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H & S Guidance - Abrasive Wheels

An abrasive wheel is usually defined as a wheel consisting of abrasive particles bonded together using organic or inorganic substances such as resin.

LEGISLATION

Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER 98)

Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations 1992 (as amended)

HAZARDS

Includes wheel breakage/bursting, contact or entanglement with running wheel, physical injury from component being ground, noise and dust inhalation.

The risk of breakage is inherent in every abrasive wheel. Statistics show that nearly half of all accidents involving abrasive wheels are due to an unsafe system of work or operator error.

PROVISION & USE OF WORK EQUIPMENT REGULATIONS 1998 (PUWER)

The primary objective of PUWER is to ensure that work equipment, including abrasive wheels, do not give rise to risks to health and safety, regardless of the work equipment's age, condition or origin. PUWER applies to all workplaces and work situations subject to the Health and Safety at Work Etc. Act 1974 (HASWA) and revoked the remaining provisions of the Abrasive Wheels Regulations 1970.

PUWER requires all machinery to be suitable for it's intended use; to be properly maintained; and that persons using, supervising or managing the use of abrasive wheels are fully informed and adequately trained for health and safety purposes. The Approved Code of Practice and Guidance to the Regulations contains the following advice, specific to the use of abrasive wheels:

(a) To minimise the risk of bursting, abrasive wheels should always be run within the specified maximum rotation speed.

(b) If they are large enough, this will be marked on the wheel (a requirement of regulation 23)

(c) Smaller wheels should have a notice fixed in the workroom, giving the individual or class maximum permissible rotation speed.

(d) The power driven spindle should be governed so that its rotation speed does not exceed this.

(e) Guarding must be provided to contain fragments of the wheel that might fly off if it did burst, to prevent them from injuring anyone in the workplace. The guarding has an additional role in helping to meet the requirements of regulation 11; it should be designed, constructed and maintained to fulfil both functions.

(f) Providing information and training of workers in the correct handling and mounting of abrasive wheels (including pre-mounting and storing procedures) is also necessary to prevent the risk of bursting.

HSE's Guidance Document 'Safety in the Use of Abrasive Wheels' (HSG17) expands on how the general requirements of PUWER relate to abrasive wheels and should be read in conjunction with the PUWER Code of Practice. Dust, vibration and noise matters are dealt with in other guidance documents.

PRECAUTIONS/SAFETY MEASURES

Given an abrasive wheel is of sound manufacture, mounted on a well–designed machine, safe operation depends largely on proper maintenance and on the treatment to which the wheel is subjected when in use. The following are among the main operating precautions to consider. Each is further explained and discussed in the guidance publication HSG17 and detailed information is also given on the marking systems for wheels, suitable storage facilities, mounting procedures and tables of maximum permissible speeds for each type of wheel. Reference to this document is essential if you use abrasive wheels at work.

* Training -Regulation 9 of PUWER requires all persons using, supervising and managing work equipment to receive adequate training for the purposes of health and safety. HSG17 suggests the components that should be included in a training programme and recommends that a record of training be kept. A suggested format is given as follows:

Appointment

Revocation

Name of Person Class or description of wheels for which the appointment is made

Date of appointment

Signature of occupier Date of revocation of appointment Signature of occupier

* Examination -by visual examination and, if practicable, by 'ring' test with a light non-metallic implement. Also need careful handling and secure/suitable storage.
* Speed of rotation –·is EXTREMELY IMPORTANT as the centrifugal force increases as the square of the speed. Recommended peripheral speed must never be exceeded.
* Restrictions of use-·Certain markings will indicate restrictions of use, eg: RE3: not suitable for wet grinding
* Shelf life-All organic bonded wheels will bear a use-by date of three years from the date of manufacture.
* Grinding Machine Considerations include suitability of spindles; machine bearings; speed contol; work rests (steel, renewable top plate, securely clamped, adjustable); insufficient power; stopping devices; magnetic tables and chucks; proper mounting of wheels; guarding; wheel enclosure angles specified for various types of machine; portable, hand held, internal combustion and pneumatic grinders; electrical considerations (double insulated, abrasion resistant cabling, reduced voltage); planned inspection and maintenance; tidy work environment/even floor surface around machine.
* Operation--Wheel to be 'trued & dressed' (to avoid excessive vibration, impaired cutting action) and balanced.Side grinding is dangerous unless operator is competent in its application in specific circumstances.Choice of grinding fluids may adversely affect strength of wheel if chosen incorrectly.Dust from the grinding of magnesium alloys can create a fire and explosion risk if ignited and fatalities have resulted when clothing has caught fire and explosions have occurred in dust extraction and settling systems. Precautionary measures include: 'the prohibition of smoking, open lights, fire and other causes of ignition; the provision of appliances for the interception, removal and drenching of dust by exhaust appliances and scrubbers; and the provision of protective clothing. Dust extraction and settling systems should be kept clean and free from deposits of dried sludge, which must be removed from the scrubber and the work room.Eye protection/shields must be used when using power-driven cutting off wheel, truing or dressing or dry grinding where there is a risk of injury from thrown particles. Loose clothing, ties, coat sleeves are easily drawn into a revolving wheel and should not be worn.

CHECKLIST - ABRASIVE WHEELS

1. Have you informed and adequately trained those involved in the use, mounting, supervision of persons to mount abrasive wheels? YES NO
2. Have you recorded relevant details of the above training and distribution of information,instructions, etc.? YES NO
3. Do you have a procedure/system for maintaining your grinding machine? YES NO
4. Do you keep records of maintenance/inspections of machines? YES NO
5. Do you provide & maintain suitable eye protection/shields/dust protection? YES NO
6. .Do you provide suitable storage for abrasive wheels? YES NO
7. Do you check that safety precautions are being observed? YES NO

REFERENCES/FURTHER DETAILS

Publications

1.

Booklet HS(G)17

Safety in the use of Abrasive Wheels (HSE)

(ISBN 0 7176 1739 4)(2000) (?7.00)

2.

Booklet L22

Safe Use of Work Equipment – Approved Code of Practice and Guidance on Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (HSE) (ISBN 0 7176 1626 6)

H & S Guidance - Access Equipment/Ladders

INTRODUCTION

Access to buildings or parts of buildings can be achieved by the use of scaffolds or ladders. This guidance will seek to highlight the main causes of accidents involving such access equipment and recommend precautions and procedures to control the risk.

LADDERS

(The term ladder will be taken to include step ladders and trestles)

The ladder is the most useful and most commonly used tool for access from one level to another. Each year there are between 3000 and 4000 serious accidents involving ladders and around 50 of these prove fatal. A proportion (approx. 10%) of accidents are caused by the ladders themselves being faulty but the overwhelming majority are, however, caused by human error.

Main causes of accidents include:- ladders slipping; erection at the wrong angle; over-reaching/over-balancing; slippery rungs; overloading; ladders resting against fragile or moveable structures; materials falling; incorrect (short) size; use in adverse weather; contact with live electrical conductors; lack of use of crawling boards; defective condition of ladder.

PRECAUTIONS

A safe systems of work can generally be achieved by management planning before work starts and by controlling the way work is carried out. Specifically this could entail the following:-

(1) Consider alternatives i.e. can the job be done more safely in a different way e.g. a temporary working platform or stage is inherently a much safer means of access.

(2) Examine the circumstances of intended use e.g. can the ladder be secured; site conditions; suitability of the ladder (length, type, location etc.) and nature of the structure against which the ladder is to rest.

(3) Ensure safe practices - There is extensive published guidance on the safe use of ladders (see References/Further Details section). A prime safety consideration is for the ladder to be secured (at top and bottom where practicable) so as to prevent slippage. Footing a ladder is only considered to be effective for ladders of not more than 6 metres in overall length. A number of proprietary securing devices are available from ladder suppliers. Further considerations include:

* ladders to extend at least 1.05m above the landing place or the highest rung on which the user has to stand (unless handhold available)
* angle of erection to be about 1 unit out for every 4 units in height
* minimum recommendations of overlap for extension ladders to be observed
* for step ladders - side leaning to be avoided and to be placed at right angles to the work whenever possible.
* for roof ladders - proper securing (not to guttering); proper positioning of the ridge hook or iron and securing to the access ladder to prevent movement

(4) Provide comprehensive and comprehensible information, instruction and training regarding safe working methods when using, raising, carrying and storing ladders.

(5) Establish a system of maintenance. This should include user checks and periodic examinations by a competent person. A register of ladders should make the control of a maintenance programme easier. Defective ladders should be removed from service immediately, labelled and either repaired or replaced. You may wish to issue checklists to users, supervisors, ladder checkers to supplement training.

GENERAL ACCESS SCAFFOLDS

This guidance will consider general access scaffolds to be any temporarily provided structure on - or from which - people perform work or obtain access to places of work either for themselves or for materials. Again comprehensive advice is available to help you ensure a safe workplace and safe systems of work (see References/Further Details section). In summary, areas for consideration include:-

* Erection of the scaffolding - loading; base (strength, stability); standards (vertical tubes) and ladders (horizontal members) - design, strength, suitability, bracing; ties and stability; putlogs, board bearers/transoms; toe boards and guard rails
* After erection of scaffolding - scaffold should be inspected regularly, and at least once a week after erection, following bad weather or high winds. The person inspecting needs to be competent and reports recorded on the prescribed form F91. An inspection checklist could be provided to supplement training.
* Competence and training - effective training of scaffolders is probably the most important factor in preventing accidents. Numerous courses are available (see Reference/Further Details section).
* Protection of the public - measures to protect the public and particularly children will be similar to those outlined above but there will also be an enhanced need for warning notices, barriers/diversions and appropriate levels of protection and supervision.

TOWER SCAFFOLDS

Accidents involving tower scaffolds are mainly caused by poor standards of erection and misuse. From published guidance (see References) about the erection, use and dismantling of scaffold towers the following areas of safety should be considered:-

* General - type of tower; manufacturers instructions; competencies
* Erection of tower - loading; vertical and horizontal members; ties and stability; working platforms; guard rails; toe boards and access.
* After erection of the tower - prohibit extension by ladders on the top platform; co-ordinated use of towers and associated precautions; inspection by competent person after exposure to adverse weather, and at least weekly (on prescribed form F91); careful dismantling.
* Checking of towers - checklists will help make maintenance programmes easier to monitor and control; should include base, castors, tubes and framework, joints, boards, guard rail and toe boards, bracing and stability.

SUSPENDED ACCESS EQUIPMENT

Suspended access equipment is used to provide access to the exterior of structures for activities such as painting, cleansing etc. Safety considerations include safety of access and egress to all parts of the installation; erection and dismantling of temporary equipment; the working platform; safe working loads; the suspension system (including use of fibre ropes, winches and climbing devices; electrical installation for powered winches; the roof rig; training and protection of the public. Published guidance is available of all of these matters (see References)

CHECKLIST - ACCESS EQUIPMENT/LADDERS

1. Do you use access equipment in your workplace (i.e. ladders, step ladders, tower scaffolds, general access scaffolds)? Yes No

Ladders

2. Do you have a maintenance system for ladders incorporating a register, user checks, periodic examinations and withdrawal of defective items? Yes No
3. Is each ladder uniquely marked/referenced to aid maintenance procedures? Yes No
4. Have you informed, instructed and trained all appropriate staff? Is this training recorded? Yes No
5. 5.Have you considered issuing basic guidelines on the safe use of ladders etc.? Yes No

Other Access Equipment

6. Have you established maintenance and supervision systems for such equipment? Yes No
7. Do you ensure the competency of erectors, contractors etc.? Yes No
8. Have you informed, instructed and trained appropriate staff? Is this training recorded? Yes No
9. Have you considered issuing checklist/basic guidelines on the safe use of such equipment? Yes No
10. Are manufacturers' instruction manuals retained and kept readily accessible (if appropriate)? Yes No

REFERENCES

1. Guidance Note CIS10 – Tower scaffolds (HSE)
2. Guidance Note CIS49 - General access scaffolds and ladders (HSE)
3. Booklet HS(G)150- Health and safety in construction. (HSE)

Useful Address
1. National Federation of Building Trades Employers, 83 New Cavendish Street, London W1M 8AD.

H & S Guidance - Accident Reporting

INTRODUCTION

For most businesses a reportable accident, dangerous occurrence or case of disease is a comparatively rare event. However, employers, self-employed or persons in control of work premises should be aware that they still have duties under the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 1995 (RIDDOR'95). The free booklet HSE 31 [RIDDOR Explained] contains a summary of the main requirements and a pro-forma copy of a report form that can be photocopied for use as necessary. The booklet could be kept handy in case you need to make a report.

Information from reported accidents etc. enables enforcing authorities to identify where and how risks arise and to investigate accidents as considered appropriate.

WHEN TO ACT?

Death or Major Injury

If there is an accident connected with work and:

* your employee, or a self-employed person working on your premises, is killed or suffers a major injury (including the result of physical violence); or
* a member of the public is killed or taken to hospital;

You must notify the enforcing authority without delay (e.g. by telephone). They will ask for brief details about your business, the injured person and the accident; and

* within ten days you must follow this up with a completed accident report form (F2508). This can be via the Incident Contact Centre, see below.

Over-three-day injury

If there is an accident connected with work (including an act of physical violence) and your employee, or a self-employed person working on your premises, suffers an over-three-day injury you must send a completed accident report form (F2508) to the enforcing authority within ten days. This can be via the incident Contact Centre (see below). An over three-day injury is one which is not major but results in the injured person being away from work or unable to do their normal work for more than three days (including non-work days).

Disease

If a doctor notifies you in writing that your employee suffers from a reportable work-related disease then you must send a completed disease report form (F2508A) to the enforcing authority. A self employed person notified verbally by his/her doctor that they are suffering from a reportable work related disease is obliged to report the matter to their enforcing authority. A summary of the reportable diseases is given later.

Dangerous Occurrence

If something happens which does not result in a reportable injury, but which clearly could have done, then it may be a dangerous occurrence which must be reported immediately (e.g. by telephone). A summary of the reportable dangerous occurrences is given later.

Within ten days you must follow this up with a completed accident report form (F2508). This can be via the Incident Contact Centre.

What if I'm self-employed?

If you are working in someone else's premises and suffer either a major injury or an injury which means you cannot do your normal work for more than three days, then they will be responsible for reporting, so, where possible, you should make sure they know about it.

If you or a member of the public is injured while you are working on your own premises, or if there is a dangerous occurrence there, or if a doctor tells you that you have a work-related disease or condition, then you need to report it. However, as a self-employed person you don't need to notify immediately if you suffer a major injury on your own premises. Either you or someone acting for you should send in a report form within 10 days.

Who do I report to?

You have the option of reporting to the Incident Contact Centre or direct to your enforcing authority.

You can report to the Incident Contact Centre via a number of methods:
by phone 0845 300 9923 ?(8.30 am-5.00pm)
by fax 0845 300 9924 ?(anytime)
by Internet www.riddor.gov.uk ?(anytime)
by email riddor@natbrit.com
by post Incident Contact Centre, Caerphilly Business Park, Caerphilly CF83 3GG

If your business is office-based, retail or wholesale, warehousing, hotel and catering, sports or leisure, residential accommodation (excluding nursing homes) or concerned with places of worship you may alternatively report direct to the local authority .

Keeping records

Appropriate records must be kept, for example by keeping copies of completed F2508/ F2508A report forms or recording the details on a computer.

What are reportable major injuries?

* fracture other than to fingers, thumbs or toes;
* amputation;
* dislocation of the shoulder, hip, knee or spine;
* loss of sight (temporary or permanent)
* chemical or hot metal burn to the eye or any penetrating injury to the eye;
* injury resulting from an electric shock or electrical burn leading to unconsciousness; or requiring resuscitation; or requiring admittance to hospital for more than 24 hours;
* unconsciousness caused by asphyxia or exposure to harmful substance or biological agent;
* acute illness requiring medical treatment, or loss of consciousness arising from absorption of any substance by inhalation, ingestion or through the skin;
* acute illness requiring medical treatment where there is reason to believe that this resulted from exposure to a biological agent or its toxins or infected material.

What are reportable dangerous occurrences?

From the complete list, those most likely to be of relevance in the local authority enforced sector include:-

(i)collapse, overturning or failure of load bearing parts of lifts and lifting equipment

(ii)explosion, collapse or bursting of any closed vessel or associated pipework

(iii)electrical short ciruit or overload causing fire or explosion

(iv)unintended collapse of any building or structure under construction, alteration or demolition where over 5 tonnes of material falls a wall or floor in any place of work or any false-work.

(v)accidental release of any substance which may damage health

NB - THE FULL LIST CAN BE FOUND IN LEAFLET HSE31 OR IN THE GUIDE TO REGULATIONS.

What are reportable diseases?

These include certain poisonings, some skin diseases such as occupational dermatitis, skin cancer, oil folliculitis/acne, lung diseases including occupational asthma, asbestosis and mesothelioma, certain infections (e.g. leptospirosis) and other conditions (e.g. occupational cancer, certain musculoskeletal disorders).

NB - THE FULL LIST CAN BE FOUND IN THE GUIDE TO THE REGULATIONS

A proforma copy of the injury/dangerous occurrence reporting form (F2508) is included in this element. ?It can be photocopied and used to notify your enforcing authority of such incidents.

CHECKLIST - ACCIDENT REPORTING (RIDDOR)

1. Have you/your line managers or supervisors (access to) written instructions or advice on RIDDOR '95? YES NO
2. Do you make all staff aware of the need to report work-related injuries, dangerous occurrences or cases of disease? YES NO
3. Do you know who to report injuries, dangerous occurrences, and cases of disease to? YES NO
4. .Do you have a supply of the reportable injury etc. form (F2508)? YES NO

REFERENCES/FURTHER DETAILS

Publications

1. RIDDOR explained - Free Leaflet (HSE31) (HSE). www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/hse31.pdf

*Available to view by prior arrangement at your Local Authority Environmental Health Department .

2. A guide to the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 1995 - L73(HSE) ISBN 0 7176 2431 5

H & S Guidance - Aids/HIV and Hepatitis B

INTRODUCTION

BBVs are viruses that some people carry in their blood and which may cause severe disease in certain people and few or no symptoms in others. The virus can still spread to another person, whether or not the infected person has symptoms.

HIV/ AIDS

HIV stands for human immunodeficiency virus. Several weeks after infection with the virus, antibodies are produced but they are ineffective and do not destroy the virus. It is these antibodies that are detected by blood tests and, if they are found, a person is said to be 'HIV positive'. People with HIV usually have no symptoms for a prolonged period of time, while the virus acts slowly to weaken the body's immune system.

HIV particularly attacks the type of white blood cell called CD4 cells. When the CD4 count is very low the body's immune system is very weak.

AIDS stands for acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. When a person's immune system has been broken down he or she is susceptible to other illnesses, especially infections (eg. tuberculosis and pneumonia) and cancers, many of which are not normally a threat to a healthy person. At that severe stage of infection the person is often diagnosed as having AIDS.

Usually the cause of illness and eventual death in a person with HIV is not the virus itself, but illnesses to which the virus has made the person vulnerable. People with HIV infection will almost certainly die prematurely.

Recent advances in treatment by combination anti-retroviral therapy (sometimes called Highly Active Anti-Retroviral Therapy or HAART) have enormously improved survival rates in countries which can afford these drugs and have the infrastructure to deliver them safely and effectively.

HEPATITIS B,C and D

Hepatitis is the Latin word for liver inflammation. Hepatitis B,C and D are caused by a virus which causes an acute inflammation of the liver and can lead eventually to chronic illness.

Not all those with acute hepatitis have symptoms. Depending on type, a certain number will go on to develop chronic infection but even then many may experience mild symptoms only or no symptoms at all and may remain unaware of their infection. 15-20 years after infection, patients may develop cirrhosis which can lead to liver failure (currently 1 in 300) and other serious complications.

The consequences of contracting any of these infections is therefore extremely serious and ultimately could be life threatening.

A vaccine which is very effective against type B Hepatitis is available but should be regarded as a supplement to other control measures.

Unfortunately, there is no vaccine to prevent other BBV infection.

METHODS OF SPREAD

HIV , Hepatitis B, C and D are passed on:

(i) By unprotected penetrative sexual intercourse with an infected person (between men or between men and women) (this risk for Hepatitis C is very small)

(ii) By the introduction of infected blood or body fluids into the bloodstream of an uninfected person eg, by sharing needles, needle stick injuries, broken glass.

(iii) From an infected mother to her baby, normally before or during birth or via breast-feeding (rare in case of Hepatitis C).

(iv) Through contact with blood (or, in very rare cases, other body fluids) through open wounds, skin abrasions, skin damaged due to conditions such as eczema or through splashes to the eyes, nose and mouth. This might occur when mopping up by hand a spillage of blood or other body fluids.

(v) Possibly transmission may occur through sharing of toothbrushes or razors, if contaminated with blood.

Type B hepatitis is highly infectious, much more so than HIV.

There is no evidence that the above can be spread in swimming pools, by sharing public transport, or from insect bites or by daily workplace activities, such as sitting next to someone, shaking hands or working with others.

HIV is NOT TRANSMITTED through intact skin or by normal domestic contact, eg holding hands, kissing, cuddling, coughing or sneezing, sharing bathrooms and toilets, crockery or kitchen utensils.

Urine, faeces, saliva, sputum (spit), tears, sweat and vomit carry a minimal risk of BBV infection, unless they are contaminated with blood.

Care should always be taken as the presence of blood is not obvious. HIV can remain infectious in dried blood and liquid blood for several weeks and Hepatitis B for even longer.

HIV/HEPATITIS B AND THE WORKPLACE

Many people are concerned that they may be at risk of catching these diseases from colleagues at work. In the vast majority of occupations, work does not involve any risk of acquiring or transmitting BBVs from one employee to another. Current medical opinion indicates that the risk of becoming infected in virtually all occupations is very low. Everyday normal, social and work contact is perfectly safe. Employers should review working methods to see whether there is such a risk to their employees or the public. Occupations in which a risk may exist lie mainly in the health care services where special guidance has been issued.

Types of work where there may be contact with blood/body fluids:

* Custodial services (prisons/detention centres/homes)
* Education
* Embalming and crematorium work¨
* Emergency services
* First aid
* Hairdressing and beauticians work
* Health care (hospitals, clinics, dental surgeries, pathology departments, community nursing, acupuncture, chiropody, associated cleaning services)
* Laboratory work (forensic, research)
* Local authority services (street cleaning/park maintenance/ refuse disposal/ public lavatory maintenance)
* Medical/dental equipment repair
* Military¨Mortuary work
* Needle exchange service
* Plumbing
* Sewage processing
* Social service
* Tattooing, ear and body piercing
* Vehicle recovery and repair

Specific legislation on hazards that arise from working with biological agents such as BBVs is contained in the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 1999 (COSHH). Under COSHH you have a legal duty to assess the risk of infection for employees and others affected by your work.

Prevention/Control Measures:

* Prohibit eating, drinking, smoking and the application of cosmetics in working areas where there is a risk of contamination.
* Avoid use of or exposure to, sharps such as needles, glass, metal etc, or if unavoidable take care in handling and disposal.
* Consider the use of devices incorporating safety procedures, such as safe needle devices and blunt ended scissors.
* Cover all breaks in skin by waterproof dressings and gloves.
* Protect the eyes and mouth by using a visor/goggles/safety spectacles and a mask, where splashing is possible.
* Use water resistant protective clothing, rubber boots, plastic disposable overshoes¨
* Use good basic hygiene practices such as proper handwashing.
* Use of appropriate disinfection/decontamination techniques.
* Safe disposal of contaminated waste- it may be classified as clinical waste and therefore be subject to strict control.

The risk to first-aiders

First-aiders in particular are likely to be concerned about the possibility of having to deal with people who may be infected. The best reassurance, to demonstrate the extremely low risk involved, is likely to come from the provision of full and frank information about the infection and how it is transmitted. There have been no reported cases of infection arising from the administration of first aid. Standard hygiene precautions are equally effective against HIV infection. Employers should ensure that first aid training is reviewed and that first-aiders receive up-to-date advice on AIDS. Further advice for first-aiders may be obtained from HSE and ACAS.

Provided first-aiders take proper precautions, there should be virtually no risk involved in giving first aid. The only risks arise if infected blood or body fluids enter the body through breaks in the skin or the surfaces of the eyes or mouth. First aid in the workplace should only be carried out by trained first-aiders who have been instructed about standard precautions to prevent infection.

Precautions to be taken in giving first aid include:

(i)Before attempting to deal with an open wound or where blood is present persons should:

* Wash their hands before carrying out first aid treatment and always wash them afterwards.
* Always cover their own cuts and abrasions with a waterproof dressing. If they have a skin condition, such as eczema, psoriasis or chapped hands, then disposable gloves should be worn.
* Use suitable eye protection and disposable plastic aprons if splashing is possible.

(ii)Mouth-to-mouth resuscitation has never resulted in a case of HIV infection. Polythene shields ("resusciades") are available through many first aid equipment suppliers. These devices can be placed over the face of the patient to allow for resuscitation without physical contact. These must not be used unless employees have been specifically trained in their use. The absence of such equipment is no reason to withhold mouth-to-mouth resuscitation.

(iii)If a person is bleeding from the mouth, a clean cloth should be used to wipe away any blood. The flow of blood can be stopped by putting pressure on a wound using suitable material, like a clean cloth. Hands and any other part of the body contaminated should be washed with soap and water. (Mucous membranes, such as in the mouth or eyes, should be rinsed with water only.)

Dealing with spillages of body fluids:

* Wear disposable gloves if possible.
* Use absorbent paper towels to cover the spillage.
* Pour diluted bleach (1 part bleach to 10 parts water) on to the paper towels and leave it for at least 2 minutes before wiping up. Where it is not appropriate to use bleach (for instance to disinfect a small spill on a carpet or clothing), hot soapy water is a reasonable alternative.
* Waste disposal: small soiled items such as tissues and tampons can be flushed down the toilet. Larger items soiled with material which may be infected should be sealed securely in plastic bags and disposed of as clinical waste.
* Disposable gloves should be washed with soap and hot water to remove all traces of blood before they are removed and then disposed of. The hands should then be washed again.
* Clothing or linen soiled with blood or body fluids can be washed in the washing machine on a hot cycle.

'Sharps' injuries:

* Certain situations (e.g, accidents involving broken glass or needles) may present a risk of puncture wounds from 'sharps', which may be contaminated with body fluids. Used needles and other sharps should be placed in a proper sharps container. Stout gloves must always be used when handling sharps.
* If there is an accident with a 'sharp', the wound should be encouraged to bleed and then washed with soap and running water. Splashes to the eyes and nose should be washed out using tap or eyewash water - do not swallow the water. The matter should be recorded in the accident book and medical advice should be sought.
* If, on investigation of an incident, there are seen to be grounds for suspecting a risk of infection, a medical practitioner should be consulted without delay. Any employee who is concerned about potential infection with HIV or Hepatitis B, can seek counselling from the Department of Genito-Urinary Medicine at George Eliot Hospital. Tel: 024 7686 5162.

Working abroad

AIDS is a worldwide disease. In some countries, blood for transfusions may not be checked for HIV infection or medical equipment may be re-used without being properly sterilised. Employers should ensure that employees who travel abroad are told of the risks involved and in particular should be warned of the high risk of infection through casual sexual encounters. Further information may be obtained from the Department of Health's two free booklets about travel abroad: 'Before You Go' and 'While You're Away'.

Employment Law

If an individual with AIDS or HIV infection is dismissed, then he or she may (with the appropriate qualifying service) be able to claim unfair dismissal at an industrial tribunal.

A person with HIV infection is also covered by the Disability Discrimination Act 1995 when the condition leads to an impairment which has some effect on the ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities. Any such individual who is dismissed or discriminated against, because of a reason relating to their disability, may be able to claim discrimination under the Disability Discrimination Act, without any qualifying period of service. The Act makes it unlawful for an employer with 15 or more employees to treat a disabled person less favourably for a reason relating to their disability, without a justifiable reason. Employers are required to make a reasonable adjustment to working conditions or the workplace where that would help to accommodate a particular disabled person.

An AIDS policy

All organisations are advised to develop a policy on AIDS so that if and when problems arise they can be handled in a considered way. Policies should be developed in conjunction with an education programme and employees and their representatives should be consulted. Many unions have developed their own policies on AIDS and union representatives can often make a valuable contribution to the formulation of company policies. Policies will vary with the nature of the organisation. Hepatitis infection may also be considered similarly.

REFERENCES/FURTHER DETAILS

Any employer who feels unable to make an informed assessment of the risks should contact the Employment Medical Advisory Service for advice at the local office of the Health and Safety Executive (01752 276300)

'Blood-borne viruses in the workplace: guidance for employers and employees.' HSE, 2001. (INDG342). Single copies free from HSE Books. www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg342.pdf

Health Services Advisory Committee
Safe disposal of clinical waste
HSE BOOKS 1999 ?ISBN 07176 1670 3

Guidance has been produced by the Advisory committee on Dangerous Pathogens group, entitled 'Protection against blood-borne infections in the workplace: HIV and hepatitis' which provides information for employers to incorporate into local rules. This guidance is available from The Stationery Office or some bookshops (ISBN 0 11 321953 9).

If you want more information on AIDS or would like to talk to a trained advisor, you can call the National AIDS Helpline on 0800 567 123. Calls are free, confidential and available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

National AIDS Helpline
Tel: 0800 567123 – for literature or personal and confidential advic

Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD clinic)
Special Clinic or Genito Urinary Clinic (GU clinic)
Addresses and telephone numbers are listed in local phone books under VD (Venereal disease)

Terrence Higgins Trust BM/AIDS
Terrance Higgins Trust/Lighthouse
52-54 Gray's Inn Road, London WC1X 8JU
Helpline Tel: 020 7242 1010
www.tht.org.uk
Email: info@tht.org.uk

National AIDS Trust
New City Cloisters, 188-196 Old Street, London EC1V 9FR
Tel: 020 7814 6767
Fax: 020 7216 0111
www.nat.org.uk

Department of Health web-site: www.doh.gov.uk

Air Handling Units

Information on the health risks associated with air conditioning systems

Air conditioning systems which use evaporative condensers in their cooling process.

Some air conditioning systems use evaporative condensers in their cooling process, these types of system must be registered with the local authority under The Notification of Cooling Towers and Evaporative Condensers Regulations 1992.

This sort of air conditioning system uses water in an evaporative cooling process and has the potential to cause outbreaks of disease if not properly maintained,
e.g. by producing Legionella bacteria which can cause Legionnaires Disease.

Given the right set of circumstances legionella can multiply and cause infection in people who inhale airborne water droplets containing the bacteria.

For this reason all air conditioning systems which use evaporative condensers within an area must be registered with the local council's Environmental Health service.

The primary purpose of cooling tower and condenser registration is ensure that the relevant enforcing authority can be satisfied that suitable control measures are in place to protect employees and the general public from the risk of infection by organisms such as legionella.

Download the Cooling Tower and Evaporative Condenser registration form in Adobe Acrobat format.

form not yet operative >> e-mail an enquiry to your local council

Risks of Legionnaires' disease

Legionnaires' disease is a type of pneumonia. The agent that causes Legionnaires' disease is a bacterium called Legionella pneumophilia. People catch Legionnaires' disease by inhaling small droplets of water suspended in the air, which contain the bacteria.

Certain conditions increase the risk from legionella:

* a suitable temperature for growth, 20°C to 45°C;
* a source of nutrients for the organism, eg sludge, scale, rust, algae, and other organic matter; and
* a way of creating and spreading breathable droplets, eg the aerosol created by a cooling tower or spa pool.

Outbreaks of the illness occur from exposure to legionella growing in purpose-built systems where the water is maintained at a temperature high enough to encourage growth, eg cooling towers, evaporative condensers, spa pools, and hot water systems used in all sorts of premises (work and domestic).

Most community outbreaks in the UK have been linked to installations such as cooling towers, which can spread droplets of water over a wide area. These are found as part of air-conditioning and industrial cooling systems.

To prevent exposure to the legionella bacteria, employers must comply with legislation that requires them to manage, maintain and treat water systems in their premises properly. This will include, but not be limited to, appropriate water treatment and cleaning regimes.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) have produced an Approved Code of Practice and Guidance on controlling legionella bacteria in water systems to assist employers in assessing the risk of employees and others in the workplace contracting Legionnaires' disease. Copies of the guidance can be obtained from HSE books.

Useful HSE web site links

* Information about Legionnaires' Disease - www.hse.gov.uk/biosafety/diseases/legionnaires.htm

H & S Guidance - Asbestos

INTRODUCTION

If you own, manage or have responsibilities for a workplace building that may contain asbestos, you need to think about the risk of exposure to workers and others who may use the building. You need to be able to identify, assess and manage any asbestos materials on your premises.

ASBESTOS - THE DANGERS

Asbestos is the greatest single cause of work-related deaths. Asbestos-related diseases (mesothelioma, asbestosis and lung cancer) are thought to kill up to 3,000 people each year, with these figures expected to rise until around 2010. These diseases take a long time to develop, which means that the people who are suffering and dying today were exposed to asbestos many years ago.

Huge amounts of asbestos were installed in buildings during the 1950s, 1960s and 1970s, and much of it is still in place today. Electricians, plumbers, building maintenance workers, shopfitters and carpenters may still be at risk when carrying out refurbishment, repairs etc. on buildings which contain asbestos. It is also now thought possible that repeated low level exposures, such as could occur during routine repair work, may also lead to asbestos induced cancers.

There is no cure for asbestos-related diseases. Blue (crocidolite) and brown (amosite) asbestos are known to be more hazardous than white (chrysotile). In general the more asbestos dust inhaled, the greater the risk to health.

WHAT LAW APPLIES?

* The Control of Asbestos at Work Regulations 2002
* The Asbestos (Licensing) Regulations 1983
* The Asbestos (Prohibitions) Regulations 1992

The Control of Asbestos at Work Regulations 2002(CAWR)

These regulations lay down the practices that must be followed for all work with asbestos, including that which requires a licence. Employers must prevent the exposure of employees to asbestos or, where this is not reasonably practicable, reduce exposure to a level that is as low as possible. The Regulations also require the:

* provision and cleaning of protective clothing;
* cleanliness of premises and plant;
* demarcation of designated "asbestos areas";
* monitoring of air for concentrations of asbestos;
* maintenance of health records and medical surveillance;
* provision of washing and changing facilities; and
* labelling of raw asbestos and asbestos waste.

The Asbestos (Licensing) Regulations 1983

These regulations require work with the most dangerous types of asbestos - coating, insulation (lagging) and asbestos insulating board, to be carried out only by contractors who have a licence issued by the Health and Safety Executive.

'Coatings' includes fire protection mixtures, applied by spray or hand, and decorative and textured finishes.

'Insulation' includes lagging and infill, pre-formed sections of pipe insulation and millboards

'Asbestos insulating board' is a lightly compressed board made from asbestos fibre and hydrated Portland cement or calcium silicate with other filler materials and can be used for structural purposes e.g. as a partition.

Not included are:

Articles made of rubber, plastic, resin or bitumen, but which also contain asbestos, e.g. vinyl floor tiles, electric cables and roofing felts; other asbestos products which may be used at high temperature but have no insulation purposes such as gaskets, washers, ropes and seals and asbestos cement products.

Asbestos cement, normally found in the form of roofing sheets, wall boards, soffits, gutters, drainpipes and flues, is a mixture of cement and asbestos which in a dry state has a density greater than 1 tonne per cubic metre. If you are unable to distinguish whether material is asbestos cement or insulating board, you will have to have a sample analysed to determine its bulk density.

There are 3 exemptions from the requirement to hold a licence:

a)work of short duration;

b)air monitoring or sample collection to identify asbestos;

c)if you are an employer carrying out work with your own employees. You will, however, still have to formally notify your enforcing authority (under Reg.5) of the work to be carried out.

'Work' includes sealing or painting damaged asbestos insulating board or insulation or coating.

CAWR also still applies even to exempt work and work with asbestos cement, which means that the precautions outlined in CAWR must be taken and Maximum Exposure Levels also apply.

If you think that exemptions (a) and (c) apply, you should consult the enforcing authority for further advice.

Notification to Enforcing Authority

You must give the relevant enforcing authority 14 days written notice of your intention to carry out the work

The amended regulations also increase HSE's discretionary power to revoke a licence if the holder is found to be in breach of any health and safety legislation.

For details of licensed contractors and details of how to apply for a licence, contact the HSE Asbestos Licensing Unit, Belford House, 59 Belford Road, Edinburgh EH14 3UE Telephone: 0131 247 2135; Fax: 0131 247 2143.

The Asbestos (Prohibitions) Regulations 1992 as amended.

These regulations prohibit the importation into the United Kingdom, and the supply and use within Great Britain, of amphibole asbestos - crocidolite (blue) asbestos and amosite (brown) asbestos, and, as amended in 1999, of chrysotile (white) asbestos. These regulations do not cover the supply and fitting of asbestos-containing vehicle brake linings. This is prohibited by separate regulations from the Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions - The Road Vehicles (Brake Linings Safety) Regulations 1999

Proposed Duty to Manage Asbestos

WHERE IS ASBESTOS FOUND IN BUILDINGS?

* Sprayed/loose packed asbestos - eg. as fire breaks in ceiling voids
* Sprayed coatings and laggings - eg. insulation of pipework
* Sprayed asbestos & cement mixture - fire protection
* Insulating boards - fire protection, thermal insulation
* Some ceiling tiles
* Asbestos board/paper products in electrical equipment
* Asbestos cement products - roofing & wall cladding
* Certain textured coatings

In general, the materials that contain a high percentage of asbestos are more easily damaged and the above list is roughly in order of ease of fibre release.

MANAGING ASBESTOS

Asbestos may be present if the building was constructed or refurbished between 1950 - 1980 and particularly if it also has a steel frame and/or boilers with thermal insulation. If present, you will need to know the location, form and condition of the material. You might need to arrange to analyse samples of materials that you suspect contain asbestos. Do not break or damage such material - samples should only be taken by suitably trained people (look for UKAS or NAMAS accredited companies under 'Laboratories' or 'Analytical Research Chemists' in Yellow Pages).

Assessing the condition of asbestos materials involves considering the risk of asbestos fibres being released into the air:

* Is the material being/likely to be disturbed?
* Is the surface damaged, frayed or scratched?
* Are surface sealants peeling or breaking off?
* Is the material becoming detached from its base?
* Are protective coverings missing?
* Is there asbestos dust or debris in the immediate surrounding area?

Deciding what to do depends on the condition and type of the material:

a)Good condition/not likely to be damaged/not likely to be worked on

>>>Safest to leave the material in place and introduce a management system.

For this to be effective the owner/occupier of the premises must be in a position to exercise control over access by workers, contractors etc. and be prepared to exercise that control.

b)Poor condition/likely to be damaged or disturbed

>>>Need to repair, seal, enclose or remove

Taking action offers a number of options:

Asbestos left in place
If it is in good condition establish an asbestos management system i.e. keep records and/or a register of where the asbestos is; label materials with warning signs or colour coding so that those who need to know are alerted to its presence

Periodic Inspection is required to ensure the condition of the material has not changed.
Damaged materials can be repaired and either sealed or enclosed to prevent further damage. You will still need to label etc. such areas as part of an asbestos management system.

Periodic Inspection is required to ensure the condition of the material has not changed.

Removal of Asbestos
This should take place where dust release is likely, repair or protection is not practical or where the material is likely to be disturbed during routine maintenance work.

Remember that work on asbestos insulation board, coating & lagging (including sealing & removal) must normally be done only by a contractor licensed by the HSE.

DISPOSAL OF ASBESTOS

Asbestos waste should be double-bagged in heavy-duty polythene bags and clearly labelled with the prescribed label before it is transported to an appropriately licensed disposal site.

The landfill site situated at Tuttle Hill in Nuneaton is licensed to receive asbestos waste.

WHAT YOU SHOULD TELL YOUR WORKERS/CONTRACTORS

Details about any asbestos materials (location, type etc.) and make them aware of any asbestos register. Referral of any enquiries etc should be to an appropriate nominated person identified in the management system.

Precautions to be taken if necessary i.e.

1)Never strip out asbestos insulation - the law requires a specialist contractor to do this to strict rules.

2)Where minor work on materials containing asbestos (e.g. asbestos cement) is to be carried out by workers/ contractors, make sure that they know they are working with asbestos and what precautions they should take e.g.

3)In brief:

* keep all unnecessary personnel out of the work area
* take care not to create dust
* keep the material wet whenever possible
* wear a suitable respirator and protective clothing
* clean up with a type 'H' vacuum cleaner
* not to break up large pieces of asbestos materials
* not to use power tools
* not to expose unprotected workers
* not to take protective clothing home to wash.

Always refer to current guidance or contact the Health and Safety Team for further advice.

REFERENCES/FURTHER DETAILS

Publications

1.A short Guide to Managing Asbestos in Premises (HSE) (INDG223) single copy free (ISBN 0 7176 2564 8)

2.Working with Asbestos in Buildings (1999) (INDG 289) (0 7176 1697 5).

3.The Control of Asbestos at Work: Approved Code of Practice (L27) 1999 0 7176 1673 8

4.Work with asbestos insulation, asbestos coating and asbestos insulating board etc. - Approved Code of Practice (L28) ISBN 0 7176 1674 6

5.Booklet HSG 213-Introduction to Asbestos Essentials(HSE). ISBN 0 71761 901X

H & S Guidance - Battery Charging

INTRODUCTION

Lead-acid industrial batteries are used in two main applications:-

(i)Motive power - to drive/power forklift trucks etc.

(ii)Standby power - to provide backup for equipment in the event of a mains failure.

HAZARDS

* Chemical: Batteries contain sulphuric acid, which is poisonous, corrosive and causes burns/irritation on contact with the skin or eyes.
* Electrical: Short circuits can cause extensive arcing, burning and melting of metal objects and explosion of any charging gases. Electric shocks can also be received both from the batteries and from the charging equipment.
* Explosion: Hydrogen gas is given off by the battery during charging. There is a risk of fire and/or explosion if flammable mixtures of hydrogen with air accumulate.
* Handling: Batteries can be heavy. Mishandling may cause personal injury or damage to the battery or other equipment.

SAFE WORKING PRACTICES

Chemical

* Provision/awareness of eyewash or drench facilities etc.
* Protective clothing (face mask or goggles, apron, gloves)·
* Spillage handling equipment & procedures·
* Advice re:- washing off spillage from clothes/ skin·

Electrical

* Switch charger off before the battery is connected to it, or disconnected from it·
* Use insulated tools·
* No tools or other conductive objects to be placed on top of the battery·
* Remove any metallic items from hands, wrists, neck (e.g. rings, chains etc.), which may cause accidental short circuits·
* Always disconnect the earthed terminal first (often the negative terminal, but not always . . . SO CHECK) and reconnect it last.·
* Ensure knowledge of actions in the event of electric shock.

Explosion

* Provide good ventilation located at a high level immediately above the batteries·
* Designate the charging area 'No Smoking' and 'No Naked Lights'·
* Make sure the battery is topped up to the correct level·
* Ensure all connections are secure before switching on·
* Electrical equipment/sources of ignition to be well away from the charger and below the level of the battery.·

Handling

* Keep batteries upright and properly secured during charging·
* Use the lifting holes provided on the battery container·
* Wear protective clothing and footwear

SAFETY EQUIPMENT

Operators to be issued with, or have ready access to, the following:-

* Goggles
* Rubber or plastic gloves
* Overalls
* Rubber or plastic aprons
* Safety footwear
* Eyewash bottle/station
* Fresh water supply
* First aid facilities

OTHER PRECAUTIONS

* Maintenance records
* Training of operators - recorded and retained

SAFETY SIGNS
Warning Danger - Electric Shock
Danger - Acid
Prohibition No Smoking
No Naked
Mandatory Eye/Hand/Food Protection
Protective Clothing
Information Use of Personal Protective Equipment
Electrical Incident - What to do

DISPOSAL

This should be through an authorised dealer. Batteries should be correctly labelled and stored upright and secure in a safe area.

REFERENCES/FURTHER DETAILS

1.Electric storage batteries - leaflet INDG139 (HSE). www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg139.htm

2.Health and Safety in Retail and Wholesale Warehouses HS(G)76 ISBN 0-11-885731-2 (HSE)

H & S Guidance - Biological Agents

INTRODUCTION

Where there is a potential for occupational exposure, micro-organisms which are hazardous to human health are included as substances hazardous to health under the Control Of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH). Ill-health may arise by exposure to agents such as blue-green algae or via zoonoses (infections transmitted from animals to humans).

BLUE-GREEN ALGAE

Blue-green algae are natural inhabitants of many inland waters. In still waters these algae may multiply sufficiently in summer months to discolour the water such that is appears green, blue-green or greenish brown. The algae 'blooms' or 'scums' that may subsequently form can be toxic to humans, although no human deaths have been attributable to such toxins. Symptoms that have arisen have included dermatitis, asthma, eye irritation, rashes, blistering, abdominal pain, diarrhoea and nausea.

Control of exposure by restricting access is particularly important in pursuits where immersion to any extent or swallowing is likely. For work activities, skin contact can be avoided by the use of personal protective equipment and the provision of adequate hygiene facilities.

OCCUPATIONAL ZOONOSES

The risk to an individual depends on the following:-

1. Current incidence in the U.K.

2. Infectivity of the organism.

3. The route of transmission.

4. The vulnerability of the individual.

5. The severity of the disease.

6. Controls currently in place.

Assessment of risk should be followed by confirmation, if necessary, of means of prevention and control. Health surveillance would be required only where there is a reasonable likelihood that an identifiable disease may arise from occupational exposure and for which there are valid detection techniques.

Appropriate information should be given to employees regarding the health risks from micro-organisms, the symptoms which may indicate infection and the precautions which should be taken. Some occupational zoonoses of relevance in the local authority - enforced sector include the following:-

1. Leptospirosis (Weil's Disease) - through contact with rats urine. Occupations at risk include those having contact with contaminated water (i.e. mainly static or slow flowing bodies of water). This disease can be fatal in up to 20% of cases and is notifiable under the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR).

2. Newcastle Disease - A non life-threatening conjunctivitis; fever and flu-like symptoms caused by virus spread via aerosols from infected birds. Although rare in the U.K., there is a slight potential for exposure to pet shop workers.

3.
Psittacosis (Ornithosis)
- Acquired by contact with infected birds. The disease varies from a flu-like illness to an atypical pneumonia with the possible involvement of other major organs. The number of cases is increasing in England and Wales, with most of those caused by bird contact being associated with pet birds. Occupations at risk include those who deal with 'pet' birds.

4.
Rabies
- An almost invariably fatal acute infection of the central nervous system resulting from the bite of a rabid animal. No reported cases have been contracted in the U.K. during the last 60 years. Animal handlers at kennels would be at potential risk should an incident occur in the U.K.

REFERENCES/FURTHER DETAILS

Publications

1.HELA Circular 6/1 - Blue-Green algae. www.hse.gov.uk/lau/lacs/6-1.htm

2.Leaflet INDG84- Leptospirosis, are you at risk? (HSE).

3.The occupational zoonoses. ISBN 0 1188 6397 5 (HSE).

4.Leaflet AIS2-Common zoonoses in agriculture (HSE). www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/ais2.pdf

H & S Guidance - Business Start Up

INTRODUCTION

If you have recently started your business you may benefit from having an overview of the main legal requirements relating to health and safety. Further details on all of these can be found within this Information System.

MAIN DUTIES

Under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, the main duties of employers are to:

1.Provide equipment and systems of work that are safe and without risks to health.

2.Ensure the safe handling, storage, transport and use of articles and substances.

3.Provide adequate information, instruction, training and supervision.

4.Maintain the workplace in a safe condition, including means of access and egress.

5.Provide a work environment that is safe, including adequate welfare and sanitary facilities.

6.Ensure non-employees are not put at risk.

Employees must:

1.Take reasonable care of themselves and others who could be affected by their actions.

2.Co-operate with their employer on matters of health and safety.

Self-employed persons have duties to:

1.Ensure their own health and safety.

2.Ensure the safety of non-employees who may be put at risk.

The duties above are qualified by the phrase 'so far as is reasonably practicable'. This means that the cost and effort of doing something should be balanced against the risk. The greater the risk posed by a work activity, the greater the control measures will need to be. This process of risk assessment and control is fundamental to effective health and safety performance.

MANAGEMENT OF HEALTH AND SAFETY

The proper and effective management of health and safety will reduce the risk of accidents and occupational ill health.

Good safety management will involve:

* Planning
* Organising
* Controlling
* Monitoring
* Reviewing

Health and Safety policy statements are required in writing when employers employ five or more people. They should include a general statement of policy, a definition of the organisational responsibilities of directors, managers and employees, and details of the arrangements for securing a safe and healthy workplace.

Training should also be carried out whenever necessary and may range from general induction training to more specific/complex matters. A simple, initial training checklist may include the following:

1 Company safety set up/reporting structure

2 Fire and evacuation procedures

3 First aid provision and location

4 Safety Procedures - ??equipment/machines

* processes
* activities
* hazardous locations

5 General safety rules, housekeeping etc.

6 Accident/Ill Health/Defect Reporting

7 Use of personal protective equipment/safety equipment.

NBThis list should not be seen as exhaustive/definitive.

Risk Assessment

This is required for all your work activities and involves:

* identifying hazards
* evaluating risks
* implementing and maintaining control measures
* recording the significant findings of the risk assessment (if you employ five or more persons)
* monitoring and reviewing the assessments.

Competent Person(s)

A competent person(s) must be appointed to help carry out your health and safety responsibilities. They should possess the necessary training, experience, knowledge or other appropriate qualities.

SOME SAFETY ISSUES THAT WILL PROBABLY NEED TO BE COVERED:

1.Fire Safety

* Do you need a Fire Certificate?
* What fire precautions are required?

Full advice can be obtained from your Fire Prevention Officer.

2.First Aid

* There is a need to provide adequate and appropriate first aid equipment, facilities and personnel and to inform employees of your arrangements.

3.Accident/Ill Health Recording and Reporting

* Do all staff know what to do?
* Are procedures in place?

4.Electricity

* Electrical systems and portable electrical appliances (ie. anything fitted with a plug) must be maintained in a safe condition.

5.Hazardous Substances

* The risk from substances hazardous to health must be assessed under the current COSHH Regulations and any necessary control measures implemented and maintained.

6.Manual Handling

* Manual handling activities will need to be assessed and any risks reduced so far as is reasonably practicable.

7.Display Screen Equipment (DSE)

* Where you have 'users' of DSE, an assessment of their workstations must be carried out.

8.Personal Protective Equipment

* Selection, use, storage and maintenance of PPE must be such as to ensure safety. Training of employees will also be required.

9.Work Equipment

* Must be 'suitable' (i.e. safe) and maintained adequately. Contact with dangerous parts must be prevented. Training and instruction must be carried out.

10.Workplace

* Workplaces must be suitably ventilated, heated and lit. They should be clean and not be overcrowded. A sufficient number of sanitary conveniences and washing facilities must be provided, as should facilities to rest and eat meals. Accommodation for non-work clothing and an adequate supply of wholesome drinking water are also required.

11.Registration

* If you employ people in an office or shop (working more than 21 hours in aggregate total) you will need to notify the enforcing authority using form OSR1. Copies of this form are available from your local Council.

12.Compulsory Insurance

* The Employers' Liability (Compulsory Insurance) Act 1969, requires all employers to take out and maintain an insurance policy to cover the cost of any accidents etc. that may arise out of your work activities. A current copy of the certificate should be displayed in your premises.

13.Health and Safety Information

* Health and Safety Law information (poster or leaflets) must be provided and conspicuously displayed. The enforcing authority's address should be written in the appropriate space on the poster as should details of the Employment Medical Advisory Service and named health and safety representatives for the organisation.

14.Record Keeping

* Records that may need to be maintained/kept include:
* Fire Certificate
* Accident Book (compulsory if more than 10 employees)
* Accident Forms (F2508) for 'reportable accidents'
* Health and Safety Policy Statement
* Assessments - risk (general)

COSHH

Manual Handling

Display Screen Equipment

Noise

Personal Protective Equipment

* Statutory inspection certificates

lifting plant and equipment

hoists and lifts

pressure systems

* Equipment maintenance
* Electrical system and appliances
* Training
* Monitoring/surveillance records (re: Control of substances hazardous to health)

REFERENCES/FURTHER DETAILS

You can obtain some further guidance for your business's health and safety requirements for the following web-site links and publications:

Useful Websites

1.Health and Safety Executive (HSE):

All the latest information on a wide range of topics, for example asbestos information page, first aid, stress initiatives, etc. http://www.hse.gov.uk

2.Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) latest information for the realm of health and safety, useful contacts page for professional consultants assistance. http://www.iosh.co.uk

3.Small Business Service (SBS)

Information for new business, addresses, other areas with information not just relating to health and safety http://www.sbs.gov.uk

SEE ALSO:

http://www.safestartup.org

http://www.businesslink.org

http://www.uksafety.net

http://tuc.org.uk

http://hse.gov.uk/startup/index.htm

Useful Publications

1.Management of Health & Safety at Work Regulations 1999 (Approved Code of Practice – L21 – HSE books ISBN 0717 624 889)

2.5 Steps to Risk Assessment (free leaflet INDG 163) available from the HSE or local council offices

3.Fire Safety – An Employers guide (Home Office publications – ISBN 01134 12290) available from HSE books.

H & S Guidance - Carcinogens

INTRODUCTION

Carcinogens are substances, which have cancer-inducing effects on cells in the body. The active agents can be substances to which the body is exposed directly, or ones formed during the metabolism of those substances in the body. Much recent research has been directed at occupational cancer and there are a growing number of substances to which varying degrees of suspicion are attached.

The overall proportion of cancer that might be related to occupational exposure to substances hazardous to health is not known. Surveys have suggested that up to 30% of cancers are occupationally related and that 2% - 8% of cancer deaths each year could be prevented if all occupational hazards were removed.

Control of exposure to carcinogens requires special attention due to the following:

* most forms of cancer carry a high risk of premature death
* it is usually not possible to specify any 'safe' limits
* the long delay between first exposure and the occurrence of cancer.

LEGAL REQUIREMENTS

The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations apply to substances or preparations that would be in the category 'Danger, carcinogenic' classified under the 'CHIP' Regulations, or any substance or preparation listed in, or arising from processes specified in the schedule of the COSHH Regulations. Relevant examples from the local authority-enforced sector are given later in this section. The COSHH Regulations involve the assessment of risk from exposure to carcinogens including details of:

(a) the nature of the hazard and the nature and extent of exposure

(b) whether substitution by less hazardous substances is reasonably practicable (most preferred option)

(c) the control measures to be applied to prevent or reduce exposure

(d) operating and maintenance instructions & procedures

(e) precautions under non-routine conditions

(f) use of personal protective equipment

(g) any required monitoring procedures

(h) any required health surveillance procedures - where exposures may exceed the Occupational Exposure Limits.

(i) Consultation with employees (incl. information and training)

CARCINOGENS IN THE LOCAL AUTHORITY-ENFORCED SECTOR

All employers should be aware of the potential for carcinogens in the workplace. The information below is indicative only of certain examples that may be relevant in the local authority sector:

1. Petrol

Petrol can contain up to 5% of benzene, a known human carcinogen with a Maximum Exposure Limit (MEL) of 5 ppm. Petrol is consequently classified as Carcinogenic, Category 2 as it contains 0.1% or more of a known carcinogen.

Typically, monitoring by oil companies indicates that filling station occupational exposures are below 1 ppm (8 hour TWA) even for pump attendant operated sites. Many controls can be implemented/maintained to ensure that exposures are maintained as far below the 5 ppm MEL as possible, i.e.

* minimisation of spills, leaks or fumes
* provision of hygiene measures including washing facilities
* designation of areas and installations which may be contaminated with petrol and the use of warning signs
* safe storage, handling and disposal
* practices and procedures to deal with spillages
* monitoring, which is requisite under the Carcinogens Approved Code of Practice
* information, instruction and training.

2. Mineral Oils

Certain mineral oils are known to cause cancer in humans. The carcinogenic potential of oil products is usually, but not always, associated with the presence of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs).

Unrefined or mildly refined mineral oils contain substantial concentrations of PAHs and their use in the printing and metalworking industries (amongst others) in the past has led to skin cancer. Oil-soaked clothing and oily rags kept in overalls have been known to cause scrotal cancer. Studies of the PAH content of cutting oils have shown that PAH content increases with use.

Used engine oils have also been shown to have elevated PAH levels, which tend to be greater for petrol engines than for diesel engines. Prolonged and repeated contact with such oils can cause skin and scrotal cancer. Car mechanics, for example, would be at potential risk from used engine oils.

Where work with the above types of mineral oils is anticipated, COSHH assessments with appropriate actions of either substitution or control would be required. The latter will include the use of suitable and uncontaminated protective clothing and good personal hygiene.

3. Diesel fumes

There is believed to be a carcinogenic risk associated with the particulate component of diesel exhaust emission. The risk in most cases is thought to be low. A COSHH assessment would be required where there is exposure to engine exhaust emissions.

Control measures should include:

(i) Application of Occupational Exposure Limits for appropriate components of exhaust emissions

(ii) Exhaust removal systems, where it is necessary to run engines in enclosed areas

(ii) Other working practices which either minimise emissions or exposure to them.

4. Asbestos

Exposure to asbestos fibres can lead to a number of diseases including lung cancer and mesothelioma. Work with asbestos is regulated not by COSHH but by the Control of Asbestos at Work Regulations 1987 (as amended) and the Asbestos Licensing Regulations 1983. Exposure may arise from a number of situations where asbestos products might release fibres e.g. building maintenance work or garage workshops maintaining vehicles with asbestos - containing parts such as brakes, clutches etc. Further advice can be found in the Asbestos element of this manual.

5. Man Made Mineral Fibres (MMMF)

MMMF includes glass wool, rock wool, slag wool and ceramic fibres. MMMF have a MEL of 5 mg/m³ (8 hour TWA). The above MMMF are classified as Category 2 carcinogens (possibly carcinogenic). COSHH assessments are required where there is likely to be occupational exposure.

6. Wood dust

Wood dust is a general term that covers a wide variety of airborne wood dusts. It arises from the machining and working of woods and wood-containing materials such as chipboard and Medium Density Fibreboard (MDF). Timber has been divided into two groups, hardwood and softwood. Wood dust from both types have has been implicated in a number of adverse health effects. Both hardwood and softwood dust are 'Schedule 8' substances (under COSHH) and have a Maximum Exposure Limit - (MEL) of 5 mg/m³ (8 hour TWA). Exposure should therefore be reduced so far as reasonably practicable and, in any case, below the MEL. A COSHH assessment would be required where exposure was anticipated.

REFERENCES/FURTHER DETAILS

1.Booklet L5 – General COSHH ACOP, Carcinogens ACOP and Biological Agents ACOP. Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 1999. Approved code of Practice.

ISBN 0 7176 1670 3 (HSE)

2.Guidance Note - Petrol at Retail Filling Stations - application of COSHH Carcinogens ACOP (UK Petroleum Industry Association, 9 Kingsway, London WC2B 6XF)

3. Guidance Note EH58 - The carcinogenicity of mineral oils.

SBN 0 11 885581 6. (HSE)

4.Booklet HSG67 - Health & Safety in Motor Vehicle Repair (HSE) ISBN 0 7176 0483 7.

5. Guide to Risks from Used Engine Oils (Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders Ltd., Forbes House, Halkin Street, London SW1X 7DS (Tel. 0208 - 235 - 7000))

6. Approved Code of Practice L27 - The control of asbestos at Work. ISBN 0 7176 1673 8.

7.Asbestos Materials in Buildings (Dept. of the Environment) ISBN 0 - 11 - 752370 - 4

8.Guidance Note EH10: Exposure limits and measurement of airborne dust concentrations. (HSE) ISBN 0 7176 0907 3.

9.Guidance Note EH46: Man-made mineral fibres (HSE)

ISBN 0 11 885571 9.

10.HSE Woodworking Information Sheet No. 1: Wood dust - Hazards and Precautions. www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/wis1.pdf

11.HSE Woodworking Information Sheet No. 11 - Hardwood Dust Survey. www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/wis11.pdf

H & S Guidance - Employment of Children

INTRODUCTION

Devon County Council has made byelaws governing the employment of children under the Children and Young Persons Acts 1933-1963 (as amended). A 'child' is deemed to be a person who is not over compulsory school age. It should also be noted that a person who assists in a trade or occupation carried on for profit shall be deemed to be employed notwithstanding that he/she receives no reward for his/her labour.

A booklet containing the full byelaws has been published. Requests for copies and queries relating to the byelaws should be directed to:

Child Employment and Performance Licences
Education and Welfare Service
Divisional Education Office
Bradninch Hall
Castle Street
Exeter EX4 3PJ Telephone 01392 383948

What follows is a summary only of the byelaws . . .

PROHIBITED EMPLOYMENT
- No child can be employed in any of the following:-

1. Any work involving exposure to harmful or dangerous substances or processes (including fuel oils, poisons, chemicals etc.)

2. Work with any prescribed dangerous machine (under s. 19 of the Offices, Shops and Railway Premises Act 1963)

3. Kitchens etc. of any commercial enterprise

4. Places licensed for games or in any registered club

5. The sale or delivery of intoxicating liquors (except where such liquors are sold exclusively in sealed containers)

6. Places of public entertainment (excepting the provisions of children's performance legislation).

7. Tobacco sales

8. Collecting/sorting rags, refuse, scrap materials

9. Fairgrounds

10. Slaughterhouses

11. Racing tracks

12. Where heavy strain is likely to cause the child injury

13. Window cleaning where any part of the window is more than 3 metres above ground floor level

14. In touting or selling door to door

15. Street trading

16. Milk Delivery

REGULATION OF EMPLOYMENT

Minimum age

No child below the age of 13 can be employed.

School days

-For not more than two hours in any day

-Only between 7.00am and 8.00am and between the end of the school day and 7.00pm.

-For no more than one hour in the morning period.

Saturdays and School Holidays

-A child between 13 to 14 may be employed for up to five hours per day between 7.00am and 7.00pm subject to a maximum of 25 hours per week.

-A child aged 15 years and over may be employed for up to eight hours a day between 7.00am and 7.00pm subject to a maximum of 35 hours per week.

-The total hours are exclusive of rest periods which exceed 15 minutes

-A child shall not be employed for more than four hours continuously without a period of at least one hour for rest and recreation.

Sundays

-A child can only be employed between 7.00am and 7.00pm and for no more than two hours.

Clothing

-Suitable clothing and footwear should be worn.

Employment Permits

A system is in place for Employment Permits relating to the employment of children. Application forms are available from Area Education Office, Civic Centre, Barnstaple.

An employer must keep a written record (including name, address, date of birth, occupation and hours of work) relating to every child employed.

NB - The byelaws do NOT apply to a child in his/her last year of compulsory schooling who is undertaking work experience.

PENALTIES

If a person is employed in contravention of the Children and Young Persons Act 1933 (as amended) or any byelaws made thereunder, the employer and any other person (other than the person employed) to whose act or default the contravention is attributable shall be liable, on summary conviction, to a fine not exceeding level 3 on the standard scale (currently £1000).

CHECKLIST - EMPLOYMENT OF CHILDREN

1. Do you employ, or have plans to employ, children?

2. Can you confirm that the nature of their employment does not breach the byelaws relating to the employment of children?

3. Have you applied to Devon County Council for an employment permit?

4. If you employ children, do you maintain a written record relating to every child employed (including name, address, date of birth, occupation and hours worked?)

REFERENCES/FURTHER DETAILS

1. Children and Young Persons Act 1933-1963 (as amended by the Education Acts 1944 to 1976 and the Children Act 1972)
2. Byelaws (1993) made by the Devon County Council relating to the employment of children under the above legislation.
3. Guidance for parents from Devon County Council:
Child Employment Guide
http://www.devon.gov.uk/child_employment

H & S Guidance - Churches and Religious Worship

INTRODUCTION

The Health and Safety (Enforcing Authority) Regulations 1989 allocated premises where church worship or religious meetings take place to local authorities. This general guidance should be of use to all persons involved in the running of a church, although it is not intended to cover all possible circumstances that may be encountered.

Detailed advice can always be obtained from your local Environmental Health Officer.

LEGAL REQUIREMENTS

S.2 of the Health and Safety at Work etc. (HSW) Act 1974 specifies the general duties of employers to their employees. It will apply only in cases where there is employment of persons at the place(s) of worship. In general terms it requires: the provision of safe plant and systems of work; safe use, handling, storage of articles & substances; information, instruction, training and supervision; a safe place of work and a safe working environment.

S.3 of HSW requires employers and self-employed persons to conduct their undertaking in a manner that is safe with regard to non-employees.

S.4 of HSW imposes duties on people who have control, to any extent, of non-domestic premises that are made available to non-employees as a place of work or as a place where they may use plant or substances provided for their use there.

The Inspection of Churches Measure 1995 (Ecclesiastical Law) lays down a mandatory system for the inspection of all Church of England churches by an architect approved by the diocesan committee every 5 years. A competent inspection with remedial action taken where necessary should assist each church in meeting the requirements of the HSW Act.

SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS

1.Churchyard: safe access throughout; safe equipment for maintenance; a safe excavation method must be employed.

2.Main church: adequate lighting; absence of tripping & slipping hazards; suitable fire precautions; safety of the fixed electrical system and any portable electrical appliances; safe heating systems.

3.Tower: access restricted to authorised persons and to be lockable; safety of access and adequate lighting; security of ladders etc; padding and signage in areas of low headroom; safe systems & procedures re: bell ringing; belfry to be adequately lit & warning notice(s) to be in position when occupied; restricted access to roof; guarding of any clock weight wells.

4. Boiler room: lockable access; good housekeeping; no storage of flammable materials; appropriate safety devices to boiler; possibility of presence of asbestos insulation.

CHECKLIST -

CHURCH WORSHIP/RELIGIOUS MEETINGS

1. Are persons employed in your place of worship? Yes No
2. Where there is employment, have procedures and working practices been established to secure the safety of both employees and non-employees? Yes No
3. Where plant or substances are provided for the use of non-employees or where the premises are made available to non-employees as a place of work, have measures been established to ensure safety? Yes No

REFERENCES/FURTHER DETAILS

1.A guide to church inspection and repair (CCC)

(Church House Publishing, Dean's Yard, London, SW1P 3NZ).

ISBN 0 7151 7551 3

H & S Guidance - Cold Store Ware Housing

INTRODUCTION

Cold stores operate at various temperatures below freezing. Air temperatures may be as low as -40°C. The hazards associated with such harsh environments include:-

* accidental locking in
* accidental release of refrigerant
* cold injury
* increased risk of accidents
* special medical risks
* ice build up
* increased risk of equipment failure

Work in cold environments will therefore require risk assessment under the Management of Health, Safety and Welfare Regulations 1999.

SAFEGUARDS AND PRECAUTIONS

1.Cold stores should meet the standards in BS4434 'Specification for safety aspects in the design, construction and installation of refrigerating appliances and systems' (1989)

2.Precautions against locking in to include:

* Only authorised and fully instructed people allowed in
* 'No unauthorised entry' signage
* At least 1 emergency exit, adequately signed and unobstructed
* A trapped-person alarm, mains operated with battery back-up, suitably marked and located
* Emergency lighting (battery operated)
* Maintenance and testing of devices provided
* Working practices to include thorough check before locking

3.Refrigerant Release

General precautions include:-

* Proper maintenance and operation by trained and competent person(s)
* For plants exceeding 25kW, to have a written scheme for the periodic examination, by a competent person, of protective devices, pressure vessels and pipelines, and parts of pipework in which a defect may give rise to danger (See Pressure Systems element of this manual)
* Written emergency procedure, communicated to all appropriate staff

Refrigerants can be classified into 3 main groups as follows:-
Group Examples Hazards (H) and Precuations (P)
1. Halocarbons

* Stable, low toxicity and flammability favourable thermo physical properties and compatibility with other materials. ?(H)
* Toxic decompositionproducts may result from contact with flames or hot surfaces.? (H)
* Can displace oxygen and cause suffocation. (H)

* Vapour detector and alarm. (P)
* Ventilation fans to operate if the concentration in the plan room exceeds the occupational exposure limits. (P)

2. Ammonia

* Toxic and flammable ?(H)

* Vapour detector and alarm ?(P)

* Ventilation fans to operate if the concentration in the plant room exceeds 1% (V/V) ?(P)
* Detailed advice is contained in Guidance Note PM 81: "Safe Management of ammonia refrigeration systems" ?(P)

3. Ethane, propane, butane, isobutane, ethylene, propylene

* High flammability/explosion risk ?(H)
* Vapour detector and alarm ?(P)
* Ventilation fans to operate if the concentration in the plant room exceeds 25% of the lower explosive limit. ?(P)

* For Groups 2 and 3 refrigerants, the vapour detectors should also isolate all unprotected electrical circuits.
* Electrical equipment likely to operate in flammable concentrations should comply with the requirements for hazardous (potentially explosive) areas.
* Self-contained or airline breathing apparatus should be provided where refrigerant vapour is likely to be present at a significant level (selection, maintenance, examination and testing, training implications).

4.Working at low temperatures

* Provision of suitable thermal/protective clothing
* Access to warm rooms with hot drinks for breaks, the length and frequency of which will depend on the nature of the work, the working temperature and exposure time.
* Cabs of any lift trucks to be heated and enclosed.

5.Special medical risks

People working in cold stores should be physically capable of undertaking the work. A pre-employment medical examination is recommended, and health checks should be carried out subsequently as deemed necessary.

6.Ice build up

Any ice build up should be removed regularly (e.g. daily)

7.Equipment failure

Any special hazards of equipment (including racking systems) used at low temperatures should be identified and suitable precautions taken to control any associated risks.

The Refrigerated Food Industry Confederation (RFIC) has produced guidance on safety in the use of pallets, pallet converters, palletainers and racking.

CHECKLIST - COLD STORE WAREHOUSING

1. Has the cold store been designed, constructed and installed in accordance with BS4434 (1989) Yes No
2. Have risk assessments been carried out with regard to:- Yes No

* accidental locking in?

Yes No

* refrigerant release?

Yes No

* working at low temperatures?

Yes No

* equipment and racking used at low temperatures?

Yes No

* ice build up?

Yes No
3. .Have appropriate precautions been taken to control the above risks? Yes No
4. .Do you carry out pre-employment medical examinations for cold store workers? Yes No
5. 5.Are regular health checks on cold store workers carried out and are workers requested to advise management of any changes to their general health? Yes No
6. Are cold store workers adequately informed, instructed or trained as necessary regarding work in a cold environment? ? Yes No

REFERENCES/FURTHER DETAILS

1.Booklet HS (G) 76: Health and Safety in Retail and Wholesale Warehouses. (HSE) ISBN 0 - 11 - 885731 - 2

2.Guidance Note PM81: Safe Management of Ammonia Refrigeration Systems. (HSE) ISBN 0 - 7176 - 1066 - 7

3.Specialist Inspector Report No. 48 - Occupational Hygiene Aspects on the Safe Use and Selection of Refrigeration Fluids. (HSE).

4.The RFIC Guide to Safety in the Use of Pallets, Pallet Converters, Palletainers and Racking. ISBN 0 - 900 - 555 - 114 (Copies from: The Cold Storage and Distribution Federation (CSDF), Downmill Road, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 1GH. Tel (01344) 869533).

5.The RFIC Booklet - Guidance on work in cold indoor environments.

(Copies from CSDF above)

6.HELA Circular LAC 31/1 - Ammonia compressors and refrigeration plant. www.hse.gov.uk/lau/lacs/31-1.htm

H & S Guidance - Communication/Consultation on Health and Safety

INTRODUCTION

Communicating and consulting on matters of health & safety are vital elements in organising for health and safety. They help promote a positive health and safety culture and secure the implementation and continued development of health and safety policies.

COMMUNICATION

Communication involves information coming in to the business, flowing within the business and going out from the business i.e.

* Arrangements should be in place to either receive or be alerted to legal, technical or health and safety management practice developments that could affect your business. This may be via trade or in-house publications, specialist health and safety periodicals or information (including Help/Advice Lines) provided by enforcing authorities.

* Effective internal communication is essential if health and safety procedures / policies are to be understood and consistently implemented. Organisations successful in health and safety make full use of three inter-related methods: visible behaviour by managers and others, the written word and face-to-face discussion. Any written documents should be tailored to the needs of your business, in general with the degree of detail being proportional to the level of complexity and risk. In addition to permanent documents, employees can be informed through posters, hand bills, newsletters, campaigns or promotions. Posters are best used to support the achievement of specific targets or to improve knowledge of particular and relevant risks. Face-to face discussion supports other communication activities by enabling employees to participate. Formal consultative meetings can be further supplemented by team briefings or general management meetings with health and safety as a standing agenda item.

* Information leaving the business may include the supply of accident or ill-health information to the enforcing authority or sending safety policies to clients.

CONSULTING EMPLOYEES

Consultation with employees must be carried out on matters to do with health and safety at work, including:

* any change which may substantially affect their health and safety at work, for example in procedures, equipment or ways of working
* the employer's arrangements for getting competent people to help
* information on hazards and risks and preventive measures, procedures and practices.
* planning health and safety training
* new technology

Consultation is required by the following:

1. The Safety Representatives and Safety Committees Regulations (SRSCR) 1977

If an employer recognises a trade union and that trade union has appointed, or is about to appoint, safety representatives under the SRSCR 1977, then the employer must consult those safety representatives on matters affecting the group or groups of employees they represent. Members of these groups of employees may include people who are not members of that trade union.

2. The Health and Safety (Consultation with Employees) Regulations (HSCER) 1996

Any employees not in groups covered by trade union safety representatives must be consulted by their employers under the HSCER 1996. The employer can choose to consult them directly or through elected representatives. If the employer consults employees directly, s/he can choose whichever method suits everyone best. If the employer decides to consult employees through an elected representative, then employees have to elect one or more people to represent them.

If the employer's arrangements already satisfy the law then there is no need for change.

The employer must make sure that elected representatives receive the training they need to carry out their roles, give them the necessary time off with pay and pay any reasonable costs to do with that training.

The difference between the roles of trade union safety representatives and elected representatives of employee safety (the latter being elected by groups of employees not covered by trade union safety representatives) is as follows:

Under the SRSCR 1977 the roles of trade union safety representatives are:

·to investigate possible dangers at work, the causes of accidents there and general complaints by employees on health, safety and welfare issues and to take these matters up with the employer;

* to carry out inspections of the workplace particularly following accidents, diseases or other events;
* to represent employees in discussions with health and safety inspectors and to receive information from those inspectors
* to go to meetings of safety committees.

The employer must set up a safety committee if two or more trade union safety representatives ask for one.

The separate HSCER 1996 give elected representatives of employee safety the following roles:

* to take up with employers concerns about possible risks and dangerous events in the workplace that may affect the employees they represent;
* to take up with employers general matters affecting the health and safety of the employees they represent; and
* to represent the employees who elected them in consultations with health and safety inspectors.
Employers may chose to give elected representatives extra roles as well.

The following diagram shows the relationship between the two sets of regulations and how they affect employers and their employees.

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INFORMATION, INSTRUCTION AND TRAINING

Appendices A and B in booklet L95 - A Guide to the Health and Safety (Consultation with Employees) Regulations 1996 (See References) contain excellent summaries of the requirements for information, instruction and training for employees in existing legislation.

CHECKLIST -

COMMUNICATION/CONSULTATION ON HEALTH & SAFETY

1. Do you have means to regularly receive relevant information on health and safety matter? Yes No
2. Do you have an effective system to communicate on issues of health and safety within your business? Yes No
3. Do you maintain necessary outflows of information (e.g. accident and ill-health reporting) and are all employees aware of the requirements? Yes No
4. Are you meeting your various legal obligations to inform, instruct and train your employees? Yes No
5. Do you meet the consultation requirements in HSCER 1996? Yes No

REFERENCES/FURTHER DETAILS

1.Booklet L95 - A guide to the Health and Safety (Consultation with Employees) Regulations 1996 (ISBN 0 7176 1234 1) (HSE)

2.Leaflet IND(G)232L - Consulting employees on health and safety (HSE). www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg232.pdf

H & S Guidance - Control of Substances Hazardous to Health

INTRODUCTION

Every year exposure to hazardous substances at work effects the health of many thousands of people. Common examples include lung disease (e.g. dusty conditions), skin irritation, dermatitis or skin cancer (e.g. frequent contact with oils, contact with corrosive liquids), occupational asthma (e.g. sensitisation to isocyanates in paints or adhesives), toxic fumes, occupational cancer etc. The high costs of ill-health arise from loss of earnings, loss of productivity, prosecution and civil action amongst others.

THE COSHH REGULATIONS 2002

These provide a framework to help protect people in the workplace against health risks from hazardous substances. The substances may be used directly in the work (e.g. cleaning chemicals, chemical reagents) or may arise from the work (e.g. dusts, fumes and waste products).

COSHH lays down a sensible step-by-step approach to the necessary precautions and is therefore a useful tool of good management. The potential for identifiable cost benefits (e.g. tighter control over the use and storage of materials), improved morale and industrial relations have been widely realised.

COSHH applies to virtually all substances hazardous to health. Exceptions include asbestos and lead (which have their own regulations) and substances which are hazardous only because they are radioactive, asphyxiants, at high pressure/temperature or have explosive/flammable properties.

DEFINITIONS

Hazard-is t-is the potential to cause harm

Risk-is the likelihood that it will harm you in the actual circumstances of use

The risk will depend on a number of factors, such as the hazard presented by the substance, how it is used, how exposure is controlled, the degree and extent of exposure etc.

COSHH requires the following:-

* Assessment of the risks
* Deciding what precautions are needed
* Prevention or control of the risks
* Ensuring that control measures are used and maintained
* Monitoring exposure and health surveillance, where necessary
* Informing, instructing and training employees about the risks and precautions needed.

ASSESSMENT
is a step-by-step approach:-

(i) Identify what hazards there are.

(ii) Evaluate the risks to people

(iii) For significant risks, decide on the action needed to remove or reduce them to insignificant levels.

Assessment is the responsibility of the employer. Persons preparing the assessment will need to:-

* have access to, and understand, COSHH, related legislation, codes of practice and published guidance
* be competent to carry through the work of assessment
* consult widely within the workforce and inform them of results accordingly
* consider peripatetic workers (who work for you on other premises)

HAZARDS
Substances hazardous to health include:-

* substances classified as dangerous to health under the Chemicals Hazard Information and Packing for Supply) (CHIP3) Regulations 2002. Many are listed in "The Approved Supply List" which is part of the "CHIP 3" regulations.
* substances with occupational exposure limits (these are specified in Guidance Note EH40 which is revised annually)
* biological agents
* dusts of any kind in substantial concentrations

IDENTIFICATION
of hazardous substances can be sought from:

* hazard data sheets, labels etc. from suppliers (required by law) from which you must draw conclusions relevant to the way the substance is used in the workplace.
* knowledge from within your business or industry; trade literature.
* published guidance/documents
* Part V of the Approved Supply List (HSE)

RISKS
Risk assessment involves looking at:-

* Use, handling, generation, release etc. of hazardous substances
* Who might be affected and likely exposure level/extent
* Nature of exposure (breathing in, swallowing, skin absorption etc.)
* Current measures to prevent or control exposure - effectiveness and use?
* Accidental leakage, spillage or release
* Cleaning and maintenance operations

FURTHER ACTION

(a) No likelihood or insignificant risk - no further action until review of assessment.
(b) Risks identified - ensure appropriate control measures, in the following order of priority:
(i)Prevention

* change process/activity so that the hazardous substance is not required or generated

* replace with safer alternative (see HS(G)110 in Reference/Further Details section)

* use it in safer form

(ii)Control may include any of the following:-

* total enclosure of the process

* partial enclosure and extraction equipment

* general ventilation

* using systems of work and handling procedures which minimise chances of spills, leaks etc. or exposure to the substance(s)

(iii)Personal protective equipment (eg respirators, protective clothing) only as a last resort when you cannot adequately control exposure by any combination of the measures above.

EMPLOYEES are required to make proper use of control measures and to report defects.

EMPLOYERS are required to keep controls in efficient working order and good repair. Engineering controls and respiratory protective equipment have to be examined and, where appropriate, tested at suitable intervals. Suitable records of all such actions taken must be kept.

(c)

Monitoring exposure is required in certain circumstances, e.g. where there could be serious risks to health if control measures were to fail or deteriorate or where you cannot be sure that exposure limits are not being exceeded. ?Records of monitoring should be kept.

(d)

Health surveillance is required

* where an employee is engaged in one of the processes listed in Schedule 5 of COSHH and is likely to receive significant exposure to the substance involved.
* where employees are exposed to a substance linked to a particular disease or adverse health effect AND there is reasonable ?likelihood under the conditions of the work of that disease or adverse health effect occurring AND it is possible to detect the disease or adverse health effect. Suitable records must be kept for 40 years.

RECORDING AND REVIEWING THE ASSESSMENT

Unless the assessment is so simple that it can be easily recalled and its conclusions explained, it should be put in writing. Reviews should take place regularly, at not less than five-yearly intervals, and in any case where it is no longer valid or there have been significant changes in the work.

INFORMING, INSTRUCTING AND TRAINING EMPLOYEES

Must be carried out by employers regarding the substances and their associated risks and precautions. Sufficient information and instruction should be given on control measures, personal protective equipment, results of any exposure monitoring or health surveillance and emergency procedures.

The Steps in Making an Assessment

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CHECKLIST - COSHH
1. Have you a complete inventory of substances used/generated in the workplace? Yes No
2. Have you identified any substances hazardous to health? Yes No
3. Have you gathered information about the substances, the work and working processes? Yes No
i.e. what hazards are involved? Yes No
who could be exposed and how? Yes No
4. Have you evaluated the risks to health (either on an individual or group basis)? Yes No
the chance of exposure occurring? Yes No
what level of exposure could happen? Yes No
the duration of the exposure? Yes No
the frequency of the exposure? Yes No
5. Have you decided what needs to be done in terms of; Yes No
preventing or controlling exposure? Yes No
maintaining control measures? Yes No
using control measures? Yes No
any monitoring/surveillance? Yes No
information, instruction and training? Yes No
6. Have you decided to record the assessment? Yes No
7. If "yes" to (6), have you decided on the extent, presentation and format of record? Yes No
8. Have you decided when each assessment should be reviewed? Yes No
9. Have you established a system or procedure to manage and record the above elements? Yes No

REFERENCES/FURTHER DETAILS

*1.Booklet L5-General COSSH ACOP, Carcinogens ACOP and Biological Agents ACOP(HSE) ISBN 0 7176 1670 3

*2.A step by step guide to COSHH assessment - HS(G) 97 (HSE)

ISBN 0 7176 1446 8.

**3.COSHH - a brief guide for employers IND(G) 136L (HSE). www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg136.pdf

*4.7 steps to successful substitution of hazardous substances HS(G) 110 (HSE) ISBN 0 7176 0695