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Health and Safety Policy (Responsibilities and Arrangements)

Power Testing Limited Document Number:

Status: Live

Date: 10th April 2015 Version 0.3

Author Steven Hall SignedCompany/Position Director of HSQE Date

Reviewer Chris Park SignedCompany/Position Managing Director Date

Approver Chris Park SignedCompany/Position Managing Director Date

Document Uncontrolled When Printed

© Power Testing Limited

This document and all data contained herein are the exclusive intellectual property rights of Power

Testing Limited and are supplied in strictest confidence under the express condition that any

reproduction, transmission, transcription etc. or storing in any retrieval system/form, or any kind of

supply to others is strictly forbidden without express prior written consent. The receiver guarantees that

any disclosed material shall not be used in any way detrimental to the interest of Power Testing

Limited.

This document is supplied by Power Testing Limited.

Power Testing Limited


Version, Status & Approval Log

Date Status Version Author Reviewer Approver

10/04/15 Live 0.3 S Hall C Park C Park

Reason for changes to this version

Complete review required to update changes of Legislation


Status: Live of 61Date: 10-04-2015 Power Testing Limited Document Ref.: XXXXX-XX-XXXXX

Version: 0.3 Template : Health and Safety Policy

DOCUMENT UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED


Contents

1 General Statement of Policy 61.1 Company Objectives 6

2 Organisation and Responsibilities 72.1 Managing Director 7

2.2 Director of Commercial Infrastructure 7

2.3 Health, Safety, Quality and Environmental Director 8

2.4 Global Technical Manager 8

2.5 Operations Manager 9

2.6 Technical Manager 9

2.7 Office Manager 10

2.8 Engineers and Technicians 10

2.9 Employees 11

3 Arrangements 123.1 Communications (Internally and Externally) 12

3.1.1 Internal Communications 12

3.1.2 External Communications 12

3.2 Training 13

3.3 Risk Assessment 14

3.4 Method Statements 15

3.5 Co-operation with Clients 15

3.6 Welfare Facilities 15

3.7 Work Equipment (and Tools) 16

3.8 Personal Protective Equipment (P.P.E.) and (R.P.E.) 17

3.9 Hazardous Substances (C.O.S.H.H.) 17

3.10 First Aid Procedures 19

3.11 Incident and Accident Reporting 20

3.11.1If a Person Loses their Life during Working Hours 20

3.11.2Specified Injuries to Workers 21

3.11.3Over-Seven-Day Incapacitation of a Worker 21

3.11.4Over-Three-Day Incapacitation 22

3.11.5Non-fatal Accidents to Non-Workers (e.g. Members of the Public) 22

3.11.6Occupational Diseases 22






3.12 Asbestos 23

3.13 Manual Handling 24

3.13.1Employees should Consider 24

3.14 Fire Safety & Emergency Procedures 27

3.14.1Fire Plans and Competent Persons 27

3.14.2Fire Risk Assessment 28

3.14.3Smoking 28

3.15 Substances and Alcohol Abuse 29

3.16 Procurement of Substances, Equipment and Supplies 29

3.17 Employing Young Persons 30

3.18 Health and Safety of Visitors 31

3.19 Home Working 31

3.20 Working Abroad 32

3.21 Housekeeping and Cleaning 34

3.22 Weather Conditions (At Work) 34

3.23 Management of the Facilities 34

3.24 The Control of Hazardous and Non Hazardous Waste 35

3.25 Electrical Safety 37

3.25.1Information and Training 37

3.25.2Electrical Safety Rules 37

3.25.3Electrical Safety Equipment including Protective Clothing 38

3.26 Transportation, Delivery, Movement, Storage and use of Flammable liquids and Compressed Gases 39

3.26.1Hazards from gas cylinders 40

3.26.2The main causes of Incident 40

3.26.3Reducing the risks 41

3.27 Abrasive Wheels 45

3.28 Working at Height (including the use of Work at Height Equipment and PPE) 45

3.29 Permit to Work (including Hot Works) 46

3.30 Working in Confined Spaces and Areas 46

3.31 Isolation and Lock-off Procedures 47

3.32 Occupational Road Safety 48

3.33 The Prevention of Sharps and Needlestick Injuries 49

3.34 Hand Arm Vibration (H.A.V.S) 50

3.35 Working Time, Shift-Work and on Call 51






3.36 Control of Noise 52

3.37 Display Screen Equipment (D.S.E.) and Eye Tests/Spectacles 52

3.38 Management of Stress 53

3.39 Aggression and Violence in the Workplace 54

3.40 Construction, Design and Management Project 54

3.41 Sub-Contractors 55

3.42 Public Safety 56

4 References, Definitions & Abbreviations 574.1 References 57

4.2 Definitions 58

4.3 Abbreviations 59

5 Appendix 1 60

6 Appendix 2 61

Tables

Table 1 List Of References 57Table 2 List Of Definitions 58Table 3 List of Abbreviations 59






1 General Statement of Policy

Power Testing Limited acknowledges and accepts its legal responsibilities for securing the health, safety and welfare of all its employees, of sub-contractors and all other parties that could be affected by our work activities.

Power Testing Limited recognises and accepts the general duties imposed upon the Company as an employer under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and subsequent health and safety regulations appertaining to its operation.

1.1 Company Objectives

Power Testing Limited will do all that is reasonably practicable to provide and maintain:

A safe place of work. Safe methods and systems of work. Safe plant and equipment. Suitable and sufficient personal protective equipment relevant to

working tasks. A safe and healthy working environment. We will ensure management systems are in place and

continuously improved. Sufficient time and resources for training. We will continually assess our competence as an Organisation. We will ensure good communication, participation and

consultation throughout the business. We will ensure performance measurement and monitoring is

carried out and recorded. We will ensure any Incidents are investigated and

corrective/preventative action plans are implemented.

Power Testing Limited will carry out annual and periodic reviews (upon failures of systems or procedures) of this policy to ensure that the above standards of health and safety are maintained.

Signed: Position: Managing Director

Date 2nd April 2015






2 Organisation and Responsibilities

2.1 Managing Director

The Managing Director of Power Testing Limited has overall responsibility for Health and Safety for the Company, and will:

Ensures suitable resources and financial provision is made for Health & Safety obligations.

Ensures provision of up-to-date and appropriate Health and Safety information and instruction to employees.

Ensures work is planned to take into account Health & Safety of employees and those affected by such works.

Ensures that staff at all levels receive the appropriate training required to carry out their roles and responsibilities.

Monitors and assesses risks to Health and Safety. Enforces the company policy for Health and Safety and ensures

that it is readily available for employees. Sets a personal example when visiting site by following

company rules, procedures including wearing appropriate protective equipment.

Actively promotes at all levels the Company’s commitment to effective Health and Safety management.

2.2 Director of Commercial Infrastructure

Supports the Managing Director and the management team in all safety matters for the business.

Gives support to the Director of HSQE ensuring that safety Regulations are adhered to in line with Government Legislation and Acts.






Heads up operations ensuring that the management team have the skills, training and the resources to carry out their roles and responsibilities safely.

Supports the Director of HSQE with Technical subject matters and investigations including incidents and NCR’s.

2.3 Health, Safety, Quality and Environmental Director

Monitoring the implementation of the health and safety policy throughout the company and reviewing its appropriateness by regular safety audits/inspections carried out in various workplaces.

Investigating Incidents/accidents and implementing preventative and corrective controls as necessary.

Reviewing health and safety legislation and implementing any new requirements pertaining to the company’s undertaking.

Ensures that appropriate health and safety management systems are in place and continuously reviewed and improved.

Liaising with managers, employees, sub-contractors, specialists and enforcement bodies as and when appropriate.

Collating and reporting any accidents reportable under the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (R.I.D.D.O.R.) 1995 as amended in 2013.

Deals with any other safety matters requiring further attention.

2.4 Global Technical Manager

Supports the Managing Director in all safety and technical matters.

Liaises with managers, employees, sub-contractors and specialists as and when appropriate.

Ensures that the risk management functions of the company are stringent and thoroughly checked prior to any works commencing.

Supports the operations management team with the risk assessment and method statement process.






Supports the Director of HSQE as and when required in safety and technical matters and investigations.

2.5 Operations Manager

Ensures that safety is at the forefront of each and every engineer’s thought process.

Ensures that the engineering team is given clear safety instructions, information and training as required.

Supports the senior management team in any relevant operational safety matters and investigations.

Supports the Director of HSQE as and when required. Carries out engineering tasks as/when required. Ensures that the job scheduling systems allows for compliance

with the Working Time Directive

2.6 Technical Manager

Ensures that safety is considered as the first point of call within all technical matters.

Ensures that safety is at the forefront of each and every engineer’s thought process.

Ensures that the engineering team is given clear safety instructions, information and training as required.

Supports the senior management team with any relevant operational safety matters and investigations.

Supports the Director of HSQE as and when required. Ensures that the job scheduling systems allows for compliance

with the Working Time Directive






2.7 Office Manager

Ensure that the office is kept clean and tidy at all times. Ensures good housekeeping throughout the office and

warehouse. Ensures that the fire systems are tested on a regular basis and

that all staff and visitors adhere to fire emergency procedures. Ensures that first aid is offered as and when required. Ensures that support is given to the senior management team in

site safety matters as and when required.

2.8 Engineers and Technicians

Will ensure that they adhere to Power Testing’s health and safety policy.

Will adhere to Power Testing’s rules and procedures ensuring that the company’s electrical rules are followed in line with Legislative requirements and Approved Codes of Practice.

Will carry out their works safely and in line with policies and procedures.

Will ensure that their work equipment and tools are suitable, sufficient and safe for use.

Will ensure that they do not carry out any works that they have not been trained to do.

Will bring to the attention of the Managing Director or the Safety Representative any safety failings or unsafe acts seen or practiced.

Will ensure at all times the safety of themselves and their work colleagues.

Will ensure that specific risk assessments and a method statements detailing the risks and control measures are carried out prior to works commencing.






2.9 Employees

In order for all employees to comply with their legal duties, they will undertake and be responsible for:

Ensuring that they understand the Company’s health and safety policy and carry out their roles and responsibilities safely and in accordance with Power Testing policies, rules and expectations.

Work in accordance with good working practices and standards regarding health and safety matters.

Work in accordance with Power Testing management systems regarding all health and safety matters.

Ensuring that all personal protective equipment provided is used correctly in relation to any instruction / training given and in accordance with this health and safety policy.

Reports any defects to work equipment immediately to their Supervisor.

Reports to the management any potential safety observations, near misses or incidents, which have led or might lead to injury or damage.

Reports any incidents, accidents or near misses no matter how minor to their Supervisor.

Uses the correct tools and equipment for the task in hand and in accordance with training and instructions.

Will not carry out any task not deemed trained or competent to carry out (Competence = training, certification, knowledge and experience).

Cooperates with any investigation, which may be undertaken with the objective of preventing reoccurrence of incidents.

Will bring to the attention of the Managing Director or the Safety Representative any safety failings seen or practiced.






3 Arrangements

3.1 Communications (Internally and Externally)

In order to meet the legal requirements of the Safety Representatives and Safety Committees Regulations 1977 and more recently the Health and Safety (Consultation with Employees) Regulations 1996, the company will communicate and consult with all employees on the following issues:

3.1.1 Internal Communications

The content of this policy. Any rules specific to a site or job. Changes in legislation or working best practice. The planning of health and safety training. The introduction or alteration of new work equipment or

technology. Lessons learned from previous incidents and accidents. Environmental requirements and initiatives.

This communication and consultation will take place directly with the employees via regular safety meeting, toolbox talks, e-mails and memo’s posted on the staff notice board.

3.1.2 External Communications

Receipt and processing of all external communications. Receive all communications from external interested parties. Review and log any relevant communication.






Answer communications that fall within Power Testing scope of responsibility.

Forward communications to other responsible departments including, but not limited to, the HSQE department.

Communications on significant environmental, safety and health aspects.

As part of the strategic review consideration to external communication of its significant environmental, safety and health aspects and document its decision in the meeting minutes.

Environmental requirements and initiatives.

3.2 Training

All employees are given training appropriate to their job description and responsibilities in accordance with the Management of Health and Safety at work Regulations 1999 and the Health and Safety at Work act 1974. Training will be provided for the following situations:

Induction training for new employees (health and safety awareness, company procedures etc).

Risk awareness and hazard spotting. The use, introduction or modification of new/existing machinery

or technology. A change in employee position/work activity or responsibilities. Change in policy or procedure. Failure to follow a system or procedure correctly. Breach of safety rules resulting in an incident, accident or sever

near miss (which could have resulted in a fatality, sever injury or loss of reputation/costs to the business.

Training is also specifically provided for work with hazardous substances, use of PPE, working at heights and manual handling. Any training provided by the company will be formally recorded with a hard copy kept on file.






A programme of refresher training will be undertaken to keep employees up to date with legislation and good industry practice.

3.3 Risk Assessment

The operations and technical managers will carry out and record formal risk assessments.

In addition engineers and technicians throughout their working day will carry out job and site-specific/dynamic risk assessments appropriate to site conditions.

Hazards are considered and work methods established to minimize the risk of injury to themselves and others potentially affected by the work. Where the employee does not have sufficient knowledge about a specific hazard, they will take further advice from senior engineers, supervisors or as and when required from the operations and technical managers. No employee will be expected to carry out works that they have not been trained to do.

The Board of Directors supported by the operations and technical managers ensure that operators are provided with appropriate information, instruction and training in regards to risk assessments.

All employees carrying out works on behalf of Power Testing will be required to sign and date the specific risk assessment in regards to the scope of works that they are carrying out.






3.4 Method Statements

To support the risk assessment process formal method statements (safe working procedures) will be prepared in writing where there is a perceived to be a risk to a person/s and/or the environment and when requested by the customer as a part of their own procedural process.

The method statements will provide site-specific information on the task to be undertaken including, site details and contacts, site planning, site set up, chain of responsibility and they will detail a clear sequence (Methodology) of works that would be followed in order to undertake the given task safely.

3.5 Co-operation with Clients

Employees will always familiarise themselves with client procedures when first attending site, in particular general site access and egress, site emergency procedures (including any dangers on site that could affect the work area or persons working in the work area) and high risk work activities including permit to work systems. Clients site rules; procedures and specific safety instructions will be adhered to at all times.

3.6 Welfare Facilities

Suitable and sufficient arrangements will be made with the Client and/or Principal Contractor for the use of welfare facilities at sites under their management. As a minimum the following requirements will be adhered to:

Toilet/washing facilities with warm and cold running water. Eating, drinking water and rest facilities.






3.7 Work Equipment (and Tools)

All work equipment used at work, as part of the Power Testing undertaking will comply with the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (P.U.W.E.R.) and the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (L.O.L.E.R.).

Before new equipment is introduced into the working environment, an assessment will be made by: The operations/technical manager In order to ascertain that the equipment is suitable for its intended use.

No employee will use work equipment for which they have not received specific training, instruction and information on.

No employee will misuse work equipment or remove or circumnavigate around any safety guards that are in place.

All work equipment will be maintained and inspected prior to use and at suitable intervals either internally by a competent person or by specialist external companies. The frequency of work equipment maintenance or inspection will be based on manufacturers guidance and industry good practice. Any maintenance / inspections undertaken on company equipment will be formally recorded with a hard copy left on file.

If any faults or damage are found on any equipment, stop using the work equipment and immediately report the fault to your site supervisor. Faulty equipment will be quarantined until an agreement has been made to repair or replace the damaged equipment.






3.8 Personal Protective Equipment (P.P.E.) and (R.P.E.)

Suitable and sufficient to task (personal protective equipment (P.P.E.) and respiratory protective equipment (R.P.E.) will be issued to employees at induction stage and as and when necessary PPE/RPE will be issued covering Power Testing’s work activities and Clients site rules and procedures.

Training will be provided for employees on (P.P.E. and R.P.E.) safe use, storage and maintenance of the relevant equipment before issue, and a written record detailing what PPE/RPE has been issued will be signed by the employees on receipt of the equipment and the hard copy kept on file.

Employees have a legal duty to wear PPE/RPE as specified in relevant site rules, risk assessments and method statements. The general rule is that as soon as any Power Testing employee arrives at a site the first thing that they are required to do is put on their appropriate and specific to task/site PPE/RPE. Employees found not to be wearing the required task/site specific PPE/RPE will be dealt with in line with Power Testing’s disciplinary procedures.

Any defects or malfunction of PPE must be reported to: The operations/technical manager with immediate effect.

3.9 Hazardous Substances (C.O.S.H.H.)

The risks associated with hazardous substances are considered for all work activities. COSHH is considered from procurement stage this is the point when an alternative less harmful substance will be considered wherever possible. In case of risks to health, PPE/RPE is provided and used by employees, and health surveillance undertaken where necessary.






Before any hazardous substances are used for a work process, a material safety data sheet (MSDS) will be requested from the supplier and if required and in line with EH40 an appropriate COSHH assessment made of the risks from that substance.

COSHH assessments will be undertaken by competent persons usually a senior engineer or member of the office management team (whom have received suitable and sufficient training, instruction and information in regards to the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations) (COSHH).

COSHH Assessments will consider storage, handling, aspects of use, potential exposure, PPE/RPE requirements, workers health and emergency requirements. Supervisors will brief staff on any hazard or substance precautions, with written records being located in an accessible location at the location of work being undertaken by the company.

Substances will be kept in managed Hazchem storage units (secured, ventilated and bunded up to +10%) along with their safety and control information i.e. (MSDS sheets and relevant COSHH Assessments) for emergency purposes. When transporting in vehicles this should be done in a safe and controlled manner meaning in a safe storage facility that is ventilated, secured and has bunding of +10%.

COSHH assessments must be read and understood by the users and the required safety precautions adhered to at all times (No exception to this rule).

An inventory of all substances and materials hazardous to health is held at head office.






3.10 First Aid Procedures

Adequate first aid provision will be made at every place of work occupied by the company.

Each first aid box shall be suitable and sufficient to purpose and marked, first aid boxes will be easily accessible to all employees at all times when they are at work.

The office first aid box is located adjacent to the breakout area.

Power Testing has a number of qualified first aiders and appointed persons working across the business: These include office staff and site staff, a list of all first aiders will be kept in the office.

On project sites - arrangements are made with clients/principle contractors to use their first aid facilities if and when required. Where this is not possible, a member of the project team will nominated as the appointed person for first aid and a first aid box supplied, which will contain adequate supplies for the total number of employees on site.

All company vehicles will contain a first aid box, which will be the responsibility of the vehicle owner/user, these will be checked along with the vehicle during the weekly vehicle inspection/audit by the owner/user and a vehicle maintenance checklist completed and handed in to the office.

First aid boxes will be checked regularly by the appointed person/s and refilled or replaced as necessary.






3.11 Incident and Accident Reporting

All incidents/accidents MUST be reported to the appointed supervisor and the details recorded in the accident book (held at head office). Serious accidents where medical or hospital treatment is required must be reported to the health and safety representative immediately thereafter the injured party has been taken care of.

Some clients expect to be informed of an accident within 60 minutes so it is imperative that the senior Power Testing site supervisor/engineer informs their immediate (line manager) as soon as it is safe to do so or soon after the injured party has been taken care of.

Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 1995 amended in 2013 (R.I.D.D.O.R.).

All serious Accidents will be investigated by the health and safety representative following an 8D investigation process.

Certain accidents are reportable to the HSE’s Incident contact centre. The Director of HSQE must be notified immediately after the injured party has been taken care of.

3.11.1 If a Person Loses their Life during Working Hours

All deaths to workers and non-workers, with the exception of suicides, must be reported to the HSE if they arise from a work-related accident, including an act of physical violence to a worker.






3.11.2 Specified Injuries to Workers

The list of ‘specified injuries’ in RIDDOR 2013 replaces the previous list of ‘major injuries’ in RIDDOR 1995. Specified injuries are (regulation 4):

Fractures, other than to fingers, thumbs and toes Amputations Any injury likely to lead to permanent loss of sight or reduction in sight Any crush injury to the head or torso causing damage to the brain or

internal organs Serious burns (including scalding) which: Covers more than 10% of the body Causes significant damage to the eyes, respiratory system or other

vital organs Any scalping requiring hospital treatment Any loss of consciousness caused by head injury or asphyxia Any other injury arising from working in an enclosed space which: Leads to hypothermia or heat-induced illness Requires resuscitation or admittance to hospital for more than 24 hours

3.11.3 Over-Seven-Day Incapacitation of a Worker

Accidents must be reported where they result in an employee or self-employed person being away from work, or unable to perform their normal work duties, for more than seven consecutive days as the result of their injury. This seven-day period does not include the day of the accident, but does include weekends and rest days. The report must be made within 15 days of the accident.






3.11.4 Over-Three-Day Incapacitation

Accidents must be recorded, but not reported where they result in a worker being incapacitated for more than three consecutive days. If you are an employer, who must keep an accident book record under the Social Security (Claims and Payments) Regulations 1979, that record will be enough.

3.11.5 Non-fatal Accidents to Non-Workers (e.g. Members of the Public)

Accidents to members of the public or others who are not at work must be reported if they result in an injury and the person is taken directly from the scene of the accident to hospital for treatment to that injury. Examinations and diagnostic tests do not constitute ‘treatment’ in such circumstances.

Any serious accidents / incidents will be investigated by senior management and any action taken as a result of an investigation will be formally recorded.

3.11.6 Occupational Diseases

Employers and self-employed people must report diagnoses of certain occupational diseases, where these are likely to have been caused or made worse by their work: These diseases include (regulations 8 and 9):

Carpal tunnel syndrome; Severe cramp of the hand or forearm; Occupational dermatitis; Hand-arm vibration syndrome; Occupational asthma; Tendonitis or tenosynovitis of the hand or forearm; Any occupational cancer;






Any disease attributed to an occupational exposure to a biological agent.

3.12 Asbestos

Before any work commences on a client’s site, all employees are to make a request to view the site-specific asbestos register.

The position and condition of any site asbestos that may be in the area where the company may be working should be noted within the asbestos register. If asbestos is noted within the potential work area, immediately contact the health and safety representative for further instruction (NEVER carry out works which are exposed to Asbestos/Dust or ACM’s).

Due to the nature of our works on older buildings, there could be a risk of exposure to Asbestos or Asbestos Containing Materials (A.C.M.’s)

If, during works, there is a discovery of a suspect fibrous type material that could potentially be asbestos (if you think it could be Asbestos then you MUST class it as Asbestos until it has been analysed), all persons should:

Stop work immediately. Prevent any dust/fibres being released e.g. turn off power tools,

minimise air movement. Evacuate the immediate area and prevent access by others, set up a

safe zone around the potential Asbestos or ACM’s preventing any access or egress, ensure clear signage and security arrangements are in place.

Immediately inform those responsible for the premises and the Power Testing safety representative, so that the necessary sampling and analysis can be arranged.

Do not return to that area until informed that it is safe to do so.






3.13 Manual Handling

Manual handling risks are to be considered prior to each work activity. The method of work is adapted to minimise manual handling risks wherever practicable. All employees are advised not to manually handle loads that they feel incapable of moving safely. Always carry out an assessment before carrying out manual handling activities. The MAC tool, which has been created by the HSE to help businesses, is a good indicator to reference in regards to manual handling during work/task activities. All employees should ask themselves:

3.13.1 Employees should Consider

3.13.1.1 Can You

Use a lifting aid where possible? Improve workplace layout to improve efficiency? Reduce the amount of twisting and stooping? Avoid lifting from floor level or above shoulder height, especially heavy

loads? Reduce carrying distances? Avoid repetitive handling? Vary the work, allowing one set of muscles to rest while another is

used? Push rather than pull?

3.13.1.2 Can You make the Load

Lighter or less bulky? Easier to grasp? More stable? Evenly stacked?






3.13.1.3 The Tasks

Holding loads away from the body? Twisting, stooping or reaching upwards? Large vertical movement? Long carrying distances? Strenuous pushing or pulling? Repetitive handling? Insufficient rest or recovery time? A work rate imposed by a process?

3.13.1.4 The Loads

Heavy or bulky? Difficult to grasp? Unstable or likely to move unpredictably (like animals)? Harmful, e.g. sharp or hot? Awkwardly stacked? Too large for the handler to see over?

3.13.1.5 Other Considerations

Restrictions on posture? Bumpy, obstructed or slippery floors? Variations in floor levels? Hot/cold/humid conditions? Gusts of wind or other strong air movements? Poor lighting conditions? Restrictions on movements from clothes or personal protective

equipment (PPE)? Remove obstructions to free movement? Provide better flooring? Avoid steps and steep ramps? Prevent extremes of hot and cold?






Improve lighting? Provide protective clothing or PPE that is less restrictive? Ensure your employees’ clothing and footwear is suitable for their

work? Require unusual capability, e.g. above average strength or agility? Endanger those with a health problem or learning/ physical disability? Endanger pregnant women? Call for special information or training? Pay particular attention to those who have a physical weakness? Take extra care of pregnant workers? Give your employees more information, e.g. about the range of tasks

they are likely to face? Provide more training (see ‘What about training?’) Get advice from an occupational health advisor if you need to? Is the device the correct type for the job? Is it well maintained? Are the wheels on the device suited to the floor surface? Do the wheels run freely? Is the handle height between the waist and shoulders? Are the handle grips in good condition and comfortable? Are there any brakes? If so, do they work? Adjust the work rate? Provide equipment that is more suitable for the task? Carry out planned preventive maintenance to prevent problems? Change the wheels, tyres and/or flooring so that equipment moves

easily? Provide better handles and handle grips? Make the brakes easier to use, reliable and effective? Is the work repetitive or boring? Is work machine or system-paced? Do workers feel the demands of the work are excessive? Have workers little control of the work and working methods? Is there poor communication between managers and employees?

Change tasks to reduce the monotony? Make more use of workers’ skills? Make workloads and deadlines more achievable? Encourage good communication and teamwork? Involve workers in decisions? Provide better training and information?






3.14 Fire Safety & Emergency Procedures

It is the Power Testing policy to take account of fire hazards in the workplace. All employees have a Duty of Care to conduct their operations in such a way as to minimize the risk of fire. A full set of fire safety and emergency procedures have been produced to help the business and its employees to deal with such case when an emergency arises caused by a fire or explosion.

3.14.1 Fire Plans and Competent Persons

Schematics and plans of the office have been produced to aid emergency services with a quick and safe evacuation in the case of a fire or explosion occurring.

A number of staff received training as fire marshals have been given the responsibility to ensure regular fire and fire equipment checks are carried out throughout the building and ensure that records are kept.

The office manager will be charged with the responsibility for fire management duties within the offices of Power Testing, any actions or non-conformances will be escalated to a Director of the company.

The person with responsibility for the maintenance and testing of office fire alarms and company fire fighting equipment is: The office manager.

In the event of the fire alarm being activated, or in any other emergency situation (e.g. bomb scare), all employees must leave the building by the nearest available exit and assemble at the designated assembly point. This process will be overseen by competently trained fire marshals.






3.14.2 Fire Risk Assessment

Weekly Fire checks of the office will be carried out, these will consider emergency exit and egress, safe storage and use of chemicals and gases, call point actions, checking the fire alarm panel, checking the emergency light beacons are illuminated and fire safety equipment and doors are all in date and adequate for purpose.

A monthly fire check will be carried out which will consider all of the above plus emergency procedures and duties.

An annual fire risk assessment will be carried out in line with BS.9999 standards, this is a Legal Duty on Power Testing set by the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, this will be a detailed fire examination of the businesses office and warehouse premises and will consider all aspects of fire management and emergency procedures and equipment.

3.14.3 Smoking

All staff and visitors to Power Testing Premises will be expected to adhere to the smoking policy, there has been a smoking hut provided at the rear of the warehouse for staff and visitors to use, other than this dedicated smoking area there can be no smoking in or around the Power Testing premises.

Company vehicles are included within this Policy and there is a strict “No Smoking” policy in place to cover the use of company vehicles, if a member of staff is seen to be smoking in a vehicle or there is evidence that smoking has occurred i.e. (ash in and around the inside of the vehicle and a strong smell of smoke coming from the vehicle) these individuals will be asked to explain the reasons behind this.






3.15 Substances and Alcohol Abuse

Power Testing Limited have implemented a D&A Policy which falls in line with Legislative and client requirements, currently periodic D&A tests are carried out on a percentage of staff picked from a lottery of all staff (any employees name could come up at anytime this includes all employees office and site based).

If an employee has a serious accident or is involved in a serious incident or a near miss that could have resulted in a potential fatality, serious injury or sever loss of finances or reputation the Power Testing these individuals will also be required to carry out a D&A test within a short time of the Incidents occurrence.

3.16 Procurement of Substances, Equipment and Supplies

Prior to procuring any substance, material or chemical for use, the product technical and safety data sheets will be reviewed by a competent person, if the product is deemed to be of high risk to human health or the environment then a substitute will be procured in its place, the first point of risk assessment is avoiding potential risk by managing our chemicals and substances in this manner Power Testing reduce potential risks to people and the environment.

We adhere to a hazard checklist process during our procurement process for substances:

Does any product have a danger label? Will this product produce gas, fume, dust, mist or vapours? Is the substance harmful to breath in? Can the substance be harmful to a persons skin? Is it likely that harm could arise because of the way we use the

product?






Can we use something else instead, can we use the product another safer way and can we stop any harm from being caused?

Individual departments procure equipment and supplies as and when it is required, some equipment will be kept as spares in the Power Testing warehouse and other equipment and supplies will be ordered as required for jobs and sites. Orders will be raised by departmental heads and accepted or not by the Director of Finance and/or the Managing Director who will sign them off.

3.17 Employing Young Persons

Power Testing understands that young people may not have the life experience, skills or capabilities required to be safe in the workplace. Power Testing realises that young people need to learn to further develop their skills and knowledge which will then allow them the opportunities to become a valued employee to our business.

Power Testing employ under sixteen’s on occasions for work experience purposes, these young people will spend their time being monitored, mentored and supervised by an experienced and competent member of staff, any duties that they do carry out will have been risk assessed prior to them working.

The reason behind employing these young people is to help them learn, develop and understand what the workplace holds for them when they have completed their education and move into full time work.

Power Testing are champions of such schemes and on some occasions these young people will join Power Testing as young apprentices and start a career in electrical engineering and maintenance. We are very proud of our young apprentices and we give them all the support, training, instruction and information they require to learn and develop their skills to enable them to carry out their work tasks safely.






Power Testing apprentices are put onto training and mentoring programs up until they successfully graduate. Apprentices usually become very good mentors later in life because of the experiences and the support that they received during their training.

3.18 Health and Safety of Visitors

Visitors to Power Testing offices will be chaperoned by the person who they are here to see. In the case of an emergency they will be safely escorted from the building and onto the muster point in a safe and controlled manner. Visitors will receive a brief induction from their host in regards to site emergency procedures.

3.19 Home Working

Home working is only allowed by permission of the Managing Director, the only staff that may be required to work from home on occasions may include Directors and Senior Managers of the company or staff that cannot get into work due to extremely difficult traffic or travel conditions. Engineers start work from home but travel to sites on a daily basis as part of their overall job roles.

Staff that work from home will be required to adhere to DSE rules at home, home workers will make sure that when they are working from their PC or laptop they and their ergonomics are set up correctly to ensure a good working level posture at all times. Home-working conditions should reflect office-working conditions and should also comply with DSE.






3.20 Working Abroad

Overseas travel requires additional advance planning, care and common sense. It should be noted that travel abroad might expose staff to a number of health and safety hazards arising specifically from the travel itself and/or the conditions within the country being visited. These may not be necessarily directly work-related.

Power Testing (the Parent company) have started another Company in the UAE (Middle East) and staff from the UK will be required to work in the UAE, a few members of staff will initially be based out of the UAE and others will be required to travel and work in the UAE for short to medium periods of time (not yet determined). Power Testing realises its Statutory Duty of Care to protect, so far as reasonable practicable, the health, safety and welfare of its employees whilst travelling or working on Power Testing business.

Power Testing have carried out significant research into the Middle East and the UAE, its economy, potential risks, legal requirements and expectations among other things.

Things that have been considered include:

Risk assessment. Travel advice and documentation. Travel restrictions. Transport advice including driving. Potential dangers and risks in regards to the Country. Climatic extremes (heat and sun exposure). Pre-existing medical conditions e.g. allergies or other health problems. Potential occupational health issues. Mobility Issues. Immunisation and vaccination requirements. Personal medications.






Dietary requirements (food and water) potential contamination and personal hygiene.

Contact with animals, insects and plant-life, which could be dangerous to health.

What can/cannot be imported or used in the UAE. Lone Working and working in isolated and unfamiliar areas and terrain. Medical and dentistry support. Emergency details and procedures (including accident and incident

reporting and management) consider the countries emergency contact details.

Stress. Personal safety e.g. going out after dark, using public transport, areas

to avoid etc. Insurance requirements. Contaminated land. Endemic diseases and medical advice. Potential hazards in and out of buildings. Natural phenomena. Contaminated needles. Accommodation. Compatibility of services and equipment. Currency, money and credit cards and potential theft thereof. Terrorism (personal security and safety) consider - conflicts and

potential kidnapping. Cultural (customs, dress, religion and festivals) and Legal awareness

(codes, statutes, guidance, standards). Communication and language difficulties. Suitable and sufficient equipment. Additional risks that could be associated to travel, work and intended

leisure activities. Loss of luggage and/or equipment. Other.

Power Testing will ensure that workers expected to work abroad have the knowledge and training that they require to keep them safe whilst at work.






3.21 Housekeeping and Cleaning

Power Testing understands that poor housekeeping conditions can be the cause of many incidents and accidents including slips and trips, fires, spillages and obstructing access and egress to routes of safety.

The office manager supported by the store-person will ensure that the office and the warehouse are kept tidy and free from clutter and company vehicle drivers have been commissioned with the task of keeping their vehicles clean and tidy.

Housekeeping audits will be carried out on a periodic basis to ensure that standards are maintained as not to cause further risk to staff or visitors.

3.22 Weather Conditions (At Work)

Weather conditions can have an affect on work activities, including driving and working outdoors, a weather hazards risk assessment will cover work activities and extreme weather conditions including high and low temperatures, heavy driving rain, snow and ice, hale, heavy winds, sun-glare and thunder and lightning.

3.23 Management of the Facilities

A number of staff have been made responsible for the overseeing and management of the office and warehouse. A planned preventative maintenance schedule will be used to determine Legal compliance, this schedule will determine what site equipment requires testing or certifying and at what duration i.e. once every 3, 6 or 12 months etc.






Things to consider include:

Fixed electrical (within 5 year). Gas boilers and water systems (annually). Steel shutter doors (annually if in use). Emergency lighting (3 hour test annually). Asbestos reports and plans (annually). Work equipment and accessories that fall under PUWER 1998 and

LOLER 1998 (accessories 6 and equipment 12 months). Test equipment that requires calibration (annually). L8 legionella (dead-legs) – (annually). Water Systems (Chlorination Check) Fire alarms, equipment and emergency systems, procedures and drills

(weekly, monthly and annually). PAT testing (1-5 yearly). Specialist PPE and RPE (3 months up to manufacturers guidelines). Some domestic equipment used on commercial businesses. (annually) Working at height equipment (6 months and annually). Racking (dependant on the racking but generally annually). HVAC (annually). F-Gas. Interceptors and Drains (annually). Building Maintenance (things that are broke should be repaired). Utility readings. Security systems (annually). Toilets Deep clean.

3.24 The Control of Hazardous and Non Hazardous Waste

Power testing has a Duty of Care to ensure so far as reasonably practicable that any waste produced by its operations is managed safely and disposed of in line with Waste and Hazardous Waste Regulations.






Power Testing have in place a Waste carriers License which allows the company to transport waste from one site to another ensuring that it is disposed of correctly and by use of waste transfer or consignment notes.

Hazardous waste is kept separate and disposed of by using a licensed hazardous waste removal company who will take it to the relevant hazardous waste site for correct disposal.

Hazardous waste will include:

Asbestos or ACM’s. Chemicals. Printer toner. Batteries. Solvents. Oils. Equipment containing gases or F-gas (ozone depleting). Light bulbs and fluorescent tubes. Televisions, laptops and computers. Circuit boards and capacitors. Vehicle components including fuel, oil and fluids used with the

mechanics of the vehicle. Interceptor waste. Other.

3.25 Electrical Safety






3.25.1 Information and Training

Arrangements have be made by Power Testing to ensure that all employees are adequately informed and instructed regarding the risks to health and safety associated with any distribution system, plant or apparatus, which are affected, by their operations or work. Providing this information is necessary whether or not it is carried out by Power Testing, its client or any agent thereof (including an external training body) and where legal requirements, electrical safety rules, procedures and related documents apply.

Persons who are not employees but are approved as agents of Power Testing and others as specified by Power Testing management who may be exposed to danger by operations or work shall have received adequate training, instruction and information. The abilities of employees shall be considered when allocating tasks. All employees shall be given adequate health and safety training and refresher training.

Persons undergoing training for competent person, authorised person and/or senior authorised person shall be supervised by a person who holds the necessary authorisation level for that training and who shall provide personal supervision whilst undertaking training.

3.25.2 Electrical Safety Rules

Power Testing management or the authorising engineer shall issue a copy of the electrical safety rules to all employees and agents of Power Testing who are nominated to receive a safety document, or as determined by the company and its Directors.






An abridged set of electrical safety rules in annex 1 has been prepared for competent persons who are members of a working party not issued with the electrical safety rules, but who need to be aware of the necessary safety requirements.

3.25.3 Electrical Safety Equipment including Protective Clothing

Where any work takes place under these electrical safety rules, procedures and related documents, the appropriate safety equipment and personal protective clothing shall be issued and used in accordance with Power Testing instructions. Employees must at all times wear suitable and sufficient clothing and footwear-having regard to the type of work being.

As a minimum requirement the following items of safety equipment and protective clothing shall be used: -

Flame retardant arc flash coveralls for all switching operations, work and testing on the distribution system, which shall include placing barriers and screens from live parts and carrying out cable spiking. There are no specific requirements to wear flame retardant coveralls where all substation main conductors are isolated and dead.

Insulated gloves for linking and fusing on a live low voltage distribution system, placing barriers and screens from live parts, opening low voltage cables to prove dead, the insertion of test plugs into high voltage apparatus, connecting and disconnecting high voltage test leads and for applying a voltage test device to metal-enclosed switchgear open spouts.

Face shield for linking and fusing on a live low voltage distribution system and opening low voltage cables to prove dead, safety footwear shall be worn at all times.






3.26 Transportation, Delivery, Movement, Storage and use of Flammable liquids and Compressed Gases

Power Testing understand the dangers involved with the use of compressed gas cylinders and the risk of injury and even death. On occasion Power Testing staff are required to use compressed gas within it’s operational processes, for reference and guidance please see the definitions of compressed gases below:

Compressed Gas: a non-flammable material or mixture having in the container a pressure exceeding 41 psia (3 bar) at 70°F (21°C), or any flammable or poisonous material that is a gas at 70°F (21°C) and has a pressure of 14.7 psia (1 bar) or greater. Most compressed gases will not exceed 2,000 to 2,640 psig (138 to 182 bar), though some do go up to 6,000 psig (414 bar).

Non-liquefied Compressed Gas: Chemical or material, other than gas in solution, that under the charged pressure is entirely gaseous at a temperature of 70°F (21°C).

Liquefied Compressed Gas: Chemical or material that, under the charged pressure, is partially liquid at a temperature of 70°F (21°C).

Compressed Gas in solution: A non-liquefied compressed gas that is dissolved in a solvent.

Power Testing realise the main hazards associated with the use of Gas cylinders and have put in place risk assessments and safe systems of work to highlight the hazards and mitigations using preventative control measures.






3.26.1 Hazards from gas cylinders

Impact from the blast of a gas cylinder explosion or rapid release of compressed gas;

Impact from parts of gas cylinders or valves that fail, or any flying debris;

Contact with the released gas or fluid (e.g. Chlorine); Asphyxiation from the release of inert gases; Fire resulting from the escape of flammable gases or fluids (e.g.

liquefied petroleum gas); Impact from falling cylinders; Manual handling injuries;

3.26.2 The main causes of Incident

Inadequate training and supervision; Poor installation; Poor examination and maintenance; Faulty equipment and/or design (e.g. badly fitted valves and

regulators); Poor handling; Poor storage; Inadequately ventilated working conditions; Incorrect filling procedures; Hidden damage;






3.26.3 Reducing the risks

3.26.3.1 Training

Anyone who examines, refurbishes, fills or uses a gas cylinder, should be suitably trained and have the necessary skills to carry out their job safely. They should understand the risks associated with the gas cylinder and its contents. In particular:

New employees should receive training and be supervised closely; Users should be able to carry out an external visual inspection of the

gas cylinder, and, any attachments (e.g. valves, flashback arresters, and regulators), to determine whether they are damaged. Visible indicators may include dents, bulges, evidence of fire damage (scorch marks) and severe grinding marks etc;

Trained personnel using procedures that ensure that either the cylinder does not contain any pressure or that the valve is captured during the removal process should only remove valves;

3.26.3.2 Manufacture and initial examination

The Law requires that Gas cylinders be:

Manufactured to an appropriate standard approved under the relevant legislation (“the Carriage Regs” or “PER”); and,

Examined by a relevant inspection body (a person or body notified or approved by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) or the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) under the “Carriage Regs” or “PER”), to verify that the cylinders are manufactured correctly and conform to the appropriate design standard;






Owners and fillers should satisfy themselves that examining either has carried out the manufacturing requirements:

The written certificate which accompanies the gas cylinder; or, The stamp or mark of the relevant inspection body on the gas cylinder

itself.

The Law requires that all gas cylinders and valves are:

Examined and tested by an appropriate inspection body, in accordance with relevant regulations and at specified intervals, (examination and testing to be carried out in accordance with Chapter 6.2 of the European Agreement concerning the international carriage of dangerous goods by road, (ADR), or its rail equivalent (RID) and at the intervals specified in the relevant packing instruction; and,

Permanently marked by an appropriate inspection body to show the date of the last periodic examination;

3.26.3.3 Handling

Use gas cylinders in a vertical position, unless specifically designed to be used otherwise;

Securely restrain cylinders to prevent them falling over; Always double check that the cylinder/gas is the right one for the

intended use; Before connecting a gas cylinder to equipment or pipe work make sure

that the regulator and pipe work are suitable for the type of gas and pressure being used;

When required, wear suitable safety shoes and other personal protective equipment when handling gas cylinders;

Do not use gas cylinders for any other purpose than the transport and storage of gas;






Do not drop, roll or drag gas cylinders; Close the cylinder valve and replace dust caps when a gas cylinder is

not in use; Where appropriate, fit cylinders with residual pressure valves (non-

return valves) to reduce the risk of back flow of water or other materials into the cylinder during use that might corrode it;

Ensure that the valve is protected by a valve cap or collar or that the valve has been designed to withstand impact if the cylinder is dropped;

3.26.3.4 Lifting

Use suitable cradles, slings, clamps or other effective means when lifting cylinders with a hoist or crane;

Do not use valves, shrouds and caps for lifting cylinders unless they have been designed and manufactured for this purpose;

Gas cylinders should not be raised or lowered on the forks of lift trucks unless adequate precautions are taken to prevent them from falling;

3.26.3.5 Transport

Fit suitable protective valve caps and covers to cylinders, when necessary, before transporting. Caps and covers help prevent moisture and dirt from gathering in the valve of the cylinder, in addition to providing protection during transport;

Securely stow gas cylinders to prevent them from moving or falling. This is normally in the vertical position, unless instructions for transport state otherwise;

Disconnect regulators and hoses from cylinders whenever practicable; Do not let gas cylinders project beyond the sides or end of a vehicle

(e.g. fork-lift trucks); Ensure gas cylinders are clearly marked to show their contents and the

danger signs associated with their contents; It may be necessary to take special measures with certain types and

quantities of compressed gases and fluids in order to ensure their safe carriage;

The vehicle is suitable for the purpose;






The vehicle is suitably marked to show that it is carrying dangerous goods;

The driver is suitably trained; and The driver carries the appropriate documentation about the nature of

the gases being carried;

3.26.3.6 Storage

Gas cylinders should not be stored for excessive periods of time; Only purchase sufficient quantities of gas to cover short-term needs; Rotate stocks of gas cylinders to ensure first in is first used; Store gas cylinders in a dry, safe place on a flat surface in the open air; Store in an adequately ventilated building or part of a building

specifically reserved for this purpose; Gas cylinders containing flammable gas should not be stored in part of

a building used for other purposes; Protect gas cylinders from external heat sources that may adversely

affect their mechanical integrity; Gas cylinders should be stored away from sources of ignition and other

flammable materials; Avoid storing gas cylinders so that they stand or lie in water; Ensure the valve is kept shut on empty cylinders to prevent

contaminants getting in; Store gas cylinders securely when they are not in use; They should be properly restrained, unless designed to be

freestanding; Gas cylinders must be clearly marked to show what they contain and

the hazards associated with their contents; Store cylinders where they are not vulnerable to hazards caused by

impact, e.g. from vehicles such as forklift trucks; Display appropriate signage in areas where cylinders are stored, (and

used);

3.27 Abrasive Wheels






Abrasive wheels are used throughout company operations; all users of abrasive wheels have received abrasive wheel training. Employees will use PPE and RPE appropriate to the use of abrasive wheels use i.e. to minimise Noise and Dust.

Abrasive wheel users are trained to carry out a pre-use inspection prior to use ensuring that the abrasive wheel is in good working condition, any equipment that fails the inspection must be quarantined, then either (repaired or replaced).

3.28 Working at Height (including the use of Work at Height Equipment and PPE)

Power Testing employees on occasions are required to carry out work activities, at height. The Company management team will try to avoid working at height activities were possible, but if this isn’t possible every precaution is taken to ensure that employees carrying out such works are kept safe.

Any employee expected to carry out working at height activities will receive suitable and sufficient training which will include the hazards, the equipment and the safe systems / methods of working at height.

Working at height equipment used by Power Testing includes:

A to C Class ladders (mainly fibreglass composition due to the electrical work);

Scaffold towers; Podiums; Harness and lanyards suitable to the task;






Step ladders can only be used for short duration work (no more than 30 minutes at a time), if any task is going to take longer than 30 minutes then different appropriate work at height equipment will be required i.e. scaffold or podium. Consideration must always be given to the types of work especially when working on LV and HV electrical systems.

All working at height equipment will be subject to inspection both pre-use and periodic regimes, such inspections will be recorded by use of tags on the equipment and registers kept in the office.

3.29 Permit to Work (including Hot Works)

Power testing employees will normally fall within the permit to work schemes of the companies clients, we will be expected to carry out most of our high risk works under a permit to work control procedure put in place by the site controller and very specific to the works being carried out.

Power Testing have a permit to work process covering the times that the company would be responsible for operations on a sites. Any permit to work safety rules and conditions will be stringently adhered to at all times.

3.30 Working in Confined Spaces and Areas

Power Testing employees will be required to work in confined spaces/areas, if and when this is required and there is no other way of carrying out the task then only fully trained and competent members of staff will be expected to carry out the works. A number of Power Testing employees have been trained in confined space work and will receive refresher training as and when required.






Prior to any expected confined space works a detailed risk assessment and method statement will be carried out looking at all the hazards and the control measures to deal with the hazards, the following things are considered during the risk assessment process:

The task; The working environment; Working materials and tools; The suitability of those carrying out the task; Arrangements for emergency rescue;

o Preparation of emergency arrangements;o Provision of rescue harnesses;o Communications;o Raising the alarm;o Rescue and resuscitation equipment;o Capabilities of rescuers;o Local emergency services;o First aid procedures;

Is a permit to work required; Appointment of a supervisor; Isolation; Cleaning before entry; Size and position of the entry point; Provision of ventilation; Will the air require testing; Provision of special tools and lighting; Provision of breathing apparatus; Shutdown;

3.31 Isolation and Lock-off Procedures

Power Testing are required to carry out isolation and lock-off procedures due to the nature of the work. The procedure is as follows:






Disconnected from associated plant, apparatus and conductors by an isolating device in the isolated position or by adequate physical separation or gap;

Isolating devices shall, where practicable be locked into the isolated position with a safety lock. A caution notice shall be fixed with the safety lock;

When fuses or links controls circuits; they shall be removed and kept in a safe place, preferably in the custody of the senior authorised person issuing the safety document. A caution notice shall be applied and if safety locks can be installed they shall, where practicable to secure Isolation;

Where, to secure Isolation, separation of - or control of - gas or liquid mediums are required, one of the following shall apply to achieve ‘positive isolation’: - Double point separation (double block i.e. two appropriate valves or

valve and blank / spade) with a bleed; Removal and separation of pipework.

3.32 Occupational Road Safety

Power Testing have included driving information into the companies employee handbook and induction processes. Driving is an integral part of around 70% of Power Testing employee’s day-to-day duties and for this reason the business felt that it was important to look at the effects that daily driving can have on employees.

Power Testing have put in place vehicle checklists, which requires the user of the company vehicle to ensure that their vehicle is safe to drive, operators of company vehicles are also expected to look after their vehicles and keep them clean and tidy inside and out.

Smoking is not permitted in company vehicles, if smoke ash or the odour that smoking leaves behind is found in a company vehicle the user of that company vehicle will be asked to come into the office to explain the reasons behind the findings.






Power Testing realise the stress that can be caused as the result of the daily commute so as a company we thought it best to ensure that the planning process reduced the amount of driving required and to add to this we felt it important that any employee required to drive for more than 2.5 hours a day would be offered a hotel to stay in.

Power Testing will investigate any and all driving incidents in order to support our insurers with the investigation process. If it is found under investigation that Power Testing employees were to blame for poor or dangerous driving company policy will be enforced.

3.33 The Prevention of Sharps and Needlestick Injuries

A modern day risk is the avoidance of needlestick injuries and working with sharps, company employees at some point will come into contact with sharps.

Definition of Sharps - These are needles, blades and other objects that could cause an injury by cutting or pricking the skin.

Power Testing feel that it is important for employees to understand what they need to do if their skin is penetrated by a sharp/needle.

Encourage the wound to gently bleed, ideally holding it under running water;

Wash the wound using running water and plenty of soap; Don’t scrub the wound whilst you are washing it; Don’t suck the wound; Dry the wound and cover it with a waterproof plaster or dressing; Seek urgent medical advice, ask to see if medicines are available to

help fight infection; Report the injury to your employer;






The concern for employers and employees is the potential risks from exposure to potential blood borne viruses like Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C and HIV, which can then progress into Aids, anybody who suffers from a sharps injury would be naturally anxious about such an injury.

The transmission of infection depends on a number of factors, including the person's natural immune system. We know the number of injuries each year is high, but only a small number are known to have caused infections that led to serious illness. However, the effects of the injury and anxiety about its potential consequences, including the adverse side effects of post-exposure prophylaxis can have a significant personal impact on an injured employee.

Sharps can be found in any area of most sites so the recommendation is never to pick them up with your hands even if you have anti sharp gloves (only a litter picker should be used), if on a clients site inform the clients representative of the location of the sharps. The best advice to be given is to be careful when working on sites especially if you have seen drug paraphernalia around the locality, never pick up sharps by hand and if you do get pricked or cut by a sharp follow the advice above and try not to panic.

3.34 Hand Arm Vibration (H.A.V.S)

Hand arm vibration comes from the use of hand held power tools and is the cause of significant ill health (painful and disabling disorders of the blood vessels, nerves and joints). Power Testing realise the dangers involved with working with hand held power tools and we also understand that best way to prevent permanent damage caused by HAVS is to prevent it from ever happening.

Power Testing carry out Civils as a part of our business, the employees that work within this area of the business will on occasion use equipment that will produce hand arm vibration if not controlled.






Tools currently used by the Power Testing Civils team include

550 w top handler compact jigsaw; Bosch circular saw; Canto 18 v drill; Cordless rotary hammer; Cut off saw; Dewalt angle grinder; Generator; Kango;

Managing power tools and equipment starts with the procurement process, equipment sourced should come with safety technology that reduces HAV’s and Noise levels down to an acceptable safe level, all equipment should also be purchased knowing what the trigger times and the noise levels to enable the information to be included in the RAMS.

3.35 Working Time, Shift-Work and on Call

Power Testing use a job management system which incorporates a planning schedule, the operations manager supported by the technical manager take the lead in the management of this planning schedule, this schedule manages site based staffs work and time schedules ensuring that these staff have work to do each day and do not work above the allocated working hours as specified by the Working Time Directive 1998 (this includes driving to and from their places of work).

Power Testing Limited runs 24/7 as such engineers are required to work a number of different shift patterns. A number of competent engineers (having more experience, knowledge and qualifications) act as the on-call engineers, if an engineer is called out he will not work a full shift the following day, all employees are given at least eleven hours rest per day and a minimum of one day in every seven days off.






3.36 Control of Noise

Power Testing have a Duty of Care towards its employees, visitors, the public and the environment to ensure that as reasonably practicable we control noise levels throughout our operational processes.

Power Testing try and achieve this through purchasing equipment that produces noise levels below the upper noise limit of 85dBs, we try and control the times we may carry out any noisy works ensuring that they are kept to a minimum and cause as little disturbance as possible on people or the environment.

Power Testing employees are provided with the suitable and sufficient protective equipment that will help to protect their hearing against potential damage, health and safety training is given in regards to noise i.e. Legislation, the definition of Noise, the dangers and health concerns associated to Noise and the protective control measures to eliminate or reduce its impact.

3.37 Display Screen Equipment (D.S.E.) and Eye Tests/Spectacles

Some workers may experience fatigue, eyestrain, upper limb problems and backache from overuse or improper use of DSE. These problems can also be experienced from poorly designed workstations or work environments. The causes may not always be obvious and can be due to a combination of factors.

As an employer Power Testing will assess each individual user of DSE work equipment by carrying out an annual DSE risk assessment, the results of which are highlighted onto a register and any actions carried out.






If employees require glasses they will be sent for a free eye-test and will be allowed an allowance of up to £100.00 for spectacles, if their job requires safety spectacles these will also be provided at the above allowance. The Managing Director has the right to amend the above as and when necessary or take each individual case on its merit.

3.37.1.13.38 Management of Stress

Power Testing recognises that stress exists as a part of life, for this reason we as a business support our employees in everyway possible and by having an open door policy in confidence if required we can help stop or relieve the systems of stress before they even start. The Law clearly expects all employers to assess the risk of stress related ill health arising from work activities and take action to control the risk of stress.

People can easily get confused about the difference between pressure and stress. We all experience pressure regularly – it can motivate us to perform at our best. It is when we experience too much pressure and feel unable to cope that stress can result.

The Facts are staggering the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) estimates the cost to society of work related stress to be around £4 billion each year, in 2007/8 13.5 million working days were lost due to stress related ailments. Many organisations have reported improvements in productivity, retention of staff and a reduction in sickness absence after tackling work related stress. Power Testing try to focus on the prevention of stress.






3.39 Aggression and Violence in the Workplace

Power Testing as a company will not allow violence in any form within its premises or on any of its sites, any employee committing violence against another employee or a member of the public will be fully investigated and if found to be in breach of policy, will face disciplinary action.

Employees whom have violence committed against them will be offered support and services to help them cope with their ordeals.

3.40 Construction, Design and Management Project

Power Testing recognise the importance of the Construction, Design and Management Regulation 2015 and the changes that will affect how projects are carried out from April 2015.

The nine key changes include:

The HSE proposes to make them clearer and easier to understand. This is largely aimed at small to medium projects, which tend to use Small Medium Enterprise (SME’s) companies.

When the regulations come into force a Client will need to appoint a ‘Principal Designer’ for all projects involving more than one contractor (trade contractor) on site at one time. Any Designers appointed should not carry out any work beyond initial design unless the Principal Designer has confirmed that the Client is aware of their duties.

The Client must appoint both the Principal Designer and Principal Contractor in writing, otherwise they are deemed to be carrying out these roles.

It is proposed for projects involving more than one contractor that the Principal Contractor will normally assume the Client duties. The domestic Client can choose to appoint the Principal Designer for the project. If,






however, they do not make this appointment, the first Designer appointed during the pre-construction phase is the Principal Designer for the project. If so, the Principal Designer will be answerable to the Principal Contractor in their role as ‘Client’ for the project and will be responsible for liaising with them.

The Client is to ensure a Construction Phase Plan provided by the Contractor or Principal Contractor is in place before any works commence.

The Client will need to notify the HSE of projects before works commence if they will exceed 30 construction days with 20 or more workers working simultaneously or if the project exceeds 500 person days.

The Client will need to ensure those that are to be appointed (i.e. Designer, Contractor or Principal Contractor and Principal Designer) can demonstrate appropriate information, instruction, training and supervision.

The latest proposal is that a mini ACoP will be published after the legislation goes through on 6 April 2015. Meanwhile HSE Legislation Series and CITB Industry Guidance will be available from January 2015.

Anyone working on a construction project should be able to demonstrate capability and have the necessary resources to fulfil legal duties. They must provide sufficient information in relation to the preparation, provision and, where necessary, revision of health and safety information such as Pre-Construction Information, Construction Phase Plans and Health & Safety Files.

3.41 Sub-Contractors

Sub-contractors are instructed primarily on the basis of their technical capability, though regard is also taken on health and safety performance and capabilities. Serious breaches of health and safety and the contractor’s capability for specific risks will be taken into account during the selection process.

Activities that are sub-contract include:

Lifting and Moving Equipment; Excavation and Civils Work; Cable Fault Location and Electrical Support; Oil Sample Test Analysis;






How Power Testing Limited assess sub-contractors health & safety arrangements:

Pre-Qualification Process (P.Q.Q.); Checking Accreditation and Competence; Checking and Approving of RAMS; Contractual and Service Agreements; Quality and Safety Audits on a three yearly basis; Direct Supervision on site; Annual Assessments based on a number of criteria i.e. safety and

environmental performance, reliability, cost, issues and concerns, business risk etc;

3.42 Public Safety

The safety of members of the public and other contractors is considered at all times whilst on site. Any work area that could place others at risk due to the Company’s activities will be protected by use of suitable and sufficient physical barriers, signage and on some occasions by a traffic marshal or supervisor. Full access and egress restrictions will apply.

Safety of the Public is of the highest priority to the business it is imperative that people going about their day-to-day lives are not affected by the works of Power Testing or by any of its suppliers and/or contractors.






4 References, Definitions & Abbreviations

4.1 References

Indicated by [x] within document where x is the document Reference Number

Table 1 List Of References

Ref. No. Document Title Document

No. Version

1 The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 (HASAWA) N/A N/A

2Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous

Occurrence Regulations 1995 and amended in 2013 (RIDDOR)

N/A N/A

3 Safety Representatives and Safety Committees Regulations 1977 N/A N/A

4 Health and Safety (Consultation with Employees) Regulations 2006 N/A N/A

5 Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 N/A N/A

6 Provision of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER) N/A N/A

7 Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER) N/A N/A

8 Social Security (Claims and Payments) Regulations 1979 N/A N/A

9 BS 9999 Code of Practice for Fire Safety, the Design, Management and use of Buildings N/A N/A

10 Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 N/A N/A

11 Dangerous Carriage Regulations N/A N/A

12 Working Time Directive 1998 N/A N/A

13 Construction, Design and Management Regulations 2015 N/A N/A






4.2 Definitions

Table 2 List Of Definitions

Term Description

EH40 Workplace Exposure Limits

+10% Means the maximum amount of stored chemical/substance plus 10% which would contain any spillages that occur

L8 Approved Code of Practice around Legionella’s

F-Gas Fluorinated gases that are man-made gases that can stay in the atmosphere for centuries and contribute to a global greenhouse effect.

70°F Degrees Fahrenheit – the higher the degrees the higher the temperature

psia Pounds Per Square Inch (Pressure) - the higher the pressure the more dangerous

21°C Degrees Celsius - the higher the degrees the higher the temperature

414 bar Metric unit of atmospheric pressure

psig Pounds Per Square Inch Gauge

PER Pressure Equipment Regulations

DTI Department of Trade and Industry

ADR European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road

RID European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Rail

A to C class The type and standard of Ladders used in Industry today

LV Low Voltage less than 1000 volts

HV High Voltage more than 35000 volts

Hepatitis B

Is an infectious disease caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV), which affects the liver, It can cause both acute and chronic infections

Hepatitis C

Is an infectious disease affecting primarily the liver, caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV)

HIV The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a lentivirus (a subgroup of retrovirus) that causes the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)

dBs Decibels – Noise Levels






4.3 Abbreviations

Table 3 List of Abbreviations

Term Description

HSQE Health, Safety, Quality and Environmental

PPE Personnel Protective Equipment

RPE Respiratory Protective Equipment

COSHH Control of Substances Hazardous to Health

HSE Health and Safety Executive

ACM’s Asbestos Containing Materials

D&A Drugs and Alcohol

DSE Display Screen Equipment

PC Personal Computer

UAE United Arab Emirates

PAT Portable Appliance Testing

HVAC Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning

HAVS Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome

RAMS Risk Assessments and Method Statements

SME’s Small to Medium Enterprises

CDM 2015 Construction, Design and Management

ACoP Approved Code of Practice

CITB Construction Industry Training Board

PQQ Pre-Qualification Questionnaire






5 Appendix 1

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6 Appendix 2

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