Safe Work Practices

Knowing what you are doing and taking care whilst you do it are critical to safety for both the worker and those around you.  Safe electrical practices are critical because a small mistake can be life changing.  This chapter covers all the other important activities that must not be ignored.  Identify these and any other safety issues in your risk assessment.

Manual handling

Manual handling (or hazardous manual task) is a task that requires a person to lift, lower, push, pull, carry or otherwise move, hold or restrain any person, animal or thing that involves one or more of the following:

(a)  repetitive or sustained force;

(b)  high or sudden force;

(c)  repetitive movement;

(d)  sustained or awkward posture;

(e)  exposure to vibration.

This includes tasks requiring a person to lift or move loads that are unstable or unbalanced or are difficult to grasp or hold.

You need to identify, assess and control risks involved in manual handling.  Things to consider relating to the hazardous manual task are:

(a)  postures, movements, forces and vibration;

(b)  the duration and frequency;

(c)  workplace environmental conditions that may affect the worker;

(d)  the design of the work area;

(e)  the layout of the workplace;

(f)   the systems and procedures of work used;

(g)  the nature, size, weight or number of persons, animals or things involved in carrying out the task.

Many injuries are caused by incorrect methods of lifting, incorrect body positioning and moving awkward and heavy loads.  Avoid injury by observing a few simple rules:

• Do not attempt to lift or undertake any other manual task that you are not strong enough to undertake. Match your strength and fitness to the job.
• Use mechanical lifting aids where possible.
• When lifting, size up the load – if it is too heavy or awkward, get help.
• Position your feet as close as possible to the load.
• Adopt a balanced position with your knees bent.
• Get a safe, secure grip, diagonally opposite the object, with the palms of your hands, not just your fingertips.
• Beware of sharp edged materials – wear safety gloves.
• Keep your upper body erect and as straight as possible.
• Tuck your chin in, draw your shoulders back and use your body weight to take-up load weight – ensure a proper grip.
• Take a deep breath, keep your head up and begin to raise the load by straightening your legs.
• Complete the lift with your back held straight.
• Hold and carry the load close to your body to reduce the strain on your arms, shoulders and back.
• Use your body weight to counter-balance the load weight by leaning slightly backwards as you move.
• Use your feet to change direction – do not twist your body, hips or shoulders.
• Avoid carrying loads that obstruct your view, particularly on inclines, declines and stairways.
• Avoid repetitive lifts from below mid-thigh height and above shoulder height.
• Avoid single handed repetitive lifts and avoid lifting while leaning over to reach the load.
• Use team lifts for heavy, long or awkward loads, and control and coordinate team movements by signals.

Correct lifting methods

Awkward or heavy – seek assistance.

1. Back straight and lift with your legs.
2. Back straight and hold close to chest.
3. Turn using your feet.

Fibre optic safety

Fibre optics is an effective medium for transferring large volumes of data or information by the modulation of light at ultra-high frequencies.  The cables are typically made of glass and present five specific safety issues.  Consider the following in your risk assessment :

Glass splinters:  Fibre scraps generated from splice and termination work or breakage are the same as fine glass splinters and the ends are extremely sharp and can easily penetrate skin and it is important to protect your eyes and avoid possible ingestion.  Fibre particles on your clothing can later get into food or be carried home.

• Do not bring food or drink into the work area and likewise any creams and other cosmetics. No smoking.
• Wear appropriate safety glasses with side shields and disposable apron if possible to minimise fibre particles from attaching to your clothing.
• Dispose of all scraps properly. First use a piece of double-sided tape placed on the work bench to capture fibre scraps and then properly dispose of it in a labelled container that can be tightly sealed. Treat disposal as for medical and hospital sharps.
• Check clothing to remove any stray pieces of bare fibre by patting with clean pieces of double-sided tape. Use the same method to clean the work area.
• Immediately after leaving the work area, wash your hands thoroughly.

Fibre splinters are difficult to wash out of your eyes and you would most likely need to get immediate medical attention.

In the skin the splinters invariably break off and are very hard to find and remove.  A pair of tweezers and magnifying glass may help, but glass splinters can migrate and early medical attention is advisable.

Chemicals:  Review the SDS for each fibre optic cable chemical cleaner and adhesive to be used and comply with handling, transport, use and waste disposal requirements.  Always work in well-ventilated areas and avoid skin contact.  Do not touch your eyes while working with chemicals and thoroughly clean your work area when your task is completed.

Explosion:  The temperature for fusion splicing of the fibre is typically 2,000 degrees Centigrade and involves a short duration electrical arc flash.  Such devices should not be used in any explosive environment such as in pits where flammable gasses might accumulate.

Laser energy:  The power of lasers can be very strong – enough to cut steel.  Even scattered rays can burn the eyes and skin.  The power of most telecommunications systems is too low to do any eye damage, but signals may well be invisible, and some may cause damage.  Use a power meter to confirm the cable is “dark” and do not look directly into the light beam.

Working near live conductors:  There are often energised/live electrical switchboards and cabling in the area where telecommunications equipment is installed.  Electricians are well-trained in electrical safety, but some fibre optic installers are not so well versed.  Be sure that exposed live conductors are suitably protected/shielded from any possibility of inadvertent contact before commencing work.  If there is any doubt, have an electrician identify any live exposed conductors and have them isolated if required and confirm electrical safety.

Photovoltaic systems (solar panels)

Installation, repair and maintenance of solar panels, inverters and wiring is largely the work of licensed electricians and should comply with manufacturer’s instructions and Australian Standards AS3000, AS4509 and AS5033.

Key OH&S hazards include:

• DC polarised circuit breakers are correctly wired
• Live discharge from the solar array – typically >300v DC
• Second source of electricity when isolating supply to building
• Slippery, slopping, fragile roof surfaces
• Working at heights: access, ladders, falls, falling objects
• Difficult ceiling spaces, wide spaced joists, restricted movement
• Asbestos containing materials and overhead power lines
• Manual handling of large panels and inverters
• Wind, sun, heat, cold, wet, ice and associated fatigue

Undertake a site risk assessment and ensure you have and follow well documented systems of work and SWMS; with well informed and trained competent workers; appropriate plant and equipment to ensure the safety of workers and those in the vicinity.

When working at heights, always ensure you are wearing the appropriate PPE, including fall arrest harness and lanyards as identified in your SWMS before you commence work.

Compressed air

Serious bodily injury, eye injuries and loss of life can result from the misuse or unsafe use of compressed air.

• Do not use compressed air for any purpose other than for which it is provided.
• Never direct a stream of compressed air towards your body or other person for any reason, including cooling yourself or to blow dust from clothes or hair.
• Never indulge in so-called “practical jokes” with hoses or tools or other compressed air equipment.
• All compressed air hose connectors, and other pressure hoses such as pressure grout lines and concrete pump line hose connectors, must have an appropriate type of safety clip fitted to prevent accidental disconnection whilst operating under pressure.
• Compressed air and associated equipment and tools must have safety devices fitted and be operational to Manufacturer’s and Authorities specification/requirements.
• Proper care must be exercised with tools which allow free flight, such as air powered nail guns.
• Remember that a hose under pressure can whip around and cause serious injury if not held securely – secure before turning on.

Welding and cutting

• Do not use electric-arc or oxy-acetylene welding or cutting equipment without using the appropriate protective clothing and equipment issued, which is to include safety goggles, welding shield, gauntlet/gloves, leggings and aprons.
• Oxygen, acetylene and LPG cylinders and the like must be transported, stored, and used in an up-right position, and must be securely fixed by chain, or metal fastening device, in an approved lifting box or cradle, trolley/cage, or similar protection. Oxy-acetylene/LPG equipment must be fitted with non-return valves and flashback arresters.
• Gas cylinders, whether full or empty, must not be placed horizontally at any time and must not be stored in enclosed containers. In hot areas, do not store in direct sunlight.
• Electric-arc welding operators are responsible for placing screens around work areas to protect other workers in the area from welding flash eye injury.
• A suitable type of fire extinguisher should be readily accessible and suitably located to allow a quick emergency response at all times while hot work is being carried out.
• When oxy-acetylene cutting or arc welding, do not allow sparks, slag, hot metal, welding-rod tips or other hazardous hot materials to fall below the floor level on which you are working. Particular care is required on construction sites.
• Welding rods and packets of welding rods must be stored so as to prevent them falling through openings and grills.
• Welding rod stubs must be placed in a suitable container to prevent them falling through the floor or becoming a slip/trip hazard. Remove electrodes from holders when not in use.
• Connect the return cable as near to the welding point as possible and remember that damage may be caused to plant/motor bearings and earthing conductors by poor work return connections.
• When welding in wet conditions, take precautions against electric shock, and switch off equipment when not in use.
• Welding fumes are classified as a hazardous substance, and adequate ventilation is to be provided in areas where fumes are likely to accumulate.

Hazardous chemicals

In relation to chemicals, a hazard is a set of inherent properties of the substance, mixture, article or process that may cause adverse effects to organisms (including people) or the environment.

The OH&S Regulations include specific duties for all businesses to manage the risks to health and safety associated with using, handling, generating and storing hazardous chemicals at a workplace.  The duties include:

• obtaining the current Safety Data Sheet (SDS) from the manufacturer, importer or supplier of the chemical prior to use
• provision of information, training, instruction and supervision to workers
• correct labelling of containers and pipework, using warning placards and outer warning placards and displaying of safety signs
• maintaining a register and manifest (where relevant) of chemicals and providing notification to the regulator of manifest quantities if required
• incompatible chemicals must not be stored together
• identifying risk of physical or chemical reaction of hazardous chemicals and ensuring the stability of hazardous chemicals
• ensuring that exposure standards are not exceeded and provision of health monitoring to workers where appropriate
• provision of spill containment system for chemicals if necessary
• controlling ignition sources and accumulation of flammable and combustible substances
• provision and availability of fire protection, firefighting equipment and emergency and safety equipment
• preparing an emergency plan if the quantity of a class of chemical at a workplace exceeds the manifest quantity for that hazardous chemical
• stability and support of containers for bulk hazardous chemicals including pipework and attachments
• building, operation and management of pipelines used for the transfer of hazardous chemicals
• decommissioning of underground storage and handling systems
• notifying the regulator as soon as practicable of abandoned tanks in certain circumstances
• Disposal – chemicals must only be disposed of via licensed operators. Never down the sink or gutter.

The OH&S Regulations contain prohibitions or restrictions on certain hazardous chemicals (e.g. certain carcinogens) except in specified circumstances and a restriction on persons under 16 years of age filling any container or vehicle with flammable gas or liquid.

Most hazardous chemicals proposed for use on the job are to be listed on a Register of Hazardous Chemicals and should make reference to the current SDSs that is not more than five years old.  The SDSs must accompany the register and both must be accessible to areas of use and where otherwise located.  The key exceptions to the listing on the Register are the fuels, lubricants, coolants and batteries used in vehicles and other plant, as well as normal sized retail consumer (household/office) products when used in a manner that does not pose a risk.

• Safety Data Sheets are provided by the manufacturer, importer or supplier to give safety information about hazardous chemicals. They should be referred to regarding any chemical, including PVC glues, being used or considered for use.
• When handling/using Hazardous Chemicals, workers must be aware of safety and first aid policy according to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS).

Safety Data Sheets are to be reviewed by way of risk assessment and safe work practices adopted to ensure the safety of personnel and the safe use, handling and storage of products.  Persons using or exposed to the product must be trained.

Issues to consider when reviewing the SDS are:

• Where practicable chemicals with the lowest possible hazard capability that meets the technical requirements for the job should be used.
• All hazardous chemicals will be stored in their original containers with the label intact at all times and in accordance with the SDS.
• Temporary decanted product shall be fully labelled.
• Hazardous chemicals of any quantity will not be stored in crib rooms, container sheds or offices.
• As a minimum safety standard, all safety precautions, listed on the SDS for the hazardous chemical, must be followed when using the chemical.
• Prior to using the hazardous chemical all workers involved in its use will be provided with adequate information, training and equipment (including PPE) to allow safe completion of the required task.
• A “sign off” on the appropriate Record of Training and Consultation provides confirmation of this training.

If any hazardous chemical, not specified in work under the contract is discovered on the site, all work that may result in exposure to that chemical will be suspended until appropriate information is obtained and safe work practices are put in place.

Solvents

Refer to SDS before using solvents, as they can be poisonous, corrosive, toxic, flammable and explosive.  Ensure ventilation and be extremely cautious in confined areas.  Air supplied respirators may be necessary.

All solvent used to clean a switchboard must have evaporated completely before the switchboard is re-energised.

Aerosols

Avoid storing aerosol containers where they may become hot because at elevated temperatures they may explode.

Polychlorinated Biphenyl (PCB)

Polychlorinated Biphenyl (PCB) belongs to a group of synthetic chlorinated organic compounds.  It is a very stable chemical existing in various forms that do not degrade over time.  PCB has been widely used in insulating oil in transformers and capacitors.  A straw coloured liquid in its most common physical form, PCB can range in colour from almost clear to black and exists in various viscosities.

Appropriate disposal of old product is critical because PCB is a health problem: it is toxic and not biodegradable.  It persists in the environment, can then enter the food chain and accumulates in human and animal tissue.  It is a known carcinogenic substance causing cancers in humans and animals.  Use a licensed disposal contractor.

PCB can enter the body by absorption through the skin, by the inhalation of vapour from heated PCB, or by swallowing contaminated food or drink.  Prolonged exposure is a concern and may cause a severe and persistent acne-like skin rash, permanent liver damage, damage to the nervous system, cancer and spontaneous abortion or miscarriage in pregnant women.

Special personal protection measures are required to avoid contact with PCB materials.  Employees must be adequately trained to use the correct protection, have a working knowledge of emergency first aid requirements and all safe work methods.

PCB has been a prohibited import to Australia since 1976.  However, there are still components containing PCB in existence in older installations, and workers should be trained to identify such items in their work situations.

PCB filled capacitors in equipment manufactured prior to 1976 includes:

• Fluorescent light fitting of the high power factor type, often marked “HPF” and mainly used in commercial and industrial buildings; and
• Ceiling fans, dishwashers, air conditioners, and small washing machines and clothes dryers.

The health issues include inhaling vapours, injection and prolonged skin exposure.  If skin contamination occurs the liquid should be wiped off immediately and the skin washed with soap and water.  Water alone is not sufficient and organic solvents like kerosene or petrol should not be used to wash the skin.  If clothing is contaminated, quickly removed and dispose.

Respirable Crystalline Silica (RCS)

Crystalline silica (quartz) is a natural mineral. It’s found in stone products such as reconstituted stone, granite and sandstone. It’s also in many other building materials such as concrete, bricks and mortar and its composition varies in materials with composite stone having over 90% silica content.

When you perform work on silica-based products such as grinding, cutting, sanding, drilling or polishing products that contain crystalline silica, it releases very fine dust. Some of the dust is so small you may not be able to see it – becoming RCS – that can be trapped deep in the lungs.

Silica dust can be harmful when it’s inhaled into your lungs. Exposure can lead to deadly diseases, including:

• silicosis
• lung cancer
• kidney disease
• auto-immune disease

The permitted amount of respirable crystalline silica dust that a worker can be exposed to currently is set at 0.05 mg/m3 as a time-weighted average (TWA) airborne concentration over 8 hours. However, regulators are recommending this be limited to 0.02 mg/m3.

Where fixed extraction is not possible, then localised and portable equipment that has HEPA filter dust extraction systems should be strongly considered when working with silica-based products along with PPE as additional supporting controls.

Asbestos containing materials (ACM)

Asbestos is the general term for a number of naturally occurring fibrous silicate materials.  Asbestos presents as a serious health risk when asbestos fibres are disturbed or otherwise released into the air and inhaled.  All forms of asbestos are classified as human carcinogens (cancerous) and exposure can cause asbestosis, lung cancer and mesothelioma.  These conditions can display themselves 20, 30, 40 years after exposure: most often painful, debilitating and fatal.

Up till being banned as a building product in the 1980’s, asbestos containing material (ACM) was extensively used for sheeting of wall, roofs, ceilings, eaves, linings, fencing, floors, floor coverings as well as many building fixtures and equipment, including insulation in every conceivable form, vents, pipes, flues plus electrical/wiring pits, components, arc chutes, panels and ducting.  Most of the black back panels on old meter boards and switchboards are ACM.  The product was extensively used in other areas such as vehicle brake pads and the lining of boilers, kilns and furnaces and lagging of pipes.  The total ban on introducing new ACM product only came into Australia at the commencement of 2004.  Other countries do not have a ban and whilst all imports are strictly prohibited, some products (particularly gaskets) do continue to sneak in.

Unless confirmed otherwise it should be assumed that any structure, building or facility built before 1987 may well contain ACMs.  In addition, any ground that has been reclaimed or otherwise filled may contain waste asbestos products.  Except in the case of residential, property owners are required to have an Asbestos Register and in commissioning work, the principal is required to warn the contractor of the existence of ACMs.  Unfortunately these precautions cannot be relied on and inadvertent disturbance of ACM is deemed to be prohibited asbestos work and may lead to prosecution and severe penalties.

If you and your workers are not trained for Asbestos Awareness and Minor Asbestos Work then you are exposed to potential prosecution under OH&S legislation – having had appropriate training you can undertake minor asbestos work.

To work on asbestos, you must have safe systems of work in place (e.g. SWMS for HRCW and SWP) and all workers need to be trained and competent.  Typical work that any tradesperson may need to undertake includes minor works in identification, sampling, excavation, drilling & cutting, cleaning, sealing, removal (<10m2) and disposal or otherwise disturbing ACM.  Safe systems of work will include:

• Asbestos training that equips you to recognise ACM and initiate appropriate action (mandatory) – talk to NECA about asbestos training
• If the asbestos is friable (loose or powdery) other than minor dust, or involves the removal of greater than 10 square metres then you must engage a Licensed Asbestos Removalist (or do this level of training)
• Communications, consultation and actions to protect others
• Safe work procedures (SWP and SWMS in Construction)
• Apply appropriate risk controls to protect workers and others in the area
• Appropriate tools and equipment and PPE
• Appropriate measures for asbestos containment, clean-up, bagging and waste disposal. Make safe – use a paint or general glue to seal exposed ACMs and a HEPA filter vacuum at both the start and end.

A useful tip is to use shaving cream to stop dust becoming airborne when drilling or cutting.

Remember Life Saving Rule #6

I will never work with asbestos without authorisation