Basic considerationsSo far as reasonably practicable all employees shall be given adequate safety training in understanding the hazards involved and the precautions to be taken on site and in the workshop or garage

Management trainingAll levels of management should receive training, which is necessary to control effectively the areas in which they are responsible

Supervisory trainingAll the key link in the management, supervisors should attend safety courses, lectures etc., in order to carry out the company safety policy

Employee specialist safety trainingIn addition to the basic safety training, specialist training shall be given for particular operations, e.g. abrasive wheels, cartridge guns, scaffolding etc.

VisitorsIt is the duty of the company to ensure the safety of visitors to our site. They shall not be permitted to enter sites, workshop, or garage unaccompanied. Protective clothing shall be provided where necessary.


Safety Code

Your legal dutiesEmployees have three main legal duties at work:

1. You must take responsible care of your health and safety and that of other people who may be affected by what you do

2. You must co operate with management of the company so that they can carry out the duties imposed on them

3. You must not intentionally or recklessly interfere with or misuse anything provided in the interest of health, safety, or welfare. For example machinery guards, safety rails, protective clothing and equipment.

In cases were you disregard these obligations, you may render yourself liable to prosecution by the health and safety inspectorate, and may incur heavy fines as well as suffering the company’s disciplinary action.This code is designed as a guide for health and safety of all our employees, including labour only sub contractors. It does not cover all aspects of safety and should interpreted as a document of legislation.

Reporting hazardsYou must report to your supervisor immediately you detect any defects in material, equipment, machinery, or work systems, which may cause injury to you or anyone else.

Reporting injuriesAll injuries sustained at work, no matter how slight or of what nature, must be reported to your site supervisor for entry into the accident book.

General Safety and Welfare

Specialized jobsCertain jobs have particular dangers, and special knowledge is required before they are attempted. In some cases, e.g. abrasive wheel mounting and working at woodwork machinery, the law required operators to be specially trained.

The following is a list of jobs, which require special training, it is by no means exhaustive, so the golden rules, if in doubt about how to carry out a particular task, ASK YOUR FOREMAN.

(A) Mounting an abrasive wheel(B) Driving a dumper


(C) Working at woodworking machinery(D) Driving a forklift truck(E) Operating a crane(F) Driving a mechanical shovel/ excavator(G) Operating a cartridge fired fixing tool(H) Operating a platform hoist(I) Slinging or loading(J) Scaffolding(K) Trench shoring

Under no circumstances must you carry out any of the above jobs unless you have been instructed how to do so.

Good HousekeepingPoor standards of housekeeping are a common cause of injury and damages at work and can create unnecessary fire hazards. Low standards often result from poor working practices and/ or organizational deficiencies within the workplace. The company recognizes the need to ensure that the company attains the highest possible standards and is in accordance with its commitment to provide a safe place of work.

Inspections of the workplace- Office/ Workshop

Workshop inspections will be carried out on a regular basis by line managers to identify areas where standards require improvement. These areas will be highlighted for remedial action.

Storage facilitiesStorage areas will have been defined within the workplace. Requirements should be reviewed periodically and whenever refurbishment or relocations takes place. Articles and substances will be stored in defined areas at all times.

Waste collection and removalFloors will be cleaned on a regular basis and waste bins should be emptied daily. Rubbish will be kept in suitable containers and should not be allowed to overflow. Combustible waste must be kept away from ignition sources. Large items of rubbish that pose a particular hazard, such as obsolete items of furniture, should be removed without delay.

Information and trainingSuitable information and training will be provided to all employees in housekeeping arrangements within the workplace and in standards that must be achieved.


Responsibilities- manager and supervisor Managers and supervisors must ensure that their areas of responsibility maintain satisfactory standards of housekeeping at all times. The following duties apply:

1. ensure that articles are not left in walkways or on the floor2. ensure that there are no trailing cables3. ensure that articles are stored in designated places4. regularly check the working area to ensure that satisfactory standards of housekeeping

are maintained5. arrange for obsolete or unwanted articles of furniture to be removed

Responsibilities- employeesEmployees are responsible for the following:1. Ensuring that they do not allow waste materials to accumulate in their working area, and keeping their workstations tidy2. Acting in accordance with information and training relating to housekeeping in the workplace3. Reporting problems relating to storage or removal of articles to a responsible person

In order to ensure that satisfactory standards of housekeeping are achieved the following arrangements should be adhered to:

1. Check that the workplace is free from hazards at the beginning of each day2. Always put articles away immediately after use3. Clear up any spillages etc. immediately4. Do not allow objects to protrude into walkways5. Ensure that waste materials are properly stored and are removed on a regular basis6. Ensure that special arrangements are made for the removal of unusual or extra large

objects or substances7. Do not store articles or substances anywhere other than in designated areas8. Ensure the workplace is tidy and articles and substances have been put away at the end

of the shift

Contracts- Contractor/ Sub ContractorContractors have duties under s.6 of the HSW Order to take all reasonably practicable steps to supply, erect, and install plant and equipment and to use substances which will be safe and without risk to health when being set, used, cleaned and maintained by any person(s) at work.

A contractor can be anyone instructed by the occupier or landlord to enter the premises to do work which might include free surveys, estimates, measurements, maintenance, and servicing under warranty, etc.


In circumstances where contractors are carrying out construction work for an employer occupier, or others, specific duties are placed on each party under the requirements of the construction, design and management regulations (cdm) (NI0 1995. These requirements are in addition to the more general health and safety requirements contained in HSW Order and MHSW Regs.

RVS will act as either a principal contractor or a contractor under the CDM Regs.

The principal contractor has duties relating to the health and safety plan; co operation between contractors; compliance with health and safety rules; the controlled access of only authorized person to any area where construction work is being carried out; the display of specified notices; the provision of information to the planning supervisor; the direction of contractors; information and training for contractors; and consultation between employees and others.

Other contractors involved in the construction work are required to co operate with the principal contractor; provide appropriate information to the principal contractor- including information relating to any injuries, diseases dangerous occurrences; and comply with any directions or site rules provided by the principal contractor.

In circumstances where construction work is to be completed under the requirements of CDM Regs RVS can provide or will request the following information:1. Detailed knowledge of the requirements of CDM, other legislation related to

construction health and safety matters and construction practice2. Experience of the co ordination and direction of contractors. Liaison with designers and

resources for providing the necessary information and training to every contractor working on a project

3. Experience of the preparation and development of health and safety plans and files, the checking of contractors’ plans, method statements and risk assessments

4. Adequate systems to ensure the provision of information to the planning supervisor; the effective use of risk assessments and the correct management of health and safety during construction work

5. The appropriateness of their qualifications and/ or experience in construction health and safety and that of their staff

6. The adequacy of their information resources and technical facilities available in relation to health and safety matters

Key elements of contractor assessmentRVS will look at the following details to evaluate the suitability of a contractor:


1. Safety policy document2. Understanding of general site rules and communication to all employees3. Reliability of application of permits to work and isolation procedures4. Quality of information supplied on hazards, risks and controls5. Standard of ‘method statement’6. Application of national and European codes and standards7. Condition of plant and equipment8. Competence and attitude of employees9. Induction and training of temporary workers and subcontractors10.Effectiveness of contractor’s supervisory arrangements( this will depend on skills mix

and complexity of the task)11.Past health and safety performance12.Permit to work procedures and other codes of safe working practice for activities such

as entry to confined spaces, overheard working, electrical safety, excavations, rotating machinery and fragile roof access precautions etc.

13.Emergency procedures14.Accident and near miss reporting requirements15.Evaluations of risks presented by the occupier’s or other contractors’ activities and

appropriate control measures

Working at heights

Falls are the largest simple cause of deaths in our industry. Taking the following precautions will ensure your safety while working above ground.

Scaffolding:All scaffolding erection and dismantling must be carried out by trained personnel. Never interfere with the scaffolding, especially ties. Check that scaffolds are complete before using them, that guard rails and toe boards are in position, and that they are fully boarded, and that the boards are sound and free from defects.Ensure that scaffolds are not overloaded, or cluttered with debris, and not in danger of touching overhead power lines.Always use ladders to gain access to scaffolding, never climb the standards.

Trestles: Ensure that trestles are sound and well placed, with adequate width and depth to work from safely, boards must not extend over the ends of the trestles.

Open joints:


When required to work over open joints, provide temporary covers of boards or sheets of plywood for good footing.

Stairs:Open stairwells are a potential hazard. Always ensure that the following points are complied with:

1. Never leave stairs cluttered with rubbish or materials2. Always ensure that there is adequate lighting3. Always ensure that hand rails and guardrails, whether temporary or permanent are

fixed in position.

Roofs:Whenever practicable, scaffolding and roof edge protection will be provided. However, in all instances, use sound roof ladders on sloping roofs, prevent tools and equipment from falling, and cover all openings.On flat roofs make sure that the guardrails provided at edges, and the roof is sound and safe to walk on.

Mobile scaffolds:There are specific limitations as to the heights of mobile scaffolds:

1. Internal use- height must not exceed 3.5 times the minimum base dimension2. External use- height must not exceed 3 times the minimum base dimension3. In exes of 10m high, scaffold must be tied to the building and have outriggers extended4. Maximum height permissible is 12m

Ensure the working platform is fully boarded and guarded. Only use mobile scaffolds on a firm and level base. Move mobile scaffolds by pushing or pulling at the base, do not attempt to move by pulling along from the top. In any circumstances, nobody must be on the scaffold while it is being moved. Only specified, lockable wheels must be used, and the wheels must be locked while the scaffold is stationary.

Fixed scaffolds:As well as the general points already mentioned, the following specific rules regarding scaffolding are legally enforceable. It is to be understood that these are the basic requirements, not a comprehensive list.

1. Scaffolds must be tied into a building. Where this is impossible, raking supports, well braced at the bottom, must be used

2. Base plates only to be used to support uprights. No other form of support is acceptable3. Scaffolding must be securely based


4. Working lifts must be fully boarded with soundboards, free from defects and banded at each end. Toe boards, guardrails, and stop ends must be used.

5. Partially erected or dismantled scaffolds must not be used. Signs prohibiting use should be used.

6. Scaffolding remaining in place for long periods should be inspected weekly, and a record of inspections kept. In addition, scaffolds should be inspected after bad weather.

7. Do not use scaffolding if these points are not complied with.

Ladders: Check that ladders are in good condition, free from broken rungs etc., and not covered

in mud or grease or iced over. Check that the ladder is long enough, i.e. that it extends at least 1.07m (3ft 6 ins) above

the landing place. Check that the pitch of the ladder is adequate i.e. 300mm (1ft) out of every 1.21 m (4ft)

of height Check that the ladder is firmly based, not liable to slip and that it is firmly lashed at the

top or chocked at the bottom Never tie two short ladders together Never carry heavy or large loads on a ladder Never lean sideways from a ladder

Excavations:Numerous accidents happen each year because of unsafe conditions while working in excavations. Points to note:

Never work in an excavation over 1.21m (4ft) deep unless it is adequately shored or battered back. Check with your foreman

Watch for services, especially electric cables. Never assume that a cable is dead. Always check with your foreman. All cables should be treated as live unless otherwise informed by your foreman. Always ensure that excavations are adequately protected- barriers or covers at manholes etc.

Do not jump over excavations. Go around or use a gangway. Never interfere with supports, struts, or barriers. Never use supports to gain access or exit- use a ladder

Always keep areas around excavations clear of rubbish. Wear a safety helmet, objects falling into a trench can be a hazard. Never enter a live sewer or drain without first consulting your foreman.


Protective clothing and equipmentThere are areas of risk where the wearing of protective clothing is a legal requirement. The company provides protective clothing and you will be expected to sign for it and agree to use it.

Safety helmets:We are extremely concerned at the high number of head injuries on construction sites within N. Ireland, and as such it is the company law that safety helmets must be wore on all sites.

Eye protection (goggles or glasses) shall be worn for: Burning or cutting Use of cartridge tools Use of grinding wheels or cutting discs Braking out concrete, rock, or brick etc. Handling chemicals Drilling or boring Cutting tracks or boxes

Ear protection (ear muffs) worn for: Plant driving Use of mechanical breaks or hammers Use of cartridge tools

Dust masks worn for: Grinding or cutting Work industry confined areas

Gloves shall be worn for: Protection against heat, dermatitis, cuts, and bruising.

Safety footwear:Employees are strongly advised to wear approved safety footwear while working on the site. These are fitted with steel toe- caps and mid sole plates to give protection against damage by crushing or penetration and will certainly save you from serious injury

Materials handling:Use gloves for the job if you need them. Do not try to lift weights obviously to heavy for you. The correct method is to grip with the palms of your hands, bend knees, keep back straight and lift, using the thigh muscles. Obtain help when necessary.


Cut off grinding discs:Always remember that these machines are very powerful. Use only the correct discs fitted by competent person, in accordance with the Abrasive wheels regulations.Normal practice should be to always wear gloves, goggles, and a dust mask. Keep electric cables clear of work area. A cut or damaged cable can cause an electric shockNever bend or flex a disc while cutting. It could shatter.

Electricity

NEVER INTERFERE WITH ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT

Before using any electrical equipment, check for damage, e.g. damage or defective plugs or cables, damage to the equipment itself such as loose screw, cracking casing etc.

Plant and Equipment

● Cartridge Tools● Generally speaking, accidents with these tools kept to a minimum provided that:● The manufacturers instructions are rigidly followed.● The tools are used by only those trained to do so.● The tools are kept under lock and key.

The following additional rules are also to be followed:● Loaded cartridge gun must never be carried around the site. The gun should remain

unloaded until actual use.● The gun should never be pointed at anyone, whether loaded or unloaded. Hands

must be kept clear of the muzzle end.● Cartridge guns should never be stored or used in explosive atmospheres or in the

vicinity of highly flammable materials.● The gun should be held perpendicular to and firmly the surface being driven into.● Eye and Ear protections should be worn.

In order to prevent flying hazards, no pin or attachment should be driven without first making sure that it will not pass completely through the material being driven into.Pins should not be driven through pre-drilled or pre-punched holes without using a special guard designed for this purpose. In the event of a misfire, the gun should not be removed from the working surface for 15 seconds.


In the event of jamming or obstruction in the bore, follow the manufacturers instructions carefully. An obstructed bore should never be cleaned by firing another cartridge or pin and cartridge assembly.

Any cartridge gun used by the company must be only used by company employees never leave live cartridges lying about. Maintenance is most important. Tools should be checked before they are used to ensure that safety devices are in proper working conditions, that the gun is cleaned, that all moving parts operate freely and that the barrel is, free from obstruction. Any gun not in operating order or development a defect in use must immediately be removed from service and returned for repairs.

Maintenance of Plant and Equipment

RVS will take all reasonable steps to ensure the safety of all employees maintaining the machinery as well as the safety of those affected by the maintenance work. Liaison will take place with suppliers of all new machinery to establish how that machinery should be maintained safely. RVS will, in consultation with the maintenance staff and their representatives:● Carry out an assessment of how the machinery should be isolated for specific

maintenance work.● Carry out an assessment of how the machinery should be isolated to enable general

maintenance work to be carried out safely.● Carry out an assessment of the maintenance of the machine itself including any

heavy parts that have to be moved, any positions that have to be reached to achieve the necessary result (e.g. climbing outside a safety barrier on a crane) and any risks of parts falling.

● Carry out an assessment of how the maintenance of the machine affects its environment.

● Carry out an assessment of all hazards that arise when guards have been removed.● Take appropriate measures for the protection of any person carrying out

maintenance operations, which the assessment has shown to involve risk to health or safety.

● Provide any personal protective equipment that might be necessary to carry out the work safely.

● Ensure that employees are aware of the reporting procedures, so that a responsible person is informed of any problems as soon as they arise and remedial action can be taken.

The records previously refereed to above will also be kept and will include the following:-


● Training of management supervising the maintenance of the machinery.● Training of maintenance personnel.● Safe systems of maintaining and testing the machinery.● Safe systems of access to the machinery in order to maintain it.● Actual maintenance work carried out on the machinery including what was done,

when and by whom. These details can be used to assess an individual’s ability as well as providing information when any faults or unexpected breakdowns occur after the maintenance has been finished and the machinery put back into operation

Power Presses

RVS is committed to ensuring the operation of power presses at its premises without risks to health and safety of its employees and others. The person responsible for the implementation of this policy is the Workshop Supervisor / Health and Safety Officer. The following arrangements should be adhered to in order to ensure that power presses and associated equipment are operated without risks to health and safety.

Power presses (and associated equipment) are selected in accordance with statutory requirements, are suitable for the purpose, incorporate appropriate safety devices, and are used only used for their intended purpose. This should be sufficient to ensure that the following are adequate:● Guarding of dangerous parts; protection against specific hazard; protection against

extremes of temperature; machine controls and systems; isolation from energy sources; stability; lighting; markings and warnings.

● Adequate assessments of the health and safety risks to the company’s employees arising out of these activities are completed. Appropriate control measures to remove or reduce the risks presented are identified and implemented.

● Every power press or safety device is tested and thoroughly examined before it is first taken into use in a factory by a competent person.

● Power presses and associated equipment are maintained, inspected, tested and thoroughly examined correctly, in accordance with statutory requirements, manufacturers’ instructions and any risk assessments made by competent personnel. All alterations, maintenance, and repair to the equipment will be coordinated correctly with unauthorized work of this nature prohibited. All records to be made available.

● The setting, re-setting, adjusting and trying out of the tools and the installation or adjusting of safety devices is completed by person who have reached the age of eighteen years, have received the necessary training (as specified in the regulations), are competent and have been appointed.


● The day-to-day inspection and testing (as specified in the regulations) of every safety device is also carried out by persons who have reached the age of eighteen years and have received the necessary training as specified in the regulations, are competent and have been appointed to do so.

● All operators, supervisors, and managers are given appropriate information, written instructions and training. Individual capabilities (as regards health and safety) will be taken into account when appointing persons to carry out tasks in relation to the operation of power presses.

Hazardous Substances

RVS acknowledges that no substance can be considered completely safe. All reasonable steps will be taken to ensure that all exposure of employees to substances hazardous to health is prevented or at least controlled to within statutory limits.The company undertakes to control exposure by engineering means where reasonably practicable.Where exposure cannot be adequately controlled by engineering means, appropriate PPE will be provided free of charge after consultation with employees or their representatives.All employees will be provided with comprehensible information and instruction on the nature and likelihood of their exposure to substances hazardous to health.

The company will, in consultation with workers and their representatives, implement the following:● An inventory of all substances hazardous to health kept on site will be maintained,

with appropriate hazard information.● Competent persons will be appointed to carry out risk assessments of the exposure

to substances hazardous to health and advise on their control.● All operations, which involve or may involve, exposure to substances hazardous to

health will be assessed and appropriate control measures will be taken where elimination or substitution of the hazardous substance is not possible.

● Engineering controls will be properly maintained and monitored to ensure their continued effectiveness. Planned preventive maintenance and annual performance monitoring will achieve this.

● All employees, and others who may work in the affected areas, will be informed of the purpose and safe operation of all engineering controls.

● PPE will be used only as a last resort or as a back up measure during testing or modification of other controls.


● The type and use of PPE will be carefully assessed and maintained according to manufacturers’ instructions. Where possible, the number of different types will be minimized to prevent mistakes with servicing or replacement.

● Each assessment will be reviewed annually and all operations using hazardous substances will be reassessed every three years.

● Qualified professionals, where indicated to be necessary by the assessment, will carry out health surveillance of employees.

The following shall be adhered to: -

● Employee health records will be kept of all exposures to substances hazardous to health for a minimum of 40 years.

● All employees will be provided with comprehensible information and appropriate training on the nature of the hazardous substances with which they are working and they will be informed about any monitoring and health surveillance results.

● All changes to control measures and changes of PPE will be properly assessed and no new substances will be introduced into the workplace without prior assessment.

Procedures for Dealing with Health and Safety Issues

Where an employee raises a point related to the use of substances hazardous to health the company will: -

● Ensure that the hazard associated with the substance has been correctly identified.● Ensure that the assessment of the use of the substance is correct and up to date.● Ensure that the controls in place are adequate.● Correct any observed deficiencies in the control of the hazards.● Inform the employee, and his or her representative where appropriate, of the results

of the investigation and actions taken.

If an identified exposure has taken place, those affected, and their managers and representatives, will be informed immediately. Possible health effects will, in addition, be communicated to the company occupational health physician and the employee’s own general practitioner.

Young Persons


A young person means people under 18. With the different training schemes in operation, and with our customary intake of apprentices, more and more young people are being employed on our sites. Legislation is in operation governing the hours of work for young people, but as well as this it is our duty to ensure their safety at work.Never assume that any young person will automatically be able to carry out tasks assigned to them – instruct them carefully and thoroughly.Always tell the young person of potential hazards.Never allow a young person to operate machinery unless they are strongly supervised.Never engage in “practical jokes” on young people – they have a habit of going wrong.

Propane cylinders

All persons concerned with the handling and use of liquefied petroleum gas should be familiar with the properties of gas: -● The gas is carried in a cylinder as a liquid under pressure.● A small portion of gas in air can give rise to an inflammable mixture.● The gas is heavier than air, and leakage will be at a low level.

Because of these properties, strict care must be ensured in the handling and operation of all gas appliances.● Never use or store a gas container on its side. Always keep it upright.● Always store cylinders in a cool place away from inflammable materials - even empty

cylinders.● Never store empty full gas containers below ground level.● Always turn off gas at the cylinder and allow gas in pipelines to burn off before other

valves and cocks.● Always make sure when changing the cylinder that the valve on the empty cylinder is

closed before disconnecting the pressure reducing valve.● Frost on the cylinder does not necessarily mean a reduced pressure at the burner.● Never attempt to heat a cylinder however cold the weather.● Always see that all connections are tight before operation.● Always examine the hose and make sure it is sound.● A cylinder of gas should be kept away from the source of ignition.● When used as a means of heating site huts, etc., the cylinder must always be outside

the hut or building.

Cutting, Gouging and Welding


Welding, gouging and cutting involve generating and manipulating specific physical hazards that are normally avoided or suppressed. Safety is, therefore paramount. The company will achieve and maintain safe systems of work by providing adequate training, instruction, supervision and monitoring of safe systems of work including the provision of safety equipment.

The principal safety concerns with Arc Cutting, Gouging and Welding Processes are to: -● Connect the welding current return cable to the work piece close to the arc point or

to a well electrically conductive support in good contact with the work piece. Also, connect the work piece or the support structure to a separate earth terminal.

● Beware of increased fume hazards when welding with chrome containing fluxed consumables or high current metal inert gas (MIG) or tungsten inert gas (TIG) processes.

● Avoid being in contact with water or wet floors when welding. Use duckboards or rubber protection.

● Provide screens to limit exposure of others to glare from arcs.● Use the correct eye and face protection with the correct filter glass.● Use a low voltage open circuit relay device if welding with alternating current in

constricted or damp places.

Oxy-fuel Gas Processes● Handle cylinders carefully, keep outside enclosed areas and tether upright safely.

Keep oxygen cylinders away from fuel gas cylinders where possible.● Ensure screwed fittings and hoses are correct and keep screwed and sealed surfaces

free of contaminants, oil, and grease.● Close cylinder valves when flame is extinguished.● Ensure any vessel, drum or tank that has contained flammable or toxic substances

has been properly cleaned and inspected before subjecting it to hot work.● Remove all torches from enclosed areas when not in use.● Use fire watchers if there is a possibility of ignition unobserved by the operator (e.g.

on the other side of bulk heads)

Cutting, Gouging and Welding

1. All equipment must be in good condition, properly installed and routinely inspected by a competent person, and records must be kept where required by regulations.

2. Flexible hoses, cables, and connections must be free from damage or risk of damage in service. Cables and hoses shall have adequate carrying capacity.


3. Operators shall wear eye, ear, face, head, and body personal protective equipment provided.

4. The atmosphere in the vicinity of work must be known to be safe to breathe and free from flammable gases.

5. Adequate ventilation and fume extraction must be provided and used as required by the COSHH assessment and especially in enclosed areas and pits.

6. Surfaces to be heated by the process must be cleaned of contaminants that may be degraded by heat or give off noxious fumes (e.g. paints, plastics, zinc coating).

7. Naked flames or high temperature surfaces must not be allowed in the vicinity of volatile solvents.

8. All moveable flammable materials must be removed from the vicinity of work and fireproof covers placed over all flammable materials that cannot be removed.

9. The work piece and any access equipment must be safely secured.10.A permit to work procedure must be operated in hazardous closed environments.


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