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SAFETY MANAGEMENT PAYS IN THE LONG RUN !!!!!!! FOR PRICES ON SAFETY MANUALS OR REGISTERS PLEASE GO TO OUR PRICE LIST PAGE OR CLICK HERE
Gerhard Olivier
Jannie Nortje - Occupational Health & Safety Advisor: Port Elizabeth & Southern Cape
Diona Vermaak - Occupational Health & Safety Advisor: Port Elizabeth & Border/Ke
Do you keep Q20, Hair spray, Fix-A-Flat, etc in your vehicle? If so, you might want to reconsider. A pressurised can can explode in a vehicle and imbed itself in your back seat of your car. The temperature outside of your closed up vehicle could be about 38c degrees . What if you or a loved one had been sitting in your car? Do any of your family members keep aerosol cans in their vehicles? If they do, please pass this warning along to them! Without warning, the can can explode inside your car. (JN) SAFETY
EQUIPMENT, SPECIFICALLY MENTIONED IN THE ACT RELATING TO CONSTRUCTION WORK IS
QUESTION: What must be considered before providing protective equipment? : Ensure that you have taken into account all activities that are likely to take place on your premises/contract, the type of machines and power tools you are likely to use, and any chemicals, solvents, substances and toxic fumes you may come into contact with, so that you may acquire the required p.p.e. accordingly. Below is a guide list as to what type of p.p.e. is applicable to be worn with the related tool/equipment and/or condition, supplied to workers:- On all construction sites, plant yards, workshops: - hard hats, safety footwear and overalls must be worn as standard. Welding/cutting: - Face shield or spot goggles, gauntlets, apron, spats, screens, stand-by fire extinguisher. 4 lb Hammer and chisel: - gloves, safety goggles. Angle and bench grinder: - gloves, safety goggles and depending on circumstances, respirator or nose mask. Pick and shovel work: - gloves. Pneumatic tool (Jac hammer pilling tool, etc): - gloves, goggles, ear muffs or plugs, nose mask. Skill saw, Bench saw, Power planes: - gloves, goggles. Asbestos operations (cutting): - special hood with eye piece, gauntlets, long sleeved separate overall, respirator and warning signs. Plant or equipment stacking: - Goggles, gloves. Sand blasting: - hood, gloves, respirator, ear muffs. Spray painting: - gloves respirator and in certain instances, an extractor fan may be required. Kango hammer and compactor: - gloves, ear muffs/plugs, goggles. Concrete vibrator: - gloves, goggles, rubber boots. Dagha mixing: - rubber boots, gloves. Work in "legally" unguarded elevated positions: - safety belts and on occasions, safety nets suitable for the catching of persons and/or debris. Chemicals/solvents/toxic fumes and radio active conditions: - as per special S.A.B.S. requirements. Rain: - oilskin suites and gum boots. (JN)
Helping an electric shock casualty:
1. If possible, cut source of electricity FIRST, by switching off at socket or main and then removing plug. DON NOT USE SWITCH ON APPLIANCE, as this could be at fault.
2. If unable to cut source, stand on either a thickly folded newspaper, wooden plank or a rubber mat. Use a wooden chair or broom handle to lever the victim’s limbs away from source. DO NOT USE ANYTHING DAMP OR METALLIC.
3. Alternatively, a rope or any dry fabric can be slipped under the limbs and pulled away from source. DO NOT TOUCH THE VICTIM WITH YOUR HANDS OR USE ANYTHING WET, SUCH AS A DAMP TOWEL.
4. If the casualty’s body is lying across the source, loop a rope or some strong, dry fabric around the feet or under the arms and drag the victim clear. If unconscious, place him or her in the recovery position shown in the next section. (JN)
CONSTRUCTION WORK AND THE PUBLIC (PART 3Physical Types of Public Protection The most common method of public protection utilised is physical separation of the public form the construction work. Essentially this method separates the public form the hazard thus isolating it. Other methods, such as gatemen or signage, should only be used in addition to physical separation. There are five basic types of physical public protection:
The uses of these methods of public protection, and some acceptable alternatives are described below. Barricade A barricade means a temporary barrier erected from rigid vertical and horizontal members similar to crowd control barriers. The horizontal guard-rail is between 900mm to 1100mm from the ground level. It is used when it is necessary to exclude members of the public from a temporary construction site or work area. A barricade for protection around excavations. Barricades erected adjacent to roads also require warning lights to alert motorist of the hazard during night or inclement weather. Hoarding A hoarding means a substantial and fully sheeted screen a minimum of 1.8 metres in height. It is intended to be used where a greater measure of protection is necessary or where construction work is of a more permanent nature. For example, a hoarding is often used on a demolition site to exclude members of the public and to prevent debris from spilling out of the site boundaries. Scaffold A scaffold can be utilised for public protection. A scaffold can be constructed to ensure that no materials or dust will leave the working platform. This can be achieved by enclosing the complete scaffold in a shade cloth or similar materials. Gantry Gantry means a structure that is used - (a) For the overhead protection of persons; (b) For the support of materials and persons. A gantry provides overhead protection for the public in areas where an object may fall as a result of construction work. For example a gantry is needed if delivery trucks are being unloaded by crane over a public footpath. A Gantry may be removed and replaced with a hoarding or barricade when the need for overhead protection no longer exists. Fencing A link mesh wire fence is an acceptable alternative to a sheeted hoarding if the only requirement is to secure the site from members of the public. The fence should be erected to all elevations of the site. The height of link mesh fence is appropriate to the needs to exclude persons from the expected hazards. (JN)
CONSTRUCTION WORK AND THE PUBLIC In the assessment of the hazards the control measures implemented should follow the hierarchy of control. This being:
The size, complexity and location of a project often dictate’s the amount of public protection required. For example an addition to a primary school will have far greater requirements than an addition on a mine-site. The mine-site is isolated with no public access as compared to a primary school, which is usually never isolated and encourages public access. In assessing the risks to the public it is also essential to analyse who would be at risk and how, e.g. age factors, physical impairments, etc. Adjoining Properties The proximity and type of adjoining properties must be taken into account. For example a school located nearby will provide a large number of children who are generally always intrigued by construction sites. If the site location were in a business district pedestrian movement would be high in the early morning, lunchtime and late afternoon. Construction work, which affects the stability of adjoining structures, must also be assessed to ensure that the structural integrity of the buildings alongside are maintained. The construction methods used may also create hazards. For example the use of heavy machinery may provide a noise and vibration nuisance. Adjoining Roads If traffic disruption is expected the impact to the traffic flow must be assessed. The volume of traffic flow and times of day of such flow are also important. For example on a busy major arterial road the disruption to traffic flow on weekdays may preclude such work. The implication of this may be that only weekend access is viable. The planning of operations on site therefore becomes imperative as prudent access scheduling can minimise traffic disruption. Transient Persons The location of a site in terms of pedestrian access taking the shortest route is essential. The site may be located between a railway station and an office area. Therefore the amount of pedestrian flow at various times of the day must be taken into account in particular when the site is adjacent the footpath. Common Methods Used The most common methods used for public protection are the isolation of the hazard and administrative controls to lessen exposure. Types of Hazards (Current Protective Measures). Changes to surface level, excavations, holes and trenches site works, footpath alterations, etc often create hazards to the public which can easily be eliminated or controlled by the following:
LOOK OUT FOR PART THREE NEXT WEEK (JN)
CONSTRUCTION WORK AND THE PUBLIC PART ONE OF THREE Introduction Construction sites create risks not only for the construction worker, but also for the public who move around the site or who may live adjoining them. In the last few weeks there have been a few incidents involving members of the public on construction sites. Examples of the hazards created are:
The general public must be protected from the hazards associated with construction work that may be carried out in a public area or adjacent to such area. Legislative Overview Section 9(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act 85 of 1993 requires that: "Every employer shall conduct his undertaking in such a manner as to ensure, as far as is reasonably practicable, that persons other than those in his employment who may be directly affected by his activities are not thereby exposed to hazards to their health or safety". In layman’s terms, this section of the Act requires that care be taken at work to ensure that no persons (members of the public and work colleagues) are exposed to hazards as a result of their work. The Act has broad requirements which can be applied based on "General duties of employers to persons other than their employees" and what is "practicable". The implications to public protection from the word "practicable" are far reaching. This applies to general duties for employers, people with control of workplaces and self employed persons. These people are expected to take measures that are practicable and reasonable. If something is practicable it is capable of being done. Whether it is also reasonable takes into account.
Common Law Implications A member of the public may claim damages through a civil court for injuries arising from an employer’s failure to take reasonable care. These are commonly called "negligence claims". The courts recognise that the actions of an employer may result in an injury to a member of the public. Under the requirements of common law there must be some damage to a person or property before some action can be taken, whereas under the Occupational Health and Safety Act there is no need for an injury to occur before enforcement action can be taken. In common law each case is decided upon its merits and the courts determine whether the action taken by the employer is reasonable in any particular case. They consider the way a hypothetical "Reasonable Person" might behave in each situation to determine the standard of care, which should apply in any particular case. It is based on the values of the society of the day and, in the end will involve a judgement. There is no legal definition of how a reasonable person would behave and the final decision would depend upon the facts of each situation. Current Methods of Protecting the Public The first step in any construction project with regard to public protection is the identification of hazards and the planning of the best methods of elimination or control of the hazards. The Builder / Project Manager / Foreman, etc must incorporate the following in his Safety Management plan for the project:
LOOK OUT FOR PART TWO NEXT WEEK (JN)
REPORT TO INSPECTOR REGARDING CERTAIN INCIDENTS
(a) person dies, becomes unconscious, suffers the loss of a limb or part of a limb or is otherwise injured or becomes ill to such a degree that he is likely either to die or to suffer a permanent physical defect or likely to be unable for a period of at least 14 days either to work or to continue with the activity for which he was employed or is usually employed; (b) a major incident occurred; or (c) the health or safety or any person was endangered and where: (i) a dangerous substance was spilled; (ii) the uncontrolled release of any substance under pressure took place; (iii) machinery or any part thereof fractured or failed resulting in flying, falling or uncontrolled moving objects; or (iv) machinery ran out of control, shall, within the prescribed period and in the prescribed manner, be reported to an inspector by the employer or the user of the plant or machinery.
(a) a traffic accident on a public road; (b) an incident occurring in a private household, provided the householder forthwith reports the incident to the South African Police; or (c) any accident which is to be investigated under section 12 of the Aviation Act, 1962 (Act No. 74 of 1962).
(JN)
- CONFUSION REGARDING CONSTRUCTION REGULATIONS It has come to our attention that SAFCEC members have experienced site visits by the Department of Labour (DoL) Inspectors, who are auditing sites and projects on the Draft Construction Regulations. This is incorrect as these Construction Regulations are only in draft format and all audits should be based on the current Occupational Health & Safety Act & Regulations (85 or 1993). Should these Inspectors from the DoL want to enforce and implement punitive measures, in some instances they even threaten site closure for non-compliance; please refer them to this notice and report such actions to Jannie Nortjé or Diona Vermaak for corrective steps on Tel: 041 365 1835. (GO)
The provision of toilets, change rooms and eating facilities are one of the more difficult aspects in the construction industry due to the impermanent nature and often remote location of the workplace. It is mostly not possible to provide the same standard of facilities as is provided in factories and other permanent work places. And yet, the abovementioned is no excuse for not providing anything or the skimpiest of facilities as is often seen and experienced. The following are general remarks: TOILETS The provision of toilets is required in terms of the National Building Regulations and construction sites already have some exemption in that chemical toilets are allowed instead of the water borne sewerage type (one toilet for every 30 employees). SHOWERS Construction works is by nature "dirty" work and, therefore, showers are required by the legislation. At least cold water showers of some sort have to be provided (One shower for every 15 employees). CHANGE ROOMS For the same reasons that showers are required some form of screened off changing facility must be provided. EATING FACILITY The suggested minimum facility is some form of shelter from the sun, wind and rain. NOTE: THAT THE CHANGING FACILITY ROOM MUST BE SEPARATED FROM THE EATING FACILITY ROOM. (JN)
MBSA OH & SAFETY MANUAL FOR CONSTRUCTION (OBTAINABLE FROM MBA OFFICES) HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL
Please note that, although the greatest care was exercised in compiling this manual MBSA will not accept any responsibility for inaccuracies, and should any further clarification be required, the contents must be read in conjunction with an official copy of the Occupational Health and Safety Act (85 of 1993) as amended. ALSO AVAILABLE ON A COMPACT DISC COST: HARD COPY = R495.00 (VAT Included) COMPACT DISC = R350.00 (VAT Included) In terms of the Copyright Act No. 98 of 1978 (as amended) copyright is conferred in this manual. Copyright in terms of the Act exists de facto and no registration is required. Authorship of this work is claimed by the Master Builders South Africa (MBSA). Unauthorised reproduction of the work in terms of the Act constitutes infringement of the copyright in the manual. Judicial proceedings can and will be instituted to obtain relief in respect of infringement of copyright and the recovery of damages. (JN)
MBA MEMBERS, Get your special offer DVD now from your local MBA Office for R1 495.00 (Including VAT) (Non-members price: R1 756.00 (Including VAT)) Contact information below: PORT ELIZABETH Jannie Nortjé / Diona Vermaak MBA Building, 82 Worraker Street, Newton Park, Port Elizabeth Phone: 041-3651835 Fax: 041-3641676 E-Mail: jannie@ecmba.org.za / diona@ecmba.org.za SOUTHERN CAPE Alf Zehmke Bargaining Council Building, 13 Doneraile Street, George Phone: 044-873 3356 Fax: 044-874 6381 E-Mail: alf@ecmba.org.za EAST LONDON Diona Vermaak 1st Floor, Pilot Mill House , The Quarry, Selborne, East London, 5201Phone: 043-7210159 Fax: 043-7210593E-mail: diona@ecmba.org.za
The mercury has been dropping considerably for the last few weeks and soon working outdoors is going to be a problem. The effects of cold on your body range all the way from numbness, to the loss of a hand or foot, to hypothermia and even death. But there are many effective precautions we can take to make sure you work safely in the cold. The first one is to contact the Weather Bureau on 082 231 1629 for a week in advance so as to plan your work properly. When and where might you be exposed to extremely cold temperature in construction work?
What are some of the effects of cold on your body?
- but if the affected body parts are already numb, you won’t feel anything so there won’t be any warning. Your skin may turn another colour (red, white, grey or black depending on severity). Skin can also peel off. You can get a permanent injury, like loss of body part.
but you can get swelling, tingling, itching, loss of skin, or skin ulcers.
low body temperature, violent shivering, slow or slurred speech, drowsiness, confusion, hallucinations and unconsciousness. If not treated right away, you can die. What’s the best first aid treatment for frostbite?
* Vigorous massaging (it can bruise frozen skin). * Exposing to flame or fire (it can thaw frozen skin and cause burns). * Rubbing with snow or ice (make frost bite worse).
What do you do if someone has hypothermia?
Some people are more likely than other to suffer from the effects of cold. Why?
* You are not physically fit. * You have a chronic illness, especially one affecting your heart or blood vessels. * You drink alcohol or take drugs. * You are wet or damp from work or weather. * You are fatigued. What kind of clothing protects you from cold?
What precautions do you need to take on site?
(GA)
ROAD SAFETY - ALCOHOL AND DRIVING Motorists who drink and drive risk injuring or killing themselves, their passengers and other road users. Alcohol is a depressant and slows brain functions. This reduces the ability to respond to situations, make decisions and take actions. It also affects judgement of speed and distance. People can’t accurately tell how fast they are going or how far they are away from others. Alcohol gives a false sense of confidence, which makes people take risks they wouldn’t normally take. The drink-and-drive offences The Road Traffic Act, 1989, creates two separate offences which involve the use of alcohol. It is an offence to drive a vehicle on a public road or occupy the driver’s seat of a motor vehicle with its engine running while the person behind the wheel:
To Stay Under 0.05 You are legally able to drive with a very small amount of alcohol in your body. Most drivers have to stay below .05 grams of alcohol for each 100ml of blood. The more alcohol in the body the greater the risk of crashing. At. .05 you are twice as likely to crash than with a zero blood alcohol level. Responsible Hosting Tips As the host of a party, you may be held legally responsible for the result of injuries or damages that occur as a result of the alcohol you serve. Reduce the risks, increase the good times, and help ensure your guests arrive home safely by following these tips:
When the Party is Over If one of your guests has been drinking and should not drive, please do not give them back their car keys and let them drive. They could hurt themselves or others and may be just a little persuasion from you could mean the difference between life and DEATH. (JN)
VEHICLES AND HEAVY EQUIPMENT TRAINING GUIDE - PART THREE The Hazard As end-dump truck bodies and semi-trailer dumping rigs get longer, the incidence of units tipping over has increased. This type of accident is more frequently connected with semi-trailer rigs than with straight trucks. Construction personnel involved in dump truck operations agree that tip-overs are becoming more frequent. Stability The main hazard is related to the stability of the end-dump unit when the box is in the raised position. When the centre of gravity of box and load is not roughly between the frame rails of the unit, there is a risk of tip-over. A slight slope can be enough to cause tipping if material sticks in the top of the box. Stability is adversely affected by one or more of the following factors:
Stability may also be affected by the unit’s mechanical condition:
Hazard Control Because of stability problems with semi-trailers, they should not be used for haulage to rough grading or fill areas where surfaces are often uneven or loosely compacted. Straight trucks or straight trucks and pup trailers are more appropriate for highway haulage to these dump areas. Where haulage and dumping are all on site, straight trucks or off-highway vehicles are even better choices. Where aggregates are being spread for road construction, belly-dump semi-trailers are more appropriate than end-dump semi-trailers. Sometimes vehicle selection is not an option for the contractor. Material suppliers or haulers do not always use equipment appropriate to a particular site. However, when contractors do have a choice they should select equipment in accordance with these recommendations to reduce tip-overs. Cold weather may cause materials to freeze to the box and stick when dumping. Using heated boxes will reduce the problem. During winter, loads should not be left in dump boxes overnight. Maintenance Maintenance can play an important role in preventing tip-overs.
Loading Loading of the box front-to-back must meet allowable gross weight and axle weight limitations set by the Ministry of Transportation. From side to side it is best to load as evenly as possible. If material is likely to flow poorly, lighten up the load in the op end of the box. A slightly smaller load will be better than a full load that causes a tip-over. Box liners will help most materials flow better during dumping. Liners also help to keep the box in good condition. (JN)
VEHICLES AND HEAVY EQUIPMENT TRAINING GUIDE - PART TWO
Explain to the employees: Most of the safety measures we’ve talked about are required by OHSA. We have to take these precautions - it’s the law. I have a Checklist of the OHSA regulations on vehicles and heavy equipment. If you’d like to know more, see me after the meeting. Company Rules (Only if applicable). Besides the OH&S Act regulations, we have some additional company rules about vehicles and heavy equipment. Discuss company rules: (discuss them). Comments From The Crew Ask:
Name
Name TO BE CONTINUED NEXT WEEK (JN)
VEHICLES AND HEAVY EQUIPMENT TRAINING GUIDE - PART ONE
TO BE CONTINUED NEXT WEEK (JN)
MANAGING VEHICLE SAFETY AT THE WORKPLACE - PART THREE Drivers and other employees Check what your drivers and other employees actually do when undertaking their work activities. For example:
Check in consultation with your employees, that your level of management control/supervision is suitable: For example:
Vehicle activities Check that the need for REVERSING manoeuvres is kept to a minimum, and where reversing is necessary that it is undertaken safely and in safe areas. For example:
Do the vehicles have reversing alarms? Check that drivers take care when PARKING their vehicles, including their own private cars, and that they park in safe locations. For example:
Check that LOADING AND UNLOADING operations are carried out safely. For example:
(JN)
MANAGING VEHICLE SAFETY AT THE WORKPLACE - PART TWO The Check Lists Why should you use a checklist? Checklists indicate things that you should look at when:
It also gives some common-sense ideas for reducing risks. The checklist will not necessarily be comprehensive or relevant for all work situations (Check list are available in the MBSA Safety Manual or from your nearest MBA office. You can also print your own from the Safety CD). The Workplace Check that the layout of route is appropriate for the vehicle and pedestrian activities at the workplace. For example:
The Vehicles Check that vehicles at your workplace are safe and suitable for the work for which they are being used. For example:
Check that the vehicles are subject to appropriate maintenance procedures. For example:
Drivers and Other Employees Check that your selection and training procedures ensure that your drivers and other employees are capable of performing their work activities in a safe and responsible manner. For example:
LOOK OUT FOR PART THREE NEXT WEEK (JN)
MANAGING VEHICLE SAFETY AT THE WORKPLACE - PART ONE Introduction This leaflet is addressed to you as an employer. It offers simple advice and guidance to help you ensure that vehicle movements at the workplace, and activities such as loading, maintenance, etc are carried out safely. It applies to any vehicle or piece of mobile equipment which is used by employers, employees, self-employed people or visitors in any work. This covers a very wide range of familiar vehicles, for example cars and vans, lift trucks, heavy goods vehicles, dumpers, etc as well as less common vehicles and plant. The leaflet should be useful for workplaces such as construction sites, quarries, farms, etc. The Legal Duties Employers have a duty to provide a safe workplace, to provide and maintain safe systems of work, and to take all reasonably practicable precautions to ensure the safety of their workers and member of the public who might be affected by their activities. To underpin this, employers must carry out a ‘risk assessment’. They need to:
Where two or more employers share a workplace, each employer must co-operate with the other employers and take all reasonable steps to co-ordinate the measures they take to comply with their legal duties. All employees must take care of their own and others’ safety and c-operate with management in meeting their obligations. What do you actually need to do? The following paragraphs give advice on how you, as an employer, might carry out a risk assessment, with examples relating to workplace transport. Five steps have been identified to help you assess the risks systematically
1. Is there a danger of people being struck or run over by vehicles and what is the cause? 2. Is there a danger of people falling from vehicles, for example while gaining access to or alighting from the vehicle or while involved in loading/unloading or other activities, and what is the cause?
This means: Recording, usually by writing down, the more significant hazards; and recording your most important conclusions, for example: Risk of collision as a result of blind bend: need to install fixed mirror on corner of building. You must also inform your employees of your findings.
LOOK OUT FOR PART TWO NEXT WEEK (JN)
TRAFFIC SAFETY IN CONSTRUCTION Motor vehicle accidents (MVAs) in the course of employment are the single major agency of fatalities, normally contributing on average 40.2% of the total fatalities over a three-year period. Over the same period they contributed 9.9% of the permanent disablements, 8.8% of the temporary disablements, and 6.2% of the medical aid injuries. These contributions resulted in MVAs achieving a ranking of 1st, 2nd 3rd and 4th respectively, among all agencies involved in accidents. Despite the contribution by MVAs to all classes of injuries, there is a reticence on the part of industry stakeholders to address the issue, probably due to ignorance and also due to the perception that OH&S is solely concerned with ‘on-site’ activities. This in turn is probably attributable to the fact that the Department of Labour statistics do not include MVAs - for a comprehensive perspective of construction fatalities and injuries. The latter statistics are also comprehensive in the sense that they include both the Accident Fund (AF) and FEM statistics. Travelling and transport are an integral part of the construction process and consequently traffic safety must be an integral part of any construction OH&S programme. A programme should address a multitude of issues, among other: vehicle roadworthiness; driver training; defensive driving; vehicle inspections; vehicle care and housekeeping; driver fitness and fatigue; drug and alcohol abuse; safe conveyance of workers and materials; mounting and dismounting vehicles; overloading; wearing of seatbelts; general ‘wet weather’ precautions; a monitoring system, and incentives and rewards. Common unsafe transport/traffic practices include: non-wearing of seat belts; workers sitting on the sides and bed of vehicles; workers mounting or dismounting moving vehicles, and overloading of vehicles. Non-roadworthy vehicles may also be periodically observed. In conclusion, MVAs contribute substantially to fatalities and injuries in construction, and amplify the need for holistic OH&S programmes, which include both ‘off-site’ and ‘off the job’ components. In essence, the latter two components are inter-related with and complementary to the ‘on-site’ component. Consider the likelihood and probability of a people following and/or ensuring that safe work procedures (SWPs) are followed, and wearing and/or ensuring that personal protective equipment (PPE) is worn ‘on-site’, if they drive while not wearing seat belts? Effectively, the current status quo constitutes an indictment of the industry. Where to from here? Employer associations and their ‘umbrella’ bodies must, as a matter of urgency, include traffic safety in their ‘industry’ OH&S programmes, OH&S competitions and star grading programmes. Contractors, manufacturers, and suppliers must also include traffic safety in their individual OH&S programmes. (Professor John Smallwood - Department of Construction Management, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University) (JN)
EMPLOYER’S RETURN OF EARNINGS FOR FEM MEMBERS REMINDER T he Employer’s Return of Earnings (EroE) forms were forwarded to all policyholders at the beginning of March 2011.Assessments will be raised and employers are urged to pay the assessment within 30 days of receipt of the assessment (but not later than 30 June 2011). The failure to submit an Employer’s Return of Earnings in the prescribed time and the subsequent non-payment of the assessed premium by 30 June 2011 will result in the cancellation of any Merit Rebate due. COMPENSATION for OCCUPATIONAL INJURIES and DISEASES ACT (130 of 1993) Employers submit Return of Earnings for a period 1 March to 28 February. The return is separated by a declaration of ACTUAL earnings for the period 1 March to 28 February for the previous period and a declaration of the ESTIMATE earnings for the period 1 March to 28 February of the following year. Should there be any difference between the actuals and the previous estimates at the time of calculating the premium, an adjustment (debit or credit) will be made and added to or subtracted from the latest estimated premium for the next period. If there are any queries regarding the completion of the RETURN of EARNINGS form, please do not hesitate to contact your relevant FEM office. A reminder that FEM’s minimum premium is R5,000. NOTE ! The Federated Employers’ Mutual Assurance Company Each year the Department of Labour sets a maximum earnings rate that is ratified by parliament and included in the Government Gazette. This maximum is the ceiling at which earnings reflected on the Employers’ Return of Earnings are "capped". If any employee earns under the maximum amount, then the actual earnings are reflected. If any employees earn in excess of the maximum, then only the maximum for each employee is reflected. For 2011 the maximum earnings are R277,860 per annum. (From: FEM Newsletter & info - Issue 01 - Volume 11 - March 2011) (JN)
GUIDE IN RESPECT OF WORKMEN’S COMPENSATION ACT (WCA) CLAIMS Who is an employee ? Any person who has entered into a contract of service with an employer, The service contract can be in writing, expressed or implied and applies to temporary, permanent and under aged workers and is defined in section 1 of the Act. This Act is not applicable to domestic employees employed as such in a private household. Who is an employer ? Any person including the state, who employs and employee. What is an Occupational Injury (ACCIDENT) ? It is an occurrence of which a date, time and place can be determined that arises out of and in the course of an employee’s employment and resulting in personal injury. Which Occupational Injuries (ACCIDENTS) Must be Reported ? All occupational injuries or alleged occupational injuries that entail medical expenses and/or absence from work for more than three days must be reported within seven days in the prescribed manner. The delay to report an accident or alleged accident is a criminal offence. The Commissioner may also impose a penalty on the employer which could be the full amount of the claim. Procedure when reporting and Occupational Injury (ACCIDENT) ?
Compensation Commissioner P O Box 955 , Pretoria, 0001OR Federated Employer’s Mutual Assurance (Pty) LtdP O Box 2555 Cape Town 8000 The employer is liable for the payment of compensation for the first three months from the date of the occupational injury. The compensation paid by the employer shall be reimbursed by the Commissioner/FEM. The Basic Information To Identify A Claim is as follows:
The above mentioned information is captured on the computer and any discrepancies can result in duplication of claims, or that documents cannot be associated with an existing claim. What Is An Occupational Disease ? It is a disease arising out of and contracted in the course of an employee’s employment and which is listed in Schedule 3 to the Act (See next Bulletin for a list). Procedure When Reporting An Occupational Disease An employer must within 14 days after he gained knowledge of an alleged occupational disease complete an "Employer’s Report of an Occupational Disease", W.CI.1 and forward it the the: Compensation Commissioner P O Box 955 , Pretoria, 0001OR Federated Employer’s Mutual Assurance (Pty) Ltd P O Box 2555 Cape Town 8000 The commencement of the disease shall be the date on which the doctor first diagnosed the illness. The occupational disease will be recorded in the same way as discussed above in "The Basic Information to Identify a Claim". (JN).
Why Report and Record Accidents ? The primary reason why accidents need to be reported to the Department of Labour is to get the inspectorate to assist the employer in conducting an investigation to prevent reoccurrence of such incidents. Once again you may argue and say they never come to the accident scene, but remember it is your duty to record and report reportable incidents. You also have the MBA’s Safety Advisors to advice you whether the incident is reportable and assist you with the investigation. So, What are Reportable Accidents ? The COID Act defines an accident as:
The first notice of an accident by the employer is to the commissioner’s office as required in Chapter V 39 (1) "Subject to the provision of this section an employer shall within seven days after receiving notice of an accident or having learned in some other way that an employee has met with an accident report the accident to the commissioner in the prescribed manner. The OHS Act defines an incident as:
In Layman’s language and to summarize: All accidents that require "medical" aid must be reported to the commissioner by the employer within seven days of receiving a report or having learned in some other way that an employee has met with an accident. Remember it is in your own interest to ensure that all reportable injuries are recorded, reported and investigated by a competent person. The MBA’s advisors will be able to assist you in this regard. Should the injury not respond to first aid treatment and the employee receives "medical aid", you have to record and report the accident using W.CL.1 or W.CL.2. So please do not shy away from this responsibility as this could result in unnecessary fines. If you need further clarity PLEASE CALL THE MBA SAFETY ADVISORS FOR ASSISTANCE ! (JN)
DO’S AND DONT’S OF SCAFFOLDING !!
PLEASE ALSO REMEMBER THE HARDHAT !! (JN)
HANDLING HEAVY BUILDING BLOCKS Introduction Handling of heavy building blocks can give rise to a wide range of injuries, including serious injuries where the damage is gradual and progressive over a substantial period of time. to reduce the risk of injury the blockwork design, site conditions and the way the work is organised should be properly planned. Risk assessment The main hazards are:
The task Handle and lay building blocks in accordance with the following:
Arrange the work so that blocks only need to be handled up to shoulder height. Go higher by using staging, for instance. (Note: Further protection against falls may be necessary if the effective height of guard rails is reduced.) Particular care and attention is needed for higher risk block laying such as when head room is restricted, under sockets, below working platform level. The working environment Prepare roads and hard standing first and before blocks are on site. In areas where blocks are carried or handled, keep the site clear of obstacles or tripping hazards such as discarded block wrappings or stack ties. Uneven, slippery or unstable ground conditions increase the risk of injury. Blocks should be protected from the weather to avoid them for getting wet and increasing in weight. Training Workers should be given information and training on the systems of work and procedures to be used on the site to ensure safe manual handling of blocks. Suitable training will also be necessary for designers and specifiers. Personal Protective equipment When handling blocks the normal protective equipment needed on building sites should be provided by employers and worn by individual workers, in particular, safety footwear with protective toe caps and suitable gloves. (JN)
GENERAL SAFETY REGULATIONS 13a: Ladders are responsible for a high percentage of accidents and, as a result, various superstitions are attached. Requirements:
Last week we published a scary headline to highlight the seriousness of the situation. In addition to last week’s information about public safety, here are more regulations dealing with people affected by your work activities on and off the site. Occupational Health & Safety Act 85/1993 / Duties of employers to persons other than their employees / Section 9 (1) Every employer should conduct his undertaking in such a manner as to ensure, as far as reasonably practicable, that persons other than those in his employment who may be directly affected by his activities are not thereby exposed to hazards to their health and safety. National Building Regulations and Building Standards Act 103/1997 / Protection of the Public / Site operations
Occupational Health and Safety Act 85/1993 / General Safety Regulations / Regulation 2C
(JN)
"Four school children were yesterday buried alive when a six metre deep excavation collapsed on them. Mr. J Jacobs, an eye witness on the scene saw the boys aged between ten and twelve going down the excavation after their ball." Imagine if this was a true story. How would you react to this news as a parent? Would you blame the Local Authority, Department of Labour or the Builder? Fortunately there are laws in this country, which are meant to protect members of the public from such incidents. Legislation determines that the building contractor has ultimate responsibility for his works and therefore has to accept the blame. The Local Authority (Municipality) and Department of Labour, are required to enforce this legislation.
In cases where danger of serious inconvenience to the public may ensue from the demolition or erection of a building on any site, the local authority may require that the owner of such site, before such work is commenced, erect a fence, hoarding or barricade to prevent the public from entering such site and to protect them from the activities on such site. So the law is clear that it is the responsibility of the Municipality to enforce this regulation and the duty of the builder to comply with.
Every employer shall conduct his undertaking in such a manner as to ensure, as far as is reasonably practicable, that persons other than those in his employment who may be affected by his activities are not thereby exposed to hazards that can affect their health or safety. General Safety Regulation 13 (h) states that: Every employer who performs building work shall, cause every excavation which is accessible to the public or which is adjacent to public roads or thoroughfares, or whereby the safety of persons may be endangered, to be - (i) Adequately protected by a barrier or fence at least one metre high and as close to the excavation as is practicable; and (ii) Provided with read warning lights or any other clearly visible boundary indications at night or when visibility conditions are poor. The responsibility clearly lies with the Department of Labour to enforce this regulation and the builder has the ultimate duty to identify these hazards and protect the public. Some building contractors are ignorant of the fact that this Act holds them liable whenever a member of the public is injured due to their work activities. The public has every right to inform the Municipality and the Department of Labour whenever a builder is not fulfilling any of these requirements. So next time you walk by an unfenced site, do not ignore it, inform the relevant authorities. (JN)
Are you still being vigilant about everything around you? Listed below is information which may be of use. Two methods of hijacking are being used: Firstly persons are being pushed into the boot of their vehicles when depositing objects therein and then taken hostage. Always walk around your vehicle before opening it, keeping a lookout all the time. Do not lean into the boot as you are making yourself an ideal target. There is a flap in the lining of the boot in the vicinity of the taillight. Unclip it now, because should you be a victim you have immediate access to the taillight, which you can break. Also leave a wheel spanner loose in the boot for this purpose. Please teach your children to do the same. The sceptics may say - "This will not happen to me". Think again! There is obviously merit in having a vehicle without a lock-up luggage boot. Secondly, motorists may drive over small objects such as bricks, and rocks which puncture tyres, especially in the vicinity of overhead bridges. If your vehicle strikes such an object then continue driving, as it may be an ambush. Please continue driving for at least a kilometre, then get out to inspect damage and get away as soon as you can. Your wheel rims can be replaced but not your life. Some more sensible anti-hijack tips:
Distribute this information to your employees colleagues, family, friends and acquaintances. Too many people are injured or killed in hijackings in South Africa. Kidnapping is a major and real threat. BE ALERT AND VIGILANT AT ALL TIMES ! (JN)
THAT SCAFFOLD INSPECTIONS MUST BE INSPECTED BY A PERSON WHO HAS ADEQUATE EXPERIENCE OF THE ERECTION AND MAINTENANCE OF SCAFFOLDS AT LEAST ONCE PER WEEK AND EVERY TIME AFTER INCLEMENT WEATHER OR DISPLACEMENT OF MAJOR JOB CHANGE TO THE SCAFFOLD. Since most work on construction sites needs to be done at a height which man cannot reach from the ground, means must be provided to raise him to the level of his work and a platform must be built from which he can do his job. Therefore, men in nearly all trades of the construction industry find themselves at one time or another, working from scaffolds. All men working on scaffolding should be in possession of a fitness medical certificate. There is enough variety in the scaffold equipment available to erect a platform to suit every kind of work that needs to be done, from whatever position. Yet every day, somewhere on a construction site, work is held up and production suffers because of damage to men, materials and equipment through individual falls, falling material, the partial or total collapse of a scaffold. Production is also lost because of faulty or insecure scaffolding. It is vital that all working platforms should be properly constructed, secured and provide adequate space - and comply with the Regulations. Detailed consideration should be given to all scaffolding to ensure that it is properly planned to meet the working requirements, designed to carry the necessary loadings and maintained in a sound condition. It must also be ensured that there is sufficient material available to erect the scaffolding properly. All scaffolding, as far as possible, should be erected, altered or dismantled by a person who has adequate training and experience in this type of work or under the supervision of such a person. THE FOLLOWING ITEMS SHOULD BE CHECKED BASED ON THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH & SAFETY ACT (85 OF 1993), general safety regulation 13g: FOUNDATIONS: GROUND JACKS, SOLE PLATES & BASE PLATES TIES: SOUND, TIES SUFFICIENT & TIGHTENED BRACING: COMPLETE LINES, SUFFICIENT TYPES, CORRECT FITTING PLATFORMS: BOARDS PROPERLY SUPPORTED, GOOD BOARDS, TOE BOARDS, HAND RAILS ACCESS: LADDERS SECURED, 900mm ABOVE PLATFORM, PROPERLY SUPPORTED STANDARDS: VERTICAL, CONDITION & SPACED LEDGERS: CORRECTLY SPACED, FIRMLY FIXED & SOUND CONDITION SIGNS: AS REQUIRED. (JN)
Prevent Falls
Electricity Can Kill
On The Road
Do - It - Yourself
Alcohol
Lighting
(JN)
IS YOUR WORKPLACE HEALTHY & SAFE? S YOUR WORKPLACE HEALTHY & SAFE? S YOUR WORKPLACE HEALTHY & SAFE? S YOUR WORKPLACE HEALTHY & SAFE? The Occupational Health & Safety Act (OH&SA) (85 or 1993) under general employers duties regulations states that every employer shall provide and maintain, as far as reasonably practicable, a working environment that is safe and without risk to the health and safety of his employees. Many employers do not know how to read and comply with the act and believe that it "won’t happen to them". Employees also have their responsibilities and should therefore follow instructions given by management. Employees should realize that safe work procedures are contributing to improve OH & Safety on site. Employees should also, if they observe a potentially dangerous situation in the workplace, notify the supervisor of such hazard immediately. Statistics show that at least two people in South Africa are killed in the construction industry per day. "Although in all industries 62% of workers are injured after two years of service, the second highest statistic (19%) states that injuries happen within the first three months of employment, often on the first day. The types of injuries that are frequently incurred include 29% fractures, 24% wounds and cuts, and 14% sprains. It was found that 23% of injuries are the hands with 13% to the feet. "The correct personal protective equipment (PPE) which includes the appropriate gloves and safety shoes will drastically reduce the severity of this kind of injury." A copy of the OH & Safety Act & Regulations (85 of 1993) (Eight Edition) is a must and is available from the MBA offices at a cost of R150.00 (Inclusive of VAT), to members and R230.00 (Inclusive of VAT) to non-members. (JN)
Gas forms an integral part of industries worldwide. The use and storage of gas demands extensive safety measures and trained, skilled workers to protect those in the immediate vicinity and all who find themselves nearby. Inert (non-reactive) Gases The most commonly used non-reactive gases in an industrial environment are argon, nitrogen and carbon dioxide, or mixtures for special welding operations. One deep breath of these gases will have a serious impact on one’s health, bringing on nausea, difficulty in breathing, an increase pulse rate and unconsciousness. Non-reactive gases are used to shield the welding area from the atmosphere. When inhaled, they displace oxygen and prevent the red blood cells from carrying the oxygen to the brain. Argon is used for TIG (tungsten inert gas) welding. It is heavier than air and when used in a confined space it displaces the oxygen and one may suffocate.
Hydro-carbon gas combustion produces CO (carbon monoxide) and therefore necessitates a well-ventilated working place. The affinity of CO for haemoglobin compared with oxygen is 200 times greater, and for CO² it is 80 times greater. CO is denser than air (1 : 1,35), displaces oxygen and moves to the bottom of any confined area. People gassing themselves in cars inhale CO, which paralyses the nervous system. CO has a similar weight to air but floats in bubble formations as it displaces air. It is therefore possible that one person can suddenly inhale CO, while the next person may be unaffected. When filling up diving tanks great care must be taken not to get a CO/air mixture in tanks. If the compressor has an engine rather than an electrical motor, the exhaust fumes should be led far away from the filter intake attached to the diving cylinder. Incidentally, dry ice is solid CO². Its density relative to air is 0,97 and therefor it floats.
Nitrogen Nitrogen is used, for example, to fill the tyres of Formula 1 racing cars, because of its weight (lighter than air). Nitrogen contains no oxygen. When a tyre gets extremely hot it can’t burn easily, and when the tyre heats up its expansion is not as much as with air. Nitrogen is used as a purging gas to purge off an area and eliminate air or flammable gas. It is also used in the refrigeration industry.
Helium Helium (a part of balloon gas) is the lightest of the inert gases an only minute quantities are present in the atmosphere. It is expensive, and industry mostly uses a combination of helium and nitrogen. Modern air separation plants can produce helium in larger quantities. Helium is used for leakage tests. If one has equipment or components that need to be tested for leaks after welding, braising, gluing or other attachments, helium is ideal because of its low density. In modern times helium has replaced hydrogen in airships because it is inert (non-flammable). When helium is inhaled one’s voice becomes squeaky. The density of air affects the frequency from the voice box and the vibration of the vocal cords is relative to air. The lower density of helium creates a different vibration and the sound of the voice changes. Playing a vibrational instrument in a pure helium atmosphere will also make it sound totally different than normal.
Colour Coding for Cylinders We have a different climate to Europe and a change to non-heat absorbent colours for high-pressure cylinders are recommended. In Germany, for instance, acetylene cylinders are bright yellow (a heat-reflective colour) and the cylinder containing dimethyl formamide has a red ring around it at the top. In South Africa hoses are coloured red for acetylene, blue for oxygen, black for compressed air and orange or amber for LPG. Argon is stored in light blue cylinders and compressed air is contained in a greyish coloured cylinder. The level of humidity has a tremendous bearing on all these gases. All figures given should therefore be interpreted as being mathematical. Gases will react differently in various locations and in different seasonal influences. (Acknowledgement to: SAFCEC Newsletter) (JN)
Electrical injuries most often occur in industrial accidents and, occasionally, with children who curiously play with electrical outlets or cords (chew on electrical cord). About 93% of electrical injury victims are males. The groups highest at risk are electrical and construction workers most commonly injured by generated electricity. Golfers who stay outdoors in summer during lightning storms, comprise a significantly large group susceptible to lightning strikes. There are two types of electric currents: DIRECT (DC) and ALTERNATING (AC). Injuries which result from direct current occur mainly in industrial environments. The majority of homes are supplied with alternating current. The flow of electricity is from the point of contact to the ground. The injury is dependent on the distance and the resistance of the tissue involved. Alternating current is usually much more disruptive to tissue. Direct current produces a smaller entrance wound with a much larger exit. The greatest threat to life from an electrical injury is the development of a cardiac arrhythmia (irregular heart beat). Many secondary problems can occur with electrical injury. Some are related to the chemical changes in the body that take place with substantial tissue injury (electrolyte abnormalities from muscle breakdown). Kidney failure can also occur, indirectly, as a result of an electrical injury. ********************************* TREATMENT ********************************* The first rule of treatment in electrical injuries is to SAFELY remove the victim from continued exposure. Occasionally, this may require paramedic or fire personnel. The patient will immediately need ambulance transportation to the hospital. Many of the problems these patients have with cardiac irregularity occur soon after injury. Hospital evaluation will include blood tests for: electrolytes, cardiac enzymes, complete blood counts, and blood clotting function. In most cases, an EKG will disclose a cardiac arrhythmia or heart damage. Tetanus vaccination must be within 5 years. Hospitalization for burn care an cardiac monitoring is common. (JN)
Workers rights and Responsibilities The Occupational Health and Safety act gives workers the right to a healthy and safe work environment. It tells management to set up safety representatives and safety committees in the workplace. It also regulates things like toilets, change rooms, first aid, drinking water, washing facilities,protective clothing, machinery, stacking and packing, ladders, fire, ventilation, lighting, temperature, noise and asbestos.
WORKER’S HEALTH AND SAFETY RIGHTS The Occupational Health and Safety Act sets out the worker’s rights, including:
The Act also sets out the responsibilities of workers and employers. THE WORKER’S DUTIES The worker must:
(DV)
The employer must make sure that the workplace is safe and healthy and must not allow any worker to do work which is potentially dangerous. Information and training about dangers - employers must: · Inform workers of the dangers in the workplace.· Ensure that there are warnings and notices on dangerous machinery.· Train workers on how to use dangerous machinery or substances safely.Reducing dangers in the workplace - employers must · Ensure that equipment is properly maintained.· Provide protective clothing and equipment where necessary.· Reduce any dangers to a minimum before issuing protective clothing.· Make sure that a supervisor oversees operations and enforces safety requirements.· Set out precautionary measures to prevent dangers.Health and safety representatives - employers must: · Choose safety representatives (1 for every 20 workers).· Explain the responsibilities of the safety representatives.· Create a safety committee if there are more than 2 safety representatives. This committee must meet at least every three months and deals with all safety and health issues that affect workers.Procedures for dealing with accidents - employers must: · Make sure that workers can escape from danger if necessary.Reporting accidents or incidents - employers must: · Keep a report of all accidents and safety or health incidents in the workplace.· Report certain types of accident or incident to the safety representative and to the Department of Labour.(DV)
The risk of fatigue is inherent in any work-time arrangement involving shift work, long hours of work, irregular hours, extended work hours and work that is physically or mentally demanding, repetitive or requires high vigilance. Fatigue can lead to accidents because it affects a number of key mental and physical abilities and can, for example, result in impaired concentration, poor judgement, reduced hand-eye coordination and slower reaction times. Industrial workers under thermal stress for extended periods become fatigued: physical fatigue has been identified as a causal factor in heat exhaustion and attributed to several physiological disturbances such as excessive cardiovascular strain and hyperthermia. A number of accidents, which could be attributed to the loss of control due to the sleepiness of drivers, have been reported at sites where workers are being transported. In view of the seriousness of these accidents research was initiated to identifying the factors that affect driver alertness during mining operations. The objective of the project is to develop a fatigue management programme that would address task- as well as worker-related factors associated with worker fatigue. The final output will be a best practice handbook and a practical guideline on fatigue management. Impact: The implementation of fatigue management procedures in industrial settings has the potential to eliminate operator fatigue or its causes, reduce the likelihood of fatigue occurring in the workplace, and counteract the effects of fatigue when it occurs. (DV)
Cave-ins are perhaps the most feared trenching hazard. But other potentially fatal hazards exist, including asphyxiation due to lack of oxygen in a confined space, inhalation of toxic fumes, drowning, etc. Electrocution or explosions can occur when workers contact underground utilities. Safety and health programs address the variety of hazards. The following hazards cause the most trenching and excavation injuries: No Protective system Am I In Danger? All excavations are hazardous because they are inherently unstable. If they are restricted spaces they present the additional risks of oxygen depletion, toxic fumes, and water accumulation. If you are not using protective systems or equipment while working in trenches or excavations at your site, you are in danger of suffocating, inhaling toxic materials, fire, drowning, or being crushed by a cave-in. How Do I Avoid Hazards? Pre-job planning is vital to accident-free trenching; safety cannot be improvised as work progresses. The following concerns must be addressed by a competent person:
Failure to Inspect Trench and Protective Systems Am I In Danger? If trenches and excavations at your site are not inspected daily for evidence of possible cave-ins, hazardous atmospheres, failure of protective systems, or other unsafe conditions, you are in danger. How Do I Avoid Hazards? Inspect excavations:
(To be continued) (DV)
According to SANS 10085: 5.9 Scaffold boards 5.9.1 Timber scaffold board
Gas forms an integral part of industries worldwide. The use and storage of gas demands extensive safety measures and trained, skilled workers to protect those in the immediate vicinity and all who find themselves nearby. Inert (non-reactive) Gases The most commonly used non-reactive gases in an industrial environment are argon, nitrogen and carbon dioxide, or mixtures for special welding operations. One deep breath of these gases will have a serious impact on one’s health, bringing on nausea, difficulty in breathing, an increase pulse rate and unconsciousness. Non-reactive gases are used to shield the welding area from the atmosphere. When inhaled, they displace oxygen and prevent the red blood cells from carrying the oxygen to the brain. Argon is used for TIG (tungsten inert gas) welding. It is heavier than air and when used in a confined space it displaces the oxygen and one may suffocate.
Hydro-carbon gas combustion produces CO (carbon monoxide) and therefore necessitates a well-ventilated working place. The affinity of CO for haemoglobin compared with oxygen is 200 times greater, and for CO² it is 80 times greater. CO is denser than air (1 : 1,35), displaces oxygen and moves to the bottom of any confined area. People gassing themselves in cars inhale CO, which paralyses the nervous system. CO has a similar weight to air but floats in bubble formations as it displaces air. It is therefore possible that one person can suddenly inhale CO, while the next person may be unaffected. When filling up diving tanks great care must be taken not to get a CO/air mixture in tanks. If the compressor has an engine rather than an electrical motor, the exhaust fumes should be led far away from the filter intake attached to the diving cylinder. Incidentally, dry ice is solid CO². Its density relative to air is 0,97 and therefor it floats.
Nitrogen Nitrogen is used, for example, to fill the tyres of Formula 1 racing cars, because of its weight (lighter than air). Nitrogen contains no oxygen. When a tyre gets extremely hot it can’t burn easily, and when the tyre heats up its expansion is not as much as with air. Nitrogen is used as a purging gas to purge off an area and eliminate air or flammable gas. It is also used in the refrigeration industry.
Helium Helium (a part of balloon gas) is the lightest of the inert gases an only minute quantities are present in the atmosphere. It is expensive, and industry mostly uses a combination of helium and nitrogen. Modern air separation plants can produce helium in larger quantities. Helium is used for leakage tests. If one has equipment or components that need to be tested for leaks after welding, braising, gluing or other attachments, helium is ideal because of its low density. In modern times helium has replaced hydrogen in airships because it is inert (non-flammable). When helium is inhaled one’s voice becomes squeaky. The density of air affects the frequency from the voice box and the vibration of the vocal cords is relative to air. The lower density of helium creates a different vibration and the sound of the voice changes. Playing a vibrational instrument in a pure helium atmosphere will also make it sound totally different than normal.
Colour Coding for Cylinders We have a different climate to Europe and a change to non-heat absorbent colours for high-pressure cylinders are recommended. In Germany, for instance, acetylene cylinders are bright yellow (a heat-reflective colour) and the cylinder containing dimethyl formamide has a red ring around it at the top. In South Africa hoses are coloured red for acetylene, blue for oxygen, black for compressed air and orange or amber for LPG. Argon is stored in light blue cylinders and compressed air is contained in a greyish coloured cylinder. The level of humidity has a tremendous bearing on all these gases. All figures given should therefore be interpreted as being mathematical. Gases will react differently in various locations and in different seasonal influences. (Acknowledgement to: SAFCEC Newsletter) (JN)
Electrical injuries most often occur in industrial accidents and, occasionally, with children who curiously play with electrical outlets or cords (chew on electrical cord). About 93% of electrical injury victims are males. The groups highest at risk are electrical and construction workers most commonly injured by generated electricity. Golfers who stay outdoors in summer during lightning storms, comprise a significantly large group susceptible to lightning strikes. There are two types of electric currents: DIRECT (DC) and ALTERNATING (AC). Injuries which result from direct current occur mainly in industrial environments. The majority of homes are supplied with alternating current. The flow of electricity is from the point of contact to the ground. The injury is dependent on the distance and the resistance of the tissue involved. Alternating current is usually much more disruptive to tissue. Direct current produces a smaller entrance wound with a much larger exit. The greatest threat to life from an electrical injury is the development of a cardiac arrhythmia (irregular heart beat). Many secondary problems can occur with electrical injury. Some are related to the chemical changes in the body that take place with substantial tissue injury (electrolyte abnormalities from muscle breakdown). Kidney failure can also occur, indirectly, as a result of an electrical injury. ********************************* TREATMENT ********************************* The first rule of treatment in electrical injuries is to SAFELY remove the victim from continued exposure. Occasionally, this may require paramedic or fire personnel. The patient will immediately need ambulance transportation to the hospital. Many of the problems these patients have with cardiac irregularity occur soon after injury. Hospital evaluation will include blood tests for: electrolytes, cardiac enzymes, complete blood counts, and blood clotting function. In most cases, an EKG will disclose a cardiac arrhythmia or heart damage. Tetanus vaccination must be within 5 years. Hospitalization for burn care an cardiac monitoring is common. (JN)
Workers rights and Responsibilities The Occupational Health and Safety act gives workers the right to a healthy and safe work environment. It tells management to set up safety representatives and safety committees in the workplace. It also regulates things like toilets, change rooms, first aid, drinking water, washing facilities,protective clothing, machinery, stacking and packing, ladders, fire, ventilation, lighting, temperature, noise and asbestos.
WORKER’S HEALTH AND SAFETY RIGHTS The Occupational Health and Safety Act sets out the worker’s rights, including:
The Act also sets out the responsibilities of workers and employers. THE WORKER’S DUTIES The worker must:
(DV)
The employer must make sure that the workplace is safe and healthy and must not allow any worker to do work which is potentially dangerous. Information and training about dangers - employers must: · Inform workers of the dangers in the workplace.· Ensure that there are warnings and notices on dangerous machinery.· Train workers on how to use dangerous machinery or substances safely.Reducing dangers in the workplace - employers must · Ensure that equipment is properly maintained.· Provide protective clothing and equipment where necessary.· Reduce any dangers to a minimum before issuing protective clothing.· Make sure that a supervisor oversees operations and enforces safety requirements.· Set out precautionary measures to prevent dangers.Health and safety representatives - employers must: · Choose safety representatives (1 for every 20 workers).· Explain the responsibilities of the safety representatives.· Create a safety committee if there are more than 2 safety representatives. This committee must meet at least every three months and deals with all safety and health issues that affect workers.Procedures for dealing with accidents - employers must: · Make sure that workers can escape from danger if necessary.Reporting accidents or incidents - employers must: · Keep a report of all accidents and safety or health incidents in the workplace.· Report certain types of accident or incident to the safety representative and to the Department of Labour.(DV)
The risk of fatigue is inherent in any work-time arrangement involving shift work, long hours of work, irregular hours, extended work hours and work that is physically or mentally demanding, repetitive or requires high vigilance. Fatigue can lead to accidents because it affects a number of key mental and physical abilities and can, for example, result in impaired concentration, poor judgement, reduced hand-eye coordination and slower reaction times. Industrial workers under thermal stress for extended periods become fatigued: physical fatigue has been identified as a causal factor in heat exhaustion and attributed to several physiological disturbances such as excessive cardiovascular strain and hyperthermia. A number of accidents, which could be attributed to the loss of control due to the sleepiness of drivers, have been reported at sites where workers are being transported. In view of the seriousness of these accidents research was initiated to identifying the factors that affect driver alertness during mining operations. The objective of the project is to develop a fatigue management programme that would address task- as well as worker-related factors associated with worker fatigue. The final output will be a best practice handbook and a practical guideline on fatigue management. Impact: The implementation of fatigue management procedures in industrial settings has the potential to eliminate operator fatigue or its causes, reduce the likelihood of fatigue occurring in the workplace, and counteract the effects of fatigue when it occurs. (DV)
Cave-ins are perhaps the most feared trenching hazard. But other potentially fatal hazards exist, including asphyxiation due to lack of oxygen in a confined space, inhalation of toxic fumes, drowning, etc. Electrocution or explosions can occur when workers contact underground utilities. Safety and health programs address the variety of hazards. The following hazards cause the most trenching and excavation injuries: No Protective system Am I In Danger? All excavations are hazardous because they are inherently unstable. If they are restricted spaces they present the additional risks of oxygen depletion, toxic fumes, and water accumulation. If you are not using protective systems or equipment while working in trenches or excavations at your site, you are in danger of suffocating, inhaling toxic materials, fire, drowning, or being crushed by a cave-in. How Do I Avoid Hazards? Pre-job planning is vital to accident-free trenching; safety cannot be improvised as work progresses. The following concerns must be addressed by a competent person:
Failure to Inspect Trench and Protective Systems Am I In Danger? If trenches and excavations at your site are not inspected daily for evidence of possible cave-ins, hazardous atmospheres, failure of protective systems, or other unsafe conditions, you are in danger. How Do I Avoid Hazards? Inspect excavations:
(To be continued) (DV)
According to SANS 10085: 5.9 Scaffold boards 5.9.1 Timber scaffold board
Gas forms an integral part of industries worldwide. The use and storage of gas demands extensive safety measures and trained, skilled workers to protect those in the immediate vicinity and all who find themselves nearby. Inert (non-reactive) Gases The most commonly used non-reactive gases in an industrial environment are argon, nitrogen and carbon dioxide, or mixtures for special welding operations. One deep breath of these gases will have a serious impact on one’s health, bringing on nausea, difficulty in breathing, an increase pulse rate and unconsciousness. Non-reactive gases are used to shield the welding area from the atmosphere. When inhaled, they displace oxygen and prevent the red blood cells from carrying the oxygen to the brain. Argon is used for TIG (tungsten inert gas) welding. It is heavier than air and when used in a confined space it displaces the oxygen and one may suffocate.
Hydro-carbon gas combustion produces CO (carbon monoxide) and therefore necessitates a well-ventilated working place. The affinity of CO for haemoglobin compared with oxygen is 200 times greater, and for CO² it is 80 times greater. CO is denser than air (1 : 1,35), displaces oxygen and moves to the bottom of any confined area. People gassing themselves in cars inhale CO, which paralyses the nervous system. CO has a similar weight to air but floats in bubble formations as it displaces air. It is therefore possible that one person can suddenly inhale CO, while the next person may be unaffected. When filling up diving tanks great care must be taken not to get a CO/air mixture in tanks. If the compressor has an engine rather than an electrical motor, the exhaust fumes should be led far away from the filter intake attached to the diving cylinder. Incidentally, dry ice is solid CO². Its density relative to air is 0,97 and therefor it floats.
Nitrogen Nitrogen is used, for example, to fill the tyres of Formula 1 racing cars, because of its weight (lighter than air). Nitrogen contains no oxygen. When a tyre gets extremely hot it can’t burn easily, and when the tyre heats up its expansion is not as much as with air. Nitrogen is used as a purging gas to purge off an area and eliminate air or flammable gas. It is also used in the refrigeration industry.
Helium Helium (a part of balloon gas) is the lightest of the inert gases an only minute quantities are present in the atmosphere. It is expensive, and industry mostly uses a combination of helium and nitrogen. Modern air separation plants can produce helium in larger quantities. Helium is used for leakage tests. If one has equipment or components that need to be tested for leaks after welding, braising, gluing or other attachments, helium is ideal because of its low density. In modern times helium has replaced hydrogen in airships because it is inert (non-flammable). When helium is inhaled one’s voice becomes squeaky. The density of air affects the frequency from the voice box and the vibration of the vocal cords is relative to air. The lower density of helium creates a different vibration and the sound of the voice changes. Playing a vibrational instrument in a pure helium atmosphere will also make it sound totally different than normal.
Colour Coding for Cylinders We have a different climate to Europe and a change to non-heat absorbent colours for high-pressure cylinders are recommended. In Germany, for instance, acetylene cylinders are bright yellow (a heat-reflective colour) and the cylinder containing dimethyl formamide has a red ring around it at the top. In South Africa hoses are coloured red for acetylene, blue for oxygen, black for compressed air and orange or amber for LPG. Argon is stored in light blue cylinders and compressed air is contained in a greyish coloured cylinder. The level of humidity has a tremendous bearing on all these gases. All figures given should therefore be interpreted as being mathematical. Gases will react differently in various locations and in different seasonal influences. (Acknowledgement to: SAFCEC Newsletter) (JN)
Electrical injuries most often occur in industrial accidents and, occasionally, with children who curiously play with electrical outlets or cords (chew on electrical cord). About 93% of electrical injury victims are males. The groups highest at risk are electrical and construction workers most commonly injured by generated electricity. Golfers who stay outdoors in summer during lightning storms, comprise a significantly large group susceptible to lightning strikes. There are two types of electric currents: DIRECT (DC) and ALTERNATING (AC). Injuries which result from direct current occur mainly in industrial environments. The majority of homes are supplied with alternating current. The flow of electricity is from the point of contact to the ground. The injury is dependent on the distance and the resistance of the tissue involved. Alternating current is usually much more disruptive to tissue. Direct current produces a smaller entrance wound with a much larger exit. The greatest threat to life from an electrical injury is the development of a cardiac arrhythmia (irregular heart beat). Many secondary problems can occur with electrical injury. Some are related to the chemical changes in the body that take place with substantial tissue injury (electrolyte abnormalities from muscle breakdown). Kidney failure can also occur, indirectly, as a result of an electrical injury. ********************************* TREATMENT ********************************* The first rule of treatment in electrical injuries is to SAFELY remove the victim from continued exposure. Occasionally, this may require paramedic or fire personnel. The patient will immediately need ambulance transportation to the hospital. Many of the problems these patients have with cardiac irregularity occur soon after injury. Hospital evaluation will include blood tests for: electrolytes, cardiac enzymes, complete blood counts, and blood clotting function. In most cases, an EKG will disclose a cardiac arrhythmia or heart damage. Tetanus vaccination must be within 5 years. Hospitalization for burn care an cardiac monitoring is common. (JN)
Workers rights and Responsibilities The Occupational Health and Safety act gives workers the right to a healthy and safe work environment. It tells management to set up safety representatives and safety committees in the workplace. It also regulates things like toilets, change rooms, first aid, drinking water, washing facilities,protective clothing, machinery, stacking and packing, ladders, fire, ventilation, lighting, temperature, noise and asbestos.
WORKER’S HEALTH AND SAFETY RIGHTS The Occupational Health and Safety Act sets out the worker’s rights, including:
The Act also sets out the responsibilities of workers and employers. THE WORKER’S DUTIES The worker must:
(DV)
The employer must make sure that the workplace is safe and healthy and must not allow any worker to do work which is potentially dangerous. Information and training about dangers - employers must: · Inform workers of the dangers in the workplace.· Ensure that there are warnings and notices on dangerous machinery.· Train workers on how to use dangerous machinery or substances safely.Reducing dangers in the workplace - employers must · Ensure that equipment is properly maintained.· Provide protective clothing and equipment where necessary.· Reduce any dangers to a minimum before issuing protective clothing.· Make sure that a supervisor oversees operations and enforces safety requirements.· Set out precautionary measures to prevent dangers.Health and safety representatives - employers must: · Choose safety representatives (1 for every 20 workers).· Explain the responsibilities of the safety representatives.· Create a safety committee if there are more than 2 safety representatives. This committee must meet at least every three months and deals with all safety and health issues that affect workers.Procedures for dealing with accidents - employers must: · Make sure that workers can escape from danger if necessary.Reporting accidents or incidents - employers must: · Keep a report of all accidents and safety or health incidents in the workplace.· Report certain types of accident or incident to the safety representative and to the Department of Labour.(DV)
The risk of fatigue is inherent in any work-time arrangement involving shift work, long hours of work, irregular hours, extended work hours and work that is physically or mentally demanding, repetitive or requires high vigilance. Fatigue can lead to accidents because it affects a number of key mental and physical abilities and can, for example, result in impaired concentration, poor judgement, reduced hand-eye coordination and slower reaction times. Industrial workers under thermal stress for extended periods become fatigued: physical fatigue has been identified as a causal factor in heat exhaustion and attributed to several physiological disturbances such as excessive cardiovascular strain and hyperthermia. A number of accidents, which could be attributed to the loss of control due to the sleepiness of drivers, have been reported at sites where workers are being transported. In view of the seriousness of these accidents research was initiated to identifying the factors that affect driver alertness during mining operations. The objective of the project is to develop a fatigue management programme that would address task- as well as worker-related factors associated with worker fatigue. The final output will be a best practice handbook and a practical guideline on fatigue management. Impact: The implementation of fatigue management procedures in industrial settings has the potential to eliminate operator fatigue or its causes, reduce the likelihood of fatigue occurring in the workplace, and counteract the effects of fatigue when it occurs. (DV)
Cave-ins are perhaps the most feared trenching hazard. But other potentially fatal hazards exist, including asphyxiation due to lack of oxygen in a confined space, inhalation of toxic fumes, drowning, etc. Electrocution or explosions can occur when workers contact underground utilities. Safety and health programs address the variety of hazards. The following hazards cause the most trenching and excavation injuries: No Protective system Am I In Danger? All excavations are hazardous because they are inherently unstable. If they are restricted spaces they present the additional risks of oxygen depletion, toxic fumes, and water accumulation. If you are not using protective systems or equipment while working in trenches or excavations at your site, you are in danger of suffocating, inhaling toxic materials, fire, drowning, or being crushed by a cave-in. How Do I Avoid Hazards? Pre-job planning is vital to accident-free trenching; safety cannot be improvised as work progresses. The following concerns must be addressed by a competent person:
Failure to Inspect Trench and Protective Systems Am I In Danger? If trenches and excavations at your site are not inspected daily for evidence of possible cave-ins, hazardous atmospheres, failure of protective systems, or other unsafe conditions, you are in danger. How Do I Avoid Hazards? Inspect excavations:
(To be continued) (DV)
According to SANS 10085: 5.9 Scaffold boards 5.9.1 Timber scaffold board
Cave-ins are perhaps the most feared trenching hazard. But other potentially fatal hazards exist, including asphyxiation due to lack of oxygen in a confined space, inhalation of toxic fumes, drowning, etc. Electrocution or explosions can occur when workers contact underground utilities. Safety and health programs address the variety of hazards. The following hazards cause the most trenching and excavation injuries: No Protective system Am I In Danger? All excavations are hazardous because they are inherently unstable. If they are restricted spaces they present the additional risks of oxygen depletion, toxic fumes, and water accumulation. If you are not using protective systems or equipment while working in trenches or excavations at your site, you are in danger of suffocating, inhaling toxic materials, fire, drowning, or being crushed by a cave-in. How Do I Avoid Hazards? Pre-job planning is vital to accident-free trenching; safety cannot be improvised as work progresses. The following concerns must be addressed by a competent person:
Failure to Inspect Trench and Protective Systems Am I In Danger? If trenches and excavations at your site are not inspected daily for evidence of possible cave-ins, hazardous atmospheres, failure of protective systems, or other unsafe conditions, you are in danger. How Do I Avoid Hazards? Inspect excavations:
(To be continued) (DV)
According to SANS 10085: 5.9 Scaffold boards 5.9.1 Timber scaffold board
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Hard hats 
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Boots
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Safety belts
