ADEC

C EHSMS
S
HANDBOOK
K

This doc
cument is a controlled properrty of Abu Dhabi
Education Council (ADEC).

Environment,Health&SafetySection
AbuDhabiEducatio
onCouncil(ADEC)
Version01/2011

MessagefromDirectorGeneral

DearAll,

ItisourpleasureandproudtopresenttheFirstEditionofADEC
EHSMS Handbook which aims to provide a quick guidance on
ADEC EHSMS requirements and how to carryout ADEC
operations and activities within our facilities considering all
Environment,HealthandSafetyprogramsandprocedures.

ThishandbookwasproducedtorepresenttheessenceofADEC
EHSMSanddescribesthetools,proceduresandbestpractices
that will make EHS an integral part of ADEC activities and
operations.

ADEC staff, visitors and contractors will find out tips and
methods for handling different types of EHS hazards and
emergencies in their workplace and effective measures for
prevention,mitigation,preparedness,responseandrecoveryin
caseofitsoccurrencesonasafe,efficientandenvironmentally
soundmanner.

EHS is everybodys business and a line management

responsibility. Sharing these principles and meeting our
standards is the best way to strengthen and promote EHS
cultureinADEC.

We hope this handbook will make a tangible contribution to

increasetheawarenessofEHSamongADECstaff,visitorsand
contractors and thus achieve a remarkable EHS performance
withinourorganization.

Dr.MugheerKhamisAlKhaili

ImportantDefinitions

Hazard: Any substance, physical effect, or condition

with potential to harm people, property or the
environment.

Risk: Risk is defined as the potential of identified

hazard(s)tocauseharm.RiskRankingistheproduct
of the measure of the likelihood of occurrence of an
undesired event and the potential adverse
consequences which this event may have upon the
HealthandSafetyofPeople(injuryorharmtophysical
orpsychological).
(Risk=ConsequencesxProbability)

Environmental Aspect: Element of the organizations

activities, products or services that can interact with
theenvironment.Asignificantenvironmentalaspectis
an environmental aspect that has or can have
significantenvironmentalimpact.

Incident:Aneventorchainofeventswhichhascaused
or could have caused fatality, injury, illness and/or
damage (loss) to assets, the environment, entity
reputationorthirdparties.

Emergency: Refers to occurrence of unforeseen

eventsthatneedsanimmediateresponsesuchasfire,
spillage,seriouspersonalinjuryand/orfatality.

NearMiss:Aneventorchainofeventsthatcouldhave
resultedinfatality,injury,illnessand/ordamage(loss)
to assets, the environment, ADEC reputation or third
parties. The situation was avoided or reduced by the
circumstances at the time or under slightly different
circumstanceswouldhavebeenmoreserious.

Restricted Work Day Cases: Any workrelated injury

otherthanafatalityorlostworkdaycasewhichresultin
apersonsbeingunfitforfullperformanceofhisregular
job, on any day after the day this occupational injury.
Workperformedmightbe:
Anassignmenttoatemporaryjob.
Parttimeworkattheregularjob.
Continuationfulltimework.

Lost Work Day Cases: Any work injury other than

permanent partial disability which renders the injured
persontemporarilyunabletoperformanyregularjobor
restricted work on any day after the day on which the
injurywasreceived.Inthiscaseanydayincludesrest
day, weekend day, scheduled day, public holiday or
subsequentdayafterceasingemployment.

Medical Treatment Cases: Any workrelated injury that

involvesneitherLostWorkdaysnorRestrictedWorkday
Case but which requires treatment by, or under the
specific order of a physician or could be considered as
beingintheprovinceofaphysician.
(Note: Medical Treatment Case does not include First
AidTreatment)

ADECEHSMSSTRUCT
TURE

ADECEnvironment,Health&Safety
GeneralPolicy

The Abu Dhabi Education Councils Environment,

Health and Safety Policy, Strategic Plans and Goals
aimstocomplywithandcontributetothefollowing:

This Policy covers and includes staff, visitors,

stakeholders, contractors, subcontractors, facilities and
assets.

ItisADECsgeneralpolicytoensuretheprotectionofits
environment, resources, and operations within the
educationsectorintheEmirateofAbuDhabi.

Protect human health and safety, and preserve

the workplace and surrounding environment to
sustain its operation within the education sector
intheEmirateofAbuDhabi.
Abu Dhabi Governments Initiative towards the
establishment and implementation of Abu Dhabi
Environment, Health, and Safety Management
System(ADEHSMS);and
International Environment, Health and Safety
Regulations,Standards,andBestPractices.

ADECistheregulatorforeducationinAbuDhabiand
therefore is committed to the following: Endorse,
develop, implement, monitor and maintain a modern
and integrated Environment Health and Safety
Managementsysteminallitsactivities,operationsand
facilities.

ADECs commitment to accomplish and maintain a

successfulEnvironment,HealthandSafetyManagement
Systemisachievedthroughthefollowingactions:

Develop, implement, monitor, and maintain a

modern integrated Environment, Health & Safety
ManagementSystem.
Manageallidentifiedaspects,hazardsandthreatsin
normalandemergencyoperations.
Comply with applicable local, federal, regional and
international regulations, standards and best
practices.
Prevent environmental pollution, personal injuries
andillnessofitsresources.
Achieve a sustainable development through the
conservationofnaturalresources.
Promotetheenvironment,healthandsafetyculture,
levelofawarenessandcommunication.
Promote proactive line management involvement
andresponsibilitytowardsEHS.

 Establish aframeworkforsettingandreviewingof
ADEC EHSMS Objectives and Targets to ensure
continualimprovement.
Promote, enforce and monitor contractors EHS
performance.
Provide all resources (human and financial)
required for the implementation of the system/
programs.
Provide continuous education, training and
capacity building programs for ADEC staff/
stakeholders.
Inspect,audit,andmonitorsystemimplementation
andperformancewithintheorganization.
Maintain all ADEC activities, operations, and
facilities free of any EHS aspects, hazards and
threatsatalltime.
Maintainafrequentreportingmechanismtoreport
any violation for immediate correction, corrective
andpreventiveactions.
Maintain continuous system review, modification
andimprovementprogramtoensurethecontinuity
ofADECEHSMS.
Conductperiodicdrillsandexercises.

Dr.MugheerKhamisAlKhaili
DirectorGeneral
AbuDhabiEducationCouncil(ADEC)

ADECEHSMission

Develop, Implement, Enforce and Improve a Modern

Integrated Environment, Health, and Safety
ManagementSysteminallADECpremises,activities,and
operationswithintheEmirateofAbuDhabi

ADECEHSVision

ADEC activities and operations shall take place, be

conducted and concluded within a clean, sustainable,
healthyandsafeworkplaceenvironment

ADECEHSVisionaimsto:
a. Preserve the environment, and conserve non
renewablenaturalresources.
b. Protectthehealthandsafetyofitsresources,guests,
visitors,contractors,and subcontractorswhileinany
ofADECfacilitiesorareasofjurisdiction.
c. Sustain its operations, minimize losses and improve
costsavings.
d. Encourage and promote Line Management
Responsibility towards Environment, Health and
Safety.EHSistheresponsibilityofALLADECstaff.
e. Contribute to the cultural change and awareness
towards Environment, Health and Safety and its
benefits in our life with ADEC staff (Internal
Stakeholders) and the community, guest, visitors,
contractors,
subcontractors,
etc.
(External
Stakeholders).

f. Set required Environment, Health, and Safety

Policies,Procedures,Programs,etc.tomanageall
significant environmental aspects, health and
safety hazards associated with ADEC operations
(indoor/ outdoor) in normal and emergency
situations.
g. Promote transparent communications and
reporting mechanism to report any observation,
violation, EHS near miss and/ or incident to
investigate and recommend correction,
correctiveandpreventiveactions.
h. Ensureannualsystemreviewandmodificationto
ensure
its
application
and
continual
improvement.

ADECEHSStrategicObjectives
a. Protect the human health and safety, preserves
workplace and surrounding environment to
sustain its operation within the education sector
intheEmirateofAbuDhabi.
b. Contribute to the Emirate of Abu Dhabi
Government Initiative to be one of the best
Governmentsintheworld.
c. Comply with Abu Dhabi Environment, Health &
Safety Management System (AD EHSMS) and its
relevantFramework,RequirementsandDecrees.
d. Comply with Local, Federal and International
Laws, Regulations, Standards and Best Practices
relevanttoEnvironment,HealthandSafetywhere
applicable.

Environment,HealthandSafetyAspects
&RisksAssessment
Environment, Health and Safety Aspects and Risk
Assessment is a systematic and logical approach that
defines the process to identify all the Environmental
aspects,healthandsafetyhazardsassociatedwithADEC
activities and operations within its facilities and to set
requiredcontrolmeasures,programsandproceduresto
minimize it to an acceptable level and As Low As
ReasonablyPracticable(ALARP).

Thisprocessinvolvestheidentificationof:

ADECOperations,ActivitiesandProcesses.

PotentialandSignificantEnvironmentalAspects/
Health&SafetyHazardsrelevanttoidentified
Operations,ActivitiesandProcesses.

AssessmentTechniquesincludesthefollowingactions:
1. PreparationofAssessmentChecklists.
2. ReviewofEHSIncidentRecordsandStatistics.
3. Inspectionoftheworkplace.
4. Observationofoperations,activitiesandProcesses.
5. Consultationwithemployees.
6. Evaluation of Environmental Aspects/ Health and
Safety Hazards for the potential and significant
aspectsandrisksitpose.
7. Identify and Highlight Significant Environmental
AspectsandMedium/HighHealth&SafetyRisksfor

required aspects and hazards controls including

prevention, mitigation, preparedness, response
andrecoverymeasures.

Thenext3tablesbrieflypresentthesignificant
EHSRisksofADECoperations.

Table1
ADECSignificantEnvironmentalAspects
&Impacts

SN

Aspects

Impacts

EnergyConsumption.

Depletionof
Resources.

WaterConsumption.

Depletionof
Resources.

FuelConsumption.

Depletionof
Resources.

Generationofpaper
wastes,plasticwastes,IT
wastes(Cartridges/
Toners),etc.

Land/Soil
Contamination.

GenerationofToxic
Emissions(CO,CO2,NOX,
SOX,VOC,etc.)during
vehicleoperations
GenerationofHarmful
NoiseLevels(>85
decibels).

AirPollution.

NoisePollution.

Table2
ADECMajorHealthHazards&Risks
SN

Hazards

Risks

EmissionofVOCfrom
photocopiers,paints,
furnitures,carpets,
solvents

Irritation,Allergy,
HeadAche,
Fatigue.

Exposuretoradiation
fromphotocopier
machines.

Lossofmental
attention,
Memory
Retentiveness,
Fatigue.

OverTime/Lone
Working.

MentalStress.

ExposuretoHeat&
Dustduringvehicle
operationsandat
outdoorconstruction
sites.

ExposuretoCO,CO2,
SO2,NOXemissions
fromvehicles.

NoiseExposure.

HeatExhaust/
Stress/Cramps,
sunstrokes,
Irritation,Allergy,
HeadAche,
Fatigue,
breathingillness.
Irritation,Allergy,
HeadAche,
Fatigue,
breathingillness.

Noiseinduced
hearingloss.

RadiationHazardfrom
Microwavesin
kitchens.
HygienicExposures
(Viruses,Bacteria,
Fungi,etc.)relevantto
Kitchens,Catering,
Washrooms,and
Housekeeping
Activities.

HotBurnsand
Cataract.

Healthand
HygienicIllness.

ExposuretoCleaning
Chemicalsin
Washroomsand
Kitchens.

Irritationand
Allergy.

10

ExposetoBloodborn
&PathogenslikeHIV,
HepatitisB,and
HepatitisCrelevantto
Housekeepingand
WasteManagement
Activities.

Itmayleadsto
bloodborne
diseaseslikeAIDS
andHepatitis.

Table3
ADECMajorSafetyHazards&Risks

SN

Hazards

Risks

Workingwithelectrical
Equipments.

Electrocutionand
Fire.
Fire.
Slips,Trips,andFalls.
PersonalInjuries.

PoorHousekeeping.

MaterialHandlingand
Lifting.

ErgonomicHazardslike
Sitting,bodyPosture,
PositionofComputer
ScreenandKeyboard,
etc.
UseofOffice
equipmentswhich
includessharpedge
equipments/tools,
photocopier/fax
machines.
Walking&Working
Surfaces

PersonalInjuries.
MuscularSkeletal
Disorder,BackPain,
Visionproblemdue
toeyestrain

WasteManagement

WhatisWaste?

An object becomes waste when there is the intent to

discardit.

WastesareclassifiedintothreeCategories:

1.

Recyclable Wastes: Examples include Aluminum

Cans,Papers,PlasticandGlassBottlesWastes.

2.

NonRecyclable Wastes: Examples include Bio

Degradable,FoodandOrganicWastes.

3.

Hazardous&DangerousWastes:Examplesinclude
Flammable, Ignitable, Toxic, Mutagenic, Reactive,
Corrosive,RadioactiveWastes,etc.

Injury,Burn,and
Electrocution.

Slips,Trips,andFalls.
PersonalInjuries.

Reference:EHSAspects/HazardsIdentification&Risk
Assessment(ADEC/EHSMS/03/3.2/EHSHIA)

The following shall be considered while managing

WastesinanyofADECFacilities:

1. All wastes shall be segregated and stored in

designated waste containers at the appropriate
wastestorageareaateachfloor.

2.

3.

WasteContainersmustbeclearlymarked.
Foodwastesandotherassociatedgarbagesshould
bekeptseparatefromothertypesofwastes.

4.

As far as reasonably praccticable, waste

w be practiced
manaagement and minimization will
throu
ughthefollowinghierarchya
approach:

2.

9 MinimizeCopying,Printinganduseofbothsides
ofpaper=Reduce.
9 UseEcofriendlypaperss&biodegradableplastic
bottles/bags,etc.=Recycle.

ReducetheElectronicwasstesinADECFacilities
throughtheoptionforBuyBackSystem,whichlead
torecyclingofthewastes..

3.

WasteTransfertoreputed
dandapprovedwaste
managementorganization
ns.
Reference:WasteManagement
(ADEC/EHSMS/05/5.1/EHS
SPRG/5.1.2/WASTMG)

IndoorAirQualityyManagement

The follo
owing tips can be applied to
t minimize and
reducewaasteproduction:

1.

ReducethePaperConsumptioni
u
inADECFacilities
throu
ughthefollowingactions:
9 ApplySoftCorrespondences&
&Documentation
=Reduce.

Prroviding good indoor air quality is important for the

co
omfort,wellbeing,andperfo
ormanceforallADECstaff
an
ndvisitors.

Ph
hysical,chemicalandbiologicalhazardsandsubstances
maayadverselyaffecttheindoo
orairqualitywithinADEC
faccilitiesiftheyexistintheabssenceofcontrolmeasures
orractionsneededtobetakeneffectivelyandefficiently
for prevention, mitigation, pre
eparedness, response and
recoveryofitsriskandimpactss.

CausesofIndoorAirQualityProblems:

PoorVentilation.
Temperature.
Humidity.
Indoor Air Pollutants (Particulates Matters,
Carbon Dioxide, Carbon Monoxide, Volatile
OrganicCompounds(VOC),etc.).

Adverse Health Effects Caused by Poor Indoor Air

Quality:

Headaches.
Eye,Nose,andThroatIrritations.
RespiratoryIllnesses(Acute&Chronic).
IncreasedAllergies.
Asthmas.
NoiseInducedHearingLoss(Acute&Chronic).

Paints, Solvents and Chemicals shall be stored in

designatedareawithadequateandseparateventilation
andexhaustsystems.

Carbon Emissions from the electrical equipments like

light bulbs shall be reduced by replacing the bulbs to
CompactFluorescentonesandtheawarenessonenergy
conservationthroughPosters,andEnvironmentalalerts.

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC), Ozone and

Particulate Matters Emissions from photocopiers and
printers shall be reduced by checking options of Low
VOC emissions photocopiers and printers, provide
adequate ventilation in isolated/ remote photocopying
rooms,andensureitsregularMaintenance.

Smoking is totally prohibited in ALL ADEC facilities and

premises.

To ensure and maintain fresh and clean indoor air

supplieswithinADECfacilities,ADECmanagementand
responsible facility management teams in
coordination with EHS Sections will ensure the
maintenance and proper operations of Heating,
Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) System to
eliminateproblemsandpollutants.

EHS Section will periodically monitor, report and

recordIndoorAirQuality.

Reference:IndoorAirQualityManagement
(ADEC/EHSMS/05/5.1/EHSPRG/5.1.3/IAQMGM)

HazardousMaterialsManagement

EHS Section in coordination with concerned Divisions

and Sections in ADEC will ensure they possess all
MaterialsSafetyDataSheets(MSDS)forallchemicals
and hazardous substances currently in use or to be
usedinADECFacilities.

MSDSs shall be made available to ADEC Staffs and

Contractors.

Containers ofall chemicalsand hazardous substances

inuseshallbecategorizedandlabeledasperGlobally
Harmonized System (GHS) for Classification and
LabelingofChemicals.

DO the following while dealing with Chemicals and

HazardousSubstances:

EHS Section shall maintain a register of all chemicals

and hazardous substances currently in use with their
inventories.

Hazard Communication, Training and Consultation

Programs with All Staff and contractors who are
handling chemicals and hazardous substances
(including cleaning chemicals, paints, solvents, etc.)
shall be provided and conducted by EHS Section to
ensure the safe management of these materials and
covering safe handling, transportation, storage and
disposaloperations.

Purchaseofenvironmentalfriendly,nonhazardous
andnontoxicproducts.
Store different types of hazardous materials
separately from each other and based on
compatibilitywherepossible.
Follow recommended uses and precautions on
labels.
Avoidcontactwithskinandeyes.
Wear personal protective equipment including
gloves, safety glasses and clothing when using
hazardousmaterials.
Use safety carriers, chemical trays, or secondary
containerswhentransportinghazardousmaterials.
Spills shall be secured with warning signs, cleaned
immediatelyandshouldnotbeleftunattended.
Spill control kits shall be available to deal and
manageanyoccurringspillsinvolvingchemicalsand
hazardoussubstances.
Firstaidkitsshouldbereadilyavailable.

DONTDOthefollowingwhiledealingwithChemicals
andHazardousSubstances:

OccupationalHygieneExposure&
Monitoring

Keep or store hazardous material directly under

thesunlightorclosetoasourceofignition.
Purchase large quantities of chemicals and
hazardousmaterialsandstoreit.
Store WaterReactive chemicals where they can
comeintocontactwithwater.

Reference:HazardousMaterialsManagement
(ADEC/EHSMS/05/5.1/EHSPRG/5.1.4/HAZMAT)

MainInformationonMSDS
ProductName(TradeName&ChemicalName)
MajorUses&Application.
ChemicalComposition&Ingredients.
PhysicalProperties.
ChemicalProperties.
PrecautionsforUse.
SafeHandlingandStorageInformation.
PersonalProtectiveEquipment.
FirstAid/Emergency.
FireProtection&Instruction.
SpillProtection&Instruction.
EmergencyContactsforProducers.

CategoriesofHarmfulOccupationalExposures:

1.ChemicalExposures:
a. CleaningChemicals.
b. Dusts.
c. Gases.

2.PhysicalExposures:
a. HeatStress.
b. Radiation.

3.BiologicalExposures:
a. Viruses,bacteria,fungi.
b. HIV,HepatitisA,B,andC.

Protection and Prevention from Harmful Occupational

HygieneExposureincludes:
1. Elimination.
2. Substitution.
3. EngineeringControls.
4. AdministrativeControlsandWorkPractices.
5. PersonalProtectiveEquipment.

MeansofEnteringtheHumanBodyinclude:

1. Inhalation: breathing in the substance with normal

air intake.Thisisthemainrouteofcontaminantsinto
the body. When contaminants enter the lungs, they
have access to the bloodstream and many other
organs.

2.Absorptionthrough the Skin:thesubstancecomes

into contact with the skin and enters either through
theporesorawound.

3. Ingestion: through the mouth and swallowed into

the stomach and the digestive system. This is not a
significantrouteofentrytothebody.

4.Injection:throughneedlesorsharpedgesarerarebut
giveexamplesforthisformofenteringthehumanbody.
TipsforFoodHygieneManagement:
Food handlers should have food handling certificate
and shall undergo medical examination to ensure
that theyarefreefrominfectiousandcommunicable
diseases.
All staffs employed in provision of catering services
atADECfacilitiesshallbeprovidedwithuniformsand
personal protective equipment and instructed to
wearitatalltimeswhiletheyperformservices.
PPEshallincludebutnotbelimitedtoSafetyboots/
shoes,Hairnets,MeshandHygienicGloves,etc.

Sufficient hand wash basins and welfare

facilities including toilets adjacent to the
cateringfacilitiesshallbeprovided.

Persons working in food handling area shall

alsopracticegoodhygienewhichincludesbut
notlimitedto:
9 Have clean hands at all times and when
theyarehandlingfood.
9 Nosmokinginfoodhandlingareas.
9 Noeatingordrinkingwhilehandlingfood.
9 Coverwoundswithwaterproofdressings.
9 Nowearingofjewelryorwatches.

 Catering facilities shall be cle

eaned on a daily
basisusingtheappropriatedisinfectants.
Im
mplementthe5SConceptin
nADECfacilities.

psforSafeOutdoorOccupattionalExposures:
Tip

Do
os:

Keep sufficient fluids avaailable and accessible to

maintainproperhydrationd
duringperiodsofextreme
heatconditions.
Stay in shaded and airconditioned
o
(cooler) areas
during high and extreme te
emperature environments
torestduringbreaksinorde
ertoreducebodyheat.
Drinkoneliterofwater/fluid
dperhour.

Takethefollowingmeasuresduringsandstorm:

Listenforstormwarningsandstayawayfromareas
whereanunpredictablesandstormcanoccur.
Wear goggles. Cover the nose and mouth with a
respirator or mask that is able to filter out sand
particlesoruseamoistenedhandkerchief.
Outrunthestorm.Ifyouaredrivingandthestorm
is at a reasonable distance it may be possible to
outrun it. If it seems the storm is near, stop and
rideitout.
If the person is not driving the vehicle, then seek
shelter.Findcoverifatallpossible.Ifnoshelteris
available,liedownandwaitthestormout.
Keepeyes,noseandmouthcoveredatalltimes.

Donts:

Avoid exposure to direct sun heat at midday or

noon times. If possible, reschedule and rearrange
work during the cooler hours or provide a shaded
areaovertheworkplacewhenworkingoutside.

Reference:OccupationalHygieneExposure&
Monitoring
(ADEC/EHSMS/05/5.1/EHSPRG/5.1.5/OCPHYG)

Walking&WorkingSurfaces

Thefollowingpracticestopreventandeliminatewalking
andworkingsurfacesrelatedhazardsshallbeappliedin
ADECfacilitiesandinclude:

All walking and working surface shall be maintained

clean, dry and kept free from protruding nails,
splinters, openings, holes, or loose boards at all
times.
Post precautions and warning signs about relevant
hazards (Slips, Trips, etc.) while cleaning the floors
andanyothersurfaces.
Where mechanical handling equipment is used,
alwayskeepsufficientandsafeclearances.
Coveringcablesthatcrosswalkways.
Aisles and passageways shall be kept clear and in
good condition clear of any obstruction that could
create a hazard in normal and during emergency
situations.
Permanent aisles and passageways shall be
appropriatelyandclearlymarked.
Regardless of height, opensided floors, walkways,
platforms, or runways above or adjacent to
dangerous equipment and similar hazards shall be
guardedwithastandardrailingandtoeboard.

 Everyflightofstairshavingfourormorerisersshall
beequippedwithstandardstairrailingsorstandard
handrails.
Allportableladdersusedshallhaveauniformstep
spacingwhichshallbenotmorethan30cm.Steps
shall be parallel and level when the ladder is in
positionforuse.
Do not use a damaged ladder, all ladders out of
serviceshallbeproperlymarkedandkeptaway.
Remember the following to reduce the risks of
slippingandtrippinghazards:
a. Watch your steps and keep attention to where
youstepinandwhereyouaregoing.
b. Walkwiththefeetpointedslightlyoutward.
c. Ensure enough light and clear vision on your
way.
d. Indarkareas,useaflashlight.
e. Ensureclearvisionaheadwhenyouarecarrying
orpushingloads.
Reference:Walking&WorkingSurfaces
(ADEC/EHSMS/05/5.1/EHSPRG/5.1.6/WLKSRF)

Ergonomics

Ergonomicsisthescienceofadaptingthejoband/orthe
equipment and the human to each other for optimal
safetyandproductivity.

Ergonomic Hazards due to handling of files can be

reducedbyimplementingthefollowing:
StackHeighttobemaintainedforallFileCabinetsto
avoidtheOverreaching.
Ensure that file cabinet drawers cannot easily be
pulledclearofthecabinet.
Openonlyonedraweratatimetokeepthecabinet
from toppling and close drawers when they are not
inuse.
Do not place heavy objects on top of cabinets. be
awarethatanythingontopofacabinetmayfalloffif
adrawerisopenedsuddenly.

Ergonomics Hazards due to the sitting chair can be

reducedbyimplementingthefollowing:
An ergonomic chair should be highly adjustable,
includingnotjustaknobforloweringandraisingthe
chair but adjustability in the back tilt and the height
ofthearmrests.
Ensure that the backrest of ergonomics chairs
corresponds to the natural curvature of the spine
providingenoughsupporttothelumbarregion.

 Ensure
e that the seats of ergonomic chairs are
comfo
ortable enough to allow the feet to rest flat
onthe
efloororfootrest.
Ensure
e that the armrests of ergon
nomic chairs are
softallowingtheshoulderstorelaaxandelbowsto
stayclosetothebody.

causingglare.Provideanti
thecomputermonitorsorc
glarescreenoverthecompu
uter.
Computer Monitors: scree
ens images shall be clear
andwelldefined.Placethemonitor2028inches(50
70 cm) away from the face.
f
The center of the
monitor should be approx
ximately 15 to 25 degrees
belowthelineofvision.
Keyboards: position of co
omputer keyboards shall
maintain the angle betwee
en the forearm and upper
armbetween80and120de
egrees.Placethekeyboard
in an area that is accessible, comfortable and avoid
stretching.

ecanbereduced
ErgonomicsHazardsintheworkplace
byimplem
mentingthefollowing:
Lightin
ng: lighting around compute
er work stations
should
dilluminatetheworkareaw
withoutobscuring

 WristSupport:usewristsupportsmadeofpadded
material. This support should allow typing without
bendingthewrists.
Document Holders: keep documents at
approximately the same height and distance from
thefaceasthemonitorscreen.
Telephones: neck tension is a common problem
causedbyholdingthetelephonebetweenthehead
and neck. Ensure the use of headset or
speakerphone if telephone is used for extended
periodsoftime.

ElectricityHazards

Electricity is silent, invisible, and potentially fatal, so it

deserves the utmost respect. Never take electricity for
granted,andneverassumeacircuitisdead.

Alwaysensurethefollowing:
Theuseofsuitableandauthorizedelectricalsupplies
and equipment which should be installed and
maintainedbytrainedelectricians.
Theinstallationofsuitableelectricalprotectionsuch
as circuit breakers, fuses, and residual current
devices which must be always used along with the
correctloadratings.
Electricalcablesshouldbecoveredand/orsuspended
away from walkways, aisles and corridors where
practicable to avoid damage and damp and also
reducethepotentialoftrippinghazards.
Carry out periodical visual checks of plugs, sockets
andcables,ifanydamagesidentified,thenremoveit
fromserviceandreportitimmediately.
Any cable joints must utilize proper appropriate
connectorblocksandnotjustinsulatingtapes.

Reference:Ergonomics
(ADEC/EHSMS/05/5.1/EHSPRG/5.1.7/ERGONO)

 Remember: Live Electriciity Can Equal A Dead

Person, Ensure It Isnt You Or Any Of Your
Colleagues.

Reference:ElectricityHazards
(ADEC/EHSMS/05/5.1/EHS
SPRG/5.1.8/ELECHZ)

Neveruselightingsocketstopowe
erequipment.
Ensure
ecablesarelongenoughfort
thetask.
The in
nner insulation of cables should
s
never be
visible.
The ou
uter insulation should extend into plugs and
equipm
mentandfullyutilizecablegrrips.
Blownfusesshouldbereplacedim
mmediately(note:
ifarep
placedfuseimmediatelyblow
wsagainthenitis
indicattive of a problem requiring the attention of
anelecctrician).
Forele
ectricalmaintenanceworkse
ensurethemains
supplyyisdisconnected.
Neveroverloadelectricalsockets,useoneplugper
sockett.

ReduceStressandTension
nwhileoverspeeding.
Avoid Legal and Financial
n
Liabilities and
Consequences.

DefensiveDriving
g

Co
onsiderthefollowingwhiled
driving:

Defensive
e Driving Program aims to minimize death,
injuries and
a
damages resulting fro
om road traffic
Incidents..

WhyDoW
WeNeedtoDriveSafe?

Prote
ectOurselvesandourFamilie
es.
Prote
ectOthers.
Arrivveintime.
NoSufferingfromDeath,FatalIn
njuriesandother
a
damages.

If your are the driver, Do

o Not Use Phones while
driving at all times forr any reasons including
making calls, pagers, send or read text
messages,Alwaysuse aheadsetorwireless
speakers.
Stay at or below the
e maximum allowable
speed for the road yo
ou are driving on as
indicated by roadsigns,,youcanusespeedsetif
yourcarisequippedwiththisoption.
If you are the passenger youshouldinterveneif
the driver is using a phone
p
while driving the
vehicle and in case he exceeds the maximum
allowable speed.
We
WearingSeat Belts:
Wearing s e a t belts includes safety belts in cars,
taxis, buses,trucks,cranes,,or forklifttrucksandshall
be adhered to by any pe
erson in moving vehicles
whenengagedon ADECacctivities.
Exceptionsinclude vehiclesswhere onlylap seatbelts
are availableor in publictrransportation where seat
beltsare notavailable.

DrriversandPassengersShall:
Check seat belts are in go
o od conditions and work

properly.
Keep seat beltsproperlyfastenedwhileinmoving
vehicles.
Check that everyone in vehicles is wearing seat
beltsproperly beforestarting thedrive.
Intervene when fellow passengers are not
wearingseatbelts properly.

Reference:DefensiveDriving
(ADEC/EHSMS/05/5.1/EHSPRG/5.1.9/DEFDRV)

PersonalProtectiveEquipment(PPE)

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is all equipment

which is intended to be worn or held by a person at
workplace and which protects them against hazards or
riskswhichmaypotentiallythreattheirhealthorsafety.

RememberPPEisthelastoptioninthehazardhierarchy
ifcontrol,andrememberthefollowing:

KnowhowandwheretousePPEifissuedtoyou.
Maintain, clean and store your PPE to avoid any
damage.
CarefullyinspectPPEbeforeuse
Immediatelyreplacedamagedandexpireditems.
ReportanyproblemswithuseofPPE.

PPE
SafetyBoot
Safety
Helmet

Purpose
Foot
Protection
Head
Protection

Coveralls

Body
Protection

Chemical
Suits

Body
Protection

Chemical
Boot

Foot
Protection

Rough&
Chemical
Gloves

Hand
Protection

Safety
Glasses

Eye
Protection

Safety
Goggles

Eye
Protection

FaceShields

Eye

Whentobeused?
FootInjuryRisks&
FallingObjects.
HeadInjuryRisks&
FallingObjects.
BodyInjury,Chemicals
handlingand
Transportation.
Handlingofchemicals.
FootInjury,Chemicals
handlingand
Transportation.
Alwayswhenhandling
roughedges,materials
andchemicals.
Alwayswhenhavinga
fugitivedust,flying
sparks,orchemical
splash.
Alwayswherefugitive
dustorchemical
splashingisexpected
duringworkactivities,
orChemicals.
Obligatoryfor

Protection

EarPlugs&
Muffs

Dustand
Gas
Respirators

Hearing
Protection

Respiratory
Protection

laboratoriespersonnel
orfacinghot
temperatures.
Obligatorywherenoise
levelsexceeds90db/
8hrsshiftordirect
instantaneous
exposureof135db.
Alwayswherefugitive
dust&gaseous
emissionsareexpected.

4.

FirePrevention&Control

Chemical Chain Reaction (involving the fuel and

oxygen).

RemoveoneofthesefactorsorstoptheChemicalChain
Reactionandthefirewillgoout.

Allthefourcomponentsmustbepresenttomakeafire
andkeepiton.

SourcesofignitionandPrecautions:

Ignition
Precautions
Source
Careinusinginstrumentswithnaked
Naked
flameandexcludeanyflammable
Flame
substancesnearby.

WhatisFire?

Fire is a rapid chemical reaction. Fire starts because

fourelementsarepresentatatime:

1. Fuel(paper,wood,gasoline),
2. Oxygen(air),
3. Heat (spark from welding, static electricity,
friction,hotsurfaces,electricalequipment,direct
flame),

Electrical
sparks

Applyelectricalprotectivemeasuressuch
asisolation,bonding,grounding,fuses.
Applysparkproofequipmentinclassified
flammableandcombustibleareas.

Heatbuild
up

Applyappropriateventilationsystems.

Hotwork

Applyhotworkpermitsandwarning
signs.

Cigarettes

ApplyNoSmokingPolicy.

Considertheapplicationofthefollowingmeasuresto
reducefirerisksatworkplace:

Goodhousekeepingmeasures.
Efficient and effective waste management and
disposal.
Safemanagementandstorageofflammableand
combustiblesubstances.
NoSmokingPolicy.
Hotworkpermitssystem.
Proper design and regular maintenance of
machinestoavoidhotsurfaces.
ControlsonContractors
Safe electric systems and prevent overloading/
overheatingofelectriccircuits.
The segregation of areas with oxygenenriched
atmospheres.
Do not cover or block ventilation systems in
storageareas.

FireClassification:

It is important to identify thetype of fire tobe fought,

so that proper firefighting equipment can be selected
andused.TheNFPAclassifiesfourcategoriesoffires:

Classof
Fire
A

TypeofFuel
CombustibleSolids(as
wood,glass,clothes,
papers,etc.).
Combustiblesand
FlammableLiquids(as
petroleum,paints,
solvents,etc.).

Extinguishing
Agent
Water.
DryChemical
Powder(DCP).
Foam.
DryChemical
Powder(DCP).

Electrical.

Carbon
Dioxide(CO2).
DryChemical
Powder(DCP).

KitchenCookingOilsand
Fat.

Carbon
Dioxide(CO2).
Wetchemical.
FireBlanket.

HowtoUseFireExtinguisshers

PAS
SS=PULLAIMSqueezean
ndSWEEP.

1.
2.

3.

4.

PULLLandTwistthePin.
PUL
AIMthenozzleatthebaseofthefire,standingon
an upwind
u
location away from
m the fire 22.5
mete
ers.
SQUE
EEZE the handle/ trigger to activate the
extin
nguisheranddischargeitscon
ntentsonthefire
base.
SWEEPoverthefirefromsidetoside.

Re
eference:FirePreventionand
dControl
(ADEC/EHSMS/05/5.1/EHSPRG/5.11.11/FIRPRV)

EmergencyRessponsePlan

Intheeventofanemergencys
situation(seriouspersonal
injjury,medicalcase,fire,etc.),immediatelycontactEHS
Se
ectiontoattainneededassistanceandhelp.

Yo
ou can contact EHS Section through
t
direct contact by
telephones,
mobile
nu
umbers
and
email
(ehs@adec.ac.ae).

When you make this contact, ensure that you clearly

ide
entifyyourselfandprovideth
hefollowinginformation:
1. Natureandscaleofemerg
gency.

2.
3.

Your
rexactlocation
Numberofinjuredpersonsandtyypesofinjuries.

GeneralRulesincaseofEmergency:
R

When
nafirealarmsounds,evacuaationisrequired.

Walkk, do not run, to the nearesst exit door and

takestairwaystoproceedtogrou
undlevelandout
totheassemblypoint.

Closedoorsasyouleave.
e

Shut down electric equipment and/ or any other

equip
pment before you evacuate from your
workkplace.

Do not
n
use elevators (if existss) during a fire
emerrgency.

If the
e fire alarm stops, continue
e the evacuation
and warn
w
others who may attem
mpt to enter the
build
ding.

Leave the building and move away from it,

keep
ping routes and drives open
n for emergency
servicesteamswhentheyarrive.

EvacuatetoAssemblyAreas/Pointsasdefinedin
build
ding, facility, and workplace Emergency
EvacuationPlan.

References:
1
1.EmergencyManagementP
Program
(ADEC
C/EHSMS/05/5.1/EHSPRG/5.1.13/EMRMGM)
2.EmergencyResponseP
Plan
(ADE
EC/EHSMS/05/5.1/EHSPRG/5.1.14/EMRSPL)

FirstA
Aid

Trrained and qualified first aid

d responders, first aid kits
an
nd CardioPulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) kits shall be
prrovidedinADECfacilitiesineachfloor.

G
GiveFirstAid&CPRONLYIFYOUARETRAINEDAND
QUALIFIEDTODOSO

In case of any medical emerg

gencies including injuries,
im
mmediatelyreporttoEHSSecttionforinstructions.

EH
HSSectionshallimmediatelysendfirstaidresponders
an
nd kits as well as calling for Medical Rescue Team on
(999).

FirstAidTreatment

Obtainmedicalhelpassoonaspossible.

First aid is an emergency care provided for injury or

sudden illness before medical rescue team arrives to
scene.

PersonalInjuries/Wounds

Controlbleeding.
Applydirectpressureonwound.
Elevateinjuredareaabovetheheartifpossible.
Apply pressure to supplying blood vessel if direct
pressureisnotsuccessful.
Securedry,steriledressingswithbandages.
Wash your hands first and then act to clean
minor injuries thoroughly with plain soap and
water if a v a i l a b l e .

Fractures

DoNOT movethevictim.
Keep the broken bone and adjacent joints from
moving.
If an open wound is present, control the
bleeding (see Personal Injuries/Wounds).

ElectricShock

Keepvictimlyingdown.
Cover victim only enough to keep victim from
loosingbodyheat.

Burns
Preventcontaminationbyapplyingasteriledressing.
Submerge small minor burns in cold water (do not
useice).
Apply sterile dressings to large extensive
burns(do notapply grease orointment).

StoppageofBreathing

ApplyCardioPulmonaryResuscitation(CPR)ONLYIF
YOUARETRAINEDANDQUALIFIEDTODOSO.
Tipvictimsheadback,chinpointingup.
Look,listenandfeelforbreathing.
If no breathing and there is a pulse give artificial
respiration.
Closevictimsnostrilsbypinchingshut.
Make a tight seal over victims mouth with your
mouth.
Inflatevictimslungswith(2)fullslowbreaths.
Watchvictimschestfallwhilelisteningforairreturn
betweenbreaths.
Check for a pulse at the side of the neck for (5)
seconds.
Breathe for adults once every (5) seconds; for
children is once every (4) seconds, and for infants,
onceevery(3)seconds.
Recheck for spontaneous breathing every few
minutes.

 Ifthereisnopulseandthereisnobreathing,begin
CardioPulmonary Resuscitation till the arrival of
MedicalRescueTeam.

Fainting

HeartAttack

Symptoms include chest pain, difficulty in

breathing,nausea,sweating,andweakrapidpulse.

ActImmediatelyTo:

ActImmediatelyTo:

Search for identification card or bracelet for

additional steps/ medical assistance contact
numbers.
Questioneyewitnessesaboutwhathasoccurred.
Get medical aid quickly from a paramedic,
physicianorpersontrainedonCardioPulmonary
Resuscitation(CPR).
Placethevictiminastillandcomfortableposition.
Donotmovethevictim.
Raisetheheadandchestifbreathingisdifficult.
If breathing stops and there is pulse, apply
artificial respiration ONLY IF YOU ARE TRAINED
ANDQUALIFIEDTODOSO.
If no pulse, give CardioPulmonary Resuscitation
and apply external cardiac compression on the
victims breast bone ONLY IF YOU ARE TRAINED
ANDQUALIFIEDTODOSO.
Tip the head to open airway, look, listen and feel
breathing.

Symptoms include victim feeling lightheaded,

nauseated, flushed,feels warm and then may lose
consciousness for several seconds. Fainting may
resultduetonormalphysiologicresponsetostress.

Make sure that the victim is breathing and has

pulse.
Keep victim lying down with feet elevated until
recoveryiscomplete.
Bathefacedowngentlywithcoolwater.
Donotpourwaterovervictim.
Loosentightclothing.
Keepcrowdsaway.

IncidentReporting

Immediately Report All EHS incident which may

includesfirstaidcases,LostWorkDayCases,Restricted
WorkDayCases,MedicalTreatmentCases,NearMisses,
PropertyDamage,Fire,SpillagesandAllothertypesof
emergenciestoADECEHSsection.

Reference:EHSIncidentInvestigation&Reporting
(ADEC/EHSMS/05/5.1/EHSPRG/5.1.16/INCINV)

ImportantEmergencyContacts

InternalContacts:

Environment,HealthandSafetySection(EHS)

WalidAbdelKader
026150182
0501229985
walid.abdelkader@adec.ac.ae

IbrahimAhmad
026150322
0505967147
Ibrahim.ahmad@adec.ac.ae

SaraAlFahim
026150323
sara.alfahim@adec.ac.ae

EHSSectionEmail:ehs@adec.ac.ae

ExternalEmergencyContacts:

AbuDhabiPoliceCentralOperationsforALL
Emergencies
999

AcknowledgementCard

Iherebyacknowledgethat:

1. Ihavereceivedacopyofthishandbook.
2. I have read and understand the contents of
thehandbook.
3. Iagreetoworkunderallprovisionscontained
in ADEC Environment, Health and Safety
ManagementSystem(ADECEHSMS)andthis
handbook.

Name&StaffIDNO.

Signature

Date

GeneralNotes