The main legislation on work equipment is the Provision and Use of
Work Equipment Regulations
Work equipment comes in all shapes and sizes and varies from simple tools to complex
machinery. However, even using simple equipment can be a high risk.
One of the most common injuries is a severe cut sustained while using a
knife such as a “Stanley knife”- and a “Stanley knife” is quite a simple
item of work equipment. However simple or complicated the work
equipment, there will be safe ways to use it and unsafe ways to use it. The
safe ways of using work equipment, especially machines, are often referred to as
“safe systems of work” for that equipment or machine. The following pages provide
basic guidance for a range of equipment.
Before using any work equipment make sure you know the safe
way to use it. Usually this will involve asking a competent
person before you use the equipment for the first time. Once
you know the safe ways to use the equipment, always use it in
these safe ways. In order to work safely with machines or items
of equipment you have to:
•
find out what the safe system of work is for that machine or item of equipment
•
make sure you are competent in the safe system of work
•
follow the safe system of work at all times.
It is also essential to find out how to stop the machine in the event of an emergency. So far as
machinery guarding is concerned, you have to find out whether the machine should be fitted
with a guard.
If a machine should have a guard then you should:
•
never operate the machine without the guard in place, or
•
never try to defeat the guard.
Using an extension lead increases the risk of receiving an electric shock
and presents a tripping hazard to others
The trailing length of cable can easily be damaged, so it is important to
check that the cable, plug and socket are not damaged in any way, before
using the extension lead. In particular, look out for nicks and deep abrasions
in the cable, which could leave wires exposed. Pay attention to the plug as it
is easily knocked while the extension lead is being handled, which may cause
damage to the casing of the plug. A rubber-sheathed plug, which can
withstand some ‘abuse’, is better than a standard plastic plug.
Cable connectors and sockets are usually keyed and colour-coded, according to the voltage
range and frequency used; common colours for 50/60 Hz AC power are yellow for 100/130 volts,
blue for 200/250 volts, and red for 380/480 volts.
Do not use the extension lead if it has damage to the cable or to the plug
or socket.
When using an extension lead:
•
do not cause a tripping hazard - use safety signs to warn others;
•
always unwind the cable fully - otherwise the coiled cable will overheat;
•
make sure that the cable is not damaged or twisted - bare wires are a
danger;
•
ensure that the plugs and sockets on the lead are not cracked or broken;
•
make sure that any electrical socket joints on the cable are not on a wet floor
or near water;
•
do not allow the cable to run under doors - it may become damaged;
•
do not use an extension lead that is not longer than 18m (60ft) or "double up" extensions -
as using longer cables causes the voltage to drop too much
No one should use any powered hand tool until they have been trained
how to use it safely
Always use the PPE that is needed, while using the tool. If the tool is to be use on a
construction site, or in a damp location, then it should preferably be battery operated; or if a
battery tool is not available, then it must be suitable for a 110-volt electrical supply.
Always check an electrically powered the tool to make sure that
it has been P.A.T. tested and that the cable and plug are not
damaged in any way. Do not use the tool if it has a damaged
cable or plug. Do not tamper with electrical connections - a
competent electrician must carry out any electrical repair work
that is required.
Some work activities such as welding, grinding and roofing are a serious cause of fires on sites
undergoing construction or refurbishment. For this reason, remove all combustible materials
from the area where a naked flame is to be used, or where grinding work is taking place; and
keep at least one fire extinguisher (water or dry powder) at hand.
After the work is completed, check the work and surrounding areas, to ensure that there are no
smouldering materials. Or better still, use a hand-held thermal imaging device to do this.
These simple rules should also be applied to the charger used with battery
powered tools.
Guards and safety devices that are fitted to powered hand tools are provided for
personal protection and must not be removed or interfered with - it is an offence to
do so. Keep guards that are fitted, in position at all times when using them.
Additionally, when using portable electrically powered tools:
•
drape the flex over one shoulder to keep it clear of the work area, while making sure that
there is still enough slack to allow adequate movement;
•
hold the tool lightly in both hands, keeping clear of any moving parts, and maintain a stable
stance that gives a good view of the work;
•
stop using it if you notice that you are being affected by hand-arm vibration;
•
do not leave it running when not using it.
Many of food preparation machines are hazardous to use
Many of the machines used in the preparation of food are so familiar that it is easy to forget the
hazards they can present, particularly during cleaning and maintenance.
A number of machines are particularly hazardous – these are highlighted below. You must not
work on these with out specialist training about the risks from the particular machines at your
place of work and the precautions to be taken when using or cleaning it.
Young people under 18 years of age must not work on these machines until their training is
fully understood and unless they are properly supervised.
•
worm-type mincing machines
•
rotary knife bowl-type chopping machines
•
dough brakes and dough mixers
•
food mixing machines when used with
attachments used for mincing, slicing, chipping or
any cutting operation for crumbing
•
pie and tart machines
•
vegetable slicing machines
•
bandsaws and machines with circular saw blades
•
circular knife slicing machines
•
potato chipping machines, whether power-operated or not.
The safe method of cleaning each machine must be set out in the method statement for that
machine.
A high-pressure jet of water can cause serious damage to the human
body
It is therefore essential that anyone using this type of equipment,
uses the appropriate personal protective equipment. If the
equipment is electrically operated, the damp and wet conditions
resulting from its use can be dangerous. To reduce the risk of electric
shock use an RCD (Residual Current-operated Device).
Check the equipment before you use it. Look at
that the cable and plug to make sure that they are
not damaged in any way, and that any extension lead that is used with it is
also checked. Do not use the pressure washer if it has a damaged cable or
plug. Do not tamper with electrical connections - a competent electrician
must carry out any electrical repair work that is required. Pay particular
attention to the hoses and if there is any sign of excessive wear, do not use
them.
Very high-pressure washers (135 bar [2000 psi] and above) must not be used off ladders or
steps - a stable working platform is essential.
When using a pressure washer make sure that:
•
hoses are handled with care and not trailed over sharp edges or placed where they may be
damaged.
•
the spray is always directed away from people, or anything else that could be damaged by
it;
•
the spray is not directed at or near anything electrical. - even if it is isolated from its power
supply - as water penetration may cause problems when the power is restored;
•
the unit is not left running unless the lance is actually in use – it will cause the pump to
overheat;
•
hoses are coiled up neatly when they are not in use;
•
in the winter months, the washer is protected from frost.
No one should use a floor-cleaning machine unless they have been
trained how to use it safely
Always check that the machine has been P.A.T. tested and that the cable
and plug are not damaged in any way. Do not use the machine if it has a
damaged cable or plug, and that any extension lead that is used with it
is also checked. Do not tamper with electrical connections - a competent
electrician must carry out any electrical repair work that is required.
Guards and safety devices that are fitted to cleaning machines are
provided for personal protection and must not be removed or interfered
with - it is an offence to do so. When using the machine keep the guards
that are fitted to it in position at all times.
To reduce the risk of electric shock when using 240-volt equipment,
plug an RCD (Residual Current-operated Device) into the socket, unless the building already has
protected circuits. When using the machine:
•
check the operation of the safety switches to make sure that they are working correctly;
•
if the machine is vacuum assisted, check that the vacuum bag is empty before you start;
•
make sure that the base plate is not distorted and that the pad / brush is properly attached
before the machine is switched on;
•
adjust the handle so that it is at a suitable height for you to use;
•
keep the cable well away from the work area at all times;
•
if you are undertaking floor scrubbing or stripping, put out "wet floor" signs;
•
stop using the machine if you notice you are being affected by hand-arm vibration;
•
do not leave cleaning equipment running whilst it is unattended and if unattended leave in a
safe position.
•
when you have finished the work; clean down the machine; remove the base plate and pad;
hang up the base plate and then wash the pads.
Step ladders must only be used for short duration activities – a working
platform is the preferred method for working at a height.
Where the work at height assessment indicates that a step ladder is the
best choice, then before using it, check it to make sure that it has no
defects and that it is tall enough for the job. Regularly inspect step
ladders and keep them maintained. Make sure that it is suitable for
heavy use. Ladders that are designed for light domestic use, must not
be used for general work. Do not use metal step ladders when carrying
out work on electrical circuits or apparatus.
Step ladders require careful use, as they are not designed for any degree
of side loading, so avoid heavy and awkward tasks. Do not erect a step
ladder on a sloping surface, a movable object, an unstable surface or in
front of a door that may be opened.
Always use them at right angles to the work, with the styles fully
extended and don't overreach. Do not use the top step unless it has
been designed for that purpose and has a
wider platform and grab rail. When working on a step ladder follow
these simple rules:
•
make sure that it is on a firm level base;
•
check that the work can be reached without stretching;
•
carry any tools that are needed in a shoulder bag or holster;
•
make sure that a good handhold is available;
•
always keep three points of contact with the ladder;
•
only use it for a maximum of 15 to 30 minutes at a time.
Podium steps offer a safer alternative to step ladders; as they have
a wider base, and a rigid stable working platform with barriers to
prevent falls. They also allow work to be done in any direction, and
two handed. They are usually made from aluminium and have a
‘snap click’, or fold out assembly, with slide-in handrails that provide
a four-sided ‘cage’ to work in.
Ladders must only be used for short duration activities – a working plat-
form is always the preferred method for working at a height
Where the work at height assessment indicates that a ladder is the best choice, then before
using a ladder, check it to make sure that it has no defects and that it is long enough for the job.
Make sure that it is suitable for heavy use. Ladders that are designed for light domestic use,
must not be used for general work. Do not erect a ladder on a sloping surface, a movable object,
against a slippery or unstable surface or in front of a door that may be opened.
The correct way of leaning a ladder is to place it about 1 m out for every 4 m in height i.e. at an
angle of 75 degrees. There should be sufficient space behind the rung to provide a proper
footing. Remember to clean grease, mud, etc. off footwear before attempting to climb the
ladder.
Where it is possible to do so, make sure that the ladder cannot slip by
securely fixing the top. Take special care on slippery or
smooth surfaces to prevent the foot of the ladder from
moving. Where securing at the top is impracticable,
the ladder must be prevented from slipping outwards
or
sideways by using a proprietary spreader arm or stay.
When working on a leaning ladder follow these
simple rules:
•
dress sensibly - avoid loose clothing,
•
use footwear with a heel - and act in a sensible manner;
•
only allow one person on a ladder at any one time;
•
face the ladder when climbing and descending;
•
stand at least five rungs from the top so that an adequate
handhold is available;
•
do not over reach;
•
never throw equipment down - always carry it down the ladder.
No one should attempt to erect, alter or dismantle a mobile tower until
they have receiving proper training
You must ensure that not only the person building the tower is competent but also those who
specify, use and supervise or manage the use of a tower are competent to do so. Attending a
PASMA (Prefabricated Aluminium Scaffold Manufactures Association), or equivalent training
course, will provide the required level of training.
Where the work at height assessment indicates that a mobile tower is the best choice, then it
should be provided with double guard rails and have toe boards to minimise the likelihood of a
fall, and should have a ‘built-in’ access ladder, preferably on the inside of the tower.
Each manufacturer has their own specific requirements on how their tower should be built and
dismantled; which must always be done using a safe method of work. Always follow the
manufacturer’s or supplier’s instruction manual; and make sure that the manual is available
to the person/s erecting and using the tower, and to the person supervising the work. No
manual should mean no tower.
As a broad guide, the maximum height of a mobile scaffold
should not be more than three times the minimum base
width for outside use, and three and a half times for inside
use. Outriggers or ties must be used when these ratios are
exceeded.
A competent person must inspect the tower, and make a
record of this, when the tower is erected and before it is
first used; and then every seven days if the tower remains
in the same place.
Keep the working platform, free of non-essential materials
and do not use the tower for support purposes at any time.
Never use boxes, steps and so on, to gain extra height from
the working platform – always add an extra lift.
No one should attempt to operate a mobile elevated work platform
(MEWP) until they have receiving proper training
MEWPs, also known as aerial work platforms (AWPs), are one of
the safest means to provide temporary access to work at height,
provided a risk assessment is completed prior to use; and the
equipment is operated by a qualified, trained and familiarised
person.
Attending an IPAF (International Powered Access Federation), or
equivalent training course, will provide the required level of
training.
The work at height assessment will often indicate that scissor lifts,
cherry pickers and similar powered platforms are the best choice to
work at a hight, where it cannot be avoided. This is because they
provide excellent safe access and a safe means of carrying out work at high level .
However, make sure that:
•
the operators are fully trained and certified as competent
•
it is used on a firm level surface and has properly inflated tyres i.e. gauge checked
•
if it is used outside – the weather conditions are suitable i.e. no high winds / boggy ground,
etc.
•
any outriggers are extended and spreader boards used, as necessary, before it is used
•
there are guard rails / barriers and toe boards
•
the safe working load (SWL) is not exceeded
•
those on the platform use harnesses with lanyards clipped to a secure anchorage point
inside the platform
•
everyone knows what to do if the machine fails with the platform in the raised position
•
regular checks are made to ensure that the MEWP is not sinking into the ground
Working on roofs results in a substantial number of fatal and serious ac-
cidents every year
For this reason, no one must go onto any roof or
undertake any roof work, no matter how simple it
seems, until they are properly trained to do so. There
must be a Risk Assessment for the work, which takes
into account the hazards likely to be encountered,
e.g. process and flue discharges, fragile materials,
etc. This must also consider the emergency rescue
arrangements. Design and plan the working using
the guidance that is given in the HSE document
“Health and safety in roof work” (ref. HSG33).
When planning the work, and working at height
cannot be avoided, apply the safeguards shown below, in the following order:
•
a safe working platform with guardrails and toe boards - this is the most effective
precaution;
Only if this first level of protection cannot be achieved in practice, are the following
acceptable;
•
safety nets and similar protective systems – as these provide general protection – or lastly;
•
individual protection e.g. safety harnesses with lanyards or inertia reels, attached to suitable
anchorage points.
Work of short duration i.e. taking minutes rather than hours, may be carried out using individual
fall protection. Use a suitable safety harness and lanyard with a shock absorber, or an inertia
reel, secured to an anchorage point that is capable of taking the anticipated shock loads if a fall
occurs.
For other work, suitable edge protection must be provided. This must consist of guardrails and
toe boards at the edge, and fencing around any opening or skylight, where a person can fall.
There must be a safe means of access to the roof.
Check the weather conditions each day before work starts and if necessary, while the work is to
be done. Remember that a safe foothold can be difficult in bad weather.
Eye bolts have a variety of uses, one of the most common being as an
anchor point for a safety device
When working off eyebolts, for window cleaning or maintenance work, or when using them to
secure a ladder, make sure that:
•
Everyone knows the emergency arrangements and what to do and if you or
a colleague falls.
•
The weather conditions are suitable to allow the work to be done safely.
Re-assess the situation regularly, particularly if the weather is changeable.
•
Each eyebolt has a tag around the neck identifying the date it was
inspected and tested or that there is test certificate for the eyebolts fitted
to the building. Do not undertake any work unless there is a tag or a valid
current certificate.
•
You physically check the security of every bolt, each time - before you use it, by
tugging it and twisting it. If there is any doubt about its security, do
not use it and leave that area of work. Make a note of defective
eyebolts and tell the building owner about it.
•
You use a full body harness and webbing lanyards (rope lanyards
tend to untwist in use) that have a maximum length of 1.8 metres (6
feet) and are fitted with a shock absorbing pack. Where practicable
use a shorter lanyard with absorber pack, as when the absorber is
activated and opens, the overall length of the fall will be extended.
For window cleaning work, the eyebolts are normally installed above
shoulder height but within reach. Where the eyebolts are fitted at low
level, use an inertia reel for restraint, rather than a lanyard.
Confined spaces require special attention as there is a risk of death or
serious injury from hazardous substances or dangerous conditions
For this reason, always follow the guidance given in the Confined
Spaces Regulations and the associated Code of Practice [L101].
Examples of typical confined spaces are given in the general
guidance on this website, and some are illustrated here.
A Risk Assessment that takes into account the hazards likely to be
encountered in the confined space must be undertaken. This must
consider the need for testing the atmosphere; a safe means of
getting into and out of the space, as well as suitable emergency
rescue arrangements.
Remember, the main hazards associated with confined spaces are fumes from plant or pro-
cess entering the space, which could result in:
Use the information from the Risk Assessment to sort out the most effective procedures to
control the work. These may include the use of a permit-to-work system, obtaining the correct
equipment and providing information, instruction and training to those doing the work.
The Supervisor must make sure that all of the necessary equipment, including suitable rescue
and first aid equipment, is available, in accordance with the planned procedures, before any
person enters a confined space.
The Supervisor must also make sure that the permit-to-work system and the planned
procedures are followed and that only authorised persons are permitted to enter the confined
space
Do not, under any circumstances enter any manhole, sewer, culvert or
drain unless adequate safety arrangements have been made and they
are in place
The arrangements for working in confined spaces that are given on
this website must be fully implemented.
If there is any sign or suspicion of rat infestation, follow the
precautions against Weil's disease that are given on this website.
Take special care where chemical drain cleaners may have
already been tried. Most are toxic and may cause burns.
If powered equipment and/or high-pressure washing
equipment is to be used, then follow the guidance given on
this website.
Make sure that all equipment is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected after it has been used.
Lead-acid batteries contain dilute sulphuric acid that is poisonous and
corrosive, which will cause burns or irritation if it comes into contact
with the skin or eyes
Battery operated machines normally require recharging after they have been
used, but during periods of heavy use they may require a boosting or ‘top-up’
charge.
Do not carry out battery charging or 'topping-up' operations unless you are
trained how to do it safely.
When charging a battery, follow these precautions:
•
always read and follow the manufactures written instructions;
•
make sure the area has good general ventilation to avoid gases and vapours building up and
that the battery charger has a good flow of air through it to cool it;
•
do not smoke or allow sparks near the battery as it gives off gases that can form an
explosive mixture;
•
switch off the circuit breaker before connecting or disconnecting the battery, as otherwise a
spark can cause an explosion; make sure that connections are secure before switching on.
When 'topping-up' a battery, follow these workplace precautions:
•
wear rubber gloves, a plastic apron and a protective face mask;
•
only remove or open vent plugs when specific gravity readings are being taken;
•
'top-up' battery cells only to the correct level, and as recommended by the
manufacturer.
Subcellars
Manholes
Cold Storage
Trenches