Perforated Pipe Installation Near Overhead Powerlines

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 safe work practices for the installation of 50 meters of perforated pipe within a Vancouver boulevard. It specifically addresses the hazards associated with working near overhead powerlines and ensures compliance with all relevant safety regulations and guidelines.

2. Definitions

Perforated Pipe A pipe with small holes along its length, used for drainage or irrigation. Overhead Powerlines Electrical conductors suspended above ground, posing a risk of electrocution. Hazard Assessment A formal process to identify potential hazards and implement control measures. Control Measures Measures taken to eliminate or reduce the risk associated with a hazard. Safe Work Procedure (SWP) A document outlining the safe steps to perform a specific task.

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

Ensure all workers are properly trained and competent to perform the task.
Conduct pre-job briefings and hazard assessments with the workers.
Provide all necessary tools, equipment, and personal protective equipment (PPE) in good working condition.
Ensure all safety rules and procedures are followed.
Monitor the work to ensure it is being done safely.
Correct any unsafe conditions or practices immediately.
Investigate all incidents and near misses.
Enforce disciplinary measures for safety violations.

3.2 Workers

Inspect tools and equipment before use to ensure they are in good working condition. Report any defects immediately.
Use the correct tools for the job and use them safely. Follow all instructions and procedures.
Wear all required personal protective equipment (PPE), including hard hat, safety glasses, gloves, and appropriate footwear.
Participate in pre-job briefings and hazard assessments.
Report any hazards or unsafe conditions to the supervisor immediately.
Follow all safety rules and procedures.
Ensure the work area is clear of obstructions and hazards.
Do not proceed with the work if it cannot be done safely.

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
Overhead Powerlines	Electrocution	Contact the utility company to de-energize and ground the powerlines before starting work. Maintain a safe distance from powerlines. Use insulated tools and equipment.
Trench Collapse	Serious Injury or Death	Ensure proper shoring and sloping of the excavation. Never enter an unprotected trench.
Manual Handling of Materials	Musculoskeletal Injuries	Wear appropriate PPE, including safety glasses, gloves, and steel-toed boots. Use proper lifting techniques.
Vehicle Traffic	Struck by Vehicle	Use a traffic control plan to protect workers from vehicle traffic. Wear high-visibility clothing.
Dust and Fumes	Respiratory Problems	Provide adequate ventilation. Use respiratory protection if necessary.
Electrical Shock [2]	Electrocution	Use tools and equipment that are safe for wet environments and that have a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI).
Exposure to Sewage [1]	Infection	Wear gloves, coveralls, rubber boots, eye protection, washing your hands, and decontaminating your equipment after use.
Working at Heights [2]	Falls	Use fall protection and other precautions when working at heights.

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

All workers must wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times. PPE must be inspected before each use and replaced if damaged or defective.

Hard Hat: Protects the head from falling objects and impacts.
Safety Glasses: Protects the eyes from dust, debris, and chemical splashes.
Gloves: Protects the hands from cuts, abrasions, and chemical exposure.
Steel-Toed Boots: Provides foot protection from impacts and punctures.
High-Visibility Clothing: Ensures workers are visible to vehicle traffic.

PPE must be inspected before each use for any signs of damage or wear. Damaged or worn PPE must be replaced immediately. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning and maintenance.

6. Equipment and Tools

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

Excavator: Used for excavating the trench. Ensure the excavator is in good working condition and operated by a trained and competent operator.
Compactor: Used for compacting the backfill material. Ensure the compactor is in good working condition.
Saw: Used for cutting the perforated pipe. Ensure the saw is in good working condition and equipped with a blade suitable for cutting plastic pipe.
Pipe Wrenches: Pipe tools are available in various shapes and sizes and for many uses. Always use the correct tool for the job. [3]

Ensure that all tools are inspected for damage before use. Any damaged or defective tools must be taken out of service. 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 in the safe installation of perforated pipe and the hazards associated with working near overhead powerlines. Training must include the use of tools and equipment, personal protective equipment, and emergency procedures.

7.2 Pre-Job Briefing

Pre-Job Briefing: A pre-job briefing must be conducted before starting work each day. The briefing must cover the scope of the work, the hazards involved, the control measures to be implemented, and emergency procedures. All workers must sign the briefing form to acknowledge their understanding.

7.3 Work Area Preparation

Work Area Preparation: Before starting work, the work area must be inspected for hazards, including overhead powerlines, underground utilities, and traffic. A traffic control plan must be in place to protect workers from vehicle traffic. The work area must be clearly marked and barricaded to prevent unauthorized access.

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

Locate Underground Utilities and Obtain Permits: Contact the utility company to locate and mark any underground utilities in the area. Obtain all necessary permits before starting work.
Set Up Traffic Control: Set up a traffic control plan to protect workers from vehicle traffic. Use cones, barricades, and signage to direct traffic around the work area.
- Use barrels, barricades, cones, or reflective devices to guide vehicles away from workers.
- Post signs showing workers where it is safe to walk.
Excavate Trench: Excavate the trench to the required depth and width. Ensure proper shoring and sloping of the excavation to prevent trench collapse.
Inspect Pipe: Inspect the perforated pipe for any damage before installation. Ensure the pipe is clean and free of debris.
Lay Pipe: Lay the perforated pipe in the trench, ensuring it is properly aligned and graded. Connect the pipe sections using appropriate fittings.
Backfill Trench: Backfill the trench with appropriate material, compacting it in layers. Ensure the backfill material is free of large rocks or debris that could damage the pipe.
Restore Work Area: Restore the work area to its original condition. Remove all traffic control devices and signage.
Inspect pipe wrenches: Inspect pipe wrenches for bent or twisted handles, discolouration or heat damage, and worn or unsafe parts (e.g., check for worn threads on the adjustment ring and movable jaw). Remove the tool from service and replace it. [4]

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

Contact the utility company to de-energize and ground the powerlines before starting work.
Maintain a safe distance from all powerlines.
Use insulated tools and equipment when working near powerlines.
Ensure proper shoring and sloping of the excavation to prevent trench collapse.
Wear high-visibility clothing to be visible to vehicle traffic.

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 and follow the established emergency response plan.

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

Electrocution: If a worker comes into contact with a live powerline.: Immediately call emergency services (911) and provide the location and nature of the emergency. Do not approach the victim until the power is shut off and the area is safe.
Injury: In case of any injury, such as a fall or cut.: Administer first aid and call for medical assistance. Ensure the injured worker is moved to a safe location.

10.3 Emergency Contact Information

In case of emergency, contact emergency services immediately. Ensure that all workers know the location of the nearest emergency phone and first aid kit.

11. Incident Reporting and Investigation

All incidents, including near misses, must be reported to the supervisor immediately. A written report must be submitted within 24 hours. The report should include the date, time, location, and description of the incident, as well as any injuries or damage that occurred.

All reported incidents will be investigated to determine the root cause and prevent recurrence. The investigation will be conducted by the supervisor and a member of the safety committee. A written report of the investigation findings and corrective actions will be prepared and distributed to all relevant personnel.

Approved by: [NAME AND POSITION]

Date: [APPROVAL DATE]