OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH (OSH): November 2017

Wednesday, 15 November 2017

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CHAPTERS (click on the link for details)

Safety of Toxic Substances and Dangerous Chemicals

Chemical Hazards

Average annual world production of chemicals amounts to an estimated 400 million tones. There are between 5 to 7 million known chemicals, however, only 70,000 to 80,000 are on the market, with 1,000 or so being produced in substantial quantities. In North America around 1,000 to 1,200 are produced annually (50 % are polymers).In Western Europe, some 150 to 200 new substances are registered each year. Of the 70,000 to 80,000 chemicals only 5 to 10% ( i.e., 500 to 7,000 should be considered hazardous; 150 to 200 of these are carcinogenic.

Hazardous Substances are used in many workplaces and take many different forms. Solids, liquids, gases, mists and fumes can be present in the workplace.

Chemical hazards are dependent on:

Amount
Concentration
Time of exposure
Mode of entry to the body
Age
Sex
Health status
Resistance of the exposed workers

The effects of chemical agents are as follows:

Asphyxiation
Systemic intoxication
Pneumoconiosis
Carcinogens
Irritation
Mutagencity
Teratogenicity

Dangerous Chemical Substances

Many dangerous substances are used in industry, commerce, agriculture, research activities, hospitals and teaching establishments.

The classification of dangerous substances is based largely on the characteristic properties of such substances and their effects on man. Legislation on this subject also requires the provision of a specific pictorial symbol on any container or package.

The following terms are used in the classification of dangerous substances in the classification, packing and labeling of dangerous substances regulations 1984.

A. Corrosion

B. Oxidizing

C. Harmful

D. Very toxic and toxic

E. Irritant

F. Highly flammable

G. Explosive

A. Corrosive

Hazard: Living tissues as well as equipment are destroyed on contact with these chemicals.

Caution: Do not breathe vapors and avoid contact with skin eyes, and clothing

B. Oxidizing

Hazard: ignite combustible material or worsen existing fire and thus make fire fighting more difficult.

Caution: Keep away from combustible material. Restrict smoking in that area.

C. Harmful

Hazard: Inhalation and insertion of or skin penetration by these substances is harmful to heath.

Caution: Avoid contact with the human body, including inhalation of vapors and in cases of malaise consult doctor.

D. Very toxic and toxic

Hazard: The substances are very hazardous to health whether breathed, swallowed or in contact with the skin and may even lead to death.

Caution: Avoid contact with human body, and immediately consult a doctor in case of malaise.

E. Irritant

Hazard: May have an irritant effect on skin, eyes and respiratory organs

Caution: Do not breathe vapors and avoid contact with skin and eye

F. Highly Flammable

Hazard: Substances with flash point less than 60'C or 140'F

Caution: keep away source of ignition.

G. Explosive

Hazard: Substances which may explode under certain condition

Caution: Avoid shock, friction, sparks and heat.

Chemical Hazards Evaluation

Toxicity assessment
Work activity/risk assessment evaluation
Assessment of controls effectiveness to block routes of entry
Exposure monitoring
Recommendations for improvement

Chemical Hazards: Exposure Monitoring

Special instruments - infrared absorption, photoionization, gas Chromatography
Detector tubes
Air sampling and lab analysis
Professional judgment

Chemical Hazards: Engineering Controls

Substitution (use lower toxicity materials)
Enclose processes and otherwise engineer for low emission / low risk
Provide local exhaust to remove airborne agents
Local exhaust ventilation

Need to have even air flow for hoods
Need to design for adequate capture velocity -usually about 100 feet/minute
Need sufficient make up air
Use ACGIH Ventilation Manual for design

Reduce exposure time
Better procedures
Training
PPE - gloves, face shields, respirators
Remote Operation

Fire Safety

When fire strikes, the potential for damage to people and property is tremendously high. The burning process requires four (4) elements often referred to as a fire tetrahedron:

Fuel - Common fuels include coal, natural gas, wood, paper, etc.
Oxygen - The air we breathe is composed of between 20% and 21% oxygen, which is sufficient to sustain most fires.
Heat - In order to start a fire, heat must be supplied to initiate the chemical reaction. This is normally in the form of a spark or small flame, but could be high temperature.
Sustaining chemical reaction - This is called combustion and involves the transformation of the fuel and oxygen into water and carbon dioxide. By-products include heat and light. The heat sustains the reaction.

Fire safety

Fire safety is a set of practices that reduce the destruction caused by fire. OSH’s fire safety measures are aimed at both preventing the start of a fire by implementing workplace controls and limiting the effects of fire after one begins.

Laws (click on the law for details)

Fire Classes

There are five main types of fire:

Class A - Ordinary Combustibles

Wood, paper, cloth

Ordinary trash

Class B - Flammable Liquids and Gases

Gasoline

Oils

Paints

Propane

Class C - Fires involving electrical equipment - these could be any of the other type of fires, but electrical equipment is involved

Class D fires - Combustible Metals and Metal Alloys (not very common)

Class K fires - Fires involving cooking materials

Cooking Oils
Animal and vegetable fats
Grease

Fire Control Systems

Fire sprinklers

A fire sprinkler system is an active fire protection method, consisting of a water supply system, providing adequate pressure and flowrate to a water distribution piping system, onto which fire sprinklers are connected. These fire sprinkler will be activated automatically in case of fire in the room.

Fire exits

Every workplace must have enough exits suitably located to enable everyone to get out of the facility quickly. Considerations include the type of structure, the number of persons exposed, the fire protection available, the type of industry involved, and the height and type of construction of the building or structure. In addition, fire doors must not be blocked or locked when employees are inside. Delayed opening of fire doors, however, is permitted when an approved alarm system is integrated into the fire door design. Exit routes from buildings must be free of obstructions and properly marked with exit signs.

Smoke Alarms

Smoke alarms should be installed between each sleeping area and the remainder of the building. Where a sleeping area is served by a hallway, install the alarm in the hall. Always install the smoke alarm on or near the ceiling and follow the manufacturer's installation instructions.

Test your smoke alarm every month using the alarm test button. Install a new battery at least once or twice a year. If the low battery warning beeps, replace the battery immediately.

To clean battery-powered smoke alarms, vacuum the inside using the soft bristle brush. Vacuum as you would the battery powered unit. Restore power and test the unit when finished. Replace any alarm which is more than ten years old with a new smoke alarm.

Standpipe and hose system

Standpipe systems are the pipes, valves, and connections that are installed in a building and arranged to provide attachment points for fire hoses. These are generally located in the hallway. In case of fire they should be used only by trained persons. If you start the fire alarm, the fire department will respond as soon as possible.

Portable fire extinguishers

A fire extinguisher is an active fire protection device used to extinguish or control small fires, often in emergency situations if you are trained to use one. Use the fire extinguisher if you know how to use it. Otherwise, follow the evacuation procedure. There is no time to try to figure out how to use a fire extinguisher.

Although not all workplaces are required to maintain fire extinguishers, employers must ensure that any fire extinguishers on-site are appropriate for the fire hazards that are present in the building. Employees that are expected to use this equipment must be trained on how to properly operate it. OSHA also requires employers to regularly inspect the fire extinguishers to ensure the equipment is in safe working condition

Extinguishers should be located on each floor or level. You should have one in the kitchen (not too close to the stove), another in your workshop, and in the garage, basement, camper and at the cottage. A unit for the car is also advisable. Locate the extinguisher just inside the door to the area concerned. You can reach it easily and fight the fire, while remaining close to the escape route.

Check the extinguisher pressure gauge every month to ensure the unit is holding its charge. If you use the extinguisher, no matter how much agent has been used the extinguisher should be considered empty, and you should have it refilled as soon as possible. The extinguisher will not maintain its pressure once it has been operated.

The decision to fight a fire is critical. Regardless of your choice, always get out of the building first, and call the fire department.

If you feel that you can extinguish the fire with your fire extinguisher, do so with caution and use the following steps.

Check that the pressure indicator is full, and after pulling the pin, a very short burst with the extinguisher as a check to make sure it works - if it does not work, leave immediately.
Approach the fire with caution, and make sure there is a clear path to an exit behind you.
Leave immediately if the fire is still burning after using one full extinguisher - it is likely the fire is too large for you to fight.

How To Use Fire Extinguisher

KEEP well back from the fire.
PULL the pin on the fire extinguisher.
AIM the extinguisher nozzle at the base of the fire.
SQUEEZE the handle.
SWEEP from side to side.
BE CAREFUL and watch for re-ignition

Maintenance and Testing of Fire Safety Equipment

All fire doors and escape routes should be regularly checked along with associated lighting and signs
Fire-fighting equipment should be regularly checked
Fire detection and alarm equipment should be regularly checked
All other equipment provided to help means of escape arrangements in the building should be regularly checked
Instructions for relevant employees about testing of equipment should be available
Make sure those who test and maintain the equipment are properly trained to do so.

Evacuation plans

Have a clear passageway to all escape routes
Clearly marked escape routes that are as short and direct as possible
Have enough exits and routes for all people to escape
Emergency doors that open easily
Emergency lighting where needed
Training for all employees to know and use the escape routes
Have a safe meeting point for staff

Evacuation of disabled people

The first step in your fire risk assessment process is to identify those people at risk and to take particular care in assessing the risks to vulnerable groups or individuals. This could include children the elderly or those with a disability.

The Equality Act 2010 ensures that disabled people should not be treated less favourable or be at a substantial disadvantage to people without disabilities.

If an employer fails to make arrangements for the safe evacuation of disabled people from their premises it could be seen as discriminatory as well as failing to comply with the current fire safety legislation. Remember that the definition of disability is wide ranging and not restricted to physical disabilities.

Individuals have different capabilities and each building will have unique characteristics so in many cases a Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs) will be required.

It should include clear concise instructions and evacuation maps or diagrams, detailing how disabled people can reach a place of safety.

Fire and Rescue Services will expect to see it as part of your Fire Safety Risk Assessment. They will be looking for information on how you will evacuate that person and do not expect you to leave them in a refuge to await rescue by the Fire and Rescue Service.

A refuge should only be used as a stage of a full evacuation. You may use it to determine whether a full evacuation is required or as a rest point on the route. No one should ever be left in a refuge during a full evacuation.

Employers and Employees' Responsibilities in Reducing Fire Hazards

Take steps to prevent and reduce the impact of fire on the workplace and carry out a fire risk assessment of their workplace
Identify the significant findings of the risk assessment and the details of anyone who might be especially at risk in case of fire (these must be recorded if more than five employees)
Provide and maintain fire precautions necessary to safeguard anyone using the workplace (including visitors)
Provide information, instruction and training to employees about the fire precautions in the workplace.
Employers must nominate people to undertake any special roles which are required under the emergency plan
Employers must consult their employees (or their elected representatives or appointed trade union safety representatives) about the nomination of people to carry out particular roles in connection with fire safety and about proposals for improving the fire precautions
Employers must inform other employers who also have workplaces in the building of any significant risks they found which might affect the safety of their employees – and co-operate with them about the measures proposed to reduce/control those risks
Controllers of premises (even if they do not employ anyone themselves) which contain more than one workplace are also responsible for ensuring that the requirements of the fire legislation are complied with in those parts over which they have control
Employers must establish a suitable means of contacting the emergency services, and ensure that they can be called easily. They should also ensure that the emergency services can gain access to the premises in an emergency.
Employees must co-operate with employers to ensure the workplace is safe from fire and its effects and not to do anything which will place themselves or other people at risk
In some workplaces there may be a need to apply for a licence, or other form of approval before using the workplace.

Electrical Safety

All electrical systems have the potential to cause harm. Electricity can be either "static" or "dynamic." Dynamic electricity is the uniform motion of electrons through a conductor (this is known as electric current). Conductors are materials that allow the movement of electricity through it. Most metals are conductors. The human body is also a conductor. This document is about dynamic electricity.

Note: Static electricity is accumulation of charge on surfaces as a result of contact and friction with another surface. This contact/friction causes an accumulation of electrons on one surface, and a deficiency of electrons on the other surface. The OSH Answers document on How Do I Work Safely with Flammable and Combustible Liquids? (Static Electricity) has more information.

Electric current cannot exist without an unbroken path to and from the conductor. Electricity will form a "path" or "loop". When you plug in a device (e.g., a power tool), the electricity takes the easiest path from the plug-in, to the tool, and back to the power source. This is also known as creating or completing an electrical circuit.

Purpose

The objective of the Electrical Safety Program to protect employees from electrical hazards during the performance of inspection activity.
Ensure the reliability of electrical installations according to their intended use.
Prevent the hazards due to electricity:

the dangers of direct touch
the dangers of indirect touch
fire hazard

Scope

1. Plan, manufacture, installation or assembly, use or operate and maintenance of electrical installations.

2. Responsibility in OSH electrical

Laws (click on the law for details)

Definitions

Electrical Hazard: A dangerous condition such that contact or equipment failure can result in electric shock, flash burn, thermal burn, or blast.

Flash Hazard Analysis: A study investigating a worker’s potential exposure to arc flash energy, conducted for the purpose of injury prevention and the determination of safe work practices and the appropriate levels of PPE.

Flash Protection Boundary: An approach limit at a distance from exposed live parts within which an OSHA employee could receive a second-degree burn if an electrical arc flash were to occur.

PPE: Personal Protective Equipment.

Qualified OSHA Employee: An employee training on and knowledgeable of the electrical equipment to be evaluated, safe methods of using test equipment, and in the recognition of electrical hazards that might be present with respect to that equipment and the voltages involved. These are the only employees allowed to enter a flash protection boundary after approved by an Area Director/Unit Manager.

Electrical Hazards

People are injured when they become part of the electrical circuit. Humans are more conductive than the earth (the ground we stand on) which means if there is no other easy path, electricity will try to flow through our bodies.

There are four main types of injuries: electrocution (fatal), electric shock, burns, and falls. These injuries can happen in various ways:

Direct contact with exposed energized conductors or circuit parts. When electrical current travels through our bodies, it can interfere with the normal electrical signals between the brain and our muscles (e.g., heart may stop beating properly, breathing may stop, or muscles may spasm).
When the electricity arcs (jumps, or "arcs") from an exposed energized conductor or circuit part (e.g., overhead power lines) through a gas (such as air) to a person who is grounded (that would provide an alternative route to the ground for the electrical current).
Thermal burns including burns from heat generated by an electric arc, and flame burns from materials that catch on fire from heating or ignition by electrical currents or an electric arc flash. Contact burns from being shocked can burn internal tissues while leaving only very small injuries on the outside of the skin.
Thermal burns from the heat radiated from an electric arc flash. Ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR) light emitted from the arc flash can also cause damage to the eyes.
An arc blast can include a potential pressure wave released from an arc flash. This wave can cause physical injuries, collapse your lungs, or create noise that can damage hearing.
Muscle contractions, or a startle reaction, can cause a person to fall from a ladder, scaffold or aerial bucket. The fall can cause serious injuries.

Direct contact

refers to a person coming into contact with a conductor which is live in normal circumstances

Indirect contact

refers to a person coming into contact with an exposed-conductive-part which is not normally alive, but has become alive accidentally (due to insulation failure or some other cause).

Responsibilities

The responsible Manager(s) has the primary responsibility for implementation of the Electrical Safety Program.

Provide appropriate PPE and make it available to employees
Provide appropriate and approved electrical testing equipment
Ensure that PPE and electrical testing equipment are properly tested and in good condition
Ensure employees are trained on electrical hazards, the proper inspection methodology when inspecting electrical issues, the safe use of field testing equipment and the use, care and cleaning of PPE
Maintain records of training and electrical field testing equipment and PPE supplied
Ensure the Electrical Safety Program is followed;
Ensure defective or damaged equipment is immediately removed from service
Ensure that appropriate assistance is provided to employees where questions or concerns arise regarding inspection situations where the OSHA employee has a question about their qualifications or proper equipment for the inspection.

Employees are responsible for following the requirements of this chapter.

Attend electrical safe work practices training;

Know how to determine the nature and extent of the potential electrical hazard

Be familiar with appropriate PPE and safe approach distances

Be familiar with the use and hazards of appropriate electrical test equipment. Unless authorized by the responsible OSHA Manager(s) employees will only use the following electrical test equipment:

Santronics AC Sensor
Sure test circuit analyzer
Tic tracer
120 Volt outlet circuit tester

Report to the responsible OSHA Manager(s) any inspection situation where the employee has a question about their qualifications or proper equipment for the inspection.

General Precautions

Inspect portable cord-and-plug connected equipment, extension cords, power bars, and electrical fittings for damage or wear before each use. Repair or replace damaged equipment immediately.

Always tape extension cords to walls or floors when necessary. Nails and staples can damage extension cords causing fire and shock hazards.

Use extension cords or equipment that is rated for the level of amperage or wattage that you are using.

Always use the correct size fuse. Replacing a fuse with one of a larger size can cause excessive currents in the wiring and possibly start a fire.

Be aware that unusually warm or hot outlets may be a sign that unsafe wiring conditions exists. Unplug any cords or extension cords to these outlets and do not use until a qualified electrician has checked the wiring.

Always use ladders made with non-conductive side rails (e.g., fibreglass) when working with or near electricity or power lines.

Place halogen lights away from combustible materials such as cloths or curtains. Halogen lamps can become very hot and may be a fire hazard.

Risk of electric shock is greater in areas that are wet or damp. Install Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) as they will interrupt the electrical circuit before a current sufficient to cause death or serious injury occurs.

Use a portable in-line Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) if you are not certain that the receptacle you are plugging your extension cord into is GFCI protected.

Make sure that exposed receptacle boxes are made of non-conductive materials.

Know where the panel and circuit breakers are located in case of an emergency.

Label all circuit breakers and fuse boxes clearly. Each switch should be positively identified as to which outlet or appliance it is for.

Do not use outlets or cords that have exposed wiring.

Do not use portable cord-and-plug connected power tools with the guards removed.

Do not block access to panels and circuit breakers or fuse boxes.

Do not touch a person or electrical apparatus in the event of an electrical accident. Always disconnect the power source first

Lightning

Direct Protection

By installing a lightning strike installation on building

The Franklin system

Faraday Cage System

Static Electrical System

Indirect Protection

By equipping voltage equalizing equipment on the network of electrical installations (Arrester)

Lift

The function of lift is to transport persons and goods in private and commercial buildings. Hydraulic lift are frequently used for low lifting height, otherwise counterbalanced cable lifts are used

When dangerous thing happens and the passengers can do nothing, the aspects of reliability and safety of passengers are the basic factors in the consideration of the design of lift

Ministerial Regulation No. 03 / MEN / 1999 (K3 Lift)
(click for more info)

Construction Work Safety

Construction Hazards

Construction is a high hazard industry that comprises a wide range of activities involving construction, alteration, and/or repair. Examples include residential construction, bridge erection, roadway paving, excavations, demolitions, and large scale painting jobs. Construction workers engage in many activities that may expose them to serious hazards, such as

falling from rooftops
unguarded machinery
being struck by heavy construction equipment
electrocutions
exposure to molds, fungi and bird or rodent droppings
pain or injury from physical overexertion, repetitive manual tasks, or working in awkward positions.
exposure to lead, wood dust, asbestos, paints, solvents, and other toxic chemicals or materials.
working in extreme temperatures and UV radiation.
working with hand tools, powered tools and heavy powered equipment.
excess vibration in the hands, arms or body from powered tools or equipment
confined spaces
noise
working at heights
electrical hazards
respiratory hazards from wood dust
explosion and fire hazards from combustible dusts

Solutions

For construction, the 10 OSHA standards most frequently included in the agency's citations were:

Scaffolding
Fall protection (scope, application, definitions)
Excavations (general requirements)
Ladders
Head protection
Excavations (requirements for protective systems)
Hazard communication
Fall protection (training requirements)
Construction (general safety and health provisions)
Electrical (wiring methods, design and protection)

Preventive Measures for Construction Workers

Scan the workplace for existing and potential hazards before work begins and take appropriate controls. Be aware that conditions can change constantly.
Inspect all equipment and machinery for any defects before work begins.
Keep tools and equipment in good working order.
Use correct personal protective equipment and apparel, including safety footwear.
Keep all work areas clear of clutter and equipment.
Avoid awkward body positions or take frequent breaks.
Learn safe lifting techniques.
Have training before beginning any task, especially high risk activities such as working at heights, hazardous energy control (lockout/tag out), or confined space entry.
Follow a recommended shiftwork pattern, and be aware of the associated hazards.
Be aware of seasonal hazards from working in extreme temperatures.
Know how to get help in an emergency for working alone situations.
Be aware of the emergency response plans before work begins

Laws (click on the law for details)

Construction Projects

Project Characteristics

Project time is limited - time period, start time (project start and finish time (final project) are certain.
The result is not repeated - the product of a project is only one, not a routine or repeating product (Manufacturing).
Having different stages of activity, with a few initial patterns, increasing, decreasing and constant.
Intensity of activities (stages, planning, stages of design and implementation).
Many kinds of activities that require a diverse power classification.
Specific project land and location,
Specific project specifications - requirements relating to the materials, tools, personnel and implementation methods that have been established and must meet the requirements procedures.

Project Classification

Building construction project
Residential construction/ Real Estate project
Civil engineering construction projects / Heavy Engineering Construction projects - generally projects that enter this type of infrastructure projects such as dams, highways, bridges, tunnels, railways, ports
Industrial construction projects - specifications and special requirements: oil refineries, heavy industry or basic industries, mining and nuclear

OSH Maintenance on Construction Projects

Begin at the planning stage

The elements involved:

Management commitment
Establishment of OSH units
Establishment of P2K3 organization
Framework and task description
Activity activities
Internal and external supervision

Specific Object on Construction Projects

Place and work environment

Tools, machines, installations

Scaffolding

Stairs

Lifting device

Construction equipment / heavy equipment

Construction under / ground / water

Excavation

Erection

Steel / concrete work

Welding work

Work support / finishing

Certification

Tool:

Administrative requirements

Visual inspection

Load testing

Recommendations / Permits

Personnel Competence:

Entry requirements

Training

Evaluation

Certification

Licence

Appointment

Competence Certification

A. Project > 6 months > 100 people

Min. 1 Main Expert

Min. 1 Expert

Min. 2 Young Experts

B. Projects < 6 months < 100 people

Min. 1 Expert

Min. 1 Young Expert

C. Project < 3 months < 25 people

Min. 1 Young Expert

D. Scaffolding technicians must be licensed