AN EMPLOYEE GUIDE TO

AN EMPLOYEE GUIDE TO CONSTRUCTION SAFETY DEVELOPED BY ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The Construction Association of Victoria wishes to thank the following persons and their organizations for their assistance in preparing this manual: Terry Siklenka Senior Technical Estimator Accutemp Refrigeration & Air Conditioning Ltd. Vice Chairman Construction Association of Victoria Chairman CAV Health and Safety Council Lonny Bouchard Dip.T.OH&S Industry Specialist, Industry and Labour Services WorkSafeBC Laurel Smith Vice President Construction Association of Victoria Vice Chair CAV Health and Safety Council Ken Boucher WorkSafeBC Table of Contents LEGAL REQUIREMENTS............................................... 6 HEALTH AND SAFETY POLICY................................... 7 ACCIDENT AND INJURY REPORTING....................... 8 EMPLOYER’S GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES ......... 9 SUPERVISORS GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES...... 10 WORKERS’ GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES ........... 11 GENERAL RULES AND SAFE PRACTICES.............. 11 PERSONAL PROTECTION ........................................... 15 SCAFFOLDS..................................................................... 17 LADDERS ......................................................................... 20 ELECTRICAL .................................................................. 21 MANUAL LIFTING......................................................... 21 FUEL STORAGE ............................................................. 22 COMPRESSED GAS CYLINDERS ............................... 22 TOOLS............................................................................... 22 VEHICLES & EQUIPMENT .......................................... 23 CRANES & HOISTS ........................................................ 24 HOUSEKEEPING ............................................................ 26 MATERIAL HANDLING................................................ 27 3 TRAFFIC CONTROL PERSONS .................................. 28 OF EVERY JOB AND TASK!RIGGING....................... 29 RIGGING .......................................................................... 30 ELECTRICAL SAFETY ................................................. 42 WELDING AND CUTTING............................................ 43 LADDER JACK SCAFFOLDING .................................. 46 HORIZONTAL & VERTICAL OPENINGS ................. 47 EXCAVATIONS/TRENCHES ........................................ 47 ROOFING ......................................................................... 48 GUARDRAILS, OPENINGS IN FLOORS AND WALLS ............................................................................................ 49 ILLUMINATION ............................................................. 50 FALL PROTECTION ...................................................... 52 ELEVATING WORK PLATFORMS AND AERIAL DEVICES........................................................................... 54 FIRE PROTECTION ....................................................... 58 ELECTRICAL TOOLS AND HAND TOOLS............... 59 ENTRY INTO CONFINED SPACES ............................. 60 SAFE EXCAVATING ...................................................... 63 NOISE CONTROL ........................................................... 68 VIBRATION ..................................................................... 69 4 IONIZING AND NON-IONIZING RADIATION ......... 69 WORKPLACE HAZARDOUS MATERIALS INFORMATION SYSTEM.............................................. 70 ASBESTOS........................................................................ 74 ERGONOMICS ................................................................ 74 IMPAIRMENT BY ALCOHOL, DRUGS OR OTHER SUBSTANCES .................................................................. 75 SURVIVAL FIRST AID................................................... 76 RESCUE BREATHING ................................................... 77 EMERGENCY PROCEDURES...................................... 78 5 Legal Requirements The Occupational Health and Safety Regulation is adopted under the Workers Compensation Act and is law. Employers and supervisors need to be aware of Bill C-45 and the fact that they can be held directly responsible for an accident if they do not exercise Due Diligence. Due Diligence simply means, “Did you do every thing a reasonable person would do to ensure worker safety?” An employer and supervisor are required to comply with this regulation. Should an accident occur as a result of a violation of part or all of this regulation, the employer, supervisor, and worker may be charged and subject to fines and/or imprisonment. The information presented here is, to the best of our knowledge, current at the time of printing and is intended for general application. This application is not a definitive guide to government regulations. It is not intended to be used in lieu of any federal or provincial laws or regulations. The appropriate statutes and regulations should be consulted. It does contain in brief form, a practical guide that can assist employers, supervisors, and employees to reduce and eliminate construction job hazards and accidents. Employees must abide by the regulations and recognize that repeated violation of these rules or failure to perform work in a safe manner would be cause for disciplinary action. When regulations are quoted in this book they, unless otherwise stated, refer to the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation and/or the Workers Compensation Act. 6 Health and Safety Policy This organization’s/company’s policy on Occupational Health and Safety is considered an integral part of all operations and procedures. All employees must ensure that work is performed in the safest possible manner, and in accordance with the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation, as well as company rules and policies. The organization/company recognizes the importance of protecting the safety and health of its workers and acknowledges the right of all employees to be provided with a safe and healthy work environment. Management at all levels is accountable for ensuring the health and safety of employees and for the effectiveness of the Occupational Health and Safety Program. All employees must adhere to established reporting and recording formats and/or procedures. SAFETY IS NOT JUST A WAY OF LIFE… IT IS FOR LIFE 7 Accident and Injury Reporting • Incidents requiring First Aid treatment, medical treatment (from a doctor), incidents involving equipment damage and any other incidents (close calls) which could have caused injury and/or damage to company personnel, equipment are to be reported immediately to the first aid attendant, supervisor or agent in charge of the place of work. Failure to report an injury, or receive treatment from the site First Aid Attendant may jeopardize your right to compensation. Seeing the First Aid Attendant or site supervisor immediately provides proof to WorkSafeBC that an injury occurred at work. When a physician treats an employee following an injury, the employee shall report to his/her supervisor as soon as possible stating the injury and the anticipated loss of work time if any. If work time is lost, it is requested that the injured employee ask his/her doctor to forward a letter to the supervisor stating the injuries and expected time loss from work. To cut costs, your company could develop a form that can be filled in by a doctor. A charge will be made, but the cost will be less. The employer should pay these costs. An employer must immediately report to the WorkSafeBC (the board) the occurrence of any accident that resulted in serious injury or death, major structural failure, collapse, major hazardous substance release or incident required by regulation to be reported. • • • • 8 Employer’s General Responsibilities Every employer must: • ensure the health and safety of all workers working for him and any other workers present at a workplace at which that employer’s work is being carried out. • • • • • • • • assess risks and be able to recognize and correct all job site hazards. provide training and supervision to all employees and supervisors in safe work procedures. train and educate employees in the hazards of and protective measures to be used with controlled products. ensure regular Safety Meetings are being held, and recommendations from meetings are acted upon. provide adequate First Aid facilities and legally required personal protective equipment for all employees. set company policies and ensure the Occupational Health & Safety Program is followed by all workers on the job site. ensure that all company equipment is capable of performing the function for which it is meant to be used. when necessary, in work areas of two or more employers, coordinate the occupational health and safety activities with all employers. 9 Supervisors General Responsibilities Supervisors are responsible to: • comply with and enforce all Health, Safety & Environmental standards, as well as all local government regulations. • • identify, investigate and correct immediately, conditions and /or procedures that could pose a hazard to workers. develop, implement and enforce all company policies and safe work procedures to reduce and eliminate hazardous situations on the site. ensure adequate supervision and training is being provided to all employees. have available operation and maintenance manuals for all tools, machinery and equipment on site. ensure First Aid, as required by the Regulations, is available to all employees. make available on site a copy of the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation for all persons to refer to. post, in a prominent position, reports, orders, Safety Committee minutes, safety posters etc. required for the workers information. ensure regular safety meetings are being held, minutes and attendance taken and filed on site and with the Safety Committee. cooperate with and take any corrective action recommended by the Safety Committee. • • • • • • • 10 • • thoroughly inspect and monitor regularly the place of work, all machinery, equipment and tools. designate specific smoking areas. Workers’ General Responsibilities Workers must: • follow safe working procedures set out by the Occupational Health Regulation and your employer. • • • • • • • wear and use all personal protection equipment as required by the Regulation and your employer. not engage in improper behavior or activity at the workplace. report all suspected injuries and accidents immediately. report all and any unsafe conditions and improper procedures immediately to your supervisor/s. attend and participate in safety meetings. show new employees safe working procedures. smoke only in designated areas. General Rules and Safe Practices • All employees shall follow safe work procedures, make safe operations a priority, and correct or report all unsafe conditions and/or practices immediately to his/her supervisor. 11 • • • • • • Always operate tools, machinery and equipment within design or workplace environmental limits. Always operate tools, machinery and equipment in a safe and controlled condition. If you are unsure of the safe working procedures of a particular job ask your supervisor and check the Regulation. Always maintain integrity of dedicated systems. Always comply with all applicable rules and regulations and manufacturers recommendations. Carefully assess possible danger to you or to any other person prior to beginning any work. If you believe any danger exists do not carry out the work process or use any tool you have considered to be dangerous. Report the matter immediately to your supervisor. Always address abnormal worksite conditions. Company foremen and supervisors will ensure employees obey the workplace rules and the Regulation and promote good safety practices. Always follow written procedures for high-risk or unusual situations. Always involve the right people in decisions that affect procedures or equipment. Help the new or inexperienced employee by pointing out potential hazards that may arise from gases, chemicals, radiation, confined space entry, working at heights, general safety matters or housekeeping. All employees are expected to attend all safety meetings • • • • • • 12 • Employees are to be alert and report any deficiency, such as defective electrical cords, tools, equipment, guarding devices or other protective devices, immediately to their supervisor. Make sure you know and follow safe work practices and procedures. Make sure you know who your First Aid Attendant is, how to contact him/her, and where your First Aid Station is located. Horseplay, gambling, or fighting will not be tolerated and may result in discipline up to and including dismissal. Persons, under the influence of certain prescription/nonprescription drugs and/or alcohol are prohibited from entering or remaining on the job site at any time. Intoxicating beverages, illegal drugs, firearms or other weapons are not permitted on the job site. Always meet or exceed customer’s requirements. Prescription and over the counter drug users must advise the First Aid Attendant and your Supervisor of their use and any affecting limitations that may exist as a result of that use. Only operate and/or use the equipment you are authorized and trained to use. Always ensure safety devices on equipment are in place and functioning. Do not work at heights if you are subject to dizzy spells, have a fear of heights, or are on some medications. • • • • • • • • • • 13 • • Bring to the Safety Committees’ attention, as soon as possible, any failure of the supervisor to acknowledge safety concerns. If it is necessary to remove a guardrail, cover plate, barricade etc. it must be replaced immediately after work is complete. Never leave the area unguarded. Wear suitable fall protection equipment while working in unprotected area when working at heights over three meters, ten feet or less if required by company policy. Before using any structure, machinery, or equipment that has been repaired, ascertain if it has been checked by a qualified person to see that it is safe for use and in proper working order in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications and recommendations. If any structure, tool or machinery is found to be unsafe it must be immediately taken out of service and so marked as to ensure that it is not used. Employees are to be trained so they have a thorough understanding of any written rescue and evacuation procedures developed by the employer. All workers must have adequate instruction in fire prevention in their workplace. Workers must be advised of and use the safest way of entering and leaving the work area. Floors must be kept free from tripping hazards. All workers are responsible for good housekeeping. • • • • • • 14 Personal Protection Personal protective equipment is designed to provide an effective barrier between you and potentially dangerous objects, energy, substances and processes. When operations, Regulation and/or policies dictate the use of personal protective equipment, the use of such equipment will be mandatory. Basic personal protective equipment may include but is not limited to the following: 1. HARD HATS – CSA/ANSI approved hard hats that are not more than five years old will be worn on all projects at all times. 2. FOOTWARE – CSA/ANSI approved Grade one or equivalent footwear will be worn on all projects at all times, when local legislation dictates. In geographical areas where industry practices permit, other appropriate footwear may be worn. 3. FALL ARREST EQUIPMENT – When there is no other form of protection from falling, employees shall be trained to use, inspect and wear approved fall arrest equipment. 4. RESPIRATORY PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (SCBA, Airline Respirator etc). This equipment is limited in its application to work environments, which are not considered to be IMMEDIATELY DANGEROUS TO LIFE AND HEALTH (IDLH). Employees should not enter into any IDLH work environment unless they have been properly trained to do so. Employees, who are instructed by their supervisor to perform a task that requires respiratory protection for the performance of their work, must be properly trained in a respiratory protection program. 15 5. 6. 7. 8. EYE AND FACE PROTECTION - CSA/ANSI approved safety glasses with side shields or goggles must be worn whenever the nature of the job presents an eye hazard, such as drilling using power tools, or for required job areas and equipment. When grinding, or using a cut off saw a face shield must be worn in addition to the eye protection. HEARING PROTECTION – CSA/ANSI approved hearing protection must be worn when the sound level in the work area exceeds the permissible occupational exposure limit. HAND PROTECTION – Appropriate gloves must be worn when handling rough, sharp, hot caustics, acids, solvents, concrete or chemicals. CLOTHING – Shirts with minimum four inch sleeves should be worn at all times. On some projects a full sleeve would be required. Shorts are not to be worn on site at any time. Do not wear gloves, loose clothing or jewellery where they may create a hazard. IF IN DOUBT AS TO THE TYPE OF CLOTHING OR LEVEL OF PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT REQUIRED, CONTACT YOUR SUPERVISOR BEFORE PROCEEDING. 16 Scaffolds You shall verify that the scaffold is safe and meets all regulatory requirements. Prior to using a scaffold check that: • • • • • • • the base of the scaffold is sound, level and in adjustment – sills, screw jacks, bases, mud sills. the legs are plumb and that all braces are installed. all locking devices are secured. all cross members are level. all ties are installed and in good condition. the working platform meets regulatory requirements. guard rails and toe-boards are in place as required. You shall immediately report any visible defects in the scaffolding to your supervisor. When working from scaffolding, you shall: • climb the scaffolding using the proper access point. Never climb on the braces! • • maintain good housekeeping practices in all work areas. check that suitable means of raising and lowering equipment or material is used. 17 • immediately replace any guard rails that have been temporarily removed for the purpose of hoisting equipment or materials. In addition to the foregoing, you shall never: • remove any structural part of the scaffold without first checking with your supervisor. • • • place a load on the scaffold greater than its design capacity. rest on or place equipment or material on the guard rails. undermine the base of the scaffold. When working with rolling scaffolds, you shall: • • • • Secure or remove all materials and equipment from the platform before moving the scaffold, Apply the caster brakes at all times when the scaffold is stationary, Have sufficient help available when moving a rolling scaffold, and Be alert for hazards such as holes or openings in the floor, overhead power lines or obstructions, slopes and debris. Riding a rolling scaffold is not permitted if the height to base ratio exceeds more than twice the smallest base dimension. 18 ALL SCAFFOLDS WILL BE ERECTED AND MAINTAINED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE MANUFACTURER’S AND/OR THE SUPPLIER’S SPECIFICATIONS 19 Ladders • • Inspect all ladders for defects prior to use. If unsafe, do not use and report defects to your supervisor. The ladder must have sufficient length to project approximately 1 m (3 ft) above the upper landing to which it provides access and be properly secured. i.e. Tied Off! A ladder must be placed on a firm and level base and is positioned so that the horizontal distance from the base to vertical plane of support is approximately ¼ of the ladder length. Verify the ladder is erected at a 4 to 1 angle, for every 4 feet in height; the base should be 1 foot away from the wall. Do not climb or descend a ladder without free use of both hands. Maintain a 3-point contact with the ladder. Check that all ladders are secured and extend 1 meter (3 ft) above the point of access. Stepladders must be fully opened with spreader arms locked. Do not work off the top two rungs of a ladder. Do not use a painted wooden ladder, the paint may hide defects. Construct job built ladders in accordance with WorkSafeBC Regulations. • • • • • • • • DO IT SAFELY OR NOT AT ALL 20 Electrical All extension cords used on job sites must be equipped with a ground wire and an assured grounding program or (GFCI) ground fault circuit interrupter should be used. Temporary power distribution panels must meet local government safety and electrical code requirements. No make shift covers are allowed on live breaker panels. All personnel and equipment must stay minimum (25ft) away from overhead power lines, unless the voltage in the power line has been identified and the local government regulations allow you to approach closer. Under no circumstances will any personnel or equipment come within 10 feet of any energized overhead power line. This varies dependant on voltage it may be that further distance is required such as 15 or 20 feet. So you should obtain knowledge of the voltage or stay 25 ft away! Manual Lifting • Leg muscles are stronger than back muscles. Lift with your legs not your back. Bend knees, keep back straight and avoid twisting. Plan before you lift. Consider size, weight, and shape of the object, path of travel and set down location. Exercise regularly to maintain your fitness. Get help if necessary. • • • 21 Fuel Storage Gas, diesel, propane, etc. must be stored in accordance with local government safety and environmental regulations. Flammable and No Smoking Signs must be posted and fire extinguishers positioned accordingly. Compressed Gas Cylinders The following rules apply when working with compressed gas cylinders. • • • • • • Secure cylinders in the upright position. Replace caps when not in use. Keep full and empty cylinders separate. Oxygen and fuel gas cylinders must be stored at least 20 feet apart with a fire extinguisher and No Smoking signs posted. Flash arrestors are required on oxy/accet. Units. Do not smoke near cylinders. Tools • Unsafe tools, frayed and defective electrical cords and extensions and unguarded machinery should not be used. Unsafe tools or equipment should be reported to your supervisor. 22 • • • When using electrically powered equipment or portable hand tools, ensure that they are properly grounded. Only an approved low combustion cleaning solution shall be used to clean tools. When safety guards are removed from tools for repairs or adjustments, the tool must be rendered inoperative in other words locked out. Vehicles & Equipment • • • All drivers must have a current & valid driver’s license. You must perform a walk around pre trip inspection. Equipment shall not be operated within 3M (10Ft) of any power line without prior approval of your supervisor. May be further/voltage dependant. Do not ride on running boards or stand up in moving vehicles. The driver shall not remain in the cab of a truck when it is being loaded or unloaded from overhead by a crane. Vehicles and equipment shall be operated lawfully and safely at all times. All vehicles and equipment must be shut down for refueling or cleaning. Repair procedures shall be followed as specified by the maintenance department. When vehicles or equipment are stuck or broken down, their removal will be performed under the direction of a supervisor. • • • • • • 23 • • Safety and repair requirements of your machine are to be reported to your immediate supervisor. Removal of LOCK OUTS or DO NOT OPERATE tags without proper authority is prohibited and may result in discipline up to and including termination. Seat Belts: • must be worn when operating any company vehicles(s) and equipment. Roll Over Protective Structures (ROPS) are also a requirement on mobile equipment. Equipment operators: • must inspect the seatbelts for damage, in their equipment daily. • must wear the seatbelt when equipment is being moved or operated. Cranes & Hoists • • • • Only authorized personnel shall operate cranes and hoists. Keep clear of swinging cabs and the counterweights of cranes. Use a tag line on all loads that may swing while being hoisted and lowered. Cranes and hoists must be operated with caution near power lines. Do not take any equipment within 3 meters (10 ft.) of energized lines. If in doubt consult your supervisor. Again, find out the voltage and follow the regulation! Do not touch the crane or load while it is in motion. Do not ride the headache ball, hook or load on any crane. • • 24 • Operators are expected to know and work within the rated capabilities of their crane or hoist. Load capacity charts should be present on the machine. Operators shall go through the start up and shut down procedures as described by the equipment checklist and as instructed by their supervisor. Crane operators must be fully aware of the crane operating procedures. No equipment shall be operated without a thorough supervisor briefing. Maintenance and repair requirements of your machine are to be reported to your immediate supervisor. Logbooks must be kept up to date as required. Removal of LOCK OUTS or DO NOT OPERATE tags without proper authority is prohibited and may result in termination. • • • • • 25 Housekeeping • All working areas, passageways, and stairs shall be kept free from all unnecessary equipment, tools, cords, materials, debris, and waste material. Pieces of lumber with protruding nails are to be promptly piled out of the way, protected, and nails withdrawn or bent over as soon as possible. During the stripping of forms all materials shall be cleaned and stored as the work progresses. Any debris shall be disposed of in proper containers before it accumulates. Bolts, nuts, etc., shall be kept in containers or removed from the work area when no longer required. Continuous cleaning of the area shall take place during bolting operations. All tools and equipment shall be returned to their proper place after use and maintained in good working order. Special attention shall be given to the removal and disposal of oily rags, paint cans, and any container that may have held flammable liquids in accordance with local environmental regulation. All oil and liquid spillages shall be cleaned up immediately so as to avoid any slipping hazard. Walkways, scaffolds and stairways shall be kept clear of welding cords, hoses, small tools and equipment at all times. Welding rods and rod stubs shall be removed from floor, ground and gratings as the job proceeds. • • • • • • • • 26 • Lunchrooms and washrooms must be kept clean. Used lunch bags, papers, cups, and other refuse must be placed in the container provided for their disposal. Hallways, stairs, and doorways must be kept clear of cords, materials, equipment, and debris at all times. • Material Handling • Always get help to lift heavy or awkward objects as stated previously using your leg muscles. Try to use saw horses or something similar to keep materials at waist height. Check all ropes, slings, or chains for defects before using them. Make sure all loads are centered in the slings before lifting them, and use extreme care in removing slings from piled stock. Do not overload cranes or other machinery. Know and obey the lifting restrictions. Only use slings that are marked with their safe working load. Never ride on any load or stand under or near suspended loads. Attach guideline or “tag line” to any load which may become unmanageable, to prevent it from swinging when it is in the air. It is especially necessary when the load is to be moved into areas where people are working. Stand clear of taut cables and lifting devices. Be aware at all times. Use powered lifting equipment wherever possible, after required training has been provided. • • • • • • 27 • Always store and stack materials out of the way. Ensure that all stacks are stable and will not be easily knocked over. Palletize loads for easy movement by forklift or crane. Only authorized trained persons may rig or signal craned loads using “Standard Hand Signals for controlling crane operations” illustrated on pages 25 & 26, or use a two-way radio system. Always ensure public safety when lifting over traffic and pedestrian areas. If necessary, stop traffic and pedestrians. Flammable materials and liquids must always be handled with care. Use marked containers in accordance with WHMIS legislation placed in areas marked “NO SMOKING”. An ABC fire extinguisher should be kept close by. • • • Traffic Control Persons • A traffic control person must be a responsible person who has been trained in a traffic control course acceptable to WorkSafeBC, and has demonstrated an adequate knowledge of the Regulation and the relevant procedures from the Traffic Control Manual. Traffic Control Persons shall not get involved in needless conversation, and shall stay at their points of duty until relieved A TCP must stand in a safe position on the drivers side of the lane under control and be positioned at least 25m (80ft) away from the work area unless circumstances dictate otherwise. Except for brief traffic control operations, signs advising of a traffic control person ahead must be posted in advance of each TCP station and removed promptly when TCP is no longer on duty. • • • 28 Equipment for TCP (Traffic Control Person) Daytime: “Stop and slow” paddle, as per 18.10 (a) Regulation. High visibility apparel as per 8.24 Regulation, highly visible headgear and effective means of communication when traffic control operators are not visible to each other. Nighttime: As above but a flashlight fitted with a red signalling baton and spare batteries. • A traffic control person must make all traffic control motions and signals precisely and deliberately so that the meaning of the signal can be clearly understood. All traffic control equipment, including signs, traffic control paddles and personal protective equipment must be kept clean and in working condition. • SAFETY MUST BE AN INTEGRAL PART OF EVERY JOB AND TASK! 29 Rigging All Rigging and slinging work must be done by and under the supervision of trained, qualified workers. • • All machinery, equipment, wire ropes, chains, metal mesh, and web slings must be inspected daily before use. Rigging and slinging work must be done by and under the direct supervision of qualified workers familiar with the rigging to be used and with the code of signals in the Regulation. Before making any lift, make sure that the machine is rated as capable of lifting the load and ensure that the load weight is accurately estimated. Loads must be lifted vertically and must be safely landed and supported before rigging is detached. Rigging is to be marked with sufficient information to readily determine the working load limit. Natural fiber rope must not be used for hoisting with a power hoist The hook must have a safety latch and be in good condition. Do not handle rigging lines that are under load. Only one person shall signal the crane operator. Do not ride on loads or the hook. • • • • • • • • 30 31 32 The crane operator must never leave the controls of the crane while any load is suspended 33 Never Allow Anyone to Ride the Hook or the Load 34 35 36 37 38 Remove from service: Running wire rope where 6 or more randomly distributed wires broken in one rope or 3 or more wires in one strand in one lay. 39 40 Lockout Procedures • “Lockout” means the use of a lock or locks to render machinery or equipment inoperable or to isolate an energy source. The employer shall ensure that written procedure is available on site. Such locks shall be marked or tagged to identify the person applying them, and shall be operable only by that workers key, and by a key under the control of the supervisor or manager in charge. Combination locks shall not be used. Types of energy may be hydraulic, electrical, thermal, air/pneumatic, kinetic, gravity etc. Each worker responsible for lockout shall be responsible for: Locking the control devices, and removal of his/her own locks on the completion of his/her work. • When an energy-isolating device is locked out, the lock must not prevent access to other energy isolating devices supplying machinery or equipment that could cause injury to workers. Effective means of verifying lockout must be provided and used. Before starting work, a worker must verify that all energy sources have been effectively locked out. Test the lockout! A worker must be notified at the start of his/her next shift if the workers’ personal lock/s have been removed since his/her previous shift. The application of a lock is not required if the energy isolating device is under the immediate and exclusive control of the • • • • • 41 worker at all times while working on the machinery or equipment. • • A written group lockout procedure must be displayed in a conspicuous position. Two qualified workers in group lockout procedure must be responsible for: 1. 2. 3. Independently locking out energy sources. Securing the keys for the locks used, in a lock box. Completing, signing, and posting a checklist that identifies the machinery or equipment components covered by the lockout. On completion of the work, and upon determination that it is safe, each worker must remove his/her personal lock from the key securing system (lock box). Once the keys are released the system is no longer considered to be locked out. 4. Electrical Safety • A worker who installs, alters, or maintains electrical equipment must be qualified as required by the Electrical Safety Act, and the regulations made under it and follow WorkSafeBC Regulation. A worker must be informed of the potential electrical hazards before being permitted to carry out work in the proximity to energized electrical conductors or equipment. Safe work procedures must be established and followed for testing electrical equipment and circuits. • • 42 • • • • For safety, handle all wires as if they are energized. No electrical work shall be done “hot” which could be done “cold”. Metal ladders shall not be used for electrical work or where they are near or contact electrical conductors. Before working near high voltage power lines the safety procedures as laid out in the Regulation clauses 19.24 to 19.29 must be consulted. Electrical tools and power cords shall be effectively grounded. All electrical equipment and tools must be kept in good repair. Temporary electrical distribution panels shall be fitted with weather tight covers when outside, or if exposed to excessive moisture. Panels shall not be set up in heavy foot traffic areas. A ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) or assured grounding program must be used for protection when portable electrical equipment is used outdoors or in wet conditions. • • • Welding and Cutting • • Only approved and experienced persons are allowed to do any electric or gas welding or cutting. Welding, cutting and similar processes must be carried out according to CSA standard W117.2-94 and the manufacturer’s instructions and recommendations for the equipment being used. 43 • Coatings, which could emit harmful contaminants (such as lead, epoxy or toxic combustion products), must be removed from the base metal before welding or cutting begins. Containers, which held combustible substances, must be thoroughly cleaned before any welding or cutting commences. Never strike an arc on a cylinder. Never use matches to light torches. Use a spark lighter or stationary flame. Be aware of where the sparks are going to drop. They are not to fall on the cylinder, hose, equipment, combustible material, other employees or your own feet. Receptacles for electrode stubs must be provided and used. Wear proper protective clothing, gloves, shoes, and eye and face protection when welding. Protect other persons, including your helpers, from radiation from arc welding by warning them to wear adequate eye protection. Respiratory protective equipment must be worn during any welding or burning operations when no local exhaust vent is provided. At least one suitable fire extinguisher must be immediately available, at the place where welding and cutting is being done. Make sure welding machine ground connections are connected directly to ground wherever possible. When connecting to metal structures ensure that no fires are caused at some distant points. Never allow oil or grease to come in contact with oxygen equipment. • • • • • • • • • • 44 • • • • • • • Never use a cylinder or its contents for other than intended purpose. Always consider a cylinder as full and handle accordingly. Never drop or permit cylinders to strike together. Do not overload welding cables or operate with poor connections. Always store and transport cylinders in an upright position, secured with a chain or other approved holder. Flash back prevention valve must be installed on all compressed gas sets before use. Always check equipment thoroughly before use. Establish a fire watch for at least half an hour after last cut or weld. ACCIDENTS DO NOT JUST HAPPEN… THEY ARE CAUSED! 45 Ladder Jack Scaffolding • • Be of a type conforming to the Regulation. Be used only on heavy-duty ladders that meet the requirements of a standard listed in section 13.2 of the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation. If work can’t be done from a ladder without hazard to a worker, a platform must be provided, never carry up or down heavy or bulky objects which may make ascent or decent unsafe. Jack scaffolding should only be used for light duty operations where the work period between scaffold position changes is of short duration. Not be used by more than two workers on a single scaffold at the same time. Make sure supporting ladders are firmly secured against displacement. Staging must not be less than 38mm x 285mm (2in x 12in nominal) dimension, supported at intervals not exceeding 3m (10ft) if solid planks are used. Be not less than 300mm (12in) in width, supported at intervals not exceeding 7.3m (24ft) if manufactured staging is used. Must not be used at heights greater than 3m (10ft) above grade unless a safety harness and lifeline is used that are secured to a solid anchor point independent of the scaffold system. • • • • • • • 46 Horizontal & Vertical Openings Openings should be guarded in order to prevent injury. It is preferred that openings be guarded by means of guardrails consisting of a top rail, mid-rail and toe board. Any hole opening greater than 4’ x 4’ must be protected by guardrails. Where guardrails are impractical, an alternative system of horizontal or vertical guarding and security will be used. When covers are used they must be strong enough to support any loads to be imposed upon them and must be secured to prevent accidental dislodgement. Further, the cover must be marked in orange/red fluorescent paint. Excavations/Trenches Excavations and trenches may have additional hazards that require special precautions prior to entering – check with your supervisor. • Never work in an excavation or trench beyond the regulation depth of four feet unless it is properly shored, shielded or cut back/sloped or engineered. Ensure shoring, sloping, and shielding has been placed in accordance to the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation Part 20 starting at section 20.78. Stay within the confines of the shoring or trench box. Know where your means of access and egress are located. Ensure that the excavated material (spoil pile) is 2 ft. back from a trench excavation and 4 ft. back from any other excavation. • • • • 47 • Working in an un-shored, sloped or un-shielded area that is more than 4 ft. deep is considered a deadly sin and leaves Occupational Safety Officers no choice but to recommend a penalty. CHECK WITH YOUR SUPERVISOR PRIOR TO ENTERING EXCAVATIONS OR TRENCHES Roofing • • • • • Work facing the roof perimeter and avoid walking backward. Follow proper procedure for the setting up of ladders and secure them from movement. Provide guardrails or secure covering to roof openings. Erect guardrails to roof edges around chutes, bitumen spouts, and material hoists. Fall protection equipment must be used if work is on a roof from which a fall of 3m (10ft) or more may occur or from a lesser height if a fall may involve an unusual risk of injury. Use caution when working with loose insulation, asphalt, polyethylene, smooth surface roofs and areas where water, snow, frost or ice may be present. • 48 • On a roof having a slope ratio of 8 vertical to 12 horizontal or greater personal fall protection system or safety nets must be used, and 38mm x 140mm (2in x 6in nominal) toeholds must be used if the roof material allows for it. Crawl boards or ladders must be securely fastened over the ridge or otherwise securely anchored. • Guardrails, Openings in Floors and Walls Handrails Every flight of stairs having more than four risers shall be equipped with handrails: a) On all open sides of stairway b) On one side of enclosed stairway 1.12m (44in) or less in width c) On both sides of enclosed stairways over 1.12m (44in) in width. Guard-rails • Guardrails shall be installed wherever there is a hazard of falling more than 122cm (4ft) on finished, permanent floors; otherwise 3m (10ft) on temporary or under construction. • Guardrails shall consist of a top rail 102cm to 112cm (40in to 44in) high, a toe board and an intermediate rail centered between the top rail and the toe board. Guardrail vertical supports shall be no more than 2.44m (8ft) apart. • 49 • Guardrails shall be sturdily constructed as per Part 4 Section 4.58 of the Regulation. Toe-Boards • Toe-boards 10cm (4in) high must be installed to prevent tools or materials falling • The clearance between the platform and the toe-board shall be 13mm (1/2in) or less. Floor and Wall Openings • Every roof or flooring opening must be protected with secure covers, guardrails, or barricades to prevent accidental falls. • Covers must be strong enough to support any load that may be placed on them. Anchor the cover so that it cannot be picked up, and label it with “Danger – hole cover – do not remove”. If any protection is removed to accommodate work, flag the area “Off Limits” or use caution tape to mark the dangerous area, or guard the area. Immediately replace any protection temporarily moved for work operations. • • Illumination Provide and maintain illumination levels as per Part 4 Section 4.65 of the OHS Regulation. 50 1) If failure of a lighting system would create conditions dangerous to the health and safety of workers, an emergency lighting system must be provided for the workplace and the exit routes. (2) An emergency lighting system must provide dependable illumination while the primary lighting system is off to enable all emergency measures to be carried out, including • • emergency shutdown procedures, and evacuation of workers from the premises. (3) An emergency lighting system in a fixed facility must meet the requirements of section 3.2.7 (Lighting and Emergency Power Systems) of the BC Building Code with regard to • • • • • illumination level, use of recessed fixtures, duration of emergency lighting, the use of self-contained emergency lighting units, and emergency electrical power supply. (4) The emergency lighting system must be inspected, tested and maintained to meet the requirements of section 6.8 (Emergency Power Systems and Unit Equipment for Emergency Lighting) of the BC Fire Code. 51 Fall Protection An employer must ensure that a fall protection system is used when work is being done where a fall of 3 m (10 ft) or more may occur or when a fall from a lesser height involves unusual risk of injury such as falling into water or a hazardous substance etc. • Before any worker enters an area where a risk of falling exists, the employer must insure that their workers are instructed in the use of fall protection systems for that area and those employees are trained and use the fall protection provided by the employer. The employer must have a written fall protection plan set up for the work site before the risk of falling begins when working over twenty five feet in height. A worker must wear a full body harness or other harness acceptable to the Board when using a personal fall protection system for fall arrest. A worker must wear a safety belt, a full body harness or other harness acceptable to the Board when using a personal fall protection system for fall restraint. If a fall protection system has been used to arrest a worker’s fall it must be removed from service and not returned until it has been inspected and recertified as safe for use by the manufacturer, its authorized agent or by a professional engineer. • • • • 52 53 Elevating Work Platforms and Aerial Devices General Requirements Elevated work platforms and all similar aerial platforms shall have: • • • • • • guardrails and toe boards on all open sides or be enclosed. a safe means of access and egress. signs clearly indicating maximum working load. guards or barricades to prevent worker contact with elevated machinery. equipment manufacturers operation and maintenance manual available at workplace. inspections before use on each shift, and have records of inspections, maintenance, repair or modification logged in writing. all welding or other repairs approved by the manufacturer or a professional engineer. load configuration charts. warning devices as per Part 13 Section 13.25 of the OHS Regulation. controls in compliance with Part 13 Section 13.26 of the OHS Regulation. have the rated capacity of the platform clearly stated. • • • • • 54 Workers: • shall be adequately instructed by a qualified instructor, and will have demonstrated competency in the safe operation of the equipment. must be familiar with all operating instructions of the equipment, and have been authorized to use the equipment. shall not leave the controls while a worker is on the platform. Controls are normally on the platform. must wear fall protection equipment as required in OHS Regulation Part 13 Section 13.33. not move the platform while you are suspended, lower yourself to ground level and then move the machine. must use outriggers as specified by the manufacturer. must never move or position the boom or platform over workers. • • • • • • Controls must: • be clearly marked and hold to run (continuous pressure) type, and protected against inadvertent operation. • • • have a RED emergency stop device within easy reach of the operator and be marked “STOP”. comply with the Regulation. have a clearly marked overriding lowering control that will enable a worker at the lower controls to stop and lower the platform in an emergency. 55 56 Machinery and Equipment • Only trained, designated and experienced workers are allowed to operate power tools, machinery, and equipment. Before obtaining permission a worker has to demonstrate his/her knowledge and competency of operation of the equipment. A piece of equipment is only as safe as the operator and the efforts made to maintain it. The equipment is built for safe, economical operation and long life, yet is subject to intelligent use and maintenance as specified in the manufacturer’s manuals. Equipment must not be operated while in an unsafe condition. All operators must make a careful inspection of their equipment before use and at least at the beginning of their shift. Defects shall be reported to their supervisor immediately. Repairs and safety checks must be made before operating such equipment. Do not attempt to clean, oil or repair equipment while it is operating unless special provisions have been made to do it safely with specific written procedures given to you by a supervisor. Always block or support every moving part of a vehicle before maintenance or repair. It is prohibited to take a boom or any part of a machine, equipment, tool or material within 3m (10ft) or more of high voltage wires unless: - a) the wires have been certified as having been de-energized. b) The voltage has been accurately determined and table 19-1 of the Regulation has been consulted by the supervisor and approval given. • • • • • 57 • Whenever vision is obstructed the use of a competent signal person is required. Back up alarms are required on vehicles and equipment. Park all machinery on level ground whenever possible. Excavating equipment should always be parked with buckets on the ground. Seat belts must be worn during the operation of equipment having seat belts and the vehicle must have a roll over protection system ROPS. • • • Fire Protection All workers must take every precaution to prevent fires. Do not tamper with fire fighting equipment. Observe “NO SMOKING” rules and signs. Use extra care where and when smoking is permitted. The use of gasoline or other highly volatile fuels for starting fires is prohibited. Burning may be prohibited by bylaw. A flammable liquid is NOT a cleaning fluid and should not be used as such. Appropriate closed containers are to be used for gasoline, kerosene, acids and similar fluids. Containers are to be plainly marked to indicate the character of their contents. The fuel storage area is a “NO SMOKING” area and must be posted as such. Fuel storage areas shall be so located as not to be a hazard to the workers or construction works. The location shall be clearly marked with highly visible “flammable” signs, and a suitable fire extinguisher and spill kit kept as near as practicable to the area. • • • • 58 • • All temporary gasoline tanks, on site, must be electrically grounded. In case of a fire: Keep calm! Report the fire immediately, giving location, your name and telephone extension if applicable. Consider first the safety of all personnel, then the protection of property. Be aware of the location of fire extinguishers and how to operate them. After an extinguisher has been used, notify your supervisor whose duty it is to see that proper replacement is made promptly. All welding and cutting operations in or near a structure shall have a fire extinguisher close by. Do not obstruct fire fighting equipment or means of escape with materials, equipment tools or debris. When transferring flammable or combustible fluids from one container to another ground or bond the containers. Site supervisors are to ensure that their site meets all Code, Bylaw and Regulation requirements for fire safety. Check with Local Authority for assistance in implementing a fire safety plan on construction and demolition sites. • • • • • Electrical Tools and Hand Tools • Inspect cords of electrical tools regularly and replace immediately when damaged. Do not lay cords or tools in oil, water, or on a chemically saturated floor. Never pull a cord when it is kinked or pinched. Do not lift a tool by its cord. 59 • Guards are provided to prevent a worker from coming in contact with working parts of tools while in operation. Never remove guarding devices for any reason. Get full value from the tools. Use them for the job they are designed to do. Do not force tools to do too heavy a job. It will wear them out and lead to unnecessary repairs. DO NOT USE DEFECTIVE TOOLS. Tag out such tools and send them for repair. All portable electrical tools, except double insulated tools, must be grounded. Do not carry sharp or pointed tools in your pocket. Tools are not to be left in elevated places, stairways, aisles, or walkways. Running tools must not be left unattended. When not in use; turn off the power switch and unplug from power source before starting maintenance or repairs. Always wear proper protection (safety glasses, gloves etc.) equipment when working with tools. Always use wheels and blades that are designed for use with the equipment, and the job they are intended for. • • • • • • • • Entry into Confined Spaces • The employer must ensure that each confined space in the workplace is identified. A confined space may be a sewer, tank, vessel, tunnel or other enclosed or partially enclosed space that is not designed for continuous human occupancy. 60 • Before a worker enters a confined space, the employer must prepare and implement a written confined space entry program performed by a qualified person (see OHS Regulation Part 9 Section 9.11). The qualified person must ensure that pre-entry testing and inspection is conducted in accordance with the program and all precautions dictated by the Regulations are taken. Only authorized persons are allowed entry to confined spaces. Tests shall be carried out to determine the nature and quantity of harmful gasses and/or fumes, and the oxygen deficiency, and records made. When a confined space requires entry by a worker, each point of access must be identified by a sign or other means, which indicates the hazard and prohibits entry by unauthorized workers. An entry permit must be completed and signed by the supervisor. It shall identify the confined space, the work activities, and the workers in the space, required precautions and time of expiration of the permit. The supervisor must ensure that a minimum of 85m3/hr (50cfm) of clean respirable air is supplied for each worker inside a confined space with low hazard atmosphere. (See OHS Regulation Part 9 Section 9.31 (2) (a) (b) for exceptions). • • • • • 61 • A ventilation system for the control of airborne contaminates must be designed, maintained and installed to adequately ventilate every occupied area inside the confined space. If a worker enters a confined space other worker(s) must be assigned as a stand by person(s) that checks the well being of the worker(s) in the confined space at least every 20min or have constant visual contact if the space has a high hazard atmosphere. A properly equipped rescue person must be provided when any worker has to enter a confined space. The rescue person must monitor any signaling system that will be used for summoning the rescue person in the event of an emergency. Workers in confined spaces must wear proper safety equipment and personal protective equipment. All tools and equipment must be suitable for full safety protection against the hazard identified as being present or may become present in the future during the work in the enclosed space. Tools may have to be non-sparking and CSA approved for hazardous locations. Suitable lifelines, lifting equipment must be available in accordance with the confined space entry program, and the OHS Regulation. • • • • • IGNORANCE OF SAFETY RULES AND PRACTICES ARE NO EXCUSE FOR THEIR VIOLATION 62 Safe Excavating Work standards • Excavation work must be carried out in accordance with the written instructions of a registered professional engineer or geoscientist and kept on the jobsite if: Support structures other than those specified in the OHS Regulation are used A structure is adjacent to the excavation. The excavation is subject to vibration or hydrostatic pressure The ground slopes away from the edge of the excavation at any angle steeper than 3 horizontal to 1 vertical. • • • • Call Before You Dig Before excavating or drilling with power tools and equipment the location of all underground utility services in the area must be ascertained, and any danger to workers be ascertained. Work in proximity of services must be carried out to conform to the service owner’s requirements and any other Regulation. Pointed tools must not be used to probe for underground gas and electricity services. Trees, rocks, utility poles and similar objects adjacent to an area to be excavated must be removed or secured if they could endanger the workers. The owner or principal contractor must notify the board, in writing, of any project where the project includes a trench more than 1.2m (4ft) in depth, and equal or greater than 30m (100ft) long, which a worker may be required to enter. 63 • Before any worker enters any excavation over 1.2m (4ft) in depth the employer must ensure that the excavation sides are sloped or supported as specified by the professional engineer or geoscientist. Contact BC One Call to ascertain the location of buried services in your area. • Trench excavation CLEAN UP AFTER YOURSELF AT ALL TIMES! 64 65 66 67 Noise Control • An employer must ensure that a worker is not exposed to noise levels above either exposure limits of: a) 85dBA Lex (1Pa2h) daily exposure. b) 140 dBA peak sound level. If a worker is or maybe exposed to levels above 82 dBA Lex the employer must measure the noise exposure with approved sound level meters unless the employer establishes an effective noise control and hearing conservation program for that employee. Where sounds exceed the above levels the employer must provide hearing tests every year for established employees and within the first 6 months for new employees and every 12 months after that. Warning signs must be posted in noise hazard areas and hearing protection must be worn by the workers. The most common type of hearing protection equipment is earplugs and earmuffs. • • • • 68 Vibration • Equipment, which produces levels of vibration above the recommended guidelines in the OHS Regulation Part 7 Sections 7.11 and 7.12, must be labeled to identify the hazard. Workers exposed to excessive levels of vibration must be instructed and trained in work practices so as to reduce the risk after engineering control options have been reviewed and exhausted. • Ionizing and Non-ionizing Radiation • If a worker exceeds, or may exceed an effective dose of radiation the employer must develop and implement an exposure control plan. Exposure limits are set out in the OHS Regulation Part 7 Section 7.19 The worker must check with the written instructions for the work procedure to be followed and the emergency procedures to implement when working near or with ionizing radiation equipment. • ACCIDENTS DO NOT JUST HAPPEN… THEY ARE CAUSED 69 Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System WHIMS is Federal law found in the Canada Labour Code Part 2 that establish the Regulation for use of controlled substances on the jobsite. All workers should be trained in WHMIS. These regulations are in three parts. • • • Controlled Substances Requirements for identification and labeling Responsibilities WHMIS hazard classes and divisions are: Class A: Compressed Gas Class B: Flammable and Combustible Material Class C: Oxidizing Material Class D: Poisonous and Infectious Materials: - Division 1 – Materials causing Immediate and Serious Toxic Effects. Division 2: Materials causing other Toxic Effects. Division 3: Biohazardous Infectious Material. Class E: Corrosive Material Class F: Dangerously Reactive Material. 70 CLASS A Compressed gas CLASS D 2. Materials causing other toxic effects Class B Flammable and combustible material Class E 3. Biohazardous infectious material Class C Oxidizing material Class F Corrosive material Class D Poisonous and infectious material 1. Materials causing immediate and serious toxic ff Class G Dangerously reactive material 71 1. Suppliers must label their product to show: • • • • • • • • • Product identification Hazard symbols representing class into which product falls Nature of risk. First Aid measures. Statement advising that a material safety data sheet (MSDS) is available. Supplier identification Precautionary statements. Provide up-to-date MSDS (not more than 3 years old) for all controlled products they sell or produce. Provide supplier labels on all containers of controlled products they sell or produce. 2. Employers must make sure workplace labels are placed on containers into which a product has been transferred from the supplier’s container. These must provide three types of information: • • • Product Name. Safe handling and protective equipment information. Reference to Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) 3. Employers must train workers if they store, handle, use, or dispose of a controlled product or supervise workers performing these duties or work near controlled substances such that their health and safety could be at risk. 72 4. The employer must ensure that a worker’s exposure does not exceed exposure limits set out in Part 5 or 6 of the OHS Regulation. 5. Employers must ensure that workers understand information on MSDS, supplier labels, and workplace labels by providing effective worker education and making sure that MSDS are readily accessible to workers. 6. Employers must ensure that all containers of controlled products in their workplace have an up to date MSDS and that WHMIS labels (supplier labels, workplace labels, or other acceptable means of identification are present). 7. Workers must know and understand the information on labels and MSDS. 8. Workers must use the information they receive through education and training to handle controlled products safely. 9. Workers must inform employers if labels are illegible or missing. 73 Asbestos Extensive descriptions and work procedures when working with asbestos are to be found in the OHS Regulation Part 6 Sections 6.1 to 6.32 Asbestos is commonly found in insulation, floor tiles, wall fillers, etc. The employer must ensure that all asbestos-containing materials present in the workplace are identified by signs, labels or when these are not practicable, other effective means. The employer must ensure that a risk assessment has been conducted before any demolition, alteration, or repair of machinery, equipment, or structures where asbestos may be disturbed. Ergonomics • The employer must identify factors in the workplace that may expose the workers to a risk of musculoskeletal injury (MSI) and must eliminate or minimize the risk of MSI to the workers. A worker who is exposed to or likely to be exposed to the risk of MSI must be trained to recognize the risk and early signs and symptoms of MSI. The employer must monitor the measures taken to comply with the requirements of the OHS Regulation and ensure that the measures are reviewed at least annually. • • 74 Impairment by Alcohol, Drugs Or Other Substances • A person must not enter or remain at any workplace while the person's ability to work is affected by alcohol, drugs or other substance so as to endanger that person or anyone else. The employer must not knowingly permit a person to remain at any workplace while the person's ability to work is affected by alcohol, drugs or other substance so as to endanger the person or anyone else. A person must not remain at a workplace if the person's behavior is affected by alcohol, drugs or other substance so as to create an undue risk to workers, except where such a workplace has as one of its purposes the treatment or confinement of such persons. • • Note: In the application of the OHS Regulation Sections 4.19 and 4.20, workers and employers need to consider the effects of prescription and non-prescription drugs, and fatigue, as potential sources of impairment. There is a need for disclosure of potential impairment from any source, and for adequate supervision of work to ensure reported or observed impairment is effectively managed. 75 Survival First Aid Survival first aid procedures keep the injured person breathing and control bleeding until medical help arrives. • After making sure that there is no danger to you and no further danger to the patient, determine level of consciousness. When necessary, remove yourself and the injured person from the further threat of injury. Change a person’s position only if necessary to administer survival techniques. Keep the injured person warm. Move them only if absolutely necessary. Ensure the patients’ airways are open. Make sure adequate breathing is taking place. If not administer mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. Check for pulse. If no pulse is detected commence CPR at once and continue until pulse returns or medical help arrives. Check to see if bleeding is present. Apply direct pressure over the wound to stop blood flow and apply a pressure dressing. Get help as soon as possible. • • • • • • 76 Rescue Breathing If you find a person unconscious and not breathing, your quick action may save a life. Mouth-to-mouth rescue breathing is the most effective way to bring a non-breather back to life. You must act quickly, as every second is critical in this life-saving effort. Memorize the procedure, practice the procedure and when the time comes you will be prepared. 77 Emergency Procedures Report all emergencies (Fire, spill, injury, or significant incident) Telephone Numbers: Fire / Police / Ambulance Poison Centre B.C. Ambulance Service Call before you dig: BC One Call Provide the following information: 1. Your name 2. Type of emergency 3. Location of emergency 4. Assistance required Response In the event of an emergency: 1. Shut down all equipment you are working with (i.e. electric saws, welders etc…) 2. Report to the site supervisor or job safety officer and proceed to a safe muster area. 9-1-1 1 800 567-8911 1 800 461-9911 Emergency assembly Areas: The assembly/muster area is to be determined by the contractor and its safety officers during the preconstruction safety orientation meeting 78 NOTES 79