Safe Work Procedure: General Site Safety

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 minimum safety requirements for all personnel working on the construction site. It applies to all activities conducted within the site boundaries and aims to ensure a safe working environment for all workers, contractors, and visitors. This SWP covers general site safety practices and should be used in conjunction with task-specific SWPs and other relevant safety documents.

2. Definitions

Competent Person: An individual who is qualified because of knowledge, training, and experience to organize the work and is familiar with the potential hazards [1].

Hazard: Any source of potential damage, harm or adverse health effects on something or someone under certain conditions at work [1].

PPE: Personal Protective Equipment; equipment worn to minimize exposure to hazards 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 16, 17.

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

Ensure all workers are trained and competent to perform their assigned tasks [1].
Conduct regular site inspections to identify and correct hazards [1].
Enforce all safety rules and procedures [1].

3.2 Workers

Follow all safety rules and procedures [1].
Report any hazards or unsafe conditions to their supervisor immediately [1].
Use required PPE properly and maintain it in good condition 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 16, 17.

3.3 Health and Safety Representative

Assist in the development and implementation of safety programs [1].
Conduct regular safety audits and inspections [1].
Investigate incidents and recommend corrective actions [1].

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
Slips, trips, and falls	Injuries ranging from minor sprains to fractures	Maintain good housekeeping, wear appropriate footwear, identify and mark hazards [1].
Exposure to dust, fumes, vapors	Respiratory irritation, skin irritation, other health effects	Use in well-ventilated areas. Wear impervious gloves and eye protection. Do not get in eyes. Do not get on skin or clothing. Do not breathe dust/fume/vapors. Do not take internally 1, 2, 3, 9, 17.
Fire Hazards	Burns, explosions, property damage	Keep away from heat, flames, and sparks. No smoking. Use proper storage procedures 4, 18, 20.
Improper lifting techniques	Musculoskeletal injuries	Use proper lifting techniques, get assistance for heavy loads [1].
Contact with hazardous materials	Skin irritation, chemical burns, respiratory problems	Wear appropriate PPE (gloves, eye protection, respiratory protection), read and follow SDS instructions 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 16, 17.

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Always use the appropriate PPE for the task being performed. Inspect all PPE before use to ensure it is in good condition 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 16, 17.

Safety Glasses/Goggles - Protect eyes from dust, debris, and chemical splashes 1, 2, 3, 9, 17.
Impervious Gloves - Protect hands from chemical and physical hazards 1, 2, 3, 9, 17.
Steel-toed Boots - Protect feet from impact and crushing hazards [1].
Hard Hat - Protect head from falling objects [1].
Respiratory Protection - Use respirators in areas with dust, fumes, or vapors, ensure proper fit and training 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 16, 17.

6. Equipment and Tools

Use the right tool for the job and inspect all tools and equipment before use. Remove any damaged or defective equipment from service [1].

Hand Tools - Use appropriate hand tools for the task, keep tools in good condition [1].
Power Tools - Use with proper guarding and safety features, inspect cords and plugs for damage [1].
Ladders - Use ladders that meet safety standards, inspect before use, maintain three points of contact [1].
Scaffolding - Erect scaffolding according to safety regulations, inspect before each shift [1].
Vehicles and Equipment - Operate vehicles and equipment safely, conduct daily inspections [1].

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

All workers must have received adequate training on general site safety practices, hazard identification, and the proper use of PPE [1].

7.2 Pre-Job Briefing

Conduct a pre-job briefing before starting any work. Discuss the scope of work, potential hazards, and control measures [1].

7.3 Work Area Preparation

Ensure the work area is clean, well-lit, and free of obstructions. Identify and mark any hazards [1].

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

Step 1: Site Entry and Hazard Assessment

Upon arrival at the site, all personnel must sign in and complete a site-specific hazard assessment.

Review the site safety plan and identify potential hazards.
Wear required PPE at all times.
Report any new hazards to the supervisor immediately [1].

Safety considerations: Be aware of surroundings, identify potential hazards, and follow site-specific safety rules [1].

Step 2: Housekeeping and Hazard Control

Maintain a clean and organized work area throughout the day.

Regularly remove debris and waste materials.
Store materials properly to prevent hazards.
Implement control measures for identified hazards [1].

Safety considerations: Prevent slips, trips, and falls by maintaining good housekeeping practices [1].

Step 3: Safe Work Practices

Follow safe work practices for all tasks performed on site.

Use tools and equipment properly.
Follow proper lifting techniques.
Do not take shortcuts or bypass safety procedures [1].

Safety considerations: Ensure all tasks are performed safely and in accordance with established procedures [1].

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

Ventilation: Use in well-ventilated areas to avoid inhalation of vapors and dust 1, 2, 3, 9, 17.
Hygiene: Use good industrial hygiene practices. Launder contaminated clothing before reuse. Wash hands before eating, drinking, or smoking 1, 2, 3, 9, 17.
PPE Maintenance: Regularly inspect and maintain PPE to ensure its effectiveness 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 16, 17.
Chemical Handling: Do not mix with other chemical products unless directed by the manufacturer 1, 2, 3, 9, 17.
Emergency Preparedness: Be aware of emergency procedures and evacuation routes [1].

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

In the event of an emergency, immediately assess the situation and ensure personal safety. Activate the site alarm and follow the established emergency response plan [1].

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

Fire: Evacuate the area, activate the fire alarm, and call emergency services 4, 18, 20.
Medical Emergency: Provide first aid and call for medical assistance [1].
Spill or Release: Contain the spill, notify the supervisor, and follow spill response procedures 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 16, 17.

10.3 Emergency Contact Information

Emergency Services: 911
Site Supervisor: [PHONE NUMBER]
Health and Safety Representative: [PHONE NUMBER]

11. Incident Reporting and Investigation

All incidents, near-misses, and hazards must be reported to the supervisor immediately. An investigation will be conducted to determine the root cause and implement corrective actions [1].

Approved by: [NAME AND POSITION] Date: [APPROVAL DATE]