Breakaway Matting Inc.
SAFE WORK PRACTICES
FIRE AND USE OF FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
GENERAL
a) Good housekeeping is essential in the prevention of fires. Fires can start anywhere and at any time. This is why it is important to know which fire extinguisher to use and how to use it.
b) Always keep fire extinguishers visible and easy to get at. Fire extinguishers have to be properly maintained to do the job. Where temperature is a factor, ensure that care is taken in selecting the right extinguisher.
TYPES OF FIRES:
CLASS A: These fires consist of wood, paper, rags, rubbish and other ordinary combustible materials.
Recommended Extinguishers: Water from a hose, pump type water can, or pressurized extinguisher, and soda acid extinguishers.
Fighting the Fire: Soak the fire completely - even the smoking embers.
CLASS B: Flammable liquids, oil and grease.
Recommended Extinguishers: ABC units, dry chemical, foam and carbon dioxide extinguishers.
Fighting the Fire: Start at the base of the fire and use a swinging motion from left to right, always keeping the fire in front of you.
CLASS C: Electrical equipment.
Recommended Extinguishers: Carbon dioxide and dry chemical (ABC units) extinguishers.
Fighting the Fire: Use short bursts on the fire. When the electrical current is shut off on a Class C fire, it can become a Class A fire if the materials around the electrical fire are ignited.
USE OF EXPLOSIVE/POWDER ACTUATED FASTENING TOOLS
GENERAL
a) There are a number of tools utilizing an explosive charge in use throughout the construction industry to install fasteners.
b) The manufacturers of these devices provide detailed instructions regarding their use and maintenance. These instructions, along with the legislation specifically set out for their use, shall be closely adhered to at all times.
c) The following general recommendations apply to all explosive/powder-actuated tools:
i) only properly trained and qualified operators are to use this type of tool. The user shall possess proof of this training issued by the manufacturer, authorized dealer/distributor, or other competent source;
ii) the tool must be CSA standard approved for "Explosive Actuated Fastening Tools";
iii) the tool should be loaded just prior to use with the correct load for the job anticipated. Tools should never be loaded and left to sit or be moved to an alternate work site after being loaded;
iv) the tool should never be pointed at anyone, whether loaded or unloaded. Hands should be kept clear of the muzzle end at all times;
v) explosive/powder actuated tools should always be stored in their proper lockable boxes;
vi) explosive/powder actuated tools must never be used in an explosive atmosphere;
vii) when used, the tool must be held firmly and at right angles to the surface being driven into;
viii) eye protection must be worn by the operator. Where there is a danger of spilling, full-face protection must be worn. Hearing protection is also to be worn in confined areas;
ix) to prevent free-flying studs, ensure that the material being driven into will not allow the stud to completely pass through it (ie. glass block, hollow tile, etc.);
x) manufacturers' recommendations should be consulted and followed whenever there is a doubt about the material being driven into, maintenance procedures, or load strength to be used; and
xi) always be aware of the other workers. Where a hazard to other workers is created by this operation, signs and barricades identifying the hazard area are mandatory.
USE OF CLEANING SOLVENTS AND FLAMMABLES
GENERAL
a) Cleaning solvents are used in the day-to-day construction work to clean tools and equipment. Special care must be taken to protect the worker from hazards, which may be created from the use of these liquids. Wherever possible, solvents should be nonflammable and nontoxic.
b) The foreman must be aware of all solvents/flammables that are used on the job, and be sure that all workers who use these materials have been instructed in their proper use and any hazard they pose.
c) The following instructions or rules apply when solvents/flammables are used:
i) use nonflammable solvents for general cleaning;
ii) when flammable liquids are used, make sure that no hot work is permitted in the area;
iii) flammables and solvents are stored only in containers approved to CSA or ULC standards as per CSA B376-M1980 R1998;
iv) check toxic hazards of all solvents before use (MSDS);
v) provide adequate ventilation where all solvents and flammables are being used;
vi) use goggles or face shields to protect the face and eyes from splashes or sprays;
vii) use rubber gloves to protect the hands;
viii) wear protective clothing to prevent contamination of worker's clothes;
ix) when breathing hazards exist, use the appropriate respiratory protection;
x) never leave solvents in open tubs or vats - return them to storage drums or tanks;
xi) ensure that proper containers are used for transportation, storage and field use of solvents/flammables; and
xii) where solvents are controlled products, ensure all employees using or in the vicinity of use or storage are trained and certified in the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System. Ensure all WHMIS requirements are met.
3.4 DEFECTIVE TOOLS
3.4.1 GENERAL
a) Defective tools can cause serious and painful injuries.
b) If a tool is defective in some way, DON'T USE IT.
c) Be aware of problems like:
i) chisels and wedges with mushroomed heads;
ii) split or cracked handles;
iii) chipped or broken drill bits;
iv) wrenches with worn out jaws; and
v) tools, which are not complete, such as files without handles.
d) To ensure safe use of hand tools, remember:
i) never use a defective tool;
ii) double check all tools prior to use; and
iii) ensure defective tools are repaired.
e) Air, gasoline or electric power tools, require skill and complete attention on the part of the user even when they are in good condition. Don't use power tools when they are defective in any way.
f) Watch for problems like:
i) broken or inoperative guards;
ii) insufficient or improper grounding due to damage on double insulated tools;
iii) no ground wire (on plug) or cords of standard tools;
iv) the on/off switch not in good working order;
v) tool blade is cracked;
vi) the wrong grinder wheel is being used; and
vii) the guard has been wedged back on a power saw.
g) Tag the defective tool as damaged.
USE OF PORTABLE GRINDERS
GENERAL
Abrasive wheels can cause severe injury. Proper storage of new wheels, proper use of wheels and proper maintenance of wheels must be observed and ensure you:
a) familiarize yourself with the grinder operation before commencing work. Grinders are operated in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications and must be equipped with a grinders guard;
b) ensure proper guards are in place and that safety glasses, face shields, gloves and safety boots are worn when using portable grinders;
c) never exceed the maximum wheel speed (every wheel is marked). Check the speed marked on the wheel and compare it to the speed on the grinder. The maximum safe operating speed of the grinder accessory in revolutions per minute is equal to or greater than the maximum speed of the grinder shaft in revolutions per minute;
d) check wheels for cracks and defects, ensuring that the mounting flanges are clean and the mounting blotters are used. Do not over tighten the mounting nut;
e) run newly mounted wheels at operating speed before grinding to check for vibrations;
f) do not use grinders near flammable materials; and
g) never use the grinder for jobs for which it is not designed, such as cutting.
h) if a hand held grinder is used, the object being ground cannot move.
3.6.2 Ensure that the grinder guard of a hand held grinder covers the area of the grinder accessory contained with in and are of at least 120 degrees of the accessory’s circumference.
3.6.3 WORKERS MUST NOT
a) grind material using the side of the abrasive wheel unless the wheel has been designated for that purpose; or
b) adjust the tool rest while a grinder accessory is in motion
USE OF EXTENSION LADDERS
N.A. Power Installations Ltd. will ensure that workers do not use a ladder to enter or leave an elevated or sub-level work area if the area has another safe and recognizable way to enter or egress. Ladders can be used safely if they are given the respect they deserve. Whenever an extension ladder is used, the set up must be performed by two people. One person must secure the base while the other climbs to secure / tie off the top.
NOTE: In the event that only one person is available, he / she will; before ascending, secure the ladder by tying it off to ensure no movement can occur from the base while ascending.
When using any ladder, make sure:
a) the ground base is clean of debris and dust;
b) that it is in good condition and it is the right ladder for the job to be done;
c) when setting up a ladder, you secure the base and "walk" the ladder up into place;
d) the ladder is set at the proper angle of one (1) horizontal to every four (4) vertical;
e) before using a ladder, it is secured against movement;
f) when in position, the ladder protrudes one (1) meter above the intended landing point;
g) workers do not work from the top two rungs of a ladder;
h) you don't overreach while on a ladder. It is easier and safer to climb down;
i) you always face the ladder when using it. Grip it firmly and use the three-point contact method when moving up or down and the worker maintains three-point contact whenever the worker extends an arm beyond a side rail;
j) the minimum overlap on an extension ladder should be one (1) meter unless the manufacturer specifies the overlap;
k) keep metal, wood, and fiberglass ladders, away from electrical sources; and
l) only industrial rated ladders shall be used.
USE OF STEP LADDERS
GENERAL
a) As with all ladders, make sure that the stepladder is in good condition, and is the right ladder for the job to be done.
b) Stepladders are to be used as follows:
i) only on clean and even surfaces;
ii) no work is to be done from the top two steps of a step ladder, counting the top platform as a rung;
iii) when in the open position ready for use, the incline of the front step section shall be one (1) horizontal to six (6) vertical;
iv) the step ladder is only to be used in the fully opened position with the spreader bars locked;
v) tops of stepladders are not to be used as a support for scaffolds;
vi) don't overreach while on the ladder. Climb down and move the ladder over to a new position; and
vii) only CSA Standard Industrial rated ladders will be used.
USE OF COMPRESSED AIR AND ASSOCIATED TOOLS
GENERAL
a) Air powered tools in construction range from stapling guns to jack hammers. If not treated with respect, these tools can become a powerful enemy rather than a servant.
b) Compressed air must not be used to blow debris or to clear dirt from any worker's clothes.
NOTE: Under no circumstances should compressed air be blown towards another person or yourself.
c) Ensure that the air pressure has been turned off and the line pressure relieved before disconnecting the hose or changing tools.
d) All hose connectors must be of the quick disconnect pressure release type with a "safety chain/cable".
e) Wear personal protective equipment such as eye protection and face shields, and ensure other workers in the area are made aware of or have restricted access to the hazard area.
f) Hoses must be checked on a regular basis for cuts, bulges, or other damage. Ensure that defective hoses are repaired or replaced.
g) A proper pressure regulator and relief device must be in the system to ensure that correct desired pressures are maintained.
h) The correct air supply hoses must be used for the tool/equipment being used.
i) The equipment must be properly maintained according to the manufacturer's requirements.
j) Follow manufacturer's general instructions and comply with legislated safety requirements.
k) Only competent trained workers shall be allowed to use compressed air and/or operate air tools.
CONFINED SPACE
OH & S DEFINITION OF CONFINED SPACE
"An enclosed or partially enclosed space having restricted access and egress which, due to its design, construction, location, atmosphere, and the materials or substances in it, or other condition is, or may become hazardous to a worker entering it, or does not have an easy means of escape for or rescue of a worker entering it."
HAZARD ASSESSMENT
Before a worker enters a confined space, a competent person to must do a hazard assessment;
a) assess the hazard the worker is likely to be exposed to while in the confined space;
b) specify the type and frequency of inspection and test as necessary to determine the likelihood of worker exposure to any of the identified hazards;