HSE International Issue 102 by HSE International Magazine

Health, Safety & Environment Worldwide

ISSUE 101

PLATINUM FACILITIES & Maintenance Services Ltd

BUILD UK CH A S CONSIDER ATE CONSTRUCTOR S CONSTRUCT A LCUMUS SA FECONTR ACTOR

A lso including:

BR ITISH SAFET Y COUNCIL, BSIF, IIR SM, OAKR AY LIMITED A ND MORE

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Improving our image and our future Thousands of construction sites, companies and suppliers voluntarily register with the Considerate Constructors Scheme each year making a commitment to care about appearance, respect the community, protect the environment, secure everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s safety and value their workforce. The Scheme encourages the construction industry to continuously strive for excellence by providing guidance, sharing best practice and recognising the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most considerate constructors. Through the cycle of considerate construction, the industry will become progressive and inspirational, attracting and retaining the skilled and diverse workforce required for its ongoing success.

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become a member now to find out more visit our website www.construct.org.uk

Develop and advance your business through membership of an industry body representing the Concrete Structures Sector and providing support and guidance to members in: Health, Safety and Environmental Performance Promotion and Advanced Use of Concrete Training Provision and Competence Fair Trading Conditions Growing in nationwide representation, membership is available for concrete frame contracting companies, suppliers, industry associations and individuals.

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ISSUE 102 CONTENTS News

Spotlight 12 MRS Training & Rescue

Awards:

Considerate Constructors Scheme National Site Awards 2016

British Safety Council International Safety Awards 2016

Oakray Limited

IIRSM 40 BSIF - RPE, does it really protect? 46 PAFtec Australia Pty Ltd 48

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FOREWORD: ISSUE 102 In this issue of HSE International:

ur leading story is an exclusive interview with Dr. Alex Birrell, CEO of PAFtec Australia Pty Ltd. Formed in 2009 by a team of respirator specialists and biomedical engineers, the Company designs and manufactures respirators for the global industrial market. Their respirator range, CleanSpace™, has origins in the medical industry, and with 20 years’ experience developing respirators for a medical market, the Company has rapidly evolved to become a highly qualified innovator in respiratory safety. Dr. Birrell commented: “Research indicates that up to 50% of respiratory protective equipment does not protect the wearer due to poor fit. That means that potentially half of the workforce are not protected every time they wear their respirators. Fit testing, while technical, should be routinely done on sites where respirators are used.” On the same subject, we speak to Alan Murray, CEO of the British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) to discuss the current

issues surrounding ill-fitting RPE (Respiratory Protective Equipment) and how the Fit2Fit scheme reduces this problem. Also in this issue, we take a look at the British Safety Council International Safety Awards 2016 Gala Dinner, which was held at the Grosvenor House Hotel, London, on Friday 6 May. As part of our International Safety Awards coverage, we speak to Tony Ward, Health, Safety, Environment and Quality Manager at Oakray Limited, who this year, won the coveted ‘Distinction’ award. Tony commented: “The International Safety Awards are an important benchmark for measuring a company’s level of commitment to health and safety. We are extremely proud of achieving a Distinction, which provides independent confirmation that safety is a priority in all our undertakings.” Rounding up this issue, we present coverage of the Considerate Constructors Scheme National Site Awards 2016, MRS Training & Rescue who discuss face protection and face fit requirements, and an introductory article from International Institute of Risk and Safety Management (IIRSM). IIRSM is a professional body that offers recognition, support and career advancement for risk, safety, health and environmental professionals across all sectors of industry, worldwide.

Contributors IIRSM Considerate Constructors Scheme BSIF For more information, please contact a member of our team at: info@hseinternational.co.uk www.twitter.com/hse_int 0800 612 5845

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Jonathan Seale Magazine Manager

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NEWS

ALTON TOWERS SMILER CRASH: MERLIN GIVEN SENTENCING DATE FOR HEALTH AND SAFETY BREACH Alton Towers operator Merlin will be sentenced later this year in connection with the Smiler roller coaster crash which left five people seriously injured. Photograph: Damage caused to Alton Towers’ ‘Smiler’ carriage courtesy of HSL

erlin Attractions Operations Ltd has already admitted a breach of health and safety rules over the incident in June last year, which left two young women needing leg amputations when their carriage hit another stationary car. During a half-hour hearing at Stafford Crown Court (on 21 June), attended by several of Merlin’s directors, a date was set for the sentencing when the company is expected to receive a hefty fine. The Recorder of Stafford Judge Michael Chambers QC listed a two-day hearing beginning on Monday September 26 at the same court. Bernard Thorogood, prosecuting for the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), told the judge the victims of the crash and their relatives are expected to attend the next hearing and asked if provisions could be made to accommodate them. He added: “Members of those injured will want to come to the hearing.” During a previous court hearing in April, victims Vicky Balch and Leah Washington, who each lost a leg in the

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crash, as well as Joe, Daniel Thorpe and Chandaben Chauhan attended. Mr Thorogood said he would also be producing medical evidence charting the “diagnosis and prognosis” of the victims, to show the impact that the crash has had on their lives. Merlin has already accepted responsibility for the crash after an investigation found a computer block stopping the ride because of the stationary car on the track was overridden by staff, causing the collision. As a result, the full carriage ploughed into the rear of the empty car, leaving those in the front row badly hurt. Concluding the hearing, Judge Chambers said although there were some differences between Merlin and the HSE, “the thrust of the prosecution case appears to be accepted by the defence”. Source: www.hseinternational.co.uk/merlin-given-sentencing-datehealth-safety-breach/

BEHIND THE SCENES OF HEALTH AND SAFETY AT BRITAIN’S AMUSEMENT PARKS British amusement parks were thrown into the media spotlight last year when an incident on the Smiler rollercoaster at Alton Towers left five people with serious injuries. Since the crash, even routine stops on rides around the country have made dramatic headlines – but how safe are they really?

he record at theme parks and fairgrounds is “actually pretty good”, according to Melvin Sandell, a fairground inspector at the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). More than a billion “individual bumson-seats rides” are taken every year, he says, and from those rides only around 35 people are taken to hospital for treatment. This low accident rate is thanks to a range of safety precautions, which stretch from rollercoasters’ over-the-shoulder harnesses and electronic control systems to measures as simple as fences to keep park visitors away from moving parts. While worn electrical equipment and the dangers of working at height are key risks for fairgrounds, which are taken apart and reassembled frequently, theme park operators have the advantage of being able to perform better maintenance on their equipment – although the stakes are higher on their highoctane rides. “The parks with fixed attractions don’t tend to have small, low-level accidents,” Sandell says. “If they have them, they tend to have big ones. This is part of HSE’s strategy with fairgrounds – the reduction of the chance of catastrophic accidents – because as was demonstrated last year at Alton Towers, if something goes wrong on one of these big machines it tends to go wrong in a pretty spectacular way.” To prevent such incidents, huge amounts of money and time are spent to ensure these state-of-the-art rides are built with safety in mind from the start. The Smiler at Alton Towers, for example, cost the park £18million to build. “A lot of these big machines at theme parks tend to be bespoke things,” Sandell says. “You can’t go and buy a Nemesis and you can’t go and buy a Smiler off the shelf. These things are all designed from the ground up, and the first part of any design for them is a thing called a design risk assessment. “The initial thought before anything is even put to paper is that the initial idea is risk assessed to see whether the thing can be built and manufactured to operate safely. And then the entire design is so that the ride will be safe above all things.” One key safety feature on multi-car rollercoasters is a track block system, whereby the ride is divided into as many as eight or nine sections and only one car is allowed in each at any time. And to keep riders in place, over-theshoulder harnesses provide what Sandell calls “360-degree

containment”. These are also linked to the electronic system so the ride can come to a halt if anything goes wrong. All those are interlocked into the control system, so if they’re not down the machine won’t start and if they come loose when the machine is going the machine will stop,” he explains. This enables staff to get people off a ride if anything is potentially amiss. While Sandell believes current restraints are reliable and will not change much, he says Wi-Fi-connected rides could be one the next big innovations in developing new, safer attractions, as well as “one-wire” control systems, whereby interlocks, brakes and sensors are “individualised to their positions” and linked with a single wire. “This sounds less failsafe, but it’s actually more failsafe because each of those safety features is not interchangeable with any other,” Sandell says. “There will only be one thing in one position, so that one control wire will operate the ride in a safer fashion.” While rides are generally safe and developments like these will improve safety even further, Sandell appreciates that recent events have cast increased public scrutiny on theme parks and their attractions. “The last 12 months have not been good for the industry in general,” he says. “Obviously there was the Alton Towers accident, which was a big, big, high-profile thing that is going to have ramifications around the world… “The operators of that particular ride are considered to be world leaders in what they do and everybody’s pretty amazed, and if it can happen to them it can happen to any of us. So there’s a great deal of interest in how that happened.” HSE is now working with the British Association of Leisure Parks, Piers and Attractions to ensure the robustness of its members’ risk management systems, and with the Health and Safety Laboratory to check that physical and electronic protections are as strong as the parks and regulators believe them to be. “HSE is very aware that fairground accidents in general happen to children and young people out at leisure, so they have enormous emotional pressure and media pressure,” Sandell says. “HSE’s core strategic approach, certainly in the past and the near future, is to do whatever we can to keep the chances of accidents – and particularly catastrophic accidents – down as far as is reasonably practical.” Although work to further improve safety continues, Sandell again refers to the UK’s relatively low accident rate at amusement parks and fairgrounds: one death in the last seven years and only 35 people per year visiting hospital for treatment. “I think it’s still very true that you stand a far greater chance of being hurt driving to the fairground than you do when you’re actually on a machine,” he says. Written by Matt Smith Source: www.business-reporter.co.uk/2016/06/15/behind-scenes-healthsafety-britains-amusement-parks/?

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NEWS

BOULBY POTASH MINER KILLED IN ‘GAS BLOWOUT’

A man has died in an underground accident at a potash mine in East Cleveland - one of Europe’s deepest.

Photograph: Boulby potash mine pictured in November 2014. Getty Images

orker John Anderson, 56, was killed by a “sudden and powerful release of gas” at the Boulby mine on Friday 17 June, owners ICL UK said. No-one else was hurt and there was no explosion at the 1,400m deep mine. In April seven workers were injured when after a fire broke out at the mine, which has tunnels deep under the North Sea. Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland MP Tom Blenkinsop has called for an investigation. The mine makes potash for fertilisers and employs about 1,100 people about 100 of whom were underground at the time of the incident. Mr Anderson, from Easington, had worked at the site for 35 years. A company spokesman said: “The incident is believed to have involved a gas blowout - a sudden and powerful release of gas. “Her Majesty’s Mines Inspectorate has been informed. “Company staff will be offering all possible support to the man’s family. All other workers in the mine at the time of the incident were safely evacuated.” Mr Blenkinsop said: “The miner who died in the explosion was one of my constituents who lived in East Cleveland. “We cannot allow this death to go unmarked. Over the last decade and a half, the mine has been a safe working environment, certainly compared to years past where accidents were more frequent. “However, in the space of just a few months we have seen two tragic incidents. I am concerned that this must not become a pattern. “Mines legislation requires a full investigation, and I need to be reassured that this will indeed happen. “I would also want to be reassured that recent redundancies at the mine have not altered day to day working practices to the extent that risk may have been allowed to creep back in.”

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Mr Blenkinsop said he was intending to meet senior mine management from ICL Ltd and the mine’s unions. Simon Hunter, a safety manager at ICL UK, said the previous incidents were unrelated to what caused the death of Mr Anderson. He also said any suggestions that job losses had impacted on safety were “misconstrued”. Source: www.hseinternational.co.uk/boulby-potash-miner-john-andersonkilled-gas-blowout/

MENTAL HEALTH: THE FORGOTTEN HEALTH AND SAFETY ISSUE Three construction industry associations are joining forces with the Samaritans in a bid to address what they describe as the growing problem of mental health and workplace stress in the building engineering services industry.

he Building Engineering Services Association (BESA), the Electrical Contractors’ Association (ECA) and the CIBSE Patrons are holding a joint conference on the issue in London next month. CIBSE Patrons are the corporate supporters of the Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers. BESA chief executive Paul McLaughlin, who will chair the event, said that 80% of engineering services firms believe that workplace mental health will have a serious impact on

their businesses over the next five to 10 years. This statistic emerged from an occupational health survey carried out by the BESA and the ECA, which also found that 31% of companies considered on-site mental health issues ‘hard to manage’. “Mental health is the forgotten health and safety issue,” said Mr McLaughlin. “As an industry, we have made impressive progress on workplace safety in the past 20 years, but on health – and mental health in particular – we still have a long way to go.” Samaritans regional partnerships officer Will Skinner said that the vast majority of calls received by the charity are from people who are not suicidal but just desperately need to talk to someone about how they feel and why they are struggling to cope.

Callers to the Samaritans range from individual tradespeople to senior managers feeling the isolation of leadership, he said. Many people find it difficult to cope with stress created by tight deadlines and cash flow issues. CIBSE Patrons chairman David Fitzpatrick said that the impact of stress was apparent throughout the supply chain. “For an industry that already has serious recruitment issues, tackling mental health has to be a priority,” he said. “In order to make construction-related professions more attractive to a wider section of the population – particularly women, ethnic minorities and school leavers – we need to make sure we cover all aspects of worker wellbeing.” ECA director of business Paul Reeve said “With workplace mental health now an established issue, the sector needs to work together to help contractors manage these issues. Unlike ensuring protection against physical health hazards, employees who face mental health challenges may be the least able to decide or follow the right course of preventative action, presenting additional challenges to firms.” The mental health seminar takes place at St Matthew’s Conference Centre, 20 Great Peter Street, London SW1P 2BU on Thursday 21st July from at 5pm. Attendance is free to members of BESA, ECA and CIBSE Patrons. To book a place at the seminar, please visit: www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/workplace-mental-health-a-cibse-patrons-besa-eca-seminar-tickets-25716572962 Source: www.theconstructionindex.co.uk/news/view/mental-health-theforgotten-health-and-safety-issue?

BRIGHTON BOMB MAY HAVE EXPOSED RESCUERS TO ASBESTOS After officer’s asbestos-linked death, police seek people who helped in aftermath of 1984 IRA attack aimed at Margaret Thatcher.

escuers who worked at the scene of the deadly IRA bombing in Brighton 32 years ago are being sought after a police officer died from an asbestos-related disease. Police, fire and ambulance personnel who were involved in the aftermath of the attack are being told there is a very small chance they could have been exposed to asbestos fibres within the debris. Letters are also being sent to Conservative party members, Brighton and Hove city council, and Sussex University hospital NHS trust, warning that staff and others could be affected, police said. Five people were killed and 34 others were seriously injured when the bomb detonated at the Grand Hotel on Brighton’s seafront in October 1984.

The intended target of the blast was the prime minister at the time, Margaret Thatcher, and her Tory cabinet, who were staying at the hotel during a Conservative party conference. Steve Barry, Sussex police assistant chief constable, who is co-ordinating an emergency services group, stressed that the likelihood of people having been affected was “very small”. However, he said he felt he had an ethical duty to tell people that a Metropolitan police officer who had worked at the scene had died from an asbestos-related disease last December. Barry said: “We are trying to identify and inform emergency service colleagues and others who may have been exposed to asbestos fibres to offer medical advice and support. 

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NEWS

Photograph: Graham Turner

I understand that on hearing this news people may be anxious as to whether they have been exposed to asbestos and concerned about the possible effects on their health. “I would like to emphasise that the possibility that they have been affected is very small, but I feel it is the right thing to pass this information on. People could have potentially been exposed to asbestos fibres within the hotel debris and while we know that police officers working at the scene were issued with personal protective equipment, this was some days after the explosion.”

Sussex police said it was offering its officers health information and support. Barry added: “By publicising this issue I don’t wish to cause distress but inform people so they can seek health advice from their GP, and to reassure them that the possibility that they have been affected is very small.” Source: www.hseinternational.co.uk/brighton-bomb-may-exposed-rescuersasbestos/

GERMANY TARGETS T 2030 BAN ON NEW PETROL AND DIESEL CAR SALES Germany wants to ban the sale of new petrol- and diesel-powered cars by 2030, leaving only electric and hydrogen vehicles in showrooms. 10

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he dramatic move comes as the country pledges to reduce its carbon dioxide output by between 80 and 95% by 2050. This pledge will be in jeopardy unless Germany can radically reduce pollution caused by cars and other forms of transport. Germany’s deputy economy minister Rainer Baake set the 2030 deadline while speaking at the Tagesspiegel newspaper climate forum in Berlin, reports Bloomberg. “Fact is there’s been no reduction at all in CO2 emissions by transport since 1990,” Baake said, adding: “We don’t have any answers to cut truck emissions right now but we do have answers for cars.” Those answers are coming in the form of electric cars from the likes of Tesla and BMW, but the industry is still very much in its infancy and electric cars are seen as expensive luxuries bought by a select few early adopters and fans of the technology. The rate of recent improvement

suggests the electric car market will be very different by 2030, but Baake’s goal is still a lofty one. Chancellor Angela Merkel’s government introduced subsidies earlier in 2016 to give financial aide to buyers of electric cars, similar to the £4,500 discount buyers receive in the UK. Electric vehicles sales are expected to increase in the wake of the Volkswagen emissions cheating scandal, where its diesel cars sold in the US were found to contain a “cheat device” which severely restricted nitrogen oxide emissions when tested, but polluted above legal levels when driven normally. But the German market has a long way to go. According to the KBA vehicle registration authority, about 130,000 hybrid and 25,000 all-electric cars were registered in the country as of January this year, compared to 30 million petrol cars and 14.5 million diesels. Germany’s plans come just a week after Norway announced its own target of selling only electric cars by 2025. Norway is the largest market for electric cars in the world, with such vehicles accounting for 24% currently on the road. Source: www.hseinternational.co.uk/germany-targets-2030-ban-new-petroldiesel-car-sales/

NISSAN SWITCHES ON SOLAR FARM AT LARGEST EUROPEAN PLANT IN SUNDERLAND Japanese carmaker and leading electric vehicle (EV) producer Nissan has completed the installation of a 4.75MW solar farm in Sunderland – its biggest manufacturing plant in Europe.

his, along with other renewable sources will generate enough power to build more than 31,000 cars every year. Developed and installed within the loop of Nissan’s vehicle test track by partner company European Energy Photovoltaics, the solar farm is made up of 19,000 PV panels which will save the equivalent of 3,000 tonnes of CO2.

Photograph: Nissan

The latest renewable energy installation will combine with 10 previously installed wind turbines already contributing 6.6MW power to the Sunderland site, which is the European centre of production for the all-electric Nissan Leaf and its batteries. A total output of 11.35MW will now generate energy at the plant, equating to 7% of the plant’s electricity requirements. Nissan’s senior VP for manufacturing, purchasing and supply chain management in Europe Colin Lawther said: “Renewable energy is fundamental to Nissan’s vision for Intelligent Mobility. We have built over 50,000 Nissan LEAFs in Europe, and the industry-leading new 250km-range LEAF is now available. With 10 wind turbines already generating energy for our Sunderland plant, this new solar farm will further reduce the environmental impact of Nissan vehicles during their entire lifecycle. Vehicle-to-grid storage Nissan’s solar farm announcement follows a number of breakthrough initiatives recently announced concerning EVs and next generation battery technology. Speaking at a launch event in London last month, Nissan Europe’s chairman Paul Willcox announced the firm will develop 100 new vehicle-to-grid (V2G) energy storage units that bring together vehicles, roads and energy networks in “complete synchronicity”. The V2G charging infrastructure is being developed by Italian energy supplier Enel – which Nissan has previously worked with during battery energy storage trials in France. The energy storage systems form just one part of Nissan’s future blueprints in the EV space which, alongside a plan to put fully autonomous cars onto the roads by 2020, also includes the ‘Fuel Station of the Future’ concept which will harness the power of battery storage and incorporate elements from the Internet of things. Nissan supplied more than 100 EVs to UEFA and associated sponsors and installed 17 public EV rapid chargers in Milan and its surrounding airports during the UEFA Champions League Final weekend. By George Ogleby Source: www.hseinternational.co.uk/nissan-switches-solar-farm-largesteuropean-plant-sunderland/

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SPOTLIGHT

HEALTH AND SAFETY – THE IMPACT OF BREXIT All Member States had some degree of health and safety protection in place, prior to EU action in this area, brought about by the 1986 Single European Act.

reat Britain already had a well-established health and safety system, exemplified by the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, which established a goal-setting approach to managing risk, well-regarded internationally for its success in reducing work-related injuries and ill health. Even without the intervention of the Single European Act, it is highly likely that the UK would have introduced many of the existing EU regulatory requirements, although it is likely that – left to its own devices – the UK would have taken a more risk-based approach than the one which actually emerged from the EU. While not directly addressing the question of what health, safety and environment legislation the UK would need post Brexit, EEF believe that the UK would retain most – if not all – of the main legislative instruments if the UK had sole competence in the area of health, safety and environment law. As we are not starting from a point where we have an unfettered choice to decide what legislation we need, we should examine what we already have, and what, given the choice, we might wish to change. The European Commission is currently carrying out a review of all health and safety at work directives, which EEF sees as an opportunity to ensure that we have an EU framework that remains ‘fit for purpose’, retains worker protection standards and makes it easier for SMEs to comply. The EU has an opportunity to change the landscape which will effectively mean that more workers are protected, while at the same time keeping burdens on business to the absolute minimum necessary. There is no doubt that simplification, consolidation and modernisation of the EU health and safety ‘acquis’ combined with a more goal-setting approach has many advantages. EEF has already looked at the existing collection of directives and believes that there are some candidates for repeal without reducing levels of protection for workers. These include the Artificial Optical Radiation and Electro Magnetic Fields Directives. Of course, once employers have embraced a new piece of legislation, become familiar with it and uncertainty over its practical interpretation has been dealt with, further change becomes more problematic and costly

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than the status quo. If Brexit became a reality, we believe that employers are unlikely, except at the margins, to be supportive of fundamental change. One processes have been embedded within industry, removing or changing them is a long and difficult process. Differences in national regulations are likely to add to business costs, introduce uncertainty and could discourage companies from trading or expanding abroad. It seems unlikely that the UK government would jeopardise existing safety and environmental standards to confer a UK trading advantage unless there is a proven alternative which meets health and safety objectives. Either way, we will need to adjust our approach to environmental regulation to limit undue burden to business. Managing the UK’s cost base will be imperative and the government must make a clear commitment to reduce the cost associated with poor quality and unnecessary regulation in order to achieve real change for business. We need a target to reduce the net cost and liability of regulation on business as part of the government’s better regulation agenda, irrespective of whether we remain part of the EU. We also have to assess what Brexit would mean for high-level visions such as the circular economy. An EU-led initiative, it would be hard to see how the UK could work away in isolation – it confers major opportunities for UK manufacturing and waste management. In many areas, it offers the chance to build more competitive business models which lock out international competitors, provide more secure sources of raw materials, and even bring overseas jobs back towards the EU. This vision can only be met if there is space for manufacturers to innovate and if circularity isn’t constrained by regulatory red lines and legal uncertainties which would mean the UK would likely need to adopt much of the existing EU environmental regulation in order to compete and take advantage. Of course, directives and regulations are not the only way that the EU pursues its objectives in the fields of environmental protection and working conditions. There are also non-legally binding legal acts such as recommendations and opinions that are used by the European Council and the Commission to influence national

governments by setting out a particular course of action or a view on an issue. It is possible, post Brexit, that some of these agreements will be cast aside. We must be careful however, as the introduction of non-binding instruments, including good practice guidelines, have provided flexibility for companies trading in the single market as an alternative to further potentially prescriptive directives. We do not believe that there is a compelling, evidencebased case, for fundamentally changing the landscape post Brexit in the field of health, safety and environment law. However, we recognise that no-one can be sure what the conclusion will be now the UK has chosen to turn its back on Europe. By Terry Woolmer Terry Woolmer is Head of health and safety policy at EEF, the industry body for engineering and manufacturing employers See more at: www.sm.britsafe.org/health-and-safety-%E2%80%93-impactbrexit-0#sthash.Z8EVekDo.dpuf

REBRANDED SAFECONTRACTOR CEMENTS ITS POSITION IN THE GROWING ALCUMUS PORTFOLIO SafeContractor, the UK’s fastest growing health and safety assessment scheme, has undergone a strategic rebrand by new owner Alcumus, to become Alcumus SafeContractor, further cementing its position within the Alcumus family.

ecently acquired as part of the Santia Consulting deal, Alcumus SafeContractor is part of a risk management portfolio servicing 32,000 clients and users worldwide. Alcumus SafeContractor brings over 275 clients and 26,000 contractor members into the group. Martin Smith, CEO of Alcumus Group said: “Our business has grown through a number of successful acquisitions and our pedigree, products and services can be tracked back over 30 years. The acquisition and subsequent rebrand of Alcumus SafeContractor unites the businesses under one strong umbrella brand and helps to develop a new, differentiated identity in the minds of customers, investors, competitors, and other stakeholders.” As the brand takes on a fresh new look, Alcumus is supporting members of the scheme, by supplying branding toolkits comprising of new promotional logo stickers, certificates and artwork for letterheads. Alcumus is a market-leading provider of technologyenabled compliance risk management, certification and accreditation services, supporting both UK and Internationally. The breadth of the Alcumus portfolio enables the business to offer all types of risk management solutions – from simple one-off training packages through to strategic risk management strategies.

Visit www.safecontractor.com for more information.

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SPOTLIGHT

IOSH BLUEPRINT ANNOUNCED AS NEW COMPETENCY FRAMEWORK FOR SAFETY AND HEALTH AT WORK A new global model for defining competency in occupational safety and health (OSH) was presented on 21 June at an international conference in London. IOSH 2016 – Shelley Frost

eveloped by the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) and a cross-sector group of industry experts, IOSH Blueprint is a competency framework, designed for both the OSH professional and any organisation. For the first time, individuals and businesses will have a shared framework for safety and health skills and capability, available online and free to access, delegates at IOSH 2016 heard. The first component of Blueprint – a self-assessment tool enabling IOSH professionals to assess their competencies and produce professional profiles and development plans – was released earlier this year to IOSH members. In 2017, the profession will be able to use IOSH Blueprint to access new knowledge and skills training through a ‘knowledge bank’ of resources. And organisations worldwide will for the first time be able to assess their current skills and capability and determine their future needs, enabling them to deliver their vision for safety and health. IOSH executive director of policy Shelley Frost said: “There’s a clear and growing wave of change that we’ve been seeing for several years, where safety and health is becoming more recognised as a material issue for organisations. “Increasingly, organisations are taking a more positive approach, ensuring health and safety has increasing influence on their values and culture. “With the framework more focused on engagement, influence and strategic planning, Blueprint will ensure the safety and health professional is better equipped to deliver their role with a greater understanding of this business context.

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“The profession has been testing it since March this year and their feedback has been really positive and we’re delighted that we’re able to announce this game-changing development. “For organisations, IOSH Blueprint will set the standard for ‘what good looks like’ in OSH competence, enable the benchmark of best practice and establish a common language in OSH globally. Multinational businesses and other organisations will be able to adopt IOSH Blueprint, establishing the model as the standard-setter and framework for safety and health competency worldwide.” Karl Simons, head of safety, health and wellbeing at Thames Water, is one of a number of senior managers to have helped IOSH design and test Blueprint. He said: “IOSH is a global professional body that supports members across all continents – this tells us the diversity of health and safety professionals we have should not be underestimated. IOSH Blueprint will enable each member to now actively understand their own personal development areas, which are much wider than simply being a technical health and safety professional as it encompasses the development areas that should be considered for a rounded business professional. “In addition it also will enable the health and safety professional to look at the development areas within the organisation, which is very exciting.” Announcements will be made later this year on the phased roll-out of IOSH Blueprint. Source: www.iosh.co.uk/News/IOSH-Blueprint-announced-as-new-competencyframework-for-safety-and-health-at-work.aspx

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lan Nicholas Price’s work came to the attention of HSE after a registered fitter subsequently carried out repairs on the gas hob. Price, 57, from Pelsall, was charged with breaching Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations. He failed to appear in court on two separate occasions and was arrested. At Stafford Crown Court, he pleaded guilty and was given a nine-month prison sentence, suspended for two years. He was also ordered to complete 100 hours of community service and pay £100 towards HSE’s costs. Gas Safe Register maintains the register of businesses and operatives who are competent to undertake gas work. Under the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations, for a gas engineering business or operative to legally undertake gas work within the scope of the regulations, they must be on the Gas Safe Register link to external website. Speaking after the hearing, HSE inspector Wayne Owen said: “When working on gas systems it is vital that the person has sufficient knowledge, training and experience so that they are aware of safe working practices and standards. This is due to the level of risk if gas systems are not worked on and fitted safely. The risk is posed not only to the person carrying out the work but to anyone else who may be in the vicinity of the systems afterwards; in this case the occupants of the house.”

Source: www.press.hse.gov.uk/2016/suspended-prison-sentence-for-unregis-

JOIN THE CONVERSATION. CONTACT US TODAY! 0800 612 5845 info@hseinternational.co.uk

tered-gas-fitter/

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NEBOSH

Face Protection and Face Fit requirements There are protection devices available to protect the face in general and the nose and mouth specifically. The importance of the nose and mouth in the human body’s respiratory system is obviously critical to sustaining life and suitable protection is important. Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) is utilised frequently in industry to provide protection to those who work in hazardous environments or with hazardous substances. RPE is able to provide a variety of methods of protection. All, in one way or another, supply air to the nose and mouth area of the head.

Types of respirators available: -

Types of breathing apparatus available: -

• • • • •

disposable half mask re-usable half mask full face mask fan-powered re-usable full face mask fan-powered respirator with re-usable hood, helmet or visor

unpowered fresh air hose with full face mask compressed airline with half mask compressed air breathing apparatus powered fresh air hose with full face mask compressed air breathing apparatus or powered fresh air hose with hood, helmet or visor

• •

self-contained breathing apparatus or compressed air breathing apparatus with a demand valve and full face mask self-contained rebreathers (oxygen)

All of the above types have their particular uses. For further assistance and guidance on the correct selection of RPE I would recommend the HSE’s Respiratory Protective Equipment at Work - a practical guide (HSG53). (http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/books/hsg53.htm)

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How to do it RPE fit testing should be conducted by a competent person - you should take steps to ensure that person who carries out the fit test is appropriately trained, qualified and experienced, and is provided with appropriate information to undertake each particular task. There are three main types of RPE fit testing methods available:• qualitative (taste test) • quantitive (ambient particle count/Portacount) with or without N95 companion (for disposables) • controlled negative pressure And finally, never lose sight of the fact that PPE and RPE must be a last resort. Control the risk first! The British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) has introduced a scheme for fit testers which may provide evidence to help you decide whether a fit tester is competent.

For RPE to be effective, it must be identified by means of a risk assessment as being suitable for the task. RPE Fit Testing Research has shown that almost half of the RPE in use does not provide the wearer with the anticipated level of protection required for the task to be carried out, simply because it does not fit the wearer correctly. It is pointless spending a considerable amount of money providing essential protection for your workforce, identified by a detailed risk assessment, only for it to be partially or even wholly ineffective due to a poor fit. This can significantly increase the risk of those using the RPE. Where RPE is used, it must be able to provide adequate protection for individual wearers. RPE will not protect the wearer if it leaks. A major cause of leaks is poor fit – tightfitting face pieces must fit the wearer’s face to be effective. As people come in all sorts of shapes and sizes it is unlikely that one particular type or size of RPE face piece will fit everyone. Fit testing will ensure that the equipment selected is suitable for the wearer. What you need to do The best time to do fit testing is at the initial selection stage, when individual users can be given a choice of adequate models of RPE. You should ensure that the make, model, type and size of face piece that they wore when they had their successful fit test are made available for their use. If an employee wears more than one type of tight-fitting face piece, then each type of face piece should be fit tested.

Written by Andrew Watson, Commercial and

Business Development Director, MRS Training & Rescue.

MRS Training & Rescue offer face fit testing, delivered by a team of qualified and highly experienced face fit testers. Under the COSHH Regulations, all employers have a duty to provide face fit testing for their employees, who are required to use Respiratory Protective Equipment. Face fit testing is a method for checking that a tight fitting face piece matches the persons’ facial features and seals adequately to the wearer’s face. At MRS we utilise the Quantative method of fit testing to provide the highest level of protection and confidence to your employees. See more at: http://www.mrstrainingandrescue.com

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awards: CONSIDERATE CONSTRUCTORS SCHEME NATIONAL SITE AWARDS 2016

“The Scheme held 13 ceremonies and presented a total of 932 National Site Awards.”

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UK’S MOST CONSIDERATE SITES REVEALED Four constructors triumph at Considerate Constructors Scheme National Site Awards 2016.

ostain, Gentoo Construction, Robert Woodhead Ltd and Walter Thompson (Contractors) Ltd have each been awarded the prestigious title of Most Considerate Site at the Considerate Constructors Scheme’s 2016 National Site Awards. This year marks the first time four sites have won the esteemed Most Considerate Site accolade, as a result of ‘value bands’ being introduced, enabling sites to be assessed against projects of similar value. The value bands are: Under £500k; £500k to <£5m; £5m to <£10m; £10m and over, and the award-winning sites are:

Denton Green Bungalows project - Robert Woodhead Ltd (under £500k) This project involved the construction of four new-build bungalows on a brownfield site in a recognised area of social deprivation in Broxtowe, Nottinghamshire. Linthorpe School Extension and Refurbishment - Walter Thompson (Contractors) Ltd (£500k to <£5m) This project was the construction of a singlestorey classroom and office extension in Linthorpe, Middlesbrough. The Cheviots - Gentoo Construction (£5m to <£10m) This project was the construction of a 40-bed extra care home, alongside six new bungalows in Ashington, Northumberland.

A556 Knutsford to Bowdon Improvement Scheme - Costain (£10m and over) This scheme was the construction of a 4.7 mile section of main road, together with associated bridges and underpasses in Cheshire. Over 3000 guests from construction sites of all different sizes attended award ceremonies held from 11-29 April in Edinburgh, London and Manchester. This year’s National Site Awards applied to registered sites that completed in 2015. Projects registered with the Scheme must demonstrate an appreciation of the impact of their work on the community, the environment and their workforce, and this year was no exception with around 9000 sites eligible to win a National Site Award. The Scheme held 13 ceremonies and presented a total of 932 National Site Awards. In addition to the four Most Considerate Site awards, there were 430 Bronze, 293 Silver and 173 Gold and 32 Most Considerate Site Runners-Up. Mike Petter, Chairman of the Considerate Constructors Scheme said: “Every year the Scheme is taken aback by the many different ways contractors demonstrate their considerate credentials. This year has been no exception, with project teams serving as beacons of best practice with a host of admirable endeavours. On behalf of the Scheme, congratulations to each and every site that has received an award, and thank you for your truly outstanding achievements.”

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awards: CONSIDERATE CONSTRUCTORS SCHEME NATIONAL SITE AWARDS 2016

A556 Knutsford to Bowden Improvement Scheme – Costain

Linthorpe School Extension & Refurbishment - Walter Thompson

Denton Green Bungalows Project - Robert Woodhead Ltd

Contractors (Ltd)

Edward Hardy, Chief Executive of the Considerate Constructors Scheme, said: “Congratulations to each and every site receiving a 2016 National Site Award. Every year, the Scheme is highly impressed by the many different ways contractors demonstrate their considerate credentials. This year has been no exception, with project teams across the UK serving as beacons of best practice. “Special congratulations go to each of the 2016 Most Considerate Sites. These sites have shown truly exceptional performance, making tremendous efforts in going way above and beyond compliance with the Scheme – taking considerate construction to a new level. “They have worked with enthusiasm and dedication to ensure that they showcase the very best of the construction industry, helping to make construction a more attractive career choice. The Cheviots - Gentoo Construction

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“This year’s introduction of value bands underlines that no matter what size or scale of construction site, consideration towards the community, workforce and environment makes a marked difference in improving the image of the industry. “My congratulations again, and also my thanks to all winners for their continued commitment and hard work in striving towards an ever improving construction industry. All those winning awards this year are at very forefront of making the construction industry great and they should all be very proud of how their efforts are improving our industry’s image.” To read more about awards and search the database listing all 2016 National Site Award winners, please visit: www.ccscheme.org.uk/uk-s-most-consideratesites-revealed-for-2016

Awards by region This map shows the number of awards won by region out of all eligible sites based on project location.

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AWARDS: BRITISH SAFETY COUNCIL INTERNATIONAL SAFETY AWARDS 2016

INTERNATIONAL SAFETY AWARDS 2016 GALA DINNER The International Safety Awards 2016 Gala Dinner celebrated the success of organisations committed to the health, safety and well-being of their employees.

his year, the 58th annual black tie Gala Dinner was held at the opulent Grosvenor House Hotel in the heart of Mayfair, London, on Friday 6 May 2016. The event combined formal award presentations and a three course, fine dining experience with an evening of live entertainment. Award winners and anyone with an interest in workplace health and safety were invited to enjoy the spectacular evening. This year’s Gala Dinner was hosted by Cathy Newman, broadcaster, journalist and newsreader, and featured a keynote speech delivered by Susan Elston, Global VP Operational Solutions and Director Operations, New Geographies at Sodexo Energy & Resources.

BENEFITS OF ATTENDANCE There were a number of sound business reasons to attend the 2016 International Safety Awards Gala Dinner: • To be presented with if you applied, a certificate and a distinction trophy if successfully achieving a distinction grade • The perfect way to reward employees, contractors and business partners for their hard work in keeping your workplace safe and healthy • A superb corporate hospitality event for entertaining your customers, clients and business partners

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• A great networking opportunity, with hundreds of likeminded organisations and individuals attending from the UK and overseas • An ideal way to generate positive media coverage for your organisation The organisations that were judged ‘best in sector’ and the individual champions in the 2016 International Safety Awards were announced at this year’s Gala Dinner. Lynda Armstrong OBE, Chair of Trustees, and Mike Robinson, Chief Executive of the British Safety Council, announced the winners of the Sector Awards and the individual winners of the Health and Safety Champion and Young Health and Safety Champion for 2016. Congratulating all the winners of the 2016 International Safety Awards, Lynda Armstrong said: “We are here tonight to celebrate the achievements of 444 winning organisations from across the globe. All of them have demonstrated to our panel of judges their commitment to keeping their employees healthy and safe. “Our awards have a number of important roles to play. First and foremost, they recognise the achievements of the thousands of people who have contributed to your success. They also help to publicise, here and across the

â&#x20AC;&#x153;In a world that is full of criticism regarding health and safety, it is good to celebrate and applaud the benefits of getting it right.â&#x20AC;?

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AWARDS: BRITISH SAFETY COUNCIL INTERNATIONAL SAFETY AWARDS 2016

“These awards were introduced to recognise individuals who, through their passion, commitment and dedication, have helped make a difference by keeping their colleagues and others healthy and safe.”

Linda Armstrong OBE

Mike Robinson, Chief Executive of the British Safety Council

Ben Ealey-Newman receiving the Young Health and Safety Champion Award

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This year’s Gala Dinner host, Cathy Newman

Keynote speech delivered by Susan Elston, Sodexo

Mike Robinson, Chief Executive and Neal Stone, recently retired Policy and Standards Director of the British Safety Council



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AWARDS: BRITISH SAFETY COUNCIL INTERNATIONAL SAFETY AWARDS 2016 globe, the tangible benefits that sensible and proportionate risk management has to play in preventing ill health and injury in the workplace. In a world that is full of criticism regarding health and safety, it is good to celebrate and applaud the benefits of getting it right.” SECTOR AWARDS International Safety Award winning organisations could be nominated for a ‘Sector Award’ for outstanding sites and business units within their sector, as judged by a panel of independent adjudicators. This was free to any site/ business unit completing an International Safety Award application. The 2016, sector categories were as follows: • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Manufacturing Oil, gas, mining and quarrying Power and utilities Construction and property activities Wholesale and retail services Transportation, distribution and storage Hospitality and catering Education Health and social care Not for profit Financial, IT, legal, scientific, technical services and media Local government, defence and public services Onshore major hazard

International Safety Award winning organisations that were considered by the panel of judges as outstanding in their respective sectors were honoured with a Sector Award. This year, the Sector Awards went to the following companies: Construction and Property Services Bachy Soletanche Limited – Burscough

Financial, IT, legal, scientific, technical services and media Babcock Communications Media Services – Wyvil Court Hospitality and catering Whittlebury Hall and Spa Ltd Manufacturing Texas Instruments (UK) Ltd – GFAB, Greenock Oil, gas, mining and quarrying Bahrain National Gas Company – AL SAKHIR 985 Power and utilities Dounreay Site Restoration Ltd – Dounrea Transport, distribution and storage Delhi International Airport Limited Local Government, Defence and Public Services Plymouth Community Homes – Plumer House

“Next year, we will be celebrating our diamond jubilee. Our 2017 gala dinner will be an opportunity for you to join with us in celebrating this achievement.” HEALTH AND SAFETY CHAMPION AND YOUNG HEALTH AND SAFETY CHAMPION This was the fourth year that the British Safety Council invited applications for two individual health and safety awards. These awards were introduced to recognise individuals who, through their passion, commitment and dedication, have helped make a difference by keeping their colleagues and others healthy and safe. Organisations submitting an application for an International Safety Award took the opportunity to submit one or two employees who have contributed to the overall health, safety and welfare on their site or in their business. This was free to enter to any site/business unit completing a 2016 International Safety Award application. The two awards were: • Health and Safety Champion of the Year • Young Health and Safety Champion of the Year Organisations were only able to nominate one employee (applicant) for each of these two awards for each site/ business unit application submitted, i.e. they could submit one for the Health and Safety Champion and one for the Young Health and Safety Champion per application. The Health and Safety Champion Award 2016 went to David Thomson of CAN Group – Aberdeen, whilst the highly commended award in this category was presented to Greg Abernethy of ISS Facilities Services – Security – Aintree Hospital. The winner of the Young Health and Safety Champion Award 2016 was Ben Ealey-Newman, Cobham Antenna Systems (Marlow), whilst the highly commended award was presented to Ryan Paris of Vroon Offshore Services – Aberdeen. In their closing remarks, Lynda Armstrong and Mike Robinson referred to the forthcoming 60th anniversary of the British Safety Council. “Next year, we will be celebrating our diamond jubilee. Our 2017 Gala Dinner will be an opportunity for you to join with us in celebrating this achievement. It will also be a chance to reflect on the immense improvements that have been made in preventing injury and ill health over that time. And we have made progress. You, our members and award winners, have been key in delivering such significant improvements over the past 60 years.” For more information, please visit: www.britsafe.org/news/international-safety-award-2016-sector-winners-and-health-and-safety-champions-

Education Kingston University

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announced. All photographs courtesy of the British Safety Council

Whittlebury Hall and Spa Ltd receiving their Sector Award

2017 INTERNATIONAL SAFETY AWARDS

Why apply for an International Safety Award?

• •

The International Safety Awards are: Independently marked by experienced health and safety practitioners An invaluable award endorsing your health and safety management

Please note each application covers a single site or business unit.

Benefits of applying: • • • • • •

Demonstrate your commitment to high standards of health and safety management Press coverage for your winning site/business unit Attendance at the winners’ Gala Dinner Use of winners’ logo and certificate Distinction winners’ trophy (available to those attending the Gala Dinner in person and to purchase) Winners’ plaque (available to purchase)

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AWARDS: OAKRAY LIMITED

“Oakray’s team of over 125 qualified and directly employed mechanical and electrical engineers offer extensive knowledge and expertise across the full range of disciplines.”

24 28

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SOWING THE SEEDS OF SUCCESS For over 35 years, Oakray Limited has been a leading specialist mechanical and electrical services contractor, providing buildings support to local authorities, social landlords, NHS trusts and private sector clients.

ounded in 1979, Oakray has a proven track record of delivering successful mechanical, electrical and security solutions to both commercial and domestic clients, with whom the company has developed longstanding partnerships. Tony Ward, Health, Safety, Environment and Quality Manager commented, “Our highly qualified engineers and technicians provide expertise and experience across the full range of disciplines.” The name ‘Oakray’ originates from the names of the company’s founders, Raymond Franklin and Ray’s business partner, John Oakley. Starting out with a company called Linbrook Services Ltd, Ray later added the Oakray business in 1979. As Oakray expanded, the company relocated to a site (with approximately 150 acres) in Enfield, with an office in the centre of the grounds. This site provided good access to the M25, the wider motorway network and central London. Oakray Ltd is still a family owned business. Built on reputation and with a shared vision of excellence in mechanical and electrical service provision, its core values include high quality workmanship and pride in standards, along with a commitment to innovation and continuous improvement.

Today, Oakray is still based in Enfield, with satellite offices in several London boroughs and the Home counties. The company is a leading specialist mechanical and electrical and security services provider in the London region. Oakray’s longstanding partnerships with local authorities, social landlords, NHS trusts and private sector clients are a testament to the high quality, professional and transparent approach the company adopts for each and every one of its projects. Oakray specialises in mechanical and electrical services contracts, with over 35 years’ experience in providing commercial heating and ventilation systems, domestic and renewable heating systems and electrical installations. In addition to these services the company also offers CCTV and comprehensive security systems having identified that there is a direct synergy with this business, thereby enhancing the company’s service delivery to its clients. With a fleet of over 120 vehicles, Oakray’s team of over 125 qualified and directly employed mechanical and electrical engineers offer extensive knowledge and expertise across the full range of disciplines. The company’s complete design, installation and technical support service, life-cycle planning for essential plant and equipment, care-line call centre and dedicated emergency out of hours service makes it a one-stop-shop for all client requirements. 

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AWARDS: OAKRAY LIMITED

“We are extremely proud of achieving a Distinction Award, which provides independent confirmation that safety is a priority in all our undertakings.”

Tony Ward - Health, Safety, Environment and Quality Systems Manager CMIOSH, MIIRSM RSP, APS, AIfL Tony has been working for Oakray for 6 years and has an impressive list of responsibilities, managing Health, Safety, Environment and Quality systems for both Oakray and for its sister company, Effectable Construction Services Ltd. Tony’s responsibilities include:• Producing policy • Incident investigation and enforcement (HSE) liaison • Implementation of risk assessment process and compliance monitoring • Health and safety legislation compliance monitoring • Training of workforce and specialist sub-contractors • Site inspections and audits • Acceptance and checking of High Risk, Risk Assessments and Method Statements • Development of systems and procedures for the company • Accident / incident investigations • Responsible for ISO 9001, 14001 & OHSAS 18001 • Waste management Prior to his appointment with Oakray Ltd, Tony became Safety Manager at BA Engineering and progressed through a number of advisory roles in Health and Safety. Through his broad experience and in-depth knowledge of health and safety, he achieved the position of Head of Health and Safety at Willmott Dixon Interiors in 2005. Tony’s knowledge, work ethic and training regime lead to Oakray being awarded a British Safety Council

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International Safety Award (Merit) in 2014. In 2016, Oakray improved further by achieving a Distinction; a great tribute to the company’s continued improvement strategy and its dedicated and robust training programs. Tony attends all directors’ meetings where health and safety points are raised and discussed. By doing so at the most senior level, directors are made aware of existing and new legislation and are kept updated on all of Oakray’s sites. Tony spends a great deal of his time discussing health and safety matters and has instigated a culture of dialogue and examination on several topics that are important to health and safety compliance. Tony and the directors at Oakray make regular onsite inspections to raise their awareness of any issues so they can be tackled effectively. This has been a very positive step and one that has helped develop a better understanding of health and safety issues throughout the company. BRITISH SAFETY COUNCIL INTERNATIONAL SAFETY AWARDS 2016 Oakray Ltd are delighted to announce that they have recently been awarded a Distinction by the British Safety Council in the International Safety Awards 2016. One of just 30 organisations worldwide to receive the highest level of this award, Oakray are proud to be at the forefront of health and safety management practices. Independently marked by experienced health and safety practitioners, this award endorses the health and safety management of its applicants, thus demonstrating Oakray’s commitment to high standards of health and safety

management. Tony commented: “The International Safety Awards are an important benchmark for measuring a company’s level of commitment to health and safety. We are extremely proud of achieving a Distinction, which provides independent confirmation that safety is a priority in all our undertakings.” Members of the team at Oakray Ltd have gained valuable skills through British Safety Council courses and the NEBOSH General Certificate, with all their senior managers also having passed the IOSH Managing Safely course. Keith Mottram Commercial Director commented: “I think that entering the British Safety Council International Safety Awards is good practice for any company. It encourages you to stand back and look at the systems that help you with personnel and business development.”

Proud to work in association with oakray Ltd our services incLude General BuildinG Work • Ground Work • extensions 01348 812 640 • bunyanbuilders@tiscali.co.uk 42 nutcroft • datchworth • knebworth • hertfordshire • sG3 6tG

OAKRAY SERVICES COMMERCIAL HEATING AND VENTILATION Oakray is one of the leading specialist commercial heating contractors in the London region, providing a comprehensive range of heating and ventilation solutions to local authorities, registered social landlords and commercial properties. “Our experienced and highly qualified engineers and project managers offer a complete service, from design and installation, through to planned maintenance and emergency repairs,” Tony commented.

EstablishEd in 1946 s p Ecia lis t s in t h E d Es ig n , in s ta llat i on, sEr v icE a n d m a in t En a n cE o f r E fr igE rat io n a n d a ir co n d it io n in g Eq u ipmE nt 01923 227726 • mail@watref.co.uk • www.watref.co.uk

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AWARDS: OAKRAY LIMITED

HEATING AND VENTILATION SERVICES Tailored to their customers’ needs, each project is carefully planned, managed and delivered by Oakray to ensure best practice and excellent value. The company offers planned preventative maintenance and a full reactive and repair service including round-the-clock call-out. Commercial heating services include: • Combined Heat and Power (CHP) systems • Air conditioning and ventilation systems • BMS systems • Asset surveys, provision of asset registers and condition surveys • Boiler maintenance (including gas, oil, solid fuel and biomass) • Statutory maintenance, testing and certification DISTRICT HEATING SYSTEMS Experts in the design, installation and repair of District Heating plant rooms, and pre-insulated mains pipe-work, Oakray provides a comprehensive service for this efficient and environmentally superior system for distributing heat generated in a centralised location. Providing higher efficiencies and better pollution control than localised boilers, the heat is obtained from biomass as well as incorporating Combined Heat and Power (CHP). District Heating Systems services include: • Pre-insulated pipework installation • Fluid leak detection systems • Combined Heat and Power (CHP) • Gas, oil, and biomass boiler installation • Wet heating systems • Hydraulic interface units (HIUs) • Planned maintenance, full reactive repairs and emergency call out services DOMESTIC HEATING Oakray provides heating and hot water services to domestic properties and private landlords. The company’s experienced and highly qualified Gas Safe registered engineers offer a complete service, from installation and maintenance through to emergency repairs. Domestic heating services include: • Full design and specification • Domestic gas appliances • Pressurised systems installation and maintenance • System power flushing • Under floor heating • Condition Surveys • Water Treatment • Boiler maintenance (gas, oil, solid fuel, LPG and biomass) • Planned preventative maintenance to heating and hot water systems • Full reactive repairs and emergency call out service

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TESTING AND CERTIFICATION Gas Safe registered engineers provide a comprehensive range of testing and certification services for safety and legal compliance, including: • Statutory maintenance, testing and certification • Landlords certification • Glycol efficiency tests SECURITY SERVICES For more than 20 years, Oakray has provided access control, CCTV and automation services to local authorities, housing associations and commercial properties. With a wealth of experience and knowledge within the industry, its management team offers a complete service including design, specification, installation, project management and bespoke tailored training for clients. ACCESS CONTROL From small four-way audio entry systems to IP digital video entry systems for large apartment blocks, Oakray works from the initial bespoke design through to specification, project management and installation. Partnering with trusted manufacturers, Oakray can arrange demonstrations, training and sample systems prior to installation, to ensure that the system chosen will be a perfect match for any technical and financial requirements. A full 24/7 maintenance service is provided by the company’s dedicated team of responsive engineers to ensure this work does not impact on its installation service. Services include: • Audio and Video Entry Systems • Analogue and Digital • Concierge systems • Fob access and Biometric systems • Cloud based access control systems for remote monitoring, programming of fobs and detailed reporting of movement/use CCTV Oakray’s specialised CCTV engineers are kept fully up to date with industry advances and regularly attend manufacturer/industry specific training. Highly trained in the specification, installation and maintenance of a wide range of equipment and also fully aware of the impact of data protection legislation on the work carried out (camera locations etc.), this knowledge enables Oakray to offer the best possible solutions. The company also offers a planned maintenance service, which is highly important for CCTV systems. Cameras, recorders and communication are all tested regularly ensuring that security is maintained at all times. Oakray can even offer loan of equipment to maintain critical security services where faults are being rectified. Services include: • Analogue and digital CCTV Installation • Full HD I.P. addressable system installation • DVR / NVR builds, installation and maintenance • CCTV integration into PC, network and access control systems • Full site visit, specification, design service (including CAD system drawings) • Planned and responsive maintenance programs

“Oakray works from the initial bespoke design through to specification, project management and installation.”

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AWARDS: OAKRAY LIMITED

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AWARDS: OAKRAY LIMITED AUTOMATION Experts in the automation of doors, gates and windows, Oakray provides, installs and maintains communal entrance doors, car park gates and automatic ventilation systems connected to fire alarms in communal areas. The company also carries out installations for Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) compliance, creating bespoke solutions based on the needs of the user identified by occupational therapists. From automating an existing door or window, through to installing full DDA compliant access control systems, Oakray supplies seamlessly integrated solutions.

Are pleased to be associated with Oakray Limited Call sales on 0208 216 1900 or fax 0845 071 7071

www.tglynes.co.uk

Call us today on Edmonton 020 8805 5070 Enfield 01992 764 629

Competitive prices & flexible hire to suit you & your budget!

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Services include: Automatic door operators (swing and sliding) Automatic gate operators (swing and sliding) Automatic window operators (casement and sash), designed and built by Oakray Electronic multipoint security locks Bespoke manufacture and installation of timber, UPVC, aluminium and steel doors Bespoke manufacture and installation of timber and steel gates Automatic home control (heating, lighting, blinds and curtains, windows and doors) Control via push button, remote control, fob, PC, tablet and smart phone

SERVICE INTEGRATION With a range of complementary security services, all delivered in-house and managed from within one department, Oakray is perfectly positioned to deliver a full design and installation solution integrating access control, CCTV and automation technologies. Many schools use all three services to achieve an integrated solution for their security needs, combining controlled access through automatic doors via a fob, together with CCTV monitoring which switches on automatically when a fob is used.

Distributors of materials and plant for Mechanical Services, Heating, Plumbing and Air Movement

• • • • • • • •

ELECTRICAL SERVICES Offering a complete range of electrical services, Oakray is one of the leading specialist mechanical and electrical contractors in the London region. Serving local authorities, registered social landlords and commercial organisations for over 35 years, highly qualified and experienced electricians provide a comprehensive service, from design and installation, through to planned maintenance and emergency repairs. ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE Whatever the electrical requirements, Oakray can provide a complete solution. Tailored to individual needs, each project is carefully planned, managed and delivered, to ensure best practice together with excellent value. Electrical services include: • Industrial and commercial installations • Domestic re-wires and upgrades • Mains, sub-mains and distribution installations • External, security and emergency lighting • Fire alarms • Electric heating • Energy saving schemes and energy audits • Preventative and predictive maintenance • Round-the-clock emergency call out FULL BUILDING COVER Through trusted supply chain specialists, Oakray can provide full building cover including: • Lifts and escalators • Access control systems • Security systems • Auto doors • Hoists and shutter maintenance and repairs • UPS systems

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Offering a complete range of electrical services, Oakray is one of the leading specialist mechanical and electrical contractors in the London region.â&#x20AC;?

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AWARDS: OAKRAY LIMITED

“Oakray’s refurbished offices, completed in October 2015, use a combination of renewable energy for all their heating and lighting requirements.” • • • •

Generators and gas suppression systems Lightning protection Asset surveys and provision of asset registers Condition surveys

TESTING AND REPORTING As a NICEIC approved contractor, Oakray can provide a comprehensive range of testing and certification services for safety and legal compliance, including: • Statutory maintenance, testing and certification • Statutory electrical testing and inspections including load testing and analysis reports • Fixed and portable appliance testing • Full periodic inspection reports (PIRs) • Thermal imaging surveys and reports • Fixed and portable appliance testing DEDICATED TO SUSTAINABILITY With a dedicated renewable energy division, Oakray is committed to sustainability and is a leading provider of renewable energy solutions. Tony commented: “MCS and REA accredited and with a dedicated renewable energy centre at our Enfield office, we have a unique understanding of the commercial and technical issues surrounding the new and retrofit environment. “Working in partnership with our clients, we develop tailored solutions to help reduce carbon emissions and energy costs. We provide a comprehensive range of specialist renewable energy solutions, including: • Photovoltaic Solar Panels • Air and Ground Source Heat Pumps • Smart Metering • LED Lighting • Combined Heat and Power Systems (Chp) • Bio Mass Boilers • MVHIR

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• • • •

Solar thermal heating systems Recovair systems Energy control systems Full design and specification service”

Oakray’s refurbished offices, completed in October 2015, use a combination of renewable energy for all their heating and lighting requirements. Tony continued: “Our expertise in all types of renewable energy enables us to offer tailored strategies to help reduce carbon emissions, cut costs and ensure compliance with relevant government energy legislation. “Oakray’s Sustainability Policy defines our commitment to understanding, controlling, monitoring and improving our impacts on the environment. This commitment underpins the way we work as a company.” Oakray is committed to reducing emissions to air, land and water by minimising energy consumption, reducing and recycling as much of their waste as possible. Oakray have installed Photovoltaic panels to supply the offices with renewable energy source. As part of our recycling program we have purchased a bailer for cardboard and paper which reduces transport emissions and costs providing a financial also give us return. Oakray review goods and services they procure against environmental criteria. The management system in place complies with BS EN ISO 14001 and is independently assessed annually. Tony added: “Our energy and sustainability renewable division has a unique understanding of the commercial and technical issues surrounding the new and retrofit environment. As a complete service and solution provider, we work with and assist our clients in developing tailored strategies that help them to reduce costs and carbon emissions, thus ensuring that their buildings are compliant and meeting the government energy legislation criteria, the ‘Carbon Reduction Commitment Efficiency Scheme’ (CRC Scheme). Oakray have completed a high efficiency district heating scheme incorporating CHP units and Bio mass boilers for

Taylor Wimpey in partnership with London and Quadrant. The scheme was nationally recognized achieving a top five finish in its category at the H&V News awards “Our free energy assessments help our clients save money and reduce their carbon footprint whilst helping to protect the environment. We offer advice and guidance on energy solutions including Heat Pumps, Solar thermal Panels, and Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Panels installations.” EMPLOYMENT Oakray Ltd employs 154 people and is currently recruiting more staff to support its expansion (following numerous new contract awards). Recently, an Oakray apprentice was presented with the ‘Electrical Installation Apprentice of the Year Award’ at Hertfordshire Regional College and with three more apprentices starting shortly, the future looks bright. Oakray Ltd was also presented with the ‘Employer of the Year Award’ at this event; a testament to the company’s investment in its people. Keith Mottram, Commercial Director commented: “We promote from within our organisation and are proud of our employee retention achievement. Many staff and engineers have worked with us since the company’s conception and early years.” HEALTH & SAFETY - PEACE OF MIND Tony continued: “We are dedicated to providing a high quality of service and client satisfaction through our commitment to a policy of good health and safety practice whilst continuously looking to improve all aspects of occupational health, management and performance of our overall service delivery to our clients and their end-users. “Our Health, Safety, Environment and Quality managers are responsible for ensuring that the company health and safety plan is effectively implemented alongside our policies and safe working practices. “All our employees have a legal obligation to take reasonable care of their own health and safety and also for the health and safety of other people who may be affected by their acts or omissions. All our Directors, Senior

Managers and Supervisors undertake IOSH Management Safety training and this is further backed-up by regular in-house training and seminars. In order to ensure that our health and safety policies are as rigorous and robust as they can be, we organise for an independent Health and Safety Consultant to carry out an annual audit of our health and safety policy and procedures (accredited to ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and OHSAS 18001) as part of our annual Health and Safety Review. “Health and Safety issues are discussed at board level on an on-going basis and included in all meeting agendas with staff and operatives. “All our engineers and technicians are fully qualified and CRB checked. Oakray Ltd is fully accredited by CHAS (Contractors Health and Safety Assessment Scheme), the British Safety Council, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) EXOR and Constructionline, and we are also registered to ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and ISO 18001. With the completion of the office refurbishment at the end of 2015, Oakray is continuing to invest during 2016, with the implementation of several improvements including a new website, new corporate brochure and a bespoke ICT system, along with several staff training initiatives. In winning an increasing number of new, long term contracts, it is vital that Oakray continues to invest in its growing workforce, new technologies and future innovations. Oakray Ltd attributes its success to its honest and transparent relationships with clients, resulting in many of its contracts being extended. The company treats subcontractors, suppliers and specialist contractors the same as its own employees; with a vigorous application process that suppliers and sub-contractors must complete before becoming an approved contractor. Tony concluded: “Our commitment to quality and pride in the job ensures that every project is completed safely and efficiently, to the highest industry standards.” For more information, please visit http://www.oakrays.co.uk/

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CONSTRUCTION: CONSTRUCT

THE INTERNATIONAL INSTITUTE OF RISK AND SAFETY MANAGEMENT

INTERNATIONAL INSTITUTE OF RISK AND SAFETY MANAGEMENT

is a professional body that offers recognition, support and career advancement for risk, safety, health and environmental professionals across all sectors of industry, worldwide.

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Branch meetings held in the UK and internationally. AFFILIATE, PRACTITIONER AND SPECIALIST LEVELS OF MEMBERSHIP AVAILABLE. To find out more about membership visit www.iirsm.org/membership or contact our dedicated member services team on +44 (0)20 8741 9100 or email membership@iirsm.org

www.iirsm.org IIRSM is a charitable company limited by guarantee registered in England & Wales Charity Reg. No. 1107666 Company Reg. No. 5310696 VAT No. 153 909 104

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About us The International Institute of Risk and Safety Management (IIRSM) is dedicated to supporting everyone involved in managing risks, including safety, health and wellbeing. We are a collaborative and accessible professional body with 8,000 members in over 70 countries worldwide. Our members come from a range of sectors and work in different risk disciplines. As a manager of risk, whatever your sector or role, membership of IIRSM will help you gain recognition for your contribution within the workplace and support you in your career.

IIRSM

provides practical and accessible education, resources and networking opportunities as well as a range of benefits, such as free helplines, local branch meetings, monthly magazines and online content and free and discounted CPD opportunities.

Members are kept up to date with key legislation, news and research and the Institute regularly publishes comment pieces and blogs to challenge and provoke discussions.

Visit www.iirsm.org

IIRSM Blog:

Healthy working makes sense Business leaders instinctively know that their employees make a vital contribution to business success. How often do we hear bosses say that their biggest asset is their people, or that they are “a people business”? Recent research by Bupa found that more than half of the companies it questioned (57%) believe the health of their employees is either extremely important or the single most important factor affecting their business’s productivity and it becoming “sustainably successful”. Furthermore, 32% of SME leaders have confirmed they have lost money because of sickness absence, and nearly half said that if a staff member took a significant period of absence now it would affect business growth. The impact of an employee’s health on a business is clear, but do we do enough to create and maintain healthy working cultures? Do we do enough to support healthy staff and help foster and encourage greater staff welfare? IIRSM recognises that while the UK has done a lot to improve safety, we have failed to pay enough attention to health. Businesses are failing to sufficiently support their employees’ health and wellbeing – Bupa’s research revealed 25% of SME leaders believe their business has become less concerned with health and wellbeing as it has grown. More than half (53%) do not provide employees with any health and wellbeing benefits, while 43% said they will never consider providing such benefits.

According to a Labour Force Survey, stress-related depression and anxiety alone accounted for 9.9 million lost working days in 2014/15 and much of that stress derived from job pressures. Above all else, when you consider that 1.2 million working people are suffering from a work-related illness, it is clear we have a long way to go and a lot of work still to do. Balancing the health and wellbeing needs of employees with the goals of business will not always be easy, but with the buy-in of staff, sound management practices and a culture that supports health and wellbeing as a part of the business plan, it is possible to give an organisation the best chance of being “sustainably successful”. IIRSM believes that supporting the health and wellbeing of employees is as critical as the great work our members do in the safety arena. It is clear that in the world of safety we have made huge strides and saved many lives. Now is the time to do the same in the health arena. We believe the time is right to support our members, and the HSE’s 2016 strategy, in leading a charge on health and wellbeing and in the coming months we will provide more ideas and information on what can be done to change this for the better. This blog first appeared in the May 2016 issue of Insight - a free magazine for IIRSM Members. Find more blogs on our website www.iirsm.org/news

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CONSTRUCTION: CONSTRUCT

ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP ONLY £65 Free Safety Savvy book by Tim Marsh for all new afﬁlate members joining by 30/06/2016

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Technical Q&As IIRSM members have free and unlimited access to three helplines as part of their membership; a technical helpline, a HR helpline and a legal helpline. These helplines provide quick responses by phone or email to everyday queries, such as the application of health and safety legislation, staff issues and professional and person legal issues. Every month we publish a selection of questions and answers from the technical helpline in our Member magazine, Insight. Below are some recent examples which HSE International readers may find interesting and informative.

STAGE STRUCTURES UNDER CDM Q . We are going to build a temporary stage which will be used for an election. At what point does a simple stage become a structure to which the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations (CDM) 2015 applies? A. There is nothing definitive that states when a ‘stage becomes a stage’ (unless you consider elements such as CDM notification as a threshold) however, the IStructE guidance document defines a TDS (temporary demountable structure) as: “Structures which are in place for a short time, generally no more than 28 days, that are designed to be erected and dismantled manually many times. They are usually made from lightweight components and are used for a wide variety of functions at public and private events. They include grandstands, tents and marquees which may accommodate large numbers of people, and stages and supports for performers.”

See www.juicesound.co.uk/tempstructuresguidance1.pdf for guidance on TDS procurement, design and use.

We believe the stage being constructed for the purpose of the election would fall under the description of a TDS and, in our opinion, the basic principles of CDM apply. CDM operations under the 2015 regulations will generally require you ensure that arrangements are suitable to ensure that the construction work can be carried out, so far as is reasonably practicable, without risks to the health or safety of any person affected by the project, etc. HSE guidance on TDS is at http://bit.ly/1pAX25t

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IIRSM

ACCIDENTS AND NEAR MISSES Q. I would like some guidance on whether a recent incident should be classified as an accident or near miss. A member of staff received a mild electric shock, the cause of which has been ascertained. He received no injuries and was fine apart from being a little surprised. Would this be classed as a near miss as no injury resulted? Or should it be recorded as an accident? A. An accident is defined by the HSE as an event that results in injury or ill health. A near miss is defined as an event not causing harm, but has the potential to cause injury or ill health. This particular incident can be classified as a near miss as the event did not result in either injury or ill health. It is also not reportable as a dangerous occurrence under the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR) as no fire or explosion resulted from the electric shock. More information about dangerous occurrences is available at www.hse.gov.uk/riddor/ dangerousoccurences.htm This incident should still be recorded and steps should be taken to prevent similar incidents like this from happening again. A good article on the definitions of a near miss is available at http:// www.healthandsafetyatwork.com/hsw/accident-reporting-riddor/nearmiss

FIRE SAFETY Q. My organisation is situated in a multitenanted building. We recently carried out a fire drill for the building to measure response. Electrically operated doors did not automatically unlock and still required tenants to use key fobs or press the door release button. Apparently the facility to unlock all doors when the fire alarm is operated exists within the system but has not been engaged to maintain security for the tenants’ companies, which handle confidential information. While I understand the need to maintain security of the building, I’m concerned someone could get trapped. There are emergency refuge communication points on all landings and each company has a responsibility to check the toilets and maintain a register of visitors, but is this enough? A. In accordance with government guidelines, your fire safety and evacuation plan should include: • a clear passageway to all escape routes • clearly marked escape routes that are as short and direct as possible • enough exits and routes for all people to escape • emergency doors that open easily • emergency lighting where needed • training for all employees to know and use the escape routes • a safe meeting point for staff. With the central core of the building not having an easily

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opened exit it could be considered that you are not doing everything reasonably practicable to ensure the safety of all people. The risk assessment that you must carry out will help you ensure that your fire safety procedures, fire prevention measures, and fire precautions (plans, systems and equipment) are all in place and working properly, and the risk assessment should identify any issues that need attention. In this case if the facility already exists to allow for the safe exit from the building without the aid of fellow members of staff we believe that this should be activated. Although the procedure is in place for each section to have the responsibility for their guests and to check the facilities, human error could still result in the unintentional trapping of people during a fire. The government regulations are available at www.gov.uk/workplacefire-safety-your-responsibilities/whois-responsible and a guide to fire risk assessments for office blocks can be found at http://bit.ly/1I6sL7n

ASBESTOS EXPOSURE Q. If an employee is exposed to asbestos what should the employer do? Is it reportable to the enforcing authority? A. As outlined in the HSE’s frequently asked questions on asbestos, if you inadvertently expose an employee to asbestos the first thing you should do is to stop work immediately, confirm what you’ve found is asbestos and carry out a risk assessment. This will help determine if the work requires a licensed contractor. The HSE says: “People who believe they may have been exposed to asbestos are understandably anxious and concerned about the possible effects on their health. Many cases of inadvertent, short-term exposure to asbestos will most likely have led to minimal exposure to fibres, with little likelihood of any long-term ill health effects.”

Remember, if you need to report a dangerous occurrence relating to asbestos, you should review your asbestos management plan or your working practices. For more information on managing and working with asbestos, see www.hse.gov.uk/asbestos/detail.htm. To report a dangerous occurrence, visit www.hse.gov.uk/riddor/report.htm

COMMUTING ACCIDENTS

“Though the type of asbestos involved and duration of exposure may be known, there may be little reliable information about the level of exposure. These are all important factors in determining the level of risk - the more fibres that are released by an asbestoscontaining material, and the longer the work activity lasts, the greater the cumulative exposure to asbestos fibres and, therefore, an increased risk of ill health effects. If you are concerned about possible exposure to asbestos from work activities, you are advised to consult your GP and ask for a note to be made in your personal record about possible exposure, including date(s), duration, type of asbestos and likely exposure levels (if known). In some circumstances, your GP may refer you to a specialist in respiratory medicine. HSE does not advocate routine X-rays for people who have had an inadvertent exposure to asbestos. Asbestos-related damage to the lungs takes years to develop and become visible on chest X-rays. X-ray examinations cannot indicate whether or not asbestos fibres have been inhaled.” Exposure to asbestos is reportable under RIDDOR when a work activity causes the accidental release or escape of asbestos fibres into the air (in a quantity sufficient to cause damage to the health of any person). Such situations are likely to arise when work is carried out without suitable controls, or where those controls fail – some examples involve: • use of power tools (to drill, cut, etc) on most ACMs • work that leads to physical disturbance (knocking, breaking, smashing) of an ACM that should only be handled by a licensed contractor e.g. sprayed coating, lagging, asbestos insulating board (AIB) • manually cutting or drilling AIB • work involving aggressive physical disturbance of asbestos cement, eg breaking or smashing If these activities are carried out without suitable controls, or the precautions fail to control exposure, these would be classed as a ‘dangerous occurrence’ under RIDDOR and should be reported.

Q. According to my own research, a commuting accident is an accident occurring on the habitual route, in either direction, between the place of work and: • the worker’s principal or secondary residence; • the place where the worker usually takes his or her meals; or • the place where he or she usually receives his or her remuneration; which results in death or personal injury. What are the implications of a commuting accident from an employer’s point of view? Has the term ‘place of work’ ever been defined? A. Though this definition of the term is both practical and useful, according to the HSE document ‘Driving at Work’, health and safety law does not apply to people commuting unless they are travelling between home and somewhere which is not their regular place of work, for example a site visit. From the employer’s perspective there may well be a need for points to be included in the employment contract to cater for an employee that does commute (for example to negotiate work hours or to highlight the need for a personal vehicle, especially if the type of work involves regular travelling (additional to the commute). As a general duty of care, if employees commute to work, the employer may decide to ask for confirmation of roadworthy vehicles which are taxed and insured. However, this is not a legal requirement as the employee is not considered to be at work. Another aspect of a commuting accident that an employer would need to consider is the result of such an accident occurring. It should be highlighted that regardless of the time taken off work, most road traffic accidents experienced during a commute or travel to another place of work would not usually not require a RIDDOR report. In regards to a definition for the term ‘place of work’ the HSE states that ‘workplace’ means “any premises or part of a premises which are made available to any person as a place of work. It does not cover domestic premises, but also includes the common parts of shared buildings, private roads and paths on industrial estates and business parks.” Visit www.iirsm.org for more information

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BSIF - RPE: DOES IT REALLY PROTECT?

RPE: Does it really protect? Alan Murray, CEO of the British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) discusses the current issues surrounding ill-fitting RPE and explains how the Fit2Fit scheme reduces the problem.

ccording to the Health and Safety Executiveâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Approved Code of Practice (ACoP) that governs the control of harmful substances in the workplace, Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) should be worn when all other reasonably practicable measures have been taken to prevent or control exposure. Risk assessment procedures (required by law) enable employees to make a clear decision on this issue. When such equipment is deemed essential, it is critical that it is worn correctly to properly safeguard the worker. In the UK, this is often not the case, and up to half of RPE does not protect as it should. The reason for this is because it does not fit the individual correctly. The competency levels of some RPE Fit Testers have recently been brought into serious question as they lack the knowledge, skills and experience required for such testing. For all tight fitting RPE face pieces, including disposable masks, half masks and full face masks, it is a legal requirement within COSHH, that, at initial selection of the product for the employee, the face piece is then specifically Fit Tested to the wearer. RPE must be Adequate and Suitable. The first, Adequate, confirms that the RPE is correct for the hazard and reduces exposure. Suitable means that the RPE is appropriate for the wearer, the task and the environment, with the worker able to work freely. Ensuring RPE is both Adequate and Suitable through testing enables the RPE to actually protect the worker. The health issues that can emerge as the result of not wearing RPE correctly are extensive. The 2014/15 Health & Safety Executive (HSE) statistics highlight these, with possible conditions including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumoconiosis

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and silicosis. These HSE statistics recorded 13,000 deaths from lung related disease and cancer, with a further 30,000 individuals reporting that they had breathing/lung problems caused or made worse by work. Lung diseases can take years to develop after the initial exposure, making it vital that if RPE is given to workers, it works immediately. Long latency health conditions are a problem that the UK needs to address now. http://www.hse.gov.uk/statistics/at-a-glance.pdf

n recognition of this the BSIF created the Fit2Fit Accreditation scheme to ensure RPE fitting processes are carried out correctly. This scheme is also endorsed by the HSE. An individual must demonstrate competence in RPE Face Fitting Services to receive accreditation. HSE inspectors recognise this accreditation as evidence of the competence of the face fit testing. The BSIF is committed to solving this issue and is proud to support industry initiatives that highlight workplace respiratory problems, raise awareness, and mitigate the risks. Recently this has included the BOHS Breathe Freely initiative, implemented to tackle lung disease in the construction sector, and the HSE #HelpGBWorkWell scheme that has been created to tackle ill health over the next 5 years. Users must insist that their face fit provider has been deemed competent via the Fit2Fit accreditation as ill-fitting issues remain prevalent and undoubtedly impact worker health. To find out more about the BSIF Fit2Fit scheme, visit www.bsif.co.uk/ fit2fit or www.fit2fit.org

About the British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) Established in 1994, the BSIF is the UK’s leading trade body for the safety industry. The Federation represents manufacturers and distributors of safety, health and environmental products; training companies; safety and environmental consultancies; together with accreditation and inspection houses, publishers and risk management consultancies. It is a Health and Safety Executiverecognised competent authority and the lead trade body for the PPE Regulations, as designated by the UK Department for Business, Innovation and Skills. As a membership organisation, the Federation is clearly focused to bring benefits to its members, something which its core values and mission statement reflect. Its core values – influential, knowledgeable, beneficial and supportive – drive the BSIF’s everyday aims, to support and represent suppliers of safety products and services across all aspects of safety legislation, standards making and major occupational safety issues. Its mission statement – to continue to improve occupational safety, protect and develop the safety and environment protection markets and generate benefits for its members – will continue to drive the Federation over the next years. The BSIF will carry on working with its members and other relevant bodies to help ensure the industry is ‘working together in safety’. For additional information please contact: Emily Boneham The McOnie Agency Tel: 01483 414751 Email: emily@mconieagency.com HSE INTERNATIONAL

SAFETY PRODUCTS AND PPE: PAFTEC AUSTRALIA PTY LTD

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BREATHING SAFELY WITH EASE In conversation with Dr. Alex Birrell, Chief Operating Officer.

ounded in 2009 by a team of respirator specialists and biomedical engineers, PAFtec Pty Ltd designs and manufactures respirators for the global industrial market. The Company’s respirator range, CleanSpace™, has origins in the medical industry, and with 20 years’ experience developing respirators for a medical market, the company has rapidly grown to become a highly qualified innovator in respiratory safety. The team has a deep understanding of device integrity and has brought this to personal respiratory protection. Continuous innovation to deliver the highest quality products is at the heart of everything the company does, and its engineers have designed and manufactured medical respirators that are relied upon by millions of people around the world. After launching its first product, the Company has committed to working with industrial companies and heavy users of respiratory devices to develop respirators that improve safety and compliance on site. Dr. Alex Birrell continued: “In the last 20 years, technology has driven unprecedented advances in medical equipment and transformed people’s health. Our team had the vision to bring the same principals and drive for innovation to workplace safety to improve the health outcomes for staff. “After businesses work along the hierarchy of hazard control, respirators can become an operators’ most essential line of personal protection. When every breath counts, respirators must help operators to work in heat, humidity, darkness, remote and tight spaces while carrying heavy equipment. Despite the serious nature of respiratory hazards, masks can be a burden. We understand all of these challenges.

“Our comprehensive approach to intuitive mask design, fit testing, training and post-sale support is ensuring an effective respiratory protection program. CleanSpace Respirators are a game changer and the product leader in protective respirators.” Q: What challenges do you see for your customers regarding respiratory protection for their work force? “Industrial companies are confronted with serious workplace hazards every day in business. Respiratory protection is technically the most challenging area of safety; and dangerously, the harm airbourne hazards do can be silent in the short term, making wearing masks hard to implement. “Research indicates that up to 50% of respiratory protective equipment does not protect the wearer due to poor fit. That means that potentially half of the workforce are not protected every time they wear their respirators. Fit testing, while technical, should be routinely done on sites where respirators are used. “Our team understand all these challenges and this is why we designed CleanSpace Respirators to work differently. CleanSpace is a PAPR (Powered Air Purifying Respirator) with the convenience and ease of use of a negative pressure mask. Easy to fit test, positive pressure airflow and with an adjustable design and different sizes of mask, CleanSpace Respirators ensure correct fit. Our respirators allow businesses to implement effective respiratory programs where staff have to wear masks and where compliance is a must.

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SAFETY PRODUCTS AND PPE: PAFTEC AUSTRALIA PTY LTD

Q: Can you tell us about the safety of respiratory protective equipment? “CleanSpace is enabling thousands of operators around the world to work safely in comfort and with minimal intrusion to the task at hand. CleanSpace meets an organisation’s duty of care in managing down the safety risks in their operations. “A wide range of blue-chip companies and governments have chosen CleanSpace to protect their people. Our end users have global operations and cover sectors such as manufacturing, infrastructure, resources, water/waste, chemical, energy, engineering transport and healthcare. “Our customers’ needs for portability and high protection have driven the expansion of the CleanSpace Respirator range. All P3 (Particle filter – High efficiency) certified, our respirators offer masks and filters that fit with a broad number of tasks and applications. Q: Please provide an overview of the CleanSpace products on offer. “The CleanSpace™ Respirator Range has been designed to be simple, modular and with few parts to facilitate selection, training and deployment. The range starts with our CleanSpace Respirators - three lightweight (only 500g) powered respirators: • CleanSpace2 PAPR - basic workplace applications • CleanSpace Ultra – IP Rating 66 (water tolerant) • CleanSpace EX - Intrinsic Safe approved “The design of our Powered Air-Purifying Respirators (PAPRs) creates a super light, compact system that is compatible with other PPE and provides full mobility and portability for workers. The PAPR provides up to 220L/min of air and 8 hours of operating time. “CleanSpace Respirators have no hoses, cables or belt mounted battery packs. Quick and easy to assemble, there are few parts – a unit, mask and filter are all wearers need to get going. Our PAPRs are used by workers for 5 minute jobs to 10 hour shifts where mobility and portability are essential. “Our proprietary technology AirSensit™ platform has created the world’s smallest powered respirator. Adopting the widely used smartphone battery technology, CleanSpace powered respirators are safe, efficient and quickly charged. The CleanSpace masks allow for simple fit testing including portacount testing to ensure correct mask fit. “CleanSpace offers intrinsically safe, decontamination and sterilisation options for a versatile number of applications. CleanSpace respirators can operate in just the kind of challenging environments that organisations face. “Along with the CleanSpace Respirator, the system offers half mask and full face mask options. All masks have a soft medical grade silicone that mould to the face ensuring comfort over a long shift and are hygienic and easy to clean. Our masks can be used for TSI portacount fit testing. “CleanSpace filters are all P3/TM3 (turbo mask) approved and offer combination gas filters with a range of pre-filter and disposable protective covers.”

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“Respiratory Protection is technically challenging and can be complex. Companies that face airbourne hazards regularly need a respiratory specialist who understands all the factors that make up effective protection. We strongly believe that what is critical for implementing and managing effective protection is a partnership between the safety specialists, site operators and safety officers. “CleanSpace is dedicated to effective respiratory protection and partners with safety specialists to deliver an engagement model that extends to the trial, training, fit testing, deployment and sustained compliance. What CleanSpace offers is a respirator system that is simple, comfortable and ensures high protection. The mutual goal with our customers’ is to provide safety equipment that their teams will use everywhere and at all times. We work closely with our global network of safety suppliers to ensure the highest level of customer support for corporate accounts. In Europe, we have trained and certified safety equipment specialists who are approved to test and service the respirators where required. “There is often a compromise between the safety, simplicity and comfort of the wearer of RPE, who has to choose between a disposable mask and a powered respirator. “Smaller, negative-pressure masks are easy to use as they are light and compatible with protective clothing. However, approximately 70% of negative-pressure masks don’t actually protect people because they rely on a seal. If you talk, breathe heavily or, more commonly, you’ve got a bit of stubble or facial hair, the seal isbroken so the wearer isn’t protected. “Smaller masks can also be uncomfortable as they clog up with moisture and get hot, and have rebreathing of high CO2 levels. As a consequence, the wearer can want to stop and leave the area to remove the mask, or, even unconsciously, knock it or slip if off their face for a quick breath of fresh air; thus compromising their own safety. “A powered respirator is provides high levels of protection and fresh air to the face but PAPRs aren’t necessarily conducive to business operations as they’re often heavy, expensive, hard to maintain and complex to wear. This can lead to low deployment, high compliance, and maintenance costs. “We encourage people to use powered respirators but know that with traditional PAPRs its not feasible for business owners to shift from a paper mask to a full powered respirator kit. “CleanSpace provides the safety protection of a powered respirator and is cost effective against ongoing running costs of disposable masks and easy to train and deploy across work teams. “We are huge advocates for fit testing as this is the industry gold standard for respiratory protection. As such all our CleanSpace masks have a small adaptor for this. We believe that when people are fit tested, they appreciate the protection levels provided by disposable masks. Fit testing is imperative for worker safety where there are airbourne hazards - We believe that everybody should be doing it.”

“CleanSpace provides the safety protection you’d get from a powered respirator with the lightness and convenience of a smaller mask.”

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SAFETY PRODUCTS AND PPE: PAFTEC AUSTRALIA PTY LTD

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Q: Can you tell us about the importance of adequate training for respiratory protection? “We not only design and manufacture wearable masks but also train teams on site and deploy and check respiratory programs are working over time. Our team of biomedical engineers, occupational health and safety advisors and product specialists are dedicated to our customers’ safety and apply decades of experience in their job to ensure effective and reliable protection on every site. “Where the respiratory protection of employees is concerned, CleanSpace Respirators and our training programs have been built to give teams the freedom to be protected and operate anywhere and anytime. “We are aligned with best practice workplace safety values while acknowledging the challenges of implementing safety programs. We strongly encourage thorough training as it increases the chances of the respirators being used correctly and also increases compliance. “At PAFtec, we understand that training can often be affected by logistics and shifts; getting people in and out of the training room. We also understand that people learn in different ways and therefore offer a variety of training methods and materials. “Our sophisticated online training program and product support has been set up to deliver both compliance training and fast refresher courses for our partners. We can offer training programs that deliver in-field support, remote access, comprehensive product information and responsive technical advice. “We’ve tried to capture different ways to effectively deliver technical information; being versatile to meet our users needs. Our materials are also iPad friendly.” Q: CleanSpace has won several international safety innovation and design awards. Can you tell us more about these and any other achievements? RED DOT AWARD, BEST OF THE BEST 2016 - The Red Dot Design Award is a pre-eminent international product design and business prize awarded by the Design Zentrum Nordrhein Westfalen in Essen, Germany. CleanSpace received a distinction from the panel of 41 judges. PREMIERS NSW EXPORT AWARDS 2015 - This award recognises business excellence in the export of goods and services, and acknowledges the important contribution of businesses to the economy through increased prosperity for the community. EXPOPROTECTION GOLD TROPHY AWARD 2014 - Held every 2 years, The Expoprotection Award distinguishes the most innovative products. The judges recognised that CleanSpace contributed to the technological trends and aligned to industry changes as regards risk management in the Health & Safety prevention at work area.

“Where the respiratory protection of employees is concerned, CleanSpace Respirators and our training programs have been built to give teams the freedom to be protected and operate anywhere and anytime. ” PREVENTICA, FRANCE 2013 - Preventica is France’s premier congress and exhibition fair dedicated to workplace occupational health and safety and risk prevention. The Award recognised CleanSpace for excellence in product innovation and design within Personal Protection Equipment category. BSIF SAFETY AWARDS 2013 – BSIF (British Safety Industry Federation) is the UK’s leading trade body within the safety industry. This award recognises the importance of innovation and underlines the highest standards of excellence within occupational health and safety. “Workplace safety is a global community of dedicated specialists, equipment/training providers and researchers who are all aligned to the same objective – ensuring safety in the workplace. Having worked in the medical device industry, our team values the safety industry’s standards and guidelines that outline industry-best practice to protect workers. We’re very happy that the international safety community is recognises the value of innovation and the quality of the CleanSpace design. “Our Company is honoured to be a BSIF Registered Supplier. BSIF have been a valuable resource and a true partner for us assisting with guidelines and networks in occupational safety in the UK. BSIF demonstrate strong leadership and a proactive approach to driving improvements in workplace safety, such as asbestos and specific international standards. BSIF provide a high level of engagement for how our products might be adopted in the UK market (which is quite sophisticated). “Our company is a member of RoSPA and the British Safety Council. CleanSpace is also EN12942 (CE Mark) approved and ensures the CleanSpace Respirator materials are ROHS compliant. Our business has been built to comply with global standards and operates a lean operating and continuous improvement program for all parts of the business.” “We make leading respiratory protection that global industrial companies can trust. CleanSpace products are certified to major international standards including EN12942 in Europe. Our design and manufacturing is ISO 9001 accredited, so customers can be assured of the quality and reliability of every CleanSpace product.

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SAFETY PRODUCTS AND PPE: PAFTEC AUSTRALIA PTY LTD

“In 2014, the company received IECEX and ATEX certification for the CleanSpace EX intrinsically safe range. This certification ensures our manufacturing facilities quality control systems and supplier performance program are independently audited. “All our respirators, masks and filters are individually tested before packaging at our manufacturing facilities. The Company offers a 1 year warranty on all CleanSpace products.” Q: What would you say to any prospective clients reading this article? “We know that high protection is no protection if the mask is uncomfortable or hard to use. CleanSpace respirators deliver the high protection of a powered respirator with the ease of use of a negative pressure mask. Built with our customers’ business operations and objectives in mind, CleanSpace can deliver seamless business integration and operation efficiencies while meeting an organisation’s duty of care in managing safety risks. “In an industry that has seen little innovation for 20 years, CleanSpace Respirators are a game-changer for respiratory protection in the workplace. Designed by medical respirator specialists with a vision to ensure workers have the choice of a mask that is safe, comfortable and delivers smart business integration. “The CleanSpace respirator is standout as it is so innovative. This can sometimes be a bit of a curse as some people like to stick with what they’ve always used. We walk a very fine line between innovation and improvement;

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taking away any compromises for better solutions and a better offering. “We understand that a device doesn’t need to be complex and what is so innovative and fortunate is that the CleanSpace technology (the actual device) is incredibly simple to use; the only thing you need to know is how to turn it on, how to change a filter and how to charge it. Charging it is like a mobile phone and changing the filter is a basic one button system. “Equally, what stands out for us is trust – this is based on the history of our work with the medical device industry as well as us really wanting to work proactively with our customers. Training is important as we all learn so much. CleanSpace is not just a product but is a whole respiratory protection programme for our clients. “We care about workers and wearers being protected to do their jobs and we’re happy to sit and make sure that your workers get the best recommendation. For us it’s about making sure people have a safer workplace.” Q: Is there anything you’d like to add? “Personally, coming from a medical device background, I’m so impressed with the safety industry, I see strong networks of long time working relationships between good and talented people who work together across competitive barriers to Improve workplace safety. People in occupational safety really want to do the right thing and there is a shared objective to save lives.” For more information, please visit www.cleanspacetechnology.com

We believe that no-one should be injured or made ill at work British Safety Council is a charity that has been changing the world of work, helping to make it safer and healthier for all. 6,000 members across 63 countries worth with us manage their health, safety and environmental risks in a sensible and proportionate way. As a corporate member you will gain access to trusted expertise, information and guidance. Join our international community and support our vision that no-one should be injured or made ill at work. In return, you’ll receive a range of benefits that will enable you to: • Protect your business by understanding the latest legislation • Mitigate against injury with introductory e-learning for up to 100 employees • Use the British Safety Council members’ logo on your corporate literature and tender documents • Receive unlimited, 24/7 phone advice from experienced professionals • Save time on risk assessments and health and safety procedures • Enjoy a discount on your International Safety Awards application. Sign up online today at: www.britsafe.org/international-membership

We would like to thank the British Safety Council for our membership which has fuelled us with information and assisted us in demonstrating our commitment to health, safety and environmental management Robert Caesar HSSE Manager Tucker Energy Services Limited, Trinidad and Tobago

Contact us to find out more: T +44 (0)20 3510 8116 E ask@britsafe.org www.britsafe.org/membership /britishsafetycouncil @britsafe /company/british-safety-council British Safety Council (Company Limited by Guarantee). Registered in England and Wales No. 4618713 at 70 Chancellors Road, London, W6 9RS. Registered Charity No. 1097271 and OSCR No. SC037998 MM164

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