Designing Buildings - User contributions [en]

Accident reports in construction

2019-04-12T22:40:29Z

Flaaim:

There is a legal requirement through the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 2013 (RIDDOR) for accidents and incidents to be reported to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

While RIDDOR recommends that all accidents, however small, are recorded in an accident book, it identifies the more serious types of accidents which must be reported to HSE as well as being recorded in the book. These include:

* Any injury that stops an employee doing their normal work for a period of 3 days or more.
* Major injuries such as broken arms, ribs, legs, etc.
* Fatalities.
* Disease.
* Dangerous instances occurring at work such as machinery breaking, scaffolding collapsing or any other appliances breaking and causing damage.

Forme can be found [http://www.hse.gov.uk/riddor/report.htm here] for the following incidents:

* Injury.
* Dangerous occurrence.
* Injury offshore.
* Dangerous occurrence offshore.
* Case of disease.
* Flammable gas incident.
* Dangerous gas fitting.

The appropriate form should be completed by the responsible person. Fatalities and major injuries can be reported by phone to the HSE. A report must be received within 10 days of the incident.

The following information should be recorded:

* Injured person’s personal and contact details (name, phone number, address, age, occupation, etc.).
* Reporter’s personal and contact details (name, position, phone number, address, etc.).
* Accident details (date, time, location).
* Injury details (type, body part, whether any work days were lost as a result, whether an ambulance was required, whether the injured person lost consciousness, etc.).
* Witness details (name, phone number, address, etc.).
* Details of any supporting evidence (e.g. CCTV footage, photographs, training records, health and safety check records, cleaning logs, etc.).
* Reasons for accident (how it occurred, working conditions at the time, PPE being worn, equipment being used, events leading up to accident, etc.).
* Response to accident (first aid provided, whether the area was made safe, direct action).
* Preventative action (training needs, preventative plan put in place, how recurrences will be prevented).

= Find out more =

=== Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki ===

* Accident book.
* Construction health risks.
* Health and safety file.
* Injuries on construction sites.
* Near miss.
* Notification to HSE.
* Reporting accidents and injuries on construction sites RIDDOR.
* Safety audit.
* Site records and registers.

=== External references ===

* [https://safetyworkblog.com/ Workplace Safety Blog]

[[Category:Publications_/_reports]] [[Category:Health_and_safety_/_CDM]]

Construction hazards

2019-04-12T12:21:13Z

Flaaim:

A hazard is a situation that creates a threat to life, health, property, the environment, personal integrity, and so on. Hazards differ from risks, in that risks describe the potential for a situation such as a hazard to cause harm.

From a health and safety perspective, a hazard may be seen as a condition with the potential to cause physical impairment or health consequences in people (or any other type of life). In a project environment, a hazard is anything that may affect the success of project activities or the project as a whole. Similarly, companies, ventures, physical assets, the environment and society face hazards.

Most hazards are potential or latent but a hazardous situation becomes 'effective', it can cause an incident, an accident or a even a disaster.

Some of the most common hazards in construction include:

* Working with heavy plant and machinery.
* Working with tools and equipment.
* Working with live electricity.
* Working at height.
* Lifting operations.
* Demolition.
* The presence of hazardous substances such as asbestos.
* Exposure to chemicals.
* Structural collapse and falling debris.
* Material and manual handling.
* Hand arm vibration syndrome.
* Loud noise.
* Slips, trips and falls.
* Working long and physically-demanding shifts.
* Working in confined spaces.
* Sharp objects.
* Hot work.
* Fire.
* Water.

Some common prevention techniques which can often adopted to reduce the risk of hazards include:

* Use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
* Regular waste disposal.
* Provision of modern tools and equipment.
* Staff and visitor training.
* Ties, chutes and netting to prevent falling debris.
* Signage warning of hazards.
* Proper assignation of operatives.
* Keeping sites secure.
* Zoning of activities.
* Emergency procedures.

= Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki =

* As Low As Reasonably Practicable (ALARP).
* Competent person.
* Hazardous substances.
* Health and safety.
* Health and safety file.
* Major hazard for planning purposes.
* [[Near_miss|Near miss.]]
* Project risk.
* Risk assessment.
* Risk in building design and construction.
* Risk management.
* Risk register.
* Safety.
* Safety management.

=== External references ===

* [https://safetyworkblog.com/ Workplace Safety Blog]

[[Category:Health_and_safety_/_CDM]] [[Category:Standards_/_measurements]]

Types of crane

2019-01-19T23:10:10Z

Flaaim:

[[File:Cranes.jpg|link=File:Cranes.jpg]]

= Introduction =

A wide range of different types of crane can be used on construction projects as a means for lifting and moving materials and other building elements from place to place. Cranes can range from a simple rope pulley to a tower crane fixed to the top of a skyscraper. The choice of crane for a particular site will depend a number of different factors, including:

* The type of loads that need to be lifted.
* The height and horizontal distances that need to be covered.
* The radius of the swing.
* The time period of the lifting operations.
* The utilisation factor (the ratio of time spent in use compared to the total time it could be in use).
* The degree of mobility required.
* The type of plant that will be used in conjunction with the crane, such as concreting plant.

Very broadly, cranes can be classified as:

* Mobile.
* Static.
* Tower.

= Mobile cranes =

[[File:Mobilecrane.jpg|link=File:Mobilecrane.jpg]]

Mobile cranes can be moved within a site, giving them great flexibility. They can be either mobile wheeled, truck-mounted, track-mounted or gantry-based.

=== Mobile wheeled cranes ===

Mobile wheeled cranes are mounted on a wheeled chassis with stabilisers that can be used when lifting to prevent movement. Generally, crane is controlled and driven by an operator inside the cab. The slewing ring beneath the cab allows for a 360-degree turning circle, and the boom extends upwards supported by suspension ropes.

* Lifting capacity: Tends to vary from 3 - 50 tonnes, but is generally around 10 tonnes.
* Average speed: Usually does not exceed 30 km/h.

Mobile wheeled cranes are commonly used for moving moderately heavy loads, equipment and other plant in goods yards or storage areas.

=== Truck-mounted cranes ===

Truck-mounted cranes are mounted on a truck or lorry specially adapted to carry an increased load. The lorry can be driven from a front cab as a conventional vehicle, as well as having additional controls for a lattice mast or telescopic boom which extends in sections. Fly jib attachments can be used for lattice cranes to increase lifting capacity.

* Lifting capacity: Tends to vary from 5 – 20 tonnes, and can be increased by using outrigger stabilising jacks. Lattice masts can lift in excess of 100 tonnes.
* Average speed: Can usually travel at around 30 mph (65 km/h).

As this type of crane is very transportable and has a short site preparation time they are commonly used for short hire periods.

=== Track-mounted cranes ===

Track-mounted cranes are mounted on a diesel powered crawler unit together with a lattice mast that can accommodate a fly jib attachment with additional lifting ropes to allow for better site coverage. They can move at low speed around sites but need to be transported to and rigged on the site.

* Lifting capacity: Tends to vary from 5 – 30 tonnes.
* Average speed: Usually does not exceed 2 km/h.

The flexibility of this crane is its main advantage, as it can be adapted to act as a dragline with the addition of a winch drum at the front. The tracks allow for it to be operational on poor ground conditions.

=== Gantry crane ===

[[File:Gantry-Crane.jpg|link=File:Gantry-Crane.jpg]]

Also known as portal cranes, gantry cranes typically consist of two ‘A’ frames connected by a lattice cross member which straddles the work area. The lifting gear is suspended from the horizontal cross member and can move along it on rails. On small gantry cranes, the ‘A’ frame is wheel mounted, whereas larger cranes are mounted on powered bogies that run on rail tracks. Larger cranes tend to have the lifting gear mounted with a driving cab on the cross member.

* Lifting capacity: Small gantry cranes have a 10 tonne capacity, but larger versions can lift up to 100 tonnes.

This form of crane is commonly used for repetitive work on low to medium-rise developments, or in stock yards to move equipment and materials.

= Static cranes =

Despite having a similar appearance to the traditional tower cranes, static cranes differ in that the lattice mast is mounted on the slewing ring meaning that the whole tower rotates from one fixed position.

They are fitted with a luffing jib which can be raised through 90-degrees from horizontal, with a trolley and hoist block that can move along the length of the jib.

* Lifting capacity: These will vary depending on the length of the jib, the position to which the jib is raised, and the position of the hoist block along the length.

Static cranes tend to be used for low capacity lifting and are beneficial in that they tend to allow for a closer approach to the face of a building.

= Tower cranes =

[[File:Towercrane.jpg|link=File:Towercrane.jpg]]

Tower cranes are a familiar sight on most construction projects. They are usually assembled and erected on-site with a horizontal or luffing jib. Common features of tower cranes include:

* Lattice sectionalised tower.
* Jib (typically 25 m long) fitted with precast concrete counterweight blocks.
* Access ladder housed within the tower or attached to an outside face.
* Stay rods and support frame.
* Cab at the top of the tower in which an operator sits.
* Slewing ring which allows for rotation of the jib.
* Trolley and hoist block which can move along the length of the jib.

Tower crane operators are capable of seeing most of the lifting operations from the cab, although a banksman is required at ground level both for overseeing the loading of the crane and for issuing signals and guidance to the operator.

Tower cranes come a number of different forms:

* Self-supporting static.
* Supporting static.
* Travelling or rail-mounted.
* Climbing.

=== Self-supporting static tower crane ===

The tower (typically 30 m tall) is anchored at ground level using mass or reinforced concrete bases. Piles may be required if the ground conditions are poor. Lifting capacities range from 2.5 tonnes with the trolley at the minimum radius and 1 tonne at the maximum radius at the end of the jib. This type of tower crane is most appropriate on confined sites where there is not enough room for a travelling crane.

=== Supporting static tower crane ===

[[File:Tower_Construction.JPG|link=File:Tower_Construction.JPG]]

This is similar to a self-supporting tower crane but is used where high lifts are required. To gain additional stability, the tower is tied at suitable intervals to the face of the structure, from a minimum distance of 2 metres. This will induce additional stresses in the structure which must be accommodated in the design and this is likely to incur additional costs.

=== Travelling or rail-mounted tower crane ===

On sites that cannot accommodate static cranes, a travelling or rail-mounted tower crane may be the most suitable option. The tower is supported at the base by precast concrete ballast blocks placed evenly to both sides. This is then mounted on heavy-wheeled bogies that move along a rail track which is laid on sleepers and ballast. Traversing corners is possible by constructing radius rails or turntables. It is important that the track is not placed on a gradient more than 1 in 200, and that it is carefully monitored and maintained as any imperfections or slight movement could render the tower unstable.

The typical lifting capacities are 1 tonne at the maximum radius and 4 tonnes at the minimum radius.

=== Climbing tower crane ===

Climbing tower cranes are suitable for structures that are particularly tall. The tower is erected within the structure and raised as the structure itself becomes higher during the construction process.

Typically, the crane is fixed to a base and raised two storeys at a time or after floors have been cast and cured. After the first four floors are in position, self-adjusting wedges and collars are fixed to the floor around the tower to transfer its load to the floors, thereby helping with stability. Once work is complete, the crane is dismantled in sections. The decision to use a climbing tower crane must be taken carefully, since frames or collars will need to be designed to suit the structure in question, and the structure must be capable of supporting the required loads.

You can read about the various regulations and safety considerations that apply to the use of cranes on construction sites [[Crane_regulations|here.]]

= Find out more =

=== Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki ===

* Avoiding crane collapses.
* Banksman.
* Bituminous mixing and laying plant.
* Cherry pickers.
* Compressed air plant.
* Concreting plant.
* Construction plant.
* Construction tools.
* Counterweights.
* Crane supports.
* Crane regulations.
* Earth-moving plant.
* Equipment in buildings.
* Excavating plant.
* Forklift truck.
* Hoists.
* Lifting device.
* Rubble chute.
* Scaffolding.
* Scissor lift.
* Site storage.
* Stacker.
* Temporary works.
* Winch.
* Work at height regulations.

=== External references ===

* ‘Introduction to Civil Engineering Construction’ (3rd ed.), HOLMES, R., The College of Estate Management, (1995)
* ‘Building Construction Handbook’ (6th ed.), CHUDLEY, R., GREENO, R., Butterworth-Heinemann, (2007)
* [https://safetyworkblog.com/laboursafety.php?id=84 Jib Cranes Safety Requirements]

[[Category:Construction_techniques]] [[Category:Products_/_components]]

Construction materials

2019-01-09T07:08:51Z

Flaaim:

Approved Document 7: materials and workmanship, provides a very wide definition of ‘materials’:

{|
| Materials include manufactured products such as components, fittings, items of equipment and systems; naturally occurring materials such as stone, timber and thatch; and backfilling for excavations in connection with building work.
|}

Narrower definitions of materials such as 'physical substances that things can be made from' would seem to exclude manufactured products such as components, fittings, items of equipment and systems. For example, steel is a material, whereas a steel beam is a product.

Some of the more commonly used construction materials that might be considered to fall within this narrower definition are listed below. For a wider list, including products and components see: [https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Category:Products_/_components Products and components].

* Adhesives
* Adobe.
* Aggregate
* Alkali-activated binder
* Architectural fabrics
* Asphalt
* Bulk filling materials
* Carbon fibre
* Cast iron
* Cavity wall insulation
* Cement
* Ceramics
* Chert
* Clay
* Coal ash
* Concrete
* Concrete fibre
* Daub
* ETFE
* Fibre cement
* Glass for buildings
* Glass reinforced concrete
* Glass reinforced plastic GRP
* Glulam
* Graphene in civil engineering
* Gravel
* Gravel v hardcore v aggregates.
* Grouting in civil engineering.
* Gypsum.
* Hempcrete
* High alumina cement
* Icynene spray foam insulation
* Laminated veneer lumber LVL
* Lead in construction
* Limecrete
* Masonry
* Mastic sealant
* Mortar
* Mycelium
* Nylon
* Oil - a global perspective
* Paint
* Paints and coatings
* Pebbledash
* Phase change materials
* Phenolic foam insulation
* Plastic
* Plywood
* Polyamide intermediates
* Polyethylene.
* Polystyrene
* Polyurethane spray foam in structurally insulated panels and composite structures
* Polyvinyl chloride PVC
* Precast concrete
* Prestressed concrete
* Products v goods v materials.
* R22 phase out
* Recyclable construction materials
* Refrigerants in buildings
* Reinforced concrete
* Render
* Renewable chemicals
* Sand.
* Solid wall insulation
* Stainless steel in construction
* Steel
* Straw bale construction
* Structural steelwork
* Stucco
* Sundry items.
* Sustainable materials
* Terracotta.
* Thermoplastic materials in buildings
* Timber
* Topmix Permeable
* Tradical Hemcrete
* Transparent insulation
* Types of steel
* Wattle and daub
* Wrought iron

= Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki =

* Approved documents.
* Approved document 7.
* BREEAM Material efficiency.
* Building Regulations.
* Construction buyer.
* Conversion of material volumes.
* Defects.
* Off-site goods and materials.
* Material handling.
* Materials on site.
* Performance gap.
* Quality control.
* Schedule of defects.
* Snagging.
* Supply.
* Testing construction materials.
* Truth to materials.

=== External references ===

* [https://safetyworkblog.com/laboursafety.php?id=69 Safety Precautions When Working With Construction Materials]

[[Category:Standards_/_measurements]] [[Category:Products_/_components]]

First aider

2019-01-09T07:04:59Z

Flaaim:

= Introduction =

A first aider is a person that has undertaken necessary first aid training and holds a valid qualification as proof of competence. First aiders are important on construction sites as they can provide help and assistance should there be an injury or illness.

Common injuries that first aiders may have to deal with on site include:

* Electric shock.
* Falls from height.
* Injuries from building materials, plant and equipment.

= Qualifications =

The qualification must be one that the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) recognise. This can be either:

* First aid at work (FAW), a higher level 3-day course which also covers first aid to specific injuries and illnesses.
* Emergency first aid at work (EFAW): Usually a one-day course covering emergency first aid.

First aiders should take one or both courses from a training organisation that is approved by HSE or a recognised awarding body of Ofqual/Scottish Qualifications Authority. It is recommended that first aiders undertake annual refresher training to ensure their basic skills are up to date. Certificates last for three years, and before expiring a requalification course should be undertaken by the first aider.

= Number of first aiders =

Although there are no exact rules or requirements on the number of first aiders for a construction site, the Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981 require all construction sites to have:

* A first aid box with the necessary equipment for the number of on-site workers.
* Clear information provided, usually in the site facilities, giving the name of the appointed person or first aider and where to find them.
* An appointed person responsible for first aid arrangements.

Since there are no specific requirements, each construction project should be assessed on the basis of its first aid needs. This will be influenced by the number of operatives on site, the type of working conditions, the type of materials being used, and the construction procedures being undertaken.

The HSE provides guidance on the number of first aiders:

* Less than 5 people on site: At least one appointed person.
* 5-50 people on site: At least one qualified first aider trained in EFAW or FAW.
* More than 50 people on site: At least one first aider trained in FAW per 50 operatives.

First aid personnel should be available at any time that work is being done on site. If work is being done in shifts, then a project may need two qualified first aiders to handle the separate shift work.

=== Appointed person ===

The appointed person is responsible for first aid facilities, equipment, and procedures, although unlike first aiders they do not require first aid training. The appointed person is also responsible for calling the emergency services when required.

= First aid kit =

As a minimum, a site first aid kit should contain:

* A leaflet giving general guidance on first aid.
* Sterile plasters (assorted sizes) appropriate to the type of work.
* Sterile eye pads.
* Triangular bandages.
* Safety pins.
* Sterile unmedicated wound dressings.
* Disposable gloves.

Although there is no specific timeframe, many items, particularly sterile items, have expiry dates and should be disposed of and replaced accordingly.

British Standard BS 8599 provides further information on the contents of first aid kits.

= Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki =

* Accident book.
* Building Site to Boardroom (BS2B).
* Construction dust.
* Construction work in hot weather.
* Crane regulations.
* Health and safety.
* Deleterious materials.
* Environmental health.
* Health and safety at work etc act 1974.
* Health and safety consultant.
* Health and Safety Executive.
* Health and safety file.
* Health and safety inspector.
* Health and safety policy.
* Human resource management in construction.
* Near miss.
* Notification to HSE.
* Personal protective equipment PPE.
* Reporting accidents and injuries on construction sites.
* Risk of rats in construction.
* Site administrator.
* Site induction.
* Site safety.
* Site supervisor.
* Work at height regulations.

=== External references ===

* HSE - [http://www.hse.gov.uk/firstaid/index.htm First aid at work]
* [https://safetyworkblog.com/laboursafety.php?id=83 The Importance of First Aid in Construction Sites]

[[Category:Health_and_safety_/_CDM]] [[Category:Appointments]] [[Category:Roles_/_services]]

Crane regulations

2019-01-09T07:04:04Z

Flaaim:

[[File:Crane.JPG|link=File:Crane.JPG]]

= Introduction =

Cranes are a very common feature on construction projects. All lifting operations should be planned carefully so they are carried out safely having assessed all the risks, and there are a number of regulations and safety guidelines that must be adhered to.

The two principal hazards associated with cranes are the collapse of the crane and loads falling from height, both of which present significant potential for injury, fatalities and damage, both on and off-site.

In April 2013, following a public consultation, the Notification of Conventional Tower Crane Regulations 2010 were revoked, meaning that there is now no longer a duty to notify tower cranes on construction sites to the HSE.

Nonetheless, it is still a legal requirement that all operations involving lifting equipment must be properly planned by a competent person, appropriately supervised, and carried out in a safe manner. Crane operators, and those directing lifting operations, must be trained and competent. Cranes must be of adequate strength, tested at prescribed intervals, and subject to the required examinations and inspections as laid out in BS 7121:1:2006 Code of practice for safe use of cranes.

In addition, the [[Lifting_Operations_and_Lifting_Equipment_Regulations_(LOLER)|Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER)]] place duties on people and companies who own, operate or have control over lifting equipment.

= CPA contract =

Crane hire companies adhere to the terms and conditions of the Construction Plant Hire Association (CPA) and in accordance with BS 7121 The Safe Use of Cranes.

Under the terms of a standard CPA crane hire contract, the client hires the crane and operator. The client takes full responsibility for the execution of the lifting operation as well as the crane once it is brought onto the site. The client must have an Appointed Person who is made responsible for the lift and provide adequate insurance cover. If the client doesn’t have the necessary insurances, the company usually increases the hire charge.

= CPA Contract Lift =

Clients who are inexperienced in hiring cranes and so do not have the necessary competencies for safe planning and use are able to make use of a CPA Contract Lift service. This means that the crane owner provides insurance cover and retains responsibility for the crane and other equipment, the operator and all other personnel supplied with the crane, as well as all aspects of the lift plan and execution.

It is important to note that a Contract Lift is only valid when the crane owner supplies the Appointed Person to supervise. The client retains certain liabilities and should hold insurance to protect against such things as their own negligence, poor ground conditions, or the supply of incorrect information regarding the lift.

= Wind =

According to LOLER, appropriate devices should be made available to detect dangerous situations and allow for effective mitigation in conditions of high wind that may threaten a crane and/or its load. The information regarding the maximum wind speed in which the crane can be safely operated should be known and made available.

It is also important that cranes are made safe during out-of-service periods. Foreseeable wind speeds should be analysed from historical data and local wind studies. This will influence the height as well as the size of the foundations, ballast and jib counterweights used.

= Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki =

* Avoiding crane collapses.
* Banksman.
* Cherry pickers.
* Construction plant.
* Construction tools.
* Crane supports.
* Demolition.
* Equipment in buildings.
* Health and Safety.
* Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER).
* Scaffolding.
* Site safety.
* Temporary works.
* Types of crane.
* Work at height regulations.

=== External references ===

* HSE – [http://www.hse.gov.uk/construction/safetytopics/cranes.htm Cranes]
* [http://www.cpa.uk.net/home/ Construction Plant-hire Association]
* [https://safetyworkblog.com/laboursafety.php?id=84 Jib Cranes Safety Requirements]

[[Category:Health_and_safety_/_CDM]] [[Category:Regulations]]

How to use a ladder

2019-01-09T07:01:40Z

Flaaim:

[[File:Ladder.jpg|link=File:Ladder.jpg]]

Ladders are commonly-used low-risk and short-duration tasks at height. Safety requirements related to ladders are set out in Schedule 6 of the Work at height regulations 2005, and stipulate that ladders can be used when a risk assessment has shown that other equipment is not necessary because of the low risk (eg the ladder will be level and stable), and short duration (generally, less than 30 minutes).

Ladders should be checked for any defects before use. The stiles should not be damaged, the feet should not be missing or worn (as this can cause the ladder to slip), rungs should not be loose, worn or missing; and locking mechanisms should be functioning correctly.

Ladders should not be used on moveable, wet, icy, unstable or snow-covered surfaces, or within 6 m of an overhead power line. The pictogram or label on the ladder should be checked to ascertain the maximum weight that it can hold.

General safety precautions for using a ladder include:

* Positioning the ladder at 75° - the ‘1 in 4 rule’ (i.e. if the ladder is 4 m tall, the base should be 1 m from the building).
* The feet of the ladder should be sat firmly on the ground with timber blocks stacked beneath if the ground is not level.
* It should not be rested against upper surfaces that are weak or likely to break, such as glazing or guttering.
* Users should face the ladder when ascending and descending.
* Both hands should be used to hold the rungs.
* Three points of contact should be maintained when climbing (1 hand and 2 feet, or 2 hands and 1 foot).
* The ladder should not be ascended higher than the fourth rung from the top.
* A tool belt or holster should be used to carry tools and other equipment.
* The hips of the user should be within the vertical side rails without leaning to one or other side.
* The ladder should not be moved or extended while standing on the rungs.
* If necessary, or if used to access another level, ladders should be secured using ties.
* If the surrounding area is busy or in a public space (such as on a pavement), a suitable barrier or cones may be necessary as protection.
* A self-closing gate may be used at ladder access points.

= Find out more =

=== Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki ===

* Crane regulations.
* Hoists.
* Lifting platform.
* Mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs).
* Scaffold register.
* Scaffolding.
* Types of scaffolding.
* Work at height regulations.
* Working at height training.
* Working platform.

=== External references ===

* [https://safetyworkblog.com/laboursafety.php?id=77 24 Tips On Step Ladder Safety]

[[Category:Health_and_safety_/_CDM]] [[Category:Products_/_components]]

Risk assessment for construction

2019-01-09T06:55:13Z

Flaaim:

NB: This article relates to health and safety risks - for other risks, see Project risks and Risk management.

-----
The Construction (Design and Management) Regulations (CDM Regulations) are intended to ensure that health and safety issues are properly considered during a project’s development so that the risk of harm to those who build, use and maintain structures is reduced.

They require that as the design progresses, risks are identified and eliminated and residual risks are reduced and managed and that designers, principal designers, principal contractors and contractors take account of the 'principles of prevention' in carrying out their duties, which in general terms are:

(a) Avoid risks where possible.

(b) Evaluate those risks that cannot be avoided.

(c) Put in place proportionate measures that control them at source.

See principles of prevention for more information.

Whilst the specific process of preparing a formal risk assessment is not a requirement of the CDM regulations, regulation 3(6)(a) of the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations does require that risks are controlled in the workplace, including construction sites. This involves thinking about what might cause harm to people and deciding what steps to take to prevent that harm. This is known as risk assessment and might include:

* General assessments of health and safety risks to which employees and others are exposed on construction sites.
* Specific assessments for specific hazards such as: work at height; hazardous substances (COSHH); manual handling; noise; vibration and lead.

Where an employer employs five or more people, the significant findings of risk assessments must be recorded.

On construction projects, this may relate not only to the construction of the works, but also to temporary works and to the operation, maintenance, cleaning, alteration or demolition of the completed development. It may also relate to inherent risks in the site or its surroundings.

It is not necessary to be a health and safety expert to write a risk assessment, simply a ‘competent person’, which according to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is ‘someone who has sufficient training and experience or knowledge’.

Risk assessment should not be a bureaucratic exercise but should focus on the identification, elimination and management of risks:

* Identify the hazards.
* Decide who might be harmed and how.
* Evaluate the risks and decide on precautions.
* Record significant findings.
* Review the assessment and update if necessary.

Information produced as a consequence of a risk assessment might be included in tender documents so that designers, contractors, subcontractors and suppliers can take them into account when pricing their tenders and planning their work. Ultimately, it may, where relevant, be included in the health and safety file. However, as the CDM regulations require that designers and contractors are competent persons, information about risks need only be provided in relation to unusual risks or risks that are difficult to effectively manage.

Method statements are widely used in construction as a means of controlling specific health and safety risks that have been identified (perhaps following the preparation of a risk assessment) such as; lifting operations, demolition or dismantling, working at height (such as work on roofs), installing equipment, and the use of plant. A method statement helps manage the work and ensures that the necessary precautions have been communicated to those involved.

Together, risk assessments and method statements are sometimes described as 'RAMS'. RAMS may be required by third parties to demonstrate that health and safety has been properly considered and that the requirements of the CDM regulations have been satisfied.

For example, a contractor may require submission of RAMS form sub-contractors, a landlord may require submission of RAMS from tenants proposing to carry out works to a property, or a client may require submission of RAMS from contractors operating on their premises.

NB: It is generally accepted that as well as complying with regulations and reducing the incidence of accidents, risk assessment also improves quality and reduces the costs of the development.

= Find out more =

=== Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki ===

* Access to construction sites.
* As Low As Reasonably Practicable (ALARP).
* CDM.
* Construction management statement.
* COSHH.
* Conflict avoidance.
* Construction health risks.
* Construction phase plan.
* Deleterious materials.
* Demolition.
* Engineers and hurricanes.
* Health and safety.
* How to write a method statement.
* Insurance.
* Interface risk in construction.
* Manual handling assessment chart.
* Method statements.
* Near miss.
* Permit to work.
* Pre-construction information.
* Principal contractor.
* Principal designer.
* Principles of prevention.
* Project risk.
* Resilience.
* Risk assessments and method statements.
* Risk management.
* Safety.
* Safety audit.
* Temporary works.
* What is a hazard?

=== External references ===

* [https://safetyworkblog.com/laboursafety.php?id=60 Steps in Risk Assessment]

[[Category:Health_and_safety_/_CDM]] [[Category:Other_legislation]] [[Category:Design]]

Forklift truck

2019-01-05T02:09:05Z

Flaaim:

[[File:Forklift-835340_640.jpg|link=File:Forklift-835340_640.jpg]]

= Introduction =

Forklift trucks are used to transport materials and goods on pallets or packs, and are able to move them both horizontally and vertically. They are most suited to use on firm and level ground, and so are common in warehouses and on industrial sites, but they are generally designed to operate in poorer conditions as well and so can be used on construction sites.

On construction sites, they are predominantly used as part of the materials and goods storage process, or for moving materials and goods where the height of the structure does not exceed three storeys.

= Types of forklift truck =

The common features of forklift trucks include their engine, the driver’s cab, and the lifting forks.

The selection of the appropriate type of forklift truck will depend on considerations such as:

* The load and lifting height required.
* The use of attachments (such as fork extensions, booms, rotating heads, drum clamps, paper roll clamps, bale clamps, load stabilisers and so on).
* Available power sources (electric batteries, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), petrol or diesel).
* The terrain.
* The need to protect the operator.
* Exposure to the weather.
* The need for lighting.
* Noise restrictions.

There are three basic types of forklift truck:

== Straight mast forklift ==

This has a telescopic straight mast that extends vertically, typically with a maximum lift height of 5.7 m, a maximum forward tilt of 3-degrees and a maximum backward tilt of 10-degrees. This type of forklift is capable of lifting 1.5 tonnes.

== Telescopic boom forklift ==

This has a telescopic boom that is able to reach forwards 3.35 m and has a maximum lift height of 8.5 m. The maximum load is 2 tonnes.

== Overhead forklift ==

This has a hydraulically controlled overhead lifting arm that is able to reach forwards 2.35 m and has a maximum lift height of 6.5 m. The maximum load is 1.5 tonnes.

= Health and safety =

According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), forklift trucks are involved in about a quarter of all workplace transport accidents.

HSE has published ‘[http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/books/l117.htm Rider-operated lift trucks: Operator training and safe use, Approved Code of Practice and guidance]’ (known simply as ‘L117’) intended for employers and those responsible for the safe operation of lift trucks, as well as those in control of worksites, the self-employed, managers and supervisors.

It includes:

* The main legal requirements relating to lift trucks.
* The Approved Code of Practice.
* Guidance on operator training for stacking rider-operated lift trucks.
* Guidance from HSG6 Safety in working with lift trucks, which it replaces.

The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations require that a suitable and sufficient risk assessment is undertaken to protect employees and others, and this is an important part of planning lifting operations. Other obligations include; providing training, proper maintenance and inspection, provision of suitable operating areas and suitable loads, and so on.

Particular care must be taken by operatives to ensure that loads are placed correctly on forks prior to lifting, that the forklift truck is not overloaded, and to reduce the crossing of operating areas with other transport and pedestrian routes.

Other relevant legislation includes:

* Health and Safety at Work etc Act.
* Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER).
* Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER).
* Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations.
* Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH).
* Construction (Design and Management) Regulations (CDM).

[[Construction_plant|Read about other types of construction plant here.]]

= Find out more =

=== Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki ===

* Bituminous mixing and laying plant.
* Cherry pickers.
* Compressed air plant.
* Concreting plant.
* Construction plant.
* Construction tools.
* Crane supports.
* Earth-moving plant.
* Equipment in buildings.
* Excavating plant.
* Hoist.
* Lift table.
* Lifting device.
* Pallet jack.
* Post lift.
* Road sweeper.
* Scaffolding.
* Scissor lift.
* Stacker.
* Types of crane.

=== External references ===

* [https://fork-truck.org.uk/home Fork Lift Truck Association]
* ‘Building Construction Handbook’ (6th ed.), CHUDLEY, R., GREENO, R., Butterworth-Heinemann (2007)
* [https://safetyworkblog.com/laboursafety.php?id=82 Major Causes Of Forklift Accidents]

[[Category:Health_and_safety_/_CDM]] [[Category:Products_/_components]]

Personal protective equipment PPE

2019-01-05T02:05:44Z

Flaaim:

= Overview =

Personal protective equipment (PPE) can be used to protect people against health and safety risks.

Personal protective equipment might include:

* Eye protection.
* Gloves.
* Harnesses.
* Hearing protection.
* High-visibility clothing.
* Protective clothing.
* Respiratory equipment.
* Safety footwear.
* Safety helmets.

The Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992 control the use of PPE at work, other than respiratory equipment, cycle helmets and crash helmets which are covered by other regulations.

Employers are responsible for providing personal protective equipment in the workplace free of charge, however, it should be used only as a last resort, when exposure to risks cannot be adequately controlled in other ways.

If it is not used, or if it fails PPE, does not provide protection and so it is important to ensure that PPE is:

* Assessed to ensure it offers the right level of protection.
* Suitable for the conditions and duration of use.
* Does not interfere with the job.
* Does not introduce another risk (such as heat stress or inability to communicate).
* Maintained, cleaned, stored and replaced properly, with responsibility for these activities clearly allocated and understood.
* Checked for defects.
* Provided with instructions and training.
* Used correctly.
* ‘CE’ marked and compliant with the requirements of the Personal Protective Equipment Regulations.
* The correct size, fit and weight.
* Easy to adjust.
* Comfortable – if possible let the user choose it.
* Compatible with other items.
* Checked to ensure it remains suitable when the job changes.

= Products =

{|
| [[File:Peakview270.png|link=Peak_View_translucent_hard_hat_by_Portwest]]
| Peak View translucent hard hat by Portwest
|}

= Find out more =

=== Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki ===

* Asbestos.
* Banksman.
* CDM.
* CE Mark.
* Cold stress.
* Construction dust.
* COSHH.
* Deleterious materials.
* Demolition.
* Design risk management.
* Dynamic self-retracting lanyard.
* Ergonomics in construction.
* Filtering facepieces.
* First aider.
* Fit testing.
* Hazardous substances.
* Health and safety.
* Heat stress.
* Hi-vis clothing.
* Method statement.
* Permit to work.
* Pollution.
* Risk assessment.
* Safety briefing.
* Safety helmet colours.
* The Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992.
* Toolbox talk.

=== External references ===

* Health and Safety Executive, [http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg174.pdf Personal protective equipment (PPE) at work, A brief guide]. 2013.
* [http://www.bsif.co.uk The British Safety Industry Federation].
* HSE, [http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/books/l25.htm Personal Protective Equipment at Work (Second edition)]. 2005
* The [http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/1992/2966/contents/made Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations]. 1992.
* HSE [http://www.hse.gov.uk/toolbox/ppe.htm Personal protective equipment (PPE)].
* [https://safetyworkblog.com/laboursafety.php?id=5 Different types of PPE]

[[Category:Health_and_safety_/_CDM]] [[Category:Regulations]]

Scaffolding

2019-01-05T02:00:24Z

Flaaim:

[[File:Scaffolding.jpg|link=File:Scaffolding.jpg]]

Scaffolding provides a temporary safe working platform for activities such as:

* Maintenance.
* Construction.
* Repair.
* Access.
* Inspection.

It is formed from individual tubes and joints or proprietary components.

There are two main types of scaffolding:

* Freestanding scaffolds, such as Independent towers,
* Independent tied scaffolds, such as independent towers tied to an adjacent structure.

NB For more types of scaffold, see Types of scaffolding.

The most common piece of structure used in scaffolding is the scaffold tube (known as a standard). The tube generally comes in two thicknesses, 3.2 mm or 4 mm. The tubes are galvanised due to their exposure to the elements and axial capacity loads are given either ‘as new’ or ‘used.’ Capacities of tubes used in tension are usually limited by the safe slip load capacity of the coupler, which is far lower than the actual tensile resistance of the tube.

Scaffolding is designed for its self-weight, i.e. the weight of the boards, tubes, guardrails, toeboards, etc. and imposed loads such as wind. The imposed load applied to the scaffolding depends on its use.

Four classes of loading are available:

* Service Class 1 - 0.75 kN/m2 – Inspection and very light duty access
* Service Class 2 - 1.50 kN/m2 – Light duty such as painting and cleaning
* Service Class 3 - 2.00 kN/m2 – General building work, brickwork, etc.
* Service Class 4 - 3.00 kN/m2 – Heavy duty such as masonry and heavy cladding

The wind load applied to scaffolding will change depending on whether sheeting or debris nets are used. The magnitude of the wind load will alter the required capacity of the ties and may affect their frequency.

When scaffolding is tied to a building it uses the permanent structure of the building to provide stability. The selection of tie positions should be tested and checked before use and the suitability of the permanent structures composition to carry the ties should be analysed.

Scaffolding is also braced laterally using façade and ledger bracing.

Workmanship and inspection is vital for the erection and dismantling of scaffolding and must be undertaken by competent personal under supervision.

For more information, see Scaffold register.

For information about removing scaffolding, see How to remove scaffolding.

The National Access and Scaffolding Confederation ([https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/User:NASC NASC]) has published [https://www.nasc.org.uk/tg20_13 TG20:13], a suite of guidance for scaffolding design and operation, supported by the UK Contractors Group (UKCG), the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB).

This includes a software application TG20:13 e-Guide '...making it extremely easy to check scaffolds for TG20:13 compliance digitally, with user-friendly software which will facilitate printing and circulation of details of TG20:13 compliant structures by email.' It has been reported that this could reduce the cost of scaffolding design by 50% (ref. [http://www.constructionenquirer.com/2014/02/26/scaffolders-set-to-slash-design-costs-by-half/ Construction Enquirer] 26 February 2014).

By the end of 2013, there were over 14,000 scaffolders in the UK.

The NASC incorporates Company membership only which requires:

* Two years of trading.
* 75% direct employee operatives.
* 50% fully qualified operatives.
* 90% operatives must hold a current CISRS card.
* Registration with CITB for training levy purposes.
* £5m public liability insurance.

= Find out more =

=== Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki ===

* Bituminous mixing and laying plant.
* Building wraps.
* CDM.
* Concreting plant.
* Construction skip.
* Crane supports.
* Crane regulations.
* Debris netting.
* Deleterious materials.
* Design liability.
* Demolition.
* Dynamic self-retracting lanyard.
* Earth-moving plant.
* Excavating plant.
* Facade retention.
* Falsework.
* Formwork.
* How to remove scaffolding.
* How to use a ladder.
* Railings.
* Rubble chute.
* Scaffold register.
* Shoring.
* Temporary works.
* Trench support.
* Types of crane.
* Types of scaffolding.
* Work at height regulations.
* Working platform.
* Working platforms for tracked plant: good practice guide to the design, installation, maintenance and repair of ground-supported working platforms.

=== External references ===

* [http://shop.bsigroup.com/ProductDetail/?pid=000000000030240690 BS5975]:2008 + A1: 2001 Code of Practice for Temporary Works Procedures and the Permissible Stress Design of Falsework (BSI 2011).
* [https://www.nasc.org.uk/ The National Access And Scaffolding Confederation] (NASC).
* [https://safetyworkblog.com/laboursafety.php?id=34 Scaffolding Safety Tips]

[[Category:Health_and_safety_/_CDM]] [[Category:Design]] [[Category:Products_/_components]]

Demolition

2018-12-19T05:18:21Z

Flaaim:

[[File:Demolition.jpg|link=File:Demolition.jpg]]

= Introduction =

Demolition is the most high risk activity in the construction sector.

The essence of safe demolition lies in efficient risk control, environmental management and careful planning. The CDM Regulations have provided a platform from which the industry should adopt best practice, demanding written plans of work for demolition even where a project is not notifiable.

Clients and their professional advisors play a vital role in safe demolition and must:

* Allow sufficient time for planning the works.
* Procure an appropriate contractor (carry out safety and environmental audits).
* Provide sufficient information to a good standard.

= Pre-demolition information =

The level and detail of pre-demolition information and surveys required should be proportionate to the project and might include:

* Asbestos demolition survey (to [http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/books/hsg264.htm HSG264] standard).
* Utility information (showing disconnection locations if previously carried out).
* Structural hazards and risks (including relevant information such as condition, modifications, materials, etc).
* Hazardous materials and health hazards.
* Building regulations. Where demolition work is proposed, the owner must give the local authority building control department six weeks notice under Section 80 of [http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1984/55 the Building Act].
* Party Wall etc. Act notices.
* Desk studies indicating the historic use of buildings and land, contamination, mineshafts, wells and so on.
* Constraints to demolition imposed by the client or by the site conditions.
* Site finish required.
* Pre-construction information (CDM regulation 10).

=== Planning permissions ===

Demolition requires notification to be submitted to the local authority to determine whether prior approval is required for the method of demolition where buildings are over 50 cubic metres, and for walls or gates.

Planning permission is required for demolition of unlisted buildings in conservation areas and listed building consent is required for demolition of any part of a listed building.

Where demolition works may have an environmental impact, a screening opinion may be obtained from the local authority to determine whether a full Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is necessary.

= Demolition procedures =

General demolition procedures include:

* Site compound and security set-up.
* Intrusive pre-demolition surveys (such as; asbestos survey for demolition, structural survey, hazardous materials surveys, etc).
* Isolation of utilities and removal of meters.
* Disconnection of utilities.
* Asbestos removal (in accordance with the [http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2006/2739/contents/made Control of Asbestos Regulations]).
* Soft strip (taking the structure back to construction materials including the removal of windows and door frames).
* Superstructure demolition with special measures as constraints demand, such as de-build or protection of adjacent structures.
* Processing of superstructure arisings.
* Slab and foundation demolition.
* Processing of arisings.
* Site finishes as required.

= Demolition methods =

Demolition methods include:

=== Explosives ===

Explosives allow rapid and complete demolition where other methods may be dangerous or slow. This requires extensive use of the police to enforce exclusion zones as well as pre- and post-demolition structural inspections for a substantial radius (in the order of quarter or half a mile). For more information, see Explosives.

However, recent developments in high-reach machinery mean that buildings less than 22 storeys are generally demolished by machine.

=== Hand demolition ===

These methods may be used for small-scale projects, or when demolition has to be carried out in a more sensitive manner due to site constraints such as; proximity to uncapped mineshafts, overhead utilities, pedestrian access, adjacent structures, or structural instability.

It involves the progressive demolition of a structure by operatives using hand tools. In general, the order of demolition is the reverse that of construction.

=== Machine demolition ===

This is by far the most frequently-used method and reduces the need for people to work at height, or manual handling.

Common techniques include:

* Swinging ball: Heavy steel ball suspended from a crane jib.
* Wire rope: Can be used for demolishing parts of a structure.
* Pushing arm: A machine fitted with a hydraulic pushing arm. This is operationally limited by height, so a building should be reduced by other methods first.

=== Other methods ===

Other methods that can be used include:

* Gas expansion burster: Used for 'bursting out' concrete in a prepared cavity.
* Hydraulic expansion burster: Similar to gas but uses wedges and pistons.
* Thermal reaction: Used together with wire pulling, this involves generating a thermal reaction which causes members to lose strength.
* Thermic lancing: Drilling or cutting silica materials by thermo-chemical action.
* Drilling and sawing: Used for cutting openings in reinforced concrete.

= Materials disposal =

Buildings handed over for demolition generally contain hazardous waste, rubbish for landfill and recyclable material. Best practice use of site waste management plans for all demolition projects assists in ensuring the optimum recycling chains are in place. Clients can assist by handing over empty buildings and finding new uses for furniture and equipment.

Demolition produces products suitable for construction with the general rule that a recycled material can be considered a grade lower than its original state. So crushed structural concrete for example may be used as blinding, though with full treatment and a designed mix, it may be possible to achieve structural grade concrete. At present, it should be practical for a competent contractor to achieve 95% building recycling by mass, or even more for some structures.

Materials should be provided to WRAP protocols with Environment Agency certification. It is practical to crush on site for volumes in excess of 3,000 cubic metres.

For more information, see Site waste management plan.

= Policy =

The Coalition Agreement outlined the government’s commitment to increase housing supply, tackle the problems that rundown vacant properties cause and help support local economic growth from refurbishment and improvements. In a written ministerial statement of [http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201314/cmhansrd/cm130510/wmstext/130510m0001.htm 10 May 2013, Official Report, Column 13WS], ministers committed to revising outdated guidance issued by the former Office of the Deputy Prime Minister in relation to demolition.

On 16 January 2015, The Rt Hon Eric Pickles MP, Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, confirmed that the following pieces of guidance no longer reflect government policy and so were cancelled:

* Neighbourhood Renewal Assessment and Renewal Areas (DETR, 1997).
* Private Sector Renewal Strategies: A Good Practice Guide (DETR, 1997).
* Running and Sustaining Renewal Areas (DETR, 2000).
* Addressing the Needs of Run Down Private Sector Housing (ODPM, 2002).
* What Works? Reviewing the Evidence Base for Neighbourhood Renewal (ODPM, 2002).
* Housing Renewal Guidance – ODPM Circular 05/2003.
* Sustainable Communities: Building for the Future (ODPM, 2003).
* Assessing the Impacts of Spatial Interventions: Regeneration, Renewal and Regional Development - The 3Rs Guidance (ODPM, 2004).
* Neighbourhood Renewal Assessment guidance manual (ODPM, 2004).

(Ref. [https://www.gov.uk/government/speeches/demolition DCLG, Statement on the planning decision on Welsh Streets in Liverpool and the revocation of outdated guidance on demolition]. 16 January 2015.)

= Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki =

* Asbestos.
* Building regulations.
* BREEAM Construction waste management.
* CDM.
* Conservation area.
* Construction dust.
* Crane regulations.
* Decommissioning.
* Deleterious materials.
* Design life.
* Dismantling.
* Explosives.
* Filtering facepieces.
* Health and Safety.
* Listed building.
* Notify HSE.
* Party wall.
* Planning permission.
* Pre-construction information.
* Pre-demolition audit.
* Pre-demolition and pre-refurbishment audits.
* Principal contractor.
* Recyclable construction materials.
* Site clearance.
* Site waste management plan.
* Structure relocation.
* Structures at the end of their design life.

=== External references ===

* [http://shop.bsigroup.com/ProductDetail/?pid=000000000019999197 Code of practice for demolition BS6187:2000].
* [http://ide.org.uk/ Institute of Demolition Engineers].
* [http://www.demolition-nfdc.com/Client_Guide.php National Federation of Demolition Contractors Client guide].
* WRAP quality protocols.
* [https://safetyworkblog.com/laboursafety.php?id=28 Demolition Safety Tips]

[[Category:Health_and_safety_/_CDM]] [[Category:Regulations]] [[Category:Construction_techniques]] [[Category:Property_development]]