Page 249 - Xmo Strata - Bulletin Archive

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HSE guidance on what to look for is as follows:-

1) Identify the hazard
2) Identify who and how harm might occur (including third parties!)
3) Evaluate the risks
4) Record the significant findings (ie. on the clearance certificate)
5) Review (individuals to review on each job and location)

In my experience traffic, the general public are always a hazard, but the risks vary on every
site.

You may wish to ask if there is a school nearby where kids might cut across the working area,
are other contractors on site and what risks could they pose, does rain, snow or ice increase the
risk of a car not stopping in time or make the work area and tools slippery?
What other businesses or facilities are nearby, eg. Shops, retailers of hazardous materials or
substances, eg. Fireworks(!) which may affect your work or you may affect them.

You ask about tanker deliveries and record whether one is expected on your clearance
certificate before you start work, but do you think about the risk and control measures?

When identifying hazards, we should try to implement control measures in line with the
hierarchy of risk control ie.

1) Eliminate the risk totally – ie. we try to valet sites without working at height.
2) Reduce the risk – can we do it as the quietest time?
3) Isolate the risk – use the van and barriers to keep the public out.
4) Control the risk – use a MEWP and harness if working at height for long periods.
5) Use PPE – as a last resort and where the risk cannot be controlled by other means –
where possible, this is specified on the JSA/SMS.
6) Discipline – the risks can change as fast as the weather, so continue to carry out last
minute risk assessments as you do when you look in the mirror to change lane whilst
driving! Self discipline is the most important, in ensuring you remain familiar with your
safe system of work and not become complacent (or asleep at the wheel!)

Remember – report changes in work procedure; tell us if the JSA/SMS is wrong or can be
improved and continue to be vigilant and carry out your LMRA’s before each step of the job.

Being safe depends on the choices we make everyday. The right choices can save lives. We want to
share safety information and help to raise industry awareness. Safety is not about getting one over on
the competition. We need to talk openly, share what we know and make the right choices.

If you have any queries regarding the Safety Bulletin content or require further information please
contact any staff member of Xmo Strata Ltd.