BASIC OCCUPATIONAL

SAFETY AND HEALTH TRAINING

Republic of the Philippines

DEPARTMENT OF LABOR AND EMPLOYMENT
Occupational Safety and Health Center

Basic Occupational Safety and Health (BOSH) Training

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Module 1: OSH and the BOSH Framework Page 1 Module 2: OSH Situation in the
Global and Local Levels 5 Module 3: Unsafe / Unhealthy Acts and Conditions 15
Module 4: Housekeeping 20 Module 5: Materials Handling and Storage 43 Module 6:
Fire Safety 73 Module 7: Electrical Safety 91 Module 8: Machine Safety 106 Module
9: Personal Protective Equipment 124 Module 10: Industrial Hygiene 139 Module 11:
Environment Control Measures 162 Module 12: Occupational Health Hazards and
Their Health Effects 174 Module 13: Safety and Health Inspection 201 Module 14:
Accident Investigation 212 Module 15: Development of an OSH Program 224
Module 16: OSH Legislation 234

Basic Occupational Safety and Health (BOSH) Training

Basic Occupational Safety and Health (BOSH) Training
Basic Occupational Safety and Health (BOSH) Training
BOSH Framework
 Basic Occupational Safety and Health (BOSH) Training
Unit 1 – Introduction to OSH
Module 1: OSH and the BOSH Framework

This is a very short module which aims to prepare you for the technical discussions that
will follow in the next modules. This will also explain how the discussions will flow and
give you basic directions on where we are going.

Objectives:
Working on this module should help you to:

- have an overview of the BOSH Course and the importance of safety and health -
define OSH and its three major fields – Occupational Safety, Occupational Health and
Industrial Hygiene
- identify work hazards and risks and recommend control measures to reduce or
eliminate work-related accidents and illness
- acquire basic knowledge & skills on OSH, such as safe work practices, that will enable
you to plan/develop your company’s Safety and Health program.

Overview of the BOSH Course

By the end of this course, you should be able to:

∙ Understand the National Laws and Regulations on OSH

∙ Be aware of the Philippine Statistics on accidents/injuries and illnesses and the
reporting requirements of the Department of Labor and Employment ∙ Understand
the causes of accidents, identify existing/potential safety and health hazards and risks
at work, and the mechanisms to prevent these hazards and risks ∙ Describe the
effects of OSH hazards on the worker
∙ Enumerate the effects of occupational illnesses/accidents to the workers,
workplace, community, and society
∙ Determine the appropriate control measures to prevent hazards and risks ∙
Conduct a simulated safety and health audit through a site/plant visit ∙ Describe
the roles/functions of the supervisor in promoting an OSH-friendly
environment in his/her organization
∙ Describe the components of a health and safety program
∙ List and describe the benefits of an OSH-friendly environment, the different
 government organizations and non-governmental organizations, private and
academic institutions that promote, regulate OSH and how they can network with
partners
∙ Develop a personal re-entry plan

These objectives can be attained by understanding OSH, why we need to learn key
concepts in prevention and how we can respond to existing and potential hazards that
affect the human body, personal lives, families and communities.

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What is Occupational Safety and Health (OSH)?

Occupational safety and health is a discipline with a broad scope involving three major
fields – Occupational Safety, Occupational Health and Industrial Hygiene.

∙ Occupational safety deals with understanding the causes of accidents at work and
ways to prevent unsafe act and unsafe conditions in any workplace. Safety at
work discusses concepts on good housekeeping, proper materials handling and
storage, machine safety, electrical safety, fire prevention and control, safety
inspection, and accident investigation.
∙ Occupational health is a broad concept which explains how the different hazards
and risks at work may cause an illness and emphasizes that health programs are
essential in controlling work-related and/or occupational diseases.
∙ Industrial hygiene discusses the identification, evaluation, and control of physical,
chemical, biological and ergonomic hazards.

“In its broadest sense, OSH aims at:

• the promotion and maintenance of the highest degree of physical, mental and
social well-being of workers in all occupations;
• the prevention of adverse health effects of the working conditions • the
placing and maintenance of workers in an occupational environment adapted
to physical and mental needs;
• the adaptation of work to humans (and NOT the other way around).

In other words, occupational health and safety encompasses the social, mental and
physical well-being of workers, that is, the “whole person”.

Successful occupational health and safety practice requires the collaboration and
participation of both employers and workers in health and safety programs, and
involves the consideration of issues relating to occupational medicine, industrial
hygiene, toxicology, education, engineering safety, ergonomics, psychology, etc.

Occupational health issues are often given less attention than occupational safety
issues because the former are generally more difficult to confront. However, when
health is addressed, so is safety - a healthy workplace is by definition also a safe
workplace. The reverse, though, may not be true - a so-called safe workplace is not
necessarily also a healthy workplace. The important point is that both health and
safety issues must be addressed in every workplace.” (Your health and safety at work:
INTRODUCTION TO OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY, International Labour Organization,
accessed 25 April 2005 http://www.itcilo.it/actrav/actrav-english/telearn/osh/intro/introduc.htm)

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The terms hazard and risk are often interchanged. Because you will be encountering
these throughout the course it is a must that you understand the difference between
them.

Hazard – a source or situation with a potential to cause harm in terms of injury, ill
health, damage to property, damage to the environment or a combination of these.

Risk – a combination of the likelihood of an occurrence of a hazardous event with

specified period or in specified circumstances and the severity of injury or damage to
the health of people, property, environment or any combination of these caused by
the event.

The hazards affecting the workplace under each major area should be detected,
identified, controlled and, at best, prevented from occurring by the safety and health
officer of the company. Occupational safety and health should be integrated in every
step of the work process, starting from storage and use of raw materials, the
manufacture of products, release of by-products, use of various equipment and
ensuring a non-hazardous or risk-free work environment.

Our discussions will therefore flow from the three major areas of OSH and then on to
the part where you will prepare a re-entry plan to apply what you have learned in your
specific workplace. If you are not working yet, we can simulate a company, a
household or a community that will benefit from your re-entry plan.
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Basic Occupational Safety and Health (BOSH) Training
OSH Situationer
 Basic Occupational Safety and Health (BOSH) Training
Unit 1 – Introduction to OSH
Module 2: OSH Situation in the Global and Local Levels

Module 2, aims to provide a background on both the local and international OSH
situation. We hope that by being aware and focusing on the magnitude of work-related
accidents, injuries and illness, you will understand the prevalent conditions that exist
which contribute to the accidents and illness at work.

Let us share with you a historical event which led to OSH improvements in the early 19th
century. During the industrial revolution of 1800 – 1900s, the use of machines,
equipment and chemicals were intensive as manufacturing processes, agriculture and
train/steam engine transport were the driving force of the economy. However,
numerous work-related accidents and deaths occurred arising from hazards in these
industries. Statistics, at that time, showed that safety hazards, chemical exposures and
injuries from manufacturing work were very high. This led to the development of
guidelines and standards to protect workers from work-related hazards and risks in the
above-mentioned industries.

As work patterns change, trends on accidents and diseases may also reflect how workers
are affected. In the late 20th century and until the present, we see that predominance of
the service sector (wholesale and retail trade, education, hotels and restaurants, banks,
health-care etc.), and we are now confronted with data that reveal work-related muscle
and joint injuries experienced by the service sector workers and the emergence of the
science of ergonomics which will be discussed at length in the Occupational Health
module.

Objectives:
Working on this module should help you:
- articulate a heightened awareness of the OSH situation, both local and
international
- identify the problems, issues and challenges associated with OSH conditions in
the country

Global OSH figures

The International Labour Organization (ILO) Safework Introductory Report in 2008

showed that close to 50% of work-related deaths occur in Asia. In developing
countries, fatality rates are five to six times higher than in industrialized nations and in
developing countries where, every year, around 170,000 agricultural workers and
320,000 people die from exposures to biological risks such as viral, bacterial, insect or
animal related risks.

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The latest ILO figures reveal that,

“Every 15 seconds, 160 workers have a work-related accident. Every 15 seconds, a

worker dies from a work-related accident or disease.

Everyday, 6,300 people die as a result of occupational accidents or work-related

diseases – more than 2.3 million deaths per year. Over 337 million accidents occur on
the job annually; many of these resulting in extended absences from work. The human
cost of this daily adversity is vast and the economic burden of poor occupational safety
and health practices is estimated at 4% of global Gross Domestic product each year.

The safety and health conditions at work are very different between countries,
economic sectors and social groups. Deaths and injuries take a heavy toll in developing
countries, where a large part of the population is engaged in hazardous activities such
as agriculture, fishing and mining. Throughout the world, the poorest and least
protected – often women, children and migrants – are among the most affected.”
(Safety and Health at Work, International Labour Organization, accessed September 6, 2011
http://www.ilo.org/global/topics/safety-and-health-at-work/lang--en/index.htm )

To see figures in other countries, you may refer to these websites

United States of America

http://www.bls.gov/iif#tables
http://www.bls.gov/data/home.htm

Canada
http://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/information/information/injury_statistics.html

Japan
http://www.jniosh.go.jp/icpro/jicosh-old/english/statistics/index.html

Philippines
http://www.oshc.dole.gov.ph
http://www.bles.dole.gov.ph

International Labour Organization

http://laborsta.ilo.org
http://www.ilo.org/public/english/bureau/stat/index.htm

Philippine Labor and OSH statistics

According to the latest Labor Force Survey (LFS) of the National Statistics Office (NSO),
the Philippine labor force/ economically active population, which refers to persons 15
years old and above who are employed or underemployed, totals 38.905M in October
2010.

“Of the estimated 36.0 million employed persons in 2010, more than half (51.8%)
were engaged in services and about one-third (33.2%) were in agriculture. Most of
those who worked in the services sector were into wholesale and retail trade, repair of
motor vehicles, motorcycles and personal and household goods (19.5% of the total
employed).

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Of the total employed persons, the laborers and unskilled workers comprised the
largest group (32.3%). This was followed by farmers, forestry workers and fishermen
(16.0%); officials of government and special interest organizations, corporate
executives, managers, managing proprietors and supervisors (13.8%); and service
workers, shop and market sales workers (10.6%). The rest of the major occupation
groups each comprised less than 10 percent ranging from 0.4 percent to 7.7 percent.
The majority (54.4%) of the employed were wage and salary workers, most of whom
were in private establishments (40.4% of the total employed). Thirty percent were self
employed without any paid employee, four percent were employer in own family
operated business or farm while nearly 12 percent worked without pay in own family
operated farm or business.

More than half (63.5%) of the total employed were full time workers or have worked
for at least 40 hours per week. On the average, employed persons worked 41.7 hours a
week in 2010.

The number of underemployed workers in 2010 was 6.8 million, representing an

annual underemployment rate of 18.7 percent. Underemployed workers are persons
who express the desire to have additional hours of work in the present job, or to have
an additional job, or to have a new job with longer working hours. The lowest
underemployment rate was observed in Central Luzon (9.1%) while the highest was
noted in Bicol Region (36.8%).

About 2.9 million Filipinos were unemployed in 2010 representing an unemployment

rate of 7.3 percent for the year. The unemployed persons who have attained high
school accounted for 45.2 percent of all unemployed. The proportion of unemployed
males was greater than that of their female counterparts (63.3% compared to 36.7%).”
(2010 ANNUAL LABOR AND EMPLOYMENT STATUS, released February 8, 2011,
http://www.census.gov.ph/data/press release/2011/pr1111tx.html)

According to the July 2011 Current Labor Statistics of the DOLE Bureau of Labor and
Employment Statistics (BLES), there are 8M OFWs with 1.47M deployed in 2010. Of the
OFWs deployed in 2010, 1,123,676 are land based and 347,150 are sea-based. After
knowing these statistics, the question that comes to mind is “how many Filipino
workers are protected from accidents and illnesses while they work?”
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Taken in 2007-2008 boats (manufacturing 52,515
and released in 2010, industry); bus line
the latest Bureau of operation (transport,
Labor and storage and
Employment communications);
Statistics (BLES) accounting, 44,800
Integrated Survey bookkeeping and 46,570
(BITS) on cases of auditing activities; tax
occupational injuries consultancy,
and diseases that architectural,
affected private sector engineering and
establishments related technical
covered 6,460 sample consultancy; call
non-agricultural center activities,
establishments with
20 or more workers. It 70,000 60,000 50,000
has expanded its
coverage 65 industries 40,000 30,000 20,000
including building and 58,720
repairing of ships and 10,000 0

activities (real estate, renting and business

activities); and animated films and cartoons
production (other community, social and
personal service activities) industries.
2003 2007
occupational accidents occupational injuries

medical transcription and related outsourcing

The BITS results reveal that a total of 44,800 occupational accidents occurred in 4,600
non-agricultural establishments employing 20 or more workers in 2007, a figure lower
by 14.7% than the 52,515 accidents that affected 4, 824 establishments in 2003.
Occupational injuries resulting from workplace accidents declined by 20.7% from
58,720 in 2003 to 46,570 in 2007.

Cases that required absence/s from work stood at 23,265 in 2003 and 20,386 in 2007
or a reduction of 12.4%. Almost all cases with workdays lost in 2007 were temporary
disabilities (20,109). This is 12.4% lower than the caseload of 22,964 in 2003.
2003 2007
5,000
(from 170 in 2003 to 116 in
Figure 2 0 2007. However those
Occupational injuries with workdays
lost by incapacity permanently incapacitated
temporary
Fatalities decreased by increased by 23.7 % (from
31.8% 131 in 2003 to 162 in 2007).

25,000
Contributing factors to
20,000 occupational accidents and
15,000 injuries include machines,
equipment, hand tools,
10,000
to work, Philippines 2003 and 2007
structures and chemical
incapacity 22,964 20,109 permanent
substances.
incapacity 131 162 fatal 170 116

materials, buildings,

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On the other hand, training on the proper handling and correct operation of machines,
use of personal protective equipment (PPE) precautions and carefulness in work
prevent accidents and promote safety in establishments.

The largest caseload of injuries with workdays lost in 2007 was recorded in
manufacturing establishments at 61.0% (12,427). This industry also posted the biggest
share at 61.9% four years earlier. The rest of the industries had lower shares ranging
from 0.2% (financial intermediation) to 9.2% (hotels and restaurants) in 2007 and from
0.3% (mining and quarrying) to 11.6% (wholesale and retail trade) in 2003. (Table 1).

Relative to their specific industry totals, private education injury cases with workdays
lost had multiplied by as much as three times its 2003 level (from 132 in 2003 to 436
in 2007). Other noticeable percentage increases were recorded in mining and
quarrying at 58.3% (from 60 in 2003 to 95 in 2007) and in hotels and restaurants at
57.1% (from 1,195 in 2003 to 1,877 in 2007). On the other hand, remarkable
decreases were noted in other community, social and personal service entities at
66.1% (from 546 in 2003 to 185 in 2007) and in financial intermediation activities at
52.0% (from 100 in 2003 to 48 in 2007).
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Definition of Terms:

Occupational accident - an unexpected and unplanned occurrence, including acts of violence

arising out of or in connection with work which results in one or more workers incurring a
personal injury, disease or death. It can occur outside the usual workplace/premises of the
establishment while the worker is on business on behalf of his/her employer, i.e., in another
establishment or while on travel, transport or in road traffic.

Occupational injury - an injury which results from a work-related event or a single

instantaneous exposure in the work environment (occupational accident). Where more than
one person is injured in a single accident, each case of occupational injury should be counted
separately. If one person is injured in more than one occupational accident during the
reference period, each case of injury to that person should be counted separately. Recurrent
absences due to an injury resulting from a single occupational accident should be treated as
the continuation of the same case of occupational injury not as a new case.

Temporary incapacity - case where an injured person was absent from work for at least one
day, excluding the day of the accident, and 1) was able to perform again the normal duties of
the job or position occupied at the time of the occupational accident or 2) will be able to
perform the same job but his/her total absence from work is expected not to exceed a year
starting the day after the accident, or 3) did not return to the same job but the reason for
changing the job is not related to his/her inability to perform the job at the time of the
occupational accident.

Permanent incapacity - case where an injured person was absent from work for at least one
day, excluding the day of the accident, and 1) was never able to perform again the normal
duties of the job or position occupied at the time of the occupational accident, or 2) will be
able to perform the same job but his/her total absence from work is expected to exceed a year
starting the day after the accident.

Fatal case - case where a person is fatally injured as a result of occupational accident whether
death occurs immediately after the accident or within the same reference year as the accident.

Injuries incurring days away from work recorded a Frequency Rate (FR) of 2.79 in 2007.
This was 1.28 percentage points lower than the FR of 4.07 in 2003. Expectedly, this
was coherent to the 12.4% reduction in the number of cases of occupational injuries
to 20,386 in 2007 from 23,265 in 2003. Categories by incapacity for work on cases with
workdays lost recorded frequency rates as follows:

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Definition of Terms:

Frequency Rate (FR) – refers to cases of occupational injuries with workdays lost per 1,000,000
employee-hours of exposure.

Incidence Rate (IR) – refers to cases of occupational injuries with workdays lost per 1,000
workers.

Severity Rate (SR) – refers to workdays lost of cases of occupational injuries resulting to
temporary incapacity per 1,000,000 employee-hours of exposure.

Average Workdays Lost – refer to workdays lost for every case of occupational injury resulting
to temporary incapacity.

Cases of occupational diseases in non-agricultural establishments employing 20 or

more workers decreased by 14.8% from 55,413 in 2003 to 47,235 in 2007. Incidences
of occupational diseases decreased in almost all types of diseases in 2007 except in
bronchial asthma (+29.9%), occupational dermatitis (+18.6%) and essential
hypertension (+7.8). Work-related musculoskeletal diseases were most prevalent in
non-agricultural establishments employing 20 or more workers both in 2003 and 2007.
This type of disease accounted for 37.2% (2003) and 28.1 % (2007) of the totals. Other
types which made up more than 10% of the total diseases in 2007 were bronchial
asthma (18.5%), infections (13.8%), essential hypertension (13.0%) and occupational
dermatitis (12.6%).

Source of data: Bureau of Labor and Employment Statistics, BLES Integrated Survey (2003/2004 and
2007/2008).
The present local data does not present a total picture of OSH situation in the
Philippines. As you can see, the BITS survey is limited only to the 6,460 companies
covered out of the estimated 780,500 existing establishments in the country. Many
companies do not report accidents and injuries.

Data gathering has been problematic because of the following conditions:

∙ Under reporting of work-related accidents and illnesses. Rule 1050 of the

Philippine Occupational Safety and Health Standards (OSHS) requires all
employers to report all work accidents or occupational illnesses resulting to
disabling conditions to the DOLE Regional Office in their area. However, very
few companies submit reports.

∙ Limited coverage of the OSH information and education and OSHS

implementation. Vulnerable groups such as the informal sector (which
amounts to 28M or 80% of the Filipino workforce) are often left out in the OSH
education, information and program implementation because they are do not
have the capacity to pay for trainings and most of the time are not even aware
that they can protect themselves from accidents and illnesses.

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Many of them think that the diseases and accidents they experience is part of
the nature of their work and cannot be prevented. On a positive note, OSHC
has been doing a lot of OSH awareness campaigns for informal workers.

∙ Inadequate number of trained OSH personnel. There has been an upsurge of OSH
awareness worldwide and companies both here and abroad require companies
to hire trained OSH personnel. This has caused an exponential increase in the
number of workers who have undergone and are wanting to avail of OSH
trainings but because accidents continue to happen, more dedicated and
trained personnel are needed.

∙ Absence of strict penalties. There is no system of fines for violations of the

different provisions of the OSHS.

∙ Weak enforcement of OSH laws –problem is traceable also to the absence of

strict penalties on violations of OSH standards.

∙ Fragmented OSH administration. There is no central authority to coordinate all

OSH efforts.

∙ Public apathy on OSH concerns. Most people do not generally pay attention to
OSH concerns.

∙ Low priority on OSH concerns by both management and labor. The former is
more concerned about profit while the latter is with wages and other
monetary benefits.
Emerging issues in OSH

∙ Aside from the problems already identified, participants should also be aware
that there are emerging OSH issues – such as women workers’ issues, OSH and
child labor, OSH in the informal sector, agriculture, in schools and lifestyle
diseases such as AIDS and diabetes, and many others.

∙ Women are often faced with multiple burdens. They have take on the burden of
the home they perform the role of a wife and a mother. These may also affect
her performance at the workplace and add to the stresses that come with the
job. The hazards that a women worker is exposed to while at work to can affect
her reproductive health and for a pregnant worker, her unborn child.
∙ There are 250 million child laborers around the world of which 3.7 million are
found in the Philippines. Of these, 2.2M are in hazardous jobs. Employing
children in these types of work greatly affects the quality of their life and in
serious cases, may even cause serious disabilities or death. The OSHC
researches on the footwear industry, fishing, mining, and agriculture, helped in

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the formulation of policies, in advocacy campaigns to take children out of
hazardous work.

∙ The use of pesticides in farms is also another issue. Farmers or farm workers who
handle pesticides may be unaware of the hazards that they are exposed to.
Constant exposure of a worker, has enormous adverse effects his or her health.
Workers handling pesticides may even bring home residues of the chemicals
and, affecting their families and the community.

∙ There is also little mechanism on OSH for the informal sector considering that
they represent more than half of the total workforce and is the sector badly in
need of OSH information since they have the tendency to ignore such concerns
just to get their daily incomes.

∙ In schools, students are also exposed to hazards such as chemicals and electricity,
while bullying and hazing (both psycho-social issues) are becoming more
common. Many school buildings are also risks themselves.

Although the number of work-related accidents and illnesses has decreased in the
recent years here in the Philippines, cases of occupational injuries and diseases
continue to occur. We at the OSHC subscribe to the principle that “one life lost is one
too many.” Everyone must therefore be involved in the effort to contain OSH concerns
to enhance one’s working life. After all, most of us work mainly for economic purposes
- “ang hanap-buhay ay para ikabuhay, hindi para ikamatay.”
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Basic Occupational Safety and Health (BOSH) Training

Unsafe/Unhealthy
Acts and
 Conditions

Basic Occupational Safety and Health (BOSH) Training

Unit 1 – Introduction to OSH
Module 3: Unsafe / Unhealthy Acts and Conditions

Objectives

Working on this module should help you to:

• identify the different unsafe and unhealthy acts and conditions in your workplace •
differentiate unsafe/unhealthy acts from unsafe/unhealthy conditions • explain the
relationship between unsafe/unhealthy acts and unsafe/unhealthy conditions
• identify Filipino traits and characteristics in the workplace which result in unsafe/
unhealthy acts and conditions
• define accident and its causes
• enumerate ways to promote safety consciousness

What are unsafe/unhealthy acts and conditions?

To be able to define this, let us first go back to the work system composed of various
elements: workers, raw materials, tools and equipment and the work environment.
The interplay of these elements results in the performance of specific tasks like
production of goods. But when an accident happens, the task/s will not be
accomplished or will be delayed.
Accidents

An accident is an unexpected, unforeseen, unplanned and unwanted occurrence or

event that causes damage or loss of materials or properties, injury or death.

Common types of accidents:

∙ fall from height and fall from the same level (slips and trips) ∙
struck against rigid structure, sharp or rough objects
∙ struck by falling objects
∙ caught in, on or in between objects
∙ electrocution
∙ fire

Costs of accidents

Corollary to accidents are costs that companies have to bear whether

directly or indirectly. The cost of accidents can be best explained by the Iceberg
Theory. Once an accident happens, money has to be spent for medical
expenses of the injured worker/workers, insurance premiums and, in some
cases, for penalty and litigation expenses. Companies also spend huge amounts
to replace damaged equipment and wasted raw materials. These are

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what we consider as the direct costs of accidents. But these are just the tip of
the iceberg.

The larger and more dangerous part of the iceberg however is the part
that lies beneath the water. This represents the indirect costs of an accident
which have a more damaging impact to the worker, their families, the company
and the community in general. Indirect costs include:

1. Lost or lesser productivity of the injured – workers lose their efficiency

and income due to work interruption on the day of the injury.
2. Loss of productivity among other employees due to work stoppage when
assisting the injured worker, inspection or merely out of curiosity. The
psychological impact of the accident reduces the workers’ productivity.
3. Loss of productivity among supervisors because instead of focusing on
managing people and the work flow, they spend their time assisting the
injured, investigating the accident and preparing inspection reports. 4.
Hiring and training replacement workers
5. Downtime due to equipment damage

Apart from these are humane aspects of accidents such as sorrow due to
loss, hardships and inconveniences, physical pain and discomfort and
psychological problems.

Accident causation
 After knowing what accidents are and the costs that will be incurred when
these happen, we will now look at the primary causes of accidents.
Understanding this topic will help you identify appropriate measures to prevent
accidents from happening.

Are these phrases familiar to you?

– "Oras na niya"
– "Malas niya lang"
– “Tanga kasi”
– “Kasama sa trabaho”

People usually utter the abovementioned phrases or statements when

someone gets injured or dies in an accident. However, these are not the real
causes of accidents but mere excuses of people who do not understand the
concepts of occupational safety and health. Accidents are primarily caused by
unsafe and unhealthy acts and conditions.

Unsafe/unhealthy Act: the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) defines this
as “any human action that violates a commonly accepted safe work procedure or
standard operating procedure.” This is an act done by a worker that does not conform

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or departs from an established standard, rules or policy. These often happen when a
worker has improper attitudes, physical limitations or lacks knowledge or skills.

Examples of unsafe acts include: horse playing, smoking in non-smoking areas, using
substandard/defective tools, non - wearing of goggles/gloves, driving without license,
reporting to work under the influence of liquor or drugs, and improper storage of
paints and hazardous chemicals among others.

Unsafe/unhealthy Condition: ANSI defines this as the physical or chemical property of

a material, machine or the environment which could possibly cause injury to people,
damage to property, disrupt operations in a plant or office or other forms of losses.
These conditions could be guarded or prevented.

Examples of unsafe conditions include: slippery and wet floors, dusty work area,
congested plant lay-out, octopus wiring, scattered objects on the floor/work area,
poor storage system, protruding nails and sharp objects, unguarded rotating
machines/equipment, etc.

In identifying unsafe/unhealthy acts and conditions, you should be as specific as

possible. The term “poor housekeeping” is a very general and vague term that does
not tell you the real condition/situation of the workplace that needs to be addressed.
You should avoid using general terms when citing for unsafe/unhealthy acts and
conditions. Rather, you must state specifically what you are referring to, like: dusty
workplace and improper storage of paints. The term “Non-wearing of Personal
Protective Equipment (PPE)” is another generalized statement of an unsafe act. To be
more specific, you must cite the kind of PPE that is not used or improperly worn by the
worker. In this case, your observation should be: not wearing gloves and mask while
mixing chemicals, not wearing goggles while welding, or not wearing safety shoes
while walking on slippery surface.

It is very important to state the specific unsafe/unhealthy acts and conditions since
these become the basis for recommendations to the management. A general
statement of the problem will only mean a general recommendation or solution, not
an accurate one. If you state that the problem is “poor housekeeping”, logically your
recommended solution would be “good housekeeping”. Although this is very basic,
being definite and specific in identifying unsafe/unhealthy acts and conditions is
critical in convincing the management that safety and health issues in the workplace
are worth their attention and commitment.

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Can accidents be prevented?

Herbert William Heinrich, an American industrial safety pioneer who worked as an

Assistant Superintendent of the Engineering and Inspection Division of Travelers
Insurance Company, did a study on the insurance claims. After reviewing thousands of
accident reports completed by supervisors, who generally blamed workers for causing
accidents without conducting detailed investigations into the root causes, Heinrich
found out that 98% of workplace accidents are preventable and only 2% are non
preventable. Of the 98% preventable accidents, 88% is due to unsafe/unhealthy acts or
“man failure” and 10% is due to unsafe/unhealthy conditions. This study explains the
rationale for focusing interventions on changing the behaviors and attitudes of
workers and management towards safety and health.

How do you prevent yourself from performing unsafe/unhealthy acts that will cause
unsafe/unhealthy conditions at work?

It is important to raise everybody’s consciousness to such a degree that we all begin to

realize that our actions affect other people in the workplace, even if these appear to
have nothing to do with them. If you agree that we are part of the problem, then,
probably we can be part of the solution, too. OSHC believes that Filipinos are
inherently responsible workers. Given the proper education, training, and the right
motivation, we can do our part in making a safe and a healthy workplace. That is why
we are conducting this BOSH Training Course.

Below are additional references you can check out to learn more about this module
http://www.oshc.dole.gov.ph/
http://www.ilo.org/public/english/protection/safework/cis/
http://www.itcilo.it/actrav/actrav-english/telearn/osh/intro/introduc.htm
http://training.itcilo.it/actrav_cdrom2/es/osh/add/sechyg.htm

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Basic Occupational Safety and Health (BOSH) Training
Housekeeping
 Basic Occupational Safety and Health (BOSH) Training
Unit 2 – Occupational Safety
Module 4: Housekeeping

This module aims to introduce you to the importance of good housekeeping in

preventing most common accidents in the workplace (we also think it will be good to
implement in your homes and schools).

The 5S, a Japanese concept that aims to optimize time for production, is a very
practical, simple and proven approach to improving housekeeping in the workplace.
Housekeeping is important because it lessens accidents and related injuries and
illnesses. It therefore improves productivity and minimizes direct/indirect costs of
accidents/illnesses. Housekeeping means putting everything in its proper place. It is
everybody’s business to observe it in the workplace.

Objectives

Working on this module should help you to

∙ explain the value of practicing good housekeeping
∙ recall and explain the role of management, supervisor and employees in good
housekeeping activities
∙ identify and discuss good housekeeping practices

Defining Housekeeping

Let us begin by showing you what housekeeping is not: It is shown when your
surroundings have:
∙ cluttered and poorly arranged areas
∙ untidy piling of materials
∙ improperly piled-on materials that results to damaging other materials ∙
items no longer needed
∙ blocked aisles and passageways
∙ materials stuffed in corners and out-of-the-way places
∙ materials getting rusty and dirty from non-use
∙ excessive quantities of items
∙ overcrowded storage areas and shelves
∙ overflowing bins and containers
∙ broken containers and damaged materials
Do you agree with this? Housekeeping is avoiding all of the above and many more.
Now instead of just being crabby and complaining about poor housekeeping, why
don’t we see how we can instill and implement good housekeeping in our workplace?
Look at the two pictures below. Do you know about with these seven wastes and how
we can eliminate them? You got it! Through good housekeeping!

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SEVEN (7) WASTES

1. Scrap and Rework

2. Overproduction
4. Transportation 5. Inventory

3. Non-effective work

6. Non-effective
motion
7. Waiting

What is 5S?

5S is a systematized approach to:

∙ organizing work areas
∙ keeping rules and standards
∙ maintaining discipline

5S utilizes:
∙ workplace organization
∙ work simplification techniques

5S practice…
∙ develops positive attitude among workers
∙ cultivates an environment of efficiency, effectiveness and economy 5S

Philosophy

∙ Productivity comes from the elimination of waste

∙ It is necessary to attack the root cause of a problem, not just symptoms ∙

To acknowledge that the human being is not infallible

∙ Participation of everybody is required
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5S Terms:

1. Seiri/Sort/Suriin – is the first S which means sorting out unnecessary

items and discarding them.

∙ Make the work easy by eliminating obstacles

∙ Eliminate the need to take care of unnecessary items
∙ Provide no chance of being disturbed with unnecessary items ∙
Prevent faulty operation caused by unnecessary items

2. Seiton/Systematize/ Sinupin – is the second S which means we need to

organize things

How to SEITON Your Workplace

Stratification Required
Action
Must be placed near
Items frequently
used the point of use
SEITON Items Items sometimes

Necessary
usedCan be placed farther away

SEIRI Must be stored separately with

7 Seiton Principles: clear

Items not used at all must be identification
kept

∙ Follow the first-in-first-out (FIFO) method for storing items

∙ Assign each item a dedicated location.
∙ All items and their locations should be indicated by a systematic
labeling
∙ Place items so that they are visible to minimize search time
∙ Place items so they can be reached or handled easily
∙ Separate exclusive tools from common ones.

∙ Place frequently used tools near the user

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3. Seiso/Sweep/Simutin – is the third S which means we have to sanitize or
clean our workplace.

∙ Keep environmental condition as clean as the level necessary for the

products
∙ Prevent deterioration of machinery and equipment and make checking
of abnormalities easy
∙ Keep workplace safe and work easy

4. Seiketsu/Standardize/Siguruhin – is the fourth S which means we have to

standardize what we are doing.

5. Shitsuke/Self- Discipline/Sariling kusa – is the fifth and last S which means

we have to do this process without prodding.

Some Suggested Good Shitsuke Practices

How to
● Contact people with a big member of a reputable
smile. ● Be a good listener. organization.
● Be devoted and ● Be punctual.
kaizen-oriented. ●
Demonstrate team spirit. Shitsuke JANUARY
● Conduct yourself as the

● Always keep your workplace clean and tidy.

● Observe safety rules strictly.

Good housekeeping is needed for quality improvement. By this we lessen

rejects/losses. If the workplace is in order, it is easy to do the job. An easier job, having
no defects, continuous production and an orderly workplace is akin to work
improvement. And now that ISO Certification is the trend, the impression of a
company to the community is very important. A company that follows good
housekeeping principles will surely be recognized as a provider of quality service and
products.
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Steps in implementing 5S

Step 1: Preparations

a. Understanding 5S concepts and benefits by the CEO

b. CEO’s visit to the 5S model companies
c. CEO’s commitment to 5S implementation
d. Organize 5S working Committee
e. 5S facilitators
f. Train facilitators and practitioners

Step 2: Management’s official announcement

a. CEO officially announces implementation of 5S program

b. CEO explains the objectives of 5S to all colleagues
c. Publicize 5S organizational chart and lay-out
d. Work out various promotional tools
5S CORE GROUP
ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
• PLAN – Special 5S Projects
– Situation Appraisal • CHECK
– Setting Benchmarks or – 5S Audit
– Documentation of
Targets
Targets
– Implementation Plan
• DO – Review Targets
• ACT
– Announcements
– Corrective Measures
– Education
– Akafuda – Revise Plans
– Big Seiso – Difficulties
– Seiso Inspection Encountered
– Seiton Campaign

Organizing to Implement
5S Managing Director
5S Auditor

5S Facilitators 5S Steering Comm. 5S Working Comm.

5S Audit Comm.
Unit 1 5S Trainer
5S Trainer Unit 4
Traine Unit 3
5S r Unit 5S
Trainer 2

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5S IMPLEMENTATION
 ORGANIZATION 5S ADVISORY COMMITTEE
5S STEERING COMMITTEE
5S FACILITATOR
DIVISION 1 DIVISION 3
MANAGER MANAGER
DIVISION 2 DIVISION 4
MANAGER MANAGER

SECTION SECTION SECTION SECTION SECTIO SECTION SECTION SECTION SECTIO

A B C D F G H
NE NI
LEADER LEADER LEADER
LEADE LEADER LEADER LEADE LEADER
R LEADER R
ALL WORKERS – 5S ACTIVITIES

Management’s Role

• Providing adequate equipment

• Including housekeeping in the planning of all operations • Including
maintenance of good housekeeping as part of individual’s job
responsibility
• Providing clean-up schedule and personnel
• Maintaining executive supervisory and interest

Supervisor’s Role

• Maintaining constant check on housekeeping conditions •

Seeing that employees maintain good housekeeping • Having
unusual situations corrected or cleaned up immediately •
Planning for orderliness in all operations
• Issuing definite instructions to employees
• Insisting on clean-up after every job

Worker’s Role

• Follow housekeeping procedures

• Maintain an orderly workplace
• Report to supervisors any unsafe condition

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Step 3: Big clean-up day

a. Organize a big clean-up day after 5S implementation announcement by

CEO
b. Divide company premises into small areas and assign a small group of
people for each area
c. Provide enough cleaning tools and materials
 d. This big cleaning must include public areas such as gardens, canteen and
car park
e. Everybody must participate in this big cleaning day

Step 4: Initial seiri

a. Establish disposal standards for unnecessary items

b. Apply “Disposal Notices” to all questionable items
c. Carefully examine responses to disposal notices
d. Dispose unnecessary items according to disposal standards e. A
company-wide seiri should be planned and practiced annually

Daily Seiso and Seiton activities

a. Identify areas for improvement and work out a priority listing by
colleagues
b. Select untidy, inconvenient and unsafe areas
c. Set each activity for 3-6 months
d. Organize presentations by small groups
e. Standardize good 5S practices visibly
f. Motivate colleagues for creative improvements

Hard 5S – refers to all facets of the work environment

a. Furniture – tables, shelves, drawers
b. Equipment – computers, projector, fax, copier
c. Lay-out of desk and equipment

Soft 5S
a. Office policies and procedures
b. Dress code
c. Sharing of responsibilities, telephone etiquette

5S Office guidelines

Desks
∙ Do not place anything under your desk (Seiton)
∙ Dispose of unnecessary items in your drawers (Seiri)
∙ Arrange items in your desk drawers neatly for easy retrieval (Seiton) ∙
Do not pile up documents on your desk top (Seiton)

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∙ Wipe your desktop every morning
∙ Do not leave unnecessary things on your desk top when you go home
(Seiton)

Office machines
∙ Clean office machines and equipment regularly (Seiso) ∙ Set electric
cables neatly for safety and good appearance (Seiton) ∙ inspect
 machines regularly and take action for required servicing (Shitsuke)

Toilets
∙ Flush after use (Seiketsu)
∙ Wash hands after using the toilet (Seiketsu)
∙ Clean up toilet and wash basin everyday (Seiso/Seiketsu) ∙ Replenish
toilet paper, soaps and paper towels (Seiton/Seiketsu) ∙ All users
should always try to keep toilets clean and tidy (Shitsuke) ∙ Check
exhaust fans regularly for effective function (Seiso)

Canteen
∙ Do not leave unnecessary things on the dining table (Seiton/Seiketsu) ∙
Tuck chairs properly after use (Seiton)
∙ Return chairs and tables to their original location when used for
meetings or functions (Seiton)
∙ Put away all cups and plates after each meal (Seiso/Seiketsu) ∙
Clean up tables immediately after each meal (Seiso/Seiketsu)

Hallways
∙ Do not smoke while walking in the hallways (Shitsuke) ∙ Do
not place anything in the hallways without permission
(Seiri/Seiton/Shitsuke)
∙ Pick-up and dispose any waste in the hallway (Seiketsu/Shitsuke) ∙
Avoid talking loudly along hallways (Shitsuke)

Notice Boards
∙ Ensure that outdates notices are removed (Seiketsu)
∙ Ensure that all information are updated regularly (Seiri) ∙ Items
should be neatly aligned and properly secured (Seiton) ∙ Pins
must be readily available (Seiton)
∙ Check that the location of notice boards are appropriate (Seiton)

Visual Control - a technique that enables people to make the rules easy to
follow, differentiate normal and abnormal situations and act accordingly,
with the use of visual aids.

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Pointers in making visual control
a. Should be easy to see from a distance
b. Should be properly and strategically located
c. Should be easy to follow
d. Should facilitate distinction of what is right and what is wrong

Step 5: Periodic 5S audits

a. Establish 5S evaluation and incentive plan

 b. Conduct 5S evaluation and inspection regularly
c. Organize 5S inter-department competition
d. Periodically award groups and individuals
e. Organize study tours to other companies
f. Organize 5S inter-company competition

Purpose of 5S audit

a. Turn PDCA Cycle (Plan-Do-Check-Act)

b. Analyze the results of actual implementation in the workplace
c. Give support and guidance to the members of each unit
d. Dissemination of good practices
e. Regular audit sustains the program

Key points in the implementation of 5S

1. Start small, easy and proceed slowly but steadily

2. Start with the most suitable “S”
3. Only one or two “S” are enough for the initial practice
4. Set simple, easily achievable and step by step targets
5. Everyone’s participation is important
6. Management should take leadership of 5S movement
7. Record improvements for comparison
8. Devise schemes to stimulate awareness and stimulate enthusiasm

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5S TOOL BOX
Promotion Tools Implementation Tools Evaluation Tools
5S Newsletters Here is Seiketsu Seiso
a need for SEIRI 5S Banners
5S DAY
Here is We all Practice 5S
5S Days (once a month) 5S a need for 5S Study Tours
Guidance Stickers
SEITONHere is a need for
What is Seiton?
Seiton is arranging necessary items in SEISO Photographing for Improvement
CEO’s Inspection Tours
good order so they can easily be 5S Posters
Seiri Seiton 5S Checklists
selected for use
Shitsuke
5S Badges 5S Inter-Department Competition Congratulations!
SUPER Department D

5S Department A Department B Department C

Here is an

Excellent Example of 5S Practice

5S Evaluation procedure

1. Walking rally – by to and middle management

2. Fixed point photograph – visual comparison of “before” and “after” 3.
Achieved level of evaluation – for predetermined targets which are upgraded
step-by-step after each evaluation
4. Competition – among departments /workplaces
5. Combination of the above
RECORD IMPROVEMENTS WITH PHOTOGRAPHS
STEP 1 STEP 2

5S IMPROVEMENT RECORDS
WORKPLACE LOCATION NO.
SPARE PARTS STORAGE 88
STEP 1 DATE
DATE

STEP 2 DATE
01/04/95 10/04/95
STEP 3 DATE STEP 4
COMMENTS Needs Seiri, Seiton and Seiso RATING Much improved, but... needs further COMMENTS RATING
Very messy. COMMENTS RATING
COMMENTS study RATING

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5S Evaluation Form
ITEM FOCUS SCORE

Desks / tables / chairs Are they tidy and conveniently 10 8 6 4 2

organized?

Cabinets/shelves Are they clean and labeled for 10 8 6 4 2

the easy retrieval of things
needed?

Documents/files Are they clean and 10 8 6 4 2

systematically organized?

Forms/office supplies Are they tidy and 10 8 6 4 2

conveniently stored for
retrieval?

Telephones Are they clean and well 10 8 6 4 2

maintained?

Facsimiles Are they clean and well 10 8 6 4 2

maintained?

Typewriters/word Are they clean and well 10 8 6 4 2

processors maintained?

Computers/monitors Are they clean and well 10 8 6 4 2

maintained?

Printers Are they clean and well 10 8 6 4 2

maintained?
 Copying machines Are they clean and well 10 8 6 4 2
maintained?

Electric wiring Is it tidy, safe and 10 8 6 4 2

conveniently laid out for
operation?

Lighting/ventilation Are they adequate for 10 8 6 4 2

efficient operation?

Floors/walls/windows/ceiling Are they dust-free and 10 8 6 4 2

well maintained?

Fire extinguishers Are they adequate and 10 8 6 4 2

well maintained?

Emergency exits Are they adequate and clear 10 8 6 4 2

of obstacles in case of
emergencies?

Safety devices Are they adequate and 10 8 6 4 2

well maintained?

Working clothes/shoes Are they clean and do 10 8 6 4 2

they present a good
image?

Waste baskets Are clean and well-maintained? 10 8 6 4 2

Others 10 8 6 4 2

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Factors leading to the success of 5S

a. Strong sponsorship and leadership of CEO

b. Active promoter/5S committee
c. Good launching activity
d. Regular audits
e. Good documentation
f. Visits by external consultants
g. Competition

Factors that hinder the success of 5S

a. Project sponsor is not the decision maker

b. Organizational policies
c. Lack of experience in undertaking cross-functional activities
d. Lack of top management support
e. Implementation carried out through orders from the management
f. Implementation done by task forces
 g. 5S treated as a project
h. Emphasis on immediate results

Notes:
Here are additional notes on good housekeeping in the workplace as well as
inspection checklists from the Canadian Center of Occupational Health and Safety
(CCOHS)

Why should we pay attention to housekeeping at work?

Effective housekeeping can eliminate some workplace hazards and help get a job done
safely and properly. Poor housekeeping can frequently contribute to accidents by
hiding hazards that cause injuries. If the sight of paper, debris, clutter and spills is
accepted as normal, then other more serious health and safety hazards may be taken
for granted.

Housekeeping is not just cleanliness. It includes keeping work areas neat and orderly;
maintaining halls and floors free of slip and trip hazards; and removing of waste
materials (e.g., paper, cardboard) and other fire hazards from work areas. It also
requires paying attention to important details such as the layout of the whole
workplace, aisle marking, the adequacy of storage facilities, and maintenance. Good
housekeeping is also a basic part of accident and fire prevention.

Effective housekeeping is an ongoing operation: it is not a hit-and-miss cleanup done

occasionally. Periodic "panic" cleanups are costly and ineffective in reducing accidents.

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What is the purpose of workplace housekeeping?

Poor housekeeping can be a cause of accidents, such as:

∙ tripping over loose objects on floors, stairs and platforms
∙ being hit by falling objects
∙ slipping on greasy, wet or dirty surfaces
∙ striking against projecting, poorly stacked items or misplaced material ∙ cutting,
puncturing, or tearing the skin of hands or other parts of the body on projecting
nails, wire or steel strapping

To avoid these hazards, a workplace must "maintain" order throughout a workday.

Although this effort requires a great deal of management and planning, the benefits
are many.

What are some benefits of good housekeeping practices?

Effective housekeeping results in:

∙ reduced handling to ease the flow of materials
 ∙ fewer tripping and slipping accidents in clutter-free and spill-free work areas ∙
decreased fire hazards
∙ lower worker exposures to hazardous substances (e.g. dusts, vapours) ∙
better control of tools and materials, including inventory and supplies ∙
more efficient equipment cleanup and maintenance
∙ better hygienic conditions leading to improved health
∙ more effective use of space
∙ reduced property damage by improving preventive maintenance ∙
less janitorial work
∙ improved morale
∙ improved productivity (tools and materials will be easy to find)

How do I plan a good housekeeping program?

A good housekeeping program plans and manages the orderly storage and movement
of materials from point of entry to exit. It includes a material flow plan to ensure
minimal handling. The plan also ensures that work areas are not used as storage areas
by having workers move materials to and from work areas as needed. Part of the plan
could include investing in extra bins and more frequent disposal.

The costs of this investment could be offset by the elimination of repeated handling of
the same material and more effective use of the workers' time. Often, ineffective or
insufficient storage planning results in materials being handled and stored in
hazardous ways. Knowing the plant layout and the movement of materials throughout
the workplace can help plan work procedures.

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Worker training is an essential part of any good housekeeping program. Workers need
to know how to work safely with the products they use. They also need to know how
to protect other workers such as by posting signs (e.g., "Wet - Slippery Floor") and
reporting any unusual conditions.

Housekeeping order is "maintained" not "achieved." Cleaning and organization must

be done regularly, not just at the end of the shift. Integrating housekeeping into jobs
can help ensure this is done. A good housekeeping program identifies and assigns
responsibilities for the following:
∙ clean up during the shift
∙ day-to-day cleanup
∙ waste disposal
∙ removal of unused materials
∙ inspection to ensure cleanup is complete

Do not forget out-of-the-way places such as shelves, basements, sheds, and boiler
rooms that would otherwise be overlooked. The orderly arrangement of operations,
tools, equipment and supplies is an important part of a good housekeeping program.
The final addition to any housekeeping program is inspection. It is the only way to
check for deficiencies in the program so that changes can be made. The documents on
workplace inspection checklists provide a general guide and examples of checklists for
inspecting offices and manufacturing facilities.

Elements of an effective housekeeping program

Dust and Dirt Removal

In some jobs, enclosures and exhaust ventilation systems may fail to collect dust, dirt
and chips adequately. Vacuum cleaners are suitable for removing light dust and dirt.
Industrial models have special fittings for cleaning walls, ceilings, ledges, machinery,
and other hard-to-reach places where dust and dirt may accumulate.

Special-purpose vacuums are useful for removing hazardous substances. For example,
vacuum cleaners fitted with HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filters may be used to
capture fine particles of asbestos or fiberglass.

Dampening (wetting) floors or using sweeping compounds before sweeping reduces

the amount of airborne dust. The dust and grime that collect in places like shelves,
piping, conduits, light fixtures, reflectors, windows, cupboards and lockers may require
manual cleaning.

Compressed air should not be used for removing dust, dirt or chips from equipment or
work surfaces.

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Employee Facilities

Employee facilities need to be adequate, clean and well maintained. Lockers are
necessary for storing employees' personal belongings. Washroom facilities require
cleaning once or more each shift. They also need to have a good supply of soap, towels
plus disinfectants, if needed.

If workers are using hazardous materials, employee facilities should provide special
precautions such as showers, washing facilities and change rooms. Some facilities may
require two locker rooms with showers between. Using such double locker rooms
allows workers to shower off workplace contaminants and prevents them from
contaminating their "street clothes" by keeping their work clothes separated from the
clothing that they wear home.

Smoking, eating or drinking in the work area should be prohibited where toxic
materials are handled. The eating area should be separate from the work area and
should be cleaned properly each shift.
Surfaces

Floors: Poor floor conditions are a leading cause of accidents so cleaning up spilled oil
and other liquids at once is important. Allowing chips, shavings and dust to accumulate
can also cause accidents. Trapping chips, shavings and dust before they reach the floor
or cleaning them up regularly can prevent their accumulation. Areas that cannot be
cleaned continuously, such as entrance ways, should have anti-slip flooring. Keeping
floors in good order also means replacing any worn, ripped, or damaged flooring that
poses a tripping hazard.

Walls: Light-coloured walls reflect light while dirty or dark-coloured walls absorb light.
Contrasting colours warn of physical hazards and mark obstructions such as pillars.
Paint can highlight railings, guards and other safety equipment, but should never be
used as a substitute for guarding. The program should outline the regulations and
standards for colours.

Maintain Light Fixtures

Dirty light fixtures reduce essential light levels. Clean light fixtures can improve lighting
efficiency significantly.

Aisles and Stairways

Aisles should be wide enough to accommodate people and vehicles comfortably and
safely. Aisle space allows for the movement of people, products and materials.
Warning signs and mirrors can improve sight-lines in blind corners. Arranging aisles

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properly encourages people to use them so that they do not take shortcuts through
hazardous areas.

Keeping aisles and stairways clear is important. They should not be used for temporary
"overflow" or "bottleneck" storage. Stairways and aisles also require adequate lighting.

Spill Control

The best way to control spills is to stop them before they happen. Regularly cleaning
and maintaining machines and equipment is one way. Another is to use drip pans and
guards where possible spills might occur. When spills do occur, it is important to clean
them up immediately. Absorbent materials are useful for wiping up greasy, oily or
other liquid spills. Used absorbents must be disposed of properly and safely.

Tools and Equipment

Tool housekeeping is very important, whether in the tool room, on the rack, in the
yard, or on the bench. Tools require suitable fixtures with marked locations to provide
orderly arrangement, both in the tool room and near the work bench. Returning them
promptly after use reduces the chance of being misplaced or lost. Workers should
regularly inspect, clean and repair all tools and take any damaged or worn tools out of
service.

Maintenance

The maintenance of buildings and equipment may be the most important element of
good housekeeping. Maintenance involves keeping buildings, equipment and
machinery in safe, efficient working order and in good repair. This includes maintaining
sanitary facilities and regularly painting and cleaning walls. Broken windows, damaged
doors, defective plumbing and broken floor surfaces can make a workplace look
neglected; these conditions can cause accidents and affect work practices. So it is
important to replace or fix broken or damaged items as quickly as possible. A good
maintenance program provides for the inspection, maintenance, upkeep and repair of
tools, equipment, machines and processes.

Waste Disposal

The regular collection, grading and sorting of scrap contribute to good housekeeping
practices. It also makes it possible to separate materials that can be recycled from
those going to waste disposal facilities.

Allowing material to build up on the floor wastes time and energy since additional
time is required for cleaning it up. Placing scrap containers near where the waste is
produced encourages orderly waste disposal and makes collection easier. All waste
receptacles should be clearly labeled (e.g., recyclable glass, plastic, scrap metal, etc.).

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Storage

Good organization of stored materials is essential for overcoming material storage

problems whether on a temporary or permanent basis. There will also be fewer strain
injuries if the amount of handling is reduced, especially if less manual materials
handling is required. The location of the stockpiles should not interfere with work but
they should still be readily available when required. Stored materials should allow at
least one meter (or about three feet) of clear space under sprinkler heads.

Stacking cartons and drums on a firm foundation and cross tying them, where
necessary, reduces the chance of their movement. Stored materials should not
obstruct aisles, stairs, exits, fire equipment, emergency eyewash fountains, emergency
showers, or first aid stations. All storage areas should be clearly marked.

Flammable, combustible, toxic and other hazardous materials should be stored in

approved containers in designated areas that are appropriate for the different hazards
that they pose. Storage of materials should meet all requirements specified in the fire
codes and the regulations of environmental and occupational health and safety
agencies in your jurisdiction.

http://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/hsprograms/house.html
Workplace housekeeping checklist for construction sites
DO:
∙ Gather up and remove debris to keep the work site orderly.
∙ Plan for the adequate disposal of scrap, waste and surplus materials. ∙
Keep the work area and all equipment tidy. Designate areas for waste
materials and provide containers.
∙ Keep stairways, passageways, ladders, scaffold and gangways free of material,
supplies and obstructions.
∙ Secure loose or light material that is stored on roofs or on open floors. ∙ Keep
materials at least 2m (5 ft.) from openings, roof edges, excavations or
trenches.
∙ Remove or bend over nails protruding from lumber.
∙ Keep hoses, power cords, welding leads, etc. from lying in heavily travelled
walkways or areas.
∙ Ensure structural openings are covered/protected adequately (e.g. sumps,
shafts, floor openings, etc.)

DO NOT:
∙ Do not permit rubbish to fall freely from any level of the project. Use chutes or
other approved devices to materials.
∙ Do not throw tools or other materials.
∙ Do not raise or lower any tool or equipment by its own cable or supply hose.

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Flammable/Explosive Materials
∙ Store flammable or explosive materials such as gasoline, oil and cleaning
agents apart from other materials.
∙ Keep flammable and explosive materials in proper containers with contents
clearly marked.
∙ Dispose of greasy, oily rags and other flammable materials in approved
containers.
∙ Store full barrels in an upright position.
∙ Keep gasoline and oil barrels on a barrel rack.
∙ Store empty barrels separately.
∙ Post signs prohibiting smoking, open flames and other ignition sources in areas
where flammable and explosive materials are stored or used.
∙ Store and chain all compressed gas cylinders in an upright position. ∙ Mark
empty cylinders with the letters "mt," and store them separately from full or
partially full cylinders.
∙ Ventilate all storage areas properly.
∙ Ensure that all electric fixtures and switches are explosion-proof where
flammable materials are stored.
∙ Use grounding straps equipped with clamps on containers to prevent static
electricity buildup.
∙ Provide the appropriate fire extinguishers for the materials found on-site. Keep
 fire extinguisher stations clear and accessible.

http://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/hsprograms/cklstcon.html

Housekeeping Inspection Checklist

Use the following checklist as a general workplace guide.

Floors and Other Areas

∙ Are floors clean and clear of waste?
∙ Are signs posted to warn of wet floors?
∙ Are floors in good condition?
∙ Are there holes, worn or loose planks or carpet sticking up?
∙ Is anti-slip flooring used where spills, moisture or grease are likely? ∙ Are
there protruding objects such as nails, sharp corners, open cabinet
drawers, trailing electrical wires?
∙ Are personal items, such as clothing and lunch boxes, in assigned lockers or
storage areas?
∙ Is the work area congested?
∙ Are floors well-drained?

Aisles and Stairways

∙ Are aisles unobstructed and clearly marked?
∙ Are mirrors installed at blind corners?
∙ Are aisles wide enough to accommodate workers and equipment comfortably? ∙
Are safe loading practices used with hand and power trucks, skids, or pallets?

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∙ Is the workplace lighting adequate? Are stairs well lit?
∙ Are stairs covered with an anti-slip tread? Are faulty stair treads repaired?

Spill Control
∙ Are all spills wiped up quickly?
∙ Are procedures followed as indicated on the material safety data sheet? ∙
Are spill absorbents used for greasy, oily, flammable or toxic materials? ∙
Are used rags and absorbents disposed of promptly and safely? ∙ Is a spill
area surrounded by a barrier to prevent a spill from spreading?

Equipment and Machinery Maintenance

∙ Is equipment in good working order, with all necessary guards or safety
features operational or in place?
∙ Is equipment damaged or outdated?
∙ Are tools and machinery inspected regularly for wear or leaks? ∙
Is equipment repaired promptly?
∙ Are drip pans or absorbent materials used if leaks cannot be stopped at the
source?
∙ Is a machine that splashes oil fitted with a screen or splash guard? ∙
Are machines and tools cleaned regularly?
Waste Disposal
∙ Are there adequate numbers of containers?
∙ Are there separate and approved containers for toxic and flammable waste? ∙
Are waste containers located where the waste is produced?
∙ Are waste containers emptied regularly?
∙ Are toxic and flammable waste chemicals handled properly?

Storage
∙ Are storage areas safe and accessible?
∙ Is material stacked securely, blocked or interlocked if possible? ∙ Are materials
stored in areas that do not obstruct stairs, fire escapes, exits or firefighting
equipment?
∙ Are materials stored in areas that do not interfere with workers or the flow of
materials?
∙ Are bins or racks provided where material cannot be piled?
∙ Are all storage areas clearly marked?
∙ Do workers understand material storage and handling procedures?

Fire Prevention
∙ Are combustible and flammable materials present only in the quantities
needed for the job at hand?
∙ Are combustible and flammable materials kept in safety cans during use? ∙ Are
hazardous materials stored in approved containers and away from ignition
sources?
∙ Are sprinkler heads clear of stored material?

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∙ Are fire extinguishers inspected and located along commonly travelled routes,
and close to possible ignition sources?
∙ Are oily or greasy rags placed in metal containers and disposed of regularly?

http://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/hsprograms/cklstgen.html

Workplace housekeeping checklist for stockpiling

Lumber
∙ Lay lumber before stacking on a solid level sill.
∙ Use cross-piling or cross-stripping whenever the pile exceeds 1.2 meters (4 ft.) in
height.
∙ Exercise care when cutting bands used to bundle lumber. Avoid being trapped by
falling materials.

Reinforcing steel
∙ Use wooden spacers to separate piles of reinforcing steel.
∙ Unload reinforcing steel by mechanical means whenever possible. ∙ Check all
bundles for broken or weak tie wires before attempting to unload.
Pipe
∙ Stack pipe on solid, level sills only. Block pipes to prevent them from rolling. ∙
Place lagging between layers to reduce the pressure and prevent the pile from
spreading.
∙ Remove pipe from ends of the pile.
∙ Do not stack pipe higher than 1.5 meters (5 ft.).

Structural steel
∙ Pile structural steel to prevent tipping and slipping.
∙ Give special attention when loading structural steel from trucks. ∙
Place slings on steel before releasing binder chains.

Bagged and stacked material

∙ Maintain stability.
∙ Do not allow piles to exceed ten bags in height unless the face of the piles are
supported by the walls of a storage bin or enclosure.
∙ Cross-pile bagged materials on skids and pile only to a convenient height. The
height depends on the nature and ability of the mechanical aids used and the
weight of the bagged materials.

Bricks, Blocks, Tiles

∙ Pile bricks, blocks or tiles on a solid, level surface only.
∙ Use extreme caution when removing metal bands.
∙ Do not stockpile material on a scaffold beyond the safe loading capacity.

http://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/hsprograms/cklststk.html

Basic Occupational Safety and Health (BOSH) Training

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Workplace Housekeeping Checklist?
DO:
∙ Minimize fire hazards by keeping workplace free of accumulated combustible
materials and waste.
∙ Ensure that exits and aisles are clear of obstructions to allow easy evacuation of
the building.
∙ Place all trash and scrap in proper containers.
∙ Keep oily rags in covered metal containers.
∙ Dispose of hazardous materials in approved marked containers. ∙
Store equipment and materials in their assigned location.
∙ Clean air vents and filters to maintain ventilation efficiency.
∙ Ensure that boxes, drums, and piles are located on a firm foundation and
properly stacked.
∙ Clean up tools and unused materials after finishing a job or before leaving the
job site.
∙ Clean up spills promptly according to procedures, using personal protective
equipment (PPE) where necessary.
∙ Report hazards such as uneven boards, cracks, burnt-out lights. Fix
immediately.
∙ Bundle hoses and cables when not in use.
 ∙ Place empty containers and pallets in designated locations.
∙ Dump small containers into larger ones.
∙ Keep only enough combustible materials at job site for job at hand.

DO NOT:
∙ Do not pile material around fire extinguishers, sprinklers, or emergency exits. ∙
Do not leave clean-up to last few minutes of shift or day.
∙ Do not clean equipment without "locking out."
∙ Do not reach into waste containers. Dump contents or remove bag. ∙
Do not blow off dust with compressed air. Use a vacuum or brush. ∙ Do
not collect broken glass and metal straps in plastic bags.
∙ Do not use bare hands when collecting waste. Wear gloves to avoid cuts and
splinters.
∙ Do not place materials on stairs.
∙ Do not use kegs or boxes as chairs or ladders.

http://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/hsprograms/cklstwrk.html

Basic Occupational Safety and Health (BOSH) Training

Page 41 of 246
Conclusion

As an individual, you can make your work area more pleasant and conducive to
working, thus creating and improving work efficiency, safety and quality of work and
products. As a company, 5S is an integrated approach for production, quality, lower
costs, on time delivery, safety, and morale.

In conclusion, it is not a matter of memorizing Japanese words pertaining to a system

of housekeeping. Wholehearted practice and observance of good housekeeping is
what is important. Surely after reading about this, you will realize the value of good
housekeeping as the most basic step in preventing accidents and avoiding various
degrees of losses to productivity, property, materials and equipment, notwithstanding
its human elements.
 Basic Occupational Safety and Health (BOSH) Training

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Basic Occupational Safety and Health (BOSH) Training
 Materials Handling
and Storage

Basic Occupational Safety and Health (BOSH) Training

Unit 2 - Occupational Safety
Module 5: Materials Handling and Storage
Objectives

Working on this module should help you to:

∙ demonstrate methods of safe manual handling;
∙ discuss safe procedures in mechanical handling; and,
∙ enumerate standard requirements on materials storage.

Source: http://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/ergonomics/mmh/mmhintro.html

Materials handling and storage is a technique which includes the art of lifting, placing,
storing or movement of materials through the use of one’s physical strength or
appropriate handling equipment. Materials handling has two general classifications:
manual materials handling and mechanical materials handling.

I. Manual Materials Handling

Manual materials handling (MMH) means moving or handling things by lifting,

lowering, pushing, pulling, carrying, holding, or restraining using one’s physical
strength. MMH is also the most common cause of occupational fatigue, low back pain
and lower back injuries. It is riskier than one might think as it could lead to strains,
sprains, wounds, fractures, and hernias.

Remember to stop and think before lifting any load and ask yourself whether there is
an even safer way to do the job.

What makes manual materials handling hazardous?

MMH is always hazardous but the level of hazard depends on what you are
handling, what the task is, and what the conditions are at the workplace or work
site. For example, the material or load that you are handling may be:

∙ too heavy for the task that you are doing

∙ located too high or low for a safe lift
∙ too big or may have a shape that makes it hard to handle
∙ wet, slippery, or have sharp edges that makes it hard to grasp ∙ unstable or
can shift its centre of gravity because the contents may flow (e.g., a partially
filled drum or concrete in a wheelbarrow)
∙ too big to let you see where you are putting your feet

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The task can make MMH hazardous if a worker:

∙ uses poor lifting techniques (lifting too fast, too often, too long, with back
bent, while twisting or reaching too far, etc.)
 ∙ has to move material over long distances
∙ does not take appropriate rest breaks
∙ has insufficient recovery time
∙ has a combination of handling tasks (e.g. lifting, carrying and lowering)

The conditions where you are working can also contribute to hazards of MMH and
result in injuries. Examples of these conditions are:

∙ surfaces that are uneven, sloping, wet, icy, slippery, unsteady, etc. ∙
differences in floor levels or elevations
∙ poor housekeeping
∙ inadequate lighting
∙ cold or very hot and humid working environment
∙ windy conditions
∙ fast pace of work
∙ restricted movement because of clothing or lack of space

Source: http://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/ergonomics/push1.html

Manual materials handling also involve pushing and pulling motions at work. You
use various pushing and pulling techniques in a wide range of activities, such as:

∙ using manual carts and trucks

∙ sliding objects such as cartons on flat surfaces (tables, floors, etc.) ∙
operating tools and controls
∙ opening and closing doors
∙ wrapping or enclosing objects in packaging materials

Because these actions are among the most common work activities, they are also
the cause of many injuries. However, there are no comprehensive injury statistics.
The injuries resulting from these activities are not always recorded very specifically
as well.

Most common are overexertion injuries (e.g., back strain). Injuries due to slips and
falls are also often associated with pushing and pulling. Additionally, injuries to
fingers and hands can result when caught in, on, or between objects (e.g., between
a cart and the wall) and to lower legs when bumped by carts. Therefore, existing
statistics do not reflect the importance of pushing and pulling as work factors
causing injury because the injuries fall into different categories making them
difficult to analyze.

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Because of the complex nature of body motion during pushing and pulling, no
numerical standard has yet been developed that can be directly applied in
industry.

Many factors affect the amount of force that you exert in a horizontal push and
pull:
∙ body weight and strength
∙ height of force application
∙ direction of force application
∙ distance of force application from the body
∙ posture (bending forward or leaning backward)
∙ friction coefficient (amount of friction or grip between floors and shoes) ∙
duration and distance of push or pull

Tables 1 and 2 contain the upper force limits for horizontal and vertical pushing
and pulling. They indicate the amount of force that you can exert safely. It is
important to be aware that the forces in the tables are not the same as the weight
of objects being pushed and pulled. This means that you cannot use these upper
force limits as recommendations for weight limits that can be pushed or pulled in
the workplace. Only trained personnel using special equipment can measure the
forces exerted by a worker.

The values in Table 1 show the upper limits of forces for horizontal pushing and
pulling. These limits should not be exceeded in work situations. In fact, it is better
and safer if pushing and pulling tasks require lower forces, particularly, where the
task requires:

∙ pushing or pulling an object when the hands must be above the shoulder or
below the waist level
∙ exerting a force for longer than 5 seconds
∙ exerting a force at an angle not directly in front of the body, e.g., not "straight
on"
∙ where a worker can support his body (or feet) against a firm structure higher
forces (up to 675N or about 165 lbf or 75 kgf) can be developed

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Table 1
Recommended Upper Force Limits for Horizontal Pushing and Pulling*
Forces that should not
be exceeded, in
newtons (Kgf, lbf)**
 225 N (50 lbf or 23 kgf)

110 N (24 lbf or 11 kgf)

188 N (42 lbf or 19 kgf)

130 N (29 lbf or 13 kgf)

Condition Examples of Activities

Truck and cart handling.
Moving equipment on wheels or casters.
Sliding rolls on shafts.
A. Standing
1. Whole body involved Leaning over an obstacle to move an object.
Pushing an object at or above shoulder
2. Primary arm and shoulder muscles, arms
height.
fully extended

B. Kneeling Removing or replacing a component from equipment as in maintenance

work.
Handling in confined work areas such as
tunnels or large conduits.

C. Seated Operating a vertical lever, such as a floor shift on heavy equipment.

Moving trays or a product on and off
conveyors.

* adopted from: Ergonomic design for people at work. Vol. 2, by Eastman Kodak Company, Van
Nostrand Reinhold, 1986
** Units of force are: newton (N), kilogram force (Kgf), pound force (lbf); 10N is about the same as 1
Kgf or 2 lbf. The values in each unit system - newtons, kilogram force and pound force, respectively -
are provided in the table because all are used in the literature and on instruments, depending on the
country of origin.
 Basic Occupational Safety and Health (BOSH) Training

Page 47 of 246
The values in Table 2 show the upper limits of forces for vertical pushing and pulling.
Examples of the use of vertical force are operating controls and hand tools. Such
activities tend to be of a repetitive nature and physically more demanding than
occasional pushing or pulling. Therefore, these tasks should be designed for
considerably lower force requirements than those shown in Table 2.

Table 2
Recommended Upper Force Limits for Vertical Pushing and Pulling*
Upper Limit of Force in
newtons, (lbf, kgf)**

540 N (120 lbf or 55 kgf)

200 N (45 lbf or 20 kgf)

315 N (70 lbf or 32 kgf)

315 N (70 lbf or 32 kgf)

148 N (33 lbf or 15 kgf)
75 N (17 lbf or 7,5 kgf)
 287 N (64 lbf or 29 kgf)

202 N (45 lbf or kgf)

Conditions Examples of Activities

than 5 cm (2 in) diameter grip surface

Pull down, above head height Activating a control, hook grip. Threading
up operations as in paper manufacturing
and stringing cable.
Pull down, shoulder level

Pull up, Lifting an object with one hand Raising a

-25 cm (10 in) above the floor lid or access port cover, palm up
-Elbow height -Shoulder
height

Push down, elbow height Wrapping, packing; Sealing cases

Push up, shoulder
height Raising a corner or end of an object, like a
(boosting) pipe or beam. Lifting an object to a high
Activating a control, hook grip; such as a shelf.
safety shower handle or manual control
Operating a chain hoist, power grips; less

* adopted from: Ergonomic design for people at work. Vol. 2, by Eastman Kodak Company, Van
Nostrand Reinhold, 1986
** Units of force are: newton (N), kilogram force (Kgf), pound force (lbf); 10N is about the same as 1
Kgf or 2 lbf. The values in each unit system - newtons, kilogram force and pound force, respectively -
are provided in the table because all are used in the literature and on instruments, depending on the
country of origin.

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Page 48 of 246
What types of protective clothing should be worn?

DO WEAR
∙ lightweight, flexible, tear and puncture-resistant clothing,
∙ safety boots with toe caps and slip-resistant soles, and
 ∙ protective gloves, appropriate for the materials being handled

DO NOT WEAR
∙ aprons, coats,
∙ clothing with exposed buttons, zippers or loose flaps, or
∙ heavy duty mitts

Manual handling guides

1. Shoveling guidelines

Put weight on front foot. Use leg to push shovel. Keep feet wide apart. Place front foot close to shovel.

Shift weight to rear foot. Keep load close

to body. Turn feet in direction of throw

Source: http://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/ergonomics/shovel.html#_1_1

Basic Occupational Safety and Health (BOSH) Training

Page 49 of 246
2. Digging guidelines
 Push spade down using leg muscle. Slide load close to body.
Ensure load is loose from ground before lifting.

Source: http://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/ergonomics/mmh/generalpractice.html?print#_1_1 3.

Lifting guidelines

Before lifting…
∙ Always check to see if mechanical aids such as hoists, lift trucks, dollies, or
wheelbarrows are available.
∙ Get help with heavy or awkward loads.
∙ Assess and identify the weight of the load.
∙ Be sure that you can lift the load without over-exertion.
∙ Be sure that the load is "free" to move.
∙ Check if the planned location of the load is free of obstacles and debris. ∙
Be sure that the path to the planned location of the load is clear. Grease,
oil, water, litter and debris can cause slips and falls.
∙ Particular handling and lifting techniques are needed for different kinds of
loads or materials being handled (for example, compact loads, small
bags, large sacks, drums, barrels, cylinders, sheet materials like metal
or glass).
∙ Do not lift if you are not sure that you can handle the load safely.

General tips for lifting

∙ Examine the load and the surrounding area prior to lifting.
∙ Prepare for the lift by warming up the muscles.
∙ Stand close to the load and face the way you intend to move.
∙ Use a wide stance to gain balance.
∙ Be sure you have a good grip on the load.
∙ Look forward to keep back straight
∙ Keep arms straight.
∙ Tighten abdominal muscles.
∙ Tuck chin into the chest.
∙ Initiate the lift with body weight.
∙ Use muscle power of the legs in lifting
∙ Lift the load as close to the body as possible.
∙ Lift smoothly without jerking.
∙ Avoid twisting and side bending while lifting.

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 Wrong Way
Right Way

Human Body

Your back
WEAK

Protect it

Your legs
STRONG

Use their power to lift

correctly…and safely!

Source:

http://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/ergonomics/mmh/compactloads.html?print#_1_

2 A. Lifting a compact load

A compact load can be lifted between the knees.

 Basic Occupational Safety and Health (BOSH) Training
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Remember to:
∙ Stand close behind the load.
∙ Straddle the load:
o Place the leading foot flat beside the
load in the direction of travel.
o Place the rear in the direction of
travel.
∙ Bend the hips and knees.
∙ Keep your back straight.

When lifting…
∙ Grasp the load with elbows inside the thighs:
o Use a power grasp for loads with
handles.
o Use slings or hooks to improve grasp
when loads do not have handles.
o Use blocks under loads without
handles to make lifting them up easier
and safer.
o Use a ledge grasp for loads without
handles.
∙ Grasp with one hand at the outer, upper
corner, over the leading foot and the other
hand on the lower, opposite corner.
∙ Lean forward with the rear arm straight. This
position gets the load moving.
∙ Stand up by thrusting off with the back leg
and continuing in an upward and forward
direction.
∙ Keep the load close to the body.
∙ Keep the rear arm straight.
∙ Move off without twisting the body.

When putting a load down…

∙ Take a wide stance with one foot in front of
the other.
∙ Keep the load close to the body.
∙ Keep the back straight.
∙ Bend the hips and knees.
∙ Set the load down onto the ground.
∙ Keep the load tilted to avoid bruising fingers.
∙ Remove fingers from under the load.
∙ Stand up smoothly, easing muscles.
∙ Avoid jerky releases.

Source: http://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/ergonomics/mmh/compactbags.html
 Basic Occupational Safety and Health (BOSH) Training
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B. Lifting compact bags

The best way to handle a bag depends on its size, weight and how far it is to be
carried.

When lifting, remember to:

∙ Straddle the end of the bag.
∙ Bend the hips and knees.
∙ Keep the back straight.
∙ Grasp the bag with both hands under the closer end. Keep elbows inside
the thighs.
∙ Lean forward, straightening the knees to set the bag upright.
∙ Readjust the straddle position moving feet closer to the bag.
∙ Readjust the grasp, with one hand clasping the bag against the body and
the other under it.
∙ Stand up by thrusting off with the back leg and continuing in an upward
and forward direction.
∙ Thrust the bag up with the knee while straightening the body. ∙ Put the
bag on the shoulder opposite the knee used to thrust the bag up.
∙ Stabilize the bag on the shoulder.
∙ Move off without bending sideways.

When lowering the bag…

∙ Avoid unloading a bag from the shoulder directly to floor level. Use an
intermediate platform or get help from your coworker.
∙ Stand close to the platform.
∙ Place one foot in front of the platform.
∙ Bend hips and knees.
∙ Keep the back straight.
∙ Ease the bag off the shoulder and put it upright on the platform. ∙
Pull the bag slightly over the edge of the platform.
∙ Stand close to the platform with the bag touching the chest.
∙ Clasp the bag against the body with one hand, the other hand holding
bottom of the bag.
∙ Step back.
∙ Bend hips and knees, keeping back straight.
∙ Ease the bag on the floor.

Source:
http://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/ergonomics/mmh/sacks.html
 Basic Occupational Safety and Health (BOSH) Training
Page 53 of 246
C. Lifting sacks

C.1. Heavy/large sacks - Lift heavy and large sacks in two stages using an
intermediate platform. When lifting, remember to:

∙ Straddle the end of the sack.

∙ Bend the hips and knees.
∙ Keep the back straight.
∙ Grasp the bag with both hands under the end closest to you. Keep elbows
inside the thighs.
∙ Lean forward and straighten the knees to set the bag upright. ∙
Move your feet closer to the sack.
∙ Squat with the sack between the thighs with one foot flat on the floor in
front of the other.
∙ Grasp with elbow inside the thighs. With one hand clasp the sack against
the body and the other hand is holding the bottom of the sack. ∙ Stand up
in one smooth motion.
∙ Place the sack upright on the platform.
∙ Place one foot in front of the other with the front foot along side of the
platform.
∙ Bend the hips and knees and keep the back straight.
∙ Put one shoulder against the sack.
∙ Readjust your grasp.
∙ Lean the sack on the shoulder.
∙ Stand up and straighten the hips and knees.

C.2. Bulky sacks - Bulkier sacks are easier to carry on your back. Lift onto
your back from a platform as described above.

∙ Move the sack to the edge of the platform.

∙ Put your back against the sack.
∙ Grasp with both hands on the upper corners of
the sack. ∙ Ease the sack onto the back, bending
hips and knees
∙ before taking the weight.
∙ Keep the back straight.
∙ Stand up and straighten the hips and knees.
∙ Stabilize the sack.
∙ Move away without bending sideways.
 Basic Occupational Safety and Health (BOSH) Training
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C.3. "Two-person lift and stack"

∙ Position one person on either side of the sack.

∙ Squat with one foot balancing behind the sack.
∙ Keep back straight.
∙ Grasp with the outer and on the upper corner, the other holding the
bottom of the sack.

On one person's command:

∙ Stand up and straighten the hips and knees.

∙ Move towards the stack
∙ Put the sack on the stack

Source: http://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/ergonomics/mmh/drums.html?print D.

Lifting drums and barrels

Handling drums and barrels can be dangerous. Do not handle drums and
barrels without training.

Raising drums from the ground

∙ Use mechanical aids whenever possible. Do not attempt to raise a full

drum alone.
∙ Make sure that the drum is empty before raising it.
∙ Stand at the end of the drum.
∙ Place one foot forward at the side of the drum, the other behind. ∙
Bend your hips and knees.
∙ Keep the back straight.
∙ Grasp the rim about 15 cm from the ground with the elbows inside thighs.
∙ Stand up by thrusting off with the back leg and continuing in an upward
and forward direction.
∙ Bring the back leg forward as if you are walking. Keep close to the drum.
 Basic Occupational Safety and Health (BOSH) Training
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∙ Stop at the balance point to change hand grip.
∙ Set the drum on its base by moving back leg forward. Use the body weight
as a counter balance.

Two-person lift

∙ Use two people to lift a full drum.

∙ Use the same technique as with one person, but have two people
squatting at either side of the drum.

Moving a standing drum

∙ Stand close to the drum with feet apart. One foot at the front and the
other behind.
∙ Keep knees slightly flexed.
∙ Put your hands firmly against upper rim of the drum.
∙ Keep arms straight with the elbows "locked".
∙ Rock the drum gently to get the feel of its contents before you move it. ∙
Push the top of the drum away by extending the back leg and shifting your
body weight onto your front leg.
∙ Stop tilting the drum at the balance point. Use back leg as a counter
balance.

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 Should drums be lifted manually when they are stacked?

No. Always use cranes or lift trucks to stack drums.

Source: http://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/ergonomics/mmh/sheetmaterials.html E.

Lifting sheet materials

Handling sheet material single-handed is always difficult and hazardous.

A. Store the sheet materials at a convenient height above ground.

B. Do not lift and carry sheets without training.

What should be done when lifting sheet material?

∙ Stand close to the pile of sheets in a walking stance.
∙ Grasp sheet firmly at the mid-point of its long side with the closer hand. ∙
Pull sheet up and toward the body.
∙ Change grip using your other hand and put your fingers on top of the
sheet.
∙ Pull sheet up to the vertical position and to the side until one half is off
the pile.
∙ Grasp the lower edge of the sheet with the free hand and support the
hand by placing it on your knee.
∙ Stand up without bending and twisting body.

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What should be done when carrying the load?
 ∙ Use drywall carts to carry sheet materials.
∙ Get help from another person where carts are not available.
∙ Apply carrying handles for manual carrying.
∙ Always use gloves and carrying handle for glass and other materials with
sharp edges.

II. Mechanical materials handling

As the name suggests, this pertains to use of rigid, manually or mechanically-powered

equipment mainly for handling bulky and heavy items.

Source: http://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/ergonomics/mmh/mechanicalaids_transport1.html?print

A. Manually powered materials handling equipment reduce physical effort, making

materials handling easier and safer. Here are some tips when using mechanical
aids:

∙ Check for the availability of mechanical aids before lifting or moving loads. ∙
Do not operate any equipment if you are not trained to use it.
∙ Keep the equipment in good operating condition. It saves effort while
transporting loads.
∙ Select the right equipment to complete the task.
∙ Specific tasks or objects require specialized equipment.
∙ Do not operate any equipment if you are not trained to use that equipment. ∙
Keep the equipment in good operating condition. It saves effort while transporting
loads.

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Here are some manually powered materials handling equipment:

∙ Use rolling platforms to assist in carrying and handling heavy objects where
limited space does not allow for comfortable body position.
∙ Use a hand truck to move bulky objects.

∙ Use a shelf truck to move a variety of objects.

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∙ Use a platform truck to move heavy, irregularly shaped objects.

∙ Use a semi-live skid for temporary storage.

 ∙ Select the rack or bin that suits the task and mount on semi-live skid or
platform truck.

Source: http://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/ergonomics/mmh/mechanicalaids_transport2.html Basic

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∙ Select a stair climbing truck when moving load on stairs.

∙ Choose a sturdy frame hand truck with larger wheels to move materials in rough
terrain. Additional set of handles allows for assistance.
∙ Use a pump truck to move materials stored on pallets.

∙ Move and dump waste materials with dump trucks.

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∙ Move and empty drums with tilting drum cradles and drum dollies.

∙ Handle sheet materials with an "A" frame hand truck or dolly.

B. Mechanically-powered materials handling equipment are classified into two: lifting
equipment and transport equipment. Lifting equipment includes a variety of items
for lifting heavy and bulky items with minimal human intervention such as hoists
and cranes. Transport equipment, on the other hand, consists of forklifts, dump
trucks, trailers and conveyors among others.

To ensure safe operation of mechanically-powered handling equipment, the

following precautions must be observed:
∙ A worker must not operate an equipment if he is not trained to use it; ∙
Operators must be certified and authorized;
∙ Operators must be trained in safety and health involving handling equipment
operation; and,
∙ Equipment must be properly maintained and regularly inspected.

In both manually-powered and mechanically-powered materials handling

equipment, you can use accessories such as ropes, chains or steel/plastic straps to
secure loads and prevent them from sliding or falling from the equipment.

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Ropes
∙ You should know what particular rope can handle particular tasks/loads. ∙
Keep rope in good condition all the time.

Chains
∙ Do not let chains get kinked, knotted or twisted.

Steel and plastic straps

∙ Make sure straps are not too loose or tight.
∙ Do not lift by the strap unless the same is designed for that purpose.

III. Workspace lay-out

Workspace is the area within which you perform the tasks that add up to your job. The
physical design of a workspace includes setting the amount of space needed and the
positioning of furniture, tools, equipment and any other items necessary to perform
the tasks, in respect to proper posture, access, clearance, reach and vision of the user.

Poor design of the workspace or bad arrangement of furniture or equipment, may

result in injuries and strains due to adoption of uncomfortable working postures, less
'spare' capacity to deal with unexpected events or emergencies, increased possibility
of errors or accidents, and inefficiency.
How do you optimize your workspace for maximum protection and productivity?

Source: http://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/ergonomics/mmh/workspacelayout.html?print

The layout or organization of the work area must allow materials to be handled
without excessive bending, twisting and stretching reduces injuries.

∙ Have all materials at work level.

∙ Use adjustable elements at the workplace.

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∙ Workbench with adjustable height and tilt improves working position.

∙ Self-adjusting platform automatically matches worker's height.

 ∙ Ensure that there is enough room to turn around to prevent twisting.

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∙ Use adjustable supports or suspenders to operate heavy tools. ∙ Tool
suspender reduces muscular effort and compression on the back.
 ∙ Tool support eliminates over-stretching and overreaching.
∙ Lift-and-tilt device and side opening on bin reduces bending.
∙ Use bins that allow easy access.

IV. Materials Storage

Materials storage could easily be neglected at times in an actual work setting. When
neglected, it leads to cluttering, piling of one material over another and obstruction of
passageways. Understanding some general requirements on proper and safe materials
storage would be useful.

Materials should be stored neatly and orderly. A variety of ways and means could
easily be adopted and maintained.

Firstly, materials should be housed in a storage room with the following features:
∙ at least two exits
∙ properly illuminated
∙ properly ventilated
∙ restricted access

Next, materials should be stored in limited amounts. This can be accomplished by

providing special storage racks of limited capacity for similar items, examples of which
are special storage racks.

Also, materials that you need more frequently and use must be placed closer to you.

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Furthermore, materials must not obstruct alarm boxes, sprinkler system control, first
aid equipment, fuse boxes and importantly, aisles and exits.

This sounds familiar, yet this has been a common observation in companies OSHC has
audited. Particularly common are unmarked fuse boxes obstructed by raw materials
and drums, making them difficult to reach in case of an electrical emergency.

Even more common are aisles cluttered with raw materials and finished products.
During normal occasions clutter can prevent you from knowing where to go. How
much more in case of emergencies? Obstructed passageways will surely cause disaster
when employee evacuation is necessary.

Source: http://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/ergonomics/mmh/layoutstoring.html?print

What should be remembered when setting up a storage area?

∙ Store materials at a convenient height.
∙ Leave the lowest shelf unused if necessary.
∙ Use vertically mobile shelves to avoid bending and overhead reaching.

∙ Use bin racks for storing small items.

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∙ Store heavy and frequently used materials at waist height.
∙ Do not store materials at floor level.

∙ Use hand trucks with elevating devices in storage and loading areas.

Winch-operated

Coil
handling

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 Position work

∙ Use trucks with a tilting device to avoid bending.

Box tilter

∙ Use elevating platforms to avoid overhead reaching.

Source: http://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/ergonomics/mmh/materials_flow.html Basic

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What can be done to reduce the amount of times material is moved or handled?

∙ Use rollers to eliminate manual lifting and carrying.

∙ Use floor rollers while loading or unloading trucks to reduce lifting.

∙ Use a sliding bed while loading and unloading small trucks to avoid overreaching
and carrying in an awkward position.

∙ Eliminate extra loading or unloading steps where possible.

∙ Unload as close as possible to the place where material will be needed.

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∙ Use ramps to avoid lifting and dragging over edges.
 ∙ Use containers that allow fluids to pour or empty without lifting the container.

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Solving materials handling problems

While quick and easy mobilization and storage of materials is a necessity in the
workplace, the tendency to deviate from a safe way of doing it happens, unmindful of
the adverse consequences to both the person and the material.

These are simple things to consider in solving materials handling problems:

What will be moved? Determine the item/s you wish to move and then adopt the
applicable method that will provide safety for you and protection for the material.

Where to move these items? A simple mapping of the movement direction could
save time and effort.

How often will these be moved? There are certain materials that are moved every
now and then depending on the need. Provisions for easy movement should be
made in these cases.

How many will be moved? Always have special handling equipment that could do
the job especially if there is a large number of a material to be moved.

How far will the materials be moved? In order to minimize time and effort, the
distance to be moved must be considered. It is suggested that only in rare
instances should an item or material be moved to a far location, particularly if this
would involve manual handling. Observe the location of the storage with respect
to its movement: the closer it is, the less movement is needed.

How will the materials be moved? Manual or mechanical handling may be used,
depending on the circumstances and characteristics of the materials.

With these guidelines, possible injury to you or your co-workers can be eliminated and
total protection for materials when handling and storing them can be ensured.

In summary, it is you who can prevent materials handling accidents and injuries. You
can achieve this by remembering the following:

∙ Be alert for hazards.

∙ Follow company safety regulations.
∙ Take your time and don't take chances.
∙ Use proper lifting techniques; use legs not the back.
∙ Get help or mechanical assistance if in doubt.
∙ Wear protective gear.
∙ Keep an eye on what others are doing.
∙ Let other workers know what you're doing.

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Some special points to remember:

∙ The capacity to perform MMH varies considerably among individuals. In general, the
lifting strength of women as a group is less than that of men. However the
individual ranges of strength are wide. This means that some women can safely
 handle greater loads than some men. Therefore, discrimination against women for
MMH is not justified. In a situation where selection is the only way to minimize the
possibility of injury, women and men should be given an equal opportunity of
being selected for the job. However there are certain working conditions that even
alone and more particularly when combined with MMH create greater health
hazards for women. Owing to body composition and structure, women are less
tolerant of heat and whole body vibration. Such hazardous conditions should be
fully controlled and not serve as an excuse for gender discrimination.

∙ Ageing diminishes strength. Since the rate of decline varies greatly with the
individual, discrimination against older workers solely on this basis is unjustified.
Statistics show that back injuries among workers over 45 years of age are less
frequent than among those between 20-45 years of age. Experience seems to
counterbalance decreasing physical capacity. With experience comes skills,
dexterity and practical know-how for completing tasks, all of which are very
important factors contributing to safe MMH. The unskilled, inexperienced worker
is at greater risk in tasks that require skills in handling. On the other hand, the
older, experienced worker is at risk in tasks requiring sheer physical strength.

We hope this module clarified many things about materials handling in the workplace.
In fact, we believe some of the points we have made here are also applicable at home
and in school. It would be good to keep these points in mind wherever you may be.

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Basic Occupational Safety and Health (BOSH) Training
Fire Safety
 Basic Occupational Safety and Health (BOSH) Training
Unit 2 - Occupational Safety
Module 6: Fire Safety

In this Module, we will talk about fire safety. Having a fire in the workplace is one of
the most highly preventable situations IF and only IF we follow all the safety
regulations and use our common sense as well as our awareness in looking out for
possible fire hazards. It may seem too common for some thus, we often overlook
these fire safety tips, and before we know it, everything will have gone up in smoke. To
prevent all this from happening, do take this module seriously for your sake as well as
that of your loved ones.

This module aims to introduce you to the chemistry and behavior of fire and principles
of fire prevention and control. The triangle of fire demonstrates how fire occurs and
the principles of extinguishing fire. Fire is caused by variety of factors, all of which can
be prevented and controlled. Most fires start small and can be controlled through
immediate response and knowledge of extinguishing medium.

Prevention and control of the hazards from fire should be a part of the safety program
in each workplace, and even in your own home.

Objectives

Working on this module should help you to

∙ describe principles of fire occurrence and extinguishment using the fire
triangle model
∙ enumerate the five principles of fire prevention and control

Fire is a chemical reaction between a flammable or combustible

material and oxygen. This process converts the flammable or
combustible materials and oxygen into energy. Other by-products of
fire include light, smoke and other gases. Many of these gases such
as carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, hydrogen bromide, hydrogen
cyanide, hydrogen sulfide, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, etc. are
toxic to humans.
The Fire Triangle and the Fire Tetrahedron
The fire triangle and the pyramid of fire illustrate the elements
necessary for fire to start and the methods of extinguishment. Each
side represents an essential ingredient for fire. The three elements
are Fuel, Oxygen and Heat. When a fire starts, a fourth element,
which is the chemical reaction itself, is necessary for flame
propagation. The four-sided figure is called the Fire Tetrahedron.

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∙ Fuel: Any material that will burn is classified as fuel. Identify examples of
fuel you can find in your workplace. Do you know the difference
between a flammable or combustible substance?

Flammable substance – is a substance having a flashpoint below 100 °F

(37.8 °C) and vapor pressure not exceeding 20 psia at 100 °F. Examples
of flammable substances with their flashpoint are shown below:

Flashpoint
Flammable substances °F °C
Gasoline -45 -42.8
Ether -49 -45
Acetone 0 -17.8
Alcohol 55 12.8

Combustible substance – is a substance having a flashpoint at or above

100 °F (37.8 °C).
Flashpoint
Combustible substances °F °C
Fuel Oil 100 37.8
Kerosene 100 37.8
Quenching Oil 365 185.0
Mineral Oil 380 193.3

Flashpoint - the lowest temperature at which fuel begins to give off

flammable vapors and form an ignitable mixture in air.

Which is more dangerous: a substance with low flashpoint or a

substance with a high flashpoint?
Answer: The lower the flashpoint, the more dangerous a substance
is.

∙ Oxygen
From our definition of FIRE, we need oxygen which combines with fuel
while burning. Normally, the air has 21% oxygen and 78% while
nitrogen.
 ∙ Heat – completes the chemistry of fire
Even if found together, fuel and oxygen will not burn. An example is a
piece of paper. This fuel is exposed to oxygen in the air but will not
burn. Why? Because we need to introduce the third element which is
Heat.

It is when we heat up the piece of paper sufficiently that it will start to

burn.

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What we form with these three elements is called the Fire Triangle.
This model shows us that to have fire we need three elements. And if
these elements are combined at the right proportion, we will have fire.

I. How to extinguish a fire?

The fire triangle demonstrates the principles of extinguishing fire. If we remove any of
the three legs of the triangle, we will be able to extinguish the fire.

A. Removing fuel
Taking away fuel from a fire is difficult and often times dangerous. However,
there are examples that can be employed in controlling fire such as:

- LPG tank flame at the nozzle of the valve is best extinguished by

shutting off the valve. When there is no fuel supply the flame will
die out.
- Flammable liquid storage tanks can be arranged so that contents
can be pumped to an empty tank in case of fire.
- Fire lanes cut in forests prevents conflagration
- Grasses and undergrowth are burned ahead of an advancing bush
fire so that when the main fire reaches these burnt areas, there is
no more fuel to feed the fire.

B. Removing oxygen
Oxygen cannot be eliminated completely so what one can do is:

1. Separate it from the fire through smothering the burning area with a
non-combustible material – this is called “suffocating the fire.”

Examples:
- If there are oil spills, you can cover it with wet
blanket or you can throw sand or soil on it.
- Covering with foam
- Smothering it with inert gas

2. Reduce the concentration of oxygen below the concentration

necessary to support combustion. This is accomplished by
discharging carbon dioxide or other inert gases into the fire.

Example:
Light candle and cover with glass until the candle dies

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