Installation of Perforated Pipe Near Overhead Power Lines

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 requirements for installing 50m of perforated pipe on Surrey boulevards in areas with overhead power lines. It applies to all workers involved in the installation process, including operators, laborers, and supervisors. This SWP covers hazard identification, risk assessment, control measures, and emergency procedures specific to working near energized overhead power lines. It does not cover work on or near underground electrical infrastructure or work that requires the shutdown or isolation of electrical power lines; such activities require specialized procedures and qualified personnel.

2. Definitions

Clearance Distance The distance between the closest point of the equipment or worker and an energized overhead power line. Hazard Assessment A process to identify potential hazards and evaluate the level of risk associated with a task. Control Measures Measures taken to eliminate or reduce the risk associated with a hazard. Safety Watcher A person designated to observe and warn workers of potential hazards.

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

Conduct pre-job briefings and hazard assessments.
Ensure workers are trained and competent.
Provide necessary PPE and equipment.
Monitor work activities to ensure compliance with safety procedures.
Enforce minimum clearance distances from overhead power lines.
Investigate incidents and implement corrective actions.

3.2 Workers

Participate in pre-job briefings and hazard assessments.
Inspect PPE and equipment before use.
Follow safe work procedures and instructions.
Report any hazards or incidents immediately to the supervisor.
Maintain required clearance distances from overhead power lines.
Use tools and equipment only for their intended purpose.

3.3 Health and Safety Representative

Participate in workplace inspections and audits.
Assist in hazard identification and risk assessment.
Promote safety awareness and compliance.
Investigate safety concerns raised by workers.

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
Contact with overhead power lines	Electrocution, burns, electrical shock	Maintain minimum clearance distances according to voltage. Use insulated tools and equipment. Designate a safety watcher.
Excavation collapse	Entrapment, suffocation, serious injury	Inspect excavation area for underground utilities. Use safe digging practices. Shore or slope excavations as required.
Musculoskeletal injuries	Strains, sprains, back injuries	Use proper lifting techniques. Get assistance for heavy loads. Use mechanical aids where possible.
Struck by or contact with tools and equipment	Cuts, lacerations, abrasions, fractures	Wear appropriate PPE (safety glasses, gloves, etc.). Use tools with guards and safety features. Ensure proper training in tool use.
Traffic hazards	Vehicle strikes, collisions	Wear high-visibility clothing. Use traffic control measures (cones, signs, barriers). Be aware of surroundings.
Exposure to hazardous substances	Respiratory irritation, chemical burns, poisoning	Provide adequate ventilation. Use respiratory protection if necessary. Store chemicals properly.
Equipment malfunction	Serious injury, property damage	Ensure proper training in equipment operation. Inspect equipment before use. Follow manufacturer's instructions.
Environmental conditions (heat, cold, sun)	Heat stress, hypothermia, sunburn	Provide regular breaks. Stay hydrated. Use sunscreen and appropriate clothing.

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Hard Hat: CSA-approved hard hat to protect against head injuries from falling objects or accidental contact.
Safety Glasses: Safety glasses with side shields to protect eyes from dust, debris, and chemical splashes.
High-Visibility Vest: High-visibility safety vest to ensure visibility to other workers and traffic.
Work Gloves: Work gloves to protect hands from cuts, abrasions, and chemical exposure.
Steel-Toed Boots: Steel-toed boots to protect feet from impacts and punctures.

6. Equipment and Tools

Excavator: Used for digging trenches and excavations. Ensure it is in good working condition and operated by trained personnel.
Compactor: Used for compacting soil. Inspect for damage and ensure proper guarding is in place.
Pipe Cutter: Used for cutting pipe. Ensure blade is sharp and guards are in place.
Measuring Tape/Laser Level: Used for measuring distances and ensuring proper pipe alignment.
Shovels and Hand Tools: Used for general digging and moving materials. Inspect for damage before use.

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

Site Assessment and Preparation: Conduct a thorough site inspection to identify potential hazards, including overhead power lines, underground utilities, and traffic. Mark the location of underground utilities and establish safe digging zones.
Pre-Job Briefing: Hold a pre-job briefing with all workers to discuss the SWP, hazard assessment, and control measures. Ensure everyone understands their roles and responsibilities. Emphasize the importance of maintaining clearance distances from overhead power lines.
Work Area Control: Clearly mark the boundaries of the work area using cones, signs, and barriers to alert workers and the public. Implement traffic control measures as necessary to ensure the safety of workers and the public.
Excavation: Excavate the trench to the required depth and width, following safe digging practices. Shore or slope the excavation as necessary to prevent collapse. Maintain a safe distance from overhead power lines during excavation.
Pipe Installation: Carefully lower the perforated pipe into the trench, ensuring it is properly aligned and supported. Avoid contact with overhead power lines during pipe handling.
Backfilling and Compaction: Backfill the trench with suitable material, compacting it in layers to provide adequate support for the pipe. Ensure the compaction equipment does not come into contact with overhead power lines.
Site Restoration: Restore the work area to its original condition, removing any debris or hazards. Ensure the area is safe for workers and the public.
Post-Job Review: Conduct a post-job review to identify any lessons learned and areas for improvement in the SWP.

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

Before starting work, contact the utility company to determine the voltage of the overhead power lines and the required clearance distances.
Ensure that all workers are trained and competent in the safe work procedures for working near overhead power lines.
Designate a safety watcher to monitor work activities and warn workers of potential hazards related to overhead power lines.
Use non-conductive tools and equipment when working near overhead power lines.
Never allow equipment or materials to come within the minimum clearance distance of overhead power lines.

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

In the event of an emergency, immediately stop work and evacuate the area. Call emergency services (911) and provide them with the location and nature of the emergency. Do not attempt to rescue anyone who has come into contact with overhead power lines; wait for qualified emergency personnel.

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

Downed power line: Immediately de-energize the power lines if possible. Keep everyone away from the downed lines and call the utility company to report the incident.
Worker contact with power line: Immediately stop work and evacuate the area. Call emergency services (911) and provide first aid to the injured worker.
Fire: Evacuate the area and call emergency services (911). Provide them with the location and nature of the fire.

11. Incident Reporting and Investigation

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

The safety department will investigate all reported incidents to determine the root cause and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence. The investigation will involve interviewing workers, reviewing the work procedures, and inspecting the work area.

Approved by: [NAME AND POSITION]

Date: [APPROVAL DATE]