Sketch of HS(G)65.
From the sketch you can see that the Auditing element communicates with all other
elements. Audit seeks non-conformance.
Overview of HS(G)65.
1).Policy. The written policy will be split into 3 parts:-
Part 1 – Intent (what). The intent would be the company’s goals and objectives i.e.
what it wants to achieve.
Part 2 – Organisation (who’s who). This would look at the roles and responsibilities of
personnel at the organisation and the organisation family tree.
Part 3 – Arrangements (how). This would depict how things get done (procedures).
2.) Organising. This would look at human factors/human reliability. Organising would be
full of software systems, software systems in safety would be communications between
people. 5C rules this system i.e. there must be:-
• Communications must be in place.
• Competence (depends on training, experience and knowledge). It is important
to keep on developing experience.
• Consultation. This is 2 way communications/discussions with actions being
taken after the consultation.
• Control. Indirect control.
• Co-operation. There must be co-operation.
3.) Planning and Implementing. Planning focuses on Risk Management which can be
split into 3 sections:-
• Risk Assessment.
• Risk Rating.
• Risk Control.
7.) Feedback Loop. The feedback loop is vital for employee involvement. There must
always be facilities for feedback. Feedback can come in various forms:-
• Safety Meetings.
• Safety Committees.
• Safety forums.
• Accident Forms.
• Incentives for good ideas.
• Near miss Forms.
A written Health and Safety Policy is a legal requirement under section 2 of the Health
and Safety at Work Act 1974 when 5 or more people are employed. The Health and
Safety policy MUST be brought to the attention of everybody affected by the
organisations actions and MUST also be signed and dated by the Managing Director
(MD) or Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the organisation. A Health and Safety Policy
will be in three parts:-
• Part 1 – Intent (what). This part would be what the organisation’s goals and
objectives would be. This section could also be copied onto headed A4 company
paper and formed into a company Statement of Intent which could be distributed
to new employees prior to starting work with the organisation. The Statement of
Intent again MUST be signed and dated by the MD or CEO.
• Part 2 – Organisation (who’s who). This would look at the roles and
responsibilities of personnel at the organisation and would often examine the
organisation family tree.
• Part 3 – Arrangements (how). This would depict how the organisation would get
things done.
The signature on the policy holds the ultimate responsibility for the policy.
A written Health and Safety policy would provide a certain amount of back up in court.
ORGANISATION ( Part 2 )
Part 2 of the Health and Safety policy brings to the attention, who would carry out the
implementation of the policy and would also bring the organisational tree to attention. It
would have a signature of a named director who would have ultimate responsibility for
the policy. It could also pay reference to others with Health and Safety responsibilities
and the responsibilities held by each member. It could also have details of Subordinate
manager’s responsibilities for preparing their area Health and Safety Policy. It would also
indicate consultation and communications routes and details of any specialised training/
support etc.
A Company Nurse, Safety reps, TUC reps, Environmental manager, Fire officer and Fire
wardens, Emergency Planning Officer, Training officer and The Maintenance Team
could all be mentioned in an organisation Health and Safety Policy.
ARRANGEMENTS ( Part 3 )
The Arrangements section of a Health and Safety policy sets the rules and procedures
for:-
The arrangements section may refer to other documents e.g. Safety Manuals, SSOW,
Risk Assessments, Spillage reporting, Method statements, existence of Permit-to-Work,
Frequency of Health and Safety meetings, other relevant company policies, Accident and
Near miss reporting (RIDDOR).
The effectiveness of a Health and Safety policy depends on many things. Systems must
be in place for checking that methods and procedures are viable, effective and being
complied with and modified to reflect changes. Includes Organisational restructuring or
domino effects of changes by other activities. The policy must integrate fully with Risk
Assessments, Standard operational procedures and Systems of work.
Lecture 3. Law
Criminal Law
Prosecuted By State
Award of sanctions
3. Civil Law (common law). This law is brought about by the victim, where the
victim seeks compensation. This law is settled on the ‘balance of probabilities’
i.e. was it foreseeable. Civil law is insurable against.
Civil Law
Civil Law
Tort is a Judge made law which depends on historical precedent from previous cases
dating as far back as the 16th century.
The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 (HASAWA) is the act which covers all of the
topics on the course. The HASAWA is split into sections. Section 2, ‘The duties on
employers’, is also split into subsections.
The main sections related top the course are:-
• Section 2 – Employers duty to the employees.
• Section 3 – Employers duty to others (contractors, students, the general public,
customers).
• Section 6 – The duty placed on Manufacturers, Designers and Suppliers. These may
be first or third party.
• Sections 7/8 – Employee duty of care to themselves and others.
Section 3.
This section can be described the same as above.
Section 7.
Under this section, the employee must co-operate with the employer to enable the
employer to fulfil their Health and Safety duties. Not by their (the employee) acts or
omissions should they put at risk the safety or lives of themselves or others.
Section 8.
Employees must not recklessly (unknowingly) or deliberately (knowingly) interfere with
anything provided for the Safety, Health and Welfare of themselves or others e.g.
removal of guards.
Section 9.
The company must not charge for PPE.
Regulations.
The Health and Safety at Work Act is an Enabling Act which allows the Secretary Of
State to make further laws known as Regulations, without the need to pass another act of
parliament. Regulations are law and are approved by Parliament. These are usually made
under the Health and Safety at Work Act, following proposals from the HSC.
The Health and Safety at Work Act, and general duties in the Management
Regulations, aim to help employers to set goals, but leave them free to decide how to
control hazards and risks which they identify. Guidance and Approved Codes of Practice
give advice, but employers are free to take other routes to achieving their Health and
Safety goals, so long as they do what is reasonably practicable. Some hazards are so
great, or the proper control measures so expensive, that employers cannot be given
discretion in deciding what to do about them. Regulations identify these hazards and risks
and set out specific action that must be taken. Often these requirements are ‘absolute’-
employers have no choice but to follow them and there is no qualifying phrase of
‘reasonably practicable’ included.
Guidance.
Guidance comes in 2 forms, legal and best practice. An ACOP if followed ensures
compliance with a regulation and guidance gives solutions based on scientific fact to
Health and safety dilemmas.
Civil Law is based on previous cases where the judge has made findings. Civil Law cases
are Foreseeable i.e. have happened before or could happen again.
• Civil Law can also be known as Common Law or Law of Tort.
• Civil Law is a judge made law.
• Previous cases have influence and the decision is based on historical precedence.
• Legal Discussions often take place before the case starts and often deals are made.
Definition of Law of Tort (Civil Wrong ): Everybody owes a duty to everyone else, to
take reasonable care not to cause a foreseeable injury.
Explanation of Law of Tort ( Civil Wrong ): Everybody owes a duty to everyone else, to
take reasonable care not to cause a foreseeable injury. A civil wrong is based on
precedent, where the victim seeks compensation for loss, injury or damage.
Negligence.
Negligence is governed by a duty of care. For negligence to exist, it must be proved that a
duty of care exists, that there was a breach of that duty of care and that as a result of the
breach, loss injury or damage was sustained. The breach must also be foreseeable.
Possible question.
Q) What are the three standards to be met to satisfy common law.
Due Diligence definition: did everything that was humanly possible, given the latest
technology and state of the art thought and must be reasonably practicable.
Defence in Contravention.
Defence in contravention is to prove that all reasonable precautions were taken and
that due diligence was exercised.
Vicarious Liability.
Vicarious liability is when the employee is liable for the actions of the employee
even when the employer is not there, providing the employee adhered to company
policies and procedures.
Possible exam question.
Contributory Negligence.
Contributory negligence is where the employer and operative are both liable. This
often occurs when on a folly (doing something they should not be doing e.g. using a
company vehicle for personal business when it is not permitted.)
ACOP.
• Set by the HSC.
• Does not have full legal status. Considered as Quasi legal i.e. has not passed
through parliament. Could be used in a court of law to show non-compliance with
regulation.
• Gives details of regulations.
• Gives the level of compliance required to satisfy regulations.
• A judge would look for the degree of deviation from the acop in order to make a
judgement on sanctions. The more deviation the more the penalty. The judge
would use the acop as a standard.
• An acop would be simply put.
GUIDANCE.
• Comes in two forms, legal or best practice.
• Provides scientific fact.
• Deals with the technical aspects of a regulation.
• Issued by HSC or HSE
• Looks at systems.
• Often cross references to acop or regulation.
Sources of information.
External.
• Legislation.
• MSDS.
• Expert consultants.
• Acop.
• Guidance notes.
• Manuals.
• Internet.
• Audit.
• Regulations.
• Trade unions.
• HSE.
• Environment Agency.
• European Directives.
• International Labour Organisation (ILO).
• World Health Organisation (WHO)
Internal
• H & S Policy.
• Risk Assessments.
• SSOW.
• Method Statements.
• Accident Forms.
• Near miss forms.
• Safety Committee Meeting minutes.
• Permits to work.
• Health and Safety advisor.
• Internal audits and inspections.
• Induction/In house training.
Audit.
An audit seeks non-conformance. Within the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare)
Regulations 1992, important regulations are within regulation 8 (lighting). Hazards
caused by poor lighting include slips, trips and falls and accidents due to shadows/glare.
Suitable precautions would be to first clean the lights and then carry out a light survey
using a photometer measuring LUX readings and recording all data. This data could
enable you to ascertain whether additional lighting be it permanent or temporary be
brought in. It would be important to carryout another light survey to establish whether
improvements have been made. Accidents should be monitored with less accidents and a
general downward trend witnessed. Regulation 25 states that a fridge must be provided
for nursing mothers for milk.
Lecture 7. Lighting.
Question.
In relation to the Safety Representative and Safety Committee Regulations 1977,
OUTLINE :
1) The rights and functions of trade union representatives. (6)
2) The facilities to be provided for representatives. (2)
1) Provide training for its members. Provide guidance and advice to its members and
to represent the employees in consultation with the employer. The representative
will also investigate potential hazards and dangerous occurrences and also causes
of accidents. Investigation of health and safety complaints and health and safety
inspections will be carried out by the representative. The representative would
also provide workforce representation at safety committee meetings and during
consultation with enforcing inspectors.
2) There must be provision for independent investigation and private discussion with
employees. This provision would include a meeting room, telephone, fax and
computer access.
Explain with examples, under what circumstances a HSE inspector could serve:
1) An improvement notice.
2) A prohibition notice.
State the effect of appealing against each type of notice.
Lecture 8. Enforcement.
Enforcement officers could come from a variety of agencies. For the NEBOSH course we
are only concerned with the HSE but enforcement agencies could come from areas such
as, The Environment Agency, Local Authority environmental health officers, Local
Authority building inspectors, fire brigade, police and customs and excise.
Improvement notice.
A HSE inspector would serve an improvement notice when there is a
contravention of law which could be repeated. A date would be specified by the
inspector for remedial action to be taken by. An example would be lack of Manual
Handling Assessments. An appeal to an improvement notice must be made to an
employment tribunal within 21 working days during which the notice would be
suspended.
Prohibition notice.
A HSE inspector would serve a prohibition notice to halt an activity which the
inspector feels could cause serious injury, removal of fixed machine guarding for
example. The notice will identify which legal requirement is being contravened. Notice
would take effect as soon as it’s issued. An appeal to a prohibition notice must again be
made to an employment tribunal within 21 days, during which the notice would still
stand.
Informing
Informing is the passing of information one way.
Consulting.
Consulting is the listening to employees views and taking into account of what they
say before any decision is made.
Defn. Risk – Risk is the likelihood of a substance, activity or process to cause harm.
Risk Assessment.
Risk Assessment has five steps that must be followed:-
1. Identify the hazard.
2. Identify who will be affected (so far as is reasonably practicable).
3. Evaluate the risk. Are the current precautions adequate?
4. Record findings.
5. Monitor and review. Modify if required.
Risk Rating.
Risk Rating can be calculated using a risk rating grid or matrix.
Prepared by Gareth Jenkins Page 18
Example of risk rating grid.
Likelihood Severity
Rating Guide words Rating Guide words
0 Almost impossible 0 No harm
1 Extremely unlikely 1 Minor harm
2 Unlikely 2 Moderate harm
3 Likely 3 Serious harm
4 Extremely likely 4 Major harm
5 Almost certain 5 Catastrophic
The risk rating can be calculated by multiplying the value given against the likelihood
of a hazard causing harm and the severity of the harm caused. From the example grid
above, the maximum risk rating that can be obtained is 25 i.e. a likelihood rating of 5
and a severity rating of 5. Often this rating value can be translated into a High,
Medium and Low risk form.
Risk Control.
Risk controls are steps that could be introduced to reduce the risk rating. Risk
control follows a risk control hierarchy with 8 issues but also has a further 2 issues
which are not part of the hierarchy but could be integrated into all points. The points
in the hierarchal value are:-
1. Eliminate the hazard at source.
2. Substitute the hazard at source.
3. Reduce the hazard at source.
4. Remove the people from the hazard (remote cleaning). This could be done by
mechanical means or by restricting access.
5. Introduce engineering controls (scientific). An example of engineering control
would be guarding/containment by enclosure. Human maintenance would be
required however.
6. Reduce the person’s exposure as much as is humanly practicable.
7. Provide a safe system of work (e.g. permit to work, electrical isolation
certificate).
• Provide personal protective equipment. This comes at the bottom of the
hierarchy due to the following reasons. Environmental factors such as
temperature could make the wearing of ppe uncomfortable, ppe only protects
the wearer, lack of maintenance of the ppe could cause a lack of effectiveness
of the ppe, certain types of ppe could become out of date or out of calibration,
they could become dirty and less effective, they could also become
unknowingly breached i.e. torn. PPE cannot be trusted and rely on the human
so is bottom of the hierarchy.
8. Information, Training, Instruction and Supervision must be available at every
stage of the hierarchy.
Engineering controls.
• Guarding. Isolation Extraction
• Dilution Insulation Ventilation
• Filtration Neutralisation
• Segregation Silencing Damping down.
Scenario Question
You have a factory which operates a 24hr, 3 shift system with 300 employees per
shift. 3 security staff are employed on a 12hr shift system. The factory is based on the
side of a main road. There are more industrial units on either side of the factory which is
surrounded by a perimeter fence. People are constantly breaking into the site as it backs
onto fields. At the opposite side of the main road is a car park where the staff park their
cars. The factory has a main gate which has shared access with vehicles and pedestrians.
At the back of the factory there is a bank with a drop of 2.5m into a ditch filled with
rubble. At 3AM someone noticed a large pothole appearing at the entrance gate. It does
not stretch the full width of the gate but leaves about 1m of steady ground for people to
walk on. A further 2 pot holes have been reported at the top of the bank at the back of the
site. Carry out a risk assessment for access to the site via entrance and effects of the
potholes at the back of the site first without controls, then introduce controls and carry
out a second risk assessment. Use the following risk rating grid to assess risk rating.
Likelihood Severity
Not likely 1 No injury 1
Unlikely 2 First aid 2
Likely 3 <3day injury 3
Very Likely 4 >3day injury 4
most probable 5 Death/multiple 5
Assessment 1.
Front gate - Likelihood Rating 4, Severity rating 3
Risk Rating 12
Assessment 2
After control introduction.
Front gate - Likelihood rating 2, Severity rating 2
Risk Rating 4
SEVERITY
Defn. An accident can be defined as an unplanned, unwanted event that has caused
loss of some kind to people, property and workplace.
Defn. An incident (near miss) can be defined as an unplanned, unwanted event that
could have caused loss of some kind to people, property and workplace.
Causes of accidents concern direct or indirect issues. Indirect issues are known as
Root or Underlying Causes. Root causes are system based causes that enable direct
Accident causes.
Direct Indirect
Removal of guarding Productivity deadlines
Did not follow isolation procedures Penalty clauses
Did not follow SSOW Resources ( lack of )
Negligence Training
Workplace conditions Poor risk assessments
Competence No method statements
Over confidence Poor design
Poor training Poor staff selections
Ergonomics Poor maintenance systems
Inadequate guarding Lack of materials
Not concentrating Performance targets
Bad Habits Competitiveness
Personal problems at home causing
stress
Accident costs.
Direct Indirect
Claims on employers Business loss
Public liability insurance Product or process liability
Damage to buildings, equipment or
vehicles Loss of goodwill
Fines Overtime payments
Sick pay Accident investigation time
Product damage Production delays
Equipment or process damage
Uninsurable costs.
• Product and material damage.
• Legal costs.
• Emergency supplies.
• Cleaning up site.
• Production delays.
• Temporary labour.
• Lost orders.
• Investigation time.
• Fines.
• Loss of expertise.
• Loss of goodwill.
• Overtime payments.
It is a legal requirement to report ALL accidents, however not all accidents must be
reported to the HSE as the HSE are only interested by severity. The HSE have a selected
range of injuries that must be reported to them. The severest injury must be reported by
the quickest means. Reporting to the HSE could be by phone, fax or on-line. Reporting
should be followed up by them submission of a form (F2508) for a major injury. This
regime is known as RIDDOR. This form must be sent within 10 days. The form is also
used for the reporting of dangerous occurrences. Reportable major injuries are as
follows:-
• Fracture, other than to fingers, thumbs and toes;
• Amputation;
• Dislocation of the shoulder, hip, knee or spine;
• Loss of sight (temporary or permanent);
• Chemical or hot metal burn to the eye or any penetrating injury to the eye;
• Injury resulting from an electric shock or electrical burn leading to
unconsciousness, or requiring resuscitation or admittance to hospital for more
than 24 hours;
• Any other injury: leading to hypothermia, heat-induced illness or
unconsciousness; or requiring resuscitation; or requiring admittance to hospital
for more than 24 hours;
• Unconsciousness caused by asphyxia or exposure to harmful substance or
biological agent;
• Acute illness requiring medical treatment, or loss of consciousness arising from
absorption of any substance by inhalation, ingestion or through the skin;
• Acute illness requiring medical treatment where there is reason to believe that this
resulted from exposure to a biological agent or its toxins or infected material.
Diseases must also be reported under RIDDOR (F2508A) within 10 days of the
certificate of diagnosis. If death takes place within 1 year of injury/disease it must be
reported under RIDDOR. Diseases reportable under RIDDOR include:-
• Certain poisonings;
• Some skin diseases such as occupational dermatitis, skin cancer, chrome ulcer, oil
folliculitis/acne;
• Lung diseases including: occupational asthma, farmer's lung, pneumoconiosis,
asbestosis, mesothelioma;
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• Infections such as: leptospirosis; hepatitis; tuberculosis; anthrax; legionellosis and
tetanus;
• Other conditions such as: occupational cancer; certain musculoskeletal disorders;
decompression illness and hand-arm vibration syndrome.
You must report to RIDDOR if anyone is off work for 3+ days following injury.
Again F2508 must be used, filled in and sent to the HSE, an example would be a back
injury. Other cases which must be reported under RIDDOR include an injury to visitors,
pedestrians and customers and any injury to a member of staff and they are detained in
hospital.
First Aid
Principles of first aid can be established using the 3P system. Protect Life, Prevent
deterioration and Promote recovery.
Protect Life.
• Prevent more casualties.
• Make area safe.
• Send for help
Prevent Deterioration.
• Until competent assistance arrives (doctor, paramedic). This does NOT mean
treat.
Promote Recovery.
• Reassure and send to the appropriate center (hospital, clinic)
Where several companies share workshop/office space first aiders may be shared
between all companies involved. Shared arrangements for the provision of first aid
include:-
• Arrangements to be made between all companies involved.
• Arrangements must be in writing.
• Everyone must be informed of the provision and kept informed.
• Assessments must be made with regards to the number of staff to number of first
aiders ratio.
• Monitor any changes in occupancy etc.
DEFN. Occupational Health considers the effect of health on work and work on health. It
promotes well being.
Physical – Ergonomic.
- Environmental.
Chemical – Toxic.
- Carcenogenic.(could produce cancer)
- Corrosive.
- Harmful.
- Irritant.
Biological – Spores.
- Viruses.
- Micro organisms.
- Bacteria.
Stress – Physiological.
- Psychological.
Possible Question:
Explain and give an example of an ill health compromise.
An example of a bacterial disease could be Salmonella, which could be caught from
uncooked chicken. The route of entry would be Ingestion via the alimentary tract
(swallowed and travels through the stomach to the bowels) with the resulting effects
being vomiting and diarrhoea. Food handlers are at a major risk with this infectious
disease (could be passed on to others). Salmonella could break down the body defences
by causing dehydration (caused by vomiting and diarrhoea), which could lead to
convulsions and in extreme cases death. Investigations would have to come under the
Environmental Health Officer of the Local Authority. Specimen stools would be taken
along with possible samples from family members to try to ascertain the primary carrier
of the highly contagious disease. Health surveillance questions would need to be asked
such as, Have you eaten out anywhere recently? Food handlers would have to be
segregated from food handling areas.
Liver.
The liver has an affinity for dangerous substances, toxic in nature (alcohol and
paracetamol for example). The liver will store anything biological (hepatitis and weils
disease for example). Weils disease can be caused by exposure to the urine from female
rodents. People at high risk would be sewer workers.
Neurological System.
This could affect the Central Nervous System or the Peripheral Nerves. Exposure to
solvents, glues and even mercury poisoning can all affect the central nervous system.
Symptoms are obscure and often start as migraines and headaches. Peripheral nerves
come in two forms, motor nerves (involved with movement) and sensorary nerves
(feeling). An example of sensorary nerve damage is a severe burn that has no associated
pain which would indicate permanent sensorary nerve damage.
Skin.
An example would be dermatitis (inflammation of the skin). It could be either Primary
contact dermatitis which is always localised e.g. sweat rash and could be caused by
detergents etc. The second form could be Allergic sensitising dermatitis. This form of
dermatitis could cause anaphylactic shock. An example of this type of dermatitis could be
caused by a doctor having an allergy to latex (latex gloves), a nut allergy or an allergic
reaction to an insect bite. A sensitised condition is one that as soon as there is exposure to
an allergy there would be no cure, hence further exposure to even a small amount would
cause the symptoms to reappear.
Respiratory System.
An example would be asbestosis caused by unguarded exposure to asbestos.
Reproductive System.
An example could be infertility caused by exposure to radiation. Radiographers would
be at high risk. The effect of the Chernobyl incident is a good example. Male sterility and
Possible Questions.
What happens when you breathe?
When you breathe in you suck in air which passes through your nose and throat. Hairs in
your nose filter out dust and bacteria carried in the air. The air is also moistened in your
nose. The moistened, warm air then passes down your trachea (windpipe) and into two
tubes called bronchi. The bronchi divide into small branches (bronchioli) that end in a
mass of air sacs (alveoli) in your lungs. On arrival at the alveoli, there is a diffusion of
oxygen into the bloodstream through blood capillaries and an effusion of carbon dioxide
from the bloodstream. This carbon dioxide is excreted when you breathe out. When you
breathe out the air is pushed out of the alveoli and passes through the bronchioli, through
the trachea and out through the nose and mouth.
Farmers Lung.
This is caught from spores which arise from mouldy hay. The spores are inhaled and
infect the lungs. It is here that the infection multiplies. The infection starts with flu like
symptoms. The lung passages swell up leading to chest conditions which could become
chronic.
Airborne contaminants.
The COSHH regulations require that such ventilation systems must be inspected at
least every 14 months by a competent person to ensure they are still working effectively.
The effectiveness of a ventilation system will be reduced by damaged ducting,
blocked or defective filters and poor fan performance. More common problems include
the unauthorised extension of the system, poor initial design, poor maintenance, incorrect
adjustments and a lack of inspection or testing. Routine maintenance should include
repair of any damaged ducting, checking filters, examination of the fan blades to ensure
This sketch maybe asked in a question so must be able to draw and label it.
Possible questions:-
Explain the Statutory Requirements of a LEV system? (2)
The system would need to be inspected and tested at least every 14 months by
specialists. A record would be given which could be used as evidence or by
inspection by the HSE.
What are the inspection requirements?
There should be a visual inspection, any reported problems investigated and
remedied, ppm’s carried out as per supplier demands.
Dust has been observed on surfaces where it is not expected. What would you expect
to be the problem and how would these problems present themselves?
• Poor fan performance.
• Poor initial design.
• Unauthorised alterations to the LEV system.
Dilution Ventilation.
Dilution ventilation is a term used to describe a method of extracting airborne
contaminants from a particular area. It creates a flow of air using an extraction fan often
backed up by an inlet fan. Opening a window could also be considered however, this may
be uncertain as it could be hampered by wind direction or weather conditions.
Possible question.
Outline the circumstances in which Dilution ventilation might be appropriate?
Dilution Ventilation could take place where LEV is not practical i.e. where you do not
require an exchange of air. It is usually used where there is low toxicity. It could be used
in certain circumstances in the construction industry, where vapours could lay in low
level excavations, to replace contaminated air. The area must be tested and monitored
regularly to ensure recontamination has occurred. It is important to note that
contamination could come from several sources not just one. If just one source is
identified then isolation at source could occur.
Environmental monitoring,
Results from environmental monitoring would need analysing and machinery must be
calibrated by competent personnel as required in the manufacturers and suppliers
instructions.
Environmental monitoring could be a direct read or indirect read. A direct read means
that the user or team can read it. An indirect read means that the sample would need to be
submitted for laboratory analysis. A breathalyser is an example of a direct read. And
blood tests sent by a doctor is an example of an indirect read.
Lecture 30-01-08
The stain detector tube would contain a filter and each packet would be accompanied by
a manufacturer’s data sheet.
Sampling.
Sampling could be either spot/grab sampling or continuous sampling of which some
could be long term. A breathalyser and a blood test are examples of spot sampling.
Sampling in confined spaces could use both sampling types. A drop test would give you
spot testing as it would give a test at that exact time. If people were to enter, meters could
be used to monitor oxygen levels etc. Limits could be set with an alarm sounding should
these limits be exceeded. This could tell the operators that an evacuation could be
required. This type of metering would be a continuous sample which would be on for the
duration that the operatives are in the environment. Thermometers fixed to a wall in a
cold room would be long term continuous sampling. Ph meters in a water treatment plant
provide long term continuous sampling.
Continuous monitoring could be for a period of time that is static. For example when
cleaning a tank, a monitoring device is used to constantly give readouts over any length
of time. These would be recorded, plotted and could be used as evidence. It often
contains alarm monitors which will trigger to warn of danger, enabling escape.
Continuous sampling could often be long term. Long term often uses a static unit which
will require ppm. It could be computerised, sometimes giving printouts. An example of
long term sampling would be pH monitoring in a water treatment plant.
Sampling Equipment.
Noise Meter: is a meter that is used to sample noise levels. It is used to measure dB or
pascals.
Audiometer: is a meter that is used to detect hearing levels.
Photometer: is a meter used to sample levels of light. It gives a value in LUX.
Hygrometer: is a meter used to measure humidity. It is used anywhere where a humid
area is required.
Note that the Ionising Radiation Regs, Asbestos at Work Regs, Lead at Work Regs are
not covered by COSHH because they are classed as that dangerous they are considered to
have earned their own regulations.
The HSE have produced various Approved Codes of Practice to cover hazardous
substances they include:
• Toxic practices
• Carcinogenic
• Biological practices
Reg 6.
Concerning risk assessments must be more in depth and must take into consideration
people around them.
Reg 7.
There is a risk control hierarchy when dealing with COSHH.
The risk control hierarchy is as follows:
• Elimination at source.
• Substitution.
• Provision of Engineering controls.
• Provision of Supervisory (people) controls.
• Provision of Personal Protective Equipment.
Reg 10.
New requirements for items used whilst monitoring, they must be:
• Fit for purpose.
Reg 11.
Surveillance must be suitable and sufficient for the workplace.
ITIS.
• Increased information for substances held or released.
• Recorded training for people working with hazardous substances.
• Instruction must be given to operators on how to safely use and mix the
substances. Would also include disposal.
• Supervision for people working with hazardous substances, there must be
relevant supervision levels.
Contents of a MSDS.
• Product Name.
• Date.
• Manufacturer name.
• Composition.
EH40.
EH40 contains an A – Z of substances and it is published annually. It only focuses on
substances that could be inhaled, however it will list a secondary effect to skin and if it is
cancerous. It will give a WEL relative to the substance. Whilst having a WEL it will also
give a TWA (Time Weighted Average). A TWA is a level of time. TWA is divided into
different categories, STEL, LTEL. A long term exposure limit under WEL is measured
over 8 hrs. A STEL is based over 15 minutes. The STEL would be higher than the LTEL.
EH40 is suitable for large volumes but it must not contain any other substance. EH40 is
not suitable for an open environment. All tanks must be surrounded by a bund which
must be able to contain 110% of the contents if spilled. The integrity of the bund must be
intact. It must not get filled with rainwater if outside. It must be inspected for any rubbish
and debris. It must not be cracked or broken and must not be used for 2 tanks.
New Legislation.
DSEAR – Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmosphere Regs replace HFL and LPG
Regs.
DEFN. Noise can be defined as an unwanted sound. It could have a negative effect on
humans. Sound is energy and noise dissipates (spreads out then disappears, similar to the
Relevant Legislation.
• Noise at Work Regulations 1989
• As a result of The Physical Agents Directive:
Noise At Work Regulations 2005
Guidance for employers HSE
You must reduce noise to the lowest possible. You must provide Information, Training,
Instruction and Supervision especially for young employees. Noise action levels were
reduced based on the knowledge that every time you reduce the decibel level by 3, you
halve the ill effect to the human ear. Because of this PPE would be classed as the last
resort. If the HSE inspected they would expect to see evidence of a risk control hierarchy,
that is substitute for equipment, quieter by design. PPM would need to be closely
monitored due to noises from machine wear (defective bearings for example). At any
level a risk assessment should be carried out.
Maximum Levels.
Maximum noise (peak sound pressure) during a working day
LEQ would be a level equivalent.
The limit value is 87dB and would be against the law to exceed this value.
Employer Duties.
• It is the employers’ duty to assess risks to the employees.
• The employer must take action to reduce noise sources.
• The employer must provide hearing protection but only as a last resort if all other
controls within the risk control hierarchy have been followed.
• It is the employers’ duty to ensure legal limits are not exceeded.
• The employer must provide Information on noise sources and the effects, Training
to employees in SSOW including how to use and maintain their PPE, Instruction
on the methods of work and provide adequate Supervision to employees
especially the young.(ITIS).
• The employer must introduce a health surveillance regime to continually monitor
their employees health levels.
This drawing does not need to be drawn and is for information purposes only.
• Chronic.
❖ Permanent Tinnitus.
❖ Permanent Threshold Shift.
❖ NIHL – Noise Induced Hearing Loss (this would be reportable under RIDDOR).
Control Measures.
• Relocation – Could the equipment be moved?
• Orientation – Know where the noise is in order to avoid the area.
• Screen – Screen the area off.
• Absorption – could the noise be absorbed. Insulation to a music room for
example.
• Silencers – Exhausts.
• Isolation – Put the equipment into isolation.
• Lagging – wrap material around.
• Damping – muffling noise.
• Enclosure – enclosures for noise must be complete to prevent noise escape.
The main control methods concerned with the course are Absorption, Silencing and
enclosures. Absorption walls could be used effectively in areas where the sound is
reflected from walls. The walls of rooms housing noisy equipment would be lined with
sound absorbent material such as foam. A music room/studio is an example. Silencers are
normally fitted to engines which are exhausting gases to atmosphere. Silencers consist of
absorbent material or baffles. Car exhaust systems are prime examples of silencers in
everyday use. Using enclosures as a method of control is by surrounding the equipment
with a good sound insulating material which could reduce the sound levels by up to 30
dB(A). Care would needed to be taken to ensure that the machine does not become
overheated. An example would be the enclosing of noisy machinery.
Radiation is a ray often with particles in it. There are 2 types of radiation, Ionising
Radiation and Non-ionising Radiation.
Ionising Radiation similar to that emitted during the Chernobyl Incident is governed by
The Ionising Radiation Regulations due to the fact that it so dangerous. Non-Ionising
Radiation (LASERS etc) are governed by COSHH Regulations
Possible Question
What is Ionisation?
When atoms decay they become unstable and when they do so they release energy which
contains radiation (Alpha particles, Beta particles and Gamma rays). This is known as
ionisation. For the atom to remain stable, it does not want energy.
Forms of Radiation.
• Alpha Particles: consist of two protons and two neutrons and have a positive
charge. They have little power to penetrate the skin and can be stopped using
flimsy materials such as paper. Their main route into the body is by ingestion.
In addition Ionising Radiation will affect all cell matter in the body. It has a Fatal
Attraction to DNA. Radiation affects the reproductive systems (Male and Female).
Chernobyl is an example.
Units of Measurements.
Measured in Grays or Sieverts. (A realistic measurement would be taken in mili-
Sieverts)
A unit of Radioactivity = Becquerel (Bq). A Becquerel represents a unit of
disintegration (decay) per second.
Routes of Entry.
• Inhalation.
• Ingestion.
• Injection.
• Absorption.
Sources.
• Medical – X-Rays.
• Military – Weapons.
• Manufacturing – Test Instruments, Contaminated Waste Disposal (spillage,
leaking etc).
Health Effects.
• Acute.:
❖ Reddening of the skin (erythema). Blistering and Ulceration.
• Chronic:
❖ Hair loss
❖ Cell damage (genetic mutation)
❖ Sterility
❖ Leukaemia (white blood cells count abnormal)
❖ Carcinoma, Convulsions, Death.
Distance
Time Shielding
Radiation is governed by inverse square law. Inverse square law tells us that if we
increase the distance from, time of exposure and level of shielding from radiation then
you will greatly reduce the ill effect from radiation.
NON-IONISING RADIATION.
• UVA or Sun
• Microwaves.
• Sunbeds.
• Welding.
• Infra red for foundry workers
If asked in the exam to discuss two forms pick Sun and Infra red for foundry workers
since the others are either too complex or has not enough info linked to them. Sun
protection would include sun block, regular fluid intake, shade, IT IS on protection
methods, keeping things covered and hats. Foundry workers protection includes fluids,
ppe, ppm, SSOW and health surveillance.
Control Methods.
• Segregate, Enclosure, Shielding.
• Skin protection, sun blocks and cover up.
• PPE, gloves in furnaces etc.
• Glasses marked suitable for the type and degree of radiation.
• Timing mechanisms to alarm and notify of exposure to duration.
In many cases it will be practicable to install safeguards which protect the operator from
mechanical and non-mechanical hazards. For example, a guard may prevent access to hot
or electrically live parts as well as to moving ones. The use of guards which reduce noise
levels at the same time are also common. As a matter of policy, machinery hazards
should be dealt with in this integrated way instead of dealing with each hazard in
isolation
PUWER
Machinery purchased after 1993 has stringent specifications and any machinery
purchased prior to 1993 do not have these measures. If after 1993 any machinery had
been sold it then becomes a new piece of machinery and these control measures would
then have to be put in place.
Guards must be designed with the people/operator in mind. For strength and durability,
effect on machine reliability, you must be able to see the operation (mesh or transparent
panel), effect on other hazards e.g. vibration and extra noise.
• The perfect operator.
• The sloppy worker.
• The careless worker.
Good maintenance procedures must be provided, ppm to monitor and in some cases
minimise.
Hierarchy of Guarding.
• Fixed guarding.
• Interlock built into machinery.
• Adjustable.
• Trips and devices.
Advantages:-
• Fixed guards are always bolted.
• Physical barrier to prevent access.
• No moving parts, robust, withstands process and environmental conditions.
Disadvantages:-
• Maintenance difficulties and repairs.
• No protection when removed – open to injury.
• Deliberate removal – special tool for access.
The features are that deliberate removal of a fixed guard is an offence: it is a breach of
liability and duty. If it is removed for maintenance purposes, it must be replaced
immediately afterwards.
• Not suitable for all machinery e.g. direct feed this would then have an interlock
guard.
• Mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, pneumatics linked to machine controls when
interlock is used.
• When closed the machine would operate.
• Open when machine is at rest.
• Open guard ensure safe machine.
• Maintenance costs are higher.
• Need to design out failure to harm on breakdown etc.
Adjustable Guards.
• Unavoidable exposure to dangerous parts when machine is in use.
• Prevents access only when a danger exists (a fixed guard with adjustable
elements).
• Design – machine non operational with open guard. Only operable with guard
closed.
Trip devices.
Trip devises operate when a person approaches the danger area
• Triggers automatic stoppage or reverse prior to danger point.
• Sensitive trip mechanisms.
• Fast stoppage.
• Brake assisted sometimes.
• Trip wires, photoelectric beams, pressure mats can be used to prevent entry, these
will also be designed with birds in mind.
• Over ride maintenance.
• Software systems failure or electrical failure.
Electrical Fires/Explosion.
Causes include:-
• Malfunction.
• Lack of maintenance.
• Incorrect use of installations and equipment.
• Ignition – Heat, Light, Electric motors.
• Short circuits – overheating cables.
• Flammable gases and vapours.
• Static electrical discharges.
Short Circuits.
Causes include:-
• Faulty Insulation.
Fault Development.
• Current increases, surrounding area heats up.
• If the fuse fails to operate the wrong fuse rating could be used.
• Excess current jeopardises the fuse.
Combustible Materials.
• Should be kept away from heated wires.
• Could be ignited by hot sparks.
Protection Devices.
• Fuse – Protects the equipment rather than the person.
• RCD – Protects the person from the electricity supply.
• RV – reduces the severity of electrical system by reduced voltage e.g. 110V in a
transformer with centre tapped to earth.
• Double Insulation – Used with modern equipment.
Fuse:-
• Must use the correct Amp rating.
• Gives equipment protection.
• Action is given in an over current situation.
• Limitation: usage of incorrect size fuses and slow response times.
RCD:-
• Senses leakage. 30mA current to earth and breaks the circuit within 30 msecs.
• Rapid response affords some protection against shock not like a fuse.
• Sensitive and reliable.
• Simple and safe testing for non-electrical personnel.
Reduced Voltage:-
• Use of voltage below supply level for ancillary services.
• To protect operators.
• Down to 50 volts.
• Less current to cause injury.
Double Insulation:-
• The provision of two separate layers of insulation between live parts and the part
being handled.
• Do not need to have an earth connection.
• Must not be damaged.
Effects of shock.
The initial effect of an electrical shock would be pain, with possible electrical burns.
The current flowing through the body would cause the muscles to contract often
causing the victim to grip tighter on the live conductor. In severe cases this would be
followed by unconsciousness and convulsions. Severe cases could lead to breathing
stopping and possibly death. There may be entrance and exit wound evidence and
evidence where the electricity has tracked under the skin.
Should a shock occur to a work colleague the first action would be to eliminate the
supply in a safe manner to prevent anyone else receiving a shock. You should send
for help and ensure the area is safe. You must ensure that any first aiders do not
receive an electric shock. Place the victim into s safe position ideally the recovery
position. With the victim in a safe position it is then possible to search for
entrance/exit wounds. The incident must be reported to RIDDOR by the quickest
practicable means and with the use of form F2508.
Permits & Controls.
• General entry point permits. This would only permit access to enter the area
only it does not cover electrical isolation.
• Electrical Isolation Certificate. This has its own status covers the electrical
isolation.
• Controls would include:
Earthing
Bonding.
Earthing.
The electricity supply company has one of its conductors solidly connected to the earth
and every circuit supplied by the company must have one of its conductors connected to
earth. This means that if there is a fault, such as a break in the circuit, the current, known
as the earth fault current will return directly to earth, which forms the circuit of least
resistance, thus maintaining the supply circuit. This process is known as Earthing.
Bonding.
Where other potential metallic conductors exist near to electrical conductors in a
building, they must be connected to the main earth terminal to ensure equipotential
bonding of all conductors to earth. This applies to gas, water and central heating pipes
and other devices such as lighting protection systems. Supplementary bonding is required
Fire prevention and fire precautions are both linked by Fire risk assessment and controls.
The appropriate legislation would be The Regulatory Reforms Fire Safety Order.
The Fire
Triangle
OXYGEN IGNITION
Always present in air SOURCE
Additional sources from Hot Surfaces
Oxidising substances. Electrical Equipment
Static Electricity
Smoking/Naked flame
Principles of Combustion.
• Oxygen, fuel and an ignition source all need to be present for fire. The strategy in
the event of a fire is to remove some or all of the items and therefore interfere
with the combustion process.
Examples would be:-
• To remove Heat – Cool.
• To remove Oxygen – Smother.
• To remove Fuel – Starve.
Methods of Extinguishing.
• Starvation (Removal of Fuel).
• Smother (Removal of Oxygen).
• Cooling (Interfering chemically with the combustion process).
Sources of Ignition.
• Naked flames.
• External sparks.
• Internal sparks.
• Hot surfaces.
There would also be an Arson potential. The remedy to limit the arson potential would be
to employ security etc and to improve management controls.
Precautions.
• Warning Signs.
• Hot Work Permits.
• Earth Bonding.
• Prohibit Smoking.
• Safe Systems of Work.
• Authorised Competent operatives.
Sources of Fuel.
• Solids: Wood, paper, cardboard, plastics, rubber, foam, textiles, wall paper,
hardboard.
• Liquids: Paints, varnishes, thinners, adhesives, petrol, white spirits, paraffin,
acetone, vapours.
• Gases: Vapours usually heavier than air (fall to lower levels) and catch fire in the
correct concentration with air. This is called flash flame.
• Gases: Flammable include LPG (liquid petroleum gas) in cylinders usually
Butane, Propane, Acetylene (used for welding), hydrogen.
An explosion can occur if the air/gas mixture is within the explosive range.
Oxygen in Air.
Oxygen in air is enhanced by:-
• Natural or powered ventilation systems.
• Cylinders providing oxygen.
• Nitrates, chlorates, Chromates and Peroxides release oxygen as they burn i.e. they
are oxidising.
Static Electricity.
Static electricity is a potential source of ignition and comes in a variety of forms.
Lightening is a natural form of static electricity. High voltage static sparks can be emitted
from materials separation:-
• Unwinding plastic.
Fire Terminology.
The following terminology must be known for the exam:
Flash Point – A vapour or gas capable of being ignited momentarily by an outside source
but will go out as there is insufficient vapour or gas being evolved to continue.
Fire Point - Further heat is applied when more vapour/gas evolves and enough to sustain
a flame when ignited.
Auto Ignition – further heat is applied and fuel will now ignite without external source,
this is known as self ignition. (an example would be spontaneous combustion of hay).
Upper and Lower Flammable Limits – These are the richest and weakest concentrations
of flammable gas or vapours which when mixed with air are capable of ignition and
flame propagation.
Flammable Range.
• Between upper & lower flammable limits increases as the temperature increases.
• Within this range, no flame is required as the fuel could auto ignite.
Classes of Fire.
• A, B, C, D and Electrical sources.
• There are extinguishing agents for each class of fire.
Additionally therefore you must consider:-
• Dry powder and foam for gases or liquefied gases.
• Dry sand and special powders (graphite or soda ash) for metal fires.
• F-class fires are concerned with fat frying. F-class extinguishers are denoted by a
yellow patch on the extinguisher.
Class A – fires which involve solid materials such as wood, paper, cardboard, textiles,
furniture and plastics where there are normally glowing embers during combustion. Such
fires are extinguished by cooling which is achieved using water.
Class B – fires which involve liquids or liquefied solids such as paints, oils or fats. These
can be further subdivided into:
Class B1 – fires which involve liquids that are soluble in water such as methanol. They
can be extinguished by Carbon Dioxide, dry powder, water spray, light water and
vaporizing liquids.
Class B2 – fires which involve liquids not soluble in water such as petrol and oil. They
can be extinguished by using foam, carbon dioxide, dry powder, light water and
vaporizing liquid.
Class C – fires which involve gases such as natural gas or liquefied gases such as butane
or propane. They can be extinguished using foam or dry powder in conjunction with
water to cool any containers involved or nearby.
Class D – Fires which involve metals such as aluminium or magnesium. Special dry
powder extinguishers are required to extinguish these fires which may contain powdered
graphite or talc.
Class F – fires which involve high temperature cooking oils or fats in large catering
establishments or restaurants.
Electrical fires – fires involving electrical equipment or circuitry do not constitute a fire
class of their own, as electricity is a source of ignition that will feed a fire until switched
off or isolated. But there are some pieces of equipment that can store, within capacitors,
lethal voltages even when isolated. Extinguishers specifically designed for electrical use,
like carbon dioxide or dry powder should always be used for this type of fire hazard.
Types of extinguisher.
It is important not to mis-interpret types of extinguisher with classes of extinguisher.
Class of extinguisher would include water, powder, CO2 etc. The following are types of
extinguisher of which there are two forms, fixed and portable.
Fixed include:-
• Inert Gases.
• Sprinkler Systems.
• Fire Curtains.
• Atrium Systems.
Portable include:-
• Fire Blankets.
• Hose Reels.
• Hand Held Extinguishers.
• Fire Buckets (sand).
Main Hazards.
• Oxygen depletion.
Fire Drills.
Fire drills are often held as they satisfy a legal requirement and also form part of Fire
certification specification compliance procedures. They are vital in assessing an
organisations effectiveness of Emergency Evacuation procedures. A fire drill will also
assist with employee familiarisation of fire alarm procedures, escape routes and assembly
points. Fire wardens will also benefit from regular fire drills as they get a chance to
practice their duties to enable them to hone their skills prior to a real emergency.
Provisions must be made during fire drills for disabled persons and visitors on site during
the drill.
................................................................................................................................................
Possible Question:
What precautions should be taken for the safety of disabled persons should fire break
out?
• Integral to escape procedure.
Fire Precautions.
You must have a suitable fire detection and warning system. This can range from a
shouted warning to a comprehensive electrical detection and warning system.
Whatever system you have it must be able to adequately warn people in all
circumstances.
As a rule of thumb you should have one extinguisher for every 200m2 of floor space with
a minimum of one per floor.