Safe Work General Practices & Procedures

HSE Manual
Safe Work General Practices &

Procedures
TEST-HSE-Appendix-14
Safe Work Practices (SWP) is a set of guidelines or "do's and don'ts" on how to perform a specific
task. Safe Work Practices and Safe Job Procedures are a means of mitigating hazards identified
through the hazard identification, assessment and control process. Employees should know,
understand and follow all SWP that pertain to the specific work tasks being completed.
This Safe Work Practice (SWP) will provide TEST Company employees with a set of guidelines that
have been developed to mitigate hazards associated with this work task, as identified through your
workplace hazard identification process.
1.0 General Health, Safety & Environment Rules :
Whether you work in an office or on-site, the following safety rules will apply:
 Be on the lookout for hazardous conditions, which could lead to an accident, and report
them immediately. Safety is everyone's responsibility.
 Ensure you know the fire drill and evacuation procedures for your own workplace and when
visiting other premises.
 Wear the proper clothing necessary for the job that you are to do.
 Make sure you have the right tools and equipment for the job.
 If you are uncertain about how to do the job, ask your supervisor.
 Respect all security arrangements which apply to the premises.
 Report all accidents and seek first aid for even the most minor injury. Know whom to contact
if someone is injured.
 Respect the site security arrangements, particularly with regard to No Smoking areas and
the handing in of lighters, matches, etc. Failure to do so will result in exclusion from the site
and may lead to dismissal. Don't play with fire. If you smoke, and smoking is permitted, use
proper ashtrays.
 Work only in accordance with the requirements of any permit to work procedure that is being
applied.
 Obey all site warning notices such as radiation, incomplete scaffolding, maximum safe
working loads, the location of overhead and buried cables and No Smoking areas.
 Observe all warnings and hazard notices.
 Observe all speed limits and traffic controls.
 Don't climb, sit or stand on unstable materials.
 Don't misuse or interfere with any safety equipment provided.
 Take care when you are lifting. Keep a straight back and get a secure hold. If, in doubt, seek
help.
 Always read and follow the instructions on containers and on Material Safety Data Sheets. If
misused, some contents could be hazardous to health.
 Respect and use the toilet and welfare facilities provided.
Revision 0 @ Issue 08 March 2020 Please Save the Environment and Do not Print unless its necessary Page 1 of 2
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 Remember site untidiness is a significant cause of accidents. Work tidily and clean up after
yourself.
 Work in such a manner as to minimize the effect on the environment.
Remember you are your best safety officer on the job and that your actions may affect
someone else's safety !.
2.0 Tools and Equipment :

No employee will use any tool or equipment without the proper training in the correct use of that
tool or equipment. Ensure that all tools and equipment are in good working order and are
suitable for the job. Tools or equipment that is defective should be tagged “DO NOT USE” and
should not be used until repaired.
 Use the right tool for the job

 Use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), such as gloves when using hand tools
whenever possible
 Visually inspect hand tools to see they are in good working condition
 Keep hand tools in good condition: sharp, clean, oiled, dressed and free from defects
 Ensure tools are in good condition to prevent injury, such as: loose handles, splinters, loose
heads and are adequately sharp to perform required tasks.
 When using cutting tools, cut away from the body and not towards it
 Always keeps hands behind tools and not in front of them
 Clean and properly store tools after each use.
 Do not subject a hand tool to strain beyond its capacity
 Do not use a hand tool unless you have been trained in its safe use
 Do not use hand tools that are damaged or appear defective, which may cause either their
strength or use to be unsafe.
 Do not carry knives, chisels or screwdrivers in your pockets, but always in some sort of tool
pouch, bag or kit.
3.0 Housekeeping:
It is everyone's responsibility to create a safe working environment on the site. To achieve this aim it is
essential that a high standard of both industrial housekeeping and environment protection is
maintained.
The following general housekeeping practices must be applied to all areas within TEST Company:
 Maintain housekeeping at all times
 Garbage, scrap, and other trash materials are to be disposed of in proper containers. Never
leave out used cleaning materials, such as dirty rags, clothes contaminated with oil, paint, etc.
These must be properly disposed of in suitable containers.
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 Access to fire extinguishers, emergency eyewashes and showers will be kept free of
obstructions.
 Entry/Exits ways will not be blocked and remain free from any obstructions.
 Material and equipment will be stored only in appropriate storage locations.
 Equipment is to be kept clean and in good working condition.
 Individual work areas are to be kept clean to insure that work activities may proceed in an
orderly and efficient manner.
 Shelved items must be placed in an orderly manner and arranged so that the items cannot
easily fall while nearby items are being retrieved.
 Keep waste in a segregated area, as required
 Keep areas around emergency equipment (i.e., fire extinguishers, hoses and PPE) clear at all
times
 Organize hoses, ropes and electric cables and cords to avoid tripping hazards.
 Keep small items in boxes or bins
 If you see a housekeeping hazard, mitigate immediately or inform your supervisor and/or the
HSE Supervisor.
 Do not allow cables or cord to cross pathways or corridors, if at all possible
 Do not stack boxes or other items in front of emergency exits or equipment
 Do not allow areas to remain untidy, especially common areas used by all (i.e., photocopier
room and/or supplies cabinet
4.0 Noise:
 Be aware of the noise you create in the workplace and the distraction it may cause others
trying to work, this is especially important as more offices become open
 Keep ring tones on phone(s) to an appropriate level
 Reduce the volume on computers to an appropriate level
 Use headsets when listening to the radio or computer
 For extended conversations in open spaces, consider moving to an area where it will not affect
others
 If exposed to elevated noise levels in your workplace (i.e., running machinery) protect yourself
with personal protective equipment.
 Should noise levels in the immediate area be a problem, inform your supervisor and/or the HSE
Supervisor.
General:
Noise is defined as unwanted sound, which can originate from various sources and levels
within the workplace.
Levels of noise may contribute to lack of concentration for others, headaches and could
interfere with communication with others.
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5.0 Office Hygiene:
 Generally, employees are allowed and encouraged to stay at home if they are not feeling well.
 In the case of influenza-like illness, employees should remain at home until at least 24 hours
after they are free of fever (37.8°C) or signs of fever, without the use of medications.
 Wash hands often and/or use unscented hand sanitizer provided in the office
 Keep your desk area and public counters clean.
 Physically clean all surfaces regularly with unscented disinfecting cleaners, especially those we
use most often (i.e. countertops, keyboards, mouse, phone, desktop, chair arms).
 Consider getting appropriate vaccine/ flu shot.
 Cover your nose and mouth when sneezing and coughing (or cough into your elbow).
 Use single-use tissues for wiping your nose.
 Wash your hands after coughing, sneezing or using tissues.
 Do not touch your eyes, nose or mouth (viruses can transfer from your hands to you).
 Use social distancing in situations where the risk of infection is high.
 Do not share cups, glasses, dishes or cutlery.
 Do not store perishable food in your desk.
 Keep kitchen areas clean (i.e., food, prep, microwaves and coffee makers)
We are all concerned about the spread of germs, flu, colds and other communicable diseases in the
workplace and care should be taken to reduce the spread from one to another.
6.0 Helicopter Passenger:
 Do not approach a helicopter unless directed to do so by the pilot or per the landing officer.
 Observe the path of the rotor blades while they are turning and keep well under them.
 If authorized, carry long objects horizontally to avoid contact with the rotor blades.
 Seat belts must be worn at all times.
 Life preservers must be worn while over water.
 Do not get near the tail rotor or cross under the tail boom.
 Do not leave your seat on landing until the pilot indicates it is safe to do so.
 Do not distract the pilot.
 Do not leave loose objects near the helicopter or landing area.
 Do not lift objects higher than your waist while under rotors.
 Do not hurry.
 Hold hard hats and other loose objects when you approach a helicopter.
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 Do not put anything in the luggage compartment unless approved by the pilot, or the landing
officer.
 Do not step on floats when getting in and out of the helicopter or when loading and unloading
luggage and cargo.
 Follow the pilot’s instruction at all times.
 Approved hearing protection shall be worn during helicopter flights.
 Do not throw objects from the helicopter at any time.
7.0 Working at Heights
 Falls from heights are less common than falls at ground level but naturally the results are
usually much more serious. Recognizing this, there are strict rules applicable to working at
heights over 2 meters or on exposed locations.
 Temporary and permanent working platforms must comply with the statutory requirements
regarding handrails, toe-boarding and access ladders.
 If you have to work outside a properly fenced, temporary or permanent platform, and are
liable to fall more than 2 meters, you must wear a suitable safety harness and line properly
attached.
 Personal fall arrest protective devices shall consist of a full body harness, a shock
absorbing lanyard, and an anchorage point.
 Each employee working above dangerous equipment shall be protected from falling by
guardrails, by equipment guards, safety net system, position limiting device, or fall arrest
system suitable for the particular hazard.
 Fall protective devices may be required by the customer when working on elevated
surfaces. TEST employees will comply with customer standards.
Portable Ladders :
If used correctly, a portable ladder can provide a safe means of temporary access when
working at heights. Incorrect use can cause severe injury.
 Choose the correct ladder for the job. Remember it must extend at least 1 meter above the
landing or work place.
 Ladders should extend at least 1 meter (3 ft) above the platform it leads to.
 Inspect the ladder for defects. Wooden ladders must not be painted, as paint can conceal
defects.
 Make certain that no overhead power lines are within your reach or within the reach of the
ladder.
 Metal ladders must not be used where there is a risk of accidental contact with live
electrical apparatus.
 Get help if you want to move a long ladder.
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 Stand the ladder on a firm base. Position it so that it rests at an angle of approximately 750
i.e. 1 foot out for every 4 feet up.
 Get a colleague to foot the ladder while you lash the head. Ladders must always be lashed
or footed.
 Hold the rungs rather than the strings of the ladder when climbing or descending.
 Never over-reach from a ladder. Move it and be safe.
 Never allow more than one man on the ladder at one time.
 Never hand carry materials up a ladder. Use a tool belt or hoist line.
 Never lengthen extending ladders beyond the safe overlap marked on the strings. Never
put your arm through to operate pawl lines as the ladder may slip.
Fixed Ladders:
The rules for correct and safe use of portable ladders apply equally when climbing or working
off fixed metal ladders.
Scaffolding :
TEST Company does not erect or dismantle scaffolding. Employees may encounter scaffolding
at a jobsite. Before accessing a scaffold employees will look for a tag at the entryway
identifying that the scaffold has been inspected, approved, and tagged “approved for use”.
Employees should not use a scaffold if it has a red tag (rejected).
8.0 Fire fighting:
To reduce the potential for fires the following should be followed:
 Company vehicles and general office areas shall be equipped with fire extinguishers.
 All fire extinguishers shall be inspected semiannually by trained professionals to insure that the
unit is operable, fully-charged, and has a current hydrostatic test date. A tag indicating all
inspections shall be affixed to each extinguisher.
 Oil, grease, and combustible liquids shall be stored in well ventilated areas or properly
constructed fire lockers well away from ignition sources.
 Oily, soaked rags will be placed in metal containers.
 Wiping and cleaning rags shall not be placed near engine exhausts or other sources of ignition.
 Employees that work in the facilities and on location must be familiar with the operation of fire
suppression equipment.
 Drivers are to visibly inspect fire extinguishers on their unit as part of pre-trip inspections.
 Any transferring of flammable liquids must utilize grounding/bonding wire to prevent the ignition
of flammable vapors caused from static electricity
9.0 Office Safety:
A large percentage of workplace accidents and injuries occur in offices. The office requires preventive
measures to ensure a safe and healthy environment. Common causes of office accidents include the
following:
 Slipping, tripping, and falling hazards
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 Burning, cutting, and pinching hazards

 Improper lifting and handling techniques
 Failure to remain attentive and follow procedures
 Improper office layout and arrangement
 Dangerous electrical wiring and cords
 Exposure to toxic substances
 Horseplay
Lack of training Practicing office safety can help to reduce the hazards found in office areas and
provide a safe work environment.
The following sections address several common office hazards and ways you can prevent accidents
from happening. Other preventive measures may also be necessary.
Good Housekeeping Practices for the Office:
Poor housekeeping is a major contributor to occupational injuries and illness. Housekeeping includes
anything related to the cleanliness of TEST facilities, materials, and equipment, as well as the
elimination of hazardous conditions.
All TEST employees must work towards maintaining their respective workplace in a clean and orderly
manner. Many office accidents are caused by insufficient housekeeping practices. By keeping the
office floor both neat and clean, you can eliminate most slipping, tripping, and falling hazards. Other
good housekeeping practices include the following:
 Ensure that office lighting is adequate. Replace burned out light bulbs and have additional
lighting installed, as necessary.
 Ensure that electrical cords and phone cords do not cross walkways or otherwise pose a
tripping hazard. If you cannot move a cord, have a new outlet installed or secure the cord
to the floor with cord covering strips. Do not run cords underneath carpet, and avoid the
use of tape.
 Report or repair tripping hazards such as defective tiles, boards, or carpet immediately.
 Clean spills and pick up fallen debris immediately. Even simple items such as a loose
pencil could cause a serious falling injury.
 Keep office equipment, facilities, and machines in good, clean condition.
 Store items in an approved storage space. Take care to not stack boxes too high or too
tight. Clearly label boxes with their contents.
 Keep all drawers and cupboard doors closed when unattended.
Chemical Hazards :
Many common office chemicals can cause injuries if improperly used, stored, or disposed. Some
common office chemicals include: cleaning agents, glues, correction fluid, inks, and toners. To
guarantee the safe use, storage, and disposal of the chemicals in your office, always review the
Material Safety Data Sheet and/or container label for important information.
Cuts and Punctures:
Cuts and punctures happen when people use everyday office supplies without exercising care. Follow
these guidelines to help reduce the chance for cuts and punctures:
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o When sealing envelopes, use a liquid dispenser, not your tongue.

o Be careful when using kitchen knives, scissors, staplers, letter openers, and box openers.
Any of these items could cause a serious injury.
o Do not pick up broken glass with your bare hands. Wear gloves and use a broom and a
dustpan.
o Place used blades, broken glass, or other sharp objects in a rigid container, such as a box,
before disposing in a wastebasket.
Equipment Safety:
Only use machines that you know how to operate. Never attempt to operate an unfamiliar machine
without reading the machine instructions or receiving directions from a qualified person. In addition,
follow these guidelines to ensure machine safety:
o Secure machines that tend to unexpectedly move during operation.
o Do not place machines near the edge of a table or desk.
o Ensure that machines with moving parts are guarded to prevent accidents. Do not remove
these guards.
o Unplug defective machines, place "Out of Order" signs on them, and have them repaired
immediately.
o Do not use any machine that smokes, sparks, shocks, or appears defective.
o Close hand-operated paper cutters after each use.
o Take care when working with copying machines. If you have to open the machine for
maintenance, repair, or troubleshooting, remember that some parts may be hot. Always
follow the manufacturer's instructions for troubleshooting.
o Unplug paper shredders before conducting maintenance, repair, or troubleshooting. Some
items can be very dangerous when worn around machinery with moving parts.
o Avoid wearing loose belts, jewelry, long, loose hair, loose clothing, scarves or ties.
Common office machines, such as: copiers, microwaves, adding machines, typewriters
and computers- all require special safety considerations. Be sure you know how to operate
these machines before using them and never use one of these machines if you think it is
defective.
File Cabinets and Shelves:
Because file cabinets and shelves tend to support heavy loads, treat them with special care. Follow
these safety guidelines for file cabinets:
o Secure file cabinets that are not weighted at the bottom.
o Ensure that file cabinet drawers cannot easily be pulled clear of the cabinet.
o Do not block room ventilation grates with file cabinets.
o Open only one drawer at a time to keep the cabinet from toppling.
o Close drawers when they are not in use.
o Do not place heavy objects on top of cabinets. Be aware that anything on top of a cabinet
may fall off if a drawer is opened suddenly.
o Close drawers slowly using the handle to avoid pinched fingers.
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o Keep the bottom drawer full. This will help stabilize the entire cabinet.
In addition, follow these safety guidelines for office shelves:
o Ensure shelves are secured.
o Place heavy objects on the bottom shelves. This will keep the entire structure more stable.
o Maintain 18 inches between top shelf items and the plane of the fire suppression sprinkler
heads. In non-sprinkler areas, 24 inches must be maintained from top shelf items and the
ceiling.
o Do not block room ventilation grates with shelves.
o Never climb on shelves (even lower shelves). Use an approved ladder or stepstool.
Desks :
Follow these safety guidelines for office desks:
o Keep desks in good condition (i.e., free from sharp edges, nails, etc.)
o Ensure that desks do not block exits or passageways.
o Ensure that glass-top desks do not have sharp edges.
o Ensure that desks with spring-loaded tables function properly. The table should not spring
forth with enough force to cause an injury.
o Do not climb on desks. Use an approved ladder or stepstool.
o Keep desk drawers closed when not in use.
o Repair or report any desk damage that could be hazardous.
Chairs:
Safety guidelines for office chairs include the following:

o Do not lean back in office chairs, particularly swivel chairs with rollers.
o Never climb on a chair. Use an approved ladder or stepstool.
o Office desk chairs should have adjustable back supports and seat height. Make sure that
your chair's back support position and seat height are comfortable.
o Take care when sitting in a chair with rollers. Make sure it does not roll out from under you
when you sit down.
o Repair or report any chair damage that could be hazardous.
o Do not roll chairs over electrical cords. Ladders and Stepstools Always use an approved
ladder or stepstool to reach any item above your extended arm height. Never use a
makeshift device, such as a desktop, file cabinet, bookshelf, chair or box, as a substitute
for a ladder or stepstool.
Follow these guidelines when using ladders/stepstools:
o Do not load ladders or stepstools above their intended capacity.

o Place ladders or stepstools on slip-free surfaces even if they have slip-resistant feet.
o Avoid placing ladders or stepstools in walkways, and never place them in front of a door,
unless the door is locked and barricaded.
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o Conduct safety check of ladder periodically to ensure it is structurally sound and in good
repair.
o Remove ladders with missing or broken parts.
Slips, Trips, and Falls.:

The potential for a fall is present everywhere; however, some activities pose a greater risk for
falls than others.
o Hidden steps
o Carpets/rugs and their edges.
o Smooth surfaces (waxed/wet floors, etc.).
o Loose flooring (tiles, bricks, etc.).
o Ladder rungs and steps that are not maintained.
o Improper protective equipment.
o Oil/grease that is not cleaned immediately.
o Weather conditions- tracking water, mud, or sand.
o Shoes with little to no traction.
The easiest way to avoid slips, trips, and falls is to pay attention to your surroundings and to avoid
running or rushing. Additionally, you can improve the flow of office traffic by following these guidelines:
o Arrange office furnishings in a manner that provides unobstructed areas for movement.
o Keep stairs, steps, flooring, and carpeting well maintained.
o Ensure that glass doors have some type of marking to keep people from walking through,
or into, them.
o Clearly mark any difference in floor level that could cause an accident.
o Secure throw rugs and mats.
o Do not place wastebaskets or other objects in walkways.
o Close file drawers when you leave the cabinet.
o Wear proper footwear, slowdown and pay attention to your surroundings
o Properly place handrails in accordance with specific standards.
o Walk, do not run or rush up or down stairs.
Preventing Stress:
To reduce stress and prevent fatigue, it is important to take mini-breaks throughout the day. If possible,
change tasks at least once every two hours. Stretch your arms, neck, and legs often if you do the
same type of work for long periods of time. Rest your eyes often by closing them or looking at
something other than the work at hand. For a quick pick-me-up, breathe deeply several times by
inhaling through your nose and exhaling through your mouth. In addition, try eating your lunch
somewhere other than at your desk.
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Other examples of stress-relieving exercises that can be done at your desk include:
Head and neck Stretch:

o Slowly turn your head to the left and hold it for three seconds. Slowly turn your head to the
right and hold it for three seconds. Drop your chin gently towards your chest, and then tilt it
back as far as you can. Repeat these steps five to ten times.
Shoulder Roll:
o Roll your shoulders forward and then backward using a circular motion
Upper Back Stretch:
o Grasp on are below the elbow and pull gently towards the other shoulder. Hold this
position for five seconds and then repeat with the other arm.
Wrist Wave:
o With your arms extended in front of you, raise and lower your hands several times.
Finger Stretch:
o Make fists with your hands and hold tight for one second, then spread your fingers wide for
five seconds.
Stay in good physical condition.
o Take "mini" breaks and stretch intermittently in both sitting and standing positions.
o Change tasks frequently
o Adjust your computer screen to limit glare and take frequent vision breaks away from your
computer to allow your eyes to fully relax. Periodically gazing across the room or out a
window will help the eye muscles rest and receive oxygenated blood.
o Keep items frequently used in close proximity to you.
o Maintain good posture and use a chair with adequate support to adjust your upper
extremities to a neutral position.

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