This Safety plan is issued by Al Al Hillal Group of Companies(H.G) and defines the following: -

 

The Company Safety Policy, setting out the Company’s commitment to the achievement of safety for its employees.

The Organization and practices which have been developed to implement the overall Safety Policy making clear the responsibilities of personnel and functional groups.

 

Objectives of (H.G)  safety programs are: -

·                    To inherit safe working attitudes.

·                    To make all employees aware of the occupational safety standards that must be complied with.

·                    To provide guideline for correcting unsafe condition and unsafe practices.

 

The success of safety program requires the support and cooperation of every (H.G)  personnel. To achieve accident free work environment it is essential to have complete understanding of safety requirements that are to be practiced in the first place and then apply the proper management and controls to the work to ensure safe work area.

 

The word safety describes a philosophy, a policy and a program used for term like accident prevention, loss prevention and loss control. At (H.G), safety encompasses all aspects of risk control involving people, property and equipment. The implementation of such safety measures by (H.G)  Gives confidence to our clients and general public.

 

(H.G)’s ultimate goal in issuing this Safety Manual is to reduce exposure of its personnel to hazards thus providing a basis for awareness of safe work practices. (H.G)  employees and clients benefit from our philosophy –

 

 

 

It is the need, obligation and commitment to provide a safe and healthy environment for all (H.G) employees. Integral to the (H.G) Safety Policy is the belief that all actions are carried out to the highest levels of safety.

Maintaining these ideals mean, that the management of (H.G) will provide its full support of the supervision in carrying out its responsibilities to encourage the working practices of the (H.G) work force to a positive end. The responsibility for accident prevention rests with each individual (H.G) employee, thus guaranteeing safe methods of work practices for all the employees of (H.G) whilst maintaining the safety record of the company.

 

(H.G) Company involvement from its employees to produce positive suggestions with the aim of improving the levels of safety and efficiency of its operation are actively encouraged by the management of (H.G).

 

Overall the accident prevention program is a vital part of the day-to-day operation of (H.G). The Health & Safety plan is the basis for a uniform application of this company Safety Policy, which is consistent with the regulatory standards within Iraq.

 

All the operating staff of (H.G) including the employees at site, must be familiar with the Safety Manual contents and are expected to develop an effective safety program to enable (H.G) to achieve its commitment to accident prevention.

 

(H.G) assigns the utmost importance to safety and accident prevention to ensure that all employees are provided a safe and healthy work environment. The success of the policy requires all levels of personnel management and employees, to become totally supportive and to develop a thorough understanding of safety as it pertains to their respective jobs. The following responsibilities are assigned to accomplish this objective.

 

2.1                          Manager – Construction Projects Division

 

Manager – Construction Projects Division is responsible for overall administration of Safety, Health and Fire programs throughout the company. He is responsible to the Managing Director to ensures that the Company’s policies and procedures provides the means to identify and control hazardous operations, materials and facilities. By his leadership and support the Manager – Construction Projects Division encourages our Management to apply our Safety Policy in all company operations.

 

 

It is natural that the administration of safety, health and fire programs are part of the responsibility of the Project Manager who is over all in charge of construction activities at site as delegated by Manager – Construction Projects Division.

It is recognized that a strong support and active participation by the Project Manager is essential.

The Project Manager:

2.2.1                            Assures that the subordinates have thorough understanding of their safety responsibility.

2.2.2                            Establishes controls to assure uniform performance in compliance with safety and health program elements.

2.2.3                            Provides the Safety Section with necessary information required to evaluate the effectiveness of safety & health programs.

2.2.4                            Motivates the organization to result in the maintenance of high quality Safety & Health on all construction / work sites.

 

Safety Engineer is responsible for all administration of safety, health and fire prevention program. He will report directly to the Project Manager and serve in advisory capacity.

In carrying out his responsibility, the Safety Engineer:

2.3.1Serves as technical advisor to the Project Manager / Site Engineer’s in Safety & Health planning.

2.3.2Implements established policy, procedures and work practices to promote the company project safety and health program and administer assigned functions to aid in these overall responsibilities.

2.3.3Monitors compliance with mandatory safety and health laws, standards or codes.

2.3.4Conducts inspection of job sites, documents and reports any unsafe acts & unsafe conditions to the responsible Engineer / Supervisor for immediate corrective action.

2.3.5Tests the work environment and documents the results in order to eliminate or control hazard which could contribute to or result in an occupational illness.

2.3.6Arranges and conducts regular safety meeting for field Supervisors. Ensures that a foreman or representative from each unit is present at these meetings.

2.3.7Attends all weekly progress and/or schedules meeting to provide input regarding safety for current and future project activities.

2.3.8Ensures that unit supervisor conducts weekly “tool box” meetings with all personnel in attendance provides appropriate topic or discussion and initiates follow-up response to safety concerns addressed during these meetings.

2.3.9Investigates all incidents and accidents that could involve potential liability, maintains adequate records of relevant data and complies the required reports on experience.

2.3.10                    If assigned, monitors compliance with established pollution control and environmental protection standards and regulations.

2.3.11                    Arranges for securing safety permits based on site conditions. Performs air monitoring for harmful or explosive substance in the work environment.

2.3.12                          Ensure that all required notices, posters and other related literature is properly displayed for employees’ information. Organizes necessary safety propaganda program for promoting safety and health program for “Safety Awareness’.

2.3.13                          Recommends, selects and ensures that Safety, First aid, fire protection equipment are of relevant standards and also ensures that such material is always at hand.

2.3.14                          Assists Project Supervisor in the inspection of tools, equipment and facilities.

2.3.15                          Provides training to site personnel with regards to specific safe work practices / procedures, use and care of personnel protective equipment, and handling hazardous material / equipments.

2.3.16                          Identifies the safe areas near by the work place, locations of emergency facilities such as fire service, water, first aid clinic, etc.

2.3.17                          Ensures that all work forces are aware of such in 2.3.16.

 

 

The Project Engineer / Supervisor is responsible for all activities on his job including the prime responsibility for safety.

In carrying out his duty, he will make certain that:

2.4.1                      Safety rules, regulations and standards noted in this manual, and the laws and regulations of various statutory bodies are complied with and enforced.

2.4.2                      In the absence of dedicated safety officer, it is his responsibility to ensure safe working conditions to his subordinates.

2.4.3                      Employees are given adequate training and instruction.

2.4.4                      Safety inspections of job and equipment as required are carried out.

2.4.5                      Accidents receive prompt investigation and reporting and that the necessary corrective action taken.

2.4.6                      Weekly safety meetings are instituted.

2.4.7                      Work in close cooperation with the safety officer to eliminate and correct all practices and conditions that are deemed to be unsafe.

2.4.8                            Delegate safe work procedure that will ensure safe operation.

2.4.9                            Ensure that assigned tools and equipments are in sound condition.

2.4.10                       Inspect construction area to ensure freedom from unsafe conditions.

2.4.11                       Observe activities of subordinates to know they are following correct procedure.

2.4.12                       Accompany Safety Representative on site audits.

 

 

 

Each Foreman / Supervisor is responsible for workman, under his supervision with duties that include the following:

2.5.1                                              Maintain safe working conditions in all areas under his supervision.

2.5.2                                              Enforce the use of protective equipment, such as hard hats, safety boots, protective glasses, goggles, rubber gloves, etc., required by corresponding jobs.

2.5.3                                              Report all accidents to the safety supervisor and conduct investigations and interviews with those involved and witnesses.

2.5.4                                              Conduct weekly tool box safety meetings with craft person.

2.5.5                                               Inspect work areas for unsafe conditions and unsafe work practices, which are likely to cause personal injury or property damage and initiate corrective action immediately.

2.5.6                                              Enforce all sites and units the job safety rules.

2.5.7                                              Take appropriate measures to eliminate all recognized hazards.

 

 

Each employee is expected to perform his duty in a safe manner, complying with established policies, rules regulations and standards. Every employee is required to adopt safe work practices and report all hazards that are expected and found. All injuries must be promptly reported to supervisor on the date of incident.

 

 

Project Manager to provide adequate facilities for employees to ensure prompt and efficient first aid and emergency medical care of injured or sick employees. If necessary, a first aid station will be provided on the project and will be manned by a first aid attendant whose responsibilities include:

2.7.1                      Reports to scene of accident and render first aid as may be needed in the absence of professional aid.

2.7.2        Treats injuries not requiring the attention of a Doctor.

2.7.3                      Mobilizes injured employees to the Doctor or hospital when necessary.

2.7.4                      Re-dresses treat old injuries as prescribed by Doctor.

2.7.5                      Maintains a daily first aid log of all injuries and treatments.

2.7.6                      Assists Safety Officer in drafting reports pertinent to the job site accidents.

2.7.7                      Requisitions first aid supplies as necessary.

First Aid – Work Instruction shall be issued to the relevant personnel of each project

 

 

 

 

2.8.1                            The safety performance of the identified subcontractor(s) will be evaluated based on the safety statistical documents they produce. Recommendations for selection will be given based on such safety evaluations.

2.8.2                            Selected subcontractor personnel working for (H.G) will be given safety induction and ensured that relevant PPE are worn, safety meetings / talks / training are conducted. These are assured through the periodic safety audits that are conducted by (H.G).

 

This overall administration of safety programs for the job site has been assigned to responsible individuals who are knowledgeable in aspects of accident prevention.

 

The fundamentals of safety program administration include safety orientation to new entrance of the projects, weekly safety meeting, weekly tool box meeting, routine safety inspections, accident reporting, accident investigation, first aid log, safety tagging & locking and safety warning notice.

3.1            Safety Orientation for New Employees

Prior to starting work, each and every new (H.G) employee will be given a safety orientation covering the project safety goals, mandatory rules & special craft requirements.

Orientations will be documented in a log, identifying the employee, the date and time of the orientation.

 

The coverage will include: -

 

          Mandatory Rules and Regulations

 

          Unexploded Explosive Ordnance Hazard

 

          Special Craft Requirement

 

          Emergency Evacuation

 

          Personnel Protective Equipment

 

          Accident Reporting

 

3.2     Pre-work Daily Safety Meeting Note / Regular Safety Induction Meeting

The daily / regular safety meetings will be convened by Safety Engineer and attended by various representatives of various crafts.

The function of these meetings will depend upon the size, craft and structure of each job site. The objective of such meeting is to accomplish the following.

Daily Safety Meeting will be carried out just before the start of work. This is to ensure that the job is being carried out taking all safety measures.

 

Review & establish management safety policies and procedures with all job sites.

Acquaint site personnel with the safety code and regulation.

Review routine site safety inspections, accidents and/or injury reports.

Relevant safety & health issues will be discussed and reviewed.

Invite suggestions from representatives for improvement of safety standards at site, which will be implemented with high esteem on priority.

All such safety meetings will be minuted and circulated in prescribed Proforma SF/(H.G)/001 – Safety Induction Register & SF/(H.G)/002A - Pre-work Daily Safety Meeting Note.

 

3.3     Tool Box Safety Meeting

Tool Box Safety Meeting will be conducted once in a week with all members of the craft attending. The meeting will be limited to ten minutes duration.

Foreman / Supervisor shall conduct/preside the meeting and discuss injuries and accidents, which may have occurred and measures taken to prevent it.

The Safety Engineer will attend the meeting and generate topical information weekly.

Craftsmen will be encouraged to bring up safety deficiencies and hazards, which they have noted, and to make suggestions for their correction and elimination. Foremen are responsible to respond to these concerns promptly.

Minutes of these meeting will be recorded on Tool Box Safety Meeting Note (SF/(H.G)/002) by listing those who attended, topics reviewed, suggestion & concerns, etc.

Note: As part of Safety Program Administration, all safety meetings will be documented and filed accordingly.

3.4                                    Safety Inspection

The (H.G) concern is with regard to identifying the unsafe condition, unsafe work practice and unsafe equipment by initiating appropriate corrective actions to ensure employees safety and compliance with regulatory safety standards.

Responsibility:

Safety Engineer / Officer shall conduct a continuous inspection of job site, noting / reporting all unsafe acts or conditions to the responsible craft Supervisor and Engineer to take corrective action. Inspection, findings and observations shall be monitored through records and shall be maintained for the duration of project. Then archived as per (H.G) Procedure No. (H.G)/022.

In the absence of Safety Officer, the Project Manager will ensure that safety inspections of the job site and equipments are maintained by delegating this responsibility to competent personnel.

Guidelines:

Following are considered when conducting the job site safety inspections.

Focus on general working conditions and work practices, housekeeping, protective equipments, tools and equipment, material storage, handling, etc.

Determine possible ways to solve problems by eliminating the hazard at its source removing or reducing the hazards by utilizing protective equipments, etc.

In situations of immediate threat to employees’ health or safety, take immediate action to correct the unsafe conditions and unsafe work practices.

Document all observations for review and listing appropriate recommendations for supervisory and deficiency correction. Conduct safety inspection weekly, follow-up on outstanding items from previous inspections.

Inspection Reports

Observation will be documented on Daily/Weekly Safety Inspection Form (SF/(H.G)/003A/003B) noting location, observation, recommendation for corrective action, and noting assignment of responsibility. The copy of inspection reports shall be sent to concerned Project Manager for information/action.

 

Weekly Safety Inspection Check List

 

 The Safety Engineer shall complete a Weekly Safety Inspection Check List (SF/(H.G)/003C). The checklist includes the usability/condition of fire extinguisher, availability of required first aid materials at the right places, condition of tools, etc. Check to be carried out for authorized/competent operators, current/valid Technical & Safety Certificates as applicable in case of plant equipment / machineries. In case of vehicles, checklist (SF/(H.G)/003D & 003E) shall be completed as required. A copy of the said checklists shall be given to Project Manager for information & necessary action.

3.5            Accident Reporting & Investigation

All accidents however serious they are or property damage of any extent and near miss accidents will be reported and investigated.

 

(H.G) believes in fact finding and not fault finding in investigating accidents so that further recurrences can be avoided, there by initiating corrective actions.

The procedure for investigation will be as under:

1.     An Accident Report Form (SF/(H.G)/004) to be duly completed by the injured employees Foreman/Engineer/Safety Engineer. A brief description of the nature of injury to be recorded. Should there be a witness to the accident, the witness shall be interviewed by asking appropriate listed questionnaire. Once the interview with the witness is complete, have the statements recorded in the SF/(H.G)/004 form. The witness is to read the recorded statement and sign with date in the presence of person/persons recording the statement.

Note: Do not let the witness read the injured employees description of the accident as it may alter the witness statement and what the witness actually saw or heard.

2.     The Foreman shall investigate the accident through enquiries, visual inspection & evaluation of accident scenario & offer an opinion of the accident cause. The Foreman shall also indicate what action that can be taken to prevent occurrence. He will then sign with date in his designated area and submit it to concerned Engineer.

3.     The concerned Engineer & Safety Engineer indicates the action taken to prevent the occurrence of the accident by signing with date in the position designated and passes on the form to Management for comments & action within 48 hours.

The Safety Engineering Section shall have a copy of the completed form and filed in the Injured Employee Personnel Files.

 

          3.6     First Aid Log

All reported work related injuries / incidents will be listed on the first aid log, whether or not first aid or medical treatment is provided. A copy of the first aid log will be submitted monthly to Safety Officer. The original log sheets (SF/(H.G)/005) will be placed in the job file and submitted together with all relevant documents to Project Manager at the conclusion of the project.

          3.7     Safety Tagging & Locking

Tagging and locking is done to prevent accidents caused by operating machine, elevator, lifts, switching on power, etc., unintentionally when work / maintenance is being carried out in these areas. To keep a track of this, a log sheets (SF/(H.G)/006) is to be completed as and when required. The Safety Tagging & Locking Tracking Log (SF/(H.G)/006) copy is given to Safety Engineer & Project Manager for information.

 

3.8     Safety Warning Notice

Employee who continue to repeat accident prone practices even after being made aware of it are issued with a Safety Warning Notice (SF/(H.G)/007). This notice mentions the violation practiced and the notification made with date. Corrective action to be taken / practices is given by the Safety Engineer. A copy of this completed form is given to Project Manager for information and necessary action.

 

3.9     Safety Records

 (H.G) will ensure that the safety forms and records are completed to provide objective evidence regarding safety requirements. Clients Safety Forms shall be used as per the contractual requirements if any.

                  

                   The following are the safety forms used by (H.G): -

 

                   1.       Safety Induction Register                                     SF/(H.G)/001

2.       Tool Box Meeting                                                SF/(H.G)/002

3.       Safety Committee meeting                                   SF/(H.G)/002A

4.       Pre-work Daily Safety Meeting Note                             SF/(H.G)/002A

5.       Daily Safety Inspection                              SF/(H.G)/003A

6.       Weekly Safety Inspection                                     SF/(H.G)/003B

7.       Weekly Safety Inspection Check List                   SF/(H.G)/003C

8.       Weekly Vehicle Safety Check List                        SF/(H.G)/003D

9.     Vehicle Safety Check List Attachment Sheet   SF/(H.G)/003E

10.     Dangerous Occurrence /Accident Investigation/Near Miss      Report                                                                                            SF/(H.G)/004A/B/C

11.     First Aid Log                                                        SF/(H.G)/005

12.                                                            Safety Tagging & Locking Tracking Log              SF/(H.G)/006

13.     Safety Warning Notice                               SF/(H.G)/007

14.     Monthly Safety Report                               SF/(H.G)/008

15      Safety Plan                                                 SF/(H.G)/009

The above said forms are as attached.

 

4.       GENERAL SAFETY & SAFETY REGULATIONS

         

(H.G) is responsible for their employees and equipments through out the duration of contract with the company. In this context following safety rules and regulations have been set up and will properly be made known to all employees. Any employee who carelessly disregards these rules shall be liable for disciplinary actions.

 

4.1                The entire company premise within the boundary fence is classified as hazardous or restricted area with the exceptions applicable.

 

4.2                Smoking is prohibited on work sits except where authorized.

 

4.3                All occupational injuries and illnesses, however small, must be reported to supervisor concerned immediately.

 

4.4                Submitting false or fraudulent information when reporting an accident or injury is unlawful and if found would be punished.

 

4.5                Horse play, gambling, spreading rumors, loitering, instigating acts against authorities, quarrelling, fighting and other misconduct are not allowed.

 

4.6                The use or possession of intoxicants or drugs on the job is prohibited. Any employee reporting for work intoxicated or under the influence of intoxicant will be terminated.

 

4.7                Dry battery or accumulator type electric hand lamp or flashlights, that are not of intrinsic safe type, approved, are not allowed in the company.

 

4.8                Private motors, cars, etc., are not allowed inside the company premises unless approved by the Management.

 

4.9                Keep clear of all unauthorized equipment and blind areas. Be alert to avoid swinging or suspended loads.

 

4.10           Be alert and follow all information and warning signs at all times.

 

4.11           Personnel protective equipments such as hard hats, safety shoes, eye protection and hearing as well as respiratory protection provided by company must be used as and when required.

 

4.12           Do not use compressed air to dust off your self or to clean about any area.

 

4.13           Unless authorized, do not attempt to repair or tamper with equipment that is not functioning properly, report malfunction to your supervisor.

 

4.14           Jumping on or off equipment or vehicles when in motion is prohibited.

 

4.15           Misuse of tools and equipment or nonuse of safety devices can result in injury to yourself or others. Do not use make shift or “jury rigged” tools or equipment to perform your job.

 

4.16       All fire protection and emergency equipment are plainly marked and must be kept free of obstruction for emergency use.

 

4.17       Unless specifically authorized, firearms, explosives, are strictly prohibited inside the company premises or within the work area.

 

4.18       Report all unsafe and unhealthy practices and conditions to your supervisor at once.

 

4.19       Only authorized and properly trained and supervised personnel are permitted to operate equipment, vehicles, electrical devices, valve and similar machinery.

 

4.20       Ride only in vehicle designated and designated for transporting personnel.

 

4.21       Do not smoke in areas marked “No Smoking” or near flammable gas or combustible material or their storage areas.

 

4.22       Store and use gas cylinders in a secure, upright position, with their valve/caps secure and the cylinders shielded from the sunlight.

 

4.23       Maintain good house keeping at all times. Keep waste, dustbin and rubbish clean up. Place all food wrappers, cups, cans, and other litter in trash containers, discard and/or store all oily trays, waste and similar combustible materials in metal containers provided for that purpose.

 

4.24       Riding on loads, slings, the ball, crane hook or other material hoisting equipment is prohibited except for emergency with proper safety measures.

 

4.25       Keep all machinery guards, guardrails and other protective devices in place and in good operating order.

 

4.26       Be alert at all times to conditions and work process in your area and surrounding areas ad with the presence of other workers and equipment so that you can foresee and avoid potential dangers.

 

4.27       Work area guidelines and regulations for environmental protection must be strictly followed. All hazardous material must be properly handled, stored and disposed off.

 

5.       MAJOR AREAS OF SAFETY

 

5.1            Electrical Safety

The installation, modification and maintenance of any electrical equipment will be performed by qualified electrician who has undergone formal training and having relevant experience, who is capable enough to perform the job in compliance with National Electrical Code by incorporating safe work practices.

 

(H.G) believes in having an electrical safety program implemented at construction sites. This will be accomplished by using one of two approved programs. One option is using Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI’S) while the other is using an Assured Electrical Grounding Program to provide this protection. Regardless of the program used, electrical tools will be double insulated type and will be maintained in satisfactory condition free from physical defects such as frayed or worn cords, broken plugs, broken housing, etc.

(H.G) Engineers shall ascertain before start of any operation by enquiry, direct observation or instrument if there are any energized electrical circuits, exposed or concealed with which the employees may come in contact and will provide maximum protection and warning against hazards. All the circuits and equipments will be clearly identified. Those under repair to be de-energized and will be tagged at all required points.

Any necessary open wiring will be made inaccessible to any unauthorized personnel. All electrical equipment & wiring in hazardous locations will conform to Standard Electrical Code for construction. Cords will be kept clear of working spaces, walkways or other locations and will be protected or elevated to protect accidental damages caused by sharp objects, projections, etc. Damaged cords, which are worn or frayed, shall be removed from service immediately.

Flexible cords will be used only in continuous lengths without any splice, except suitable molded or un-channeled splices may be used where properly made and the insulation is equal to the cable being spliced and wire connection soldered.

Extension cords used for portable tools will be 3 wire type and will not be fastened with staples, hung from nails or suspended by wire, worn or frayed electrical cords will be discarded.

Lighting on barricades, fences or sidewall coverings will be encased in metal raceway. To prevent accidental contact with the temporary lights, bulb guards will be provided except where the bulb is deeply recessed in the reflector. Temporary lights shall not be suspended by cord unless the fixtures are specially designed for that.

Welding and cutting machines will be properly grounded. Only insulated connectors of capacity at least equivalent to that of the welding cable would be provided / used to connect the cable or the cable lug for connecting cable.

5.1.1    Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI)

For the purpose of this example, construction sites are locations with incomplete structures or foundations, which generally involved mud, raw concrete and structural steel and which are usually exposed to the environment. An employee in any of these areas is in continual contact with ground and is exposed to electric shock by providing a path to ground for current.

 

A Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI) is a device that is used for the protection of personnel, that actuates to de-energize a circuit or protection there of within an established period of time when a current to ground exceeds some predetermined value that is less than that required to operate the over current protective device of the supply current.

 

When GFCI are used, the following applies:

a)                 All 120 or 240 Volts, single phase, 15 or 20 Amperes receptacle outlets, construction sites, which are not a part of permanent wiring of the building or structure and are used by employees will be provided with ground fault circuit interrupters for personal protection.

b)                Receptacle on a two wire, single phase, portable or vehicle mounted generator rated more than 5 kW and where the circuit conductors of the generator are insulated from the generator and all other ground surfaces, need not be protected with ground fault circuit interrupters.

 (H.G) feels GFCI protection is needed, only, when the receptacle for cord and plug connected equipment being used by employees, is design to be grounded. These cord sets are used as temporary wiring (i.e. as a substitute for the fixed wiring of a structure) to provide power to areas remote from the permanent receptacle outlet.

5.1.2    Assured Electrical Grounding Program

(H.G) is committed for assured electrical grounding program on each zone & project. The program guarantees the integrity of electrical equipment there by ensuring employee safety. This consists of visual inspection, testing and recording of test results of a predetermined schedule by a competent person.

A competent person shall be qualified, trained and experienced and is capable of identifying the existing potential hazards and working conditions that are likely to be hazardous or dangerous to the safety of employees.

Visual Inspection:

Employees shall be instructed to visually inspect receptacles, flexible cord sets / extension cords, and equipment connected by cord and plug before each use for external defects, such as deformed or missing pins, for damage insulation and for indication of possible internal damage.

Where there is evidence of damage, the tool or equipment shall be immediately brought to the attention of supervisor and removed form service. It will be tagged until tests and any required repairs have been made before it is returned for service.

Testing:

All equipment grounding shall be tested for electrical continuity.

Each receptacle and attachment plug will be tested for correct alignment and insertion. The equipment-grounding conductor will be connected to its terminal.

Equipment will be tested,

a)                 Before issue

b)                Before equipment is returned to service following any repairs.

c)                 Before equipment is used after any incident which can be reasonably suspected to have caused damage.

d)                At intervals decided by the duration of usage and issue date and or Stores Equipment Test Register.

          Record of Tests:

Test performed as required by the procedure will be recorded in a separate log sheet.

                   5.1.3  Static Electricity

Static Electricity is a build up of an electrical charge within a body or ungrounded piece of equipment whenever there is an anticipated molecular movement around conductive materials. In the work place, it can cause dangers by its shock potential or explosive atmospheres.

Bonding is the mechanical joining of metallic parts to form an electrical conductive path, which will assure electrical continuity and the capacity to conduct safely any current likely to be imposed.

Grounding is conducting connection, whether intentional or accidental between an electrical circuit or equipment and a conductive path to earth.

Static charge & spark is the impulsive discharge of electricity across a gap between two oppositely charged points not in contact. Static charges may develop in the following circumstances.

Moving machinery such as belts, a belt running over a pulley, etc.

Moving non-conductive liquids, particularly solvents, which produce static electricity as they come in contact with other materials as they are discharged from a hose, transferred from container mixed or pumped, flow through a pipe or agitated in a tank.

Steam, air or gas flowing from any opening in a pipe or hose and if the steam is wet or the air or gas stream contains solid or liquid particulate matter.

Testing:

Testing for static electricity is advisable where flammable or combustible liquids, gases or dusts are processed or handled in the absence of property grounded equipment. The instruments, like, Neon lamp, electric circuit tester and electrostatic voltmeter can show the accumulation of static electricity.

Caution:      The person & testing instrument should both be grounded.

Controls with Static liquids

The accumulation of static electrical charges / sparks may be prevented by bonding, grounding and humidification.

To prevent static charge build up one may control (a) flammable vapor (b) air or oxygen or the (c) source of ignition. It is recommended to: -

1.                 Bond and ground equipment used in storing and handling inflammable liquids of low flash point and high electrical resistance. Non-metallic, non-conducting containers do not be specially bonded or grounded.

2.                 Minimize agitation of liquids or avoid splash filling.

3.                 Bond parts of a distribution line and system.

4.                 Filter with suitable clay or micro filters.

5.                 Slow down the flow of liquids.

5.1.4    Overhead Power Lines

Sometimes construction activity must take place in proximity to overhead power line. Electrical regulations contain specific requirements for the safe use of cranes and other mechanical equipment in such conditions. Contact between cranes, material being lifted and power lines can cause fatal accidents, equipment damage and disruption of utility services. To ensure adequate safeguards, construction work near to overhead power lines will conform to these procedures.

Inquiry will be made of the utility company or property owner or the concerned to have the power line removed and relocate in anticipation of work.

Electrical transmission equipment and power lines will be considered energized until the electrical utility or the owner of the lines has tested and indicated that it is not energized. When de-energized, equipment must be visibly grounded before work is to proceed. Assurance of circuit look out will be provided.

When it is not feasible to de-energize, or relocate power lines, minimum clearance (absolute limit of approach) of 10 feet plus 0.4 inch for each 1kV over 50 kV will be maintained between any crane part, handled material and power line.

Equipment to transit with no load and boom lowered will maintain a minimum clearance of 10 feet for 50 kV to 345 kV and 16 feet for up to 750 kV.

A person will be designated to observe the clearance of equipment and give timely warning to halt the operation should be the minimum clearance distance be reached or other need arises.

Access to the crane will be restricted to unauthorized personnel. A crane barrier radius will be established, and supported by non-conductive or insulated means.

No employee (other than operator) is permitted to make contact with the crane and lifted materials without approved insulating equipment when the minimum clearance is reached.

Emergency and first aid facilities will be made in advance with emergency services to respond to foreseeable emergency situations including life support and transportation. Adequate communication will be established and maintained between equipment operators & other personnel.

 

Upon completion of each lift, the designated coordinating employee will determine that all equipment and employees are clear of power lines before proceeding.

Special Precautions:

‘Do Not Work’ closer than minimum clearance. In exceptional circumstances the crane may work closer than the minimum clearance to energized lines. The owner of the line shall be so informed in anticipation of such work. If the lines cannot be de-energized and visibly grounded, other protection shall be used (i.e. cage type boom guard, insulating the lines, or proximity warning device). In addition the crane will be provided with an electrical ground directly to the upper rotating structure supporting the boom. The ground cable shall be capable of conducting the anticipated fault current with a minimum size of conducting the anticipated fault current with a minimum size of  #2 AWG copper wire. When attaching grounds, the ground clamp will be removed from the energized equipment unless insulating tools and personnel protective equipment is used. PPE consists of non-conductive ground, rubber mats, gloves and boots.

 

To dissipate induced voltages, following steps will be taken: -

a-   An electrical ground will be applied directly to the upper rotating structure of the crane.

b-  Ground jumper cables will be attached between the crane and materials being handled to stop any electrical charge if induced while working near energized transmitters.

c-   Involved personnel shall use personnel insulating protective equipment.

d- Combustible & flammable materials will be removed from the immediate area prior to operations.

 

5.1.5  Installation of Electrical Equipment

The main objectives to be considered when installing any electrical equipment are: -

Safety of personnel operating the installation.

Ease of maintenance work to be done during the life of installation.

While the most important criteria applicable to all types of equipment installation are: -

a)       Effective earthing provision.

Safe clearance from other remaining equipment.

Accessible means of complete isolation of the equipment.

Availability of working space and ventilation for maintenance personnel.

 

          A)      Earthing:

 

This consists of equipment earthing and also system earthing. For equipment earthing it is obligatory that the casing is to be provided with two separate and distinct connections to earth. That is the reason all equipment has the provision of two earthing points at suitable places on the casing. The idea of providing two connections is that even if by accident one connection is snapped either near the equipment or in the run of the earthing strip, positive connection to earth is always maintained.

 

B)      Isolation:

 

Any equipment installed should be acceptable of being totally isolated from the rest of the system. This is necessary not only when the equipment develops some fault in which case it has to be physically removed but also during routine maintenance when the personnel concerned can isolate the equipment and earth it effectively before commencing on any work.

 

To achieve the above, every transformer is provided with either circuit breakers or gang operated switch fuse units on both HT & LT sides. High and medium voltage switchgear is usually of the draw out type with double isolation feature. Motors usually have their starters located close by or when centrally controlled from MCC’s additional local push buttons control is usually provided.

 

C)      Working Space & Ventilation

Electrical equipment, when in service, carries current and is therefore a source of heat. Manufacturers always include in their specification, the parameter of temperature rise over ambient. For convenience and safety of the personnel, it is necessary to give thought to this problem right at the time of initial installation, especially for equipment installed indoor. Installation of exhaust fans in transformer cubicles and switch rooms for this purpose is common practice.

It is also necessary to ensure right at the time of initial installation that adequate working space and access to all parts requiring periodical attention are available. That is why the clear space is to be provided ‘around’ an indoor transformer as recommended below: -

 

                   Wall on one side   -        0.55 meter

                   Wall on two sides -        0.75 meter

                   Wall on three sides        -        1 meter

                   Wall on four sides          -        1.25 meters

 

Also for switchboards the ‘clear space’ stipulations are that,

A clear space of not less than 3 feet in width shall be provided in front of the switchboard.

Space, if any, at the back of the switchboard shall be either less than 9 inches (so nobody can attempt to get there) or more than 30 inches in width – in which case there shall be a passage way from either end of the switchboard clear to a height of 6 feet.

It should be noted that the above space clearances also ensure that emergency escapes to safety are made available to the personnel.

Inspection Before Commissioning:

 

After installation of any electrical equipment, before commissioning, these are to be inspected by qualified electrical inspector. He after inspection certifies that installation is in order and can be charged.

Before actual charging the following things should be checked and noted: -

Insulation resistance between conductors & earth.

Leakage current in milliamps during Hi-pot testing.

Check up whether all live exposed parts are insulated and whether clearances are sufficient to avoid danger.

Clearances of jumpers and other live parts from existing structures are adequate.

Whether cable trenches are filled/plastered or provided with suitable trench covers.

Check all earth points are connected to earth system.

Earth resistance measurements.

In case of outdoor structures, whether anti-climbing devices are provided or not.

Clearance of live equipment from the earth.

Check the tripping supply.

Check the battery voltage.

Danger boards are provided or not.

If these conditions are satisfied the clearance shall be given for commissioning.

 

 

A.               Hazardous areas are classified into three zones depending upon the degree of hazard.

1.       Zone 0 (Division Zero) Area:

An area in which hazardous atmosphere is continuously present falls in this category. Intrinsically safe apparatus (type ‘i’) can be used in this area.

However installation of electrical equipments in this zone has to be avoided as far as possible.

2.       Zone 1 (Division 1) Area:

An area in which hazardous atmosphere is likely to occur under normal operating condition falls in this category. In addition to the equipments permitted in Zone 0, flameproof type (type ‘d’) and pressurized (type ‘p’) equipments are allowed to be use in Zone-1 area.

3.       Zone 2 (Division 2) Area:

An area in which hazardous atmosphere is likely to occur only under abnormal operating condition falls under this category. In addition t o the equipments permitted in Zone-1, increased safety (type ‘e’) equipment are also allowed to be used in this area. Non-sparking equipments (type ‘n’) are also allowed in this area, if the ignition temperature of gas and vapor is above 200°C.

B.               Hazardous areas have been classified into the following zones also.

Locations are the areas in which flammable gases / oil vapors may be present in quantities sufficient to produce ignitable mixture.

 

Locations are the areas in which combustible dust may be present in quantities sufficient to produce explosive mixtures.

 

Location is the area in which ignitable fibers are present in sufficient quantities to form ignitable mixtures.

 

C.               Classification of Gases based on MESG:

 

For the purpose of flameproof enclosures flammable gases and vapors have been divided into four groups, (Group 1, Group IIA, Group IIC) based on the “Maximum Experimental Safe Gap” between their joints surfaces. The dimensions of the joints in a flameproof enclosure are maintained so that flame coming from inside to outside of the enclosure is cooled to a temperature below thee ignition temperature of the particular group of gases.

In addition to the above, for the purpose of flameproof enclosures and intrinsic safety equipments, flammable gases and vapors have been further classified into three sub-divisions namely,

                   Sub-division ‘a’

                   Sub-division ‘b’ and

                   Sub-division ‘c’

On the basis of Maximum Experimental Safe Gap (MESG) and Minimum Ignition Current (MIC).

D.               Classification of Gases based on Ignition Temperature

To facilitate selection of equipment, the flammable gases and vapors are also classified into six (6) groups based on ignition temperature of the gas.

          T1     -        450 °C

          T2     -        300 °C

          T3     -        200 °C

          T4     -        135 °C

          T5     -        100 °C

          T6     -          85 °C

The ignition temperature is the lowest temperature at which flammable gas mixtures will ignite. The surface temperature of the equipment should not at any moment exceed ignition temperature of the gas group.

E.      In addition to the above, following aspects have also been considered in the selection of the equipments in the hazardous area.

1)                Is the location indoor or outdoor

2)                Is it installed in freely ventilated area or not.

3)                Whether the gas is lighter or heavier than air.

4)                Whether the location is below or above the ground level.

In ordinary sense fire is the combination of fuel and oxygen in blazing combustion or in general fire is any combustion intense enough to emit heat and light. Fire grows and sustains itself in the reacting medium by the heat it produces.

Fire process can be symbolized in the fire triangle. This figure represents graphically that in order to have a fire, fuel, oxygen & heat must be present simultaneously. If any of these three factors is omitted, there will be no fire.

 

 

 

 

Fire Triangle

FUEL

OXYGEN