METHOD STATEMENT FOR UNLOADING OF PIPES AT SITE

1.0 BACKGROUND

The unloading/off-loading of pipe, means the moving/handling of pipe, by lifting, lowering,

pushing, carrying, holding or restraining. The movement of pipe can be dangerous
depending on the type of pipe being handled, what the task is and what the conditions are
at the work site. The location of the unloading may present unique circumstances that
should be evaluated and planned prior to the activity.

1.1 OBJECTIVE

The intent and purpose of this guideline is to provide safe and consistent methods for
unloading/off-loading of pipe at site.

1.2 RISK ASSESSMENT

Risk assessment are performed to identify and avoid possible pipe hazards during unloading
activity.

Hazards/risk factors to be considered are:-

 Soft and or uneven ground

 Proximity of the operation to overhead power lines or other structures
 Missing or damaged strapping/tie-down strap
 Overloaded or improperly loaded (poor weight distribution) on trucks
 Uneven and/or shifted loads reducing overall stability of the load/vehicle
 Weight of the pipe to be lifted
 Size and length of pipe
 Distance to be lifted
 Location of the pipe
 Number and frequency of lifts performed
 Suitable selection of lifting equipment (crane, slings)
 Worker safety whether on-ground or on elevated position
 Qualified and trained operator and worker
1.3 RISK PREVENTION

 Basic Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as safety helmet, safety shoe, gloves
and etc should be worn at all times
 Hearing protection should be worn when noise level exceeds 85dBa
 All employees involved in unloading tasks must remain alert at all times
 Never position anyone under a suspended load
 A safe buffer distance should be maintained from each pipe end during
unloading

1.4 UNLOADING TRUCK/TRAILER

 For the DN2400 pipe, each truck will be carrying only 1 length
 Once a truck has arrived at off-loading location, the crane operator will sound horn
where the truck needs to stop. At this point, the truck driver will set all parking
brakes before securely chocking the wheels (if necessary)
 The driver will proceed to unstrap all securement once directed by the site
supervisor
 Always position work activities on the uphill side of the trailer and/or goods when a
level surface is not available
 Forklift shall not be used for unloading such pipe size.
 Before unloading, the pipe laydown area should be inspected and prepared. Work
site should be free of debris, holes and objects that could obstruct the unloading
process, cause damage to the pipe or causing slips, trips or falls
 It is recommended to place the pipes on a temporary earth berm which can provide
a soft padding for proper seating
 Avoid placing the pipe onto hard support material which can cut into the external
bitumen lining
 Special care must be taken to avoid accidental knocking or dropping of the pipe
during unloading. Such kind of impact will cause damage either to the bitumen
lining and/or cement lining
 Recommended securement and position of slings shall be as shown below
 Lifting Point

2.5m 5m

Spreader Bar
Point
beltbeltSlin
Sling/belt

DN2400 MSCL Pipe

10 m

N.T.S

POSITIONING OF SLINGS / BELT ON DN2400 MSCL PIPE