Hygiene / SAFE WORKING / SWP-0004 Issue 2
Copy 1 / PRACTICE / Page 1 of 3

Entry into Silos

Site: Company Wide /

To be used:By Authorised Staff

(With a Permit to Work)

ANY PERSON(S) ENTERING A SILO MUST BE A STEADY RELIABLE TYPE, FREE FROM ANY MEDICAL RESTRICTIONS. THEY MUST READ THE HSE GUIDELINES ON ENTRY INTO CONFINED SPACES AND THE FPA DATA SHEETS ON EXPLOSIBLE DUSTS. THEY MUST FULLY UNDERSTAND THE HAZARDS INVOLVED AND BE PREPARED TO TAKE ALL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS NECESSARY.

Procedure

  1. A Permit to Work must be obtained and countersigned by the Hygiene duty manager. A copy must be clearly displayed on the front of the Main Silo Control Panel.
  1. There must be an adequate supply of fresh air. If the atmosphere is proved to be unbreathable then steps must be taken to provide a through flow of air. At all times Breathing Apparatus must be worn. (Refer to SWP 0007)
  1. If breathing apparatus is not to be worn then the written Permit To Work(s) must state why and other means of protection must be worn i.e. respirators, dust masks etc.
  1. The equipment used to access the Silo must have a Safe Working Practice laid down and it must be followed in detail.
  1. The person entering the Silo must wear a safety harness fitted with a lifeline, which must be attended by a responsible person. There must also be an additional person in the immediate vicinity to assist if the need arises.
  1. A responsible person trained and certificated in entry to confined spaces must be present at every stage of the work to be carried out.
  1. There must be suitable means of entry and exit from the Silo (it is desirable to have hatches opened at both top and bottom of the Silo).
  1. Adequate lighting must be made available to illuminate the work area. (Only sealed lighting may be used).
  1. Only plastic or non-ferrous metal scrapers which do not cause sparks may be used.
  1. Dust clouds must be avoided whilst work is in progress.
  1. If suction cleaners are used the hose must be of the anti static type and the machine must be positioned outside the Silo Housing.
  1. All equipment taken into the Silo must be tied down.
  1. If a hoist is not to be used, the written Permit to Work(s) must state the rescue procedure for an unconscious person from the Silo.
  1. On completion of the work the Permit To Work Must be cancelled as proof that no other personnel or equipment are left in the silo. The cancellation must be counter-signed by the Hygiene duty manager.

Entry into Silos

Site: Company Wide /

To be used:By Authorised Staff

(With a Permit to Work)

I acknowledge that I have been given, have read and understood the above Safe Working Practice.

Name / Date / Signature
Author: H.M. / Approved: SMT / Date: 04.11.02