Safety and Health in Construction – Part 1Tim Dowling

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Safety and Health in Construction –Part 1

Tim DowlingHSA Construction Inspector

Learning Outcomes� Having completed all of the learning activities associated

with this lecture, you should be able to:

� Explain why the construction sector is such a high risk industry.

� Identify and describe the main hazards which arise during construction work

� Explain the preventative measures that can be used to eliminate or minimise the risks created by these hazards

� Outline the main duties on those involved in the design and management of a construction project and how they can mitigate risk in this sector

Safety and Health in ConstructionPart 1

Design and Management Requirements of the Construction Regulations

Part 2

Hazards likely to be encountered on sites

Part 1� Hazards likely to be encountered on sites:

• Working at heights

• Use of Ladders

• Scaffolding

• Roofwork

• Excavations

• Fire

• Transport

� Examples and guidance of good practice and poor practices

Working at heights� Safe means of access

� Safe means of support

� Based on risk assessment

� Selection of appropriate equipment

� Openings

• Secure covering

• Guard rails and toe boards

Safety and Health in Construction – Part 1Tim Dowling

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Ladders� Suitable for purpose

� Proper construction

� Properly maintained

� Properly secured / ties

� Rise 1m above platform

Scaffolding� Trained and experienced (FÁS CSCS)

� Secure base

� Tied and braced

� Safe means of access

� Platform• Fully boarded

• Hand rails and toe boards

• Complete GA3 Form (Min every 7days)

Safety and Health in Construction – Part 1Tim Dowling

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When it absolutely, positively has to be ready in time.

Roof work� Safe means of access

� Mobile elevated platforms

� Proper edge protection

� Crawling ladders / boards

� Proper safety equipment for:

• Fragile roofs

• Sheeting work

Safety and Health in Construction – Part 1Tim Dowling

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Excavations� Locate underground services

� Shoring or benching back to be provided where risk assessment shows it is required

� Competent person:• Daily inspections

• Thorough inspection every day

• 7 days

• AF3 form

Excavations� Keep materials and vehicles clear of edge

� Extreme care near existing structures

Safety and Health in Construction – Part 1Tim Dowling

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Summary of Part 1� Develop an understanding the principal

hazards likely to encountered during construction related activities

� Have some knowledge of good and bad practices which you may encounter on sites