HEALTH, SAFETY AND

º
ENVIRONMENT MANUAL
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

SASASAS

HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL FOR COMPANIES CONTRACTORS HSE/CC.

1ST EDITION

AUTHOR: HERCULES FORMACION, S.L.

ISBN: 978-84-695-6942-9

LEGAL DEPOSIT: C73-2013

LAYOUT AND PRINTING: TÓRCULO ARTES GRÁFICAS, S.A.

PRINTED IN SPAIN

ANY TOTAL OR PARTIAL REPRODUCTION OF THE WORK IS PROHIBITED BY ANY MEANS OR PROCEDURE
WITHOUT PRIOR AUTHORIZATION

Página 2 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

- INDEX –

Introduction………………………………………………………………………..……...……...….............................. 8

Objectives…….....................................................................................................….…......…...…………………. 8

1. Legislation........................................................................................................................................... 9

1.1. Scope of application............................................................................................................................. 9

1.2. Basic principles of the legislation: rights and duties............................................................................. 9

1.3. Prevention service................................................................................................................................ 10

1.4. Control external service………………………………………………………………….............................. 10

1.5. Coordination of activities…................................................................................................................... 10

1.6. CE mark................................................................................................................................................ 11

1.7. Health surveillance............................................................................................................................... 11

1.8. Work inspection.................................................................................................................................... 11

2. Dangers, risks, and their prevention................................................................................................ 11

2.1. Definition of danger and risk................................................................................................................. 11

2.2. Kinds of dangers and risks................................................................................................................... 12

2.3. Prevention............................................................................................................................................ 12

3. Accidents: causes and prevention................................................................................................... 15

3.1. Definitions............................................................................................................................................. 15

3.2. Theory of accidents.............................................................................................................................. 15

3.3. In case of an accident or incident......................................................................................................... 18

4. Safety behaviour................................................................................................................................. 19

4.1. Safe work.............................................................................................................................................. 19

4.2. Wanted behaviour…………………………………………………………………………............................ 20

4.3. Managers’ decision making.................................................................................................................. 21

4.4. Safety inspections................................................................................................................................ 24

5. Tasks, rights, duties, and their coordination................................................................................... 24

5.1. The entrepreneur’s duties..................................................................................................................... 24

Página 3 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

5.2. Workers’ rights and duties.................................................................................................................... 25

5.3. Hierarchical line………………………………………………………………………………………………... 25

5.4. Inspections at the workplace…………………………………………………………………………………. 26

5.5. The health and safety committee and the toolbox meetings……………………………………………… 27

5.6. Certification, safety card, and training.................................................................................................. 28

6. Procedures, instructions, and signalling………………………………………………………………... 30

6.1. Safety rules........................................................................................................................................... 30

6.2. Information, instructions, and training................................................................................................... 31

6.3. Specific permits.................................................................................................................................... 32

6.4. Signalling.............................................................................................................................................. 34

7. Emergency situations........................................................................................................................ 36

7.1. What is an emergency situation?......................................................................................................... 36

7.2. Action before an emergency situation………………………………………………………………………. 36

7.3. Evacuation............................................................................................................................................ 37

8. Dangerous substances……………………………………………………………………………………... 37

8.1. Classification of dangerous substances............................................................................................... 37

8.2. Transport of dangerous substances………………………………………………………………………… 39

8.3. Effects of dangerous substances on health.......................................................................................... 40

8.4. Prevention measures……………………………………………………………………………...…………. 40

8.5. Threshold Limit Values of exposure to dangerous substances…………………………………………... 41

8.6. Labelling, danger symbols, and information about the product…………………………………………... 42

8.7. Medical check-up ……………………………………………………………………………………….......... 43

8.8. Oxygen................................................................................................................................................. 44

8.9. Frequently used dangerous substances………………………………………………………………...... 45

8.10. Leaks………………………………………………………………………………………………………...... 46

8.11. Biological agents……………………………………………………………………………………………... 46

8.12. Industrial gas bottles…………………………………………………………………………………......…… 47

8.13. Asbestos............................................................................................................................................... 48

Página 4 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

9. Fire and explosion…………………………………………………………………………….….…………. 48

9.1. How does a fire break out?................................................................................................................... 48

9.2. Some notions........................................................................................................................................ 49

9.3. Prevention of fires and explosions…………………………………………………………………..………. 50

9.4. Damage of fire over people and the environment................................................................................ 51

9.5. Types of fire.......................................................................................................................................... 52

9.6. Extinction principles and means of extinction…………………………………………………………….... 52

9.7. What to do in case of fire?.................................................................................................................... 55

10. Work equipment................................................................................................................................. 56

10.1. Dangers of work equipment………………………………………………………………...………………... 56

10.2. Prevention measures………………………………………………………………………………………..... 58

10.3. Some fixed machines……………………………………………………………..…………………………... 59

10.4. Electrical or pneumatic hand tool……………………………………………………….…………..……….. 60

10.5. Hand tools. …………………………………………………………………………………………...…......… 62

10.6. Lifting equipment...................................................................................................................……….... 63

10.7. Fork lifts..................................................................................................................................………... 65

10.8. Pallet trucks.......................................................................................................................................... 66

11. Specific activities............................................................................................................................... 66

11.1. Welding and Ox cut.............................................................................................................................. 66

11.2. Demolition............................................................................................................................................. 68

11.3. Holes in walls and floors....................................................................................................................... 69

11.4. Excavations. Work in excavations and in the surroundings................................................................. 69

11.5. Work in height....................................................................................................................................... 70

11.6. Confined spaces................................................................................................................................... 74

12. Electricity............................................................................................................................................ 77

12.1. Dangers/risks of electricity................................................................................................................... 77

12.2. Safety measures in electric work.......................................................................................................... 79

12.3. Electrical material at the worksite......................................................................................................... 80

Página 5 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

12.4. Static electricity..................................................................................................................................... 81

13. An ergonomic workplace................................................................................................................... 82

13.1. Noise.................................................................................................................................................... 82

13.2. Handling loads...................................................................................................................................... 84

13.3. Work in sitting and standing positions...........................................................................................…… 84

14. Personal protection equipment (PPE)............................................................................ 85

14.1. Description and use.............................................................................................................................. 85

14.2. Protection of eyes and face.................................................................................................................. 86

14.3. Hearing protection................................................................................................................................ 89

14.4. Protection of the respiratory tract......................................................................................................... 90

14.5. Head protection.................................................................................................................................... 94

14.6. Protection of hands and arms............................................................................................................... 94

14.7. Protection of feet and legs.................................................................................................................... 95

14.8. Protection of the body........................................................................................................................... 96

14.9. Anti-fall protection................................................................................................................................. 97

Página 6 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL FOR COMPANIES CONTRACTORS

HSE / CC. 1ST EDITION

AUTHOR: HERCULES FORMACIÓN, S.L.

ISBN: 978-84-695-6942-9
LEGAL DEPOSIT; C73-2013
LAYOUT AND PRINTING: TÓRCULO ARTES GRÁFICAS, S.A.
PRINTED IN SPAIN

ANY TOTAL OR PARTIAL REPRODUCTION OF THE WORK IS PROHIBITED BY ANY MEANS OR

PROCEDURE WITHOUT PRIOR AUTHORIZATION.

Página 7 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

INTRODUCTION
This handbook aims to inform workers that they are responsible for their safety, a fact which becomes true
when workers are the protagonists of the care of their health and are aware of the dangers of their work, by means of
training and information in Health and Safety. With such training and the application of the principles of preventive
action, these dangers would be eliminated and, consequently, labour accidents would be reduced.
Occupational Health is aimed at preserving health, establishing that any professional accident or illness is
preventable. From labour prevention the following Preventive Techniques are born: Safety at the workplace,
Industrial Hygiene, Applied Ergonomics and Psycho-sociology, and Labour Medicine, all of them aimed at controlling
the elements which may negatively affect workers occupational health, which are LABOUR RISKS with their derived
risk factors.

OBJECTIVES
The objectives of the legislation on labour welfare are:
 To protect workers and other people while the performance of work.
 To improve the safety and health of the workers at that worksite.
 To ensure that the working conditions in which the workers are carrying out their tasks will be in the best possible
situation.

Página 8 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

1. LEGISLATION
1.1 Scope of application.
The legislation collects the rights and duties of both entrepreneurs and workers concerning Health and Safety at the
workplace, as well as the circumstances in which the work is performed.
1.2 Basic principles of the legislation: rights and duties.
1.2.1 Basic legislation: the European framework directive
The Directive 89/391/EEC of the Council, of 12th June of 1989, relative to the application of measures to promote the
improvement of workers’ health and safety at the workplace (Framework Directive) arises from the need of
developing a single set of rules of efficient protection in occupational health and safety matters to which workers are
entitled. It is promulgated for its application in all the EU State Members, by means of the transposition (act of
promulgating the European rules into the national legislation of each state member) of this Framework Directive.
1.2.2 Rights and duties of both workers and entrepreneurs
The rules oblige:
- The Entrepreneur: to adopt measures to guarantee the workers’ occupational health and safety.
- The Worker: to watch for their own safety and that of their workmates, by respecting these measures.

1.2.3 Workers’ duties in occupational health and safety matters.

THE CONTRACTOR’S WORKER has the following duties:

 To watch for their health and safety and that of all other people who may be affected by their labour
activity.
 To use any element or means with which the activity may be performed in an adequate way.
 Not to disable the safety devices and to use them correctly.
 To report ant risk situation immediately.
 To contribute to the compliance of the duties imposed by the competent authority.
 Each worker is responsible for their safety and that of the people or facilities under their
responsibility.
 Before starting any maintenance, inspection, repair, or construction task in any area in the factory, it
is necessary to obtain written Work Permits.
 No worker will be allowed to use work equipment not belonging to their specific work out of the areas
of their competence, without instructions from their immediate superior and without the express
authorisation of the Area Manager in which the work equipment is.

1.2.4 Basic principles

The basic objective of the legislation on Health and Safety matters establishes that:
 Both companies and workers have rights and duties in Occupational Health and safety matters.
 The entrepreneur is responsible for the workers’ Health and Safety in all aspects of the work.
 The policy in Occupational Health and Safety is managed by the entrepreneur and based on the Prevention of
Labour Risks.
 Work cannot have a negative effect on the workers’ Health and Safety.

Página 9 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

 The workers’ training and information.

 Consultation and participation of both workers and their representatives
 Coordination of entrepreneurial activities.

The factors to be taken into account by the entrepreneur are:

- Workers’ personal factors (age, sex, competence in the language spoken at the workplace, their skills).
- Adaptation to the post.
- Avoid monotonous work.
1.3 Prevention service.
Their mission is to advise employers to comply with safety regulations, health and environment.
1.4 Control external service
The equipment, machines, and facilities must be controlled periodically due to serious and specific risks. In order to
do this, companies must ask for the intervention of a specialised independent organism. The function of these
organisms is to carry out periodical controls of the work equipment.
VCA CONTROL.
- VCA requires that the work equipment and tools will be identified with the expiry date of the revision applicability on
an identification plate placed in a visible place.
1.5 Coordination of activities.
The entrepreneur’s responsibility is not limited only to their own staff, but to control the dangers for other people
present at the workplace, whether contractors or subcontractors.
The activities which must be carried out simultaneously or consecutively in the same work areas, whether performed
by the same or by different companies, must be coordinated: each company must know the risks to which it may be
exposed due to the activities carried out in the area, as well as report the risks to third parties which may be
generated by its activity.
CONTRACTOR’S GENERAL SAFETY RULES.
When a worker arrives at the contractor’s premises for the first time, they should be informed in writing of the
following rules:
- Instructions of how to go to and return from the workplace.
- Codes in the company premises.
- Instructions of how to report a fire, an accident, etc.
- Instructions concerning waste separation.
- To know and use the PPE at the workplace.
- To know the First Aid Area, meeting points, etc.
- Smoking ban.

SPECIFIC SAFETY RULES.

- Enter and work in a confined space.

- Work at height wearing an anti-fall system.
- Hot working (welding).

Página 10 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

- Work in explosive atmospheres.

- Work in excavations.
- Work with specific machines: laser welding …
The specific rules must be established in writing and at the disposal of all the workers involved. It is necessary to
train the workers in these rules.
1.5.1 Company directives and national legislation
Difference between Economic and Social Directives.
1) SOCIAL DIRECTIVES
They are aimed to guarantee the level of protection of workers, and are established by the EU. Each state may have
its own rules and these may be stricter than the EU ones, which are transposed to the legislation in each country.
2) ECONOMIC DIRECTIVES.
They guarantee the free circulation of products with safety requirements, and which are used to protect the safety of
both the communities and the workers.
The national legislation cannot be stricter and the member states must follow the rules of the EU
1.5.2 Part-time workers
They have the same rights and duties as the workers from the main company.
1.6 CE mark
It is the authentic evidence that the commercialised product has passed all the type trials and tests required for its
commercialisation in the EU. The fact that the equipment, products, etc., have the CE mark means that it is
“intrinsically safe (if used following the manufacturer’s instructions it cannot possibly harm us)”.
1.7 Health surveillance
It is a preventive discipline carried out by workplace doctors in order to check the health state of workers, their
medical aptitude for the development of their activity, and to control the health variations along their professional life
so as to early detect possible harm derived from the work activity and to prevent it.
Kinds of medical tests:
- Surveillance of previous health condition.
- Periodical health surveillance: according to the risk categories at least once a year, except in case of stricter
contrary indication (higher frequency).
- Health surveillance in case of returning to work: after a minimum absence of four weeks due to illness or accident.
1.8 Work inspection
The Inspection Service controls if the legislation on occupational health and safety is respected by companies, and it
may visit the workplace and collect information and:
-Give advice and warnings.
-Establish preventive measures in compliance with the legislation.
-Stop work in case of serious or imminent risk.
-Penalise in case of non-compliance with the rules.

2 DANGERS, RISKS, AND THEIR PREVENTION

2.1 Definition of danger and risk
Página 11 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

I. Danger: it is the intrinsic characteristic of a product or situation which may cause damage (to people, to the
environment, to the facilities).
II. Risk: it is the degree of probability that a danger may cause an unwanted incident with damage.
A risk comprises two aspects:
- The possibility of the damage to happen.
- The effect of this temporary damage.
The scope of a risk depends on two factors:
- The probability of the damage to happen.
- The seriousness of the unwanted effect or the importance of the damage.
2.2 Kinds of dangers and risks
The possible causes of danger and risk are diverse.
• The activities being carried out.
• The workplace or the environment of the workplace.
• The working conditions.
• The work equipment used.
• The products and materials used.
• The worker’s knowledge and skill.
• The worker’s mentality and behaviour.
• The psychic and psycho-social load.
• The complexity of the work.
2.3 Prevention
Definition: it establishes the precise dispositions and measures to prevent or reduce risks.
2.31 Prevention hierarchy
There are different categories of preventive measures to avoid accidents.
1.- Eliminate the risk..
2.- Fight the risk in its origin.
3.- Limit or reduce the risk (collective protection).
PREVENTION HIERARCHY

1.- ELIMINATE RISK

2.- FIGHT RISK IN ITS ORIGIN

3.- LIMIT OR REDUCE RISK

4.- PPE (IPE)

5.- ADDITIONAL MEASURES

Página 12 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

Not all dangerous situations can be easily eliminated. Therefore, the risk must be limited or reduced by using
adequate work methods and equipment, by using the collective protection equipment or the collective safety devices.
Organisational measures limit exposure to danger by controlling its duration, frequency, and intensity, and by limiting
the number of people the risk is reduced
2.3.2 PPE (Personal Protection Equipment)
In Spain it is known as EPI (Individual Protection Equipment)
If the risk cannot be limited or reduced sufficiently, it is necessary to complement protective protection by using PPE
(equipment which the worker carries for protection against risks)
2.3.3 Additional measures
In order to complement prevention, we must also:
• Provide training, information, and instructions.
• Signalling, warnings, labelling, etc.
2.3.4 Prevention practice
A practical way to do prevention is to prevent dangerous actions and situations which may cause the accidents.
2.3.5 Intervention
 If you are before a dangerous situation or action, you must always act to stop it ore prevent it (action before a
serious and imminent danger).
 If you fear that a dangerous situation may happen, you must eliminate the cause, if it is not possible you must
take additional preventive measures.
 You can also prevent people of a dangerous situation.
 Sometimes, you cannot solve a dangerous situation by yourself, in that case warn and ask for help to other
people.
 If you see that a workmate does not take the necessary safety measures, you must warn him / her immediately.
Signal the dangerous action and warn your immediate manager for intervention.
2.3.6 Risk analysis
It allows identifying the dangers and risks linked to the tasks, processes, activities, and taking the adequate
preventive measures.
The entrepreneur must check that the risk analysis will be updated, and that the analysis will always be recorded in
writing.
A risk analysis implies the following stages:
Stage 1: Identification of the danger.
Stage 2: Identification / Determination of the risks.
Stage 3: Risk assessment.

Risk analysis works at three different levels:

• At the level of the overall organisation.
• At the level of each work or function group.
• At individual level.
2.3.7 Analysis of task risks
From the point of view of VCA, the analysis of risks per tasks is mandatory and must be carried out in all work, and
especially in work in which a determined situation with danger or risk in the work environment may happen.
Definition:

Página 13 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

Analysis of task risks is an analysis of the dangers linked to the performance of the tasks with risks for the workers.
The measures to be adopted will guarantee that the worker’s safety id preserved and that the environment is
protected.
Analysis of task risks in determined circumstances must be revised or carried out again when:
• During the performance of new tasks or of those tasks for which there is no procedure.
• During the transformation of the work area or in new work areas.
• During the assessment of the existing procedures or while establishing new procedures.
• When external workers enter the work area.
• The moment the work permit expires for its renewal.
Analysis of task risks must be modified when:
• The existing work planning is not adequate to practice.
• The adequate means of work are not available to the workers.
• The work post has been modified.
• The working conditions have changed
2.3.8 Last Minute Risk Analysis (LMRA)
The Last Minute Risk Analysis is based on a practical method to check, in the workplace, if the work can be
performed with total safety.
An LMRA is carried out by the worker during the performance of their activities. LMRA is applied both in daily
routines and in new tasks or modified working conditions. It is essential that work with risk will not start until the
adequate protective measures have not been decided on.
2.3.9 Action plan
Based on the risk analysis, the preventive measures are identified.
The entrepreneur will elaborate the measures in a written action plan in order to improve the working conditions.
The action plan comprises the objectives and specific measures to achieve such targets, the means, and the
assignment of tasks: what to do, why, and by which means.
2.3.10 Communication.
Once the work methods and the prevention measures have been established, it should be communicated to the
personnel in a comprehensible way.
Communication and coordination are linked to different moments in the different entrepreneurial activities
 Welcome to new collaborators: both for permanent and temporary workers, for part-time workers and for
contractors’ workers present at the workplace.
 Feedback between the main company and the contractor.
 Coordination between the main company and the contractors’ representatives when the project starts.
 Small informative meetings between the middle managers and their teams about occupational health and safety,
the prevention of accidents, and to motivate the personnel. This kind of meetings is called “Toolbox meetings”.
2.3.11 Temporary workers.
In Occupational Health and safety, temporary workers are treated the same way as permanent workers
The main company will inform contractors, before accessing the work post, of the existing risks and preventive
measures. This information will preferably be given at the workplace (“in situ”).
2.3.12 Work preparation

Página 14 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

Elements which must be taken into account in order to achieve maximum safety.
• Temporal planning of all the work: is there sufficient time to carry out the work in a safe way?
• Which activities are going to be carried out? In which order are they going to be carried out?
• Which materials, means, machines re necessary in order to carry out the work in a safe way?
• Which are the necessary measures in order to carry out the work in a safe way?
2.3.13 Work with danger.
Risk activities also comprise the proper risk tasks and those which are performed in risk environments.
A task is considered a risk task in the company when it is established in the analysis of task risks.
The following must be checked about the risk tasks:
• In order to carry them out a work permit must be obtained, and the workers are informed of its contents and
understand it.
• There is a risk analysis of the tasks to be carried out, and the prevention measures are known.
• The prevention measures and the safety rules set by the main company are known by all the workers.
• The work will not start if the conditions are not correct.
• Before starting work a last minute risk analysis is carried out (LMRA)
Derogation
If circumstances require an initial work plan to be derogated, the work must be stopped. Task analysis must be re-
done and adapted. The result will be communicated to the workers involved.

2.3.14 Managers’ role in the risk tasks

The management controls risks tasks as long as the work will be carried out according to the management measures
agreed upon. In case of derogation managers must act, so they must be present at the workplace in order to carry
out their role properly.
3 ACCIDENTS: CAUSES AND PREVENTION.
3.1 Definitions
INCIDENTS: An unwanted event (with or without damage or injury).
LABOUR ACCIDENTS: An unwanted and sudden event during work with injury (a person is harmed).
ACCIDENT: An unwanted event linked to an injury or damage. The damage may affect people,
materials, infrastructure, the environment…).
QUASI-ACCIDENT: It is an unwanted and sudden event but without damage or injury.
3.2 Theory of accidents.
3.2.1 Direct causes of accidents.
In the theory of accidents we must distinguish between:
1. Direct causes.
2. Indirect or underlying causes.
Direct causes are dangerous actions or dangerous situations.
3.2.2 Consequences
Página 15 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

Most accidents are not attributable to a single cause but are the result of multiple causes. In this context, we can
speak about a series of causes / consequences or the domino effect. The idea is the following: “if the factors are
unfavourable there may be a chain reaction which has an accident as a final result”.
The different factors which cause the domino effect are successively:
1. - The context of non-compliance by the worker.
2. - Non-compliance itself.
3. - The dangerous action or situation.
4. - The accident.
5. - Injuries and / or damage.
On the other hand, these factors indicate how to prevent the accident, the way to measure them, what affects the
factor of the series of consequences, and which the causes of this chain are.
3.2.3 The vertex of the pyramid.
Dangerous situations do not necessarily lead to damage or accidents, but sooner or later will pose a problem.
Studies show that there is a relationship between major damage, minor damage, and quasi-accidents. Per each
major damage event in an organisation, 10 minor accidents and at least 100 quasi-accidents happen. The accident
pyramid indicates that an accident is just the visible part of the iceberg. The underlying causes and problems are
immerse and are unnoticed.
The accident pyramid indicates that prevention is the only plausible solution. The incident is the base of the pyramid
where it can be attacked with reference to the dangerous situations and actions which may prevent the accidents.
Underlying Factors
Manipulation and the dangerous situation have their origin in the factors linked to the person or to the task.
Personal factors which may cause incidents.
 Lack of knowledge.
 Lack of experience.
 Lack of attention.
 Lack of motivation (with respect to the prevention rules).
There are also factors linked to the task which play a role in the appearance of an incident:
 Incorrect direction or supervision by the management.
 Use of inadequate work methods.
 Lack of adequate tools and equipment.
 Lack of training in the use of the tools.
 Improper work post.
 Insufficient time for the performance of the tasks.
Entrepreneurial culture plays a relevant role in the
appearance of the accidents. If all the veterans follow the
safety rules in the tasks, the new workers will tend to
imitate them.
3.2.4 Prevention of accidents
The most important lesson of the pyramid of the iceberg theory is that we must pay attention to the incidents, and
that preventing and fighting against all the dangerous actions and situations decrease the number of accidents.

Página 16 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

We can take foreseen measures and eliminate or reduce accidents.

For the elaboration and determination of the measures, the following factors must be taken into account:
 The person.
 The group.
 The organisation.
 Products and productive processes.
 The environment at the workplace.
3.2.4.1 The person
The preventive measures related to the human factors involve:
KNOWLEDGE
We must pay attention to the information, the training, and the instructions given, as they will help us to work safely.
The recycling of workers is important and essential
SKILLS
Knowledge is not sufficient, it is necessary to be able to apply and check skills such as training, recycling, assistance
and the observations.
BEHAVIOUR.
Working concentrated and seriously, and order and cleanliness at the workplace are examples of elements which
must be paid attention to.
3.2.4.2 Equipment
The work material must be safe, the machines must be safe and must have the CE mark, and protection must be
used correctly.
Other examples of factors inked to the equipment are:
• Good training with the work equipment.
• Choosing the adequate work equipment and using them correctly.
• The ergonomics of the work equipment and the post must be taken into account: each post must be designed in
ergonomically and adapted to each worker.
• Use of the tools.
3.2.4.3 Organisation
In order to work safely a good organisation with efficient work methods is necessary. The management must control
the way the work is carried out, and intervene or call the attention of the workers who are not working safely.
3.2.4.4 Products
Hazardous raw materials and products may imply risks. In the company it is necessary to establish an inventory of
the materials and products used. Choose, if possible, a less hazardous alternative.
The Safety Data Sheets must be established for each product, mentioning the risks of the product as well as the
preventive measures to be taken.
3.2.4.5 Environment at the workplace
The work environment must allow working safely. The prevention measures are:
 The location and space of the machines.
 Order and cleanliness at the workplace.
 Sufficient lighting, ventilation (adequate, not excessive), adequate temperature.
3.2.5 Policy at the different levels

Página 17 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

The causes of an accident may happen in origin due to the different levels of the entrepreneurial organisation
(management, hierarchical line, workers) and the policy to be followed.
3.2.5.1 Actions for the management.
The company management is responsible for the actions and executions of the preventive policy.
The management’s tasks are:
• To organise the prevention policy, among other measures, to define a (pluri-directional) plan to improve the working
conditions.
• To elaborate the prevention policy about procedures and rules to be followed.
• To delegate tasks and responsibilities to the company departments and workers.
• To have sufficient training and instructions.
• To set up a good coordination structure of responsibilities and working conditions.
3.2.5.2 Actions for middle managers
The main policy guidelines must be drawn by the company management.
Middle managers must:
• Check and respect the safety rules.
• Provide information.
• Carry out periodical inspections at the workplace.
• Act in a structured way on dangerous actions and situations.
• Assess the actions and measures for improvement.
• Discuss the problems and fix the work meetings with the team in preventive policy matters.
• Participate systematically in the investigation of accidents.
3.2.5.3 Actions for workers
Workers must also play their own role in the prevention of accidents. They must, firstly, watch for their own health
and safety and of those around them. In practice, they must know their own rights and duties, and must know how to
apply them.

3.3 In case of an accident or incident

3.3.1 Actions to be carried out after an incident
Each company must make its own rules:

-What must we do?

-What must we warn of?

In general, the procedures can be summarised in:

-Acting immediately
-Signalling / Communicating
-Examining
-Measures, action plan

Página 18 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

3.3.2 Correct actions

What must we do in case of a serious injury?
 Tell the health care service. Call the internal number of the health care service; if you do not know the number,
call the emergency number (112).
 Inform the health care service and give them all the necessary information.
What to do in case of an accident?
 Tell your immediate manager.
 Take the measures to prevent the repetition of the incident immediately, or as soon as possible, and check that
there are no other victims.
 Leave things as they are in the place, alter as little as possible (so as not to interfere in the investigation).
 Apply the company’s internal instructions.víctimas.
Each accident and / or incident must be investigated in order to know the causes which originated it and so be able
to take the necessary measures to prevent its repetition.

4 SAFETY BEHAVIOUR.
4.1 Safe work
4.1.1 Safety behaviour.
Statistics show that behaviour is a major cause of incidents and accidents. In 80% of the cases, human factor is
designed as the cause of the accident. Therefore, action on behaviour is the starting point of safety. Behind policy,
technique, and organisation we must consider the factor of human behaviour.
4.1.2 What causes certain behaviour?
Behaviour depends on individual considerations. An individual will be able to work safely if their behaviour
corresponds with their own attitudes, knowledge, skills, and rules, but also if they think that the manipulations are
well executed. The social environment influences the individual. The social environment is the basis of behaviour and
must be aimed at safety, so it is easier to really work safely. As mentioned above, the individual cannot work safely if
there are obstacles in the technique and organisation, or if there is a lack of safe equipment, a lack of time, no PPE.
4.1.3 Causes of unsafe behaviour

-Lack of knowledge and information

-Assigning a task for which the worker lacks skill / training

-Unwilling to follow the rules

-Contradictory targets
-Lack of time and means to work safely
4.1.4 Elements of entrepreneurial policy to influence behaviour.
-Policy fixed in order to improve the way of working safely
-Clearly stated tasks
-Clarity about wanted and unwanted behaviour
-Clarity about the fact of working safely, which is a priority

Página 19 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

-Observation and feedback

-Política de sanciones y recompensas
-Awareness campaigns
4.1.5 Organisation
For a good organisation, the company can influence human behaviour, the elements for which are:
-Structured and safe coordination at all levels
-Adequate agreements with the workers
-In the assignment of tasks, check that the right people are in the right place
-For the deviation of the observations, check that the precise behaviour has been adopted
-Treat questions and carry out planning in the correct way
-Watch the suitability of the means available (health care, rest areas)

4.2 Wanted behaviour

4.2.1 Working safely.
The general rules to work safely by workers are:
• Always adopt a positive attitude.
• Think of your own safety and that of co-workers and visitors.
• Respect rules, instructions and safety advice.
• In case of seeing co-workers working unsafely, inform about it.
• Signal the unsafe situations or incidents, and tell your manager.
• Pay attention to personal hygiene, and to order and cleanliness at the workplace.
4.2.2 Alcohol and drugs
The consequences of the consumption of alcohol and drugs on the workplace must not be underrated:
• Reduced surveillance.
• Underrating of your own possibilities.
• Reduced capacity of appreciating situations.
• Reduced and problematic performance.
• High risk of abusive behaviour.
• Frequent absenteeism and delay at work. Absenteeism is the reason for work disability.
• Disturbance of the work organisation, the workload increases for co-workers, and the work environment degrades
as well as the relationship with co-workers.
The medical service must be asked for help if there is a problem with alcohol or drugs.
4.2.3 Order and cleanliness
Working with order and cleanliness at the workplace is a synonym of working safely:
• Accidents and incidents are prevented by leaving the passage ways free and unobstructed, so there will be less
risk of stumbling, and in case of fire evacuation is facilitated.
• As far as possible, prevent and control the production of waste products. Take into account the general rule “a
place for each object and each object in its place” (segregation of the work generated waste).
Página 20 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

Examples of correct actions:

• Leave the workplace and its surroundings clean.
• The work area must be kept clean.
• Remove everything which is not necessary at the workplace.
• Organise accessible storage of tools and materials.
• Wires must not invade the work areas or the passage ways.
4.2.4 Moving on foot
Many accidents are a consequence of stumbling, slipping, or hitting while moving on foot in the workplace. Example:
• The floor is uneven, deteriorated, or slippery.
• Little lighting in the passage ways.
• Small or big differences in height.
• Worksites which do not take into account the work space.
• Inadequate footwear.
• Running.
Keeping order and cleanliness in the work area i s an important measure which allows preventing risks while moving
on foot.
Safety rules:
• When walking, look forward and pay attention.
• Do not run in the workplace.
• Do not transport objects which may limit our field of vision.
• Wear adequate footwear.
• Carry out lighting maintenance.
• Follow the established routes.
• Avoid dangerous situations (oil, wires, etc.).
4.3 Managers’ decision making
4.3.1 Clear role
Managers play an important role in behaviour:
• The manager determines the work method.
• The manager carries out surveillance work.
• The manager knows the context and the information related to work, the circumstances and the workers’ skills.
4.3.2 Where do they want to get to?
• All workers must respect the safety rules.
• All workers must try to avoid dangerous situations.
• All workers must act in case of dangerous situations.
• Workers must ask questions about unclear situations.
4.3.3 How to learn?
The manager’s behaviour is of great interest in order to improve the collaborators’ motivation, as it influences their
mentality and the performance of the wanted behaviour.
Página 21 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

How must they do it?

Related to capability:
-See the workers’ capability (competence, knowledge, skills, …)
-Assign tasks which correspond with their capability. Do not assign tasks which are not in accordance with their
capability.
Related to communication:
-Give clear and convincing instructions and explain them. Discuss not only what is going to be done but also how it is
going to be done.
-Give instructions meticulously.
-Always show a good attitude.
-Do self-criticism.
Related to participation:
-Involve workers.
-Listen to their complaints, suggestions, …
-Watch.
-Let workers know the opinions about them, about their suggestions, in particular in questions related to Health,
Safety, and the Environment.
-Judge the situations objectively
-Guide your workers and pay special attention to those who work safely.
-Show respect towards workers.
-Act according to the established rules.
-Ask for a specialist’s opinion (HSP Technician) in unclear situations.

4.3.4 Influence on behaviour

4.3.4.1. General principles.
Unsafe behaviour must be changed by motivating the workers:
• Stimulate safe behaviour.
• Stop unsafe or careless behaviour.
4.3.4.2. Stimulate safe behaviour
There are strategies in order to stimulate safe behaviour:
• Emphasise the events which show safe behaviour and its advantages.
• Watch that the unsafe situation is not linked to work.
The first strategy consists of emphasising the advantages of safe work:
• Draw attention to safety tasks at work positively.
• Give clear and convincing instructions to workers at the right time.
• Assess their behaviour positively.
• Promote work as a professional skill (never associate profitability and productivity to safety, a professional is
that who works safely).
• Set yourself as an example.
In addition to stimulating, respecting the safety rules is most important:
• The safety rules must be applicable in practice.
• Specific technical modification (adaptation) is more efficient that a lot of safety rules.
• Check that the safety means and devices are always available and easily accessible.
• Planning must be realistic.
Página 22 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

A manager can stimulate safe behaviour of workers, the environment, and society.
4.3.4.3. Stop unsafe behaviour
There are two strategies:
 Explain the consequences of unsafe behaviour.
 Reduce the possibilities of working unsafely.
If we are aware of the dangers and risks which result from unsafe behaviour it will be easier to adopt safe behaviour.
How to avoid unsafe work:
 Give information about the risks and dangers.
 Explain the causal line between unsafe behaviour and accidents.
 Present and discuss the accidents, their causes, and their consequences.
 Show the social and economic consequences of accidents.
The strategy to be followed in order to replace unsafe work:
• Place barriers or panel around the dangerous situations.
• Check that the material works only when protection is used.
• Place safety protections when adequate safety measures are not met.
• Define an authorisation system for work with risk (work permits).
• Remove the material, work means, and tools which are in bad condition.
• Penalise in case of unsafe behaviour.

Motivation strategies Examples

Stimulate safe Emphasise the  Positive assessment.

behaviour.. positive aspects  Good practice in the working hours in the company.
of safe behaviour  Weekly attention points in the toolbox meetings.

Check that no  Comfortable PPE.

inconveniences  Realistic, achievable rules.
(the least  Take the necessary time to carry out tasks safely.
possible) will
make work in
safe conditions
difficult.

Avoid unsafe Explain the  Information about dangers and risks.

behaviour. consequences of  Show the consequences of accidents.
carelessness  Report and discuss accidents and incidents.
 Discourage careless and fearless workers.

Reduce the  Installation of barriers and screens

possibility of  Block charging connections and install speed reducers.
working unsafely.  Require signed work permits.
 All equipment will be provided with emergency stop
systems.

Página 23 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

 Provide the equipment and facilities with two-hand

control.
 Penalties on careless behaviour.

4.4 Safety inspections.

In order to implement the safety policy, work with total safety, and favour safe behaviour we must start up different
means. The two most important ones are:
• The performance of inspection visits.
• Inspections linked to work and to the toolbox meetings.
As for the managers, the elements on which they must focus are the MPA (means, possibilities, and awareness).
MEANS
In order to carry out a good safety policy, the following means are necessary:
• Work means and materials, processes and services. If we want our personnel to work safely we must make sure
that all the means necessary to carry out tasks safely are available.
Processes are equally essential in the safety policy: we must explain how to carry out a task safely
POSSIBILITIES.
A safety policy must offer the possibility that all the means used at the workplace can be gathered, for example, that
no procedure to be carried out in the breakdown of a machine will be drafted, if this procedure has not been
communicated to the workers, or if the necessary training has not been provided
AWARENESS.
It is a fundamental point, maybe the most important. A safety policy cannot be applied without the proper awareness.

5 TASKS, RIGHTS, DUTIES, AND THEIR COORDINATION.

In Safety, Health, and Environment, all the personnel of companies have rights and duties: -
• The entrepreneur.
• The workers.
• And the hierarchical line.
We cannot carry out our duties and tasks and enjoy our rights if we are not involved in the preventive policy of the
company for welfare at work (safety involves everybody).

5.1 The entrepreneur’s duties

Each entrepreneur has the duty to promote their workers’ health and safety within a prevention policy integrated into
the company’s general policy, more specifically the duties which concern the entrepreneur are:
 To plan and implement a prevention policy.
 To carry out a risk analysis in writing.
 To consult experts.
 To establish agreements, instructions, and provide adequate training.
 To consult workers.
 To foresee and check that both work and individual equipment are properly used.
 To watch and respect the safety instructions.
 To report the serious labour accidents to inspection, and to carry out the analysis of the accident.
 To take out an accident insurance policy for the workers.

Página 24 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

 To adopt the adequate preventive measures for emergency cases.

 To avoid any violent manners at work, any moral or sexual harassment, and watch that none of these exist at the
workplace.
 To adopt the health and safety preventive measures among third parties at the workplace.
5.2 Workers’ rights and duties
5.2.1 Workers’ rights
 Safe and healthy work.
 Information and training.
 Interruption of work in case of serious and imminent risk.
5.2.2 Interruption of work in case of serious and imminent risk
What must we do?
• Stop work and go to a safe place.
• Report our manager immediately.
• If you know the techniques and have the means, adopt the adequate measures to solve the situation, but never
put your own safety at risk.
5.2.3 Workers’ duties.
 To watch for your own safety and the safety of the co-workers present at the workplace, at the company
premises, etc.
 To use the safety means, the machines, the means of transport, etc. correctly.
 To use the PPE correctly.
 To follow the safety instructions.
 To signal the dangerous situations and to inform your manager in case of accident.
 Not to disable the safety devices voluntarily.
 To signal the errors in the protection systems immediately.
 To collaborate with the Prevention Service.
 To attend the training and information sessions which the entrepreneur may organise.
 To avoid any violent manners at the workplace.
5.3 Hierarchical line
Definition: It is understood as the group of people who manage the workers. The legislation imposes to this
hierarchical line a number of tasks and specifications in the occupational health and safety preventive policy.
Functions:
 To make suggestions and issue warnings to he entrepreneur.
 To collaborate in the elaboration of risk analysis and task risk analysis.
 To warn the prevention service.
 To examine the accidents and incidents happening at work and to adopt preventive measures.
 To supervise and control the workers. To make sure that the safety devices, the instructions, and the procedures
are respected, to control the work measures, the equipment, and the materials used.
 To watch the planning and the assignment of tasks making sure that the workers possess the skills,
requirements, and training necessary for the performance of such tasks.
 To give the workers the necessary information and to check that such information is understood and that it is put
into practice.
 To organise agreements with new workers. To pay special attention to young workers, to interns, and to those
special risk groups so that all of them will apply the adequate measures.

Página 25 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

5.4 Inspections at the workplace

5.4.1 What are we speaking about?
An inspection at the workplace is a visit that takes place at the company headquarters, at a department, or at the
worksite in order to observe the workers in their labour environment.
We can carry out safety inspections in a general way or of specific aspects like:
 The condition of the collective protection equipment.
 The way of using the IPE.
 Actions carried out by workers.
 Use of tools and machines.
 Order and cleanliness.
 The application of the safety procedures
5.4.2 Why?
An inspection at the workplace is an important tool for the hierarchical line in order to make the workers adopt safe
behaviour. It is not always easy to detect where safety problems may arise. Which worker does not strictly respect
the safety rules? Where are the dangerous situations?
5.4.3 What for?
Carrying out inspections at the workplace is part of the tasks of the hierarchical line. This task does not involve just
one person; on the contrary, it may be interesting to do it with a co-worker . Anyway, the limit is a maximum of three
people.
5.4.4 How?
A good safety inspection requires an adequate method. Some important points to be taken into account are:
 We must have sufficient time for the inspections.
 An inspection at the workplace must be carried out at least once a month.
 Take down notes.
 Observe the activities and events with special attention to Health, Safety, and the Environment.
 Do not just observe: watch, give advice, establish agreements, etc.
 Record the accidents and incidents.
 Explain the reason for the safety inspections.
 Avoid interrupting the activities or disturbing the workers.
 Your presence may provoke reactions and if we decide that a worker must change the work method based on
what has been observed, the change must be discussed with them. If your answer leads to discussing it after
work, do it and suggest a change of the inspection timetable.
 Establish feedback of both positive and negative aspects.
Explain which aspects are better.
5.4.5 Means, measures, and awareness
It is important to take into account three measures

Página 26 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

MEANS
The following must be available to the worker: machines, tools, collective and individual protection equipment.
Are they under control and in good condition? Are they properly used?
MEASURES
The procedures, instructions, safety sheets. Are they available? Where are they kept in the company?
AWARENESS
Do the workers use the work means adequately? Are they aware of the importance of the safety measure? What is
the workers’ attitude?
5.4.6 Report
Once the inspection has been finished, it is important to make a report of the visit and write down how the inspection
has been done and what must be controlled. Mention the necessary improvement for each action; indicate the
person or service responsible as well as the person who must be in charge of the replacement.
5.5 The health and safety committee and the toolbox meetings.
There are two kinds of previous meetings both in the VCA and in the Health and Safety Legislation.
Committee between the entrepreneur and the prevention delegates.
Toolbox meeting: meeting between the hierarchical line and the workers.
The committee is important, and cannot be successful if:
• It is not developed in regular intervals.
• Its appearance is not structured.
• There is no interaction. The management, the hierarchical line, and the workers must all contribute.-
5.5.1 Committee with the entrepreneur and the prevention delegates
The objective of the Health and Safety Committee is, among others, to give advice, warnings, recommendations for
all the important points related to the Occupational Health and Safety policy.
This committee is made up of:
• The entrepreneur or their representative, who assumes the sole of the Committee Chairperson.
• A delegation of the entrepreneur (hierarchical line).
• The workers’ delegates.
• Temporarily, experts (prevention technician) and others (company doctors, et.) who will attend and assist but will
not take part in the decision-making process.
5.5.2 Toolbox meetings.
The Occupational Health and safety meetings between supervisors and operational workers.
What are they?
Toolbox meetings are safety awareness meetings which encourage the workers to adopt a safe practice.
The informative and open character of these meetings allows discussing almost all topics. The active participation of
all the attendants is important.
Why?
The main objective is to motivate the workers and informers in order to encourage safe behaviour.

When?
Toolbox meetings are held regularly, at least ten times a year.
Página 27 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

Conditions which they must meet.

It is the direct operational superior manager who summons the meeting.
Toolbox meetings are informal, but it is convenient to prepare them so that the message will be better understood.
The purpose of the meetings is to reach clear agreements with the participants. These agreements must be recorded
in a report. It must be verified that the message is clear, it involves and commits everybody.
5.6 Certification, safety card, and training.
5.6.1 Certification
The entrepreneurs and the employment agencies, through a VCA (control list of health, safety, and environment) or
VLU (control list of safety for temporary work agencies) certificate can prove to their main companies that they
respect health, safety, and the environment. The main companies can obtain the VCO (control list of safety and
means for main companies) certificate.
VCA (LSC)
-What is it about?
The abbreviation VCA comes from the term VGM “Check-list Aanrmers”, which means Health, Safety, and
Environment. The VCA check-list is made up of questions and is elaborated in the form of a screening system and a
test.
-Objective:
In order to obtain a VCA certificate, a company must have a Health, safety, and Environment system working, and
follow the requirements established in the VCA Safety check-list. This is precisely the ultimate objective of the VCA
system: to control the activities (and the risks) at work, to follow the Health, Safety, and Environment plan, and to
prevent the incidents.
The entrepreneurs who obtain the VCA certificate can present it to their customers as a quality seal. For companies
the VCA certificate is a guarantee that the entrepreneur practises an active occupational safety policy.
-Why?
The VCA certificate is aimed at the companies where the workers carry out tasks which involve high or medium risks
(machines, installations, etc.).
-Levels of certification:
 VCA*: this level of certification is based on the direct management of the Health, Safety, and Environment
aspects of the work activities.
 VCA**: this level of certification collects the safety structures and systems within the company (Safety, Health,
and Environment policy), the Health, Safety, and Environment organisation, and the management of the
improvement.
 VCA Petrocimie: this level of certification concerns the companies which must safely carry out complex risk
activities in the Petrochemical industry and the elements involved in the VCA** certification.
VCU (LSI)
Temporary work agencies can obtain the VCU certificate. It is the LSI, which is the abbreviation of “Safety Check-List
for Temporary Work Companies”.
The VCU certificate concerns the Health and Safety aspects in temporary work. The VCU aims to guarantee to the
entrepreneur that the temporary work agency fulfils the health and safety aspects and makes them available to
interns.
VCO (LSDO)
The VCO (LSDO) means “Safety Check-list for the main company”. The check-list is a verification of how the main
entrepreneur establishes contract with the contractors, the subcontractors, and the temporary work agencies.

Página 28 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

The main entrepreneur will make sure to check the adequate conditions and circumstances so that the VCA certified
companies and the VCU certified temporary work agencies can work safely.
5.6.2 Safety card
It is a personal document where the information about the training received, skills, medical aptitude, and vaccinations
is collected.
The worker is responsible for filling in the safety card correctly and on time, based on a defined procedure.
Everything mentioned in the safety card means evidence in the holder’s personal dossier.
5.6.3 General training in health, safety, environment, and mandatory exams.
Training is the most important criterion for VCA. All the workers must be able to prove that they possess the required
knowledge in safety matters and obtain the B-VCA diploma “Base Safety for Workers, Operators” issued by a
certified centre.
All the operational managers (up to the team manager level) must be able to prove that they possess the required
knowledge in Health and Safety matters and obtain the VOL-VCA Diploma “Safety for Operational Managers VOL –
VCA” issued by a certified centre.
Both the B-VCA and the VOLC – VCA diplomas are valid for 10 years.
5.6.4 Training and mandatory exams for risk tasks
The risk evaluation must show which tasks require training with an exam. The exam consists of a theoretical part
(knowledge) and a practical part (skills).
In the petrochemical sector, the exam is mandatory for determined tasks. The workers of the main company carrying
out these tasks are required to pass an exam in a VCA – certified centre.
The diploma is valid for a determined period. The tasks for which an exam in a certified centre is mandatory in the
petrochemical sector are:
• Work with MEWP (Mobile Elevating Work Platforms)
• Work with truck cranes.
• Work with fork lifts.
• Work in confined spaces.
• Work with Autonomous or Semi-autonomous Breathing Equipment.
• Moving and Lifting Loads.
• Work with hazardous Substances.
CERTIFICATION PLANS
The VCA, VCU, and CVO are certification plans. This means that the contractor or the temporary work agency shows
conformity with the VCA/VCU criteria in the form of a control check-list through an audit carried out by the same
certificate. The certificates are valid for three years, and every year there is an intermediate audit for the main
elements. The system is made up of an initial audit (first control of the company) and a second intermediate one.
After three years there is a new complete audit.
VCA SYSTEMS
The VCA Certificate is for companies which carry out their work in a risk environment like the following:
 Building work.
 Activities of industrial maintenance.
 Civil engineering.
 Electrotechnics and transmission processes.

Other technical work:

• Insulation work.
• Assembly of scaffolds.
• Industrial cleaning.
• Paving / Conservation.
Página 29 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

• Vertical work.
In general, the main company establishes if the VCA certificate is required and, in that case, it must decide the level
of certification required (VCA*, VCA**, or Petrochemical VCA).
The company is assessed with the help of the VCA control check-list.
The VCA* is convenient for companies which carry out work in a main company in which little complex work is done
or where the organisation is little complex, and also routine work.
The VCA** is convenient for companies which carry out non-routine complex work and there is entrepreneurial
coordination.
With the Petrochemical VCA, the main company requires further guarantee, above all after the “Seveso Directive”.
The Petrochemical VCA involves work linked to the management of moderate risks, the installation and the
maintenance of petrochemical installations. An important objective of the Petrochemical VCA is to reinforce the
management of the health, safety, and environment risks in the whole chain, the main company, the contractors, and
the subcontractors.
The VCA Certificate is valid for three years. The audit is carried out by a certified centre which audits the company
regarding the conditions of the control check-list.

6 PROCEDURES, INSTRUCTIONS, AND SIGNALLING.

6.1 Safety rules.
A safety policy must not be seen only for its safety rules (orders, procedures, and instructions); it must work as the
connecting thread to gather the members of the personnel.
These orders state how the workers must behave in order to limit the risks to the minimum and clearly establish how
to face the residual risks (for example, how to wear the IPE).
6.1.1 General safety rules.
They are rules which concern the organisation and its structure, aimed not only at certain functions or at certain work
but also at all the personnel, comprising the auxiliary companies or other people present at the workplace. They are
made thinking of the supplier, the contractors’ and subcontractors’ workers who come in to carry out work.
The General Safety Advice is a set of rules which concerns the organisation and its structure and all the people
present at the workplace.
These rules are applied to everybody and, consequently, the people who enter the company for the first time must be
immediately aware of the rules, which must be recorded in writing and must be clear.
Examples of general safety rules and advice:
• Signalling instructions to enter and leave the work post.
• Route code to be applied everywhere in the company.
• Instruction to signal an accident, an incident, or a fire.
• Instruction concerning actions in case of emergency situations.
• Advice related to waste separation.
6.1.2. Specific safety rules.
The specific safety rules are applied to everybody present in the company in all circumstances, but the specific rules
are necessary for people who carry out high-risk tasks. In particular, for workers who:
• Go into confined spaces.
• Carry out work in height.
• Carry out work in presence of ATEX.

Página 30 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

• Work in excavations, etc.

The specific safety rules must be recorded in writing and available to all the workers involved. It is not sufficient just
to read them out, but also to explain them. This training must be carried out at the workplace, and it is also necessary
to control that the rules have been understood by the workers.
6.2 Information, instructions, and training.
Before starting work, the new workers must receive information and explanations about Health, Safety, and
Environment. The talk is given to all the workers so that they will know and understand the rules concerning Health,
Safety and the Environment about the dangers, risks, and means of prevention in particular tasks. Not only the
general rules, but also all the prescriptions established by the main company.
Training will not be efficient if the workers do not understand and apply the information. That is why it must not only
be comprehensible and practical, but also adapted to the workers’ skills (their level of knowledge, their language,
their experience, and their labour situation).
The content of the training and instructions must comprise general and specific information. Interns must receive
general information about their work and the general risks linked to their task (the auxiliary company will be
responsible for that).
The information must include:
• The policy statement of the auxiliary company.
• The information and content of the work post sheet and tasks, circumstances, functions, workplaces, PPE, …
• The safety rues linked to their function, safety signals, use of PPE, duties.
• The coordination of the auxiliary company, person to contact, procedures in case of illness, in case of accident,
documents to fill in, etc.
• The specific safety rules of their sector (construction, chemical, cleaning …).
• General information about the safety measures of the main company.
INSTRUCTION / TRAINING.
General information in prevention matter:
· What to do?
· Who is the PRL Technician?
· How to contact the Prevention Service?
· How to signal accidents, near misses, and unsafe situations?
· What to do in case of an accident at work or in transit to work?
· Who is to receive first aid?
· How to act in case of emergency?
· Where are the safety exits and the meeting points?
· Which are the traffic rules of the company?
· Which are the smoking and alcohol rules?
· The existence of dangerous, explosive areas?
· Which PPE is available, how to use it and maintain it, in which area to use it?
Specific information about the work post, the tasks, the machines, the facilities.
• Which are the risks?
• Which are the prevention means adopted or to be adopted?
Página 31 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

• Which are the instructions, rules, authorisations to be explained?

• Which PPE is necessary?
SAFETY AT THE WORKPLACE AND IN THE INSTALLATIONS
So that the activities with machines, equipment, and their maintenance will be carried out safely, measures must be
present which will guarantee that the installations are safe during work. This is what is called “Safety at the workplace
and in the installations”
6.2.1 Safety in the installations.
The objective of safety is that the equipment and elements in the installations will not start moving involuntarily.
The stages are:
1. - To cut off the electrical power so that the device will have no power.
2. - Put down the switch.
3. - Put up a notice next to the switch: “Do not operate”. If possible, mark the area around the machine or signal it
with red and white, or black and yellow tape.
4. - Make sure that the machine has no power.
The switches must be blocked with chains. Each worker must keep their own key. The switch will be blocked until the
chains have been removed. Each worker has their own padlock with its key.
6.2.2 Insulation flanges.
An insulation flange is used to separate the parts of an installation
in the repair of pipelines, where the different feeding pipes of different
elements are cut off. They have a metallic circular plate which is placed
between the repair flanges of the piping.
In water installations, deposit reactors, etc., the insulation flanges are
essential so that the maintenance work will be done safely.

6.3 Specific permits.

An important number of companies require “a specific permit” or “complementary permit” for work with specific risks.
This complementary permit requires:
• Specific training or explanation in order to do the work safely.
Requiring the work permits guarantees that the necessary conditions for the performance of safe work are explained
to the workers, recorded in a document, and signed.
The work permit is a document in which the procedures to be followed in case of high risk work are stated.
Examples:
• Work permits for confined spaces.
• Work permits for work with risk of fire.
• Demolition work containing asbestos.
• Work in height.
• Etc.
6.3.1 Functions of the permits
 Coordination between all persons involved in the work: main company, contract, subcontract…
 Documentation signed by all.
 Set conditions and measures that must be present for safe work.
 Granting authorization during development work.

Página 32 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

Different people involved in the process of work permit:

 Petitioner:
Is the person requesting the execution of work to do.
 Authoriser:
It is the main Company.
 Operator/workers:
Is the person performing the work.
6.3.2 Content of permits
- The work to be carried out.
- The assignment of the work.
- Geographical location.
- The duration (normally a working day).
- The measures present (established by the main company).
- Measures to be taken by the workers, the people who must carry out the work.
- Measures to be adopted so that safety at the workplace can be guaranteed.
- Conditions in case of extension of the permit.
- Validation and signature.
Requested work:
It is the description of the work to be done: list of tasks. For example, stop a leak in an underground pipeline.
Present measures by the petitioner:
They are measures imposed by the manager or department where the work is going to be done (required by the
main company). We must know the dangers at the workplace and implement the safety measures. The measures
necessary to work safely.
Measures to be followed by the workers:
They are all the measures which must be known by the workers who are going to carry out the work. The PPE to be
worn must also be stated.
Validation and signature of the permits:
The permits are not valid if they are not signed by everybody involved (authoriser, petitioner, and operator). The work
cannot start officially without this requirement.

6.3.3 Rights and duties of the parties

AUTHORISER
The person who issues the permit agrees with the holder:
• The activities which must be carried out.
• The conditions in which the work must be carried out.
HOLDER
The manager of the workers who are going to carry out the work. It is the person who signs the work permit and
explains it to the workers. The holder checks that the work is done in accordance with the work permit and that it is
available at the workplace.
WORKERS

Página 33 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

They must carry out the work and apply those measures described in the work permit. The must work only with a
valid permit and must take its duration into account (normally a working day).
LEADERS (TEAM MANAGERS)
They must se in detail each of the elements in the permit during the development of the work and must check that
they are understood.
They must check that the instructions in the work permit are complied with and make sure that the work is done
accordingly by controlling all the applications and measures stated in the permit. In case of doubt or an unforeseen
situation, they must inform the main company.

6.4 Signalling.
At the workplace the multiple dangers and risks must be signalled. The signalling of these must be on a panel, it is a
legal duty and a way to draw the attention to the potential dangers/risks.
6.4.1 Objectives and rules

Signalling in Occupational Health and safety informs and draws the attention to situations and activities in a fast and
comprehensible way:
 Possible dangers.
 Necessary safety dangers.
 PPE.
 Evacuation routes.
 Fire protection measures.
Good signalling must be simple, easy to understand for everybody; it must always be kept visible and at a good
distance for all those who it is aimed at. The signal must not be confusing, there is an only signal for each specific
danger, for each duty or interaction by means of a pictogram, a specific colour and a short text.
6.4.2 Groups of signalling panels.
There are different types of panels:
 Prohibition panels.
 Obligation panels.
 Warning panels.
 Rescue and aid panels.
 Fire panels.

6.4.3 Prohibition panels

These signals are round with a black pictogram on a white background, a red border, and a diagonal band in red.
For example:

6.4.4 Obligation signals.

They indicate what must be compulsorily done. Generally, duties are linked to PPE. These signals are round with
pictograms in white on blue background. For example:

Página 34 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

6.4.5 Warning signals.

They warn of the present dangers and risks. They are triangular with a black pictogram on yellow background and a
black border. For example:

6.4.6 Rescue and aid signals

These signals indicate the safety exits as well as the location of the rescue and aid equipment and the evacuation
routes. They are rectangular or square with a white pictogram on green background. For example:

6.4.7 Fire protection signals.

They are rectangular or square with a white pictogram on red background. They indicate the location of the fire
equipment.

6.4.8 Marks
They cannot be considered as a prevention measure, but they draw attention to a dangerous situation. Fixed bands
or marks in the shape of painted bands are used. A mark is not an enclosure.
6.4.9 Beaconing
They indicate a risk or danger, and they are white and red, or black and yellow. The chains on posts may be assisted
by these bands.

Handrails, cones, tapes … are used to mark an area, but they cannot be considered as enclosures.

6.4.10 Fixed marks.

They are bands painted in black and yellow which allow signalling narrow passages, passages at different level, etc.

Página 35 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

A mark placed at the level of steps indicates fall risk; they are also used in corridors, indicating that these areas must
be free of obstacles, and, on the other hand, they must also indicate where diverse storage of objects in located.

7 EMERGENCY SITUATIONS.
It is very important to be ready for emergency situations in order to prevent or limit, as far as possible, the harmful
consequences.

7.1 What is an emergency situation?

Emergency situation. Potential threat or situation which involves a possibility of damage or injuries.
An emergency situation or its threat may be triggered by:

• Accidents.
• Fire or explosion.
• Uncontrolled leak of toxic substances, gas, biological agents (for example, virus), radioactive radiations.
• Leaks of water or energy cuts.
• Weather conditions (storms, lightning), natural disasters (floods, volcanic eruptions).
• Bomb alerts, terrorist threat, or attack threat.
• Loss or damage in the infrastructure (total collapse, breakdown in the purifying plant).
• Social problems (or threats).
• Dangerous event in nearby companies or in the surroundings.
An emergency situation may be caused both by the company’s own activities and by external activities.
Before an emergency situation or its threat, the company must adopt a number or measures or reduce the damaging
consequences which may arise. A methodical approach (Emergency Plan) is necessary which comprises both
adequate training and practice (drills). The emergency plan must be complete, and must comprise all the possible
emergency situations which may happen.

7.2 Action before an emergency situation.

The way to face an emergency situation depends on the kind of incident and its seriousness. The action is divided
into three stages (phases):
1. Warning (first communication).
2. Actions and measures.
3. Closure.
7.2.1 First communication (Warning: STAGE 1)
If an emergency situation is detected, it is fundamental to report it immediately. There must be clear agreements at
this level. The following must be clear:
Página 36 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

• Who reports?
• How is it reported? For example, by means of a phone call to an internal emergency phone number or to a
general emergency phone number (112), by means of an alarm siren …
• What information must be given? Name, short description of the event, place of the event, number of people
affected, apparent seriousness of the injuries.
Electronic warning system: the alarm can also be raised by means of an electronic system, whether electronic or not.
7.2.2 Actions and measures (STAGE 2)
After the first warning, a number of actions follow which varies according to the emergency situation and its scope.
• The person who detected the emergency warns of the emergency situation to the person in charge in the
company.
• The external safety service is warned.
• The evacuation alarm is activated.
• The key people and teams (intervention teams, surveillance teams …) must act in accordance with the
instructions previously approved and received.
• Intervention: extinction, making the facilities safe.
• Rescue operations: evacuate the victims out of the danger areas, search for missing people.
• Assistance: first aid, emergency medical care, transport the victims to medical centres.
7.2.3 Closure (STAGE 3).
At this point, the situation turns to normal working conditions and the emergency situation is considered as finished.
The emergency Plan describes the way to proceed at this stage. It is important:
• Who is skilled to declare that the emergency situation is finished? Who authorises? Who has the authority?
• How is the personnel informed of the end of the emergency situation?
7.3 Evacuation
In determined emergency situations (for example, a fire, gas discharge, leak) all the staff present must abandon the
building or place in a controlled way and without any delay. This is called evacuation.
7.3.1 Instructions
You must receive information and instructions about:
 Meeting points: who they are for and where they are located.
 Possibilities of evacuation: emergency exits, way and routes of evacuation.
 Specific instructions by the worksite manager (if the work is done outside the own company’s facilities).
The managers must give the workers the information and action instructions in case of emergency and check that
they have been understood.
8 DANGEROUS SUBSTANCES.
Substances with dangerous properties are usually present at work (cleaning and painting products..).We must know
very well how to handle them
8.1 Classification of dangerous substances.
GROUP OLD NEW DESCRIPTION RISKS EXAMPLES
PICTOGRAM PICTOGRAM
Fire / E Risk of explosion (even Dynamite,
Explosion Explosive without the action of oxygen) ammunition,
at a certain temperature, or in powder.
contact with other substances,
caused by crash or friction.

Página 37 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

GROUP OLD NEW DESCRIPTION RISKS EXAMPLES

PICTOGRAM PICTOGRAM
O Substances which release Oxygenated water,
Burning-agent or oxygen, which react violently ozone, oxygen.
oxidising agent with other substances
(flammable) and which favour
or activate combustion.

F Substances which burn easily Petrol, turpentine,

Easily at normal environmental acetone.
flammable temperatura(21ºC)
F+
Extremely
flammable
Toxic / T Risk of serious symptoms H2S, carbon
Noxious Toxic (which may involve death) in monoxide,
T+ case of inhalation, ingestion, benzene,
Very toxic or contact with the skin. methanol.

Xn Dangerous substances in Paints, lacquer,

Noxious case of inhalation, ingestion, varnish, glue,
or in contact with the skin in products to protect
great amounts. Their wood.
consequences are more
limited than those of the toxic
products.
Corrosive / C Substances which may Concentrated
Irritant Corrosive damage tissues (skin, clothes, acids and bases
Caustic eyes, lungs) (for example,
sulphuric acid, and
sodium
hydroxide).
Xi Substances which may cause Little concentrated
Irritant swelling through direct bases and acids,
prolonged or repeated contact solvents and
with the skin or the mucous polyester filler.
membrane. The
consequences may be less
serious than those caused by
caustic or corrosive products.
Sensitiser It may cause allergies, Certain resins and
asthmatic crisis. dying agents,
certain paints,
products for the
treatment of
metals, hair dyes.
Work N Substances which may cause CFC, ciertos
environment Dangerous fro damage to the environment, pesticidas, PCB,
/The the environment the fauna, and the flora. amoniaco,
environment (pollutant) metales pesados.

Página 38 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

GROUP OLD NEW DESCRIPTION RISKS EXAMPLES

PICTOGRAM PICTOGRAM
Pressure gases. (Flammable or toxic) material Compressed
at high pressure which gases, liquefied
implies an increase of risks in gases, refrigerated
the work environment. liquid gases (at
very low
temperature), and
soluble pressure-
packed gasses in
metallic bottles.
Dangerous Carcinogenic It may cause cancer. Asbestos,
for health in benzene, vinyl
the long run chloride, fumes
from fuel
combustion

Teratogenous or It may cause genetic Lead, mercury,

toxic for disorders and problems to CO.
reproduction. reproduction (sterility).

Mutagenic It may cause hereditary Acrylamide,

genetic anomalies. ethylene oxide.

Asbestos It may cause cancer. Asbestos.

Oxygen reducer. Asphyxia. Nitrogen, helium,

CO2.

8.2 Transport of dangerous substances

In the transport of dangerous substances specific prevention measures are applied. The legislation is specifically
adapted for this case: the classification of categories and the pictograms are different from those used to signal work
areas. The danger is seen from the point of view of transport (foreseeing what may happen during transport).
For the transport of dangerous goods by road, the signal consists of a rhombus with a black pictogram on a coloured
background (the colour varies according to the category of the dangerous substance to be signalled).

Página 39 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

Example: Storage signal. Example: Signal of transport of dangerous goods by road (ADR code).

8.3 Effects of dangerous substances on health.

Dangerous substances may have harmful effects on health. Which are the ways these substances enter our body?
• We may inhale them. The respiratory tract (nose and mouth) are the most frequent ways of absorption in the work
environment.
• They may also enter through the skin
• Another way of entering is the parenteral way, and they reach the bloodstream directly.
• We may also ingest them through the mouth. This is the least frequent way. However, we must be careful not to
ingest them by taking to the mouth (drinking or eating) elements contaminated by contact with dangerous
substances, because they may have been exposed to a contaminated environment or because we may have
touched them without having washed our hands (glasses, bottles, plates, etc.). As usual, but especially when we are
handling dangerous substances, personal hygiene is very important.
8.4 Prevention measures.
It is important to avoid contact with dangerous substances. In order to do so, there are different ways of acting.
The entrepreneur must respect hierarchy when adopting the prevention measures. First, the risks must be removed
in their origin. If this is not possible, the risk must be controlled by adopting technical measures, collective protection,
or organisational measures. As a final resource, workers may be provided with Personal Protection Equipment PPE.
8.4.1 Measures to be adopted in origin or the source of the danger
1. - Elimination. The first and best measure is to eliminate the risk: do not use the dangerous substances or take
them away from the workshop or worksite and store them in a cupboard, container, or adequate deposits.
2. - Replacement. Secondly, they may be replaced with less dangerous substances. For example, instead of using
paint thinners, use paint with a water base.
3. - Adaptation. Finally, the product may be adapted. For example, it may be used in presses tablets instead of dust,
more easily dispersed in the workplace.
SUMMARY TABLES OF INCOMPATIBILITIES OF STORAGE OF DANGEROUS PRODUCTS AND SUBSTANCES

+ - - - - +
+ - - - +
- + - - - -

- + - - -
- - + - - +

- - - + - -
- - + - +

- - - - + O - - - + O

+ - + - O + + - + O +

Página 40 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

+ They can be stored together.

O They can only be stored together if certain specific prevention measures are adopted
- They must not be stored together
8.4.2 Limit or reduce exposure
Local Exhaust Ventilation
During the handling of dangerous products, directly vacuum the dangerous vapours, gases, or dust particles at the
source of emission (for example, installation of vacuum of welding fumes).
Insulation (separation between the work and the source of emission)
Avoid contact totally.
Ventilation
With ventilation we guarantee a higher renewal of air; diluting the contaminated air into the exterior air and putting
clean air inside.
8.4.3 Individual protection.
As a last resource, Personal Protection Equipment can be used as the last protective barrier in order to reduce
exposure to risk.
8.4.4 Personal protection measures
In addition to the numerous protection measures to avoid absorbing dangerous substances, personal hygiene is a
basic rule in order to avoid absorption through the mouth, the skin, or through wounds.
• Always wash your hands and face thoroughly before eating or drinking, and always use disposable towels.
• Eat and drink only in the places provided (dining rooms), never in the work area.
• Dirt and dust accumulate on the work clothes. Replace the work clothes with the personal clothes to go to the
dining room and at the end of the working hours in order to avoid disseminating the dangerous substances.
• In case of being wounded, rinse the wound as soon as possible and have it bandaged.
8.5 Threshold Limit Values of exposure to dangerous substances.
8.5.1 Threshold Limit Value (TLV)
Unfortunately, the use of dangerous imust be restricted to the maximum. In order to limit the risks for health, the
legislation limits, for each substance, the maximum authorised concentration in the atmosphere at the workplace
(concentrations measured in the breathing zone of the worker exposed). It is the threshold limit value of exposure:
the maximum concentration of a dangerous substance, as a weighted average exposure of time in a period, further
which no worker must be exposed.
Each dangerous substance has its own Threshold Limit Value. It is calculated according to the following:
 The working hours (8 hours).
 The working week (40 hours).
 An adult worker in good health conditions.
 Work in normal conditions.
 Making a normal physical effort.
8.5.2 Perception of smell.
A leak of gas in a house can be perceived immediately because an odorising substance is artificially added (methyl
mercaptan, which gives it that characteristic unpleasant smell). But this technique is not applied to all dangerous
gases.
• Numerous dangerous gases and vapours are odourless, so the smell cannot be perceived.
Página 41 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

• Others smell when the concentration is high, probably higher than the exposure threshold limit value. If smell of gas
can be perceived, it means that it is already present in too high amounts.
• On the other hand, there may be other strong smells which may disguise the smell of the dangerous gas.
• There are people with a sharper sense of smell than others. There are people who take longer to perceive smells.
So, the conclusion to be taken into account is that we cannot rely on our nose to detect the presence of dangerous
gases
8.6 Labelling, danger symbols, and information about the product.
We must know what type of dangerous products we work with and which are present at our workplace. We can find
information about the risks of the products in different ways, but mainly on the label which must compulsorily be on
each package of dangerous products (tanks, bottles, cans ...)

8.6.1 GHS – New system of classification of dangerous substances in Europe.

The United Nations has developed a new labelling system called GHS (Globally Harmonised System of Classification
and Labelling of Chemicals) to harmonise the classification and labelling of dangerous substances. The European
Union has adopted the new CLP code (Classification, Labelling, and Packaging) by means of the promulgation in the
OJEU of the CE regulation no 1272/2008 on classification, labelling, and packaging of substances and mixtures.
What has changed?
Manufacturers and importers must adopt the way of classifying, labelling, and packaging the products. The existing
signs of orange background and a black pictogram are replaced with others, identical for all Europe and numerous
other countries in the world. Until June 2015 the old labels are authorised, being progressively replaced with the new
ones. Chemicals labelled with the old labels may remain stored in stock until June 2017 at most. After this date, they
can only be commercialised with the new label.

Label;The label must contain five items:

1.Thename (or names) of the product. 2..The symbols of danger.3.The H statements.4.The P statements.5.The name
and address of the manufacturer, distributor, or importer of the product.
Ex. Old Label Ex. New Label

H and P statements.
On the label, next to the symbols of danger, is a number of warnings. They are the H and P statements, general
advice preceded by a serial number.
Página 42 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

H statements
Statements which describe the risks which a product may generate.
H=Health
P statements
Statements which indicate the safety measures to be taken in order to limit the risks during use.
P=Precaution
There will be further information about a dangerous substance in the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) of the
corresponding product.
Examples of H and P statements

Indications of danger (H statements) Precaution Advice (P statements)

H350, H341, H319, H315, H336, H412. P202, P308,P313, P273.

It may cause cancer. Do not handle the substance before reading and
Suspected to cause genetic disorders. understanding all the safety instructions.
It causes severe ocular irritation. In case of manifest or suspected exposure:
It causes skin irritation. Consult a doctor.
It may cause sleepiness or vertigo. Avoid its release to the environment.
Noxious for aquatic organisms, with long-lasting noxious
effects.

8.6.2 European classification (allowed until 2015 for certain products)

Label; The label must contain five items:
1The name (or names) of the product.2 The symbols of danger.3 The R statements.4 The S statements.5 The name
and address of the manufacturer, distributor, or importer of the product.
R and S statements.
On the label, next to the symbols of danger, is a number of warnings. The yare the R and S statements, general
advice preceded by a serial number.
R statements.
Statements which describe the risks which a product may generate.
R=Risk
S statements
Statements which indicate the safety measures to be adopted in order to limit the risks during use.
S = safety .
There will be further information about a dangerous substance in the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) of the
corresponding product.

8.7 Medical check-up

If workers must work with dangerous substances or may be temporarily exposed to them during work, then it is
mandatory to undergo a medical check-up which will state the worker’s medical fitness to work under those
conditions. This check-up must be done periodically in order to verify that such fitness is maintained, and that the
worker’s health does not suffer due to exposure to dangerous substances because the measures adopted are

Página 43 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

adequate to control the risks. The frequency will depend on the substances to which workers are exposed, being the
usual and minimum once a year.

8.8 Oxygen.
8.8.1 Concentration normal in Oxygeno.
Air, in normal conditions, is made up of 78% of nitrogen, 21% of oxygen, and 1% of other gases. Oxygen is vital for
human breathing, and the increase or decrease of its concentration may have effects on our health.

Composition of the atmosphere:

Mixture of molecules of various gases:
Nitrogen, Oxygen, and others.
 Others Nitrogen
78%
 CO2
 Methane
 Hydrogen Oxygen
 Argon 21%

 Ozone
 Nobel gases
 CO Others
1%

8.8.2 Effects of a concentration too weak in oxygen

A concentration too low in oxygen may have harmful effects on our health. If it is lower than 19% of concentration in
the air, we will have difficulty breathing. If it decreases further, giddiness or even loss of consciousness may appear.
Below 14% of concentration of oxygen the risk is deadly. Anyway, if the percentage of oxygen decreases, it means
that there are other substances in the environment in addition to oxygen and nitrogen which may cause harm.
8.8.3 Causes of concentration too weak in oxygen in the air.
A concentration lower in oxygen in the environment may be caused by:
• Insufficient or inexistent ventilation.
• Oxidation processes.
• Other processes which use oxygen (fires, use of flame for welding work or with a torch, certain bacteriological or
biological reactions.).
• Gaseous products released to the air which displace oxygen.
8.8.4. Prevention measures in case of concentration too weak in oxygen.
In order to work in places with low concentration in oxygen the following measures must be adopted:
•The supply of oxygen can be dealt with by means of natural (by generating a current of air) or mechanical ventilation
in the room.
•If ventilation is not sufficient or possible, PPE will be used. If the percentage of oxygen is below 19%, breathing
equipment independent from the environment assisted from the outside must be used, or by means of Autonomous
Breathing Equipment.
8.8.5 Effects of a concentration too high in oxygen
A too high concentration does not pose a direct danger for health but for the environment. The danger of fire and
explosion increases. Oxygen must never be used to ventilate a place.
8.8.6 Causes of a concentration too high in oxygen.

Página 44 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

The increase of the concentration of oxygen is almost always the consequence of a leak, for example, from oxygen
pipelines (basically from oxyacetylene welding) or from oxygen bottles.
8.8.7 Prevention measures in case of a concentration too high in oxygen.
In order to prevent the consequences of oxygen leaks or limit their effects, it is recommendable to remove the
oxygen bottles from the workplace. Store the oxygen bottles in a ventilated place separated from the work area, and
never in a confined space.
Prior to use, check the absence of leaks in the hoses. By placing safety valves against breaking of the hose, the
oxygen line will remain turned off even if there is a leak.

8.9 Frequently used dangerous substances.

Dangerous substances are frequently used both at work and in daily life. As a first safety measure, we must read the
labels and the safety sheets. Some examples are:
8.9.1 Organic solvents.
Organic solvents are generally made up of oil by-products: turpentine, paint thinners, varnish, glue, and resins. In
most cases they enter the organism by inhalation. The effects may be short (headache) or long term (brain injuries).
Numerous organic solvents are flammable or easily flammable (for example, turpentine) and degrade the skin.
8.9.2 Cyclic compounds.
They are also used as solvents. For example, benzene, toluene, xylem, phenols.
Phenols are toxic, and benzene is carcinogenic.
8.9.3 Heavy metals.
We understand as heavy metals those whose toxicity is higher: lead, mercury, cadmium, antimony, barium, chrome,
arsenic, and nickel. The danger appears when in the environment there are heavy metals in the form of dust and
they enter our organism through the respiratory tract or by ingestion. Other heavy metals like zinc, copper, and
magnesium may have a negative influence on health if they are absorbed in high concentrations.
8.9.4 Cement.
Cement in suspension is not deadly, but the label states:
 Irritant for the respiratory tract and for the skin.
 Risk of severe ocular injury.
 When humid (for example, due to sweating), it may cause chemical burns when in prolonged contact with the skin.
8.9.5 Dish-washing liquid
The labels indicate:
• Irritant.
• Keep out of children’s reach.
• Risk of severe ocular injury.
• In case of contact with the eyes, rinse them well and go to the doctor.
• In case of ingestion, consult with a doctor immediately and show them the label or the package.
• It may cause an allergic reaction.
• Emergency phone number.
8.9.6 Liquid plungers
These products (concentrated bases / caustic soda) are used to unblock sewage pipes and dissolve blockages.
There are corrosive (caustic) products which may cause chemical burns in case of direct contact with the skin
(immediately rinse with abundant water).

8.9.7 Carbon monoxide (CO)

Página 45 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

Carbon oxide or monoxide appears mainly when a boiler burner works incorrectly. If combustion is complete, CO2 is
formed.
On the contrary, the absence of good ventilation or not sufficient fresh air comes in, or the damper is not properly
connected, when combustion is incomplete carbon monoxide may be generated.
Carbon monoxide is a highly toxic, colourless, and odourless gas. That is why it is called the silent killer as nothing
indicates its presence. Carbon monoxide fixes in the blood, preventing the absorption of sufficient oxygen. First, you
are stunned, and death comes immediately, without noticing at all. High concentrations of CO in the environment are
explosive (explosiveness area between 11% and 75% of concentration in the environment).
In order to avoid the formation of CO, the preventive measures consist of ventilating the room sufficiently and
connecting with the outside or with the chimney. When combustion is complete the flame is blue, but when it is
incomplete the flame flickers and is red-orange. There are specific CO detectors.

8.10 Leaks.
Leaks may appear due to defective maintenance of the installations, badly assembled flanges, mistakes while filling
or transfer of tanks and cisterns, of leaking taps or valves …
Consequences:
• A product may be released and expand into the breathing air.
• Danger of fire and explosion.
• Danger of slippery floor.
• Contamination of the environment.
• Cracking or deterioration of installations and nearby equipment
In order to prevent leaks, storage tanks and installations must be checked periodically. Only qualified personnel may
carry out repairs in tanks, installations, and accessories.
In case of a leak, the following measures must be adopted:
• A discharge collection tray must be available, large enough for storage and leaks (retention buckets).
• Immediately signal the origin of the leak.
• Repair the leaks carefully (qualified personnel).
• Carefully collect the discharged product and manage it properly (qualified personnel).
8.11 Biological agents.
They are micro-organisms (bacteria, viruses, and fungi) or parasites which may cause infections, allergies, and
intoxication in humans.
Biological agents may generate important health problems:
• Infections (tetanus, rabies, legionella).
• Cancer (virus).
• Intoxications.
• Infection for fungi.
• Allergies.
• Parasites.
Biological agents may be present in (non-exhaustive list):
• Waste treatment.
• Cleaning work and water-purifying installations.
• Healthcare centres (exposure to ill people, labs …).
• Farming work (exposure to vegetation and animals).
• Contact with animals.
Página 46 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

• Food industry.
• Bio-technological industry.
• Pharmaceutical industry.
• Work with or in contaminated land.
• Areas where there are tropical diseases (malaria, yellow fever …).
Before biological danger, all the possible basic measures (prevention in origin, protection) must be adopted, as well
as the use of PPE against biological risks:
• Skin protection: protective clothes, gloves, and if necessary combined with protective creams or screens.
• Eye protection if there is risk of spills.
• Protection of the respiratory tract.
Like in the case of dangerous chemicals, personal hygiene is basic prevention.
In addition, a specific preventive measure is vaccination, which will make our body resistant to exposure to certain
infectious diseases caused by biological agents (for example, vaccine against tetanus).
8.12 Industrial gas bottles
Gases are often dangerous products. For that reason, they are stored in special bottles. In order to draw attention to
the dangers, gas bottles have been given colour marking defined by the legislation, and they must be labelled.
Some usual examples of gases of frequent use are:
TYPE OF GAS COLOUR
ACETYLENE BROWN
OXYGEN WHITE
ACETYLENE BROWN
NITROGEN BLACK
CARBON DIOXIDE GREY
AIR LIGHT GREEN

8.12.1 Colour marking of pressure bottles of industrial use and examples of labels:

In order to identify the gases kept in these containers,

We understand that it is forbidden:

• To paint the bottles so that there is confusion about their content.

• To remove marks, signals, or labels off the bottle.

If the content of the bottle is not correctly identified, it must be returned to the supplier without being used.

All bottles must comply with the European Colour Code for identification of gas bottles before the 5th of August of
2014 (even though up to that moment the bottles with old colours were still valid).
8.12.2 Correct use of a gas bottle
Página 47 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

In order to make sure that the desired gas is used, we must:

• Check the colour code on the shoulder of the bottle.
• Verify the label on it.
8.12.3 Storage of gas bottles.
Safety measures applicable to the storage of gas bottles:
• They are normally stored vertically and fastened with chains to prevent them from tilting.
• The storage area must be provided with efficient measures against bad weather conditions (rain, cold, heat, wind).
• The storage area must protect the bottles from sun beams and any other sources of heat radiation in the
environment.
• The storage area must be properly ventilated.
• There must not be any basement or trench close to the storage area since most gases are heavier than air. In case
of a leak the gas would accumulate in these hollow spaces.
• Adequate and sufficient fire extinction means must be available. In addition, water supply should be available in the
surrounding area in case a fire breaks out and the gas bottles have to be cooled rapidly.
• They must be stored outside workshops or confined spaces. Batteries and metallic crates must remain outside
workshops.
• The burning-agent bottles (oxygen) and the flammable gas bottles must not be stored together, nor the acetylene
bottles and the oxygen bottles. Not even in the case of being empty, since they are never fully empty and there are
always remnants of the gases.

8.13 Asbestos.
What is asbestos?
It is the common denomination of a number of fibres of mineral origin. It is a natural product which crystallised in the
rocks along time (millions of years). Only some of them have an industrial use:
• Chrysolite asbestos or white asbestos.
• Crocidolite asbestos or blue asbestos.
• Amosite asbestos or brown asbestos.
It was frequently used in constructions because it featured interesting characteristics: resistance to heat, thermal
insulation, resistance to wear and tear, resistance to chemicals, and easy to cut.
Legislation on asbestos:
The basic legislation concerning asbestos is based on the transpositions of the European rules to the national
legislations.
The legislation, on the one hand, deals with general dispositions like the establishment of an inventory, the
performance of a risk analysis, the prohibition of handling asbestos, and the specific preventive measures in
demolition work and the removal of material containing asbestos.
Except in simple tasks, a company carrying out demolition or removal work of material susceptible of releasing
asbestos to the environment must have a special authorisation by the Administration

9 FIRE AND EXPLOSION.

9.1 How does a fire break out??
A fire is a chemical reaction which happens if three elements take place simultaneously: a combustible material, a
burning agent (for example, oxygen), and a source of ignition. Fire is generated if these three elements are present
at the same time and in the right proportions. On the contrary, if only one of the elements is removed the fire will be
extinguished. This combination is usually known as the fire triangle. For the fire to be maintained the chemical
reaction must be reproduced constantly by means of sufficient energy, generating a reaction in chain. The whole
group is known as the tetrahedron of fire.

Página 48 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

Combustible material
There are many combustible materials. They are generally classified into different categories (see paragraph 9.5
below: types of fire). Actually, the combustible materials are not the ones which burn, but the gas or vapours
released by the fuel due to the heat and which are on the surface of the fuel.
Oxygen
This element is almost always present. But oxygen is also a key factor for a fire to break out: a smaller amount of
oxygen can smother a fire, whereas a larger amount can fuel a fire.
Activation energy
Activation energy is the energy with which the fuel is at risk of fire. This energy can be originated by different
sources.
Examples of sources of ignition energy:
• A burning cigarette.
• Sporadic sparks caused by hand tools (for example, hand grinding machine) or by welding work.
• A spark.
• A bare flame.
• A hot surface.
• High temperatures.

9.2 Some notions.

There are other factors which must equally be taken into account.
9.2.1 Ignition point.
Minimum temperature, measured in normal atmosphere conditions, at which a substance emits vapours which can
ignite in contact with a source of ignition (for example, a spark).
The lower the ignition point, the more dangerous is the substance as it ignites at a lower temperature.
9.2.2 Self-ignition temperature.
Self-ignition temperature is the energy (or heat) necessary for the material to ignite by itself(without an external
source of ignition). Please, note that the self-ignition temperature is always higher than the ignition point.
9.2.3 Explosion and explosiveness limits
An explosion is a very fast combustion which may have serious consequences. An explosion (or deflagration) is
produced so fast that the released energy is projected with great strength to the surroundings in the form of a shock
wave.
The relation between combustible material and oxygen must be between certain limits known as explosiveness
limits.
Note: Lower Explosiveness Level (LEL)
Minimum amount of gas or vapour which the air must contain to cause an explosion.
Note: Upper Explosiveness Limit (UEL)
Maximum amount of gas or vapour which the air must contain for an explosion to take place.

Página 49 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

Above the Upper Explosiveness Limit, and explosion cannot possibly take place. However, the situation is dangerous
because a tiny amount of supplementary air can be sufficient to cause an explosion. In order to work with total safety,
the concentration must remain well below the Lower Explosiveness Limit.
Definition: Explosiveness Zone
The zone between the Upper Explosiveness Limit and the Lower Explosiveness Limit. Zone in which proportions of
air and of flammable gas or vapour which may cause an explosion.
Definition: Poor Mixture – Rich Mixture
If a mixture contains very little explosive substance, we speak about a poor mixture. That mixture cannot explode. If
the mixture contains too much explosive substance, we speak about a rich mixture. A rich mixture cannot explode,
either.
Definition: Explosimetre
With the help of an Explosimetre you can determine if there is danger of explosion. These measurements must
always be made by somebody specially trained in the matter.

9.3 Prevention of fires and explosions

9.3.1 Assessment of the risks of explosion and preventive measures.
Assessment
At your workplace, before starting the tasks, you can assess the risk of fire and explosion. Make sure that the three
factors of the fire triangle are never together. Ask yourself the following questions:
 Are there any combustible or explosive substances, and which?
 • What about oxygen? Are there any burning agents which may release oxygen if their temperature rises and the
risk of ignition increases?
 • Is there, at any moment, sources of ignition?
Prevention measures before the risk of fire
In order to minimise the risk of fire or explosion, take the following measures:
 Make sure that the containers of combustible substances have a clearly visible label.
 Store the minimum combustible material. Stow it properly and, if necessary, separate some materials from
others. The combustible materials must never be stored with burning agents.
 Make sure to ventilate the work and storage spaces, but never ventilate the places with oxygen.
 Make sure to keep the places clean. If a substance is spilled, wash and clean the dirty area immediately.
 Respect the smoking ban.
 Take into account the fact that the vapours from a liquid are usually heavier than air, possibly accumulating in
the confined spaces which are in lower zones. Working in storerooms and other confined spaces poses
supplementary risks.
 Do not do any work which may generate sparks in the proximity of combustible substances, for example,
welding or grinding work.
 Turn off the bottles immediately after their use in order to prevent the pressure liquid from evaporating.In the
areas where there is risk of explosion, respect the prevention measures strictly.
9.3.2 Areas which present risk of explosion.
In the presence of increased risk of explosion, the areas which present risk of explosion must be marked. This is the
case for processes during which:
 The flammable gases or vapours may be released (for example, sewage water purifying stations).

Página 50 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

 Where liquids with low ignition point are used.

 Many dust environments (for example, flour or fodder silos).
Areas which present risk of explosion. Areas in which an explosive atmosphere may be generated.
Areas in which special measures aimed at preventing explosions are applied

The areas which present risk of explosion are signalled with a warning panel with the pictogram “Ex”.

According to the type of explosive atmosphere (gas or dust) and the length of time during which the atmosphere is
explosive, the dangerous areas are divided into:
• Areas 0, 1, and 2: for gases.
• Areas 20, 21, and 22: for dust.
Explosive Environment in the Presence of Dust
We speak about explosive environment for dust when the space is made up of fine particles present in great amount.
The concentration of dust is very high, so that visibility is reduced to just a few metres and traces of dust can be
seen.Dust expands to the entire environment with the risk that the cloud of dust will generate an
incandescent fire. Dust explosions are very dangerous because the appearance of dust vortexes
may generate a second explosion.
9.3.3 Prevention measures at the risk of explosion.
Specific measures must be adopted in order to prevent the explosive mixtures from igniting.
Examples:
•Working with flameproof tools and equipment: each worker who goes into an area with risk of explosion must check
that the material is flameproof. If the material complies, the pictogram “Ex” will be marked on it.
•Wear antistatic safety footwear which will not cause sparks.
9.3.4 Ignition sources in the areas which present risk of explosion.
Simple hand tools (like a hammer, a spanner) may equally be sources of ignition if they fall on the floor.
GSM (mobile phones) and other similar gadgets which are non-explosion proof must be kept away from the risk
areas.
Mechanical devices and systems may also be a source of ignition. Sparks or hot surfaces may cause explosions,
like, for example, in the following cases:
• Start up of a fan (generally with an electrical engine).
• Overheating of bearings.
• Chains in contact with metallic protections.
9.4 Damage of fire over people and the environment
After a fire, gas burns and smoke appears, which limits visibility. In addition, gas and dust may be noxious or toxic.
After a fire, most victims suffer from respiratory problems through inhalation of smoke. In short, gas in combustion is
(at a first moment) lighter than air, which has noxious effects on the environment.
Heat After a Fire
A great deal of heat is generated from a fire. Actually, other combustible substances which may be in the
surroundings can reach their ignition temperature and ignite, even without direct contact with the flames. Then we

Página 51 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

speak about a chain reaction. that same radiant heat may equally cause leaks in gas bottles or affect storage
deposits and cause an explosion. Radiant heat also makes any intervention to extinguish the fire difficult.

9.5 Types of fire

There are three types of fire according to the different kinds of flammable materials:
Class A: dry fires (solid materials).
Class B: fat fires (liquid materials).
Class C: fires of gases.
Class D: fires of metals.
Non-classified fires (previously Class E).
Class A. dry fires - fires of solid materials
Class A fires are those caused by solid materials like wood, paper, cotton, plastic, textile fibre … also called dry fires.
Attention: metal is an exception because metallic fires make up a different class (Class D fires).
Class B. greasy fires – fires of liquid materials.
Class B fires are those caused by liquid materials or by liquefied solid materials and which melt rapidly.
They are called fires of greases which melt rapidly: petrol, alcohol, oil, paint, rubber, paraffin, solvents, and also
waxes and from frying food.
Class C. fires of gases.
Class C fires are those in which the fuel is a gas: propane, butane, methane, acetylene, or natural gas.
Class D. fires of metals.
Class D fires are those in which the fuel is a flammable metal: magnesium, aluminium, potassium, sodium, certain
alloys (blends) of metals, steel wool, or iron-ore.
Non-classified fires (sometimes also called class E).
This class groups the fires of electrical origin, both fires in installations and in electrical equipment. It may be
originated in a computer, a printer, a photocopier, or a fax-machine which ignites as the consequence of a short
circuit, of overheating, or an electrical distribution box in flames.
9.6 Extinction principles and means of extinction
If you must extinguish a fire, you must know that the means of extinction to be used must be adequate to the type of
fire. An incorrect means of extinction or its incorrect use may worsen a fire.
9.6.1 Extinction principles
For a fire to exist, the three elements of the fire triangle (fuel, oxygen, and source of ignition) must co-exist. If this is
taken into account, a fire will be immediately extinguished by removing one of the elements:
1.- If we remove the fuel (for example, by cutting off the supply of gas). STARVING
2.- If we remove the presence of oxygen or by displacing the oxygen SUFFOCATION
3.- If we reduce heat or by deflecting the source of ignition COOLING
4.- A particular way to extinguish a fire consists of acting on the chemical reaction itself. Certain substances may
slow, delay, or stop the combustion process. Those substances are called negative catalysers. Extinction dust
has this effect. INHIBITION OF THE CHEMICAL REACTION
Re-Start of the Fire.
Always keep attention although the fire seems to be extinguished, the elements which make up the fire triangle are
still present (their simultaneous presence has only been eliminated temporarily) and the fire might re-start.
Página 52 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

9.6.2 Means of extinction for class A fires

In order to extinguish fires of solid materials water is generally used. But there are other means of extinction which
are more adequate in certain situations. A characteristic of Class A fires is that the fuel keeps burning after the
flames have been extinguished (embers). So we must keep suffocating the fire.
Water
Water is, by far, the best known means of extinction.
Principle of extinction by water.
Water has a refreshing effect on materials in flames. It also has a suffocating effect which limits the presence of
oxygen. Water turned into vapour is going to displace part of the oxygen present, but this effect, of course, is lower
than the open air.
Advantages of water
The greatest advantage of water is that it is present almost everywhere and is cheap. Water is also en efficient way
to prevent a fire from spreading because it refreshes the fuels in the environment so that they will not ignite. Fire also
allows refreshing gas bottles and the deposits located in the surroundings and prevent cracking.
Dust
Dust has a great power of extinction and is adequate for numerous types of fires. in order to know the types of fire
which can be extinguished with dust we must refer to the indications on dust fire-extinguishers.
Principle of extinction by dust.
Dust does not conduct electricity and is not sensitive to frost (it does not freeze). Dust acts as a negative catalyser,
that is, it inhibits the combustion reaction between the fuel and oxygen. It has the effect of limiting and suffocating
oxygen.
Anti-fire blanket
An anti-fire blanket (extinction blanket) is a blanket made of a fireproof (non-flammable) or hardly flammable material.
An anti-fire blanket allows making a barrier to oxygen and is mainly used for small fires or people in flames. The
object to be covered must be at the same level, otherwise we cannot remove the presence of oxygen. In order to use
the blanket properly, it must be held up from the corners, and the hands must be partially rolled in it to protect them.
Foam
Foam is adequate for Class B fires, but it can also be used for Class A fires, above all the foam extinguishers /
pulverisers AFFF (see paragraph 9.6.3 below).
9.6.3 Means of extinction for class B fires
Class B fires can be extinguished with foam, dust, or sand, but never with water.
Foam: Foam is made up of a mixture of water and a foaming substance which, when pressure-pulverised, provides a
layer of foam which covers the place in flames. It can be used in small amounts with a fire-extinguisher, but also in
great amounts from fire engines (extinction vehicles with foam).
Principle of extinction by foam.
Foam has two effects: it covers the fire preventing any new supply of oxygen and refreshes the materials in flames.

AFFF foam.

Página 53 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

An AFFF foam fire-extinguisher (Aqueous Film Forming Foam) is a means of extinction which consists of forming an
aqueous film of foam. The foam floats over the flammable liquids, covering them. It is also known as “light water”.
Extinction dust
For fire of a liquid material, the most adequate is BC extinction dust, although ABC extinction dust can also be used.
Sand
Sand is an excellent means of extinction for small fires of liquid materials. It suffocates the fire and slows the
combustion reaction between oxygen and the materials in flames. On the other hand, it absorbs the liquid so that it
cannot spread so rapidly.
Principle of extinction by sand.
It is the ideal solution to stop a puddle of burning liquid on the floor, but not for a great quantity of burning liquid.
9.6.4 Means of extinction for class C fires
Initially, to extinguish gas fires the supply of gas is turned off and no means of extinction are used. In order to
extinguish Class C fires, dust is used like in the case of Class B fires. In order to stop this type of fire, we must, firstly,
see if it is feasible to turn off the supply of gas, and next we will extinguish the fire with dust.
Refresh the gas bottles and the deposits.
In the presence of gas fires we must refresh the surroundings and nearby bottles with water (or a cloud of water) in
order to prevent the bottles from cracking and from generating a more intense fire or an explosión.
9.6.5 Means of extinction for class D fires.
Certain flammable metals like sodium and manganese react violently in contact with water. In order to fight this type
of fires, never use water but special dust (with the same principles and the same disadvantages as classic dust, see
paragraph 9.6.3 above). Occasionally, use sand for small fires of metals.
9.6.6 Means of extinction for non-classified fires
In the presence of fire of electrical origin (fire of an installation or electrical equipment) we cannot use a means of
extinction which drives electricity due to the danger of electrocution; for that type of fire we must use carbon dioxide
or adequate dust.
Principle of extinction by carbon dioxide (CO2)
CO2 is in a deposit at high pressure and is pulverised over the fire in the form of a cloud. Carbon dioxide displaces
the oxygen which feeds the fire and extinguishes the source of the fire. The advantage of CO2 is that it can be used
without restrictions as it evaporates, dissipating in the air. In addition, CO2 pulverised from an extinguisher is very
cold and also has a cooling effect.
Foam
Foam to be pulverised is identical to paragraph 9.6.3 above. Foam fire-extinguishers for fires of electrical origin have
a special package which pulverises water, which makes it conduct electricity.
Foam and electricity
Certain foam fire-extinguishers can be used on an electrical installation up to 1,000 MW if so indicated. There are
also fire-extinguishers and foams on the market called ECO which are bio-degradable and foam fire-extinguishers
which resist -5-degree temperatures.
9.6.7 Disadvantages of different means of extinction
Means of Inconveniences

Página 54 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

extinction

Water  Electricity conductor

 Numerous chemicals react violently to water
 Dangers of water if it is used over liquids in flames: numerous liquids float on water so the fire can be
spread, the burning liquid may be projected (due to the strength of the pressure of the cloud of water
formed) resulting in the return of flames.
 It may be frozen.
Dust  Limited cooling action
(ABC)  In restricted spaces visibility is reduced
 Difficult use outdoors with wind
 It may cause collateral damage and involve cleaning work (for example, precise mechanical installations
and electronic installations)
Foam  Noxious to the environment
 Likely to freeze
 (Limited) damage
 Electricity conductor (unless it is a special foam)
CO2  High risk of asphyxia due to the reduction of the concentration of oxygen: workplaces must be well
ventilated once the fire has been extinguished
 Risk of burns due to the low temperature of the CO2 pulverised from the fire-extinguisher
 Adequate only for closed spaces (difficult to use outdoors with wind)
Sand  It agglomerates rapidly and hardens
 For major fires a means of transport is necessary (for example, a crane)
Anti-fire  We need to get very close to the flames
blanket  In case of wrong use there is the risk of burns for the person who extinguishes the fire (for example, if the
object in flames is not properly covered) because the fire will not be extinguished
9.6.8 General information
A B C D Non- Observations
Solids Liquids Gases Metal Classified
(wood, paper, (petrol, (propane, (magnesium, (Electrical
cotton, alcohol, oil, butane, aluminium, equipment
plastic, textile paint, rubber, methane, potassium, and devices)
fabrics, …) paraffin, acetylene, sodium, and
solvent, wax) natural gas) certain alloys)
Water ☺ ☻ ☻ ☻
Dust (ABC) ☺ ☺ ☺
Dust (BC) ☺ ☺
Chosen following an expert
Special dust ☺
advise
Use limited for Classes
CO2 ☺ ☺ ☺
B/C
Foam adapted for non-
Foam ☺ ☺ ☻ ☺
classified fires
Sand ☺ ☺ Only dry sand for metals
Anti-fire Only for small objects or
☺
blanket persons in flames
9.7 What to do in case of fire?
Measures to be adopted in case of fire.
If a fire breaks out, it is fundamental to act correctly. Keep calm and pay attention to the following points:
• Ensure your own safety.

Página 55 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

• Report about the fire to the manager or to the prevention service.

• Warn the people close to the fire. If necessary, give help.
• Close doors and windows (open doors and windows let too much air in, and so oxygen stokes the fire).
• Do not attack the fire if you are not competent and skilled in the matter.
Evacuation.
• If the fire alarm goes off, leave rapidly.
• Follow the indications of those responsible for the evacuation and fire-fighters.
• Never use the lift as the fire may cause an electrical cut.
• Evacuate in the direction opposite the wind.
• Go to the meeting point and indicate your presence.
Evacuation:
The fire alarm is the signal for evacuation. You must know the evacuation signals and emergency exits in
your company or workplace. Emergency signals must be signalled (see paragraph 6.5.6 above) and
evacuation plans must be clearly visible in different places. Evacuation drills must be periodical: everybody
must take part in them. Follow the indications and communicate your comments to those in charge. Finally,
you must also know the meeting point, the safety instructions, emergency plans, etc.
Should you put out the fire?
Do not try to put out a fire if you do not know how to act, do not do anything; the wrong means of extinction or the
wrong use of the means of extinction may cause an increase of the fire. Do not start the fire extinction tasks without
previously warning of its existence. If you try to put out the fire yourself, proceed the following way:
• Choose the adequate means of extinction.
• Point the means of extinction at the burning object, not at the flames. This principle is applied to all dust fire-
extinguishers: aim at the object and not at the flames so as to obtain the best possible effect of negative
canalisation.
• Always stand in the direction of the wind in order not to be affected by the smoke, the flames, or the dust or the
foam used.
• Pay attention, although the fire may seem to be extinguished it might re-start. That may happen because the means
of extinction do not cool sufficiently, like dust for fires of solid materials.
• Guarantee your own safety at all moments.
• If the fire reaches major proportions, leave the place and go to the meeting point.
How to cure a burn?
In case of suffering a burn, act the following way:
• First of all, find water.
• Rinse the area for about fifteen minutes.
• Do not remove the clothes off the affected area or apply cream on the burn.

Relatively Low Ignition Point.

You must be extremely careful with the materials which present a low ignition point, for example
ether, whose ignition point is -45º. Ether reacts as a substance which ignites at the smallest spark 8like,
for example, the spark from a switch). Equally, petrol has an ignition point lower than 0º. Oil fuel or diesel
fuel ignite at 55ºC, and so the risk of fire is lower.

10 WORK EQUIPMENT.
At work numerous equipment is used which facilitates the performance of tasks. That equipment presents dangers
and risks. In order to control them, the work equipment must be provided with safety measures. If the workers follow
the safety measures indicated for each item of equipment work in safety conditions will be guaranteed
10.1 Dangers of work equipment
Página 56 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

Working with machines and tools poses dangers for people (operators and people working around), for the facilities,
for the infrastructure, and for the environment.
Machine:
A machine is made up of mobile elements. Machines have external powe., Machines may be fixed or mobile
Mechanical hand tools:
These tools are those which have external power, this kind of tools also fall under the category of machines. Simple
hand tools:
They are activated by the operator’s own strength.
10.1. Mechanical dangers and possible injuries
Here are some examples:
 Getting trapped by mobile parts
 Getting cut or crushed.
 Being reached by a projection of materials and particles.
 Getting stung.
 Cuts and grazes.
 Contact with mobile parts.
 Projection of nails.
 Mechanical hits.
 Injuries due to load displacement.
 Injuries due to unnoticed tilting or lash of a compressed-air cable or lifting cables which break while the load is
suspended.
 Delayed stop of a machine. until it stops, there are some moments in which some parts are still in movement from
the order of stop until the total stop (for example, the disc of a desk saw).
 Getting hooked on materials or pieces with which we are working.
10.1.2 Electrical hazards and possible injuries.
Numerous machines work with electricity so the worker is exposed to electrical risks:
 Electrical shock, electrocution.
 Burns by shocks caused by a short circuit.
 Fire and explosion caused by a derivation or by overheating.
10.1.3 Physical dangers and possible Injuries
Some examples:
• Noise may cause hearing problems.
• Vibrations may cause the appearance of muscle-skeletal disorders.
• Radiations (heat, UV rays …) emitted, for example, during welding work may have consequences on health.
• Certain pieces of machines or installations are at high or low temperature, which may cause burns or freezing.
10.1.4 Dangers and injuries during the use or maintenance of the work equipment
Some examples:
 Incorrect work posture may pose physical problems.
 Incorrect use of a tool may result in an injury in the hand or dislocation in the hand or wrist.
 Insufficient training, instructions, or skills when using a tool may result in an injury.
 The operator’s distraction, which may cause a mistake.
 Lack of maintenance or deficient maintenance.
10.1.5 Dangers and injuries caused by dust or debris
 Inhalation of noxious substances (sawdust, asbestos fibres, etc.) or noxious vapours or smoke (solvents,
welding fumes, etc.).
 Injuries by contact with debris (remains of materials).
Página 57 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

10.2 Prevention measures.

10.2.1 Requirements imposed to machines and mechanical tools
Work equipment must be manufactured and used in compliance with the safety guarantees of the CE marking (for all
equipment manufactured since 1995), which means that the work equipment must meet the basic health and safety
requirements of the European directives.
According to VCA rules, work equipment must be controlled by a competent person. It must be provided with a label
on which the revision date of the machine must appear.
The work equipment must be in good condition and adequate for the work to be done so that it can be used with total
safety.
The use and maintenance instructions of the work equipment must be available to the operator, and in their
language.
Fixed machines must be provided with an emergency stop device.
Portable tools must be provided with an emergency switch (“dead man’s” switch).
10.2.2 General safety measures for machines
Mobile pieces are important sources of danger for operators, that is the reason why the former must be provided with
protections which will prevent contact of hands, arms, or other body parts with such mobile parts.
Removing protections from work equipment or using it without them is forbidden.
To do repair or maintenance work of the equipment the power source must be disconnected.
In work areas with electrical risk (humid spaces, confined spaces, etc.) the work must be done with safety tension
(24V).
In environments with risk of explosion, fireproof machines and tools must be used.
Individual Protection Equipment must be available and must be used correctly.
10.2.3 General safety measures for the location of machines
 The floor must be appropriate, even, dry, and slip-resistant.
 There must be sufficient space around the machine to move and handle the equipment in safe conditions.
 If necessary, there must be an aspiration system to vacuum the dust produced by the work.
10.2.4 The operator
- Anyone working with a machine must have sufficient training and experience. Never use a machine for which
you have not been properly trained.
- In order to work with certain dangerous machines the operator must be at least 18 years old, except in the case
of Professional Training.
- Use the safety devices of the work equipment and do not disable them.
- The functioning of the work equipment must be well known (especially the safety devices).
- Never leave a machine on unattended.
- Use the prescribed PPE (for example, gloves, safety glasses, hearing protection …).
- Loose clothes, loose long hair, and jewels are forbidden. They may get hooked on the machinery and make us
hit the mobile pieces.
- For regular maintenance and control, the machine must be disconnected. Only competent staff is allowed to do
that work. Do not manipulate the machine (unless you have the necessary competence).
- Never distract a workmate who is using a machine.
10.2.5 Dead man’s switch
Portable tools (for example, a drill) will always be equipped with a switch which will allow the immediate stop of the
equipment. In order to use the tool, the switch must be pressed. If you stop pressing, the machine will stop
immediately. The switch cannot be blocked.
10.2.6 Emergency stop button

Página 58 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

It allows stopping the machine rapidly in case of emergency. The button consists of a red semi-ball in the shape of a
mushroom on a tallow plate and a stop cable around the machine. It must be easily accessible.
After the emergency stop button has been activated, the machine cannot be operated again if the emergency button
is not enabled again.
10.2.7 Minimum tension (lack of tension)
In order to prevent the accidental start of a machine, it must be equipped with a minimum tension (general switch)
which will prevent the automatic enabling after a power cut or after having enabled the emergency stop button. The
installation cannot be re-enabled in a normal way.
Other safety measures for machines:
• Double-hand remote control to prevent the hands from being placed in dangerous areas.
• Anti-crash screens placed in front of the mobile pieces, for example, a press or a shearing machine.
• Photoelectric cells which will make the machine stop if a body part gets close to the dangerous area.
10.3 Some fixed machines
In workshops the use of fixed machines is frequent. Most dangers and safety measures previously commented are
present in the specific features of different fixed machines.
10.3.1 Drill (hand drill and pillar drill)
Dangers/Risks
 Late detection of the piece (it happens if the piece has been fixed incorrectly).
 Breaking of a bit.
 Wounds in the hands due to metallic shavings.
 Projection of shavings and spark.
 Projection of refrigeration oil or cutting oil.
Safety measures
 Place a protection around the drill or the bit holder (a sliding or folding transparent screen).
 The piece to be bored will always be fixed to the frame of the drill, never in your hands.
 Brush the remains of the boring.
 Never regulate the drill while it is on, always when it is stopped.
10.3.2 Bench grinder
Dangers/Risks
 Explosion of the grinder.
 Projection of particles.
 Contact with the disc.
 Inhalation of dust from grinding.
 Wedging the piece against the grinding wheel.
Safety measures
 Grinding wheel
 The grinding wheel must always be perfectly circular.
 The abrasive part must be totally flat.
 If there are two grinding wheels in the same bench grinder, they must have +/- the same diameter.
 The grinding wheel must not be torn, and there must be no film material on it.
 Only competent staff can replace the grinding wheels.
 Support surface
 The distance between the support and the grinding wheel must not be more than 3 mm.
 The support must be regulated periodically. This operation can only be done with the drill off.
 Machine

Página 59 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

 The edges of the grinding wheel must be protected.

 Always use the transparent protection screen against projections over the machine.
10.3.3 Bench circular saw.
The dangers/risks, requirements, and safety measures are applied both to a portable circular saw and to a bench
circular saw.
Dangers/risks
 Contact with the blade of the saw.
 Projection of particles.
 Inhalation of noxious dust.
Safety measures:
 The machine must always be equipped with an adequate guard, fixed to a solid support.
 The riving knife must correspond with the diameter of the blade of the saw and must be mounted on a support.
 It must be equipped with an adequate ruler rip fence.
 In a confined space, aspiration is mandatory; under other conditions it is recommended. The machine will be
equipped with a connection to place dust collector.
 It will be equipped with a push stick. This must be used with small pieces, narrow parts, or pieces of wood in
order to prevent the hands from getting close to the blade of the saw.
 The blade of the saw must be regulated so that it will stick out as little as possible.
 To saw thick pieces a log conveyor must be used, or be assisted by somebody else.

10.4 Electrical or pneumatic hand tool

Mechanical tools are those used by hand and operated by an external power source. They are electrical and
pneumatic tools (tools which work with compressed air). According to the external power source they will pose
dangers/risks against which you must protect yourself.
Electrical tools which work with 220/230V must have double insulation (the symbol is a double square).
Attention: double insulation material must not be lying on the ground or used in humid environments, above all in the
presence of water (for example, rain). In humid spaces like cellars, sewage pits, or deposits always work with safety
tension (see paragraph 10.2.2 above and chapter 12 electricity below).
Pneumatic tools work with compressed air. The most important dangers/risks are: vibrations, noise, and fall of the
compressed air hose (the hose whip-lashes). Besides the general precaution, make sure of:
•Planning periodical breaks when working with machines which generate a great deal of vibration.
•Turning off the compressed air after using the tool.
10.4.1 Portable circular grinder
These portable machines are used to polish or trim material.
Safety measures
•An angle grinder must be equipped with a side handle solidly fixed.
•The grinder must be quipped with a safety guard.
•The piece to be worked on must be correctly fixed in order to avoid risk of ricochet during work.
•The grinder will be equipped with a dead man switch which cannot be blocked.
•Do not lay the grinder until the disc has stopped completely. Preferably use grinders with a side handle in order to
avoid accidents.
•The following information will be displayed on the grinder: manufacturer’s name, dimensions of the grinder, kind of
applications (for which materials), maximum rotational speed, and conditions of use.
•Never exceed the maximum rotational speed of the grinder (rotational speed must be equal or inferior to the
maximum rotational speed displayed on it).
•Never use the lateral face of the grinder (for example, to trim).

Página 60 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

•To cut (not to trim) use only cutting discs.

•To trim use only discs manufactured for that purpose.
10.4.2 Portable circular saw
Safety measures
•The upper part of the blade of the saw must be totally covered by a guard.
•The cutting side of the blade will be covered by a guard which will only let the area in contact with the piece free.
•The saw has a riving knife adapted to the diameter and thickness of the saw.
•Regulate the blade and the ruler rip fence according to the thickness of the piece so that the blade will be as little
separated as possible.
•Keep the saw upright preventing it from wedging, otherwise ricochets may happen.
•Make sure that the electrical cord is always behind the saw. Ask for a second person’s help if necessary, for
example, to saw heavy or bulky pieces.
10.4.3 Nailer and stapler
Safety measures
 Control the maximum service pressure of the tool. Do not regulate the compressor at an excessive pressure!
 Before reloading, check that the old cartridge is empty and that no nails or staples are left in the machine.
 Use only nails or staples admitted by the tools and adequate to the material, to the shape and thickness of the
piece.
 Put your free hand as far as possible from the nailer or stapler.
 Support the head of the tool firmly on the material.
10.4.4 Chainsaw
Protection equipment:
 Anti-vibration and anti-slip handles.
 Back handle (protection for the right hand): it protects your hand if the chain trips or breaks; thanks to that handle,
the branches will not affect you.
 Chain brake with anti-kickback device: it is activated manually (with your left hand) or with the inertia mechanism.
It is activated when the anti-kickback mechanism is thrust (for example, when the hand on the support flange
slips towards the chain or when the chain saw kicks back).
 Chain adjustment device, if the chain breaks or loosens.
 Internal vibration absorption system.
 Guard of the blade of the saw (protective guard).
 Blocking of the speed regulating valve: it is devised to prevent involuntary start. You must press the lock on the
handle in order to operate the speed/gas regulating valve. When the switch is released, the saw will immediately
remain in neutral position.
 The machine must be correctly balanced.
Personal Protection Equipment (PPE)
Wear trousers made of specific resistant and impact-proof material. In case of contact with the chain, the trousers will
resist and will block the blade of the chainsaw.
PPE to use a chainsaw:
 Safety hard hat.
 Hearing protection.
 Safety glasses, or screen.
 Protective gloves.
 Protective trousers.
 Safety boots with steel point and anti-slip sole.
Página 61 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

Use
Work with a chainsaw only if you have received adequate training followed by an exam.
When cutting, stand so that your body will not be affected by a sudden kickback of the chainsaw. Place your body
as far as possible from the area where there is risk of kickback of the chainsaw (mainly the tip of the blade) and
check that the area never gets in contact with an object.
Safe use of a chainsaw:
 Always use a correct saw/rip fence combination, checking that the saw is well sharpened and ruled.
 Preferably, cut downwards (from right to left) (=cut in the direction of traction) in order to reduce the risk of
kickback of the blade.
 Use the chain brake when it is not being temporarily used or for short movements.
 When you are not using the chainsaw, always keep the blade wrapped in the protection guard.
10.5 Hand tools
The main causes of accidents are due to the incorrect use or maintenance of the tool.
Using defective or inadequate tools is a risk of accident. Inadequate or damaged tools must be replaced
10.5.1 Hammer
 The head must be correctly fixed to the handle.
 The handle must be in good condition (without cracks).
 The head must be in good condition.
 Do not hit a hammer with another one.
10.5.2 Spanners
 The spanner must not be deteriorated; it must be in good condition (without trims).
 The spanner must not be extended with a lever, the tool might break.
 The spanner must adapt to the nut perfectly, never use fillings between the head of the spanner and the nut.
 Preferably use box spanners rather than flat ones; they reduce the risk of sliding.
10.5.3 Screwdrivers
 Screwdrivers must adapt to the head of the screw perfectly.
 The tip must not be too strong.
 Small pieces must be fixed on a workbench or another surface.
 Screwdrivers must not be used as levers or chisels.
10.5.4 Files
 The file must have a solid handle. A file without a handle is a dangerous tool; it might harm the palm of the hand.
 The file must not be damaged and must be firmly supported on the surface. If it is separated, do not try to re-fit it
with accessories.
 Never hold a file on the end opposite the handle, or place the free hand on it.de la mano.
10.5.5 Chisels
 The head of the chisel must not have trims which may generate risk of projections towards the eyes.
 A chisel with a handle must be used.
10.5.6 Pliers
 The jaws and the joint must be in good condition.
 For cutting pliers, the edge must be in good condition.
10.5.7 Cutter or knife
 Choose the adequate cutter for the work to be done and the material to be cut.
 Always cut with the blade away from your body.
 Use sharp blades: blunt blades generate accidents more easily as we must press harder, thus increasing the
risk of sliding.
Página 62 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

 Use a stencil or rip fence with a handle in order to reduce the risk of cuts in your fingers.
 If the blade has a manually sliding blade, uncover only the necessary part in order to prevent the blade from
breaking.
 Never break the used part of the blade with your hands or your teeth! Use a short blade or a pair of pliers.
10.5.8 Saws
•Use a saw with the adequate blade for each task.
•Use sharp saws, with the blade well fixed.
•If you are going to saw wood, check that the blade is sharp; otherwise, replace it.
•For saws with replacement blades, check that the teeth of the blade are in the adequate direction of the cut when
the blade is replaced.
•Check that the blade is firmly fixed.
10.6 Lifting equipment.
10.6.1 Definitions
Lifting devices and machines
Devices aimed at lifting and moving loads. Examples of lifting devices: lifts, bridge cranes, tower cranes, or mobile
cranes.
Lifting accessories
In order to move a load with a lifting machine, lifting accessories are used. There are the accessories which are not
permanently mounted on the equipment. Examples: cables, chains, hooks, rings, chain locks, lifting lugs, slings,
straps, and spreader beams.
10.6.2 Dangers while lifting
The use of lifting equipment involves different risks/dangers.
 If it is incorrectly uses, incorrectly located, the machine may tilt and drag the load along with it.
 The load or part of the load (incorrectly hung, wrongly slung) may collapse.
 While lifting and moving a load, parts of the machine or parts of the load may touch an installation, a building, a
person, or, for example, another crane located in the surroundings.
 If you are within the radius of gyration the risk of having an accident increases.
 The weather conditions – wind, rain, snow, or ice – can also increase it.
10.6.3 General measures to be taken into account to lift a load
Lifting machines and lifting accessories must comply with the European Directives and have the CE marking. All
lifting machines and lifting accessories must be controlled. The information related to this control (especially the
expiry date) must be clearly displayed on them (for example, by means of a label or a colour band; a maximum
expiry date is related to a certain colour).
The lifting machine must be provided with the following documents:
- Control reports by the technical service (service externe de contrôle technique SECT) for all the means and
equipment used.
- Lifting tables and graphs: they indicate the maximum load which may be moved according to the distance.
- The Crane Booklet (or Maintenance card): it is the document which indicated that all the controls and
maintenance have been carried out. The historical record of the lifting machine can be checked
The operator must be properly trained and have a competence certificate.

Control:
Lifting equipment is controlled by a technical service (service externe de contrôle technique SECT). The structure
and the components of the lifting machine are thoroughly revised every year. Every three months a visual inspection
of the structure and its components is done.
Use of work equipment like lifting machines:
Página 63 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

If suspended loads are moved with work equipment which is not properly a lifting machine, these will be assimilated
and considered as such (with all the duties and conditions, like control by technical service (SECT)). For example, to
move a load with a fork lift or move sewage ducts with an excavator.
10.6.4 Safety measures to be adopted when lifting loads
 Choose the adequate lifting accessories according to:
o The weight of the load (chains are recommended for the heaviest loads).
o The material or the kind of slings of the load.
o The dimensions of the load.
o The shape of the load.
o The distance to travel.
 The maximum authorised load (MAL) must be respected. It will be displayed on the lifting machine and on the
accessories (engraved on the machine itself, on a metallic plate, on a link of the cable or chain, or, for example,
on the label of the sling).
 Regularly control the lifting machines and accessories visually in order to check the lack of wear or cracks
(quarterly visual control does not guarantee by itself that there are no flaws).
 Above a determined wind force (6 in the Beaufort scale or a wind of more than 50km/h), or in case of a storm,
working with lifting machines is forbidden.
 During work it is basic that stabilisers (supports) with scrambling pieces which unfold horizontally with the crane in
order to keep balance will be available. If it is located on soft ground there is risk of collapse, so wooden or metal
plates, large and solid enough to prevent it, must be placed under the stabilisers. If several items of lifting
equipment are used in a same site to lift or move big and heavy loads it is very important to organise the
movements of each item of equipment (a protocol).
Hooking and unhooking loads:
The movements made by the sling operator (with arms and hands) to give instructions to the crane operator must be
very clear and specific. The sling operator must have received proper training and must have passed an exam.
10.6.5 Lifting accessories.
Safety measures to be adopted during the use of chains:
 Make sure that the chain is used only longitudinally.
 Never force a chain or any accessories (shackles, hooks …) with the help of a hammer to adjust them.
 Make sure that the anchor bolts (in the shackles) are tight to the maximum.
 In order to lengthen a chain, an accessory less solid than the chain itself must not be used.
 The chains must be protected from cutting angles. To do so, use wooden curb angles or rubber material.
 Check that the chains and accessories are not open, elongated, or worn. A chain with elongated links due to use
with very heavy loads must be replaced. Deformed chains and twisted hooks must be discarded.
 Never place the load on the tip of the hook.
 Check that the hook is not deformed and that it has a safety fastener. Hooks are usually painted in colour.
Safety measures to be adopted during the use of steel cables.
 Keep the steel cables in dry places.
 Avoid contact with humidity or corrosive products.
 If the load presents cutting angles, protect the cables with wooden curb angles or rubber material.
 Heating the steel cables is forbidden.
 The steel cables must be checked periodically in order to detect signs of corrosion or wear. Cables are more
vulnerable than chains. They must nor be used when:
o When the cable is torn or shredded.
o Most threads are torn in an important length.

Página 64 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

o Most threads are torn or elongated at a point (tearing zone).

o More threads are torn in a certain length.
o The cable is flattened or damaged in its exterior (we say it is crushed).
o The cable is rusty.
o The diameter of the cable has decreased.
Assembly
Group of lifting accessories used to lift a load
On many occasions the load must be hooked and balanced from different points of suspension. In order to obtain
good balance the load must be hooked at an adequate distance between the points of suspension.
There are many types of hooks: quadruple chain, triple chain, double chain, and spreader beams. or example, a
quadruple chain consists of a ring on which four chains are hooked. Each end of the chains has a hook.
A spreader beam consists of a horizontal piece with suspension points on which cables or chains can be fixed.
The spreader beam is generally used in those cases in which long slings cannot be placed above the load, or in
which we usually handle loads of the same volume. In theses cases the load runs no risk of sliding. The spreader
beam is also adequate to move bulky loads. The load will be hooked and suspended from its gravity centre.
Forces exerted on the hooked cables
If, for example, a weight of 1.000 kg. must be lifted the weight can be distributed on two cables by using a spreader
beam. If the load is well distributed, both cables will be subjected to an equivalent load of 500 kg. If the 1.000 kg.
load is lifted with a two-cable accessory (double chain), the cables separate from the vertical line forming an angle,
and the resulting force will be more important on the cables. The gap angle between the sings must not exceed 120º
so that the tension will not become dangerous. If the angle is small, the tension of the slings will decrease and the
lifting manoeuvre will be safer. Preferably, use longer slings in order to decrease the gap angle. Even better, use
spreader beams so that the slings will be vertical.
If a load is hooked with a four-chain, a three-chain, or a two-chain sling the gap angles between the slings must be
as small as possible (maximum 120º).
10.6.6 Hoists
Note: a lifting mechanism usually without an engine and activated manually.
Hoists are generally used to lift small loads where the use of lifting equipment is not possible or is inefficient.
Hoists are also used as lifting accessories to place a bulky load in the vertical or horizontal lines (for example, two
joined pipes which must be disassembled or assembled on an installation).
During the lifting work the main risk is the breaking of the hoist or the fixing point. So, always make sure that the hoist
is fixed to a sufficiently solid structure.
Check the hoist before its use. If deficiencies are observed do not use it and immediately signal the problems
detected in order to avoid posterior accidents. For the use of cables, follow the general safety measures for lifting
loads.
The cable of the hoist must always be vertical during the pull of the load; never expand the arm with a tube to
increase the lifting force.

10.7 Fork lifts.

Note: fork lifts
A vehicle used to hold and move heavy loads on forks or special supports.
The main models of fork lifts are the telescopic handler forklifts and the reach fork lifts. With the help of specific
accessories, fork lifts are used to handle barrels, containers, long loads (for example, a rolled carpet), etc.
The dangers/risks during the use of fork lifts are:
Fall of the load.
Tilting of the load.
Tilting of the vehicle.
Página 65 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

People bumping into the goods or material.

Deterioration of the goods or the material due to deficient handling.
Inhalation of exhaust fumes (for example, diesel engines in closed spaces).
If you work with a fork lift, you must know the specific safety measures:
o The fork lift and the accessories (for example, barrel forks, pallet forks, …) must always be in good condition. To
do so, we must check their condition regularly, carry out maintenance at the right time, and replace the deficient
parts immediately.
o Stack the load in a stable way and distribute the weight correctly on the two forks.
o The counterweight must not be used to increase it.
o The fork lift alone is not a lifting machine. always use the accessories adapted to the load. It is forbidden to lift or
move people on it, except with specific accessories (nacelle). In those cases, the fork lift is considered as lifting
equipment (with all the requirements, like external control by SECT).
o The transport of people on a fork lift is forbidden except with a specific seat for that purpose.
o Only the personnel who can show (for example, with a certificate or an authorisation) that they have received
adequate training and have passed an exam can drive a fork lift.
o If you are driving a fork lift you must have very good visibility over the manoeuvres and the area. Otherwise, ask
for help.
o Always look ahead.
o Take into account the presence of people in the surroundings. The manoeuvres must be stopped if there are
pedestrians in the work area, and play the klaxon at crossings.
o Use the seat belt.
o Do not drive with lifted forks, neither empty nor loaded.
o Do not leave the fork in transit areas.

10.8 Pallet trucks

The main dangers/risks during the use of the pallet truck are:
 Backache due to adopting bad postures at work.
 Pain in shoulders and arms (traction of heavy loads).
 Getting your fingers, ankles, feet, toes trapped.
 Fall of the load.
 Bumping into people, goods, or materials.
 Deterioration of the goods or of the material due to deficient handling.
The main safety measures are:
 Adopt a good work posture: keep your back upright.
 Pull the pallet truck (use the right and left arms alternatively), do not push it.
 Use anti-slip footwear with iron points.
 Load the pallet truck in a stable way: distribute the load correctly on the two forks.
 Foresee sufficient space to manoeuvre safely.
 Drive on flat surfaces.

11 SPECIFIC ACTIVITIES.
11.1 Welding and Ox cut.
Welding: a technique which allows, through the effect of heat (high temperature on the surface), the union of metals
or metallic pieces by melting them, with or without a filler material. There are several welding techniques. Here we
will see the risks of electric and autogenous welding.

Página 66 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

In the case of oxycutting, the metals are cut by means of a flame which melts the metals locally.
11.1.1 Electric welding – autogenous welding
Electric welding is a procedure which consists of melting the metal with an electric arc which is stabilised between
the piece and the electrode. Electric welding is a controlled short circuit. In the case of autogenous welding, the heat
necessary to melt the metal is generated by the combustion of a mixture of combustible gas and oxygen. In order to
melt the metal to be welded we use a torch with a mixture of oxygen and acetylene (propane). The gas is kept in
bottles which are connected to the torch.
11.1.2 Dangers and risks of welding
o Fire or explosion due to the release of intense heat and projection of sparks.
o The arc or the flame may emit three types of radiation: strong emission of visible radiations, ultraviolet rays (UV),
and infrared rays (IR). The radiations and the intense luminosity of the flame in autogenous welding are stronger
than in electric welding.
 Visible luminosity: glaring, visual fatigue, sight impairment.
 UV rays: skin injuries (burns) and cornea swelling (electric arc or electric ophthalmia).
 IR rays: skin and eye injuries.

o Thermal radiation.
o Intoxication and lung problems caused by welding fumes.
o Problems in the knees, the back, and other parts of the body due to adopting difficult or inadequate postures.
o Specific dangers of electric welding:
 Electrocution, electric shock.
o Specific dangers of autogenous welding:
 Increased danger of fire and explosion due to the use of pressure oxygen bottles.
 The combustible gases used (acetylene or propane) also pose a risk of fire and explosion.
 Propane is heavier than air and accumulates in wells, excavations, and basements.
 Flashback of the flame.
11.1.3 Safety measures during welding work
Good protection of the eyes is very important since a minimum (very short) exposure to radiation of welding is a
source of eye pain (electric ophthalmia). It is mandatory to use a mask, a screen, or welding glasses adapting to the
kind of welding work to be done.
UV and IR rays are equally noxious to the skin. That is why adequate and done-up work clothes must always be
used. Never weld with uncovered parts of the body (for example, arms, legs) even though it is very hot.
Special welding screens or curtains also allow protecting the people in the surroundings from the emission of UV and
IR radiation.
Equally, good general ventilation of the workplace is necessary due to the consumption of oxygen by welding or the
oxycutting. Moreover, there may equally be a decrease in the quantity of oxygen in the air due to the protective
gases used. Check that the work area is well ventilated.
Welding fumes contain toxic substances which may attack the lungs. It is important to foresee a good aspiration
system above the work area which will extract the fumes from the welding work. In some cases the welder must wear
a mask with a filter, a hood, or individual respiratory protection equipment.
Check that the adequate extinction means (for example, a fire-extinguisher) are available to be used in case of fire.
For welding or oxycutting work outside the welding workshop (for example, at the worksite of other companies) a
work permit must generally be requested from the entrepreneur (fire permit {hot working}).
Use all the Personal Protection Equipment. Besides eye protection, done-up work clothes, and protection of the
respiratory tract, you must also wear safety footwear as well as welding clothes or a welding apron fro protection
against incandescent projections.

Página 67 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

Adopt a good work posture. In case of welding in places of difficult access, change posture frequently, have regular
breaks, and use accessories which allow welding in a more comfortable posture (for example, by turning the piece to
be welded, by using a mirror to see the piece to be welded better, by using a blanket if you must be lying, by using
kneepads, …).
In autogenous welding, make sure that the equipment used has the correct protections and follow the protection
measures below:
 Safety device against breaking of the flexible hose, placed at the beginning of the pipeline, which will
automatically cut off the supply of gas in case of leak or if the flexible hose breaks.
 Anti- flame flashback device placed in the pipeline which will prevent the flame from retreating along the flexible
hose or up to the bottles.
 Flux limiters (gas valves) on the oxygen flexible hose and on the gas flexible hose which will prevent them from
retreating.
 The gas and oxygen bottles must be fixed in vertical position (more than a metre of distance between them) or on
a welding trolley one next to the other, but with a steel-plate fire stop between the heads of the bottles. If this is
not possible, lay down the bottles with an inclination angle of at least 30º with the valves upwards in order to
prevent fuel and burning agent leaks.
 If propane is used, check that the work area is ell ventilated, and measure the concentration of gas in the air.
Never use or store propane in basements or wells.
 Check that the flexible hoses and the equipment have no leaks before using them.
11.2 Demolition.
11.2.1 Dangers and risks during demolition work
The kind of dangers and risks during demolition work is comparable to that in the construction sector. The risk of
accident is increased because there are circumstances unexpected or difficult to control.
The specific dangers and risks are the following:
 Instability: collapse or total or partial fall of the construction.
 Fall of demolition material, tools, and/or equipment.
 Fall from a certain height (partially or totally demolished walls and other openings).
 Stumbling and false steps (during demolition it is difficult to have a clear and tidy space).
 Overhanging elements from the construction being demolished (for example, beams).
 Noise.
 Dangerous substances released during demolition (for example, asbestos, liquid waste from cisterns …).
11.2.2 Safety measures to be adopted during demolition work
 Always do the work following previous planning. Consider the stability of the constructions which may be affected.
 Make a detailed inventory of the existence of dangerous substances and their location (in particular, the presence
of asbestos).
 It is forbidden to work in different overlapping levels. This will only be authorised if there is good coordination and
if it is included in the demolition plan.
 Install debris evacuation chutes in order to prevent risks and being affected by dust.
 Always use the Individual Protection Equipment: hard hat, safety footwear, gloves, dust mask, work clothes,
hearing protection, and, if necessary, anti-fall protection.
11.2.3 Removal of asbestos and ceramic fibres
For the removal of asbestos and ceramic fibres, the work can only be carried out by specialised companies and by
staff trained for that purpose. The work can be done by other workers only if they are sufficient to handle the
asbestos to put it up, with the following conditions:
 Application of fixing material to prevent the release of fibres.
Página 68 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

 Never break the material (for example, the fibre – cement plates).
 Wear disposable overalls.
 Use a P3 dust filter.
 Do not use chutes as fibres might be released in the fall.
11.3 Holes in walls and floors
Holes in floors, passages, scaffold platforms, and openings in walls (windows, lift shafts) pose a danger/risk of fall of
people and of objects (material, platforms, tools, equipment …)
Holes in platforms must be covered with well fixed solid material.
Openings in walls or platforms must be protected in their perimeter in an adequate way by means of a fence or rail
(of 1 to 1.2m high with a skirting board at the base of at least 15cm high and an intermediate baulk).
If a protection cannot be placed around the opening, the risk must be signalled with a written panel in a noticeable
colour (example, beaconing tape at sufficient distance from the opening) and check that access to the hole is difficult.

11.4 Excavations. Work in excavations and in the surroundings

We usually hear about accidents during excavation work: damaged gas pipelines, damaged/crashed electric
raceways, leaking water pipelines, people getting trapped, collapse of a house due to damage to the foundations, ...
During excavation work we must be very careful and avoid all dangers:
- Safety risk for the people doing excavation work and those who work inside it and in the surroundings.
- Temporary damage and economic loss.
- Possible contamination of the environment.
- Ask for guarantee from suppliers of public utility (electricity, gas, water, traffic of digital date).
11.4.1 Dangers/risks during excavation work
The following dangers/risks may be present during excavation work:
 Electrocution, short circuits, priming of an explosion due to a spark caused by the deterioration of an electric wire
with tension.
 Fire and explosion due to deterioration of gas pipes and fuel oil.
 Asphyxia, choking due to deterioration of gas pipes.
 Disturbance caused by water leaks.
 Trapping by landslide in the trench.
 Contaminated ground (dangerous substances or biological agents).
 Contamination of the ground by dangerous substances due to deterioration of pipelines
11.4.2 Rules to carry out excavation work safely
In order to limit the risks/dangers during excavations as far as possible, it is convenient to follow a series of rules.
You must not carry out any work moving ground without previously knowing the possible presence and location of
wires, pipelines, tanks and other underground obstacles.
Excavation work is regulated according to the instructions of a manager, the contractor, the entrepreneur, and/or the
waste product manager.
In the presence of wires, pipelines or other underground obstacles or if their presence is suspected, dig trial trenches
at 1.5m of the indicated place in order to find such wires or pipelines. If a backhoe is used, the bucket must not have
teeth so as to limit damage in case of contact.
If the pipelines or wires do not seem to be in the indicated location or if they are damaged, immediately inform a
manager.
11.4.3 Work in and excavation and in the surroundings
In order to work in excavations or in the surroundings the following safety measures must be adopted:
 The walls of the excavation must be well built so that they will not collapse. They can be achieved in two ways:
Página 69 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

 The slope is such that no collapse or landslide is possible. The slope of the wall depends on the type of soil,
the type of subsoil, and the depth of the excavation.
 If the slope is too high, the place must be timbered solidly and sufficiently.
 Pile up the excavated earth at sufficient distance to limit the pressure on the walls.
 Place the vehicles and the materials at a safe distance.
 Use two ladders to access the excavation in case of a rapid evacuation.
 Place a fence around the excavation.
 Do not introduce gas bottles in the excavation.
 Consider a deep excavation as a confined space.

11.5 Work in height

From a legal point of view, when we speak about work in height we mean work which is done at more than 2 metres
from the surface on which the worker might fall (the height of fall). Working above dangerous situations, like elements
in movement, water surface, above a liquid, etc. must equally be considered as work in height even though the
height of fall will be lower than 2 metres.
11.5.1 Dangers/risks of working in height
The dangers/risks of working in height are:
o Fall of people.
o Fall of objects.
11.5.2. Prevention measures to be adopted for work in height
The measures to be adopted depend on the situation of the work and the means used. In all cases, collective
protection equipment is a priority over individual protection.
 Use of safe scaffolds and platforms.
 Closing of opening in the platforms.
 Place transversal plates on supports or ceilings which may be little resistant.
 Place protection rails, railings, or other similar devices. A standard protection rail is made up of railings, an
intermediate board, and a skirting board – or a construction which will offer similar protection like a solid grid with
a fine net or a pack wall.
 Place safety nets.
 If this is not technically possible, an individual anti-fall system (safety harness) must be worn.
 Do not leave material or tools unattended. Use tool belts.
11.5.3 Work on roofs
The risk of fall from height really exists both for work done on steep roofs and for work on flat roofs. So always place
a protection rail or safety nets. If there are big holes on the roof, safety nets must be placed.
Check the strength of the roof coating. If it is not safe, use plates (to distribute the weight) to walk on them. On steep
roofs, the plates must be fixed in order to guarantee their stability.
If collective protection equipment is not feasible, wear an individual anti-fall system (safety harness).
11.5.4 Use of ladders.
Ladders must be used only for a limited number of activities. Ladders can be used to go from one level to another,
and, under certain conditions, to carry out light work.
Light work
The use of ladders is not acceptable for light work for economic or technical reasons if the work plan requires the use
of a scaffold or a Mobile Personnel Lift Platform.
The following conditions must be taken into account:

Página 70 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

 The work height must be lower than 7.5m.

 It will be work of short duration (less than 4 hours).
 It is light work (physical exercise of strength lower than 100N or 10kg)
 The maximum work distance is equivalent to the length of an arm.
 Ladders must be supervised regularly and be provided with a label with the control expiration date. Check that the
ladder has a valid label
The following measures are important for the use of a hand ladder:
 Check that the ladder is in good condition. Use only ladders which 100% intact, checking during use the absence
of marks or wear. Never use damaged or broken ladders.
 Ladders must be leaning in an angle of 75º.
 The ladder must be placed correctly on a solid flat surface. Make sure that the base of the ladder cannot sink or
slip. Make sure that the ladder is not upside down (the feet up with the anti-slip shoes in the wrong position).
 Fasten the top of the ladder in order to prevent it from sliding laterally. A ladder of more that 25 rungs must
compulsorily be fastened at the top.
 A ladder must be at least 1 metre higher than the anchorage point.
 Adequate maintenance of the ladder: make sure that the ladder is clean and remove the remains of paint, mud,
snow, oil … which may be on the ladder and may cause slips.
 Do not use a ladder with flat or dirty feet.
 Always go up and down the ladder facing it, never with your back to the ladder.
 Always make sure to keep three points of contact with the ladder: foe example, both feet and a hand, or both
hands and a foot. Hold the rungs with your hands. If you slip, the rungs offer a better grip that the rails of the
ladder.
 The access to the ladder, both at the base and at the top, must be clear.
 Do not allow walking under the ladder.
 Above a determined wind force hand ladders must not be used (force 6 in the Beaufort scale or more than
50km/h).
 A metallic ladder will be placed at least 2 metres away from any source of electrical power.
11.5.5 Scaffolds
They are used for maintenance, cleaning, repair, and inspection
work. There are different types of scaffolds: supported scaffolds,
suspended scaffolds, and mobile scaffolds
Assembly of a scaffold
The assembly, modification, and disassembly of scaffolds can only
be done by specialists who will make sure that the scaffold is
positioned with all guarantees. During the assembly and
disassembly work a competent person will be present. Both the
calculation of the stability of the scaffold and the assembly and
disassembly instructions must always be available.
Scaffold safety card
If the scaffold can be used, the assembly manager will place a
card authorising its use (“SCAFFTAG”). If the card is not
hanging you must not get on the scaffold. While the scaffold is
out of use, the tag will be red with the legend “Unauthorised
Access” or “Do not use”, or something similar.
On the contrary, if the scaffold can be used, a green tag
Página 71 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

will be hanging with the legend “Authorised Access” or

something similar. The scaffold tag will also mention
the maximum load supported by the scaffold. Make sure that
the maximum authorised load limit is not exceeded
Competent person for the use of scaffolds
The use of scaffolds will always be made in the presence of a competent person. This person will supervise the
application of measures which will prevent the fall of people and objects, and the changing weather conditions. This
competent person will also supervise that the scaffold is not overloaded, carrying out the necessary controls.
Supported Scaffolds
A number of measures are applied to supported scaffolds.
You are not allowed to work on a scaffold without specific training for that purpose.
Never modify the structure of the scaffold.
Never leave any materials or tools unattended on the platforms of the scaffold.
A scaffold with slippery platforms is dangerous. For that reason they must be covered with sand. If there is
grease or oil on the platforms, use absorbent material. In case of frost, use salt. If there is snow on the
scaffold, sweep it before starting work.
Never work on a trestle or ladder placed on the scaffold. Use an auxiliary scaffold or ask the manager for a
complement.
Scaffolds must not be used to lift loads. It is forbidden to fix lifts or any other lifting equipment to the
scaffolds.
Scaffolds are classified according to the authorised load.
Suspended Scaffolds
Hanging or suspended scaffolds do not have anchorage points on the ground; they are fixed by cables or a pulley
system. The assembly and suspension of this type of scaffolds can only be carried out by a specialist.
The specific prevention measures for suspended scaffolds are the following:
 Before using a scaffold, always check its functioning.
 A suspended scaffold ready to be used must never be left without surveillance.
 If the operating controls are not at the scaffold, the operator must not leave as long as there are people on the
scaffold.
 In case of malfunction or defects, everybody on the scaffold must be evacuated.
 If there are difficulties to establish visual contact between the scaffold and the operator, complementary means
of communication must be used, like a walkie-talkie.
 Everybody who is on a suspended scaffold must compulsorily wear individual anti-fall equipment hooked to a
lifeline.
 Never exceed the maximum load.
 The space under a suspended scaffold must be beaconed or signalled with tape or barriers.
 Above certain wind speed the use of suspended scaffolds is forbidden (force 6 in the Beaufort scale or above
50km/h).
Mobile scaffolds on wheels
A mobile scaffold is a wheel-mounted scaffold which can be moved easily. This type of scaffold is light and more
stable than the supported scaffold.
The specific prevention measures for mobile scaffolds are:
 During its use the wheel must be blocked.
 The access to mobile scaffolds must always be from the inside.
Página 72 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

 The materials or tools must be lifted by means of a rope.

 Always make sure that the work area is clear.
 Never get on the stabilisers or diagonal braces (diagonal bars placed on the sides of the scaffold), whose only
function is to ensure the solidity of the scaffold.
 The movement of a mobile scaffold will always be made with total safety:
 Never move a scaffold with people on it.
 During the movement, the stabilisers – without wheels – must remain as close to the ground as
possible. If the stabilisers are equipped with wheels, these will remain on the ground. Make sure that
the base plates cannot slide during movement.
 The ground must be flat. Otherwise, there must be rail systems or similar devices.
 The use of a mobile scaffold is also forbidden above certain wind speed (force 6 in the Beaufort scale or above
50km/h).
Movement of a mobile scaffold
At least two people are necessary to move them. Move the scaffold by pushing on the low part of the scaffold. Mobile
scaffolds higher than 8 metres must not be moved because the risk of tilting is too high. In that case, the scaffold
must first be disassembled until it reaches a height of 8 metres so that it can be moved.
11.5.6 Nacelles
A nacelle is lifted from only one anchorage point, for example, a crane. It can only be used when the use of a scaffold
or a Mobile Personnel Lift Platform is not possible.
The specific protection measures for nacelles are:
 The nacelle is controlled by the technical control service (SECT), and the control document will be in the basket.
 The basket will be suspended from a 4-point cable.
 The specifications will be described on the outside of the basket: admissible load, empty weight, and number of
people allowed in the basket.
 The crane operator and the basket users must be able to see each other or communicate to each other, for
example, with the help of a walkie-talkie.
 The people in the basket must wear anti-fall protection (safety harness), fixed to a hook-point in the basket (a
different point from the hook of the crane).
 Only get on and off the basket when it is on the ground. Never get on or off when the basket is suspended, no
matter the distance from the ground.
11.5.7 Mobile Personnel Lift Platform
A Mobile Personnel Lift Platform is a lifting machine equipped with a platform which can be lifted by means of a lifting
mechanism with a folding scissor structure or an articulated arm. Mobile Personnel Lift Platforms are generally used
in places where the erection of a scaffold is not possible or desirable.
There are different types of mobile personnel lift platforms:
 Automotive lift platforms.
 Lift baskets on a lorry, a trailer, or a van.
 Scissor lift.
Dangers/risks during the use of lift baskets.
The main dangers/risks during the use of lift baskets are:
- Reversion of the mobile personnel lift platform.
- Falling off the platform.
- Fall of objects off the platform.
- Collisions or crashes during the movement of the platform or lift machine.
- Interference between the platform and an object (for example, a wall or a post).
Página 73 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

- Electrocution by contact with low tension lines or by proximity to high tension lines.
Requirements on Mobile Personnel Lift Platforms
Mobile personnel lift platforms are equipment which must be regularly controlled by an external technical service
(SECT). The control document as well as the method of use and the operating instructions must be present and
visible to all users. a label placed on the platform will indicate the duration and validation of the periodical control.
Likewise, the maximum load must be indicated on it.
Prevention measures to be adopted with a lift platform
The specific prevention measures to be adopted with a lift platform are the following:
The mobile personnel lift platform must be placed on a horizontal surface on flat ground.
The mobile personnel lift platform must circulate folded, with the arm down and the basket in neutral
position.
Never use a mobile personnel lift platform as a lift.
Always use anti-fall protection (safety harness) fixed to a hook point in the basket. Never jump off the
basket.
For baskets which unfold more than 25m the use of a walkie-talkie is mandatory to maintain contact
between the people in the basket and the operators on the ground.
When a lift basket moves around work facilities an operator must be present on the floor.
The use of lift baskets is not advisable above certain wind speed (force 6 in the Beaufort scale or above
50kn/h).
Only trained and qualified staff is allowed to operate a mobile personnel lift platform (proving competence).

11.6 Confined spaces

Confined spaces like tanks, sewage pits, basements … are work environment with risks like humidity, poor lighting,
and poor ventilation. These risks may arise also in other work, but in confined spaces they are more difficult to fight.
The message is the following: “be aware of the risks present in confined spaces and respect the safety measures
strictly”.
11.6.1 What is a confined space?
A confined space is a space which has the following characteristics:
 Very poor natural ventilation or lighting.
 Difficult evacuation.
 Restricted space for manoeuvring.
 Often little, humid, and uncomfortable space.
 Presence of pipelines and wiring in unexpected places.
 The atmosphere can be dangerous, even in the presence of small amounts of dangerous substances.
 Space which is not aimed at being used by workers for a prolonged time.
Examples:
 Storage tanks 8underground or on surface).
 Drains and sewage pits.
 Lift shafts.
 Welding tents when working in deep trenches, or contaminated soil, or on pipelines.
11.6.4 Dangers/risks in confined spaces.
Working in a confined space involves a number of dangers/risks. Given the characteristics of a confined space, the
risk of any incidence happening is increased:
 By lack of oxygen.
Página 74 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

Lack of oxygen may be due to diverse causes (see paragraph 8.8.3 above).
 The increase of risks of fire and explosion:
The ventilation being deficient, the risk of generating a fire is increased since the vapours and gases of almost
all dangerous substances are heavier than air, and so they tend to remain at floor level. For that reason, the
low explosion limit is reached more rapidly, even more being ventilation deficient.
It is also increased by the presence of combustible materials in the area released from the material inside the
area or released during work (for example, painting, cleaning, degreasing, removal of rust coats …).
Presence of fire, flames, or sparks in the confined space (welding, oxycutting, polishing …).
 Increased risk of intoxication:
Even in small amounts, the concentration of dangerous material may, in a confined space, increase rapidly and
made worse by deficient ventilation.
Dangerous materials in a confined space
Dangerous materials in confined spaces may come from different sources:
Remains of products which were present in the confined space (for example, in tanks).
Products which were used during work: cleaning products, hole sealing products, rust removal products,
paints, glue, degreasing products …
Gas pipes in disuse in the confined space or due to dirty floor.
Toxic welding fumes.
Leaks in pipes, the confined space is not sufficiently safe with the help of insulation flanges, blind discs
 Increased risk of electrocution:
In a confined space, the temperature of the environment is generally high due to poor ventilation, and besides
it is usually humid, so people transpire more rapidly. For that reason, the environment is a better conductor
and the risk of electrocution is increased.
Confined spaces are usually built with conductor materials (for example, metallic storage tanks).
 Interferences, slips, and falls:
A confined space is generally small, with little margin of manoeuvring. The risk of interference is real. The
situation is even more dangerous if there are mobile elements in the confined space, for example, an agitator.
If it starts to spin suddenly, there is no way out.
Due to humidity, the formation of foams, etc. Those spaces are often slippery. The risk of slipping and falling
is high.
11.6.3 Access to confined spaces
You must not go into a confined space if the following instructions are not respected:
 The minimum concentration of oxygen in the air must be higher than 19%.
 If there are explosive gases or vapours, their concentration must not reach 10% of the lower explosion limit.
 If there are dangerous substances, the concentration of those substances must be lower than the explosion limit
value.
 There must be sufficient air renewal (natural and/or artificial ventilation).
 The possible pipes must be safe (flanges and blind discs) or tuned off. This measure does not only affect the
pipelines of dangerous substances. Water can also be dangerous (electrocution, drowning …).
 There will be a valid work permit or written authorisation to access the confined space (based on previous
observations and measurements and during the stay in the confined space).
 Being older than 18 years old.
 The space will be clean and dry.
 Signalling panels will be placed to forbid access to unauthorised people.
 There will be permanent surveillance during work in a confined space. The person in charge of the surveillance
will be the security guard.
Página 75 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

11.6.4 Measurements
A confined space presents risks of asphyxia, stunning, intoxication, fire, or explosion; measurements will be carried
out by a competent person, all over the confined space. They will always be taken before the start of work and during
work. If necessary, the measurements will be taken continuously during the duration of the work.
11.6.5 Surveillance / security guard
A confined space presents risks of asphyxia, intoxication, fire, or explosion, and its surveillance is ensured with the
permanent presence of a security guard at the entrance. The security guard, also called exterior security guard or
manhole guard, has different tasks:
 Surveillance.
 Guarantee communication with the people inside the confined space.
 Control the ventilation system.
 Alert the safety service if the people in the confined space are in danger.
 Help the victims inside a confined space.
The security guard must have received adequate training and must have passed an exam (certifying their
competence).
11.6.6 Other prevention measures
In addition to the measures described above, the following preventive measures will be respected:
 During the stay in the confined space:
The duration of the work in the confined space must be as short as possible.
 Ventilation:
Dangerous substances may be present in the confined space or be released during work due to leaks.
During the stay in the confined space, it must be ventilated continuously, ensuring sufficient natural
and/or mechanic ventilation.
If dangerous substances are released during work, localised air extraction close to the source of
emission must be foreseen
 To avoid electrocution:
The electrical installation present in the confined space must be out of work safely.
The insulation of wires, devices and conductor walls in the confined space will be given special attention
since they must be provided with an earth connection in order to prevent damage from the high risk of
electrocution. Equipment working with safety tension (24V) must be used.
In order to work with low tension equipment, always use a transformer placed outside the confined
space.
 Personal Protection Equipment:
Workers will use the usual work clothes and PPE (overalls, safety footwear, hard hat, safety glasses,
and protective gloves), as well as other protection according to the specific circumstances.
Independent respiratory protection: necessary if the concentration of dangerous substances is higher
than the threshold value or if the concentration of oxygen is too low. Important: filter masks are not
sufficient.
According to the type of work and nature (for example, in a space with high resonance it is necessary to
wear adequate hearing protection).
In confined spaces where workers must go down (for example, storage tanks or sewage pits) and where
dangerous gases may be present, a safety harness hooked to a lifeline must be worn. If there is any
problem, the rescue team will be able to pull the worker to the outside. The lifeline can also help in case
of dangers like, for example, entanglement.
 Mobile parts:

Página 76 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

The equipment with mobile parts (for example, agitator) must be off and they must be fastened by
competent staff to prevent them from moving.
 Oxygen and gas bottles:
Before use, hoses and pipes must be revised in prevention of possible leaks.
Gas bottles must always be placed outside the confined space.
During breaks and after work, burners and hoses must be removed to the outside of the confined space.
 Welding and cutting work:
All combustible materials must be covered if they cannot be eliminated or removed.
The extinction means must be at hand, permanently available.
Make sure that there are no oxygen leaks.
Localised aspiration system must be placed where the welding fumes are originated.
In case of electric welding, safe tension must be used.
The transformer must be outside the confined space.
 Work with paint, varnish, and solvents.
In case of working with these products, the following measures must be adopted:
When the limit value of a dangerous substance may be exceeded, independent respiratory protection
must be used.
The ventilation of the confined space must guarantee that we are below 10% of the low ignition limit of
the dangerous substances present.
If paint projection machines are used they must have an earth connection, since paint projection may
generate static electricity.
After paint work, the confined space must be ventilated for several days. The confined space must not
be closed until the paint has dried since during that process some types of paint consume the oxygen
present.
12 ELECTRICITY.
What is electricity?
An electric current is a current of energy which circulates through a conductor between
two points placed at two different energy levels.This difference in energy is called
electrical tension (U), expressed in volts (V).
The intensity of the current (I) characterises the magnitude of current which circulates
through a conductor and depends on different factors. For electricity :the higher the
tension, the easier the circulation and the stronger the intensity of the current. The size
of the current conductor or the intensity of current (I) is expressed in amperes (A).
The degree of difficulty is called resistance (R), expressed in ohms (Ω).
When the tension is higher, you can transport more electricity. This phenomenon is summarised in Ohm’s Law.
Ohm’s Law:
I=U/R
According to this law:
• When tension U increases, the intensity of electric current I increases.
• When resistance R decreases, the intensity of electric current I increases.
Electrical appliances turn electricity into heat, light, or movement. However, the amount of light emitted by the
luminaires differs in function of the different power of the engines to which they are connected. The difference in
capacity depends on the power of the equipment. The power is expressed in watts (W).

12.1 Dangers/risks of electricity.

12.1.1 Dangers/risks of electricity
Página 77 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

Electricity involves risks both for people and for the electrical installations and the environment (infrastructure). The
main dangers/risks are:
 Electrocution.
 Injuries: burns caused by sparks from electric arc.
 Electric discharge with harmful consequences.
 Danger of fire.
 Danger of explosion

12.1.2 Influence of electricity on the human body.

If we enter in contact with an electric current it may go through the body (=electric shock, electrocution). If the
passing of current is important, the consequences will be serious. The intensity of the current depends on many
factors. Initially, it depends on the tension. If you get in contact with a 230V wiring, an amount of current will affect it.
But if you touch an element subjected to high tension, 23,000V, for example, the intensity of the current will be 100
times higher.
The intensity of the current depends, so, on the resistance it may find. If the intensity of the current is low, then the
current in circulation will be important. A bit of humidity will offer less resistance. If the skin is wet, a tension of 25V
may already prove dangerous. On the contrary, if the skin is dry it gives protection from a tension of up to 50V. The
thickness of the skin is also important: the thicker the skin, the higher resistance to the passing of the current. The
resistance of the material present at the workplace also plays an important role. Linoleum and rubber coatings are
tow material which offer high resistance to the passing of the current. Earth floors covered with tiles or concrete floors
are conductors and so offer very low resistance. Wearing insulating footwear offers great resistance, which contrasts
with zero resistance which electricity finds if we walk barefoot.
Finally, the surface of contact conditions the magnitude of the contact. The larger the surface, the larger the amount
of electricity, and the higher the intensity of the current going through our body.
12.1.3 Other consequences of electricity on people
Besides electrocution (deadly electric shock), electricity involves other risks/dangers for people:
 If the current goes through us, even at low intensity, it may surprise us and make us lose balance or damage
something in the surroundings. We may also drop what we are holding (for example, a plunger) and get hurt.
 A short circuit may cause intense electric currents projecting incandescent fragments (for example, molten lead
from the electric wiring) and hurt people.
 In case of a short circuit with very high current (for example, high tension) it may cause a harmful shockwave.
12.1.4 Electric arcs and short circuits
When two objects with tension are at sufficient distance from each other, the air between them acts as insulator. If
the difference in tension is too high or if the distance between the two objects is too short, then we say that the
current jumps. The current causes the generation of an electric arc which may take the shape of a continuous arc or
of sparks.
A short circuit is caused when two parts with tension come into direct contact. A short circuit generates very high
currents and sparks, and causes important damage to electric raceways.
12.1.5 Risks of fire and explosion
The sparks and the heat causes by an electric arc may result in burns, fires, and explosions. An overload or a short
circuit in the wiring and/or defective equipment may cause a fire or an explosion. If explosive substances are present
in the environment, the smallest spark may cause an explosion.
12.1.6 Causes of Accidents of Electric Origin:
They are multiple:

Página 78 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

• Machinery, installations, and defective wiring.

• Lack of earth connections, or low quality earth connections.
• Wrong electric installations or assembles.
• Direct and indirect electric contact with parts with tension.
• Inadequate use of electric installations, equipment or material.
• Lack of attention, negligence, or ignorance.
12.2 Safety measures in electric work
12.2.1 Working without tension
The best way to avoid electric accidents consists of working without tension. In the absence of tension, no electric
accident may happen.
Attention: cutting off the current is not sufficient. Other supplementary measures must be adopted so that the
installations or part of them may not involuntarily receive tension. It is very important to block the commuter before
starting work (for example, during repair and maintenance work).
Exception: work with tensión
Initially, carrying out work with tension is not allowed. This can only be authorised under strict conditions:
 If the need of working with tension is clearly proved and if the worksite manager gives explicit written
authorisation to do it.
 If the installation allows working with tension.
 If all the measures to limit the risks related to work with tension are adopted (adequate tools, adequate individual
protection equipment).
12.2.2 Safety measures in electric panels.
If you frequently work with electric machinery and tools, or close to electric circuits or installations, most safety
measures must be adopted:
 Physical protection.
 Insulation.
 Double insulation.
 Earth connection.
 Differential protection.
 Use of safety tensions.
12.2.3 Physical protection
Physical protection makes parts with tension inaccessible, making contact with the fingers or with objects impossible.
The guard must be tightly fixed and will not be removed by means of a tool or a spanner.

12.2.4 Insulation
It is possible to insulate the parts with tension by surrounding them with non-conductor material. The only way to
remove that material must be by destroying it.
Double insulation
Note: Double insulation
Functional insulation, always necessary (the exterior of electrical equipment), a
second insulation is added in the interior of the equipment.
Double insulation equipment is recognised by the double-square sign (a square into a
bigger one) on the casing of the equipment
Double insulation equipment is not earth connected.
Double insulation does not protect the equipment from humidity or water.
12.2.5 Earth connection

Página 79 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

Note: Safe earth connection.

Earth connection is a connection between the ground and the exterior metallic parts of electrical equipment.
Scaffolds must also be connected to earth when, on the scaffold or in its surroundings, there are wires, raceways, or
electrical equipment (hand tools, etc.). Debris or storage containers must also be connected to earth according to the
legal prescriptions.
In order to connect installations, equipment, scaffolds, containers etc., to earth, it is preferable to do this by using an
existing ground grid.
12.2.6 Differential disyuntor.
Note: Differential Disyuntor
Disyuntor which interrupts the passing of current from the moment any leak of current is detected
If the loss of current is higher than a pre-fixed value (trigger sensitivity), the differential disyuntor cuts off the passing
of current. Other possible denominations: earth leakage commuter, or current loss commuter.
A switch with a trigger sensitivity of 300mA is set for the incoming current and outgoing current in the panel, and
30mA differentials for the current in circulation.
The differential protects people from electrical shock, from electrocution, but does not offer absolute safety. It must
remain alert. There is no absolute certainty that an overload, thermal contact, or short circuit will not
happen.
The differential disyuntor must be periodically controlled (for example, monthly) checking its correct
functioning.
12.2.7 Power switch – installation general switch – power control switch
It protects from shocks or short circuits.
A Power Control Switch is a system which protects the devices, installations, and electrical wirings
from overloads and short circuits. A Power Control switch is conceived to be the point of the circuit which will first
resist the jump in intensity of current and which will go off first.
A Power Control Switch protects the surroundings (the building, the electrical installation) against the risk of fire.
However, it does not protect against electrocution and is not aimed at protecting the individuals, but the installation.

12.3 Electrical material at the worksite

12.3.1 General safety measures.
The electrical grid is not designed to provide electric power always and wherever we may need it. We can solve this
problem by means of distribution switchboards, extension cords, or reel extensions.
Before suing electrical materials or tools, check that it is in good condition (visually). Never use defective material or
tools, signal them and replace them or get them replaced. The earth connection of mobile electrical installations as
well as the pre-existing connections to the electrical installations must be controlled by qualified personnel.
12.3.2 Reel extensions and extension cords.
Always use a reel of sufficient wire diameter, adequate to the maximum capacity which we may need to carry out the
work. The addition of the capacity of all the equipment connected to the reel must not be higher than the maximum
capacity marked on the reel.
The wire rolled in the reel must be totally unrolled during its use to prevent the wire from overheating. On the
contrary, if the wire is rolled excessive overheating of the wire may melt the insulation coat and cause a fire or short
circuit. The same thing will happen in case of over-intensity.
Take special care if heating devices (for example, stoves) are connected to an extension cord or a reel. Those
heating devices generally need high electrical power, and the capacity of the extension cord or reel may be rapidly
exceeded..

Página 80 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

12.3.3 Degree of protection.

Electrical materials (for example, switchboards, sockets, installations, reels, lighting devices, tools …) are subjected
to external factors like dust, water, and mechanic contacts (fall of objects …) which may alter it. For this reason, the
electrical material, under certain conditions, must have “degrees of protection”.
The casing of the electrical devices must have a certain degree of protection against:
• Electrocution (for example, double insulation).
• Penetration of dust or particles.
• Humidity and water.
• Mechanic contact (crashes, projections, fall of objects).
The degree of protection is indicated by the letters PI, followed by figures which express up to what extent the
protection is good or its scope.

12.4 Static electricity

12.4.1 Generation and dangers of static electricity
Electrical tension may appear outside electrical installations. It is a static electrical phenomenon: sometimes it is felt
when we touch a car or when we take off certain clothes.
Static electricity appears on electricity non-conductor materials. If two or more of these materials are rubbed against
each other, we cause the appearance of difference in load or potential between the materials. As the material is non-
conductor, the load is derived to the ground. So the material is charged statically.
The effect of a shock of static electricity through the human body is generally limited to surprise reactions. Those
reactions may generate risks: for example, fall of people or objects.
If the static charge generated cannot flow (for example, through an earth connection) it may be sufficiently high to
cause a shock. That phenomenon will cause the appearance of sparks or of an electric arc which may be dangerous.
In fact, if the shock happens in the presence of an explosive mixture, the generation of sparks may cause an
explosion. Likewise shocks of static electricity may damage sensitive electronic devices.
Static electricity may appear in the following situations:

 When walking on floor covered with nylon.

 When we rub synthetic material.
 When we rub clothes on the body (for example, when somebody is wearing insulating rubber soles).
 During spray-painting, shot blasting work, and similar activities.
 During pneumatic load, unload, and transport of dust or grain products in mixers, tanks, pipes ... in ascending gas
or vapour bubbles which cause turbulences.
 During the flow of products in pipelines.
 During the use of transmission belts (contact between the air and the belt).
12.4.2 Measures to prevent static electricity

Página 81 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

There are measures to limit or prevent the generation of static electricity:

 Wear anti-static footwear and clothes.
 Connect pipes, tanks, and deposits to earth (preferably, an existing earth grid).
 Limit the speed of flow of liquids.
 Limit the fall height in a deposit or storage chute.
 Establish an equipotential bonding system when transferring products or assembling electronic devices.

Equipotential connection – compensation of potentials.

All metallic pieces (conductor of the installation) must be connected to each other for their earth connection, and so
prevent that there are parts of the installation with a potential different from the rest.
Prevent static electricity by improving conductivity.
If conductivity is improved we prevent difference of charge from appearing. That is possible:

 By adding a percentage of metal fibres in the materials, for example, in clothes.

 By increasing the relative humidity of the environment to more than 65%.
 The addition of an antistatic additive: it is a liquid which provides the conductor materials with antistatic
properties.

Protection Index PI
Electrical materials (for example, switchboards, sockets, installations, reels, lighting devices, tools …) are subjected
to external factors like dust, water, and mechanic contacts (fall of objects …) which may alter it. For this reason, the
electrical material, under certain conditions, must have “degrees of protection”.
The IP (International Protection or Ingress Protection) classification, applied worldwide, is a precise method to
indicate the protection levels of the coatings of electrical material. The IP classification indicates up to what extent the
material resists water, particles, dust, and crashes. We find it in the IEC 60529 norm: “degrees of protection for the
coatings of electrical material” (IP codification).
According to the situation and the material used, an IP class must be chosen which will provide sufficient protection.
The IP classification is indicated by the letter IP followed by 2 figures:
1. - Protection against the penetration of dust or particles.
2. - Protection against the penetration of water.
3. - If there is a third figure, it indicates the mechanic protection against impacts, etc.
If the protection is not necessary in a part, the corresponding figure is replaced with capital X.

13 AN ERGONOMIC WORKPLACE.
Ergonomics
“It is the scientific study of people in relation to their work environment. ·Ergonomics is a scientific discipline which
studies the way in which tools, machines, technical processes, environments, tasks, and functions can be designed
or adapted according to people’s possibilities and limits with the aim of improving health and safety, comfort and
efficiency¨

13.1 Noise.
Noise is a change in the air pressure which may be perceived auditorily.
Changes in pressure are caused by sound sources.Every time the source of sound interacts with the air it causes
pressure variations. We obtain sounds with a different resonance and a different sound intensity. The tone of a sound
is determined by the number of vibrations emitted per second (the frequency, expressed in hertz – Hz). If the tone is
high, the frequency is high.
Página 82 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

Sound intensity (or the level of sound pressure), expressed in decibels (dB), is determined by the difference in
pressure of the sound waves.
13.1.1 Measuring in decibels (dB)
In practice, the sound level or intensity is expressed in decibels or dB (A). In this scale, 0dB is assimilated at the start
of audible sound. It would be a hardly perceptible sound. Everything below this value is inaudible foe the human ear.
dB (A): The human ear does not have the same sensitivity with respect to all the audible frequencies. for that reason,
the level of sound pressure is usually expressed in dB (A): level of pressure measured with an A filter. That filter
contemplates the fact that humans do not react the same way in front of the different frequencies (grave or sharp)
with a same sound intensity. Normally, the scope of human hearing ranges from 20hz to 20,000Hz. Frequencies
around 1,000Hz are the most easily perceived.
Sound level in dB (A) Examples of sound sources
Critical zone 140 Reaction engine at 50m away, formula 1 race
Pain threshold 130
120 Thermal chainsaw, siren of fire engine
110 Sledge hammer, shouting at somebody’s ear, disco
Dangerous zone 100 Plunger, grinder
90 Dense road traffic, lawn-mower
85 Average workshop
Disturbance threshold 80 Normal road traffic
70
Office
60
Normal conversation
50 Rain
Living room
Safe zone 40 Whispers, soft conversation

30
20 Bedroom
Leaves rustling
10
Auditory threshold 0
13.1.2 Dangers and consequences of excessive noise
A very high noise can be only worrying but harmful to health. A strong intensity may generate disturbance and a
decrease in the temporal or permanent auditory capacity.
 Disturbances
- Conversation becomes more difficult (less comprehensible words).
- Warnings / alarms, a punctual call of help, a machine which makes an abnormal noise will be inaudible.
- Loss of concentration due to the noise generated.
- Nervousness, stress.
- Fatigue, headache.
- Accelerated breathing, higher blood pressure, stomach-ache, and bowel problems.
 Temporary decrease of hearing: hearing is restored after exposure to high sound levels.
 Permanent decrease of the auditory capacity: permanent auditory damage.
Noxious sound levels
Above 80 dB (A) hearing can be harmful.
Página 83 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

13.1.3 Definitive hearing loss.

Hearing loss is an insidious injury. It is often suffered gradually and goes unnoticed. The symptoms of permanent
hearing loss are the following:
 Difficulty hearing very high or vey low sounds.
 Imperceptible hearing of noises like weak whistles or sibilant sounds.
 Difficult comprehension on the phone.
 Difficulty following a conversation in noisy environments (difficulty understanding what is said).

13.1.4 Estimate of sound level.

Measurement of sound levels
There are several methods to determine sound levels. The most precise measure consists of measuring by using an
audiometer, also called a sound level metre
An approximate estimate of the sound level can also be made without measurement devices. When you are at a
normal distance to talk (around 1m) and you must speak up (shout) to make yourself understood, we may consider
that the level of environmental sound pressure exceeds 80 dB (A), which is noxious.

13.2 Handling loads

13.2.1 Risk of manual handling of loads
The risk of lumbar injury is not only derived from lifting a load. If the grip is deficient, the load may slip off your hands
and fall on your feet or hurt somebody in the surroundings. Likewise, your fingers may be trapped the moment you
lay down the load.
A good practice is, as far as possible, to use a device to lift and move loads.
13.2.2 Correct lifting of loads
The correct posture to lift and move a load is:
 Place your feet at the sides and around the load in order to keep good balance.
 Lift the load banding your knees, with your back straight, and using the leg muscles.
 Carry the load as close to the body as possible.
 Avoid torsion movements as you carry the load.

In addition, we must take the following into account:

 Limit the height at which the load is carried, lifted, and from which it is laid down.
 Do not lift objects in a sitting posture.
 Limit the distances to cover carrying a load.
 Pay special attention to irregular slippery floors, with holes, and to stairs.
 Never carry a load in such a way that it may prevent you from seeing the way. Always have good visibility.
 Determine the walking pace, planning it if possible, and with short steps if necessary.
 Wear adequate safety gloves and footwear, as well as work clothes if necessary so as not to get dirty.
 Change your posture regularly (do stretching exercises regularly, above al if we must lift and carry loads during a
prolonged period).
13.3 Work in sitting and standing positions
13.3.1 Work in sitting position.
The fact of remaining in a same posture for long periods may generate health issues.
Adopting a correct sitting posture and moving regularly (standing up, walking) is important to prevent problems.
Let us see the characteristics of an adequate sitting posture:
 Lean the lower part of the thighs sufficiently on the seat.
 The feet must be leaning on the floor or on a footrest.
 The back, in a good posture, leans against the back of the chair.
Página 84 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

 The forearms lean on the desk or on the arms of the chair.

It is fundamental to have a good office chair, adjustable, which will allow adopting a correct sitting posture.
13.3.2 Work in standing position
Under certain conditions it is better to work standing rather than sitting. It is the case, among others, when there is
not sufficient space for the legs, when the work requires much mobility, when it is necessary to stretch frequently, to
stand up, to use substantial strength (+ 4.5K) to carry out the work, or when it is necessary to exert descending
strength; example, to compact materials, to flatten surfaces, other conditions which may require exerting pressure…
For people who work standing permanently, a support (a high stool, for example) may facilitate work. The support
discharges the legs and feet by supporting 60% of the body weight.

14 PERSONAL PROTECTION EQUIPMENT (PPE)

14.1 Description and use.
14.1.1 Use of PPE.
Note: Personal Protection Equipment
Individual equipment which is worn and kept at hand in order to protect oneself against health and safety risks to
which one is exposed at the workplace. All the complements and accessories of this equipment are considered as an
integral part of PPE.
PPE is the final measure to be adopted for protection. It will not be used if there are other prevention measures which
can be applied and which will be sufficient. It is a priority to remove risks or to use collective protection. Only when
this is not possible or sufficient will individual protection also be used: when a risk could not be removed, or collective
protection was not possible, or risks remain at the workplace.
PPE are efficient only if it is adequate to the risk against which it must protect, to the circumstances under which the
work is being done (conditions to carry out work), and to the worker using it. It is important to choose correctly the
PPE to be used.
Which requirements must PPE meet?
 CE marking.
 Adapted to the work conditions.
 Adapted to the specific risks and offering sufficient protection
 It use must not cause new risks for the user (which involves considering the requirements regarding ergonomics,
comfort, ad health).
 Adapted to the workers’ size, being adjustable
14.1.2 Manufacturer’s and entrepreneur’s duties
The European legislation sets a number of duties on manufacturers regarding the PPE which they commercialise.
PPE must:
 Give the protection offered.
 Be reliable.
 Have been revised (having passed all kinds of tests).
 Have CE marking.
The entrepreneur must make PPE available to workers, as well as pay for them, store them, and maintain them
properly, have them repaired if necessary, and replace the defective one.
14.1.3 Use of PPE: worker’s duties
For the use of PPE, workers must comply with the following:
 Regularly control if the PPE is in good condition.
 Use the PPE in the adequate way (following the manufacturer’s instructions).
 Take care of the PPE, of its correct maintenance and cleaning according to instructions.
Página 85 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

14.1.4 Types of PPE

There are several types of PPE. It is the nature of the risks which will define the type of PPE to be used, which is
necessary and the most adequate.

14.2 Protection of eyes and face

Eyes and face protections have different possible shapes: safety glasses, glasses with panoramic glass or protective
goggles, facial screens, welding goggles, welding visors, welding hoods, or welding helmets.
Attention: contact lenses do not offer any protection. In a dusty environment contact lenses may even pose a danger.

14.2.1 Safety glasses

Composition  Frame in non-flammable material (metal or plastic)
 Made of safety glass or of plastic (for example, polycarbonate)
 Lateral protection against oblique projections
Pictogram

Protection The eyes

Protection against  Small projected particles.

 Spills of chemicals
Adequate for the following tasks  Regrinding, milling, lathe work...
 Work with use of compressed air
 Painting, varnishing, transferring and mixing dangerous products.
Use  Do not lean them on the glass side.
 People using graduated glasses must use spectacle covers or safety glasses with
graduated glasses
Maintenance  Clean the glasses with running water and dry with a soft cloth

Replacement  In case of tear (for example, scratching) and wear

14.2.2 Protective goggles.

Composition  Panoramic frontal glass.

 Elastic band surrounding the head (or hard hat)
 Air vents at the top: open of dust-tight to prevent excessive sweat
Pictogram

Protection  The eyes

Protection against  Dusty environments.

 Small projected particles
 Spills of chemicals.
Use for the following tasks  Regrinding, milling, lathe work
Página 86 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

 Work with use of compressed air

 Painting, varnishing, transferring and mixing dangerous products.
Use  Do not lean them on the glass side
 Certain models can be used above standard glasses
Maintenance  Clean the glasses with running water and dry with a soft cloth

Replacement  In case of tear (for example, scratching) and wear

14.2.3 Facial screen

Numerous work situations present risk to all the face and not only the eyes, which need protection from metallic
particles, stones, wood, or liquid spills of chemicals or cleaning products.
In these cases safety glasses do not offer sufficient protection. For that reason protective screens must be used.
Composition  Plastic or safety glass screens which protect the whole face
 Temporarily equipped with a chin guard
 It can be totally or partially integrated into a hard hat
 It can be raised
Pictogram

Protection  The eyes and eyesight

Protection against  Steel or any other material projections

 Incandescent projections
 Spills of liquids
Use for the following tasks Adapted for the following tasks:
 High pressure cleaning
 Work performed above the head
 Work in high tension installations (sparks, electric arcs)
 Work with chemicals
 Work with chainsaw, trimmer … (metallic grid equipment)
 Less adequate for spills projected from below
Use  The screen can be combined with safety glasses
 Facial screens used for high pressure cleaning and for work with acids must be
equipped with a chin guard
Maintenance  Clean the glasses with running water and dry with a soft cloth

Replacement  In case of tear (for example, scratching) and wear

14.2.4 Welding glasses

Composition The lenses are made up of two layers:

 A window with safety glass aimed at protecting the eyes against the projection of
metallic chips
 A window with tinted glass aimed at protecting the eyes against aggressive light
radiations and heat

Página 87 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

Pictogram

Protection  The eyes

Protection against  Heat

 Light, UV and IR rays of limited intensity
 Incandescent projections and metallic chips
Use for the following tasks Adapted for the following tasks
 Autogenous welding. Attention: welding glasses are not adequate for electrical
welding
 Work in the proximity of welding work where there are no separation screens
 Handling of a bare flame.
 Related techniques (cutting or scouring)
 Attention: welding glasses are only adequate for the formation of a limited amount
of incandescent projections. In case of abundant projections (for example, while
cutting metals) use a welding helmet to protect the face
Maintenance  Clean the glasses with running water and dry with a soft cloth

Replacement  In case of tear and wear

14.2.5 Welding bells, helmets, screens, hard hats, or masks

Composition  To be held on the head (hood)

 To be held manually (screen)
 Integral helmet with optional automatic adjustment
 Made of leather (mask)
Pictogram

Protection  The eyes and the eyesight

Protection against  Heat

 Light, UV and IR rays
 Incandescent projections
Use for the following tasks  Electrical welding
 Autogenous welding
 Related techniquesSoldadura eléctrica.
 Cutting and scouring
Maintenance  See the maintenance instructions specified with the method of use

Replacement  In case of tear and wear

Specifications related to welding work  The tint of the glass will be determined according to the nature of the work to be
done
 The windows of the hood, of the welding screen or the safety glasses will be
Página 88 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

provided with a code (number) which indicated the intensity of welding which can
be done with that protective window. If the number is high, the protection is higher
 The welder, as well as their assistants, must wear eye protection
 The people present in the proximity of the welder must be protected and must not
be exposed to the light rays without eye protection. Collective protection (for
example, a welding screen) would be an adequate solution

14.3 Hearing protection

Above a sound level of 80 dB (A) hearing injuries may appear. The employer will make hearing protection available
to workers exposed to noise of average intensity, over a period of 8 hours, above such limit. When the level of sound
pressure reaches 85 dB (A) the use of hearing protection is mandatory.
There are several types of hearing protection which may be worn on the ears.
Note: Damping of sound level
Damping of sound level by PPE depends on the type of protection and the method of use, its adaptation, etc. The
correct method of use will accompany the PPE.
14.3.1 Foam ear plugs
Composition  Plastic-coated and film-coated (a single use)
 Made of foam (reusable)
Protection  10 dB (A)

14.3.2 Ear plugs

Composition  Plastic or foam malleable swabs to insert in the ear

 Made of foam (reusable)
Protection  10 - 15 dB (A) of damping

14.3.3 Universal ear plugs

Composition  Specially pre-shaped ear plugs

 Equipped with a band to place around the neck
Protection  15 to 30 dB (A) of damping, according to the sound level

14.3.4 Plastic hearing prosthesis (Otoplastics)

Composition  Adapted to the worker’s ear (ear print)

 Provided with a replaceable or adjustable filter which damps noise
 Advantage: It allows understanding the human voice
Protection  25 dB (A) of damping according to the type of filter

14.3.5 Ear muffs

Composition  Equipped with guard which cover the ears totally

 There are modern models which allow radio communication
 In case of insufficient protection, the worker can combine the ear muffs with
ear plugs
Protection  Maximum 25 dB (A) of damping according to the type of muffs and the

Página 89 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

sound frequency
Use  The muffs must be adjustable with adjustable flaps

Maintenance  Clean the sealing rings with water and soap periodically.

Replacement  In case of deformation of the flaps

 In case of wear, of cracks in the protective pads (the pads are full of liquid)

14.4 Protection of the respiratory tract

Wearing protection of the respiratory tract is necessary when one may be exposed to dangerous substances
(vapours, gases, fogs) or irritating dust with risk of inhalation. It is equally necessary when the concentration of
oxygen at the workplace is too low. The choice of the protection of the respiratory tract will be made according to the
nature of the risks, the duration of the exposure, and the conditions of use.
14.4.1 Models of protection of the respiratory tract
The equipment for protection of the respiratory tract is divided into categories. In each category there are different
models:
 Masks with anti-dust filter.
 Single-use masks (for example, masks which cover the mouth and the nose).
 Facial masks (half or complete masks) with integrated or threaded connection mechanism.
 Masks with anti-dust or anti-vapour filter.
 Facial masks (half or complete masks) with threaded connection.
 Independent protection with air supply with bottles, a system of compressed air.
 Complete facial masks, helmets, or respiratory protection bells with a flexible hose for air supply from the
bottles.
 Independent protection with supply of fresh air.
 Mask with a flexible hose of aspiration of fresh air from the outside to work in a space with contaminated
atmosphere.
With filter masks the air from the workplace is purified (filtered). The contamination substances (dust, gas, or
vapours) are retained by the filters. Filter masks do not supply oxygen! We are speaking about respiratory protection
dependent on the atmosphere of the place.
With independent respiratory protection pure air (not coming from the workplace) is pumped into the mask (the air is
pumped, for example, from an air bottle, respiratory hose, a network of compressed air, or a breathing air unit).
14.4.2 Which protection of the respiratory tract must we use?
Filter protection of the respiratory tract is used:
 When the concentration of dangerous substances is higher than the Exposure Limit Value during the
performance of the work.
 When we must urgently evacuate an environment with dangerous substances.
 Only in confined spaces when the concentration of oxygen is sufficient (minimum 19%).
Independent respiratory protection will be used:
 If the concentration of oxygen is lower than 19%.
 If the concentration of dangerous substances in the air is unknown or high.
 In confined spaces when the concentration of dangerous substances is higher than the Exposure Limit Value.
14.4.3 General directive for the use of protection of the respiratory tract
In order to use any type of protection of the respiratory tract we must have, before use, instructions and practice.
 To wear a mask the worker must know the instructions (when to use it, how to put it on, when to replace it).

Página 90 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

 To wear filter masks, the instructions (when to use it, choice of the adequate filter, how to assemble it,
disassemble it and replace it, how to put it on the face, when to change it, maintenance, control) are not sufficient:
it is necessary to practise. Inexpert workers must, first of all, learn to work with the mask. It is recommended to
practise first in a clean atmosphere.
 To use independent respiratory protection the worker must have the training, acquired in a certified centre with a
mandatory exam.
Other use directives:
 Periodical maintenance and cleaning are most important.
 Always check that the filter is adequate to the gases, vapours, or dust to be filtered.
 The mask must be well adjusted. Always carry out the following control (leak test): place your hand on the mouth
of the mask and, if you cannot breathe, that means that there are not leaks.
 Attention to facial hairs (beard and/or moustache may cause leaks and prevent its correct functioning).
 The air for the respiratory protection bells, the hoses of air supply, and the air from the compressed air bottles
must be of good quality.
14.4.4 Filter masks
Dust masks
Composition  It covers only the mouth and the nose
 The mask is essentially or completely made of filter material.
Pictogram

Protection against  Solid and liquid particles (do not use in the presence of gases or vapours)

Use for the following tasks  Grinding, boring, polishing, sawing, milling and those other activities which
release fine dust to the environment
Composition  With or without exhalation valve. The valve considerably reduces the
temperature, the humidity of the air and the concentration of CO2 at the height
of the nose and the mouth, which makes its use more comfortable
 There are models of a single use (disposable, FFP code)
Maintenance  The mask is not efficient if it not well adjusted to the face

Replacement  Replace the disposable material after each use

 When breathing becomes difficult that means that the filter is saturated
 In case of deterioration
 If the inside of the mask is too humid

Masks with replaceable filter

Composition  Made of rubber, equipped with an integration device for dust filters and/or a
screw for gas and vapour liners
 Models:
 Quarter mask: it covers the nose and the mouth (little used)
 Half mask: it covers the nose, the mouth, and the chin
 Full mask: it covers the face completely

Página 91 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

Pictogram

Protection against  Dust, gases, vapours, according to the filter used. The colour and the code of
the filter indicate the type of protection offered
Use  In case of low and unknown exposure
 Periodical control and replacement are fundamental
Maintenance  Remove the filters and clean the mask with a lukewarm soapy solution and let
it dry
Adequate for the following tasks  Painting and varnishing
 Spray painting
 High pressure cleaning
Replacement  In case of deterioration
 The filters must be replaced:
 At regular intervals (consult the prevention system)
 For dust filters, when breathing becomes difficult (that means that the
filters are saturated)
 If you start to feel the effects of the dangerous substance (that
means that the filters are saturated)

14.4.5 Types of filters

The use of cartridges is limited in time according to the type of filter, the nature and amount of the dangerous
substances present in the work area, as well as the amount of air inhaled (light or heavy work). after prolonged use
dust filters are obstructed, as well as gas and vapour filters, which become saturated and become inefficient.
Dust filters
Dust filters are divided into three categories, identified by letter P (for “particles”), with the figure 1, 2, or 3. The higher
the figure, the higher the capacity to retain particles. Particle filters have the code in white colour.
Protection of dust filters
P1 Protection against irritating dust

P2 Protection against noxious dust

P3 Protection against toxic dust.

Gas and vapour filters

Gas and vapour filters are divided into different categories according to the type of gas or vapour to be filtered, and
into three classes according to the absorption power. This does no mean that a class 3 filter protects better than a
class 2 filter. For gas and vapour filters, a higher figure means a higher capacity of absorption. In other words, if the
class is higher, the concentration of gas and the time of exposure will be higher.
Gas and vapour filters do not protect against dust particles, except in the case of combined filters. The type of filter
can be identified thanks to the letter and the colour on the filters.
GAS AND VAPOUR FILTERS

FILTER COLOUR APPLICATION

A Brown Organic gases and vapours whose boiling point is ≥65º (for example, toluene,
ethanol)

Página 92 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

AX Brown Organic gases and vapours whose boiling point is <65º (for example, acetone,
pentane)
B Grey Inorganic gases and vapours (for example, chlorine)

E Yellow Sulphur dioxide and hydrogen chloride

K Green Ammonia and amines

NO-P3 Blue- White Nitrogen dioxide (for example, exhaust fumes), with P3 particle filters

Reactor-P3 Orange Radioactive mud with P3 particle filters

CO Black CO (carbon monoxide)

Hg-P3 Red- White Mercury vapours, with P3 particle filters

14.4.6 Respiratory protection independent of the environment

Some gases and vapours cannot be retained by a filter. These problems appear when there is a great deal of a
dangerous substance in the air, contamination of unknown origin, or in case of lack or excess of oxygen. Then it is
necessary the use of protection equipment with supply of clean air.
Composition  Mask or helmet with automation
 Automation is a system in which the pressure of the pumped air is reduced to a
pressure adequate for breathing (respiratory or lung automation)
 Supply of air by means of oxygen bottles, an air hose, or a network of compressed air
 Bell
 It is put on the head freely, leaning on the shoulders. The air is pumped to the left of
the bell from the front of the body
 Supply of air by means of an air hose from a network of compressed air
 There is also a model in which one inhales the air in the mask by means of a hose
(fresh air equipment)
Pictogram

Protection against  Lack of oxygen

 Intoxications or condition in the respiratory tract (caused by dust, gases,
vapours, fumes …)
Use  A medical check-up must have been passed
 For equipment connected to a network of compressed air:
 Ideal for work which needs little movement
 It cannot be used if the outlet presents difficulties or risks
 Never use an oxygen bottle instead of a compressed air one
 For autonomous equipment with compressed air bottles:
 The time of use is limited
 For compressed air equipment with 2 bottles, it is necessary to make sure that both
bottles are on
 When the air supply generates too much noise hearing protection must be used

Página 93 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

Maintenance  Control the functioning and tightness before use

 Clean and disinfect the masks and the bells after use
 Clean and keep the bottles of compressed air as indicated in the use instructions
Adequate for the  Fire fighting
following tasks  Work in areas with little oxygen
 Shot-blasting and blasting
 Actions in chemical and petro-chemical industry
 Work in confined spaces
 Work in highly contaminated areas (for example, radioactivity)
Replacement  In case of deterioration
 A periodical control must be carried out by competent personnel (flowing VCA, at
least annually)

14.5 Head protection

The safety hard hat protects the head against fall of materials, bumps …

Composition  The external part is rigid and is aimed at preventing bumps from affecting the head
 The internal part rests on the head and distributes the crash forces by means of the harness
 Metal cannot be used for hard hats as it is an electricity conductor.
Pictogram

Use  It is important to adjust the hard hat properly on the head (always well adjusted, never loose)

Protection against  Fall of objects and bumps

Replacement  The service life of a hard hat is determined by the type of material that it is made of. The
method of use will be the guideline. The manufacturing date is engraved inside
 After certain time (see method of use)
 After having received an important impact (fall of an object or bump)
 If it is cracked

14.6 Protection of hands and arms.

Composition  Gloves are made of a great variety of materials. When choosing them, it is important to
check that they are adequate to the type of work to be carried out and that the material is
adequate. An inadequate choice of gloves can be more dangerous than not using them
 There are different types of simple gloves, gloves protecting the wrist, and gloves protecting
the forearm.
Pictogram

Use  Gloves resistant to mechanical, cutting risks

 Insulation gloves for heat and cold
 Plastic or rubber gloves in the presence of dangerous substances (replacing leather or textile

Página 94 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

gloves which allow the passing of dangerous substances)

 Gloves made of leather, of textile fabric, or a combination of both, adequate above all for
work of mechanical effort. Attention: do not use gloves in the proximity of mobile pieces
without protection to prevent trapping
Protection against  Sharp or rough objects
 Heat
 Cold
 Radiations
 Dangerous substances
Replacement  In case of deterioration
 In case of dirt
 In case of wear

Sensitivity in fingers.
For certain work the use of gloves decreases the skill necessary to carry out the work as the sensitivity of fingers is
substantially decreased. For that reason it is very important to the adequate gloves (made of flexible material) will be
available in order to carry out precision work. These gloves must be made of flexible material, their service life and
level of protection are lower and they must be replaced more often (for example, weekly).

14.7 Protection of feet and legs.

Composition There are different models:
 With reinforced toe (in steel, aluminium, or compound material)
 With anti-perforation insole (in steel or compound material)
 Sole with resistant pattern sole (anti-slip)
 Antistatic
 Resistant to oils, grease, and dangerous substances
 Low, ankle-high shoes; short, knee-high boots; gaiters
Pictogram

Protection against  According to the material used, safety footwear protects against:
 Mechanical risks: bumps, fall of objects, penetration of sharp objects
 Thermal risks: heat and cold
 Chemical risks (dangerous substances: immersion, spills, and fogs
 Electrical risks: static electricity
 Movement, which involves a burden for our feet and joints
 Slipping or stumbling (sprains and fractures)
 Excessive transpiration and humidity (skin condition)
Adequate for the The environment and the type of work determines the choice of footwear:
following tasks  In construction: safety footwear with reinforced tip and anti-perforation insole
 In the presence of water or dangerous substances: safety boots
 In areas with risk of explosion: antistatic shoes for the worker not to accumulate electric
charges due to the activity or to cleaning – footwear with a good anti-slip sole may be sufficient
Maintenance and  Regular maintenance and application of grease
storage  Humid footwear should not be dried close to heating
 Store footwear in well ventilated places

Página 95 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

Replacement  Deterioration of the sole (cracking, perforation), …

 Anti-slip pattern is worn out
 The reinforced toe is broken
 In case of contact with dangerous substances (for footwear not design for that purpose), ...
Composition Different models:
 With protective toe made of steel, aluminium, or compound material (impact resistance 200J)
 With anti-perforation insole made of steel or compound material (penetration resistance
1,100N (or 110K).
 With anti-slip sole, energy absorption at the heel, and optionally with reinforced toe.
 Resistant to oil, base greases and moderate acids.
 Antistatic (electrical resistance between 100Ω and 1,000Ω).
 Leather collar, occasionally reinforced with textile fabric resistant to wear. For footwear, S2 and
S3 resistance to water, and S1 and S1P ventilation and resistance to perforation.
 Other control points: solid counter (protection of Achilles’ tendon). Lightly padded protection of
the ankle and the bridge of the foot (tongue).
 Technical textile cover which absorbs humidity and ensures the best ventilation. optionally:
winter cover.
 Replaceable ergonomic insole.

Safety footwear – work footwear.

Protection for the feet is divided into three main types: safety footwear (safety norm S), protective footwear (safety
norm P), and work footwear (safety norm O). There is a number of common features which all safety footwear
comply with. All type S shoes and boots must be provided with a reinforced toe which resists an impact of 200J. Type
P protective footwear offers protection up to 100J. Type O work footwear does not offer protection against impacts. In
addition to protection against impacts, the different types of protection can offer complementary protection (against
humidity, slipping, static electricity …).

14.8 Protection of the body

The skin protects against external disturbances, but cannot protect us against all possible risks. Adapted work
clothing offer supplementary protection, often necessary. There are very different types of protective clothing adapted
to different work and manufactured with all kinds of materials.

Work clothing versus protective clothing

There is a difference between work clothing and protective clothing. Work clothing is not individual protection
equipment. On the contrary, protective clothing offers protection against specific risks and is considered as IPE.
Composition  Different models:
 Work clothing: overalls, trousers, jacket, shirt, and apron.
 Protective clothing: partial protection (for example, the apron), clothes in different pieces or in a single
piece) for example, the overalls, special combination for special work with chemicals).
 Signalling clothing is used to call the attention over people who must work in conditions of deficient
visibility. They are made in special bright colours (red, yellow, orange) and of reflecting materials.
Pictogram

Protection According to the material used, clothing protects against one or several risks:
against  Dangerous substances (chemical, biological, radioactive …).
 Cuts.
Página 96 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

 Heat in the form of radiation, flames, spills of incandescent projections (for example, molten metal).
 Cold.
 Rain and other bad weather conditions.
 Poor visibility.
Adequate for The environment and the type of work determines the choice of clothing:
the following  Signalling clothing: in work situations in which it is important to be seen (road workers, police officers …).
tasks  Work clothing (overalls, jacket) which protects against dirt.
 Protective clothing in case of exposure to dangers.
 Anti-cold and insulation clothing for low temperatures
Use  Protective clothing must not be loose in order to prevent the worker from being hooked on protrusions, door
knobs, or trapped by a machine.
 Use instructions must be followed strictly.
Maintenance  Do not blow compressed air on the clothing to clean it; that will spread the dust or dirt.
 Protective clothing needs specific maintenance and must not be simply washed in a washing machine.
Normal washing programmes may affect the protective features of the clothing.
 Immediately remove contaminated clothing (for example, by dangerous substances), cleaning it or
replacing it. By doing this you will prevent your body from contacting the dangerous substance.
Replacement  Have the torn or worn out clothing repaired or replaced immediately.
 After a single use, discard disposable clothing.
 In case of great dirt.
Composition  Work clothing: generally made of cotton, or polyester and cotton.
 Protective clothing: according to the dangers, they are made of different materials and fibres, either
combined or not.
Use  Clothing must fully cover plain clothes.
 During a break, leave the work / protective clothing in the locker room.
 Clothes arrangements (for example, taking up trousers) are not generally authorised because they
decrease the protective function.

14.9 Anti-fall protection

Work in height presents serious risks, even a fall from a small height may cause serious injuries. When there is risk
of fall from a height of more than 2m, and if the risk cannot be prevented by using collective protection (for example,
perimeter protection, railings) it is mandatory to use anti-fall individual protection (safety harness).
Composition Two models:
 A position system which will prevent fall at the workplace, made up of a safety harness and a rope
joined to a safe anchorage point. See the location of the anchorage point and the length of the rope,
sufficiently away from the place where the fall may happen.
 A soft landing system which will absorb the fall, made up of a safety harness, a bag air cushion, and
a rope fixed to a safe anchorage point.
Pictogram

Use  Before using an anti-fall system the workers must be trained with specific instructions.
 Check that the straps are tight and adjusted to the user.
 Use the position system so that the fall will be impossible and that it allows the worker sufficient
freedom of movement to perform the work.
 Use the soft landing system so that the height will be limited to the maximum and the shock of the

Página 97 de 98
 HSE
HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT MANUAL

fall will be absorbed as far as possible.

Control  During the service life of the equipment a control of the condition of its components must be carried
out (especially for tear and wear).
 The control of anti-fall protection systems and harnesses must be done by a control organism (in
Belgium the External Technical Control Service SECT):
 Every twelve months.
 When the harness has been used to arrest a fall.
Maintenance  Straps and ropes must not be dirty. Good maintenance of ropes and straps is fundamental. Dirt and
and storage grease stains must be cleaned immediately with adequate means according to the manufacturer’s
instructions.
 Regularly clean the textile parts and let them dry away from heat sources.
 Bag air cushions and connectors must be kept in a dry place
Composition  A harness is made up of adjustable straps at the level of the shoulders and the legs, generally
completed with an abdominal strap. In case of fall, the straps on the shoulders and below the legs
absorb the shock on the body uniformly in case that the harness has been correctly tightened and
adjusted.
 The rope is equipped with a fall absorber which absorbs part of the energy of the fall (by friction,
deformation, or tear).
 The rope must be tightly fixed to a safe anchorage point.
 The anchorage point can be fixed or be equipped with a mechanism which will unroll the rope in all
its length. If the anchorage point is mobile, it moves along a rail (lifeline) at the same time as the
worker, and the length of the rope does not change.
Use  The safety harness must not be used as protection of people (nor for lifting loads!).
 Anti-fall protection must be protected against aggressive elements: sharp corners, aggressive
chemicals, too high or too low temperatures, exposure to excessive light …
 The anchorage point must be perpendicular to the worker.
 The anchorage point must be sufficiently solid. Furniture, windows, radiators … must not be used as
anchorage points.
 Shortening or lengthening the rope is forbidden.
 For safety reasons, abdominal straps must not be used to absorb a fall.
Replacement  In case of deterioration (the worker controls before use of there is wear and tear).
 After absorption of a fall.
 If the material is considered obsolete after control.
 The service life of an anti-fall protection system greatly depends on the use.

After a fall
When a person is protected by the anti-fall system this is still not considered as a danger under control. Generally,
the person cannot release themselves. They must be helped by workmates. At that moment, help must not be
delayed as the belt and the straps cut blood circulation to the lower limbs, which nay cause loss of consciousness or
even death after 10 to 20 minutes. Therefore, work must always be done accompanied, at least two workers. The
second person can ask for help and try the rescue.
The person who is arrested by the anti-fall equipment must try to keep blood circulation moving by stretching the legs
in order to decrease pressure on the legs.

Página 98 de 98