Safe Work Procedure for Perforated Pipe Installation in Vancouver Boulevard

Document Number: [SWP-NUMBER]

Revision Date: [DATE]

Next Review Date: [NEXT REVIEW DATE]

Department: [DEPARTMENT NAME]

1. Scope

This Safe Work Procedure (SWP) outlines the safety guidelines for the installation of 50 meters of perforated pipe in a Vancouver boulevard. It addresses specific hazards related to overhead power lines, trench safety at a 5-foot depth, excavation and shoring requirements, and compliance with local regulations and electrical safety standards. This SWP applies to all workers involved in the installation process and must be followed to ensure a safe working environment.

2. Definitions

Competent Person An individual who is qualified because of knowledge, training, and experience to perform a specific task safely. Shoring A system that supports the sides or walls of a trench to prevent collapse. Shoring requires installing aluminum, steel, or wood panels that are supported by screws or hydraulic jacks. [2]

Trench An excavation in which the depth exceeds (is bigger than) the width. [1]

Excavation A hole in the ground as the result of removing material. [1]

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) A device that detects any loss of electrical current in a circuit (e.g., it will trip at a maximum of 6mA). When a loss is detected, the GFCI turns the electricity off before severe injuries or electrocution can occur. [7]

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

• Ensure all workers are adequately trained and competent to perform their assigned tasks.
• Conduct regular site inspections to verify compliance with this SWP and all applicable regulations.
• Provide workers with the necessary equipment and PPE in good working condition.
• Ensure that a pre-job briefing is conducted before the commencement of work to discuss potential hazards and control measures.

3.2 Workers

• Follow all instructions and procedures outlined in this SWP.
• Use all required PPE as specified in this SWP.
• Report any hazards or unsafe conditions to the supervisor immediately.
• Participate in pre-job briefings and ask questions to ensure understanding of the work plan.

3.3 Health and Safety Representative

• Participate in workplace inspections and provide recommendations for improvement.
• Assist in the investigation of incidents and near misses.
• Promote a culture of safety and encourage worker participation in safety initiatives.

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
Overhead Power Lines	Electrocution or serious burns from contact with energized lines or arc flash.	Maintain a minimum clearance distance of 3 meters (10 feet) from overhead power lines. If work is required closer than this distance, contact the electrical utility company for assistance. Use non-conductive ladders. Designate a safety watcher.
Trench Collapse [5]	Serious injury or death due to being trapped or crushed by falling soil.	Ensure proper shoring or sloping of the trench walls. A protective system is required for trenches 1.2 metres (4 feet) deep or greater. Inspect the trench daily for signs of instability.
Underground Utilities [6]	Electrocution, explosion, or disruption of services due to striking underground utilities.	Contact utility companies to locate and mark underground utilities before digging. Use safe digging practices around marked utilities.
Slips, Trips, and Falls	Injuries from falling into the trench or on uneven surfaces.	Maintain good housekeeping practices. Provide safe access and egress to the trench. Wear appropriate footwear.
Falling Objects	Head injuries or other injuries from falling tools or equipment.	Wear hard hats. Secure tools and equipment to prevent them from falling. Establish a drop zone.
Hazardous Atmosphere [5] [5]	Asphyxiation or poisoning due to exposure to hazardous gases or lack of oxygen.	Test the trench for hazardous gases and oxygen levels before entry. Provide adequate ventilation.
Moving Machinery	Being struck by moving equipment.	Use spotters when operating machinery near workers. Establish exclusion zones. Ensure equipment operators are trained and competent.
Manual Handling	Musculoskeletal injuries from lifting heavy pipes or equipment.	Use proper lifting techniques. Provide mechanical aids for heavy lifting. Ensure workers are trained in manual handling.

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

All workers must wear the required personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times while performing work.

• Hard Hat: Provides head protection from falling objects and impacts. Must meet CSA standards.
• Safety Glasses: Protects eyes from dust, debris, and projectiles. Must meet ANSI Z87.1 standards.
• High-Visibility Vest: Ensures visibility to equipment operators and other workers. Must meet CSA Z96 standards, Class 2 or 3. [5]
• Safety Boots: Provides foot protection from punctures, impacts, and electrical hazards. Must meet CSA standards with steel toe and shank. [6]
• Gloves: Protects hands from cuts, abrasions, and chemical exposure. Select gloves appropriate for the task. [6]
• Hearing Protection: Earplugs or earmuffs to protect against excessive noise levels. Required when noise levels exceed 85 dBA.

Inspect PPE before each use for damage or wear. Replace damaged or worn PPE immediately. Clean and maintain PPE according to the manufacturer's instructions.

6. Equipment and Tools

All equipment and tools must be inspected before use to ensure they are in good working condition. Any damaged or defective equipment must be removed from service.

• Shovels and Hand Tools: Used for excavation and pipe installation. Inspect for damage before use. [6]
• Trenching Machine: Used for excavating the trench. Ensure it is in good working condition and operated by a trained and competent person.
• Shoring System: Used to support the trench walls. Must be installed according to manufacturer's instructions.
• Gas Detector: Used to test for hazardous gases and oxygen levels in the trench. Calibrate before use.
• Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI): Used to protect against electrical shock when using power tools. Test before each use. [3] [4]
• Measuring Tape: Used to measure distances and ensure proper pipe placement.

Inspect all tools and equipment daily before use. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for maintenance and repair.

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

Training and Competency: All workers must be trained and competent to perform their assigned tasks. Training must include hazard awareness, safe work procedures, and the proper use of PPE.

7.2 Pre-Job Briefing

Pre-Job Briefing: A pre-job briefing must be conducted before the commencement of work to discuss potential hazards, control measures, and emergency procedures.

7.3 Work Area Preparation

Work Area Preparation: The work area must be properly prepared before work begins. This includes clearing obstructions, providing adequate lighting, and establishing a safe work zone.

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

1. Pre-Job Planning: Review this SWP, conduct a pre-job briefing, and obtain all necessary permits. Contact utility companies to locate and mark underground utilities.
2. Work Area Preparation: Establish a safe work zone with barricades and signage. Ensure adequate lighting. Clear the area of obstructions.
3. Excavation: Excavate the trench to the required depth (5 feet). Ensure proper sloping or shoring of the trench walls. Monitor soil conditions for instability.
4. Utility Location: Exercise caution when working near marked utilities. Use hand tools to expose utilities. Do not damage or disturb underground utilities.
5. Pipe Installation: Install the perforated pipe according to the project specifications. Ensure proper alignment and grade.
6. Backfilling: Backfill the trench with appropriate material. Compact the backfill to prevent settling.
7. Site Restoration: Restore the work area to its original condition. Remove all debris and equipment.
8. Final Inspection: Conduct a final inspection to ensure that the work has been completed safely and according to specifications.
9. Electrical Safety Precautions: When working near overhead power lines, maintain a safe distance. Use non-conductive tools and equipment. If necessary, contact the utility company to de-energize or insulate the power lines.
10. Trench Safety: Never enter an unprotected trench. Ensure that the trench is properly shored or sloped. Monitor the trench for signs of instability.
11. Equipment Inspection: Inspect all equipment and tools before use. Remove any damaged or defective equipment from service.
12. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Wear all required PPE, including hard hat, safety glasses, high-visibility vest, safety boots, and gloves.

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

• Never work under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
• Report all injuries and incidents to the supervisor immediately.
• Maintain good communication with other workers and equipment operators.
• Be aware of your surroundings and potential hazards.
• Follow all safety rules and regulations.

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

In the event of an emergency, immediately stop work and assess the situation. Evacuate the area if necessary. Provide first aid to injured workers. Contact emergency services if required.

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

• Electrocution: Immediately disconnect the power source. Do not touch the victim if they are still in contact with the power source. Call 911. Provide CPR if trained.
• Trench Collapse: Do not enter the trench. Call 911. Attempt to rescue the victim from outside the trench using ropes or other equipment.
• Gas Leak: Evacuate the area immediately. Notify the gas company and emergency services. Do not use any equipment that could create a spark.

10.3 Emergency Contact Information

In case of emergency, contact 911 and provide the location of the incident. Also, notify the supervisor and safety department immediately.

11. Incident Reporting and Investigation

All incidents, including near misses, must be reported to the supervisor immediately. The supervisor will complete an incident report and submit it to the safety department.

The safety department will investigate all incidents to determine the root cause and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence.

Approved by: [NAME AND POSITION]

Date: [APPROVAL DATE]

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