SECTION 2: SAFETY IN SCAFFOLDING - Continued

2.8 Hazard identification and management: Continued

2.8.3 Hazards from the environment in which the scaffold is situated

Often the scaffolding site and its environs create as many hazards as the work itself.

2.8.3.1 General construction work

Hazard:

Personal injury caused by fall of equipment. Possible conditions leading to this situation include:

1. Working in the vicinity of cranes or loads being lifted by cranes.
2. Working underneath, adjacent to, or above building openings.
3. Working underneath or above other trades people.

Control:

• All personnel must be aware of any equipment or material being lifted overhead. No standing or working under crane lifted loads is allowed.
• Only suitably qualified personnel are allowed to sling loads, direct or operate cranes. All slings and chains must be in good condition and must be checked prior to use.
• Under normal circumstances the responsibility for crane lifted loads will remain with the construction management. Lifting operations must not, under any circumstances, be conducted without the permission of the site management.
• Personal protection equipment such as hard hats must be used at all times.
• All personnel must be aware of building openings above and below the work area.
• No equipment is to be stacked near openings.
• All openings must be fitted with guardrails or covers.
• All personnel must be aware of other trades people working in the area.
• Every effort must be made to avoid working in or moving through areas that are occupied by other trades unless this can be achieved in a safe manner.
• All containers used to lift equipment must be of suitable design and strength.

Hazard:

Personal injury caused by contact with compressed air.

Many sites make extensive use of compressed air e.g. to power concrete breaking equipment. If used incorrectly compressed air can cause serious injury or death. Conditions that can lead to this situation include:

1. Debris or splinters blown into eyes or skin.
2. Contact with compressed air on bare skin can lead to air embolisms, i.e. a bubble of air entering the bloodstream - often causing death.
3. Incorrect or faulty fittings on air hoses which can fail under pressure. This can lead to air hoses moving wildly and coming into contact with workers.

Control:

• All personnel working in the vicinity of compressed air must wear the appropriate safety equipment such as safety footwear, gloves, safety glasses and overalls or wrist to ankle cover.
• No personnel are allowed to tamper with airline hoses or fittings.
• At no time should compressed air be directed at other personnel.

Hazard:

Personal injury caused by contact with live electrical conductors or equipment.

Many sites use temporary power supplies which, if used incorrectly, can be dangerous. Electric shock or arcing can lead to severe injuries or even electrocution (death).

Control:

• Check all plugs, leads and equipment for defects. Faulty equipment must not be used and instead must be repaired by a suitably qualified person.
• All electrical equipment must be used with isolating transformers or similar.
• All leads must be elevated above ground or if this is not possible run through a suitable conduit and protected from crushing.
• All leads and electrical equipment must be checked and tagged three monthly by a suitably qualified person.
• All electrical equipment and electrical installations on construction sites must comply with AS/NZS 3012 Electrical Installations - Construction and Demolition Sites. This required in Regulation 46 Electricity Regulation Compilation 2003.

Hazard:

Personal injury caused by person falling.

Construction sites are inherently dangerous places to work and due to the unfinished nature of the area have many trip or fall hazards. These may include:

1. Obstructed walkways.
2. Trip hazards obscured by poor lighting.
3. Floor openings left with no covers or guardrails in place.
4. Poor access to upper or lower floors.
5. Wet or slippery walkways.

Control:

• All personnel are to ensure that work areas are left in a clean and tidy state.
• All personnel are to leave work areas in a safe condition e.g. covers placed over floor areas and guardrails reinstated.
• No person is permitted to work in poor visibility. Suitable lighting is to be installed prior to commencement.
• Ensure that suitable secured access is used to travel between floor areas.
• All care is to be taken when entering wet areas.

Hazard:

Personal injury caused by crushing from moving machinery.

Construction sites often make use of excavation machinery, hoists, cranes and other mobile plant. This type of equipment can be hazardous if used incorrectly and if safety procedures are not followed.

Control:

• No personnel to enter the blind spot of moving machinery.
• All personnel to be aware of moving machinery and to avoid moving into its path.
• A minimum safe distance must be kept from swinging loads and workers must be aware of the movement of crane hooks.
• All mobile plant must be operated by suitably qualified personnel.

Hazard:

Personal injury due to inhalation of fumes or asphyxiation.

Sometimes on construction sites, personnel are required to operate in confined spaces. These areas are normally subject to poor ventilation and can become filled with fumes from machinery or processes being carried out on site.

Control:

• A confined space entry induction must be provided before commencing work (refer AS 2865).
• All personnel entering or intending to work in a confined space must make sure that the area is well ventilated and free from fumes.
• Machinery operators must ensure that exhaust fumes cannot enter confined areas and that stationary equipment such as compressors are situated in well ventilated areas.
• Tradespeople carrying out operations that involve the use of chemicals must ensure, if the process is likely to cause potentially hazardous fumes or other conditions, that warning notices and barricades are placed in suitable areas.
• When working in the vicinity of hazardous substances the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996 and ERMA Codes of Practice apply.

Hazard:

Personal injury caused by fire.

Fire is always a potential hazard on construction sites. Make every effort to avoid it.

Control:

• All work areas must be kept clean and free of debris.
• All care must be taken when using machinery or processes that cause heat.
• All personnel must be aware of no smoking areas on site and must observe warning signs.
• All personnel when commencing work on site must make sure they are aware of the location of fire extinguishers and fire exits.
• All fire escape doors and fire hydrants must be kept clear of materials and other obstructions.

Hazard:

Personal injury due to collapse of falsework, propping or formwork systems.

Construction sites often make considerable use of falsework, propping and formwork systems. A collapse of one of these systems can lead to serious injury or death.

Conditions that can lead to this situation include:

1. Unsuitable foundations.
2. Overloading of equipment.
3. Inadequate bracing or ties.
4. Poor design.
5. Unskilled operators.
6. Unauthorised tampering or interference with equipment.
7. Equipment in poor condition.

Control:

• All personnel involved with the erection, maintenance or dismantling of these systems must be suitably qualified and capable of carrying out the work according to specifications. Normally these systems are subject to calculations and engineering design and all dimensions and specifications must be strictly adhered to.
• No personnel are to interfere or tamper with equipment of this type unless under the direct supervision of a suitably qualified person and under directions from the project management.
• All equipment of this type must be in good condition, suitably braced or tied and based out on suitable foundations.
• No faulty equipment is to be used.
• All defective equipment is to be repaired by suitably qualified personnel.
• No equipment is to be overloaded and is only to be used for its intended purpose. If in doubt seek the advice of a suitably qualified person such as a chartered engineer.
• The erection and dismantling of this type of equipment has similar hazards to the erection and dismantling of scaffolding systems.
• All care must be taken when working at height, around other trades or working underneath crane lifted material.

Hazard:

Personal injury due to exposure to welding, grinding or gas cutting, operations.

This type of work produces heat, sparks and possibly infra-red rays (the cause of "arc eyes"), hazards associated with fumes and the possibility of falling equipment.

Control:

• All personnel working in the vicinity of these operations are to ensure that the work is barricaded or isolated from them. It is also good practice for tradespeople of this type to erect screens around their work area.
• Never stare at an arc welding operation.
• Move out of any area where the possibility of falling sparks or steel off cuts exists. See also controls for electricity and fire.

Hazard:

Personal injury due to being struck with projectile from powder powered tools or a nail gun.

These tools make use of either explosive cartridges or compressed air to drive a nail or pin into concrete, steel or timber. Consequently the projectile can have the same effect as a bullet fired from a gun. Any body part struck by the nail or pin will suffer at least a puncture wound and possibly other serious injuries.

Control:

• The use of powder powered tools is restricted to holders of a current certificate of competence. These people have been trained in the correct use of the equipment including safety procedures.
• No personnel are to operate this type of equipment unless they are suitably qualified.
• No personnel are to tamper or interfere with this type of equipment.
• No defective equipment is to be used. All faulty equipment must be repaired by a suitably qualified person.
• All firing charges must be kept in a locked, secure area when not being used.
• All specified safety equipment such as safety glasses, hearing protection and safety boots must be worn when this equipment is being used.
• Operators of this type of equipment must be aware of other people in the area and must never discharge the firing unit in the direction of any other personnel, regardless of the material being fired into.
• There have been several occasions where projectiles have passed through the object being fired into, leading to an uncontrolled flight of the nail or pin.

2.8.3.2 Demolition work

Demolition work could be viewed as the direct opposite of construction work. However, when the two industries are examined they have similar hazards. For example, both have hazards due to possible exposure to:

1. Falling equipment or material.
2. Compressed air.
3. Gas cutting and or welding and/or grinding.
4. People falling.
5. Moving machinery.
6. Fire.
7. Live electrical conductors or equipment.
8. Failure of temporary propping systems.

Hazard:

Injury to feet and hands due to contact with timber with exposed nails.

Demolition work can lead to large amounts of timber being removed from buildings often with nails or screws exposed. This can lead to puncture wounds in hands or feet when dealing with such material.

Control:

All personnel working in the vicinity of timber with protruding nails should wear safety boots and gloves and take all steps to avoid coming into contact with the nails. In the case of an abrasion or puncture wound being sustained, the injury shall be treated immediately with the use of antiseptic and a suitable bandage. The injury must be reported to the supervisor and if necessary further medical treatment must be sought.

Note: There is always a possibility of contacting tetanus or having the wound turn septic if not treated properly. If in doubt seek medical advice.

Hazard:

Personal injury due to scaffolding collapse caused by scaffolding support structure being demolished and suitable alternative ties not being put in place.

In the normal course of events scaffolding will be erected on a construction site as the building progresses or when the building superstructure is complete. This process ensures that the scaffolding can be safely tied as it is erected. In the case of demolition work it is the opposite. Often a scaffolding structure that is being used to assist with the demolition of a building will be completely erected around the structure and then as the building is demolished the scaffolding is progressively dismantled. There have been occasions where scaffolding has collapsed on demolition work due to being left exposed too high above the last tie off points. This can lead to major damage and serious injury.

Control:

• No scaffolding is to be left free standing more than 4.0m above the last tie point.
• All scaffolding is to be erected with suitable bracing. Additional dogleg bracing may be required.
• The scaffolding supervisor must ensure when undertaking contracts associated with demolition work the demolition contractor is aware of the potential hazards associated with free-standing scaffolding.
• The scaffolding supervisor must liaise with the contractor and establish the programme of work.
• The scaffolding supervisor must ensure that sufficient manpower is available to carry out the dismantling of the scaffolding when and as required.
• All surplus equipment must be removed from site as soon as possible. The scaffolding supervisor must ensure that sufficient ties remain in the scaffolding at all times.

Hazard:

Personal injury caused by crushing due to building collapse.

There are several methods used for the demolition of a building. Some are relatively passive such as brick by brick demolition used with some buildings with historical significance. Some are volatile such as the use of explosives or progressive deliberate collapse (felling) of the structure. In the case of the latter there is a real danger that the collapse of the building could become uncontrolled or happen prematurely, possibly trapping workers inside and causing serious injury.

Control:

• All personnel are to remain outside of any area that may be subject to collapse. Under no circumstances will entry be allowed.
• All personal protective equipment such as safety glasses, footwear, hard hats and, if required, hearing protection, must be used at all times on demolition sites.

2.8.3.3 Work near asbestos

Hazard:

Personal injury due to exposure to asbestos.

Although the risk of exposure to asbestos has been greatly reduced over the last decade, occasionally workers involved in the construction industry will be on a site where asbestos products have been located e.g. refurbishment projects. Most responsible building owners have taken steps to reduce or eliminate these products or alternatively have covered or sealed them so as to reduce the possibility of the release of the fine dust or fibres that can cause asbestosis or other related injuries.

In the demolition industry, workers are more likely to be exposed to the problem of asbestos removal and containment and as such special precautions are required. In some older buildings, asbestos was used for insulation and/or fire proofing as well as a building material for roofing and wall cladding.

The greatest hazard from cladding type products comes when the material is in a dry or cracked condition or is being cut for the purpose of removal. Similarly, hazards exist when insulation or fireproofing material is being scraped off surfaces. The concern is the release of asbestos particles which can lead to medical problems if inhaled.

Control:

• All personnel involved in asbestos removal or handling must be suitably qualified and all controls for the prevention of the release of asbestos containing dust must be carried out at all times e.g. containment, adequate wetting down and approved removal and disposal methods.
• Some work with asbestos is restricted (work with friable asbestos) requiring a Limited Certificate of Competence. This is notifiable work to Department of Labour. Further information can be found in the HSE Asbestos Regulations 1998.
• Occasionally scaffolding will be erected in order to gain access to areas containing asbestos. If this is required then all protective measures employed for the safe removal and handling of asbestos must be taken.
• All personnel who will be exposed to asbestos products must use the appropriate personal protection system for the product.
• All personnel must observe all site safety rules with regard to the asbestos removal programme such as the use of decontamination areas, correct disposal of soiled overalls and the appropriate changeover times for ventilation equipment.
• All personnel engaged in this work will undertake an appropriate induction course and will identify and take all practicable steps to minimise all hazards prior to commencement.
• All respiratory equipment used must be of an appropriate standard for the work being undertaken and must be in good working order.
• All personnel using respiratory equipment must first undergo an appropriate instruction course in the correct use, maintenance, cleaning and, if required, disposal.
• At no time shall any person having been in contact with asbestos be allowed to come in contact with other workers or enter any area where there is a possibility of contamination of the area without the proper decontamination and containment procedures taking place.
• At all times provision must be made for the possibility of emergency access or egress to the area.
• If possible the ends of scaffolding tube used in association with asbestos related work should be taped or blocked in order to prevent the build up of asbestos product inside the tube.
• Before dismantling scaffold must be clean and free from any asbestos particles prior to the work commencing. This work must be carried out by suitably qualified people and may be restricted work requiring notification (as above).

2.8.3.4 Work on ships, offshore installations and bridges

When scaffolding work is required in these areas most of the hazards already covered will need to be managed for example:

1. Hazards associated with the use of cranes and other lifting equipment and moving machinery.
2. Hazards associated with work in confined spaces.
3. Possible hazards associated with the risk of fire.

In addition to these (and many others) there are the unique hazards associated with work over water.

Hazard:

Personal injury due to fall from height into water.

Workers erecting or dismantling scaffolding over the side of a ship, rig or bridge have the added difficulty of trying to carry out their task in a void situation whereby they cannot work from a readily accessible platform.

Control:

• Personnel involved in working in a void situation must wear the appropriate PPE such as safety harnesses and, if required, life jackets.
• All equipment of this nature must be in good working order and regularly checked for defects.
• All equipment of this type must be correctly installed by a suitably qualified person and must be to a standard appropriate for its intended purpose.
• All personnel using this type of equipment must first undergo an appropriate instruction course in the use and maintenance of the equipment.
• All personnel involved in work over water must be fitted with reflective vests or bright coloured overalls.
• Emergency contingency plans must be in place at all times. Consideration must be given to the failure of existing safety systems and the possible requirement to rapidly extract personnel from the water.
• In the case of work over water, operations are not to be carried out unless there is provision for a rescue craft to be readily available in the area.
• No work of this nature is not to be carried out without the permission of the operators of the facility.
• No work of this nature is to commence without an emergency resuscitation procedure being readily accessible.
• Refer to Maritime New Zealand for further information.

2.8.3.5 Work in chemical plants, factories, storage areas and processing facilities

Maintenance work carried out in these areas can be particularly dangerous due to the processes carried out and also because of the goods produced or stored in them.

Hazard:

Personal injury due to exposure to heat.

Many plants of the type described above have processes that can produce large amounts of heat. Examples include steel mills, smelters and petrochemical plants with reformers.

The two main hazards associated with work adjacent to heat are:

1. The possibility of burn injuries; and
2. The possibility of dehydration and heat sickness.

Control:

• All personnel working in hot areas must use all appropriate safety equipment such as safety boots, overalls, gloves and hard hats in order to prevent skin coming into contact with hot equipment.
• All personnel engaged in this type of work must be supplied with or have ready access to an adequate supply of wholesome drinking water. Each person should have his or her own drinking vessel.
• Personnel working in these areas must take work breaks as and when required.
• Emphasis must be placed on the avoidance of injury or sickness caused by over exposure to heat.
• Emergency plans must be in place at all times with emphasis on the possibility of rapid extraction of personnel from the area.
• Any worker suffering from the effects of over exposure to heat must leave the area immediately and must not return until fully rested and recovered.
• At no time are any personnel to enter hot areas without permission from the plant operator.
• At all times all site safety procedures must be adhered to and any breach of these rules is to be treated as a serious breach of conduct.
• All personnel must take all care when handling equipment that has been exposed to heat.
• All equipment used in the vicinity of hot areas must be suitable for its intended purpose and must be in good condition.
  • Timber planks or other flammable material must be used with caution and material must never be left in a position whereby excessive heat build up could lead to combustion.
  • All rubbish and debris must be removed from the area.
  • Steel decking must also be used with caution and if required must be covered with material that will enable the platform to be used without undue discomfort or heat build up for the end users of the scaffolding.
• Timber planks used in hot areas must be checked regularly for warping or undue deflection.
• All personnel must attend appropriate induction and safety training courses prior to entering hot areas.
• When working in the vicinity of hazardous substances the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996 and ERMA Codes of Practice apply.

Hazard:

Personal injury due to exposure to cold.

Some processing and storage plants make use of refrigeration areas. The degree of cold is dependent on the product being manufactured or stored; however all areas with more than mild refrigeration should be treated as hazardous and precautions must be taken to prevent hypothermia or other cold related injuries.

Control:

• All personnel involved in prolonged exposure to cold areas must use appropriate safety equipment such as gloves, approved footwear and suitable headwear.
• Prolonged exposure to cold may also require the provision and wearing of thermal clothing.
• Personnel involved in work in these areas must take work breaks as and when required.
• All personnel carrying out work in cold areas must take all caution. Cold, wet areas can lead to the formation of ice and workers must take all steps to avoid slipping or losing their balance on the ice.
• Equipment used in these areas can become slippery and difficult to handle. All care must be taken when passing or transporting equipment.
• All equipment used in cold areas must be in good condition and suitable for its intended purpose. If possible decking used in cold areas should be covered with anti slip material such as chicken mesh wire.
• Some plants make use of ammonia as a refrigeration agent. All personnel involved in work near pipes or vessels used to convey ammonia must take all precautions necessary to avoid coming into contact with this type of plant.
• Piping used for cooling systems can become covered in ice and can deteriorate if not regularly maintained. These pipes can weaken due to rust build up and occasionally can fracture, leading to a release of ammonia.
  • At all times in these areas emergency plans must be in place.
• Emphasis must be given to the rapid extraction of personnel and also to resuscitation methods.
  • No personnel are to enter these areas without the permission of the plant operators.
  • At all times all site safety procedures must be strictly observed.
• Workers entering any area where there is a possibility of an ammonia release must carry and be trained in the use of emergency breathing apparatus (BA).
• All personnel entering cold areas must attend an appropriate induction course prior to commencement of work.
• Any person suffering from the effects of over exposure to cold must immediately leave the area and must not return until fully recovered.

Hazard:

Personal injury due to exposure to excessive noise levels.

Many plants make use of machinery or equipment that produces noise in excess of recognised safe exposure thresholds. Prolonged exposure to excessive noise can lead to hearing loss and stress related problems. In general terms a 'high noise area is any area where you cannot communicate to another person 600mm away from you without raising your voice.

Control:

• All personnel entering a high noise area must use an appropriate hearing protection system.
• The type of equipment used will depend on the level of noise in the area.
• All equipment used must be in good condition and suitable for the requirements of the area.
• All equipment must be manufactured to an approved standard and must be regularly checked for defects.
• Ear muffs must be kept clean and must be well fitting.
• Personnel exposed to high noise levels over a prolonged period of time should have regular hearing tests.

Hazard:

Personal injury due to explosion/s in a work area.

Many plants and storage facilities produce or handle volatile materials that in particular circumstances can become explosive. For instance petrochemical plants produce highly flammable liquids and gases and chemical plants can produce similar substances. Other plants can manufacture products that at first can appear to be relatively harmless but in the wrong condition or atmosphere (or when mixed with other material) may also become unstable or potentially explosive. Examples of products that are highly flammable are methanol, petroleum, CNG, LPG etc.

Dust explosions can also be problematic. A dust explosion will normally occur in a confined space such as a silo or vessel and is actually two explosions that occur simultaneously. The first can be a minor one caused by a spark or exposure to a heat source. This will ignite a small quantity of material and cause a shock wave. This shock wave will hit the wall of the vessel causing the release of more dust into the already heated atmosphere. A second explosion will now occur due to the larger fuel source, oxygen rich atmosphere and heat source. Examples of products that are known to be involved in particle or dust explosions are coal, sawdust, flour, wheat, coffee and aluminium. As mentioned above on the surface these items appear to be unable to cause much harm, but when these products are stored or being transported there is likely to be dust build up.

Control:

• All personnel intending to work in these areas must attend a site induction course prior to commencement of work.
• All personnel must notify plant operators when entering or leaving high risk areas.
• All personnel must obtain necessary permits to enter and work in high risk areas.
• If necessary potential high-risk areas should be gas tested or flushed prior to entry.
• Cellular phones or radio telephones should be checked with the plant operator. Generally they are not permitted in potentially explosive environments.
• All vehicles entering any process or high-risk areas must comply with all permit requirements and if necessary must be fitted with anti spark devices such as rubber battery covers and exhaust covers.
• All vehicles must be of an approved type, suitable for the area and must be in good condition.
• Take special precautions when working in high risk areas e.g. the use of rubber mallets for the erection of system or modular wedge type scaffolding.
• Prior to commencement of work a detailed safety plan must be prepared that includes the identification of all hazards and all measures to be taken to control these hazards. This safety plan must be agreed upon and understood by both workers about to engage in activity in the area and by the plant operators.
• An emergency contingency plan must be in place at all times.
• All personnel must be equipped with and use all appropriate safety equipment and all equipment must be in good condition and free from defects.
• All gas testing or monitoring equipment must be regularly checked and calibrated and must be suitable for its intended purpose.
• If required a safety watch may be positioned on the exterior of a tank or vessel. The safety watch personnel should be trained in evacuation procedures and must be in communication with the plant operators.
• All tanks and vessels must be well ventilated when personnel are working inside these areas. This may mean that external blowers or suction units may have to be positioned at manholes or other openings

Hazard:

Personal injury due to exposure to toxic chemicals, gases or caustic products.

Some plants and storage areas produce or handle substances that can be hazardous either by themselves or when mixed with others or when the composition is changed, for example in the case of a fire in the area. The degree of harm caused by chemicals and gases will depend on the toxicity of the substance, the exposure to it and sometimes the method in which it enters the person.

While gases are inhaled, chemicals can be dangerous in a variety of ways. Some chemicals produce fumes that may be inhaled. Some can be swallowed (ingested) e.g. if a person was working with chemicals without gloves and then failed to wash their hands before eating a small quantity may be passed from the hands to the food to the person. Some chemicals can enter through the skin, either through absorption or by entering a puncture wound or open exposed cut. Organo-phosphates are an example of a chemical that can be relatively harmless if exposed to the skin or alternatively there are some types whereby even a small amount on the skin can be deadly.

Chemical fumes and toxic gases can present similar hazards to explosive gases in that they can accumulate in confined spaces. Some are heavier than air and can build up in pits or ducts or other underground areas. Some are lighter than air and similarly can build up in ceilings or roof cavities.

Control:

• Personnel intending to work in these areas must attend a site induction course before starting work. This must cover all hazards posed by chemicals or gases used in the production processes or that are produced or stored in the plant.
• All personnel must be satisfied that there are adequate controls to prevent any harm coming to them.
• All personnel must notify plant operators when entering or leaving high risk area.
• All personnel must obtain necessary permits to enter and work in high risk areas.
• All vehicles entering high-risk areas must comply with all permit requirements. If necessary vehicles must be washed down or treated to avoid the possible contamination of other areas.
• All wash down areas must be self-contained and must not drain into storm water systems or other open drainage systems.
• If necessary all vessels or tanks must be tested for toxic residue and washed down using approved procedures prior to entering the area.
• All vehicles working in high risk areas must take all caution to avoid damage to any containers, valves or process machinery. Any damage must be reported immediately to the plant operators or appropriate supervisor.
• All personnel must take special precautions when working in high risk areas. This may mean the wearing of disposable overalls or aprons or the wearing of suitable water or chemical proof overalls.
• Other equipment that may be needed includes special gloves, boots, head or face cover, masks, etc.
• All safety equipment must be suitable for its intended purpose and must be in good condition.
• Emphasis must be given to ensuring that no hazardous chemicals come into contact with personnel.
• Some plants make use of various acids for cleaning purposes or other production uses. These substances must be treated with all care and must not be allowed to come into contact with personnel.
• An emergency contingency plan must be in place at all times with emphasis given to extraction of personnel from the area and containment of spilled substances.
• A detailed safety plan must be prepared that identifies all hazards associated with substances in the area. Use should be made of material safety data sheets that show the identity of the substance and the controls needed for its safe use.
• All work areas, especially tanks and vessels, must be well ventilated when working in the area. This may require the placement of external blowers or extraction units.

Hazard:

Personal injury due to exposure to radiation

Some plants make use of radiation producing equipment as part of their processing. The amount of potential exposure with will depend on the type and intensity of radiation produced. An example of a hazard to personnel posed by radiation may be staff working around X-ray equipment e.g. in the medical and non-destructive testing industries. Prolonged exposure to this type of equipment can lead to medical problems.

Control:

• All personnel must attend an appropriate induction course prior to entering and working in any high-risk area.
• All radiation producing equipment must only be operated by trained staff and must be isolated from other personnel in the area. Warning signs and other barriers must be erected and no unauthorised entry is permitted to high risk areas.

2.8.3.6 Work on roof areas

Hazard:

Personal injury due to a fall from or through a roof area of staff or materials. There are many times when working on a roof could be hazardous, for example:

1. A slip on a roof could lead to sliding off an unprotected edge and falling.
2. A slip could lead to the release of equipment, leading to it falling and posing a danger for personnel below.
3. A person working or walking on a brittle roof may stand on a weak area and fall through posing a danger to themselves and other people below. Similarly equipment dropped onto a weak section could also penetrate the area.

Control:

• All persons involved with inspection and work on roof areas must be suitably qualified and experienced in the task/s to be carried out.
• Edge protection should be attached to all roof areas where personnel are going to work or alternatively fall arrest systems must be used. Fall arrest systems such as safety harnesses and static lines must be capable of carrying all imposed loads.
• All personnel using safety harnesses must be trained in their safe use.
• All static lines and safety nets must be installed and checked by suitably qualified personnel.
• Where practical work near guttering and roof edges should be carried out from mobile scaffolding, cherry pickers, scissor lifts, or similar type equipment.
• No work on brittle roofs should be carried out without an inspection to determine all hazardous areas.
• All areas such as skylights, rusted metal sections and other brittle sections should be covered with decking or alternative measures taken to ensure that personnel cannot fall through.
• If decking or working platforms are erected on roof areas measures must be taken to protect personnel during installation and removal. Decking or working platforms must extend to rafters or other roof supports capable of taking all loads.
• A suitable means of access must be maintained on all roof areas.
• All equipment stored on roof areas must be stored in a manner that is tidy, so as to prevent accidental tripping or dislodgement of equipment.
• No equipment is to be stored near roof edges, or on weakened sections of roof.

2.8.3.7 Work near power lines

Hazard:

Personal injury due to electric shock from contact with power lines.

For instance this can occur when:

1. Homes that require painting need scaffolding to be erected in order to gain access to high areas. Workers involved in the erection and dismantling of scaffolding to these areas (and any others with exposed power lines) risk electric shock or death by electrocution caused by contact with wires.
2. Excavation work uncovers underground power lines causing unexpected contact.
3. Personnel using mobile scaffolding, cranes, Hiab trucks and other mechanical plant are unaware of overhead power lines and move parts of the equipment so as to cause contact with the lines.

Control:

• No scaffolding is permitted to be erected within 4.0m of any live power lines without written permission from the local electricity network company or line owner.
• The actual clear distance required depends on the voltage and span of the line, for example any line with a span of 250m requires a clear span of 8.0m.
• Any lines that will pass through or adjacent to scaffolding (within the minimum clearance) will require isolation for the full length of the scaffolding and for a reasonable distance from both ends. Consideration must be given to the movement of lines in windy conditions.
• No part of any movable machinery or plant, such as crane booms or winch lines, Hiab lifting apparatus or mobile scaffolding must be moved or operated within 4.0m of power lines.
• All care must be taken when excavation works or digging out for foundations is being undertaken near underground power lines.

2.8.3.8 Work outdoors

Hazard:

Personal injury due to over exposure to ultra violet radiation.

In recent years over exposure to the sun has been associated with a variety of medical problems from temporary pain caused by sunburn to skin cancers like melanomas. Many of the serious disorders may not be apparent for a number of years and then can cause major problems and in some cases death.

Control:

• The only effective means of preventing problems associated with over exposure to the sun is to stay out of it. Unfortunately most scaffolding work is carried out outdoors and so other means of protection must be used to minimise the risk.
• All personnel working in areas that are likely to cause sunburn must wear suitable protective clothing and use an approved sun block applied to all exposed body parts.
• A person's eyes can also be damaged through over exposure to the sun and hence protective eyewear with UV protection must be worn.

Hazard:

Personal injury due to exposure to high wind conditions.

Work should only be carried out in high winds if it is safe to do so. A hazard analysis should be completed to determine this. For example high wind conditions can lead to:

1. Personnel working aloft losing their balance and falling.
2. Personnel working aloft, losing control of equipment.
3. Dust and debris blowing around and possibly entering the eyes.
4. Loss of control of crane lifted material.

Control:

• Take all measures to avoid the fall of personnel or equipment from height.
• All personnel must make use of safety harnesses or other fall arrest systems while working aloft in high wind conditions.
• All equipment must be stored so as to be safe from dislodgement and all planks must be secured against horizontal displacement and vertical uplift.
• If the scaffolding structure is to be screened, then additional ties may need to be added to the structure. All screened scaffolding in high wind areas must be designed by a chartered engineer.
• No crane lifting operations should be carried out in high wind conditions even with tag lines.
• All necessary safety equipment must be used in high wind conditions. If required to work in a dusty environment the use of safety glasses is recommended.
• If using hard hats then chin straps or similar restraints must be used to avoid hard hats being blown off.

2.8.3.9 Work near roads and heavy traffic areas

Occasionally scaffolding will be required in high risk areas such as motorways, (for bridge repairs or construction) or adjacent to other places with heavy traffic flows, such as on footpath areas next to roadways. Any vehicle movement can be the source of many hazards and personnel involved in work around these areas must take all precautions to ensure their own safety and that of others in the area. Refer to Transit New Zealand Code of Practice and/or any local authority requirements

Hazard:

Personal injury due to vehicle colliding with scaffolding.

"The main cause of accidents at road works is inadequate signposting and lighting and drivers failing to notice road workers" (DOL Guidelines for the provision of facilities and general safety in the construction industry). This can apply equally to scaffolders carrying out operations on or near roadways. If a vehicle were to collide with a scaffolding structure the consequences could be severe.

Control:

• All steps must be taken to avoid the collision of a vehicle with a scaffolding structure.
• On busy roadways or motorways, scaffolding should be erected behind approved barriers, or alternatively in a position where there is no possibility of impact.
• Scaffolding erected on footpath areas near roadways must be erected at least 500mm from the kerb edge, or whatever minimum distance is required by local authorities, in order to prevent cars or trucks backing into the base assembly.
• If the 500mm clearance is not available or practicable due to space constraints then alternative measures such as crash barriers or fenders must be erected to deflect any traffic. Any system of this nature must be designed and checked by a chartered engineer.
• In the case of scaffolding near roadways suitable lighting must be maintained at all times to illuminate all potential hazards.
• Suitable warning signs should be posted well in advance of the scaffolding area to warn oncoming motorists of the hazards in the area and also of any speed restrictions that may apply.
• Traffic management plans must be in place at all times for work adjacent to high speed areas. If required police and local authorities must be informed of any narrowing of roadways caused by the placement of barriers or other restraints. Particular attention must be paid to permits issued for oversized or over width loads that may be travelling in the area.
• All personnel must be aware of the hazards involved in working over roadways and all care taken to prevent the dropping of equipment into traffic areas.

Hazard:

Personal injury due to vehicle colliding with personnel or pedestrians.

When scaffolding work is being carried out above pedestrian areas adjacent to traffic flows, the scaffolding crew is responsible not only for ensuring their own safety but also the protection of other people in the area. In order to prevent possible harm to others that could be caused by falling objects, personnel will normally erect some form of barrier to prevent pedestrians from entering the area below the operations. In areas limited by space, this may necessitate diverting them onto roadways. This situation can be very dangerous and could lead to people being run over or knocked down.

Control:

• All personnel involved in work alongside busy roadways or motorway areas must make use of high visibility garments.
• All work in these areas should be carried out during low traffic flow times, i.e., between 9.00 am and 4.00 pm, or alternatively from 9.00 pm to 7.00 am if adequate lighting can be maintained. All lighting used in areas adjacent to motorways must be placed in such a manner as to avoid distracting motorists.
• Work near roads must always be approved by the local authority or road owner.
• If pedestrians have to be diverted into traffic flows then all steps must be taken to protect them along the entire alternative route. This may require the erection of temporary hoardings, warning lights or external lighting if the diversion is at night, warning signs, barricades, ramps over obstacle areas, etc.
• It must always be remembered that some pedestrians are disabled and that the alternative route may also be used by people with pushchairs or prams. All steps must be taken to prevent obstacles or trip hazards being put in their way.
• All personnel involved in work near motorways or roadways must have a traffic management plan that will enable not only the safe delivery and pick up of materials and equipment, but also safe access to the area for personnel.
• All care must be taken when handling equipment near these areas. No equipment can be allowed to project into the path of oncoming traffic.

Hazard:

Personal injury due to drivers becoming distracted and colliding with other vehicles.

A major hazard involved with work near roadways is that drivers can become distracted by operations being carried out on the side of the road and lose concentration. This can lead to drivers losing control of the vehicle or colliding with other vehicles.

Control:

• All works being carried out near motorways or busy roads should be advertised by way of signs placed well in advance of the work.
• If necessary speed restrictions should be placed on the area while work is being carried out. Speed restrictions must be realistic and kept as high as possible.
• All signs and barriers must be removed when the work has been completed. Drivers will tend to ignore restrictions that are unrealistic or excessive. If they can see that no work is being carried out in signposted or barricaded areas, then these will soon be ignored as well. This can lead to complacency and a potentially hazardous situation if signs are ignored in an actual work situation.
• It is advisable to engage the services of a traffic management company or a company experienced in such work when undertaking any work in high risk areas.

2.8.3.10 Work near others under the influence of drugs or alcohol or acting irrationally

Hazard:

Personnel under the influence of drugs or alcohol can be operating with impaired judgement. This can lead to a loss of concentration, which in certain areas can be dangerous or even fatal.

Similarly, people carrying out practical jokes or acting irrationally on a work site can sometimes under estimate the effect of their actions and cause severe harm to other personnel and themselves.

Control:

• No person under the influence of drugs or alcohol should be allowed to carry out any duties at a place of work. Similarly no practical jokes or horseplay should be permitted on any work site.
• Any person found to be in breach of these rules must be removed from the site and face suspension or other serious consequences.

2.8.3.11 Work in dirty areas

Hazard:

Personnel exposed to dirty work conditions can develop infections in existing or new wounds if care is not taken. Similarly, diseases such as hepatitis can be spread through failure to ensure personal hygiene.

Control:

• All injuries must be treated as soon as possible. Scratches, cuts and puncture wounds must be cleaned, preferably treated with antiseptic and properly dressed.
• All personnel must ensure their own personal hygiene. Wash hands before eating and after using the toilet.
• All personnel are to keep lunchrooms and other facilities neat and tidy.
• All rubbish must be removed from lunchroom areas.
• All personnel should have ready access to a first aid kit suitable for the treatment of minor injuries. In case of a serious injury, qualified first aid personnel or medical assistance must be sought.

2.8.4 Hazards associated with the use of scaffolding

Most accidents that occur from use of scaffolding platforms can be attributed to one or more of the following factors:

1. Impatience of the user.
2. Unqualified personnel altering the scaffolding.
3. Poor design or construction of scaffolding.
4. Overloading of the structure.
5. Removal of built in safeguards.

Hazard:

Personal injury due to unqualified personnel altering the scaffolding.

Often on a work site a scaffold will need altering. If an unqualified or inexperienced worker carries out alterations to a structure there is a risk that they will lose control of the equipment or remove or loosen a vital part of the structure and not replace it. Both of these situations are dangerous and can lead to serious injury.

Control:

• All clients and end users of scaffolding must be made aware of the hazards they may expose themselves or others to if they attempt to alter an existing structure.
• All erecting, dismantling and alteration of scaffolding over 5 metres high must be carried out by suitably qualified personnel.
• When the scaffolding is in use the following may not be removed: ties or braces, decking (unless the area can be suitably barricaded to prevent falls), structural parts of the scaffolding. Also no excavations are to be carried out near foundations. However, this work may be carried out by qualified personnel.

Hazard:

Personal injury due to collapse of structure due to poor design or construction or overloading of the scaffolding structure.

Poorly designed or constructed scaffold structures could be subject to collapse if exposed to adverse conditions. Similarly structures that are overloaded by stacked materials, large numbers of personnel using them, or environmental conditions, could collapse.

Control:

• The DOL is to be notified prior to commencement of notifiable work.
• All scaffolds must be designed and erected by suitably qualified personnel. All existing and possible site conditions must be taken into consideration when designing the scaffolding.
• All loading factors must be taken into consideration when designing the structure.
• No overloading of the structure may be permitted. All loading criteria and restraints must be made known to the client and end users of the scaffolding.
• As soon as erection is completed a full inspection must be made of all work areas to ensure compliance with the client's specifications and statutory requirements. A register for the scaffolding must be completed for notifiable work.
• The scaffold must be checked by a suitably qualified person on a regular basis as per statutory requirements.
• All scaffolding must be erected in accordance with the BPG.

---