National Certificate: Building and Civil Construction

SAQA ID 65409 Level 3 – 140 credits

LEARNER GUIDE
SAQA: 259604
VERIFY COMPLIANCE TO SAFETY, HEALTH AND
ENVIRONMENTAL REQUIREMENTS IN THE
WORKPLACE

Learner Information:

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 Details Please Complete this Section
Name & Surname:
Organisation:
Unit/Dept:
Facilitator Name:
Date Started:
Date of Completion:

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Learner Guide Introduction
About the Learner This Learner Guide provides a comprehensive overview of the VERIFY
Guide… COMPLIANCE TO SAFETY, HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL
REQUIREMENTS IN THE WORKPLACE and forms part of a series of Learner
Guides that have been developed for NATIONAL CERTIFICATE:
OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT

ID 74269 LEVEL 2 – CREDITS 120The series of Learner Guides are

conceptualized in modular’s format and developed for NATIONAL
CERTIFICATE: OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH, SAFETY AND
ENVIRONMENT

ID 74269 LEVEL 2 – CREDITS 120.They are designed to improve the skills and
knowledge of learners, and thus enabling them to effectively and efficiently
complete specific tasks.

Learners are required to attend training workshops as a group or as specified by their

organization. These workshops are presented in modules, and conducted by a
qualified facilitator.

Purpose The purpose of this Learner Guide is to provide learners with the necessary
knowledge related to VERIFY COMPLIANCE TO SAFETY, HEALTH AND
ENVIRONMENTAL REQUIREMENTS IN THE WORKPLACE
Outcomes At the end of this module, you will be able to:
 Explaining the safety, health and environmental requirements applicable in a
specific workplace.
 Monitoring workplace compliance to safety, health and environmental
requirements against specified requirements.
 Evaluating performance of workplace safety activities required by safety, health
and environmental management programmes.
 Remedying workplace non-compliance to and non-performance of safety,
health and environmental requirements and programmes.
Assessment Criteria The only way to establish whether a learner is competent and has accomplished the
specific outcomes is through an assessment process.
Assessment involves collecting and interpreting evidence about the learner’s ability
to perform a task.
This guide may include assessments in the form of activities, assignments, tasks or
projects, as well as workplace practical tasks. Learners are required to perform tasks
on the job to collect enough and appropriate evidence for their portfolio of evidence,

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 proof signed by their supervisor that the tasks were performed successfully.
To qualify To qualify and receive credits towards the learning program, a registered assessor
will conduct an evaluation and assessment of the learner’s portfolio of evidence and
competency
Range of Learning This describes the situation and circumstance in which competence must be
demonstrated and the parameters in which learners operate
Responsibility The responsibility of learning rest with the learner, so:
 Be proactive and ask questions,
 Seek assistance and help from your facilitators, if required.

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 1
Verify compliance to safety, health and
environmental requirements in the workplace
Learning Unit

UNIT STANDARD NUMBER : 259604

LEVEL ON THE NQF : 2
CREDITS : 4
FIELD: Business, Commerce and Management Studies
SUB FIELD : Public Administration

The person credited with this unit standard is able to understand the importance of compliance to safety, health
PURPOSE: and environmental legal and other requirements for a specific workplace and the importance of integrating
safety, health and environmental considerations into all routine activities at the workplace. In addition learners
will be able to identify any deviations and workplace safety performance in the workplace from health, safety
and environmental requirements and be able to ensure that the correct action is taken in situations where safety
health and environmental issues are not in accordance with requirements.
The qualifying learner is capable of:
Explaining the safety, health and environmental requirements applicable in a specific workplace.
 Monitoring workplace compliance to safety, health and environmental requirements against specified
requirements.
 Evaluating performance of workplace safety activities required by safety, health and environmental
management programmes.
 Remedying workplace non-compliance to and non-performance of safety, health and environmental
requirements and programmes.

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE:

 Communication at NQF Level 1 or equivalent.

 Mathematical Literacy at NQF Level 1 or equivalent.

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 SESSION 1.
Explain the safety, health and environmental requirements
applicable in a specific workplace.
Learning Outcomes
 Applicable safety, health and environmental requirements are identified in a specific workplace.
 The identified safety, health and environmental requirements are explained in terms of their impact on the
well being of both the employer and employees.
 The importance of compliance to workplace safety, health and environmental principles is explained in terms
of the consequences to health, safety, environment and production.
 Purpose of monitoring compliance to safety, health and environment requirements is explained in terms of
the consequences for health, safety, environment and productivity.
 Specified requirements to monitor workplace safety, health and environment compliance are appropriate for
specified contexts.
 The importance of integrating safety, health and environmental considerations in all routine activities is
explained in terms of the consequences for health, safety, environment and productivity.

1. INTRODUCTION
Over the years the construction industry has consistently been among those industries with the highest
injury and fatality rates. The only industries that rival construction are agriculture and mining. What
features of construction make it an industry in which so many workers are injured and killed? A common
response to that question is simply, “Construction work is inherently dangerous and injuries are more
likely to occur.”

Therefore, attention to matters of health and safety of everyone in the construction industry is of
particular importance because the accident rate is very high. The responsibility of health and safety rests
with all construction participants (i.e. designers, contractors and construction workers), including clients.
Responsibility of safety and health is not only confined to construction work on site. Architects, design
engineers and surveyors are exposed to hazards during the investigation stage of a project and while
carrying out inspection tasks during the construction phase and completed works.

1.1. Definitions

Risk: Means the likelihood that harm from a particular hazard will occur.
Harm: Means injury, loss including illness.
Exposure: Means how often and how long employees are exposed to a hazard

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Hazard: Something with the potential to cause harm.
Safety: Means free from hazard.

1.2. Potential hazards are correctly identified and removed, reduced or reported

1.2.1.Health Hazards

The major health problems associated with the construction work may be categorised into:

 Chemical hazards: those due to liquids, dusts, gas and fumes.

 Physical hazards: those due to cold, heat, noise, vibration, ionising, radiations, compressed air, lasers
and manual handling.
 Hazardous materials: Hazardous materials can threaten human health and/or the environment through
routine emissions and/or accidental releases; Hazardous materials include materials that are toxic,
corrosive, flammable, reactive, irritating, and strongly sensitising.

1.2.2.Identifying potential hazards

Many serious injuries are due to worker falls (from: scaffolding ladders, roofs, floor openings, due to
improper or missing guard rails, or due to failure to use safety belts); collapse (of scaffolding or other
structures); being struck by vehicles; trench cave-ins; and electrical lines.

Therefore, before any construction work takes place, management should assess job-site conditions to identify
potential areas of serious injury. Therefore an activity hazard analysis (phase plan) should be prepared. The
analysis should address the following important points:

 sequence of work to be done

 the hazards of each activity to be performed in that phase
 the necessary control measures to be taken during operation
 the procedures of carrying out the necessary control measures; as well as
 all the safeguards that are necessary to be done; in order to eliminate the hazards or to reduce the
risk to an acceptable level.

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 Figure 1: Scaffold Safety

You have the greatest risk of death or injury when working on scaffolding so make sure that the scaffold
you’re working on is COMPLETELY safe!

The builder fixing the ridge cap

was careless in handling his
trowel.

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 The tool box was not placed
on the roof with a
consideration of possible slip.

The ladder was not fixed

properly on the ground before
use.

Figure 2: Hazards when Working at Height

Always check for hazards & minimize risks when you are working at height.
NOTE: Any mistake with one worker affects every other team member on the roof as
well as endangers the people that are passing by!

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 Heavy equipment placed
dangerously close to the
excavation.

An inadequately designed
earth support

A worker working in the

trench without a hard hat

Figure 3: Hazards of Pipe-Laying

Many construction workers are buried every year by excavation collapses. A simple
safety check can prevent this nightmare happening to you or your workmates.

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Figure 4: Hazards of Mechanised Equipment

Look out for hazards & minimize risks when using this type of equipment.

Notice that the use of the hoist in fig. 1.4 was done in an unsafe way.
 Operators were not fully concentrating
 The worker on the upper level should not have opened the gate by the hoist path
 Inadequate maintenance of the plant will cause it to malfunction
 Fatal injury could result from this type of accident

It is important to look out for potential hazard that any plant could cause before using it. Every worker is
also expected to look out for potential hazard while working on site.

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 1.2.3.Removing potential hazards

If a potential hazard has been identified and must be removed, it is advisable to avoid the use of manual
handling of heavy loads. In order to do this, you may make use of plants like: scissor lifts, cranes, hoists,
and balancers. These will make it easy to conduct the removal of the hazard and at the same time avoid
direct human contact, and also reduce further hazard to the construction worker.

It is also very important to tag and remove any power tool that is not working properly during this
process.

1.2.4.Reducing or reporting potential hazards

Whenever a person observes what appears to be an unsafe or harmful condition or act the person must
report it as soon as possible to a supervisor or to the employer, and the person receiving the report must
investigate the reported unsafe condition or act and must ensure that any necessary corrective action is
taken without delay.

If a hazard or risk cannot be removed completely, supervisors must make sure everyone is notified, aware
and taking the necessary precautions. The project supervisor must liase with safety officers, monitor
safety management procedures, carry out sufficient inspections and be aware of all project activities.

Employees shall have the option of reporting unsafe conditions directly or anonymously. Employees may
verbally report workplace hazards directly to department supervisors. In the event of a verbal report,
supervisors will be required to document the report. Documentation shall include the date of the report,
the location or vehicle, the employee reporting the hazard and the hazard reported. Supervisors will be
responsible for follow up to reported hazards and shall respond in writing to the employee detailing how
and when, if necessary, the hazard will be corrected. In addition, should the supervisor conclude that a
hazard does not exist the matter shall be discussed prior to issuing a written response to the employee
detailing how the conclusion was reached.

It is every employer’s responsibility to make sure each employee can get to their place of work safely and
work there safely. In the case of a construction site, employers must ensure edges have guard rails, holes
are protected with clearly marked and fixed covers, the site is tidy, materials are stored safely, and
lighting is adequate.

Checkpoint
Briefly explain how potential hazards are correctly identified and removed, reduced or reported?

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 Identifying - before any construction work takes place, management should assess job-site conditions to
identify potential areas of serious injury.

 Removing - If a potential hazard has been identified and must be removed then take all necessary
precautions to remove the hazard.

 Reducing or reporting - Whenever a person observes what appears to be an unsafe or harmful condition
or act the person must report it as soon as possible to a supervisor or to the employer,

1.3. Construction Regulation Risk Assessment

Every Contractor performing construction work shall before the commencement of any construction work
and during construction work cause a risk assessment to be performed by a competent person appointed
in writing and the risk assessment shall form part of the health & safety plan to be applied on the site and
shall include:

 The identification of the risk and hazards to which persons may be exposed to.
 The analysis and evaluation of the risks and hazards identified.
 A documented plan of safe work procedures to mitigate, reduce or control the risks and hazards
that have been identified.
 A monitoring plan.
 A review plan.

The first and the most important stage in the risk assessment process is the identification of hazards. The
identification of hazards is not only an essential part of the risk assessment process, but also acts very
effectively to change the way that people think, causing them to act more safely and so become more
proactive in hazard awareness.
1.4. Implications of exposure to hazardous substances and hazards are known
1.4.1.Chemical Hazards

Dangers from chemicals may arise from contact with skin, inhalation or ingestion (swallowing).
Contact with skin

Dermatitis is perhaps the most common occupational disease, and can be caused by contact with a
number of materials commonly used in the construction industry. Cement, particularly when wetted, is an

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example. The slake lime content in the cement is considered to be responsible for cement burns on the
legs and feet of operatives. Certain epoxy resins used in grouts, seals and adhesives are another cause of
dermatitis, as are acids, alkalis, solvents, thinners, paints varnishes, brick and stone dust and bitumen.

Inhalation of harmful chemicals

The inhalation of certain dusts, fumes, gases and vapours may give rise to a variety of risks to health,
including respiratory disorders, poisoning, asphyxiation and cancer. Some of the most common
substances are now discussed.

Asbestos dust from asbestos cement roofing sheets, decking, cladding sheets, rainwater and soil pipes:
Their cutting and breaking gives rise to this dust.

Silica dust from tunnelling through rock and slate; the abrasive cleaning of stone structures; grinding,
cutting and working on granite and other stone.

Ingestion

The swallowing of harmful chemicals by mistake or through lack of personal hygiene is an ever-present
risk in the construction and demolition activities.

1.4.2.Physical Hazards

In the second main category of hazard danger results from the general environment experienced by the
workers or from their particular occupation.
Cold and heat
Construction workers may be exposed to conditions of extreme cold or heat and to biting winds over long
periods. Such long prolonged exposure to these conditions can have serious effects on ones health.
Noise
Damage to hearing, usually irreversible, may be caused by exposure to high noise levels from plant and
machinery on site or in the workshop.
Vibration
The most common injury is caused by continued exposure of the hands to high frequencies of vibration
from tools such as pneumatic hammers, concrete breakers, drills and chipping hammers.
Radiation
Radiation from lasers and non-destructive testing and welding is an increasing risk for construction
workers. Local exposure to radiation results in reddening or blotching of the skin, whilst acute general
exposure may cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, collapse and even death.

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2. DRAWING UP A HEALTH & SAFETY PLAN

No matter how safe an operation may seem to be, it would be foolish to ignore the possibilities of a
serious accident. It is best to foresee any major problems that might arise and prepare for them. The
consequences and penalties of not planning emergencies may be the difference between an unfortunate
incident and a tragic event. A good health and safety plan will cover accident prevention, emergency
response strategies, and safety training.

The degree of detail required in the health and safety plan for the construction phase and the time and
effort in preparing it should be in proportion to the nature, size and level of health and safety risks
involved in the project. Projects involving minimal risks will call for simple, straightforward plans. Large
projects or those involving significant risks will need more detail.

1. What should the health and safety plan cover?

The health and safety plan should set out the arrangements for securing the health and safety of everyone
carrying out the construction work and all others who may be affected by it.

It should deal with:

 The arrangements for the management of health and safety of the construction work;
 The monitoring systems for checking that the health and safety plan is being followed;
 Health and safety risks to those at work, and others, arising from the construction work, and from
other work in premises where construction work may be carried out

Checkpoint

Name the two types of hazards and define each?

 Chemical - Dangers from chemicals may arise from contact with skin, inhalation or ingestion
(swallowing).
 Physical - Danger results from the general environment experienced by the workers or from their
particular occupation.

1. PROTECTIVE CLOTHING

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Figure 5: Protective Clothing

Wearing your protective clothing can protect you from an injury or illness that could
ruin your life!

The use of protective clothing is crucial in order to reduce the effects of accidents on construction sites.
The legal duty lies on the employer to provide protective clothing and equipment free of charge whenever
other methods to control risk to health and safety cannot provide sufficient protection. Disciplinary action
can be taken against employees who refuse to wear the protective clothing provided by the employers .
Below you will see some types of protective clothing used on construction sites:

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 Figure 6: Protective Gloves

Figure 7: Eye Wear

Figure 8: Hard Hat

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 Figure 9: Hearing Protection

Figure 10: Harness

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 Figure 11: Boots

1.1. Requirements

The personal protective clothing must:

 be appropriate for the risk and the conditions

 take account of the wearer
 fit the wearer
 be effective for the involved without increasing the overall risk
 comply with appropriate design and manufacture legislation

1.2. The choice of protective clothing must take into account:

 the physical effort required to do the job

 the method of work
 how long the personal equipment needs to be worn
 the requirements for visibility and communication

Checkpoint

What are the requirements for protective clothing?

 The clothing must be appropriate for the risk and the conditions, fit the wearer, comply with
appropriate design and manufacture legislation and be effective for the involved without increasing
the overall risk.

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2. STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

The Occupational Health & Safety Act covers all people at work, whether employers, employees or self
employed, except for domestic servants in private households and some public transport workers covered
by other Acts. It also protects the general public where their health and safety may be affected by the
work activities of others.

The health and safety representative works with the employer to monitor health and safety issues in the
workplace and to work with their employer to improve health and safety standards.

Key functions are inspecting the work place accompanying the inspector, being present at any interview
between an inspector and an employer, requesting the establishment of a health and safety committee and
issuing Provisional Improvement Notices.

Various ways are used by the health and safety inspectors in the field to insure compliance with the legal
requirement of the Act. Many involve routine inspections of sites to check what is occurring against what
is required by law. The visits are made without giving any prior warning to the contractor or site manager.

2.1. Advice and persuasion

The inspector may find a contravention of, for example, a construction regulation. In some cases the
contractor may not be aware of the particular requirement or how it may be complied with. The inspector
will then give advice on ways in which the obligation may be met. If the inspector finds a number of
matters requiring attention, again verbal advice will be given on what is wrong and how to put it right.
This may then be put in writing to the firm concerned, indicating also the various breaches in law.
2.2. Notices

The inspector is provided with particularly quick and effective means of dealing with breaches of the law
and hazards that may be found during site inspections: the issue of an official notice. There are two types:
the Improvement Notice and the Prohibition Notice. An Improvement Notice can be issued where an
inspector considers that there has been a contravention of a statutory provision and it is likely that the
contravention will continue or be repeated. A Prohibition Notice may be used only when the inspector
considers that there is a risk of serious personal injury arising from an activity or operation being carried
on or about to be carried on.

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The notices can be issued to have an immediate or deferred effect. The immediate type may only be
issued if the inspector considers that the risk of injury is about to happen. If it is the deferred type then the
prevention of the activity or operation becomes effective from the date stipulated in the notice unless the
requirements of the inspector have been complied with.

2.3. Prosecution

The ultimate course taken by the inspector to uphold the law is to prosecute for contravention. Anyone
who does not comply with any part of the Act or its relevant regulations can be prosecuted in the
Magistrate’s Court.

2.4. The construction contract

The construction contract documents may be written with no mention of safety. If this is the case, the
contractor still has the obligation to comply with the existing laws and regulations. The owner cannot
waive that obligation. It is possible that the health and safety requirements are included in a contract to
ensure that the contractor does comply with the health and safety regulations.

Checkpoint

Who does the Occupational Health and Safety Act cover?

 The Occupational Health & Safety Act covers all people at work, whether employers, employees or
self employed, except for domestic servants in private households and some public transport workers
covered by other Acts. It also protects the general public where their health and safety may be
affected by the work activities of others.

Wrap-Up
 Attention to matters of health and safety of everyone in the construction
industry is of particular importance where the accident rate is so high.

 Many serious injuries are due to worker falls (from: scaffolding ladders,
roofs, floor openings, due to improper or missing guard rails, or due to failure to use safety belts);

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 collapse (of scaffolding or other structures); being struck by vehicles; trench cave-ins; and electrical
lines.

 The areas of potential serious injuries should be carefully assessed before construction work begins.
In many cases, precautions can be exercised to minimize the potential for injury.

 Although management should be concerned about avoiding all types of injuries, particular attention
should be committed to avoiding the more serious ones. Thus, before any construction work takes
place, management should assess job-site conditions to identify potential areas of serious injuries

 Every Contractor performing construction work shall before the commencement of any construction
work and during construction work cause a risk assessment to be performed by a competent person
appointed in writing and the risk assessment shall form part of the health & safety plan

 The identification of hazards is not only an essential part of the risk assessment process, but also acts
very effectively to change the way that people think, causing them to act more safely and so become
more proactive in hazard awareness.

 The consequences and penalties of not planning emergencies may be the difference between an
unfortunate incident and a tragic event. A good health and safety plan will cover accident prevention,
emergency response strategies, and safety training.

 The health and safety plan should set out the arrangements for securing the health and safety of
everyone carrying out the construction work and all others who may be affected by it.

 The use of protective clothing is crucial in order to reduce the effects of accidents on construction
sites.

 Disciplinary action can be taken against employees who refuse to wear the protective clothing
provided by the employers

 The Occupational Health & Safety Act covers all people at work, whether employers, employees or
self employed, except for domestic servants in private households and some public transport workers
covered by other Acts. It also protects the general public where their health and safety may be
affected by the work activities of others.

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 Various ways are used by the health and safety inspectors in the field to secure compliance with the
legal requirement of the Act. Many involve routine inspections of sites to check what is occurring
against what is required by law. The visits are made without giving any prior warning to the
contractor or site manager.

 The inspector is provided with particularly quick and effective means of dealing with breaches of the
law and hazards that may be found during site inspections: the issue of an official notice. There are
two types: the Improvement Notice and the Prohibition Notice.

 The notices can be issued to have an immediate or deferred effect. The immediate type may only be
issued if the inspector considers that the risk of injury is about to happen. If it is the deferred type
then the prevention of the activity or operation becomes effective from the date stipulated in the
notice unless the requirements of the inspector have been complied with.
 The ultimate course taken by the inspector to uphold the law is to prosecute for contravention.

 The construction contract documents may be written with no mention of safety. If this is the case, the
contractor still has the obligation to comply with the existing laws and regulations.

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 SESSION 2.
Monitor workplace compliance to safety, health and
environmental requirements against specified requirements
Learning Outcomes
 The specified requirements for monitoring workplace compliance to safety, health and environmental
requirements are explained in terms of the consequences for the personnel, productivity and the
environment.
 Purpose and extent of monitoring workplace compliance is explained and verified according to specified
requirements.
 Specified requirements to monitor workplace safety, health and environmental compliance are identified and
are appropriate for the situation.
 Human resources, tools, instruments, equipment and material required for monitoring are selected, verified
and used according to specified requirements and the specific situation.
 Deviations in safety, health and environment compliance are identified and recorded according to specified
requirements.

Limit damage to persons or property in the case of an emergency

 1. The location of fire extinguishers, hoses and alarms is known.
 2. Different fire extinguishers are identified and used correctly.
 3. Procedures for the identification of emergencies are known and followed promptly and correctly.
 4. Injuries involving individuals are reported promptly to the relevant persons.

1. LIMITING DAMAGE
In the case of an emergency damage to persons and property should be reduced to a minimum. The
contractor on site shall set up a contingency plan for the safe and effective response to emergencies. The
contractor may be required to develop emergency plans of action to follow when certain types of
accidents occur.

1.1. Location of fire extinguisher, hoses and alarms

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Figure 1

Construction site fires cause many serious injuries & deaths so if you see any fire hazard you must
eliminate it or report it!

It is of importance that persons on site are aware of the location of fire extinguishers and hoses and
alarms. An important aspect in the protection of both life and property is the provision of suitable and
sufficient fire fighting equipment. Therefore the location of fire extinguishers, hoses and alarms should be
placed at positions, which provide quick and easy access to prevent further spread or damage caused by
the fire. The fire fighting equipment shall be adequate in all working areas. The type, location and
number of items of fire fighting equipment shall be to the satisfaction of the safety offices.

1.1.1.Fire extinguishers

Employees have two very important decisions to make when a fire breaks out: whether to flee
immediately and which type of fire extinguisher to use if they decide to fight the fire. Prepare employees
to make these determinations and learn the safe operating procedures for various types of extinguishers.

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 1.1.2.Class of fires

The various types of fire extinguishers are not all equally effective on all kinds of fires. In selecting an
extinguisher, consideration shall be given to the class of fire that may occur, the activity in the area of
probable use, and contents of the building, etc.

Class A fires are ordinary combustible material, such as wood, cloth, paper, rubber, and many plastics

Class B fires are fires of flammable liquids, gases, greases and anaesthetics

Class C fires are fires that involve energized electrical equipment, such as motors, electrical panels, etc.

1.1.3.Types of extinguishers

Type A Type B Type C Type

Figure 2: Types of Extinguishers

Type A. Dry Chemical extinguishers are usually rated for multiple purpose use. They contain an
extinguishing agent and use a compressed, non-flammable gas as a propellant

Type B. Halon extinguishers contain a gas that interrupts the chemical reaction that takes place when
fuels burn. These types of extinguishers are often used to protect valuable electrical equipment since them
leave no residue to clean up. Halon extinguishers have a limited range, usually 4 to 6 feet. The initial
application of Halon should be made at the base of the fire, even after the flames have been extinguished

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Type C. Water These extinguishers contain water and compressed gas and should only be used on Class
A (ordinary combustibles) fires

Type D. Carbon Dioxide (CO2) extinguishers are most effective on Class B and C (liquids and
electrical) fires. Since the gas disperses quickly, these extinguishers are only effective from 3 to 8 feet.
The carbon dioxide is stored as a compressed liquid in the extinguisher; as it expands, it cools the
surrounding air. The cooling will often cause ice to form around the “horn” where the gas is expelled
from the extinguisher. Since the fire could re-ignite, continue to apply the agent even after the fire appears
to be out.
Table 1: Spacing for fire extinguishers:
Fire Loading Maximum floor area permitted Maximum distance of travel in
per fire extinguisher in m2 metre necessary to reach a fire
extinguisher
Low 500 15
Moderate 250 12
High 200 8

Checkpoint

Why is the location of fire extinguisher, hoses and alarms important?

 It is of importance that persons on site are aware of the location of fire extinguishers and hoses
and alarms. Therefore the location of fire extinguishers, hoses and alarms should be placed at
positions, which provide quick and easy access to prevent further spread or damage caused by the
fire.

1.2. Emergency Procedure Plan

When site work includes operations that may be too hazardous than normal the contractor for dealing
with any foreseeable incidents should draw up a plan. The plan should include methods of evacuation
and rescue of all people likely to be on site and should be formulated following discussion with the
emergency services, e.g. police, fire and ambulance.

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The contractor may be required to develop plans of action to follow when certain types of accidents
occur. The immediate cure of the injured worker or workers must be planned so that the actions can be
carried out smoothly. Training and education are key ingredients of such provisions. The contractor shall
provide all medical services for its personnel and its subcontractor’s personnel. The contractor’s medical
services shall include first aid treatment (including all necessary first aid supplies), ambulance services,
clinic or hospital emergency room treatment, and hospitalisation and physician services.

2. FIRST AID PROCEDURES

As many employees as is possible should be trained in simple first aid procedures. A number of simple
first aid procedures are outlined below:

2.1. Electric shock

Switch off the current if possible, otherwise pull the victim from contact using heavy duty insulating
gloves, a rubber sheet, piece of dried timber, cloth, folded newspaper or rope. Extreme care must be taken
not to touch the victim’s skin before the current is switched off.

2.2. Gassing

Remove the victim to the fresh air or a gas free atmosphere as quickly as possible, ensuring the rescuer is
wearing suitable respiratory protection (e.g. breathing apparatus.

2.3. Suffocation

If the victim has been buried in loose materials, such as trench collapse, immediately and quickly clear
any debris from his mouth and nose.

2.4. Drowning

Remove the victim from the water with all speed. Clear any debris from his mouth. If rescue is by boat
begin resuscitation in the boat. When the victim is clear of danger, resuscitation should be started
immediately as the first minutes are vital and should be continued without interruption until breathing is
restored or until a doctor certifies that life is extinct. Resuscitation procedure is described as follows with
the aid of figures 3 to 6 below.

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 Fig 4
Fig 3

 First step; clear any debris from the mouth of the patient as shown in figure 3
 Actual resuscitation process can then start as indicated in figure 4
 The process should be continued without stopping until breathing is restored to the patient as
indicated in figures 5 and 6.

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Fig 6

Fig 5

2.5. Bleeding

When bleeding is more than normal, control is by direct pressure. Apply a sterilized dressing/cloth on the
bleeding point.

2.6. Unconsciousness

Where the patient is unconscious care must be taken to keep the airways open. This is done by clearing
the mouth and ensuring the tongue does not block the back of the throat. Where possible the patient
should be placed in a recovery position (see Figure 7, 8, 9 and 10 below).

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 Figure 7

Ensure mouth is

Figure 8

cleared

Figure 9

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 Figure 10

Place patient in recovery position after the whole process is completed and patient is waiting for further
medical attention.

2.7. Broken bones.

Unless in a position which exposes the victim to further injury or danger, no attempt should be made to
move a casualty with suspected broken bones or injured joints until the injured parts have been supported
so that they cannot move or be moved separately from the body.

2.8. Burns and scalds.

Flushing the affected area with plenty of clean cool water before applying a clean towel should treated to
burns and scalds. It is most important that blisters do not burst and that no attempt should be made to
remove the clothing, which may be sticking to the burns or scalds.

2.9. Foreign bodies in the eye.

Unless the object can be removed easily with a clean piece of moist material, no attempt should be made
to remove the object. The eye should be rinsed with clean water. People with eye injuries or foreign
bodies in the eye which cannot be removed in simple fashion, should be sent to the hospital immediately.

Checkpoint

What is the purpose of an emergency procedure plan?

 The plan includes methods of evacuation and rescue of all people likely to be on site.

3. REPORTING INJURIES

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The key to improving safety activities lies in improving the information that the contractor supplies to the
owner concerning where accidents or injuries occur, why and when. The contractor shall report all
personnel-injury accidents, property damage accidents, fires, spills and near misses to the owner within
24 hours of the occurrence. All accidents causing death or serious injury shall be reported immediately to
the owner.

Figure 11

3.1. Section 24 of the Health and Safety Act:

Any person injured in connection with his work activities or in connection with the use of plant or
machinery, in which, or in consequence of which:

 Any person dies, becomes unconscious, suffers a loss of a limb or part of a limb;
 becomes ill to a degree that he is likely to die or suffer permanent physical damage;
 is unable for a period of 14 days be unable to work or continue the activity;
 a major incident occurred; or
 the health and safety of any person was endangered and where a dangerous substance was
spilled, the uncontrollable release of any substance under pressure took place;
 machinery, or any part thereof fractured or failed resulting in flying, falling or uncontrollable
moving object; or
 machinery ran out of control,

Shall be within the prescribed period and in the prescribed manner, be reported to an inspector by the
Employer or the use of the plant or machinery concerned, as the case may be.

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In the case of death, a specified major injury or dangerous occurrence, notification must be made to the
Provincial Director by telephone, facsimile or similar means of communication. This must be followed up
within 7 days by a written report of the incidents to the enforcing authority, such as the Health & Safety
Representative or a member of the Health & Safety Committee and finalized as soon as reasonably
possible.

Checkpoint

When are personnel-injury accidents, property damage accidents, fires, spills, near misses and deaths
supposed to be reported to the owner?

 The contractor shall report all personnel-injury accidents, property damage accidents, fires, spills and
near misses to the owner within 24 hours of the occurrence.
 All accidents causing death or serious injury shall be reported immediately to the owner.

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Wrap-Up
 In the case of an emergency damage and to persons and property
should be reduced to a minimum. The contractor on site shall set up a
contingency plan for the safe and effective response to emergencies.

 The location of fire extinguishers, hoses and alarms should be placed at positions, which
provide quick and easy access to prevent further spread or damage caused by the fire. The fire
fighting equipment shall be adequate in all working areas. The type, location and number of
items of fire fighting equipment shall be to the satisfaction of the safety offices.

 When site work includes operations that may be too hazardous than normal, a plan should be
drawn up by the contractor for dealing with any foreseeable incidents. The plan should
include methods of evacuation and rescue of all people likely to be on site and should be
formulated following discussion with the emergency services, e.g. police, fire and ambulance.

 The key to improving safety activities lies in improving the information that the contractor
supplies to the owner concerning where accidents or injuries occur, why and when. The
contractor shall report all personnel-injury accidents, property damage accidents, fires, spills
and near misses to the owner within 24 hours of the occurrence.

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 SESSION 3.
Evaluate performance of workplace safety activities required
by safety, health and environmental management programmes.
Learning Outcomes
 Safety performance is measured against established objectives to evaluate progress towards a healthy and
safe workplace.
 Tools and techniques used to measure workplace safety; health and environmental performance are fit for
purpose and applied according to the specified requirements.
 Identified and reported workplace safety, health and environmental incidents are analysed and evaluated
according to specified requirements to determine safety, health and environmental performance.
 Workplace critical areas are identified and accessed through available sources.
 The importance of evaluating workplace safety, health and environmental performance is explained in terms
of the consequences for health, safety, environment and productivity.
 Measuring equipment is cleaned and stored and defective measuring equipment is dealt with according to
specified requirements.
 The potential for various industrial processes to impact on environmental receptors is graded according to
specified requirements.

Follow procedures that apply to illness or injury in the work area

 Procedures for reporting and recording are demonstrated.
 2. Procedures to be followed if an injury may lead to a claim against workman`s compensation are
followed.
 3. A brief incident report is written and delivered to the relevant authority.

4. FOLLOWING PROCEDURES

4.1. Reporting Illness

Under certain regulations, certain listed diseases must be reported either by the employer or by the self-
employed when those diseases are linked to specified types of works. If a doctor notifies an employer that
one of his employees suffers from a reportable work-related disease then a report must be sent to the
enforcing officer.

4.1.1.Reportable diseases include:

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 Certain poisoning.
 Some skin diseases such as occupational dermatitis, skin cancer, chrome ulcer and acne.
 Lung disease including occupational asthma, asbestos.
 Infections such as hepatitis, anthrax and tetanus.

Diseases related to construction work should always be reported to the Health & Safety Executives.

4.1.2.Reporting Injuries

Falls from elevation account for a significant amount of construction accident injury cases.
Approximately ten percent of all occupational injury deaths are the result of falls, which are the leading
type of construction accident injury. Falls from buildings and structures, scaffolding, rooftops, and
ladders are the primary cause of construction accident injury falls. Falls are often the result of equipment
failure or improper/inadequate use of safety protective gear.

Machinery break down or failure is also a major cause of construction accident injury. Forklifts cause
20,000 injuries each year. Steer loaders cause a number of construction accident injury cases as well.
Electrocution is another hazard that can cause serious construction accident injury. Cave-in of
construction excavation sites account for 1000 construction accident injury cases every year.

Exposure to harmful materials in the workplace is also a significant type of construction accident injury.
Exposure to asbestos can cause potentially deadly health problems, as well as exposure to lead containing
paints. Exposure to a variety of other solvents and hazardous wastes can also lead to serious
construction accident injury.

4.1.3.Employer Obligation

Unless the employer has knowledge of the injury or the employee gives notice within 21 days of the
injury, no compensation is due until notice is given. Notice must be given no later than 120 days after the
injury for compensation to be allowed.

The employer is required to immediately report all injuries to its insurer or, if self-insured, the individual
responsible for management of its workers' compensation program.

For injuries resulting in the loss of a day, shift or turn (or more) of work, the employer must
alsocomplete an Employer's Report of Occupational Injury or Disease and submit it to the Bureau within
seven days of injury.

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However, Employer's Reports for injuries resulting in death must be filed with the Bureau within 48
hours. Copies of the Report must also be provided to the injured worker and the employer's insurer.

4.1.4.Keeping Records

A record must be created and kept of all reportable injuries and dangerous occurrences. The record must
contain in each case the following information:

 The date and time of the accident causing the injury or dangerous occurrence.

 The following particulars about the person affected:

- Full name

- Occupation

 Nature of injury or condition.

 The place where the accident or dangerous occurrence happened.

 A brief description of the circumstances.

4.2. Workmen’s Compensation

An employee who fails to take reasonable care to ensure safety and health of an employee can be sued for
damages in the civil courts, but only if the employee has suffered an injury or a loss. Injured workers can
only claim damages if the injury happened during the normal course of their work. The employer only has
to take ‘reasonable care’ and is not expected to be over protective to workers or guarantee their safety. In
order for an employer to claim damages he has to show that the employer’s failure to take reasonable care
caused the accident and that it would not have happened otherwise.

The responsibility for accidents cannot always be attributed solely to the employer or worker. If both are
to blame, the damages awarded are reduced by the amount of the worker contributing negligence.
Contributor negligence can apply when a worker is partly to blame for the extent of an injury, even
though he or she didn’t cause the accident.

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Checkpoint

When is the only time an employee can sue for damages if he is injured at work?

 Injured workers can only claim damages if the injury happened during the normal course of their
work. In order for an employer to claim damages he has to show that the employer’s failure to
take reasonable care caused the accident and that it would not have happened otherwise.

4.3. Incident Report

Upon an injury to such persons the Health & Safety Officer or representative shall complete an incident
report.

Contractor shall have a documented procedure for handling of incidents (accidents and near accidents)
occurring during construction activities for company. The procedure shall include the following items:

 Notification, investigation, documentation and reporting of incidents, and development and

implementation of actions to prevent recurrence.

4.4. Monthly Reporting

As part of regular monthly reporting, contractor shall provide a monthly report with a summary of
reported incidents. The report shall be forwarded to company not later than 3 workdays after monthly cut-
off date, unless otherwise instructed by company. The report shall contain at least the following
information for the personnel working at the site:
 Total number of incidents.
 Occupational injury (total number).
 Environment.
 Material (fires and explosions, other).
 Production loss.
 New cases of occupational illness.
 Lost work days.
An example of a board displaying the safety performance of a company is as shown in Figure 1 on the
next page.

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