Work Instructions
Work Instructions
Work Instructions
LLC
Operational Work Instructions
Scaffolding
All scaffold erected during the project for use by any site personnel will be erected by a
competent Al Hamra Construction scaffolders.
It will be the AHCC Scaffold managers function to ensure that the scaffold department
complies with:a)
Ensuring that their workforce are competent and produce scaffold structures
which comply with Regulations and British Standards.
b)
Supplying materials that are both of sound construction and adequate amounts.
c)
d)
Before any work is started which involves the use of scaffold platforms it is the
responsibility of each respective construction supervisor to ensure the scaffold is fit for
purpose.
When each scaffold structure is completed the competent person will duly inspect and
attach a Scafftag in a prominent position in the vicinity of the access ladder. The
Scafftag system will be explained to operatives during induction. Only approved
scaffolders are permitted to alter/dismantle any scaffold structure.
Under no
circumstances will any company, or sub-contractors operatives interfere with scaffold.
Safe Working during Erection, Alteration and Dismantling of Scaffolding
The company will insist that their scaffold department erects, alters and dismantles
scaffolding in accordance with a safe system of work, this is to include:a)
b)
Ledgers, transoms, ladder beams, etc. must be used as access along scaffolds.
c)
Where access is needed along scaffolds or where men have to work, platforms
which are at least 5 boards wide must be used, the boards must be adequately
supported and secured, guard rails must be erected.
d)
Where work cannot be done from or where access cannot be gained using a 5
board wide platform, a full body harnesses must be worn and secured to a
suitable anchor point.
f)
g)
Harnesses must be worn and secured for any erection, alteration or dismantling
of the following scaffolds where work cannot be done from a secure platform
provided with guard rails, e.g. suspended sling, cantilevered, truss out,
bridging, or similar type of scaffold not of the independent or birdcage type.
Scaffolds which are being erected, dismantled or altered must be barrier off and
clearly signed to show which parts are unsafe for use.
Adequate precautions must be taken to prevent materials falling. People
unconnected with work should be kept away from the area by, for example, the
erection of suitable signs and barriers. Those connected with the work must
always wear safety helmets and all materials should be raised or lowered in a
controlled manner.
Lifting Operations
Lifting Equipment and Accessories
The project/construction manager and his respective engineers and discipline
supervisors will ensure that all lifting operations under his control on site are carried out
in a safe manner. All operations shall be in accordance with the Client site instructions
and Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 and H&S Construction
codes of practice part-2 Section -19 & 20 Abu-Dhabi and Al Hamra Construction lifting
procedure AHCC/HSMS/PRO/07/04
Safe use of Cranes Procedure
Operations Assessment
Lifting operations should be risk assessed by a competent person in order to classify the
operation as a:a)
Simple Lifting Operation
b)
Standard Lifting Operation
c)
The responsible manager shall ensure, where necessary, all lifting studies and method
statements and lifting risk assessments are produced for such work in good time for
review and approval by the project nominated competent person.
Definitions Lifting Operations
Basic lifting operations
Lifting operations of a routine nature that are low hazard and low risk to operatives
involved with the activity, personnel nearby or process. Where basic lifting activities are
required, they may be undertaken accompanied with a job specific risk assessment that
identifies the Hazards and Risks associated with that specific lifting activity.
Standard Lifting operations
Routine lifting operations that without suitable control methods would impose hazards
and risk to personnel and plant. Where routing lifting activities are required, they may be
undertaken accompanied with a job specific risk assessment and method statement that
identifies the Hazards and Risks associated with that specific lifting activity.
Complex Lifting operations
Individual Lifting operations that is unique, having specific hazards and risks involved.
Where complex lifting activities involving special circumstances, e.g. tandem Lifts, Lifting
over live plant, difficult lifts, lifting personnel or requested by the client, there must be a
Lifting study, Method statement and Risk Assessment undertaken.
Where to attach the lanyard, (in case of a cradle or basket this would be
the crane hook).
This equipment assessment should be undertaken by rigging supervisors during the
planning phase and prior to any work commencing onsite and reviewed as work
progresses.
Trained Personnel
Where required, lifting plant and equipment may only be operated by certified personnel
and only trained Rigger/Banksmen shall be used to direct crane movements at all times
while operating on site.
Only competent Riggers/Banskmen can direct the crane operator and rig loads for lifting.
Competence must be proven by a training certificate from an approved training provider.
Equipment Certification
Mobile Lifting Equipment and Portable lifting appliances and equipment used on site,
e.g. - Cranes, Hoists, chain blocks, slings etc must have documentation regarding recent
Thorough Examinations and Inspection, from a competent 3rd party approved examiner,
they must also be in good condition before use.
Failure Modes
Exclusion Zones
Specific lifting studies and routine lifting studies may require regular review, as dictated
by a change in circumstances, routine or method which may influence the lifting
operation in any manner.
Review of all Lifting studies shall be undertaken by the project appointed person for
lifting operations.
Method Statements
Information to be included in lifting operation method statements should comprise, but
not be limited to:
a)
b)
c)
d)
e)
f)
g)
h)
Description of task
Methods of execution
Manpower
Location of placement
Position of crane and plant
Safety protective equipment to be used
Lifts over sensitive areas
Types of slings/chains and SWL to be used.
Contract Lifting
The project/construction manager and his respective engineers and discipline
supervisors will ensure that all Specialist Contract Lifting operations on site are
undertaken in a safe manner in accordance with the site instructions and Lifting
Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 and H&S Construction codes of
practice Part-2 section-29 Abu-Dhabi.
The project/construction manager shall ensure that that the nominated Specialist Lifting
contractor has appointed in writing to Al Hamra Construction the relevant appointed
person and competent personnel for the lifting activity. Training records must be
requested to ensure validation in and competency in their appointments in accordance
with BS 7121.
The project/construction manager shall ensure that in conjunction with all relevant Health
Safety and Environmental obligations, specialist contractors have all contractual and
commercial assurances in place covering the specific lifting operation.
The nominated Al Hamra Construction competent person for the project, together with
the Rigging Superintendent shall review and approve all lifting studies undertaken by the
specialist lifting contractor by the prior to submittal to the client.
All lifting study document reviews and approval shall be recorded by the project
nominated competent person on the front cover, with the document presented to the
planning supervisor for inclusion into the project Health and Safety file.
Each subcontractor undertaking lifting operations must ensure that all their employees
are suitably trained and competent to do the work. This will include adequate risk
Fall prevention looks at restricting a person from gaining access to an area from
which they could fall prior to using fall protection equipment, which should only
be used when there is no other way of affording proper protection, a job specific
risk assessment must be carried out with due consideration given to the following
points:-
c)
d)
e)
f)
Ensure that the deceleration forces imposed upon the person falling during the
arresting phase are kept to a minimum
Take into account the arrest distance through which the person falls and the risk
of ground or equipment collision
h)
The anchorage point must be suitable and capable of sustaining the forces
generated during the arrest
i)
j)
k)
The connecting line between anchorage and the harness. Depending on activity
this may require doubling up, e.g. as a lifeline and lanyard or double lanyards
being utilised by such disciplines as scaffolders
l)
m)
Horizontal lifelines and special travelling devices connected to them
Safety Harnesses
General purpose harnesses to EN361, which incorporate shoulder and crutch straps and
fitted with double lanyard(s) no longer than 2 m. with a shock absorber incorporated into
lanyard for use on site. Where appropriate the harness may be used in conjunction with
inertia reels.
Task Supervisors must ensure that when using safety harnesses the wearer has a
suitable anchor point to fix to.
Issue/Storage of Safety Harnesses
Before issuing any safety harnesses they will be inspected by a competent person
(discipline foreman) to ensure they are of sound construction and in good condition.
Each piece of equipment will have its unique identification number recorded within
register and all such inspections entered accordingly and shall be colour coded.
After use, each safety harness will then be returned to the stores for proper storage.
System of Work at Heights
The 2 metre rule for working at height no longer exists. Any height from which a person
can fall from one level to another level is considered as working at height.
Where practicable scaffolding will be provided when employees are to undertake work at
heights.
However, if there is a requirement for operatives to work from man-riding baskets they
will be issued with full body harnesses in case, for whatever reason, the basket or
platform displaces.
Each employee will receive instruction on:a) How to wear the full body harness, and
b) Where to attach the lanyard (in case of a cradle or basket this would be the crane
hook).
scissor lifts
All mobile elevating work platforms are to be suitable for the task to be carried out.
a)
All operators/maintenance personnel must be trained and receive adequate
information and instruction on the equipment.
b)
c)
d)
The basket must be fitted with adequate guardrails and toe boards which are
properly secured.
The raising and lowering operations should be controlled solely by the person on
the platform.
e)
f)
g)
h)
The operational area should be cordoned off to prevent persons walking below
the platform who could be struck by falling objects.
Operatives must not stretch or lean out from the platform. Safety harnesses to be
worn at all times.
j)
k)
Never work near overhead power lines as electricity may arc across and
electrocute personnel.
l)
m)
Reference Documentation
H&S Construction codes of practice Part-2 section-29.21.2 Abu-Dhabi
Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974
HSE Guidance Notes GS6 and HS(G)150
The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998
Manual Handling
When mechanical lifting devices cannot be utilised and manual handling cannot be
avoided then an assessment of the task must be carried out in order to reduce the risk of
injury. When planning, before carrying out the job, the following points must be
considered:a)
b)
c)
d)
e)
f)
g)
h)
i)
Reference Documentation
Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992
Excavations
The project/construction manager will arrange for a competent person to supervise any
excavations that may be necessary after carrying out a site survey and marking out the
location of known underground services. Excavations may contain trapped gases or
fumes caution needs to be exercised, any gas tests conducted in narrow service
trenches.
The construction/supervisor will inspect the excavation(s) daily and undertake a
thorough examination within every 7 days in accordance with the Regulations which will
be recorded in the register.
A risk assessment should be made of ground conditions, material, etc. and where
necessary the excavation must be supported or battered back to prevent materials and
soil falling into the trench. A safe means of access and egress must be available into the
trench and the supervisor will ensure that stop blocks are utilised where vehicles have to
approach the trench edge and that adequate hard barriers are properly placed around all
excavations. All activities will be undertaken under a permit to work.
Every such tool will be inspected before being issued to the site by a competent
electrical engineer. Each individual item, e.g. extension cable, grinder,
transformer, etc. will then have a unique number attached to it.
A formal record system is to be operated with comprehensive details
appertaining to each piece of equipment filed.
d)
e)
f)
Arc Welding
The plant and apparatus used for electric welding shall be in accordance with BS 638
(Parts 1-8) or equivalent standard. HSE Guidance Note PM 64 (Electric Safety in Arc
Welding) must also be observed.
The following precautions are to be adhered to:a)
Ensure cables are correctly connected and adequately earthed.
b)
Keep cables clear of ladders and walkways.
c)
Do not allow them to pass over machinery or any process pipe work where they
may make contact.
d)
Do not allow traffic to pass over cables.
e)
Disconnect from power source when not in use.
f)
Never use damaged cables.
g)
Disconnect from power sources before joining any cables.
Stray Currents
It is essential to ensure there are no stray electrical currents when welding operations
are being performed. Therefore, in all cases where butt welding of two items, e.g. butt
ends of pipe has to be done and neither item is permanently attached to any structure
both items must be connected to the welding return. This requirement is necessary to
prevent stray electric currents causing sparks at a distance from the welding point.
Welding Cable Inspection
The welding supervisor will conduct a regular formal inspection to ascertain whether all
cables are without defects.
b)
c)
Office and kitchen equipment which includes such items as kettles, refrigerators,
microwaves, heaters, PCs, fans, etc. will be inspected once in every 12 months
and formal records will be kept of the inspections conducted by the electrical
engineer.
Private electrical items are not allowed on site unless authorised by the
project/construction manager, who will then ensure the item conforms to the
aforementioned procedure.
Multi adaptor plugs must not overload electrical outputs.
Reference Documentation
Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 and Approved Code of
Practice
Electricity at Work Regulations 1989
The precautions to be taken and in particular if the work is to be carried out either
in a confined space or local to the work activities being carried out by others.
The PPE requirements.
The type and positioning of barriers and signs.
How waste products are to be handled and disposed of.
Record the insertion and removal of spades, all spades to be clearly tagged and
identified.
Ensure that gaskets of the correct specification are used and that bolting is to the
correct specification.
Ensure that all flange faces are clean.
Tighten flanges properly and to the correct tension.
Ensure that the correct tools are used.
Ensure that all tools are in good condition and tagged (electrical).
Ensure spool is secure prior to any activities and surrounding area is safe (barrier
worksite if required).
Hearing protection must be worn when grinding and also the correct PPE, i.e.
Fireproof overalls, safety goggles, hard hat, safety boots.
Ensure all lifting of pipe work/valves is carried out by a competent person.
All large bore weld make-ups must be inspected by QC engineer prior to welding
taking place.
Spools/valves should be supported prior to the removal of lifting equipment and
job start.
All mechanical lifting devices and/or temporary supports must remain in situ until
the weld is complete and great care must be taken to ensure that this is adhered
to.
Reference should be made to relevant risk assessments, e.g. MMA welding,
grinding, TIG welding.
Pressure Testing
a)
ii)
All work will be carried out under a permit to work using suitable materials and calibrated
equipment under direct supervision of a person competent to carry out such tests. If high
pressure testing in excess of 75 bar is required then this will be carried out under the
supervision of a specialist test engineer (approved contractor) who can evaluate the
stress within pipe work and/or vessels.
The following procedure will be adopted:a)
b)
c)
Ensure that the supports are adequate for the weight of the test.
Ensure that the area around the test is cordoned off and warning notices erected.
Dont rush the test. Increase the pressure in safe steps.
The medium used for testing is to be considered carefully to take cognisance of
the pipe system metallurgical properties, pressure and temperature.
Painting
Health Hazards Associated With Painting
b)
Work involving solvent based paints, thinners, etc. may give rise to atmospheres
which are both flammable and toxic and only approved sub-contractors will be
employed to undertake the work.
To ensure adequate provisions have been taken in controlling painting activities a
safe system of work must be followed identified either on the permit to work or
risk assessment/method statement.
Over-exposure may cause irritation to the eyes and respiratory system.
Excessive concentrations may produce effects on the central nervous system
including drowsiness and in extreme cases loss of consciousness may result.
Splashes entering the eye will cause severe discomfort and possible damage
and prolonged contact with skin may have a de-fatting effect and lead to
dermatitis.
Only specified amounts of paint shall be taken into the work area daily and
returned at the end of a shift. No open paint tins are to left on site.
Safety controls
Where possible AHCC shall pursue a suitable alternative to solvent based paint. If that is
not possible we shall ensure that the conditions of the Material Safety Data Sheet are
stringently complied with and all necessary additional respiratory, eye and Personal
protective equipment is worn at all times.
Cartridge Operated Fixing Tools
Cartridge operated fixing tools are very similar to firearms in both construction and
operation. Operators of these tools must have been trained in their safe use, must be
over 18 years of age and must be authorised (in writing) for their use. As a general
principle AHCC does not allow the use of these tools on their sites, however if the tool is
to be used, the company or Sub Contractor will strictly comply with 03 Safe Use of
Cartridge Operated tools:
Procedures for Use
a)
No cartridge operated tool will be allowed on site without the written permission
of the project/construction manager.
b)
Tools must only be used in strict adherence to the makers instructions and when
not in use both tools and cartridges must be kept in a secure locked storage
place.
c)
A controlled procedure for the issue of cartridges must be established. This will
require a register to be maintained by the contractor ensuring accountability of all
cartridges used and unused on site.
d)
Wherever practicable cartridge operated fixing tools should not be used in the
immediate vicinity of other works and extra care should be taken to ensure that
no person is sited in line with the flight of the pin when the tool is in use.
e)
Where an area cannot be completely isolated warning notices must be displayed.
f)
A trained operators and assistants must wear safety helmets, ear defenders and
goggles/visors and tools should never be left unattended.
g)
No adjustments should ever be made to a loaded tool.
h)
Before any work can proceed a risk assessment has to be prepared and
submitted to Downstream Oil, Gas and Process for approval.
Reference Documentation
Provision of Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 and Approved Code of Practice
The Construction (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1996
LPG cylinders in excess of 50kg total capacity must not be stored within 3 metres
of any compressed gas cylinders including acetylene.
b)
They must be located in a fixed upright position.
c)
Kept away from ignition sources (including static discharges).
d)
They must be stored in a well ventilated area, protected from the elements,
preferably in open air.
e)
The storage area must be identified with Highly Flammable No Smoking
signs.
f)
The storage area must be away from ducts, trenches, excavations (as both
propane and butane are heavier than air), and a minimum of 2 metres away from
any openings.
g)
No cylinder is to be any nearer than 1.5 metres from the fire wall if provided.
h)
Always leak check cylinders when first collected/delivered or used using an
approved leak detecting fluid.
i)
Never roll cylinders. Milk-churning cylinders on their bases is permissible but
must not be moved over long distances. Use approved bottle trolley only.
j)
For hydrogen, propane, acetylene and oxygen use only regulators designed for
the gas. Remember the cylinder pressure and properties are different for each
gas.
k)
Charged and discharged propane and butane cylinders may be stored together,
but positively identified and segregated.
l)
Identification symbols: F+ extremely flammable; T toxic, risk phase R12
m)
Propane cylinders must never be laid on their side as liquid propane could be
released which is extremely hazardous.
Oxygen
a)
b)
c)
d)
Oxygen and inert gases may be stored together but positively segregated.
Charged and discharged cylinders may be stored together but positively
identified.
Cylinders containing oxygen or oxidising gases must be separated from cylinders
containing flammable gases by a minimum of 3 metres or by a fire resistant
partition. Oxygen cylinders are charged at different pressures dependant on
location always check charge pressure against regulator operating pressures,
i.e. North 230 Bar, South 200 Bar.
Hose assemblies must be tested after repair in accordance with BS 1389: 1986
to 15 Bar and a register kept of repairs.
Cylinders General
a)
Oxygen equipment is at most risk from oil and grease so keep greasy hands,
rags and gloves away from any part of the cylinder and fittings.
h)
Acetylene cylinders must never be used if they have been laid horizontally unless
a twelve hour period has elapsed since restoring the cylinder to an upright
position.
Acetylene cylinders must be stored separately with a minimum distance of 3
metres from any compressible gas cylinders.
There is no such thing as an empty cylinder.
It is recommended that any regulator with BS 5741 need replacing with BS 7650.
It is recommended to exchange units every 5 years.
Separated storage areas must be clearly labelled as to their contents and with
any cautionary notices.
Use only correct cable and hose connections:Argon
=
Black BS EN 5120
Oxygen
=
Blue
Fuel Gas
=
Orange
Oxygen, acetylene and propane equipment will be fitted with flashback arrestors
and non-return valves in the hose connection.
Storage Facilities
a)
b)
c)
A secure storage area will be erected at a suitable location away from site
buildings. Minimum distance 100 metres.
The base of the store will be level and of a suitable size to permit segregation of
individual gases with a separate area for empty and full cylinders.
The perimeter fence will consist of open wire mesh at least 2m. high. Particular
consideration will be given to access and egress for both the operatives changing
bottles and in the event of an emergency, fire vehicle. Individual notices for the
classification of the gases will be attached to the wire mesh with a 3m. gap
between flammable gases (LPG and acetylene) and other cylinders (oxygen and
argon).
Transportation of Gases
Bottled gases delivered to site must be in an approved vehicle as there are road traffic
requirements to be complied with when transporting such substances.
Reference Documentation
The Pressure Systems and Transportable Gas Containers Regulations 1989
HSE Guidance Notes CS4
Asbestos
If during the course of construction/maintenance operations on site where asbestos is
found (or suspected) to be present (other than joint material), any operation which may
cause disturbance of the material must STOP. The contaminated area must be cordoned
off and screened with appropriate signs.
The HSE advisor/Department must be informed as soon as possible.
Only Licensed Contractors may undertake controlled removal of asbestos. When a
Subcontractor is employed to remove the asbestos, the Project Manager/Site Agent is
responsible for ensuring that the Subcontractor holds an Asbestos Licence (issued by
Municipality) and is an approved Contractor. A copy of the Licence must be obtained and
displayed on site.
It is the responsibility of the Subcontractor to give notice (14 days) to the HSE before
work commences.
Under no circumstances, should a Subcontractor to be employed to remove asbestos
unless the company is in the possession of a copy of the subcontractors current
Asbestos Licence,
Breaking Joints
When breaking joints and flanges, separation of flanges exposes the CAF gasket to
atmosphere and the joint faces may require cleaning off residual CAF deposits.
The vulcanising agent that binds the asbestos fibres in the gasket is rubber which
deteriorates if exposed to high temperatures as in process operations, thus causing the
formed gasket to disintegrate and release free asbestos fibres at the workface and into
the environment.
Preventative measures to minimise the hazard of releasing fibres would be to saturate
the gasket and any residual deposits with a PVA/water solution, which would bind, and
dust/fibres and [prevent them from becoming airborne. If a PVA solution is unavailable
copious amounts of water will suffice,
Adequate PPE must be worn at the workface, respiratory protection, disposable
coveralls, gloves, all of which must be disposed of in a controlled manner as special
waste after work is completed, together with any gasket and residue produced from the
work activity.
Correct hygiene procedures to be observed at meal/tea breaks and at the end of
workshift. Disposal of gasket, residual waste and contaminated PPE to be placed in
double bags sealed and identified as hazardous waste and placed in controlled waste
slips for disposal by licensed waste disposal contractor.
Ionising Radiation
All ionising radiation work will be conducted bya specialist contractor. Clear instructions
will be provided to the radiographic company performing the work as to when they may
undertake the work. Details of Radiography times will be posted at strategic points on
site and whenever sources are being used a controlled area must be marked off by tape,
barriers and trefoil flags in compliance with the radiography companys local rules.
The area shall be patrolled to ensure that no-one inadvertently encroaches into the area
and an alarm or klaxon shall be sounded to warn personnel that radiography is in
progress.
Personnel shall be informed of the tone to expect prior to testing as:a)
b)
Only Classified Persons are allowed in the barrier area and a work permit must cover
the use of sources. Sources must be returned to the shielded container in an
emergency.
A competent approved contractor, undertaking all activities in strict compliance with both
statutory and local site rules will perform this work. Regular audits are to take place to
monitor and ensure that all procedures are being adhered to.