Guide to the NEBOSH International Diploma in - JRL · PDF fileGuide to the NEBOSH International Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety Foreword The NEBOSH National Diploma in Occupational

= = == = dìáÇÉ=== = íç=íÜÉ=== kb_lpe=== fåíÉêå~íáçå~ä=== aáéäçã~=áå=== lÅÅìé~íáçå~ä=== eÉ~äíÜ=~åÇ== p~ÑÉíó=

= == gìäó=OMMU=

Guide to the NEBOSH International Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety Foreword The NEBOSH National Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety has for many years been the flagship NEBOSH qualification and was the first UK vocational qualification to be developed specifically for health and safety practitioners. Since its introduction in 1988, the National Diploma has become established as the most popular professional qualification for health and safety practitioners in the UK, with over 10,000 candidates having achieved the qualification. As globalisation gathers pace and begins to set the tone for all sorts of human activity and interaction, so NEBOSH has seen the need for a common and consistent standard for achieving and maintaining the health and safety of workers in all parts of the world. In recognition of these changing circumstances in an increasingly interdependent world, we have developed this new international qualification to provide the specialist knowledge and understanding combined with the application of the expertise that underpins competent performance as a health and safety practitioner. It also delivers a mainstream route to a qualification for an aspiring practitioner, while allowing those with a basic health and safety qualification (such as the NEBOSH International General Certificate) to develop a professional career path. It also provides a sound basis for progression to an MSc or more specialist study (such as the NEBOSH National Diploma in Environmental Management). The NEBOSH International Diploma is modelled on the NEBOSH National Diploma. The key difference between the two qualifications is in the applicability of legal requirements. Rather than be guided by a specifically UK framework, the International Diploma takes a risk management approach based on best practice and international standards, such as the International Labour Organisation (ILO) codes of practice, with special reference to models such as the ILO's "Guidelines on Occupational Safety and Health Management Systems" (ILO-OSH 2001). Underpinning knowledge of legal frameworks is included and local laws and ultural factors should form part of the study programme where relevant and appropriate. On successful completion of the qualification, the Diploma holder may apply for Graduate membership (Grad IOSH) of the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH), the major UK professional body in the field (www.iosh.co.uk). This is the first step to becoming a Chartered Safety and Health Practitioner as a Chartered Member of IOSH (CMIOSH). This qualification is also accepted by the International Institute of Risk and Safety Management (www.iirsm.org) as meeting the academic requirements for full membership (MIIRSM). United Kingdom professional health and safety bodies have a growing international reputation with a number of international branches being formed. In addition, diplomates will have the opportunity to attend the annual NEBOSH Diploma Graduation ceremony.

© NEBOSH 2008 Published by the National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health (NEBOSH), Dominus Way, Meridian Business Park, Leicester LE19 1QW. Registered Charity Number 1010444 telephone: 0116 263 4700 fax: 0116 282 4000 email: [email protected] website: www.nebosh.org.uk Printed on paper made from elemental chlorine-free pulp, obtained from sustainable wood forests ID 150808

http://www.iosh.co.uk/

http://www.iirsm.org/

The syllabus is divided into four units, each of which is assessed separately; three by written examination (Units IA, IB, IC) with a separate written assignment (Unit ID) designed to test knowledge across the syllabus. This unitised structure is intended to provide opportunities for additional and more flexible course formats. On passing each individual unit, candidates will receive a unit certificate from NEBOSH denoting their achievement. On successful completion of all four units, the NEBOSH International Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety will be awarded. The International Diploma syllabus has been revised and updated following the initial pilot stage and stakeholder consultation for launch as a ‘full’ NEBOSH qualification. This Guide supports the syllabus for the International Diploma by giving additional guidance and background material for both tutors and candidates. Further information about NEBOSH qualifications can be found at: www.nebosh.org.uk. NEBOSH welcomes comments on this Guide, and on any other aspect of the International Diploma qualification.

DAVID MORRIS Chairman July 2008

Designatory letters Holders of the NEBOSH International Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety may use the designatory letters ‘IDipNEBOSH’ after their name.

http://www.nebosh.org.uk/

Guide to the NEBOSH International Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety Contents 1. Introduction 1 2. Structure and rationale of the qualification 3

2.1 Background 3

2.2 Standard of the qualification 3

2.3 Structure of the qualification 4

2.4 Core Skills 5

2.5 Programmes of study 5 3. Assessment and criteria for qualification 6

3.1 Entry requirements 6

3.2 Assessment system for the NEBOSH International Diploma 9

3.3 Examinations (Units IA, IB & IC) 9

3.4 Assignment (Unit ID) 9

3.5 General regulations for the NEBOSH International Diploma qualification 9

3.6 Assessment results 10

3.7 Examinations arrangements 12

3.8 Requests for reasonable adjustments 12

3.9 Requests for special consideration 13

3.10 Enquiries about results and appeals 13

3.11 Malpractice 13 4. Syllabus for the NEBOSH International Diploma 15

July 2008 i

4.1 Preparatory Content: Core Skills 18

4.1.1 Core Skills Part 1: Communication skills 19

4.1.2 Core Skills Part 2: Training skills 21

4.2 Unit IA: International management of health and safety 22

4.2.1 Element IA1: Principles of health and safety management 23

4.2.2 Element IA2: Loss causation and incident investigation 26

4.2.3 Element IA3: Identifying hazards, assessing and evaluating risks 28

4.2.4 Element IA4: Risk control and emergency planning 30

4.2.5 Element IA5: Organisational factors 33

4.2.6 Element IA6: Human factors 37

4.2.7 Element IA7: Regulating health and safety 39

4.2.8 Element IA8: Measuring health and safety performance 41

4.3 Unit IB: International control of hazardous agents in the workplace 43

4.3.1 Element IB1: General aspects of occupational health and

hygiene 44

4.3.2 Element IB2: Principles of toxicology and epidemiology 46

4.3.3 Element IB3: Hazardous substances – evaluating risk 49

4.3.4 Element IB4: Hazardous substances – preventive and protective measures 51

4.3.5 Element IB5: Hazardous substances – monitoring and

maintenance of control measures 53

4.3.6 Element IB6: Biological agents 55

4.3.7 Element IB7: Physical agents 1 – noise and vibration 57

4.3.8 Element IB8: Physical agents 2 – radiation and thermal environment 59

4.3.9 Element IB9: Psycho-social agents 62

4.3.10 Element IB10: Ergonomic factors 64

4.4 Unit IC: International workplace and work equipment safety 65

July 2008 ii

4.4.1 Element IC1: General workplace issues 66

4.4.2 Element IC2: Principles of fire and explosion 69

4.4.3 Element IC3: Workplace fire risk assessment 71

4.4.4 Element IC4: Storage, handling and processing of dangerous substances 73

4.4.5 Element IC5: Work equipment 75

4.4.6 Element IC6: Machinery safety 78

4.4.7 Element IC7: Mechanical handling 80

4.4.8 Element IC8: Electrical safety 82

4.4.9 Element IC9: Safety in construction and demolition 85

4.4.10 Element IC10: Environmental pollution and waste management 87

5. Unit ID: International application of health and safety theory and practice 89

5.1 Assignment Brief 89

5.2 Detailed candidate guidance for Unit ID 90

5.3 Assignment mark scheme 93 6. Sample examination papers 101

6.1 Unit IA sample paper: International management of health and safety 101

6.2 Unit IB sample paper: International control of hazardous agents in the workplace 105

6.3 Unit IC sample paper: International workplace and work equipment

safety 109 7. Appendices 112

Appendix 1: Role description of occupational health and safety practitioners 112

July 2008 iii

Appendix 2: The National Examination Board of Occupational Safety and Health (NEBOSH) 113

Appendix 3: The Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) 114

Appendix 4: Relationship of the International Diploma to the International

General Certificate 115

July 2008 iv

Guide to the NEBOSH International Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety

1. Introduction 1.1 The NEBOSH National Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety has been

recognised for many years as a leading qualification in the field of health and safety, providing the specialist knowledge and understanding combined with the application of the expertise required to undertake a career as a health and safety practitioner. As the name suggests, the International Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety is an international version of the qualification that is intended to fulfil the same objectives for those practitioners operating outside the UK.

1.2 The International Labour Organisation (ILO) estimates that approximately 2 million

workers per year are killed by occupational injuries and illnesses, equivalent to over 5,000 workers dying worldwide every day. There are an estimated 500-2,000 non-fatal injuries for every fatal injury, many of which result in lost earnings, lost jobs and permanent disability and poverty.

1.3 The human and social cost of work-related accidents and illness should not be

underestimated; for every person injured or killed there are also families, friends, and communities who must cope with the physical, psychological and economic consequences.

1.4 The business impact of workplace accidents and ill-health is also compelling – in

addition to the direct costs of sick pay and absence, employers can find themselves dealing with criminal prosecution, claims for compensation, adverse publicity and harm to both business reputation and profitability. In the UK alone the estimated annual cost of occupational injury and illness is £5 billion (around US$10 billion) to employers and £16 billion (over US$30 billion) to the British economy. The annual worldwide cost of occupational injury and illness is estimated by the ILO to be US$1,000 billion.

1.5 Management of health and safety in the workplace makes sound business sense.

Qualified health and safety practitioners are an asset to their organisations, reducing costs by preventing accidents and ill-health of workers, without incurring unnecessary expense by over-reacting to trivial risks. The practical approach of the NEBOSH International Diploma promotes the application of the knowledge acquired on the course to problem solving in the candidate’s own workplace.

1.6 There is considerable flexibility in the modes of study for the NEBOSH International

Diploma to enable a programme of study to be tailored to the needs of candidates and employers. Course providers run part-time day and evening courses, full-time block release courses and open/distance learning courses in accordance with the mode/s of study that are covered by the accreditation by NEBOSH. Many can also organise in-house courses to meet the needs of individual employers. A list of course providers for the NEBOSH International Diploma is available from NEBOSH or may be accessed from the NEBOSH website (www.nebosh.org.uk).

1.7 Candidates should be conversant with the main requirements of recognised

international standards as they apply generally to the workplace. An extremely useful source of reference in this respect is the “ILO Encyclopaedia of Occupational Health and Safety” (4th edition, ISBN 92-2-109203-8), although this is too lengthy to recommend as a course text.

July 2008

1



ILO Codes of Practice, UK Health and Safety Commission (HSC) Approved Codes of Practice and HSE guidance publications, as well as many US Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) publications (e.g. the OSHA Manual), may also provide a guide for both tutors and candidates to much of the material covered by the syllabus, although candidates will not be expected to be conversant with every detail of such publications. Candidates should be guided by their tutors on the extent to which reference could usefully be made to the materials identified, which may depend partly on the comprehensiveness of course notes.

1.8 NEBOSH is committed to the continued development of qualifications and is working

closely with the university sector in gaining acceptance of the NEBOSH qualifications as prior learning for parts of MSc programmes.

July 2008

2


2. Structure and rationale of the qualification 2.1 Background

2.1.1 All health and safety practitioners need to have a common core of knowledge in

order to practise effectively. This common core of knowledge is essential to all and is in essence transferable between the different occupational sectors in which health and safety practitioners practise, which range across all parts of industry, commerce and the public sector. Increasing globalisation has seen the migration of manufacturing industry from established to emerging economies where health and safety standards may not be as well developed. Multinational companies, particularly those in mineral and oil and gas exploration are increasingly seeking to adopt harmonised health and safety standards wherever in the world they operate. Health and safety practitioners need to be equipped to carry with them knowledge of the principles and practices of their profession wherever they may be engaged. This may cover working environments as diverse as, for example, a residential care home, an oil platform or a construction site. There is greater emphasis on emerging areas of increased risk such as stress and violence at work to reflect the need for developing competencies in these areas.

2.1.2 The NEBOSH International Diploma aims to provide the knowledge and

understanding that underpins competent performance as a health and safety practitioner and develop the ability to apply knowledge to a practical situation. This knowledge base is set out in Section 4: Syllabus for the NEBOSH International Diploma. With relevant structured experience, competence as a health and safety practitioner can be developed by applying this knowledge to the practice of occupational health and safety. The NEBOSH International Diploma is based on the NEBOSH National Diploma.

2.1.3 The original NEBOSH National Diploma, introduced in 1988, became the single most

widely taken academic qualification for occupational health and safety practitioners in the UK, with 3,614 people achieving it. NEBOSH sought to build on this success and saw the subsequent two-part NEBOSH National Diploma, introduced in 1997, not merely as a timely update of the syllabus but also as an opportunity to improve all aspects of the qualification, including its structure, content, delivery and assessment. To date, over 5,000 people have been awarded the Part 1 Diploma and more than 1,400 the Part 2 Diploma.

2.1.4 The International Diploma was first launched in pilot form in 2006 and was delivered

successfully by three course providers with the first examination in July 2007 . The results of the pilot and feedback from stakeholder consultation has led to this revised syllabus.

2.2 Standard of the qualification 2.2.1 The NEBOSH International Diploma has been designed to be assessed at the same

level as the NEBOSH National Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety. Although the NEBOSH National Diploma is a Higher Level (HL) Vocationally-Related Qualification (VRQ), the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) developed in England, Wales and Northern Ireland permits comparison with academic qualifications. The National Diploma is assessed at Level 6, equating to a Bachelor’s degree with honours within the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications (FHEQ).

July 2008

3


2.3 Structure of the qualification 2.3.1 The unitised syllabus of the International Diploma is designed to allow flexibility and

continuity for those studying health and safety at this level. The arrangement of the content within each syllabus element has been modified to more accurately reflect the revised learning outcomes.

2.3.2 The structure of the qualification consists of three core units assessed by

examination (Units IA, IB & IC) and an additional workplace-based assignment unit (Unit ID), designed to test knowledge across the breadth of the International Diploma syllabus. This is intended to enable the assessment methods to reflect the practical application of skills learned during the course to the candidate’s workplace in a meaningful way, further increasing the benefit of the qualification to sponsoring organisations.

2.3.3 Candidates may choose to take all of the three examinations at the same sitting or at

different sittings. On successful completion of each of the units, a unit certificate will be issued. However, in order to achieve the NEBOSH International Diploma qualification, candidates will need to pass each of the four units.

2.3.4 The syllabus consists of preparatory content and four qualification units: Preparatory content: Core skills (communication and training) Qualification units: Unit IA International management of health and safety

Unit IB International control of hazardous agents in the workplace Unit IC International workplace and work equipment safety Unit ID International application of health and safety theory and practice

The structure and content of the units and elements are set out in Section 4: Syllabus for the NEBOSH International Diploma.

2.3.5 The total study time for each unit is as follows: Preparatory content: Core Skills: 10 hours tuition and 9 hours private study Total: 19 hours Qualification units: Unit IA: 95 hours tuition and 75 hours private study Total: 170 hours Unit IB: 65 hours tuition and 50 hours private study Total: 115 hours Unit IC: 65 hours tuition and 50 hours private study Total: 115 hours Unit ID: 6 hours tuition and 50 hours private study Total: 56 hours A programme of study therefore needs to be based around a minimum of 241 taught

hours and approximately 234 hours of private study.

July 2008

4


2.4 Core Skills 2.4.1 The preparatory content covers the core skills of communication and training that

candidates will need to complete all four qualification units. While not assessed separately, assessment of these core skills is incorporated across the syllabus as part of the written examinations (Units IA, IB & IC) and the written assignment (Unit ID). Core skills should be presented as introductory content at the beginning of the programme and internally assessed by the accredited course provider in order to determine whether the candidate is adequately prepared to progress to the qualification units.

2.4.2 Some candidates may require additional support in the development of basic skills to

help them to achieve the learning outcomes of the preparatory content. Similarly, some candidates may be exempted from all or part of the preparatory Core skills content, for example, those in possession of the NEBOSH Part 1 Diploma or those holding a degree or professional qualification. In order to gain exemption, candidates must be able to demonstrate to their accredited course provider that the relevant core skills (eg, research skills) have been addressed as part of prior learning.

2.5 Programmes of study 2.5.1 The study time will be used to benchmark the adequacy of a proposed programme.

Any variation to the normal contact time will need to be justified by an accredited course provider to the satisfaction of NEBOSH on the basis of reasonable provision to meet adequately the learning needs of a particular cohort. The same philosophy will enable distance or open learning programmes to be eligible for accreditation. The categories ‘tuition’ and ‘private study’ have in mind a face-to-face mode of programme delivery but they will provide a benchmark for candidates studying by supported open or distance learning. Such candidates should be guided by the total study time, which includes own study time and time spent in individual or group tutorials.

2.5.2 The treatment of health and safety law in the syllabus has been arranged such that

legal principles are covered within Unit IA. Health and safety law is dealt with in a comparative manner and includes quasi-legislative approaches such as self regulation. The application of specific legislative requirements for individual jurisdictions is not included but students should be directed to identify the legal systems and enforcement in relation to health and safety which operate in their own jurisdictions. This may best be achieved by the inclusion by course providers of a formative assessment exercise in the teaching programme. This reflects the development and changing nature of both the health and safety profession and health and safety law, where the law is now seen to underpin, rather than to dictate, good health and safety practice.

July 2008

5


3. Assessment and criteria for qualification 3.1 Entry requirements 3.1.1 The NEBOSH International Diploma syllabus assumes that candidates will have the

broad basic knowledge of health and safety equivalent to that given by the NEBOSH International General Certificate (IGC). While this is not mandatory, it should be noted that the syllabus content includes both knowledge expected of students, equivalent to having undertaken such a programme of study, and content that will have been covered in the IGC. For further details see page 14, note 1.

The achievement of the IGC or direct equivalent prior to undertaking the Diploma course is highly recommended, given the demands of this level of study, the time commitment required and the complementary nature of the NEBOSH IGC and International Diploma. Further information on the NEBOSH International General Certificate can be found via our website www.nebosh.org.uk.

3.1.2 Course providers should ensure that a candidate will benefit from studying at

Diploma level and in the mode and format in which the course provider offers the International Diploma. NEBOSH accredited centres wishing to apply Accredited Prior Learning (APL) arrangements to candidate selection are encouraged to do so. Further guidance for course providers regarding Accredited Prior Learning will be made available on request.

3.1.3 The standard of English required by students studying for the NEBOSH International Diploma must be such that they can both understand and articulate the concepts contained in the syllabus. There are a range of proficiency tests available for assessing English language skills. However, the most widely used in the academic and technical/professional environments is the IELTS (International English Language Testing System). This test is one of a series offered within the University of Cambridge’s ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) Examinations. It is run in conjunction with British Council. In this subject, Cambridge ESOL is a recognised provider of training by the Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulator (Ofqual).

There is a Common European Framework (CEF) for defining language skills. A high level (C1) is appropriate to a health and safety practitioner. The IELTS tests fit within this framework.

It is important to stress that the onus is on centres to determine their candidates’ standards of proficiency in English. However, the approach used in the IELTS system is a proven one and course providers are advised to satisfy themselves that their candidates are adequately prepared for a linguistically demanding programme of study.

July 2008

6



Table 1: Relating IELTS scores to Demands of Academic and Training Courses

(See International English Language Testing System, 2005) See: IELTS Handbook p.4.

Band Linguistically

demanding academic courses

Linguistically less demanding academic courses

Linguistically demanding training courses

Linguistically less demanding training courses

9.0 – 7.5 Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable 7.0 Probably acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable

6.5 English study needed Probably acceptable

Acceptable Acceptable

6.0 English study needed English study needed

Probably acceptable

Acceptable

5.5 English study needed English study needed

English study needed

Probably acceptable

Course / training examples

Medicine, Law, Linguistics, Journalism, Library Studies

Agriculture, Pure Mathematics, Technology, Computer-based work, Telecomms

Air Traffic Control, Engineering, Pure Applied Sciences, Industrial Safety

Animal Husbandry, Catering, Fire Services

Table 1: Relating IELTS scores to Demands of Academic and Training Courses

It is acknowledged that course providers may be approached by candidates who have a variety of non-IELTS English language qualifications. The IELTS descriptors (see Table 2 below) are helpful in arriving at decisions over the ‘equivalence’ of any alternative qualifications.

July 2008

7


Table 2: Relating IELTS scores to Qualitative Descriptors (See International English Language Testing System, 2005) See: IELTS Handbook p.5.

Score Descriptor

9 Expert user Has fully operational command of the language: appropriate, accurate and fluent with complete understanding.

8 Very good user Has fully operational command of the language with only occasional unsystematic inaccuracies and inappropriacies. Misunderstandings may occur in unfamiliar situations. Handles complex detailed argumentation well.

7 Good user Has operational command of the language, though with occasional inaccuracies, inappropriacies and misunderstandings in some situations. Generally handles complex language well and understands detailed reasoning.

6 Competent user Has generally effective command of the language despite some inaccuracies, inappropriacies and misunderstandings. Can use and understand fairly complex language, particularly in familiar situations.

5 Modest user Has partial command of the language, coping with overall meaning in most situations, though is likely to make many mistakes. Should be able to handle basic communication in own field.

4 Limited user Basic competence is limited to familiar situations. Has frequent problems in understanding and expression. Is not able to use complex language.

3 Extremely limited user Conveys and understands only general meaning in very familiar situations. Frequent breakdowns in communication occur.

2 Intermittent user No real communication is possible except for the most basic information using isolated words or short formulae in familiar situations and to meet immediate needs. Has great difficulty understanding spoken and written English.

1 Non user Essentially has no ability to use the language beyond possibly a few isolated words.

0 Did not attempt the test No assessable information provided.

Table 2: Relating IELTS scores to Qualitative Descriptors

3.1.4 Candidates will also need to demonstrate that they have access to facilities to enable

them to carry out the workplace-based assignment (Unit ID). It will be the responsibility of the accredited course provider to secure access to workplace(s) for those they accept on to a programme of study, who are, for example, not in employment or in an unsuitable work environment (e.g., a small, low risk office).

3.1.5 It should be noted that the qualification includes a requirement to write an extended

assignment (Unit ID). Candidates with limited experience of extended assignment writing may therefore require additional training in this skill if they are to complete the assignment successfully. Many candidates may not have been involved in study for some time and will require training and practice in both study and examination techniques.

July 2008

8


3.1.6 Finally, if a potential candidate is considered suitable by a course provider, the provider should emphasise to the individual the demands of both Diploma-level study and the International Diploma itself, in particular the knowledge and understanding already assumed by the syllabus and the significant time commitment required to complete the qualification.

3.2 Assessment system for the NEBOSH International Diploma 3.2.1 The system of assessment for the International Diploma consists of three

examinations (Units IA, IB & IC) and a workplace-based assignment (Unit ID). All components are set and marked by NEBOSH. Candidates who achieve a pass standard in each of the three examination papers and in the assignment will be awarded the NEBOSH International Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety.

3.3 Examinations (Units IA, IB & IC) 3.3.1 NEBOSH sets a written examination paper of three hours’ duration for each of these

three units. Examinations will normally be held each year in the third full week of January and in the first full week of July unless prior notice has been given. Papers for Units IA, IB and IC shall be offered on the mornings of Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday respectively.

3.3.2 The examination pass standard is determined qualitatively about a datum point of

45%. The examinations are set and marked in accordance with regulatory requirements and best practice. Guidance can be found on the NEBOSH website.

3.4 Assignment (Unit ID) 3.4.1 A workplace-based assignment (Unit ID) is set and marked by NEBOSH.

Submission dates for Diploma assignments are in March and September of each year. The assignment brief, assignment mark scheme and more detailed guidance on completing the assignment can be found in Section 5. Unit ID assignments will not be returned to candidates and please note that no feedback will be provided. Marks for re-submitted assignments are not capped.

3.4.2 Candidates must achieve a pass standard of 50% in the assignment in order to

satisfy the assessment criteria for the award of the International Diploma. 3.5 General regulations for the NEBOSH International Diploma qualification 3.5.1 To qualify for the NEBOSH International Diploma a candidate must: (i) enrol as a course member with an accredited course provider and, through the

course provider, with NEBOSH. Enrolment with NEBOSH (with payment of the appropriate fee) should normally be made at the beginning of the programme of study;

(ii) register with NEBOSH through a course provider as a candidate for the relevant

examination paper (with payment of the appropriate fee) when eligible to do so;

(iii) register with NEBOSH through a course provider as a candidate for the assignment unit (with payment of the appropriate fee) when eligible to do so;

July 2008

9


(iv) fulfil all other requirements as may be made from time to time by the accredited course provider and/or NEBOSH.

3.5.2 The period of enrolment with NEBOSH shall be five years. To be eligible to enrol on

a NEBOSH-accredited programme of study, candidates must satisfy any entry requirements specified by the course provider (see Section 3.1: Entry requirements). Acceptance onto a programme of study may also be based on the admission tutor’s judgement on the candidate’s ability to benefit from the programme. All candidates will be required to complete the preparatory Core Skills content unless they possess a qualification, such as NEBOSH Diploma Part 1 or a degree level qualification that may give exemption from the whole or part of this content. In order to gain exemption, candidates must be able to demonstrate to their accredited course provider that the relevant core skills (eg, research skills) have been addressed as part of prior learning.

3.5.3 Students must satisfactorily complete all four units within their enrolment period (five

years). 3.5.4 Candidates who have reached the end of the enrolment period but still wish to

complete outstanding units may apply for a single one year enrolment extension. These are considered by NEBOSH on a case-by-case basis. Successful applications for the enrolment extension will incur a fee.

3.6 Assessment results 3.6.1 Examinations

NEBOSH will determine a percentage mark for each candidate in each of the assessed unit examinations. Candidates who have been referred in an examination and who wish to re-sit must (i) complete the appropriate registration form, and (ii) send the form, together with the re-examination fee, to reach NEBOSH by the due date.

3.6.2 Assignment

NEBOSH will determine a percentage mark for each candidate in the assignment unit.

Candidates who have been referred in the assignment and who wish to re-submit must (i) complete the appropriate registration form, and (ii) send the form, together with the re-submission fee, to reach NEBOSH by the due date.

3.6.3 Unit grading and certification

The examination pass standard is determined qualitatively about a datum point of 45% for the written papers (Units IA, IB, and IC) and 50% for the assignment (Unit ID). Candidates who are successful in an individual unit will be issued with a unit certificate, normally within 8 weeks of the issue of the unit result notification. This will show a pass grade only.

3.6.4 Qualification grading

July 2008

10


When candidates have been awarded a unit certificate for all four units (ie, have achieved a Pass in Units IA, IB, IC and ID), the marks for all four units are added together and a final grade is awarded as follows:

Pass 185 - 239 marks Credit 240 - 279 marks Distinction 280 marks or more 3.6.5 Qualification certification

Once a candidate has achieved at least a Pass grade in all four units and the overall qualification grade awarded, a qualification parchment will be issued, normally within 8 weeks of the issue of the result notification. A candidate may opt to resit a successful unit in order to improve their grade at any time during their enrolment period. Once the result of the fourth successfully completed unit has been issued the candidate has one month from the date of issue of that result to either: • inform NEBOSH in writing of their intention to re-sit a successful unit for the

purposes of improving a grade or; • submit an Enquiry About Result (EAR) request (see 3.11.2 below). Candidates who fail to do this will be issued with a qualification parchment and will be deemed as having completed the qualification.

3.6.6 Unit re-sits If a candidate’s performance in any unit component is lower than a pass, candidates may re-register and re-sit just the component/s in which they have been unsuccessful providing that they re-sit within the 5 year enrolment period. However, each re-sit will incur an additional fee. Candidates may re-take units at any time within their enrolment period, including where they have passed and wish to re-take to improve their grade. Once all four units have been successfully completed, candidates will need to inform NEBOSH of their intention to re-take within one month of the date of issue for the fourth unit result. (See 3.6.5). There is no limit to the number of re-sits within the enrolment period. If a re-sit results in a lower mark than a previous result for that unit, the highest mark will be retained. For the Unit ID assignment, there is no limit to the number of submissions within the enrolment period. If a candidate gains lower than a pass in the assignment, they may revise and submit the assignment again. However, they must re-register for the assignment in order to do so. Please note that no feedback will be given on the referred assignment (see 3.4.1) and each additional submission will incur a fee. Marks awarded for subsequent submissions will not be capped.

3.6.7 NEBOSH adopts rigorous procedures to ensure that all examination scripts are

marked to a consistent and reliable standard. Following pre-standardisation marking of sample scripts by qualified Examiners, a standardisation meeting of all Examiners is convened where the final mark scheme is agreed. This is then followed by total

July 2008

11


marking/re-marking of scripts to the standardised scheme. Each Examiner’s results are qualitatively and quantitatively reviewed in order to ensure that the standard is consistently maintained. Careful consideration is given to those candidates who have received borderline marks and to any special considerations (see section 3.10) before the final declaration of results.

3.7 Examinations arrangements 3.7.1 It is NEBOSH policy that, in order to maintain a consistent and equitable standard in

the conduct of its examinations, these shall be conducted only at a NEBOSH-approved examination course provider.

3.7.2 Some UK-based accredited course providers offer courses and examinations outside

the UK. In addition, there are NEBOSH accredited course providers outside the UK. Further information is available in the ‘Where to Study’ section of the NEBOSH website.

3.7.3 Examinations at British Council offices

Course providers may arrange for their candidates to take the written examinations at a British Council office. The course provider will be responsible for making the arrangements directly with the appropriate British Council office. The location of the examination should be entered on the examination request form completed by the course provider.

3.7.4 British Council offices will levy a charge to course providers for the provision of

accommodation, invigilation and handling and despatch of examination materials on their behalf. The course provider must pay such charges directly to the appropriate British Council. The fees payable to NEBOSH do not cover these charges; nor are such charges recoverable by course provider or candidates from NEBOSH.

3.7.5 Languages Examinations are normally offered in English; however they may be available in languages other than English. Candidates should contact the course provider who should liaise with NEBOSH. 3.7.6 Admission vouchers and proof of identity Before an examination, registered candidates will receive an admission voucher that

gives their candidate number and the regulations for candidates. The candidate number is the only identification that candidates may use on their examination scripts – scripts must not include the name of the candidate. The admission voucher is essential to gain entry to the examination room but the invigilator will require photographic proof of identity, for example: passport, driving licence or identity card.

3.8 Requests for reasonable adjustments 3.8.1 Reasonable adjustments are arrangements which are approved in advance of an

examination to allow attainment to be demonstrated by candidates with either a permanent or long-term disability or learning difficulty, or temporary disability, illness or indisposition.

July 2008

12


3.8.2 Requests for reasonable adjustments must be made to NEBOSH by examination course providers at least one month before the examination.

3.8.3 For further details see the NEBOSH “Policy and Procedures on Reasonable

Adjustments and Special Consideration” from the NEBOSH website or on request. 3.9 Requests for special consideration 3.9.1 Special consideration is a procedure that may result in an adjustment to the marks of

candidates who have not been able to demonstrate attainment because of temporary illness, injury, indisposition or an unforeseen incident at the time of the examination.

3.9.2 Candidates who feel disadvantaged due to illness, distraction or any other reason

during the examination must report this to the invigilator before leaving the examination room and request that their written statement, together with the invigilator’s comments on the statement, be sent by the course provider to NEBOSH.

3.9.3 Requests for special consideration must be made to NEBOSH by the examination

provider as soon as possible after the examination and no more than seven working days after the assessment.

3.9.4 For further details see the NEBOSH “Policy and Procedures on Reasonable

Adjustments and Special Consideration” available from the NEBOSH website or on request.

3.10 Enquiries about results and appeals 3.10.1 NEBOSH applies detailed and thorough procedures to review and check examination

results before they are issued. This includes a particular review of borderline results. It thereby ensures that the declared results are a fair and equitable reflection of the standard of performance by candidates.

3.10.2 There are, however, procedures for candidates or course providers to enquire about

results that do not meet their reasonable expectations. An ‘enquiry about result’ (EAR) must be made in writing within one month of the date of issue of the result to which it relates.

3.10.3 For details see the NEBOSH “Enquiries and Appeals policy and procedures”

document available from the NEBOSH website or on request. 3.11 Malpractice

July 2008

13


3.11.1 Malpractice is defined as any deliberate activity, neglect, default or other practice by candidates and/or course providers that compromises the integrity of the assessment process, and/or the validity of certificates. Malpractice may include a range of issues from collusion or use of unauthorised material by candidates, to the failure to maintain appropriate records or systems by course providers to the deliberate falsification of records in order to claim certificates. Failure by an accredited course provider to deal with identified issues may in itself constitute malpractice.

3.11.2 Full details of the NEBOSH “Malpractice policy and procedures” document is

available from the NEBOSH website or on request.

July 2008

14


4. Syllabus for the NEBOSH International Diploma This section sets out the full syllabus for the NEBOSH International Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety. The Diploma requires a total of 241 hours of tuition and about 234 hours of private study (including the Unit ID assignment). For candidates studying by open or distance learning, the duration of tuition and private study (shown in the tables preceding each unit) is additive to give the minimum recommended hours for this form of study. This includes own-study time and tutorial time. Notes 1 Recommended prior learning Before enrolling on the International Diploma programme it is strongly recommended that students should have successfully completed a relevant qualification in health and safety, such as the NEBOSH International General Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety. While this is not mandatory, the areas highlighted in BLUE in the syllabus content represent knowledge expected of students, equivalent to having undertaken such a programme of study. This does not imply, however, that these parts of the syllabus should be omitted entirely from a Diploma programme. Understanding of these topic areas should be confirmed, possibly by a simple test, and appropriate direction given to ensure that students are adequately prepared for continuing study in the relevant area. This may, for example, constitute directed reading, issue of revision notes or a brief revision session supported by additional reading material as appropriate. The areas highlighted in RED indicate content that will have been covered in a level 3 pre-entry course of study but where knowledge and understanding will need to be further developed in line with the level 6 standard (see note 2 below). The minimum tuition hours for each syllabus element are those required to cover the level 6 material learning (as highlighted). The areas highlighted in GREEN indicate changes to the International Diploma syllabus following evaluation of the pilot qualification. 2 Depth of study The depth of study required is indicated by the ‘command words’ within the syllabus content and by the recommended taught hours for each element.

July 2008

15


Preparatory content: Core Skills Element Minimum Page Number/Title Tuition Hours 1. Communication Skills 7 18 2. Training Skills 3 20 Minimum total tuition time for CS1/2 10 Recommended private study time 9 Unit IA International management of health and safety Element Minimum Page Number/Title Tuition Hours 1. Principles of health and safety management 15 22 2. Loss causation and incident investigation 5 25 3. Identifying hazards, assessing and evaluating risks 12 27 4. Risk control and emergency planning 12 29 5. Organisational factors 14 32 6. Human factors 12 36 7. Regulating health and safety 19 38 8. Measuring health and safety performance 6 40

Minimum total tuition time for Unit IA 95 Recommended private study time 75 Unit IB International control of hazardous agents in the workplace Element Minimum Page Number/Title Tuition Hours 1. General aspects of occupational health and hygiene 5 43 2. Principles of toxicology and epidemiology 7 45 3. Hazardous substances – evaluating risk 5 48 4. Hazardous substances

– preventive and protective measures 6 50 5. Hazardous substances

– monitoring and maintenance of control measures 6 52 6. Biological agents 7 54 7. Physical agents 1 – noise and vibration 10 56 8. Physical agents 2 – radiation and thermal environment 9 58 9. Psycho-social agents 6 61

10. Ergonomic agents 4 63

Minimum total tuition time for Unit IB 65 Recommended private study time 50

July 2008

16


Unit IC International workplace and work equipment safety Element Minimum Page Number/Title Tuition Hours 1. General workplace issues 5 65 2. Principles of fire and explosion 6 68 3. Workplace fire risk assessment 6 70 4. Storage, handling and processing of

dangerous substances 7 72 5. Work equipment 9 74 6. Machinery safety 6 77 7. Mechanical handling 6 79 8. Electrical safety 7 81 9. Safety in construction and demolition 7 84

10. Environmental pollution and waste management 6 86

Minimum total tuition time for Unit IC 65 Recommended private study time 50 Unit ID International application of health and safety theory and practice Element Minimum Page Number/Title Tuition Hours 1. Workplace-based assignment 6 88 Minimum total tuition time for Unit ID 6 Recommended private study time 50 Minimum total tuition time 241 Minimum total recommended private study time 234

July 2008

17


4.1 Preparatory Content: Core Skills Element Title Tuition

hours Core Skills Part 1 Communication skills 7 Core Skills Part 2 Training skills 3

Total minimum tuition hours 10

Directed private study hours * 9

* This preparatory content should include at least 9 hours of directed private study. This should normally be

allocated proportionate to the tuition time for each element but may require adjustment to reflect the needs of a particular candidate group.

July 2008

18


4.1.1 Core Skills Part 1: Communication skills Learning outcomes On completion of this element, candidates should be able to: CS1.1 Identify the phases in the communication cycle and demonstrate effective verbal

communication in one to one and group situations CS1.2 Demonstrate effective listening skills and techniques and use different questioning

techniques in order to gain information and understanding CS1.3 Present written information in a variety of formats including formal reports and the

use of references and supplementary information CS1.4 Explain the use of information technology for the effective search and presentation

of information CS1.5 Outline the skills needed to effectively organise, run and control both formal and

informal meetings CS1.6 Discuss how styles of leadership and management can influence individuals and

help to resolve conflict. Content

CS1.1 Verbal communication Identification of the phases of communication – the communication cycle.

Identification of barriers to reception, understanding and acceptance.

Discussion of features of communications: non-verbal information, facial expression, gestures, posture, expectations, context, voice qualities, linguistic features.

Outline of presentation skills: effective use of visual aids, dealing with questions and securing audience participation. CS1.2 Effective listening and questioning techniques Description of positive listening techniques used to overcome poor listening skills.

Outline of questioning techniques (e.g., who, why, when, what, where and how); the use of open questions.

Discussion of clarification versus justification.

July 2008

19


CS1.3 Written communications Presentation of formal report writing including:

- general format; layout of document to enhance clarity and visual impact - writing styles; including the ability to produce an action plan and an executive

summary - the use of appendices and abstracts - critical analysis and its use and application in reports - literature search techniques - methods for referring to primary sources: précis, paraphrasing, direct quote - methods and notation for referencing researched sources: in-text citation, end

reference lists and bibliography; Harvard, numeric (e.g., Vancouver) and footnote systems.

CS1.4 Information technology Explanation of:

- the use of information technology: bullet-pointing, use of graphics, typefaces - internet search engines – uses and limitations; evaluating websites - generation of visual aids - searching literature sources.

Identification of the scope and limitations of Internet information sources. CS1.5 Meeting skills Outline of:

- designing meetings, including the selection of members, the request/control of their input

- the preparation of the agenda - formal and informal meeting skills - preparation for a meeting, the environment and support materials - chairmanship skills: opening and concluding meetings, encouraging participants and

controlling meetings, dealing with disagreement and conflict, gaining commitment and controlling time.

CS1.6 Interpersonal skills Outline of:

- the interrelationship between individuals and the influence of individual differences on relationships

- assessing and controlling conflict.

Discussion of styles of management and leadership and their influence on the individual. Minimum hours of tuition 7 hours.

July 2008

20


4.1.2 Core Skills Part 2: Training skills Learning outcomes On completion of this element, candidates should be able to: CS2.1 Identify the principles of systematic training and the sequence of its application from

needs identification to evaluation CS2.2 Design and present a training programme CS2.3 Describe the effective planning, design and running of presentations. Content CS2.1 Training principles Outline of the principles of systematic training.

Outline of the stages in systematic training: - identifying training needs - designing training: defining learning objectives in terms of levels of skill and

knowledge required - carrying out training - evaluating training.

CS2.2 Presentation skills Outline of how to plan a presentation.

Description of the design of an effective programme.

Explanation of use of voice and body language to communicate effectively.

Explanation of effective use of visual aids.

Discussion of methods for dealing with questions, securing audience participation and checking understanding of principles presented. CS2.3 Minimum hours of tuition 3 hours.

July 2008

21


4.2 Unit IA: International management of health and safety

Overall learning outcome On completion of this unit, candidates will be able to demonstrate their understanding of the domain knowledge covered through: 1. the application of knowledge to familiar and unfamiliar situations; and 2. the critical analysis and evaluation of information presented in both quantitative and

qualitative forms. In addition each unit element has specific learning outcomes. Element Title Tuition

hours IA1 Principles of health and safety management 15 IA2 Loss causation and incident investigation 5 IA3 Identifying hazards, assessing and evaluating risk 12 IA4 Risk control and emergency planning 12 IA5 Organisational factors 14 IA6 Human factors 12 IA7 Regulating health and safety 19 IA8 Measuring health and safety performance 6


Directed private study hours * 75 * The unit should include at least 75 hours of directed private study. This should normally be allocated

proportionate to the tuition time for each Element but may require adjustment to reflect the needs of a particular candidate group.

July 2008

22


4.2.1 Element IA1: Principles of health and safety management Learning outcomes On completion of this element, candidates should be able to: IA1.1 Explain the moral, legal and economic reasons for a health and safety management

system IA1.2 Discuss the principles of an effective health and safety management system with

reference to appropriate examples IA1.3 Outline the requirements, role, structure (implementation and monitoring) of an

effective health and safety policy IA1.4 Outline the role and responsibilities of the health and safety practitioner. Content IA1.1 Reasons for managing health and safety Explanation of the following reasons:

Moral : duty of reasonable care; unacceptability of putting health and safety of people at risk; society’s attitude to moral obligations; making the moral case to senior management

Legal : the preventive (by enforcement notices), punitive (through criminal sanctions), and compensatory effects of law.

Economic : direct and indirect costs associated with incidents and their impact on the organisation, to include insured and un-insured costs as well as the financial benefits of positive health and safety management.

IA1.2 Introduction to health and safety management Explanation of the meaning of ‘hazard’, ‘risk’, ‘danger’. Outline of the principles and benefits of risk management on a global perspective.

Outline organisational models for health and safety management, specifically:

- ILO-OSH-2001 Guidelines on Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems. ILO, 2001.

- OHSAS 18001 Occupational Health and Management Systems: Specification. British Standards Institution, 2007.

July 2008

23


IA1.3 Health and safety management systems Identify the key typical components in a range of effective health and safety management systems:

- Management commitment

- Policy

- Organizing

- Planning and implementing

- Performance review

- Audit

- Continual improvement

Identify total quality management and environmental management systems:

- ISO 9000 series

- ISO 14000 series.

Explain the arguments for and against integration of management systems.

Discuss the reasons for the introduction of formal health and safety management systems, including the appropriate allocation of resources and responsibilities, setting and monitoring performance standards and the establishment of systems for feedback and implementation of corrective action in order to minimise loss (with reference to Element IA5).

Explanation of the role of the health and safety policy in relation to a health and safety management system and as a vehicle for the communication of health and safety information.

State the requirements for a written health and safety policy and for recording arrangements in relevant standards referred to A1.2.

Description of the general principles and objectives of a health and safety policy document.

Discuss the implementation, benefits and limitations of the introduction of common health and safety management principles, standards and systems in organisations operating on a world wide basis (with reference to Element IA5).

Explanation of the influence of corporate responsibility and business ethics on health and safety management (with reference to Element IA5).

Explain the role of health and safety in global corporate social responsibility (CSR) guidelines and standards (United Nations Global Compact; SA8000; Global Reporting Initiative).

IA1.4 Role and responsibilities of the health and safety practitioner Outline of the role of health and safety practitioners in the design, implementation, evaluation and maintenance of health and safety management systems. Outline of the need for health and safety practitioners to evaluate and develop their own practice including the need to consult with others if appropriate, e.g., when outside of competence.

July 2008

24


Relevant Standards International Labour Standards, Occupational Safety and Health Convention, C155, International Labour Organisation , Geneva, 1981

International Labour Standards, Occupational Safety and Health Recommendation R164, International Labour Organisation , Geneva, 1981

ISO 9001:2000 Quality management systems - Requirements

ISO 14000 series Environmental management systems – Requirements

OHSAS 18001:2007 Occupational Health and Management Systems: Specification

OHSAS 18002:2000 Occupational health and safety management systems — Guidelines for the implementation of OHSAS 18001

ILO-OSH-2001 Guidelines on Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems. ILO, 2001

Minimum hours of tuition 15 hours.

July 2008

25


4.2.2 Element IA2: Loss causation and incident investigation Learning outcomes On completion of this element, candidates should be able to: IA2.1 Explain the theory of loss and causality, their quantitative analysis, limitations of

their application, and their presentation in numerical and graphical form IA2.2 Explain the external and the internal reporting and recording systems for loss

events (injuries, ill-health, dangerous occurrences) and near-misses IA2.3 Describe loss investigations; the requirements, benefits, the procedures, the

documentation, and the involvement of and communication with relevant staff and representatives.

Content IA2.1 Loss causation and analysis Explanation of Domino and multi-causality theories, immediate and underlying causes, accident ratio studies and their limitations.

Description of methods of calculating injury rates from raw data (accident frequency rate, accident incidence rate, accident severity rate).

Description of the application of statistical and epidemiological analyses in the identification of patterns and trends.

Explanation of how to present and interpret loss event data in graphical and numerical format, using examples of histograms, pie charts, line graphs, Normal and Poisson distribution. IA2.2 Reporting and recording of loss events (injuries, ill-health and dangerous

occurrences) and near misses Explanation of reporting requirements and procedures; internal reporting and recording systems with reference to the ILO Code of Practice: Recording and Notification of Occupational Accidents and Diseases (1996). IA2.3 Investigation of loss events Outline of purposes of loss investigation to include discovery of underlying causes, root cause analysis, prevention of recurrence, legal liability, data gathering and identification of trends with reference to suitable models such as the UK Health and Safety Executive HSG245.

Description of investigation procedures and methodologies to include incident report forms, gathering of relevant information, interviewing witnesses, analysis of information, and the involvement of managers, supervisors, workers’ representatives and others in the investigation process.

July 2008

26


Outline of the use of failure tracing methods (fault tree and event tree analysis – see Element IA3) as investigative tools.

Relevant Standards

International Labour Standards, Occupational Safety and Health Convention, C155, International Labour Organisation, Geneva, 1981

International Labour Standards, Occupational Safety and Health Recommendation R164, International Labour Organisation, Geneva, 1981

International Labour Office, Recording and Notification of Occupational Accidents and Diseases An ILO Code of Practice, ILO, Geneva, 1996. ISBN 922109451

Health and Safety Executive, 'Investigating accidents and incidents - a workbook for employers, unions, safety representatives and safety professionals (HSG245), HSE Books ISBN 07176 28272 2


July 2008

27

http://www.ilo.org/public/english/protection/safework/cops/english/download/e910972.pdf



4.2.3 Element IA3: Identifying hazards, assessing and evaluating risks

Learning outcomes On completion of this element, candidates should be able to: IA3.1 Outline hazard identification using appropriate techniques IA3.2 Describe how to use internal and external sources of information in the identification

of hazards and the assessment of risk IA3.3 Explain how to evaluate and prioritise risk using qualitative, semi-quantitative and

quantitative methods IA3.4 Describe the principles and techniques of failure tracing methodology. Content IA3.1 Hazard identification

Outline of the detection of hazards by techniques including task analysis, checklists, observation and incident reports.

IA3.2 Sources of information Description of use of incident data and rates – incidence, frequency, severity.

Identification of external information sources (e.g., relevant governmental agencies (OSHA/HSE), European Safety Agency, International Labour Organisation - ILO, World Health Organisation - WHO, professional and trade bodies).

Outline of internal information sources – collection, provision, analysis and use of damage, injury, and ill-health data, near-miss information and maintenance records.

Outline of uses and limitations of external and internal information sources.

IA3.3 Evaluation of risk Explanation of risk assessment techniques available and how to carry these out: qualitative, semi-quantitative and quantitative.

Explanation of hazard effects, accident/exposure outcomes, persons and numbers exposed, duration and frequency of exposure.

Outline of task analysis, hierarchical task analysis and job safety analysis.

Explanation of acceptability/tolerability of risk; risk retention with/without knowledge.

Description of categorisation and prioritisation of risk; relativistic and probabilistic methods of risk rating.

July 2008

28


IA3.4 Failure tracing methods Description of principles and techniques of the following failure tracing methods in the assessment of risk:

- hazard and operability studies - failure mode and effects analysis - fault tree analysis - event tree analysis - bow tie risk analysis.


July 2008

29


4.2.4 Element IA4: Risk control and emergency planning Learning outcomes On completion of this element, candidates should be able to: IA4.1 Explain the analysis, assessment and improvement of system failures and system

reliability IA4.2 Outline the risk control systems and methods IA4.3 Outline the principles of the prevention and control of risk including a description of

a general hierarchy of control IA4.4 Describe the development, the main features and the operation of safe systems of

work and permit-to-work systems IA4.5 Outline the principles of prevention, the choice of control measures and their cost

benefit IA4.6 Explain the need for emergency planning, its benefits and regulatory requirements. Content IA4.1 Systems failures and reliability Description of complex failure analysis – holistic and reductionist approaches.

Outline of differences between systemic and systematic analysis.

Explanation of analytical considerations of systems and sub-systems failures and application to actual examples.

Description of assessment of system reliability: parallel, series and mixed systems, common mode failures, principles of human reliability analysis.

Outline of methods for improving system reliability: use of reliable components, parallel redundancy; standby systems, minimising failures to danger; planned preventive maintenance; minimising human error. IA4.2 Risk control systems and methods Outline of the concepts of avoidance, reduction, transfer and retention within a health and safety management programme, with relevant examples (eg, redesign of tasks, automation of process, use of specialist contractors). Outline of the factors to be considered in the selection of an optimum solution based on relevant risk data.

Description of risk control systems - matching the hazard profile of the business

- control of inputs: physical resources, human resources, information - control of work activities: premises, plant and substances, procedures, people - control of outputs: products and services, by-products, information.

July 2008

30


IA4.3 Workplace precautions Outline of the general principles of prevention.

Explanation of categories of control measures - technical, eg, design, fencing, ventilation - procedural, eg, systems of work, maintenance - behavioural, eg, information and training.

Description of general hierarchy of control measures – form and justification.

Outline of factors affecting choice of control measures – long term/short term, applicability, practicability, cost (ref A3.3).

IA4.4 Safe Systems of work and permits-to-work Description of safe systems of work: meaning; practical requirements; components (people, equipment, materials, environment); development and implementation.

Description of the use of hazard/task analysis in the development of safe systems of work; preparation of job safety instructions and safe operating procedures.

Explanation of permit-to-work systems – essential features, general application and operation.

IA4.5 Cost-benefit analysis Outline of cost-benefit analysis in relation to risk control cost decisions (organisational, design, planning, operational). IA4.6 Emergency planning Outline of the need for emergency preparedness within an organisation; eg, personal injury, explosive device, fire, loss of containment etc with reference to ILO Convention C174 Prevention of Major Industrial Accidents (1993) and the ILO Code on the Prevention of Major Industrial Accidents (1991).

Description of consequence minimisation via emergency procedures; eg, first-aid/medical, fire extinguishment, spill containment.

Explanation of the need for the development of emergency plans in order to reduce the impact on the organisation, including post-incident recovery.

Outline of the need to develop and prepare an emergency plan, including the content of both on-site and off-site plans for major emergency scenarios.

Outline of the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance of emergency plans.

July 2008

31


Relevant Standards

International Labour Standards, Prevention of Major Industrial Accidents Convention, C174, International Labour Organisation, Geneva, 1993

International Labour Office, Prevention of Major Industrial Accidents, an ILO Code of Practice, ILO, Geneva, 1991. ISBN 9221071014

Chapter 1: General provisions

Chapter 2: Components of a major hazard control system

Chapter 3: General duties

Chapter 4: Prerequisites for a major hazard control system

Chapter 5: Analysis of hazards and risks

Chapter 6: Control of the causes of major industrial accidents


July 2008

32




4.2.5 Element IA5: Organisational factors Learning outcomes On completion of this element, candidates should be able to: IA5.1 Explain the internal and external influences on health and safety in an organisation IA5.2 Outline the different types of organisation, their structure, function and the concept

of the organisation as a system IA5.3 Describe the organisational requirements for the management of health and safety

and the encouragement of a good cultural environment IA5.4 Identify the various categories of third parties in a workplace, the relevant duties,

responsibilities and controls IA5.5 Describe the role, influences on and procedures for formal and informal consultation

with workers in the workplace IA5.6 Describe the development of a health and safety management information system,

the relevant duties and the data it should contain IA5.7 Describe health and safety culture and climate IA5.8 Outline the factors which can both positively and negatively affect health and safety

culture and climate. Content IA5.1 Internal and external influences Explanation of external influences on health and safety within an organisation – eg, legislation, enforcement agencies, courts/tribunals, contracts, clients/contractors, trade unions, insurance companies, public opinion.

Explanation of internal influences on health and safety within an organisation – eg, finance, production targets, trade unions.

IA5.2 Types of organisations Outline of types of organisation – formal and informal.

Outline of the concept of the organisation as a system.

Outline of organisational structures and functions – organisation charts, role of management, etc.

July 2008

33


IA5.3 Organisations and health and safety management Description of the role of an organisation in the development of a positive health and safety culture to include control, co-operation, communication, competence.

Outline of potential conflict between organisational goals and those of the individual.

Outline of the integration of the goals of the organisation with the needs of the individual – authority, responsibility, accountability.

IA5.4 Third parties control Identification of third parties: contractors, visitors, trespassers and members of the public.

Outline of the reasons for ensuring that third parties are covered by health and safety management systems.

Description of basic duties owed to and by third parties.

Description of internal rules and procedures concerned with the selection, appointment and control of contractors.

Explanation of responsibilities for control of risk associated with contractors on site.

Outline of the reasons for providing information relating to hazards/risks to third parties.

IA5.5 Consultation with workers Outline of the role of consultation within the workplace with reference to principles laid down in ILO Occupational Safety and Health Convention (C155), Article 20 and ILO Occupational Safety and Health Recommendation (R164)

Description of formal consultation: - functions of worker representatives on health and safety - functions of a safety committee.

Description of informal consultation: - discussion groups, safety circles, departmental meetings.

Explanation of the role of the health and safety practitioner in the consultative process.

Outline of behavioural aspects associated with consultation – peer group pressures, potential areas of conflict.

Discussion of the development of positive consultative processes, contributions of worker representatives/safety committee members.

July 2008

34


IA5.6 Provision of information and development of information systems Outline of duties and practical arrangements for providing health and safety information:

- internally to workers, temporary workers, contractors, etc. - externally to customers, suppliers, enforcement authorities, employment agencies,

members of the public and others.

Description of the development of a health and safety management information system within the workplace.

Identification of types of data within a health and safety management information system: (eg, loss event data, cost data, suppliers’ data, results of audits/inspections).

IA5.7 Health and safety culture and climate Definition of health and safety culture and health and safety climate. Outline of the impact of organisational cultural factors and associated values on individual behaviour. Description of the influence of organisational structures; organisational role cultures – (ref. Charles B. Handy “Understanding Organizations”). Outline of indicators of culture; correlation between health and safety culture/climate and health and safety performance; subjective and objective nature of culture and climate. Discussion of measurement of the culture and climate (eg, attitude surveys, ‘prompt lists’, findings of incident investigations, effectiveness of communication, evidence of commitment by personnel at all levels in the organisation).

IA5.8 Factors affecting health and safety culture and climate

Description of factors that may promote a positive health and safety culture or climate (eg, management commitment and leadership, high business profile to health and safety, provision of information, involvement and consultation, training, promotion of ownership, setting and meeting targets). Description of factors that may promote a negative health and safety culture or climate (eg, organisational change, lack of confidence in organisation’s objectives and methods, uncertainty, management decisions that prejudice mutual trust or lead to ‘mixed signals’ regarding commitment. Discussion of effecting change: planning and communication, the need for a gradualist (step-by-step) approach, direct and indirect action to promote change (including cultural benefits from risk assessment), training and performance measurements, importance of feedback. Explanation of problems and pitfalls (eg, attempts to change culture too rapidly, adopting too broad an approach, absence of trust in communications, resistance to change).

July 2008

35


Relevant Standards International Labour Standards, Occupational Safety and Health Convention, C155, International Labour Organisation, Geneva, 1981



July 2008

36


4.2.6 Element IA6: Human factors Learning outcomes On completion of this element, candidates should be able to: IA6.1 Describe the factors which give rise to specific patterns of safe and unsafe

behaviour in the working environment IA6.2 Explain the nature of the perception of risk and its relationship to performance in the

workplace IA6.3 Discuss the impact of human error in a range of major disasters IA6.4 Describe appropriate methods of improving individual human reliability in the

workplace IA6.5 Describe how organisational factors could contribute to improving human reliability IA6.6 Describe how job factors could contribute to improving human reliability. Content IA6.1 Human behaviour Outline of the complexity of human behaviour and the large range of factors affecting this.

Outline of key theories of human motivation: FW Taylor, Mayo (Hawthorne experiments), Maslow (hierarchy of needs), contemporary theory (complex).

Description of HSG48 model in relation to human failure in terms of error and violation.

Outline of individual decision making processes.

Description of on-line and off-line processing; knowledge, rule and skill-based behaviour (Rasmussen).

Outline of psychological, sociological and anthropological factors contributing to individual differences.

Outline of the influence on human behaviour of personality, attitude, aptitude and motivation.

Description of effects on behaviour at work of experience, intelligence, education and training.

IA6.2 Perception of risk Outline of human sensory receptors and their reaction to stimuli, sensory defects and basic screening techniques.

Outline of process of perception of danger, perceptual set and perceptual distortion.

Explanation of errors in perception caused by physical stressors.

Explanation of perception and the assessment of risk, perception and the limitations of human performance, filtering and selectivity as factors for perception.

Description of perception and sensory inputs – the Hale & Hale model.

Description of individual behaviour in the face of danger – the Hale & Glendon model.

July 2008

37


IA6.3 Major disasters

Discussion of contribution of human error to major disasters, ie, Seveso, Chernobyl, Three-Mile Island, Bhopal.

IA6.4 Improving individual human reliability in the workplace

Description of motivation and reinforcement – workplace incentive schemes, reward schemes, job satisfaction and appraisal schemes.

Explanation of the importance of interview and selection; on- and off-the-job training.

IA6.5 Organisational factors Outline of the effect of organisational factors on the probability of human error using practical examples (eg, inadequacies in policy, information, design, implementation). Description of the influence of formal and informal groups within an organisation – use of sociograms. Discussion of peer group pressures and norms. Description of types of organisational communication. Discussion of procedures for resolving conflict and introducing change. Discussion of workplace representation on safety committees. IA6.6 Job factors Outline of the effect of job factors on the probability of human error (eg, task complexity, patterns of employment, payment systems, shift work). Description of the application of task analysis. Influence of process and equipment design on human reliability. Description of the worker and the workstation as a system. Outline of elementary physiology and anthropometry. Explanation of the degradation of human performance resulting from poorly designed workstations. Discussion of ergonomically designed control systems in relation to human reliability – e.g., examples of applications: production process control panels, crane cab controls, aircraft cockpit, CNC lathe etc. Explanation of the relationship between physical stressors and human reliability. Discussion of the effects of fatigue and stress on human reliability. Minimum hours of tuition 12 hours.

July 2008

38


4.2.7 Element IA7: Regulating health and safety Learning outcomes IA7.1 Describe comparative governmental and socio-legal regulatory models IA7.2 Explain the role and limitations of the International Labour Organisation in a global

health and safety setting IA7.3 Explain the role non-governmental bodies and self regulation has in securing

common health and safety standards in a global economy. IA7.1 Comparative governmental and socio-legal regulatory models Explain the role, function and limitations of legislation as a means of promoting positive health and safety outcomes.

Understand the nature, benefits and limitations of ‘goal-setting’ and ‘prescriptive’ legal models:

- Legal hierarchy of state and federal laws and their application to health and safety law.

Describe loss events in terms of failures in the duty of care to protect individuals and the compensatory mechanisms that may be available to them.

- Compensatory schemes that allow individuals to seek restitution for damages i.e. no fault liability and fault liability claims

- Punitive damages – general, special and non-economic damages.

Describe the mechanisms that may be used to enforce health and safety legislation e.g. criminal action; the use of enforcement powers such as notices, corporate probation, adverse publicity orders; and the typical role and function of enforcement agencies.

Outline of laws of contract:

- Definition of contract to include the terms written, verbal, express and implied

- Outline the principles of typical laws of contract and their application to health and safety; the relationships between producer and vendor, vendor and consumer, client and contractor, contracts of employment and the binding nature of contracts.

IA7.2 Role and limitations of the International Labour Organisation in a global

health and safety setting Outline the role and status of ratified international conventions, recommendations, codes of practice in relation to health and safety:

- Bodies of the UN including ILO:

ILO role and International Labour Conference

ILO conventions

ILO recommendations/codes and how they are produced.

July 2008

39

http://www.ilo.org/public/english/standards/relm/ilc/

http://www.ilo.org/ilolex/english/convdisp1.htm

http://www.ilo.org/ilolex/english/recdisp1.htm


Outline the roles and responsibilities of ‘national governments’, ‘enterprises’ and ‘workers’ as given in C155 Occupational Health and Safety Convention 1981 and in the publication R164 Occupational Safety and Health Recommendation, 1981.

Describe how international conventions can be used a basis for setting national systems of health and safety legislation. IA7.3 The role of non-governmental bodies and health and safety standards

Identify relevant influential parties (employer bodies; trade associations; trade unions; professional groups (e.g. IOSH); pressure groups, public etc, and outline their role in regulating health and safety performance.

Describe the importance of the media in a global economy and their role in changing attitudes to health and safety.

Outline the benefits of schemes which promote co-operation on health and safety between different companies e.g. supplier auditing, good neighbour schemes.

Explain the effects on business of adverse stakeholder reaction to health or safety concerns e.g. Perrier mineral water contamination incident in 1990 etc.

Appreciate the origins and meaning of ‘self regulation’.

Describe the role and function of corporate governance in a system of self regulation.

Describe how internal rules and procedures regulate health and safety performance.

Describe how non-conformity to an accredited health and safety standard can be used as a form of enforcement on a self-regulatory model with reference to Element IA1. Minimum hours of tuition 19 hours.

Relevant Standards International Labour Conference, Provisional Record 20A, Convention Concerning the Promotional Framework for Occupational Safety and Health, International Labour Organisation, Geneva, 2006

Article 4: National system

International Labour Standards, Occupational Safety and Health Convention, C155, International Labour Organisation, Geneva, 1981


July 2008

40


4.2.8 Element IA8: Measuring health and safety performance

Learning outcomes On completion of this element, candidates should be able to: IA8.1 Explain the purpose of performance measurement in relation to health and safety

objectives and arrangements IA8.2 Explain the need for, objectives and limitations of health and safety monitoring

systems IA8.3 Describe the variety of monitoring and measurement techniques IA8.4 Describe a range of techniques to present and communicate monitoring and

performance data. Content IA8.1 Purpose of performance measurement Description of the assessment of the effectiveness and appropriateness of health and safety objectives and arrangements, including control measures.

Outline of the making of recommendations for review of current health and safety management systems.

IA8.2 Monitoring systems Explanation of:

- the need for a range of both active and reactive measures to determine whether objectives have been met

- the limitations of placing reliance on accident and ill-health data as a performance measure

- the objectives of active monitoring – to check that health and safety plans have been implemented and to monitor the extent of compliance with the organisation’s systems/procedures and legislative/technical standards

- the objectives of reactive monitoring – to analyse data relating to accidents, ill-health and other loss causing events.

IA8.3 Monitoring and measurement techniques Meaning of health and safety audits, workplace inspections, safety tours, safety sampling, safety surveys. Description of the key elements and features of health and safety audits, workplace inspections, safety tours, safety sampling, safety surveys. Outline of in-house and proprietary audit systems; the use of computer technology to assist in data storage and analysis and the production of reports.

July 2008

41


Explanation of the distinction between, and applicability of, active/reactive, objective/subjective and qualitative/quantitative performance measures. Description of the range of measures available in order to evaluate the health and safety performance of an organisation and how these can be utilised to review the effectiveness of the health and safety management system (cross-refer to Element IA2). Outline of comparison of previous performance data with that of similar organisations/industry sectors and with national and international performance data. IA8.4 Presenting and communicating findings Description of textual and graphical reporting techniques (cross-refer to Element IA2).

Outline of content and style of recommendations (cross-refer to Element CS1). Minimum hours of tuition 6 hours.

July 2008

42


4.3 Unit IB: International control of hazardous agents in the workplace Overall learning outcome On completion of this unit, candidates will be able to demonstrate their understanding of the domain knowledge covered through: 1. the application of knowledge to familiar and unfamiliar situations; and 2. the critical analysis and evaluation of information presented in both quantitative and


hours IB1 General aspects of occupational health and hygiene 5 IB2 Principles of toxicology and epidemiology 7 IB3 Hazardous substances – evaluating risk 5 IB4 Hazardous substances – preventive and protective measures 6 IB5 Hazardous substances – monitoring and maintenance of control

measures 6

IB6 Biological agents 7 IB7 Physical agents 1 – noise and vibration 10 IB8 Physical agents 2 – radiation and thermal environment 9 IB9 Psycho-social agents 6 IB10 Ergonomic agents 4


Directed private study hours * 50

* The unit should include at least 50 hours of directed private study. This should normally be allocated proportionate to the tuition time for each element but may require adjustment to reflect the needs of a particular student group.

July 2008

43


4.3.1 Element IB1: General aspects of occupational health and hygiene

Learning outcomes On completion of this element, candidates should be able to: IB1.1 Outline the nature and history of the occupational health and hygiene discipline and

practice IB1.2 Describe the role, organisation, function and composition of occupational health and

hygiene specalists IB1.3 Describe human anatomical systems and sensory organs. Content IB1.1 Nature and history of occupational health and hygiene Outline of the nature and history of the occupational health and hygiene discipline.

Explanation of differing occupational health requirements worldwide, eg, mandatory in some countries, optional in others.

Description of the stages in occupational health and hygiene practice: recognition/ identification, measurement, evaluation, control.

Description of the categories of occupational health hazard – chemical, physical, biological, psycho-social, ergonomic with reference to internal and external sources of information.

IB1.2 The role, organisation and function of occupational health and hygiene

specialists Explanation of the role and function of: the occupational hygienist, the occupational health physician, the occupational health nurse, specialists within a regulatory body.

Outline of the role, function and composition of an occupational health service: health promotion, pre-employment medical screening, medical/health surveillance (including audiometry), assessment of fitness for work and counselling.

IB1.3 Human anatomical systems and sensory organs Description of the human anatomical systems: respiratory, digestive, circulatory, nervous and the special sensory organs (skin, eyes, ears, nose).

July 2008

44


Relevant Standards International Labour Conference, Provisional Record 20A, Convention Concerning the Promotional Framework for Occupational Safety and Health, International Labour Organisation, Geneva, 2006

Article 4: National system

International Labour Standards, Occupational Health Services Convention, C161, International Labour Organisation, Geneva, 1985


July 2008

45

http://www.ilo.org/ilolex/cgi-lex/convde.pl?C161


4.3.2 Element IB2: Principles of toxicology and epidemiology Learning outcomes On completion of this element, candidates should be able to: IB2.1 Describe the classification of hazardous substances with reference to appropriate

legislation IB2.2 Describe the main effects and route of attack of hazardous substances on the

human body IB2.3 Explain the relevance of toxicological data to the identification of work related ill-

health IB2.4 Explain the principles of epidemiology and its application in health surveillance of a

workforce. Content IB2.1 Classification of hazardous substances Definition of the physical forms: solids, liquids, dusts, fibres, mists, gases, fumes, vapours.

Description of standard risk and safety (precaution) phrases contained in classification and labelling information of dangerous substances and preparations for supply.

Outline the current position in relation to a Globally Harmonized System for the Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS).

Outline of the content of safety data sheets and other sources of information (eg, MS series, CAS, medical databases).

Explanation of the following:

- toxic – definition of toxicity; examples of toxic effects of commonly occurring toxic substances – trichloroethylene, asbestos, carbon monoxide, isocyanates, siliceous dusts, lead

- corrosive – definition of corrosive; effects on the human body of contact with corrosive substances; examples of commonly occurring corrosive substances – acids, ammonia, sodium hydroxide

- irritant – definition of irritant; examples of irritant effects of commonly occurring substances eg, cleaning agents, silicates

- harmful – definition of harmful; examples of harmful effects and common substances causing such effects

- dermatitic – definition of dermatitis; primary/contact and secondary/allergic or sensitised forms of dermatitis; circumstances likely to lead to dermatitis; typical workplace examples

- sensitisation – definition of sensitisation; skin, respiratory system; health effects and typical workplace examples of sensitising agents

- carcinogenic – definition of carcinogen; examples of types of cancer relative to specific substances (eg, asbestos, coal tar, chromium, wood dust)

July 2008

46


- mutagenic – definition of mutagen; examples of substances found in the workplace

- asphyxiant - definition of asphyxiant; examples of substances found in the workplace.

IB2.2 Main effects and routes of attack on the human body Description of the main routes and methods of entry of hazardous substances into the human body – eyes, nose, mouth, ears and other orifices by inhalation, ingestion, skin pervasion and injection.

Explanation of local and systemic effects with examples.

Description of the main routes and mechanisms of attack by toxic, corrosive and dermatitic substances, dusts and fibres; distinction between inhalable and respirable dust.

Description of target organs and target systems.

Description of common signs and symptoms of attack by hazardous substances and the body’s defensive responses. IB2.3 Toxicology Outline the need for the testing of new substances.

Outline of the types of toxicity tests performed (include use of animal testing, Ames assays for testing mutagenicity and long term toxicity tests) and their limitations.

Outline of the significance of LD50, LD90, LC50, LC90 and of the fixed dose procedure..

Outline of the significance of chemical analogy as a method of predicting chemical hazards/effects.

IB2.4 Epidemiology Explanation of the uses and limitations of epidemiological studies.

Outline of the relative merits of different types of study – morbidity/mortality statistics, cross sectional surveys, case control studies, retrospective and prospective cohort studies.

Description of the application of epidemiological techniques to the health surveillance of a workforce.

July 2008

47


Relevant Standards

International Labour Standards, Chemical Safety Convention, C170, International Labour Organisation, Geneva, 1990

Article 8: Chemical safety data sheets

International Labour Standards, Chemical Safety Recommendation, R177, International Labour Organisation, Geneva, 1990

Articles 6 & 7: Classification

International Labour Office, Safety in the Use of Chemicals at Work, an ILO Code of Practice, ILO, 1993. ISBN: 9221080064

Section 2: General obligations

Section 4: Labelling and marking

Section 5: Chemical safety data sheets

The International Programme of Chemical Safety (IPCS), INCHEM Health and Safety Guides (Series), World Health Organisation, 2005.


July 2008

48


http://www.ilo.org/ilolex/cgi-lex/convde.pl?R164




http://www.inchem.org/pages/hsg.html

http://www.inchem.org/pages/hsg.html


4.3.3 Element IB3: Hazardous substances – evaluating risk Learning outcomes On completion of this element, candidates should be able to: IB3.1 Outline the factors which should be considered when assessing risks from

hazardous substances IB3.2 Describe Occupational Exposure Limits for airborne contaminants, how they are

established, and the criteria for their application to the workplace. Content IB3.1 Assessing risks Identification of occupations presenting specific exposure risks and typical chemical substances involved. Outline of the factors to be considered in the assessment of risks to health from chemical agents: numbers exposed; aerosol/particle size, concentration, type and duration of exposure, frequency of exposure, the effect of mixtures, continuing and contingent exposures; thresholds of exposure. Explanation of the factors which affect hazard/risk to the individual: individual susceptibilities (eg, atopic persons, women of child bearing capacity), solubility in body fluids, synergy, age, sensitisation, and morphology. Outline of attempts at harmonisation of risk assessment methodologies for hazardous substances on an international basis, eg, the International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS) (WHO/ILO/UNEP) project on harmonized approaches to the assessment of risk from exposure to chemicals. IB3.2 Occupational exposure limits for airborne contaminants Description of the meaning and concept of Occupational Exposure Limits, with reference to international examples (Workplace Exposure Limits (WELs); Permissible Exposure Limits; Maximum Allowable Concentrations and Threshold Limit Values (TLVs)). Explanation of the use of Occupational Exposure Limits to define ‘adequate control’. Description of the criteria by which Occupational Exposure Limits are established; the work of expert committees eg, the Advisory Committee on Toxic Substances (ACTS), the Working Group on Action to Control Chemicals (WATCH) and American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH), the role of biological limit values (eg, Health Guidance Values (HGVs), Benchmark Guidance Values (BGVs) and Biological Exposure Indices (BEIs)). Explanation of the significance in occupational health and hygiene practice of short term and long term exposure limits (STEL, LTEL) and time-weighted average (TWA) values. Explanation of the standards of exposure control expected for carcinogens, asthmagens and substances causing damage to genes which can be passed from one generation to another, i.e., as low as is reasonably practicable.

July 2008

49


Relevant Standards Health & Safety Executive, Workplace Exposure Limits, EH40/2005, HSE Books, 2005. ISBN: 0717629775

American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists, Documentation of the Threshold Limit Values and Biological Exposure Indices, 7th Edition, (ACGIH), 2001. ISBN 9781882417438


Section 6: Operational control measures

International Labour Office, Ambient Factors in the Workplace, an ILO Code of Practice, ILO, 2001. ISBN 922111628


July 2008

50

http://www.hsebooks.com/Books/product/product.asp?catalog_name=HSEBooks&category_name=&product_id=4611




4.3.4 Element IB4: Hazardous substances – preventive and

protective measures Learning outcomes On completion of this element, candidates should be able to: IB4.1 Explain the strategies used in the prevention and control of exposure to hazardous

substances IB4.2 Explain the specific strategy to be adopted when considering the control of

exposure to carcinogenic substances IB4.3 Describe the various types of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) available for

use with hazardous substances, their effectiveness, and the relevant specifications and standards to be met.

Content IB4.1 Preventive and control of exposure to hazardous substances Explanation of the following strategies relative to the concept of a hierarchy of control:

- elimination; control at source - substitution; replace substance with a less harmful substance - change of work method to minimise or suppress the generation of harmful

substances (eg, painting by hand instead of spraying) - change of work patterns to reduce length of time of exposure - isolation, enclosure and segregation; remote handling systems, enclosure of

process/plant producing harmful substances, reducing numbers exposed by segregation of process/persons

- engineering control methods; local exhaust ventilation (LEV) systems (captor, receptor, low-volume high-velocity), dilution ventilation, and factors that may determine the effectiveness

- respiratory protective equipment: purpose, application and effectiveness; types of equipment and their suitability for different substances; selection, use, fitting and maintenance of respiratory equipment

- other personal protective equipment and clothing (gloves, overalls, eye protection) - personal hygiene and protection (eg, vaccination) regimes - health surveillance - emergency and spillage procedures.

IB4.2 Carcinogens In relation to the requirements of the relevant code of practice, explanation of:

- total enclosure - prohibition of eating, drinking and smoking in contaminated areas - designation and cleaning of contaminated areas and use of suitable warning signs - closed and labelled containers.

July 2008

51


IB4.3 Personal protective equipment Outline of the factors affecting the choice of personal protective equipment (respiratory, eye, skin) and the degree of protection afforded. Description of the different types of respiratory protective equipment available; their applications and limitations.

Explanation of the significance of asssigned protection factors.

Description of the different types of eye and skin protection available; the hazards they are designed to protect against, the specification and standards for protection against different chemical forms, and their limitations.

Relevant Standards


Section 6: Operational control measures (see controls in S.6.5 – S6.9)



July 2008

52




4.3.5 Element IB5: Hazardous substances – monitoring and maintenance of control measures Learning outcomes On completion of this element, candidates should be able to: IB5.1 Describe the strategies, methods, and equipment for the sampling and

measurement of airborne contaminants IB5.2 Outline the principles of biological monitoring IB5.3 Outline the requirements for the monitoring and maintenance of control measures

for hazardous substances. Content IB5.1 Measurement of airborne contaminants Description of strategies for sampling: peak level and static measurements; personal sampling; with reference to guidance documents such as HSG173.

Description of sampling heads: types (protected, cyclone, cowl); mechanism of operation; choice in relation to nature of atmospheric particulate; method of use.

Description of the types of device for sampling vapours; passive devices, activated charcoal tubes and pumps.

Outline of the advantages and disadvantages of direct reading instruments.

Description of stain tube (colourmetric) detectors, dust monitoring (Tyndall beam); use and limitations.

Outline of measurement principles; dusts (gravimetric, chemical analysis), fibres (microscopy), vapours (chemical analysis).

Identification of the importance of use of standard methods, eg, MDHS series, NIOSH Manual of Analytical Methods series, ISO standards.

IB5.2 Biological monitoring Definition of biological monitoring, outline the basic principles and the relative advantages and disadvantages.

IB5.3 Monitoring and maintenance of control measures Outline of visual inspection of engineering controls (eg, local exhaust ventilation, enclosures, glove boxes).

Outline of measurements for assessing performance of exhaust ventilation: methods and equipment for measuring capture velocities, face velocities, transport velocities and static pressures.

Explanation of the need for thorough inspection, examination and test.

July 2008

53


Relevant Standards


Section 6: Operational control measures (see controls in S.6.5 – S6.9)



July 2008

54




4.3.6 Element IB6: Biological agents Learning outcomes On completion of this element, candidates should be able to: IB6.1 Describe the effects on the human body of the various types of biological agent

found at work IB6.2 Explain the assessment of, and control of risk from exposure to biological agents at

work. Content

IB6.1 Biological agents and effects on human body Identification of the types of biological agent (fungi, bacteria, viruses); give examples in each case. Description of the modes of transmission of disease and mechanisms of attack on the body. Description of the signs and symptoms of disease; the body’s defence mechanisms. Definition of zoonose and give examples. Description of sources and symptoms of biological diseases – anthrax, cryptosporidosis, farmer’s lung, hepatitis, HIV, legionnellosis, leptospirosis, E. coli. Explanation of biological sensitisation. IB6.2 Assessment and control of risk Identification of the occupational groups at risk with reasons. Explanation of intentional work and opportunistic infection. Description of the role of diagnostic laboratories. Explanation of the role of risk assessment.

Explanation of, in relation to the hierarchy of control: eradication, reduced virulence, change of work method to minimise or suppress generation of aerosols, isolation and segregation, containment, ventilation (HEPA filters), sharps control, immunisation, decontamination and disinfection.

Outline of the role of: effluent and waste collection, storage and disposal (controlled); personal hygiene measures; personal protective equipment; biohazard signs; baseline testing and health surveillance; examples of control measures in relation to hospitals, laboratory work, animal houses.

July 2008

55


Relevant Standards

International Labour Standards, List of Occupational Disease Recommendations, R194, International Labour Organisation, Geneva, 2002

Article 1.3: Biological agents



July 2008

56



4.3.7 Element IB7: Physical agents 1 – noise and vibration Learning outcomes On completion of this element, candidates should be able to: IB7.1 Explain the basic physical concepts relevant to noise, its effects on the individual

and the assessment and control of exposure IB7.2 Explain the basic physical concepts relevant to vibration, its effects on the individual

and the assessment and control of exposure. Content IB7.1 Noise Physics Definition of noise.

Explanation of the basic concepts of sound, wavelength, amplitude, frequency, intensity, pitch; the decibel (dB) and A-weighting (dB(A)).

Explanation of the application of the basic concepts of sound physics to the evaluation of occupational noise; the significance of logarithmic scales and concepts of addition of combined sounds (equal and unequal); noise rating curves.

Effects Description of the acute and chronic physiological effects of exposure to high noise levels.

Explanation of the assessment of degree of hearing loss in an individual; outline the role and principles of audiometry. Measurement and assessment of exposure Description of instrumentation and measurement of noise; types, methodology, calibration, calculation of Leq and LEP,d, use of frequency analysis, background noise.

Explanation of noise surveys and noise assessments: planning and approach; interpretation and evaluation of results. Role of exposure limits and personal sampling/dosimetry.

Controls Description of the principles of noise reduction and their application to the control of occupational noise: transmission, reflection, absorption, damping, diffusion; the influence of sound reduction indices and sound absorption coefficients; design specifications; using examples.

Discussion of the evaluation of noise control techniques to remedy specific problems: - control at source (eg, relocation, redesign, maintenance) - along transmission path (eg, isolation, barriers, enclosure) - at receiver – acoustic havens, ear protection (passive and active).

Description of types of hearing protection; explanation of significance of attenuation data; factors affecting degree of protection in practice versus theoretical protection.

Description of the role of health surveillance and interpretation of simple audiograms.

July 2008

57


IB7.2 Vibration Physics Outline of basic concepts of displacement, velocity, amplitude, frequency and acceleration for oscillating particles. Effects

Explanation of significance of amplitude and frequency of vibrations on comfort levels.

Description of ill-health effects and conditions produced by whole body and segmental vibration, identification of groups of workers at risk. Measurement assessment of exposure Description of the measurement of vibration, the accelerometer. Role of exposure limits. Controls Description of the control measures which may be applied in respect of whole body and hand-arm vibration for occupations such as farmers, construction workers and drivers, and segmental vibration for occupations such as those handling vibrating tools.

Description of the role of health surveillance.

Relevant Standards

International Labour Office, Ambient Factors in the Workplace, an ILO Code of Practice, ILO, Geneva, 2001. ISBN 922111628X

Chapter 9: Noise

Chapter 10: Vibration


July 2008

58



4.3.8 Element IB8: Physical agents 2 – radiation and thermal environment

Learning outcomes On completion of this element, candidates should be able to: IB8.1 Outline the basic physics of ionising and non-ionising radiation IB8.2 Outline the effects of exposure to non-ionising radiation, its measurement and

control IB8.3 Outline the effects of exposure to ionising radiation, its measurement and control IB8.4 Outline the effects of extremes of temperature, its measurement and control. Content IB8.1 Radiation physics Outline of:

- the types of non-ionising radiation, origins and sources - the types of ionising radiation, origins and sources - particulate and non-particulate types of ionising radiation, origins and sources - role of the International Commission for Radiological Protection and the National

Radiological Protection Board. IB8.2 Non-ionising radiation Effects Description of the acute and chronic physiological effects of exposure to non-ionising radiation: ultraviolet, optical, infrared, microwaves, radiowaves, lasers.

Outline with examples of workplace occurrences and applications. Measurement Outline of measurement of power density, biological effect, exposure standards. Controls Explanation of assessment of risks.

Description of design, siting, direction control, reduction of stray fields, screening, enclosures, distance, administrative controls, PPE.

Identification of hazards classification of lasers (e.g. EN 60825) and outline of associated controls.

July 2008

59


IB8.3 Ionising radiation Effects Description of biological effects of exposure, acute and chronic effects of irradiation, dose response and dose effect – alpha, beta, gamma, x-radiation, neutrons.

Outline with examples of workplace occurrences and applications.

Measurement Outline of units of radioactivity, radiation dose and dose equivalent.

Outline of the use of ionisation chambers (Geiger counter), scintillation detectors, film badges, thermoluminescent dosimeters. Controls Description of radiological limits.

Outline of practical control of external radiation (shielding, distance, time) and internal radiation (inhalation, ingestion, injection, absorption).

Outline of the roles of the Radiation Protection Adviser and the Radiation Protection Supervisor.

IB8.4 Extremes of temperature Effects Outline of the main effects of working in high and low temperatures and humidity.

Identification of typical work situations likely to lead to thermal discomfort. Measurement Outline of human body/thermal environment parameters – surrounding temperature, humidity, air velocity, metabolic rate, clothing, duration of exposure.

Outline of instrumentation - wet bulb globe temperature (WBGT), thermometer, hygrometer, anemometer/Kata thermometer.

Outline of heat indices: effective temperature (ET), corrected effective temperature (CET), heat stress index (HSI), predicted 4-hour sweat rate (P4SR), wind chill index (WCI).

Outline of assessment of exposures to thermal environment extremes. Controls Description of control measures to improve unsatisfactory thermal environment parameters – circulation of air and ventilation, workplace design, work organisation, health surveillance, PPE.

July 2008

60


Relevant Standards

International Labour Office, Radiation Protection of Workers (Ionising Radiations), an ILO Code of Practice, International Labour Organisation, Geneva, 1987. ISBN: 9221059960


Chapter 7: Optical

Chapter 8: Thermal

British Standards Institution, BS EN 60825-1:1994 Safety of Laser Products. Equipment Classification, Requirements and User's Guide, BSI, 1994


July 2008

61





4.3.9 Element IB9: Psycho-social agents Learning outcomes On completion of this element, candidates should be able to: IB9.1 Outline the effects of work-related stress on individuals, its identification, control and

the applicable standards IB9.2 Outline the effects on health and safety at work of substance misuse, appropriate

testing methods and the effective implementation of management systems and support

IB9.3 Outline the issues, risk factors and appropriate controls for work-related violence. Content IB9.1 Stress Identification Outline of ill-health effects associated with work related stress.

Description of causes of stress: organisational factors, personal relationships including bullying and harassment, physical factors in the workplace, working hours.

Outline of recognition of the problem: signs of stress at work. Controls Description of control actions to reduce stress: organisation culture and management, management of change, clarity of roles, job design, staff selection, work schedules, and relationships at work with reference to published guidelines, eg, HSE stress management standards (www.hse.gov.uk/stress/standards/) etc.

IB9.2 Effects on health and safety at work of substance misuse

Outline of effects on health and safety of alcohol and of prescribed and controlled drugs.

Outline of methods of testing for drugs and alcohol.

Discussion of planning to cope with the effects on health and safety of alcohol and/or drugs at work.

Explanation of guidance and support to staff including training in counselling for managers.

July 2008

62

http://www.hse.gov.uk/stress/standards/


IB9.3 Violence Identification Outline of work-related violence: definition of ‘violence’, extent of the problem, consequences for organisations and individuals.

Description of risk factors: people working with public in caring/teaching professions, working with psychiatric clients or alcohol/drug impaired people, working alone, home visiting, handling money/valuables, inspection and enforcement duties.

Outline of the legal duties to protect workers from violence.

Outline of methodology of risk identification: use of staff surveys, incident reporting and risk assessment.

Controls Outline of strategy for planning to cope with violence: guidance to worker on dealing with an incident, legal constraints regarding ‘reasonable force’, support for staff post-incident including training in counselling for managers.

Description of communication systems: passing on information on risks from individual clients, recording of worker whereabouts and recognition when worker are overdue, use of mobile communication equipment.

Outline of worker training: recognition of situations where violence could result, interpersonal skills to defuse aggression, use of language and body language.

Description of control measures: cash free systems, layout of public areas and design of fixtures and fittings, use of cameras, protective screens and security-coded doors, use of panic buttons and personal alarms.

Relevant Standards

International Labour Office, Code of practice on Workplace Violence in Services Sectors and Measures to Combat this Phenomenon, International Labour Organisation , Geneva, 2003.

International Labour Office, Management of Alcohol and Drug-related Issues in the Workplace, an ILO Code of Practice, International Labour Organisation, Geneva, 1996. ISBN: 9223094550 Minimum hours of tuition 6 hours.

July 2008

63

http://www.ilo.org/public/english/dialogue/sector/techmeet/mevsws03/mevsws-cp.pdf

http://www.ilo.org/public/english/dialogue/sector/techmeet/mevsws03/mevsws-cp.pdf




4.3.10 Element IB10: Ergonomic factors Learning outcomes On completion of this element, candidates should be able to: IB10.1 Outline the conditions and effects resulting from poor ergonomics in the workplace

and the risk reduction methods that can be applied IB10.2 Explain the ill-health effects associated with the use of display screen equipment

(DSE) together with appropriate risk assessment and control strategies IB10.3 Explain the assessment and control of risk from manual handling activities and the

main injuries that can occur. Content IB10.1 Ergonomics Outline of conditions likely to result from lack of attention to ergonomic principles: Work-Related Upper Limb Disorders (WRULDs), general musculoskeletal effects of poor posture; typical workplace examples.

Description of risk reduction measures: ergonomic design of tools, equipment and workplaces, job rotation, work routine and training.

IB10.2 Display screen equipment Outline of ill-health effects: musculoskeletal injury and discomfort, eye and eyesight effects, fatigue and stress.

Explanation of assessment of risk from display screen equipment use: equipment, environment, interface between computer and operator/user.

Description of analysis of DSE workstations.

Description of control measures; ergonomic considerations of equipment and workstation design, daily work routine of users and environmental controls.

Outline of eye and eyesight testing ,training and information.

IB10.3 Manual handling Identification of main injuries from manual handling: sprains/strains, fractures, lacerations.

Explanation of assessment of risk from manual handling operations: task, load, environment, individual capability.

Description of control measures: automation, mechanical assistance, ergonomics, task layout and work routine, modifying the load, reorganising the work environment, personal considerations, etc.

Outline of the key points of effective handling techniques.


July 2008

64


4.4 Unit IC: International workplace and work equipment safety Overall learning outcome On completion of this unit, candidates will be able to demonstrate their understanding of the domain knowledge covered through: 1. the application of knowledge to familiar and unfamiliar situations; and 2. the critical analysis and evaluation of information presented in both quantitative and


hours IC1 General workplace issues 5 IC2 Principles of fire and explosion 6 IC3 Workplace fire risk assessment 6 IC4 Storage, handling and processing of dangerous substances 7 IC5 Work equipment 9 IC6 Machinery safety 6 IC7 Mechanical handling 6 IC8 Electrical safety 7 IC9 Safety in construction and demolition 7 IC10 Environmental pollution and waste management 6


Directed private study hours * 50 * The unit should include at least 50 hours of directed private study. This should normally be allocated

proportionate to the tuition time for each element but may require adjustment to reflect the needs of a particular candidate group.

July 2008

65


4.4.1 Element IC1: General workplace issues Learning outcomes On completion of this element, candidates should be able to: IC1.1 Explain the need for, and factors involved in, the provision and maintenance of a

safe and healthy working environment, with specific reference to access and egress, temperature, lighting, welfare arrangements, first-aid and safety signage

IC1.2 Describe the assessment of risk and safe working practices associated with work in

confined spaces IC1.3 Outline the main issues associated with maintaining structural safety of workplaces IC1.4 Outline the dangers, precautions and safe working procedures when working at

height. Content IC1.1 Safe and healthy working environment Outline of practical considerations in the provision and maintenance of safe places of work and safe means of access and egress.

Outline of the importance of good housekeeping.

Description of the provision of safe traffic routes; dangers and precautions associated with internal transport. Temperature Identification of acceptable temperature of inside workplaces.

Outline of provision of means to measure temperature. Lighting Outline of necessity for lighting in workplaces.

Description of adequate levels of lighting both natural and artificial.

Description of impact of lighting levels on safety issues – incorrect perception, failure to perceive, stroboscopic effects, colour assessment, effect on attitudes.

Outline of effects of brightness contrast – disabling and discomfort glare, tissue damage from light exposure, visual fatigue.

Outline of instrumentation, units and measurement of light, assessment of lighting levels and standards.

July 2008

66


Welfare facilities and arrangements Outline of:

- the provision of toilet, washing and changing facilities - storage of clothing - facilities for eating and resting - facilities for pregnant women and nursing mothers - arrangements to protect non-smokers from tobacco smoke - the need to take account of disabled persons.

First aid provision Outline of basis of provision (eg, numbers of workers, workplace risks, proximity of emergency services).

Outline of local default procedural arrangements. Safety signs Identification of common safety signs and their categorisation.

Outline of use, location and compliance issues.

IC1.2 Confined spaces Description of conditions that constitute a confined space.

Explanation of confined space entry risk assessment.

Outline of factors to be considered when assessing risk: need for safe access, provision and maintenance of safe atmosphere e.g. toxic, harmful, flammable, asphyxiant, oxygen (deficient or enriched), ingress of materials, the task, materials and equipment, persons at risk, reliability of safe guards, operating procedures and emergency arrangements.

Describe the need for safe system of work and permit to work with reference to IA4.5

Outline of requirements for training.

IC1.3 Structural safety of workplaces Outline of causes of damage to the structure of buildings: adverse weather conditions, overloading of structures, damage from moving plant, hot and corrosive atmospheres, vibration, alteration to structural members, subsidence, deterioration of building materials, excavations.

IC1.4 Work at height Outline the main risks, alternatives, precautions and safe working procedures for working at height with reference to content contained in Element IC9.3.

July 2008

67


Relevant Standards

International Labour Standards, Welfare Facilities Recommendation, R102 International Labour Organisation, Geneva, 1956


Chapter 8: Thermal

International Labour Standards, Occupational Health Services Convention, C161, International Labour Organisation, Geneva, 1985


July 2008

68





4.4.2 Element IC2: Principles of fire and explosion Learning outcomes On completion of this element, candidates should be able to: IC2.1 Describe the properties of flammable and explosive materials, the mechanisms by

which they ignite, examples of relevant case studies, and the relevant standards IC2.2 Describe the behaviour of structural materials, buildings and building contents in a

fire IC2.3 Outline the main principles and practices of fire and explosion prevention and

protection. Content IC2.1 Properties of flammable and explosive materials Properties of solids, liquids and gases Definition of flash point, fire point, auto-ignition temperature, vapour density, relative density, limits of flammability, critical temperature, maximum explosion pressure, rate of pressure rise, with examples of the importance of these properties in relation to the initiation and propagation of fire and explosion. Mechanism of fire and explosion Explanation of the fire triangle.

Outline of the effects of atomisation and oxygen content.

Identification of ignition sources (eg, naked flame, hot surfaces, arcing, sparking, smoking, electrostatic discharge). Vapour phase explosions Description of confined vapour cloud explosions, unconfined vapour cloud explosions, boiling liquid expanding vapour explosions (BLEVE). Discussion of examples of actual incidents, causes and effects:

- unconfined vapour cloud explosion (eg, Flixborough, 1974) - BLEVE (eg, San Carlos, 1978; Mexico City, 1984) - confined vapour cloud explosion (eg, Hickson and Welch, 1992).

Dust explosions Outline of the importance of particulate size, explosive concentrations, ignition energy.

Explanation of primary and secondary explosion.

Discussion of examples of actual incidents, causes and effects.

July 2008

69


IC2.2 Behaviour of structural materials Description of the behaviour of building structures and materials in fire: fire properties of common building materials and structural elements (eg, steel, concrete, wood); level of fire resistance.

Description of the behaviour of common building contents in fire (eg, paper-based, fabrics, plastics).

IC2.3 Fire and explosion prevention and protection Outline of structural protection (eg, openings and voids, compartmentation).

Outline of key features of plant design and process control.

Outline of segregation and storage of flammable, combustible and incompatible materials.

Explanation of hazardous area zoning, exclusion of ignition sources.

Explanation of inerting.

Description of methods of explosion relief: venting, explosion panels, bursting discs, suppression (eg, inerting), etc.

Relevant Standards


Section 6: Operational control measures

Section 7: Design and installation


July 2008

70




4.4.3 Element IC3: Workplace fire risk assessment Learning outcomes On completion of this element, candidates should be able to: IC3.1 Explain the processes involved in the identification of hazards and the assessment

of risk from fire IC3.2 Describe common fire detection and alarm systems and procedures IC3.3 Outline the factors to be considered when selecting fixed and portable fire-fighting

equipment for the various types of fire IC3.4 Outline the factors to be considered in the provision and maintenance of means of

escape IC3.5 Explain the purpose of, and essential requirements for, emergency evacuation

procedures. Content IC3.1 Fire risk assessment Identification of common flammable solids, liquids and gases.

Identification of fire hazards and assessment of risk.

Description of control of ignition, fuel and oxygen sources.

IC3.2 Detection and alarm Description of common fire detection and alarm systems and procedures:

- factors in design and application of fire detection and alarm systems - principal components of alarm systems - detection and signalling - manual and automatic systems.

IC3.3 Fire-fighting equipment Outline of factors in design and application of fixed fire-fighting systems and equipment.

Outline of portable fire fighting equipment: - classification of fires - extinguishing media and mode of action - siting, maintenance and training requirements.

IC3.4 Means of escape Outline of factors to be considered in the provision and maintenance of a means of escape.

Explanation of general requirements for travel distances, stairs, passageways and doors, emergency lighting, exit and directional signs.

July 2008

71


IC3.5 Emergency evacuation procedures Explanation of purposes of, and essential requirements for, evacuation procedures and drills, alarm evacuation and roll call.


July 2008

72


4.4.4 Element IC4: Storage, handling and processing of dangerous substances

Learning outcomes On completion of this element, candidates should be able to: IC4.1 Outline the main physical and chemical characteristics of industrial chemical

processes IC4.2 Discuss the contribution of typical mechanical and systems failures to major

accidents IC4.3 Outline the main principles in the safe storage, handling and transport of

dangerous, toxic and corrosive substances. Content IC4.1 Chemical processes Outline of effects of temperature, pressure and catalysts.

Description of heat of reaction in terms of endothermic, exothermic and runaway reactions.

Outline of methods of control of temperature and pressure.

IC4.2 Major accidents

Discussion of the contribution of typical mechanical and systems failures to major accidents – e.g., Flixborough, Piper Alpha, Seveso, Chernobyl, Three-Mile Island, Bhopal etc.

IC4.3 Storage, handling and transport of dangerous toxic and corrosive substances Identification of “dangerous substances” with reference to definitions in classification systems such as those used in the EU and to the UN numbers.

Explanation of hazards presented and assessment of risk.

Outline of storage methods and quantities - bulk, intermediate, drum storage, specific locations. Storage of incompatible materials and their segregation.

Description of segregation requirements and access.

Description of leakage and spillage containment – bunding, filling and transfer. Handling of dangerous substances Explanation of flow through pipelines.

Outline of safety principles in filling and emptying containers.

Outline of safety principles in dispensing, spraying and disposal of flammable liquids.

Explanation of the dangers of electricity in hazardous areas.

July 2008

73


Transport of dangerous substances Outline the system for the harmonisation of international standards on the transport of dangerous goods (UN Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods, Model Regulations).

Outline of key safety principles in loading and unloading of tankers and tank containers.

Outline of labelling of vehicles and packaging of substances.

Outline of driver training and role of advisers for transporting dangerous goods.

Relevant Standards

United Nations, Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods: Model Regulations, 14th edition, UN Publications, 2005. ISBN: 9211391067



July 2008

74

http://www.un.org/Pubs/whatsnew/e03rtd.htm

http://www.un.org/Pubs/whatsnew/e03rtd.htm




4.4.5 Element IC5: Work equipment Learning outcomes On completion of this element, candidates should be able to: IC5.1 Outline the selection, assessment, use and maintenance of work equipment IC5.2 Outline the main duties in respect of machinery, pressure systems and electricity on

the manufacturers and suppliers of work equipment IC5.3 Outline the main ergonomic, anthropometric and human reliability issues which

should be considered when designing work equipment IC5.4 Outline, with reference to relevant case studies, the likely causes of the failure of

work equipment, together with testing and prevention strategies that can be employed.

IC5.5 Outline the principle advantages and safe working procedures for the maintenance

and testing of work equipment IC5.6 Outline the purpose, nature and requirements for thorough examinations IC5.7 Outline the main components of a pressure system, the likely cause of failure and

the associated prevention strategy. Content

IC5.1 Selection Outline of suitability for task and environment. Outline of conformity with relevant standards. Outline of requirements for maintenance, availability of expertise/skills required of operators and maintenance personnel.

Risk assessment and use Explanation of work equipment risk assessment. Outline of risk control measures: intrinsic safety, risk reduction by design, guarding and safeguarding, other relevant safety features, PPE. Outline of training, and requirements for formal training/certification/authorisation. Outline of restrictions on use of work equipment. IC5.2 Duties in respect of machinery, pressure systems and electricity on the

manufacturers and suppliers of work equipment Description of the responsibilities placed upon manufacturers and suppliers.

Description of risk assessment and outline of best practice in the provision of supporting and independent testing and documentation.

July 2008

75


IC5.3 Ergonomic, anthropometric and human reliability considerations Description of design of controls and emergency controls, reducing need for access (automation, remote systems), lighting, layout of plant and machinery, training. Explanation of importance of size of openings, height of barriers, distance from danger. IC5.4 Failure modes and prevention Outline of main modes of failure and their causes:

- ductile and brittle failure, metal fatigue - buckling, corrosion, wear, creep.

Outline of failure prevention strategies and methods of identifying potential failure modes and related environmental factors. Outline of the role of testing and quality assurance during manufacture and installation. Discussion of failure modes and prevention in relation to major incidents.

IC5.5 Maintenance and testing Identification of common hazards and precautions associated with maintenance work.

Explanation of maintenance strategies and options from emergency/breakdown maintenance to planned preventive maintenance; use of routine condition monitoring.

Outline of factors to be considered in developing a planned maintenance programme, e.g., supplier information, risk, frequency of use, competency availability.

Outline of the benefits of planned preventive maintenance.

Identification of requirements for maintenance/inspection.

Outline of the principles, advantages, disadvantages and application of non-destructive testing techniques, eg, ultrasonic, radiography (gamma and x-ray), eddy current, magnetic particle etc.

IC5.6 Thorough examinations Outline of purpose and nature of thorough examinations.

Outline of need for competent persons.

Notification and record keeping.

Outline of types of inspection and likely frequencies for examination of: - cranes and lifting equipment - hoists and lifts - simple pressure systems - power presses.

July 2008

76


IC5.7 Pressure systems Definition of components and “relevant fluids”. Description of typical causes of failures – excessive stress, abnormal external loading, overpressure, overheating, mechanical fatigue and shock, thermal fatigue and shock, brittle fracture, creep, hydrogen attack, corrosive failure.

Outline of prevention strategy: design and construction, repair and modification, information and marking, safe operating limits, written scheme of examination, maintenance and record keeping, competent persons.


July 2008

77


4.4.6 Element IC6: Machinery safety Learning outcomes On completion of this element, candidates should be able to: IC6.1 Outline with examples, the classification, assessment and control of risk of

machinery hazards IC6.2 Outline the role and application of standards relating to machinery IC6.3 Outline the main safety issues which should be considered when designing and

operating programmable electronic systems (PES). Content

IC6.1 Classification, assessment and control of risk of machinery hazards Outline of, with examples, the classification of machinery hazards:

- mechanical hazards: crushing, shearing, cutting/severing, entanglement, drawing in/trapping, impact, stabbing/puncture/ejection, friction/abrasion, high pressure fluid injection

- non-mechanical hazards: noise, vibration, electricity, high/low temperature, radiation, hazardous substances.

Identification of hazards from typical machines: drills (radial arm, pedestal), circular saws, guillotines, paper shredders, abrasive wheels, lathes, simple robots, mechanical and hydraulic presses, portable power tools.

Outline of factors to be considered when assessing risk: persons at risk, severity of possible injury, probability of injury, need for access, duration of exposure, reliability of safeguards, operating procedures and personnel.

Description of main types of safeguarding devices: characteristics, key features, limitations and typical applications of fixed enclosed guards, fixed distance guards, interlocked guards, automatic guards, trip devices, adjustable/self-adjusting guards, two-hand controls, mechanical restraints, jigs and push-sticks.

Description of safe systems of work: permits, isolation, working at unguarded machinery, setting, cleaning, maintenance.

IC6.2 Role and application of standards relating to machinery Outline of C119 Guarding of Machinery Convention and International Standards BS EN ISO 12100 (superseding BS EN 292) and BS EN ISO 14121 (superseding BS EN 1050).

July 2008

78


IC6.3 Programmable electronic systems (PES) Outline of types of computer controlled equipment eg, robots, CNC machines.

Description of hazards associated with the use of PES.

Outline of reasons for aberrant behaviour: electrical interference, programming faults, stored energy.

Description of precautions and controls through reliability and integrity of control systems.

Outline of safety in programming, operation and maintenance.

Description of considerations in controlling the working envelope: layout, interlocked perimeter fencing, electro-sensitive safety systems, trip devices, positive stops and brakes, entry procedures.

Relevant Standards

International Labour Standards, Guarding of Machinery Convention, C119, International Labour Organisation, Geneva, 1963

Transposed Harmonized Standards British/European/International

BS EN ISO 12100-1:2003 Safety of machinery. Basic terminology and methodology

BS EN ISO 12100-2:2003 Safety of machinery. Technical principles

BS EN 1050:1997 Safety of Machinery - Principles for risk Assessment (current) to be superseded by:-

BS EN ISO 14121-1:2006 Safety of machinery. Risk assessment. Principles (forthcoming)

BS EN ISO 14121-2:2006 Safety of machinery. Risk assessment. Practical guidance and examples of methods (forthcoming)


July 2008

79

http://www.bsi-global.com/Manufacturing/EEMMD/Machinery/bseniso12100-1.xalter

http://www.bsi-global.com/Manufacturing/EEMMD/Machinery/bseniso12100-2.xalter


4.4.7 Element IC7: Mechanical handling Learning outcomes On completion of this element, candidates should be able to: IC7.1 Outline the factors which affect the stability of work vehicles IC7.2 Identify the main hazards associated with the use of lift trucks, lifting equipment,

hoists, lifts and conveyor equipment and describe appropriate precautions to reduce the risks where possible

IC7.3 Outline the specific hazards and precautions associated with automated

warehouses. Content IC7.1 Stability of work vehicles Outline of factors affecting lateral and longitudinal instability, and loss of control of vehicles.

IC7.2 Safe use of lift trucks, lifting equipment etc Identification of applications of different types of lift truck: counterbalance, reach, rough terrain, telescopic materials handlers, side loading trucks, pedestrian controlled trucks.

Description of hazards associated with use of lift trucks.

Description of precautions in the use of lift trucks, including safe layout of areas where trucks are used and protection of pedestrians.

Description of use of lift trucks to move people – conditions and equipment necessary, other attachments used on lift trucks.

Outline of training of lift truck operators. Safe use of cranes and lifting equipment Identification of applications of different types of crane: mobile cranes, tower cranes, overhead cranes.

Description of hazards associated with cranes and lifting operations.

Description of precautions in the use of cranes; selection, siting, and stability of cranes, integrity of lifting equipment, competence of personnel, maintenance, inspection, and thorough examinations.

Outline of types of lifting equipment, factors influencing choice, limitation of various types.

Description of maintenance, inspection and thorough examination of cranes and lifting equipment. Hoists and lifts Description of main hazards associated with the use of hoists (pulley wheel, construction site platform hoist) and lifts (passenger and goods, scissor, vehicle inspection, Mobile Elevated Work Platform (MEWP)) and methods of controlling the associated risks.

July 2008

80


Safe use of conveyors Outline of types of conveyor: belt, roller, plate, screw, monorail.

Description of main hazards and methods of controlling risks.

IC7.3 Safe use of automated warehousing systems Outline of specific hazards and precautions associated with automated warehousing systems. Minimum hours of tuition 6 hours.

July 2008

81


4.4.8 Element IC8: Electrical safety Learning outcomes On completion of this element, candidates should be able to: IC8.1 Outline the basic principles and dangers of electricity, including electrical fires, arcs

and the effects of electricity on the human body IC8.2 Outline the issues relevant to the installation of electrical systems that will perform

effectively and safely within the working environment and can readily be used safely, inspected and maintained effectively

IC8.3 Outline the main principles of the design and use of electrical systems and

equipment in adverse or hazardous environments IC8.4 Outline the main principle for safe working in the vicinity of high voltage systems IC8.5 Identify the main hazards and outline the principle precautions associated with the

use of portable electrical equipment. Content IC8.1 Basic principles of electricity Definition of potential difference, current, resistance, impedance, Ohm’s law.

Identification of basic electrical circuitry.

Outline of earthing principles.

Outline of significance of direct and alternating currents.

Dangers of electricity: Electric shock Outline of effects on the body: pain, muscular contraction, respiratory failure, heart fibrillation, cardiac arrest, burns.

Outline of factors influencing the severity of the effects on the body: voltage, frequency, duration, impedance/ resistance, current path. Electrical burns Explanation of direct and indirect.

Outline of first-aid treatment principles for electrical injuries. Fires Description of common causes: overloading of conductors – overheating, ignition of flammable vapour, ignition of combustible material, breakdown of insulation.

July 2008

82


Electric arcs Description of molten metal splash, radiation.

Static electricity Explanation of circumstances giving rise to the generation of static electricity.

Description of dangers and precautions.

IC8.2 Planning, design and installation of electrical systems

Outline of the importance of: - strength and capability of electrical equipment - insulation, protection and placing of conductors - reducing the risk of shock - excess current protection - cutting off supply and isolation - working space, access and lighting.

Description of control measures: - selection and suitability of equipment - protective systems: fuses, reduced voltage systems, isolation, residual current

devices, double insulation, earth free zones - inspection and maintenance strategy: user checks, formal visual inspections,

combined inspection and tests, records of maintenance and tests, frequency of inspection and testing, competent persons.

Identify sources of best practice: eg, Requirements for Electrical Installations (BS 7671).

IC8.3 Adverse or hazardous environments Outline of principles of: resistance to mechanical damage, protection against solid bodies, objects and dusts, protection against liquids and gases.

Outline of principles of selection of electrical equipment for use in flammable atmospheres.

Outline of classification of hazardous areas, zoning.

Outline of principles of pressurisation and purging.

Outline of intrinsically safe equipment, flameproof equipment, type ‘N’ equipment, type ‘e’ equipment.

IC8.4 Safe use, maintenance and repair of electrical systems Identification of importance of schemes of maintenance, schedules, plans and records.

Description of safe systems of work and criteria of acceptability for live working.

Outline of use of permits-to-work.

Description of safe systems of work on installations made dead.

Definition of ‘competent person’.

July 2008

83


Safe working in the vicinity of high voltage systems Description of common high voltage systems and prevention of danger.

Outline of the competent and authorised persons role related to system modifications.

Outline of safe systems of work, permit-to-work procedures.

Description of safe working near overhead power lines, underground cables – hazards and precautions.

IC8.5 Portable electrical equipment Identification of conditions and practices likely to lead to accidents, including unsuitable equipment, inadequate maintenance, use of defective apparatus.

Outline of portable appliance inspection and testing.

Relevant Standards

BS 7671:2001 Requirements for Electrical Installations. IEE Wiring Regulations. Sixteenth edition


July 2008

84


4.4.9 Element IC9: Safety in construction and demolition Learning outcomes On completion of this element, candidates should be able to: IC9.1 Outline the principle duties and specific responsibilities for the effective

management of health and safety on construction sites IC9.2 Outline the principle hazards and precautions associated with demolition work IC9.3 Outline the dangers, precautions and safe working procedures when working at

heights or with excavations IC9.4 Describe the safe use of the various types of mobile equipment used on

construction sites. Content IC9.1 Management of health and safety on construction sites Identification of types and causes of accidents and ill-health in construction and demolition work.

Outline of respective duties of clients, designers, planning supervisors, principal contractors and contractors.

Outline of planning, co-ordination and notification.

Description of health and safety plan; health and safety file.

Outline of relevance of site layout; access and egress; protection of the public.

Outline of use of method statements and permits-to-work.

IC9.2 Demolition work Outline of the main techniques in demolition of buildings along with the associated hazards and safe working methods.

Outline of typical hazards and precautions: - falling materials; premature collapse of buildings, materials of construction - planning, structural surveys and surveys for hazardous substances, provision of

working places and means of access/egress, use of method statements and permits-to-work, security of site boundaries and protection of the public.

July 2008

85


IC9.3 Working at heights and on excavations Working at heights Outline of dangers associated with working at heights.

Outline of provision of safe access and safe place of work when working at heights.

Description of safe use of access equipment including ladders, trestles, scaffolds – simple independent and tower scaffolds.

Outline of precautions for scaffold hoist towers including passenger and material hoists.

Identification of requirements for inspection of scaffolds.

Outline of hazards associated with falling materials and appropriate precautionary measures.

Description of safe methods in roofwork – precautions during work on fragile roofs, flat roofs and sloping roofs.

Outline of means of access for maintenance work: use, types and safety features of cradles, boatswains’ chairs, rope access and positioning systems.

Description of mobile elevating work platforms: types and applications, hazards and precautions in use.

Outline of use, application, selection and precautions in use of safety nets, belts, harnesses and air bags.

Excavations Outline of principal hazards associated with:

- excavation work and excavations – collapse, access, falls, use of transport, flooding etc.

- buried services: types and consequences of damage.

Outline of methods of checking for buried services and precautions to be observed.

Identification of inspections and examinations of excavations.

IC9.4 Mobile equipment Identification of types of mobile equipment used on construction sites.

Outline of requirements for safe use.

Relevant Standards

International Labour Standards, Safety and Health in Construction, R177 International Labour Organisation, Geneva, 1988

International Labour Office, Safety and Health in Construction, an ILO Code of Practice, International Labour Organisation, Geneva, 1992. ISBN: 9221071049 Minimum hours of tuition 7 hours.

July 2008

86




4.4.10 Element IC10: Environmental pollution and waste management Learning outcomes On completion of this element, candidates should be able to: IC10.1 Identify potential sources and impacts of environmental pollution and appropriate

monitoring strategies IC10.2 Describe the various types of waste, their categorisation, treatment, disposal, and

documentation IC10.3 Outline the need for emergency response measures. Content IC10.1 Environmental pollution Identification of, with examples, sources of pollution; intended releases, abnormal conditions giving rise to occasional releases, major releases following plant failure.

Explanation of the principle of source, pathway, target and impact in relation to effects of pollution.

Outline of the behaviour and dispersion of gases; toxic and flammable.

Outline of the release and dispersion of toxic substances to ground, water or air.

Identification of environmental impacts.

Outline of pollution control strategies (prevent, minimise, render harmless) and methods in manufacturing, waste treatment, disposal.

Identification of the need for continuous and grab sampling and measurement against set standards.

Identification of the need to keep the regulatory and local authorities informed of environmental performance.

Definition of: Integrated Pollution Prevention and Control (IPPC), Best Practicable Environmental Option (BPEO), Best Available Techniques (BAT).

Outline of the role of regulatory bodies.

IC10.2 Classification of wastes, treatment, disposal and documentation Definition of: solid, liquid, gas; hazardous, non-hazardous; difficult, flammable, clinical, biodegradable, radioactive. Definition of waste, controlled waste, non-hazardous and hazardous waste and outline of disposal arrangements.

Outline of methods of categorising waste and different techniques required for each waste category. Practical waste management Outline of minimisation, storage, labelling, carriage, duty of care.

July 2008

87


Waste disposal Outline of types of waste treatment: physical and chemical treatment, landfill, landraising, incineration.

Legal regimes applicable Explanation of concept of ‘duty of care’; category of persons on whom duty is placed. IC10.3 Emergency response measures Outline of the need for emergency response measures in the event of an uncontrolled release with reference to content of Element IA4.6. Identify the environmental aspects of international codes on the control of major hazards.

Relevant Standards

International Labour Standards, Prevention of major Industrial Accidents Convention, C174, International Labour Organisation, Geneva, 1993

International Labour Office, Prevention of Major Industrial Accidents, an ILO Code of Practice, International Labour Organisation, Geneva, 1991. ISBN: 9221071014 Minimum hours of tuition 6 hours

July 2008

88




5. Unit ID: International application of health and safety theory and practice 5.1 Assignment Brief 5.1.2 The candidate is required to carry out a detailed review of the health and safety

performance of a workplace or organisation and produce a management report including a justified action plan to improve performance.

5.1.3 The assignment will require the candidate to apply the knowledge and understanding

gained from their studies of elements of Units A, B and C in a practical environment and to carry out critical analysis and evaluation of information gathered during the review. The level of work should be that expected of a health and safety practitioner working within an organisation.

5.1.4 The report should include:

• A description of the chosen workplace/organisation to set a context for the assignment. The candidate will need to consider any regulatory framework within which the workplace/organisation operates;

• An overview of the current health and safety management arrangements in which

the candidate should critically review the health and safety management system;

• A survey of a wide range of significant hazards within the workplace. The candidate should prioritise the identified hazards and, depending on the nature and extent of identified hazards, for each of two of the hazards, one physical and one appropriate to health and welfare, carry out a risk assessment. This should include an evaluation of the effectiveness of the organisation in controlling the risks arising from the hazards identified and proposals to further control the hazard(s) and reduce risks;

• Conclusions which summarise the main issues identified in the candidate’s work

together with justified recommendations for improvement;

• A costed and prioritised action plan for the implementation of the candidate’s recommendations in each of the two areas;

• An executive summary of the report.

5.1.5 The accompanying guidance (see Section 5.2) provides information on how the

areas of the assignment brief are linked with the content covered in the taught units together with guidance on how to write the report. The guidance should be read carefully in conjunction with the mark scheme (see Section 5.3) to provide a clear guide to the requirements for the assignment report.

July 2008

89


5.2 Detailed candidate guidance for Unit ID 5.2.1 The focus of the Unit ID assignment should be the application of the knowledge and

understanding developed in Units IA, IB and IC. It provides opportunities for the candidate to carry out research appropriate for a qualification based on a level 6 qualification. The assignment is designed to assess the ability of the candidate to apply the knowledge and understanding gained in the International Diploma course to a real workplace situation. Candidates are required to demonstrate the ability to carry out a range of activities that would be expected of a health and safety practitioner. This guidance sets the scope and expected level of work. Additional guidance is available in the Currently Studying section of the NEBOSH website.

5.2.2 The aim of the assignment is to produce an overall review of the health and safety

management system of an organisation and indicate, using a risk assessment, the priorities for the organisation for the future.

5.2.3 This guidance is intended to provide further information on what should be included

in the assignment report. Candidates should use the guidance, plus the further information available in the mark scheme, to guide them in the development of their assignments. It includes cross referencing to the relevant Elements of the Diploma Guide (See Section 4).

5.2.4 There are many detailed general guides to writing reports available on the internet,

often as part of study guides produced by university departments. A search under “writing reports” will produce links to such sites. It is strongly recommended that candidates study such material in order to understand how to write a report to the required standard for the assignment.

5.2.5 The assignment should include the following:

1. Introduction The assignment should be introduced with an overview of the organisation selected. It should include a general view of what the organisation does. This should include a description of what processes are undertaken, the employment profile, the work pattern employed and, if a department or site has been chosen in a very large organisation, its relationship to the work of the organisation. It is important to ensure that the choice of workplace provides sufficient scope (in terms of processes and activities) in order to match the expected depth of interpretation required by the International Diploma. However, candidates are advised to restrict the scope of the chosen workplace to make sure that the work is manageable and can be completed within the expected word count. The overview should include sufficient detail to enable the Examiner to gain an understanding of the workplace environment.

2. Regulatory framework

A summary of the legal framework (criminal, civil, self-regulatory etc) requirements within which the organisation operates (IA7) should be included. The purpose is to enable candidates to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of the relevant legal frameworks (governmental and non-governmental) and most importantly the ability to put these in the context of the development of an effective health and safety management programme. There is no expectation for candidates to name specific pieces of legislation.

July 2008

90


3. Health and safety management system

The candidate should provide an overview of the health and safety management arrangements within the workplace (Element IA1). This should include a description of the health and safety management system, however informal it might be. This should be based on the procedures outlined in HSG65, BS 8800, OHSAS 18001, ILO-OSH-2001 or AS/AZ 4360, carrying out an initial status review of the health and safety management system and a gap analysis (i.e., ‘where are we and where do we want to be?’).

4. Identification and discussion of hazards

The candidate should identify and discuss the full range of principal hazards within the identified organisation (Unit IB). All workplaces involve hazards, the exact nature of which will depend on the nature of the workplace and the activities carried out there. Candidates should identify at least 15 relevant hazards using knowledge and understanding gained in Units IB and IC as a starting point. In order to cover a sufficient range, the identified hazards should be from across the following range of categories: chemical, physical, biological, psychosocial, ergonomic, mechanical, electrical, fire and explosion and transport. The outcomes of this exercise will be used in comprehensive risk assessments of two of the hazards.

5. Risk assessment

The candidate must justify the hazards chosen. The risk assessment methodology chosen should be appropriate for each hazard identified and should link back to how the organisation controls risk overall – i.e., are the risks associated with the hazards already identified well or poorly controlled, which would show one type of failure, or are the hazards previously unidentified, which would show another type of failure. The methodology adopted in completing each risk assessment should be outlined, including reference to relevant publications, standards, Codes of Practice, other technical documents and standards. The risk assessment should include a review of the existing control measures and provide options for further action with reference to a hierarchy of control. The candidate should make use of any data available for any hazards which have already been quantified. If no data is available it is not essential to make measurements.

6. Conclusions

This section should provide a concise summary of the main points identified in the main body of the candidate’s report. The conclusions should not introduce new issues or additional relevant factors.

7. Recommendations

Should be based upon the points set out in the conclusions. Recommendations should be prioritised and justified by reference to the candidate’s assessment of the levels of risk posed by the hazards they have identified.

July 2008

91


8. Action Plans

The action plans should present actions to improve the health and safety management system, the health and safety culture/climate of the chosen workplace and to reduce the risks associated with the hazards the candidate has identified for the two risk assessments. The action plans should indicate the actions to be taken, the person(s) responsible, the likely cost and the timescale for the implementation of each action. A quality action plan also includes provision for review.

9. Executive Summary

This should be written after the candidate has completed the rest of the report but it should be inserted at the beginning of the report. An executive summary is written for a person who is not necessarily an expert in the field. The purpose of the executive summary is to provide a concise overview of the main points arising from the work and the main conclusions and recommendations arising from it that can be read in a short time to accommodate the schedule of a busy reader.

An executive summary should provide sufficient information to enable a busy senior manager to make a decision as to whether or not to read the full report. This should be no longer than one side of A4 using single-spaced Arial font (Size 11). 10% of the marks available for the executive summary will be deducted for text covering up to an additional one-quarter of a page and a further 10% for each additional quarter of a page submitted as part of the executive summary.

10. References

Sources of information used in the report should be fully referenced using either the Harvard or Vancouver system of referencing. Full details of how to do this are available from:

http://www.bournemouth.ac.uk/library/using/harvard_system.html http://www.libweb.anglia.ac.uk/guides/new_harvard.php http://www.blackwellpublishing.com/authors/reference_text.asp?site=1.

11. Word Count

The expected length of an assignment is around 8,000 words equivalent to 32 sides of single-spaced A4 using Arial font (Size: 11).

July 2008

92

http://www.bournemouth.ac.uk/library/using/harvard_system.html

http://www.libweb.anglia.ac.uk/guides/new_harvard.php

http://www.blackwellpublishing.com/authors/reference_text.asp?site=1


k.

5.3 Assignment mark scheme For each element 0 marks should be awarded if that aspect of the report fails to meet the criteria for 1 mar

Mark

s to

be aw

arde

d

8-7

6-5

4-3

2-1

Plan

ning

an

d Pr

esen

tatio

n

Pres

enta

tion

and

Orga

nisa

tion

inclu

ding

Re

sear

ch a

nd

Bibl

iogr

aphy

Logic

al str

uctu

re, f

ully

mee

ts re

quire

men

ts of

brief

, clea

r and

logic

al,

user

frien

dly w

riting

style

. Ev

idenc

e of

exte

nsive

re

sear

ch w

ith a

ll re

fere

nces

cite

d co

rrectl

y us

ing re

cogn

ised

syste

m.

Stru

cture

d to m

eet

requ

irem

ents

of br

ief b

ut so

me s

ectio

ns m

ay b

e co

mbin

ed.

Clea

r styl

e.

Evide

nce

of so

me

rese

arch

. Re

fere

nces

cite

d but

som

e er

rors

in

refe

renc

ing sy

stem

.

Conf

used

stru

cture

with

so

me

infor

mat

ion

includ

ed in

wro

ng

secti

ons.

Stru

cture

and

lang

uage

m

akes

it dif

ficult

to

follo

w.

Little

evid

ence

of

rese

arch

with

som

e re

fere

nces

not

cited

.

Poor

stru

cture

with

muc

h of

the

infor

mati

on

includ

ed in

wro

ng

secti

ons.

Diffi

cult t

o re

ad.

Little

or n

o ev

idenc

e of

rese

arch

, ref

eren

ces w

ith

no a

ccep

ted r

efer

encin

g sy

stem

use

d.

July 2008

93


Mar

ks to

be

awar

ded

5-

4 3

2 1

Desc

riptio

n of

the

Org

anis

atio

n

Full

desc

riptio

n w

ith a

ll el

emen

ts c

lear

ly

desc

ribed

allo

win

g re

ader

to u

nder

stan

d th

e co

ntex

t of t

he re

port.

Cle

ar d

escr

iptio

n of

or

gani

satio

n in

clud

es

mos

t rel

evan

t ele

men

ts.

Des

crip

tion

inco

mpl

ete

with

som

e si

gnifi

cant

el

emen

ts m

issi

ng.

Des

crip

tion

uncl

ear.

Poor

des

crip

tion

of

orga

nisa

tion

prov

idin

g in

suffi

cien

t inf

orm

atio

n to

un

ders

tand

the

cont

ext

of th

e re

port.

Intro

duct

ion

Regu

lato

ry

Fram

ewor

k

The

regu

lato

ry

fram

ewor

ks in

whi

ch th

e co

mpa

ny o

pera

tes

(crim

inal

, civ

il, s

elf-

regu

latio

n, e

tc),

with

ap

prop

riate

Cod

e of

Pr

actic

e an

d gu

idan

ce

for t

he o

rgan

isat

ion

desc

ribed

and

just

ified

w

ith re

leva

nce

to

orga

nisa

tion.

Parti

al d

escr

iptio

n of

re

leva

nt re

gula

tory

fra

mew

orks

. So

me

may

no

t be

just

ified

.

Parti

al d

escr

iptio

n of

re

leva

nt re

gula

tory

fra

mew

orks

. Li

ttle

or n

o di

scus

sion

of

rele

vanc

e.

Littl

e or

no

desc

riptio

n of

re

leva

nt re

gula

tory

fra

mew

orks

. N

o ex

plan

atio

n of

re

leva

nce

to

orga

nisa

tion.

July 2008

94


Mar

ks to

be

awar

ded

6

- 5

4 - 3

2

– 1

Desc

riptio

n of

He

alth

an

d Sa

fety

M

anag

emen

t Sys

tem

Cle

ar a

nd fu

ll de

scrip

tion

linke

d to

reco

gnis

ed

Hea

lth a

nd S

afet

y m

odel

.

Parti

al d

escr

iptio

n, o

ne

or tw

o el

emen

ts o

mitt

ed.

Atte

mpt

s to

link

to a

re

cogn

ised

sys

tem

.

Som

e as

pect

s of

Hea

lth

and

Safe

ty id

entif

ied

but

not l

inke

d to

a m

odel

of a

m

anag

emen

t sys

tem

.

Revi

ew o

f Hea

lth a

nd S

afet

y

Man

agem

ent S

yste

m

Gap

Ana

lysi

s

Cle

ar s

yste

mat

ic

desc

riptio

n of

gap

s an

d of

are

as w

here

no

gap

exis

ts fo

r all

area

s of

m

anag

emen

t sys

tem

and

id

entif

icat

ion

of p

riorit

ies

for i

mpr

ovem

ent.

Iden

tifie

s ga

ps w

ith c

lear

de

scrip

tion,

littl

e or

no

cons

ider

atio

n of

are

as

with

out i

dent

ified

gap

s.

Som

e di

scus

sion

of

impr

ovem

ents

link

ed to

a

reco

gnis

ed m

anag

emen

t sy

stem

.

Iden

tifie

s m

ajor

gap

s on

ly, s

ome

indi

catio

n of

ar

eas

for i

mpr

ovem

ent

but n

ot li

nked

to a

re

cogn

ised

man

agem

ent

syst

em.

July 2008

95


Mar

ks to

be

awar

ded

8-

7 6-

5 4-

3 2-

1

Haza

rd Id

entif

icat

ion

Ph

ysic

al H

azar

ds

Full

rang

e of

haz

ards

id

entif

ied,

rele

vant

to

indu

stry

, dra

wn

from

ac

ross

the

rang

e of

ca

tego

ries

and

incl

udes

th

e lik

ely

impl

icat

ions

. Pr

iorit

ised

with

ju

stifi

catio

n.

Ran

ge o

f haz

ards

re

leva

nt to

indu

stry

but

re

stric

ted

rang

e of

ca

tego

ries.

Inc

lude

s th

e lik

ely

impl

icat

ions

. At

tem

pt a

t prio

ritis

atio

n no

t ful

ly ju

stifi

ed.

Res

trict

ed ra

nge

of

haza

rds

and

rest

ricte

d ra

nge

of c

ateg

orie

s.

Som

e m

ay b

e irr

elev

ant

to in

dust

ry.

Li

ttle

atte

mpt

at

prio

ritis

atio

n.

Very

lim

ited

rang

e of

ha

zard

s w

ith li

ttle

atte

mpt

to ju

stify

pr

iorit

isat

ion.

N

o in

dica

tion

of

impl

icat

ions

.

Haza

rd Id

entif

icat

ion

Ha

zard

s Ap

prop

riate

to

Heal

th a

nd W

elfa

re

Full

rang

e of

haz

ards

id

entif

ied,

rele

vant

to

indu

stry

, dra

wn

from

ac

ross

the

rang

e of

ca

tego

ries

and

incl

udes

th

e lik

ely

impl

icat

ions

. Pr

iorit

ised

with

ju

stifi

catio

n.

Ran

ge o

f haz

ards

re

leva

nt to

indu

stry

but

re

stric

ted

rang

e of

ca

tego

ries.

Inc

lude

s th

e lik

ely

impl

icat

ions

.

Atte

mpt

at p

riorit

isat

ion

not f

ully

just

ified

.

Res

trict

ed ra

nge

of

haza

rds

and

rest

ricte

d ra

nge

of c

ateg

orie

s.

Som

e m

ay b

e irr

elev

ant

to in

dust

ry.

Li

ttle

atte

mpt

at

prio

ritis

atio

n.

Very

lim

ited

rang

e of

ha

zard

s w

ith li

ttle

atte

mpt

to ju

stify

pr

iorit

isat

ion.

N

o in

dica

tion

of h

ealth

im

plic

atio

ns.

July 2008

96


Mar

ks to

be

awar

ded

10

-9

8-7

6-5

4-3

2-1

Risk

Ass

essm

ent

Phys

ical

Haz

ard

Full

risk

asse

ssm

ent

of h

ighe

st p

riorit

y ha

zard

follo

win

g re

cogn

ised

risk

as

sess

men

t mod

el.

Fu

ll co

nsid

erat

ion

of

all f

acto

rs.

Ris

k as

sess

men

t on

high

est p

riorit

y ha

zard

follo

win

g re

cogn

ised

risk

as

sess

men

t mod

el.

O

ne o

r tw

o st

ages

om

itted

.

Ris

k as

sess

men

t on

high

est p

riorit

y ha

zard

follo

win

g re

cogn

ised

risk

as

sess

men

t mod

el.

O

ne o

r tw

o si

gnifi

cant

st

ages

om

itted

.

Ris

k as

sess

men

t on

haza

rd w

hich

may

not

be

hig

hest

prio

rity

iden

tifie

d ab

ove.

R

isk

asse

ssm

ent

does

follo

w

reco

gnis

ed m

odel

or

mis

sing

sig

nific

ant

stag

es.

Ris

k as

sess

men

t m

issi

ng s

igni

fican

t st

ages

, may

not

be

carri

ed o

ut o

n hi

ghes

t pr

iorit

y ha

zard

or

haza

rds

mix

ed.

Risk

Ass

essm

ent

Heal

th a

nd W

elfa

re

Full

risk

asse

ssm

ent

of h

ighe

st p

riorit

y ha

zard

follo

win

g re

cogn

ised

risk

as

sess

men

t mod

el.

Fu

ll co

nsid

erat

ion

of

all f

acto

rs.

Ris

k as

sess

men

t on

high

est p

riorit

y ha

zard

follo

win

g re

cogn

ised

risk

as

sess

men

t mod

el.

O

ne o

r tw

o st

ages

om

itted

.

Ris

k as

sess

men

t on

high

est p

riorit

y ha

zard

follo

win

g re

cogn

ised

risk

as

sess

men

t mod

el.

One

or t

wo

sign

ifica

nt

stag

es o

mitt

ed.

Ris

k as

sess

men

t on

haza

rd w

hich

may

not

be

hig

hest

prio

rity

iden

tifie

d ab

ove.

R

isk

asse

ssm

ent

does

not

follo

w

reco

gnis

ed m

odel

or

mis

sing

sig

nific

ant

stag

es.

Ris

k as

sess

men

t m

issi

ng s

igni

fican

t st

ages

, may

not

be

carri

ed o

ut o

n hi

ghes

t pr

iorit

y ha

zard

or

haza

rds

mix

ed.

July 2008

97


Mar

ks to

be

awar

ded

6-

5 4-

3 2-

1

Co

nclu

sion

s

Con

clus

ions

are

co

mpl

ete

and

sum

mar

ise

all f

indi

ngs

in m

ain

body

.

No

new

mat

eria

l in

trodu

ced.

Con

clus

ions

do

not c

over

al

l fin

ding

s bu

t no

new

m

ater

ial i

ntro

duce

d.

Con

clus

ions

do

not c

over

al

l fin

ding

s. N

ew m

ater

ial

intro

duce

d.

Re

com

men

datio

ns

Rec

omm

enda

tions

are

ba

sed

upon

con

clus

ions

, ju

stifi

ed a

nd p

riorit

ised

.

Full

cost

ben

efit

anal

ysis

in

clud

ed.

Mos

t rec

omm

enda

tions

fo

llow

on

from

co

nclu

sion

s w

ith s

ome

atte

mpt

at j

ustif

icat

ion

and

prio

ritis

atio

n.

Parti

al c

ost b

enef

it an

alys

is.

Som

e re

com

men

datio

ns

follo

w o

n fro

m

conc

lusi

ons

but n

ot a

ll ju

stifi

ed o

r prio

ritis

ed.

Fe

w b

enef

its id

entif

ied.

July 2008

98


July 2008

99

Mar

ks to

be

awar

ded

6-5

4-3

2-1

Actio

n Pl

an 1

M

anag

emen

t Sys

tem

Actio

n pl

an fo

llow

s fro

m

reco

mm

enda

tions

, all

actio

ns a

re c

oste

d an

d tim

e bo

und

with

re

spon

sibi

litie

s id

entif

ied

and

prov

isio

n fo

r rev

iew

an

d ev

alua

tion.

Actio

n pl

an fo

llow

s fro

m

reco

mm

enda

tions

in

mai

n bu

t som

e ne

w

poin

ts m

ight

be

intro

duce

d, c

ostin

gs,

time

limits

and

re

spon

sibi

litie

s pa

rtial

ly

iden

tifie

d.

Prov

isio

n fo

r rev

iew

and

ev

alua

tion

may

not

be

adeq

uate

.

Actio

n pl

an fo

llow

s fro

m

reco

mm

enda

tions

in

mai

n bu

t som

e ne

w

poin

ts m

ight

be

intro

duce

d.

Som

e ke

y el

emen

ts s

uch

as c

ostin

gs, t

ime

limits

an

d re

spon

sibi

litie

s om

itted

. Pro

visi

on fo

r re

view

and

eva

luat

ion

omitt

ed.

Ac

tion

poin

ts m

ay n

ot b

e ba

sed

on p

riorit

ies

iden

tifie

d in

RAs

.

Actio

n Pl

an 2

Ha

zard

s an

d Ri

sk

Actio

n pl

an fo

llow

s fro

m

reco

mm

enda

tions

.

Actio

ns b

ased

on

high

est

prio

rity

area

s fro

m th

e tw

o R

As.

Al

l act

ions

are

cos

ted,

tim

e bo

und

with

re

spon

sibi

litie

s id

entif

ied

and

prov

isio

n fo

r rev

iew

an

d ev

alua

tion.

Actio

n pl

an fo

llow

s fro

m

reco

mm

enda

tions

in

mai

n bu

t som

e ne

w

poin

ts m

ight

be

intro

duce

d.

Plan

incl

udes

are

as fr

om

both

RAs

but

doe

s no

t pr

iorit

ise

them

wel

l.

Cos

tings

, tim

e lim

its a

nd

resp

onsi

bilit

ies

parti

ally

id

entif

ied.

Pro

visi

on fo

r re

view

and

eva

luat

ion

may

not

be

adeq

uate

.

Actio

n pl

an fo

llow

s fro

m

reco

mm

enda

tions

in

mai

n bu

t som

e ne

w

poin

ts m

ight

be

intro

duce

d.

Som

e ke

y el

emen

ts s

uch

as c

ostin

gs, t

ime

limits

an

d re

spon

sibi

litie

s om

itted

. Pr

ovis

ion

for r

evie

w a

nd

eval

uatio

n om

itted

. Ac

tion

poin

ts m

ay n

ot b

e ba

sed

on p

riorit

ies

iden

tifie

d in

RAs

.


Mar

ks to

be

awar

ded

10

-9

8-7

6-5

4-3

2-1

Exec

utiv

e Su

mm

ary

Incl

udes

all

impo

rtant

find

ings

, su

mm

aris

es

reco

mm

enda

tions

. Pe

rsua

sive

cas

e m

ade

for

impl

emen

tatio

n.

With

in w

ord

coun

t lim

it.

Mos

t im

porta

nt

findi

ngs

and

reco

mm

enda

tions

in

clud

ed. P

rese

nts

case

for

impl

emen

tatio

n.

With

in w

ord

coun

t lim

it.

Incl

udes

som

e fin

ding

s, n

ot

nece

ssar

ily a

ll of

th

ose

with

hig

hest

pr

iorit

y.

Rec

omm

enda

tions

in

com

plet

e w

ith w

eak

case

for

impl

emen

tatio

n.

Wor

d co

unt m

ay b

e ex

ceed

ed b

y le

ss

than

10%

.

Incl

udes

onl

y a

few

fin

ding

s w

ith n

o re

fere

nce

to p

riorit

y.

Rec

omm

enda

tions

no

t cle

ar.

Very

wea

k ca

se fo

r im

plem

enta

tion.

Ex

ceed

s w

ord

coun

t lim

it by

bet

wee

n 10

%

and

20%

.

Sign

ifica

nt o

mis

sion

s,

prov

ides

littl

e in

dica

tion

of

reco

mm

enda

tions

an

d be

nefit

s of

im

plem

enta

tion.

Exce

eds

wor

d co

unt

limit

by m

ore

than

20

%.

July 2008

100


6. Sample examination papers 6.1 Unit IA sample paper: International management of health and safety THE NATIONAL EXAMINATION BOARD IN OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH INTERNATIONAL DIPLOMA IN OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY Unit IA: International management of health and safety [DATE] 3 hours, 0930 to 1230 10 minutes reading time is allowed before the start of this examination. You may not write anything during this period. Answer both Section A and Section B

SECTION A This section contains six questions. Answer ALL SIX questions. All questions carry equal marks.

The maximum marks for each question, or part of a question, are shown in brackets.

You are advised to spend about 15 minutes on each question.

Start each answer on a new page.

1 (a) In relation to workplace behaviour outline what is meant by the term

‘attitude’. (2) (b) Outline how the media can influence attitudes towards health and

safety, making reference to suitable examples where appropriate. (8) 2 An employee has been seriously injured after being struck by material

transported using an overhead crane.

Using the categorisation of human failure published in the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) ‘Reducing error and influencing behaviour’ (HSG48) guidance, give examples of the human failure that may have contributed to the accident. (10)

July 2008

101


3 (a) A mixing vessel that contains solvent and product ingredients must be

thoroughly cleaned every two days for process reasons. Cleaning requires an operator to enter the vessel, for which a permit-to-work is required. During a recent audit of permit records it has been discovered that many permits have not been completed correctly or have not been signed back.

Outline possible reasons why the permit system is not being followed

correctly. (5) (b) A sister company operating the same process has demonstrated that

the vessel can be cleaned by installing fixed, high pressure spray equipment inside the vessel which would eliminate the need for vessel entry. You are keen to adopt this system for safety reasons but the Board has requested a cost-benefit analysis of the proposal.

Outline the principles of cost-benefit analysis in such circumstances. (Detailed discussion of individual cost elements is not required). (5) 4 Outline a range of external individuals and bodies to whom, for legal or

good practice reasons, an organisation may need to provide health and safety information. In EACH case, indicate the broad type of information to be provided. (10)

5 (a) Outline the reasons for establishing effective consultation

arrangements with employees concerning health and safety matters in the workplace. (4)

(b) Outline the range of formal and informal arrangements that may

contribute to effective consultation on health and safety matters in the workplace. (6)

6 A publicity campaign was used to encourage improvement in compliance

with safety standards within a particular organisation. During the period of the campaign the rate of reported accidents significantly increased and the campaign was considered to be a failure.

(a) Outline reasons why the rate of reported accidents may have been a

poor measure of the campaign’s effectiveness. (2) (b) Outline FOUR proactive (active) monitoring techniques which might

be used to assess the organisation’s health and safety performance. (8)

July 2008

102


SECTION B This section contains five questions. Answer THREE questions only. All questions carry equal marks.




7 (a) Outline the principles, application and limitations of Event Tree

Analysis as a risk assessment technique. (6) (b) A mainframe computer suite has a protective system to limit the

effects of fire. The system comprises a smoke detector connected by a power supply to a mechanism for releasing extinguishing gas. It has been estimated that a fire will occur once every five years (f=0.2/year). Reliability data for the system components are as follows:

Component Reliability Detector 0.9 Power supply 0.99 Extinguishing gas release mechanism 0.95 (i) Construct an event tree for the above scenario to calculate the

frequency of an uncontrolled fire in the computer suite. (10)

(ii) Suggest ways in which the reliability of the system could be improved. (4)

8 (a) Outline the meaning and relevance of the following terms in the

context of controlling human error in the workplace: (i) ‘ergonomics’;

(ii) ‘anthropometry’;

(iii) ‘task analysis’. (6) (b) Excluding ergonomic issues, outline ways in which human reliability

in the workplace may be improved. In your answer, consider ‘individual’, ‘job’ and ‘organisational’ issues. (14)

9 (a) In relation to the improvement of health and safety within companies,

describe what is meant by: (i) corporate probation; (2)

(ii) adverse publicity orders; (2)

(iii) punitive damages. (2)

July 2008

103


(b) Outline the mechanism by which the International Labour

Organisation (ILO) can influence health and safety standards in different countries. (10)

(c) Describe what is meant by the term ‘self regulation’ in relation to

health and safety management within organisations. (4) 10 Outline, using appropriate examples, the possible functions of a health and

safety practitioner within a medium-sized organisation. (20) 11 A forklift truck is used to move loaded pallets in a large distribution

warehouse. On one particular occasion the truck skidded on a patch of oil. As a consequence the truck collided with an unaccompanied visitor and crushed the visitor’s leg.

(a) State reasons why the accident should be investigated. (4) (b) Assume that the initial responses of reporting and securing the scene

of the accident have been carried out. Outline the steps which should be followed in order to collect evidence for an investigation of the accident. (8)

(c) The investigation reveals that there have been previous incidents of

forklift trucks skidding which had not been reported. The company therefore decides to introduce a formal system for reporting ‘near miss’ incidents. Outline the factors that should be considered when developing and implementing such a system. (8)

July 2008

104


6.2 Unit IB sample paper: International control of hazardous agents in the workplace

THE NATIONAL EXAMINATION BOARD IN OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH INTERNATIONAL DIPLOMA IN OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY Unit IB: International control of hazardous agents in the workplace [DATE] 3 hours, 0930 to 1230 10 minutes reading time is allowed before the start of this examination. You may not write anything during this period. Answer both Section A and Section B

SECTION A This section contains six questions. Answer ALL SIX questions.

All questions carry equal marks.




1 A process in a textile mill produces high levels of heat and steam. (a) Identify FOUR parameters that could be measured when making an

assessment of the thermal environment stating in EACH case the name of an instrument that can be used to measure this parameter. (4)

(b) Outline the ways of reducing thermal stress amongst employees in

the textile mill, with reference to both the thermal environment AND other controls. (6)

2 A company is considering substituting a solvent it currently uses for one

that is thought to be more effective. Outline the health and safety information that should be evaluated before a decision is taken to make the change. (10)

July 2008

105


3 (a) The risk of contracting Leptospirosis is a concern to users of a local

water sports centre. Provide advice to these users which outlines: (i) the ill-health effects associated with this disease; (2)

(ii) why users might be at risk. (2) (b) Outline the practical steps that the centre’s instructors can take to

minimise the risks to themselves. (6) 4 Operatives on a food manufacturing production line have to pick up

rectangles of pasta from a delivery conveyor and place them into foil trays on a separate conveyor. This involves 8 hour shifts and is carried out standing in front of the conveyor.

Following complaints from a number of employees about pains in their arms

and shoulders you have been asked to carry out an ergonomic risk assessment for this operation and make recommendations.

(a) Outline the ergonomic risk factors to be taken into account when

making such an assessment, indicating how these may be contributing to the problems experienced by the employees in this situation. (5)

(b) Total automation of the process is not possible. Suggest other

control measures that could be taken to reduce the ill-health effects being experienced by employees. (5)

5 Outline the factors to consider when undertaking an assessment on the

moving and handling of patients in a hospital. (10) 6 (a) Outline, using a relevant example, why and how a retrospective case

control study is carried out. (5) (b) Outline factors that affect the reliability of this type of study. (5)

July 2008

106


SECTION B This section contains five questions. Answer THREE questions only.





7 A distribution company employs 300 employees as drivers, warehouse

operatives and office staff, processing telephone and internet orders.

(a) Identify the possible functions of the company’s occupational health department in this particular company:

(i) when recruiting new employees; (4)

(ii) when an employee returns to work after ill-health. (5)

(b) Outline other ways in which the occupational health department can assist the management team to improve health and safety within this organisation.

(You do not need to consider those functions you have already

addressed in part a). (11)

8 A slightly corrosive solution is used as a treatment in part of a manufacturing process. The solution is applied by hand brushing. Other methods of application have been found to be impracticable.

(a) Outline the factors that should be considered in the selection of

personal protective equipment (PPE). The equipment should ensure that the skin and the eyes of those involved in the process are adequately protected. (10)

(b) Identify the content of a training programme that will assist

employees to use the PPE correctly. (5) (c) List a range of practical measures (other than training) that can be

taken to encourage the use of the protective equipment and maintain its effectiveness. (5)

9 You have been asked by the Board of a multi-national bank to provide

advice on occupational stress. Prepare a briefing note for the Board of the bank that describes:

(a) the sources of information that may be used to assess the risk of high

levels of stress; (8)

July 2008

107


(b) the occupational factors that can contribute to the incidence of stress-

related problems amongst bank employees. (12) 10 A&B Printing Ltd operates a number of large printing machines producing

magazines for the retail trade. They recognise that exposure to noise is a problem for all operatives within the open plan print workshop and so the company plan to undertake a noise survey.

(a) Identify the different types of equipment that could be used to

measure exposure to noise, making reference to their respective features and roles in assessing noise exposure. (10)

(b) Following the noise survey the company decide to fit an acoustic

enclosure to one of the large printing machines. Outline the design features of such an enclosure. (10)

11 Describe, with the aid of diagrams, the features and principles of operation

of sampling equipment that could be used to collect the following airborne contaminants for subsequent quantitative analysis in a laboratory:

(a) total inhalable dust; (5) (b) respirable particulate; (5) (c) organic solvent vapour; (5) (d) asbestos fibres. (5)

July 2008

108


6.3 Unit IC sample paper: International workplace and work equipment safety THE NATIONAL EXAMINATION BOARD IN OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH INTERNATIONAL DIPLOMA IN OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY Unit IC: International workplace and work

equipment safety [DATE] 3 hours, 0930 to 1230 10 minutes reading time is allowed before the start of this examination. You may not write anything during this period. Answer both Section A and Section B

SECTION A This section contains six questions. Answer ALL SIX questions.





1 Outline: (a) the factors affecting the likelihood of an agricultural tractor

overturning; (6) (b) the measures that may be necessary to minimise the risk, or limit the

effects, of a tractor overturning. (4) 2 With the aid of labelled sketches, outline the characteristic features of, and

factors that promote, the following types of materials failure: (a) brittle failure; (5) (b) ductile failure. (5)

July 2008

109


3 (a) Outline the principles of an interlocked machine guard. (4) (b) Outline the principles of operation of trapped key control systems. (6) 4 The residents of a village have recently been affected by a fallout of dust on

their cars and property. They allege that the dust came from cement works situated a few miles away.

Outline the steps that should be taken by those responsible for the cement

works in order to investigate whether emissions from the works are the cause of the problem. (10)

5 With examples of actual incidents, describe the principles and effects of a

vapour cloud explosion. (10) 6 Outline the issues that should be included in a fire safety training session

for employees. (10)

SECTION B This section contains five questions. Answer THREE questions only.





7 Outline the advantages and limitations of the following types of fall

protection devices, giving a suitable application for each: (a) safety harnesses; (5) (b) safety belts; (5) (c) safety nets; (5) (d) air bags. (5) 8 Outline the design features and procedural arrangements that may need to

be considered in order to minimise risks associated with movement of vehicles in the workplace. (20)

July 2008

110


9 With respect to an electricity supply operating at 240v: (a) Outline the factors that determine the severity of the effects of an

electric shock. (6) (b) For each of the following protective devices describe their principles

of operation:

(i) residual current devices; (3)

(ii) fuses; (3)

(iii) 110v centre tapped to earth reduced voltage systems. (3) (c) Outline other design features of electrical systems intended to

improve safety. (5) 10 As part of its water treatment system, a manufacturer is to install a plant

suitable for the reception and storage of a strong acid and a strong alkali, both of which will be delivered in bulk tankers.

Outline the safety provisions required for the design, operation and

maintenance of the proposed plant. (20) 11 (a) Organisations may use a range of reactive and proactive strategies

for plant maintenance. Identify FOUR possible plant maintenance strategies AND outline the principles of EACH strategy. (10)

(b) Outline the factors that you would advise the Engineering

Department of an organisation to take into account in deciding on a maintenance strategy following the installation of an item of process plant. (10)

July 2008

111


6. Appendices Appendix 1: Role description of occupational health and safety practitioners Clearly communicated expert advice from appropriately qualified health and safety practitioners is an essential component in defining the safety, health and welfare policies of employers, ensuring that high standards of occupational health and safety are achieved and maintained. Health and safety practitioners are known by a variety of titles, from health and safety practitioner or adviser, through to health, safety and environmental director, reflecting varying demands and levels of responsibility. They work across the full spectrum of industry and commerce, and in organisations varying in size from multinational corporations to small consultancies. Occupational health and safety practitioners may work with directors, managers and team leaders to ensure that an organisation complies with relevant legislation as a minimum standard. Understanding and interpreting new legal requirements is often part of the practitioner’s role. The challenge for health and safety practitioners is to keep on top of legal and other developments and work out what the implications may be, well in advance of having to implement changes. Practitioners may also advise on priority-setting for health and safety programmes. The work of health and safety practitioners should complement the health and safety responsibilities of other managers. Practitioners may act in an advisory capacity on occupational health and safety management policy at board level. At managerial and supervisory level, health and safety practitioners may advise on the implementation of remedial measures suggested by risk assessments. Particular responsibilities may include the development of safe working systems and procedures, carrying out or supervising risk assessments and health surveillance programmes, or the development and delivery of training. Working proactively, practitioners strive to promote a culture of safe working within an organisation, aiming to enhance workforce attitudes towards health and safety. Occupational health and safety is very much a multi-disciplined profession, with practitioners specialising in, for example, ergonomics, risk management, safety auditing or occupational hygiene. Depending on the industry, they typically need to combine technical or scientific expertise with effective management, problem-solving and communication skills. It is part of every health and safety practitioner’s role to know when to call in external assistance on specialist matters beyond his or her normal remit. Not all health and safety practitioners work full-time from within an organisation. Competent and experienced safety and health consultants may advise small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) on health and safety management, perhaps in support of personnel who deal with basic health and safety issues in low risk areas on a part-time basis. Health and safety enforcement officers operate from a similar skills base to practitioners within commerce and industry, but with additional competencies relating to law enforcement.

July 2008

112


Appendix 2: The National Examination Board of Occupational Safety and Health (NEBOSH)

NEBOSH – The National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health – is a UK company limited by guarantee and a registered charity that was formed in 1979 as an independent examining board and awarding body. NEBOSH now offers a comprehensive range of vocationally-related qualifications designed to meet the health and safety training needs of all places of work in both the private and public sectors. NEBOSH publishes syllabuses for courses in occupational health and safety of two main types: a professional Diploma level – The NEBOSH International Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety – and a Certificate level – The NEBOSH International General Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety. NEBOSH also offers specialist qualifications - The National Diploma in Environmental Management, the Certificate in Fire Safety and Risk Management, the National Certificate in Construction Health and Safety and the International General Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety. NEBOSH sets and marks the examinations based on its syllabuses. The International Diploma is examined in December and July each year and also requires the satisfactory completion of an assignment. For the International General Certificate, ‘standard’ examinations are offered in March and September and ‘local’ examinations on any date required by accredited course providers. NEBOSH does not offer course providers but accredits centres (such as colleges and private training organisations) to offer programmes of study that prepare candidates for NEBOSH qualifications. As a recognised awarding body, NEBOSH assessment procedures are approved and monitored by the UK regulatory authorities (Ofqual, DCELLS and CCEA), to ensure that its awards meet rigorous quality standards and comply with the best practice of the assessment industry. NEBOSH maintains Investors in People (IIP) status and is also an ISO9001:2000 registered organisation. The NEBOSH Council includes nominees of the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH), bodies of Further and Higher Education, and private sector training organisations. Organisations that nominate independent members to the NEBOSH Council include the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), ENTO (formerly the Employment National Training Organisation), the Environment Agency (EA), the Confederation of British Industry (CBI), the Trade Union Congress (TUC), the International Federation of Health and Safety Groups and the International Institute of Risk and Safety Management (IIRSM). It also includes a recent Diploma graduate representing the interests of NEBOSH candidates. Strategic management of NEBOSH is overseen by a group of nine members of the NEBOSH Council known as the Directors and Trustees, including at least two members nominated by Colleges of Further and Higher Education and at least two members nominated by private sector course providers. The Directors and Trustees always include the Chairman and Vice-Chairman of the NEBOSH Council, and by custom and practice, the Chairman of the NEBOSH Council has always been the Chairman of the Directors and Trustees, thus ensuring effective co-ordination between the two.

July 2008

113


Appendix 3: The Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH)

Founded in 1945, the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) is a leading International professional body for health and safety practitioners. Membership is currently over 30,000. The Institution works to advance the health, safety and welfare of people at work, and those affected by work activities. Clearly communicated expert advice from qualified occupational health and safety practitioners is essential in defining employers’ health and safety policies, priorities and implementation strategies. But health and safety is not just the practitioner’s responsibility – it is part of everybody’s working life. IOSH is committed to promoting protection from workplace hazards at every level. The Institution works to promote excellence in the discipline and practice of occupational health and safety. It allows entry to appropriate categories of membership in recognition of technical and professional competence and experience, and provides facilities to maintain and enhance skills and knowledge. IOSH offers a range of support services and products to its members and affiliates: • A free technical enquiry service • A free monthly magazine (The Safety and Health Practitioner) • A biannual journal • Professional development courses and conferences • Health and safety training • A continuing professional development programme • Regional and specialist group networks, including one dedicated to international

members • Publications • A free legal helpline • Discussion forums on the IOSH web-site including one aimed at study support. Those studying for the NEBOSH International Diploma may find it useful to affiliate to the Institution. Affiliates may attend meetings of local IOSH branches, participate in seminars and conferences at discounted rates, use the technical helpline service and receive the monthly magazine, The Safety and Health Practitioner. The Institution of Occupational Safety and Health The Grange, Highfield Drive, Wigston, Leicestershire, UK, LE18 1NN tel: 0116 257 3100 fax: 0116 257 3101 email: [email protected] website: www.iosh.co.uk

July 2008

114

mailto:[email protected]



Appendix 4: Relationship of the International Diploma to the International General Certificate The NEBOSH International Diploma provides a mainstream professional qualification route for health and safety practitioners and is based on the NEBOSH National Diploma which is accredited by Ofqual, DCELLS and CCEA at Level 6 in the National Qualifications Framework (NQF). The NEBOSH International General Certificate (IGC) is a qualification for managers, supervisors and other non-specialists to enable them to discharge more effectively their organisational duties or functions with respect to occupational health and safety. It is based on the NEBOSH National General Certificate which is accredited at Level 3 in the National Qualifications Framework (NQF). It is not intended as a professional qualification for occupational health and safety practitioners. NEBOSH recognises that some holders of the NEBOSH International General Certificate may wish to progress to a professional qualification route, such as the NEBOSH International Diploma. While undertaking the IGC is not mandatory in order to enrol on the International Diploma, it is strongly recommended given the Diploma syllabus assumes knowledge equivalent to having undertaken such a programme of study. Information on the NEBOSH International General Certificate is available from the NEBOSH website (www.nebosh.org.uk) or on request. Holders of the International General Certificate who can demonstrate at least 5 years in a health and safety role are eligible to apply for entry to the grade of Technician (Tech IOSH) with the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH). The IGC also satisfies the eligibility requirements for Associate Membership of the International Institute of Risk and Safety Management (AIIRSM). Holders of the International Diploma may apply for Graduate membership (Grad IOSH) of the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH - www.iosh.co.uk), and on completion of a programme of Continual Professional Development (CPD) can achieve Chartered Safety and Health Practitioner status as a Chartered Member of IOSH (CMIOSH), the major UK professional body in the field. Chartered Member status reflects the competence demanded of professionals in health and safety management or leadership positions. The International Diploma is also accepted by the International Institute of Risk and Safety Management (www.iirsm.org) as meeting the academic requirements for full Membership (MIIRSM).

July 2008

115



http://www.iirsm.org/

Documents

Guide to the NEBOSH International Diploma in - JRL · PDF fileGuide to the NEBOSH International Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety Foreword The NEBOSH National Diploma in Occupational