safety handbook - reunited scaffolding

2021

Safety Handbook

Issue Date: 01-2021 Issue: 01a Drafted By: DB Approved By: BF

Staff Handbook

Issue 1 (01-21) of 51

Contents

1.0 Introduction by the Managing Director ..................................................................................... 4 2.0 General Policy Statement for Health, Safety & Welfare ............................................................ 5 3.0 Environmental Policy Statement ............................................................................................... 6 4.0 Drug and Alcohol Policy Statement ........................................................................................... 7 5.0 Equal Opportunities Policy Statement ....................................................................................... 8 6.0 Fatigue Management Policy Statement ................................................................................... 10 7.0 Workplace assaults and Violence Policy Statement ................................................................. 11 8.0 Anti Bribery Policy Statement ................................................................................................. 12 9.0 Anti Slavery Policy Statement ................................................................................................. 13 10.0 Organisation for Health & Safety............................................................................................. 14 11.0 Important Contact Numbers ................................................................................................... 15 12.0 Health & Safety Advice ............................................................................................................ 16 13.0 Health & Safety Induction ....................................................................................................... 16 14.0 Communication with the Workforce ....................................................................................... 17 15.0 Reporting Accidents, Injuries, Near Misses & Property Damage .............................................. 17 16.0 Work at Height ........................................................................................................................ 18 16.1 Basic Safety Rules .................................................................................................................... 18 17.0 Manual Handling ..................................................................................................................... 19 17.1 Basic Safety Rules .................................................................................................................... 19 18.0 Safe Working Before & During Scaffold Erection ..................................................................... 21 19.0 Erection of Scaffolds (Tube and Fitting) ................................................................................... 22 19.1 Bases ....................................................................................................................................... 22 19.2 Setting Out .............................................................................................................................. 23 19.3 Bracing .................................................................................................................................... 23 19.4 Standards ................................................................................................................................ 23 19.5 Ledgers .................................................................................................................................... 23 19.6 Transoms ................................................................................................................................ 23 19.7 Ties.......................................................................................................................................... 24 19.8 Ladders ................................................................................................................................... 24 19.9 The Working Platform ............................................................................................................. 24 20.0 Dismantling of Scaffolds .......................................................................................................... 24 21.0 Storage & Stacking of Materials .............................................................................................. 25 22.0 Risk Assessments .................................................................................................................... 25 23.0 Method Statements ................................................................................................................ 26 24.0 Rescue Plans ........................................................................................................................... 26 25.0 Roof Work ............................................................................................................................... 27 26.0 Lifting Operations .................................................................................................................... 27 27.0 Knots & Hitches ....................................................................................................................... 28 27.1 Rolling Hitch ............................................................................................................................ 28 27.2 Timber Hitch ........................................................................................................................... 28 27.3 Figure of Eight ......................................................................................................................... 28 28.0 Work Equipment ..................................................................................................................... 29 28.1 Mobile Plant & Equipment ...................................................................................................... 29 28.2 Basic Safety Rules for Mobile Plant & Equipment .................................................................... 29 28.3 Hand Tools .............................................................................................................................. 29 28.4 Basic Safety Rules .................................................................................................................... 29 29.0 Safety Signs ............................................................................................................................. 30 30.0 Personal Protective Equipment ............................................................................................... 31 30.1 Head Protection ...................................................................................................................... 31 30.2 Hand Protection ...................................................................................................................... 31 30.3 Foot Protection ....................................................................................................................... 32 30.4 Skin Protection ........................................................................................................................ 32 30.5 Eye Protection ......................................................................................................................... 32

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30.6 Hearing Protection .................................................................................................................. 32 31.0 Fall Protection Equipment ....................................................................................................... 33 32.0 Hazardous Substances ............................................................................................................. 33 33.0 Asbestos .................................................................................................................................. 34 34.0 Housekeeping ......................................................................................................................... 35 35.0 Welfare Facilities ..................................................................................................................... 35 35.1 Personal Hygiene .................................................................................................................... 35 35.2 Hygiene - Basic Safety Rules .................................................................................................... 35 36.0 Smoking at Work ..................................................................................................................... 36 37.0 Adverse Weather .................................................................................................................... 36 38.0 The Use of Ladders .................................................................................................................. 36 38.1 Ladders - Basic Safety Rules .................................................................................................... 37 39.0 Overhead Power Lines ............................................................................................................ 37 39.1 Overhead Power Lines - Basic Safety Rules ............................................................................. 37 40.0 Portable Electrical Equipment ................................................................................................. 37 40.1 Portable Electrical Equipment Basic Safety Rules .................................................................... 38 41.0 Work Over Water .................................................................................................................... 38 41.1 Work Over Water - Basic Safety Rules ..................................................................................... 38 42.0 Protection of the Public ........................................................................................................... 38 43.0 Mobile Plant & Traffic ............................................................................................................. 39 44.0 Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPS) ............................................................................ 39 45.0 Transport ................................................................................................................................ 39 45.1 Convictions.............................................................................................................................. 40 45.2 Care of Your Vehicle ................................................................................................................ 40 45.3 Security of Vehicles ................................................................................................................. 41 45.4 Driving Tips ............................................................................................................................. 41 46.0 Drugs & Alcohol ...................................................................................................................... 42 46.1 Drugs & Alcohol - Basic Safety Rules ....................................................................................... 42 46.2 Organising ............................................................................................................................... 42 46.3 Testing Arrangements General ................................................................................................ 42 46.3.1 ‘For Cause’ Testing-Behaviour, Conduct or Appearance .......................................................... 42 46.3.2 ‘For Cause’ Testing-Accidents or Incidents .............................................................................. 43 46.3.3 Random Testing ...................................................................................................................... 43 46.4 ‘For Cause’ and Random Testing General Arrangements ......................................................... 43 46.4.1 General ................................................................................................................................... 43 46.4.2 Alcohol Testing ........................................................................................................................ 43 46.4.3 Drug Testing ............................................................................................................................ 44 46.5 Staff who declare a Drug or Alcohol Problem .......................................................................... 44 46.6 Disciplinary Arrangements ...................................................................................................... 44 46.7 Enforcement ........................................................................................................................... 45 46.8 Record Retention Periods ........................................................................................................ 45 46.9 Measuring Performance .......................................................................................................... 45 46.10 Reviewing Performance .......................................................................................................... 45 47.0 Fire .......................................................................................................................................... 45 47.1 Basic Fire Safety Rules ............................................................................................................. 46 47.2 Know Your Extinguishers ......................................................................................................... 46 48.0 Work on or Near the Railway .................................................................................................. 47 49.0 First Aid ................................................................................................................................... 47 50.0 Special Scaffolds & Scaffold Design ......................................................................................... 47 50.1 Scaffold Design - Basic Safety Rules ......................................................................................... 48 51.0 Scaffold Inspection & Handover .............................................................................................. 48 51.1 Inspection & Handover - Basic Safety Rules ............................................................................. 48 52.0 Lone Working .......................................................................................................................... 48 53.0 Conclusion ............................................................................................................................... 50 54.0 Acknowledgement .................................................................................................................. 51

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1.0 Introduction by the Managing Director

Everyone at work has responsibilities. The Health & Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 spells these out by stating the duty of the employer towards staff and the staff's duty to have regard for their own safety and that of others affected by their acts or omissions. The Company's commitment to play its part in the prevention of accidents is given in the statement of safety policy. You are asked to play your part by following the advice given in these pages. No work is completely free from risk and sometimes people get hurt, but these risks can be minimised if everyone takes reasonable care. The aim of this handbook is to set out basic rules for safety, which apply to the type of work you are doing. It will not tell you how to do your job. You will already know this. What the handbook does tell you, is how to conduct yourself whilst at work in order to avoid injury to yourself, your workmates, or indeed anyone else. The Company does not expect you to take chances or to work under hazardous conditions. If you are in any doubt about the safe and proper way to do any job, consult your supervisor. We want people who work for us to be SAFE and to be people who put safety first in everything they do. Please take the time to study this handbook and always feel free to discuss any safety matters with your colleagues and managers/supervisors. Our main activities as a contracting organisation, means that we are constantly faced with significant hazards and risks to health and safety, from both our own operations and our Client’s workplace. These hazards and risks need to be adequately controlled to eliminate or minimise those risks. You are required to read and understand the contents of this handbook. If you have any questions or if anything is unclear you must speak to your Supervisor before commencing work. You will also find additional detail in the company’s Health & Safety Policy Document and this will provide additional detail on the steps R Roebuck Scaffolding Ltd T/A Reunited Scaffolding will take to ensure your health and safety whilst working for us. Signed

Kevin Fidock Managing Director January 2021

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2.0 General Policy Statement for Health, Safety & Welfare

R Roebuck Scaffolding Ltd T/A Reunited Scaffolding is committed entirely to the preservation of our staff’s health, safety, welfare and the environment. We will, at the planning stage and throughout our processes from inception to completion, so far as is reasonably practicable, ensure the health, safety and welfare of everyone engaged in or affected by our activities taking into consideration 3rd parties. We will consider the environment when planning and carrying out our activities ensuring so far as is reasonably practicable minimal disruption and environmentally friendly techniques. For the purposes of health and safety, labour only subcontractors will be viewed in the same manner as directly employed personnel. We will through continual development and implementation ensure:

▪ Safe and Healthy working conditions and systems of work, which when carried out, will not affect our or others health, safety or welfare.

▪ Facilities for employer/Staff consultation on health and safety matters and discussions with

individual Staff before giving them particular health and safety responsibilities.

▪ A commitment to the provision of relevant information, instruction and training in respect of their Health and Safety which may arise out of their work or workplace.

▪ Safe arrangements for the use, handling, storage and transport of articles and substances,

extending to work equipment & company vehicles.

▪ Personal protective equipment, Respiratory protective equipment and Safety equipment to conform to statutory requirements.

▪ Continually strive to improve health, safety, welfare and environmental awareness,

▪ The Company further undertakes to ensure that adequate resources are available for the

implementation of this policy. This policy will be reviewed at periods not exceeding 12 months. Signed


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3.0 Environmental Policy Statement

Planned prevention or reduction of pollution is cheaper than rectifying after the event, it therefore makes sense to minimise waste and pollution, to reduce long term costs, e.g. treat and recycle water rather than pay extraction and discharge costs. R Roebuck Scaffolding Ltd T/A Reunited Scaffolding Limited’s policy begins with a consideration of the impact of the Company's activities on both the local and wider communities and will take account of transportation of raw materials, use of energy, distribution of finished product and discharge of emissions and wastes. The Company, therefore, has the following commitments and objectives to:

▪ Minimise disturbance to the local and global environment and to the quality of life of the local communities.

▪ Comply with all relevant statutory regulation.

▪ Maintain appearances and highest environmental standards within the Company premises.

▪ Take positive steps to conserve scarce and non-renewable resource.

▪ Assess, in advance if possible, environmental effects of new processes and developments.

▪ Provide necessary information and facilities to enable proper use, storage and disposal of

Company products to avoid harm to the environment.

▪ Provide necessary information to enable Staff to operate processes properly and minimise effects on man and the environment.

▪ Keep the public informed of major new projects in the locality.

To develop the business paying full regard to the environment and taking into account the view of all parties whose interest may be affected. The Company will act in accordance with appropriate codes of practice. Signed


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4.0 Drug and Alcohol Policy Statement

This Drugs and Alcohol Policy Statement is applicable to all personnel under the control of R Roebuck Scaffolding Ltd T/A Reunited Scaffolding Limited. The Managing Director shall take all reasonable steps to ensure that all relevant personnel are made aware of this Policy statement. Control measures include: -

▪ Screening for drugs and alcohol during employment with the company ▪ An annual, unannounced, random screening of a percentage of relevant personnel ▪ Reporting of results to the client and other interested parties ▪ Review of the Drugs and Alcohol Policy at least annually

No person under the company’s control shall: -

▪ Report, or endeavour to report for duty whilst under the influence of drugs or alcohol ▪ Report for duty in an unfit state due to the use of alcohol or drugs ▪ Be in possession of controlled drugs in the work place ▪ Consume alcohol or drugs whilst on duty

When being prescribed medication, relevant personnel shall notify their Doctor of the nature of activities they are engaged in. They shall ensure their Supervisor is immediately notified of any prescribed or “over-the-counter” medication being taken that may affect or impair their safe performance. Personnel that believe they have drugs or alcohol related problems and pro-actively raise the issue (i.e. not after being involved in an incident or being nominated for a test) shall be provided confidential support. However, other personnel in contravention of this Policy or Drugs and Alcohol Work Instruction shall be subject to appropriate disciplinary action. The company will monitor the effectiveness and adequacy of this Policy at least annually. Signed


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5.0 Equal Opportunities Policy Statement

R Roebuck Scaffolding Ltd T/A Reunited Scaffolding recognise the value of developing a working culture that is fair and 'inclusive' - enabling all Staff to make their distinctive contributions to the benefit of the business. We will therefore not tolerate discrimination of any kind on grounds that include: -

▪ Age ▪ Beliefs ▪ Colour ▪ Disability ▪ Ethnic origin ▪ Marital status ▪ Nationality ▪ Parental responsibility ▪ Part-time and fixed term status ▪ Race ▪ Religion ▪ Sex ▪ Sexual orientation

Our Aim

▪ To recruit, train and promote the best person for the job ▪ To make full use of the talents and resources of all our Staff ▪ To create a working environment free from unlawful discrimination, victimisation and

harassment in which every one of you is treated with dignity and respect What Does it Cover? All of our people policies are based on the principle of equality of opportunity for all including: ▪ Recruitment and selection ▪ Training and development ▪ Promotion ▪ Selection for redundancy Staff Duties Any form of discrimination may be unlawful and will not be tolerated by the Company. Staff are obliged to co-operate to ensure that the policy is carried out effectively. If their actions or omissions amount to either a breach of this policy or to unlawful discrimination, R Roebuck Scaffolding Ltd T/A Reunited Scaffolding will regard this as a disciplinary offence resulting, if appropriate, in disciplinary action which would include summary dismissal. Staff are required to comply with this policy when dealing with other Staff (including temporary or agency staff and consultants), job applicants, clients, supplier’s customers and contacts of the Company and anyone else with whom you come into contact during the course of your employment.

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Information and Support Equal opportunities awareness briefings will be available to all Staff, with additional training provided to all supervisors, managers and those involved in the Company's recruitment, training and promotion processes, and / or conducting the Company's grievance and disciplinary procedures. This briefing includes the moral and legal reasons for adopting an equal opportunities approach to these key areas. Making Sure the Policy Works In order to ensure that the documented approach is followed, we carry out regular and comprehensive audits. This includes the monitoring of all applicants for our position and we regularly review the ethnic profile of our workforce to ensure that our diversity policy is working in practice. Signed

Kevin Fidock Managing Director

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6.0 Fatigue Management Policy Statement

It is the policy of R Roebuck Scaffolding Ltd T/A Reunited Scaffolding to ensure compliance with the requirements of the Working Time Regulations 1998 and as such, Staff will not work more than 48 hours per week, when averaged over a seventeen-week reference period. Additionally, Staff will:

▪ Not work more than 13 turns of duty within any 14 consecutive days; ▪ Not work more than 72 hours within 7 consecutive days (Saturday - Friday); ▪ Have a minimum rest period of 12 hours between consecutive shifts. This may be reduced to

eight hours at the weekly shift changeover, in the case of staff working a shift pattern which rotates or alternates on a weekly basis;

▪ Not work more than 12 hours, including travelling time to and from work sites, in any one shift (or other lesser period) as appropriate to the health and safety requirements for the particular task to be undertaken.

If it is not possible for these requirements to be upheld on the grounds of critical health and safety matters, a risk assessment will be carried out that considers the nature of the work to be carried out and the recent working history of those involved. Only when this has been considered and authorised by the responsible Project Manager/Supervisor, will works be permitted to be undertaken. Signed


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7.0 Workplace assaults and Violence Policy Statement

The purpose of this policy is to set out R Roebuck Scaffolding Ltd T/A Reunited Scaffolding ’s policy and procedures on workplace assaults and violence. Management is required to actively support this policy and will not tolerate any instances of work-related violence, including verbal abuse, to our staff. The underlying principle of this policy is that all Staff have the right to be treated with consideration, dignity and respect and it applies to all staff working on and off our premises, including contractors and delivery personnel. Management will:

▪ Treat any reports of work-related violence, threats or abuse seriously and respond to ▪ them promptly; ▪ Record details of the incident where appropriate and give all Staff involved in the incident

full support throughout the process; ▪ Respond and consider seriously, any suggestions made by staff about how to improve

violence prevention and management, and give feedback to staff about their suggestions, including whether it will be taken forward and if not, why not;

▪ Set a positive example by reporting all incidents of violence and abuse and not tolerating abusive behaviour from customers and members of the public;

▪ Ensure that no Staff will be placed in a vulnerable position; i.e. lone workers are prohibited. All Senior Staff and Staff will:

▪ Recognise the potential for work-related violence and take action to resolve it early on; ▪ Refuse to accept instances of work-related violence directed towards you or others. ▪ Report any instances of violence, threats or abuse, including any details about when it

happened, who was involved and any relevant circumstances that may have contributed to the incident;

▪ Be supportive of colleagues who are victims or witnessed work-related violence; ▪ Suggest additional measures to managers which might help to prevent and manage work-

related violence; ▪ Act in a way that does not incite or increase the likelihood of violence.

Signed


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8.0 Anti Bribery Policy Statement

It is the policy of R Roebuck Scaffolding Ltd T/A Reunited Scaffolding to conduct all of our business in an honest and ethical manner. We take a zero-tolerance approach to bribery and corruption and are committed to acting professionally, fairly and with integrity in all our dealings wherever we operate. We are also committed to implementing and enforcing effective systems to counter bribery. This policy applies to all individuals working at all levels and grades, including senior managers, directors, Staff (whether permanent, fixed-term or temporary), consultants, contractors, and any other person providing services to us. For the purposes of this policy, a bribe is a financial or other advantage offered or given: -

▪ to anyone to persuade them to or reward them for performing their duties improperly or;

▪ to any public official with the intention of influencing the official in the performance of his duties.

This policy does not prohibit giving and receiving promotional gifts of low value and normal and appropriate hospitality. However, in certain circumstances gifts and hospitality may amount to bribery and all Staff must comply strictly with the company’s ethics policy in respect of gifts and hospitality. We will not provide gifts or hospitality with the intention of persuading anyone to act improperly or to influence a public official in the performance of his duties. We do not make, and will not accept, facilitation payments or “kickbacks” of any kind. Facilitation payments are typically small, unofficial payments made to secure or expedite a routine government action by a government official. Kickbacks are typically payments made in return for a business favour or advantage. All Staff must avoid any activity that might lead to, or suggest, that a facilitation payment or kickback will be made or accepted by us. Staff will be encouraged to raise concerns about any issue or suspicion of malpractice at the earliest possible stage. No Staff will suffer any detriment as a result of raising genuine concerns about bribery, even if they turn out to be mistaken. The effectiveness of this policy will be regularly reviewed by the Board. Internal control systems and procedures will be subject to audit under the internal audit process. Signed


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9.0 Anti Slavery Policy Statement

This Policy applies to all members, Staff, agents, consultants and those parties in our supply chain, wherever in the world they operate. Any reported breach of this Policy will be investigated and may lead to disciplinary action which subsequently could result in Staff dismissal. In the case of a report regarding a supplier, this will be investigated and if found to be founded in fact, will result in the supplier being permanently removed from our supplier list. Responsibility for reporting incidents of slavery The detection and reporting of slavery is the responsibility of all of us. You should raise any concerns about any issue or suspicion of modern slavery in any part of our business or supply chain at the earliest possible stage. Suitable channels of communication by which you can report confidentially any suspicion of slavery are detailed in firm’s Whistleblowing Procedure, which can be found in the Staff handbook. It is our approach to comply with all laws and regulations relevant to our business in all countries where we operate. Following the implementation of the Modern Slavery Act 2015, R Roebuck Scaffolding Ltd T/A Reunited Scaffolding is committed to maintaining and enforcing effective systems and controls to ensure modern slavery is not taking place anywhere within our own business or in any of our supply chains. Modern slavery is criminal activity and a violation of human rights. The deprivation of a person’s liberty by another in order to exploit them for personal or commercial gain is unacceptable. For these reasons, slavery and human trafficking is a matter of zero tolerance at Reunited Scaffolding Staff All Staff will be subject to checks to ensure they are legally allowed to work within the UK to ensure all Staff are protected under UK law. Any person’s that are highlighted as being at risk of exploitation will receive the full support of the Company. Non-Staff, Labour-Only Subcontractors and Agency Staff All persons who directly carry out work for Reunited Scaffolding will be afforded the same protections set out within this policy. All non-Staff workers will be checked for their eligibility to work within the UK. Any staffing agency used by Reunited Scaffolding will have to supply their own Anti-Slavery statement before any business is carried out. All staff involved in the engagement of suppliers must communicate our zero tolerance approach to all prospective parties at the outset of our business relationship and monitor our approach as appropriate thereafter. We may terminate our relationship with third parties engaged with us if they are proven to have acted contrary to this Policy. Signed Kevin Fidock Managing Director January 2021

Staff Handbook

10.0 Organisation for Health & Safety

As stated in the General Policy Statement the management of occupational health and safety at R Roebuck Scaffolding Ltd T/A Reunited Scaffolding is a line-management responsibility, as the line-management, from the Managing Director - through to Charge Hands, are charged with controlling the business operations. Health and safety is an integral part of all our operations, therefore each member of the line-management is charged with managing health and safety within their sphere of operation. The following organisation chart defines the hierarchy within the Company:

R Roebuck Scaffolding Ltd T/A Reunited Scaffolding Organisation for Health & Safety Management

Kevin Fidock

Managing Director

Bob Fidock

Operations Manager

Dominic Knight

Commercial Manager

Adam Hemmet

Contracts Manager

Supervisors

Scaffolders

Yard Transport

Cherry Cooke

Office Manager

Vicky Smith

Admin

Stef Holliday

Accounts Manager

Labourers Trainees

H&S Advisors

Staff Handbook

Issue 1 (01-21) of 51 *Selected images courtesy & copyright NASC

11.0 Important Contact Numbers

There will be an answering service on the office telephone when its unmanned giving emergency mobile numbers depending which member of staff on call out for emergencies.

Name Job Title Telephone Number

Kevin Fidock Managing Director 01462 600999

Bob Fidock Operations Manager 01462 600999

Adam Hemmet Supervisor 01462 338172

Office 01462 600 999 / 01462 338 172

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12.0 Health & Safety Advice

R Roebuck Scaffolding Ltd T/A Reunited Scaffolding employs the services of Simian Risk Group Limited as independent health and safety consultants to provide professional assistance and guidance to support the line-management. They are appointed as competent advisors and help discharge the Company’s duty under regulation 7 of the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999. The Health & Safety Consultants are responsible for keeping the Company up to date with occupational health and safety: new and changing health and safety legislation, case law, and best practice.

13.0 Health & Safety Induction

All new starters with R Roebuck Scaffolding Ltd T/A Reunited Scaffolding will be required to undergo health and safety induction training. This training will provide detail on what you can expect from your employment with R Roebuck Scaffolding Ltd T/A Reunited Scaffolding and what safety rules must be adhered to. Typically, the following will be covered: - ▪ Pay ▪ Working Hours ▪ Holidays ▪ Pension ▪ Probation Period ▪ Notice Periods ▪ Terms & Conditions ▪ Data Protection ▪ Accident Reporting ▪ Company Vehicles ▪ Work at Height ▪ PPE ▪ Competence ▪ Health & Safety Standards ▪ Sickness & Absence ▪ Discipline & Grievance ▪ Equal Opportunities ▪ Harassment & Bullying ▪ Responsibilities ▪ Organisation ▪ Responsibilities ▪ Risk Assessment ▪ Manual Handling ▪ Ground Conditions ▪ Power Tools ▪ Drugs and Alcohol ▪ Emergency Arrangements

All days off (unless in extenuating circumstances) must be booked 1 week in advance, if you require more than 3 consecutive days off, we require notice a minimum 2 weeks’ in advance (you can appoint another person to replace you in your absence).

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If calling in sick you must let the office, your supervisor or contracts manager know before 8.00 am by telephone call, email or text ( a post on the WhatsApp group is not sufficient) no contact will be taken as a “no show “and we operate a 3 strikes policy, 3 strikes = termination of your contract. During working hours, you are representing the company and we expect you to behave in an appropriate and professional manner, you are the shop window of the company and what our clients see, we are judged by your representation. Please be polite and courteous to clients and members of the public.

14.0 Communication with the Workforce

Toolbox talks will take place on a monthly basis covering topics relevant at that time. From time-to-time, these talks may be supplemented by other talks and discussions where circumstance demands. The company also operate a WhatsApp group and all Staff are expected to join the group and there will be communication through this group from time to time. You must post pictures of completed, adapted scaffolds at the end of each shift on the company WhatsApp group 15.0 Reporting Accidents, Injuries, Near Misses & Property Damage

All accidents or incidents which result in: - ▪ Injury to Company Staff, subcontractors or third parties. ▪ Any damage to Company or third-party property, plant or equipment. ▪ Near misses which could have resulted in an injury, damage or accidents. ▪ Environmental damage or pollution at Company premises, third party premises or sites. MUST be reported immediately or by the fastest possible means to: - ▪ Your Supervisor. ▪ Your Manager. ▪ To any other senior member of the Company should you be unable to contact any of the

above Reports MUST be made as soon as possible after they occur, but not more than 24 hours under any circumstances. All injuries or damage will be documented and where necessary investigated. All Reunited Scaffolding, Staff have a duty to co-operate with any investigation. All personal injuries MUST be recorded in the location Accident Book. If you are unable to do this yourself request that an entry is made on your behalf. Certain categories of major or reportable injuries or dangerous occurrences must be reported to the Health and Safety Executive under the RlDDOR Regulations. The company safety procedures, which are held centrally at Head Office, detail the reporting requirements for accidents.

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Reunited Scaffolding expects that all accidents, incidents and cases of property damage are reported without delay. There are no acceptable reasons for non-reporting 16.0 Work at Height

The potential to fall from height is the most significant hazard Scaffolders face on a daily basis. On average 3-4 Scaffolders are killed every year falling from height and many more receive very serious injuries that prevent them from working again. All Scaffolders working for Reunited Scaffolding must be CISRS accredited to the appropriate grade. Responsibility for maintaining CISRS accreditation rests with the individual Staff. Any scaffolding Staff who is exposed to a risk of a fall from height, shall wear and use fall arrest equipment in line with: - ▪ The latest edition of the NASC Guidance Note ‘SG4’ (Advanced guardrails, steps

etc.) ▪ Any additional local rules imposed by a client/customer. NB. Every scaffolding Staff must receive training in the above requirements and be familiar with the latest edition of SG4 and have watched the appropriate training DVD such as that provided by the company relating to Scaffolder’s steps. Labourers must not access any incomplete scaffold platforms unless they have been trained to work at height and authorised to do so by senior management. 16.1 Basic Safety Rules

1. Wear and use your Safety Harness and lanyard at all times whilst erecting, altering or

dismantling scaffolding. 2. Always inspect your Safety Harness and associated equipment before use, to check that it is

in good order. 3. You are expected to utilise the most appropriate means of fall protection available in the

circumstances. 4. The principles of SG4 must be used, tunnelling is not permitted. Use of the Scaffolders Step

is R Roebuck Scaffolding Ltd T/A Reunited Scaffolding preferred method of achieving collective fall protection.

5. Only ledgers, transoms and guardrails that are supported by load bearing couplers and do

not have a joint in the bay may be used as anchor points. 6. Always use ladder access and only climb the scaffold structure as a last resort, always

clipped-on and always on the inside. 7. Remain clipped-on when raising or lowering materials or create a safe handling bay (i.e.

Double guardrails etc) 8. Transoms must be spaced at 1.2m.

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9. You must remain clipped on when within 1m of an exposed edge. 10. Guardrails must be left in position ready for the dismantling process. 11. If in doubt ask! 17.0 Manual Handling

On average 30% of all the injuries to Staff every year are manual handling related. Scaffolding operations generally require intensive manual handling operations. Scaffolding materials, due to their nature (21’ tube and 13’ boards), require specialist handling techniques. These techniques are core-skills and an inherent part of the Scaffolders trade. A Scaffolder is not considered competent unless he/she can demonstrate the correct handling techniques. To reduce the risk of manual handling injuries all scaffolding operatives require training and instruction in the correct handling techniques and the precautions to be taken – before, during and after handling materials. The following basic safety rules offer basic instructions that should be observed. 17.1 Basic Safety Rules

1. Plan the laydown/storage areas to reduce the distance materials have to be manually

handled. 2. Only tackle loads that you can reasonably handle within your own physical capabilities.

Observe the guidance provided for maximum loads of scaffolding materials to be manually handled.

3. Eliminate some manual handling operations by using mechanical handling equipment and

manual handling aids e.g. light-line and fitting bag, Gin Wheel and Rope, Wheelbarrow, Trolley, Winch, Crane etc. NB. Lifting equipment should only be used when you are trained and competent to ensure that it is used safely.

4. Always use the correct ‘kinetic’ handling technique.

▪ FEET on a firm level base a comfortable distance apart (300mm). ▪ Use your LEGS and not you’re back to bend. ▪ HEAD raised slightly and CHIN tucked in to help straighten your spine. ▪ Keep your BACK straight. ▪ ARMS should be kept as close to the body as possible. ▪ A good grip with your HANDS is essential, with the weight taken by the palm and

base of the fingers. 5. Avoid twisting with the trunk of the body. 6. Always check the transit route before manual handling to ensure that it is suitable and free

from obstructions.

Staff Handbook


7. When handling long materials beware of damage to property, overhead electric lines, other people and moving vehicles.

8. Always raise and lower material in a controlled manner i.e. : -

▪ Chain materials hand to hand. ▪ Use manual handling aids e.g. light-lines and fitting bags. ▪ Use mechanical handling equipment e.g. cranes, winches, hoists and other lifting

equipment when arranged by your Supervisor/Manager.

Step 1 - Stop & Think ▪ Plan the lift ▪ Where is the load going to be placed? ▪ Are there any handling aids I can use? ▪ Is the load safe can it damage me? ▪ Is it stable can the contents move? ▪ Will I need a rest mid-way or to adjust my grip? ▪ Do I need help? ▪ What is my route like? ▪ How can I get close to the load?

Step 2 - Place the Feet ▪ Have the feet apart giving balance and a stable base for lifting (tight clothing

and unsuitable footwear makes this difficult). ▪ Place the leading leg as far forward as is comfortable.

Step 3 - Adopt a Good Posture ▪ Bend the knees and grasp the load as near level with the waist as

possible. ▪ Do not kneel or over flex the knees. ▪ Keep a straight back maintaining its natural curve. ▪ Tuck in the chin while gripping the load helps. ▪ Lean forward over the load if necessary to get a good grip. ▪ Avoid twisting, try to keep the shoulders level and facing the same way

as the hips.

Step 4 - Get a Firm Grip

▪ Try to keep the arms within the boundary formed by the legs. ▪ Ensure you get a firm grip. ▪ The grip depends upon the circumstances and personal

preference. ▪ A hook grip is less fatiguing than keeping the fingers straight. ▪ Alter the grip if necessary but do it as smoothly as possible.

Step 5 - Don’t Jerk

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▪ Carry out the lifting movement smoothly. ▪ Raise the chin as the lift begins. ▪ Use your legs. ▪ Keep control of the load throughout the lift.

Step 6 - Move the Feet

▪ Don’t twist the trunk when turning to the side

Step 7 - Keep the Load Close

▪ Keep the load close to the trunk for as long as possible.

▪ Keep the heaviest side of the load next to the trunk.

▪ At R Roebuck Scaffolding Ltd T/A Reunited Scaffolding we recommend as a general guideline

that a reasonable load for an individual should not be more than 25-30kg. ▪ For example if load weighs 40kg and all other steps have been

considered to eliminate or reduce the risk of injury, then it should be handled by at least 2 people using the correct handling technique.

▪ Unwieldy loads such as a long pole ladder should not be handled by 1 person only.

18.0 Safe Working Before & During Scaffold Erection

1. Examine all materials as they arrive or during unloading at site and remove any damaged or

defective materials. These should be returned to the yard and MUST not be used in the construction of the scaffold.

2. Ensure that all materials are stacked safely, especially if the work is over or near a public or

pedestrian thoroughfare. 3. Take all necessary precautions where street or overhead work is being carried out, to ensure

the public or others are not put at risk. This may mean the erection of diversion barriers and signs. "Men Working Overhead" notices should always be prominently displayed.

4. Special care must be taken when working in close proximity to overhead or adjacent power

cables. Treat all exposed cables and wires as "live". 5. Ensure you are in possession of all necessary job-related risk assessments, method

statements or permits to work, before you start work. 6. YOU SHOULD KNOW WHAT THE SCAFFOLD IS TO BE USED FOR! 7. Before starting work always report to the person in charge of the site.

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8. Look at the building or structure you are going to scaffold and if

you have any doubts about lack of tie positions, unsafe bases or walls, cornices, roofs or any aspect of the job - ASK FOR ADVICE - don't take a chance.

9. Don't block or obstruct essential services such as fire hydrants or

manholes, or doorways and fire exits. 10. When you leave the job, ensure materials are stored or stacked

safely and are not in doorways, on pavements or in the roadway.

11. Always ensure that "Scaffold Incomplete" signs are prominently displayed until the job is completed. 12. Access to unsafe or incomplete parts of any scaffold should be prevented by physical means. i.e. the installation of temporary guardrails, or by ‘boarding up’ the ladder.

19.0 Erection of Scaffolds (Tube and Fitting)

Ensure that all scaffolding work you carry out complies with the Work at Height Regulations 2005 and BSEN 12811 as appropriate, (remember that TG20 is the guidance produced by the NASC on BSEN 12811!) design information and any special site requirements. The Work at Height Regulations 2005 requires that all tube and fitting scaffolds erected by R Roebuck Scaffolding Ltd T/A Reunited Scaffolding should be a bespoke designed scaffold or constructed in accordance with a TG20 Compliance Sheet. Work safely, protect others, provide a safe access structure for yourself and for the eventual user, and take care to ensure your own safety. Together these and the following basics can reduce risks, hazards, accidents and injuries at work. 19.1 Bases

▪ Ensure the ground is suitable before you base out. ▪ Always use a base plate under every standard. ▪ Use sole pads on soil, gravel, tarmac etc., and remember the MINIMUM size of any sole pad

is 9” x 18” (225mm x 450mm) No exceptions! ▪ Sloping ground may need pockets to be dug to provide a level base or a designed base.

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19.2 Setting Out

▪ Avoid putting others at risk when stacking

materials on the job. Especially: -

▪ In pedestrian areas. ▪ Near public access, doorways or steps. ▪ Near fire hydrants, manholes and other

emergency equipment. ▪ Never leave standing materials

unattended. ▪ Agree storage areas with the site

custodian prior to starting the job.

19.3 Bracing

▪ Brace as you go. Erect temporary rakers until your first ties are in place. ▪ Ledger brace correctly, every other pair of standards every lift, or as specified in the design

or compliance sheet provided for the job. ▪ Facade or wind brace every 6th bay at 45 degrees or dog-legged on the face of the bay, or as

specified in the design or compliance sheet provided for the job. ▪ Do not leave out any brace. Bracing can only be designed out of a scaffold by putting

something extra back into the structure – a designer’s input should be sought! The only exception to this is the use of prefabricated transom units which meet the minimum specification as detailed by The NASC and if the TG20:13 compliance sheet specifies that ledger bracing may be omitted.

19.4 Standards

▪ Must be vertical and plumb. A slight deviation can affect the load bearing capacity of the

standard. ▪ Must be at the correct bay centres for the type of scaffold and its load.

▪ Load Class 1 (Very Light Duty) Max bay size 2.4m ▪ Load Class 2 (Light Duty) Max bay size 2.4 m ▪ Load Class 3 (General Purpose) Max bay size 2.0 m ▪ Load Class 4 (Heavy duty) Max bay Size 1.8m

▪ Always stagger joints in standards. ▪ Use sleeve couplers for joints. Only use spigot pins in exceptional circumstances and then

only ever in the horizontal plane.

19.5 Ledgers

▪ Must be horizontal and level. ▪ Must be at the correct lift height. ▪ Must be connected to standards with a load-bearing fitting. ▪ Always stagger ledgers. Opposing joints must not be in the same bay or in adjacent lifts. ▪ Always use sleeve couplers for ledger joints.

19.6 Transoms

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▪ All boards must be supported at 1.2m centres to comply with SG4, for heavy duty scaffold

the transom will need to be reduce to 0.9m centres.

19.7 Ties

▪ Tie in the scaffold. Never leave out ties unless the scaffold is designed to be free standing. ▪ Tie spacing will vary for different types of scaffolding – this detail will be included within

designs and/or TG20 Compliance Sheets. ▪ Check the spacing is right for the scaffold you are erecting. ▪ Hilti type ties and drilled anchors must be tested by trained operatives to the specification of

the appropriate design/ TG20 Compliance sheet and TG4.

19.8 Ladders

▪ Check all ladders are in good sound condition, free from splits, warps and broken rungs. ▪ Should be pitched on a firm and level base and where practicable set at an angle of 4 up to 1

out. ▪ Must be securely lashed or clipped (using proprietary clamps) at the top to the scaffold. ▪ Make sure the ladder is the correct length. ▪ Should project at least 1 .05m (3'6" or 5 rungs) above the working platform. ▪ Keep access holes 2 boards wide and as small as possible in length (minimum allowable size

450mm x 600mm) and ensure ladder gap protection is installed, such as ladder safety gates for external access and ladder hatches for internal access.

▪ Install ladders as you go and use them for your own access, do not climb the structure to gain access.

▪ Install single guardrail ring around the top of the ladders on external ladder access points.

19.9 The Working Platform

▪ Ensure the working platform is close boarded with toe boards fitted correctly, don't miss off

stop end toe boards or leave any gaps where material could fall. ▪ Check all boards for natural and man-made defects. Reject all suspect or obviously defective

boards and segregate to prevent use, return to the yard for refurbishment. ▪ Working platforms should be fully guard railed using double guardrails with the top guard

rail at a minimum height of 950mm and no gaps between the top guard rail and the intermediate guard rails in excess of 470mm.

▪ Ladder access opening must be protected using ladder safety gate, hatches or other agreed methods. A single duck under rail is not acceptable.

▪ Make sure your temporary platform is boarded as wide as it can be. (One board maximum, may be omitted in exceptional circumstances when attachment to the ledger below is required).

20.0 Dismantling of Scaffolds

1. Before dismantling, the scaffold should be checked to ensure all ties and braces are still in

position and the scaffold is in a stable condition. If the dismantling is only partial, ensure the remaining section is left fully safe and stable. It may be necessary to re-instate missing ties.

2. Erect warning signs in prominent positions to safeguard the public and other workers. If

necessary erect diversionary barriers to exclude third parties from the work area. This is

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particularly important for areas where the scaffold is incomplete. (Signage alone is not sufficient – barriers should also be used to physically prevent access to unsafe scaffold parts)

3. Dismantle progressively and systematically. 4. Scaffolds should be dismantled to ensure that they remain stable throughout the

dismantling process – Do not remove ties below the lift being worked on unless there is a specific requirement to!

5. Do not overload platforms or lifts with dismantled materials, retain toe boards on lifts to

contain materials and don't stack above the toe board.

6. Never stack materials on a protective fan. 7. Remove protection fans before you remove the ties above. 8. Remove all materials from the building, roofs and projecting surfaces. 9. ALWAYS LOWER MATERIALS IN A CONTROLLED MANNER DURING DISMANTLING. NEVER

"BOMB". The bombing of materials is an act of gross misconduct and will warrant dismissal. 10. Ensure all materials are cleared from the site on completion of dismantling. 21.0 Storage & Stacking of Materials

Safe storage and stacking of materials is of utmost importance whether out on site or at Reunited Scaffolding Services’ Yard. As a rule of thumb, the following should be considered when stacking: - ▪ Are packs of tubes longer than 16 foot stacked using 3 U Frames? ▪ Are packs of tubes in-between 3-16 foot secured using 2 U Frames? ▪ Are all tubes but ended at one end in the pack, to ease putting away and sorting when

returned to the yard? ▪ Are tubes stacked no more than seven packs high? ▪ Are boards stacked no more than 8 packs high? ▪ Are all materials put away in the correct area and no materials left stood up? If everyone follows these simple rules it makes everyone’s life much easier and simpler. 22.0 Risk Assessments

The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 make the provision of risk assessments explicit for all employers. Risk assessments must be provided where there is a foreseeable risk to the health and safety of Staff, or others affected by the activities of the company or its Staff. Risk assessment is something we all consciously or sub-consciously do every day, at work or at home, whether it's crossing the road, changing a bulb, erecting a scaffold or mending a computer. A formal risk assessment should: -

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▪ Identify, and determine the degree of severity, of the known risks or hazards in a job or task. ▪ Seek to eliminate the known risks or hazards if practicable. ▪ Detail measures to protect workers against any remaining risks or hazards. ▪ Determine compliance with any relevant legislation which affect the work or task to be

carried out. ▪ Specify any protective equipment, clothing or tools to be used to protect against remaining

hazards. ▪ Be documented. ▪ Be monitored to ensure that procedures and methods are being complied with and that

circumstances have not changed significantly. There may be jobs or tasks or situations where the same risk assessment can be used, this is known as a "generic" assessment. There will be occasions when the assessment will be done by you, and is an informal stand-back, five-minute look at the job before you start work, this is known as a “dynamic” risk assessment. Whatever the form of risk assessment, they are means of reducing to a minimum, the hazards and risks at work and the possibilities of accidents and injuries to all Staff and third parties. At R Roebuck Scaffolding Ltd T/A Reunited Scaffolding, risk assessments (and method statements) are produced by the Operations Manager/Supervisor. You will be expected to confirm your acknowledgement of the risks identified and the safe system of work to be applied prior to commencing work. 23.0 Method Statements

Method statements are produced to enable more information to be given to you about how the job is to be done, and more of our customers require a method statement before work commences. There is nothing complicated about a method statement - it is a structured list, which can include: - ▪ Defining erection and dismantling sequences and how men and materials are to get to and

from the workplace. ▪ Details of storage areas for materials. ▪ What precautionary work may be needed before starting work. ▪ What protective equipment you need to wear. ▪ Emergency or rescue procedures and what restrictions or prohibitions exist. ▪ Who needs to be notified that work is taking place. ▪ Details of the individual in charge.

If a method statement has been prepared, you should receive a copy of it before works commences and follow it in detail. If you have any queries, ask - don't change the method without getting it agreed by your Supervisor. 24.0 Rescue Plans

A rescue plan will be provided for all work at height activities you undertake and will detail the measures to be implemented if there is a need to rescue a suspended casualty following an arrested fall from height. Documents of this nature have as much significance as Risk Assessments & method Statements and should be treated accordingly.

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25.0 Roof Work

Working on any roof even in perfect conditions should never be considered as a usual working practice or situation. Every year, many skilled and trained roofers (and others who work at height) are killed in accidents, usually involving falls from height and often through fragile parts of the roof. ▪ The dangerous and easy assumption for Scaffolders is that working on roofs is the same as

working at heights. IT IS NOT. ▪ Working on roofs comes within the scope of the Work at Height Regulations 2005. ▪ Roof work must only be carried out by operatives who are physically capable of that work. ▪ Always use crawling boards, roof ladders (or another suitable system for preventing falls) for

access onto sloping, slippery or fragile roofs. These must be secured to prevent them moving.

▪ NEVER WALK DIRECTLY ON FRAGILE ROOF SHEETS. ▪ Roof lights should be protected from below using fixed scaffold crash decks or safety netting. ▪ Identity any type of roof lights or other types of fragile materials. Guardrail around them or

cover them to prevent you or others falling through. ▪ Ensure you have a safe system of work when erecting guardrails for the protection of roofers

and others. ▪ Erect barriers to define your work area and prohibit access to unauthorised areas of roof. ▪ Do not work off open steelwork unless this is specifically permitted in the safe system of

work. ▪ If you are required to wear fall prevention equipment, ensure it is worn correctly and you

are clipped on to a secure anchor point. ▪ Most Fixed Sites, some companies, factories, local authorities and utility companies operate

Roof Permit systems. Do not do any work in these locations without a valid and current Roof Permit.

▪ All roof work undertaken by R Roebuck Scaffolding Ltd T/A Reunited Scaffolding operatives must be subject to risk assessment, if you do not possess any such risk assessment, you should contact your line manager & cease work until the necessary documentation is in place.

26.0 Lifting Operations

Operating mechanical handling equipment or involvement in any lifting operations is considered by the Company to be high-risk work. All lifting operations involving loads suspended by cranes, winches etc. require a risk assessment to be carried out and method statement to be prepared and followed. Only appointed and trained ‘Slinger/Signallers’ or ‘Banksman’ to sling loads and give signals to the Lifting Equipment Operators (I.e. Crane Driver). Never access beneath or allow anyone under a suspended load.

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27.0 Knots & Hitches

27.1 Rolling Hitch

This is the preferred knot for lifting tubes and is used in conjunction with a half hitch to prevent the tubes splaying. Tubes should be lifted singularly or in bundles of 3.

27.2 Timber Hitch

The timber hitch is suitable for lifting scaffold boards and is used in conjunction with a half hitch to prevent the boards splaying.

27.3 Figure of Eight

Used to prevent the end of a rope from fraying or from passing through a gin wheel.

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28.0 Work Equipment

28.1 Mobile Plant & Equipment

Only Staff, who have been appointed by Management and assessed as competent (Evidence of Training/Licences) are to use plant and equipment, including: - ▪ Forklift Trucks ▪ Commercial Vehicles (Vans, Wagons, LGV’s etc.) ▪ Power Tools ▪ Mechanical Cranes, Hoists, Winches etc. ▪ Workshop/Yard Machinery ▪ Powered Access Machines (MEWPs) ▪ System Scaffolding

28.2 Basic Safety Rules for Mobile Plant & Equipment 1. Always inspect equipment before use. 2. Never interfere with or remove guards. 3. Always adjust guards correctly, they are intended to protect you. 4. Never use damaged or defective equipment. Segregate any equipment that is not in good order and report damage or defects. 5. Always follow the operating instructions and wear the right Personal Protective Equipment. 6. Do not wear loose clothing and ensure long hair is tied back when operating drills to prevent

entanglement. 7. All materials must be signed in and out and are the full responsibility of the signatory when signed out. 28.3 Hand Tools

Most accidents with hand tools are caused by men striking themselves or others by misusing them or using worn or defective tools.

28.4 Basic Safety Rules

1. Always use the right tools for the job – Never improvise. 2. Always inspect hand tools before use – Worn or damaged tools are dangerous. 3. Carry and place tools safely so that they cannot be dropped or dislodged or present a trip

hazard. 4. Report defective equipment immediately and do not use it!

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29.0 Safety Signs

Mandatory

Prohibition

Warning

Fire equipment

Safe Condition

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30.0 Personal Protective Equipment

Any Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) required for the job will be issued free of charge. PPE is useless if it is not worn. SO WEAR IT! Ensure that you take care of the equipment issued for your protection and report any defects immediately. Use the PPE provided in accordance with the local rules, as directed by the risk assessment, method statement or permits to work. 30.1 Head Protection

▪ You will be issued with a Company safety helmet. ▪ It is mandatory to wear your helmet when working on all sites and in other designated areas

of Branches, Yards and Sites ▪ It’s the company rule, and a condition of your employment. ▪ It’s the law.

30.2 Hand Protection

▪ Do not wear finger rings whilst working. They can snag on obstructions and tear off fingers.

WEAR YOUR PPE!

Wear All Required PPE!

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▪ Wear gloves when handling any materials or substances likely to cause harm or skin irritation.

▪ Never wear gloves when operating circular saws, drills or any machinery into which gloves can be drawn.

▪ Protect your hands with barrier creams and use proper hand cleaning soaps. Never clean your hands with petrol, thinners or similar solvents.

▪ Do not eat, drink or smoke if your hands are dirty or contaminated with substances, which may be harmful to your health, or if your surroundings are dirty or contaminated.

30.3 Foot Protection

▪ It is mandatory for you to wear steel toe-capped safety footwear when working on all sites,

yards and in the factory. You will be issued with Company Safety Footwear. 30.4 Skin Protection

▪ Many substances, materials and processes can pose risk and hazards to the skin, including

acids, paints, corrosives, mineral oils, solvents and other chemicals. ▪ Use gloves, barrier creams and eye protection. ▪ Wear protective aprons or leggings. ▪ Do not put oily rags or gloves in your pockets; this can lead to scrotal cancer. ▪ Keep yourself and clothing clean. ▪ Wash your hands before and after using the lavatory. ▪ Wash your hands before eating, drinking or smoking. ▪ Ensure there is a COSHH assessment detailing all the hazards and control measures relating

to all substances you use. 30.5 Eye Protection

Many tasks and jobs involve hazards which can put your eyes at risk. If you are: ▪ Drilling or cutting wood, metal, concrete or brickwork. ▪ Chiselling, chipping or grinding. ▪ Working in dusty environments, or on sites such as Petrochemical or steel-works. ▪ Then you must always wear the proper eye protection for the job and report any damage or

defects to your supervisor. 30.6 Hearing Protection

▪ Protect your hearing. Prolonged exposure to high levels of noise can permanently damage

your hearing. ▪ If you feel uncomfortable about the noise level, you are working in - report your problems to

your supervisor. ▪ Wear ear protection (ear muffs or plugs) when provided. If you use impact wrenches for

scaffolding operations, it is very likely that the noise levels are above the maximum 85dBA and for this reason it is the policy of Reunited Scaffolding that Hearing protection is provided and is worn at all times whilst using impact wrenches.

▪ Always wear hearing protection when you see the mandatory blue sign. ▪ Report any losses, damage or defects to hearing protection to your supervisor.

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▪ Rule of Thumb. If you can't hear what is being said at 1 m or have to shout to make yourself heard over 2m you should be wearing hearing protection in that area!

31.0 Fall Protection Equipment

See section 9 - Work at Height. 32.0 Hazardous Substances

Most materials, whether liquid, solid or gas, can be hazardous in certain circumstances. Some substances are more hazardous than others and need special precautions to taken. All hazardous substances that you are likely to use at work should have been assessed for safety as a requirement of the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH). To ensure that no harm occurs when you use substances you will be provided with suitable protection and instructions as required by COSHH. Always read and follow the instructions on the packaging and the information provided by the Company.

You are likely to encounter the following labels when working with hazardous substances: -

Explosive (Symbol: exploding bomb)

Oxidising (Symbol: flame over circle)

Gas under pressure (Symbol: Gas cylinder)

Acute toxicity (Symbol: Skull and crossbones)

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Hazardous to the environment (Symbol: Dead tree and fish)

Serious health hazard (Symbol: health hazard)

Flammable (Symbol: flame)

Corrosive (Symbol: Corrosion)

Health hazard/Hazardous to the ozone layer (Symbol: Exclamation mark) 33.0 Asbestos

All forms of asbestos can be extremely hazardous if the fibres are inhaled and can cause very serious health effects. In your day-to-day operations you may be required to work in building or on plant where materials containing asbestos may be present. It is very important that you do not disturb these materials e.g. thermal insulation on pipework or in board form in cement sheets etc…. If you accidentally disturb materials or you identify material that you suspect to contain asbestos – stop work immediately and inform your Supervisor. Work with asbestos and products containing asbestos are very strictly controlled by legislation. Work to remove or contain asbestos can only be carried out by licensed contractors and special precautions need to be taken. This includes the provision of access and enclosures by scaffolding contractors where certain types of asbestos are present.

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You are not permitted to erect any such scaffolds! 34.0 Housekeeping

‘Good Housekeeping’ is essential for a safe workplace. Untidy workplaces are not only hazardous but reflect ‘sloppy’ workmanship and are likely to draw attention to the company’s activities, whereas a tidy workplace indicates a well-managed and executed work activity. 1. Stack all materials tidily: - ▪ Tubes sorted by length with their ends flush. ▪ Boards sorted by length with loose boards stacked no more than 10 high allowing free

circulation of air. ▪ Fittings should be segregated and stored in bins or other suitable containers. ▪ See also section 14, storage and stacking materials. 2. Tidy up before leaving the job. Never leave materials in an unsafe position so that they block

access routes or present a trip hazard to others. Never leave long materials upright unless it is about to be used and then it should be rested into a corner to prevent it falling. After completing each job check to see that no loose equipment is left behind.

3. Clean up all spillages immediately. 4. Keep all offices, mess rooms and welfare facilities tidy. They should be cleaned daily or after

each shift. Use the waste bins – food scraps left about encourages rats and other vermin – wastepaper and discarded clothing increases the fire risk.

5. Keep all tools, machines, plant and vehicles clean and report any damage or defects

immediately. 35.0 Welfare Facilities

The Company provides welfare facilities that as a minimum comply with the legal requirements of the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations. These include; toilets, washing and drying facilities, rest and eating facilities etc. Due to the nature of the work you may be required to use our customers or public facilities. Any Staff who intentionally or recklessly interferes with (misuses or vandalises) any welfare facilities will face disciplinary action and will be reported to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) for breaches of health and safety law. 35.1 Personal Hygiene

Lack of basic personal hygiene is responsible for many skin diseases, digestive disorders and general ill health. 35.2 Hygiene - Basic Safety Rules

1. Always wash hands thoroughly before taking food, drink or smoking.

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2. Keep fingernails short and scrub them regularly. 3. Wear suitable gloves when handling contaminated, dirty or rough materials. 4. Keep long hair tied up out of the way. 5. Do not use solvents or petrol to clean hands, only use the cleaning products provided. 6. Barrier and reconditioning creams are strongly recommended for hands to reduce the risk of

skin disease. 7. Keep your work wear in a good state of repair and cleaned regularly. 8. Keep your PPE clean and report and damage or defects immediately. 9. Do not wear rings, bracelets or other adornments at work. 10. Ensure that all cuts, scratches, blisters etc. are treated. 36.0 Smoking at Work

The smoking of tobacco products within work area is prohibited in the UK. Smoking is only permitted in external areas that are designated as acceptable for smoking. This means that smoking is not permitted in any R Roebuck Scaffolding Ltd T/A Reunited Scaffolding vehicles, yard/office areas or welfare facilities. This also extends to electronic type cigarettes (e-cigs). Smoking is not allowed on any of our clients sites especially restoration sites.

37.0 Adverse Weather

Bad weather can turn a safe site into a dangerous one in a matter of minutes. Walkways, platforms, stairs, ladders, roadways etc. can be made treacherous by adverse weather. High winds can blow objects about and cause structures to collapse. A strong gust of wind can make structures unstable, cause difficulty in handling materials and even blow a man off an unprotected building or structure. Rain, frost or wet materials can make materials difficult to handle or structures slippery. Heavy rain can loosen the sides of excavations or embankments. Always therefore have regard to the weather conditions prevailing and forecast.

If in doubt, go to a position of safety and ask the advice of your Supervisor! Do not take chances! 38.0 The Use of Ladders

Many work-related injuries involve the use of ladders. These include: - ▪ Slips or falls from ladders. ▪ Carrying loads up or down ladders. ▪ Ladders slipping away at the bottom. ▪ Ladders falling away at the top. ▪ Rungs missing, twisting or breaking.

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38.1 Ladders - Basic Safety Rules

1. Check the ladder before use to ensure it is in a good state of repair. 2. Report any defects or damage, segregate damaged or defective ladders and label ‘DO NOT

USE’. 3. Use ladders to avoid climbing scaffold structures. 4. Stand ladders on a firm even base and ensure that both stiles are supported. 5. Set at the correct angle 75˚ or 1 out for every 4 up. 6. Access ladders should project at least 1050mm (3’6”) above the landing platform, unless an

alternative handhold is provided. 7. All ladders should be footed until secured – Lash or secure both stiles near the top of the

ladder – Support tubes should always be positioned so as not to impede the rungs. 8. Never carry loads up or down the ladder - use both hands and always face the ladder. 9. Beware of wet, icy or greasy rungs. Clean mud or grease from boots before climbing. 10. Never over-reach from a ladder – MOVE IT!

39.0 Overhead Power Lines

Danger of electrocution from overhead power lines is a significant hazard that most Scaffolders will face during their career. Metal scaffold components do not have to come into contact with overhead line but merely come within close proximity to cause an often fatal electric shock. High voltage electricity can arc across a distance of several feet. 39.1 Overhead Power Lines - Basic Safety Rules

1. Always check the workplace for overhead cables before erecting, altering or dismantling

scaffolding. 2. Always treat overhead lines as LIVE. Do not assume that they have been isolated or that they

are only telephone lines. 3. The minimum precautions to be taken when working under or close to overhead lines must

be detailed in a specific method statement. 4. Ensure you know the minimum clearances required. 5. Never bypass ‘goal posts’, barriers or other warnings. Remember – If in doubt ASK! 40.0 Portable Electrical Equipment

The term portable electrical equipment refers mainly to portable power tools and temporary lighting, but also applies to items such as kettles and radios etc.

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40.1 Portable Electrical Equipment Basic Safety Rules

1. Inspect all portable electrical equipment before use and report any damage or defects

immediately. 2. Only battery operated or 110volt (or below) equipment is to be used on site unless

authorised by the Location Manager. 240v equipment must be used in conjunction with a Residual Current Device (RCD) or safety trip.

3. Do not pick up power tools by the cable. 4. Do not trail cables across access routes or through water. 5. Do not attempt to fix or carry out repairs unless you are competent and authorised to do so. 6. Do not bring your own electrical equipment (e.g. toasters, radios and kettles etc) Only use

approved and tested electrical appliances. 41.0 Work Over Water

When working over or next to water, some special precautions need to be taken to prevent falls into water or someone drowning. If you fall in water or are swept away by powerful waves, strong currents can carry you far away from the point you fell. 41.1 Work Over Water - Basic Safety Rules

1. Always wear emergency life jackets (not buoyancy aids). 2. Never work alone and have means of communication to raise the alarm in the event of an

emergency. 3. Life preservers (Rings) and lines must be available at the workplace and checked regularly. 4. Provide a suitable standby boat for use in a rescue. NB. All personnel involved in work over or next to water must receive training in the emergency

procedure and the use of the emergency equipment to be used. You must not undertake any work over water unless a specific risk assessment has been provided.

42.0 Protection of the Public

When working in public areas or overhead of other trades where there is a risk of anything falling into an area where other people have access, special precautions need to be taken.

Precautions include: -

▪ Caution Scaffolders Working Overhead signs. ▪ Restrict access below with hoarding, fencing, cones, barriers etc. ▪ Post lookouts to stop anyone walking beneath. ▪ Never handle materials overhead or where people can access. ▪ Pavement gantries, protection fans, crash-decks etc.

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▪ Always store materials securely when at height or at risk of falling ▪ Carry out work in the quiet hours. ▪ Temporary Lighting, highlight standards, protection on fittings and tube ends etc. ▪ Always follow the work instructions detailed in the method statement. 43.0 Mobile Plant & Traffic

Traffic on site and the public highway presents significant hazards to scaffolding operations. We must ensure that suitable precautions are taken to protect: - ▪ Yourself. ▪ Other workers. ▪ Pedestrians & Road Users. ▪ The Scaffold Structure. ▪ Company Vehicles.

Precautions that may be taken include: -

▪ High-visibility clothing. ▪ Road & Pavement Closures, Warning Signs, Cones, Barriers, Traffic Controls etc. ▪ Minimum clearances maintained. ▪ Temporary lighting and highlight standards. ▪ Concrete blocks or timber balks to protect the scaffold structure. ▪ Segregated area for parking vehicles, unloading and loading materials. 44.0 Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPS)

The use of MEWPS is only permitted when a full risk assessment has been carried out by the R Roebuck Scaffolding Ltd T/A Reunited Scaffolding Supervisor. MEWP operators must hold a current CITB CTA Card or IPAF Operators Certificate (PAL) or equivalent. All Staff using MEWP’s at height shall be subject to the wearing and use of fall protection equipment. All MEWP’s shall have a clearly designated anchor point within the platform that is capable of sustaining the likely forces imposed. Anchorage must always be made to this point when within the MEWP basket. 45.0 Transport

Did you know that: - ▪ Over 90% of road accidents are a result of driver error. ▪ Company drivers are 40-50% more likely to have a collision than the average driver. ▪ It is estimated that between 500 and 1000 people die annually in accidents involving

vehicles being driven for work purposes. ▪ Company car drivers covering 25,000 miles a year have a 1 in 8000 chance of being

involved in a fatal car accident.

Running a motor fleet is a large overhead. As Staff of Reunited Scaffolding Services, you can contribute to its success. To be successful in our highly competitive business, the company must be as efficient as possible and to succeed must reduce the operating costs as far as possible. To control

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the costs of running the motor fleet it is essential to reduce the accident rates, cost of claims and try to avoid vehicle breakdowns.

To aid the effective and efficient running of the fleet, all company owned vehicles are fitted with tracking systems which monitor speed and efficiency of the vehicles. This also enables us to track the whereabouts of all company vehicles.

In addition to reducing the costs of running the motor fleet, it is felt that these measures will also avoid as far as possible the chances of you and your passengers being injured through a motor vehicle accident. When refuelling vehicles using company fuel cards, it is important that the correct information is given to the fuel station for recording on the receipt. This includes the correct registration of the vehicle being fuelled and the correct mileage of the vehicle, this assists us with reconciling the accounts and the ned of the month. HGV drivers (7.5 ton upwards) must have a valid Tacho-card and in date medical certificate (if required). Tacho cards are to be uploaded at the end of your shift on Friday. If you don’t understand how to use your tacho, please ask and we will get training for you, it is your licence at risk as well as our operator’s licence. We carry out monthly audit of the tachographs and those that are paid to drive will be considered drivers for that part of the working day, infringements will be reported to you every month for discussion and action.

45.1 Convictions

Regardless of how minor, all convictions imposed or pending must be notified immediately to R Roebuck Scaffolding Ltd T/A Reunited Scaffolding who will decide what action, if any, needs to be taken regarding your entitlement to continue driving company vehicles. Failure to notify convictions could result in your removal from an approved driver list and also could result in disciplinary actions, depending upon the circumstances. 45.2 Care of Your Vehicle

All non HGV company vehicles are to have a weekly check carried out and recorded, inspection sheet to be submitted with weekly payment application sheet signed and dated by the driver with the weekly mileage shown, if you are allocated a vehicle solely for your use the vehicle must be washed external once a fortnight, where vehicles not allocated they require a daily check sheet before leaving the yard. ▪ It is your responsibility to ensure your vehicle is kept well maintained. You should: ▪ Wash and clean the vehicle, inside and out, weekly or more regularly if circumstances

require this. ▪ Vehicles cabs must be cleaned out every evening upon return to the yard with all rubbish

removed and placed in the yard bins/skip. if you can’t keep the vehicles rubbish free the driver will be charged £10 for every instance rubbish is cleared from the vehicle (Dated photos will be provided).

▪ Make sure even small dents and scratches are reported and repaired. ▪ Undertake checks daily, and at least on a weekly basis, of brake fluid, engine oil, engine

coolant, power steering fluid, windscreen washer fluid, lights/reflectors, and tyres. ▪ These inspections should be carried out daily for goods vehicles, and should also cover

other areas such as markers, mirror, load security, seat belts, safety equipment and steering.

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▪ Ensure the vehicle is regularly serviced in line with the manufacturers recommended service intervals for the vehicle. ▪ Report and have repaired any mechanical fault. ▪ Ensure the vehicle is road worthy.

You will find that a clean and well-maintained vehicle will encourage pride in appearance. If your vehicle is kept clean and is driven in a courteous manner the image of your company in the local community will be higher. 45.3 Security of Vehicles

▪ The risk of theft off or from your vehicle can be reduced by simple measures: - ▪ An unattended vehicle MUST NOT be left with the keys in the ignition or not be properly

secured - even if only leaving for a few minutes. Failure to comply may affect your insurance cover.

▪ Value of stock and personal effects should be kept to a minimum in unattended vehicles. Any items, which have to be left, should be secured in a boot or covered area out of sight of passers-by.

▪ Goods vehicles spending the night away where possible should be placed in approved local parks.

▪ If your vehicle is fitted with an alarm or immobiliser this must be armed when the vehicle is left unattended. If your vehicle is fitted with audio equipment and this is removable or part removable for security purposes, remove this to prevent theft.

45.4 Driving Tips

Neither you nor R Roebuck Scaffolding Ltd T/A Reunited Scaffolding wants injuries through vehicle accidents to yourself or others. Following are some driving tips that are effective when put into practice. Consciously practising these will change your driving style for the better. ▪ Check the overall condition of the vehicle on a daily basis. ▪ When driving remember to leave enough time to observe and react. In good conditions

allow at least two seconds between you and the vehicle in front, in other than ideal conditions this distance must be doubled - remember the phrase: "ONLY A FOOL BREAKS THE TWO SECOND RULE"

▪ Practice progressive braking and acceleration. ▪ Be aware of what is going on all around your vehicle - constantly scan the area in front,

to the sides and your mirrors. Practice moving your eyes and looking not just immediately in front of you but anticipate what may happen by looking into the distance also.

▪ Concentrate on your driving and avoid becoming aggressive in the vehicle. ▪ Check your mirrors and be aware of potential blind spots. ▪ Allow time for your journey including breaks. Current thinking suggests a 15-minute

break per 2-hour driving period and a maximum of 300-350 miles per day. Research has suggested that tiredness account for up to 20% of serious accidents on roads. These accidents peak between 2am and 6am and 2pm and 4pm when daily sleepiness is naturally higher.

▪ Practice giving a commentary of your driving and stating potential hazards to accentuate awareness.

▪ Your steering should be smooth.

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▪ Always drive to survive - expect the unexpected. ▪ Be aware of what is going on all around. ▪ Never use a hand-held mobile phone or microphone when driving. Using hands free

equipment is also likely to distract your attention from the road. It is far safer not to use any telephone while you are driving - find a safe place to stop first.

46.0 Drugs & Alcohol

You are at far greater risk of an injury at work if you or a colleague is under the influence of drugs or alcohol. 35% of all fatal accidents are related to alcohol. 50% of all drivers killed are over the limit or affected by drugs. Alcohol takes time to work out of your system (1pint of normal strength beer or 2 units of alcohol takes approximately 2 hours). So, don’t get drunk the night before and expect to work safely the next day. 46.1 Drugs & Alcohol - Basic Safety Rules

1. You are not allowed to bring or consume illegal drugs or alcohol on to work premises. 2. If you are prescribed drugs by a doctor that may affect your performance at work – INFORM

YOUR SUPERVISOR BEFORE WORK! 3. Do not come to work intoxicated by illegal drugs or alcohol – This may lead to severe

disciplinary action! 4. Anyone found in possession of illegal drugs at work will be reported to the POLICE! 5. The Company tolerance for alcohol consumption and its affects at work is in line with the

current road traffic and highways limits. 6. R Roebuck Scaffolding Ltd T/A Reunited Scaffolding reserves the right to test for drugs

and/or alcohol following accidents/incidents.

46.2 Organising

Managers are responsible for ensuring that all Staff under their control are given a personal copy of this procedure and are briefed on its contents at the start of each project. And upon induction issued a health and safety manual.

Staff, sub-contractors and sub contractor’s Staff, while working in any capacity for R Roebuck Scaffolding Ltd T/A Reunited Scaffolding, are required to co-operate unconditionally with this procedure. Each person to whom this procedure applies:

46.3 Testing Arrangements General

46.3.1 ‘For Cause’ Testing-Behaviour, Conduct or Appearance

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Where a manager or supervisor suspects that any Staff’s behaviour, conduct or appearance when reporting for or during a turn of duty is due to the consumption of drugs or alcohol, then the manager or supervisor must not allow the Staff to start or to continue to work. The manager or supervisor must arrange for testing of the Staff concerned, and the Staff concerned must not be allowed to resume work until a negative result from such testing is obtained. 46.3.2 ‘For Cause’ Testing-Accidents or Incidents

Where a manager or supervisor suspects that an accident or incident has been caused, or contributed to, by any act or omission of any Staff for whom he or she is responsible then the manager or supervisor must arrange for testing of each individual to be carried out.

R Roebuck Scaffolding Ltd T/A Reunited Scaffolding has a contract established with a medical centre for such events.

46.3.3 Random Testing

In addition to the ‘For Cause’ testing referred to above, Reunited Scaffolding may arrange for unannounced random testing to be carried out of its Staff, sub-contractors and sub contractors’ Staff carrying out any work on behalf of R Roebuck Scaffolding Ltd T/A Reunited Scaffolding Ltd. Records of all random testing results are retained for three years. 46.4 ‘For Cause’ and Random Testing General Arrangements

46.4.1 General

The requirements of this Drugs and Alcohol Policy are to be applied in a sensible and safe manner due to the emotive nature of the subject. Managers responsible for the administration of its requirements are expected to ensure that these requirements are administered in a consistent manner. 46.4.2 Alcohol Testing

This is only carried out on a ‘For Cause’ basis, when either a Staff members behaviour, conduct or appearance give cause for reasonable suspicion that the Staff is under the influence of alcohol or following an accident or incident and the Staff concerned had an involvement.

When the requirement for an alcohol test has been deemed necessary, the manager or supervisor (or equivalent), accompanied by another manager or supervisor if practicable, must explain to the Staff member concerned the reasons why the test has to be taken.

The Staff member who is to be tested has the right to be accompanied by a colleague, who may also be required to give evidence at any subsequent disciplinary or appeal hearing.

The standard alcohol test is a breath test that is carried out by a person duly authorised by the Company.

If a positive result (by virtue of exceeding the stipulated upper limit) is obtained from a breath test, the least action available to the Staff’s manager or supervisor is to arrange to book-off the person give them a written instruction to report to their manager or supervisor at a given time and date and arrange for them to be escorted from the worksite. Where there is concern for the Staff’s safety, the Staff member should be escorted to their permanent or temporary residence.

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Other than in extreme circumstances (e.g. hospitalisation) Staff members are not allowed to take a holiday or book-off as sick so as to avoid taking the test or to avoid the consequences of a positive result. Any Staff member who refuses a reasonable request to take an alcohol test will be considered to have produced a positive result, with the associated disciplinary action. 46.4.3 Drug Testing

Drug testing is carried out on a ‘For Cause’ and random basis. The standard tests are carried out on a urine sample, the taking and the subsequent testing of which is administered on behalf of the Company under strict ‘Chain of Custody’ arrangements by an accredited laboratory. Each urine sample is divided into two halves and labelled in the Staff members presence. One half of the sample is used by the laboratory for the test and the other half is not tested and is stored for up to twelve months. In the event that a positive result is obtained and the Staff member who has supplied the sample requires this result confirming, this second half of the sample is made available to them for testing by a laboratory of his choice and at their own expense. 46.5 Staff who declare a Drug or Alcohol Problem

Any Staff member who advises the Company that they have a problem due to the abusive use of drugs or alcohol will be actively encouraged to seek suitable assistance. Such assistance can be through a rehabilitation or counselling programme and the Company will endeavour to provide the Staff member with the necessary support.

The Staff members declaration of such a problem cannot be made retrospectively. The Staff member must declare the problem before any occasion where testing is required by this Policy.

Any Staff member who has declared such a problem will not be allowed to work on any operational sites until they have successfully completed the treatment and the Company is confident that, with the appropriate vigilance, there is no potential for the problem to re-emerge.

The support or assistance provided by the Company in such circumstances will be on a strictly “need-to-know” basis between the Staff member, managers and the agencies providing the service, so long as the Company is confident that the Staff member can demonstrate the determination necessary to control their habit.

Staff who are assisted by the Company in this manner are required to provide documentary evidence

of their attendance at rehabilitation or counselling sessions. 46.6 Disciplinary Arrangements

The disclosure by a Staff member of a drug or alcohol problem does not absolve them from their personal responsibilities.

Staff must be aware, from the individual briefing given to them on this Drugs and Alcohol Policy that

the Company is obliged by law to report to the appropriate police force any Staff member who is suspected of possessing, supplying to others or using any illegal drug when on any operational sites or railways.

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The Company’s position in respect of the following disciplinary action is unequivocal and must be understood by all Staff. When the Company considers that it has sufficient cause and evidence to justify this action, a Staff member who is required to conform with the requirements of this Drugs and Alcohol Policy will be summarily dismissed for any of the following:

▪ refusing, without sufficient justifiable cause, to submit to a drugs or alcohol test;

▪ reporting for duty, attempting to commence or re-commence duty whilst suffering from the effects of drugs or alcohol;

▪ refusal to participate in, or failure to complete, a counselling or rehabilitation scheme arranged by the Company when the Staff member has declared a drug or alcohol problem;

▪ producing a positive test result for drugs (other than medication);

▪ possession of, supplying or consuming any illegal drug whilst on duty;

▪ producing a positive test result for alcohol that is above the following limits:

• more than 80 milligrams of alcohol in 100 millilitres of blood, or

• more than 35 micrograms of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath, or

• more than 107 milligrams of alcohol in 100 millilitres of urine;

▪ Possessing or consuming alcohol on a controlled worksite or part of an operational railway.

Where the request is considered to be reasonable, the Company will inform any other employer who is considering offering employment in a similar capacity to a Staff member who has been dismissed for any of the above reasons, of the circumstances surrounding that Staff’s dismissal. 46.7 Enforcement

R Roebuck Scaffolding Ltd T/A Reunited Scaffolding will, using all reasonable endeavours, enforce this Policy to ensure that the health, safety and welfare of its Staff, contractors, contractor’s Staff and any other persons who could potentially be affected are not put at risk by the abusive use of drugs or alcohol. 46.8 Record Retention Periods

Records of A&D Tests will be maintained for a period of 10 years after the test date, however positive

test records will be maintained indefinitely. 46.9 Measuring Performance

Managers are responsible for verifying that all Staff and subcontractors are fit to start or continue work based on screening results and observation before commencement of a project and during working time. 46.10 Reviewing Performance

Screening results and the effectiveness of this Drugs and Alcohol policy are reviewed annually by the Board of Directors.

47.0 Fire

Fire kills more than 1000 people every year and injures many thousands more.

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YOU CAN PREVENT FIRES AND ALSO CAUSE THEM! 47.1 Basic Fire Safety Rules

1. Never hang clothing over or too close to heaters. 2. Do not allow combustible materials to accumulate i.e. Cardboard boxes, paper, oily rags or

other rubbish. 3. Do not smoke in prohibited areas. 4. Never carry out hot work (e.g. burning, cutting, grinding etc…) unless you are trained and

authorised to do so. Special Permit-to-work may be required. 5. Do not light fires, the burning of waste is not permitted. 6. Only use approved & tested electrical appliances. 7. Do not overload sockets and always switch off at the mains when not in use. 8. Make sure you know what to do in case of a fire I.e. raise the alarm, nearest escape route,

assembly points etc… 9. Always keep firefighting equipment, fire escapes and routes clear and free from obstruction. 10. Do not use water on electrical or flammable liquid fires. 47.2 Know Your Extinguishers

CO2

Black Markings Suitable for Electrical, Gas & Liquid Fires

Dry Powder

Blue Markings Multi-purpose, suitable for all fires

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Foam

Cream Markings Suitable for Flammable Liquid Fires

Water

Red Markings Suitable for Wood, Cloth, Paper or similar

48.0 Work on or Near the Railway

R Roebuck Scaffolding Ltd T/A Reunited Scaffolding do not currently undertake live rail work however should this type of work be tendered for, and a contract secured the following will apply. All Reunited Scaffolding staff working on or near the railway will be required to undergo the appropriate level of training (usually Personal Track Safety or PTS) prior to doing so. Full details of R Roebuck Scaffolding Ltd T/A Reunited Scaffolding procedures for managing work on or near the railway can be found in the company’s Management Systems. 49.0 First Aid

First aid equipment and trained personnel to administer first aid will be provided and maintained in accordance with the Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981, Approved Code of Practice and Guidance L74, as a minimum standard.

The smallest cut, splinter or abrasion can easily become septic. Do not ignore them, see your First aider and have them attended to. All injuries however trivial must be reported to your Supervisor immediately, who will ensure that it is recorded on the accident report form. 50.0 Special Scaffolds & Scaffold Design

Any scaffold structure requiring design input (e.g. any scaffold outside of the scope of TG20:13) will be subject to a design risk assessment. Calculations will be made by a suitably competent Design Engineer and drawings produced. Any significant hazards or hazardous work sequences that cannot be designed out shall be detailed on the drawing in text, also where appropriate within the specific method statement.

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50.1 Scaffold Design - Basic Safety Rules

1. Never deviate from the original design without referring to your Supervisor, who must

consult with an Engineer to seek further design input. 2. Always follow the design and pay particular attention to any Engineers Instructions detailed

on the drawings. 51.0 Scaffold Inspection & Handover

Complete or partially completed scaffold structures must be inspected and commissioned by a nominated competent person (usually the Contracts Supervisor or other nominated competent person), to ensure that it has been erected to the required standards and specifications and is safe to use, prior to handover. The owner or user of a scaffold has a legal duty* to carry out specific scaffold inspections. In some circumstances R Roebuck Scaffolding Ltd T/A Reunited Scaffolding is contracted to carry out these inspections on behalf of our customers. Handover certificates are used to formally communicate that the scaffold is complete, fit for the intended purpose and any restrictions e.g. maximum load etc. *Work at Height Regulations 2005 51.1 Inspection & Handover - Basic Safety Rules

1. Always clearly display ’Do not use Scaffold Incomplete’ signs as soon as practicable when

erecting, altering or dismantling scaffolding. 2. When working on partly ‘Live’ scaffolds ensure that access is restricted to incomplete

platforms, this should be supplemented by physical guardrails and warning signs. 3. Scaffold Inspections, Handover Certificates are only completed by persons appointed and

authorised to do so. Scaffold Inspections are required: - ▪ Before being taken into use for the first time. ▪ After any substantial addition, dismantling or other alteration. ▪ After any event likely to have affected its strength or stability. ▪ At regular intervals not exceeding 7 days since the last inspection. 52.0 Lone Working

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R Roebuck Scaffolding Ltd T/A Reunited Scaffolding management will endeavour to plan all activities to allow work to be undertaken in groups of 2 wherever possible. However, it is acknowledged that this will not always be practical and as such the following should be adhered to: - ▪ Lone workers must always be provided with the ability to raise an alarm via

telecommunications, be this through fixed land line, mobile telephone or walkie talkie system.

▪ Where lone working is required, the lone worker shall report to their supervisor to expressly inform him of the requirement to work alone and the expected period of lone working. If the period is exceeded, the Supervisor shall investigate the Lone Workers’ failure to report within the agreed timescale.

▪ Upon completion of lone working, the Lone Worker shall report back to their supervisor to sign off.

▪ The use of fall protection equipment (when assisted rescue may be required) is only permitted when a minimum of two team members are in the vicinity. (Other high-risk works, such as work at height or use of step-ladders etc, should be subject to risk assessment prior to commencement – this will identify which tasks may not be undertaken by Lone Workers)

▪ All Lone Workers must be briefed on the contents of this assessment and must be familiar with emergency procedures.

▪ Lone Workers must never be inexperienced and should be aware of all of the risks to which they may be exposed when undertaking their duties.

▪ Lone Workers should be medically fit and not suffer from any conditions/illnesses that may render them incapacitated or require the assistance of others. (Use of medical self-declaration form required)

▪ Unplanned lone work. For example, when one operative is called away for an emergency or unwell. Operatives to be informed that all work must cease until line manager is informed.

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53.0 Conclusion

R Roebuck Scaffolding Ltd T/A Reunited Scaffolding expects every Staff member to carefully observe the Basic Safety Rules and advice contained within this handbook.

However, as we are all aware conditions on site can change very quickly, creating new hazards and danger to guard against. This is why we ask all Staff to make health and safety their first consideration. Your health and safety awareness and co-operation will help to avoid injuries to yourself, your colleagues, damage to property and poor workmanship.

Remember

▪ Hazards - If you see it, report it! ▪ If in doubt ASK!

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54.0 Acknowledgement

I, the undersigned, confirm that I have received a copy of the R Roebuck Scaffolding Ltd T/A Reunited Scaffolding Staff Members Safety Handbook (January 2021) and have read it, understand it and agree to abide by its contents. Name: - Date: - Signed: -