Reporting accidents

City of Glasgow College 1

CSCS 1 – General Responsibilities


Managing Health and Safety on Construction Sites…

• Is the responsibility of the Site Manager

• Health and Safety on site will be reinforced by:-

- Site Inductions (Explain the health and safety rules of the site)

- Toolbox Talks (Short training sessions on Health and Safety topics)

- The explanation of Risk Assessments and Method Statements

• However it is everyone's responsibility to work safely and report unsafe conditions on site

- The enforcement of Permit to Work Systems

- Health & Safety Policy (Highlights how Health and Safety is managed)


Site Induction

• When you first start on site you should always attend site induction - this is when the health and safety rules for the site will be explained

• If after time you feel that the safety rules for the site are out of date you should always speak to your supervisor about your concerns

• Remember, the Health and Safety policy on your site will help you to do your job safely

• If you do not understand anything the presenter has said you should always ask the presenter to repeat the point again


Risk Assessments & Method Statements

• By law Risk Assessments must be completed for all work activities

• The findings of a Risk Assessment will result in the production of a Method statement – this indicates the safest and correct way to do a job

• Risk Assessments help identify hazards in the workplace (anything at work that can harm you) and will show you how to do a job safely

• If you find that you cannot do a job in accordance with the Method Statement do not start work until you have spoken to your supervisor

• You do not have to prepare your own Risk Assessments


Permits to Work

• A Permit to Work will often be issued to workers during site induction

• If a job requires a permit you will not be allowed to start the job until the Permit to Work has been issued

• Permits to Work allow certain jobs to be carried out under controlled conditions

• If a Permit to Work expires before a job is finished you must stop work until the permit has been replaced


Basic Tips For Site Safety Include…

• Report all environmental incidents, accidents and near misses as soon as is practicable (This helps ensure that they will not happen again)

• Keep your work area clean and tidy (helps prevent slips, trips and falls)

• Ensure any work you do is in accordance with the Risk Assessments and Method Statements for the job

• Dispose of any rubbish in designated waste areas (helps prevent environmental incidents

• Always wear the appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)


Children on Construction Sites

• Particular attention must be paid to the possibility of children playing on construction sites

• If you find children playing on site you must make sure they are taken to a place of safety


Health and Safety at Work and The Law

• Guidance on Health and Safety in the workplace is primarily contained in the Health & Safety at Work Act 1974 (HASAWA)

• The Health & Safety at Work Act is important because:-

- It places legal duties on you as an employee (You must work safely)

• Adherence to the principles of the Act are overseen by Health and Safety Executive (HSE)

- It places legal duties on your employer ( employers must provide a safe place of work)

• The Health and Safety at Work Act places duties on all people at work


The Health and Safety Executive

• Health and Safety Executive Inspectors may inspect any site at any time without notice

• Health and Safety Executive Inspectors may issue:-

- Improvements Notices (this means you are not working in a safe way)

• If you are told that a Health and Safety Executive Inspector is on site you should always carry on working as normal unless you are asked to stop

- Prohibition Notices (all work subject to the notice must stop)


CSCS 2 – Accident Prevention & Reporting


Did you know…

• The construction industry accounts for more than a quarter of all work related deaths in the UK each year

• Over 4000 serious injuries occur in sites in the UK every year

• For these reasons, effective accident prevention and reporting procedures are essential

• The vast majority of death in the workplace involve falling from height

R.I.P.


Accidents In The Workplace

• Accidents in the workplace can be split into three main categories:

- Serious Accidents (Result in death or serious injury)

- Minor Accidents (Minor injuries, such as slips, trips and falls)

- Near misses (Incidents where someone could have been injured)

• Accidents and near misses should always be reported to your supervisor

• This enables us learn from them and ensure that they do not happen again


Accident Report Books…

• Must be filled in if you are injured in any way, no matter how minor

• Accident Report Books must only be filled in by you or by someone acting for you

• The following details should be recorded in the Accident Report Book:

- The date and time of the accident

- Details of the accident

- The address of the injured person


How Can You Prevent Accidents?

• Employees are most likely to have an accident in the workplace when they first start work on site. This is often because they are unaware of the health and safety rules or regulations

• Accidents may be avoided by ensuring that:

- you are fully aware of the safety rules on site (attend initial site induction and any subsequent toolbox talks)

- you are aware of the risk assessment for a task and understand the method statement to be used prior to completing a task


How Can You Prevent Accidents?

• Report any unsafe working conditions to your supervisor, even if another contractor is responsible

• Ensure that your working area is kept clean and tidy (Help prevent slips, trips and falls)

Watch for nails!


If You Witness An Accident…

• Tell any investigators exactly what you saw

If not you could be breaking the

law!


If You Are Involved In An Accident…

• If you are injured or feel ill in any way always report it to a first aider

• Make sure any cuts or lacerations are cleaned and treated by a first aider

• If not your hand could go from looking like this…

• To looking like this…


Accident Reporting And The Law

• Guidance on accident prevention and reporting are contained the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Reporting of Injuries, Disease and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR)

• These include accidents that result in:

- death/serious Injury (notify HSE immediately)

- more than 3 days off work (notify HSE within 10 days)

- Any occurrences of Weils Disease

• By Law some accidents must be reported to the Health & Safety Executive


CSCS 3 – Health and Welfare


Introduction

Workers may suffer from a variety of afflictions at work including :

• Occupational Asthma – a breathing disorder that affects the lungs

• Tetanus – an bacterial infection that affects the muscles in the body

• Skin Cancer – a skin disorder caused by prolonged exposure to direct sunlight

• Occupational Dermatitis – a skin disease

• Weils Disease – a disease caused by exposure to rat and cow urine

• And many more.....


Weils Disease (Leptospirosis)

• Is a disease that may be transmitted to people through rat and cow urine

• The early symptoms of Weils Disease include:

- Influenza ‘Flu’ like symptoms

- Persistent Headaches

- Persistent Vomiting

• In some circumstances, Weils Disease can be fatal…


• The following employees are at risk of contracting Weils Disease

- People working near waterways/riverbanks

- People working in or near sewer systems

- People working on sites where rats are present

• Remember, rats are attracted to food, so always put any food scraps in the bin – never throw them away!

Weils Disease – Who Is At Risk?


Preventing Weils Disease

• Make sure you wash your hands regularly, and always wash your hands before eating

• Dirty hands should only ever be cleaned with soap and water

• Remember, never clean your hands with white spirit or similar solvents

• Many chemicals can strip the natural oils from your skin. This may lead to Occupational Dermatitis


Occupational Dermatitis

• Is a skin disease caused by prolonged exposure to mineral oils, white spirit, strong chemicals and other hazardous substances

• Is most likely to occur on the hands and fingers

- Wearing protective gloves wherever possible

- Putting on barrier cream prior to starting work

• You should not just rely on barrier cream to protect your skin, as many harmful substances go straight through it

• May be avoided by:


Occupational Asthma

• Is a form of Lung Disease caused by breathing in dust, asbestos, pigeon droppings, silica dust etc. over a long period of time

• Never work in areas contaminated with pigeon droppings as exposure to droppings can result in a form of Lung Disease called Pigeon Lung


• If an area is contaminated, stop work and seek advice

- Wearing the correct Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE)


Tetanus

• Is a bacterial infection that affects the muscles in the body, particularly the muscles of the neck and jaw (sometimes called Lockjaw)

• Enters the body through deep cuts and puncture wounds

- Wearing protective gloves wherever possible

- Wearing safety footwear wherever possible

• Tetanus is often associated with wounds from rusty nails, however it is the puncture wound that results in the infection, not the rust on the nail!


- Regular anti-tetanus vaccination (10 years)


Skin Cancer

• Skin Cancer is a skin disorder caused by prolonged exposure to direct sunlight

• Construction workers who work outdoors a particularly at risk

- Keeping the skin covered up wherever possible, especially the ears and back of the neck

- Stay in the shade whenever possible, especially during breaks and lunches

• Skin Cancer may be avoided by:

- Wear high factor sunscreen when working on site


Drugs and Medication

• Any drugs you are taking for existing medical conditions may also affect your performance at work

• If you feel that medication will affect your performance always tell your supervisor

- The likely side effects of the medication

• If prescribed any medication you should always consider:

- How the medication may affect you at work

• Remember, Illegal drugs are a danger to everyone on site


Health And Welfare And The Law

• Guidance on Welfare at work are contained the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Health, Safety & Welfare regulations 1992

• By Law, employers must provide you with a covered rest area with tables, chairs and something to heat water

• As a minimum requirement on site, employers must provide hot and cold (or warm) water, soap and a way to dry your hands

• If this is not the case always speak to your supervisor


Toilets On Site…

• By law, employers must provide adequate toilet and washing facilities for employers

• If the toilet facilities on site are dirty or not functioning correctly always inform your supervisor

• Any toilet facilities on site should be kept clean, maintained and in full working order


CSCS 4 - Manual Handling


Manual Handling Is Not Just About Lifting Stuff!!!





…The transporting or supporting of a load by hand or bodily force….

What Is Manual Handling?


Manual Handling Involves…

Picking up… and putting back down!

and pulling!

Carrying… Or stretching!

Pushing…


How Many Of You Lift Things Like This?

If so you are putting your back at risk!


So How Do You Lift?

• Wearing a back support belt is not necessarily the answer

• You may still face the same risks as when lifting an object without support, especially if you have an existing injury

• If you do have an existing injury, always inform your supervisor of the problem

• Remember, the only person who can tell you how much you can safely lift is you


• Consider using a barrow or trolley if carrying for long distances

• Does the object have to be moved at all?

Prior To Lifting…

• Divide any large loads into smaller loads wherever possible

• Always consider the size, weight and condition of the load before you attempt to lift it


Do You Have To…

• Hold the object away from your body?

• Twist or turn your body?

• Stoop down or hold the load above head height?

• Lift from a sitting position?

THE WEIGHT YOU CAN LIFT SAFELY IS LESS THAN USUAL


During The Lift…

• Keep the feet slightly apart (hip width)

• Always bend the knees, never the back!

• Keep your back straight and lift with the power of the leg muscles

• If you feel that there is an easier way to lift at work discuss it with your supervisor


If The Object is Heaviest Towards One Side…

• Always keep the heaviest side of the object towards you

• Otherwise the object may become unstable and fall….


• Never attempt to lift it on your own – always find a safe method to move the load…

• Divide the load into smaller loads

If a Load is Too Heavy To Lift…

• Use a barrow or trolley instead

• Get someone to help you lift the load


• If someone is going to help you lift a load, it is important that both of you are roughly the same height and build

• What would happen if the man on the left was a foot shorter than the man on the right?

Team Lifting…• May also be used if an object is to cumbersome to be lifted

(i.e. you cannot see what is ahead of you)


• You are lifting objects up or down stairs

• You are lifting objects up or down steep slopes

Special Care Should Be Taken If……

• You are lifting objects up or down stairs

• You are lifting objects up or down steep slopes

If this is the case always make sure you can still carry the load safely


Manual handling And The Law…

• Your employer must undertake risk assessments and formulate ‘Safe Systems Of Work’ for manual handling tasks

• You must make full use of your employer’s Safe System Of Work

• Guidance is contained in the Health & Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Manual Handling Operating Regulations 1992




CSCS 5 – Working at Height


Working At Height

You are classified as working at height if:

• You are working at any height that would cause an injury if you fell

• Working at height regulations affect you if you are working:

- On ladders

- On scaffolds and aluminium towers

- On roofs

- On/Under bridges

• This list is not exhaustive…


• Ladders should always be inspected prior to any sort of use

• Damaged ladders should always be reported and not used

• Ladders should never be painted as they paint may hide damage to the ladder or create a slip hazard

Working With Ladders

• The only person that should tell you a ladder is fit for use is you

• Ladders should only be used as place of work if you are doing light duties for a short period of time


• When using a ladder always keep the ladder at an angle of 75 degrees

Using a Ladder

• Any angle less than 75 degrees and the ladder may be under too much stress and may snap

45o 75o

• Any angle greater than 75 degrees and the ladder may be too steep to climb and become unstable

85o


How Not To Use a Ladder….

Ladder snapped due to being

used at an angle of less than 75o


• It is best to tie and extend the ladder about five rungs above the platform being scaled. This also increases the ladder’s stability

When Securing a Ladder…

• It is best to secure the ladder at the top, this increases the ladder’s stability

1

2

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5


• Remember, only one person on a ladder at a time

When Using a Ladder…

• When climbing up or climbing down a ladder always make sure that your body has three points of contact at any given time

• These rules effect all types of ladder, including ladders built into aluminium towers and scaffolds








• All components must be inspected for damage prior to assembly

• Do not attempt to use the scaffold until damaged components are replaced

Working With Scaffolding & Aluminium Towers…

• If any components are damaged or faulty (Including wheels, brakes etc) always report it to your supervisor

• May only be erected, altered and dismantled by people who are competent and authorised


• Stabilisers, outriggers and ballast weights should always be fitted when specified

• If not, the likely outcome could be this…

• Aluminium Towers should never be assembled on soft or uneven ground

Assembling Scaffolding & Aluminium Towers…


Using Scaffolding & Aluminium Towers…

• When climbing an aluminium tower always use the ladder built into the tower

• Always climb on the inside of the aluminium tower

• Use the trapdoors built into the platforms


Using Scaffolding & Aluminium Towers…

- The platform can safely take the weight of the materials being stored

- The materials a stored safely and securely

• If storing tools or materials on an aluminium tower or scaffold platform you must ensure:

- The platform is still safe for others to use

• Materials may be stored safely by installing edge protection such as:

- Toe boards

- Brick Guards


How Not To Store Materials….


Working on Roofs and Raised Platforms…

• If possible, edge protection should be always be installed when working at height

• Fragile roofs should always be crossed using crawl boards that can take the weight of a person


• At the very least, staff should be fitted with a Harness & Lanyard

• Harness & Lanyards are especially relevant when working above water or at extreme height (i.e. ‘high rise’ construction or under bridges)

• Soft Landing Systems such as safety nets/inflatable airbags should be used

If Edge Protection Cannot Be Fitted:


How Not To Work At Height….

Red Road Flats, circa 1964


CSCS 6 – Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)


Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Guidance on any PPE requirements for a job will always be found in the Risk Assessment and Method Statement for a particular task

- Safety Helmets/ Hard Hats (Help protect your head from injury)

• Personal Protective Equipment may include:

- Waterproof clothes (Keep you warm and dry & prevent muscle strains)

- Safety Boots/ Safety Gloves (Protect your feet and hands from injury

- Safety Goggles (Help protect your eyes from injury)

- Ear Defenders (Help protect your ears from injury)


• Hard Hats may only be removed if you are working in a safe area such as the site office

• Hard Hats must never be used if they have been dropped from height to a hard surface as there may be hairline cracks in the hat that you cannot see

• Hard Hats must be worn at all times and only in the correct way…

Head Protection - Hard Hats• Hard Hats must be worn on site if you are at any risk of head injury


• When working on site, Hard Hats must always be worn

Hard Hats

• Hard Hats must always be adjusted so the hat is a snug fit and does not fall off

• Hard Hats must only be worn square on the head, never at an angle


• Safety Boots must always be worn if there is any risk of injury to the feet

• Safety Boots must be worn at all times on any construction site…

Foot Protection – Safety Boots

• Safety Boots must be the correct size for your feet and laced up correctly

• Remember, no boots, no job!


Eye Protection - Goggles• Eye protection must be worn on site if there is any risk of eye injury to

employees

• Workers using grinders, abrasive wheels, cutting tools etc must wear impact resistant goggles to protect their eyes from flying fragments of debris

• Workers using welding equipment must wear welding goggles to protect their eyes from sparks and the intense light from any sparks or flames

• If you do not have the correct eye protection, do not start the job!


• If your ear plugs or are damaged or unsuitable in anyway do not begin work until they are replaced and you have been shown how to use them correctly

• Remember, if you are wearing any form of ear protection you will be less aware of what is going on around you

Ear Protection – Ear Defenders• Ear protection must be worn on site if there is any risk of exposure to loud

continuous noise in the workplace

• Ear Plugs or Ear Defenders may be suitable depending on the noise levels encountered on the job


• Remember, anti vibration gloves will not always protect your hands from vibration. Always take additional precautions!

• Protective Gloves must be worn on site if there is any risk of exposure to chemicals, hazard or danger

Hand Protection - Gloves

• Workers using vibrating tools should wear anti vibration gloves to minimise the risk of Vibration White Finger

• Different gloves protect your hands from different types of hazard – always select the correct type of gloves for the job


• Remember, never attempt to use a dust mask if exposed to hazardous fumes, always use the correct Respiratory Protective Equipment

• Respiratory Protective Equipment must be issued to workers when if there is any risk of exposure to dust, solvents chemicals etc.

Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE)

• Workers should be given respirators if there is any risk of exposure to hazardous fumes

• Workers such as Ames Tapers, Plasterers etc. should be given dust masks if working in dusty environments


Fall Protection – Harness & Lanyard

• Fall protection systems may include safety nets, Full Body Harness’ and Lanyards

• If you are unsure how to use any piece of Personal protective Equipment always ask for expert advice and training

• By law, employers must provide a fall protection system if employees are working at extreme height

• Remember, never attempt to use any body harness unless you have been fully trained in it use


PPE And The Law

• Guidance on accident prevention and reporting are contained the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Personal Protective Equipment Regulations 1992

• If your PPE is damaged in any way you must let your employer know

• By Law your employer must pay for, provide you with and replace your Personal Protective Equipment

• By law you must wear and utilise any PPE your employer has issued you with



CSCS 7 – Emergency Procedures & First Aid


Injuries On Site may Include…

Cuts & Scrapes

Puncture wounds

Burns

Broken Bones

Electric shocks

And many more…


When You First Start On Site…

• It is essential that you understand the Emergency Procedures for the site and be able to locate:

• This information may be gained by reading the site notice boards or attending a site induction

• If there is an accident always follow the site emergency procedures

- The fire exits on site

- The fire assembly points on site

- The emergency telephones numbers for the site


First Aid Boxes

• By law in the UK employers must provide First Aid Boxes and ensure that certain staff are trained in First Aid (First Aiders/Appointed Persons)

• First Aid Boxes should never contain pain killers as some people may be allergic to them!

• If the First Aid Box on your site is always empty always let the people in charge of the box know

• Remember, if you are working on a remote part of site on your own you should take a small first aid kit with you


‘First Aiders’

• When working on site certain staff must be trained in basic First Aid. Such staff are referred to as First Aiders or Appointed Persons

• Appointed Persons are only responsible for contacting and directing the emergency services to the injured

• First Aiders can administer basic first aid but cannot give out pain killers or give you any medicines

• If you wish to become a First Aider, always speak to your supervisor to see if you can attend a First Aider’s course


First Aid Procedures

• If you discover an injured person on site the first thing you should do is ensure that you are not in any danger yourself

• First Aid on site must only be administered by qualified First Aiders

• If you are not qualified in First Aid, you should always get someone to get the First Aider or get someone to call the emergency services

• Remember, if you Are not qualified in First Aid you may do the casualty more harm than good


First Aid Procedures - Fractures & Broken Bones

• The most common cause of broken bones on site are falls from height

• If someone has fallen from height and has no feeling in their legs make sure they stay where they are until medical help arrives

• If somebody with no feelings in their legs is moved incorrectly this may lead to further complications…

• If you think that someone has fallen and broken a bone always send for a First Aider or get medical help


• Particular care must be taken if people have collapsed or are unconscious in an excavation or confined space

• You must never enter the excavation unless you know it is safe to do so - there may be a lack of oxygen or poisonous gasses present

• If you can see that people are in difficulty shout to let others know what has happened and get medical help

First Aid Procedures - Excavations and Confined Spaces


First Aid Procedures - Electric Shock

• Particular attention must be taken if a casualty has suffered an electric shock and is in contact with a live cable

• If a casualty is in contact with a live cable make sure that the power is switched off and call for medical help

• Remember, over 1000 workers suffer serious electric shocks in the workplace every year

• This makes effective electrical safety procedures in the workplace essential


First Aid Procedures - Puncture Wounds

• If a casualty has a nail in their foot do not remove the nail until medical help arrives – the nail is helping to stop the bleeding

• Remember, wounds that are not cleaned properly may become infected

• If a casualty has a large splinter embedded deep in their hand you must ensure that they receive proper first aid treatment

• Special attention must be taken if a casualty has suffered any sort of puncture wound


First Aid Procedures - Eye Injuries

• If someone gets grit in their eye, the best thing to do is flush out the eye with clean water

• Many First Aid kits include emergency Eye Wash

• Emergency Eye Wash should be made available on all sites where people could get something in their eyes

• If the injury is more serious or the grit cannot be removed from the eye always ensure that the emergency services are called


Excavations, Confined Spaces And The Law

• By law, employers must:-

• Guidance on Emergency Procedures and First Aid in the workplace are contained in the Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981

- provide adequate and appropriate First Aid equipment and facilities

- Provide adequately trained personnel to enable first aid to be given to employees if they are injured or become ill at work


CSCS 8 – Safe Use of Hazardous Substances


Hazardous Substances may Include…

Adhesives

Paints

Cleaning Agents

Compounds

Fumes Acids

Chemicals

And many more…

WarningHazardous substance


Asbestos

• Workers must take extreme caution if coming across or working in proximity to asbestos

• All types of asbestos are extreme hazard to health and should be dealt with accordingly

• Exposure to asbestos may result in a worker contracting asbestosis. This is a lung disease that could kill you

aWARNING CONTAINS ASBESTOSFollow safety instructions

• If you think that you have discovered any form of asbestos on site you must always stop work and warn others


• Employers are legally obliged to undertake full a COSHH Assessment of any hazardous substance that may be used in the workplace

• However you should always read the COSHH Assessment yourself and follow it’s instructions

• A COSHH Assessment will let you know how a substance may harm you and how to protect yourself

Before You Use a Harmful Substance…

• Before using any hazardous substance, the findings of the COSHH assessment must be explained to you by your supervisor


• Always wear the correct Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and the correct Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE)

• If you do not have the correct PPE always report it to your supervisor

Before You Use a Harmful Substance…


Safe Use Of Hazardous Substances

• By law, hazardous substances used in the workplace must be stored, transported and used in accordance with the findings of the COSHH Assessment

• Remember, although you can often tell that a chemical is hazardous by a label on the container this may not always be the case – always take precautions

• If you are unsure of the contents of a bottle of chemicals always ensure that the chemical is put in a place of safety and reported to your supervisor

?


• Hazardous substances are normally indicated by a Hazardous Chemical container label (Haz-Chem label)

Hazardous Substances

• Warning signs warning of hazardous chemicals on site are primarily yellow triangles

• Hazardous Chemical labels are primarily orange signs with black writing


Toxic Substances

• Chemicals with a skull and crossbones on the label are considered to be toxic

• Remember, utmost care must be taken with toxic substances because they could kill you…

• Workers must exercise extreme caution with such chemicals because they may cause severe damage to your health


Corrosive Substances

• Chemicals with dripping test tubes on the label are considered to be corrosive

• Examples of corrosive substances on site may include acid, caustic soda, cement etc.

• Workers must take extra care when dealing with corrosive substances because they can cause severe burns


Harmful Substances

• Chemicals with a black cross on the label are considered to be harmful

- Irritate your skin

• Extra care must be taken with such substances because they may:

• Substances marked harmful will not necessarily kill you, however suitable precautions must be taken prior to dealing with any harmful substance

- Harm your health


Disposal of Hazardous Waste

• Hazardous waste must always be disposed of according to site rules as hazardous substances are dangerous to the environment

• Remember, if you are unsure of how to dispose of hazardous substance always ask your supervisor how to dispose of it

• You must never dispose of any hazardous substance by pouring it down drains or by pouring it away


Safe Use Of Hazardous Substances And The Law

• Guidance on the safe use of hazardous substances are contained the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH)

• By law, employers must control exposure to hazardous substances at work to prevent ill health

• Remember though, it is also your responsibility to look after both yourself and others


CSCS 9 – Electrical Safety


Electrical Safety

• In the UK over 1000 workers suffer serious electric shocks in the workplace every year

• This makes effective electrical safety procedures in the workplace essential

• On average, 25 workers are killed through electrical accidents in the workplace every year


Overhead Power Lines

• On average 5 workers are killed through electrical accidents involving overhead power lines and every year

• If any electrical cable has any bare wires always inform your supervisor and ensure that others are kept well away from the cable until it is made safe

• Workers should only work close to overhead power lines if the power to the line has been switched off. Electricity can jump from overhead lines if you get too close


Faults On Power Tools

• Electrical tools should always be checked for damage before you use them

• If an electrical hand tool cuts out, or fuses continually blow during use always switch off the power and look for obvious signs of damage

• Electrical faults may be identified by burn marks on the casing but are often invisible to the eye, always leave repairs to the professionals!

• If smoke is coming from the motor of any electrical tool always unplug the power and ensure that nobody else uses it


230/240 Volt Power Tools

• All 230/240 Volt power tools must undergo regular Portable Appliance Testing (PAT Test)

• PAT testing is undertaken by qualified electricians to ensure that portable electrical appliances are safe to operate

• A PAT test label will be attached to the equipment will advise the date that the next PAT test is due

• PAT tests must be undertaken annually on all portable electrical equipment


230/240 Volt Power Tools

• 230/240 Volt power tools must always be operated in conjunction with a Residual Current Device (RCD)

• RCD’s are designed to quickly cut the power to the device if there is an electrical fault

• RCD’s have a test button to make sure that the RCD is functional

• Remember, 230/240 Volt power tools are not suitable for use on site, always use 110 Volt tools


110 Volt Power Tools

• On construction and building sites, the recommended voltage for electrical equipment is 110 Volts

• 110 Volt tools are recommended for use on construction and building sites because they are much less likely to kill you should you suffer an electric shock

• 110 Volt Power Tools should always have yellow cables and yellow connectors


110 Volt Equipment

• 110 Volts power is supplied on site via temporary distribution boxes

110V Distribution

Box

• If your 110 Volt extension lead is unable to reach a distribution box always ask your supervisor to arrange for it to be moved

• 110 Volt extension leads should not be plugged into each other as they will create a trip hazard on site…


Before Using An Extension Lead..

• Before using any extension lead, always ensure that the lead is safe to use

• If the extension cable has any damage or cuts in the cover always report the fault and make sure that no-one else uses the cable

• Uncoil the whole cable and check the whole cable for damage prior to use

• Wherever possible, extension cables should be run above head height to ensure they are not causing an obstruction


Using Cables On Site

• Special care and attention should always be given if running extension leads and cables across any areas used by site transport or any other vehicles

• Always put up a warning sign to make drivers aware of the ramp…

• Always cover the cable with some sort of speed bump or protection ramp


Air Powered Tools

• Air powered tools may be used as an alternative to electrically operated tools

• Air powered tools are especially suitable if you are working in waterlogged part of site – electricity and water don’t mix!

• Always wear safety goggles when working with air powered tools as there will be a risk to the eyes from flying particles of debris


Battery Operated Power Tools

• Battery powered tools are an alternative when working on construction sites.

• Battery powered tools are often safer as they will not give you a lethal electric shock

• Remember, if you are unsure how to use any power tool always ask for expert advice and training


Electrical Safety And The Law

• Guidance on electrical safety are contained the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989

• By law, employers must ensure that you receive adequate equipment and training to ensure that you are working with electricity safely

• Remember though, it is also your responsibility to look after both yourself and others



CSCS 10 – Hand Held Equipment & Tools


Tools You Use On Site May Include:

And many more…

Hand Tools

Corded Power Tools

Battery Power Tools

Gas Powered Tools Air Powered Tools


Before Using Any Hand Tool Or Power Tool On Site

• You must be trained and competent in the use of the tool – if you are unsure ask your supervisor for expert advice and training

• You must check that the tool is not damaged and functioning correctly before you use it

• Always make sure that you are using the right tool for the job

• This includes all hand tools like trowels, chisels, bolsters and hammers


Be Careful Using..

• Any chisel or bolster with a ‘mushroomed’ head – the head may shatter and send fragments into the air

• Any hammer with a loose head should be repaired or replaced before use

• Any power tool missing a safety guard must not be used until a proper safety guard is fitted

• Any screw drivers/bits with worn heads or Stanley knives with blunt edges should be replaced before use


Abrasive Wheels

• Extra care and attention must be given when using any abrasive wheel or grinding machine

• Ensure safety guards are fitted correctly as they:

• Abrasive wheels should not be run faster than the recommended top speed – the abrasive wheel could burst and send fragments into the air

- Stop fragments flying through the air

- Stop you coming into contact the wheel


Cutting Machines

• Extra care and attention must be given when using any cutting machine

• Be aware of hazards such as high noise levels, dust and flying fragments of debris

• Always wear high impact safety goggles and ear protection when using any grinding or cutting tool

• Consider using dust extractors and wet cutting to control dust – most dust is harmful if inhaled

• Make sure you adjust safety guards to ensure the minimum amount of blade is exposed


Chainsaws

Are especially dangerous to use

Chainsaws are heavy

Never attempt to use any chainsaw onsite unless you have received expert advice and training

Chainsaws are noisy

Chainsaws have no safety guards


Gas Powered Tools

• Gas cartridge powered nail guns are a popular alternative to traditional tools

• Workers must receive special training on gas cartridge powered nail guns prior to use

• This is because they operate like a gun and can be very dangerous in inexperienced hands…


Power Tools

• Power tools should always be unplugged when not in use

• Remember, power tools with 13 amp plugs are not suitable for construction sites – always use a 110 Volt tool instead

• Power tools should always be checked for faults before you use them


Air Powered Tools

• Air powered tools may be used as an alternative to electrically operated tools

• Air powered tools are especially suitable if you are working in waterlogged part of site as they do not use electricity

• Remember, always wear safety goggles when working with air powered tools as there will be a risk to the eyes from flying particles of debris


Battery Operated Power Tools

• Battery powered tools are an alternative when working on construction sites.

• Battery powered tools are often safer as they will not give you a lethal electric shock

• Remember, if you are unsure how to use any power tool always ask for expert advice and training


Use of Tools And The Law

• Guidance on accident prevention and reporting are contained the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998

• By Law, any equipment supplied by your employer must be:- Suitable for its intended use and maintained in a safe condition

- Used only be people who have received adequate information, instruction and training

• Remember, equipment such as laser levels etc. create no hazard as long as they are used correctly - If you are unsure how to use any tool or piece of equipment always ask!


CSCS 11 - Fire Prevention & Control


Fire Classifications

• Class ‘A’ fires – Fires involving materials such as wood, cardboard, paper, fabric, some plastics etc.

• Class ‘B’ Fires – Flammable liquid fires that involve oil, petrol, diesel, paint etc.



• Class ‘C’ fires – Flammable gas fires involving gases such as LPG, Butane, Propane, mains gas etc.

• Class ‘D’ Fires – Fires involving metals such as Lithium, Magnesium, Sodium or Aluminium (powder or swarf)



• Electrical Fires – Do not constitute a class, since any fire involving or started by electrical equipment must be a fire of CLASS A,B,C or D

• Class ‘F’ Fires – Hot cooking oil fires – require specialist wet chemical extinguishers


• Without these three elements a fire cannot occur

FuelOxygen

Heat

Fires consist of three elements

Fire Prevention and Control

• Fire extinguishers work by removing one the three elements


There are four main types of extinguisher

• Powder extinguishers

• Carbon Dioxide extinguishers• Water extinguishers

• Foam extinguishers



• Water extinguishers (Red Label)– Suitable for class ‘A’ fires (wood, paper etc.)

– NEVER use on flammable liquid (Class B) or electrical fires

• Carbon Dioxide extinguishers (Black Label)– Suitable for electrical fires

– Should only be used on flammable liquid (Class B) fires if no other alternative available

– NEVER touch the nozzle during use as it gets very cold



• Foam extinguishers (Beige/Yellow Label)

– Suitable for flammable liquid (class ‘B’) fires and material fires such as wood/paper etc (class ‘A’)

– NEVER use on electrical fires

• Powder extinguishers (Blue Label)– Suitable for material fires such as wood/paper etc (class

‘A’) and flammable liquid (class ‘B’) fires

– Suitable for use on electrical fires and small gas (class ‘C’) fires


Know Your Extinguishers

Wood, paper fires etc.

Secondary

Do Not Use

Flammable liquid fires

Flammable gas fires

Specialist powders may be required

Metal fires

Do Not Use

Do Not Use

Electrical fires

Removes Heat From

Fire

Removes Oxygen From

Fire

RED Label

BLACK Label

BLUE Label

BEIGE Label



• .NEVER attempt to fight a fire unless you have been trained on the use and operation of extinguishers

• .REMEMBER – Selecting the wrong extinguisher may make an existing fire worse


• Tasks where there is a danger of fire starting may require a Hot Work Permit

• Hot Work Permits require the holder to:

- Have a fire extinguisher close to hand at all times

- Check for any signs of fire when they stop work

• If a task does require a permit to work, you will not be allowed to start the task until the permit is issued

Fire Prevention and Control – Hot Work Permits


• Raise the alarm

• Do not stop to collect personal belongings or tools

• Leave the building by the nearest available fire exit

• Report to the designated Fire Assembly Point

If you discover a fire…..

• .NEVER attempt to re-enter the building until being authorised by a fire warden


• Do not stop to collect personal belongings or tools

• Leave the building by the nearest available fire exit

• Report to the designated Fire Assembly Point

If you hear the fire alarm…..

• .NEVER attempt to re-enter the building until being authorised by a fire warden


• Green and white signs are Safe Condition signs

• If working near a Fire Exit, never leave tools or equipment where they may block a safety route

Fire Safety Signs

• .REMEMBER - Fire Exits save lives!

• Fire exit signs etc will always be green and


Other Fire Safety Signs…..


CSCS 12 - Safety Signs


There are 6 main types of signs…..


…Indicate things that you must do…


Scaffolding incomplete

…Indicate things that you must not do…


…Indicate hazard or danger…


…Indicate extinguisher locations etc…


…Indicate safe route or location…


…Indicate hazardous substance or condition…


CSCS 13 – Site Transport Safety


Mobile Plant On Site May Include…

And many more…Forklift Trucks

HGV’s

Delivery

Vans

Dump Trucks

Mobile Cranes


• You must never drive or operate any mobile plant unless you have received the correct training

• Workers operating any mobile plant must be competent and authorised

• If you do you may be liable to prosecution, as you are breaking the law!

Site Transport Safety – The Rules…

• You must never allow people to ride in mobile plant unless it is designed to carry passengers


How Not To Transport Passengers….


• You must never walk under a raised load on any forklift truck…

• Workers must take particular care when working near forklift trucks

• If you see that a load is about to fall from a forklift truck, keep clear and try to warn others in the area

Site Transport Safety – Forklift Trucks…

• If you do you are at risk of being hit by any object that falls from the forklift


How Not To Use A Forklift….


How Not To Use A Forklift….


• If you have to walk past a Mobile Crane that is operating always take another route so that you stay well clear of the crane

• Particular attention must be taken when working near Mobile Cranes

• If you feel that any mobile plant is operating too close to where you work always stop work and speak to your supervisor

• Remember, the driver may be unaware that you are there

Site Transport Safety – Mobile Cranes


• You must never attempt to supervise a lift involving a crane unless you have been trained and assessed as competent

• If you feel that a load is in any danger of collision or collapse always tell the person supervising the lift

Site Transport Safety – Mobile Cranes


How Not To Use a Mobile Crane….


How Not To Use a Mobile Crane….


• The majority of accidents involving site transport and pedestrians happen when vehicles are reversing

• If you have not been trained as a signaller never attempt to reverse an HGV on site - always stay well out of the way

• If a vehicle is reversing on site never stand or walk behind the vehicle. Wait for the vehicle to pass or find another way around the vehicle

• Remember, never walk behind a reversing lorry as the driver may not know that you are there!

Site Transport Safety – Reversing Vehicles


How Not To Drive An HGV….


How Not To Drive An HGV….


Well Organised Sites Should Have…

Pedestrian routes and site traffic routes separated by barriers

to help ensure that pedestrians do not have accidents with

mobile plant

Pedestrians must never attempt to take short cuts through site

traffic routes and vehicle compounds – always take the long

way round

• Site transport should only be allowed to drive along pedestrian routes if absolutely necessary and all pedestrians are excluded

• Regular Site Inductions for new workers to explain the site traffic rules


Things To Look Out For…

• Any vehicles driving too fast should be reported to your supervisor

• Mobile plant with any liquid dripping from underneath the body should be reported as the hydraulics may have a leak and could be dangerous

• Any vehicles with a flat tyre should be reported as they are unsafe to drive

• Any petrol or diesel spillages must be reported as they will are hazardous to the environment


Site Transport And The Law

• By law, employers must ensure that:

• Guidance on Site Transport are contained in the Workplace (Health, Safety & Welfare) Regulations 1992 and the Provision and User of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER)

- All work equipment is repaired and maintained in an efficient state

- Adequate steps are taken to prevent & control risks to all staff in relation to work equipment

• If you feel any activities on site are affecting your safety always inform your supervisor


How Not To Maintain Site Transport…


CSCS 14 – Noise & Vibration


• An early sign of damage to you hearing may be temporary deafness, however this may become permanent

• Continual exposure to loud noise in the workplace may cause hearing loss over a long period of time

• Industrial deafness can be prevented, however once your hearing has been damaged it cannot be reversed

Noise In The Workplace

• This is often referred to as Industrial deafness


Symptoms of industrial deafness include:

• Buzzing or ringing in the ears (referred to as tinnitus if damage is permanent)

• Permanent or temporary deafness (often a dulling or muffling of sounds)

Noise In The Workplace

• Mild or severe Headaches

• If you have to shout to be heard clearly at distances of 2 metres, noise at work may be a problem and you may be at risk


Minimising Exposure To Noise In The Workplace

• If your ear protection are damaged in anyway do not begin work until they are replaced

• Wear a recommended form of ear protection such as ear plugs or ear defenders to reduce the noise to an acceptable level

• If you think that your hearing has been damaged at work, ask your employer or doctor to arrange a hearing test

• Remember, if you are working in an Ear Protection Zone you must wear ear protection at all times


Noise Control And The Law

• By law, employers must take action to control noise in the workplace

• Guidance on noise levels in the workplace is contained in the Control Of Noise At Work Regulations 2005

• If average exposure reaches 80 decibels, employers must assess the risk to workers and provide ear protection if requested (1st Action Level)

• If average exposure reaches 85 decibels, employers must provide recommended ear protection to workers (2nd Action Level)

• When using ear protection workers must not be exposed to noise above 87 decibels


Remember…

• Do not work in a noisy areas unless you have adequate ear protection

Be aware!

Be aware!

Be aware!

Be aware!

Be aware!

Be aware!

Be aware!

• If you are wearing any form of ear protection you will be less aware of what is going on around you


Vibration White Finger…

• Is caused by excessive exposure or continuous use of vibrating hand-held tools and machinery

• Is also referred to as Hand-Arm Vibration and is a similar condition to Reynauds Syndrome

• Damages the nerves and blood vessels in the fingers and hands

• Vibration White Finger can be prevented, however once a person suffers Vibration White Finger it cannot be cured

• Vibration White Finger may never go away…


- Numbness and loss of feeling in the fingers

- Tingling in the fingers

Vibration White Finger

• Symptoms of Vibration White Finger include:

- The fingertips turn white

• If you suffer any of these symptoms always report it to your supervisor and doctor

- Loss of strength in the hands


Vibration White Finger

• Tools that may increase the likelihood of suffering Vibration White Finger include:

• Vibration White Finger is most likely to occur in working environments that are cold and wet

- Power sanders - Jack hammers - Grinders

- Stihl saws - Hammer drills - Chain saws

- Jig saws - Compressed air tools - Impact Wrenches

…And many more….

- Power sanders - Jack hammers - Grinders

- Stihl saws - Hammer drills - Chain saws

- Jig saws - Compressed air tools - Impact Wrenches


• Wear anti-vibration gloves

• Try and use power tools in short bursts

How To Avoid Vibration White Finger

• Do not grip the tool being used too tightly

• Where possible, try and ensure that your hands are kept warm and dry

• Ask your supervisor to explain the risk assessment and explain the safest way to use the tool


Vibration And The Law

• By law, employers must assess and identify measures to eliminate or reduce risks for all employees from exposure to Hand-Arm Vibration

• Guidance on vibration in the workplace is contained in the Control Of Vibration At Work Regulations 2005

• Employers must also:

- Ensure that control measures to reduce exposure to vibration are properly applied

- Provide information and training to all staff exposed to vibration at work


CSCS 15 – Excavations & Confined Spaces


The Dangers Of Excavations & Confined Spaces Include…

Excavation sides

collapse

Debris falling into excavation

Lack of

Oxygen

Falls from

height

Build up of toxic gases

And many more…

Warningdeep

excavation

Hazardous sludge


• Take precautions to ensure that you will not undermine the foundations of any surrounding buildings – if in doubt speak to your supervisor!

• If the soil contains a strange smell or bad egg smell when digging take precautions as the soil may be contaminated (Sewer Gas/Hydrogen Sulphide)

Before You Start Any Excavation….

• If digging anywhere near underground services you should only use a spade or shovel

• Consider the use of trial holes to locate buried services – remember, buried services are often covered with yellow plastic marker tape


• Excavations must be inspected before the start of every shift by a competent person to ensure that they are safe to work in

• If you see the supports in an excavation moving always makes sure that you and others get out quickly as the sides may be about to collapse

Working In Excavations

• Excavations must be supported if there is any risk of the sides falling in

• Excavations must be fitted with Guard Rails to ensure that people do not fall into the excavation

excavation


• Always stop work and make sure that the damage to the cable is reported

• Do not touch the cable, it may be live!

If You Hit And Damage a Cable…


• Deep excavations must only be accessed via a properly supported ladder

Working In Excavations

• Do not work in an excavation if vehicles are left running above an excavation – exhaust fumes may settle in the base of the excavation…

• …If you ever feel dizzy in any excavation make sure you and others get out!

• Consider the use of a ‘Top Man’ who may initiate any rescue plan if required


• Working in a confined space will usually require A Risk Assessment, A Method Statement and a Permit To Work

Working In Confined Spaces

• The Risk Assessment may indicate that a Rescue Team or Rescue Plan is required. If this is the case and neither are available you should not enter the confined space until they are in place

• The Method Statement will indicate the safest and correct way to do a job. If you find that you cannot do a job in accordance with the Method Statement always speak to your supervisor


• Working in a confined space will often require a Permit To Work

Permits To Work

• A Permit to Work you will allow certain tasks to be carried out under controlled conditions

• If the permit runs out before a job has been finished work must cease until the permit has been replaced

• If a task requires a Permit to Work you will not be allowed to start a job until the Permit to Work has been issued


• The air quality should be tested with a meter this may highlight hazards such as:-

• If the presence of gas is highlighted leave the confined space as quickly as possible – the gas may explode or you may not be able to breath

Before Work Commences In A Confined Space…

- Toxic, Flammable and Explosive Gases (i.e. Methane)

- A lack of Oxygen in the excavation or confined space

• If a lack of Oxygen is highlighted leave the confined space as quickly as possible – you could be suffocated or lose consciousness


• Particular attention must be taken if sludge has gathered at the bottom of an excavation or confined space

Working In Confined Spaces

• The sludge may contain hazards such as Toxic or Flammable Gases …

• The sludge may be a slip and trip hazard…

• Do not attempt to work in such environments unless you have received the correct Training and the necessary Respiratory Protective Equipment


Excavations, Confined Spaces And The Law

• By law, employers must:-

• Guidance on working in Excavations and Confined Spaces are contained in the Management of Health & Safety at Work Regulations 1999 and the Confined Spaces Regulations 1997

- Undertake suitable and sufficient assessments of the risks for all work activities

- Avoid the need to enter confined spaces whenever possible

- Have in place adequate emergency arrangements before work commences


Education

Reporting accidents