PART 9 - HOW YOU CONTROL GENERAL RISKS

References

1. Reducing noise at work - Guidance on the Noise at Work Regulations 1989, L108, HSE 1998, ISBN 0 7176 1511 1.
2. TEXIAC - Action on Noise, Information Pack.
3. Environmental Health and Safety, KDL10, available from KDLI Publications (Tel: 0161 624 9749) or from the Knitting Industries Federation Ltd. (Tel: 0116 254 1608).
4. Sound Solutions- techniques to reduce noise at work, HSG 138, HSE 1995
5. Noise at work - advice for employers, INDG 362, HSE 2002.
6. Protect your hearing or lose it!- pocket card, INDG 363, HSE 2002
7. Hearing loss at work - what you should know, CD in English, Punjabi, Bengali, Gujarati, Urdu and Hindi.

Help

• The Noise at Work Regulations 1989 establish a first action level where a person is subjected to a daily personal noise level of 85dbA, at which point a competent person must make an assessment of the level of noise. As a rough guide an assessment will usually be required wherever people have to raise their voices or are having difficulty being heard by someone 2 metres away. Workers must be informed of the risk to their hearing and be provided with adequate instruction and training. The assessment should identify the action required to achieve compliance. It should include: identification of employees at risk and daily personal noise exposures, which processes/machines generate the noise, consideration of noise reduction, ear protection zones, and identification of suitable ear protection.

• Regulation 4 requires that noise assessments are reviewed when there has been a significant change, or there is reason to suspect the assessment is no longer valid.

• Regulation 5 requires a record to be kept, which would normally include the workplaces, areas or jobs that were assessed, and the date of the assessment.

• An action plan should be drawn up where the noise levels are 90dB(A) and above. This should identify reasonably practicable measures to reduce the noise level by engineering means (regulation 6), and establish priorities and timescales for action.

• Where noise levels are 85dbA but less than 90dbA Regulation 8 requires that well maintained hearing protection is made available to employees. Information should be given on why they are issued, the places where they should be worn and how they should be worn.

• Regulations 8 and 9 require the issue of ear protectors to all concerned, zone marking of the areas concerned, and the need to ensure that all employees wear the protection. Advice is given in L108 on how to encourage employees to wear the protectors provided. It is good practice to keep a record of weekly checks on hearing protection use.

• Under regulation 6 of the Management of Health Safety and Welfare Regulations, health surveillance should be provided where employees are working in high noise environments. In those situations where heavy reliance is placed on the correct use of hearing protection, the effectiveness of hearing protection provision can be monitored.

A low-noise purchasing policy can be the most cost effective long-term measure you can take. Choosing quieter machinery and equipment can save increased costs of trying to control noise after installation. You should consider the effect of new or replacement machinery on noise levels and make sure that you get full information on noise levels from suppliers.

HSE's Inspectors will be assessing your control of noise risks using the following indicators: NOISE

a. Noise management system

Effective organisation and arrangements including adequate noise assessment, noise action plan, provision of information, instruction, training, supervision and a health surveillance regime. Evidence of a positive purchasing policy and strong management commitment. Arrangements for reviewing the system.

b. Control of noise at source

Reasonably practicable measures for controlling noise (other than by provision of ear protection (EP)) are in use and properly maintained.

c. Ear protection programme

EP Zones demarcated and fully observed by all personnel. EP is provided and is suitable for the individual and the task. A maintenance/replacement schedule exists including regular checks by a trained person. Evidence of full and proper use.

Inspectors will score your performance using the following assessment scale:

Assessment scale
Each risk control indicator should be assessed against the following 1 - 4 scale. A score of 1 must satisfy all the appropriate criteria of the risk control indicator.
1	2	3	4
Full compliance in areas that matter	Broad compliance in areas that matter	Some compliance in areas that matter	Limited or no compliance in areas that matter

 

Reference

1. Safeguarding of Spinning and Allied Machinery, Joint Standing Committee for the Wool Textile Industry (Health and Safety Commission), HSE, 1986, ISBN 01188 3987 X.

Help

• The use of hand knives is a major cause of injury in textiles. They are used extensively for removing laps and cutting waste from packages. However, it is possible that they are being used in packing, warehousing, sewing and other operations. All operations where they are used must be identified and examined.
• In many cases other safer methods can be used. For example, scissors can be used to remove laps from deeply grooved traverse motion rollers of winding machines, and proprietary devices are available from automatic stripping of packages.
• The use of employees' own knives should be prohibited, so as to maintain control of the type of knife being used.
• The precise operations for which they are to be used should be specified. The person(s) designated to use knives should be specified by name or job category.
• Retractable blades with inward curving edges should normally be used. Injuries may still occur, but with less frequency or severity.
• A safe system of work should be specified, preferably in writing. In doing this, the following may be considered.
• The best time to cut off a lap is when it is small.
• Wherever possible the knife should be held with both hands, the cutting should be away from the body and several cuts should be made, rather than using excessive force to remove in one cut.
• Every designated operative should receive instructions, training and supervision in the systems of work specified.

References

1. The Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002, SI 2002/2776.
2. The Storage of Flammable Liquids in Containers, HS(G)51, HSE 1998, ISBN 0 7176 1471 9.
3. Chemical Information Sheet No. 5 - Small scale use of LPG in cylinders, CHIS5, HSE 1999.
4. Liquid Petroleum Gas Association Code of Practice No. 7: Storage of Full and Empty LPG Cylinders and Cartridges
5. Fire Safety: An employer's guide, Home Office 1999, ISBN 01134 1229 0.
6. Fire Precautions in the Clothing and Textile Industries, Textiles Industry Advisory Committee (TEXIAC) 2000
7. Fire Safety in Small Textile Factories, IACL107, HSE 2000, ISBN 0 7176 1785 8.
8. Safe Working with Flammable Substances, INDG227, HSE 1996, ISBN 0 7176 1154 X
9. Safe Use and Handling of Flammable Liquids, HS(G)140, HSE 1996, ISBN 0 7176 0967 7.

Help

• The Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002 (DSEAR), replace the Highly Flammable Liquids and Liquefied Petroleum Gases Regulations 1972. DSEAR is a set of regulations concerned with protection against risks from fire, explosion and similar events arising from dangerous substances used or present in the workplace.

The Regulations give a detailed definition of 'dangerous substance', which you should refer to for more information, but it includes any substance or preparation, which because of its properties or the way it is used could cause harm to people from fires and explosions. Dangerous substances include:
petrol; liquefied petroleum gas (LPG); paints; varnishes; solvents; and dusts which when mixed with air could cause an explosive atmosphere, for example, dusts from milling and sanding operations. Dangerous substances can be found, in varying quantities, in most workplaces.

You must:
- carry out a risk assessment of any work activities involving dangerous substances;
- provide measures to eliminate or reduce risks as far as is reasonably practicable;
-provide equipment and procedures to deal with accidents and emergencies;
-provide information and training to employees;
- classify places where explosive atmospheres may occur into zones and mark the zones where necessary. (This duty is being phased in.)

Dangerous substances are defined as those meeting the criteria in the Approved Guide to the Classification and Labelling of Dangerous Substances and Dangerous Preparations" and includes substances which are explosive, oxidising, extremely flammable, highly flammable or flammable, as well as explosible dusts. • Flammable solids are those that can be expected to burn rapidly and produce large volumes of smoke - examples are acrylic fibre, expanded polystyrene, flexible polythene PU foam and polypropylene sliver.
• Substitution by a less flammable substance is always to be preferred - but beware of introducing other hazards (e.g. toxicity) with the substitute material. A balanced risk-assessment approach is necessary.
• The amount of any dangerous Substance in the workroom should be as small as possible and should be safely contained and stored. • Bulk quantities of highly flammable substances should normally be kept in a separate external store. Internal stores should be separated from the rest of the building by partitions of at least half-an- hour fire resistance. Flammable gases should normally be stored outside in a secure, ventilated compound.
• Consider sources of ignition presented by the process, heating, lighting, electrical equipment etc. Where liquids and gases are concerned, expert advice may be necessary on the protection of electrical equipment.
• Specific training of employees in what to do in case of fire is likely to be particularly important where highly flammable substances are used or stored.
• There should be a clearly understood system for the safe disposal of rubbish, including waste. Containers for waste should be of metal, provided with lids and emptied at least daily.
• Smoking must be prohibited except in designated safe areas where suitable ashtrays and metal bins are provided. An additional precaution is to ban all smoking (even in designated areas) during the last half-hour before shutdown.
• Waste and fly are an easily ignited and rapidly fire- spreading 'fuel'. Routines for removal should be established which do not result in an undue risk of accident or hazard to health by inspiration of dust.
• Clear routines should be established for regular cleaning, the frequency being according to need. To be effective it must be organised, understood and checked frequently. The programme must apply to the whole site with particular attention being paid to hazardous areas, e.g. where there are drying or singeing units.

References

1 Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992: Guidance on Regulations, L25, HSE 1992, ISBN 0 7176 0415 2
2 Protect Your Feet: Advice for employees in the textiles industry, IACL84, HSE 1996.

Help

• Personal protective equipment (PPE) includes protective clothing (e.g. aprons, boots, gloves) and protective equipment (e.g. goggles, respirators, safety harnesses) which is provided to give protection from workplace hazards. It does not include uniforms or similar clothing. See the guidance on Regulation 2 for detailed definition.

• Remember that the use of PPE as a protective measure is normally only permitted when other measures are not possible or do not give adequate protection (see Regulation 4).

• Before choosing PPE, Regulation 6 requires you to assess whether what you intend to use is suitable. Suitability needs to take into account the nature of the hazard, the standard to which the PPE is made (it should normally carry a 'CE' mark), the demands of the job and the physical characteristics of the users.

• Special arrangements may need to be made for cleaning and inspection and servicing. Regulation 7 requires maintenance in an efficient state, efficient working order, and good repair.

• Regulation 8 requires the provision of adequate accommodation for PPE - what is adequate will depend on the nature of the equipment.

• The effectiveness of PPE is very dependent on the way it is used or worn. Improper use may largely or wholly defeat the purpose of the equipment. Proper instructions and, where necessary, training for users is therefore essential and required by Regulation 9. Refresher instruction and/or training may be necessary, particularly where PPE is not in constant use and also to correct any malpractices which may develop with familiarity.

References

1. Safety in Maintenance, KDL13, available from KDLI Publications (Tel: 0161 624 9749) or from the Knitting Industries Federation Ltd. (Tel: 0116 254 1608).
2. Safe Handling of Bales, HSE(CATIAC) 1994, ISBN 0 7176 0692 9
3. Working platforms on fork lift trucks, guidance note PM28, HSE, 2000.
4. Safety in Early Processes, Wool Sector JSC, HSE, 1990

Help

a. Work done at height should be identified. This includes any occasional work such as maintenance, light fittings, cleaning of dust from high surfaces, access to hoppers, tops of blending bins, work near tanks or pits, etc. Work needing contractors should also be considered. Equipment required and methods of working should be identified.
b. Fragile roofing materials present a high risk: signs are needed and any work done should be tightly controlled by, for example, a permit to work system.
c. Selection of the most appropriate equipment is important: the following hierarchy should be followed:
- eliminate the need to work at height
- fall protection (e.g. guard rails, toe boards, working platforms, mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPS), suspended access equipment, travel restriction or restraint using fall restraint PPE)
- fall arrest (e.g. nets, safety harnesses)
d. Ladder work should be carefully considered and its necessity questioned, it should not be taken for granted that employees know how to use a ladder safely. Where regular access to roofs is needed permanent means of access and physical safeguards should be provided
e. Ladders should be checked by the user prior to use, but also should be included on an inventory and inspected by a competent person on a regular basis.
f. The forks of a fork lift truck or makeshift platforms should never be used for access (see ref. 3)
g. Openings in walls, such as crane doors/teagle openings, should be securely fenced when not in use such as when transferring bales. This can be achieved by the use of doors or half doors, or if the doors are kept open for ventilation purposes, securely fenced by other means.
A crane door that is open and unfenced for access of goods is to be regarded as dangerous and marked as such. Full account should be taken of the advice, including the use of a safety harness, in the JSC Notes of Guidance on Bale Handling. Handholds should be provided.

• Openings in floors, such as wool traps, should have a secure cover of a type that cannot be readily detached and taken away. The cover must be capable of supporting all loads likely to be imposed on it. Except when the nature of the work at a floor opening renders secure fencing or covering impracticable, such as when a wool trap is in use, secure fencing or covering must be in place. As regards wool traps, detailed advice on a suitable guardrail is given in the JSC Notes of Guidance on 'Safety in Early Processes'.
• Access across the top of a blending bin requires careful assessment, (see ref 4).

HSE's Inspectors will be assessing your control of falls form height using the following risk control indicators:

a. Identification of activities and precautions involving falls from height

Work above 2m, including maintenance, cleaning and repair, has been identified and workers instructed in precautions; access points to fragile roofs are marked.

b. Selection, use and maintenance of equipment

Appropriate access equipment is provided, is well maintained and regularly inspected and used.

c. Systems for the procurement and control of contractors

Managers know how to screen potential contractors (in line with the principles of CDM) and actively monitor their work.

Inspectors will score your performance using the following assessment scale:

Assessment scale
Each risk control indicator should be assessed against the following 1 - 4 scale. A score of 1 must satisfy all the appropriate criteria of the risk control indicator.
1	2	3	4
Full compliance in areas that matter	Broad compliance in areas that matter	Some compliance in areas that matter	Limited or no compliance in areas that matter

References

1. Slips and Trips- Guidance for employers on identifying hazards and controlling risks, HSG 155, HSE, 1996.
2. Preventing slips, trips and falls, IND(G) 225(L)

Help

The risk of slips and trips needs to be managed like any other. It is the most common cause of major injuries at work. A number of factors need to be considered and the contribution of each factor to the overall risk weighed up. These factors include contamination, the flooring material, what the floor is used for, the nature of the work done, frequency of use, footwear and environmental factors such as illumination and distractions.

a. All floors should be properly constructed and maintained. This includes access routes, gangways and stairs. Floors should have a sound even and firm surface and shouldn't have dangerous slopes or changes in level.

b. Good housekeeping and management of flow of work in progress should eliminate obstructions and trip hazards. Fixed obstacles likely to cause a risk can be highlighted with black and yellow stripes. Gangways can be demarcated to indicate they should be kept clear.

c. Good lighting is needed so that obstructions and stairs can be seen.

e. Contamination sources which need to be considered include leaks from processes, grease from fleeces, condensation, mud and water walked in on people's feet, ice in yard areas, litter such as polythene packaging etc. The first approach is to prevent contamination in the first place, if that is not reasonably practicable, to contain any contamination (drip trays, drainage, absorbent mats at doorways etc.), and if that is not reasonably practicable to limit the effects by for example immediate cleaning.

f. Smooth polished floors are more slippery than rough ones and may be treacherous if wet. Where contamination is inevitable, consideration should be given to increasing the surface roughness, or failing that slip resistant flooring should be considered.

h. Footwear can be a major factor in slipperiness. If control can be exercised over the footwear of floor users, then slip resistant footwear can be a useful solution.

HSE's Inspectors will be assessing your control of slips and trips risks using the following indicators:

a. Floor contamination

Work activities and environment controlled, process plant controlled and maintained to minimise floor contamination such as water, oil, powders, food. Spillages promptly and effectively cleaned-up. (Consider areas other than those where contamination is inevitable, e.g. Some dye houses, swimming pools.)

b. Suitable floors & footwear

Floors and required footwear give appropriate slip-resistance for conditions. Use of drainage, anti-slip surfaces, mats and grids as necessary (e.g. areas prone to contamination.)

c. Prevention of trips

Floors even, free from holes; gangways well-marked, access routes kept free from trip hazards, e.g. trailing cables, tools; stairs well-constructed and fitted with handrails.

Inspectors will score your performance using the following assessment scale:

Assessment scale
Each risk control indicator should be assessed against the following 1 - 4 scale. A score of 1 must satisfy all the appropriate criteria of the risk control indicator.
1	2	3	4
Full compliance in areas that matter	Broad compliance in areas that matter	Some compliance in areas that matter	Limited or no compliance in areas that matter

Help

• Under the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992, employers must, so far as is reasonably practicable, avoid the need for manual handling where there is a risk of injury. Where not reasonably practicable, they must make a suitable and sufficient assessment of all manual handling operations having regard to the tasks, the loads, the working environment, the individual capability and any other factors. They must record the significant findings.

• The assessment must include:
- the task: posture, lifting distances, carrying distances, seating, rest periods, team handling.
- the load: weight, bulk, grasp, stability, sharp edges, excessive heat or cold.
- the working environment: sufficient space, slippery unstable floors, uneven floors, extremes of temperature and humidity, lighting.
- individual capability: does the job: require unusual strength, height, etc.? Create a hazard to those who might reasonably be considered to be pregnant or to have a health problem? Require special information or training for its safe performance?
- other factors: is movement or posture hindered by personal protective equipment or by clothing? The employer must take appropriate steps to reduce the risk of injury and provide information to employees on the weight of each load and the heaviest side of any load whose centre of gravity is not positioned centrally.
- Any assessment must be reviewed when it is no longer valid, or when there has been a significant change.

• There is no specific legal requirement for instruction and training in the Regulations but they are considered to be part of the steps employers are required to take to reduce risk. The instruction and training provided by employers to employees should include:
- how to avoid hazards (risk factors: see Reference 1);
- information about MSDs: what they are and how they affect the individual;
- information about early reporting of symptoms;
- proper use of handling/lifting aids;
- use of PPE/effect on handling if appropriate;
- how housekeeping and cramped conditions can affect access for handling, posture etc;
- factors affecting individual capability such as age, size, fitness, health, pregnancy, (many people cannot bend their knees to adopt the postures often recommended for safer handling).
- features of the working environment such as heat, cold and wet floors where appropriate: which can affect handling, dexterity etc; and
- lifting and handling techniques e.g. aspects such as planning the lift, position of feet for stability/balance, posture, keeping the load close to the body, lifting smoothly, moving feet instead of twisting trunk.
instruction and training should complement engineering controls, not replace them.

Help

• The Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 do not apply unless the task involves a 'load'. Tools, implements and machines are not 'loads' while used for their intended purpose (but material on them would be).

• An assessment of the risk of ULDs (which do not involve a load) is required by the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations. The assessment should take into account the following risk factors: task, working environment and individual capability.

• Task: does it require/involve:
- strong force and awkward movements/posture, e.g., bent or twisted wrists, ;
- forceful use of finger/hand/forearm, e.g., to insert components;
- excessive force to grip raw materials, product or tools;
- inadequate tools for repetitive use, e.g. screwdrivers, pliers, hammers;
- rapid or repetitive movements e.g. reaching, piecework
- insufficient breaks or change of activity for recovery.

• Working Environment: is the work environment causing problems because of:
- awkward/static posture, e.g., crouching, stooping, reaching up -workstations and seats have to be suitable;
- dim light, shadow, flickering light;
- noise which could cause stress and muscle tension;
- PPE that compromises grip/effort/dexterity/mobility - PPE is not suitable unless it takes account of ergonomic risks;
- vibration which can exacerbate ULD problems.
- cold or hot environment - both of which can affect abilities, such as grip. Temperature in workplaces in buildings has to be 'reasonable'.

• Individual capability: are individual capabilities taken into account:
- equipment designed for different body size or strength;
- pace of work is too fast whilst learning task;
- pregnancy - hormonal changes can affect ligaments increasing risk of injury

• Indicators of ULD problems are: tools and furniture which have been adapted by the user and the wearing of wrist supports and bandages.

• The hierarchy of actions for dealing with the risks of ULD are as follows:
- eliminate the hazard, e.g. by redesign of the work task, replacement of tools or automation;
- reduce hazard at source, e.g. by preventing exposure to vibration.
- minimise risk by redesigning systems of work.
- provide PPE if appropriate
- provide training.

Help

• The regulations were amended in 2002. All workstations now have to meet the requirements laid out in the schedule, which includes:
- adequate lighting
- adequate contrast, no glare or distracting reflections
- distracting noise minimised
- leg room and clearances to allow postural changes
- window covering if needed to minimise glare
- software: appropriate to task, adapted to user, providing feedback on system status, no undisclosed monitoring
- screen: stable image, adjustable, readable, glare/reflection free
- keyboard; usable, adjustable, detachable, legible
- work surface: with space for flexible arrangement of equipment and documents; glare free
- chair: stable and adjustable
- footrest if user needs one
The regulations define a 'users' and 'operators' as employees (including temps and contract workers) who habitually use display screen equipment as a significant part of their normal week. Further advice on who is a user may be found in Paras 2-19 of Ref 7.
• Regulation 2 requires assessments of risk to be carried out for users and operators. Detailed guidance on carrying out risk assessments on DSE workstations is given in Paras 32 - 51of Ref 7.

References

1. Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 - Guidance on Regulations, L23, HSE 1998, ISBN 0 7176 2415 3.
2. Manual Handling in the Textiles Industry, IAC L103, available from HSE Books
3. Safe Handling of Bales, HSE (CATIAC) 1994, ISBN 0 7176 0692 9.
4. Briefing Paper No.4: Upper Limb Disorders, May 1991, Briefing Paper available from BCIA Ltd. (Tel: 0171 636 7788) or from GMB Clothing and Textile Section (Tel: 0181 947 3131).
5. Manual Handling and Lifting, KDL5, available from KDLI Publications (Tel: 0161 624 9749) or from the Knitting Industries Federation Ltd. (Tel: 0116 254 1608).
6. Upper limb disorders in the workplace, HSG 60 rev, HSE 2002 ISBN 07176 1978 8.
7. Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 2002, L26, HSE 2003, ISBN 0 7176 2582-6,
8. VDUs: An easy guide to the regulations. How to comply with the Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 2002, HS(G)90, HSE 2002, ISBN 0 7176 2602-4.
9. Working with VDUs, INDG36Rev1, HSE 1991, ISBN 0 7176 1504 9
10. Aching arms (or RSI) in small businesses, HSE 2003, INDG171
11. Caring for cleaners - guidance and case studies on how to prevent MSDs, HSE 2003, HSG 234, ISBN 7176 2682-2.

Help

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are problems affecting the muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves or other soft tissues and joints. The back, neck and upper limbs are particularly at risk. There are many conditions including low back pain, tenosynovitis and carpal tunnel syndrome. Acute symptoms may arise as a result of an identifiable event such as unaccustomed and/or intense physical exertion resulting in pain and loss or restriction of movement, for example sprains and strains. Alternatively, there may be a more gradual onset of symptoms, with initial tingling, then slight swelling or soreness which may persist and gradually worsen. MSDs are often caused by, or made worse by, work activities.

Initially sufferers may adopt new ways of performing tasks, or adapt tools to reduce discomfort, perhaps avoiding use of an affected limb and thus putting strain on other joints. The most serious cases can result in permanent disablement and job change or loss if action is not taken in time, hence the need for individuals to report the earliest signs of symptoms so that action can be taken to reduce the risk. Severe MSDs can adversely impact on the sufferer's whole life and not just their ability to work.

WRMSDs include manual handling, upper limb disorder and DSE related illness.

HSE's Inspectors will be assessing your control of MSDs using the following indicators:

a. Avoidance/ control

Significant MSD risk very well controlled little lifting or low unit weights; few repetitive activities; and appropriate task design, work equipment selection and layout; mechanical aids/ mechanisation.

b. Instruction & training

Clear instructions/training appropriate to task for significant risks; employee awareness concerning risk factors and early symptom reporting, safe systems of handling, use of controls/workstation adjustment, risk assessors trained and provision of periodic refresher training.

c. Management commitment / Worker involvement

Managers and workers actively involved in addressing significant MSD risks e.g. set aims; assess risk; avoid/control; monitor progress; review; change where needed.

Inspectors will score your performance using the following assessment scale:

Assessment scale
Each risk control indicator should be assessed against the following 1 - 4 scale. A score of 1 must satisfy all the appropriate criteria of the risk control indicator.
1	2	3	4
Full compliance in areas that matter	Broad compliance in areas that matter	Some compliance in areas that matter	Limited or no compliance in areas that matter

References

1. Rider-Operated Lift Trucks: Operator Training, Approved Code of Practice and Guidance, L117, HSE 1999, ISBN 0 7176 2455 2.
2. Safety in Working with Lift Trucks, HS(G)6, HSE 2000, ISBN 0 7176 1781 5.
3. Retrofitting of roll-over protective structures, restraining systems and their attachment points to mobile work equipment, MISC175, HSE 1999.
4. Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992, Approved Code of Practice and Guidance, L24, HSE 1992, ISBN 0 7176 0413 6.
5. Cast Iron Columns in Buildings: the dangers of Collapse from Powered Vehicle Collision, MISC 157, HSE 1999
6. Workplace Transport Safety: Guidance for Employers, HS(G)136, HSE 1995, ISBN 0 7176 0935 9
7. Managing Vehicle Safety at the Workplace: A guide for employers, INDG199, HSE 1999, ISBN 0 7176 09820
8. Transport, KDL14, available from KDLI Publications (Tel: 0161 624 9749) or from the Knitting Industries Federation Ltd. (Tel: 0116 254 1608).
9. Safe Handling of Bales, C25, HSE 1994, ISBN 0 7176 0692 9.

Help

a. This section applies to all routes, both inside and outside, and all vehicles including forklift trucks, non-powered trucks, trailers, cars or delivery vehicles. Routes should be sufficient in number, adequate in position, type and dimension for the purposes used. Where pedestrian and vehicle routes cross, it should be at defined crossing points. Where pedestrian and vehicular routes run together, consideration should be given to separating them. This is especially the case at doors gates, and other similar features, particularly where doors or curtains obscure the view.
b. Routes should avoid places where visibility is poor, which are steep or have unprotected edges. Measures such as barriers, lighting, mirrors, marked crossing points and pedestrian routes, may be needed.
c. The traffic route should match the traffic, and be of sufficient width and headroom having regard to the nature of the traffic, the volume, and the speed, and avoid structural features which, if struck, could endanger the driver or others. Where overtaking or passing is necessary, passing places must be provided if necessary to avoid risk to pedestrians.
d. Account should be taken of whether the route is used for parking, whether it is one or two way and whether there are overhead obstructions. Where the speed and volume warrants, separate pedestrian and vehicular routes should be established. In addition to signs at doors, junctions etc. which warn pedestrians of the operation of lift trucks, consideration should be given to barriers which warn the lift trucks driver of hazards which cannot be removed. Barriers should be clearly marked, e.g. with black and yellow stripes. Where barriers cannot be used, signboards, warning devices, mirrors etc. should be used.
e. Has the right vehicle been selected for the task? Is all round visibility from the driver's position good? Is roll over protection fitted? Do forklift trucks have safety features for warning of approach: audible warning devices vary from the manually operated horn to the automatic reversing bleeper. Factors to take into consideration are the number of trucks operating in the area, background noise levels and the effect of warning devices on overall levels of noise. The use of flashing beacons may be effective, particularly where lighting is poor or where lift trucks operate intermittently, or where audible devices are likely to be ineffective.
f. All drivers should be trained in the particular aspects of driving on site. Co-operation with this should be sought from other drivers who come on-site if their movements are not restricted. Driving of forklift trucks should be restricted to those who are selected, trained and authorised in writing. Managers and supervisors of lift truck operations should be trained in the principles required for safe operation of lift trucks. Supervisors should, in addition, have sufficient knowledge of lift truck operation to be able to recognise the inadequacies in the operation of lift trucks and the training needs of lift truck operators.
g. What behaviour is seen in practice?
h. Reversing is a particularly hazardous activity. One-way systems can reduce or eliminate the need for reversing. Non-essential personnel should be excluded from the area. Vehicle mirrors should be designed to provide optimum visibility. CCTV systems should also be considered for the backs of certain vehicles. (CCTV systems are now relatively cheap and can reduce costs of damage and injury.)
i. Safe procedures should be in operation for loading and unloading vehicles. For example, when loading and unloading bales by forklift, the lorry driver should be excluded form the area or required to remain in the vehicle cab.

HSE's Inspectors will be assessing your control of workplace transport risks using the following indicators:

a. Safe Site

Well defined traffic routes free from obstruction, firm and even surfaces. Every effort made to separate pedestrians from vehicles. Pedestrian crossing points. Effective one way system for HGVs.

b. Safe Vehicle

Effective maintenance of steering, brakes and lights. ROPs and seat belts fitted when appropriate. Reversing aids fitted when appropriate.

c. Safe driver

Fork lift truck drivers trained and competent in accordance with ACoP, similar for other types of vehicle. Active supervision of driver behaviour.

Inspectors will score your performance using the following assessment scale:

Assessment scale
Each risk control indicator should be assessed against the following 1 - 4 scale. A score of 1 must satisfy all the appropriate criteria of the risk control indicator.
1	2	3	4
Full compliance in areas that matter	Broad compliance in areas that matter	Some compliance in areas that matter	Limited or no compliance in areas that matter

References

1. Briefing Paper No.2: Prevention and Handling of Accidents in the Clothing Industry, October 1990, Briefing Paper available from BCIA Ltd. or from GMB Clothing and Textile Section (Tel: 0181 947 3131)

• Organisations must have in place arrangements for responding to serious or imminent danger (an emergency). These should be documented together with the rest of the health and safety arrangements where five or more people are employed (MHSW Regs.). The extent of these arrangements will depend on the organisations operations and the associated risks, ranging from a simple procedure to an emergency plan.
• The emergency response arrangements should be practised.
• The response to an emergency needs to be carried out in a controlled manner to minimise risk to people. This requires some form of response organisation, however simple, involving response posts and responsibilities.
• Employees given emergency response posts must be informed of the responsibilities and trained to fulfil these.
• Employees with no emergency response role should be instructed in the response to an emergency alarm.
• Where a response to an emergency requires intervention by the emergency services then this should be written into the emergency response arrangements e.g. as part of the procedure for raising the alarm.

Advice should be sought from the emergency services when preparing emergency response arrangements.

References

1. Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations, Approved Code of Practice and Guidance, L21, HSE 1999, ISBN 0 7176 2488 9.
2. Managing contractors: a guide for employers, HSE 1997, HSG 159, ISBN o7176 1196 5
3. Use of contractors, INDG 368, HSE 2002
4. Health and safety for contractors and suppliers, HSE 2002, INDG268
5. Safety in Maintenance, KDL13, available from KDLI Publications (Tel: 0161 624 9749) or from the Knitting Industries Federation Ltd. (Tel: 0116 254 1608).

Help

• Prior to awarding the contract, the organisation should make efforts to ascertain the previous safety performance of the contractor. This is probably undertaken in the form of a "pre-qualification questionnaire in which the contractor is asked pertinent questions as to his/her safety performance and attributes. Obtain evidence of pre-qualification standards.
• All companies should have basic health and safety rules and instructions for contractors to follow and to guide the company's own staff on dealing with contractors. The complexity of the rules should reflect the complexity or otherwise of the company's operations. The rules should be drawn to the attention of contractors before agreements are signed, and compliance with them should form part of the contract. Regular contractors should be reminded about the rules from time to time.
• If certain parts of the premises are to be handed over to the contractors for the duration of the contract, this should be stated. In less well-defined circumstances it is important to ensure that ultimate responsibility for health and safety is clearly allocated.
• The person named should be responsible for ensuring compliance with the rules, providing necessary information and dealing with any problems.
• Any necessary health and safety limitations on the use of equipment should be stated (e.g. use of welding equipment where there may be risk of fire, storage of gas cylinders etc.)
• This part of the rules should cover conditions of use (or non-use) of electricity/compressed air supplies, portable tools, ladders, fork lift trucks etc.
• This exchange of information is required by Regulation 12 of the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations (REF 1). Detailed comment is given in the Approved Code of Practice. Particular attention is needed to specific hazards which may be peculiar to the premises or process (e.g. the presence of asbestos insulation in the contract area), or to specific company procedures such as vehicle movement rules, permits for hot work such as welding etc.
• See Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations (REF 1) Regulation 8 - Procedures for serious and imminent danger. The obvious situation to cover is fire, but there may be others, which can be foreseen. Location of first aid facilities, if available to the contractor, should be described.
• Compliance with the rules should normally be made a condition of the contract.
• Rules for visitors do not need to be as stringent as rules for contractors and are basically guidelines for company staff to follow in dealing with visitors.
• Such equipment would include hearing protection if hearing protection zones are to be visited.
• Any special site rules (e.g. on the use of hearing protection) should be brought to visitors' attention.
• Responsibility for visitors' safety in an emergency should normally be allocated to the person dealing with them. In some cases it may be necessary to provide visitors with formal guidance on emergency procedures.

References

1. The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations, Approved Code of Practice and Guidance, L21, HSE 1999, ISBN 0 7176 2488 9.
2. The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations, Approved Code of Practice and Guidance, L24, HSE 1992, ISBN 0 7176 0413 6.
3. The Fire Precautions (Workplace) Regulations 1997 and the Fire Precautions (Workplace)(Amendment) Regulations 1999
4. The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 Sections 3 and 4
5. The Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996: Guidance on regulations, L64, HSE 1997, ISBN 0 7176 0870 0
6. Fire Safety: An employer's guide, HSE 1999, ISBN 01134 1229 0.
7. Fire Precautions in the Clothing and Textile Industries, Textiles Industry Advisory Committee (TEXIAC) 2000

Help

• Regulation 11 of the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations (REF 1) contains specific requirements on co-operation, co-ordination and the provision of information between employers and the self-employed who share premises. This relates particularly to any risks, which may be presented to other people. Fire risks from the use of flammable materials and accident risks from the movement of transport in common areas are typical examples where action may be necessary. In the case of transport it may be appropriate to lay down agreed rules on vehicle movement in common roadways and yards. Transport safety is covered in Part 9.8. Advice on fire safety is given in REF 3.
• Common parts would include stairs and passages, yards and roadways. Common facilities would include any lifts used in common and any washing or toilet facilities. Responsibility for common parts and facilities is placed on "persons in control", usually the owner or landlord, under Ref. 2, 3 and 4.
• There is no point in allocating responsibility and arrangements for co-operating and co-ordinating unless there are clear and sensible lines of communication for dealing with problems. There is a risk that people may perceive problems but may not pass on information about them to the person responsible for putting them right. This is the way dangerous situations may be allowed to build up until an accident occurs.