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A Proposed Industry Standard
For Electrical Geophysics
Ground Geophysical Surveys Safety Association
28th November 2012
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PREFACE
This document has been created with the intention of providing an Australian Standard for ground electrical geophysical surveys.
The draft document has been prepared by the Ground Geophysical Surveys Safety Association. The association members are:
Fugro Ground Geophysics GPX Surveys Zonge Australia Search Exploration Services
The objective of this proposed standard is to provide ground geophysical contracting companies in Australia with uniform requirements and procedures to facilitate safe electrical geophysical surveys.
This proposed standard specifies both hardware and procedural requirements, linked to a permit system with formal audit requirements.
The term ‘informative’ has been used in this proposed standard to define the application of the appendix to which it applies. An ‘informative’ appendix is only for information and guidance.
FOREWARD
Geophysical surveys, whether air or ground based, require careful planning and design to mitigate risk to the contractor, client, community and the environment.
There are a range of generic issues to be addressed with all survey types but the use of High Voltage in any Ground Geophysical Survey introduces the potential of specific high risk hazards and the aim of this document is to address those issues. Although contractors may not always be operating under the definition of high voltage these procedures apply to all electrical ground geophysical operations.
High Voltage is defined in AS/NZS3000 as any voltage exceeding 1000V a.c. or 1500V d.c.
Primary Risks associated with Electrical Geophysical Surveys:
The main risks associated with these types of surveys are:
Electrocution, as detailed in AS/NZS 60479, Fire.
The SEVERITY of CONSEQUENCE for both these risks is likely to be in the very highest category so it is vitally important that careful Planning and Design of the survey mitigate the LIKELIHOOD of OCCURRENCE to a level where the risk assessment is acceptable.
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Contents
1 SCOPE AND GENERAL ................................................................................................. 5
1.1 SCOPE AND APPLICATION .................................................................................... 5
1.1.1 Scope ................................................................................................................ 5
1.1.2 Application ......................................................................................................... 5
1.2 REFERENCED DOCUMENTS ................................................................................. 5
1.3 DEFINITIONS ........................................................................................................... 6
2 TRAINING ........................................................................................................................ 8
2.1 Training ..................................................................................................................... 8
2.2 Training Responsibility ............................................................................................. 8
2.3 Training Requirements ............................................................................................. 8
2.4 Electrical Safe Operating Procedures Training ........................................................ 8
2.5 Site Specific Training ................................................................................................ 9
3 EQUIPMENT ................................................................................................................... 9
3.1 Equipment Safety Features ...................................................................................... 9
3.1.1 Transmitter ........................................................................................................ 9
3.1.2 Generator .......................................................................................................... 9
3.1.3 Wire and Cables .............................................................................................. 10
3.1.4 Insulation for Electrical Ground Geophysical Surveys .................................... 11
3.1.4.1 Safe Insulation Practices .......................................................................... 11
3.2 Equipment Inspection and Maintenance ................................................................ 12
3.2.1 Equipment Servicing and Inspections ............................................................. 12
3.2.2 Scheduled Preventative Maintenance ............................................................. 13
3.2.3 Equipment Tagging and Isolation .................................................................... 13
4 SAFE OPERATING PROCEDURES ............................................................................. 14
4.1 Survey Design and Risk Analysis for Electrical Geophysics .................................. 14
4.1.1 Electrocution .................................................................................................... 14
4.1.2 Fire .................................................................................................................. 15
4.2 Electrical Geophysics Safe Operating Procedures ................................................. 16
4.2.1 Loop and Electrode Safety .............................................................................. 16
4.2.2 Transmitter Safety ........................................................................................... 17
4.2.2.1 Roles and Responsibilities ....................................................................... 17
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4.2.2.2 Transmitter and Generator Location and Setup ....................................... 17
4.2.2.3 Transmitter Operation .............................................................................. 17
4.2.2.4 Connection to Other Equipment ............................................................... 18
4.2.3 Communications .............................................................................................. 18
4.2.4 Signage ........................................................................................................... 18
4.2.5 General Safety ................................................................................................ 19
4.2.6 Fuel Storage, Handling and Decanting ........................................................... 19
4.2.6.1 200 litre Drums ......................................................................................... 19
4.2.6.2 Refuelling of Petrol Engines ..................................................................... 20
5 AUDIT STRUCTURE ..................................................................................................... 20
5.1 Internal Audits ......................................................................................................... 20
5.2 External Audits ....................................................................................................... 21
6 DELIVERABLES ............................................................................................................ 21
APPENDIX A ........................................................................................................................ 22
Revision History Rev # Date Approved by Summary of Amendments 0 28/11/2012 GGSSA Committee Draft released to industry for review
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1 SCOPE AND GENERAL
1.1 SCOPE AND APPLICATION
1.1.1 Scope
a) This proposed standard specifies the minimum equipment and procedural requirements for Electrical Geophysical Surveys.
b) This proposed standard also establishes a permit system for contractors and a method of auditing that permit system.
c) To advise Contractors of the operational procedure for the safe use of Geophysical Transmitters.
1.1.2 Application
This standard is intended for all Contractors that carry out Electrical Geophysical surveys in Australia.
1.2 REFERENCED DOCUMENTS
The following documents are referred to in this proposed standard: Standard Title AS/NZS 3000:2007 Electrical installations (wiring rules) AS/NZS 60479.1:2010 Effects of current on human beings and livestock – general aspects AS 1940-2004 The storage and handling of flammable and combustible liquids AS/NZS 2906:2001 Fuel containers – portable – plastic and metal AS/NZS 1269 Set:2005 Occupational Noise Management Set
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1.3 DEFINITIONS
For the purpose of this proposed standard, the definitions below apply: Term Acronym Definition Safe Operating Procedure SOP A set of written instructions that identifies the risks that
may arise from the jobs or tasks that make up a system of work and documents how these risks will be appropriately mitigated and controlled.
Safe Work Practices / Safe Work Instructions
SWP / SWI
Written method statements outlining how to perform a task with minimum risk to people, equipment, materials, environment, and processes.
Job Safety Analysis / Job Hazard Analysis
JSA / JHA
A systematic review of a job, task, process or procedure used to identify the risks or hazards associated with that activity in the workplace to determine appropriate measures to eliminate or control those hazards.
Emergency Response Plan ERP Systematic procedures that detail what needs to be done, how, when, and by whom in the event of an emergency.
Personal Protective Equipment
PPE Safety clothing and equipment required for specified circumstances or areas to provide personal protection and minimise risk for employees.
Department of Consumer and Employment Protection
DOCEP Dissolved agency of the Western Australian Government that was responsible for the administration of electrical worker permits for Western Australia, now superseded by the Department of Commerce Energy Safety WA
Department of Commerce Energy Safety
DOC Department of Commerce Energy Safety WA, agency of the Western Australian Government responsible for the administration of electrical worker permits in Western Australia
Dry Chemical Powder / ABE High Performance
DCP Fire extinguisher filled with dry chemicals suitable for use on Class A (ordinary combustible solids), Class B (flammable and combustible liquids) and Class E (electrical) fires.
Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon
EPIRB Emergency beacons used to alert rescue authorities of your distress situation, indicating your approximate location anywhere in the world.
Personal Locator Beacons PLB Small, personal emergency beacons used to notify search and rescue agencies of distress, indicating your location anywhere in the world
National Professional Engineers Register
NPER A register of Electrical Engineers who meet minimum requirements for training and experience from which competent electrical engineers can be selected to assess a contractor’s SOP and compliance with this standard.
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Ground Geophysical Surveys Safety Association
GGSSA Association formed to assist the geophysical industry create standard.
Contractor / Geophysical Contractor
A person or company that undertakes a contract to perform geophysical surveys.
Crew Chief / Leader Person who is in charge of a crew of workers undertaking geophysical surveys
Electrical Transmitter Tx An electro-mechanical device that generates a voltage potential and the resultant currents that are used in time and frequency domain electrical geophysics
Contractor Endorsed Personnel / Authorised Operational Personnel
Person who has been trained and assessed as competent in the Safe Operating Procedures and this Standard for Electrical Geophysical Surveys and who holds all necessary licenses and permits.
Isolated Output circuit must be disconnected from transmitter to ensure that it cannot be energized
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2 TRAINING
2.1 Training
Geophysical Contractors shall ensure that all personnel who will operate, maintain or install any of the Electrical Transmission equipment undergo training to minimise the risks to employees, members of the public, property and livestock associated with the use of this equipment. All other survey personnel are to undergo training to a similar standard, even though the contractor may only assess and give approval for them to undertake certain tasks involved with the Electrical Transmission Equipment. This is to familiarise personnel about the roles of others involved in the survey.
2.2 Training Responsibility
The Geophysical Contracting Company has overall responsibility to ensure that all its employees are trained in a timely and appropriate manner. The Company will retain records of all training and assessment completed.
2.3 Training Requirements
Training for field technicians will be provided within two months of commencement of employment. Field Technicians without the minimum required training will be supervised during this period by a trained person:
Electrical Safe Operating Procedures – mandatory minimum requirement
Basic First Aid
Specific training on Electric Shock Protocols
Fire Extinguisher Use
2.4 Electrical Safe Operating Procedures Training
Training in Electrical Safe Operating Procedures will be conducted by each contractor in-house covering, at a minimum, the contents of this standard. Training will be required:
When a person has been absent for the industry for a period of 6 months or more
When a person has been inactive with Electrical Transmission Equipment within the industry for 6 months or more
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New equipment is introduced that is sufficiently different or existing equipment is altered sufficiently that re-training is required
Whenever the Contracting Company requires it to be done
Whenever the electrical safe operating procedures are modified
2.5 Site Specific Training
Where there is a requirement to complete client or site-specific training, each contractor’s personnel will be required to successfully comply with these local requirements. Records of this training will be retained by the person undertaking the training and the Crew Leader, who will file a copy of the training in the relevant job file and also forward details to the Contracting Company for record keeping purposes.
3 EQUIPMENT
3.1 Equipment Safety Features
3.1.1 Transmitter
a) Transmitters used for Electrical Ground Geophysical Surveys shall be equipped with suitable ability to detect and respond to an open circuit on the transmitter output terminals at any time when these output terminals are active. In the event of an open circuit condition the transmitter shall automatically and immediately cease transmission and provide a suitable alert to the operator that an open circuit condition has been detected.
b) The transmitter operator shall be provided with a conductive metal earth mat or appropriate earthing mechanism. An insulated earth wire must be attached between the earth point on the transmitter and the earth point on the mat or the earth stake. The condition of the earth wire must be checked daily by the transmitter operator. Where a transmitter does not have an external earth point it is earthed to the generator via the power supply lead instead and earthing is connected between the generator frame and earthing mat earthing point.
3.1.2 Generator
a) Generators used for Electrical Ground Geophysical Surveys shall be equipped with an isolating device, which may be a stopping device, to prevent the starting of the generating set when inspection, repair or maintenance is being carried out. The isolating device shall be readily accessible to authorised personnel and shall be provided with means to enable locking in the open position. It is also recommended that an Emergency Stop be installed.
b) An appropriate over current protection device is required on the generator set output terminals. The protection device shall be selected with appropriate regard to
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the rated values of voltage and current of the circuit on which it is installed. It is also recommended that RCD protection be installed between the generator set output terminals and the transmitter input terminals.
c) The following parts of the generator set shall be electrically bonded together to form the generating set bonding system:
The engine frame
The generator frame
All exposed metal enclosing electrical equipment or wiring
The exposed metal of each item of equipment being supplied by the generating set (e.g. transmitter)
The generator set bonding shall be connected via an insulated earth conductor connection to a conductive metal earth mat placed in front of the generator or an earth stake placed between the operator location and the generator. This connection along with all other bonding connections must be physically inspected by the transmitter operator as part of a daily pre-start checklist.
d) Any motor generator requiring an external fuel supply must utilise either a marine standard enclosed tank or direct syphoning from 20L metal fuel Jerry cans fitted with sealed connectors which are to be located at a distance of not less than 2m from the motor generator.
e) All moving parts within, or attached to, the motor generator system must be guarded appropriately to minimise the risk of accidental contact with the operator. These guards must be operational and secure at all times and shall be inspected as part of the daily pre-start checklist.
3.1.3 Wire and Cables
a) Wire and cables utilised on Electrical surveys for current transmission and receiver and pot wires shall be distinguishable so to reduce the risk of electrocution during field operations. It is strongly suggested that contractors use a colour coding for ease of identification during field operations. The following example colour coding is in line with standard electrical practices:
Current transmission wire / cables – red
Earth conductor cables – green or a combination of green and yellow
Receiver and pot wire / cables – any other colour
b) The contractor shall document in their Safe Operating Procedure what mechanisms they have engaged to distinguish between wire types on survey and ensure this is included in their training program.
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c) The Contractor shall only install transmitter wires / cables of suitable insulation rating for the maximum voltage generated by the transmitter.
d) The earth conductor cables shall be of sufficient rating to suit each different type of system, and be of flexible insulated cable. The minimum requirement is that it is not less than 4mm² - 5.3.3.2 AS NZS 3000:2007 Electrical Installations
e) Current transmission wires between the transmitter High Voltage output terminals, High Voltage connection box and ground electrode terminals shall be double insulated cable rated to 1kV phase-to-earth for the first 10m of output.
3.1.4 Insulation for Electrical Ground Geophysical Surveys
a) The High Voltages used in Electrical Ground Geophysical Surveys create a potential risk of electrocution. It is therefore very important that the insulation properties of all components used for transmission of electric current into the ground are carefully considered.
b) The areas of concern with insulation are:
At the transmitter output connectors and in the close vicinity of the transmitter
The area along the transmitter wires that connect the near and far ground electrodes
The area where the transmitter wires connect to the electrodes.
3.1.4.1 Safe Insulation Practices
a) At the transmitter:
The transmitter output cables must be doubled insulated for at least 10m from the transmitter output connectors and care is to be taken to ensure adequate separation of the two wires
Particular attention must be paid to ensure no output wiring is allowed to rest against any metal surface of the transmitter or trailer / vehicle carrying the transmitter
The method of connecting the wires to the transmitter output connectors must include insulators that ensure there are no bare wires or metal exposed to mitigate any risk of electrocution to the operator
b) Along the transmitter wires:
The cabling used to connect the transmitter to the near and far electrodes must have insulation specifications that are adequate for continuous operation at the transmitter’s maximum specific working voltage with a high degree of safety and reliability
The transmitter cable integrity is to be checked prior to each working day as part of a daily pre-start checklist and when wound up at the completion of the Electrical Ground Geophysical line
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Cable joints are to be made such that the integrity, mechanical strength and insulation properties of the original cable are maintained
The cable jointing method is to be documented by the contractor
If there is more than 1 cable joint within any given 20m section of cable then that section of cable must be replaced
If the cable insulation becomes degrades over time due to mechanical damage or environmental exposure (UV/chemical) then the cable must be replaced
c) Connection to the ground electrodes:
The method used to connect the transmitter wires to the ground electrodes are to consist of insulated clamps or plugs that enable the connection to take place without the operator having to touch any bare metal or wire. The insulation properties of the clamps or plugs must be suitable for the voltages that are to be used
The method of connection must also be mechanically robust as an aid to prevent accidental disconnection of the cable by wandering animals or humans
3.2 Equipment Inspection and Maintenance
3.2.1 Equipment Servicing and Inspections
a) Maintenance schedules and requirements are listed in the relevant Equipment Manual that accompanies each item of equipment.
b) All repairs, modifications or electrical work on high voltage equipment must be conducted by a person holding an appropriate Electrical Workers Licence or by persons with extensive knowledge or training in the repair of this type of equipment.
c) Maintenance that requires the use of tools or the removal of covers to gain access to internal components of the transmitter can only be performed by trained technicians.
d) Electrical Ground Geophysical Survey equipment shall be calibrated, serviced and inspected for any defects or obvious safety hazards by an Electronics Technician prior to each deployment. The Contractor must maintain records of such inspections that include the technician’s name, date of inspection, repairs or adjustments required and any relevant comments regarding the status of the equipment. The Electronics Technician must tag the Electrical Ground Geophysical Survey equipment as serviceable or out of service, as appropriate. Only serviceable Electrical Ground Geophysical Survey equipment can be deployed on a survey.
e) Daily inspections of all Electrical Ground Geophysical Survey equipment are to be undertaken by a Contractor Endorsed Person. Any items identified as faulty are to be tagged as out of service and immediately removed from operations. The Contractor shall develop and implement a daily checklist to ensure all necessary
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inspections are conducted and recorded on each production day. The checklist shall include at a minimum the following inspections:
Condition of the high voltage connection box and accessory components
Machine guards are fitted and serviceable on generators
Transmitter wire cable condition is good, ie no exposed wiring, exposed conductors or damage to insulation, and contains minimal joins (no more than 1 join in every 20m of cable)
Earthing connections between the transmitter, generator, earthing points and Earthing mats and earthing stake if provided
Transmitter, generator and high voltage connection box connections
Emergency shutoff and system isolation controls are operational
Positive test of all primary communications equipment to be used during that days’ work
f) A Contractor Endorsed Person is to conduct an inspection of the transmitter equipment:
When the equipment has been unattended after the personnel have left the site and returned
Following any relocation of the transmitter
Following maintenance on equipment
Any time a Contractor Endorsed Person believes it necessary
g) At the beginning of each survey day the Contractor is to ensure that the open loop protection circuitry on the transmitter is functioning by performing an open loop test.
3.2.2 Scheduled Preventative Maintenance
The Contractor is required to develop and adhere to a scheduled preventative maintenance program for all Electrical Ground Geophysical Survey transmitters and motor generators. This program shall include the frequency of maintenance, details of who is authorised to conduct the maintenance, and the minimum tasks required to be performed during that maintenance.
3.2.3 Equipment Tagging and Isolation
a) The Contractor shall develop and implement a Tagging and Isolation Procedure which includes:
Danger tags
Out of Service tags
Serviceable tags
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Lock out devices
Who can remove Danger and Out of Service tags
b) All Electrical Ground Geophysical Survey field crews are to be supplied with appropriate tags and lock out devices for the equipment deployed.
4 SAFE OPERATING PROCEDURES
4.1 Survey Design and Risk Analysis for Electrical Geophysics
a) As stated on the forward page, the main risks associated with Electrical Geophysical Surveys are:
Electrocution,
Fire
b) Electrocution and fire may impact on:
Contractor’s / client’s staff
Landowners, general public
Livestock
Native fauna
4.1.1 Electrocution
a) The minimum requirements to reduce the risk of electrocution are as follows:
It is the responsibility of the Client in consultation with the Geophysical Contractor to provide advanced communication and warnings to landholders, stakeholders and the general public, notifying all concerned parties that the use of high voltages for a Geophysical Survey is planned for their area. Immediately prior to the commencement of the survey there is to be a follow up on the initial warnings
Certified Safe Operating Procedures are to be used. These procedures must be certified by a NPER qualified Electrical Engineer
Operation of all Transmitter Equipment can only be undertaken by Contractor endorsed personnel who hold all necessary licences
All contractor’s staff are to be suitably trained in the safe operation of ground geophysical equipment
Constant surveillance and vigilance by all operating staff
Certified hardware which is maintained in a serviceable state
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Suitable positioning of transmitter electrodes and a preferred method of connecting the transmitter wires to electrodes without the operator having to touch bare wires or metal
Appropriate signage is to be used, at access points, electrode sites and at the transmitter
Ground electrodes are to be suitably demarcated by signage, fencing, bunting or taping, see Section 4.2.1
All wiring must have suitable Insulation, see Section 3.1.4
Transmitter wires must not be draped over or touch any fencing
All operations are to cease during severe rain or when there is the threat of or actual lightning activity
The Contractor is to develop Safe Operating Procedures for Electrical Surveys which addresses all sections of this Standard. These SOPs are to be reviewed by all Contractor and third-party personnel at the start of each survey utilising transmitters and noted in the safety meeting minutes
4.1.2 Fire
a) The occurrence of fire caused by ground geophysical survey is likely to impact on:
Community assets
The environment through loss of flora and fauna
The contractor and client through financial losses
b) On days of EXTREME or CATASTROPIC FIRE DANGER, no survey work involving the transmitter is to be carried out.
c) Requirements to reduce the Fire risk when using electrical ground geophysical equipment are:
Certified Safe Operating Procedures are to be used
Contractor staff to be trained in the use of fire extinguishers
Contractor staff to be aware of the location and type of fire fighting equipment
The provision of suitable fire extinguishers in appropriate areas: DCP for electrical fires and water for grass / scrub fires
A dry powder fire extinguisher, of minimum 2.5 kg capacity will be located adjacent the Transmitter Equipment, clearly visible and located no closer than 5 metres but no further than 10 metres away. Fire extinguishers may be located centrally where required; to fulfill safety requirements for different equipment or areas provided they are readily accessible and clearly visible
Constant surveillance and vigilance by all operating staff
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Correct ground electrode installation and maintenance, including clearance of the area around the electrodes back to bare mineral earth. Low resistance connections are essential
The use of suitable transmitter wire with applicable insulation and methods of maintaining that level of insulation and mechanical strength on all joins
Constant monitoring of the current weather and fuel loading of the survey area
All survey personnel are to be trained in the equipment emergency shutdown procedures
d) Other factors to be considered in the survey design are where the ground electrodes are sited in relation to high voltage power lines and telecommunication facilities. It is recommended that where practical ground electrode sites are kept at least 200m away from any electrical or telecommunication installation, and that care is taken in the routing of the transmitter connection wires.
e) Care must be taken when operating around active mines on days when blasting is being carried out. As there is limited data available on the effects that ground electrical geophysics can have in regards to explosives being accidently detonated as a result of stray electrical currents from survey equipment, it is recommended that all survey activity be stopped at least 20 minutes before & after actual blast times to ensure safety.
f) Crews should always check with their site contact as to any further safety precautions in relation to this matter.
4.2 Electrical Geophysics Safe Operating Procedures
4.2.1 Loop and Electrode Safety
a) A minimum five (5) metre safe working distance is to be observed by all crew members whilst working near exposed electrodes and conductor cables during transmission.
b) The unattended electrode locations will be fenced off for a radial distance of a minimum of 5m. No crew member shall enter the fenced area unless positive contact is made with all crew members to ensure that the electrode and connecting wires are not live, the generator/transmitter must be isolated at all times when working on remote electrodes.
c) Wires will be deployed in such a way as to guarantee the wire cannot move to within 5m of the live electrode. Whilst not transmitting, both electrode conductors must be disconnected from the transmitter terminals so that dangerous voltages cannot inadvertently be transmitted at any time. The transmitter shall not be left unattended at any time whilst operational or in a state where it could be inadvertently activated. If the transmitter operator needs to leave the transmitter it must be shut down and isolated from the generator circuit.
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d) All loop or electrode equipment is to be considered “LIVE” unless otherwise advised by the Transmitter Operator.
4.2.2 Transmitter Safety
4.2.2.1 Roles and Responsibilities
a) The Transmitter Operator is directly responsible for electrical safety of all personnel with regard to personnel working with and around all Electrical Transmission Equipment.
4.2.2.2 Transmitter and Generator Location and Setup
a) Whenever possible the generator should be set-up on flat open ground with clear field of vision on all sides so that anyone can be seen approaching the site.
b) Care must be taken in selection of the transmitter location to minimize the risk of combustible materials catching fire.
c) Where the transmitter location is fixed the Transmitter Equipment is to be fenced off, using an appropriate barrier as determined from the job JSA and positioned no closer than 5 metres from the Transmitter Equipment in all directions.
d) Where the Transmitter Equipment is positioned adjacent the Power Generation Equipment it is acceptable to position the fence such that in encloses both.
e) All engines must be fitted with an efficient silencing device to reduce the risk of bushfire.
f) “High Voltage” warning signs are to be located immediately adjacent the fenced off area, clearly visible in all directions to approaching personnel and public.
4.2.2.3 Transmitter Operation
a) The transmitter operator must remain vigilant at all times while the transmitter is operating, observing and listening for any abnormal occurrence. If something abnormal is noticed or a person / animal intrude into the survey area the transmitter is to be immediately shutdown and made safe.
b) Prior to connecting the Antenna or Electrode Equipment to the Transmitter the Transmitter Operator will measure the resistance of the loop or electrode circuit to verify that a valid circuit appears to exist.
c) Whenever loop or electrode leads are disconnected, BOTH leads are to be removed.
d) Whenever the Transmitter is being moved, all cables are to be disconnected.
e) The Transmitter is only to be considered “SAFE” when it is “Reset”, turned “OFF” and “ISOLATED”, that is the output circuit must be disconnected from transmitter to ensure that it cannot be energized.
f) Loop or Electrode Equipment will not be connected to the Transmitter Equipment unless the Transmitter is “SAFE” (ie. “Reset”, turned “OFF” and “ISOLATED”).
g) Where radio communications is lost, faulty, misheard, unintelligible or confused the transmitter is to be immediately made “SAFE”, (ie. “Reset”, turned “OFF” and
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“ISOLATED”). Loop and Electrode Equipment will then be removed until radio communications are satisfactorily restored.
h) The Transmitter Equipment is not to be left unattended at any time when:
the power cable is connected
when operational
left in a state when it can accidentally or inadvertently be made operational
4.2.2.4 Connection to Other Equipment
a) Only a Contractor Endorsed Person can plug cables into the Transmitter.
b) Power cables are to be run to the Power Generation Equipment in as direct a path as possible with no coiling.
c) Power cables will only be handled when the Power Generation Equipment is electrically or mechanically shutdown and isolated.
d) Power cables shall not be walked over or stepped upon during normal survey activities.
4.2.3 Communications
a) All personnel working in the field must have access to two way communications in the form of radio or mobile phone if working out of speaking distance from another crew member. Mobile phone communication should only be considered if radio is not available. This is required to allow rapid communication of transmitter status and potential emergencies between crew members at all times. Survey crews should also be equipped with Satellite Phone and Emergency Distress Beacons (EPIRB) or Personal Location Beacons (PLB) if the pre-job risk assessment identifies that they are required due to the remote location of the survey.
b) Crews should arrange regular communications with relevant parties and adhere to all requested scheduled contact as per the survey’s emergency response plan.
c) During surveys, or whenever the generator / transmitter are operational, a clear set of radio calls must be established to ensure that the entire survey crew knows when the system is live. The transmitter operator must not energise the array until he/she has had direct communication from every crew member that they are clear of any transmitter wire or electrode with a minimum distance of 5m. When the system is being powered down, the transmitter operator must announce that he/she is powering down and that everyone is to standby until they receive confirmation from the operator that the system is off and that it is now safe to approach wires/electrodes.
4.2.4 Signage
a) Danger signs are to be erected at Generator/Transmitter Sites, Road Crossings and along public access routes where transmission wires are in use. This includes remote electrodes where Danger Signs and High Visibility barriers are to be erected.
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b) Road crossing signs should alert anyone in the area that there is a Geophysical Survey using HIGH VOLTAGES in progress and to slow down where wires cross access roads. High Visibility Road Cones and road matting should also be considered if wires cannot be safely buried across access roads.
c) At generator/transmitter sites, signs must be erected to prevent access to the site without first making contact with the field crew via UHF or Mobile/Satellite Phone.
d) A signage register that gives a description & location of all safety signs should be also be compiled. A Sample Signage register is shown in Appendix A.
4.2.5 General Safety
a) Survey equipment, although small in size, can be heavy. Use safe-handling techniques at all times, in particular, share the load or use mechanical assistance.
b) Appropriate PPE as outlined in the Safe Operating Procedure and Survey specific risk assessment must be worn at all times.
c) All personnel within five (5) metres of operational generators will wear appropriate hearing protection in accordance with AS/NZS 1269.
d) Equipment is not to be operated in confined spaces or restrictive areas that do not allow clear access to controls and equipment.
e) When star pickets, earth stakes, or other similar sharp objects are used, safety caps shall be fitted to the ends of objects to prevent injury from inadvertent contact.
ALL CREW MEMBERS MUST CONTINUALLY REMIND THEMSELVES TO BE AWARE AND NOT ACT WITHOUT THINKING.
4.2.6 Fuel Storage, Handling and Decanting
4.2.6.1 200 litre Drums
a) Fuel storage:
Fuel must be stored in a secure well-ventilated area
Store must comply with AS 1940 and AS/NZS 2906.
Check signs and extinguishers to ensure that they are up-to-date and signs displayed properly
Check for leaks
b) Fuel handling:
Ensure the fuel in the container is the same as ordered - that it is correctly and clearly labeled
Read Material Safety Data Sheet for the fuel
Know about and use correct lifting equipment
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Do not attempt to lift container manually
No Smoking or Naked Flame
Do not inhale fumes
c) Fuel decanting:
Fit the correct decanting tap or pump to container
Check tap or pump for leaks
Use galvanised measuring containers with handles
Have an appropriate funnel available
Absorb any spillage with non-flammable absorbent material and dispose of at an approved site
Ensure taps and pumps are turned off
Place decanting container under tap
4.2.6.2 Refuelling of Petrol Engines
a) Do not refuel whilst engine is on tray of vehicle or in trailer unless proper earthing mechanisms have been established in line with AS1940 and AS/NZS 2906.
b) Do not refuel whilst engine is running and allow sufficient time for the engine to cool after being powered off before refueling
c) Always use an appropriate funnel or pouring spout
d) Always have spill pads available when refueling
5 AUDIT STRUCTURE
5.1 Internal Audits
a) The Contractor shall conduct internal audits bi-annually to determine whether their Electrical Ground Geophysical operations conforms to:
their Standard Operating Procedures (SOP)/ Safe Work Instruction (SWI);
the requirements of this Standard, and
and has effectively implemented and maintained conformance.
b) An audit programme shall be planned, defining the audit criteria, scope, frequency and methods to be engaged. The selection of auditors and conduct of audits shall ensure objectivity and impartiality of the audit process. Auditors shall not audit their own work.
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c) A documented procedure shall be established to define the responsibilities and requirements for planning and conducting audits, establishing records and reporting results. Records of the audits and their results shall be maintained.
5.2 External Audits
a) An external audit shall be conducted upon the first anniversary of compliance to this standard then every two years, at a minimum, to ensure Contractors comply with the requirements of this Standard.
b) The external auditor needs to be an electrical engineer on the National Professional Engineers Register (NPER).
c) Failure to rectify a non-conformance within the stipulated timeframe and continuing to operate will be considered a breach of operating to this standard for electrical geophysics.
6 DELIVERABLES
The contractor shall maintain the following documentation requirements to comply with their obligations under this Standard:
Safe Operating Procedure or Safe Work Instructions Training and assessment records Pre-start inspection checklists Cable joining procedure Radio terminology and procedures Tagging and isolation procedure Scheduled preventative maintenance program Maintenance records Signage register Copies of company and individual licences and qualifications Audit programme Audit procedure
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APPENDIX A
SAMPLE SAFETY SIGNAGE REGISTER (informative)
Sign No.
Sign Type Location & Descriptions
1.
Generator/Transmitter ,
Remote Electrodes ,
Or wherever Transmitter wires are in Use
To be displayed whenever
Transmitter is in operation
2.
Transmitter Site ,
Remote Electrodes ,
Or wherever Transmitter wires are in Use
Alternative Signage
To be displayed whenever
Transmitter is in operation
3.
Generator/Transmitter Site
Field Site Induction Required for access to
Transmitter Site.
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4.
Generator/Transmitter
Alternator bulkhead & main 6 Pin connector on Generator – Transmitter.
Potentially lethal levels of electricity present when system is active.
5.
Generator/Transmitter
Alternator bulkhead & main 6 Pin connector on Generator – Transmitter.
Potentially lethal levels of electricity present when
6.
Generator
Do not operate generator with drive belt cover removed.
7.
Generator
Hearing Protection must be worn when generator is in operation
8.
Transmitter Site ,
Remote Electrodes ,
Or wherever Transmitter is in use
Barrier Tape
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9.
Transmitter Site ,
Remote Electrodes ,
Or wherever Transmitter is in use
Barrier Tape
10.
Generator
Emergency Stop Button on Generator
11.
Generator , Office, Store , Workshop & Vehicles
Indicates location of fire extinguisher
12.
Generator , Office, Store & Workshop
Indicates location of fire extinguisher
13.
Generator , Office, Store & Workshop
Indicates type of fire extinguisher
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14.
Generator
Indicates type of fire extinguisher
15.
Office, Electronics Workshop
Indicates type of fire extinguisher
16.
Generator , Office, Store & Workshop
No smoking
near flammable materials such as fuel supply
17.
Office, Workshop, Vehicles
Indicates location of First Aid Kit
18.
All Mine sites
Steel Capped (lace Up)
Safety boots must be worn
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19.
Designated areas
Eye protection must be worn when this sign is displayed and when using
Compressed air or power tools.
20.
Designated areas
Gloves must be worn when this sign is displayed.
Eg: welding, grinding, operating ATV
21.
Designated areas
Head Protection must be worn when this sign is displayed.
Eg: Pit areas on mine sites & operating ATV.
22.
Company wide
Out of service tag to be filled out and attached to all faulty equipment
23.
Store & with each crew
Material Safety Data Sheet
For all chemical substances on site
24.
Flammable Liquid Storage cabinet and bulk fuel stores
Denotes that contents of cabinet are highly flammable
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25.
Chemical Storage Cabinet
Denotes the storage of hazardous chemicals
26.
All 240v equipment
Testing period must be current.
27.
At Road Crossings or Public Access where transmitter wires have been deployed
Warns of potential danger from live wires and instructs traffic to slow down when driving over wires.
28.
Generator/Transmitter ,
Remote Electrodes ,
Or wherever Transmitter wires are in Use
To be displayed whenever
Transmitter is in operation
