X

Digitally signed by Karl

Karl Culshaw Culshaw

Date: 2022.02.01 22:30:40
+11'00'
 NACAP PNG LIMITED Doc No.: 2037‐HS‐015‐3 Rev 0
WORKING ON STEEP SLOPES PROCEDURE

CONTENTS

1 GENERAL INFORMATION .................................................................................................................. 5

1.1 Purpose ..................................................................................................................................................5
1.2 Scope ..................................................................................................................................................... 5
1.3 Definitions .............................................................................................................................................5
1.4 Abbreviations and Acronyms ................................................................................................................ 6
1.5 References .............................................................................................................................................6
2 ROLE RESPONSIBILITIES .................................................................................................................... 6
2.1 Project Management Team (PMT) ........................................................................................................ 6
2.2 Superintendents ....................................................................................................................................7
2.3 Supervisors ............................................................................................................................................7
2.4 Chief Mechanic ......................................................................................................................................8
2.5 Equipment Operators ............................................................................................................................ 8
2.6 Geotechnical Engineer........................................................................................................................... 8
3 STEEP SLOPE PLANNING, ASSESSMENT AND IDENTIFICATION .......................................................... 9
3.1 Planning .................................................................................................................................................9
3.2 Identification .........................................................................................................................................9
3.3 Risk Management ................................................................................................................................11
3.4 Steep Slope Work Pack ........................................................................................................................ 12
3.5 Equipment ...........................................................................................................................................12
3.6 Engineering Analysis ............................................................................................................................ 13
3.6.1 Engineered Slope Assessment ............................................................................................. 13
3.6.2 Teleferic................................................................................................................................15
3.6.3 Engineering or Other Assumptions ...................................................................................... 16
3.7 Site Conditions .....................................................................................................................................16
3.8 Personnel .............................................................................................................................................16
3.9 Communication Protocol ..................................................................................................................... 16
3.10 Winches ...............................................................................................................................................16
3.11 Mobile Winches ...................................................................................................................................17
3.12 Excavation, Backfill and Compaction ................................................................................................... 19
3.13 Blind Crests ..........................................................................................................................................19
3.14 Pipe Set Up / Securement ................................................................................................................... 19
3.15 Vehicles ................................................................................................................................................20
3.16 Geotechnical ........................................................................................................................................20
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WORKING ON STEEP SLOPES PROCEDURE

3.17 Permit to Work (PTW) ......................................................................................................................... 20

3.18 Auditing / Inspection ........................................................................................................................... 21
3.19 Maintenance........................................................................................................................................21
3.20 Emergency Preparedness and Response ............................................................................................. 21
 NACAP PNG LIMITED Doc No.: 2037‐HS‐015‐3 Rev 0
WORKING ON STEEP SLOPES PROCEDURE

1 GENERAL INFORMATION
1.1 Purpose
The purpose of the Working on Steep Slope Procedure is to ensure that the Scope of Work for any
works undertaken by Nacap on steep slopes adheres to the following requirements:
1. Steep slopes are identified, assessed, maintained and managed according to a systematic
documented and demonstrated methodology
2. The planning, assessment, maintenance and management of steep slopes are conducted by
qualified, trained, and competent crews, and
3. The planning, assessment, maintenance and management of steep slopes meet the Nacap, Client
and applicable regulatory requirements.
1.2 Scope
This procedure applies to all works on steep slopes included within the Nacap scope of work, this
procedure applies to anyone working on or within the immediate vicinity of any works on slopes e.g.
Teleferic subcontractor, ExxonMobil security (PNGDF and HGSF), WOOD.
1.3 Definitions
Term Meaning
Competent
Means one who can identify existing and predictable hazards in the
Person
surroundings or working conditions which are unsanitary, hazardous,
or dangerous to employees, and who has authorization to take
prompt corrective measures to eliminate them
‐ Nacap utilizes Competent Persons for the performance of slope
work; slope work that is very specific to the region of the country
that Nacap is working in. Nacap’s Competent Person selected can
identify the severity of slopes on the construction right‐of‐way (ROW)
and has extensive knowledge of how the ROW must be graded to
safely construct the pipeline.
‐ Nacap Competent Persons understand the dynamic nature of site
conditions during the construction project and thus will be able to
evaluate, design, and approve the appropriate slope procedures
required for safe construction.
Project
Consists of the Project, Construction, OHS Managers and Senior
Management
Project Engineer.
Team
Steep Slope
Refer Section 3.2 Identification of this Procedure.
Stop Work Is authority given to ALL employees regardless of position or
Authority experience level to immediately stop work should they observe a
situation that may be an immediate danger to life or health or any
other situation where there is a concern for the health and well‐
being of themselves or other co‐workers. No repercussions will result
from supervision as a result of utilizing this Stop Work Authority.

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1.4 Abbreviations and Acronyms

Acronym Meaning
EM ExxonMobil
HGSF Host Government Security Forces
JSA Job Safety Analysis
OHS Occupational Health and Safety
PMT Project Management Team
PNG Papua New Guinea
PNGDF Papua New Guinea Defence Force
PTW Permit to Work
ROPS Roll Over Protection
ROW Right of Way
WG Wood Group

1.5 References
This Procedure is based on the requirements of various documents and standards including (but not
limited to) those below. Readers should also refer to the following for further information about the
requirements on this Project:
 AS/NZS 2885 and other technical specifications (as applicable)
 The executed Contract WGIS‐074‐0086
 Pipeline Construction Scope of Work and Specification (PGHU‐WG‐YSZZZ‐463111‐001)
 Project Execution Plan (2037‐OPS‐001‐1)
 Angore Surface Facilities & Pipeline Permit to Work Interface Procedure PGHU‐WG‐WPPPTW‐
463111‐001 (Greenfield Strategy)
 Nacap’s Management System, for which Nacap maintains certification to ISO 9001, ISO 14001
and ISO 45001
 TransCanada: TES‐PROJ‐SSW Steep Slope Work Specification (CDN‐US‐MEX)
 BC Forest Safety Council Steep Slope Resource Package 2013
 NZ MBIE Code of Practice for Safety and Health in Forest Operations Sect. 6.4 Winch Assisted
Harvesting on Steep Slopes
All Workers engaged either directly or indirectly by Nacap on the Project shall be considered to be
operating under this procedure

2 ROLE RESPONSIBILITIES
2.1 Project Management Team (PMT)
 The PMT shall develop and provide a “Working on Steep Slopes Procedure” (this document)
outlining how steep slopes are going to be identified, measured, and assessed.

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 The PMT shall develop and provide a consolidated “Steep Slope Work Pack” for each steep
slope identified by this Procedure, refer to section 3.2 Identification for performing work on
the steep slope
 The PMT shall develop and provide an “Engineered Steep Slope Assessment” outlining the
risks of working on steep slopes
 The PMT shall be accountable and responsible to identify and assign all personnel involved in
the identification, assessment and management of steep slope construction including, but not
limited to, the following key roles:
a) Construction Superintendents / Supervisors
b) Professional Engineer (e.g., Mechanical, Geotechnical, & Civil)
c) Surveyor
d) Dogman / Riggers
e) Equipment Operators
f) Spotters, and
g) OHS Team
 The PMT shall identify all training and qualification requirements for all personnel performing,
monitoring and /or supervising construction activities associated with steep slope work.
 The PMT shall ensure that all personnel performing, monitoring and /or supervising
construction activities associated with steep slope work have received the required training,
have the qualification requirements and are fully competent to perform the role assigned.
 Ensure that plant and equipment are suitable for the tasks and fit for purpose, and
 The PMT shall be responsible for coordinating the work with all other contractors and
subcontractors.
2.2 Superintendents
Superintendents are responsible for:
 The evaluation of potentially hazardous conditions that may arise during slope work.
 Assist field supervisors in the identification and planning stages of slope work.
 Ensure that all employees are trained on related safety topics.
 Familiarise themselves with the procedure.
 Understand the importance of regularly scheduled maintenance for continued safe operation
of equipment involved in slope work, and
 Ensure that appropriate ROPS systems are installed on all required equipment
2.3 Supervisors
Supervisors are responsible for:
 Being familiar with slope work activities.
 Familiarizing themselves with this procedure.
 Conducting / coordinating job site inspection/evaluation.

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 Review of exclusion zones and site‐specific hazards

 Conducting a pre‐start meeting and complete a LMRA prior to beginning assigned tasks.
 Ensuring the completion of a Site‐Specific Slope Checklist and sign off on it,
 Identifying changing conditions, re‐evaluate hazards and apply necessary controls,

 Stopping work and completing a new JSA and meeting if there are unexpected changes to the
site.
 Ensuring that reliable communication devices are available prior to and during slope activities
and operations and conduct a radio channel check to ensure all personnel are on the same
frequency
 Ensuring that equipment is fuelled up and fluids checked sufficient for the shift’s work
2.4 Chief Mechanic
The Chief Mechanic or his designate is responsible for:
 Verifying specified equipment is on site and is equipped / configured as per the Steep Slope
Work Pack requirements
 Ensuring that winches and other safety critical equipment have been inspected daily by a
mechanic who is familiar with the equipment
2.5 Equipment Operators
Equipment Operators are responsible for:
 Assisting supervisory personnel in the initial and on‐going assessment of potential hazards at
the work site.
 Utilizing their stop work responsibility and authority when a potential danger arises.
 Self‐assess to confirm they are fit for duty and prepared to complete the work
 Knowing the functions and limitations of the machine and able to recognise signs that the
machine may not be operating safely
 Operating the machine in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions without exceeding
the safe working parameters for which it was designed
 Ensuring equipment undergoes daily inspections prior to work activities.
 Ensuring operators will utilise seat belts at all times when in equipment (NO EXCEPTIONS).
 Ensuring crews will confirm with operators (anytime an operator mounts equipment) that
seatbelts are in use.
 Utilising effective communication skills and feel free to ask questions, and
 Communicate real‐time “feel” experienced when operating equipment and utilize Stop Work
Authority as necessary
2.6 Geotechnical Engineer
Assess ground stability in accordance with Table 3 (pg 14).

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3 STEEP SLOPE PLANNING, ASSESSMENT AND IDENTIFICATION

3.1 Planning
All relevant information pertaining to the steep slope work shall be attained during the planning stage
of the steep slope work, which includes, but is not limited to, the following relevant information:
 Documented equipment and machine safe working limitations
 Documented connection equipment safe working limitations (e.g. slings, shackles, cables,
connection points, winches, etc.)
 Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan
 Engineered Steep Slope Assessment
 Permits
 Drawings
 Checklists
 Procedures
 Pre‐job meeting and documentation
 Survey and geotechnical reports
 Hazards and observations at the work site
 Weather patterns
Note: Slopes not identified as a steep slope as per section 3.2 Identification of this procedure shall use
standard pipeline construction techniques.
3.2 Identification
A steep slope shall be defined as a section of ground that is at an inclined angle in the direction of
work with reference to a horizontal plane in which the crest and toe of the slope supports access
for personnel and equipment performing, monitoring and/or supervising construction activities.

RoW KP From KP To Slope Angle Distance (m)

Section

#1 (Hides) 1 + 115 1 + 467 25 degrees 352

#2 (Hides) 1 + 800 1 + 930 24 degrees 130

#3 (Hides) 2 + 000 2 + 500 25 degrees 500

#4 (Hides) 2 + 550 2 + 670 22 degrees 120

#5 6 + 631 6 + 848 27 degrees 217

(Angore)

Table of known locations that are classified as a steep slope

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Visual Aid

Illustration of grades (percentages) and angles in degrees

 All slopes or slope section(s) shall be identified as a steep slope if the slope has a measured
gradient greater than or equal to 30% (16.7 degrees) with a slope length greater than or equal
to 10 metres (32.8 feet). Note: Some slopes although short in length, may meet the criteria
and require the same qualifications and mitigation measures as steep slopes.
 A site‐specific evaluation for cross slope work where a cut and fill is used to level the surface
within the ROW, may be exempt from the steep slope requirements upon variance approval.
Note: The slope prior to the cut and fill and during restoration will still be considered a steep
slope if the measured gradient is greater than or equal to 30% (16.7 degrees) with a slope
length greater than or equal to 10 metres (32.8 feet). Slope gradient and the slope length shall
NOT be averaged.
Clarification: If a slope contains steep slope section(s) with section(s) that do not fit the definition of a
steep slope, the overall gradient and the slope length cannot be averaged to make up the entire slope.
The sections of the overall slope that do not fit the steep slope definition are treated separately from
the sections of the overall slope that do fit the steep slope definition.

 A slope with a gradient of less than 30% (16.7 degrees) shall still be classified as a steep slope
if there is the probability of the slope becoming un‐stable during adverse environmental or
weather conditions (i.e. heavy rains, mud).
 A slope with a gradient of less than 30% (16.7 degrees) shall still be classified as a steep slope
if specialized equipment is required for excavation or backfill (equipment that would otherwise
not be used on flat ground) and anchoring is required and/or special anchoring devices for
anchor points of equipment and/or personnel.

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 Nacap shall use the “Steep Slope Work Pack” on all slopes identified as a steep slope as per
this document.
 The use of topographic information (i.e., maps, air photos, LiDAR and ground truthing) shall be
used for conducting steep slope identification followed with the use of field measurement.
3.3 Risk Management
A risk assessment workshop is required to identify the most suitable and practical methodology of
performing the planned scope of works on an identified steep slope.
The risk assessment workshop shall take into consideration the outcome and data provided via the
completed engineered slope assessment, consideration should also be given to the potential hazards
and required controls relevant to works not performed directly on the slope, but do form part of the
overall scope of work, such as:
 Transport of materials to slope
 Transport of personnel to slope
 Lifting of materials to be transported to the slope
 Emergency response
The risk assessment shall be documented and recorded, in the form of the following:
 JSA,
 Lift Plans,
 Schematics, and
 Risk Register
Personnel who should at a minimum participate in the risk assessment workshop are:
 Construction Manager
 Construction Superintendent
 Senior Engineer
 Plant Manager
 OHS Manager
Subject matter experts may also be considered to attend these workshops based on type of equipment
to be used, location of works or experience in working on slopes.
Nacap shall develop and provide a consolidated Steep Slope Work Pack that will include a site and task
specific Job Safety Analysis (JSA) document for EACH steep slope identified as per section 3.2
Identification of this document.
The JSA shall include an assessment(s) of the risks of steep slope work.
The JSA shall be developed by the OHS Manager, Construction Manager and engineering personnel
who are knowledgeable of the work, the hazards involved and the means to control the hazards, by
reason of education, training, experience or a combination thereof.
Nacap shall supply the JSA for review and approval to WG site representative allowing adequate time
for approval, sign‐off and lodgement of PTW requests prior to performing steep slope work. The JSA

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shall be reviewed with the crew also prior to works commencing on a steep slope, and amended and
reapproved when changes occur to plant, people, process or environment.
3.4 Steep Slope Work Pack
Nacap shall develop and provide a consolidated “Steep Slope Work Pack” for EACH slope identified by
this procedure for working on the steep slope.
Clarification: If a slope contains steep slope section(s) with section(s) that do not fit the definition of a
steep slope, the Contractor may develop a “Steep Slope Work Pack” for the entire slope as long as the
slope does not contain horizontal or any section(s) that support(s) lateral access for personnel and
equipment performing, monitoring and / or supervising construction activities.
 The Steep Slope Work Pack shall ensure that all the requirements of this procedure have been
met.
 Nacap shall identify the method(s) of construction that will be utilized for each slope.
 The Steep Slope Work Pack shall provide a sufficient level of detail that describes each phase
of construction, type(s) and number of equipment, hoisting and rigging configurations, etc.
 Nacap’s documented procedure(s) for the loading, unloading, storage and securement of any
equipment or materials shall include, but not limited to, piping, skids, welding machines, and
other construction equipment.
Note: also refer section 3.1 Planning for additional documentation required to be included with a Steep
Slope Work Pack.
3.5 Equipment
The Steep Slope Work Pack shall identify the equipment, the safe working limitations, working limit
calculations and machine manufacturer’s recommended safe working limitations, also:
 The Steep Slope Work Pack shall ensure that Nacap complies with the equipment and
machine manufacturers recommended safe working limitations.
 All machine weights identified in the calculations shall be based on actual operating weights
including fuel, lubricants, operator and material load.
 Any modification(s) made to equipment or existing equipment shall be conducted under the
direction and design authority of an authenticating competent engineering professional who
is knowledgeable in the modification(s) that are being conducted.
 Calculations and analysis used to support the Steep Slope Work Pack for determining the safe
use of the equipment based on the forces shall be conducted by and authenticated
competent engineering professional who is knowledgeable of the work.
 Nacap shall determine the need for specialised equipment, sizes, number of anchor pieces,
special anchoring devices at the anchor points and on the equipment, certifications of
equipment that is needed to perform work on each steep slope.
 Nacap shall ensure that all special anchoring devices attached to the ground or rock as anchor
points are designed by a professional engineer(s).
 Winching equipment required to hold construction equipment while working on steep slope
shall be placed on flat and level area on the top of each slope and anchored if required.
 Nacap shall ensure that each piece of equipment hoisting materials shall be certified and
installed as per manufacturers’ recommendations and as per regulations.

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 Nacap shall ensure that each piece of equipment, machinery, and hoisting material shall
regularly inspected and tagged in accordance with Australian Standards and Project
requirements and inspected daily prior to use.
 Nacap shall include in the Steep Slope Work Pack a process for documenting the loading,
unloading, storage and securement of any equipment or materials required on the steep
slope.
3.6 Engineering Analysis
3.6.1 Engineered Slope Assessment
Nacap shall develop and provide an “Engineered Steep Slope Assessment” document for EACH
identified steep slope identified. The Engineered Steep Slope Assessment shall be conducted by a
competent engineering professional who is knowledgeable of the work, the hazards involved and the
means to control the hazards, by reason of education, training, experience or a combination thereof.
Engineer(s) who meet this criteria shall be nominated by Nacap and be identified in each work pack.
The Engineered Steep Slope Assessment shall identify the construction risks for “wheeled machines”
if they will be used on any measured slopes equal to or greater than a 30% (16.7°) gradient slope.
The Engineered Steep Slope Assessment shall identify the construction risks for “tracked machines” if
they will be used for any measured slopes equal to or greater than a 40% (24.2°) gradient slope.
The Engineered Steep Slope Assessment shall consider requirements for the steep slope risk
assessment thresholds listed in the following table:
Table 1: Machine Stability Risk matrix

The requirements listed for the steep slope risk assessment thresholds are to be considered a
minimum for optimal conditions. The assessment shall tailor the requirements based on the actual
conditions of each steep slope.
The Engineered Steep Slope Assessment shall consider the requirements for winching as listed in the
following table:
Table 2: Slope gradient and winching requirements

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The requirements listed for winching and anchor points are to be considered a minimum for optimal
conditions and the assessment shall tailor the requirement based on the actual conditions for each
steep slope.
The Engineered Steep Slope Assessment shall consider the requirements of the machine and base
mounted winch listed in the following table. These shall be assessed by a geotechnical engineer.
Table 3: Ground Stability Factor Risk Matrix

The following factors shall be addressed in the Engineered Steep Slope Assessment document and shall
include, but is not limited to the following for each steep slope identified by the Steep Slope
Identification Procedure:
 Each phase of construction: mobilizing equipment, setting up, excavation, clearing, blasting,
pipe string, welding, pipe laying, backfill, compaction, ROW grading, demobilizing equipment,
etc.

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 Type of equipment and machinery intended to be used on the steep slope (consider
configuration of equipment, single, double or triple grousers)
 Hoisting and rigging of equipment, breaking strength of cable, third party cable certifications,
connection equipment (shackles, etc.)
 Equipment connection points (point on machine)
 Winching of equipment (reference slope angle for minimum requirements)
 Coefficient of traction factors and rolling resistance; Survey slope angle and slope length
(tracked vs. wheeled)
 Terrain stability / classification
 Soil classification (type drainage, depth)
 Ground roughness
 Operator competency, qualifications, duration of exposure on the slope, etc.
 Slope stability during environmental or weather conditions (i.e. heavy rains)
 Environmental factors (climate)
 Weather condition (heavy rains)
 Monitoring of weather condition, and
 Safety Measures.
3.6.2 Teleferic
If Teleferic Technology is utilised, the following factors shall be addressed in the Engineered Steep
Slope Assessment document and is not limited to the following for each steep slope identified by this
procedure:
 Each phase of construction: mobilising equipment, setting up of the Teleferic, setting up the
cable lines, clearing, blasting, excavation, pipe string, welding, pipe laying, backfill,
compaction, ROW grading and dismantling of the gondola, demobilizing equipment, etc.;
 Engineering analysis of the civil structural requirements
 Construction requirements of the infrastructure for the teleferic including engineering analysis
(rock anchoring)
 Allowable cooperating conditions (weight, wind loading)
 The type of equipment and intended machinery
 Winching, hoisting and rigging of equipment
 Cabling requirements working load and breaking strength
 Cabling certifications conducted by third parties
 Cabling connecting equipment
 Equipment connection points (point on machine)
 Operator competency, qualifications, duration of exposure on the slope
 Slope stability during environmental or weather conditions (i.e. heavy rains)

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 Environmental factors (climate)

 Monitoring of weather condition; and
 Safety Measures.
3.6.3 Engineering or Other Assumptions
All assumptions identified and utilised in the analysis by the competent engineering professional shall
be validated by Nacap.
Clarification: Assumed values utilised for engineering analysis such as coefficient of traction factors
and rolling resistance need to be validated by on‐site field testing and, or, shall have an additional
safety factor applied and identified in writing to ensure that it meets Nacap’s risk tolerance.
3.7 Site Conditions
The Steep Slope Work Pack shall identify soil conditions requirements (coefficient of traction factors
and rolling resistance), required weather conditions, hazards encountered, etc.
3.8 Personnel
Nacap shall list the designation and assignment of dedicated resources, including but not limited to,
the supervisor(s), spotters, safety resource(s), operator(s), PTW holders etc.
Nacap shall ensure that all dedicated resources are competent and trained for the required task.
Nacap’s “Steep Slope Work Pack” shall have a documented fall protection plan for any employees
working on steep slope(s).
3.9 Communication Protocol
Nacap shall have a documented communication protocol, for verbal communication between the
superintendents, supervisors, operator(s) and spotters(s), etc. at all times.
Nacap documented communication protocol shall include, but not limited to, the following:
a) Hand held radios
b) Spotters(s) to be identified by means of a distinctive coloured reflective vest, flag or distinctive
hard hat to ensure they stand out from other individuals
c) Signage at the base and top of each slope (visual, radio or horn communication) which
includes but is not limited to slope angle, danger steep slope, notice of provision to ascend or
descend, acceptable equipment to travel on slope, horn protocol and emergency contact
numbers.
Nacap shall ensure that daily prestart meetings and review of job safety analysis be conducted at least
once per day or when planned activities, scope of work and /or environmental conditions have
changed.
3.10 Winches
When encountering slopes that require winch support, Nacap will provide the appropriately rated and
fit for purpose winch, equipment, rigging, etc.
Winches may be anchored on tracked equipment or with a dead man anchoring into the ground.
Winches may be utilised for the installation of the pipe itself, (i.e. land barge) or to provide traction
assistance to equipment utilised for pipe installation / travel.

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The type of winch, its positioning, anchoring and limitations will be identified in the Steep Slope Work
Pack
Proper shielding will be installed on top of the blade and all other rough edges to protect against cable
fray.
When installing large sections Nacap may utilize winches on both the pipe and the tractors. This will
help prevent the pipe from slipping and turning the tractors when installing the sections of pipe.
When multiple tractors are utilized in winching operations, communication will be established using
two‐way radios or other effective means. The supervisor on the ground and all operators involved will
have an open line of communication always. The JSA shall review the method of communication to
coordinate and simplify. Confusion and miscommunication can be avoided by discussion during the
JSA regarding how the team will communicate under certain circumstances. Stop Work Authority
should be communicated at any time during winching operations. Stop Work Authority is vital during
winching operations. Operators must communicate real time “feel” experienced when that “feel”
indicates detrimental circumstances.
Consideration should be given to the configuration and spacing of equipment in relation to the length
of the work area. This consideration extends to the equipment’s effect on additional pieces of
equipment (rigidity) when in close proximity.
At a minimum, 5 wraps shall be maintained on the winch drum. Nacap employees should be aware
that all winches are rated at bare drum line pull. As the cable drum fills, the line pull will decrease (loss
of leverage) as the line speed increases (larger circumference). Therefore, a minimum length of cable
possible should be installed on the winch in order to allow the winch to operate on lower layers
(smaller diameter) and deliver maximum pull.
3.11 Mobile Winches
Mobile winches are utilised to provided traction assistance to other items of plant that are working on
steep slopes. The mobile winch must be set up on a level platform and not operated on an incline.
The area on which the winch shall be situated shall first be cleared of any loose soils, organic debris,
wet soft clay’s or loose rock.
Once the platform is complete the mobile winch shall be moved into position at the crest of the hill
with the spade embedded into the ground in the direction of the winching line. For optimum stability
in operation, the dipper arm must be extended so that the angle between the dipper arm and the
ground (in front of the dipper arm) is in the range of 110º – 130º.
The bucket shall be embedded into the bank face to ensure a minimum of 1.5m² is in contact with the
ground.

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After the machine is positioned the surrounding ground around the machine and bucket shall be
inspected by the supervisor to check for signs of cracking/ slipping as a result of the winch position. If
evidence is found of weak ground the machine shall be re‐located to a more suitable position.
The mobile winch front idlers need to be off the ground to ensure the weight of the machine is taken
through the rear idlers. When positioning the mobile winch the operator shall take account for the

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fact that the maximum allowable horizontal misalignment to the tethered machine shall be less than
15 degree.

3.12 Excavation, Backfill and Compaction

Nacap shall develop an excavation and backfill procedure for the steep slopes which will be part of the
Steep Slope Work Pack.
The excavation and backfill procedure shall ensure that material from excavation, clearing, blasting,
backfill, and /or compaction does not start rolling down the slopes. Nacap shall have in place safety
measures if there is a risk of material rolling down slopes, for example netting or barriers may be placed
to stop rocks or debris from rolling down the slopes.
The excavation and backfill procedure shall ensure that the backfill is properly and safely delivered to
the intended location in a controlled manner and is not allowed to free fall down the slopes.
3.13 Blind Crests
When working on slopes, some conditions may yield blind crests or break overs where possible, these
situations should be mitigated with grading practices.
Blind crests or break overs should be identified during initial slope identification assessment and during
daily work area inspection activities all crews working in blind crests or break overs should
communicate and acknowledge each other’s presence and scheduled work activities for the day
When changes to scope of work occur, the other parties in the area should be notified
Wherever mitigation of blind crests or break overs is unattainable, a method of communication and
verification for safe passage must be established
Where blind crests or break, overs exist, travel lanes on either side should be maintained clear where
possible, where the staging of equipment, pipe, or other construction materials in the travel lane is
unavoidable, methods of communication and verification of the existence of congestion must be
established.
3.14 Pipe Set Up / Securement
To ensure that pipe (joints, sections, or otherwise) are secured from dislodgement, pipe setup /
securement may be required. These measures will be taken during the stringing, setup, and any other
necessary pipeline construction process.

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First, setup locations will be strategically chosen to avoid setup on hillsides, where practical. When
considering setup locations, placement with respect to proceeding welding operations will be
considered.
Second, when slopes of any degree are encountered an evaluation must occur. Slopes of lesser degree
may utilize ratchet straps. These ratchet straps will be placed in a manner that secures the pipe (joint
or sections) to the skid sets. The ratchet strap will serve the purpose of preventing movement in any
direction (i.e. lateral, horizontal, or otherwise). Ratchet straps will only be utilized when degree of
slope and orientation of pipe deems appropriate.
Third, on slopes of greater degree additional methods of securement may be implemented. When
determining the appropriate means of securement, orientation of the slope in relation to work
activities (i.e. incline, decline) will be considered. These practices may include the installation of dead
men, the utilization of dig‐in practices, and / or the utilisation of winch. Additionally, certain areas may
require that joints of pipe be independently anchored.
When proper securement methods are in question, a competent person(s) will be consulted prior to
proceeding with setup activities.
3.15 Vehicles
Wheeled vehicles may be prohibited along identified slopes, depending on the conditions.
Vehicles and equipment are to be parked on level areas whenever practicable. Emergency brakes shall
be engaged, the vehicles left in park, and the keys shall be removed from them.
Vehicles and equipment when parked should be angled into spoil and off ROW in the event of brake
failure, and wheels or tracks may be required to be “chocked” or “blocked” when conditions warrant.
3.16 Geotechnical
The following considerations shall be included in the Steep Slope Work Pack, but is not limited to:
 Presence of a geotechnical professional on site
 Consideration of materials existing in the area
 Monitoring of geotechnical work stability after completion
 Maintenance of geotechnical structures
Note: A Geotechnical Engineer shall provide a report on ground conditions / stability for each work
location on slopes, daily and when conditions change e.g. rain
3.17 Permit to Work (PTW)
Prior to any works commencing a PTW for intended works on the steep slope shall be requested and
approved by ExxonMobil prior to any works commencing.
Any changes to works due to a change in process, scope, plant, environment shall require works to
cease requiring a review of the risk assessment and a request for a new PTW reflecting the changes
and approved by ExxonMobil.
PTW and associated attachments (e.g. lift plans, schematics, JSA) shall be communicated with the work
crew prior to works commencing.
As part of the PTW requirements for working on slopes a daily steep slope checklist will be completed
and attached to the PTW held onsite.

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3.18 Auditing / Inspection

Nacap shall ensure that readiness audit / inspection of the steep slope and JSA is performed daily.
Nacap shall develop an audit checklist and protocols for conducting and performing a readiness audit
/ inspection of the steep slope and JSA.
3.19 Maintenance
Plant and equipment that is to be used for work on slopes shall have maintenance and servicing
undertaken as outlined within the relevant plant and equipment operator manuals at a minimum.
Records of maintenance and servicing shall be retained by the Plant Manager, any faults / defects
identified shall be addressed prior to plant and equipment being utilised in operation.
3.20 Emergency Preparedness and Response
Prior to works commencing on slopes an emergency response plan shall be developed considering
method of rescue, equipment required and training requirements.
An emergency response drill should be conducted prior to commencement of works identifying any
potential opportunities for improvement or corrective actions required prior to works commencing,
the result of the drill shall be recorded on the Emergency Exercise – Evaluation Form 3905‐HSE‐039‐
F39.
Security preparedness and response shall be in accordance with the requirements of Angore Project
Security Plan PGHU‐EH‐SPSEC‐460001.

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