Working at Height Policy & Working Procedures

Transcription

1 Working at Height Policy & Working Procedures

2 Revision History Revision Date Author Checked By Notes V1.0 June 2015 Paul Mullis John Crawford Initial Release Revision 1.0 Page 2

3 Contents Introduction... 9 Scope... 9 Acknowledgement... 9 References Tower Structure, Masts and Monopoles Personnel Personnel Competencies Training Provision Fitness to Work Personal protective Equipment Clothing Footwear Gloves Head protection Foul Weather Clothing Eye Protection Safety Harness Safety Lanyards & Work Positioning Ropes Exposure to Non Ionizing Radiation Sources Other Safety Equipment Control of Safety Equipment & Personal Protective Equipment Equipment First Use Periodic Inspection Inspection Methods Textiles Sewing Connectors & Buckles Shock Absorbing devices Fall Arrest Trollies Ropes Life Span of Equipment Revision 1.0 Page 3

4 2.3.4 Actions following any fall or damage to equipment Disposal of Damaged & Time Expired Equipment Storage of Equipment Work Supervision & Authorisation Method Statements Risk Assessments Permit to Work systems Change Management Regimes Point of Work Risk Assessments Allocation of Onsite Supervisor/Team Leader Tower Structure, Masts and Monopole Working Procedures Prior to deploying to Site Arrival at Site Preparation to Work Ground Level Safety Precautions Establishing the Rescue Plan/Procedures Purpose Implementation Types of Rescue Self Rescue Assisted Self Rescue Cut Away Rescue Selection of suitable Anchorage Point Suspension Trauma (Pre-Syncope) Specific procedures to avoid/reduce Suspension Trauma Recognition of Symptoms Rescue Equipment Communications Non Ionizing Radiation Hazards Exposure to Excessive RF Fields RF Burns/Shocks Symptoms, Treatment & Reporting Procedures-RF Hazards RF Exposure RF Burns Revision 1.0 Page 4

5 Reporting Ladder & Step Ladder Usage Personnel Personnel Competencies Training Provision Fitness to Work Personal protective Equipment Clothing Footwear Head protection Foul Weather Clothing Eye Protection Control of Equipment & Personal Protective Equipment Equipment First Use Periodic Inspection Life Span of Equipment Actions following any fall or damage to equipment Storage of Equipment Appropriate use of Ladder Equipment Selection of Equipment Prior to use Safe Use of Ladders & Step Ladders Ground Conditions Levelling of Ladders Work Supervision & Authorisation Method Statements Risk Assessments Permit to Work systems Change Management Regimes Point of Work Risk Assessments Allocation of Onsite Supervisor/Team Leader Use of Mobile Scaffold Platforms Personnel Personnel Competencies Revision 1.0 Page 5

6 5.1.2 Training Provision Fitness to Work Personal protective Equipment Clothing Footwear Head protection Foul Weather Clothing Eye Protection Control of Safety Equipment & Personal Protective Equipment Equipment First Use Periodic Inspection Life Span of Equipment Actions following any fall or damage to equipment Storage of Equipment Appropriate use of Scaffold Equipment Selection of Equipment Prior to use Safe Use of Mobile Scaffold Platform Ground Conditions Levelling of Scaffold Platforms Weather Conditions Assembly/Disassembly Demarcation of the Work Area Moving a Tower Work Supervision & Authorisation Method Statements Risk Assessments Permit to Work systems Change Management Regimes Point of Work Risk Assessments Allocation of Onsite Supervisor/Team Leader Roof Top Working Personnel Personnel Competencies Revision 1.0 Page 6

7 6.1.2 Training Provision Fitness to Work Personal protective Equipment Clothing Footwear Head protection Foul Weather Clothing Eye Protection Control of Safety Equipment & Personal Protective Equipment Equipment First Use Periodic Inspection Life Span of Equipment Actions following any fall or damage to equipment Storage of Equipment Appropriate use of Access & Safety Equipment Selection of Equipment Prior to use Reducing Risk of Fall Fragile Roofs Sloping Roofs Flat Roofs Edge Protection Other Rooftop hazards Exposure to Excessive RF Fields Falling material Weather Work Supervision & Authorisation Method Statements Risk Assessments Permit to Work systems Change Management Regimes Point of Work Risk Assessments Allocation of Onsite Supervisor/Team Leader Use of Mobile Elevated Work Platforms (MEWPs) Revision 1.0 Page 7

8 7.1 Personnel Personnel Competencies Training Provision Fitness to Work Personal protective Equipment Clothing Footwear Head protection Foul Weather Clothing Eye Protection Harness use Control of Safety Equipment & Personal Protective Equipment Equipment First Use Periodic Inspection Actions following any fall or damage to equipment Storage of Equipment Work Supervision & Authorisation Method Statements Risk Assessments Permit to Work systems Change Management Regimes Point of Work Risk Assessments Allocation of Onsite Supervisor/Team Leader Appropriate use of Access & Safety Equipment Selection of Equipment Prior to use During use Revision 1.0 Page 8

9 Introduction Working at Height is undertaken routinely by personnel employed by Co-Channel Electronics Ltd. This policy describes the minimum requirements and expectations of those involved in any Working at Height task to ensure that all Health and Safety aspects are properly managed. Scope Due to the varied nature of Co-Channel Electronics Ltd business activities, personnel are exposed to multiple hazards from working both above and below ground level. These tasks often include Roof Top, Tower Structure and Ladder working. Acknowledgement All Co-Channel Electronics personnel involved tasks associated with Working at Height will adhere to this policy and any best practices contained within. References This policy has been compiled in line with current HSE (and other where applicable) legislation as listed below. Health and safety in roof work-hsg33(fourth edition, published 2012) Working on roofs-indg284(rev1),revised 11/08 Inspecting fall arrest equipment made from webbing or rope-indg284(rev1) Safe use of ladders and stepladders-indg402 Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER) Work at Height Regulations (WAHR) 2005 Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 2013 (RIDDOR) Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 RR708-Evidence-based review of the current guidance on first aid measures for suspension trauma Revision 1.0 Page 9

10 2.0 Tower Structure, Masts and Monopoles 2.1 Personnel Personnel Competencies All personnel involved directly with climbing activities shall be suitably qualified. A minimum of two qualified persons will be present for the duration of any climbing activity. Personnel who partake in installation and equipment maintenance tasks shall be qualified as Advanced Climbers and trained in Rope Rescue techniques. Personnel involved in tasks such as Line of Sight surveys or other similar tasks where all climbing activities are limited to the access ladder and work/rest platforms may be qualified as Occasional Climbers as long as suitable rescue provision is maintained Training Provision Training will be provided by a suitably qualified external organisation. Periodic refresher training will be undertaken for all personnel to ensure continued competency and improvement. Rescue Training will be provided annually in line with industry best practices Fitness to Work All climbing personnel must be fit and healthy before undertaking any climbing activities. A zero tolerance drugs and alcohol policy is to be enforced at all times. Any person who is taking medication (over the counter or prescription) shall ensure that this does not affect their ability to climb. Any person involved in the climbing of towers who is aware of any other personal medical complaint or other reason which might in any way affect their ability to climb or work, and which might endanger them or others must inform their line manager immediately and cease all climbing activities. Revision 1.0 Page 10

11 2.2 Personal protective Equipment Clothing Suitable clothing shall be available for the weather conditions prevailing at the time. This would normally consist of High Visibility Overalls under normal conditions supplemented with additional layers for warmth whilst not unduly affecting movement Footwear Footwear to EN ISO shall be used at all times. Boots/shoes shall be well fitting, in good condition and free of contaminants such as oil, grease and mud. Riggers Boots or similar non laced Footwear should not be used Gloves Gloves to BS EN 388:1994 shall be used at all times to provide mechanical protection whilst maintaining a degree of dexterity Head protection All climbing personnel shall use a Helmet fitted with Chin Strap to EN397: 1995 at all times whilst climbing or within the drop zone Foul Weather Clothing Waterproof, Windproof and insulated clothing shall be used where required but must not unduly impede free movement Eye Protection Where dust, spray or other foreign object damage risk is identified, it is advisable to use suitable eye protection to minimise the risk of eye damage. In addition, eye protection may incorporate coloured/shaded lenses to minimise exposure to bright sunlight Safety Harness Full Body Safety Harnesses to EN361:2002 shall be used at all times by climbing personnel. Use of the Dorsal or Sternal attachment points for attachment of Fall Arrest Lanyards is permissible. Additional accessories such as tool bags/pouches are only permitted when fitted within the manufacturer s guidelines Safety Lanyards & Work Positioning Ropes Each climber must be equipped with a Double Lanyard with integral Shock Absorber to EN354: 2010, EN355: 2002 and Work Positioning Rope to EN358: Exposure to Non Ionizing Radiation Sources Radiating equipment that pose a hazard should be identified, disabled or isolated wherever possible for the duration of the work. Where residual risk may still exist, Personal Radiation Monitors shall be used to provide a visual and audible warning of excessive exposure to high Radio Frequency Fields Other Safety Equipment All other climbing equipment and accessories such as Inertia Fall Arrestor Blocks, Karabiners, Ropes, Slings and fall arrest trollies may be used but must conform to the relevant type approvals and used in line with the manufacturer s guidelines. Revision 1.0 Page 11

12 2.3 Control of Safety Equipment & Personal Protective Equipment Equipment First Use All Safety Equipment will be recorded in a central register to allow tracking throughout its service life Periodic Inspection Periodic inspection by a competent person of no more than twelve months (Six Months for Rescue Equipment) interval shall be undertaken on all PPE and associated safety equipment. The results of the inspection should be recorded within the register and equipment tagged where possible showing the date of next inspection Inspection Methods In addition to checks on manufacturing and end of service dates, the following physical checks will be made, but not limited to safety equipment Textiles Visual inspection for cuts, tears, abrasion and damage due to deterioration, contact with heat, acids or other chemicals Sewing Visual inspection for broken, cut or worn threads Connectors & Buckles Visual inspection for wear, cracking or deformation, corrosion. Ensuring that all moving parts and locking mechanisms operate freely Shock Absorbing devices Visual inspection for cuts, tears, abrasion and damage due to deterioration, contact with heat, acids or other chemicals. Visual inspection of shock absorber pack for signs of damage or partial deployment Fall Arrest Trollies Signs of wear, corrosion or deformation. Check that all moving parts and locking mechanisms operate freely Ropes Visual inspection for cuts, tears, abrasion and damage due to deterioration, contact with heat, acids or other chemicals Life Span of Equipment Equipment such as Harnesses, Slings and Ropes shall have a maximum service life of 5years from first use unless the equipment manufacturer s guidelines advise differently Actions following any fall or damage to equipment Any item of equipment which has been subjected to a fall or inadvertent damage should be removed from use immediately and quarantined. The equipment should then be inspected by a competent person before being put back into use or destroyed. Revision 1.0 Page 12

13 2.3.5 Disposal of Damaged & Time Expired Equipment All equipment which has reached end of life shall be destroyed (i.e. Webbing cut) and disposed of in line with the Environmental Policy. The register should be updated to reflect the retirement of individual items Storage of Equipment All equipment shall be stored in an appropriate bag or container to provide environmental protection (i.e. exposure to sunlight, damp etc.). Unused equipment should be stored within a controlled storage. Long term storage within a vehicle should be avoided. Equipment will be dried after each use. 2.4 Work Supervision & Authorisation Method Statements Prior to the commencement of any work, a Method Statement must be produced specific to the task to be undertaken. All personnel involved in the task shall comply with the requirements of the Method Statement at all times. Deviation from the Method Statement must be agreed before proceeding with the Line Manager Risk Assessments All risks associated with the task shall be assessed prior to commencement of work to establish the suitable controls to reduce or eliminate the risks where possible Permit to Work systems Work on the majority of structures will be subject to a Permit to Work being issued by the structure owner or their representative. No work is to proceed unless a Permit to Work has been issued (unless not required) Change Management Regimes Change Management is often in place to co-ordinate work on or around a structure to avoid conflict with other tasks being undertaken. Personnel shall ensure that any requirements of Change Management are adhered to at all times Point of Work Risk Assessments Prior to commencing any task, an inspection of the work area shall be undertaken to ensure that no unforeseen hazards exist. Any additional risks that are identified should be assessed and suitable controls put in place to mitigate or remove those identified risks Allocation of Onsite Supervisor/Team Leader The Team Leader shall ensure that all necessary safety precautions prior to and during the execution of the task are adhered to. The Team Leader shall be present at all times during the task and take overall responsibility for all aspects of the task. The decision to undertake working at height is to be taken only by the Team Leader who will assess the prevailing conditions. Revision 1.0 Page 13

14 3.0 Tower Structure, Masts and Monopole Working Procedures Prior to deploying to Site Before travelling to site, the Team Leader shall ensure that all Health & Safety documentation has been submitted and that all necessary authorisations have been issued. In addition, the Team Leader shall ensure that the required parts and safety equipment are available to enable the task to be undertaken Arrival at Site Where required, the site controlling authority shall be informed on arrival of the work party Preparation to Work Before any work is undertaken, all Work Party members are to be briefed by the Team Leader as to the requirements of the task. A Point of Work Risk Assessment should be undertaken and acted upon where necessary. If any uncertainty remains subsequent to the completion of the Point of Work Risk Assessment, then all planned activities should be halted and the relevant Line Manager consulted Ground Level Safety Precautions Suitable barriers and notices shall be erected to define the work area. The demarcated area should be of sufficient area to incorporate the drop zone. Entry of non-work party members should be strictly controlled at all times Establishing the Rescue Plan/Procedures Purpose The purpose of the rescue plan is to establish procedures and guidelines for responding to falls from height. The rescue plan is intended to reduce risks to an employee s health after a fall or accident event. The rescue plan should also minimize the amount of at-risk behaviour of the rescuer during the rescue attempt, and help to ensure that the rescue is conducted promptly and in a safe and effective manner. Critical information such as emergency contact numbers and site specific procedures will be noted within the associated task Method Statement Implementation The requirements of the rescue plan must be observed by all personnel involved in climbing activities. The rescue plan shall be reviewed before any work begins and adapted where required to reflect any specific requirements on the day Types of Rescue Self Rescue It is likely that the individual will be able to perform a self rescue which should include these steps: Climb back on to the structure Descend the structure immediately Seek medical advice if required Inform Line Manager of the incident Quarantine all safety equipment directly involved with the incident Revision 1.0 Page 14

15 Assisted Self Rescue Where a climber has fallen, is unhurt and fully conscious but is unable to perform a self rescue, then a team member (suitably qualified) should perform a talk down rescue or provide minor assistance such as a rope line to allow the fallen climber to climb back to the structure. As with the self rescue, the following steps should be taken: Climb back on to the structure Descend the structure immediately Seek medical advice if required Inform Line Manager of the incident Quarantine all safety equipment directly involved with the incident Cut Away Rescue Where a climber has fallen and is incapacitated, then a cut away rescue should be performed. The general procedure for casualty recovery is: Assess the situation fully before commencing the rescue operation Ensure all personnel are aware of how the rescue is to be carried out and their role within the process Phone for medical assistance using the contact numbers noted on the Method Statement Identify a suitable position from which to carry out the operation Identify a point of safety to move the casualty to Identify suitable anchorage points (See ) Attach the rescue line to the nominated anchorage point Descend to the casualty Attach the casualty to the descender device Check all connectors/lines and cut the casualty away from the structure Descend to ground level If the casualty is unconscious, place them in the recovery position Selection of suitable Anchorage Point Never attach to hand railing Use substantial structural members If a rescue attachment point is provided and it can support 2 persons, use it Welded lugs are not strong points - unless marked as a rescue point Steps on monopoles are not strong points If in doubt use a round sling and wrap around structural steel sections avoiding sharp edges It is permissible to choke the round slings provided Try to ensure that slings are choked around the largest section of steel work available Look out for signs of corrosion that may signify weakness in materials Suspension Trauma (Pre-Syncope) Suspension Trauma is a condition caused by the loss or restriction of circulation to the limbs and is a major risk to a casualty suspended in a harness. The longer the casualty is suspended without moving, the greater the risk. An injured person suspended in a harness awaiting rescue should be moved from the upright position as quickly as is possible. Revision 1.0 Page 15

16 Specific procedures to avoid/reduce Suspension Trauma The following procedures should be observed during any rescue operation: Move the casualty from the upright position as quickly as is possible Conscious casualties should be encouraged to move their legs to stimulate blood circulation If the rescuer is unable to immediately release a conscious casualty from a suspended position, elevation of the legs by the casualty or rescuers where safely possible may prolong tolerance of suspension. Medical advice/care should be sought at all times Unconscious casualties should be placed in the recovery position in line with HSE guidelines Recognition of Symptoms Typical symptoms include light headedness; nausea; sensations of flushing; tingling or numbness of the arms or legs; anxiety; visual disturbance; or a feeling they are about to faint. Eventually it leads to fainting, which may result in death due to oxygen deprivation of the brain. Note: These symptoms can occur after a few minutes Rescue Equipment The onsite rescue equipment shall be contained within a clearly identifiable bag or container marked Rescue. The bag will contain the following: 70Metre Rope Line Petzl ID descender Rope Protector 3off Slings 5off Karabiners Rope Knife The Rescue Kit must be positioned at an agreed location-generally at the base of the structure Communications The primary method of summoning for help will be established prior to any climbing activity. Where no fixed Landline is present and in areas of poor cellular network coverage, alternative methods of will be used such as PMR Radio. Handheld Radios will be used between ground based and climbing personnel. Care should be exercised at all times to not cause undue interference to any co-sited Radio Communication Systems Non Ionizing Radiation Hazards Where possible, equipment will be fully isolated by removal of power and/or Antenna from the Transmitting Equipment. Where residual RF hazard risks remain, Personal RF Monitors will be used to provide an audible/visual warning Exposure to Excessive RF Fields Care will be exercised at all times when working or moving within close proximity of any radiating antenna to not compromise the minimum safety distances. Where operator safety signage is Revision 1.0 Page 16

17 present, the site specific distances will be observed. If in doubt, the Team Leader should contact the relevant system operator for clarification. Under no circumstances should any personnel work or climb in front of Parabolic Dishes unless the associated transmitter is isolated or disabled to avoid exposure to RF, and to avoid inadvertently interfering with operational links RF Burns/Shocks Direct contact with live exposed conductors or radiating antenna elements will be avoided at all times. Feeder cables and antennas will be isolated from the associated transmitter equipment before commencement of work. Care should be exercised at all times of induced voltages from adjacent antenna installations Symptoms, Treatment & Reporting Procedures-RF Hazards RF Exposure Documented symptoms of RF Exposure include (but not limited to): headache, paraesthesia, diarrhoea, malaise and lassitude. Any person who has been subject to excessive exposure or experiences any symptoms associated with exposure should move to a position of safety and seek medical advice via A&E/Minor Injuries Unit or GP services. Any incident should be documented within the company Accident Book, and if necessary the HSE in line with all applicable legislation. Note: Severe Microwave or RF exposure may damage internal tissues without apparent skin injury RF Burns RF Burns & Shocks often manifest as a below skin wound. Any person who experiences a burn or shock should move to a cool environment and be provided with cool drinking water. Apply cold water or ice to burned areas and seek immediate medical attention Reporting Any incident should be entered into the company Accident Book and if necessary the HSE in line with all applicable legislation. Revision 1.0 Page 17

18 4.0 Ladder & Step Ladder Usage 4.1 Personnel Personnel Competencies All personnel involved directly with the use of Ladders or Step Ladders shall be competent and capable to do so Training Provision Training will be provided by a suitably competent person in the safe use of equipment. Periodic refresher training will be undertaken for all personnel to ensure continued competency and improvement Fitness to Work All personnel must be fit and healthy before undertaking any ladder activities. A zero tolerance drugs and alcohol policy is to be enforced at all times. Any person who is taking medication (over the counter or prescription) shall ensure that this does not affect their ability to use the equipment. Any person involved in the use of Ladders Equipment who is aware of any other personal medical complaint or other reason which might in any way affect their ability to use the equipment safely and which might endanger them or others must inform their line manager immediately and cease all Ladder activities. 4.2 Personal protective Equipment Clothing Suitable clothing shall be available for the weather conditions prevailing at the time. This would normally consist of High Visibility Overalls under normal conditions supplemented with additional layers for warmth whilst not unduly affecting movement Footwear Footwear to EN ISO shall be used at all times. Boots/shoes shall be well fitting, in good condition and free of contaminants such as oil, grease and mud. Riggers Boots or similar non laced Footwear should not be used Head protection All personnel shall use a Helmet fitted with Chin Strap to EN397: 1995 at all times whilst climbing or within the drop zone Foul Weather Clothing Waterproof, Windproof and insulated clothing shall be used where required but must not unduly impede free movement Eye Protection Where dust, spray or other foreign object damage risk is identified, it is advisable to use suitable eye protection to minimise the risk of eye damage. In addition, eye protection may incorporate coloured/shaded lenses to minimise exposure to bright sunlight. Revision 1.0 Page 18

19 4.3 Control of Equipment & Personal Protective Equipment Equipment First Use All Equipment will be recorded in a central register to allow tracking throughout its service life Periodic Inspection Periodic inspection by a competent person of no more than twelve months interval shall be undertaken on all Ladders and Step Ladders and associated safety equipment. The results of the inspection should be recorded within the register and equipment tagged showing the date of next inspection Life Span of Equipment Equipment shall be assessed upon periodic inspection unless the equipment manufacturer s guidelines advise differently Actions following any fall or damage to equipment Any item of equipment which has been subjected to a fall or inadvertent damage should be removed from use immediately and quarantined. The equipment should then be inspected by a competent person before being put back into use or destroyed Storage of Equipment All equipment shall be stored in an appropriate manner. Unused equipment should be stored within a controlled storage. Long term storage outside (or on a vehicle roof) should be avoided. 4.4 Appropriate use of Ladder Equipment Wherever possible, avoid the use of Ladders where other methods of access may be possible (such as MEWP, Scaffold etc.). Where Ladders are used, the work must be of short duration (less than 30minutes), of light work nature and where three points of contact can be maintained at all times Selection of Equipment Where work at height is necessary, the Risk Assessment should be used to establish whether a ladder or stepladder is the most suitable access equipment compared to other access. Further assessment of factors such as the required working height and whether other accessories such as stand off frames, levelling feet are required should also be undertaken. All Ladders must be compliant to Class 1 (Industrial) or Class EN131 (Trade) Prior to use A visual inspection should be undertaken before the use of any Ladder or Step Ladder and associated equipment. Checks should include: No loose, missing, splitting, excessively worn rungs, stiles, feet and Rung Locks All parts are clean and free of dirt and grease Revision 1.0 Page 19

20 4.4.3 Safe Use of Ladders & Step Ladders Ground Conditions Only use ladders on firm surfaces. Where soft ground is encountered, use boards to spread the load as long as they are fixed in place. The surface should be clean and solid (paving slabs, floors etc.) and free of contamination such as oil, moss or leaf and other loose litter and material) so the feet can grip. Shiny floor surfaces can be slippery even without contamination Levelling of Ladders For ladders the maximum safe ground slopes on a suitable surface (unless the manufacturer states otherwise) are as follows: side slope 16 with level rungs and 6 with a back slope. The use of levelling feet, mats or blocks may be used in line with the manufacturer s guidelines of usage. 4.4 Work Supervision & Authorisation Method Statements Prior to the commencement of any work, a Method Statement must be produced specific to the task to be undertaken. All personnel involved in the task shall comply with the requirements of the Method Statement at all times. Deviation from the Method Statement must be agreed before proceeding with the Line Manager Risk Assessments All risks associated with the task shall be assessed prior to commencement of work to establish the suitable controls to reduce or eliminate the risks where possible Permit to Work systems Work on the majority of sites will be subject to a Permit to Work being issued by the site owner or their representative. No work is to proceed unless a Permit to Work has been issued (unless not required) Change Management Regimes Change Management is often in place to co-ordinate work on or around a structure to avoid conflict with other tasks being undertaken. Personnel shall ensure that any requirements of Change Management are adhered to at all times Point of Work Risk Assessments Prior to commencing any task, an inspection of the work area shall be undertaken to ensure that no unforeseen hazards exist. Any additional risks that are identified should be assessed and suitable controls put in place to mitigate or remove those identified risks Allocation of Onsite Supervisor/Team Leader The Team Leader shall ensure that all necessary safety precautions prior to and during the execution of the task are adhered to. The Team Leader shall be present at all times during the task and take overall responsibility for all aspects of the task. The decision to undertake working at height is to be taken only by the Team Leader who will assess the prevailing conditions. Revision 1.0 Page 20

21 5.0 Use of Mobile Scaffold Platforms 5.1 Personnel Personnel Competencies All personnel involved directly with the assembly and disassembly of the Mobile Scaffold Tower must be competent and capable to do so and be hold a valid PASMA card Training Provision Training will be provided by a suitable external PASMA accredited organisation in the safe use of equipment. Periodic refresher training will be undertaken for all personnel to ensure continued competency and improvement Fitness to Work All personnel must be fit and healthy before undertaking any Scaffold Tower activities. A zero tolerance drugs and alcohol policy is to be enforced at all times. Any person who is taking medication (over the counter or prescription) shall ensure that this does not affect their ability to use the equipment. Any person involved in the use of the Scaffold Equipment who is aware of any other personal medical complaint or other reason which might in any way affect their ability to use the equipment safely and which might endanger them or others must inform their line manager immediately and cease all activities. 5.2 Personal protective Equipment Clothing Suitable clothing shall be available for the weather conditions prevailing at the time. This would normally consist of High Visibility Overalls under normal conditions supplemented with additional layers for warmth whilst not unduly affecting movement Footwear Footwear to EN ISO shall be used at all times. Boots/shoes shall be well fitting, in good condition and free of contaminants such as oil, grease and mud. Riggers Boots or similar non laced Footwear should not be used Head protection All personnel shall use a Helmet fitted with Chin Strap to EN397: 1995 at all times whilst climbing or within the drop zone Foul Weather Clothing Waterproof, Windproof and insulated clothing shall be used where required but must not unduly impede free movement Eye Protection Where dust, spray or other foreign object damage risk is identified, it is advisable to use suitable eye protection to minimise the risk of eye damage. In addition, eye protection may incorporate coloured/shaded lenses to minimise exposure to bright sunlight. Revision 1.0 Page 21

22 5.3 Control of Safety Equipment & Personal Protective Equipment Equipment First Use All Equipment will be recorded in a central register to allow tracking throughout its service life Periodic Inspection Periodic inspection by a competent person of no more than twelve months interval shall be undertaken on all Scaffold Tower components and associated safety equipment. The results of the inspection should be recorded within the register and equipment tagged showing the date of next inspection Life Span of Equipment Equipment shall be assessed upon periodic inspection unless the equipment manufacturer s guidelines advise differently Actions following any fall or damage to equipment Any item of equipment which has been subjected to a fall or inadvertent damage should be removed from use immediately and quarantined. The equipment should then be inspected by a competent person before being put back into use or destroyed Storage of Equipment All equipment shall be stored in an appropriate manner. Unused equipment should be stored within a controlled storage area. Long term storage outside (or on a vehicle roof) should be avoided. 5.4 Appropriate use of Scaffold Equipment Any use of Mobile Scaffold Towers must be in line with PASMA guidelines and the Manufacturer s guidelines Selection of Equipment Where work at height is necessary, the Risk Assessment should be used to establish whether a Mobile Scaffold Tower is the most suitable access equipment compared to other access. Further assessment of factors such as the required working height should also be undertaken. All Scaffold Equipment must be compliant to EN Prior to use A visual inspection should be undertaken before the use of any Scaffold Tower and associated equipment. Checks should include: No loose, missing, splitting, excessively worn rungs, frames, platforms, stabilisers or wheels All parts such as guardrails, toe boards and stabilisers must be present All parts are clean and free of dirt and grease After a tower has been erected, an inspection must be undertaken by a competent person prior to use. An inspection should also be undertaken if there are any substantial additions, dismantling or alterations or every seven days. The inspection should include the following: Check that it is vertical and square and that the horizontal braces and platforms are level Check outriggers or stabilisers are correctly positioned and secured Check that all base plates or castor wheels are fully in contact with the ground, including those on stabilisers or outriggers. All castors should be properly locked Check that all the spigot and socket joint locks holding the frames together are secured Revision 1.0 Page 22

23 Check that all bracing members have been located exactly in accordance with the supplier's instructions Check that all guardrails and toe boards are in position as required Check that all access stairways and ladders are in position and are firmly located Never use the tower in the vicinity of live electrical apparatus or near unguarded machinery Ensure that any holes, ducts, pits or gratings are securely covered Safe Use of Mobile Scaffold Platform Ground Conditions Only use the Scaffold Tower on firm surfaces. Where soft ground is encountered, use boards to spread the load as long as they are held in place Levelling of Scaffold Platforms Adjustable feet or wheels should be used to achieve a level, stable base Weather Conditions Weather conditions should be appropriate for using the Scaffold Tower. Use above 17MPH (moderate breeze where small branches move) is not permitted. Special attention to other adverse conditions such as Lightning should be observed Assembly/Disassembly Through the Trap (3T) process shall be used when assembling/disassembling the structure Demarcation of the Work Area Suitable demarcation and control of access must be in place to ensure the safety of the work party and others. Consideration of the drop zone must be demonstrated within the Method Statement and Risk Assessment Moving a Tower No personnel, tools or equipment should be on the tower if it is in motion. Never use ladders or boxes etc. on the platform to gain additional height. Before moving a tower unlock the castors, unlock the outrigger castors or reposition stabiliser feet 12mm (0.5 inch) from the ground. Move the tower by manual effort at ground level only. When moving the tower, push at the base. No personnel or tools and equipment should be on the tower if it is in motion. 5.5 Work Supervision & Authorisation Method Statements Prior to the commencement of any work, a Method Statement must be produced specific to the task to be undertaken. All personnel involved in the task shall comply with the requirements of the Method Statement at all times. Deviation from the Method Statement must be agreed before proceeding with the Line Manager Risk Assessments All risks associated with the task shall be assessed prior to commencement of work to establish the suitable controls to reduce or eliminate the risks where possible. Revision 1.0 Page 23

24 5.5.3 Permit to Work systems Work on the majority of structures will be subject to a Permit to Work being issued by the site controlling authority or their representative. No work is to proceed unless a Permit to Work has been issued (unless not required) Change Management Regimes Change Management is often in place to co-ordinate work on or around a structure to avoid conflict with other tasks being undertaken. Personnel shall ensure that any requirements of Change Management are adhered to at all times Point of Work Risk Assessments Prior to commencing any task, an inspection of the work area shall be undertaken to ensure that no unforeseen hazards exist. Any additional risks that are identified should be assessed and suitable controls put in place to mitigate or remove those identified risks Allocation of Onsite Supervisor/Team Leader The Team Leader shall ensure that all necessary safety precautions prior to and during the execution of the task are adhered to. The Team Leader shall be present at all times during the task and take overall responsibility for all aspects of the task. The decision to undertake working at height is to be taken only by the Team Leader who will assess the prevailing conditions. Revision 1.0 Page 24

25 6.0 Roof Top Working 6.1 Personnel Personnel Competencies All personnel involved directly with accessing Rooftops shall be competent and capable to do so Training Provision Training will be provided by a suitably competent person in the safe use of associated equipment. Periodic refresher training will be undertaken for all personnel to ensure continued competency and improvement Fitness to Work All personnel must be fit and healthy before undertaking any rooftop activities. A zero tolerance drugs and alcohol policy is to be enforced at all times. Any person who is taking medication (over the counter or prescription) shall ensure that this does not affect their ability to use the equipment. Any person involved in the rooftop activities who is aware of any other personal medical complaint or other reason which might in any way affect their ability to use the equipment safely and which might endanger them or others must inform their line manager immediately and cease all work activities. 6.2 Personal protective Equipment Clothing Suitable clothing shall be available for the weather conditions prevailing at the time. This would normally consist of High Visibility Overalls under normal conditions supplemented with additional layers for warmth whilst not unduly affecting movement Footwear Footwear to EN ISO shall be used at all times. Boots/shoes shall be well fitting, in good condition and free of contaminants such as oil, grease and mud. Riggers Boots or similar non laced Footwear should not be used Head protection All personnel shall use a Helmet fitted with Chin Strap to EN397: 1995 where required whilst on the rooftop or within any drop zone Foul Weather Clothing Waterproof, Windproof and insulated clothing shall be used where required but must not unduly impede free movement Eye Protection Where dust, spray or other foreign object damage risk is identified, it is advisable to use suitable eye protection to minimise the risk of eye damage. In addition, eye protection may incorporate coloured/shaded lenses to minimise exposure to bright sunlight. Revision 1.0 Page 25

26 6.3 Control of Safety Equipment & Personal Protective Equipment Equipment First Use All Safety Equipment will be recorded in a central register to allow tracking throughout its service life Periodic Inspection Periodic inspection by a competent person of no more than twelve months interval shall be undertaken on all associated safety equipment. The results of the inspection should be recorded within the register and equipment tagged showing the date of next inspection Life Span of Equipment Equipment shall be assessed upon periodic inspection unless the equipment manufacturer s guidelines advise differently Actions following any fall or damage to equipment Any item of equipment which has been subjected to a fall or inadvertent damage should be removed from use immediately and quarantined. The equipment should then be inspected by a competent person before being put back into use or destroyed Storage of Equipment All equipment shall be stored in an appropriate manner. Unused equipment should be stored within a controlled storage area. 6.4 Appropriate use of Access & Safety Equipment Wherever possible, avoid Rooftop access where other methods of access may be possible (such as MEWP etc.). Where Rooftop access is used, the work must be of short duration where no edge protection is present Selection of Equipment Where work at height is necessary, the Risk Assessment should be used to establish the most appropriate access methods. Further assessment of factors such as the required working height and whether other accessories such as roof ladders are required should also be undertaken Prior to use A visual inspection should be undertaken before the use of any associated equipment Reducing Risk of Fall Fragile Roofs The fragility of a roof must be confirmed before work starts. If there is any doubt, the roof must be treated as fragile and access to such areas should be avoided wherever possible. Use of platforms or load spreading boards should be used where access is deemed necessary Sloping Roofs Roofs which have a pitch of more than 10 should be avoided wherever possible. Use of Roof Ladders should be considered and care should be taken of slippery surfaces. Use of the Fall Arrest or Fall Restraint System (where installed) shall be mandatory. Revision 1.0 Page 26

27 Flat Roofs Roofs of less than 10 pitch are considered as a flat roof. Care should be taken of slippery surfaces. Use of the Fall Arrest or Fall Restraint System (where installed) shall be mandatory if movement outside of any edge protected area is required Edge Protection Unless a roof parapet or other permanent edge protection provides equivalent safety, temporary edge protection will be required for the majority of work on flat roofs. The roof edge and any openings must be protected. It will often be more appropriate to securely cover openings rather than erect edge protection. Any edge protection provided must be: in place from start to finish of the works; strong enough to withstand people and materials falling against it. By demarcating safe areas on the roof, Full edge protection may not be necessary if limited work on a larger roof involves nobody going any closer than 2m to an open edge. In such cases demarcated areas need to be established, outside of which nobody must venture during the work. Demarcated areas must be limited to areas from which nobody can fall by an obvious physical barrier (painted line or bunting is not acceptable) and subject to tight supervision to ensure nobody strays outside the demarcated area Other Rooftop hazards Other hazards should be identified such as Sky Lights and other trip Hazards before work commences. Suitable controls such as demarcations should be in place to eliminate any risk of injury or fall Exposure to Excessive RF Fields Care will be exercised at all times when working or moving within close proximity of any radiating antenna to not compromise the minimum safety distances. Where operator safety signage is present, the site specific distances will be observed. If in doubt, the Team Leader should contact the relevant system operator for clarification. Under no circumstances should any personnel work or climb in front of Parabolic Dishes unless the associated transmitter is isolated or disabled to avoid exposure to RF, and to avoid inadvertently interfering with operational links Falling material Housekeeping is of paramount importance and can prevent material accumulating with the potential to fall and cause injury. NOTHING SHOULD EVER BE THROWN FROM A ROOF and waste material should either be lowered to the ground in a controlled manner or dropped down an enclosed rubbish chute Weather Special consideration should be made of the effects of various weather conditions including, but not limited to: Rain-Causing slippery surfaces Wind-Flying debris risk, risk of being blown off of roof Lightning-risks associated with lightning strike Snow & Ice-Slippery surfaces Revision 1.0 Page 27

28 6.5 Work Supervision & Authorisation Method Statements Prior to the commencement of any work, a Method Statement must be produced specific to the task to be undertaken. All personnel involved in the task shall comply with the requirements of the Method Statement at all times. Deviation from the Method Statement must be agreed before proceeding with the Line Manager Risk Assessments All risks associated with the task shall be assessed prior to commencement of work to establish the suitable controls to reduce or eliminate the risks where possible Permit to Work systems Work on the majority of structures will be subject to a Permit to Work being issued by the structure owner or their representative. No work is to proceed unless a Permit to Work has been issued (unless not required) Change Management Regimes Change Management is often in place to co-ordinate work on or around a structure to avoid conflict with other tasks being undertaken. Personnel shall ensure that any requirements of Change Management are adhered to at all times Point of Work Risk Assessments Prior to commencing any task, an inspection of the work area shall be undertaken to ensure that no unforeseen hazards exist. Any additional risks that are identified should be assessed and suitable controls put in place to mitigate or remove those identified risks Allocation of Onsite Supervisor/Team Leader The Team Leader shall ensure that all necessary safety precautions prior to and during the execution of the task are adhered to. The Team Leader shall be present at all times during the task and take overall responsibility for all aspects of the task. The decision to undertake working at height is to be taken only by the Team Leader who will assess the prevailing conditions. Revision 1.0 Page 28