Safe System of Work Plan for Construction of Buildings

SAFE SYSTEM OF WORKPLAN (SSWP)

SAFE SYSTEM OF WORKPLAN (SSWP)

NEW COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS PICTOGRAMS

NEW COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS PICTOGRAMS

SAFE SYSTEM OF WORK PLAN(SSWP)

NEW COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS

PICTOGRAMS

© Copyright The Health and Safety Authority May 2006. All Rights Reserved. “The Health and Safety Authority”, the “HSA” and associated logos are trade marks of The Health and Safety Authority.

Contents

Pictogram Explanations .......................4-53

Abbreviations Used .................................54

Index ...................................................55-57

Guidelines ...........................................58-60

Start Up and Ongoing Site & Planning Requirements

SUPERVISIONSupervision, generally by the person in charge(eg, the foreman), is essential to ensure theactivity is completed as planned, and to a safesystem of work.

SAFE PASSAs identified in the Construction Regulations, allpeople engaged in construction work must possessa current Safe Pass card, having successfullycompleted the one-day safe-pass training. SafePass cards must be renewed as appropriate. Proofof such training should be available on site.

PLANT/EQUIPMENT CERTIFICATIONIt is a legal requirement for most constructionplant to be tested and examined regularly, inparticular all lifting appliances and lifting gear.The certificates relating to these must be kept up to date.

CSCSThe Construction Skills Certification Scheme, asprescribed in the Construction Regulations,identifies certain skills on construction sites thatrequire mandatory training. On successfulcompletion of this training, persons are given aCSCS card. CSCS cards must be renewed asappropriate. Proof of such training should beavailable on site.

SAFE SYSTEM OF WORK PLAN – PICTOGRAMS

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INDUCTIONEvery new contractor or new employee on a siteshould undergo an induction when they firstarrive on site. This induction should inform theattendees about: site rules and procedures, thearrangements for their safety and welfare on site,who the key duty holders are.Emergency plans/procedures should be explainedat inductions (they must also be available inwriting), so that, if an incident occurs on site therisk of injury to workers and people in the vicinityis minimised. These measures must also deal withrescue. When developing the emergency plans, itmay be necessary to liaise with the localemergency services.

COMMUNICATIONTimely and good communication is essential at all times. Clear communication helps to ensurethat tasks are understood and completed in asafe manner.

WC & WASHINGToilets and a hand-washing facility must beprovided on all sites. The facility must include asufficient supply of hot or warm and cold runningwater, toilet tissue, soap and towels. The facilitymust be conveniently accessible and be keptclean and hygienic.

NEW COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS FORM

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CANTEENA facility must be provided for workers to takebreaks. Minimum requirements include: a facilityfor boiling water, tables with impermeablesurfaces, chairs with backs. It must be properlyventilated, have adequate light, kept in a clean,hygienic condition and should not be used forstoring building materials or plant.

DRYING/CHANGINGAn area, separate from the canteen facility, must be provided where workers can change and dry clothes.

DRINKING WATERAn adequate supply of wholesome drinkingwater must be provided at a convenient point (or points).

SMOKING CONTROLSmoking is prohibited in enclosed work places.

FIRST AIDFirst-aid equipment must be provided andmaintained, and be easily accessible. At least onefirst aider should be available if the site-specificSafety Statement risk assessment shows that thisis necessary. A trained first aider should generallybe available to all construction workers.


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GENERAL ACTIVITYThis section identifies the general set of controlsthat are likely to be required for most activitiescovered by this form. So no matter what trade oractivity you supply to the project e.g. mechanical,electrical, carpentry, painting, dry lining, roofing,frame erection and landscaping etc, this row ofcontrols must be reviewed before any hazardspecific controls are identified.

DRAWINGSAll planned work will generally be accompaniedby a set of drawings. In most cases wheredrawings have not being provided (eg, foralterations or rework), drawings should besought from the designers responsible. Thesedrawings should normally identify the sequenceand final position of constructed or installedequipment, components and materials, alongwith all other necessary information. It is alsorecommended that construction drawingsidentify notes about any relevant safetyprocedures/methods.

RISK ASSESSMENTEach activity on site needs to be risk-assessed, toidentify potential hazards (eg, working with liveelectricity, hazardous chemicals or at height,manual handling, etc). If there is risk of injury,appropriate controls must be put in place. If thehazard cannot be eliminated, the risk must bereduced as far as possible.


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METHOD STATEMENTBecause construction work is hazardous, detailedmethod statements/procedures that describe thesafe system of work, step by step, should bedeveloped for high-risk activities. Such activitiesneed to be suitably planned, organised andcontrolled. These procedures must be in writingand be communicated to all workers in alanguage that all can understand. The methodstatement should include at least the following:a) the schedule of responsibilities; b) details ofselected work methods; c) details of equipmentto be used; d) details of ancillary equipment; e) the name of appointed duty holders; and f) a complete plan setting out the sequence ofthe operation (from site preparation, arrival ofequipment on site, any necessary erection,positioning of equipment, lifting and placing ofload(s), and dismantling of equipment, to movingoff site). The plan must take account of allstructural and related surveys and drawings, etc.

HOUSEKEEPINGAll slip, trip and fall hazards must be removed sothat people can get safely to their place of work.A good housekeeping system must be adopted,so that everything has a place and is in its place.Excessive amounts of dust can cause eye andrespiratory irritation. Dust and muck are anuisance for workers and others in the vicinity.All traffic routes in public areas near constructionworks should be kept clear of muck. During dryperiods the routes should be dampened to keepdust down.


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ACCESS ROUTEThere must be safe routes to and from the placeof work.

GROUND CONDITIONSBefore scaffolding is erected, or where otherexternal access equipment is used, the ground mustbe prepared so that it can support the safe use ofsuch equipment and any other loads applied.

LIGHTINGPeople who need to go to or work in darkenedareas must have adequate lighting so they do notslip, trip or fall, or collide with projecting objects.

WORKING PLATFORMA working platform is an area that allows workat height to be carried out safely. It providesprotection and prevents a worker from falling toa lower level. Generally it is used to refer toscaffold platforms but, where scaffolds cannot beerected, it can also refer to other safe platformssuch as MEWPs, scaffold towers, etc.


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WARNING SIGNSWarning signs must be used across the site to alertworkers or others when they are approachinghigh-risk areas (eg, leading edges, excavations,and exclusion zones). Signs should also be used toconvey safety information (eg, ‘scaffold unsafe touse’). Signs must be placed at an appropriatelocation, and be clear and in a language that allworkers and people on site can understand. Signsshould always be complied with.

WEATHERBad weather can lead to unsafe workingconditions. In high winds or icy weather, it maybe necessary to cease work at height in exposedareas. Also, in high winds, loose materials mayneed to be removed or tied down to preventthem blowing or falling. Cranes must not beoperated in wind speeds that are in excess ofthose specified by the crane manufacturer. In hot sunny weather, sun protection must beconsidered, as well as the provision of drinkingwater to prevent dehydration.


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IN-SITU, PRECAST, STEEL WORK

This section highlights the main controls covering high-riskactivities associated with constructing superstructures, concretework, precast and steel-work erection.

PROPRIETARY WORKING PLATFORMThe manufacturers of the many types of proprietaryfalsework systems also supply associated workingplatforms, complete with safe ladder access,guard rails and toe boards, to help prevent fallsfrom height. When proprietary systems are used,the associated designed working platform mustalso be used. These platforms must be erected byfully trained personnel in accordance with themanufacturer’s recommendations. No contractorshould erect the system in a way that deviatesfrom the manufacturer’s recommendations unlessthe manufacturer or a competent designer hasgiven approval.

Where non-proprietary systems are used and workis carried out at height, workers must be protectedby properly designed fall-protection systems suchas working platforms complete with safe ladderaccess, scaffolds or mobile towers. Only as a lastresort should individual fall protection measuresbe used.


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PROPRIETARY EDGE PROTECTIONManufacturers of decking systems or form tablesalso supply associated edge-protection systems.These usually consist of uprights which clamponto beams, along with guard rails and toeboards. When these proprietary systems are used,the associated edge-protection systems must alsobe used. These systems must be erected by fullytrained personnel in accordance with themanufacturer’s recommendations.

Where non-proprietary systems are used andwork is carried out at height, workers must beprotected by properly designed edge and fallprotection systems such as working platformscomplete with safe ladder access, scaffolds ormobile towers. Only as a last resort shouldindividual fall-protection measures be used.

GUARD ALL OPESAll floor openings, as soon as they are created,must be covered or guarded to prevent falls.Normally this means surrounding the openingwith visible guardrails and toe boards that areanchored and fixed securely.

Where openings are covered, the covers must beof adequate strength and size and be firmlyfixed in position. These covers should identifywhat they are covering so that they are notinadvertently removed.


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STEEL FIXINGWhere possible, steel fixing should be organisedto prevent manual handling injury e.g. can thework be done at waist height on tables or otherraised platforms, so continual bending is notneeded? Where possible, the work should be pre-assembled at ground level and then lifted intoposition. Slips, trips and puncture injuries arerisks. Walking across steel mesh can be difficultand can result in injury. Storage areas should beset up and walkways created. Ply decking oversteel mesh may assist safe access. To prevent hand and eye injuries, goggles andgloves must always be worn.

CONCRETE POURWorking with wet cement and concrete canresult in dermatitis. To prevent skin coming intocontact with wet cement, overalls, gloves, highboots and goggles should be used.

CONCRETE POKERVibrating pokers are generally used to agitateand mix wet concrete. Frequent job rotation andmaintaining equipment in good order help toprevent vibration from causing ill effects. Gogglesand gloves should be used. When work is atheight, a properly erected working platformshould be used.


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STRIKINGWhen striking any system of formwork, tables,propping and boards, etc, all components should belowered or removed in a planned and systematicway. No loose boards should remain in place.When formwork is being removed close to theedge of a building, make sure that no worker risksfalling over the edge. A safe system of work mustbe put in place prior to commencing such work.

Particularly when it is windy, propping or deckingcomponents should be removed and placed indesignated storage immediately. Do not strike inheavy winds.

Storage of struck components must be planned toprevent trips or injuries due to protruding nails.

FORM TABLESWhen form tables are lifted from one level toanother, suitable lifting gear must be used.Proprietary table systems are normally lifted withthe associated proprietary lifting gear (eg, large‘C’ hooks). Such lifts will usually be coordinatedbetween the banksman and crane operator.When the tables are dropped and moved to theedge of the slab, make sure that no worker risksbeing hit by the table when it is moved off theslab’s edge. If chains are attached to assist thelift, the person attaching the chains must not beat risk from falls. Fall-protection measures mustbe used. When ‘flying tables’ (moving the tablesfrom one level to another), an exclusion zoneshould be created under the lift area. Form tablesshould not be lifted in heavy winds.


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TEMPORARY WORKSTemporary works refer to any site installationsneeded to facilitate the construction of permanentworks but which do not remain as part of thepermanent works. In this section, we areparticularly referring to falsework (ie, scaffoldingor other temporary structural support for concreteformwork). Temporary works generally requireformal design, and an appointed competenttemporary works coordinator will normallyoversee, coordinate and manage the process oftemporary works.

PROP SUPPORTSCare must be taken in selecting the appropriatemethod for propping formwork. Calculations anddecisions need to take account of such parametersas materials used, size, weight, space and locationof the formwork, etc. Structural engineeringadvice is normally required. Formwork andrelated propping must only be carried out in fullcompliance with the approved design.

TYPES OF PROPWhether it is propping to support formwork, or the support of a large steel or concretecomponent, selecting the appropriate props iscrucial. Competent structural engineering adviceis necessary.

Proprietary propping systems should not bemixed for the one application.


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MATERIALS DELIVERYTo assist in safe precast and steel erection, it isessential that the build components arrive on sitein the correct order for systematic and safe erection. To avoid site congestion, transportation of largestructural components to site must be carefullyplanned and not result in unsafe movements byvehicles or unsafe lifts that could result in workersor members of the public being injured.

SPREADER BEAMSSpreader beams, which spread the load beinglifted, are recommended for lifting long, largeobjects. As with all lifting gear, before they areused, the inspection and checks to be carried outshould include: a) ensuring that the load to belifted is within the safe working load (SWL) ofthe lifting gear and (b) ensuring that any defectsthat may reduce its capacity to function safely arerepaired. Lifting gear must be appropriatelycertified prior to use.

CLUTCHES AND RINGSTransport anchor systems can be used to liftprecast concrete units. Advice from a competentperson is required to ensure the proper selectionof the ring clutches for the anchors, and for theirsafe use.

PACKING PIECESWhen precast components are lifted with chains,packing pieces should be used to prevent damageto the chains when the chain links bend aroundsharp angles.


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TAG LINESWhen long loads (eg, shutters, steel sections, etc)are lifted, slingers should attach a rope or ‘tagline’ to one or both ends of the load so thatrotational movement may be controlled. Tag linescan assist precise orientation of components andcontrol their landing so that people in the areado not risk being struck.

EXCLUSION ZONEAs a general rule, no-one should work under anarea where loads are being lifted or within theworking radius of the jib. People should be kepta safe distance from working plant. Barriersshould be used where possible.

FIXINGS AND ANCHORSLoad-bearing connections, including use of anglebrackets and bolts, must be as specified by thedesign and have regard to the manufacturer’sspecifications. Bolts must be of suitable size andinserted to the required depth in the correctmanner, to the designed centre distances.

SLAB BEARINGSlab bearing must be sufficient to ensure that thecomponent is stable and not likely to crack, breakor shift during further construction works.Insufficient bearing may require the slab to bereplaced, or adequate propping may be neededuntil further reinforcement has been put in placeto render the slab safe. Any slab propping orremedial works require detailed design. A detailedmethod statement must be prepared to enablesuch works to be planned and carried out safely.A temporary works coordinator should manageand oversee such works.


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COMMUNICATIONPrecast, in-situ concrete work and steel erectioninvolve specialists working together, including theerection gangs, banksman, and crane operator.These teams must be in constant communicationto ensure the tasks are completed safely.

SAFETY LINESSafety lines are set up in conjunction with individualfall-protection systems. These are a last option,only to be used when collective measures cannotbe used. The lines are set up to enable individualswearing full fall-arrest or fall-restraint equipmentto get close to leading edges. Each componenton the line must be inspected prior to use: itmust be able to bear any applied load. Thesemeasures prevent injury and save lives; onlycompetent people should set them up.

SLAB SAFETY ANCHORTo ensure the safety of the precast erectionteam, precast floor slabs must be laid in asystematic pattern that facilitates the use ofcollective fall-arrest systems, so that workers donot risk falling over the consistent leading edge.Anchors must be designed and planned tofacilitate safe slab erection.

All anchors used must be specified by a competentdesigner. Clear and complete information mustbe given to the contractor who is to install them.


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SAFE ACCESSTo facilitate the safe erection of steel work atheight, safe access must be provided. Thisgenerally involves using Mobile Elevating WorkPlatforms (MEWP). The operators fully control themovement of the MEWP. People working fromthese platforms should keep their feet firmly onthe floor of the platform. Harness and lanyardshould be worn and attached to an approvedanchor point in the platform.

NETS/BEAN BAGSSafety nets should be used to protect workerscarrying out high-level work on portal frames.Safety nets, bean bags and air bags should alsobe considered for other roof-work applicationswhere there is a risk of falling internally. Beforeuse these nets and bags should be inspected,tested and certified. They must be installed bycompetent and fully trained people.

FALL-ARREST AND RESCUEFall-arrest systems should be used in conjunctionwith a rescue plan. Safety harnesses with a fall-arrest system (including other components such aslanyard, shock absorber and anchors) are used toprevent a person from hitting the ground in theevent of a fall. Safety harnesses and personal fall-arrest equipment are not a substitute for workingplatforms or collective protection such as safetynets. Each component in the fall-arrest systemmust be inspected before use. It is recommendedthat a competent person examine the systemformally at regular intervals (depending on a riskassessment) and at least every three months.


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WORKING AT HEIGHT AND FALLING OBJECTS

SCAFFOLDINGScaffold platforms should where possible be usedas working platforms for all work at height and inparticular for all works above two metres. Thescaffold platform must be designed, planned anderected by trained personnel, in accordance withall relevant legislation, codes of practice andmanufacturer’s instructions. Scaffolds shouldinclude dedicated ladder access bays and, whererequired, properly constructed loading bays. Hand-over certificates and the use of relevant signage(eg, capacity of loading bays) are recommended.

LOADING BAYSMaterials must be stored on platforms designedto take the applied loading. Material must not beplaced in areas where it could present a hazard(eg, stored on working platforms so as to restrictsafe access around the scaffolds). All externalscaffolds used for commercial building should bedesigned with adequate loading bays.

SLAB LOADING BAYFor safe movement of materials in and out ofcompleted slabs, special loading bins whichcantilever in and out can be used. These slabloading bays must be erected by competentpersons to the manufacturer’s requirements. The maximum load capacity should be clearlymarked on each loading bay.


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LADDER ACCESSAll ladder access must be erected by competentpeople who will ensure: adequate length ofladder, tying and footing, lack of defects. Accessonto and egress off ladders must be such thatworkers do not have to cross large gaps throughwhich they could fall before they have a firmhandhold on the ladder.

SAFE LADDERAll ladders, including step ladders, must be:carefully selected for each task, free from patentdefects, of correct length, carefully tied, set atthe correct angle and, where necessary, footed.Ladders must be controlled and checked frequentlyto ensure they are fit to use.

TIE LADDERAll ladders must be tied or footed so that, whenin use, they will not slip or slide.

ROOF LADDERRoof ladders should always be used on slopingroofs. They should be used in conjunction withproperly constructed scaffold platforms. Roofladders must be CE-marked (see list of abbreviationsat end) and free from defects. Roof laddersshould reach and anchor around the ridge.


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A-FRAME LADDERA-frame ladders should not be used close toleading edges, or over or close to internal openingswhere workers risk falling. When in use, they musthave their restraint cord fully extended, to preventthe ladder from splaying open. A-frame laddersshould only be used where using a safe workingplatform is impractical. They should not be usedas a support for planks to create a work platform.

STILTSStilts should not be used near internal openingsor leading edges, where the ground is uneven, orwhere there is rubbish or debris on the ground.Stilts should only be used in limited situations,where sufficient controls are in place to preventthe likelihood of any falls occurring. They mustalways be kept clean and inspected before use toensure the soles and ties are in good condition. Itis highly recommended that an assist person bealways in the work area so that bending,frequent descents or overstretching are avoided.

TRESTLESTrestle work platforms should not be used closeto leading edges or to span open holes. They mustonly be erected by competent persons, be freefrom defects and be suitable for their purpose.Only ‘locating pins’ which the manufacturerrecommends should be used, and care must betaken to insert these correctly. The trestle legsmust be on firm foundations so they are notlikely to slip or shift. The platform level must befully boarded and not overloaded.


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EDGE PROTECTIONAll people must be protected from falling offedges, through hazardous openings or off stairs.Protection measures include handrails, barriers,and toe boards, etc.

STAIR PROTECTIONPeople must not be at risk of falling from or overstair edges or landings. Suitable handrails andbarriers must be erected to prevent falls.

MOBILE SCAFFOLDMobile scaffolds or tower scaffolds must becarefully planned and erected by trainedpersonnel in accordance with the manufacturer’sinstructions. The spread of the out-riggers fittedto each corner of the scaffold depends on theheight of the tower. When in use the tower mustbe secured, and each wheel brake locked. Theplatform must be fully boarded, and be completewith mid rails and top guardrails. Before theplatform is moved to another location, workersmust descend from the tower. They must notresume work until it has been secured in its newposition. The mobile scaffold must be inspectedbefore use to ensure it is in good working order(eg, the wheel brakes) and that all componentsare in place.


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FALL PROTECTIONBlocks from the inside of a structure at upper levelsshould never be laid unless there is scaffolding orother edge protection on the outside of thestructure – all overhand work must be avoided.

MEWP (Mobile Elevating Work Platforms)A boom hoist, which has an extendable foldingboom with cage attached, can be used for workat height if ground conditions are suitable. Boomhoists can also be used to enable access to remoteareas. Selection must be based on suitability forthe task. Particular attention should be given toground conditions. It should be possible to followfully the manufacturer’s guidelines for safe use.Only competent and trained operators shouldcontrol the movement of these hoists. Othervehicles should be strictly controlled in thevicinity of hoists.Scissors lifts which can extend to significantheights, using hydraulic scissors movement, may beused where scaffold platforms are not possible.Selection must be based on suitability for the task.Particular attention should be given to groundconditions. The manufacturer’s guidelines for safeuse should be followed. Only competent andtrained operators should control their movement.

GOODS/PERSON HOISTHoists may be used either to carry goods alone orto carry goods and people. Such hoists are normallyattached to the side of buildings and are designedto have controlled and safe landings at each floorlevel. Hoists will need on occasion to be raised or


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lowered as the level of the building changes.Before the hoist is first used, or if it is modified orrepaired, a competent person must test or examineit, or both, so that legal requirements are compliedwith. The results of such tests or examinationsmust be entered onto the approved forms.

MAST CLIMBERMast climbers, like hoists, are normally attachedto the side of buildings and are designed to havecontrolled and safe access. The mast climbershould only be used on firm and level surfaces,within the tolerances specified by the manufacturer.At the base of the mast climber there should bean enclosure at ground level to prevent anyunauthorised people from entering the landingzone. Before the hoist is first used, or if it ismodified or repaired, a competent person musttest or examine it, or both, so that legalrequirements are complied with. The results ofsuch tests or examinations must be entered ontothe approved forms. No-one should erect, dismantleor operate a mast work platform unless trainedand authorised to do so.

NETS/BEAN BAGSPeople working in roof areas that have internalopenings (eg, portal framed structures) can beprotected by the use of safety nets. Safety nets,bean bags and air bags should also be consideredfor other roof work applications where there is arisk of falls. Before use these safety nets and bagsshould be tested, inspected and certified. Theymust be installed by competent, trained people.


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SHAFTS/OPESAll shaft openings where there is a risk of fallsshould be securely guarded with guard rails, midrail and toe board or equivalent.

PROPPINGPropping is required during the constructionstages of a project to give temporary support toprevent collapse due to overloading of structuralcomponents (eg, when loading pallets of block orother materials on joist work, when installingprecast slabs and stairs, etc). The contractor mustensure that the number and location of the props– as specified by the designer (generally astructural engineer) – are correct and that theunits are supported as indicated on theconstruction drawings. Normally a temporaryworks co-ordinator should be appointed toensure that correct propping procedures arefollowed and operations carried out safely.

BLOCKWORK COURSESLaying too many courses of blocks in one day cancause a wall to collapse. Weather conditions andthe drying time of mortar should be taken intoaccount.

OVERHEAD WORKAll workers should make sure before they startworking that no work is taking place above them.


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EXCLUSION ZONEWork should never take place directly aboveother workers. Where overhead work is likely tooccur, adequately sized exclusion zones should becreated to ensure that no-one is at risk fromfalling objects.

LIFTING POINTS/EYESAll lifting points and lifting eyes must be carefullydesigned to take the maximum load that is to beapplied. They should be certified and tested bythe manufacturer prior to arriving on site. Liftingeyes, which are often cast into floor slabs, mayserve a dual purpose: for the lift itself, and foraiding a system of fall protection (eg, use ofsafety lines, lanyards, etc). When complete, theseeyes should be removed by cutting. Otherwisethey will serve as potential trip points.

PALLETS/BALESWhere possible, materials should be kept onpallets or in bales with adequate strapping toensure they do not fall when being lifted.

BLOCK GRABS AND NETSBlock grabs are considered to be lifting gear.Before use, they must be in good working orderand attached correctly to the relevant liftingappliance. When in use, an appropriate net mustbe used to prevent the fall of any loose blocks.


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CHUTESChutes should be used for discarding materials.Materials should never be thrown from scaffoldingor windows, etc. The chute should extend downinto a waste skip. Exclusion zones should alwaysbe created in the area where constructionmaterials and debris are dropped.

SHEETING/FANSSheeting should be used to enclose scaffoldingon its public side to prevent loose materials fromfalling on to members of the public. Fans shouldbe erected on the scaffold to supplement thesheeting. These measures are particularlyimportant where the scaffolding fronts on to apublic access way.

STORAGEAll materials should be stored where they cannotfall on to workers below. Materials should be kepttidy and stable. All access routes must be keptclear. Working platforms should not be clutteredor blocked with materials. There must always beadequate space for safe access. All loose materialsshould be removed on an ongoing basis.


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PLANT AND EQUIPMENT, LIFTING OPERATIONS

SELECTION/SUITABILITYBefore any piece of plant is selected and used, itmust be checked for its suitability for the task(eg, safe working loads, accessories available,reach capability, etc). When plant such asdumpers and bulldozers are being bought orused, the potential risks to workers fromvibration emissions must be considered.

TELEPORTERThe teleporter must be suitable for the task.Before use, it must be checked for appropriatecertification and fitness for use. Teleportersshould be serviced regularly.

FORKS CLAMPChains and slings must not be wrapped aroundthe forks of a teleporter when used to lift a load.When chains or slings with forks are used, suitablefork clamps should also be used, with the chain orsling suspended from a suitable hook or shackle.

FORKS EXTENSIONChains and slings must not be wrapped aroundthe forks of a teleporter when used to lift a load.When loads are being lifted, the forks should beremoved and a crane extension with hook orshackle should be used.


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LOCKING ATTACHMENTSAncillary equipment used in connection with anyconstruction plant must at all times be secured(eg, quick hitch with bucket or rock breaker toexcavator, etc). This may require the insertion oflocking pins, to prevent dropping of the attachment.

CONCRETE PUMPConcrete pumping rigs must be maintained andserviced regularly (this includes checks on outriggers,etc). Special care must be taken when working inthe vicinity of overhead lines.

PUMP CONNECTIONSEach pipe connection on the pumping rig must besecured with the correct clip. The manufacturer’srecommendations should be followed.

GROUND CONDITIONSThe ground on which any plant is to be usedshould be examined to ensure that it is capableof taking the applied loads. Expert advice may be necessary.

MIXERCement mixers must be maintained in goodworking order and regularly serviced. Theyshould be set up on firm, level ground and notbe mounted on blocks. The starter handle shouldbe stored after use. Only trained personnelshould set up, start and operate cement mixers.Anyone working with wet cement should weargloves to reduce the risk of dermatitis.


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REVERSE WARNING DEVICESWith plant that has restricted visibility, andparticularly during reversing operations, suitablewarning devices or sight-seeing devices – such asCCTV, flashing beacons, convex mirrors, audiblewarning, etc – must be fitted.

TRAFFIC/SPEED CONTROLTraffic-control plans must be prepared to helpcontrol traffic movement, especially at theentrance to any construction site. Measures tocontrol traffic may include: use of warning signs,bollards, stop-go systems, ramps, temporarytraffic lights, flagmen and stop-go men. Liaisonwith local gardaí may also be necessary. TheDepartment of the Environment’s Traffic SignsManual should be referred to.

Vehicular speeds must be controlled on constructionsites. Signs advising drivers of permitted speedsmust be erected and displayed appropriately.

SEAT BELTSWhere seat belts are fitted they must be worn. Inthe event of an overturn they can save lives.

COMPOUNDA designated area should be fenced off forparking vehicles and storing materials. A safepedestrian walkway should be clearly markedout. At the end of the day, the compound mustbe secured to prevent unauthorised access.


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PEDESTRIAN ROUTESAll pedestrians – whether workers or members ofthe public – should be kept away from constructionplant operations. Dedicated and clearly identifiedpedestrian routes should be used.

FLAGMAN/STOP-GO MANWhere construction activity requires the managingof traffic or pedestrians in nearby public areas,trained flagmen (to slow down traffic) or trainedstop-go men are used to ensure safety. Stop-go menand flagmen must wear high-visibility vests anduse approved stop-go signs or flags. Where twostop-go men are required, they must be able to seeeach other clearly or be able to communicate witheach other by voice e.g. use of 2 way radio etc..

BANKSMANA banksman (a trained slinger and signaller) mustalways be used where loads are lifted and safedirection is given to operators of lifting appliances.The banksman directing a crane’s movementsshould be easily identifiable to the crane driver(eg, by the wearing of uniquely identifiable high-visibility clothing, and/or the use of radio call signs).

COMMUNICATIONGood communication is essential for safe lifting,whether between crane operator and banksman,or between the operator of any lifting appliance(eg, a teleporter) and the person receiving theload. If normal verbal communication is notpossible because of noise or distance, recognisedhand signals, two-way radio, telephone or closed-


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circuit television should be used, as appropriate.Any communication must be clearly understandableand given in the language of the person beingaddressed.

CRANE COORDINATIONTo ensure that the safe system of work isimplemented, one person should be appointed tohave overall control of the crane operation(s).This person should have the necessary trainingand experience to fulfil this role. Thecoordinator’s duties include: planning, ensuringthat ground supports are adequate, selectingcranes and lifting gear, and preparing anymethod statements required. Crane coordinationis particularly important where two or morecranes are working in close proximity. In suchcases, strict controls must be implemented (anddocumented) to ensure that the cranes or theirloads do not come into contact.

PLAN LIFTAll lifting operations should be planned to ensure that they are carried out in a safe manner.Generally a method statement should be preparedin advance of the operation.

SAFE WORKING LOAD (SWL)Lifting appliances and lifting gear should neverbe used to lift beyond their stated safe workingload. This, as assessed by a competent person, isthe maximum load that an item of liftingequipment may raise, lower or suspend under the particular service conditions.


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CHECK LIFTING GEARLifting gear means any gear or cable by which aload can be attached to a lifting appliance. Itincludes chain sling, rope sling, hook, shackle oreye bolt. Before lifting gear is used it must beexamined to check for safe working load (SWL)and so that defects, which may reduce its capacityto function safely, are repaired. Lifting gear mustbe certified prior to use.

GLAZING/SUCTIONWhere glazing is lifted into place by suction liftingdevices, such attachments must be regularlyinspected to ensure that adequate suction ismaintained over the required period.

LOAD STABILITYThe load must be checked to ensure that it isstable and properly secured to the liftingappliance before lifting begins.

SKIPS/BINSAll skips and bins must be appropriate for thetask. If used as lifting gear when attached tolifting appliances, all lifting lugs and lifting eyesmust have their safe working load (SWL) clearlyvisible. The SWL must always be checked beforelifting commences. When used as lifting gear,such bins and skips must be certified.


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CONCRETE SKIPSWhen concrete is discharged from concrete skips,care must be taken to use the appropriatedischarge handle, and hands must be kept awayfrom any other moving or pinch points.

Ride-on concrete skips are not recommended, andshould only be used if providing a safe workingplatform is not practicable. When ride-on concreteskips are used, extreme care must be taken toprevent the operator being thrown out of the skipdue to recoil of the crane’s jib after the load isdischarged, etc. Operators must use a fall-arrestsystem that is secured to a certified anchor point.

STILLAGESAll stillages must be of good design andconstruction. All loads that are to be lifted withstillages must be well secured prior to lifting (eg,double wrap with a cloth strop). In general, a testlift should be carried out (the operator may liftthe load just clear of the ground to assess boththe security of the slinging and the load stabilitybefore completing the lift).

OVERHEAD LINESBurns and electrocution can result if raised tipper-truck bodies, cranes or excavators touch or comeclose enough to overhead power lines to causearcing. The operators of high-reach machines,including delivery lorries and lorry loaders etc.must pay particular attention to the position ofany live overhead lines, and always remain at asafe distance from them. Warning goal postsshould be erected a safe distance either side ofthe lines. Any passing plant must only access


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under the lines via the goal posts. The exposedlengths of the overhead lines must be guardedfrom unapproved access. (See ESB Guidelines forfurther information).

REMOTE CONTROLTo prevent unauthorised use, the driver of a cranecontrolled by transmitted signals should either (a)always retain the transmitter or key in his or herpossession or (b) remove the key when the crane isnot in use and, for short periods, retain the key inhis or her possession, or, for longer periods,deposit the transmitter or key in safe storage.When the controller is fitted with a belt orharness, the operator should be wearing theharness before switching it on, so that accidentaloperation of the crane is prevented. The controllershould be switched on only when the crane isbeing operated, and should be switched off beforethe harness is removed. In the event of loss ofpower during the operation, the crane should befitted with a cut-out mechanism that halts thecrane’s movements until control is re-established.The controller must be maintained so that itperforms as specified by the manufacturer.

EXAMINATION & INSPECTIONA competent person is required to examine andinspect statutory plant and equipment. Anydefects must be noted and remedial action torepair the plant should take place immediately,or the plant should be replaced. A report of theinspection/examination should be recorded onthe approved form.


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HAND-HELD EQUIPMENT

SELECTION/SUITABILITYBefore any electrically powered hand tool orother hand-held equipment is selected and used,it must be checked for its suitability to the task(eg, voltage rating, size and condition, etc). Whenhand-operated power tools such as grinders, sawsand drills are being bought or used, considerationmust be given to the potential risks to workersfrom vibration emissions.

VOLTAGEAll portable electric tools rated below twokilowatts that are used on construction sites must be rated at 110V.

CHECK CABLEBefore any electric appliance (including transformersand extension reels) is used on site, the cables andconnectors attached must be examined to ensurethat they are not damaged.

CABLE PROTECTIONTrailing electric cables which would risk beingdamaged because of their position must beprotected from such damage, or else they shouldbe placed in a safe location.


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GUARDSMany hand/portable tools have rotating shaftsand components. Others emit fragments, dustand sparks. Such tools must have suitable guardsfitted (eg, circular saw guards, power-take-offshaft guards, etc).

GENERATORS OUTSIDETo avoid the silent killer, petrol and diesel-drivengenerators must always be used outdoors toavoid the deadly effects of the build-up of carbonmonoxide from exhaust gases.

COMPRESSOR & WHIP CHECKSCompressors must be maintained and servicedregularly. All connections and flexible hosingmust be in good condition and replaced ifdamaged. All guards must be secured beforestarting, so that no rotating pulleys or belts areexposed. ‘Whip checks’ (safety clips) should beused at connections on all pneumatic hose lines.This control prevents the hose from whippingaround in the event of the connection failing.The safety clips must all be inspected prior to thecompressor being turned on. Alternatively,automatic cut-off valves may be used.

JACK HAMMER/KANGOTo reduce and eliminate the risk of ill health dueto vibration, jack hammers and kangos must beserviced regularly and maintained in goodcondition. Jack hammers should not be used forlong periods. Workers may be rotated to other tasksto reduce exposure time and prevent vibration-


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related ill health. Workers using jack hammersand kangos and anyone likely to remain in theimmediate vicinity should wear ear defenders.

DUST SUPPRESSIONTools and equipment which generate dust cloudsshould be fitted with extraction or wetting aids.

CARTRIDGE TOOLSUse of cartridge tool guns and staplers requirescareful planning, to assess what will be fired into,and who or what may be behind the target.People should be kept a safe distance from thefiring zone. Whoever uses these tools shouldalways wear goggles and ear protection. Suchtools must be maintained in good working order,and should be operated only by trained persons.

PAINT SPRAYERSpray-painting equipment must be set up inaccordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines. Itshould undergo regular service and maintenancechecks. To prevent others coming into contactwith spray products, exclusion zones need to beset up. The Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) for any hazardouspaints and solvents used should be available toeach team of painters. Handling and storageprecautions outlined in these SDSs must beadhered to. Appropriate PPE (personal protective equipment)must be used.


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HOT WORKSWelders and flame cutters must only be used bycompetent, qualified persons. Suitable PPE(personal protective equipment) must be providedand used. A fire extinguisher and sand bucketalong with appropriate screens must be readilyavailable during cutting and welding. In manysituations where hot working is used, a permit-to-work system should apply to prevent the riskof fire and explosion.

For welding, local exhaust systems should beconsidered to remove fumes from the breathingzone. If the welding is carried out in a confinedspace or if the welding zone becomes a confinedspace because of the set-up, extra controls arerequired (see section dealing with ConfinedSpace below).

GAS/FLAME ARRESTERGas bottles must always be stored upright, andchained to prevent falling. Flash-back arrestersmust be used on gas bottles. All flexible hosingand connections should be checked daily, and anydamaged parts replaced prior to use.

CON SAWConsaws, which are widely used on constructionsites, must be maintained in good working orderand regularly serviced. Guards must be in place atall times. Appropriate PPE (personal protectiveequipment) must be used.


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ANGLE GRINDERAngle Grinders must be maintained in goodworking order and regularly serviced. Guardsmust be in place at all times. Appropriate PPE(personal protective equipment) must be used.

POWER FLOATINGPower floating is the process of levelling concretefloors. Power-floating equipment should beregularly serviced to ensure it is in good workingorder. Damaged or worn handgrips should bereplaced immediately. All guards must be kept inplace. If power-floating takes place close to openedges, adequate edge protection must be provided.

MAINTENANCEAll construction equipment should undergoregular service and maintenance checks, toensure continued fitness for use. It is goodpractice to keep written records of suchmaintenance checks.

REPLACE DAMAGED PARTSAll equipment should be checked before use, and any damaged parts must be replaced beforework begins.


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SERVICES (including electricity, gas, sewage)Before any construction work, it is necessary toensure that existing services such as gas, electricity,water and sewers are secured, so that, because ofworks being undertaken, they do not pose a riskto workers or people in the vicinity. Adequatemeasures must be taken to protect workers.

SERVICE SUPPLIER (eg, ESB, Bord Gais, local authority)Where construction work is to begin and servicesare unknown, the relevant utility company must becontacted to obtain drawings and advice on theposition of underground and overhead services.

DIVERT/OFFBefore work near overhead or underground cables,gas services or other underground services begins,the relevant utility company must be asked todivert the service away from the work zone, or ifnecessary to switch off or stop the service temporarilyto allow work to proceed safely. Contact withoverhead lines can kill. Never erect scaffolding orsimilar structures close to or under live overheadlines. Never work close to, or access close to, orunder live overhead lines.

DETECTOR AND MARKBefore drilling or cutting begins, the area shouldbe scanned with a detector to verify the positionof any services. The position of the service shouldbe carefully marked, to ensure that subsequentwork does not come into contact with it.


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PERMIT TO WORKTo ensure that appropriate controls are rigidlyadhered to when high-risk work (eg, with liveelectricity or biological agents) is being carriedout, a permit-to-work system should be used. This ensures that works do not begin until all thesafety and environmental controls are in place,and signed off.

HAND DIGMechanical cutting or digging at or close tounderground services is generally not permittedexcept in limited circumstances and only understrict supervision. Such services are normallyuncovered or made visible by controlled handdigging, to minimise the risk of cutting orpuncturing the service. However, care should betaken during hand digging, as this can also resultin cutting services and exposing live conductors.Normally only when all lines are clearly visibleshould mechanical digging commence.Consideration may also be given to having arepresentative of the relevant utility companypresent when work takes place close tounderground services.

ISOLATION/LOCK OUTWhere electrical power remains live, andsubsequent work is required (including live work),isolation and tagging-off systems (includingpermit-to-work systems) should be used. Allelectrical work must be closely supervised bytrained and competent electricians. The ElectricityRegulations and the ETCI rules must be fullycomplied with.


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BARRIERSWhere services have been uncovered or madevisible, and remain visible or are insufficientlybackfilled, suitable barriers should be erected at asufficient distance around the service area to protectand warn drivers of plant and others of the danger.

NO FLAMESGas is highly flammable. Flame or any sources ofignition (sparks, static electricity, etc) must bekept away from live gas.

OVERHEAD LINESWorking close to, or accessing under live overheadlines with plant and equipment that have thepotential to extend to, or operate close to such linescan be dangerous. Measures must be put in place toensure that high reach plant does not come intocontact or come within the arcing distance of liveoverhead lines. Warning goal posts should be erectedat a safe distance either side of the lines and anyplant requiring access under these lines must ensurethat they pass via the goal posts. The exposedlengths of the overhead lines must be guarded fromunapproved access. Refer to the ESB Guidelines forfurther information.

WORKING CLOSE TO THE PUBLIC

FENCINGConstruction activity should not present an unduerisk to members of the public, especially to children.Suitable fencing must be used to secure sites.


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HOARDINGParticularly on street-side works, adequatelydesigned and constructed hoarding should beerected to secure construction work. Arrangementsmust be put in place to ensure that normalpedestrian and public vehicular traffic is not putat undue risk, as a result of any changes made.

BARRIERSAll ongoing works – in particular street-relatedactivities, open excavations, exposed manholes,etc – must be protected with barriers andidentified with warning signs.

WARNING SIGNSPeople approaching construction work must begiven advance warning, especially where specifichazards exist. Warning signs must be erected and,where necessary, must give clear directions topassing members of the public.

SECURITYOnly authorised people should be allowed ontoconstruction sites. Trained security personnel canhelp to control access.


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TRAFFIC CONTROLTraffic-control plans must be prepared, to helpcontrol traffic movement especially at theentrance and exit of any construction site. Thesemay include warning signs, bollards, stop-gosystems, ramps, temporary traffic lights, stop-gomen and flagmen. Liaison with local gardaí mayalso be necessary. The Department of theEnvironment’s Traffic Signs Manual should bereferred to.

FLAGMAN/STOP-GO MANWhere construction activity requires themanaging of traffic or pedestrians in nearbypublic areas, trained flagmen (to slow downtraffic) or trained stop-go men are used to ensuresafety. Stop-go men and flagmen must wearhigh-visibility vests and use approved stop/gosigns or flags. Where two stop-go men arerequired, they must be able to see each otherclearly or be able to communicate with eachother by voice e.g. use of 2 way radio etc.

BANKSMANA banksman (a trained slinger and signaller) mustalways be used where loads are lifted, and safedirection is given to operators of lifting appliances.

LIGHTINGAdequate lighting must be provided in darkenedareas to prevent people from slipping, tripping,falling or being hit by projecting objects.


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PEDESTRIAN WAYSWhere members of the public have to access closeto, or around construction work, suitable saferoutes must be provided to protect them.Consideration must be given to people withdisabilities. Construction debris must be kept clearfrom such public areas. Muck, dust, trip hazards,protruding puncture objects and objects likely tofall, etc, must be removed. Where reinstatementis required, it must be completed without delay.

DUST/MUCKExcessive amounts of dust can cause eye andrespiratory irritation. In general, dust and muckare a nuisance for both workers and others in thevicinity. All traffic routes in public areas nearconstruction works should be kept clear of muck.During dry periods the routes should bedampened to keep dust down.

HANDOVER CONTROLWhen units are handed over to their owners, theremust be controls in place to ensure that the newresidents are not affected by ongoing constructionwork. These units must be segregated fromadjacent construction work by adequate fencingand separate traffic routes, where possible.Where it is not possible to have separate accessroutes, adequate traffic-control measuresincluding reduced speeds must be operated.

VISITOR CONTROLAll visitors to a construction site need to beregistered as being on site and accompanied ontheir visit around the site.


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MANUAL HANDLING Manual handling means more than just lifting orcarrying something. It describes a range of activitiesincluding lifting, lowering, pushing, pulling,carrying, moving, supporting or holding an objector person. Up to one-third of all work injuries areinjuries due to manual handling activity.The manual handling regulations require thatmanual handling activities should be assessedtaking account of risk factors (unfavorableergonomic conditions) and that appropriatecontrol measures should be put in place to avoidor reduce the risk of injury.

RISK ASSESSMENTEach activity on site needs to be risk-assessed toidentify whether there is a manual-handlinghazard present. If there is, appropriate controlsmust be put in place to eliminate the risk. If thehazard cannot be eliminated, the risk must bereduced to as low a level as possible.

MECHANICAL AIDSMechanical aids are devices used to lift, pull orpush objects, which either eliminate the need tomanually handle the object or reduce the manualhandling required.

WORK ORGANISATIONWork organisation requires that the method ofphysical work be assessed to see whether it canbe organised in such a way as to minimise oreliminate the need for manual handling.


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TRAININGManual-handling training is a legal requirementfor anyone required to carry out manual-handlingoperations at work. Workers are trained how tomove loads so that they do not risk injury.

PPE (personal protective equipment)Personal protective equipment protects individuals from harmwhen all other methods have been employed to eliminate risk.PPE is a last resort. It should be maintained at all times in goodworking order. The PPE listed below must conform to therelevant Irish Standard.

HELMET/BOOTSafety helmets/hard hats are used to protect thehead from falling objects and from striking offobjects. They should be replaced periodically.

Workers using safety harnesses should wear ahelmet with a secure chin strap to keep it on thehead in the event of a fall.

Safety boots are required on all building sites.They should have steel toecaps and sole protectionto prevent the toes from being crushed and anyobject from penetrating the sole.

EYE PROTECTIONEye protection in the form of glasses/goggles orvisors protects the eyes from flying objects, dustand splashes (eg, when grinding and cutting).


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SAFETY GLOVESSafety gloves protect the hands from cuts andfrom contact with harmful substances and sharpobjects, etc.

EAR PROTECTIONEar protectors help to protect hearing from loudsudden noise or from continuous loud noise.There are two action levels. Where noiseexposure is at or exceeds 80 dBA, individualhearing protectors must be made available.Where noise exposure is at or exceeds 85 dBA,individual hearing protectors must be madeavailable and must be used. There is also a limitvalue set at 87 dBA which must not be exceeded.The limit value takes account of the attenuationprovided by hearing protectors worn by theworker. The action values do not take account ofthe effect of such protectors. Where riskassessment reveals that noise exposure is a risk tothe worker’s health, audiometric testing (hearingcheck) will have to be made available.

In dirty and dusty environments, earmuffs are therecommended form of ear protection.

HI-VISIBILITY VESTHi-visibility vests help to ensure that a worker canbe seen by drivers and operators of plant andother vehicles.


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DUST MASKSDust masks protect workers from inhalingharmful dusts.

RESPIRATORY EQUIPMENT Respiratory equipment protects workers byfiltering out harmful substances from the airbreathed in. To work effectively, they must bewell maintained.

FACE PROTECTION Face-protection visors protect the face fromflying objects, sparks and splashes from hot orharmful substances.

SAFETY HARNESS Safety harnesses with a fall-arrest system (includingother parts such as lanyard, shock absorber, andsuitable anchors) prevent people from hitting theground if they fall from a height. Fall-arrest systemsshould be used in conjunction with a rescue plan.Safety harnesses and personal fall-arrest equipmentare not a substitute for safe working platforms orcollective protection such as safety nets.

SAFETY OVERALLS Safety overalls protect the body from coming intocontact with harmful substances.


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FIREThe risk of fire is generally ever present on construction

sites. Fire prevention has to be considered at thevarious levels of construction planning. Providingmeans of escape and installing temporary fire-

detection and alarm systems should be considered. Bar heaters should not be used on site, and use of all nakedflames must be tightly controlled. Flammable materials must be stored separately in a well-ventilated, lockable location, away from any likely ignitionsources, and such liquids should be removed from site when no longer required. After hot works have taken place, the area should be revisitedto ensure that fires have not developed. Sand and fire blankets can be used in certain cases, such as a smallsmouldering fire, to eliminate the chances of fire developing.

Emergency RouteTo prevent injury from fire, allemployees must be instructedwhat to do in the event of afire, what the approvedescape route is, and where the

assembly points are located. Fire drills should be held regularly.

Fire ExtinguishersPeople need to be trained how to operate fireextinguishers. They should only be used for smallfires.


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Water ExtinguishersWater fire extinguishers are used only to put outfires involving cloth, paper and wood.

Foam ExtinguishersFoam extinguishers are suitable for most firesinvolving flammable liquids.

Carbon-Dioxide ExtinguishersCarbon-dioxide extinguishers may be used on firesinvolving flammable liquids or electrical apparatus.

Dry-Powder ExtinguishersDry-powder extinguishers may be used on mostfires including electrical fires.

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CARBONDIOXIDE

Flammable liquids

+ electric

DRY POWDER

Most fires

+ electric

WATERCloth, paper, wood only

FOAMOil, fuel fires only


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ABBREVIATIONS

CCTV Closed-circuit television

CE Refers to European Community. Is marked onproducts and machines which comply with essentialsafety requirements of any relevant standards whichare set down by the CEN, a European standard-setting body.

CSCS Construction Skills Certification Scheme

ESB Electricity Supply Board

ETCI Electro-Technical Council of Ireland

MEWP Mobile Elevating Work Platform

PPE Personal Protective Equipment

RPE Respiratory Protection Equipment

RSJ Rolled Steel Joist

SDS Safety Data Sheet

SWL Safe working load: the maximum load which anitem of lifting equipment may raise, lower orsuspend under the particular service conditions.

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A-FRAME LADDER, 22ACCESS ROUTE, 9ANGLE GRINDERS, 41BANKSMAN, 32, 46BARRIERS, 44, 45BLOCK GRABS AND NETS, 27BLOCKWORK COURSES, 26CABLE PROTECTION, 37CANTEEN, 6CARBON DIOXIDE, 53CARTRIDGE TOOLS, 39CHECK CABLE, 37CHECK LIFTING GEAR, 34CHUTES, 28CLUTCHES AND RINGS, 16COMMUNICATION, 5, 18, 32COMPOUND, 31COMPRESSOR & WHIP CHECKS,

38CONCRETE POUR, 13CONCRETE POKER, 13CONCRETE PUMP, 30CONCRETE SKIPS, 35CON SAWS, 40CRANE COORDINATION, 33CSCS, 4DETECTING AND MARKING, 42DIVERT/OFF, 42DRAWINGS, 7DRINKING WATER, 6DRY POWDER, 53DRYING/CHANGING, 6DUST MASKS, 51

DUST/MUCK, 47DUST SUPPRESSION, 39EAR PROTECTION, 50EDGE PROTECTION, 23EMERGENCY ROUTE, 52EXAMINATION & INSPECTION, 36EXCLUSION ZONE, 17, 27EYE PROTECTION, 49FACE PROTECTION, 51FALL ARREST AND RESCUE, 19FALL PROTECTION, 24FENCING, 44FIRE EXTINGUISHERS, 52FIRST AID, 6FIXINGS AND ANCHORS, 17FOAM, 53FLAGMAN/STOP-GO MAN, 32, 46FORKS CLAMP, 29FORKS EXTENSION, 29FORM TABLES, 14GAS/FLAME ARRESTER, 40GENERATORS OUTSIDE, 38GLAZING/SUCTION, 34GOODS/PERSON HOIST, 24GROUND CONDITIONS, 9, 30GUARDS, 38GUARD ALL OPES, 12HAND DIG, 43HANDOVER CONTROL, 47HELMET/BOOT, 49HI-VISIBILITY VEST, 50HOARDING, 45HOT WORKS, 40

NEW COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS INDEX

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HOUSEKEEPING, 8INDUCTION, 5ISOLATION/LOCK OUT, 43JACK HAMMER/KANGO, 38LADDER ACCESS, 21LIFTING POINTS/EYES, 27LIGHTING, 9, 46LOAD STABILITY, 34LOADING BAYS, 20LOCKING ATTACHMENTS, 30MAINTENANCE, 41MAST CLIMBER, 25MATERIALS DELIVERY, 16MECHANICAL AIDS, 48METHOD STATEMENT, 8MEWP (Mobile Elevating Work

Platforms), 24MIXER, 30MOBILE SCAFFOLD, 23NETS/BEAN BAGS, 19, 25NO FLAMES, 44OVERHEAD LINES, 35, 44OVERHEAD WORK, 26PACKING PIECES, 16PAINT SPRAYER, 39PALLETS/BALES, 27PEDESTRIAN ROUTES, 32PEDESTRIAN WAYS, 47PERMIT TO WORK, 43PLANT/EQUIPMENT

CERTIFICATION, 4PLAN LIFT, 33POWER FLOATING, 41

PROPPING, 26PROPRIETARY EDGE

PROTECTION, 12PROPRIETARY WORKING

PLATFORM, 11PROP SUPPORTS, 15PUMPING CONNECTIONS, 30REBAR, 40REMOTE CONTROL, 36REPLACING OF DAMAGED

PARTS, 41RESPIRATORY EQUIPMENT, 51REVERSE WARNING DEVICES, 31RISK ASSESSMENT, 7, 48ROOF LADDER, 21SAFE ACCESS, 19SAFE LADDER, 21SAFE PASS, 4SAFE WORKING LOAD (SWL), 33SAFETY HARNESS, 51SAFETY GLOVES, 50SAFETY LINES, 18SAFETY OVERALLS, 51SCAFFOLDING, 20SEAT BELTS, 31SECURITY, 45SELECTION/SUITABILITY, 29, 37SERVICE SUPPLIER e.g. ESB, Bord

Gais, Local Authority etc., 42SHEETING/FANS, 28SHAFTS/OPES, 26SKIPS/BINS, 34SLAB BEARING, 17

NEW COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS INDEX (cont’d)

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NEW COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS INDEX (cont’d)

SLAB LOADING BAY, 20SLAB SAFETY ANCHOR, 18SMOKING CONTROL, 6SPREADER BEAMS, 16STAIR PROTECTION, 23STEEL FIXING, 13STILLAGES, 35STILTS, 22STORAGE, 28STRIKING, 14SUPERVISION, 4TAG LINES, 17TELEPORTER, 29TEMPORARY WORKS, 15

TIE LADDER, 21TRAFFIC/SPEED CONTROL, 31, 46TRAINING, 49TRESTLES, 22TYPES OF PROP, 15VOLTAGE, 37VISITOR CONTROL, 47WARNING SIGNS, 10, 45WATER, 53WC & WASHING, 5WEATHER, 10WORK ORGANISATION, 48WORKING PLATFORM, 9

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The Safe System of Work Plan (SSWP) complements the Safety Statementrequired under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act, although it doesnot replace the requirement for such a Safety Statement. Specific Guidelines onSafety Statements are available from the Health and Safety Authority.

This guidance, which is particularly relevant to contractors, self-employedpersons and employees, deals with the completion of SSWP for Construction.

The SSWP will help users to complete construction work activity in a safe manner.

Completing and using the SSWP will also help you to meet some of the legalobligations placed on you by health and safety legislation.

The Safe System of Work Plan (SSWP)The primary objective of the SSWP is to identify the major hazards associatedwith your work activities and to ensure that appropriate controls are in placebefore work commences.

The SSWP achieves many other objectives, including:• Links the implementation of the Safety Statement directly to the work

activity.• Focusing on safety for a particular task. The SSWP is completed at the

start of each activity, and can be reviewed at any time during the work. • Increasing awareness. It encourages the users to consider a range of

options to deal with the risks. The users will become familiar with thevarious controls available.

• Communicating through the use of pictograms so that the meaning canbe understood by persons who possess little or no English.

• Being user friendly: just tick the hazards and controls.

The Safe System of Work Plan (SSWP) should be used as a final check toensure that the identified controls for a specific construction work activityare available and in place. However safety starts long before any specificconstruction activity takes place. Hazard identification, risk assessment,the elimination and control of identified hazards must take place throughall stages of construction from the planning stage, through the designprocess, the tendering process and on to the construction stage so thateach specific construction activity will have had safety built in.

SAFE SYSTEM OF WORK PLAN (SSWP) GUIDELINES

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The SSWP: A 3-part process:• Part 1: Planning the activity• Part 2: Hazard Identification, and Control Identifier• Part 3: Sign off

PART 1This part will be completed by the person planning the activity. Normally thiswill be carried out by the supervisor/foreman and/or self-employed personprior to work starting. Where a site safety officer is employed they should beinvolved in the process.

• Identify who the employer/self-employed person is, e.g. Acme Pipe LayingLtd

• Name of the Supervisor for the activity, e.g. A. McSample• Identify the number of workers in the team, e.g. 3• Identify the specific location of the activity, e.g. gridline x to gridline y• Describe the specific activity, e.g. pipelaying• When the work is to start, the date, e.g. Tuesday, 1st June• What skills are required, e.g. 360 excavator driver, banksman, pipelayer,

flag man• Plant and Equipment required, e.g. Fiat Hitachi EX200, Sling, Shackle• Hazardous Materials, if used, e.g. Acme Bondex XXX, R45• Contact Names & Tel No. in the event of an emergency, e.g. Site Foreman,

Safety Officer• Name of the First Aider, and the location of the nearest First Aid Box• Are Permits to Work required? Tick type• The final section of this part: list requirements that are identified in the

Construction Regulations and other Legislation as mandatory. Note: For sites where more than 20 persons are normally employed at anyone time, a site safety representative should be appointed.

PART 2This part of the SSWP form deals with hazard identification, risk assessment,and risk control. Normally this will be carried out by the supervisor/foremanand/or self-employed person prior to work starting. Where a site safetyofficer is employed they should be involved in the process.

SAFE SYSTEM OF WORK PLAN (SSWP) GUIDELINES - cont’d

The Hazards or Activities should first be identified by ticking thesquare boxes in the “Select Hazard or Activity” column.

The appropriate Controls to eliminate the hazard or reduce therisk should be identified by ticking the square boxes in the“Select Control” column.

When controls are in place tick the round box. This must be donein conjunction with the workers at the specific work locationprior to the work taking place.

Similarly, the Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and FireEquipment required, should be selected by ticking the squareboxes in the PPE/Fire sections, and when acquired by ticking theround box.

NOTE: The list of Hazards and Controls depicted in each form is notexhaustive.

Part 2 of the form may also contain several blank hazard triangles, each labelledwith the word “identify”, and several blank control boxes, each labelled withthe word “other”. As the list of hazards depicted is not exhaustive, where otherhazards are identified, these can be written into the blank hazard triangles.Similarly, as the list of controls depicted is not exhaustive, where other controlsare identified, these can be written into the blank control boxes.

PART 3This part deals with the signing off of the SSWP. The purpose of signing off isto identify the person who has prepared the SSWP, and also to confirm thatthe completed SSWP has been brought to the attention of all those to whomthe SSWP applies.Note 1: The completed SSWP must remain at the specific location of the work withthe persons carrying out the work activity.Note 2: A new SSWP must be completed when (1) a new hazard is identified, (2) the task changes, or (3) the environment changes.

Optional: A record sheet is available inside the back cover.

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SAFE SYSTEM OF WORK PLAN (SSWP) GUIDELINES - cont’d

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REMEMBER “IF IT’S NOT SAFE DON’T DO IT, AND INFORM SITE MANAGEMENT”

© Copyright The Health and Safety Authority January 2006. All Rights Reserved. “The Health and Safety Authority”,the “HSA” and associated logos are trade marks of The Health and Safety Authority.

NOTES

NOTES

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10 Hogan Place, Dublin 2Tel. 1890 289 389

Callers outside Republic ofIreland 00353 1 6147000

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and

Safe System of Work Plan (SSWP)New Commercial Buildings

Documents

Safe System of Work Plan for Construction of Buildings