Browns Builders Merchants - JPD Contracts and Risk Assessments - 2007.pdf · Stair climbing (powered) trucks are used to raise appliances up staircases if lifts are not available

Risk Assessments

Contents Introduction to Risk Assessment Risk and Young Persons Appliance Movements...................................................................................... RA-01 Lone Working ................................................................................................. RA-02 Office Duties ....................................................................................................RA-03 Appliance Installations .................................................................................... RA-04 Waste Disposal.................................................................................................RA-05 Tools and Equipment ...................................................................................... RA-06 Blank Site Specific Assessment – Page 2 How to Undertake a Simple Fire Risk Assessment Blank Fire Risk Assessment

DERWENT SAFETY CENTRE LIMITED

INTRODUCTION TO RISK ASSESSMENT

Employers and the self-employed must identify the hazards involved with their work, assess thelikelihood of any harm arising and decide on adequate precautions. This process is called riskassessment and is central to all planning for health and safety.

How is a risk assessment carried out?

A risk assessment can be done in five steps:

STEP 1: Looking for the hazards. Consider the job, how it will be done, where it will be done andwhat equipment, materials, and substances are used.

What are the hazards which could cause harm?

Here are some examples which are regular causes of serious and fatal accidents or ill health:

< falling from steps, openings or through fragile materials eg. plasterboard or loose floorboards;

< being struck by vehicles/plant eg. Mobile Elevating Work Platforms or ‘White van driver’

< crushing or asphyxiation eg. collapse of an excavation or work in a confined space;

< work with hazardous materials, eg. lead, asbestos, fibre glass or solvent based products whichcan cause health problems;

< dust and fume eg. from chasing, welding, drilling and grinding operations.

STEP 2: Decide who might be harmed and how. Think about employees, the self employed,employees of other companies working on the job, site visitors and members of the public who mightbe in the area or outside the site.

Safe working often depends on co-operation between firms. Consider how they need to be taken intoaccount in the assessment. Identify problems the work may cause for others at the site, or problems theymay cause for those doing the work and agree necessary precautions. Tell the Principal Contractor orwhoever is controlling the site what has been agreed.

STEP 3: Evaluate the risks and decide on action. This means considering if somebody is likely tobe harmed. Where there is a risk of harm consider:

First: Can the hazard be removed completely?

Could the job be done in another way or by using a different, less hazardous,material?

If it can, change the job or process to eliminate the risk.

Example:

Employees were lifting concrete lintols into place by hand. The lintols were heavy andthere was a risk that:

the workers would suffer strain injuries; and

the lintols would be dropped and injure someone.

By using mechanical handling equipment these risks were eliminated.

Second: If the risk cannot be eliminated, can it be controlled?

Example:

While it may be necessary to apply a solvent based material, the exposure of workers tohazardous vapours may be reduced by applying it by brush or roller rather than byspraying. If not, more needs to be done.

Third: Can protective measures be taken which will protect the whole workforce?

Example:

To prevent falls, guard rails at edges provide safety for everyone in the area.

Secured harnesses only provide safety for those wearing them and then only after a fallhas taken place. They are the second best option.

Personal Protective Equipment should only be used a last resort.

STEP 4: Record the findings. Employers with five or more employees should record the significantfindings of their assessment as an aid to controlling hazards and risks. Managers and Supervisorsshould pass on information about significant risks and the steps they have taken to control the risks tooperatives, even when there are less than five people on site.

STEP 5: Review the findings. Reviews are important. They take account of unusual conditions onsome sites and changes in the way the job is done. Reviews allow lessons learned from experience tobe taken into account. A new assessment is not always needed for every job, but if there are majorchanges a new assessment will be needed. In other cases only the Principal Contractor will be in aposition to do a full assessment. For example, it may be the potential interaction of two or morecontractors that leads to increased risk. In such cases the Principal Contractor may take the lead.

There are no fixed rules about how a risk assessment should be undertaken or in what format thesignificant findings should be recorded, however Derwent Safety Centre have devised a form to recordthe findings. A selection of ‘generic’ risk assessments have been prepared which cover the company’score activities. Circumstances will vary from contract to contract and Managers should review theassessments and modify them accordingly to suit the work and workplace.

In some cases, especially for unusual or particularly hazardous activities, a Safety Method Statementmay need to be drawn up to take account of risks identified by the assessment.

NOTES ON COMPLETION OF THERISK ASSESSMENT FORM

Using Risk Factors to Evaluate Risk

Assessment. Assessment of a risk involves the rating of two factors which affect the risk:

1. The likelihood of an occurrence of harm.

2. The severity of injury likely to be sustained if the hazard was to be realised.

The scales for each factor are as follows:

Likelihood of Occurrence Rating

5 = Likely4 = Probable3 = Possible2 = Remote1 = Improbable

Severity of Injury Rating

4 = Death3 = Major Injury / Permanent Disability (eg. off work for over 3 days)2 = Minor Injury (eg. off work for up to 3 days)1 = No Injury

The risk can be evaluated by multiplying the severity factor by the likelihood factor in order to expressit in a manner which shows the significance of the risk compared with other risks from the activity.

For example, the likely chance (5) of major injury (3) from a given hazard (5 x 3 = 15) when appliedto the matrix on the risk assessment form would indicate a high risk activity, and would be evaluatedas more significant than a remote (2) minor injury (2) resulting from another hazard (2 x 2 = 4). Thisvalue may be termed the risk rating.

Re-Assessment. Control measures must be introduced to reduce the risk rating to as low as isreasonably practicable and then reassessed with the proposed control measures in place.

Site Specific Assessment. In addition to the ‘generic’ risk assessments, the Blank Site SpecificAssessment allows the assessor to re-assess any given work activity to address site specific issues.Completion of this ‘site specific’ assessment will ensure that the assessment is appropriate andcomplete.

RISK AND YOUNG PERSONS

Supplementary notes to assist Managers and Supervisors when assessing the likely risk(s) to youngpersons.

A ‘young person’ for the purpose of these notes only, is someone over 16 years of age, or one who hasofficially left school, and is under 18 years of age.

In determining if any additional controls are required due to the potential inexperience of new startersand young persons, the following notes should be read in conjunction with any existing standard/genericrisks assessments:

Remember: the less experience the more likely an accident

Age alone should not exclude the ‘young person’ from undertaking various tasks and considerationmust be given to take account of their psychological state, physical abilities and experience to date.

A few Do’s and Don’ts are as follows:

Do not allow:

! work from height;

! the use of powered tools unless directly supervised;

! large, heavy objects (eg loads > 15 kg) to be handled;

! the assembly of access towers/equipment unless activities can be undertaken whilst standing onthe ground;

! working time to exceed 8 hours per day or 40 hours per week.

Do Always ensure:

! verbal and written instruction are given regarding:

< the need to be observant when walking around to avoid slip and trip hazards;< health risks, however slight, from the use or exposure to any hazardous substances;

! rest (tea and lunch) breaks are taken;

! appropriate personal protective equipment is worn.

Never allow:

! exposure to toxic or carcinogenic substances;

! work within or near noise levels which exceed 80 dB(A) without suitable ear protection beingworn;

! work where extreme cold or heat is likely to be detrimental to their health;

! young persons to be close to or exposed to ionising radiation;

! work with lead;

! access into a ‘confined space’;

! work on or near live equipment, ie electrical equipment, which could give rise to the risk ofdanger.

If you are in any doubt as to the likelihood of a risk or if you have difficulty in quantifying risk, pleaseseek further advice.

Likelihood Severity

Likely (5)

Probable (4)

Possible (3)

Remote (2)

Improbable (1)

Death (4) 20 16 12 8 4

Major Injury / Permanent Disability (3) 15 12 9 6 3

Minor Injury (2) 10 8 6 4 2

No Injury (1) 5 4 3 2 1

Prohibitive Risk High Risk Medium Risk Low Risk

Contract: Contract No: Assessment No: RA-01

Description of Task/Work Activity: Appliance Movements – Loading/Unloading

Desk Top Assessment By: Derwent Safety Centre Ltd Assessment Authorised By:

Persons Exposed to Risk: Employees Date: February 2007

Assessment Re-Assessment Hazard Risk

S L R Control Measures to Reduce Risk

S L R

Person Responsible to ensure controls are in place/used

Large and bulky appliances.

Sprain/strain injury.

3

4

12

Wherever possible, position the vehicle to enable the tailboard to be adjacent to doorway and at waist height if the items are to be loaded/unloaded manually. Use trolley provided to transport/move appliances from vehicle to dwellings. Weight of appliance marked on packaging and delivery note/job sheet. Individuals are not to attempt to lift loads greater than 25 kg without assistance. Two persons are required to lift heavy loads onto/into vehicles without powered tail lifts.

3

3

9

Managing Director. Warehouse Supervisor Route/Planner. Fitters. Warehouse Operators.

RISK ASSESSMENT

Assessment Legend: S: Severity of Injury L: Likelihood of Occurrence R: Risk Rating (see matrix above). RA-01 - Appliance Movements Page 1 of 2

Assessment Legend: S: Severity of Injury L: Likelihood of Occurrence R: Risk Rating (see matrix above). RA-01 - Appliance Movements Page 2 of 2



S L R


Installation above ground floor levels requires second person to assist. Stair climbing (powered) trucks are used to raise appliances up staircases if lifts are not available in flats/apartments. Loading at depot by Fork Lift Truck. Where available, hand holds in packaging to be used. Safety gloves and boots to be worn when moving appliances.

Likelihood Severity

Likely (5)

Probable (4)

Possible (3)

Remote (2)

Improbable (1)

Death (4) 20 16 12 8 4



No Injury (1) 5 4 3 2 1



Description of Task/Work Activity: Lone Working/Driving





S L R


Lone Working.

Injury sustained without immediate assistance available – Physical Attack.

4

3

12

Where practicable, lone working is avoided by deploying two man teams, if necessary, and by assistance being available at delivery/installation sites. Customer names, addresses and locations are known. All vehicles carry fire extinguishers and first aid kit. Fitters/driver must report to management on arrival and prior to departure. Delivery notes/worksheets are handed in at the end of each day.

4

2

8


RISK ASSESSMENT

Assessment Legend: S: Severity of Injury L: Likelihood of Occurrence R: Risk Rating (see matrix above). RA-02 - Lone Working Page 1 of 2

Assessment Legend: S: Severity of Injury L: Likelihood of Occurrence R: Risk Rating (see matrix above). RA-02 - Lone Working Page 2 of 2



S L R


Advice is to avoid any confrontation and always maintain clear space between yourself and the other persons. Do not attempt to subdue assailant. Summon assistance where possible.

Fatigue or vehicle failure.

Road traffic accident.

4

3

12

Workload scheduled to minimise driving hours. Employees advised to stop if they feel tired in any way. Competent experienced drivers only in company vehicles. Vehicles maintained regularly. Vehicles are covered by breakdown/recovery services.

3

2

6

Warehouse Supervisor Route/Planner.

Likelihood Severity

Likely (5)

Probable (4)

Possible (3)

Remote (2)

Improbable (1)

Death (4) 20 16 12 8 4



No Injury (1) 5 4 3 2 1



Description of Task/Work Activity: Office Duties


Persons Exposed to Risk: Employees and Visitors Date: February 2007



S L R


Fire.

Damage to property; injury to personnel.

4

3

12

Employees are responsible for following procedures laid down in the company fire safety risk assessment.

4

2

8

Operations Manager. Office Staff.

Slips, trips and falls.

Injury to personnel.

2

4

8

Cables should not cross walkways, unless covered by a suitable cable protector. All work areas should be adequately illuminated; hand rails to be provided on stairways. Walkways to be kept clear of obstructions. Ensure floor covering is secured adequately, particularly in walkways and in doorways.

2

2

4


RISK ASSESSMENT

Assessment Legend: S: Severity of Injury L: Likelihood of Occurrence R: Risk Rating (see matrix above). RA-03 - Office Duties Page 1 of 2

Assessment Legend: S: Severity of Injury L: Likelihood of Occurrence R: Risk Rating (see matrix above). RA-03 - Office Duties Page 2 of 2



S L R


Hot water from kettle.

Scalding.

3

2

6

Kitchen floors and work surfaces to be kept clean and dry. Spillages to be cleared up straight away. Where this is not possible, signs to be displayed and spillages cleared as soon as is practicable.

2

2

4

Office Staff.

Lifting heavy items of equipment.

Sprain/strain.

2

3

6

Manual handling to be avoided wherever possible. Tasks with specific hazards will require an individual assessment, as required. Break down loads into smaller loads where possible, eg lift only one ream of paper at a time. Do not stretch to reach files or other large objects.

2

2

4

Operations Manager. Warehouse Supervisor Route/Planner. Office Staff.

Display Screen Equipment.

Injury and ill health to users.

3

3

9

See separate DSE assessment for additional controls. Work loads will be divided into shorter durations to allow a change/rest from continual keyboard input. Laptops should not be used for continual use/inputting to minimise poor postural positioning due to screen height and keyboard spacing restrictions.

2

2

4


Likelihood Severity

Likely (5)

Probable (4)

Possible (3)

Remote (2)

Improbable (1)

Death (4) 20 16 12 8 4



No Injury (1) 5 4 3 2 1



Description of Task/Work Activity: Appliance Installations


Persons Exposed to Risk: Fitters Date: February 2007



S L R


Electricity/Live cables.

Electric shock, burns, fire.

4

3

12

Management to programme work so that only one trade is in the dwelling at one time, where reasonably practicable. All Fitters to receive specific training and information regarding the connection of electric appliances. Documentary evidence to be provided to customer pre-contract. Electrical test instrumentation is carried on all vehicles and continuity and earth tests are carried out on appliance supply. Connections only on DEAD/Isolated services. Control measures continued overleaf …

2

2

4

Managing Director. Operations Manager. Warehouse Supervisor Route/Planner. Fitters.

RISK ASSESSMENT

Assessment Legend: S: Severity of Injury L: Likelihood of Occurrence R: Risk Rating (see matrix above). RA-04 - Appliance Installations Page 1 of 4




S L R


Appliances/tools checked regularly to ensure they are safe to use. Battery operated tools are used wherever possible, or 110v equipment supplied by suitable transformer. Charger units only used if backed by Residual Current Device @ 30 mA setting.

Gas connection.

Explosion/asphyxiation.

4

3

12

Management to programme work so that only one trade is in the dwelling at one time, where reasonably practicable. All fitters required to work with gas are competent and Corgi registered (Domestic) gas installers. Documentary evidence is carried by fitters and provided to customer pre-contract. Gas pressure is checked to ensure ‘soundness’ following any connection to supply. No smoking or naked lights are allowed during testing and Tungsten Halogen lighting is not allowed to be used by Fitters as temporary lighting.

4

2

8

Managing Director. Operations Manager. Warehouse Supervisor Route/Planner. Fitters.

Braising/soldering fumes.

Respiratory damage.

3

4

12

Minimal “hot work”. Preferred method of jointing is compression fittings. Soldering under worktops or within enclosed spaces will require respiratory protective equipment to be worn. See also COSHH Assessment.

3

2

6

Fitters.




S L R


Other Vehicles/Plant; uneven ground.

Struck by vehicle, slips/trips.

4

3

12

All Fitters are required to wear safety helmets, safety shoes or boots and hi-visibility vests when moving around on site. Vehicles to be positioned close to dwelling to restrict/reduce likelihood of other vehicles striking persons when loading or unloading appliances. Paths and walkways should be level and firm.

4

2

8

Fitters.

Heavy loads/Equipment.

Muscle strain/sprains.

3

4

12

Refer to Risk Assessment No. RA-01 “Appliance Loading/Unloading”.

3

3

9


Hot works/Fire.

Burns to individuals (eg. Soldering operations; fire).

3

3

9

Fitters will obtain permission (and permits when required) from site management prior to any hot work being undertaken. A suitable dry powder fire extinguisher will be sited adjacent to work during any hot work. Hot work will cease not less than 30 minutes prior to departure from site. First aid kits to carry treatment packs for burns. Access/egress routes are known should the dwelling need to be evacuated in an emergency.

3

2

6

Warehouse Supervisor Route/Planner. Fitters. Warehouse Operators.




S L R


Work at Height.

Falls

4

4

16

No work undertaken above ground floor. If “hop up” or other equipment is required to facilitate a safe platform, the Supervisor should be contacted to prepare/assess risk.

4

1

4


Likelihood Severity

Likely (5)

Probable (4)

Possible (3)

Remote (2)

Improbable (1)

Death (4) 20 16 12 8 4



No Injury (1) 5 4 3 2 1



Description of Task/Work Activity: Waste Disposal


Persons Exposed to Risk: Employees/Others. Date: February 2007



S L R


Waste materials.

Environmental pollution/contamination.

3

3

9

All packaging material is returned from site and placed in the compactor/skip away from buildings. Skips are covered to prevent ingress of water and malicious ignition by others. Fire extinguishers are available during working hours. Food waste is bagged and not left out.

3

2

6

Operations Manager. Warehouse Supervisor Route/Planner.

RISK ASSESSMENT

Assessment Legend: S: Severity of Injury L: Likelihood of Occurrence R: Risk Rating (see matrix above). RA-05 - Waste Disposal Page 1 of 2

Assessment Legend: S: Severity of Injury L: Likelihood of Occurrence R: Risk Rating (see matrix above). RA-05 - Waste Disposal Page 2 of 2



S L R


Compactor.

Entrapment/crushing.

4

3

12

Only trained persons allowed to compact waste. Compactor checked/maintained on regular basis. Machine is guarded and fitted with emergency stop button.

4

2

8

Operations Manager. Warehouse Supervisor Route/Planner.

Likelihood Severity

Likely (5)

Probable (4)

Possible (3)

Remote (2)

Improbable (1)

Death (4) 20 16 12 8 4



No Injury (1) 5 4 3 2 1



Description of Task/Work Activity: Tools and Equipment.





S L R


Incorrect tools and equipment for task(s), eg: Screwdrivers with split handles or damaged/worn blades. Files with loose or missing handles.

Eye injuries from flying pieces of tool or materials. General cuts and bruises. Musculoskeletal injuries from jarring caused by sudden failure of a tool.

3

2

2

3

4

3

9

8

6

Management to ensure that all users have received proper training in their storage, use, sharpening and general care. Tools should be kept clean and free from defects, eg. excess of oil/grease. Management will check the condition of tools and equipment at regular intervals. (The frequency of checks will be based on the conditions to which the tools will have been exposed and the previous experience of the user/s). Records to be maintained. Control measures continued overleaf …

2

2

2

2

2

2

4

4

4

Managing Director. Operations Manager. Warehouse Supervisor Route/Planner. Operatives.

RISK ASSESSMENT

Assessment Legend: S: Severity of Injury L: Likelihood of Occurrence R: Risk Rating (see matrix above). RA-06 - Tools and Equipment Page 1 of 3




S L R


Screwdrivers and chisels should never be used as pry bars. Files should never be used without a correctly fitting handle. Damaged tools should be repaired or replaced.

Blunt cutting tools. And knives.

Cuts.

2

4

8

Sharp edges of tools should be protected when stored or carried, and cutting edges should be kept sharp. Safety knives only are to be used to open packaging.

2

2

4

Operatives.

Vibration from Battery drill/ tools.

Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome/VWF.

3

3

9

Tools are maintained in good order. Vibration level < 8m/s2 (Makita 8444D) drill. Trigger time limited to 15 – 30 minutes maximum per day. Regular breaks are taken between task(s) to allow recovery. 110v drill used during core drilling 100 mm diameter holes limited to maximum one hole per day, unless no other drilling undertaken, then maximum three.

2

1

2

Operations Manager. Warehouse Supervisor Route/Planner. Operatives

Flying particles/dusts.

Eye injury.

2

4

8

Eye protection will be worn when using any powered tools. Guards fitted and used at all times where relevant.

2

2

4

Operatives.




S L R


Noise. (86 – 89dB)

Noise induced hearing damage.

3

4

12

Tools maintained in good order. Normal use limits operator to maximum one hour exposure time to maintain LEP,d below 80 db(A). Ear protection provided and operatives instructed on benefits of continual use of protection.

3

2

6

Operations Manager. Warehouse Supervisor Route/Planner. Operatives

General: Hand-tools will be inspected before use. Tools will be kept clean and clear of grease. The correct tool will be selected for the job and

returned to the toolbox when not in use. Damaged tools will be disposed of. Appropriate personal protective equipment will

be worn e.g. eye protection and gloves.

SITE/LOCATION …………………………… SITE SPECIFIC ASSESSMENT GENERIC ASSESSMENT NO: ……….

On each site and each location, the generic assessment must be reviewed to ensure that all significant hazards and their risks are identified and controlled.Completion of this ‘site specific’ section will ensure that the assessment is appropriate and relevant to the specific project.

Maximum Number of People Involved in Activity: ……………………….

Any Additional Specific Hazards Identified over and above those detailed in the generic assessment.

State Additional Control Measures Required:

Quantify Risk: (S) Severity of Injury x (L) Likelihood of Occurrence = Risk i.e. Low, Medium or High.

Is there a Serious or Imminent Danger Identified: Yes / No

Detail what Action is to be Taken in an Emergency:

Name(s) of Competent Person(s) Appointed to Take Action:

Risk Assessment/Method Statement informed and distributed to:

Employees □ Site Manager □ Other (state) □Subcontractor □ Client □

Signed by Person Responsible for Safety: Print Name: Date and Time:

Prepared by Derwent Safety Centre - 1 -

HOW TO UNDERTAKE A SIMPLE FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT An Introduction to the Law The legal requirements originally derived from The Fire Precautions (Workplace) Regulations 1997 as amended 1999 and the Fire Precautions Act 1971, and more generally under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999. However, in an aim to simplify, rationalise and consolidate the existing fire safety legislation, the Fire Precautions (Workplace) Regulations 1997 as amended 1999 and the Fire Precautions Act 1971 are to be superseded by The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 which became law on the 1st October 2006. The main effect of the changes will be a move towards greater emphasis on fire prevention in all non-domestic premises, including the voluntary sector and self-employed people with premises separate from their homes, and the provision for a risk-based approach to fire safety. From 1st October 2006 occupiers of premises designated under the Fire Precautions Act 1971 will no longer need to apply for a Fire Certificate. The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 will apply in England and Wales. Northern Ireland and Scotland will have their own laws. Enforcement of The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 is the responsibility of the fire authority although some cross over of enforcement occurs under the Management Regulations with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). Fire precautions legislation deals with general fire precautions. These include:

• means of detection and giving warning in case of fire;

• the provision of means of escape; • means of fighting fire; and

• the training of staff in fire safety.

Responsibility for complying with the Fire Safety Order will rest with the ‘responsible person’. In a workplace, this is the employer and any other person who may have control of any part of the premises, e.g. the occupier or owner. In all other premises the person or people in control of the premises will be responsible. If there is more than one responsible person in any type of premises, all must take all reasonable steps to work with each other. The ‘responsible person’ will have to carry out a fire risk assessment, which must focus on the safety in case of fire of all ‘relevant persons’. The fire risk assessment will help identify risks that can be removed or reduced and assist in the decision of the nature and extent of the general fire precautions that will need to be taken to protect people against the fire risks that remain. If five or more people are employed, the significant findings of the assessment must be recorded.


The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 cover the provision of fire precautions which are intended to prevent the outbreak of a fire or minimise the consequences should one occur. Matters falling within the scope of the Act include the storage of flammable materials, the control of flammable vapours, standards of housekeeping, safe systems of work, the control of sources of ignition and the provision of appropriate training. Inspectors from the HSE or the local authority Environmental Health Officer enforce these precautions. The Fire Safety Order and the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 require you to:

• carry out a fire risk assessment of your workplace (you must consider all your employees and all other people who may be affected by a fire in the workplace and you are required to make adequate provision for any disabled people with special needs who use or may be present at your premises);

• identify the significant findings of the risk assessment and the details of anyone who might

be especially at risk in the case of fire (these must be recorded if you employ more than five people);

• provide and maintain such fire precautions as are necessary to safeguard those who use your

workplace; and • provide information, instruction and training to your employees about the fire precautions in

your workplace. The risk assessment will help you decide the nature and extent of the fire precautions that you need to provide. There are six other legal duties you need to know;

• Where it is necessary to safeguard the safety of your employees, you must formulate an emergency plan and nominate people to undertake any special roles that are required under the plan (you can nominate yourself for this purpose).

• You must consult your employees (or their elected representatives or appointed trade union

safety representatives) about the nomination of people to carry out particular roles in connection with fire safety and about proposals for improving your fire precautions.

• You must inform other employers who also have workplaces in the building of any

significant risks you found which might affect the safety of their employees - and co-operate with them about the measures proposed to reduce/control those risks.

• If you are not an employer but have any control of premises which contain more than one

workplace, you are also responsible for ensuring that the requirements of the Fire Safety Order are complied with in those parts you have control over.

• You must establish a suitable means of contacting the emergency services, and ensure that

they can be called easily.


• The law requires your employees to co-operate with you to ensure the workplace is safe from fire and its effects, and not to do anything that will place themselves or other people at risk.

Fire Risk Assessment In carrying out the fire risk assessment it may be helpful to consider the five main factors that should be considered:

• People: their number, location, age and state of mind. • Use of the buildings: the nature of the work that is being undertaken and the materials

involved. • Furnishings: the type and nature of the furniture, curtains, carpets etc that are present. • Finishes: the presence of surface finishes which could cause the rapid build up of heat and

smoke. • Structures: the presence of unsatisfactory structural features.

Escape routes, fire protection equipment and emergency lighting will require direct management action to ensure that the escape routes are always available for immediate use whenever people are at work in a building and to keep fire protection equipment serviced and maintained so that it will work efficiently when required. Staff also need to react correctly and efficiently in an emergency and thus staff training is an essential requirement to control the risk. A Fire Warden may be appointed to ensure systems and procedures are effective and equipment is maintained in good order. In some businesses the only emergency plan produced is the fire action notice that is displayed next to the fire extinguishers or call points. In most businesses, however, a more far-reaching plan is needed, not only to ensure that all staff escapes from a fire without injury, but also to ensure that damage to property is kept to a minimum and that the business can reopen with the minimum of down time. Planning for emergencies is also a legal requirement under the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999. The purpose of a risk assessment is not to quantify the risks that are present in the workplace but to:

• eliminate; • control; • avoid; • transfer/reduce the risk.

Quantifying The Fire Hazard and the Fire Risk First we classify the fire hazards (F/H) by describing them as being between negligible and very severe, and by assigning a numerical value to each description. Similarly, we may classify the fire risks (F/R) by describing them as being between unlikely to very likely, and by assigning a numerical value, to each of these descriptions. A typical classification table is shown in Figure 1 below.

FIRE HAZARD FIRE RISK

DESCRIPTION VALUE (F/H) DESCRIPTION VALUE

(F/R) Negligible 1 Unlikely 1 Slight 2 Possible 2 Moderate 3 Quite Possible 3 Severe 4 Likely 4 Very Severe 5 Very Likely 5

Figure 1 In using this method to perform a fire risk assessment, one decides the values of both F/H and F/R that best fit the circumstances in the area being assessed. It is important to realise that in using this method we assign values to F/H and F/R for the area as a whole. A formula for the risk factor Remembering that the two elements of risk are the fire hazard and the fire risk, it would be reasonable to define something that we shall call the Risk Factor, R, by the simple formula: R = F/H x F/R If we apply the risk factor formula to all possible combinations of fire hazard values and fire risk values we obtain a set of 25 numbers – the risk factors – which could then be displayed as a two-dimensional grid which we could call a Risk Factor Matrix. An example of such a five by five matrix is shown in Figure 2 below, and is included on the Fire Risk Assessment Record Form. FIRE HAZARD VALUE

5 4 3 2


1

5 25 20 15 10 5

4 20 16 12 8

Risk Category High Normal Low Figure 2

4

3 15 12 9 6 3

2 10 8 6 4 2

FIR

E R

ISK

VA

LU

E

1 5 4 3 2 1


The final task is to decide the ranges of the risk factors that will correspond to the three categories of risk. On the assumption that the majority of workplaces would be of normal risk, with very few of low risk, and perhaps slightly more of high risk, one could, for this 5 x 5 matrix, arbitrarily assign low risk to risk factor values of 1-2, normal risk to values of 3-15, and high risk to values of 16-25. The risk factor values assigned to each risk category have to be considered separately for each form of matrix. The various levels of severity of the fire hazard, negligible, slight etc, could, more specifically, be quantified in terms of the degree of harm to people, the duration of business interruption, the amount of financial loss or the extent of property damage. Examples of how this may be done are shown in Figures 3 to 6.


SEVERITY HARM CAUSED

Negligible Minor bruises/discomfort

Slight Some minor injuries

Moderate Many minor injuries

Severe Some major injuries

Very Severe Many major injuries and fewer than five deaths Figure 3 – Severity of the fire hazard in terms of harm to people SEVERITY DURATION OF INTERRUPTION

Negligible A few hours

Slight One day

Moderate One week

Severe One month

Very Severe Up to six months Figure 4 – Severity of the fire hazard in terms of business interruption SEVERITY FINANCIAL LOSS

Negligible £100 or less

Slight £101 to £500

Moderate £501 to £1000

Severe £1001 to £500 000

Very Severe £500 001 to £ 1 000 000 Figure 5 – Severity of the fire hazard in terms of financial loss SEVERITY DAMAGE/LOSS

Negligible Slight smoke damage

Slight Loss/damage to some equipment

Moderate Loss of one floor of building

Severe Whole building damaged

Very Severe Total loss of whole building Figure 6 – Severity of the fire hazard in terms of damage to or loss of property

THE SIX-STEP APPROACH TO ASSESSING THE RISK OF FIRE

THE SIX-STEP APPROACH TO ASSESSING THE RISK OF FIRE Answer all the questions in each stage below and record your answer either as Yes, No or Not Applicable. If your response is No to any question, then steps need to be taken to rectify the problem as soon as is practical. You will then need to formulate an action plan identifying the No answers and decide on who will do what and when

STEP 1:

No.

IDENTIFYING THE FIRE HAZARDS

Indicate Yes/No or Not Applicable

Y - N or N/A 1. Is there a system for controlling the amount of combustible materials and flammable

liquids and gases that are kept in the work place?

2. Is the system operating effectively?

3. Are all combustible materials and flammable liquids and gases stored safely?

4. Are all heaters fitted with suitable guards and fixed in position away from combustible materials?

5. Are all items of portable electrical equipment inspected regularly and fitted with correctly rated fuses?

6. Does a competent person inspect the wiring of the electrical installation periodically?

7. Is the use of extension leads and multi-point adapters kept to a minimum?

8. Are flexes run in safe places where they will not be damaged?

9. Is the upholstery of furniture in good order and does it meet current fire/smoke emission standards?

Step 6: Prepare an emergency plan.

Step 5: Record the findings and quantify the risk.

Step 4: Consider whether existing fire safety provisions are adequate or require improvement.

Step 3: Eliminate, control or reduce the fire hazards.

Step 2: Identify people who could be at risk.

Step 1: Identify all fire hazards ie. Sources of ignition, Combustible materials



10. Is the workplace free of rubbish and combustible waste materials?

11. Are “No Smoking – It is against the law to smoke in these premises” signs displayed?

12. Have suitable measures been taken to protect against the risk of arson?

13. Have measures been taken to ensure that smoke and flames cannot spread from one compartment within the building to another?

STEP 2

No.

IDENTIFYING PEOPLE WHO COULD BE AT RISK


Y - N or N/A

14. Is there a sufficient number of exits of suitable width for the people present?

15. Do the exits lead to a place of safety?

16. Are gangways and escape routes free from obstructions?

17. Is the escape route free from tripping and slipping hazards?

18. Are steps and stairs in a good state of repair?

19. Are final exits always unlocked when the premises are in use?

20. Are the devices securing final exits capable of being opened immediately and easily without the use of a key?

21. Are internal fire doors labelled as such and normally kept closed?

22. Are the self-closers on fire doors operating correctly?

23. Do the doors on escape routes open in the direction of travel?

24. Are all escape routes clearly signed?

25. Are all escape routes adequately lit?

26. Have plans been made and rehearsed regarding assisting disabled staff and visitors to evacuate the premises?


STEP 3

No.

ELIMINATE, CONTROL OR AVOID THE FIRE HAZARDS


Y - N or N/A

27. Do procedures and practices avoid the use of combustible materials or processes that use heat?

28. Has consideration been given to all cost-effective measures that could be taken to prevent the occurrence of arson?

29. Have staff been trained in how to call the fire brigade, the use of the fire extinguishers and basic fire prevention?

30. Have you asked your insurers for advice regarding the fire protection of your premises?

STEP 4

No.

CONSIDER WHETHER THE EXISTING FIRE SAFETY PROVISIONS ARE

ADEQUATE OR NEED IMPROVEMENT


Y - N or N/A

31. Where escape lighting is installed is it in working order and maintained regularly?

32. Is the fire alarm system in working order?

33. Is the fire alarm tested weekly?

34. Can the fire alarm be raised without placing anyone in danger?

35. Are the fire alarm call points clearly visible and unobstructed?

36. Are an adequate number of suitable fire extinguishers provided?

37. Are fire extinguishers and fire blankets located suitably and ready for use?

38. Are the fire extinguishers serviced annually by a competent company or person?

39. Is any fixed fire fighting installation or automatic fire detection system in working order?


STEP 5

No.

RECORD THE FINDINGS


Y - N or N/A

40. If you employ five or more people have you recorded the findings of the fire risk assessment?

41. Have you told your staff or their representatives about your findings?

42. If you have prepared a formal report has this been shown to your staff or their representatives?

43. If you share the workplace with others do they know about the risks that you have identified?

44. If you do not have direct control over the workplace have you made your findings known to the owner or landlord?

STEP 6

No.

PREPARE AN EMERGENCY PLAN


Y - N or N/A

45. Are fire action notices displayed prominently throughout the workplace?

46. Has an emergency plan been drawn up in case of a major fire?

47. Is a copy of the emergency plan kept other than at the workplace?

STEP 7

No.

CARRY OUT A PERIODIC REVIEW OF THE ASSESSMENT


Y - N or N/A

48. Has a procedure been established to review the fire risk assessment periodically?

Don’t forget: Fill in the Fire Risk Assessment Record form detailing your findings and the measures required to reduce or control the risk of fire. Its purpose is to provide clear guidance to all concerned on what needs to be done to both prevent a fire and minimise the risk to property and human life. Control measures could be that waste products are only stored in steel bins away from the building. It does not have to be complicated to work efficiently.

Assessment Legend: F/H: Potential Severity of Injury/Loss F/R: Likelihood of Fire Starting R: Risk Rating (see matrix above) Page 1 of 3

Fire Risk F/R Fire Hazard F/H

Very Likely

(5)

Likely

(4)

Quite Possible

(3)

Possible

(2)

Unlikely

(1)

Very Severe (5) 25 20 15 10 5

Severe (4) 20 16 12 8 4

Moderate (3) 15 12 9 6 3

Slight (2) 10 8 6 4 2

Negligible (1) 5 4 3 2 1

Risk Category High Normal Low

Description of Area(s) Assessed: Assessment Number:

Assessment By: Date Assessed:

Persons Exposed to Risk:

Assessment Fire Hazards Present Control Measures In Place to Reduce Risk of Fire F/H F/R R

Person(s) Responsible toensure controls are

implemented

FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT

RECORD




implemented




implemented

Documents

Browns Builders Merchants - JPD Contracts and Risk Assessments - 2007.pdf · Stair climbing (powered) trucks are used to raise appliances up staircases if lifts are not available