safety

• HAZARDS IN CRANE OPERATION (4) A report of the test shall be recorded in a log book to be maintained by
the employer.
(5) The maximum load allowed shall be affixed in a place where it can be
•“Hoist” shall mean a lifting machine with a carriage, platform or cage which readily be seen by the crane operator.
moves on guides. (6) No crane shall be used or erected under conditions likely to endanger
•“Lifting Appliance” shall mean a crab, winch, pulley block or gin wheel used stability.
for raising or lowering a hoist crane, sheer legs excavators, draglines, pile
driver, or pile excavators. 1415.05: Drums and Pulleys
“Lifting Gear” shall mean a chain sling, rope sling, ring, link, hook, shackle, •Every chain or rope that terminates at the winding drum of a lifting appliance
swivel or eyebolt. shall be properly secured thereto and at least two turns of such chain or rope
“Mobile Crane” shall mean a crane capable of traveling under its own power. shall remain on the drum in every operating maximum end position of the
“Plant or Equipment” shall include any plant equipment gear, machinery, appliance.
apparatus or appliances, or any part thereof.
1415.06: Cranes and Derricking Jibs
1415.01: Lifting Appliance (1) When the derricking jib of a crane is operated through a clutch, there
(1) Every lifting appliance including working gear and all other plant shall be an effective inter-locking arrangement between the derricking drum
equipment used for anchoring or fixing shall: in such a way that the clutch cannot be operated unless the pawl is
•be of good mechanical construction, of sound material and adequate ineffective engagement with the derricking jib and the pawl cannot be
strength for the load it will carry; disengaged unless the clutch is in effective engagement with the derricking
•be properly maintained and inspected at least once a week and the result of drum. This requirement shall not apply when the derricking drum is
such inspection shall be recorded in a log book maintained by the employer independently driven and the mechanism driving the derricking drum is self-
or user of the equipment, open to enforcing authority. locking.
(2) Any anchoring or fixing arrangement provided in connection with a lifting (2) The hosting mechanism of a crane shall not be used to pull the load
appliance shall be adequate and secure to hold the imposed load. sideways unless it is ascertained that no undue stress is imposed on the
crane structures and its stability is not endangered.
1415.02: Brake Controls and Safety Devices
(1) Every crane, crab and winch shall be provided with a brake to prevent the 1415.07: Crane Operation and Signaling
fall of the load and to control operation when the load is lowered. (1) A lifting appliance shall not be operated other than by a person trained,
(2) Every handle or lever of a lifting appliance provided for controlling its competent, physically fit, and authorized to operate the appliance.
operation shall be provided with suitable locking arrangement to prevent its 2) When the operator of a lifting appliance has no clear and unrestricted view
accidental movement. of the load for safe working, there shall be appointed one or more signal men
(3) Every lever or handle provided for controlling the operation of a lifting to give the necessary signals to the operator.
appliance shall have upon it clear marking to indicate purpose and mode of (3) Every signal given for the movement or stopping of a lifting appliance
operation. shall be distinctive in character and the person to whom it is given is able to
hear or see it easily.
1415.03: Protection of Crane Driver
(1) Platform for crane drivers and signalers shall be: 1415.08: Safe Working Loads
•a. of sufficient area, (1) Safe working loads shall be plainly marked on every lifting appliance and
•b. closely planked, plated and in case of a crane with variable operating radius, safe load at various radii of
•c. provided with safe means of access and egress. • the jib shall be marked on the jib displayed in the driver’s cabin or fitted with
2) Every side of a platform more than 2.16 meters (6.5 ft.) high shall be an automatic safe load indicator.
provided with guard rails and toeboards. (2) In every derricking jib, the maximum radius at which the jib may be
(3) The driver of every power driven lifting appliance shall be provided with a worked shall be plainly marked on it.
cabin which shall: (3) No lifting appliance shall be loaded beyond its safe working load.
•(a) afford protection from the weather and falling objects, and
•(b) be constructed to afford ready access to operating parts of the lifting 1415.09: Guy Derrick Cranes
appliance within the cabin and shall be periodically inspected and (1) The jib of guy derrick cranes shall not be erected between the back stays
maintained. of the crane.
(2) Measures shall be taken to prevent the foot of the king post of any derrick
1415.04: Anchorage and Load Test of Cranes crane from being lifted out of its socket.
(1) When lifting appliances are used on soft or uneven ground or on a slope,
adequate measures shall be taken to ensure their stability or undue 1415.10: Testing and Examination of Lifting Appliances
movement. 1) No lifting appliance shall be used unless it has been tested and examined
(2) No crane shall be used for raising or lowering loads unless: thoroughly initially and every year thereafter by a competent person by way
•(a) it is securely anchored; of his training and experience in such work.
•(b) adequately balanced by a weight properly placed and secured ; (2) No lifting appliance which has undergone substantial alteration or repair
(3) Every crane after erection altered or any kind of change shall be tested affecting its strength or stability shall be used unless it is tested and
by the contractor/ supervisor with the imposition either: thoroughly examined by a competent person.
•(a) of a load of twenty-five percent (25%) above the maximum load to be
lifted by the crane as erected at the position when the maximum pull is 1415.11: Hoist
applied on each anchorage, or Every hoistway shall be efficiently protected by enclosures and when access
•(b) of lesser load arranged to provide an equivalent test of the anchorages to the hoist is necessary, it shall be fitted with gates. Such enclosures and
or balancing arrangements gates shall extend to 2.16 m. (6’ 6”) except when lesser height is sufficient to
prevent the fall of persons and where there is no risk of any worker coming in
safety

contact with any moving part of the hoist, but shall in no case be less than of examination recorded in a log book maintained for the purpose open for
2.16 m. (6’ 6”). inspection by the enforcing authority.
(9) A chain or lifting gear shall not be used unless it is annealed or heat
1415.12: Marking of Safe Working Loads on Hoist treated as required by the manufacturer
•The safe working load or the number of persons that can be carried in a
hoist shall be plainly marked on every platform or cage of the hoist. A notice • HAZARDS IN TEMPORARY STRUCTURES
prohibiting overloading of the hoist shall be placed on the platform or cage of RULE 1414: SCAFFOLDINGS
the hoist. •(DEPARTMENT ADVISORY NO. 128-13 Series of 2013)
•“Scaffold” refers to a temporary or movable platform supported on the
1415.13: Operation of Hoist ground or suspended, used for access and/or working at considerable
(1) Hoist for the carriage of goods and materials shall be of such construction heights above ground.
that it is operated outside of the cage unless the doors of the cage and the •“Bearer” refers to a scaffold member spanning between two runners upon
enclosure are of the interlocked type. which the platform
(2) Hoist for the carriage of persons shall have the doors of the cage and •“Brace” refers to a scaffold member that holds posts in a fixed position to
enclosure of hoistway of interlocked type and the cage completely covered prevent any lateral •movement.
and fitted with overrun devices. •“Competent Person” refers to one who is capable of identifying existing and
potential hazards in the surroundings or working conditions, and who has the
1415.14: Carriage of Persons by Means of Lifting Appliances authority to take prompt corrective action to eliminate them; person must be
•No person shall be raised, lowered or carried by a power driven lifting a holder of Scaffold Erector NC II and COSH training.
appliance except: (1) on the driver’s platform in case of a crane or a hoist, or •“Hoist” refers to a lifting machine with a carriage, platform or cage which
(2) on an approved suspended scaffold, or moves on guides. “Plant or Equipment” refers to any plant equipment gear,
(3) when the use of hoist or suspended scaffold is not reasonable, provided machinery, apparatus or appliances, •or any part thereof.
that: •“Post” refers to the vertical member of scaffold transmitting the load to the
•(a) the appliance can be operated from one position only; ground or to a base plate.
•(b) the winch used is so constructed that when control lever or switch is not •“Putlogs” refers to a scaffold member spanning between a runner and a
held in operating position, brake is applied and disengages from pawl and building wall upon which the platform rests
ratchet gear •“Qualified Person” refers to one who, by possession of a recognized
(c) no person is carried except in: technical degree, certificate, or professional standing, or who by extensive
•(i) a chair or cage, or knowledge, training and experience, has successfully demonstrated his/her
•(ii) a safe skip or other receptacle at least 1 m. (3 ft.) deep, and ability to solve or resolve problems related to the subject matter, the work, or
•(iii) measures are taken to prevent the chair, cage, skip or receptacle from the project.
spinning or tipping in a manner dangerous to any occupant. •“Runner” refers to a scaffold bracing, which extends horizontally from post
to post forming right angles with the bearer and forms a tie between the
1415.15: Test and Examination of Hoists posts
(1) After erection or alteration, every hoist shall be tested and examined •“Supported Scaffold” means one or more platforms supported by outrigger
every six (6) months by a competent person and the result of such tests and beams, posts, legs, posts, frames or similar rigid support.
examination shall be recorded in a logbook maintained for the purpose. •“Suspended Scaffold” means one or more platforms supported by ropes or
(2) The logbook shall be made available for inspection by the enforcing other non-rigid means from an overhead structure(s).
authority. •“Trestle Scaffold” refers to scaffolds in which the supports for the platform
are step ladders, tripods or similar movable contrivances.
1415.16: Chains, Ropes and Lifting Gears •“Sheathing” shall mean the vertical member of shoring and timbering which
(1) No chain, rope or lifting gear shall be used unless: directly resists pressure from side of an excavation.
•(a) it is of good construction, sound material, of adequate strength, suitable •“Wale” shall mean the longitudinal member of shoring and timbering which
quality and free from potent defects. directly resists pressure from sheating.
•(b) it has been tested and examined by a competent person specifying the •“Strut” shall mean the transverse member of shoring and timbering which
safe working load. directly resists pressure from sheating or wales.
(2) No wire rope shall be used for lifting and lowering of any load if in any 10 •“Standard or Upright” shall mean the vertical member of scaffold
meters length the total number of visible broken wires exceed five percent of transmitting the load to the ground or to a base plate
the total number of wires in the rope. •“Ledger or Stringer” shall mean a scaffold bracing, which extends
(3) No chain, rope of lifting gear shall be loaded beyond its safe working load horizontally from standard to standard forming right angles with the putlogs
except for the purpose of testing. and forms a tie between the standards.
(4) No chain, ring hook, link, clamp, shackle, swivel or eyebolt altered or •“Single Scaffold” shall mean a platform supported by a single row of
repaired by welding shall be used unless it is tested and examined and its uprights or standards tied along the wall, connected horizontally by a ledger
working load specified in the test. and supporting putlogs which rests on ledger on one side and in holes left in
(5) Hooks for missing or lowering of load shall have devices to prevent walls on the other.
displacement of sling or load. •“Double Scaffold” shall mean a platform supported on two rows of uprights
(6) No double or multiple sling shall be used if the upper ends are not or standards parallel to the wall of a building connected by horizontal ledgers
connected by means of shackle, ring or link of adequate strength or the safe and is independent from the building wall.
working load is exceeded.
(7) Chains with knots or chains shortened by means of bolts and knots •REQUIREMENTS
inserted through the links or by welding shall not be used. 1. Every scaffold shall be of good construction of sound materials and
(8) No chain, rope or lifting gear shall be used unless it is thoroughly strength for the purpose for which it is intended;
examined by a competent person at intervals of six (6) months and the result
safety

2. Timber used for scaffolds shall be in good condition, the bark completely 21. Supported scaffolds and their components shall be capable of supporting
stripped off, and not painted or treated in any manner that defects cannot be without failure at least four (4) times the maximum intended load, while
easily seen; and suspended scaffolds shall have six (6) times factor of safety; All scaffolds
3. All materials and parts of scaffold not in use or intended for re-use shall be designed by a structural engineer shall be approved by appropriate authority.
kept under good condition and separate from other materials unsuitable for 22. Scaffolds of more than 6 meters in height shall be designed by a
scaffolds. structural engineer and shall be erected, installed and dismantled by TESDA
4. Timber/bamboo scaffolds shall be limited to a height of 6 meters from the certified erectors. Scaffold shall be erected, added, altered or dismantled
ground or base. For over 6 meters height, steel scaffolds shall be used. only under the supervision of the competent/qualified person in the
5. Structural steel when used as load bearing members of scaffolding shall construction.
be destressed at welded or bent joints and design construction approved by
the appropriate authority. RULE 1414: SCAFFOLDINGS
6. All manufactured scaffolds and their accessories shall follow the A. Mobile Scaffold •In the use of mobile scaffolds, which are
manufacturer’s designs and specifications. Technical properties and data of manually propelled, the following must be observed:
such manufactured scaffolds shall be certified true by a qualified testing •a) It should be of stable construction and weighted at the base to
laboratory. For manufactured scaffolds more than 6meters in height shall be prevent overturning;
designed by structural engineer and approved by appropriate authority. •b) It shall be only be used on firm and even surface;
7. All site fabricated/conventional supported scaffolds exceeding 6 meters in •c) It shall be securely braced;
height or a working load of 150 kg/m2 shall be designed and inspected by •d) It shall not be moved when any worker is on the scaffold and
the structural engineer and approved by the appropriate authority.
8. All suspended scaffolds shall be designed and inspected by a structural all tools and materials are secured;
engineer if site fabricated. •e) When manual force is used to move the scaffold, it must be
9. No scaffold shall be erected, moved, dismantled or altered except under applied as close to the base as practicable, but not more than 1.2
the supervision of a competent person. m (4 feet) above the supporting surface;
10. A fall protection equipment shall be used when working in a height of 2 •f) When free-standing, the height of the mobile scaffold should
meters and above. For work height of 10 meters, workers are required to use not exceed four (4) times the base width dimension;
fall arrest equipment. •g) When outrigger frames are used to increase base width
11. All personnel involved in scaffolding activities shall have appropriate dimension, it shall be installed on both sides of the scaffold;
training and certification. Manufacturers’ training certification shall be limited •h) All casters must be secured to frame legs or screw jacks with
to the erection of manufacturers’ equipment only. pins, bolt & nut, and other secured means. Weight of tower should
12. Each platform on all working levels of scaffolds shall be fully planked or not exceed the capacity of the casters and should be designed to
decked between the front uprights and the guardrail supports as follow. support four (4) times the maximum intended load;
13. Each platform unit (e.g., scaffold plank, fabricated plank, fabricated deck, •i) To prevent movement of the scaffold while it is being used in a
or fabricated platform) shall be installed so that the space between adjacent stationary position, scaffold casters and wheels shall be locked
units and the space between the platform and the uprights is no more than 1 either with positive wheel locks, wheel and swivel locks or
inch (2.5 cm) wide. equivalent means;
14. Each scaffold platform and walkway shall be at least 18 inches (46 cm) •j) Platforms must not extend beyond the base supports of the
wide. scaffold, unless stability is ensured by outrigger frames or
15. Each end of a platform, unless cleated or otherwise restrained by hooks equivalent devices.
or equivalent means, shall extend over the centerline of its support at least 6 B. Timber Scaffolds:
inches (15 cm). •In single scaffold, the post shall be placed at 1.2 to 2.4 meters (4
•16. Each end of a platform 10 feet or less in length shall not extend over its to 8 ft.) apart at a distance of 1 m. (3 ft.) from the wall, connected
support more than 12 inches (30 cm) unless the platform is designed and horizontally by runners shall bespaced vertically at 1.8m. (6 ft.) to
installed so that the cantilevered portion of the platform is able to support 2 m. (7 ft.) on centers. Putlogs shall be placed in the holes left in
employees and/or materials without tipping, or has guardrails which block the walls.
employee access to the cantilevered end. •The size of the post shall not be less than 50 x 100 mm (2 x 4in)
17. Each platform greater than 10 feet in length shall not extend over its and when it is necessary to extend a post, the overlaps shall not
support more than 18 inches (46 cm), unless it is designed and installed so be less than 60 cm. (24 in.).
that the cantilevered portion of the platform is able to support employees C. Ladder Scaffolds or Ladder Jack Scaffolds: A ladder scaffold shall
without tipping, or has guardrails which block employee access to the be used only when:
•a) Work is of such light nature and the material required for the
cantilevered end.
work is light and can be hung on the ladder; and
18. On scaffolds where scaffold planks are abutted to create a long platform, •b) The distance between the ladders of the scaffold is less than 3
each abutted end shall rest on a separate support surface. This provision m (10 ft).
does not preclude the use of common support members, such as “T”
sections, to support abutting planks, or hook on platforms designed to rest on •Frame Scaffolds:
common supports. •a. When moving platforms to the next level, the existing
19. On scaffolds where platforms are overlapped to create a long platform, platform shall be left undisturbed until the new end frames have
the overlap shall occur only over supports, and shall not be less than 12 been set in place and braced prior to receiving the new
inches (30 cm) unless the platforms are nailed together or otherwise platforms.
restrained to prevent movement. •b. Frames shall be braced by a cross, horizontal, or diagonal
20. At all points of a scaffold where the platform changes direction, such as braces, or combination thereof, which secure vertical members
turning a corner, any platform that rests on a bearer at an angle other than a together laterally. The cross braces shall be of such length as will
right angle shall be laid first, and platforms which rest at right angles over the automatically square and align vertical members so that the
same bearer shall be laid second, on top of the first platform. erected scaffold is always plumb, level, and square. All brace
safety

connections shall be secured. •The platform is sufficiently wide for the transport of materials;
•c. Frames shall be joined together vertically by coupling or •The posts are firmly attached to the platform and braced to
stacking pins. prevent displacement; and
•d. Where uplift can occur which would displace scaffold end •Designed by structural engineer and approved by the proper
frames, the authority if erected on a scaffold 10 meters or over in height.
frames shall be locked together vertically by pins or equivalent •f) No trestle scaffold shall be erected on suspended scaffold.
means.
•e. Brackets used to support cantilevered loads shall: Suspended Scaffold
•1. Be seated with side-brackets parallel to the frames and •1. All suspended scaffold support devices, such as outrigger
endbrackets at 90 degrees to the frames; beams, cornice hooks, parapet clamps, and similar devices, shall
•2. Not be bent or twisted from these positions; and rest on surfaces capable of supporting at least 4 times the load
•3 Be used only to support personnel, unless the scaffold has imposed on them by the scaffold operating at the rated load of
been designed for other loads by a qualified engineer and built to the hoist (or at least 1.5 times the load imposed on them by the
withstand the tipping forces caused by those other loads being scaffold at the stall capacity of the hoist, whichever is greater).
placed on the bracket-supported section of the scaffold •2. Suspended scaffold outrigger beams, when used, shall be
made of structural metal or equivalent strength material, and
Timber Scaffolds: shall be restrained to prevent movement.
•In double scaffold, the bearer shall rest entirely on the runners. •3. The inboard ends of suspended scaffold outrigger beams shall
In addition to the diagonal braces, inclined supports shall be be stabilized by bolts or other direct connections to the floor or
provided to prevent the scaffold from leaning away from the roof deck, or they shall have their inboard ends stabilized by
wall. The supports shall be strutted at intermediate heights counterweights, except masons’ multi-point adjustable suspended
against the posts. scaffold outrigger beams shall not be stabilized by
•The size of the posts for double scaffold shall not be less than 50 counterweights.
x 100 mm (2 x 4in) and when it is necessary to extend a post the •4. Before the suspended scaffold is used, direct connections
overlap shall not be less than 60cm (24 in) shall be evaluated by a competent person who shall confirm,
•The distance between two consecutive bearers shall be designed based on the evaluation, that the supporting surfaces are capable
with of supporting the loads to be imposed. In addition, masons’ multi-
due regard to anticipated load and the nature of the platform point adjustable suspended scaffold connections shall be
flooring. designed by a structural engineer experienced in such scaffold
As a minimum rule, the spacing shall be as follows: design.
•For 3.2 cm (1 1⁄4 in) thick planks, spacing shall not exceed I m •5. Counterweights shall be made of non-flowable material. Sand,
(3ft). gravel and similar materials that can be easily dislocated shall not
•For 3.8 cm (1 1⁄2 in) thick planks spacing shall not exceed 1.5 m be used as counterweights.
(5ft). •6. Only those items specifically designed as counterweights shall
•The displacement of the foot of the post shall be prevented by be used to counterweight scaffold systems. Construction
fixing it materials such as, but not limited to, masonry units and rolls of
on a base plate. roofing felt, shall not be used as counterweights.
•7. Counterweights shall be secured by mechanical means to the
•Bamboo Scaffold: outrigger beams to prevent accidental displacement.
•Bamboo scaffold may be used for painting or light construction •8. Counterweights shall not be removed from an outrigger beam
work only until the scaffold is disassembled.
and must observed the following: •9. Outrigger beams which are not stabilized by bolts or other
•a) The material and construction shall be sufficient to carry at direct connections to the floor or roof deck shall be secured by
least four tiebacks.
(4) times the imposed load; •10. Tiebacks shall be equivalent in strength to the suspended
•b) Only one worker shall be allowed in any one span; ropes.
•c) The maximum span between poles shall be 2.4m. (8 ft.); •11. Outrigger beams shall be placed perpendicular to its bearing
•d) When the height or fall is over 2m (6 ft.), the use of fall support (usually the face of the building or structure). However,
protection where the employer can demonstrate that it is not possible to
shall be required; and place an outrigger beam perpendicular to the face of the building
•e) The maximum height allowed is 6 meters (20 ft.). or structure because of obstructions that cannot be moved, the
outrigger beam may be placed at some other angle, provided
Trestle Scaffolds: opposing angle tiebacks are used.
•a) Scaffold platforms must be placed no higher than the second- •12. Tiebacks shall be secured to a structurally sound anchorage
highest rung or step of the ladder supporting the platform. on the building or structure. Sound anchorages
•b) All step ladder used as a trestle scaffold shall conform to the include structural members, but do not include standpipes,
manufacturer’s requirements and shall be prevented from slipping vents, other piping systems, or electrical conduit.
by fastening or tying to a permanent structure. •13. Tiebacks shall be installed perpendicular to the face of
•c) All trestle scaffolds must not be bridged one to another. the building or structure, or opposing angle tiebacks shall
•d) Trestle scaffolds shall not be used if the working platform is be installed. Single tiebacks installed at an angle are
more than 5m. from the ground or floor or other surface upon prohibited.
which the scaffold is erected. •14. Suspended scaffold outrigger beams shall be:
•e) A trestle scaffold shall not be erected on a scaffold platform •a. Provided with stop bolts or shackles at both ends;
unless:
safety

•b. Securely fastened together with the flanges turned out when •When U-bolt clips are used, the U-bolt shall be placed over the
channel iron beams are used in place of I-beams; dead end of the rope, and the saddle shall be placed over the live
•c. Installed with all bearing supports perpendicular to the beam end of the rope.
center line; •23. Suspended scaffold power-operated hoists and manual
•d. Set and maintained with the web in a vertical position; and hoists shall be tested by a qualified testing laboratory.
•e. When an outrigger beam is used, the shackle or clevis with •24. Gasoline-powered equipment and hoists shall not be used on
which the rope is attached to the outrigger beam shall be placed suspended scaffolds.
directly over the center line of the stirrup. •25. Gears and brakes of power-operated hoists used on
•15. Suspended scaffold support devices such as cornice hooks, suspended scaffolds shall be enclosed.
roof hooks, roof irons, parapet clamps, or similar devices shall be: •26. In addition to the normal operating brake, suspended scaffold
•a. Made of steel, wrought iron, or materials of equivalent poweroperated hoists and manually operated hoists shall have a
strength; braking device or locking pawl which engages automatically when
•b. Supported by bearing blocks; and a hoist makes either of the following uncontrolled movements in
•c. Secured against movement by tiebacks installed at right an instantaneous change in momentum or an accelerated
angles overspeed.
to the face of the building or structure, or opposing angle tiebacks •27. Manually operated hoists shall require a positive crank force
shall be installed and secured to a structurally sound point of to
anchorage on the building or structure. Sound points of descend.
anchorage •28. Two-point and multi-point suspended scaffolds shall be tied
include structural members, but do not include standpipes, vents, or
other piping systems, or electrical conduit. otherwise secured to prevent them from swaying, as determined
•16. Tiebacks shall be equivalent in strength to the hoisting rope. to be necessary based on an evaluation by a competent person.
•17. When winding drum hoists are used on a suspended Window cleaners’ anchors shall not be used for this purpose.
scaffold, they shall contain not less than four wraps of the •29. Devices whose sole function is to provide emergency escape
suspended rope at the lowest point of scaffold travel. When other and rescue shall not be used as working platforms. This provision
types of hoists are used, the suspended ropes shall be long does not preclude the use of systems that are designed to
enough to allow the scaffold to be lowered to the level below function both as suspended scaffolds and emergency systems.
without the rope end passing through the hoist, or the rope end
shall be configured or provided with means to prevent the end •Aerial Lift
from passing through the hoist. •A combination of any such devices. Aerial equipment may be
•18, The use of repaired wire rope as suspended rope is made
prohibited. •19. Wire suspended ropes shall not be joined together of metal, wood, fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP), or other
except through the use of eye splice thimbles connected with material; may be powered or manually operated; and are deemed
shackles or cover-plates and bolts. to be aerial lifts whether or not they are capable of rotating about
•20. The load end of wire suspended ropes shall be equipped a
with proper size thimbles and secured by eyesplicing or substantially vertical axis.
equivalent means. •Aerial lifts may be “field modified” for uses other than those
•21. Ropes shall be inspected for defects by a competent person intended by the manufacturer provided the modification has been
prior to each workshift and after every occurrence which could certified in writing by the manufacturer or by any other equivalent
affect a rope’s integrity. Ropes shall be replaced if any of the entity.
following conditions exist: Aerial Lift
•A. Any physical damage which impairs the function and strength •1. Ladder trucks and tower trucks.
2. Extensible and articulating boom platforms. •Aerial ladders shall be secured in the lower traveling position by
•(a) Lift controls shall be tested each day prior to use to the locking device on top of the truck cab, and the manually
determine that such controls are in safe working condition. operated device at the base of the ladder before the truck is
•(b) Only authorized persons shall operate an aerial lift. moved for highway travel.
•(c) Belting off to an adjacent pole, structure, or equipment 2. Extensible and articulating boom platforms.
while working from an aerial lift shall not be permitted. •(d) Personnel shall always stand firmly on the floor of the
of the rope. basket, and shall not sit or climb on the edge of the basket or
•B. Swaged attachments or spliced eyes on wire suspended use planks, ladders, or other devices for a work position.
ropes shall not be used unless they are made by the wire rope •(e) A safety belt shall be worn and attached to the boom or
manufacturer or a qualified person. basket when working from an aerial lift.
•22. When wire rope clips are used on suspended scaffolds: • (f) Boom and basket load limits specified by the
•There shall be a minimum of 3 wire rope clips installed, with a manufacturer shall not be exceeded.
minimum distance of 6 rope diameters apart; •(g) The brakes shall be set and when outriggers are used, they
•Clips shall be installed according to the manufacturer’s shall be positioned on pads or a solid surface. Wheel chocks shall
recommendations; be installed before using an aerial lift on an incline, provided they
•Clips shall be retightened to the manufacturer’s can be safely installed.
recommendations after the initial loading; •(h) An aerial lift truck shall not be moved when the boom is
•Clips shall be inspected and retightened to the manufacturer’s elevated in a working position with men in the basket, except for
recommendations at equipment which is specifically designed for this type of
the start of each workshift thereafter; operation.
•U-bolt clips shall not be used at the point of suspended for any •(i) Articulating boom and extensible boom platforms, primarily
scaffold hoist; and designed as personnel carriers, shall have both platform with
safety

upper and lower controls. Upper controls shall be in or beside the • Hazards and Accidents Associated with Hot Works
platform within easy reach of the operator. Lower controls shall •1. Flying sparks
provide for overriding the upper controls. Controls shall be plainly •This is one of the major risks associated with hot work. Sparks
marked as to their function. Lower level controls shall not be created during hot work can get stuck in pipes, gaps, openings,
operated unless permission has been obtained from the and other small cracks. This can possibly smolder and cause a
personnel in the lift, except in case of emergency. fire.
•(j) Climbers shall not be worn while performing work from an •2. Explosive environment:
aerial lift. •There may be highly combustible fumes or gases in the air, that
•(k) The insulated portion of an aerial lift shall not be altered might cause a fire if exposed to hot work.
in any manner that might reduce its insulating value. •3. Hot surfaces:
•(l) Before moving an aerial lift for travel, the boom(s) shall be •During hot work, there may be many flammable goods or
inspected to see that it is properly cradled and outriggers are materials that may remain in the surface. They may come into
in stowed position. contact with a hot surface during the activity and quickly cause a
fire.
•HAZARDS WITH HOTWORKS •4. Exposure to improper isolation of equipment:
•RULE 1100 GAS AND ELECTRIC WELDING AND CUTTING •Improper isolation of equipment being worked on can result in
OPERATIONS hazards including entrapment, crushing, asphyxiation, explosive
•(1) Welding or cutting operations shall not be permitted in rooms environments, etc. For example, failure to correctly checking
or areas containing combustible materials or in proximity to moving equipment is in place or not isolating pipework that could
explosives or flammable liquids, dusts, gases or vapors, until all carry gases, vapours or fumes into the workplace.
fire and explosion hazards are eliminated. •5. Heat exposure:
•(2) Welding or cutting operations on containers filled with •Hot work involves use of open fires, flames and work involving
explosives or flammable substance is prohibited. Welding closed the
containers that have held explosive or flammable substance shall application of heat', which can expose workers to dangerous
only be undertaken after the containers have been thoroughly elevated temperatures and heat build-up in the body. Excessive
cleaned and found com- pletely free of combustible gases or heat exposure can result in heat stress, heat stroke and
vapors or the containers are filled with inert gas or with water. unconsciousness
•(3) Welding and cutting operations carried out or done in places
where persons other than the welders work or pass shall be • JOB HAZARD ANALYSIS
enclosed by means of suitable stationary or portable screens.
Screens shall be opaque, of sturdy construction to withstand What is a hazard?
rough usage of a material which will not readily be set on fire by •A hazard is the potential for harm. In practical terms, a hazard
sparks or hot metal, at least 2 m. (6.5 ft.) high, and preferably often is associated with a condition or activity that, if left
painted with light flat paint. uncontrolled, can result in an injury or illness. Identifying hazards
•(4) A portable fire extinguisher shall be provided at the place and eliminating or controlling them as early as possible will help
where prevent injuries and illnesses
welding and cutting operations are being undertaken.
•(5) Authorization, before welding and cutting operations What is a job hazard analysis?
are allowed in large establishments, the area shall be •A job hazard analysis is a technique that focuses on job tasks as
inspected by the safetyman. He shall issue a written permit a way to identify hazards before they occur. It focuses on the
or authorization for welding and cutting, indicating therein relationship between the worker, the task, the tools, and the work
the precautions to be followed to avoid fire or accidents. environment. Ideally, after you identify uncontrolled hazards, you
•6. All workers or persons directly engaged in welding or cutting will take steps to eliminate or reduce them to an acceptable risk
operations shall be provided with the following personal protective level
equipment:
•goggles, helmets or head shields fitted with suitable filter lenses Why is job hazard analysis important?
and hand shields; and •It is important because it can prevent or control workplace
•suitable aprons. injuries and illnesses by looking at your workplace operations,
•7. All persons directly assisting in welding or cutting operations establishing proper job procedures, and ensuring that all
shall be provided with gloves, goggles or other protective employees are trained properly. One of the best ways to
clothings, as may be necessary, determine and establish proper work procedures is to conduct a
job hazard analysis. A job hazard analysis is one component of
•The inhalation of any fumes, gases or dusts by persons welding the larger commitment of a safety and health management
or cutting in confined spaces shall be prevented by the provision system.
of: •(1) Local exhaust and general ventilation system to keep
fumes, gases or dusts within allowable concentrations or Why is job hazard analysis important?
threshold limit values; •Supervisors can use the findings of a job hazard analysis to
•(2) Approved types of respiratory protective equipment. eliminate and prevent hazards in their workplaces. This is likely to
result in fewer worker injuries and illnesses; safer, more effective
•Hot work is a process that involves welding, soldering, brazing, work methods; reduced workers’ compensation costs; and
cutting, grinding, drilling and burning or melting metals or other increased worker productivity. The analysis also can be a
substances such as glass. Use of open flame in the furnace or valuable tool for training new employees in the steps required to
sparks or such ignition tools are considered hot work procedures. perform their jobs safely
safety

•Safety inspections emphasize the physical

How to identify workplace hazards?
•A job hazard analysis is an exercise in detective environment, such as machinery, equipment,
work. The goal is to discover the following: and workplace conditions, to identify any
•1. What can go wrong?
immediate hazards that could cause harm.
•2. What are the consequences?
•3. How could it arise? •On the other hand, safety audits scrutinize the
•4. What are other contributing factors? underlying systems, procedures, and policies in
•5. How likely is it that the hazard will occur?
place. They assess whether these measures
Good hazard scenarios describe: effectively manage and mitigate risks in line
•1. Where it is happening (environment),
with regulatory compliance and industry best
•2. Who or what it is happening to (exposure)
•3. What precipitates the hazard (trigger), practices
•4. The outcome that would occur should it •An inspection focuses exclusively on people,
happen (consequence), and
•5. Any other contributing factors places, and things.
•On the other hand, an audit is all about the
To perform a job hazard analysis, you would ask: processes, operations, and programs.
•1. What can go wrong? •The worker’s hand could come into
contact with a rotating object that “catches” it and pulls it into the •In addition, one can audit the safety inspection
machine. program but safety audits cannot be inspected
•2. What are the consequences? •The worker could receive a
severe injury and lose fingers and hands. selecting appropriate
hazard controls. Unfortunately, experience has shown that What is a Safety Inspection?
training is not very effective in hazard control when triggering •A safety inspection is a thorough, systematic,
events happen quickly because humans can react only so quickly.
•3. How could it happen? •The accident could happen as a result and welldocumented process that identifies
of the worker trying to clear a snag during operations or as part of potential hazards in the workplace. The
a maintenance activity while the pulley is operating. Obviously,
this hazard scenario could not occur if the pulley is not rotating. •
inspection is usually done by a safety officer or
•4. What are other contributing factors? •This hazard occurs very inspector who will look around the workplace
quickly. It does not give the worker much opportunity to recover or for potential hazards that could lead to an
prevent it once his hand comes into contact with the pulley. This
is an important factor, because it helps you determine the severity accident. •A safety inspection aims to identify
and likelihood of an accident when selecting appropriate hazard possible risks so that corrective measures can
controls. Unfortunately, experience has shown that training is not
very effective in hazard control when triggering events happen
be put in place to address them before they
quickly because humans can react only so quickly. cause any harm. It’s a proactive approach to
•5. How likely is it that the hazard will occur? •This determination safety that can help prevent accidents from
requires some judgment. If there have been “near-misses” or
actual cases, then the likelihood of a recurrence would be happening in the first place
considered high. If the pulley is exposed and easily accessible, •A safety inspection examines the equipment
that also is a consideration. In the example, the likelihood that the
hazard will occur is high because there is no guard preventing
and machinery used during operations at the
contact, and the operation is performed while the machine is worksite. The objective is to determine if any
running. By following the steps in this example, you can organize potential hazards, such as loose wires, damaged
your hazard analysis activities.
equipment, or flammable materials, could lead
• OSH INSPECTION to an accident. Once the inspection is complete,
THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN SAFETY the safety inspector will provide a report that
INSPECTION AND SAFETY AUDIT includes all the hazards found and
•Safety inspections look for hazards and risky recommendations on how to fix them.
behaviors that might lead to potential accidents •A safety inspection should be conducted
within the workplace. regularly to ensure that all potential hazards are
•Safety audits focus more on checking identified and addressed in a timely manner
programs What is a Safety Audit?
and processes to ensure they meet the •On the other hand, a safety audit assesses whether a company’s
company’s safety standards and goals safety program meets its goals and objectives. It is usually
conducted by an external auditor who will review all the safety
safety

documents, policies, and procedures to ensure they are up-to- 3. Inspection Schedule
date and compliant with the latest safety regulations. Since inspections should be regular, the first step would be to
•A safety audit aims to identify gaps in the safety program so that decide how regularly you are going to conduct them (ideally, one
corrective action can be taken to improve it. It’s a reactive every six months or so) and when these inspections would be. Try
approach to safety that helps improve the safety program after an to ensure that your inspection covers all the shifts in the day, and
accident also the areas where the work is not as regular (such as
equipment maintenance activities) so that all possible hazards are
What is a Safety Inspection? explored. This schedule should then be communicated to all the
•A safety audit looks at all aspects of the company’s safety stakeholders involved in the inspection (such as shift supervisors,
program, including the training, hazard identification, and incident managers, etc.).
reporting procedures. The objective is to find out if any areas 4. List of the Inspectors
need improvement. Once the audit is complete, the auditor will It is important to know who will be involved in the safety
provide a report that includes all the findings and inspection process and to delegate duties according to the
recommendations for improving the safety program. inspectors' individual skills, if applicable. It’s a good practice to
•The safety auditor or an entire auditing team initially conducts the establish a team for this purpose as placing the burden on a
process through a fact-finding approach. They avoid making single person, even if they are highly trained, may lead to errors
evaluative comments or opinions during the first phase of the or omissions. The team could consist of individuals with diverse
process. The auditors are experts in the applicable company skills — for example, trained safety professionals, equipment
regulations and existing programs experts, and supervisors.

Safety Inspections Best Practices CONDUCTING THE INSPECTION

•Conduct a safety inspection at least once a month—preferably •1. The inspection team must observe all work processes and equipment
once a week. The more you conduct inspections, the more likely closely, looking for possible workplace hazards
you can identify potential hazards before they lead to an accident. •2. Communicate any immediate danger or hazard to the relevant authorities
•Do not forget to involve the employees in the safety inspection without waiting for your report to reach them, so that they can fix the issue as
process. They are the ones who are working in the facility every soon as possible. For example, if a piece of equipment that is currently being
day, and they might have some valuable insights. used is unsafe, ensure that it’s shut down immediately to prevent accidents
•Make sure to document everything. The inspection report should 3. Do not operate the equipment on your own if you are not trained to do so.
include all the hazards found and recommendations on how to fix •4. Take notes, describing every hazard and the exact conditions under
them. which it occurs.
•Create a follow-up plan. Once safety hazards are identified and •5. Ask the workers for additional information if you don't know about the
recommendations are made, it’s crucial to have a plan to address particular work process or equipment without disrupting the work too much
these issues. This plan should be made available to all as unnecessary interruptions may result in safety issues.
employees and specify who is responsible for each action, what 6. Record information such as equipment readings (exposure to chemicals,
the action is, and when it will be completed. radiation levels, etc.), emissions inspections, hazardous conditions, and
•Regularly review and adapt. The safety inspection process others in the form of notes, sketches, photographs, and videos if necessary.
should not be static. Regularly review your procedures and make 7. Remember that there are no exemptions in safety, and sometimes even
necessary adaptations based on previous inspection findings, little mistakes may be quite hazardous.
operations changes, or safety regulation updates. This helps
ensure your inspection process remains relevant and effective REPORTING THE FINDINGS
•The inspection report is generally an internal document that is used to
PLANNING FOR INSPECTION record matters, both positive and negative, that were noted during the
•1. Have an inspection Checklist inspection. It should document any actions that the Inspector/Inspectorate
requires the employers or workers to take.
•2. Know your Guidelines •Documenting this information provides a record of ongoing improvements
•3. Make a Schedule made by those with legal responsibilities; this information is particularly
•4. Identify the Responsible Persons useful for labor inspectors completing subsequent visits to the premises.
•The inspection report is generally an internal document that is used to
1. An Inspection Checklist record matters, both positive and negative, that were noted during the
It’s useful to have an idea of what to look for before your team inspection. It should document any actions that the Inspector/Inspectorate
conducts the inspection. An inspection checklist tailored to your requires the employers or workers to take.
workplace may help the inspectors keep on track and ensure that •Documenting this information provides a record of ongoing improvements
they do not miss anything. •For an efficient and streamlined made by those with legal responsibilities; this information is particularly
process, you can organize the checklist into categories such as useful for labor inspectors completing subsequent visits to the premises.
equipment safety, fall protection, accident risk, etc. Finally, make
sure to include all the elements of your workplace, including the FOLLOW-UP AND MONITORING
people (e.g., whether your workers are following safety practices), •The health and safety committee can review inspections, identify trends,
the equipment (e.g., wear and tear, corrosion, etc.), and even the and monitor the progress of the recommendations. This analyis can be used
environment (e.g., noise, lighting, emissions, etc as part of the continual improvement process for the occupational health and
2. List of Guidelines safety program or management system.
Before you start inspecting your workplace, you may want to refer
to relevant guidelines or standards to know what to look for. One HAZARD IDENTIFICATION, RISK ASSESSMENT AND DETERMINATION
may check the relevant OSH standards as provided by the laws, OF CONTROL
rules and regulations, and department issuances.
safety

•HIRAC or Hazard Identification, Risk Assessment and Control is the process •Medium: sprain, strain, localized burn, dermatitis, asthma, injury requiring
of identifying workplace hazards, evaluating risks to workers’ safety and days off work
health and control the relevant hazards. •Low: an injury that requires first aid only; short-term pain, irritation, or
•R.A. NO. 11058 •REQUIREMENTS dizziness
•The OSH program, which shall be duly signed by the employer, must
include at least the following: •These risk ratings correspond to recommended actions such as:
•1. Company commitment to comply with OSH requirements; •Immediately dangerous: stop the process and implement controls
•2. General safety and health programs, including: •High risk: investigate the process and implement controls immediately
•1. Safety and health hazard identification, risk assessment and control •Medium risk: keep the process going; however, a control plan must be
(HIRAC), developed and should be implemented as soon as possible
•2. Medical surveillance for early detection and management of occupational •Low risk: keep the process going, but monitor regularly. A control plan
and work-related diseases, and should
•3, First aid and emergency medical services also be investigated
•Very low risk: keep monitoring the process
•The establishment shall ensure that the core elements of OSH program are
integrated in the company OSH program such as management commitment RISK CONTROL
and employee involvement, workplace risk assessment, hazard prevention •Hierarchy of Control:
and control, safety and health training and education, and OSH program •1. Elimination
evaluation. •2. Substitution
•“Establishments shall be responsible in determining its own level of •3. Engineering Controls
classification whether low risk, medium risk, or high risk on the Hazards •4. Administrative Controls
Identification and Risk Assessment and Control (HIRAC), that will be the •5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
basis for determining the required minimum of safety officers, OH personnel,
and medical services in a particular workplace.” – DOLE

•PROCESS OF HIRAC
•Hazard Identification •Identify any potential hazard or risk that could cause
injury or illness to employees.
•Risk Assessment •Evaluate the risk posed by a hazard or potential hazards
in a workplace. This involves evaluating the severity and likelihood that a
hazard could cause harm or loss.
•Control •Measures or mitigating strategies are taken to reduce, manage, or
eliminate a hazard after it has been identified and assessed. The goal of
control is to make a hazardous situation as safe as possible and to reduce
the likelihood of injury or illness to workers.

•HAZARD IDENTIFICATION
•Workplace Assessment
•Equipment: workplace lay-out, machines, hand tools, software and
hardware, tables or chairs
•Materials/Product: dangerous substances, heavy loads and sharp or warm
objects
•Environment: light, noise, climate, vibrations, air quality or dust
•Organization: tasks, working hours, breaks, shift systems, training,
communication, team work, contact with visitors, social support or autonomy
•Human/Worker: lack of physical or mental capacity, lack of knowledge or
skills, lack of right attitude or behavior

HAZARD IDENTIFICATION
How are the hazards identified?
•1. Walk-through/ocular inspection
•2. Review of Processes involved
•3. Knowing the raw materials used, products, materials, and by-products
•4. Gathering workers’ complaints
•5. Safety data sheet

•Probability ratings:
•High: likely to be experienced once or twice a year by an individual
•Medium: may be experienced once every five years by an individual
•Low: may occur once during a working lifetime

•Severity ratings:
•High: major fracture, poisoning, significant loss of blood, serious head injury,
or fatal disease