V/210/99

 

 

 

Safety checklist

 

for

 

The Textile Finishing Industry

 


Table of contents

 

Why a safety list?___________________________________________________ 2

Procedure_________________________________________________________ 2

Step by Step Plan___________________________________________________ 2

Summary of employees and their activities_________________________________ 4

The checklist______________________________________________________ 5

Plant and machinery_________________________________________________ 6

Mechanical lifting____________________________________________ 6

Moving parts_______________________________________________ 6

Machine safety______________________________________________ 6

Rough surfaces and sharp objects________________________________ 7

Uncontrolled movements_______________________________________ 7

Machine maintenance_________________________________________ 8

Electrical safety_____________________________________________________ 9

Electricity__________________________________________________ 9

High Voltage_______________________________________________ 10

Hazardous substances______________________________________________ 11

Substances________________________________________________ 11

Regulations________________________________________________ 11

Storage and stocking_________________________________________ 11

Handling__________________________________________________ 12

Release and spread of dangerous substances______________________ 12

Fire and explosion hazards____________________________________________ 13

Fire prevention_____________________________________________ 13

Fire detection______________________________________________ 13

Fire fighting________________________________________________ 13

Mains services_____________________________________________ 13

Explosion hazards___________________________________________ 14

Transport________________________________________________________ 15

Internal Transport___________________________________________ 15

Garage entrance and exit______________________________________ 15

Physical safety____________________________________________________ 16

Noise____________________________________________________ 16

Contact with heat___________________________________________ 16

Radiation__________________________________________________ 16

Health___________________________________________________________ 17

Occupational diseases, industrial accidents and absence due to illness___ 17

Stress____________________________________________________ 17

Relational stress____________________________________________ 17

Ergonomics_______________________________________________________ 18

Machines_________________________________________________ 18

Work and working postures____________________________________ 18

VDU work_________________________________________________ 18

Loads____________________________________________________ 18

Emergencies______________________________________________________ 19

First-aid___________________________________________________ 19

Escape routes______________________________________________ 19

Emergency lighting__________________________________________ 19

Emergency procedures_______________________________________ 19

Workplace and premises_____________________________________________ 20

Environment_______________________________________________ 20

Lighting__________________________________________________ 20

Persons falling______________________________________________ 20

Premises__________________________________________________ 21

Personnel facilities___________________________________________ 21

Access to premises__________________________________________ 21

Policy and organisation______________________________________________ 22

Training and Instructions_____________________________________ 22

New technology____________________________________________ 22

Working with third parties_____________________________________ 22

Motivation of personnel (health and safety)________________________ 22

Protective equipment_________________________________________ 23

Machine and product purchases________________________________ 23

Permits___________________________________________________ 23

 

 

Why a safety list?

Of all companies, the impact of sickness, an accident or incidents, is the greatest for small businesses or organisations. The loss of one machine or the temporary unfitness for work of one employee has an appreciable impact on the productivity and efficiency of the entire organisation. Small businesses must, when compared with large ones, make up for a deficiency with fewer means and personnel.

The causes of the loss are usually attributable to unsafe and unhealthy situations at work. In order to prevent them, it is very important to know what the at-risk areas in your company are. You can track down risks and hazards by carrying out a risk inventory and assessment. Once they are known, you can reduce them (and finally prevent them) by taking appropriate measures. The likelihood of loss or injury is thus reduced.

This checklist is to be the basic document for the works manager wanting to improve health and safety in his workplace. Going through this list together with staff also constitutes a step towards a more competitive and efficient business.

In order to provide the assurance of a safe and healthy environment, the legislators have made carrying out a risk assessment mandatory (89/391/EEC). This checklist does not relieve you from this obligation, but it will be an aid to making it easier to meet the legal stipulations.

The checklist does not assume any prior additional theoretical knowledge. This means that it can simply be used by anyone in the trade. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to consult the competent persons or authorities.

Procedure

The checking principle is simple but in order to conduct it properly you must make sufficient time available. You should allow 4 hours fully to cover this checklist. In order to make the best use of this booklet, you should go through it step by step. It is not necessary to work through the booklet at one go, but we do recommend that you do so.

            Part 1

In part one, you will find a table where you fill in the workers concerned and their activities. This table will help you to achieve a better overall view of the business and the various jobs.

            Part 2

Part two contains the checklist as such. The list is subdivided into four columns. Column 1 shows a summary of the various items requiring attention which come up in the questions and hints in column 2. These questions are not exhaustive. It is possible that certain questions will not apply to your business or that additional questions will be required. You can adapt the list yourself to your business. Column 3 gives a number of solutions to correct problem items. Important items requiring attention which must be advised to personnel are marked (*). The black dot (l) is ticked if there is room for improvement. If the situation does not require any action, then the white dot (¡) is ticked. Where the subject does not apply, you will leave column 3 blank.

Important problems in the trade are given additional emphasis with the "L" symbol. Special measure which are particularly effective are indicated with a "J".

            Part 3

Part 3 contains useful addresses for more information.

Step by Step Plan

In the next step you will draw up a list of the problem items according to the extent of their effect on safety. In prioritising problem items, you can take the following criteria into consideration:

 

·     risk elimination takes precedence over risk reduction

·     collective measures take precedence over individual measures

·     many people take precedence over few people

·     little money, substantial result takes precedence over much money, little result.

 

You will link these remarks to the action to be taken, a person responsible and a target date. If required, you can describe matters in more detail (e.g. budget available). By dealing with problem items systematically, you will work step by step towards an improved safety policy in your business.

 


Summary of employees and their activities

Employee

Main Activity

hours/day

Subsidiary Activity

hours/day

Details*

William O.

fork lift truck driver

5

maintenance

3

 

Stephen D.

warper

8

 

 

back ailments

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

*  Are the employees qualified for the job? (fork lift truck drivers, electricians, etc.)

Has the work been properly distributed among the workforce?

Does the employee's health enable him to do this job?

Are there special risk groups working in the business, such as trainees, pregnant women, youngsters and disabled persons?


The checklist

 

The questions and hints should help you better to locate the problem

 

Employees must be briefed on action indicated with * at an information meeting.

 
 

 

 

 


Plant and machinery

¡ :   in order, under control

l :   not in order, to be improved

P

 
Possible problems

 

Questions and hints

 

Action

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

P

 
Mechanical lifting

w

Has the lifting machinery (overhead crane, hoists, etc.) and slinging equipment (chains, hooks, wire ropes, etc.) been approved recently?

w

Lifting machinery to be inspected periodically by a competent authority:

annually for mechanisms and structures

every three months for slinging equipment

 

 

 

¡

¡

 

 

l

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

P

 

w

Are machines checked regularly?

w

A daily visual check of the machine to be performed before starting work

*

¡

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

P

 

P

 
Moving parts

L

w

Are there machines with unprotected or unguarded moving parts?

w

 

-

Machines purchased or built in house after 1-1-1995 must be CE marked.

Moving parts which can be touched to be guarded

 

¡

 

¡

l

 

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Possible problems. If a problem is not relevant for you, proceed to the next item. You can make your own additions where necessary.

 

The action proposed here can help to reduce the risk. If the action has already been taken you can indicate this by ticking the white dot (¡). Action which has not as yet received attention must be indicated with the black dot (l). If it does not apply you just go on to the next point.

 
 

 

 

 

 



Plant and machinery

¡ : in order, under control

l : not in order, to be improved

Possible problems

 

Questions and hints

 

Action

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mechanical lifting

w

Has the lifting machinery (overhead crane, hoists, etc.) and slinging equipment (chains, hooks, wire ropes, etc.) been submitted for approval recently?

w

Lifting machinery to be inspected periodically by a competent authority:

-          annually for mechanisms and structures

-          every three months for slinging equipment

 

 

 

¡

¡

 

 

l

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

w

Are machines checked regularly?

w

A daily visual check of the machine to be performed before starting work

*

¡

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Moving parts

L

w

Are there machines with unprotected or unguarded moving parts?

w

 

-

-

 

-

Machines purchased or built in house after 1-1-1995 must be CE marked.

Moving parts which can be touched to be guarded.

Machines must not be capable of being started without safety devices.

Consider two handed operation of start buttons if no guarding can be fitted.

 

¡

 

¡

¡

 

¡

l

 

l

l

 

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

w

Is it possible to touch or get into machinery while it is in motion?

w

Danger areas to be clearly indicated and access impeded by suitable guarding.

 

¡

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Machine safety

w

Can a machine be stopped immediately in case of emergency or an accident?

w

Fit machines with emergency stops.

 

¡

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

w

Can unintentional starting be prevented?

w

 

-

The start button is to be placed such that it cannot be pressed unintentionally.

Start-up of very large machines to be preceded by an audible warning.

 

¡

 

¡

l

 

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

w

Is the control panel laid out safely?

w

The operator station to be arranged such that the operator is not exposed to any additional hazards. 

 

¡

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

w

Have machine operators been adequately trained (to avoid improper use of machinery)

w

-

Training and instructions to be given.

Safety instructions for operators to be drafted in the appropriate language(s).

*

¡

¡

l

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rough surfaces and sharp objects

w

Is there a danger of cuts?

·         corners

·         sharp points

·         shears

·         razor blades

·         ..................

w

-

Sharp implements to be put away after use.

Protective clothing (gloves) to be worn when handling sharp objects and materials.

*

*

 

¡

¡

 

l

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Uncontrolled movements

w

Is it possible for objects or equipment to move out of control?

 

w

Collective and individual protective equipment to be used.                                                            J

  • guards
  • safety footwear
  • [safety] helmet
  • gloves

 

 

 

¡

¡

¡

¡

 

 

l

l

l

l

 

 

  • fork lift truck swinging out

-

-

 

-

Fork lift truck drivers to be trained.

Other persons (e.g. pedestrians) to be kept at a distance as far as possible.

Audible warning for HGVs when reversing.

 

¡

 

¡

¡

l

 

l

l

 

 

  • loads swaying

-

-

 

-

-

Restrict manoeuvring speed of lifting machinery.

Unauthorised persons not to be permitted in the vicinity of hoisting machinery.

Never walk under loads.

The safe working load of machines to be observed.

 

 

 

*

¡

¡

 

¡

¡

l

l

 

l

l

 

 

  • loads or stacked goods falling from above

-

 

-

 

-

-

 

-

 

-

Individual protective equipment to be used when stacking goods (gloves, helmet, safety footwear).

Products to stacked tidily and stably (stacks not too high).

Robust storage racking to be provided.

Fork lift trucks with a sufficiently robust overhead guard (FOPS) to be used.

Ensure stability in transport (tied down loads if possible).

Provide passages of adequate width for vehicles.

*

¡

 

¡

 

¡

¡

 

¡

 

¡

l

 

l

 

l

l

 

l

 

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

w

Is it possible for machines to move unexpectedly during maintenance?

w

 

-

-

 

-

Isolate the electrical power supply before starting work.

Remove fuses.

Release energy stored up in the machine (e.g. hydropneumatic) before starting maintenance.

Immobilise moving parts during maintenance.

 

¡

 

¡

 

¡

¡

l

 

l

 

l

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Machine maintenance

w

Is preventive maintenance carried out on the various appliances and machines?

w

 

-

 

-

 

-

A maintenance scheme to be set up for the various machines.

Have the operator carry out routine maintenance or inspection of the machine daily.

Log book and maintenance manuals to be arranged for the various machines.

Steam piping to be checked as well.

 

¡

 

¡

 

¡

 

¡

l

 

l

 

l

 

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

w

Are anomalies in a machine notified explicitly?

w

-

Machine anomalies to be noted in the log book.

Deficiencies in the machine to be notified and (have) repaired as soon as possible.

 

¡

¡

l

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

w

Are the machines laid out properly?

w

 

-

Machines to be positioned such that it is possible to get past them easily.

Machines to be positioned in a logical sequence such that repeated walking about is avoided.

 

¡

 

¡

l

 

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

w

Is  work on machines clearly indicated?

w

Use signs whenever a machine is being worked on (e.g. maintenance signs)

*

¡

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Electrical safety

¡ : in order, under control

l : not in order, to be improved

Possible problems

 

Questions and hints

 

Action

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Electricity

w

Is there a plan of the mains electrical supply?

w

A plan of the existing mains electrical supply with the low voltage panels and circuits to be drawn up.

 

¡

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

w

Is there an inventory of the various items of electrical equipment with their specifications?

w

Draw up an inventory of the various items of electrical equipment installed with their specifications.

 

¡

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

w

Is the supply power rating suitable for the stock of machines?

w

Adapt the power supply to suit.

 

¡

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

w

Are there sufficient circuit breakers? (current protection, earth leakage circuit breaker, differential current circuit breaker, fuses)

w

Fit the necessary circuit breakers to suit the supply.

 

¡

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

w

Are the machines suitable for their environment with regard to moisture and dust?

w

Check the minimum IP protection rating.

 

¡

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

w

Is work on the power supply carried out by trained electricians?

w

Have electrical work carried out by trained workers only.

 

¡

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

w

Is the electricity supply subject to periodic approval?

w

Arrange inspection by an approved body:

·         for low voltage: every five years and when expanding the system

·         for high voltage: annually

 

 

¡

 

¡

 

l

 

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

w

Is there a danger of tripping over cables lying about?

w

 

-

Do not allow cables to run loose over the floor, but fix them in channels.

Avoid excessive use of extension leads.

 

¡

 

¡

l

 

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

w

Are electric cables, plugs and sockets and enclosures in order?

w

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

-

Carry out an in-house periodic check (e.g. annually) on all electrical appliances.

·         electrical equipment in use

·         leads

·         plugs

·         sockets

·         distribution board

·         generators

·         .................

Replace unserviceable plugs, sockets and cables at once.

 

 

 

¡

¡

¡

¡

¡

¡

¡

 

 

l

l

l

l

l

l

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

High Voltage

w

Is work carried out in the vicinity of (a) high voltage (booth)?

w

-

High voltage equipment to be properly screened off.

High voltage to be indicated with the appropriate pictogram.

 

¡

¡

l

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

w

Is the high voltage booth accessible?

w

-

High voltage booth door to be kept locked.

Prohibit access to unauthorised persons.

 

¡

¡

l

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

w

Is the high voltage booth still Askarel based?

w

 

-

Apply a pictogram with a St Andrew's cross to the door of the booth.

Askarel transformers must be replaced no later than 31-12-2005

 

¡

 

¡

l

 

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Hazardous substances

¡ : in order, under control

l : not in order, to be improved

Possible problems

 

Questions and hints

 

Action

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Substances

pigments

alkalis

acids

latex

wax

dust

.................

w

Has a record been drawn up of the hazardous substances and agents? (These are all substances with a label with an orange and black illustration on them, for instance a skull, St Andrew's cross. These may be: paints, cleaning products, etc.)

w

Set up a record of dangerous substances to include, among other things:

·         List of the substances

·         The quantity of the substance present

·         Safety information leaflet or MSDS on each product

·         The required permits (environment, discharge)

·         The manner and place of storage

·         Waste processing

 

 

 

¡

¡

¡

¡

 

¡

¡

 

 

l

l

l

l

 

l

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Regulations

w

Are the required precautions being applied as stipulated in the MSDS, permits and other regulations? (If in doubt consult the supplier or a competent authority.)

w

The prescribed precautions to be taken in respect of:

·         fire hazards

·         poisoning

·         waste disposal

·         individual and collective protective equipment to be made available.

 

 

¡

¡

¡

¡

 

l

l

l

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Storage and stocking

w

Is the stock being managed appropriately?

w

 

-

 

-

 

-

Hazardous substances to be replaced by less hazardous ones if possible.

Quantities of hazardous substances in stores to be restricted.

Substances to be stored screened off from the working areas.

Packaging of substances in stock to be checked at regular intervals (six-monthly).

 

 

¡

 

¡

 

¡

 

¡

l

 

l

 

l

 

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

w

Is the racking in the stores suitable for the stock, the volume and the chemicals?

w

 

-

-

Substances to be stacked properly in racking:
the heaviest at the bottom.

Drums to be provided.

Incompatible substances must not be placed next to one another (e.g. acids and alkalis, oxidants and reductants).

 

¡

 

¡

¡

l

 

l

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Handling

w

Are the substances in the working areas arranged appropriately?

w

-

 

-

 

-

Drums to be provided for the various containers.

Metal containers of volatile solvents to be earthed in order to prevent sparks.

The amount of any substance stored in the working area to be restricted. (no more than 1 day's stock)

Substances to be protected against impact.

 

¡

¡

 

¡

 

¡

l

 

l

l

 

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Release and spread of dangerous substances

w

Are steps taken to prevent substances and pigments from spreading?

w

-

 

-

Provide dust extraction when handling powders.

Powders to be replaced with dust-free granulated products.

Collection channels to be provided for colouring liquid spills.

 

¡

¡

 

¡

l

l

 

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

w

Are hazardous vapours or gasses or aerosols released when certain machines are being used?

w

Extraction to be provided to prevent the release of poisonous vapours or dust.

 

¡

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Fire and explosion hazards

¡ : in order, under control

l : not in order, to be improved

Possible problems

 

Questions and hints

 

Action

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fire prevention

w

Removal of possible sources of ignition.

w

-

-

 

-

Oily rags to be collected in metal waste bins with lids.

Smoking ban throughout the premises.

Heating elements to be checked at set intervals for proper operation.

Radiant heaters or other radiation which can cause fire to be properly adjusted and checked regularly.

*

*

*

 

¡

¡

¡

 

¡

l

l

l

 

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

w

Does the work involve fire permits?

w

Work which represents a fire hazard (such as welding) must have a fire permit before work starts.

 

¡

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

w

Is the fire load in rooms restricted?

w

Waste paper, pieces of material and other flammable material to be removed daily.

 

¡

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fire detection

w

Is there an automatic fire detector?

w

Consider the installation of an automatic detection system and fire alarm.

 

¡

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fire fighting

w

Are there facilities for fire fighting?

w

Install a fire extinguishing system with:

hydrants

hose reels

extinguishers

steam extinguishers

......................

 

 

¡

¡

¡

¡

¡

 

l

l

l

l

l

 

 

 

-

Conduct a periodic inspection of the fire system (detectors, fire extinguishers, fire blanket, automatic extinguishing system)

 

¡

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

w

Does the workforce have its attention drawn to fire prevention?

w

Draw up a fire alert and alarm procedure
(who does what in the event of fire).

*

¡

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mains services

w

Can the mains services (gas, water electricity, ventilation) be shut off centrally?

w

Facilities for shutting off mains services at a central and accessible location.

 

¡

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Explosion hazards

w

Are there any pressure vessels on the premises?

compressor

steam boilers

thermal oil

.......................

w

Arrange statutory checks on pressure vessels (pressure vessel ≤ 300 l, every five years).

 

¡

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

w

Can equipment be sealed off centrally in the event of leaks in piping?

w

Central shut-off of all pressure lines to be provided.

 

¡

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

w

Have the dust extraction system and dust silo been explosion-proofed?

w

 

-

-

Spark detector to be installed in the extraction system and / or silo.

Silo to be fitted with explosion panels.

Dust extractor to be installed outside the working area.

 

¡

 

¡

¡

l

 

l

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Transport

¡ : in order, under control;

l : not in order, to be improved

Possible problems

 

Questions and hints

 

Action

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Internal Transport

fork lift truck

pallet truck

pedestrians

.................

.................

w

Are the traffic areas in order?

·          surface

·          passages

·          visibility

·          hazardous areas

·          .................

w

 

-

-

--

-

Fill in potholes, replace loose and broken paving slabs.

Keep traffic lanes clear.

Erect signs and mirrors if necessary.

Indicate hazardous areas.

Remove waste and refuse.

 

¡

 

¡

¡

¡

¡

l

 

l

l

l

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

L

w

Is the transport equipment in order?

w

Daily visual check of machines before starting work.

*

¡

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

w

Do dangerous situations arise as a result of overloading transport equipment?

w

Maximum load range or safe working load to be indicated on transport equipment and observed.

 

¡

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

w

Is pedestrian and transport traffic kept apart?

w

Do not allow unauthorised persons in the transport area.

*

¡

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Garage entrance and exit

w

Is the garage entrance and exit in order?

w

Visibility on exit to be improved (e.g. placement of mirrors, removing vegetation).

 

¡

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

w

Is the unloading platform in order?

w

 

-

The edge of the unloading platform to be clearly indicated, a removable guard may be fitted.

Unloading platforms to be properly lit at all times.

 

¡

 

¡

l

 

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

w

Are unloaded goods placed immediately to one side.

w

-

Space to be provided for unloaded goods.

Unloading platform to be kept clear.

 

¡

¡

l

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Physical safety

¡ : in order, under control;

l : not in order, to be improved

Possible problems

 

Questions and hints

 

Action

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Noise

  • w
  • Is the workforce exposed to a great deal of noise?
  • w

Apply sound deadening where possible and in all cases where the noise exceeds the 85 dB(A) threshold.

·         maintain machines

·         noise screens

·         individual hearing protection

·         noisy machines to be placed in a separate room (e.g. centrifuge)

·         ........................

 

 

 

 

¡

¡

¡

¡

¡

¡

 

 

 

l

l

l

l

l

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

w

Does the noise mask danger signals (e.g. fire alarm)?

w

Use audible and visual warnings for danger where possible.

 

¡

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Contact with heat

w

Is there a risk of burns?

-          hot surfaces

-          heater tubes

-          thermal oil

-          hot machine parts

-          steam clouds

w

 

-

-

Guard heat sources and tubes, machine components, etc. against being touched.

Do not allow hot vapours to escape towards workers.

Fit valves for emergencies in the thermal lines.

 

¡

 

¡

¡

l

 

l

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Radiation

w

Does work involve hazardous radiation?

·          UV radiation

·          IR radiation

·          High frequency waves

·          Microwaves

·          .................

w

-

 

-

Fit screening to prevent radiation emission.

Provide training for personnel and instructions for operating machines.

Individual protective equipment to be used.

 

¡

¡

 

¡

l

l

 

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Health

¡ : in order, under control

l : not in order, to be improved

Possible problems

 

Questions and hints

 

Action

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Occupational diseases, industrial accidents and absence due to illness

w

Does the workforce suffer from occupational diseases?

occupational deafness

contact eczema

respiratory disorders

digestive problems

..............................

What are the most frequent industrial accidents?

..............................

Is there a great deal of absence due to illness or a high degree of personnel turnover?

w

Occupational diseases and industrial accidents are signs that protective equipment or training are inadequate. (Together with the external accident prevention service,) Conduct a survey and draw up a record of industrial accidents time off work due to illness.

 

 

¡

l

-

Obtain advice on combating industrial accidents, occupational diseases and time off due to illness from several authorities (e.g. medical officer, insurers, social services, labour inspectorate, approvals bodies).

 

¡

l

-

Have personnel undergo a periodic medical examination. Especially people coming into contact with dyes, organic solvents, chemicals.

 

¡

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stress

w

Stress can be caused by the following:

·         irregular working hours

·         unforeseen interruptions

·         working against the clock

·         the absence of the ability to anticipate

·         taking important decisions in the absence of a superior

·         excessive demands

w

-

-

Draw up proper work schedules and plans

Supply the workforce with proper material.

Place the right person in the right place.

 

¡

¡

¡

l

l

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

w

Does the workforce receive feedback on work (positive or negative)?

w

Encourage internal communication and motivation; enable discussion of problems within the department.

 

¡

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Relational stress

w

Can problems be discussed?

Is there conflict between colleagues?

w

-

 

-

Conduct a well thought out recruitment policy.

Pursue an open-minded policy, ensure proper communication takes place.

Put groups and shifts together with care.

 

¡

¡

 

¡

l

l

 

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Ergonomics

¡ : in order, under control

l : not in order, to be improved

Possible problems

 

Questions and hints

 

Action

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Machines

w

Are there machines or equipment which are not "easy" to work with (uncomfortable posture)? Which require difficult actions to be carried out?

w

Equipment to be adapted to the workforce.

 

¡

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Work and working postures

w

Are the following working postures maintained / tasks performed over long periods

·         seated work

·         repetitive work

·         .......................

w

 

-

Provide jobs changes (by building variety into work schedules).

Provide standing supports or high seats for work requiring long periods standing.

 

¡

 

¡

l

 

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

w

Is heavy manual work performed?

w

Information to be given regarding proper working                                          J
 posture and the use of suitable tools.

*

¡

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

VDU work

w

Are the characters of suitable size, contrast and clarity?

w

Choose correct settings and position for the monitor.

 

¡

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

w

Does the screen flicker or are there reflections from light sources in it?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

w

Is the chair suitable?

w

Provide a proper chair, adjustable in height and with an adjustable backrest.

 

¡

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Loads

 

Are heavy loads lifted (manually)?

w

 

-

Avoid lifting loads manually (where possible provide mechanical aids).

Have workforce learn proper lifting techniques.

 

¡

 

¡

l

 

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Emergencies

¡ : in order, under control

l : not in order, to be improved

Possible problems

 

Questions and hints

 

Action

 

 

 

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

First-aid

w

Is there a first-aid box?

w

-

-

-

 

-

Supply a first-aid box.

Check box content regularly.

Arrange a first-aid register

Appoint a person responsible for first-aid and train him / her.

Provide a suitable first-aid room.

 

¡

¡

¡

¡

 

¡

l

l

l

l

 

l

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

Escape routes

w

Are aisles of adequate size throughout?

w

Aisles must be at least 80 cm throughout.

 

¡

l

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

w

Are emergency exits clear and signposted?

w

 

-

-

Emergency exit doors must open in the direction of escape.

Doors to be kept clear.

Escape routes to be indicated with pictograms.

 

¡

 

¡

¡

l

 

l

l

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

Emergency lighting

w

Is there emergency lighting?

w

-

Emergency lighting to be installed.

Check emergency lighting regularly for proper operation.

 

¡

¡

l

l

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

Emergency procedures

w

Are evacuation drills carried out?

w

Arrange an evacuation drill annually.

 

¡

l

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

w

Have personnel been trained for fire fighting?

w

Provide an exercise in fire fighting (primary intervention).

 

¡

l

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

w

Has the procedure in the event of accident or emergency been drafted?

w

Draw up a reporting procedure for emergencies.

Take account of special circumstances such as night or weekend work.

 

¡

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Workplace and premises

¡ : in order, under control

l : not in order, to be improved

Possible problems

 

Questions and hints

 

Action

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Environment

w

Is work carried out under extremes of heat or cold?

w

 

-

-

Make beverages (hot or cold) available as necessary.

Consider installing air conditioning.

Draught-proofing strips to be placed around openings.

 

¡

 

¡

¡

l

 

l

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Is there adequate ventilation?

w

Make provision for regular air changes (30 m3 per person per hour).

 

¡

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Is the heat generated by machinery discharged properly?

w

Make provision for heat from machines to be transferred outside.

 

¡

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lighting

w

Is there adequate lighting throughout?

w

 

-

Install adequate lighting. Pay particular attention to exterior lighting, stairs and the stores.

Select lighting in order to provide sufficient light and colour discrimination.

 

¡

 

¡

l

 

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

w

Is there a risk of being dazzled?

w

Avoid direct or indirect dazzling when entering or emerging from buildings or rooms.

 

¡

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

w

Is the frequency of the lighting such that rotating parts sometimes appear to be stationary?

w

Provide supplementary lighting with incandescent bulbs instead of fluorescent lamps.

 

¡

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Persons falling

w

Can persons fall, slip or trip up as a result of:

  • untidy passages and working floors, pits or holes in the working floor
  • unstable stairs and ladders

 

  • raised working areas
  • overhead working

 

w

-

-

-

-

-

 

-

-

 

Passages and working floors to be kept tidy.

Ensure working floor is even.

Fit handrails to stairs.

Ladders to be provided with non slip feet.

Balustrade or guarding to be provided.

Fall protection to be provided (in any case at a height in excess of 2 metres).

Use a proper ladder or scaffolding.

Place ladders at the correct angle.

 

 

¡

¡

¡

¡

¡

¡

 

¡

¡

 

l

l

l

l

l

l

 

l

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Premises

w

Are the premises suitable for the work?

w

 

-

The overall condition of the premises to be maintained.

Check floor strength and establish whether it is suited to the weight of the equipment.

 

¡

 

¡

l

 

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Personnel facilities

w

Are there changing rooms, canteen and sanitary facilities for personnel?

w

-

 

-

Sanitary facilities to be provided for personnel.

Changing rooms and washing facilities to be arranged.

Facilities for eating away from the workplace to be provided.

 

¡

¡

 

¡

l

 

l

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

w

Are these rooms clean and hygienic?

w

Rooms to be cleansed regularly (daily).

 

¡

l

 

 

 

-

Hot water supply to be placed outside the washrooms (carbon monoxide poisoning hazard).

 

¡

l

 

 

 

-

Rooms to be provided with proper ventilation.

 

¡

l

 

 

 

-

Heating and hot water supply to be checked regularly by an accredited specialist.

 

¡

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Access to premises

w

How are visitors and customers received?

w

-

Reception desk to be provided for customers.

Customers and visitors to be accompanied at all times on the premises.

 

¡

¡

l

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Policy and organisation

¡ : in order, under control

l : not in order, to be improved

Possible problems

 

Questions and hints

 

Action

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Training and Instructions

w

Are machine instructions clear, explicit and available to users?

w

 

 

-

Draw up simple and clear instructions for the various machines in the users' language (pay attention to safety precautions in  the instructions).

Arrange explanatory sessions which further explain certain aspects of work:

  • work co-ordination
  • aggression and racism
  • machine operation
  • lifting techniques                        J
  • training for working students
  • first-aid training for minor injuries
  • .......................

 

 

 

*

¡

 

 

 

 

¡

¡

¡

¡

¡

¡

¡

l

 

 

 

 

l

l

l

l

l

l

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

w

Are there any special groups working in the company: youngsters, trainees, working students, etc.?

w

Training and information to be extended to new recruits, trainees, youngsters, etc.

 

¡

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

New technology

w

Do workers required to work with new technology or to change machines receive training?

w

 

-

Training to be given to anyone starting to work with new equipment or at a new workstation.

Regular repetition of instructions to be provided.

 

¡

 

¡

l

 

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Working with third parties

w

Are workers from outside companies aware of the hazards on your premises??

w

Organise consultation meetings in which the other companies (contractors, suppliers) are advised of the hazards on your premises.

 

¡

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Motivation of personnel (health and safety)

w

Does the workforce have problems with safety precautions?

·         misuse or failure to use personal protection equipment.

·         unsafe conduct

·         failure to observe safety instructions

Do hazardous situations ever arise due to negligent behaviour on the part of an employee?

w

 

-

 

-

 

-

Discuss safety issues during informal explanatory sessions.

Provide safety training, repeat it regularly during safety talks.

Make instructions available for the use of protective equipment.

Train (arrange training for) the workforce to work with protective equipment.

 

¡

 

¡

 

¡

 

¡

l

 

l

 

l

 

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

w

Is the workforce aware of the risks?

w

Provide the workforce with information.

 

¡

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

w

Is the workforce involved in the accident prevention policy?

w

Provide for employee participation in the accident prevention policy.

 

¡

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Protective equipment

L

w

Is the required individual and collective protective equipment available for the various jobs?

-          collective protective equipment: provides screening from the hazard (e.g. noise screens)

-          individual protective equipment: is worn by the individual and only protects that person (e.g. ear defenders).

w

 

 

 

 

-

 

-

Make a list of the required protection equipment (personal and collective) for each place of work. Obtain information from the competent authorities  if you have any questions (medical officer, supplier, etc.)

Make protective equipment available to the workforce

Replace damaged protective equipment immediately.

 

¡

 

 

 

¡

 

¡

l

 

 

 

l

 

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

w

Is individual protective equipment used?

w

 

 

-

Consult the workforce when purchasing protective equipment such as safety footwear, gloves, clothing, etc.               J

Explain the correct use and purpose of protective equipment during explanatory sessions.

 

¡

 

 

¡

l

 

 

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Machine and product purchases

w

Is safety and user-friendliness of a machine assessed before purchase?

w

 

-

-

Carry out a thorough assessment of machines before proceeding with purchase.

Invite input from the workforce.               J

Allow the workforce to test the equipment.

Keep abreast of the latest technology and developments (in the fields of health and safety as well).                                     J

 

¡

 

¡

¡

¡

l

 

l

l

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Permits

w

Are the required permits to hand?

w

Is there a permit required and to hand for:

(temporary storage of waste

waste water discharge

.............................

 

¡

¡

¡

l

l

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

w

Are the terms of the permit being met?

w

Check regularly whether the terms of the permits are being met.

 

¡

¡

¡

l

l

l

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Further information or leaflets regarding certain subjects may be obtained from:

 

Commissariaat-generaal

voor de bevordering van de arbeid van het Ministerie van Tewerkstelling en Arbeid

[Office of the Commissoner-General for the promotion of employment of the Ministry of Employment and Labour]

 

Belliardstraat 51

1040 Brussels

Belgium

Tel: (02) 233 42 36

 

 

PREVENT

 

Instituut voor preventie, bescherming

en welzijn op het werk

 

[Institute for [accident] prevention, protection and health at work]

 

Gachardstraat 88 bus 4

1050 Brussels

Tel: (02) 643 44 44

Fax: (02) 643 44 40