HomeMy WebLinkAboutAccident Prevention Program rev March 2020
Accident Prevention
Program
Adopted January 7, 2019
(Approved by Resolution 19-004)
Revised March 9, 2020
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Accident Prevention Program City of Port Townsend
Revision: 1
Date:
05/02/2018
Section 0
Table of Contents
Page 1 of 292
Section#: Procedure: Date of Revision: Page #
001 Introduction 05/02/2018 5
002 Safety Responsibilities 12/27/2018 6
003 Safety Orientation & Training 05/02/2018 9
004 Hazard ID & Risk Control 05/02/2018 11
005 Reporting and Recordkeeping 12/27/2018 18
006 Incident Investigation 12/27/2018 24
007 Hazard Communication 05/02/2018 37
008 Personal Protective Equipment 05/02/2018 53
009 First Aid 08/02/2018 60
010 Fire Protection & Prevention 05/02/2018 63
011 Ladder Safety 05/02/2018 78
012 Fall Protection 05/02/2018 84
013 Hearing Conservation 05/02/2018 104
014 Electrical Safety Awareness 03/09/2020 109
015 Confined Space Entry 08/28/2018 119
016 Blood-borne Pathogens 05/02/2018 132
017 Tools- Hand, Power & Electrical 05/02/2018 146
018 Lock Out Tag Out - Control of Hazardous
Energy
08/02/2018 151
019 Respiratory Protection Program_
Mandatory & Voluntary
11/06/2018 163
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020 Heat & Cold Illness Prevention 05/02/2018 208
021 Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S) 05/02/2018 219
022 Spill Prevention & Response 05/02/2018 223
023 Office Safety 05/02/2018 228
024 Safe Behavior Observation 05/02/2018 234
025 Gas Hazard Awareness 05/02/2018 243
026 Fatigue Management 05/02/2018 248
027 Asbestos Awareness 05/02/2018 251
028 Lead Awareness 05/02/2018 257
029 Safe Lifting, Ergonomics, Manual Material
Handling
05/02/2018 264
030 Welding, Cutting & Hot Work 08/03/2018 270
031 Lone Work 05/02/2018 280
032 Silica Awareness 05/02/2018 282
FORMS
Applicable to Section
003 Safety Training Documentation Form 05/02/2018
004
008 030 031 033
Job Hazard Analysis 05/02/2018
005 First Aid Log (optional) 05/02/2018
006 Employee’s Report of Incident Form 05/02/2018
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006 Supervisor’s Incident Investigation
Report
05/02/2018
006 Accident Investigation Report
(Investigation Team)
05/02/2018
006 Accident Investigation Witness
Statement Form
05/02/2018
006 Vehicle Accident Report Form 05/02/2018
007 Hazardous Chemical List 05/02/2018
007 Typical Hazardous Chemicals in
Construction
05/02/2018
007 Hazardous Chemical Labeling Systems
GHS, HMIS, NFPA
05/02/2018
008 Personal Protective Equipment
Assessment
05/02/2018
010 OSHA Standards Requiring Fire
Extinguishers In Construction
05/02/2018
010 Conversion of Fire Extinguisher
Applications
05/02/2018
010 Using a fire extinguisher - Training
Supplement
05/02/2018
010 Fire Extinguisher Inspection Log 05/02/2018
010 Hot Work Permit 05/02/2018
012 Fall Protection Inspection Log 05/02/2018
012 Fall Protection Work Plan Template 05/02/2018
012 Ladder Inspection Log 05/02/2018
014 City Assured Equipment Grounding
Log
05/02/2018
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016 Hep B Vaccination Form 05/02/2018
016 Hep B Exposure Incident Investigation 05/02/2018
016 Hep B Post Exposure Evaluation 05/02/2018
018 Lock Out Tag Out Log 05/02/2018
018 Emergency Lock Removal 05/02/2018
019 Respiratory Protection Medical
Questionnaire Form
05/02/2018
019
Respiratory Protection Employer
Provided Information for Medical
Evaluations
05/02/2018
019 Advisory Information for Employees
Who Voluntarily Use Respirators
05/02/2018
019 Respiratory Protection Training
Checklist and Fit Test Form
05/02/2018
024 Safe Behavior Observation Card 05/02/2018
Safety Inspection Checklist 05/02/2018
Health and Safety Deficiency Tracking
Log
05/02/2018
Safety Committee/Safety Meeting
Documentation Minutes Form
05/02/2018
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Accident Prevention Program City of Port Townsend
Revision: 1
Date:
05/02/2018
Section 001
Introduction
Page 5 of 292
Introduction
City policy is that the safety and health of our employees and everyone else affected
by our activities is fundamental to the success of our community. We are
committed to the protection from accidental loss to our employees and property
through the continuous development and implementation of this Accident
Prevention Program. Management supports the implementation of this program
by dedicating time and resources to comply with all present and future safety &
health codes and regulations.
The City is committed to providing and maintaining a safe and healthful work
environment. We strive to anticipate, identify, control and eliminate any
foreseeable hazards that may result in personal injuries, illnesses, security losses,
and damage to property. As such, this Accident Prevention Program may be
updated as necessary.
All activities will be conducted in accordance with the Department of
Occupational Safety and Health/Washington Industrial Safety and Health
Administration (DOSH/WISHA) requirements. The City’s goal is to provide
adequate training and proper equipment, and to develop safe work procedures
and practices to assure all activities will be performed safely and efficiently.
Management is primarily responsible for the implementation of this policy.
Supervisors are responsible to check the workplace for unsafe conditions, watch
employees for unsafe actions and take prompt action to eliminate any hazards. All
employees are responsible for performing their jobs in accordance with the
established facility safety rules, regulations, and procedures. Employees are
encouraged to anticipate and identify hazards and report all hazards to their
supervisor.
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Accident Prevention Program City of Port Townsend
Revision: 1
Date:
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Section 002
Safety Responsibilities
Page 6 of 292
Management Responsibilities
Leaders should create an atmosphere that clearly demonstrates to employees that
safety is a vital part of their personal and professional activities. Leaders are
responsible for implementing systems and programs that convey that safety is a core
value to all employees.
All Managers:
Mandatory:
• Implement the Accident Prevention Program.
• Notify HR or Senior Management, who will report all fatalities and
hospitalizations within 8 hours to the nearest Department of Labor and Industries
office. (1-800-4BE SAFE)
• Ensure that sufficient employee time, supervisor support, and funds are budgeted
for the Safety Committee, safety equipment, training, and to carry out the safety
program.
• Make sure that incidents are investigated and corrective action is taken to prevent
the hazardous conditions or behaviors from happening again.
• Ensure that a record of injuries and illnesses is maintained and posted as
described in this program.
• Follow established safety rules and attend required training.
Recommended:
• Safety performance is included in each employee’s as well as each manager’s
performance assessment process each year.
• Acknowledge safe practices and reports of hazardous conditions/practices.
Supervisor Responsibilities
All Supervisors must be actively involved in the Accident Prevention Program.
Supervisor’s duties include but are not limited to:
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Safety Responsibilities
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Mandatory:
• Ensure that each employee supervised has received an initial orientation of
the Accident Prevention Program before beginning work.
• Makes certain that each employee supervised is competent or receives training
on safe operation of equipment or tasks before starting work on that
equipment or project.
• Take care that each employee receives required personal protective equipment
(PPE) and training in its use and maintenance, before beginning work on a
project requiring PPE.
• Conduct regular walk-around safety-checks of the work area. Promptly
correct any hazards you find.
• Observe the employees you supervise working. Promptly correct any unsafe
behavior and enforce all safety rules
• Provide training and take corrective action as necessary.
• Follow safety rules and attend required training.
• Investigate incidents in your department/division.
Recommended:
• Talk to management and the safety committee about changes to work
practices or equipment that will improve employee safety.
• Conduct a conference with the employee to gain insight on how work and
safety might be improved.
• Document safety compliance in employee performance assessments.
• Report your investigation findings to management and the safety committee.
Employee Responsibilities
Each employee is responsible for workplace safety. Employees should watch for
potential hazards, and think about how to avoid the hazard. All employees:
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Section 002
Safety Responsibilities
Page 8 of 292
Mandatory:
• Observe and comply with all safety signs, rules, and regulations described in
this program.
• Promptly report all on-the-job injuries to the supervisor.
• Report potential or unsafe conditions and practices.
• Report all near-miss incidents to your supervisor promptly.
• Incorporate safe practices into all activities.
• Attend & participate in safety meetings.
• Always use personal protective equipment (PPE) in good working condition
where it is required.
• Do not remove or tamper with any safety device or safeguard provided for
employee protection.
• Operate equipment safely. Do not operate equipment you are not trained for
or qualified to operate.
• Report all equipment damage or failure to your supervisor immediately.
• Anticipate, identify and correct unsafe conditions and practices.
Recommended:
Make suggestions to your supervisor, safety committee representative or
management about changes you believe will improve employee safety.
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Accident Prevention Program City of Port Townsend
Revision: 1
Date:
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Section 003
Safety Orientation & Training
Page 9 of 292
A. Purpose
This procedure outlines requirements for the development and
implementation of safety training for safety procedures, safe work practices,
and safety rules and regulations. All City of Port Townsend employees shall
comply fully with the requirements for Safety Orientation and Training as
outlined below as applicable with their individual job description.
B. General
1. Every employee assigned shall receive the City-provided safety
orientation and training appropriate for the tasks that they will be performing.
2. The City-provided safety orientation shall not be considered a
substitute for new site safety orientation training on projects.
C. Safety Orientation
1. Each new-hire shall receive the City-provided safety orientation training
prior to being assigned to a project or location.
2. The content of safety orientation may vary depending upon the scope of
work to be performed; the new employee’s assigned job duties, and existing
safety conditions in the work area. At minimum, new hires shall receive safety
instruction on Sections 1 – 10 of this Accident Prevention Program.
3. Project management shall conduct annual refresher safety orientation for
all project or location employees.
D. Safety Training
1. The need for a comprehensive safety training program on projects or
locations is widely recognized due to the many hazards and exposures that can
be anticipated throughout the life of work scope.
2. Each project employee, direct hire, and vendor, performing assigned
tasks shall receive the task-specific safety training required or otherwise
necessary to perform those assigned tasks in a safe manner. Management
should evaluate the training needs and objectives for the project based on the
scope of work to be performed. Each supervisor must assess the training needs
for employees based on the task to be performed and schedule training as
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Safety Orientation & Training
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292
required.
3. The following is a partial list of safety/HR training topics that may be
required by City and/or DOSH for employees performing related tasks:
a. First Aid/CPR
b. Heat Stress
c. Crane Safety
d. Trenching & Excavations
e. Electrical Safety
f. Hazard Communications
g. Confined Space Entry
h. Lockout/Tag-out
i. Accident Investigation
j. Fall Protection
k. Accident Prevention
l. Blood-borne Pathogens
m. Defensive Driving
4. All training conducted shall be documented.
5. Refresher training shall be conducted as required.
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Accident Prevention Program City of Port Townsend
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Section 004
Hazard ID & Risk Control
Page 11 of 292
A. Purpose
The purpose of this procedure is to provide requirements and guidance
concerning a basic written method for hazard identification, risk assessment
and control to effectively manage hazards that may occur in the workplace.
This procedure is to be used as a generic guideline for general occupational
health and safety risks. For specific work processes, a Job Hazard Analysis
and a detailed Hazard Assessment and Risk Control study may be used to
assess the likelihood and severity of a specific activity.
All City employees shall comply fully with the requirements for Hazard
Identification and Risk Control as outlined below:
B. Definitions
1. Hazard: A condition or set of circumstances that present a potential for
harm. Hazards are divided into two broad categories:
a. Health hazards (cause occupational illnesses)
b. Safety hazards (cause physical harm/injuries)
2. Hazard Identification: T he process of examining each work area and work
task for the purpose of identifying all the hazards which are “inherent in
the job”. Work areas include but are not limited to machine workshops,
laboratories, office areas, agricultural environments, stores and transport,
maintenance and grounds, and te aching spaces. Tasks can include (but
may not be limited to) using screen based equipment, audio and visual
equipment, industrial equipment, hazardous substances and/or dangerous
goods, teaching/dealing with people, driving a vehicle, dealing with
emergency situations, construction.
3. Risk: The likelihood or probability that a hazardous event (with a
given outcome or consequence) will occur.
4. Risk Assessment: Is defined as the process of assessing the risks
associated with each of the hazards identified so that appropriate control
measures can be implemented based on the probability, i.e. likelihood
that harm, injury or ill health may occur and how severe the consequences
of exposure might be.
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Accident Prevention Program City of Port Townsend
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Hazard ID & Risk Control
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5. Risk Control: T he process of identifying and implementing the most cost
effective risk control measures having regard to the Hierarchy of Control
Principles.
6. Monitoring and Review: Ongoing monitoring of the hazards identified,
risk assessment and risk control processes and reviewing the process to
ensure that they are working effectively.
C. Basic Steps to Follow to Identify Hazards and Control Hazards
1. HAZARD IDENTIFICATION – Hazards might be identified by the
following measures:
a. Observation- Use your senses of sight, hearing, smell and touch-
combined with knowledge and experience. When an unsafe act is
observed, the person observing has the responsibility to stop the
unsafe act and initiate the compliance process if deemed necessary.
If an employee makes the observation, he/she shall stop the unsafe
act and notify their supervisor and/or any other member of the
project management team. A new employee has the same level of
empowerment as a seasoned supervisor to stop a project for the
sake of safety. The supervisor will initiate safety coaching as
required.
b. Safety Data Sheets- Obtain them from manufacturers and suppliers.
Read them carefully to identify possible harm from hazardous
substances and precautions that need to be taken.
c. Hazard and Risk Surveys- Conduct hazard spotting surveys of main
work areas. Talk to others about their safety concerns.
d. Record Analysis- Keep records of identified hazards, near misses,
injuries and workers’ compensation claims. By analyzing these
leading and lagging indicators, trends can be identified that will
drive hazard mitigation measures.
e. Safety Audits- By utilizing regular audit data in conjunction (if
applicable) with safety committees, a hazard management plan can
be developed to address hazards identified within these audits.
f. Regulatory Requirements and Best Practices
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Accident Prevention Program City of Port Townsend
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Section 004
Hazard ID & Risk Control
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2. ASSESS THE RISK
a. Once a hazard has been identified, the likelihood and possible
severity of injury or harm will need to be assessed before
determining how best to minimize the risk. High risk hazards will
need to be addressed more urgently than low risk situations.
b. It may be decided that the same hazard could lead to several
different possible outcomes. For each hazard, consider how likely
each possible outcome is, and record the highest priority. A risk
matrix might be considered when determining likelihood of risk vs.
potential consequences.
c. The following matrix can be used to assign a “risk rating” to a
hazard. Where exposure is more likely and the potential
consequences more severe, highest priority is given for prompt
resolution.
d. Risks that are assessed as red are the risks that are unacceptable
and that will require control mechanisms to be put into place
immediately to prevent the risk from occurring. Green risks are
generally considered acceptable with yellow risks in between.
3. MAKE THE CHANGE
a. While it is your employer's responsibility to fix hazards, each
employee can make a huge contribution towards ensuring that a
Severity
Li
k
e
l
i
h
o
o
d
1- Low 2 3 4 5- High
1- Low 1 2 3 4 5
2 2 4 6 8 10
3 3 6 9 12 15
4 4 8 12 16 20
5- High 5 10 15 20 25
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Hazard ID & Risk Control
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workplace is free from recognized hazards. As an example, you
can pick up things from the floor and put them away to eliminate a
trip hazard.
b. The best way to fix a hazard is to get rid of it altogether (Remove it
at its source or elimination). This is not always possible, but your
employer should try to make hazards less dangerous by looking at
alternative options (in order from most effective to least effective):
i. Engineering Controls
Outside of total
elimination of the hazard
or substituting a process
for something less
hazardous, the first and
best strategy is to control
the hazard at its source.
Engineering controls do
this, unlike other controls
that generally focus on the
employee exposed to the
hazard. The basic concept behind engineering controls is
that, to the extent feasible, the work environment and the job
itself should be designed to eliminate hazards or reduce
exposure to hazards.
Engineering controls can be simple in some cases. They are
based on the following principles:
• If feasible, design the facility, equipment, or process to remove the
hazard or substitute something that is not hazardous.
• If removal is not feasible, enclose the hazard to prevent exposure
in normal operations.
• Where complete enclosure is not feasible, establish barriers or
local ventilation to reduce exposure to the hazard in normal
operations.
Hierarchy of Controls
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Hazard ID & Risk Control
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ii. Safe Work Practices/Administrative Controls
Safe work practices include general workplace rules and
other operation-specific rules. For example, even when a
hazard is enclosed, exposure can occur when maintenance is
necessary. Through established safe work practices,
employee exposure to hazards can be further reduced.
While safe work practices can be considered forms of
administrative controls, OSHA uses the term administrative
controls to mean other measures aimed at reducing employee
exposure to hazards (for example, rotation of workers.) These
types of controls are normally used in conjunction with other
controls that more directly prevent or control exposure to the
hazard.
iii. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
When exposure to hazards cannot be engineered completely
out of normal operations or maintenance work, and when
safe work practices and other forms of administrative
controls cannot provide sufficient additional protection, a
supplementary method of control is the use of protective
clothing or equipment. PPE may also be appropriate for
controlling hazards while engineering and work practice
controls are being installed. For specific OSHA requirements
on personal protective equipment, see OSHA’s standard,
1910 Subpart I.
Sometimes, it will require more than one of the risk control
measures above to effectively reduce exposure to hazards.
D. Job Hazard Analysis
1. A Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) is a technique that focuses on job tasks as a
way to identify hazards before they occur. It focuses on the relationship
between the worker, the task, the tools, and the work environment.
Ideally, after you identify uncontrolled hazards, you will take steps to
eliminate or reduce them to an acceptable risk level. A JHA may be
written and reviewed prior to beginning any work activities, at the change
of shift or should a new hazard be introduced into the working
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Hazard ID & Risk Control
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environment.
2. A JHA may be conducted on many different types of jobs in your
workplace; however, priority should go to the following types of jobs:
a. Jobs with the highest injury or illness rates
b. Jobs with the potential to cause severe or disabling injuries or
illnesses, even if there is no history of previous accidents
c. Jobs in which one simple human error could lead to a severe
accident or injury
d. Jobs that are new to your operation or have undergone changes in
processes and procedures
e. Jobs complex enough to require written instructions
3. The JHA process should consist of the following steps:
a. Conduct a preliminary job review. This should include identifying
any hazard that may pose an immediate danger to an employee’s
life or health, taking immediate corrective actions to protect the
worker. Do not wait to complete your JHA to correct these hazards.
b. Outline steps or tasks required for the job being assessed.
Whenever possible, an employee should be observed performing
the job with each step listed as the worker takes it. The list of steps
should not be overly detailed as to become unnecessarily long or
broad. Steps should be reviewed with the worker to ensure
accuracy.
c. Identify hazards associated with each job step.
d. Consider control measures that should be in place to eliminate or
reduce the hazards identified.
E. Forms
• Job Hazard Analysis Form
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Hazard ID & Risk Control
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Job Hazard Analysis
1. Analysis information
Work
activity Enter text. JHA
no. 1 New or
revised Enter text. Date Enter a
date.
Department Enter text. Staff
name Enter text. Position Enter text.
Reviewing
Staff Approval (reviewer signature) Date Enter a
date.
2. Work activity review
Work activity tasks Identified hazards Controls for identified
hazards
1. Click here to enter text. 1. Click here to enter text.
3. Equipment and training determinations
Required personal protective equipment (PPE) [Briefly note the hazard the
selected PPE is addressing]
1. Click here to enter text.
Required or recommended training needed prior to undertaking work activity
Click here to enter text.
Comments or rationale for findings (if needed)
Click here to enter text.
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Section 005
Reporting & Recordkeeping
Page 18 of 292
A. Purpose
To identify the reporting and recordkeeping requirements for occupational
injuries and illnesses.
B. General Requirements
1. All City of Port Townsend employees shall comply fully with the
requirements for reporting and recordkeeping related to occupational
injuries and illnesses.
2. In the event of an incident requiring offsite medical treatment, a preliminary
verbal report shall be submitted to the Department Director. A member of
the City’s management team may if necessary, accompany an injured
employee for offsite treatment. A report of what happened, the casual
and contributing factors involved, and the corrective measures to prevent
reoccurrence shall be submitted within 24 hours.
C. Employer’s First Report of Injury
1. An Employer’s First Report of Injury Form (both Employee and
Supervisor’s Reports) shall be completed for incidents involving injury to an
employee no matter how minor. For injuries requiring medical treatment;
it is important that claims be reported immediately and in full compliance
with state reporting requirements.
2. Workers compensation claims for City employees must be reported to
their immediate supervisor and Human Resources.
D. Accident Investigation Report
1. The Accident Investigation Report (Team Investigation) shall be utilized for
all injuries requiring beyond First Aid treatment.
2. At minimum, distribution of completed Preliminary Accident Investigation
Report Form shall include Human Resources.
E. OSHA Form 300
1. The Log of Work-Related Injuries and Illnesses - Form 300 is used to classify
work-related injuries and illnesses and note the extent and severity of each
case.
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2. Each recordable case must be entered on the OSHA 300 Form within seven
(7) calendar days of receiving information that a recordable case has
occurred. Minor injuries requiring first aid do not need to be recorded on
this form.
3. The OSHA 300 Form shall be maintained on file for a minimum of five (5)
years following the end of the calendar year that is covered.
F. OSHA Form 300A
1. At the end of each calendar year, a Summary of Work-Related Injuries and
Illnesses –Form 300 A shall be completed for each work establishment. The
annual summary must be posted no later than February 1 of the year
following the year covered by the records and must remain in place until
April 30.
2. The annual summary must be posted in a location where employee
notices are usually posted and where employees can readily access it.
3. The OSHA 300A form shall be maintained on file for a minimum of five (5)
years.
4. Beginning February 1st of 2017, a copy both Form 300 as well as 300A may
be submitted electronically to OSHA via a secure website.
G. Reporting Requirements to OSHA
1. In accordance with RCW 296-27-031, DOSH shall be notified by calling 1-
800-423-7233 in the event of the following:
a. Within 8 hours after the death of any employee as a result of a
work-related incident.
b. Within 24 hours after the in-patient hospitalization of one or more
employee
c. An employee’s loss of an eye as a result of a work-related incident
d. An employee’s amputation as a result of a work-related incident
2. An incident may be reported to OSHA by the following methods:
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a. In person to the OSHA Area Office that is nearest to the site of the
incident
b. By telephone to the OSHA toll-free central telephone number, (800)
321-6742
c. Via electronic submission using the reporting application located
on OSHA’s public web site at www.osha.gov
H. Incident Investigation Reports
1. Incident investigation reports shall be prepared and distributed in
accordance with the requirements of Section 6, Incident Investigation, of
this Manual.
I. Records Retention
1. Employee Medical and Exposure Records
a. Medical and exposure records of employees exposed or potentially
exposed to toxic substances or harmful physical agents in the course
of employment through any route of entry (inhalation, ingestion, skin
contact or absorption) must be labeled and maintained for the
duration of the project.
b. Upon project completion, all records will be boxed separately and
shipped to Human Resources and maintained for thirty (30) years in
accordance with OSHA regulations.
c. Toxic substance or harmful physical agent means any chemical
substance, biological agent (bacteria, virus, fungus, etc.), or physical
stress (noise, heat, cold, vibration, repetitive motion, ionizing and
non-ionizing radiation, hypo or hyperactive pressure, etc.) that:
d. Is listed in the latest printed edition of the National Institute
for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Registry of Toxic Effects
of Chemical Substances (RTECS) or
e. Has yielded positive evidence of an acute or chronic health
hazard in testing conducted by, or known to, the employer or
i. Is the subject of a material safety data sheet kept by or
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known to the employer indicating that the material may pose
a hazard to human health.
f. Employee exposure records are records that contain any of the
following kinds of information:
i. Environmental (workplace) monitoring results or other
measurements of a toxic substance or harmful physical agent.
ii. Biological monitoring results.
iii. Safety Data Sheets (SDS).
iv. Any chemical inventory or other record which reveals the
identity of a toxic substance or harmful physical agent, and
where and when it was used.
g. Employee medical records are records concerning the health
status of an employee which are made by a physician, nurse,
or other health care personnel or technician, including:
i. Medical and employment questionnaires or histories.
ii. Medical examinations and laboratory tests.
iii. Medical opinions, diagnoses, progress notes and
recommendations.
iv. Medical treatments and prescriptions.
v. Employee medical complaints.
2. All Other Employee Medical Records
a. All other employee medical records not specifically covered by
paragraph L-1 above, shall be retained for a minimum of ten (10)
years after project completion. Employee medical records shall not
be disposed of until it is verified by the City Attorney that there is no
remaining open workers compensation or related general liability or
auto liability claims activity.
b. Employee medical records includes, but may not be limited to the
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following:
i. Investigation Reports
ii. Employer’s First Report of Injury
iii. Physician’s Reports
iv. OSHA 300 Form
v. First Aid Log
vi. Medical Treatment/Return to Work Authorization
vii. Medical Bills
viii. Medical Questionnaires/Physicals
ix. Respiratory Fit Test Records
x. Request for Medical or Exposure Records
J. Employee Access to Records
1. Whenever an employee or designated employee representative requests
access to medical and exposure records, such access shall be provided in a
reasonable time, place, and manner at NO COST to the employee.
2. The requesting employee or employee’s designated representative shall fill
out the Request for Medical or Exposure form and submit it to Human
Resources. The employee’s written consent must be received before any
records will be released to a designated representative.
3. Once the properly completed form is received, records will be provided
to the requesting party within fifteen (15) working days. If the records
cannot be provided within the 15 day period, the requesting party will be
notified of the reason for the delay and informed as to the earliest possible
date that the records can be made available.
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Reporting & Recordkeeping
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K. Recommended/Optional First Aid Log & Form
1. The first-aid log is a chronological listing of ALL visits requiring first aid
treatment for occupational injuries and illnesses. Every injury or illness
reported, no matter how slight, can be recorded promptly following
treatment.
First Aid Log Location:_________________________________
Employee
Name Job Title Date Time Nature of Injury
Treatment
Received
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Incident Investigation
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A. Purpose
This section applies to the investigation and analysis of incidents regardless of
severity of injury or amount of property damage. The primary purpose of
incident investigation and analysis is to prevent incidents. The investigation and
analysis must produce factual information that will lead to corrective actions and
that will prevent or reduce the risk of future incidents in the work place.
The City of Port Townsend shall have in effect an investigation and analysis
system that allows basic facts concerning an incident including “near miss”
incidents to be recorded quickly, efficiently, and uniformly. In order to have an
effective accident prevention program, investigations must be fact-finding, not
faultfinding.
B. Responsibility for Accident Investigation
An appropriate City supervisory employee or designated safety manager, shall
have primary responsibility to plan, coordinate, and conduct the investigation of
each incident. The supervisor may be assisted by a fellow worker familiar with
the work activity involved, a safety and health professional, a safety
coordinator/inspector, and/or a representative of an insurance company. The
size of the investigation team will be dependent upon the extent of the
investigation to be conducted. Each investigation shall be conducted as soon as
possible after an incident and the results presented to all concerned parties as
quickly as possible.
C. Incident Investigation Checklist
In the event of an incident, the following steps must be followed:
1. Care for the injured - The first concern at an incident scene, regardless of its
seriousness, is to provide care for the injured. Nothing is to interfere with
this concern except the safety of the rescuers.
2. Protect other people, evidence and property - The investigation is to begin only
after the incident scene is safe to approach.
3. Preserve the scene as it was immediately after the incident - Cordon off or
barricade the incident scene and adjacent area to prevent others from
destroying evidence.
4. Follow Proper Notification Procedures- Notifiable incidents should be reported
immediately. A notifiable incident includes: death of a person, injury to a
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person other than an employee, injury where employee required medical
attention, dangerous occurrences (property damage, fire hazard, vehicle
accidents, an unsafe behavior or other incident). Notify the following:
• Death of a person – notify Human Resources, Department Head &
City Manager
• Injury to a person other than an employee - Notify City
Administration/Executive Assistant
• Injury that requires medical attention – Notify Supervisor and
Human Resources
• Property damage, fire hazard, vehicle accident, unsafe behavior or
other incident – Notify Supervisor and Department Head
5. Notify Other Parties- In addition, other parties may need to be notified
depending on the circumstances involved. These include:
• Appropriate first responders and law enforcement agency
• City’s designated representative – immediate notification, follow-up
within 24 hours or as soon as possible
• Insurance carrier claims adjuster
• Washington State Department of Labor and Industry, Division of
Occupational Safety and Health, in accordance with specific reporting
requirements i.e., fatality or in-patient hospitalization of any
employee within eight (8) hours of the incident., non-hospitalized
amputation or loss of an eye(s) of any employee within twenty-four
(24) hours of the incident. The WA L&I phone number is 1-800-423-
7233
6. Conduct a visual inspection of the incident scene - Visually inspect the incident
scene as conditions can rapidly change. Photograph, note and record
location of all items of evidence and mark the location of any item likely to be
moved.
7. Obtain identities of all people who may have information concerning the incident -
Record the individual's name, trade, employer, address, and home phone
number. Take photos of driver’s license, vehicle license, business cards, etc.
8. Examine the evidence - Identify and examine all items that are pertinent to
what, how, when, and why the incident occurred. Be careful not to
contaminate evidence.
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9. Photograph evidence - As soon as possible after the incident, take dated
photographs of the incident scene and adjacent areas including major
elements and articles of evidence. Photographs and negatives shall be
included as exhibits to the incident report.
10. Prepare a diagram of the incident scene - Sketch the incident scene and indicate
locations of all evidence essential to understanding the incident situation.
Measure and record distances involved on the sketch. Additional
information should include weather, lighting and background noise. The
diagram shall be included as an exhibit to the incident report.
11. Interview and obtain statements from all witnesses - As soon as possible after the
incident, interview all persons who may be able to contribute information
about the incident; obtain hand-written recorded statements from each
person.
12. Prepare Incident Investigation Report - A written report must be prepared for all
serious incidents as well as each incident investigated. The report shall be
prepared using the forms included herein. The report shall include what
happened, when it happened, why it happened, and who was involved. The
report is to indicate conclusions regarding the physical cause of the incident
and summarize corrective action to be taken to prevent a reoccurrence.
Attach all statements as exhibits to the incident report. A preliminary
incident report must be completed by close of business the day of the
incident. Final report to be completed within 72 hours of the incident.
• Under no circumstance is the report to place responsibility or legal
liability upon any party. The report is to be considered confidential
and not shared with other parties unless approved by City
management.
• A copy of the completed report, supporting data, and exhibits shall be
forwarded to Human Resources and a copy retained in the project file,
marked "Incident Investigation Report - Confidential - Legal". The
report shall bear a legend: "Confidential and Privileged Information,
including mental impressions and opinions of claim, prepared at the
request of the City, its insurer, and its counsel in anticipation of litiga-
tion."
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• Incident Investigation Reports are to be treated as confidential and
privileged and prepared in anticipation of litigation. As such,
Incident Investigation Reports are not to be issued and/or distributed
without the approval of the City Attorney.
D. Other Incidents
When a supervisor becomes aware of an employee injury where the injury was
not serious enough to warrant a team investigation as described above, the
supervisor will write an "Supervisor’s Incident Investigation Report" to
accompany the "Employee's Report of Incident Form"
E. Near Miss Incidents
Incidents defined as a “near miss” are to be investigated in the same manner as
outlined in items 2 through 12 above.
F. Investigation Objectives
1. Locate and identify evidence relevant to the incident. Evidence will be
available from:
a. People involved (including injured, principals, perpetrators and
witnesses)
b. Tools and Materials involved (including those in use, ready for use,
and stored in the area)
c. Environmental factors involved (including weather, light,
temperature and noise)
2. Examine the evidence to ascertain its impact on the incident sequence.
3. Reconstruct the sequence of events based on the evidence.
From the evidence, develop conclusions regarding the physical cause of the
incident; however, these conclusions should not attempt to place legal liability
upon any party.
G. Forms
• Employee’s Report of Incident Form
• Supervisor’s Incident Investigation Report
• Accident Investigation Report (Investigation Team)
• Accident Investigation Witness Statement
• Vehicle Accident Report Form
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Employee’s Report of Incident Form
Please Submit to Human Resources within 24 Hours of Incident
Instructions: Employees shall use this form to report all work related injuries, illnesses, or “near
miss” events (which could have caused an injury or illness) – no matter how minor. This helps us to
identify and correct hazards before they cause serious injuries. This form shall be completed by
employees as soon as possible and given to a supervisor for further action.
I am reporting a work related: D Injury D Illness D Near miss
Your Name:
Job title:
Supervisor:
When did you tell your supervisor about this injury/near miss?
Date of injury/near miss: Time of injury/near miss:
Names of witnesses (if any):
Where, exactly, did it happen?
What were you doing at the time?
Describe step by step what led up to the injury/near miss. (continue on the back if necessary):
What could have been done to prevent this injury/near miss?
What parts of your body were injured? If a near miss, how could you have been hurt?
Do you plan or did you see a doctor about this injury/illness? D Yes D No
If yes, whom did you see? Doctor’s phone number:
Date: Time:
Has this part of your body been injured before? D Yes D No
If yes, when?
Your signature: Date:
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Supervisor’s Incident Investigation Report
Please return to Human Resources within three business days of incident.
Instructions: Complete this form as soon as possible after an incident.
This is a report of a: ❑ Death ❑ Injury ❑ Lost Time ❑ Dr. Visit ❑ First Aid ❑ Near Miss (check all that apply)
Date of incident: This report is made by: ❑ Supervisor ❑ Team ❑ Other
Step 1: Injured employee (complete this part for each injured employee)
Name: Sex: ❑ Male ❑ Female Age:
Department: Job title at time of accident:
Part of body affected: (shade all that apply)
Nature of injury: (most
serious one)
❑ Abrasion, scrapes
❑ Amputation
❑ Broken bone
❑ Bruise
❑ Burn (heat)
❑ Burn (chemical)
❑ Concussion (to the head)
❑ Crushing Injury
❑ Cut, laceration, puncture
❑ Hernia
❑ Illness
❑ Sprain, strain
❑ Damage to a body system:
❑ Other ___________
This employee works:
❑ Regular full time
❑ Regular part time
❑ Seasonal
❑ Temporary
Months with
this employer
Months doing
this job:
Step 2: Describe the incident
Exact location of the incident: Exact time:
What part of employee’s workday? ❑ Entering or leaving work ❑ Doing normal work activities
❑ During meal period ❑ During break ❑ Working overtime ❑ Other ____________
Names of witnesses (if any):
Number of
attachments:
Written witness statements: Photographs: Maps / drawings:
What personal protective equipment was being used (if any)?
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Describe step by step the events that led up to the injury. Include names of any machines, parts, objects,
tools, materials and other important details.
Description continued on attached sheets: ❑
Step 3: Why did the incident happen?
Unsafe workplace conditions: (Check all that apply)
❑ Inadequate guard
❑ Unguarded hazard
❑ Safety device is defective
❑ Tool or equipment defective
❑ Workstation layout is hazardous
❑ Unsafe lighting
❑ Unsafe ventilation
❑ Lack of needed personal protective equipment
❑ Lack of appropriate equipment / tools
❑ Unsafe clothing
❑ No training or insufficient training
❑ Other: _____________________________
Unsafe acts by people: (Check all that apply)
❑ Operating without permission
❑ Operating at unsafe speed
❑ Servicing equipment that has power to it.
❑ Making a safety device inoperative
❑ Using defective equipment
❑ Using equipment in an unapproved way
❑ Unsafe lifting by hand
❑ Taking an unsafe position or posture
❑ Distraction, teasing, horseplay
❑ Failure to wear personal protective equipment
❑ Failure to use the available equipment / tools
❑ Other: __________________________________
Why did the unsafe conditions exist?
Why did the unsafe acts occur?
Is there a reward (such as “the job can be done more quickly”, or “the product is less likely to be damaged”)
that may have encouraged the unsafe conditions or acts? ❑ Yes ❑ No
If yes, describe:
Were the unsafe acts or conditions reported prior to the incident? ❑ Yes ❑ No
Have there been similar accidents or near misses prior to this one? ❑ Yes ❑ No
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Step 4: How can future incidents be prevented?
What changes do you suggest to prevent this incident/near miss from happening again?
❑ Stop this activity ❑ Guard the hazard ❑ Train the employee(s) ❑ Train the supervisor(s)
❑ Redesign task steps ❑ Redesign work station ❑ Write a new policy/rule ❑ Enforce existing policy
❑ Routinely inspect for the hazard ❑ Personal Protective Equipment ❑ Other: ____________________
What should be (or has been) done to carry out the suggestion(s) checked above?
Description continued on attached sheets: ❑
Step 5: Who completed and reviewed this form? (Please Print)
Written by:
Department:
Title:
Date:
Names of investigation team members:
Reviewed by:
Title:
Date:
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ACCIDENT INVESTIGATION REPORT (Investigation Team)
Instructions: Complete this form as soon as possible after an accident that results in serious injury or illness.
(Optional: Use to investigate a minor injury or near miss that could have resulted in a serious injury or illness.)
This is a report of a: ❑ Death ❑ Lost Time ❑ Dr. Visit Only ❑ First Aid Only ❑ Near Miss
Date of incident: ❑ Team ❑ Final Report
Step 1: Injured employee (complete this part for each injured employee)
Name: Sex: ❑ Male ❑ Female Age:
Department: Job title at time of accident:
Part of body affected: (shade all that apply)
Nature of injury: (most
serious one)
❑ Abrasion, scrapes
❑ Amputation
❑ Broken bone
❑ Bruise
❑ Burn (heat)
❑ Burn (chemical)
❑ Concussion (to the head)
❑ Crushing Injury
❑ Cut, laceration, puncture
❑ Hernia
❑ Illness
❑ Sprain, strain
❑ Damage to a body system:
❑ Other ___________
This employee works:
❑ Regular full time
❑ Regular part time
❑ Seasonal
❑ Temporary
Months with
this employer
Months doing
this job:
(EG: nervous, respiratory, or
circulatory systems)
Step 2: Describe the accident
Exact location of the accident: Exact time:
What part of employee’s workday? ❑ Entering or leaving work ❑ Doing normal work activities
❑ During meal period ❑ During break ❑ Working overtime ❑ Other
Names of witnesses (if any):
Number of
attachments:
Written witness statements: Photographs: Maps / drawings:
What personal protective equipment was being used (if any)?
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Describe step by step the events that led up to the injury. Include names of any machines, parts, objects,
tools, materials and other important details.
Description continued on attached sheets: ❑
Step 3: Why did the accident happen?
Unsafe workplace conditions: (Check all that apply)
❑ Inadequate guard
❑ Unguarded hazard
❑ Safety device is defective
❑ Tool or equipment defective
❑ Workstation layout is hazardous
❑ Unsafe lighting
❑ Unsafe ventilation
❑ Lack of needed personal protective equipment
❑ Lack of appropriate equipment / tools
❑ Unsafe clothing
❑ No training or insufficient training
❑ Other: _____________________________
Unsafe acts by people: (Check all that apply)
❑ Operating without permission
❑ Operating at unsafe speed
❑ Servicing equipment that has power to it.
❑ Making a safety device inoperative
❑ Using defective equipment
❑ Using equipment in an unapproved way
❑ Unsafe lifting by hand
❑ Taking an unsafe position or posture
❑ Distraction, teasing, horseplay
❑ Failure to wear personal protective equipment
❑ Failure to use the available equipment / tools
❑ Other: __________________________________
Why did the unsafe conditions exist?
Why did the unsafe acts occur?
Is there a reward (such as “the job can be done more quickly”, or “the product is less likely to be damaged”)
that may have encouraged the unsafe conditions or acts? ❑ Yes ❑ No
If yes, describe:
Were the unsafe acts or conditions reported prior to the accident? ❑ Yes ❑ No
Have there been similar accidents or near misses prior to the accident? ❑ Yes ❑ No
Step 4: How can future accidents be prevented?
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What changes do you suggest to prevent this accident/near miss from happening again?
❑ Stop this activity ❑ Guard the hazard ❑ Train the employee(s) ❑ Train the supervisor(s)
❑ Redesign task steps ❑ Redesign work station ❑ Write a new policy/rule ❑ Enforce existing policy
❑ Routinely inspect for the hazard ❑ Personal Protective Equipment ❑ Other: ____________________
What should be (or has been) done to carry out the suggestion(s) checked above?
Description continued on attached sheets: ❑
Step 5: Who completed and reviewed this form? (Please Print)
Written by:
Department:
Title:
Date:
Names of investigation team members:
Reviewed by:
Title:
Date:
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ACCIDENT INVESTIGATION WITNESS STATEMENT FORM
Company Name: Date of Accident:
Injured Party: Time of Accident:
Project Name:
Witness Name: Witness Phone #:
Witness Address:
WITNESS STATEMENT
INSTRUCTIONS: Complete in your own words, the immediate events leading up to and
including the accident. Your effort to provide complete descriptive details of the events is
essential to determine the facts about this accident.
I have read the above statement and certify that it is true to the best of my knowledge.
Witness Signature: Date:
Supervisor Signature: Date:
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VEHICLE ACCIDENT REPORT FORM
Form must be submitted within 5 days of accident/incident
Employee Name
Was a Police Report Filed?
Yes ☐ No ☐
Project Location
Police Report # ___________
Location of accident/incident
Accident/incident occurred
Date Time
Did this accident result in an injury?
Yes ☐ No ☐ If yes, please complete injury
details
Accident/incident reported
Date Time
Name of any witnesses
Accident/incident resulted in (mark all that apply)
Fatality First aid only Medical treatment required Workdays lost
Equipment
damage
Describe injuries
Describe how accident/incident occurred
What actions, events, or conditions contributed most directly to this accident/incident?
What could be done to prevent future accidents/incidents of this type?
Both Parties must sign below
Date
Printed name of employee
Signature
Date
Printed Name of supervisor
Signature
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Section 007
Hazard Communication
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A. Purpose
The Hazard Communication Program is intended to comply with, implement,
and communicate the Washington State Labor and Industry, Division of
Occupational Safety and Health Hazard Communication Standard, WAC 296-901,
and to provide workers protection against hazardous chemicals in the workplace.
All City employees shall comply fully with the requirements for Hazard
Communication as outlined below.
B. General
The Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) is a performance oriented
standard. It sets out broad goals, but, unlike many other federal regulatory
requirements, it does not stipulate how to meet those goals. It does, however,
list the elements that every Hazard Communication Program must include.
This standard is now aligned with the Globally Harmonized System of Classification
and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS). This will provide a common and coherent approach
to classifying chemicals and communicating hazard information on labels and Safety
Data Sheets.
Under Hazard Communication, each contractor who uses hazardous chemicals must
develop:
1. A written Hazard Communication Program that spells out how each
employer will meet its hazard communication responsibilities.
2. An inventory list of all hazardous chemicals on the project.
3. A file of Safety Data Sheets (SDS), each of which provides detailed
information on the properties, hazards, and safe handling of an individual
hazardous chemical or hazardous chemical product.
4. A method to ensure that each container of hazardous chemicals has the
proper labeling and hazard warnings.
5. An information and training program for workers who may be exposed to
hazardous chemicals including proper handling of these chemicals.
6. A training procedure for workers who have not received such training
and who perform non-routine tasks such as confined-space entry,
emergency spill control, or any task involving a hazardous chemical
presenting special safety and health risks.
7. A method of informing other employers and their employees of hazardous
chemicals in the workplace which they may encounter.
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C. Procedure
1. Chemical Inventory
a. Each employer shall maintain a current Hazardous Chemicals List
on the project. This list will include the following information:
i. The chemical or common name used on the container label or
on the SDS.
ii. The quantity of the chemical usually stored on site.
iii. The location where the chemical is usually stored on site.
b. A Safety Data Sheet shall be available for every hazardous chemical
on the list.
2. Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
a. Any employer purchasing and using hazardous chemicals shall
require the vendor to provide an SDS for each chemical. An SDS can
also be obtained from the manufacturer.
b. This requirement must be communicated to all individuals who obtain
hazardous chemicals. Purchase orders shall include in writing the request
for the SDS if required.
c. Upon receipt of each SDS, the original will be maintained on file at
the office or project site.
d. The designated program coordinator shall maintain a project SDS
notebook (file) in a current and organized manner.
e. Should a chemical be received without an SDS and the chemical is
not listed on the Hazardous Chemical List, the office or project will
request an SDS from the distributor or manufacturer of the chemical.
f. SDS’s shall be readily available for review by employees,
employers, and OSHA representatives upon request.
g. SDS’s will be required for, but not limited to, hazardous chemicals
contained in general categories including; abrasives, adhesives
and/or sealants, asbestos, biologicals, cleaners, coatings, fuels,
compressed gases, insulations, lubricants, masonry products, metals,
paint products, pesticides, radioactive materials, solvents, welding
and soldering products, and treated wood and/or wood dust.
h. SDS’s may be provided to workers through computers, the
Internet, CD- ROM, and fax machines. If an electronic method is
used for maintaining SDS’s, you must ensure that:
i. Reliable devices are readily accessible in the workplace at all
times;
ii. Workers are trained in the use of the devices, including specific
software;
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iii. There is an adequate backup system in the event of the failure
of the system such as power outages or on-line delays; and
iv. The system is part of the overall hazard communication
program of the workplace.
i. Additionally, workers must be able to access hard copies of the SDS,
and in medical emergencies, you must be able to immediately
provide copies of SDS’s to medical personnel.
D. Labels and Warnings
1. The designated Hazard Communication Coordinator (HCC) shall be
responsible for verifying that all containers of hazardous chemicals received
and maintained on site. At minimum the following labeling requirements
must be met for primary containers. The container must be:
a. Clearly labeled as to contents,
b. Display appropriate signal words such as “WARNING” or
“DANGER,” pictograms, hazard statements or precautionary
statements unique to the chemical in use.
c. Contain the name and address of the manufacturer, importer, or other
source of the chemical.
d. Contain labels that have not been defaced and/or removed and are
clearly legible.
2. Secondary Containers can be defined as any container being used beyond
the original manufacturer’s container that the chemical was shipped in.
Secondary containers are exempt from the labeling regulations so long as
the portable/working container remains in the direct control and
supervision of the employee, and only over the duration of a standard
working day. Whenever in doubt, it is best to label all secondary
containers each and every time chemicals are transferred from their
original container. Secondary container labeling requirements require the
following:
a. The name of the chemical (Not in symbols)
b. Appropriate hazard warnings (Any combination of words and/or
pictograms)
c. Specific physical/health hazards present including target organs
3. Examples of labels used for City projects can be found in H (4) - Forms.
a. Additional labeling may be required, including, but not limited to,
hazardous waste in satellite and long-term storage, PCB waste,
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equipment containing Class I ozone depleting substances, etc.
4. All labels must remain legible, prominently displayed, and must be
written in English. For employees speaking other languages, provisions
shall be made to ensure that they understand hazards present.
5. All supervisors must ensure that their workers understand these warnings
and that the SDS is available for their review upon request.
E. Employee Information and Training
1. Employees must be informed of:
a. The requirements of the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard.
b. Any operations in their work areas where hazardous chemicals are
present.
c. The location and availability of the Written Hazard Communication
Program, Hazardous Chemicals List, and SDS’s for the chemicals
with which they work or to which they may be exposed.
2. Employees shall receive initial general training prior to their initial assignment
and when new hazards are introduced in the following:
a. How to read labels and review SDS’s to obtain appropriate hazard
information. This may be best accomplished by reviewing actual
container labels and SDS’s for chemicals used on-site. The SDS
provides the name of the chemical, how to use and store it, how to
handle an emergency, what the hazards of the chemical are, and
where to get more information about it. All employees must know
how to read and understand the contents of a Safety Data Sheet
(SDS)
b. Physical and health effects of hazardous chemicals.
c. Types of exposures (acute or chronic) and routes of entry
(inhalation, absorption, and ingestion).
d. Methods and observational techniques used to determine the
presence or release of hazardous chemicals in the work area
including odors, appearance, labels, or information contained in the
SDS.
e. How to lessen or prevent exposure to hazardous chemicals by using
safe work methods and personal protective equipment.
f. Emergency procedures to follow if exposed to hazardous chemicals.
3. Category and Specific Training
a. Employees are required to receive specific training for each
hazardous chemical they may be expected to use or encounter prior
to work with the material. If specific training is not provided,
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training must be provided for categories of hazards including
physical (flammables, combustibles, and compressed gases) and
health (carcinogens, corrosives, asphyxiates, irritants and/or
sensitizers, oxidizers, and explosives). These may include but is not
limited to the following:
i. Carcinogens present a health hazard that requires special
attention. Review the Hazardous Chemical List and SDS’s to
determine if any carcinogens or suspected carcinogens are
present on site. If a hazardous chemical is a suspected
carcinogen, the label should so indicate. Workers must be
instructed that specific training, including a review of the
SDS, must be completed before using the chemical.
ii. Corrosives are any chemicals that cause visible destruction of
living tissue at the site of contact. Acids and caustics are
corrosive and require special personal protective equipment
such as safety glasses or goggles, protective clothing, chemical
resistant gloves, and face shields.
iii. Asphyxiates are generally defined as any agent which causes
a lack of oxygen in the worker's breathing zone. Confined
spaces have this potential and must be tested before entry
and periodically during entry. Argon, used frequently to
purge, is commonly associated with asphyxiation.
iv. Irritants and sensitizers are associated with inflammation of
living tissue and allergic reactions following repeated
exposure. When using such chemicals wear appropriate
personal protective equipment. Many workplace chemicals
and procedures involve either irritants or sensitizers,
including solvents, fuels, insulation, Portland cement, cutting
oils, thinners, epoxies, and arc welding.
v. Oxidizers are chemicals that may react violently with
flammables, combustibles, or water. A review of the
Hazardous Chemical List and SDS’s will aid in determining
the need for additional training.
vi. Explosives are chemicals that cause a sudden, almost
instantaneous release of pressure, gas, and heat when
subjected to sudden shock, pressure, or high temperature.
Explosives require specific training.
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b. Additional training shall be provided when new hazardous
chemicals are brought on site if the initial training did not
adequately address the hazards. This training may be specific and
must be provided to those workers expected to work with or be
exposed to the hazards, or provided to all workers (for example, as a
weekly "tool box" topic). If review of an SDS and the hazards
associated with a chemical reveal a special concern regarding
employee safety and health, specific training shall be provided to
workers who will work with that chemical.
c. Training shall be provided workers in the use of electronic
equipment/devices, including specific software, when electronic
method is used to maintain SDS.
F. Hazardous Non-Routine Tasks
1. Occasionally workers will be assigned a task that is not routine. For
example, workers may be required to work in a confined space, or with a
chemical they have not used before. Before starting such work, every
worker involved will be given such information as is necessary to enter
and work safely within the confined space or with the chemical. No
employee is to begin work at a non-routine task without first being briefed
on any hazards that may be involved in the performance of such an
assignment. After receiving such training, workers are not to begin work
unless their immediate supervisor is aware of their activity.
G. Forms
1. Hazardous Chemical list
2. Typical Hazardous Chemicals in Construction
3. Hazardous Chemical Labeling Systems
a. GHS, HMIS, NFPA
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GENERAL HAZARDOUS CHEMICAL LIST
Product Name Chemical Name Amount Location SDS on
File
Unleaded Gasoline Gasoline, All Grades Gallons Vehicle Yes
Diesel Fuel Diesel Fuel No. 2 Gallons Vehicle Yes
Anti-Freeze Ethylene-Glycol
Gallons Vehicle Yes
Engine Oil 15W40 Engine Oil (& the like
consistencies)
Quarts Vehicle Yes
Window Washer Fluid Window Washer Fluid ~1 Gallon Vehicle Yes
Automatic Transmission
Fluid
Automatic Transmission Fluid < 1 qt. Vehicle Yes
Brake Fluid DOT 4 Brake Fluid < 1 qt. Vehicle Yes
Hydraulic Fluid Hydraulic Fluid Varies Various Jobsite
Equipment Yes
Additional Hazardous Chemicals shall be added to this log on a project-specific basis. This should be updated to reflect any
changes based upon project-specific chemical exposure
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1. TYPICAL HAZARDOUS CHEMICAL IN CONSTRUCTION
Substance Known or Suspected
Health or Physical Hazards Where Found
Acetylene Flammable; combustible Welding/burning operations
Arsenic Lung and skin cancer Wood preservatives
Asbestos Lung cancer Water Mains, Insulation, building
products, water mains
Benzene Leukemia Solvents, glues
Calcium Oxide
(Lime) Skin, eye and respiratory irritant Concrete and masonry
Coal Tar/Asphalt Eye and respiratory irritant Roof and foundation work
Concrete/Mortar Irritant Concrete and masonry
Curing Compound Flammable; combustible, irritant Concrete
Epoxy Resin
Severe irritant to skin, eyes and
respiratory tract; some suspected of
causing cancer, some flammable
Adhesives
Form Oil Irritant Concrete work
Formaldehyde Nasal and brain cancer Plywood, particle board, foam
insulation
Fuels and
Lubricants Flammable; combustible, irritant Internal combustion engines; heaters
Glass Fiber Dust Irritant Insulation
Lead Kidney, blood and nervous system; skin and
eye irritation Plumbing and roofing work; soldering
Methylene Chloride Cancer, heart, liver, nervous system, skin
and eye irritation
Paint stripping solvents, cleaning
solvents, polyurethane foam
Muriatic Acid Severe irritant especially to eyes and
mucus membranes Masonry work
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Oxygen Supports combustion in flammable and
combustible areas Welding/burning operations
Quartz Dust (Silica) Lung scarring Limestone and granite aggregates
Trichloroethylene Lung cancer, central nervous system
depressant solvents, paint, resin, varnish
Vinyl Chloride Liver cancer Polyvinyl chloride plastics
Welding Fumes
from Nickel,
Beryllium and
Chromates
Lung and nasal cancer Welding
Wood Dust Irritant; nasal, colon and rectal cancer Woodworking
Xylene Flammable; combustible, irritant Concrete
HAZARDOUS CHEMICAL LABELING SYSTEM
a) Globally Harmonized System (GHS) b) HMIS Labeling
c) NFPA 704 Diamond
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a. Globally Harmonized Systems:
GHS Elements:
Description Pictogram Hazard class and hazard category:
Exploding
Bomb
Unstable explosives
Explosives of Divisions 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4
Self-reactive substances and mixtures, Types A,B
Organic peroxides, Types A,B
Flame
Flammable gasses, category 1
Flammable aerosols, categories 1,2
Flammable liquids, categories 1,2,3
Flammable solids, categories 1,2
Self-reactive substances and mixtures, Types
B,C,D,E,F
Pyrophoric liquids, category 1
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Pyrophoric solids, category 1
Self-heating substances and mixtures, categories
1,2
Substances and mixtures, which in contact with
water,
Emit flammable gases, categories 1,2,3
Organic peroxides, Types B,C,D,E,F
Flame Over
Circle
Oxidizing gases, category 1
Oxidizing liquids, categories 1,2,3
Gas Cylinder
Gases under pressure:
- Compressed gases
- Liquefied gases
- Refrigerated liquefied gases
- Dissolved gases
Corrosion
Corrosive to metals, category 1
Skin corrosion, categories 1A,1B,1C
Serious eye damage, category 1
Skull and
Crossbones
Acute toxicity (oral, dermal, inhalation),
categories 1,2,3
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Exclamation
Mark
Acute toxicity (oral, dermal, inhalation), category
4
Skin irritation, category 2
Eye irritation, category 2
Skin sensitization, category 1
Specific Target Organ Toxicity – Single exposure,
category 3
Health Hazard
Respiratory sensitization, category 1
Germ cell mutagenicity, categories 1A,1B,2
Carcinogenicity, categories 1A,1B,2
Reproductive toxicity, categories 1A,1B,2
Specific Target Organ Toxicity – Single exposure,
categories 1,2
Specific Target Organ Toxicity – Repeated
exposure, categories 1,2
Aspiration Hazard, category 1
Environment
Hazardous to the aquatic environment
- Acute hazard, category1
- Chronic hazard, categories 1,2
b. HMIS Labeling
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General Rating Summary:
Health Rating Chart
* Chronic Hazard Chronic (long-term) health effects may result from
repeated exposure.
0- Minimal Hazard No significant risk to health.
1- Slight Hazard Irritation or minor reversible injury possible.
2- Moderate Hazard Temporary or minor injury may occur.
3- Serious Hazard Major injury likely unless prompt action is taken and
medical treatment is given.
4- Severe Hazard Life-threatening, major or permanent damage may
result from single or repeated exposures.
Flammability Rating Chart
0- Minimal Hazard Materials that will not burn.
1- Slight Hazard
Materials that must be preheated before ignition will
occur. Includes liquids, solids, and semi-solids having a
flash point above 200° F. (Class IIIB)
2- Moderate Hazard
Materials which must be moderately heated or exposed
to high ambient temperatures before ignition will occur.
Includes liquids having a flash point at or above 100°F,
but below 200°F. (Class II & IIIA)
3- Serious Hazard
Chemicals capable of ignition under almost all normal
temperature conditions. Includes flammable liquids
with a flash point between 73°F and 100°F. (Class IB &
IC)
4- Severe Hazard Flammable gasses or very volatile flammable liquids
with flash points below 73°F and boiling points below
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100°F. Materials may ignite spontaneously with air.
(Class IA)
Reactivity Rating Chart
0- Minimal Hazard
Materials that are normally stable, under fire conditions
and will not react to water, polymerize, decompose,
condense or self-react.
1- Slight Hazard
Materials that are normally stable, but can become
unstable at high temperatures and pressures. Materials
may react non-violently with water or undergo
hazardous polymerization in the absence of inhibitors.
2- Moderate Hazard
Materials that are unstable and may undergo violent
chemical change at normal temperature and pressure
with low risk for explosion. Materials may react
violently with water or form peroxides upon exposure
to air.
3- Serious Hazard
Materials that may form explosive mixtures with water
and are capable of detonation or explosive reaction in
the presence of a strong igniting source or undergo
chemical change at normal temperature and pressure
with moderate risk of explosion.
4- Severe Hazard
Materials that are readily capable of water reaction,
detonation or explosive decomposition at normal
temperatures and pressures.
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General Rating Summary:
Health (Blue)
Rating Kind of
Hazard Description
4 Danger May be fatal on short exposure. Specialized protective
equipment required
3 Warning Corrosive or toxic. Avoid skin contact or inhalation
2 Warning May be harmful if inhaled or absorbed
1 Caution May be irritating
0 No unusual hazard
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Flammability (Red)
Rating Kind of
Hazard Description
4 Danger Flammable gas or extremely flammable liquid
3 Warning Flammable liquid flash point below 100° F
2 Caution Combustible liquid flash point of 100° to 200° F
1 Combustible if heated
0 Not combustible
Reactivity (Yellow)
Rating Kind of
Hazard Description
3 Danger May be explosive if shocked, heated under confinement
or mixed with water
2 Warning Unstable or may react violently if mixed with water
1 Caution May react if heated or mixed with water but not
violently
0 Stable
Not reactive when mixed with water
Special Notice Key (White)
W Water Reactive
OX Oxidizing Agent
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City of Port Townsend
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A. Purpose
This procedure provides requirements and guidance for using personal
protective equipment (PPE) to reduce employee exposure to workplace hazards.
Each contractor shall have a personal protective equipment program in
accordance with this safety plan, 29 CFR 1926.28 and Subpart E.
All City employees shall comply fully with the requirements for Personal
Protective Equipment as outlined below.
B. General
1. Pre-task planning shall be conducted to identify workplace hazards and
the PPE requirements necessary to effectively mitigate those hazards. A
written job hazard analysis (JHA) may be conducted for workplace
hazards.
2. In accordance with the findings on the Job Hazard analysis, a written
assessment shall take place outlining these task-specific PPE requirements.
A sample assessment can be found in section M.
3. PPE requirements shall be communicated to each employee. Employees
required to wear PPE shall receive the training necessary to enable them to
use the PPE provided properly. PPE shall be selected and fitted to each
affected employee.
4. Retraining shall be conducted when work assignments change, new or
different PPE is introduced or if employee(s) demonstrate improper use,
lack of use, or inadequate skill or understanding.
5. Document that each employee received and understood the training. A
record shall be prepared which contains the identity of the worker, the
date of training, and the means used to verify that the worker understood
the training.
6. PPE shall be used and maintained by the user in a sanitary and reliable
condition. As such, PPE shall be inspected before each use and any
damaged or defective PPE must be immediately removed from service.
7. Periodic audits shall be conducted to monitor compliance with PPE
requirements.
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8. With the exception of safety shoes, employee owned or supplied PPE is not
allowed on City worksites or locations. All PPE shall be provided by the
City at no cost to the affected employee.
C. Head Protection
1. Employees shall wear hard hats at all times in construction areas/projects
or areas of an existing facility that have been designated as a “Hard Hat
Area”.
2. Hard hats shall meet the requirements of ANSI Z89.1 – 1969, Safety
Requirements for Industrial Head Protection.
3. Hard hats that have been altered by drilling or cutting will not be
permitted.
4. Welders are required to wear hard hats when in a hard hat area. Soft cap
welding is not permitted.
5. Hard hats shall be worn in accordance with the manufacturer’s
instructions/recommendations.
6. Equipment operators shall wear hard hats unless a fully enclosed cab
protects them.
7. “Bump caps” and metallic hard hats are prohibited on City projects.
8. Hard hats will be inspected regularly for signs of cracking, chips, or other
visible defects and replaced when damaged. Headband assemblies must
be in good condition and should be exchanged whenever they become
broken or weakened.
D. Eye and Face Protection
1. Employees shall wear safety glasses with side shields in all work areas
where a Job Hazard Analysis indicates they are needed.
2. Safety glasses shall meet the requirements of ANSI Z87.1 – 1989, Practice
for Occupational and Educational Eye Protection.
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3. Employees requiring prescription eyewear must wear glasses with frames
and lenses meeting ANSI specifications or wear protective eyewear over
their corrective lenses.
4. Additional eye and/or face protection, such as goggles, face shields, and
welding shields will be required when engaged in operations such as
welding, burning, grinding, chipping, handling chemicals, corrosive
liquids, molten materials, drilling, using powder-actuated tools,
sandblasting, pouring concrete, etc.
5. Employees whose presence is required in close proximity to tasks
requiring additional eye protection will wear the same level of protection.
6. Welder’s helpers shall wear filtered safety lenses with the correct color
density to provide protection against welder’s flash.
7. Visitors wearing prescription eyewear must meet the approved applicable
standards with side shields or wear goggles or other protective eyewear
over their corrective lenses in all work areas where a Job Hazard Analysis
indicates they are needed.
8. Equipment operators shall be required to wear protective eyewear unless
they are in enclosed cabs.
E. Foot Protection
1. When foot protection is necessary to protect employees from the hazards
identified, the employee(s) assigned to those work areas or tasks shall be
required to wear boots that provide adequate protection and meet the
specifications of ANSI Z41 – Safety-Toe Footwear.
2. All employees on construction projects are required to wear protective
(safety or steel toe) footwear.
3. Additional protective footwear protecting the toes and metatarsal area of
the foot shall be worn when performing tasks that present a potential for
serious foot injury (i.e., operating jackhammers, drilling to break concrete,
operating ground compactors, etc.)
4. Employees working with wet concrete shall wear rubber boots.
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5. The City does not permit the use of safety-toed tennis shoes unless a Job
Hazard Analysis concludes that such shoes are safe for that job
title/position.
6. Open-toe shoes, sandals, tennis shoes, jogging or athletic shoes, and other
such footwear shall not be permitted on construction sites.
7. Boots shall be maintained in good repair and those with worn heels or thin
or worn soles shall not be permitted.
F. Hand Protection
1. Employees performing tasks that present a potential for hand injury shall
wear the appropriate gloves suitable for the hazard present.
2. Employees working on construction projects shall wear gloves during all
work activities, unless the use of gloves would increase the hazard
potential of the task.
3. Employees operating drill presses, bench grinders, and similar rotating
tools and machinery shall not wear gloves.
4. All exceptions to the use of gloves shall be identified on the Pre-Task Plan
(PTP) and approved by project management.
5. Gloves such as neoprene, nitrile, butyl rubber, polyvinyl alcohol, etc., may
be required when handling specific chemicals. The appropriate Safety
Data Sheet (SDS) shall be reviewed to determine appropriate PPE for hand
protection.
6. Cut resistant or “Kevlar” gloves shall be worn when handling or working
around objects with sharp edges or hot surfaces.
7. Gloves shall be worn during welding and burning operations.
G. Hearing Protection
1. Hearing protection shall be worn when employees are subjected to sound
levels equal to or exceeding 85 dBA based on a time-weighted average
when measured on the A-scale of a standard sound level meter at slow
response.
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2. When administrative and/or engineering controls fail to reduce sound
levels below permissible noise exposure levels based on an eight-hour
time-weighted average, a hearing conservation program shall be
implemented.
3. Ear protection devices (ear plugs) inserted in the ear shall be fitted or
determined by a competent person.
4. Hearing protection required signage shall be posted in work areas that
exceed permissible noise exposure levels.
H. Work Clothing
1. Minimum acceptable work clothing for all employees working on project
sites includes long pants, safety footwear, and a shirt that completely covers
the shoulders with a minimum 4-inch sleeve.
2. Additional work clothing such as long-sleeve shirts, flame retardant clothing,
etc., may be required for employees visiting and/or working in operating
areas of client facilities.
3. For the most part, construction, maintenance, and other employees assigned
to operating client facilities should be cautioned against wearing loose
clothing, rings, watches, necklaces, or having long hair – all of which may
catch in power-driven equipment.
4. Non-conductive apparel shall be worn for those employees with the
potential to contact exposed energized parts. Conductive apparel could
include conductive articles of clothing such as watch bands, bracelets, rings,
key chains, necklaces, metalized aprons, cloth with conductive thread, or
metal headgear.
I. Seat Belts
1. All employees operating motor vehicles and all passengers therein shall wear
seat belts.
2. Employees operating mobile equipment with rollover protection (ROPS)
shall wear seat belts.
J. Traffic Vests/Apparel
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1. Employees required to work in the immediate vicinity of moving traffic shall
wear, as a minimum, reflective high visibility traffic vests/apparel which
meet D.O.T. standards.
2. Reflective traffic vests/apparel shall be worn when such activities are being
conducted at night and other periods where low light conditions are present.
K. Life Jackets/Vests
1. Employees required to work over or near water more than 36 inches in depth
shall be required to wear a U.S. Coast Guard approved life jacket or buoyant
work vest.
L. Other
1. PPE requirements for Fall Protection are contained in Section 14 of this
manual.
2. PPE requirements for Respiratory Protection are contained in Section 21 of
this manual.
M. PPE Assessment Form
PPE Assessment Table
Hazard Frequency Occurs PPE Required
Access & Egress
Chemical/Biological
Compression/Crushing
Confined Space Hazards
Drowning
Electrical
Engulfment
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Ergonomic
Drowning
Fire Potential
Harmful Dust
Hot/Cold Equipment
Impact
Light (Optical) Radiation
Material Handling
Material Storage
Noise
Penetration
Radiation (Ionizing)
Tools
Vibration
Walking Surfaces
Weather
Injury/Accident Data
Performed By: __________________ Date of Assessment: __________________
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A. Purpose
This procedure ensures prompt qualified medical attention is provided to those
in need and shall comply with OSHA 29 CFR 1910.151.
B. Medical Attention / First Aid
1. Before work begins, provisions for prompt medical attention shall be
made available in case of serious injury, including communication (for
example posting) of emergency telephone numbers (control room, Fire,
Police, Ambulance) in an appropriate location.
2. The site may designate a person who has a valid certificate in first aid and
CPR training and is available to render immediate assistance to treat
injured employees, in the absence of an infirmary, clinic, hospital, or
physician that is within three minutes travel time of the ES Facility or job
site.
3. The required number of persons who are trained in first aid and CPR for
the facility or job site is not defined by regulation. However, it is
recommended that at least one employee who is trained in First Aid/CPR
is available per shift.
4. All newly assigned employees must complete site orientation, including
an explanation of how to report medical emergencies and how to summon
aid.
5. Employees who act as First Aid responders shall be trained and equipped
6. First Aid procedures shall be followed to ensure that prompt qualified
medical attention is provided to those in need. This procedure shall be
followed in regards to first aid care and medical attentions to all City
employees shall comply with OSHA 29 CFR 1910.151.
7. Training - all designated first responders shall be trained and qualified to
administer appropriate first aid treatment, may care for minor injuries not
requiring the attention of a physician. Training shall conform to the
American Red Cross, American Heart Association, and National Safety
Council, Medic First Aid or equivalent. Training will be verified via
appropriate documents.
8. First Aid kits shall be available on site.
a. First Aid Supplies:
i. First aid supplies are accessible when required and
maintained in a weatherproof container or first aid station.
Each item should be available in an individually sealed
package.
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ii. A designated representative shall check the contents of each
first aid kit before it is designated as available for use, and
check the site/vehicle first aid kits and supplies on a
monthly basis to ensure that the expended or expired items
are replaced. The inspection shall be documented. A City
employee or an outside vendor can check the inventory and
maintain these first aid supplies including eyewash
supplies.
9. Emergency Eyewash and Shower - If there is the possibility that an
employee’s skin may be splashed by chemicals or chemical containing
solutions, an emergency shower or drench hose should be provided at the
work area. If there is a possibility that an employee’s eyes may be
splashed by chemical containing solutions, a plumbed eyewash station
should be provided in the work area.
10. Employees must be instructed on the proper use of the eyewash and
emergency showers. If an employee’s eyes or skin are splashed by
chemical containing solutions, the employee must flush them
immediately and continue to do so for 15 minutes. Employees should
then seek medical attention.
C. Emergency Medical Response
1. When an emergency situation arises, the first person on the scene shall
initiate an emergency response. The communication channels established
during emergency planning will be used to notify the appropriate on-site,
(EMRT), and off-site emergency medical providers.
2. Information transmitted from the scene concerning the emergency should
include the name of the individual reporting the emergency, an accurate
description of the nature of the emergency, the exact location, and the nature
of the injury.
3. Information transmitted to off-site emergency response providers shall
include the details described above and any other information requested.
The operator should stay on the line until an emergency response has been
confirmed.
4. The on-site emergency response team will provide for the care and comfort
of the injured until released by the responding off-site emergency response
provider. The site emergency response team shall make itself available to
assist as required.
5. The project management team will secure the scene at the earliest possible
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moment and initiate an incident investigation once the scene has been
secured and the injured has been transported for off-site medical attention.
D. First Aid Station- Approved First Aid Supplies
1. City First Aid kits will comply with ANSI (American National Standards
Institute) standards.
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A. Purpose
To provide the general requirements for maintaining an appropriate Fire
Protection and Fire Prevention Program.
All City of Port Townsend employees shall comply fully with City requirements
for fire protection and prevention as outlined below.
B. Definitions
1. Class A Fires – fires in ordinary combustible materials such as wood, cloth,
paper, trash, rubber, and plastic.
2. Class B Fires – fires in flammable liquid, oil, grease, tar, oil-based paint,
lacquer, and flammable gas.
3. Class C Fires – fires involving energized electrical equipment or systems,
resulting in the extinguishing media conducting electricity.
4. Class D Fires – fires in combustible metals, such as magnesium, titanium,
zirconium, sodium, lithium, and potassium.
5. Combustible Liquid – a liquid having a flash point at or above 140 deg. F (60
deg. C) and below 200 deg. F (93.4 deg. C).
6. Flammable – means capable of being easily ignited, burning intensely, or
having a rapid rate of flame spread.
7. Flammable Liquid – a liquid having a flash point below 140 deg. F and having
a vapor pressure not exceeding 40 pounds per square inch (absolute) at 100
deg. F.
8. Flash Point – means the temperature of a liquid that gives off vapor sufficient
to form an ignitable mixture with the air near the surface of the liquid or
within the vessel.
9. Safety Can – a safety can is an FM-approved container of not more than five-
gallon capacity having a flash-arresting screen, spring-closing lid, and spout
cover that has been so designed to safely relieve internal pressure when
subjected to fire exposure.
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C. General
The requirements of a Fire Protection and Prevention Program are determined
mainly by the conditions prevalent at each project. It has as its basic minimum
the requirements of Washington State Department of Labor and Industry,
Division of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH), WAC 296-24-567, and
OSHA, 29 CFR 1926 Sub-part F.
D. Fire Protection
The Fire Protection and Prevention Program for the City and each jobsite will
determine, in large measure, the type and quantity of firefighting equipment
required.
1. Mobile Fire Equipment
a. Generally, mobile equipment will not be required, other than perhaps
large-wheeled extinguishers or small firefighting equipment trailers.
It is recognized, however, that where the facilities are widespread, or
where several plants will require fire protection, motorized
equipment could be beneficial. These situations should be treated as
special cases; approval of the client should be obtained before
procuring expensive, specialized motor equipment.
2. Portable Fire Extinguishers
a. Many types of extinguishers are available to combat the various
classes of fires for buildings or areas with ordinary and/or extra-
hazard occupancy. However, to avoid confusion and to provide the
maximum protection, it is recommended that standard multi-purpose
A:B:C extinguishers be used. Class "A" fires are fires in ordinary
combustible materials such as wood, cloth, paper, rubber, and
plastics; Class "B" fires are fires in flammable liquids, gases, and
greases; and Class "C" fires are fires which involve energized electric
equipment where electrical conductivity of the extinguishing media is
of importance. Whenever possible, equipment should be de-
energized before using a Class "C" extinguisher. The type
recommended for these classes is Underwriter's Laboratories rated
4A:40-B:C and having a capacity of 10 pounds.
b. Underwriter's Laboratories (UL) rating should not be confused with
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manufacturers' model numbers. All reputable suppliers will provide
the UL ratings of their portable fire extinguishers upon request.
c. Other requirements include the following:
i. Travel distance from any point of the protected area to the
nearest fire extinguisher shall not exceed 100 feet. The area to
be protected per portable fire extinguisher for Class "A" fires is
3,000 square feet.
ii. Fire extinguishers shall be mounted not more than 5'-0" above
the floor and shall be marked and conspicuously located. For
more information, please refer to fire extinguisher requirements as
outlined in NFPA 10.
iii. One or more fire extinguishers rated at 2A shall be provided on
each floor. In multi-story buildings at least one portable fire
extinguisher shall be located adjacent to each stairway leading
to an EXIT.
iv. When flammable or combustible liquids or flammable gases
are being used, a fire extinguisher rated 10-B shall be provided
within 50 feet travel distance from any point of the protected
area to the nearest portable fire extinguisher. Extinguishers
subject to freezing shall be protected from freezing.
v. Carbon tetrachloride, chlorobromomethane, and other toxic-
vaporizing liquid fire extinguishers are prohibited.
3. Fire Watch and Fire Extinguisher Training
a. All City employees that may be required to utilize fire extinguishers
as part of their normal duties shall be provided training to familiarize
them with the operation of fire extinguishers and with incipient-stage
firefighting in accordance with the NFPA standards.
b. Portable fire extinguishers training will be conducted at time of hire
and annually or on as needed basis depending on changing
conditions.
4. Fire Extinguisher Inspections
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a. Fire extinguishers shall be inspected monthly to ensure that they have
not been discharged, removed, or otherwise damaged. Inspection
tags provided by a certifying vendor shall be used to verify inspection
and include the initials of the individual performing the monthly
inspection. Annual service by a certifying vendor shall be conducted
for all portable fire extinguishers. Partially discharged and discharged
fire extinguishers shall be removed from service immediately.
5. Fire Hydrants and Hose Stations
a. In addition to portable extinguishers which are not very effective for
large fires, fixed hydrants and hose stations should be strategically
located throughout the entire jobsite. They should be placed in those
areas that are subject to large Class "A" fires requiring a considerable
amount of water. Hydrant hoses and nozzles should be provided so
that all points in the protected area can be reached. Pressurized water
is recommended as the retardant for Class “A" fires.
b. If hose connections are not compatible with the equipment of local fire
departments, adapters and wrenches shall be provided at each hose
station.
c. The above guidelines are based on the assumption that an adequate
supply of water will be available. If such is not the case, then
appropriate adjustments shall be made in the number, type, and size
of portable extinguishers provided.
6. Water Supply
a. DOSH requires that an adequate supply of water, either temporary or
permanent, be available to properly operate the firefighting
equipment as soon as combustible materials accumulate.
b. All or part of a fire system which is to be provided as a part of the
permanent plant facility should be completed and put into service as
soon as practicable. Permanent fire hydrants should be installed; each
should be equipped with adequate fire hoses, nozzles, tools, and a
protective structure. If permanent fire hydrants are not located to
adequately service structures, work areas, and storage areas,
temporary fire hydrants and supply lines must be provided. Both
permanent and temporary hydrants shall be activated as soon as
structural progress permits.
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c. If pumps are required, they should be reliable and have sufficient
water capacity to discharge water at the rate dictated by the design of
the project. Standby pumps that can be activated if needed are also
desirable.
E. Flammable and Combustible Liquids
1. Only Factory Mutual (FM) Laboratories approved containers and portable
tanks shall be used for storage and handling of flammable and combustible
liquids. Dip tanks containing flammable or combustible liquids should have
covers that will close automatically in the event of fire.
2. Factory Mutual (FM) Laboratories approved metal and identified safety cans
shall be used for handling and using flammable liquids in quantities greater
than one gallon. Flammable, highly viscous (extremely difficult to pour)
liquid materials may be used and handled in original shipping containers.
a. For storage, use, and handling of flammable liquids in quantities of
one gallon or less, only the original container or a Factory Mutual
(FM) Laboratories approved metal safety can shall be used.
3. The following storage requirements shall apply:
a. Indoor Storage- No more than 15 gallons of flammable or combustible
liquids shall be stored indoors except in an FM approved storage
cabinet. 1 Inside storage rooms must meet all OSHA requirements as
stated in Standard 1926.152 (b) (4) (i), dated 11/01/93. Materials that
will react with water and create a fire hazard shall not be stored in the
same room with flammable or combustible liquids.
b. Outdoor Storage- The storage area shall be diked so that spillage will be
contained. The dike must have provisions for draining off rain or
ground water and spillage of flammable or combustible liquids. The
dike shall contain the flammable liquids plus 10 percent freeboard for
rainwater. 2
1 OSHA permits the use of specially fabricated plywood cabinets and FM approved metal storage cabinets.
However, it is strongly recommended that all flammable and combustible liquids, other than those in immediate
use, be kept in outdoor storage areas. This recommendation is made for two reasons. First, the potential damage
due to fire is greatly reduced; and second, the FM approved cabinets are too expensive for the benefit gained by their
use.
2 NFPA Standard No. 30, Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code
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i. Portable tanks shall be no closer than 20 feet to any building or
structure. Portable tanks larger than 660 gallons shall have
emergency venting and other devices as required by Chapters
II and III of NFPA 30-1969. Portable tanks not exceeding 660
gallons shall have emergency venting and other required
devices. An access way at least 12 feet wide for firefighting
equipment shall be available within 200 feet of each portable
tank.
ii. Storage areas shall be kept free of organic fuels and extraneous
materials not required for the storage operations. Storage
tanks and containers shall be protected against collision
damage.
F. Fire Control
1. OSHA requires that at least one portable fire extinguisher be rated at not less
than 20:B units and located as follows:
a. Outside, but not more than 10 feet from the door opening into, any
room used for storage of more than 60 gallons of flammable or
combustible liquids.
b. No closer than 25 feet to, and no farther than 75 feet from, any outside
flammable liquid storage area.
c. On all tank trucks or other vehicles used for transporting and/or
dispensing flammable or combustible liquids. 3
2. Final-Use Areas
a. Flammable liquids shall be kept in closed containers when not in
actual use. Leakage or spillage of flammable or combustible liquids
shall be disposed of promptly and safely. Operations involving the
use of flammable liquids must be at least 50 feet away from any open
flame or other source of ignition.
G. Power-Operated Equipment and Welding Operations
3 For the above purposes, it is recommended that multipurpose, dry chemical extinguishers rated not less than 20-
B:C be provided.
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1. Power-Operated Tools and Equipment- Power-operated tools or equipment shall
not be used in an explosive or flammable atmosphere.
2. Welding and Cutting Operations- Transporting, moving, and storing
compressed gas cylinders shall be in accordance with the provisions of
subparagraph (a) of 29 CFR 1926.350 (OSHA Requirements) and NFPA 51.
a. Compressed gas cylinders shall be located so that sparks, hot slag, or
flame from welding or cutting operations cannot reach them. This
may necessitate the use of fire-resistant shields or coverings. Oxygen
cylinders shall be separated from fuel gas cylinders or other
combustible materials by a distance of at least 20 feet, or separated by
a noncombustible barrier at least five feet high with a fire-resistance
rating of at least ½ hour.
b. Cylinders shall be placed where they cannot become part of an
electrical circuit. Electrodes shall not be struck against a cylinder to
strike an arc. No welding, cutting, or heating shall be done in the
presence of flammable compounds or where heavy dust
concentrations create a hazard.
c. Torches shall be lighted by friction strikers or other Factory Mutual
(FM) Laboratories approved devices, not by matches or hot work.
d. Suitable firefighting equipment conspicuously placed in the work area
shall be maintained in a state of readiness for instant use. If normal
fire prevention measures are not adequate during welding, cutting, or
heating operations, additional personnel (fire watches) shall be
assigned to guard against fire during that actual operation and for a
period of time after completion of the work to ensure that no
possibility of fire exists. Such personnel shall be alerted to the specific
types of fires anticipated and shall be proficient in the use of the
firefighting equipment provided.
3. Hot Work Permits
a. Hot work operations shall not be initiated before a Hot Work Permit
(Form O) for Hot Work Permit Form) has been obtained. The
requirement for Hot Work Permits may be waived based on project
and work area conditions, but such waiver shall require approval by
the senior on-site manager.
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H. Fire Prevention
1. Housekeeping
a. Elimination of combustible material is a fundamental and major part
of any fire prevention program. It requires special efforts on construc-
tion projects because of the large amounts of materials that occur as
packaging from incoming material; from lumber and scaffolding;
temporary protective coverings; and rags used for cleaning oil, grease,
and paints. These materials are easily ignited by welding sparks or
other relatively small ignition sources and can become the tinder for
starting fires in other areas less susceptible to damage from heat or
smoke.
b. A continuous and effective housekeeping program must be strictly
adhered to throughout the duration of the project. The program
should provide for the following:
i. A sufficient number of appropriate containers to receive trash
and waste materials. These may be metal skip boxes for major
trash removal, or covered metal containers with self-closing
covers for smaller articles, particularly oily rags and papers.
ii. Prompt removal of all combustible trash to prevent any
appreciable accumulation. Removal should be on a daily basis
or more frequently where substantial amounts of trash are
being generated.
iii. Removal of combustible packaging materials wherever
possible from incoming shipments before the parts enter either
permanent or temporary structures. In no case shall excelsior,
shredded paper, polystyrene, or other protective filler material
be kept in an open box or crate, even if the box or crate will be
used for storage purposes.
iv. Correct placement of trash containers. Never place trash
containers in the immediate proximity of materials or
equipment especially susceptible to fire damage.
v. Use of only metal toolboxes, tool cabinets, plan tables,
workbenches, and desks. Scaffolding should have planks of
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metal or fire-resistant wood (although this is not always
possible).
vi. Prohibiting the use of combustible polyethylene, untreated
tarpaulins, or other fire-hazardous materials for temporary
enclosures, equipment coverings, etc., inside or outside other
structures.
vii. Supervision of the program by a person vested with authority
for enforcing the full intent of the program.
2. Smoking
a. Smoking is prohibited at or in the vicinity of operations which
constitute a fire hazard. Signs reading "No Smoking" or "Open Flame"
shall be conspicuously posted in these areas.
3. Service and Refueling Areas
a. All flammable or combustible liquids must be stored in FM approved
containers. Dispensing hoses and nozzles shall be of FM approved
types. Nozzles shall be an automatic type without a latch-open
device.
b. Conspicuously placed, clearly identified, and easily accessible
switches shall be provided at a remote location to shut off all power to
the dispensing devices in the event of an emergency.
c. There shall be no smoking or open flames in areas used for fueling,
servicing fuel systems, or receiving or dispensing of flammable or
combustible liquids. Signs stating "No Smoking" or "Open Flames"
shall be conspicuously posted. The motors of all equipment being
fueled must be shut off during fueling.
d. Each service or fueling area shall be provided with portable fire
extinguishers rated not less than 20-B:C so there will be at least one
extinguisher within 75 feet of each pump, dispenser, underground fill
pipe opening, and lubrication or service area.
I. Recommended:
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a. The Fire Marshal and a City representative may conduct an
annual “risk reduction” walk through of all City facilities to
assist in compliance.
b. Provisions may be made to comply with International Fire
Code.
J. Forms
• OSHA Standards Requiring Fire Extinguishers in Construction
• Conversion of Fire Extinguisher Classifications
• Fire Extinguisher Inspection Log
• Hot Work Permit
•
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OSHA STANDARDS REQUIRING FIRE EXTINGUISHERS IN CONSTRUCTION
STANDARD LOCATION TYPE DISTANCE
150 (c) (1) (i) Building area 2A 100 feet
150 (c) (1) (iv) Each floor 2A -------
150 (c) (1) (iv) Multistory building 2A Adjacent to stairway
150 (c) (1) (vi) 5 gal. of flammable/
combustible or 5 lb.
of flammable gas
10B 50 feet
151 (c) (6) Open yard storage 2A or suitable for
Hazard
100 feet
152 (d) (1) Flammable liquid
storage room
20B 10 feet, outside
152 (d) (2) Outside flammable
liquid storage area
20B 25 to 75 feet
152 (d) (4) Vehicles used for
dispensing or trans-
porting flammable or
combustible liquids
20B:C On vehicle
152 (g) (11) Service or fuel area 20B:C 75 feet
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153 (l) LPG storage area 20B:C -------
352 (d) Welding, cutting, or
heating areas
Suitable -------
550 (a) (14) (i) Crane cabs 5B:C On crane
800 (m) (8) Tunnel machinery
not
using fire-resistant
hydraulic fluid
4A:40B:C -------
800 (m) (11) Tunnel underground
belt conveyors at
head & tail pulley
4A:40B:C -------
902 (i) Vehicles used for
trans-
portation of
explosives
10A:B:C -------
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CONVERSION OF FIRE EXTINGUISHER CLASSIFICATIONS
Type 2 A = 2½ gallon water pump or Type 20 B:C = 30 pounds of
pressure extinguisher dry chemical
Type 10 B = 17 gallon foam extinguisher Type 5 B:C = 20 pounds of
carbon dioxide
Type 20 B = 33 gallon foam extinguisher Type 4 A:40 B:C = 17 gallons water &
75 to 350 pounds of dry chemical
Note: For multi-use purposes, it is recommended that 5 to 20 A:B:C fire extinguishers be used
on all agency projects.
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FIRE EXTINGUISHER INSPECTION LOG
Month/ Year: Date:
Location
Number
Type
Appearance Hose Guages Inspection
Plate
Pin
Retainer
Comments:
Inspected By:
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A. Purpose
The purpose and scope of this document is to comply with Chapter 296-876
WAC Ladder Safety procedures and training for City employees. All employees
who might be expected to use a ladder during the course of work should be
familiar with this document. This standard operating procedure covers all types
of ladders, including step, extension, and fixed ladders. Ladder users must be
able to recognize and avoid ladder hazards and be aware of safe practices in
setting up, storing, moving and working from this equipment.
B. General Policy
1. All City employees who use ladders shall receive Ladder Safety Training
in orientation and before changes in ladder use are implemented.
2. Ladder Safety Training will consist of recognition of possible hazards
associated with ladder use, proper maintenance and safety precautions to
be taken when using ladders.
HOT WORK PERMIT
Time Hot Work Allowed ___________ To ___________ Date
Job Description
Type Of Work Melting Pot
Electric Welding Chiseling
Red Heading Grinding
Powder Gun Brazing
Hammering Soldering
Gas Welding/Burning Drilling
Other
Alarms Must Be Cut Off Yes Yes
Fire Watch Required Yes No
Vapor/Gas Combustion
Test Required Yes No
Special Instructions
Approvals (Signatures)
Shift Supervisor Foreman
Day
Swing
Night
Person Doing The Work Must Check
Items and Sign Below
Hand Fire Extinguisher In Area
Yes
Combustible Materials Removed From Area
Yes
Combustible Materials Removed From Area Below
Yes
All Flammable Liquids Removed From Area
Yes
All Flammable Gas Shut-Off And Isolated
Yes
Welding Screens Positioned Where Needed
Yes
Sheathing Provided Where Needed
Yes
Welding Cables And Hoses Out Of Travel
Areas Or Secured At Least 7' Overhead
Yes
Vapor Combustion Test Conducted
Yes
Vapor Combustion Test Conducted
Where Necessary
Yes
If Tested, Who Conducted Test?
Test Results
Using Pipe as Required on Special Work Permit
Yes
Signature of Person Performing The Hot Work
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A. Purpose
The purpose and scope of this document is to comply with Chapter 296-876 WAC
Ladder Safety procedures and training for City employees. All employees who
might be expected to use a ladder during the course of work should be familiar
with this document. This standard operating procedure covers all types of
ladders, including step, extension, and fixed ladders. Ladder users must be able
to recognize and avoid ladder hazards and be aware of safe practices in setting
up, storing, moving and working from this equipment.
C. General Policy
1. All City employees who use ladders must inspect them for defects or
possible hazards before the ladders are used. Ladders with loose parts or
faulty rungs should be taken out of service immediately.
2. Ladders shall be maintained in good condition at all times.
3. Ladders that are taken out of service shall be tagged “Defective” and
removed from the work area or destroyed.
a. Ladders may be repaired only if repairs will restore the ladder to a
condition meeting its original design criteria.
b. Wooden ladders shall meet ANSI A14.1, American National Standard for
Ladders Portable Wood-Safety Requirements, in effect when the ladder
was installed.
c. Ladders used on Construction Sites shall be appropriate for industrial
applications (Class I or 1-A). Light-duty household ladders are not
permitted.
a. Ladders shall not exceed the length limits established for each
type as in Table 1.
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(a) Table 1. Maximum Ladder Lengths
Type (2) Feet
Single, portable ladders 30
Two-section extension ladders 60
Step ladders 20
Mason’s ladders 40
D. Definitions
1. CFR - Code of Federal Regulations
2. WAC – Washington Administrative Code
3. Competent Person - One who is capable of identifying existing and predictable
hazards in the surroundings or working conditions which are unsanitary,
hazardous, or dangerous to employees, and who has authorization to take
prompt, corrective measures to eliminate them. A Competent Person is also
one who has extensive knowledge/experience in a particular activity or job
function
4. Ladder Categories
• Type IA-300 pounds extra heavy duty
• Type I-250 pounds, heavy duty
• Type II-225 pounds, medium duty
• Type III-200 pounds, light duty
5. Fixed Ladder – A ladder that cannot be easily moved or carried, and may be
an integral part of a structure.
D. General Ladder Safety Procedures
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1. Safe Ladder Setup
a. All ladders must be placed on firm ground.
b. Do not set ladders on boxes, blocks or other objects that might
move.
c. Do not lean or reach out while standing on ladders.
d. Secure ladders whenever a danger of slippage might occur.
e. Do not use ladders in high wind or during inclement weather
conditions.
f. Never set up ladders in front of or around doors, unless the door
is posted or locked.
g. Do not sit on ladders.
h. Use safety shoes or other rubber sole shoes when climbing a
ladder.
i. You must set up non-self-supporting ladders at a safe angle. The
ladder is set at the proper angle when the horizontal distance
from the top support to the foot of the ladder is approximately ¼
the working length of the ladder.
2. Climbing and Standing on Ladders Safely
a. Always face a ladder when climbing up or down.
b. Avoid carrying materials or tools when climbing a ladder. Climb
the ladder first then pull up the materials with a rope.
c. Rungs and steps should be clear of grease, oil, wet paint, snow,
and ice before climbing.
d. Do not climb onto a ladder from the side.
e. Do not slide down a ladder.
f. Climb or stand on a ladder with your feet in the center of the
rung.
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g. Do not stand on the top rung or step of a ladder.
3. Proper Use and Care of Ladders
a. Never use metal ladders near exposed electrical wires.
b. Place warning signs or setup barriers around a ladder before
use.
c. Do not move a ladder while someone is on it.
d. Never use a ladder when under the influence of alcohol or
prescription medications.
e. Do not leave tools or materials on top of ladders.
f. Only one person should be on a ladder at a time.
g. Do not use a ladder on a scaffold.
h. Do not try to rock a ladder to move it.
i. Store wood ladders where they will not be exposed to the
elements.
j. Make sure ladders are properly secured when transported.
k. Do not paint wood ladders. Painting could hide potentially
dangerous defects.
l. Remove defective ladders from service
4. Step Ladder Safety
a. Never use a stepladder over 20 feet in length.
b. Always open a stepladder completely and make sure the
spreader is locked before use.
c. Do not stand higher than the second step from the top of a
step ladder.
d. Do not straddle a stepladder.
5. Extension Ladder Safety
a. The sections of an extension ladder should overlap enough to
retain the strength of the ladder. * see Table 2
b. Never splice or tie two short ladders together.
c. When using a ladder for access to a landing, it must extend 3
rungs or 3 feet above the landing.
d. The top of an extension ladder should rest against a flat, firm
surface.
e. Elevate and extend these extension ladders only from the
ground.
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f. When practical, secure extension ladders at both the base and
the top.
b. Table 2
c. Minimum Required Overlap for Extension Ladders
Length of Ladder Required Overlap
Up to 36′ 3 Feet
Over 36’to 48′ 4 Feet
Over 48′ to 60′ 5 Feet
6. Extension Ladder Setup
a. Lay the ladder on the ground when it is collapsed.
b. Have someone foot the ladder or make sure it is braced
against something.
c. Pick up the ladder and walk it to an upright position, making
sure it will not be obstructed by trees or wires.
d. Slide the bottom of the ladder outwards to the proper angle
and set the feet correctly.
e. Then extend the ladder by pulling the extension line.
f. Make sure the rungs on the upper half of the ladder are
properly secured by the locking mechanism.
g. If possible, tie the ladder off or have someone steady the
ladder as you climb it.
7. Fixed Ladder Safety
a. Fixed ladders must be secured to the object they are attached
to.
b. Fixed ladders over 20 feet must have a safety cage
surrounding the ladder.
c. The safety cage should have 15″ clearance to all points from
the center.
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d. Defects in fixed ladders should be repaired as soon as
possible.
e. When a defect is not repairable the ladder must be taken out
of service.
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A. Purpose
To provide minimum requirements for the use of fall protection equipment and
devices to protect employees exposed to fall hazards.
Fall protection and 100% tie-off is required anytime an employee is working from
an unprotected elevation of six (6) feet (four (4) feet for general industry) or more
above the ground, next level or as deemed necessary. The requirement for fall
protection includes any work performed when the employee is stationary, when
traveling, and anytime the employee is exposed to a fall and is not protected by a
standard guardrail system or other approved form of fall prevention.
The use of fall protection equipment may be required for exposures less than six
(6) feet if equipment or materials below the employee present a hazard.
All City employees shall comply fully with the requirements for Fall Protection
as outlined below.
B. Definitions
1. 100% Fall Protection Requirement – the employee is protected at all times from
the possibility of falls of six feet or more. This includes protection when
moving or in a stationary position. Fall protection may be provided by
guardrail systems, floor opening covers, safety nets, or personal fall arrest
systems involving the use of body harnesses and lanyards.
2. 100% Tie Off – body harnesses and lanyard(s) are used exclusively to achieve
100 percent fall protection. This normally requires affected employees to use
two lanyards to afford protection during movement.
3. Anchorage Point – means a secure point of attachment for lifelines, lanyards,
or deceleration devices. Anchorage points shall be capable of supporting at
least 5,000 pounds per employee attached.
4. Fully Body Harness – means a configuration of straps to distribute fall arrest
forces over at least the thighs, pelvis, chest, waist, and shoulders with a
means to attach it to other components of a fall arrest system.
5. Competent Person – an individual knowledgeable of fall protection equipment
including manufacturer’s recommendations and instructions for proper use,
inspection, and maintenance. Capable of identifying existing and potential
fall hazards and has authority to take prompt corrective action to eliminate
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those hazards. Knowledgeable of the requirements of this procedure and
applicable regulatory requirements.
6. Deceleration Device (Shock Absorber) – any device that serves to dissipate a
substantial amount of energy during a fall arrest.
7. Fall Prevention – the use of barriers, floor opening covers, etc. to provide a
physical means of preventing fall hazards that do not rely on the employee’s
use of a personal fall arrest system.
8. Fall Restraint System – approved device and any necessary components that
function together to restrain an employee in such a manner as to prevent the
employee from falling to a lower level.
9. Hole Cover – a cover installed over a hole to prevent employee and material
falls to lower levels. Hole covers shall be designed to support at least twice
the intended load, secured to prevent accidental displacement, and marked
“Hole Cover, Do Not Remove”.
10. Low-Slope Roof – means a roof having a slope less than or equal to 4 in 12
(vertical to horizontal)
11. Lifeline – a flexible line for connection to an anchorage at one end to hang
vertically (vertical lifeline), or for connection at both ends to stretch
horizontally (horizontal lifeline), and to which other elements of a personal
fall arrest system are attached.
12. Personal Fall Arrest System – system used to arrest a fall and consists of
anchorage, connectors, body harness and possibly a lanyard, deceleration
device, lifeline, or suitable combinations of these.
13. Positioning Device System – means a body belt or body harness system rigged
to allow an employee to be supported on an elevated vertical surface, such as
a wall form, and work with both hands while leaning.
14. Self-Retracting Lifeline – a fall protection device containing a drum-wound line
which can be slowly extracted from, or retracted onto, the drum under slight
tension during normal employee movement, and which, after onset of a fall,
automatically locks the drum and arrests a fall.
15. Standard Guardrail System – a vertical barrier consisting of, but not limited to,
toprails, midrails, toeboards, and posts, erected to prevent employees from
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falling to a lower level. Toprails must be capable of withstanding a 200
pound force applied in an outward or downward direction. Midrails and
intermediate vertical posts must be capable of withstanding a 150 pound
force applied in an outward or downward direction.
C. Training
1. Employees must be trained on the proper use, care, inspection and
limitations of fall protection equipment prior to being assigned tasks where
fall protection equipment is required.
2. Fall protection training shall be provided by a competent person qualified in
the following areas:
a. The nature of fall hazards in the work area.
b. Correct procedures for erecting, maintaining, disassembling, and
inspecting fall protection systems to be used.
c. The use of guardrail systems, safety nets, and other protection to be
used.
d. City policies and procedures and applicable OSHA Subpart M Fall
Protection requirements.
3. Fall protection training shall at minimum address the following areas:
a. The nature of potential fall hazards that may be encountered.
b. City policies and procedures related to fall protection and prevention.
c. Evaluating fall hazards properly during pre-task planning.
d. The correct procedures for erecting, using and disassembling fall
protection systems.
e. The correct procedures for handling, storing and inspecting fall
protection equipment.
f. The correct procedures for fitting and wearing of fall protection
equipment.
g. The requirements for proper anchorage points.
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h. Fall protection emergency rescue
4. Emergency rescue training must be conducted by a competent fall protection
rescue trainer that has the education, knowledge, and experience to teach
hands on rescue.
a. A site / project specific fall protection rescue plan must to be
developed and prepared by a competent person prior to any work
commencing.
b. Emergency response personnel should be trained to recognize and
respond to risk of suspension trauma.
c. Fall protection rescue protocol is as follows:
i. Self-rescue – by the worker that has fallen
ii. Assisted rescue – by co-workers in accordance with specific
plan
iii. Professional rescue – by local area EMS / Fire Department /
ERT
5. Fall protection training shall be documented and maintained on file.
Training records shall include name of employee trained, date of training,
and the name of the person who conducted the training.
6. Retraining is required when a lack of employee proficiency is observed and
when new fall protection equipment is introduced.
D. Inspection and Storage
1. Storage
Fall protection equipment must be stored in a clean, dry location away from
exposure to abrasive or cutting tools, equipment or materials, excessive heat,
and chemicals.
2. Inspection
a. All fall protection must be visually inspected by the employee before
each use.
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b. Inspections shall consist of an evaluation of the following areas:
Harnesses Lanyards and Lifelines
Stitching
Frayed/Broken
Strands
Rivets Burns
Buckles Cuts
Buckle Tabs Tears
"D" Rings Snap Hooks
Rust and Abrasion Connectors
Burns, Cuts, Tears Corrosion
c. Any equipment found to be defective must be immediately removed
from service, tagged and repaired, or destroyed and replaced.
d. Documented inspections utilizing the Fall Protection Inspection Log
shall be conducted on a monthly basis. Tape using the color coding
scheme outlined in Section 4 shall be used to provide a visual
confirmation that equipment inspection is current.
e. Documented inspections shall be performed by a Competent Person
knowledgeable of manufacturer’s recommendations for equipment
inspection.
f. Some types of fall protection equipment including self-retracting
lifelines require periodic recertification by the manufacturer.
g. Fall protection equipment subjected to fall forces shall be immediately
removed from service, destroyed, or recertified by the manufacturer.
E. Safety Planning
1. Potential fall hazards and preventative measures shall be fully addressed
during all phases of safety planning. This may include pre-project safety
planning, development of a Job Safety Analysis, Pre-Task Plan (PTP) and a
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Fall Protection Plan developed by a competent person familiar with the job-
specific hazards of the workplace.
2. Safety planning includes considerations such as:
a. Safety resources and training required based on the nature and extent
of anticipated fall exposures.
b. Fall protection supplies and equipment needs based on work methods
selected to prevent falls.
c. Maximizing use of fall prevention measures such as guardrail
systems, scaffolding, aerial lifts, etc., to minimize fall potentials.
d. Availability of suitable anchorage points for use with personal fall
arrest systems.
e. Addressing inclement weather conditions such as rain, sleet, snow,
ice, wind and mud.
f. Ensuring proper illumination.
g. Ensuring good housekeeping practices to prevent same level falls.
h. Expediting erection of permanent guardrail systems and stairways.
i. Layout and arrangement of tools, materials, and equipment.
j. Structural capability of walking and working surfaces to safely
support employees and required tools, materials and equipment.
k. Methods to be used to assure 100% fall protection for employees
working on unprotected roofs and designated material landing areas.
3. The foreman’s Pre-Task Plans (PTP) and the work will be monitored on a
daily basis to assure fall hazards are identified and appropriately addressed.
F. Prevention of Same Level Falls
Good housekeeping practices are the key to preventing same level falls.
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1. Materials must be stored in designated areas clear of passageways and
should not be allowed to accumulate in work areas to the degree that they
obstruct access to the work.
2. Waste materials, trash and debris must not be allowed to accumulate in work
areas, aisles and stairways.
3. Surfaces must be kept free of slipping hazards such as oil, grease, shavings,
conduit and pipe cut-offs, ice, etc.
4. The creation of uneven floor surfaces should be avoided, but if present, they
should be marked to increase visibility.
5. Electrical cords, welding leads and hoses must be elevated to the maximum
extent possible, and if not elevated, routed or positioned in a way that will
not create a tripping hazard.
6. Floor holes and openings shall be covered and secured.
G. Fall Prevention
1. Fall prevention as defined, eliminates the potential for exposure to a fall from
elevation. For this reason, it is preferred over fall protection devices that
require a fall hazard.
2. Fall prevention methods may include the installation of standard guardrail
systems on open sided floors and roofs, floor and hole covers, handrail
systems on stairways, and scaffolds complete with standard guardrail
systems. The use of aerial lifts to access elevated work areas can also be
considered a form of fall prevention even though a body harness and
secured lanyard is required.
H. Controlled Access Zone (CAZ) and Safety Monitoring System
1. In situations where use of guardrails systems, personal fall arrest systems, or
safety net systems is not feasible, a controlled access zone may be established
at unprotected or leading edges of a work surface (i.e. roof work).
2. Only employees directly involved with the work are allowed to enter this
area.
3. A safety monitor must be assigned to the CAZ.
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4. A CAZ shall not be used for work activities done on a periodic or on-going
basis. If work activities using a CAZ are repeated, a permanent fall protection
solution shall be developed.
5. A written plan must be established for each CAZ and shall be reviewed by a
competent person and the department manager.
6. Safety Monitor shall be performed by an authorized and trained person and
shall be designated in the written Fall Protection Plan.
7. The CAZ shall be defined by a warning line or by any other means that shall
be designated in the written plan.
8. The control lines shall be erected not less than 6 feet, nor more than 25 feet
from the unprotected or leading edge.
9. The control line shall extend along the entire length of the unprotected or
leading edge and shall be approximately parallel to the unprotected or
leading edge.
10. The control line shall be connected on each side to a guardrail or wall.
11. Control lines shall consist of ropes, wires, tapes, or equivalent materials, and
supporting stanchions.
12. Each line shall be flagged or otherwise clearly marked at not more than 6-
foot (1.8 meters) intervals with high-visibility material.
13. Each line shall be rigged and supported in such a way that its lowest point
(including sag) is not less than 39 inches from the walking or working surface
and its highest point is not more than 45 inches from the walking or working
surface.
14. Each line shall have a minimum breaking strength of 200 pounds.
15. On floors and roofs where guardrail systems are not in place prior to the
beginning operations, CAZs shall be enlarged, as necessary, to enclose all
points of access, material handling areas, and storage areas.
16. On floors and roofs where guardrail systems are in place, but need to be
removed to allow leading edge work to take place, only that portion of
guardrail necessary to accomplish that day’s work shall be removed.
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17. A Safety Monitor shall:
a. Be competent to recognize fall hazards.
b. Shall warn the employee when it appears that the employee is
unaware of a fall hazard or is acting in an unsafe manner.
c. Shall be on the same walking or working surface and within visual
sighting distance of the employee being monitored.
d. Shall be close enough to communicate orally with the employee.
e. Shall not have other responsibilities, which could take the monitor’s
attention from the monitoring function.
f. Not be in a location where mechanical equipment is being used or
stored so as to interfere with a safety monitor’s ability to observe
employees engaged in roofing operations on low-slope roofs.
g. Have authority to direct each employee working in the controlled
access zone.
I. Fall Protection
1. General
a. When employees are exposed to a falling hazard from a location 6 feet
or more in height, a fall restraint or fall arrest system must be used.
b. Only City approved fall protection equipment shall be allowed. All
Fall Protection Equipment must meet applicable ANSI, ASTM and /
or OSHA standards.
c. Fall protection equipment is for fall protection use only and must not
be used for any other purpose.
d. All components of a fall protection system including anchorages,
harnesses, lanyards, lifelines, and connectors shall have a minimum
breaking strength of at least 5,000 pounds.
e. Positioning devices shall be rigged to limit potential falls to no more
than 2 feet. Anchorage for use with positioning devices shall be
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capable of supporting at least twice the potential impact load or 3,000
pounds whichever is greater.
f. In hot work operations or operations involving chemical or other
factors that could cause damage, fall protection equipment must be
designed and/or protected to avoid burning or deterioration.
2. Use of Fall Protection Equipment
a. An approved full body harness must be used when exposed to falls
from elevation and guardrails or other City approved fall prevention
means cannot be utilized.
b. Full body harnesses must be worn and properly connected when
employees are working from aerial lifts, scissor lifts, personnel
baskets, and similar equipment.
c. Full body harnesses must fit and be worn properly with the straps
tucked in so as not to get caught on equipment or otherwise create a
hazard. Chest straps must be worn between the chest and collarbone,
with the rear D-ring worn between the shoulder blades.
d. Full body harnesses must at minimum, be equipped with a D-ring
located in the center of the back between the shoulder blades.
Harnesses may be equipped with additional D-rings for various
applications:
i. Back – general fall protection use.
ii. Front – used with climbing systems.
iii. Side – for use with positioning systems only.
iv. Shoulder – rigged for rescue.
3. Snaphooks
a. Only self-closing, self-locking snaphooks are allowed for fall
protection use.
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b. Snaphooks must open and close properly, fully close around their
anchorage point, and be compatible with the other components of the
fall protection system.
4. Anchorage Points
a. Anchorage points must be capable of supporting at least a 5,000 load
per employee attached.
b. The anchorage point should be at least as high as the harness D-ring
and preferably higher to minimize the free fall distance.
5. Shock Absorbers
a. Shock absorbers are required as part of the fall protection system.
b. At a minimum, shock absorbers are required as part of fall protection
lanyards.
6. Lanyards
a. The shortest length lanyard possible should always be used.
b. Lanyards must have a maximum length to provide for a free fall
distance of no more than six feet.
c. Lanyards must be used in conjunction with a shock absorber.
d. Lanyard must be maintained free of knots.
e. Dual or “Y” lanyards shall be used as necessary to maintain 100
percent tie-off.
f. When not in use, lanyards shall be secured in such a way as to
eliminate tripping hazards or potential for becoming entangled in
equipment.
7. Retractable Devices
a. Retractable devices are designed to limit free falls to less than two feet.
b. Tag lines shall be used to prevent the uncontrolled retracting of cable.
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c. Retractable devices must be used at less than a 45-degree angle to
avoid the potential for injury due to a swing fall. Any manufacturer’s
instructions related to swing fall hazards shall be followed.
d. Retractable devices must have current manufacturer’s certification.
8. Vertical Lifelines
a. When vertical lifelines are used, each employee shall be attached to a
separate lifeline.
b. Lifelines shall be protected against being cut or abraded.
c. Grab devices used for employee attachment shall be compatible with
the size of rope and or cable used.
d. The lower end of the vertical lifeline shall be attached to an anchor
point or weighted down to provide stability.
e. Vertical lifeline assemblies including anchorage point shall have a
minimum breaking strength of 5,000 pounds.
9. Horizontal Lifelines
a. Horizontal lifelines shall be designed, installed, and used, under the
supervision of a qualified person, as part of a complete personal fall
arrest system.
b. Horizontal lifelines must be capable of supporting 5,000 pounds per
employee attached.
10. Safety Nets
a. Only safety nets designed by the manufacturer as fall protection nets
shall be used. Safety nets must be installed in accordance with
manufacturer’s requirements and as close to the working level as
possible.
b. Safety net openings shall not exceed 6 inches in any direction.
c. Safety net installations must be certified by a qualified person or pass
a 400 pound drop test prior to use.
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d. Safety nets shall be inspected by a competent person at least once a
week for wear, damage, or other deterioration. Materials, scrap,
pieces of equipment, and tools, which have fallen into the net, shall be
removed as soon as possible and at the latest, before the start of the
next shift.
J. Roofing Work
1. Employees performing roofing work shall be protected by a standard
guardrail system or personal fall arrest system.
2. If a Warning Line System has been installed on a low-slope roof and
maintained at least six feet from the outside edges, employees working
inside the established zone will not be required to wear personal fall arrest
equipment.
3. When mechanical equipment is being used, warning lines shall be
maintained at least ten feet from all roof edges.
4. All work performed outside the Warning Line System shall be performed in
conjunction with a guardrail system or the use of personal fall arrest
equipment.
5. All employees working on steep roofs shall be protected by a guardrail
system or the use of personal fall arrest equipment.
K. Ladder Safety
1. All ladders shall meet the OSHA 29 CFR 1926.1053, ladders that do not meet
this standard and /or are damaged shall be red tagged, placed out of service
in a location where the ladders cannot be accidentally placed back in service.
2. No “job site” manufactured ladders will be allowed unless designed by a
registered engineer. Engineered ladders shall met requirements as identified
in section 1 of the listing.
3. Straight ladders shall be of the proper size and design for the intended
application and equipped with safety shoes.
4. Straight ladders shall be firmly tied-off and secured and extend a minimum
of 36 inches above any platform or landing that they are intended to serve.
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5. Straight ladders shall be placed with the feet of the ladder approximately one
quarter of its supported length away from the vertical plane of its top
support. (Maintain a 4:1 slope)
6. On extension ladders, the latches must be properly set and extension rope
tied off to a rung near the base before initial use.
7. Stepladders shall be used with spreaders full spread and in the locked
position.
8. Stepladders shall not be used as straight ladders and employees shall not
work from the top two steps of a stepladder.
9. Stepladders shall be tied-off or an employee shall hold the ladder when the
user is 8 feet or more above the base of the ladder.
10. The capacity of ladders shall not be exceeded by the combined weight of
employee, tools, and materials.
11. Ladder feet shall be place on a firm base and the top and bottom landings
shall be kept clear of materials and debris.
12. Ladders shall not be placed in front of doors that swing toward the ladder
unless the door is locked or otherwise guarded.
13. Employees must maintain a three-point contact when ascending or
descending a ladder. Hand lines must be used to move materials from one
elevation to the next.
14. Metal ladders shall not be used when performing electrical work or when
working near exposed electrical circuits.
15. Employees working from ladders shall not overreach or extend. If the belt
buckle cannot be maintained inside the rail of the ladder, the ladder must be
moved.
16. Ladders shall not be used on scaffold or aerial lift platforms.
17. Documented ladders inspections shall be conducted on a monthly basis
utilizing the Ladder Inspection Log.
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L. Scaffold Safety
1. A competent person shall supervise the erection, relocation, alteration
and/or dismantling of scaffolds. Full fall protection shall be used during
erection and/or dismantling of scaffolds.
2. Scaffolds shall be tagged and signed by competent person before use.
Scaffold tagging shall be in accordance with Scaffold Tagging Procedures.
3. Footing or anchorage for scaffolds shall be sound, rigid and capable of
supporting maximum intended load(s) without settling or displacement.
Bricks, concrete blocks, boxes, 2 x 4’s, etc. shall not be used to support
scaffolds.
4. Guardrails and toe boards (4 inches) shall be installed on all open sides
and ends of working platforms. Minimum top rail height shall be 38
inches with maximum height of 42 inches.
5. Scaffold cross bracing shall not be used for guardrails.
6. Working platforms shall be fully decked or covered.
7. Scaffolds shall be provided with an access ladder or equivalent safe means
of access. Scaffold frames are not acceptable for access.
8. Scaffolds and components shall be capable of supporting 4 times the
maximum intended load(s).
9. Scaffold frames, bracing, footings/anchorage, brackets, ladders, trusses,
etc. shall not be damaged or weakened from any cause. Damaged or
weakened components shall be immediately repaired and/or replaced.
10. Only approved accessories and components shall be used in erection of
scaffolds.
11. Scaffolds shall be plumb, securely and rigidly braced to prevent swaying
and displacement.
12. All planking shall be scaffold grade or equal, overlapped a minimum of 12
inches and extended over end supports not less than 6 inches and not more
than 12 inches.
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13. Safe work zone(s) shall be provided and maintained around the base of
scaffolds on all sides. Safe work zone shall be a minimum of 10 feet from
scaffold and related construction activity.
14. Rolling scaffolds shall not be relocated while in use.
15. Rolling scaffolds shall be on level/firm surface and all wheels
locked/secured to prevent movement.
16. Training – all affected City employees shall complete scaffold training in
accordance with OSHA regulations prior to initial assignment and if
conditions change. Training program shall include hazard identification i.e.
falls, electrical, falling objects / tools, load capacity and required fall
protection.
17. Scaffold inspection – Please see Scaffold Tagging Procedures below. A
competent person shall conduct daily inspections prior to usage and
periodically inspect throughout the shift. All inspections shall be
documented and available for inspection as required. If a scaffold is found to
be defective or unsafe, the competent person shall apply a red “do not use”
tag and not remove the tag until the scaffold has been repaired and re-
inspected.
18. NOTE: Reference 29 CFR 1926.451 (Subpart L) for detail requirements of the
various types of scaffolds and their use.
19. Recommended Scaffold-Tagging Policy:
a. Intent: The intent of the scaffold tagging procedure is to ensure that
personnel perform their work on a scaffold that is complete and
constructed in accordance with project safety and health rules and/or
OSHA Regulation; whichever is more restrictive.
b. Subcontractor Requirements: Contractors are responsible to ensure
that their subcontractors tag their scaffolds in accordance with project
scaffold tagging procedures.
c. Compliance: It is the policy of the City that all on-site personnel shall
comply with this tagging procedure. Scaffolding not displaying a
signed scaffold tag shall not be used. In addition to the procedures
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contained within this procedure, all employees are subject to OSHA
scaffold requirements contained in 29 CFR 1926.451.
d. Procedure: Scaffold tags shall be provided by the contractor and shall
conform to the following color codes and wording:
Green Tag: This scaffold was built to meet federal
OSHA scaffold regulations; it is safe to use.
Yellow Tag: This scaffold does not meet federal
OSHA scaffold regulations; full body
harness/lanyard must be used
Red Tag: This scaffold is not complete; DO NOT
USE
e. An assigned competent person shall inspect the scaffold for
compliance with project and OSHA requirements (1926.451), and shall
sign his/her name to the tag. Scaffolding shall be erected and
dismantled only under the direct supervision of a competent person
in scaffold erection as defined by OSHA.
f. All Scaffolding that cannot be equipped with standard top rail, mid
rail, and toe-board because of interface with structures or equipment
shall be marked with a yellow tag stating that "Full-Body
Harness/Lanyard Must Be Used”. Scaffolds shall be built complete
when possible. Only when interfaces exist may the scaffold be built
without complete handrail and tagged as such.
g. Scaffolds being erected dismantled, or which are incomplete shall be
marked with a red tag.
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h. Responsibilities:
i. The competent person who constructs the scaffold or who has
the scaffold constructed is responsible to ensure that the
scaffold is built to project and OSHA standards.
ii. Contractor competent personnel shall periodically inspect all
scaffolds including inspection of all scaffolding prior to use.
This shall ensure that all scaffolds are properly tagged and in
accordance with project and OSHA standards.
iii. In the event that a foreman wishes to use another contractor, or
crew's scaffold, the foreman shall obtain permission to use the
scaffold and shall have it inspected and tagged under the
direction of the contractor's competent person.
iv. Under no circumstance should non-qualified personnel
attempt to modify scaffold systems. Non-qualified workers
who are found modifying scaffolding shall be subject to
disciplinary action.
v. Any employee working from a scaffold that does not have a
scaffolding tag or a supervisor assigning workers to work on
untagged scaffolding shall be subject to disciplinary action.
N. Incident / Accident Investigation
1. An incident investigation and analysis of all incidents shall be conducted
regardless of severity of injury or amount of property damage. The primary
purpose of incident investigation and analysis is to prevent accidents. As
such, the investigation and/or analysis must produce factual information
that will lead to corrective actions that will prevent reoccurrence or reduce
the number of incidents utilizing fall protection.
O. Forms
1. Fall Protection Inspection Log
2. Ladder Inspection Log
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Fall Protection Inspection Log
Project Name: Employer Name: Date:
Inspected By: Color Code:
Instructions:
1. All parts of safety harness and attachments are to be checked for excessive wear and damage.
2. A ✓ symbol indicates YES or OK.
An symbol indicates NO or REPLACE.
3. To be inspected monthly and report turned in at Safety Department.
Employee
Name/
Location
Badge
Number
MFG’s
Serial #
Harness
Webbing or
Leather
All
Stitching
Rivets &
Eyelets
D-Ring(s)
Buckle(s) (Include
Tongue)
Body Pad
(If Applicable)
Lanyard Hook Safety
Latch
Certification
or Data Tag
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Ladder Inspection Log
Project Name: Employer Name: Inspected By: Date: Color Code:
I.D. NUMBER STEP
LADDER
SINGLE
LADDER
EXTENSION
LADDER
JOB MADE
LADDER
OTHER
TYPE____________
COMMENTS
OK NO OK NO OK NO OK NO OK NO
INSTRUCTIONS : All ladders shall be inspected monthly by a competent person. Those that are discovered to have a defect shall be tagged
"UNSAFE DO NOT USE" and removed from the work area for repair or destruction. Inspect for defects including broken or
missing rungs, broken or split siderails, or other faulty or defective construction. Those that are in good condition shall be color
coded with the safety color code of the month. Color code tape shall be placed (one wrap) on the right side rail between the third
and fourth rungs or steps. The effective date for color codes shall be the first work day of each month. Complete this inspection
form by placing a check under “OK” if the ladder meets requirements of the regulation or a check under “NO” if the ladder is
defective and removed from service. Ladders must have an I.D. number.
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A. Purpose
The purpose of this procedure is to establish a Hearing Loss Prevention Program
to comply with, implement, and communicate the Washington State Department
of Labor and Industries, Division of Occupational Safety and Health, WAC
Chapter 296-817 and to provide workers protection against noise hazards in the
workplace.
All City employees shall comply fully with the requirements for the Hearing
Loss Prevention Program as outlined below.
B. General
1. Excessive noise can cause both temporary and permanent changes in
hearing sensitivity. Repeated exposures over time can result in hearing
loss, physical and psychological disorders interfere with the detection of
warning sounds, disruption of job performance, and more importantly,
interfere with speech and communication.
2. Hearing sensitivity can be affected by inherited traits, aging, illness, and
injuries to the ear structure, on – and off- the –job noise exposures. The
damage caused by excessive noise exposure (above 80dB) is cumulative,
progressively decreasing the sensitivity to higher frequencies. Any
exposure to noise levels above 140 dB is very damaging and the ear must
always be protected from this level of exposure. It is difficult, if not
impossible; to distinguish between hearing damage caused by on – and
off- the –job exposures and aging processes. As we age, even individuals
who have not been exposed to industrial noise levels lose the ability to
detect the higher frequency sounds; however, exposure to loud sounds can
accelerate or enhance this loss.
C. Implementation
1. This Hearing Loss Prevention Program will be implemented in work areas
or for task where daily noise levels have been shown through
measurements to exceed the action level of 85dBA TWA. Employees who
work in the area or on tasks that exceed the action level will comply with
the requirements of this program.
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2. Any employee who suspects they may be exposed to excessive noise levels
should contact their supervisor for an evaluation of the noise levels and
corrective actions.
3. Employees working in an area where the documented noise levels are
below the action level are not subjected to the requirements of this Hearing
Loss Prevention Program. The employees may voluntarily use hearing
protection devices as needed.
D. Administration Assignment
1. The administration of this program will be the responsibility of Human
Resources.
2. The administration responsibility includes:
a. Coordination of all noise exposure monitoring
b. Identification of employees to be included in the Hearing Loss
Prevention Program
c. Training
d. Review the results of the audiometric testing program
e. Recommend appropriate hearing protection devices
f. Coordination of the employee training program
g. Maintain appropriate records
h. Program evaluation
E. Administration
1. Initial and annual training will be provided to employees covered by this
Hearing Loss Prevention Program. Employees will be required to sign an
attendance form following each training session. The training program
will included information on:
a. The effects of noise on hearing
b. The purpose and use of hearing protection devices, the advantages
and disadvantages of each
c. Instruction in the selection, fitting, use and care of hearing
protection
d. The purpose of the audiometric testing and an explanation of the
test procedures
2. During training, the Hearing Loss Prevention Program will be reviewed
and made available to covered employees.
F. Records Keeping
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1. Human Resources will maintain the following records:
a. Training records will be maintained for a minimum of 3 years
b. Audiometric test records will be retained for 30 years beyond the
employee’s last date of employment
c. Records of noise exposure measurements will be retained for a
minimum of 2 years
2. Copies of all records will be provided to the employee upon request.
Written reports will be sent to the employee within 15 working days
following the completion of any noise exposure monitoring in which the
noise level was found to be at or above the action level.
G. Sound Level Surveys and Employee Monitoring
1. Human Resources will arrange for personal noise exposure monitoring
(dosimetry) or sound level surveys of areas and activities (a) when there is
a reason to believe that employees are exposed to or in excess of 85dB, 8
hour TWA, or, (b) the result of an employee expressed concern.
2. Additional noise exposure measurements will be conducted whenever a
change in equipment, production, process or controls are expected to
change the noise exposure levels. All noise levels between 80dBA and
130dBA will be included in the sound measurements. (Noise levels less
than 80dBA do not cause significant hearing damage even after long term
exposure, and are therefore not included in the occupational noise
exposure measurements or calculations).
H. Audiometric Testing
1. Employees who have an occupational noise exposure at or above the
action level of 85dBA – 8 hours TWA will take part in annual audiometric
testing after a baseline audiogram has been established. A certified or
licensed individual designated and paid for by City will perform testing.
New employees in the position descriptions or work area will be provided
with an audiometric examination to establish a baseline within six months
of assignment. Baseline audiogram shall allow a minimum of 14 hours
without workplace noise.
2. If the standard threshold has shifted;
a. The affected employee shall be notified in writing within twenty-
one days of the determination.
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b. Annual audiograms shall be required along with re-evaluation and
/ or retrofitting of hearing protection and medical evaluation as
required.
I. Hearing Protection Devices
1. Hearing protection with suitable noise reduction rating (NRR) will be
made available to workers in work areas with noise exposure above
85dBA, 8 hour TWA. The HPD’s will be provided at no cost, and when
requested in several options as to style and fit. Each location where
employees are working shall be evaluated so as to ensure the proper
hearing protection has been provided.
2. Employees that have a daily noise exposure below 85dBA, 8 hour TWA,
may choose to wear hearing protection at any time, but will not be
required to use HPD’s unless unusual work conditions are expected to
expose them to high noise levels.
3. Employees who have a daily noise exposure at or above 85dBA, 8 hour
TWA but below 90dBA, 8 hour TWA will be encouraged to wear hearing
protection at work, however, its use will not be mandatory unless unusual
work conditions may expose them to high noise levels.
4. Any employee, who is exposed at or above 85dBA 8 hour TWA and has
not completed a baseline audiogram, will be required to wear hearing
protection until the baseline test can be completed.
5. An employee who has experienced a standard threshold shift (STS) will be
required to wear hearing protection when noise exposures are at or above
85 dBA. The HPD will be made available at no cost to the employee. If
requested, several types of HPD will be made available to insure proper fit
and use.
6. Employees who have a noise exposure at or above 85 dBA 8 hour TWA are
required to wear hearing protection that will reduce their exposure less
than 90 dBA.
7. Employee noise exposure equal to or exceeding 90 dBA TWA8 shall be
reduced using feasible engineering controls.
J. Training
1. For employees that have been identified to work in an area that exposes
employees to noise at or above an 8-hour time-weighted average of 85
decibels, the training shall include but not be limited to:
a. The effects of noise on hearing
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b. The DOSH standard
c. The purpose of hearing protection, the advantages, disadvantages,
and the attenuation of various types, and instruction on selection,
fitting use, and care
d. The purpose of the baseline data, audiometric testing and an
explanation of the procedures
e. Affected employees will be required to attend annual training.
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A. Purpose
The purpose of this procedure is to provide requirements and guidelines
concerning the safe use and inspection of electrical hand tools and equipment
per WAC 296-155 Part I – Electrical.
All City employees shall comply fully with the requirements for Electrical
Safety as outlined below.
B. Definitions
• Competent Person is one who, through a combination of training and
experience has sufficient knowledge to recognize hazards and has the
authority to correct hazards, remove equipment for use if unsafe, and stop
work if necessary. For the purposes of this policy, a Competent Person
generally uses the equipment rather than repairs the equipment.
• Equipment: A general term including material, fittings, devices, appliances,
fixtures, apparatus, and the like, used as a part of, or in connection with, an
electrical installation.
• Fire Resistant Clothing (FRC) is a general term used for IFR and FTM fabrics
that meet testing requirements as set by NFPA, ASTM, etc.
• Fire Treated Material (FTM) are fibers subjected to treatment with chemical
additives to aid combustion resistance. Such treated materials have no
inherent fire resistant properties and rely on the additives treatment for fire
resistance.
• Ground-fault circuit-interrupter (GFCI): A device intended for the protection
of personnel that functions to deenergize a circuit or a portion of a circuit
within an established period of time when a current to ground exceeds
some predetermined value that is less than that required to operate the
overcurrent protective device of the supply circuit.
• Inherently Fire Resistant (IFR) are fire resisting properties are an intrinsic
property of the fibers. The garment will permanently retain its fire resistant
properties provided the material is properly cared for and cleaned in
accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Nomex, Kermel and
Kryon brand fabrics are examples of IFR fabrics.
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• Qualified Person is one who is trained, and authorized by their department
manager or director, to perform work on electrical equipment and
components. A qualified person has skills and knowledge related to the
construction and operation of the electrical equipment and installations
and has received safety training on the hazards involved. Examples of
safety training include, but are not limited to, training in the use of special
precautionary techniques, personal protective equipment, including arc
flash, insulating and shielding materials, and insulated tools and test
equipment. A person can be considered qualified with respect to certain
equipment, methods and tasks but still be unqualified for others. An
employee who is undergoing on-the-job training and who, in the course of
such training, has demonstrated an ability to perform duties safely at his or
her level of training and who is under the direct supervision of a qualified
person is considered to be a qualified person for the performance of those
duties.
C. General
1. This procedure outlines electrical safety procedures and the frequency
of inspection for electrical tools, cord sets, and equipment.
2. Only qualified persons can perform electrical work and/or work near
energized electrical conductors.
3. This procedure does not supersede the requirement to visually inspect
electrical tools, cord sets, and equipment before and after each use.
Every user shall inspect electrical tools and equipment as outlined in
this procedure and maintain all required documentation.
4. Only qualified persons shall be approved to make necessary repairs on
electrical components of electrical tools, cord sets, and equipment.
D. Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI)
The City has selected Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI) as its standard
method of protecting employees from the hazards associated with electrical
shock.
1. GFCIs shall be used on all 120-volt, single phase 15 and 20-amphere
receptacle outlets, which are not part of the permanent wiring of the
building or structure.
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2. Temporary power panels providing 120-volt service shall be equipped
with GFCI circuit breakers for optimum personnel protection. The same
level of protection is afforded by the use of GFCI receptacles.
3. In cases where protection afforded by GFCI circuit breakers or GFCI
receptacles is not readily available, portable plug-in GFCI's may be used.
4. GFCI’s will be tested by a competent person at least quarterly for proper
operation. If there are 2 or more receptacles on the same protected circuit
downline from the “push to test” GFCI receptacle (or breaker) they will be
tested individually once per year. A record of testing shall be maintained
on file identifying the piece of equipment (for example the location of the
equipment, and when available: make or model, serial number of unit)
date of inspection, the person conducting the inspection and inspection
results including any defects found and final status.
5. A receptacle/polarity test instrument which has a GFCI test feature shall
be used annually to ensure trip current values and to test any satellite
receptacles downstream from the receptacle or breaker containing the
GFCI.
E. Electrical Equipment Inspections
1. In addition to the requirements concerning GFCI's, periodic inspections
shall be conducted to assure the safe condition of small electric hand tools,
cord sets, electrically powered shop equipment, light plants and all other
temporary electrical circuits.
2. One or more competent individuals will be designated as inspectors to test
equipment. Inspectors will identify existing and potential hazards in tools,
cords, and other pieces of electrical equipment. They will also have the
authority to take prompt, corrective measures to eliminate problems
found. Any problem equipment, which cannot be repaired immediately,
must be removed from service tagged "Defective - Do Not Use" and
isolated until repairs are made.
3. Each employee using a piece of electrical equipment must perform a visual
inspection of the cord set, attachment cap, plug, and receptacle of cord or
tool sets, and any tool or equipment connected by cord and plug, except
cord and receptacles which are fixed in place and not exposed to damage.
Workers shall check for deformed or missing conductor and ground pins,
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insulation damage, and indications of possible internal damage. Damaged
equipment will be tagged and removed from service. Cord and plug
connected equipment and flexible cord sets (extension cords) which
remain connected once they are put in place and are not exposed to
damage need not be visually inspected until they are relocated. Workers
shall check for deformed or missing conductor and ground pins, insulation
damage, and indications of possible internal damage. Damaged
equipment will be tagged and removed from service.
4. The designated inspector shall perform the following on all cord sets,
receptacles which are not a part of the permanent wiring of the building or
structure, and cord and/or plug-connected equipment required to be
grounded:
a. Test all equipment grounding conductors for continuity; all
conductors shall be electrically continuous.
b. Test each receptacle and attachment cap or plug for correct
attachment of the equipment grounding conductor. The equipment
grounding conductor shall be connected to its proper terminal.
c. Extension cords shall be rated to match the equipment they are
being used for.
d. Inspect all double-insulated tools and equipment for physical and
suspected damage.
e. Inspect plugs for intact strain relief.
5. All required tests shall be performed:
a. Before first use.
b. Before equipment is returned to service following any repairs.
Cords with damaged (broken) insulation will not be used.
c. Before equipment is used after any incident which can be
reasonably suspected to have caused damage (when a cord set is
run over, for example).
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d. At intervals not to exceed three months. (Note: Cord sets and
receptacles, which are fixed and not exposed to damage, shall be
tested at intervals of six months.)
6. The City shall not make available or permit any employee to use tools and
equipment, which has not met the requirements of this procedure.
a. The test record shall identify each receptacle, cord set, and cord
and/or plug connected equipment tool or piece of equipment that
passed the test. This record shall be kept by means of logs, color
coding, or other effective means and shall be maintained until
replaced by a more current record. The record shall be made
available on the jobsite for inspection by the director and any
affected employees.
b. The City's Public Works Operations Managers are responsible for
ensuring that cords, tools, and other equipment under their control are
inspected prior to use by the workers in the crew.
F. Working Near Energized Electrical Equipment
1. Only qualified personnel who have the required training shall be authorized
to work on electrical equipment.
2. Personnel without the required training and authorization shall not perform
electrical work where they may be exposed to unguarded or uninsulated
electrical conductors; even if the equipment is in a de-energized state.
3. Personnel without the required training and authorization may be affected
by the Lockout/Tag-out of a piece of electrical equipment done by others
and therefore must be trained to understand electrical equipment and
LOTO, and be aware of the associated dangers and the need for additional
training as required. (For more information on LOTO, see the City Accident
Prevention Plan)
4. In the event that duties require that City personnel be in close proximity to
energized equipment, the following safe work practices shall apply:
a. In the event that work needs to be performed in confined or enclosed
work spaces where electrical hazards may exist, protective shields,
protective barriers or insulating materials shall be provided.
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b. City employees shall not enter spaces containing exposed, energized
parts unless illumination is provided that allows employees to work
safely.
c. Employees subject to the handling of conductive tools and/or
materials in close proximity to potentially energized equipment shall
ensure by means of LOTO, distance requirements or via other means
that arc potential is removed prior to working in that area.
d. Personnel shall ensure that all items of conductive jewelry & clothing
shall not be worn unless they are rendered non-conductive by
covering, wrapping or via other means.
e. When working on or near exposed de-energized parts, they shall be
treated as live until verified otherwise.
G. Working Near Energized Electrical Lines
1. In the event that workers are required to work in close proximity to
energized lines, the following safe work procedures shall apply:
a. Clearance distances shall be provided or lines shall be de-energized
and grounded.
b. In the event that workers are required to work in an elevated position
near energized overhead lines, a minimum safe clearance distance of
10 feet shall be observed
c. Vehicular mechanical equipment shall be operated so that a minimum
clearance distance of 10 feet be maintained from energized overhead
lines.
d. The following safe distances shall be observed:
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Employees Working Clearance
Voltage ("V") Minimum Distance
50 kV or below 10- feet
More than 50 kV 10- feet plus .4 inches for
each 1\kV > 50 kV
Vehicle in Transit Clearance
Voltage ("V") Minimum Distance
50 kV or below
10- feet (May be reduced
to 4 feet. Refer to WAC
296-155-428 (20) (a) (i) )
More than 50 kV 10- feet plus .4 inches for
each 1\kV > 50 kV
H. Fire Resistant Clothing (FRC)
1. FRC shall be the outermost garment worn in the designated area of the
work areas. Nylons or similar synthetic materials that could melt when
exposed to heat or flame shall not be worn. This procedure applies to all
personnel; employees; contractors, visitors and vendors who may enter
designated hazard areas where FRC is required.
a. Exceptions:
i. Non FRC or synthetics may be worn over FRC garments in
FRC designated areas for the following activities:
• Emergency response vests
• Inert entries
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• Tyvek suit specified for activities such as asbestos
abatement, refractory repair work welding or incidental
chemical contact.
• Outside deliveries of acid/caustic bulk chemicals
• Other activities on a case by case basis approved by the
Safety Manager.
b. FRC worn by city employees qualified to work on electrical
equipment will be approved by city management including but not
limited to:
i. FRC full coveralls and /or long sleeve shirts and pants made
of inherently fire resistant fabric or fire treated fabrics.
ii. Dielectric ARC rated safety prescription glasses.
iii. Dielectric ARC rated shield
iv. Two pair of properly rated ANSI/ASTM dielectric gloves for
the voltage exposures in which an employee is working.
▪ A glove integrity test will be run every six months by
an external lab. Testing will be staggered every six
months so that there will always be one pair available
for use.
▪ Each pair of gloves shall have a protective case.
▪ Each pair of gloves shall have leather protectors.
c. Contractor organizations are responsible for providing their
personnel with FRC.
I. Training
1. Only qualified persons shall work on electrical equipment or be permitted
to perform any function in proximity to energized conductors.
2. The following training requirements apply:
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a. Employees who face a risk of electric shock shall be trained and
familiar with electrically-related safety practices including minimal
approach distances.
b. Employees shall be trained in safety-related work practices as
pertaining to their respective job assignments.
c. To assist in compliance, the City shall provide access to a copy of
the current National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 70 to use as
a reference resource (such as an electronic/downloadable version).
J. Forms
1. Assured Equipment Grounding Program Log
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City Assured Equipment Grounding Program Log
A. INTRODUCTION
The confined space program for The City of Port Townsend consists of a combination of
Chapters 296-809 WAC, Revised Code of Washington (RCW), and previous city policy.
The most stringent of the above sources have been applied for compliance and safety
practices. This program shall apply to all persons working in confined spaces, including
standby, and rescue personnel.
Confined spaces typically encountered, but are not limited to, sewer manholes,
junction structures, valve vaults, metering vaults, pumping station wet wells,
storage tanks, and trenches.
B. PURPOSE
The purpose of this program is to provide safety procedures when entering a
permit-required confined spaces and non-permit required confined spaces for
routine maintenance or inspection. The program outlines definitions, required
safety equipment, entry procedures, training, and associated information to
Month: ______________ Year: ___________________ Color Code: ___________________ Project Number: _____________________ Location: ___________________ Page _____ of _____
Col. #1 Col. #2 Col. #3 Col. #4 Col. #5 Col. #6 Col. #7 Col. #8 Col. #9 Col. #10 Col. #11 Col. #12
Type or Name of
Equipment
Equipment
Identification
Number
Date of Test Type of Test Condition of
Equipment
Sent for
Repair
Date of
Retest
Condition at
Retest
Returned to
Service
Badge #
Receiving
Equipment
Comments Inspector’s
Name
M-D-Y lm 1 3 6 S/ U M-D-Y M-D-Y S/ U M-D-Y
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A. Introduction
The confined space program for The City of Port Townsend consists of a
combination of Chapters 296-809 WAC, Revised Code of Washington (RCW), and
previous city policy. The most stringent of the above sources have been applied for
compliance and safety practices. This program shall apply to all persons working
in confined spaces, including standby, and rescue personnel.
Confined spaces typically encountered, but are not limited to, sewer manholes,
junction structures, valve vaults, metering vaults, pumping station wet wells,
storage tanks, and trenches.
B. PURPOSE
The purpose of this program is to provide safety procedures when entering a
permit-required confined spaces and non-permit required confined spaces for
routine maintenance or inspection. The program outlines definitions, required
safety equipment, entry procedures, training, and associated information to prevent
injury and fatalities.
C. DEFINITIONS - (WAC 296-809-099)
Acceptable entry conditions - The conditions that must exist in a permit-required
confined space to allow safe entry and work.
Attendant - An individual stationed outside one or more permit-required confined
spaces to monitor the entrants.
Authorized representatives - Those persons who are responsible for the overall
operation and safety of the workforce and the primary maintenan ce force will be
given additional specific training and they are: The Crew Chiefs and Lead
Operators, they are called “Authorized Employer Representatives.”
In addition the following who have received specific training are identified as
“Authorized Employees”
• Equipment operators
• Maintenance Workers
• Operations Managers
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Blanking or blinding - The absolute closure of a pipe, line, or duct by fastening a solid
plate (such as a spectacle blind or a skillet blind) that completely covers the bore. It
is capable of withstanding the maximum pressure of the pipe, line, or duct with no
leakage beyond the plate.
Confined space - A space that is all of the following:
• Large enough and arranged so an employee could fully enter the space and
work.
• Has limited or restricted entry or exit. Examples of spaces with limited or
restricted entry are tanks, vessels, silos, storage bins, hoppers, vaults,
excavations, and pits.
• Not primarily designed for human occupancy.
Double block and bleed - The closure of a line, duct, or pipe by closing and locking or
tagging two in-line valves and by opening and locking or tagging a drain or vent
valve in the line between the two closed valves.
Emergency - Any occurrence (including any failure of hazard control or monitoring
equipment) or event internal or external to the permit-required confined space that
could endanger authorized entrants.
Engulfment - The surrounding capture of a person by a liquid or finely divided
(“flowable”) solid substance that can be inhaled to cause death by filling or plugging
the respiratory system or that can exert enough force on the body to cause death by
strangulation, constriction, or crushing.
Enter - The action by which a person passes through an opening into a permit -
required confined space and includes work activities in that space. Entry is
considered to have occurred as soon as any part of the entrant's body breaks the
plane of an opening into the space.
Note: If the opening is large enough for the worker to fully enter the space, a
permit is required even for partial body entry. Permits are not required for
partial body entry where the opening is not large enough for full entry,
although other rules such as Lock out tag out; in the Accident Prevention
Program notebook, (control of hazardous energy), and chapter 296-841
WAC, Airborne Contaminants, may apply.
Entrant - An employee who is authorized by the employer to enter a permit-required
confined space.
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Entry permit (permit) - The written or printed document that is provided to allow
and control entry into a permit-required confined space and that contains the
information required in WAC 296-809-500, Permit entry procedures.
Entry supervisor - The person (such as the employer, crew leader, or crew chief)
responsible for:
• Determining if acceptable entry conditions are present at a permit-required
confined space where entry is planned;
• Authorizing entry and overseeing entry operations; and
• Terminating entry as required.
Hazardous atmosphere - An atmosphere that may expose employees to the risk of
death, incapacitation, and impairment of ability to self-rescue (that is, escape
unaided from a permit-required confined space), injury, or acute illness caused by
one or more of the following:
• Flammable gas, vapor, or mist in excess of ten percent of its lower flammable
limit (LFL).
• Airborne combustible dust at a concentration that meets or exceeds its LFL.
• Atmospheric oxygen concentration below 19.5 percent or above 23.5
percent.
• Atmospheric concentration of any substance which may exceed a
permissible exposure limit. For additional information about atmospheric
concentration, see chapter 296-62 WAC, parts F, G, and I, General
occupational health standards and chapter 296-841 WAC, Airborne
contaminants.
• Any other atmospheric condition that is immediately dangerous to life or
health.
Hot work permit - A written authorization to perform operations, for example,
riveting, welding, cutting, burning, and heating, which can provide a source of
ignition.
Immediately dangerous to life or health (IDLH) - Any of the following conditions:
• An immediate or delayed threat to life.
• Anything that would cause irreversible adverse health effects.
Note: This concentration may be approximated as a condition
in which the dust obscures vision at a distance of five
feet (1.52 m) or less.
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• Anything that would interfere with an individual's ability to escape unaided
from a permit-required confined space.
Inerting - The displacement of the atmosphere in a permit-required confined space
by a noncombustible gas (such as nitrogen) to such an extent that the resulting
atmosphere is noncombustible. This procedure produces an IDLH oxygen-deficient
atmosphere.
Isolation -The process by which a permit-required confined space is removed from
service and completely protected against the release of energy and material into the
space by such means as: Blanking or blinding; misaligning or removing sections of
lines, pipes, or ducts; a double block and bleed system; lockout or tag out of all
sources of energy; or blocking or disconnecting all mechanical linkages.
Line breaking - The intentional opening of a pipe, line, or duct that is or has been
carrying flammable, corrosive, or toxic material, an inert gas, or any fluid at a
volume, pressure, or temperature capable of causing injury.
Non-permit confined space - A confined space that does not contain actual hazards or
potential hazards capable of causing death or serious physical harm.
Oxygen deficient atmosphere - An atmosphere containing less than 19.5 percent
oxygen by volume.
Oxygen enriched atmosphere - An atmosphere containing more than 23.5 percent
oxygen by volume.
Permit-required confined space or permit space - A confined space that has one or more
of the following characteristics capable of causing death or serious physical harm:
• Contains or has a potential to contain a hazardous atmosphere;
• Contains a material with the potential for engulfing someone who enters;
• Has an internal configuration that could allow someone entering to be
trapped or asphyxiated by inwardly converging walls or by a floor,
which slopes downward and tapers to a smaller cross section;
• Contains any physical hazard. This includes any recognized health or
safety hazards including engulfment in solid or liquid material, electrical
shock, or moving parts;
• Contains any other recognized serious safety or health hazard that could
either:
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- Impair the ability to self-rescue; or
- Result in a situation that presents an immediate danger to life or
health.
Permit-required confined space program - An overall program for:
• Controlling and appropriately protecting employees from permit-
required confined space hazards; and
• Regulating employee entry into permit-required confined spaces.
Prohibited condition - Any condition in a permit-required confined space that is not
allowed by the permit during the authorized entry period.
Rescue service - The personnel designated to rescue employees from permit-required
confined spaces.
Retrieval system - The equipment used for non-entry rescue of persons from permit-
required confined spaces, such as a retrieval line, full-body harness or wristlets, and
a lifting device or anchor.
Testing - The process of identifying and evaluating the hazards that entrants may be
exposed to in a permit-required confined space. Testing includes specifying the tests
that are to be performed in the permit-required confined space.
Note: Testing allows employers to devise and implement adequate controls
to protect entrants during entry, and to determine if acceptable entry
conditions are present.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060. WSR 15-24-102,
§ 296-809-099, filed 12/1/15, effective 1/5/16.]
D. REQUIRED SAFETY EQUIPMENT
1. The supervisor must assure that the assigned employee have the PPE’s required
in their possession. The supervisor must assure the assigned employees are trained
to operate all safety equipment and understands all safety procedures.
2. Personal Protective Equipment:
• Coveralls
• Tyvek suit
• Leather gloves Chemical Resistant gloves
• Welding gloves
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• Welding hood
• Eye protection
• Hearing protection
• Respiratory protection
• Safety shoes/boot
• Hard hat
• Multi-Gas meter
• Radio
• Phone
3. Fall Arrest Equipment:
• Blower and ventilation tube
• Harness/life line
• Lanyard 6’ long
• Lanyard self-retracting
• Miller ¾ inch Grip Anchor (used at Gaines)
• Miller Durahoist (mounts to truck receiver)
• Tripod
• Self-retracting life line with emergency rescue
• Miller “Man-related work winch”
• Miller models 17D and 18D carabiners
• Body harness
NOTE: Operating instruction and specifications for fall arrest equipment are in the
“Fall Arrest Equipment” section of the “Accident Protection Program” manual.
4. Traffic Control Equipment:
• Barricades
• Vests
• Flags
• Signs
• Radios
E. PERMIT REQUIRED CONFINED SPACE ENTRY PROCEDURES
All confined spaces which have been designed to be entered for inspection and/ or
maintenance on a regular basis, shall utilize the following procedures:
1. Fill out the confined space entry permit. When filling out the permit everyone
involved should discuss the hazards, rescue process, and how to communicate. The
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“Entry Supervisor” bears the responsibility of completing the Confined Space Entry
Permit.
NOTE: Each canceled entry permit shall be retained for at least 1 year to facilitate
review of the permit-required confined space program. Used permits are placed in
the Accident Prevention Program notebook under, “Confined Space Forms---Used”.
Any problems encountered during an entry operation shall be noted on the
pertinent permit so that appropriate revisions to the permit and/or confined space
program can be made.
2. Prior to removing manhole or entrance covers, test the atmosphere inside the
manhole by using a remote sampling probe or aspirator. If the lower explosive limit
(LEL) is above 10% inside the manhole, do not remove the cover.
• Required when employee(s) suspects or conditions exist, that support a possible
LEL above 10%.
• Required when responding to flammable odorous complaint calls. (For
example odors may be described as gas, methane, propane, ethanol, or solvents.
3. Atmospheric Testing: Before allowing any personnel inside the confined space,
test for all four atmospheric conditions, oxygen content, flammable or explosive
gasses, hydrogen sulfide, and Carbon Monoxide. Testing is continuous and
simultaneous for all gasses at all levels (top, middle, and bottom).
• Oxygen content must be at least 19.5% in the confined space, measured at all
levels. The safe oxygen level is between 19.5% and 21%. Do not enter the
confined space if the oxygen level is below 19.5% or above 21%. Due to the
extreme danger of suffocation in confined spaces, constant and continuous
oxygen monitoring is required throughout each work period. Oxygen
content above 23% can cause explosions or vigorous burning of flammable
materials, including hair or clothing.
• Observe flammability at all levels of the confined space. Flammability is
measured in terms of the Lower Flammable Limit (LEL) or Lower Explosive
Limit (LEL). This is the smallest concentration of a combustible gas in air that
will explode when it contacts a spark or open flame.
• Observe readings of the atmosphere for any toxic concentrations of vapors
such as Carbon Monoxide (CO) and Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S). Toxicity is
measured in terms of the Threshold Limit Value (TLV). Use the detector to
measure toxicity at all levels of the confined space. Since toxic
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concentrations may be lighter or heavier than air, they can be present at the
top or the bottom of the confined space.
Note: The confined space must be tested at three levels for each atmospheri c
condition. Each level must be tested for a minimum of 60 seconds. The gas detector
itself can be lowered into the confined space atmosphere with a safety line, or the
detector may be used with an aspirator pump (so the detector is not lowered into
the confined space), or if needed the entrant may wear a detector. Follow detector
operating procedures manual if there are any operating questions.
4. Ventilation: A fresh air blower ventilation system shall be set up and in
operation before and during all inspection and maintenance procedures.
• After the air blower ventilation system has been in operation and the
confined air space has been tested and determined to have “acceptable entry
conditions,” the operator shall be equipped with:
• Controlling atmospheric hazards through forced air ventilation does not
eliminate all hazards. Evaluate the use of lockout-tag out (LOTO), as covered
in chapter 296-803 WAC, to determine if using it fully eliminates the hazard.
LOTO procedures are covered in the Accident Prevention Program binder.
5. At least one “attendant” shall be stationed above ground for support
purposes whenever a confined space is entered. At times two attendants may be
required so that one observes the entrant and another retrieves necessary
equipment. An entry supervisor or authorized representative shall decide on the
number of attendants necessary. Never enter a confined space unattended.
6. Set-up and use all necessary equipment listed in Section D of this document.
• Attendant(s) pull on and ensure connections of lifeline attachments to
entrants’ body harness to the tripod safety retrieval system. Follow
manufactures directions for set up, use, maintenance, and storage of tripod
or Durahoist, and retrieval systems.
• Attendant(s) ensure that a properly calibrated gas detector is in operation
during entrants’ time in confined spaces. This is necessary due to
possibilities of rapid changes in a confined space atmosphere.
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7. Entrants test each individual manhole step or rung carefully. Be sure to check
ladder for overall structural soundness and ability to support weight before using.
If permanent ladder steps will not support weight or are not provided, a non-
conductive extension ladder in good operating condition shall be used to enter the
confined space.
8. Entrants and trained attendants maintain contact at all times either visually,
by phone, or by two-way radio. This monitoring system enables the attendant(s),
entry supervisor, and entrant to order evacuation and/or to alert appropriately
trained rescue personnel if needed.
9. Entering sanitary and storm sewer lift stations that are designed to be entered
regularly, shall have the power apparatus locked out (off) while entrant is working
on the lift station. Locking out the power apparatuses prevents an accidental pump
start during the systems repair or maintenance. If this is not possible then an
attendant shall be dedicated for the sole purpose of controlling pumps. A second
attendant shall constantly observe the entrant and confined space equipment while
maintaining communications.
10. Rescue and Emergency Action Plan – “911” is our emergency service for
confined space rescue to remove unconscious or injured entrants. No person shall
enter a confined space (manhole, wet well, dry well, or underground vault) to
retrieve someone who is unconscious without having additional trained personnel
and equipment above ground to assist.
Where non-entry rescue is not possible, entry supervisor or attendant will
coordinate rescue and emergency services with East Jefferson Fire and Rescue
(EJFR). These rescue providers will be made aware of the hazards they may
confront when called on to perform rescues. Entry supervisor or attendant shall
provide access to all permit spaces from which rescue may be necessary so that EJFR
can develop appropriate rescue plans and practices for rescue operations.
11. Non-Entry Rescue Retrieval Systems shall meet the following requirements:
• Each authorized entrant shall use a chest or full body harness, with a retrieval
line attached at the center of the entrant's back near shoulder level, or above
the entrant's head. Wristlets may be used in lieu of the chest or full body
harness if the employer can demonstrate that the use of a chest or full body
harness is infeasible or creates a greater hazard.
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• Medical responders or medical facilities shall be provided with Safety Data
Sheets (SDS) or similar written information for a substance exposure to an
entrant. Copies of SDS’s may be made from the SDS binder located at the
employee’s facility.
12. ADDITIONAL SAFETY PROCEDURES:
• An authorized representative shall inspect all safety devices and instruct all
involved employees on proper confined space safety procedures. All
defective safety devices shall be reported immediately, removed from
service, and tagged as defective. It shall be the supervisor’s responsibility to
insure that crews assigned to enter confined spaces have the required safety
devices in their possession.
• Do not smoke, light open flames, or produce sparks in the immediate vicinity
of open manholes.
• Use picks and/or, hooks to open manhole covers. If combustible gas is
suspected use non-sparking tools
• Lift manhole covers and heavy hatches with the legs. Never lift with only
back muscles.
• Whenever possible lay removed manhole covers and heavy hatch covers flat
on the ground several feet away from the opening to prevent tripping and
falling in.
• When manhole or entrance covers are removed, the opening must be
promptly guarded by a temporary railing cover, or other temporary barrier
that will prevent an accidental fall through the opening and protect each
employee working in the space from foreign objects entering the space.
• Use barricades and /or warning devices to direct traffic around open
manholes.
• Wear protective clothing and nonslip, non-sparking shoes in a manhole.
• Watch out for slippery footing in a manhole.
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• Do not hand-carry tools and/or equipment while climbing up or down steps
or a ladder. Raise or lower tools and/or equipment by using a rope, sling, or
bucket.
• Use explosion-proof portable lighting and non-sparking tools in a manhole.
• Avoid using electrical tools in or near water. Never stand in water when
using electrical tools. Use a Ground Fault and Circuit Interrupter (GFCI).
• Constant ventilation is required when performing “hot-work” within a
manhole.
• Keep fuel burning engines away from a confined space manhole as Carbon
Monoxide may flow into a confined space.
• If the “entrant” smells anything different or feels different – get out, now!
F. NON-PERMIT CONFINED SPACE REQUIREMENTS
Follow these requirements when classifying a confined space as a non-permit
confined space:
1. Post
You must make the certification available to each entrant, or their authorized
representative.
• Sewers may be entered without the need for a written permit or attendant if
the space can be maintained in a safe condition for entry by mechanical
ventilation alone.
• All sewers are considered permit-required confined spaces until the pre-entry
procedures demonstrate otherwise.
• An authorized representative is required or permitted to pre-check or enter a
sewer will have successfully completed, at a minimum, the training outlined
in our training procedures.
• A written copy of operation and rescue procedures needs to be at the worksite
for the duration of the job.
• The sewer pre-entry checklist is completed by the entry supervisor before
entry into a sewer. This list verifies completion of items listed below. This
checklist is kept at the job site for the duration of the job.
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• If circumstances dictate an interruption in the work, re-evaluate the sewer and
complete anew checklist.
2. Control of atmospheric and engulfment hazards
• Pumps and lines:
All pumps and lines which may reasonably cause contaminants to flow
into the sewer are disconnected, blinded and locked-out, or effectively
isolated by other means to prevent development of dangerous air
contamination or engulfment.
Not all lateral lines to sewers or storm drains require blocking. However,
where experience or knowledge of use indicates a reasonable potential for
contamination of air or engulfment into an occupied sewer, then all
affected lateral lines are to be blocked.
If blocking or isolation requires entry into the sewer, the provisions f or
entry into a permit-required confined space are implemented.
• Surveillance:
The surrounding area is surveyed to avoid hazards such as drifting
vapors from tanks, piping, or sewers.
• Testing:
The atmosphere within the sewer will be tested to determine whether
dangerous air contamination or oxygen deficiency exists.
Alarmed gas monitors and explosion meters are examples of
monitoring equipment that may be used to test sewer atmospheres.
Testing is performed by an authorized representative who has
successfully completed the gas detector training for the monitoring
method to be used.
The minimum parameters to be monitored are Oxygen deficiency, LEL,
Carbon Monoxide and Hydrogen Sulfide concentrations.
The entry supervisor will certify in writing, based upon the results of
the pre-entry testing, that all hazards have been eliminated or
controlled.
Affected employees are able to review the testing results.
The most hazardous conditions will determine when work is being
performed in two adjoining, connecting spaces.
• Entry procedures:
Entry into and work within a non-permit confined space may proceed if:
There are no non-atmospheric hazards present
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The pre-entry tests show there is no dangerous air contamination or
oxygen deficiency within the space; and there is no reason to believe that
any is likely to develop.
Continuous testing of the atmosphere in the immediate vicinity of the
workers within the space is accomplished.
Workers will immediately leave the sewer when any of the gas monitor
alarm set points are reached as defined.
Workers will not return to the area until an authorized representative
supervisor who has completed the gas detector training has used a direct
reading gas detector.
G. FALL ARREST
Fall arrest policy and procedures are covered in the, Accident Prevention Program
binder. Equipment and operational instructions for equipment use is located in the
Fall Arrest Equipment binder. Fall arrest training takes place annually.
H. OTHER TRAINING ASSOCIATED WITH PERMIT-REQUIRED CONFINED
SPACE
1. Personal protection equipment
2. Confined space hazard recognition
3. Respirator training and fit test
4. Hazard communication standard
5. Lock out tag out
6. Use of power ventilation Equipment
7. Atmosphere sampling and testing devices
8. Use of all rescue and support equipment
9. Emergency rescue procedures
10. A thorough indoctrination on the purposes and intent of this policy and
procedures.
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A. Purpose
This procedure provides the minimum requirements to safeguard employees
against health and safety effects associated with occupational exposure to blood-
borne pathogens. This procedure is specifically intended to reduce the
occupational exposure to and transmission of Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), Human
Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), and other infectious diseases.
All City employees shall comply fully with Washington State Labor and Industry,
Division of Occupational Safety and Health, Chapter 296-823 WAC and City
requirements for Blood-borne Pathogens as outlined below.
B. Definitions
1. Blood-borne Pathogens – pathogenic microorganisms that are present in
human blood and can cause disease in humans. These pathogens include
but are not limited to Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) and Human
Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV).
2. Contaminated – the presence or the reasonably anticipated presence of blood
or other potentially infectious materials on an item or surface.
3. Decontamination – the use of physical or chemical means to remove,
inactivate, or destroy blood-borne pathogens on a surface or item to the point
where they are no longer capable of transmitting infectious particles and the
surface or item is rendered safe for handling, use or disposal.
4. Exposure Incident – a specific eye, mouth, or other mucous membrane, non-
intact skin, or parenteral (piercing mucous membranes or the skin barrier
through such events as needle sticks, human bites, cuts, abrasions, and
avulsion) contact with blood or other potentially infectious materials that
result from the performance of an employee’s duties.
5. Occupational Exposure – reasonably anticipated skin, eye, mucous membrane,
or parenteral contact with blood or other potentially infectious materials that
may result from the performance of an employee’s duties.
6. Parenteral – piercing mucous membranes or the skin barrier through such
events as needle-sticks, human bites, cuts, and abrasions.
7. Universal Precautions – an approach to infection control. According to the
concept of Universal Precautions, all human blood and certain human body
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fluids are treated as if known to be infectious for HIV, HBV, and other blood-
borne pathogens.
C. Occupational Exposure Determination
a. Facility Determination – Human Resources will evaluate the workforce to
identify those job classifications with potential for occupational exposure
to blood or other potentially infectious materials (OPIM) during the course
of their assigned duties. The exposure determination shall be made
without regard to the use of personal protective equipment.
b. The following considerations will be used to evaluate exposure to blood or
other potentially infectious material (OPIM):
a. Employees assigned to perform emergency first aid and/or
cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). NOTE: Employees who
voluntarily give first aid and are not required to give first aid as part of
their normal job duties are not considered to be occupationally exposed.
This includes employees who participate on voluntary First Responder
Teams (where such teams are not required by regulation). These
employees may be included in the BBP program as a Best Practice, but are
not required to be included by regulation.
b. Potential for contact with contaminated laundry or regulated waste.
D. Exposure Categories
a. This exposure classification applies to tasks rather than individuals when,
during their daily activities, individuals may move from one exposure
category to another as they perform various tasks.
a. Tasks That Involve Exposure to Blood and Other Potentially
Infectious Materials- Employees included in this category include first
aid attendants and qualified safety representatives.
b. Tasks That Involve No Exposure to Blood and Other Potentially
Infectious Materials but May Require Performing Unplanned
Category 1 Tasks - Employees included in this category may include
first responders, administrative assistants, and some safety
professionals. The normal duties of individuals involve no exposure
to blood, bodily fluids or tissues, but potential exposure may occur.
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E. Personal Protective Equipment
1. The City shall provide all necessary and appropriate PPE, including
disposable latex gloves, utility gloves, eye protection, protective clothing,
masks, mouthpieces, and ventilation devices. All required PPE shall be
provided by the City at no cost to the employees.
2. When the potential exists for exposure to blood or other potentially
infectious body fluids employee’s shall use the appropriate PPE, such as, but
not limited to, gloves, protective clothing, face shields, eye protection, masks,
resuscitation bags, or other devices to form a protective barrier.
3. Masks and eye protection shall be worn whenever splashes, spray, droplets,
or aerosols of blood or other potentially infectious materials may be
generated and there is a potential for eye, nose, or mouth contamination.
4. Gloves shall be worn when the potential exists for the employee’s hands to
have direct skin contact with blood, other potentially infectious materials,
mucous membranes, non-intact skin, and when handling items or surfaces
soiled with blood or other potentially infectious materials.
5. Disposable single use gloves shall be replaced as soon as possible when
visibly soiled, torn, punctured, or when their ability to function as a barrier
has been compromised. Disposable gloves shall never be washed or
disinfected for re-use.
6. Utility gloves may be disinfected for re-use if the integrity of the glove is not
compromised.
7. Protective clothing may be either reusable or disposable, as long as it
effectively prevents the pass-through of potentially contaminated body
fluids. The City shall arrange for the cleaning, laundering, or disposal of
required City furnished PPE as needed.
8. All PPE in need of repair or maintenance shall be removed from service until
such repair and maintenance is completed.
9. All contaminated PPE shall be removed immediately upon leaving the work
area or as soon as possible and placed in an appropriately designated area
for decontamination or disposal.
F. Environmental and Engineering Controls, Housekeeping
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1. Where possible, engineering controls shall be put in place to eliminate or
minimize exposure. These controls shall be evaluated for effectiveness and
revised as needed to ensure effectiveness.
2. To the maximum extent possible, treatment areas will be established in such
a way as to maintain isolation and containment of the hazard.
3. Disposable, puncture resistant containers that are closeable and leak-proof on
the sides and bottom and properly labeled with the universal BIOHAZARD
symbol, will be utilized for used needles, blades, sharps and other one-time
use implements of treatment.
4. Hand-washing facilities with soap and running water will be made available.
If running water cannot be supplied, germicide hand wipes will be supplied.
5. A written schedule for cleaning and methods of decontamination of areas of
occupational exposure shall be developed. The schedule will include the
following as a minimum:
a. Implements of treatment, pails, bins, containers, or similar receptacles
(including protective coverings and work surfaces) must be cleaned
and decontaminated after contact with blood or other potentially
infectious material, and at the end of each work shift.
b. Glassware that has broken in the treatment area must be picked up
mechanically and not by hand (i.e., dust pan and broom or brush with
nylon bristles).
c. The mechanics of cleaning must be conducted using forceps-type
implements.
d. All items and spills must be cleaned with a germicide or a solution of
sodium hypochlorite ( a 1:8 dilution of household bleach).
6. The City shall make a determination based upon job scope with regards to
employee exposure.
G. Work Practice Controls
1. Employees shall follow the “Universal Precautions.”
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2. Employees shall wash their hands immediately or as soon as possible after
removal of gloves or other PPE and after hand contact with blood or other
potentially infectious materials.
3. Used needles and other sharps shall be disposed of intact into properly
labeled and designated puncture-proof containers. Used needles shall not be
removed from disposable syringes. Recapping of needles or other sharps is
not allowed.
4. Eating, drinking, smoking, applying cosmetics, and handling contact lenses is
not permitted in any work area where there is a potential for occupational
exposure to blood or other potentially infectious materials. Food, drink or
personal items shall not be stored in refrigerators, freezers, or cabinets where
blood or other potentially infectious materials are stored or in other areas of
possible contamination.
5. Pipetting or suctioning by mouth (siphoning) is not permitted.
H. Hepatitis B Vaccination
a. The City shall offer the hepatitis B vaccine and vaccination series to all
employees occupationally exposed to blood-borne pathogens. The HBV
vaccination shall be offered to affected employees after training and within
10 working days of initial assignment, unless the employee has had a
previous HBV vaccination or unless antibody testing has revealed that the
employee is immune or the vaccine is contraindicated for medical reasons.
b. Employees accepting the offer of the hepatitis B vaccine shall sign the Offer
of Hepatitis B Vaccination Form.
c. A licensed physician shall perform Hepatitis B vaccinations and an
accredited laboratory shall conduct all tests.
d. Should a routine booster dose(s) of hepatitis B vaccine be recommended at a
future date, such booster dose(s) shall also be provided.
e. Employees that decline the hepatitis B vaccination must sign the Offer of
Hepatitis B Vaccination Form. If an employee initially declines the HBV
vaccination, but at a later date, decides to accept the vaccination, the City will
make the hepatitis B vaccination available at that time.
I. Incident Investigation
a. Exposure incidents shall be reported immediately to the immediate City
supervisor, Human Resources and Department Manager. The supervisor or
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manager shall promptly conduct and document an exposure incident
investigation containing the following information:
a. The circumstances surrounding the exposure incident.
b. The likely route(s) of entry.
c. Engineering controls in place at the time of the incident.
d. Work practices in place at the time of the incident.
e. Personal protective equipment (PPE) in use at the time of the incident.
f. Any failures of the above controls at the time of the incident.
g. Identification if possible, of the source individual.
h. Recommendations for avoidance of future exposure incidents based
on lessons learned.
J. Post-Exposure Evaluation and Follow-Up
1. A confidential medical evaluation shall be made immediately available to an
employee following an exposure incident.
2. Human Resources will ensure that the healthcare professional responsible for
the employee’s hepatitis B vaccination and exposure follow-up evaluation is
provided the following information:
a. A copy of DOSH WAC 296-823 – Blood-borne Pathogens
b. A description of the exposed employee’s duties as they relate to the
exposure incident.
c. Documentation of the route(s) of entry and circumstances under
which the exposure incident occurred.
d. Identification of the source individual unless prohibited by state or
federal law.
e. Results of the source individual’s blood testing, if available.
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f. All medical records relevant to the appropriate treatment of the
employee, including vaccination status.
3. Human Resources or designee will follow-up with the healthcare
professional to assure that post-exposure evaluation and follow-up is
provided in strict accordance with WAC 296-823-16030.
4. Human Resources or designee shall be responsible for obtaining and
providing the employee with a copy of the evaluating licensed health care
professional’s written opinion within fifteen (15) days of completion of the
evaluation. The original shall be placed in the employee’s confidential
medical file. The written opinion shall according to the requirements of
WAC 296-823-16030.
K. Recordkeeping
1. The City shall establish and maintain medical records for each employee with
an occupational exposure to blood-borne pathogens. These records shall
include:
a. Name and social security number of the employee.
b. A copy of the employee’s hepatitis B vaccination record.
c. A copy of all results and medical examinations related to an exposure
incident.
d. A copy of the healthcare professional’s written opinion.
e. A copy of all information provided to the healthcare professional.
2. The City shall maintain all records associated with an exposure incident for
the duration of employment plus a minimum of thirty (30) years.
3. Training records shall be maintained on file for a minimum of three (3) years.
L. Training
1. Training on blood-borne pathogens shall be provided for all employees that
can “reasonably be anticipated” to come into contact with blood or other
potentially infectious materials as a result of performing their job duties.
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2. Annual refresher training shall be provided to all employees that can
“reasonably be anticipated to be exposed to blood-borne pathogens.
3. The training program must at minimum contain the following elements:
a. Access to a copy of the Blood-borne Pathogens standard and an
explanation of the contents of the standard.
b. General discussion of blood-borne diseases with emphasis on
epidemiology, symptomatology, and modes of transmission of HIV
and HBV.
c. A copy of the City’s Blood-borne Pathogens procedure and an
explanation of the contents of the procedure.
d. Explanation of the methods for recognizing tasks and other activities
that may involve exposure to blood and other potentially infectious
diseases.
e. Information on the types, selection, proper use, location, removal,
handling, decontamination, and disposal of personal protective
equipment.
f. Information on the Hepatitis B vaccine, its effect, safety, method of
administration, benefits, and that it will be offered at City’s expense.
g. Instruction on appropriate actions to take, including emergency
contacts, in event of an emergency involving blood or other
potentially infectious material.
h. Instruction of appropriate actions in event of an exposure incident,
including method of reporting and medical follow-up that will be
available.
i. Information concerning post-exposure evaluation and follow-up after
an exposure incident.
j. Explanation of BIOHAZARD labels and red bags.
k. Question and answer period following each training session.
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4. A record of each training session shall be maintained on file for at least three
years and include date and contents of session, names of attendees and
employee identification numbers.
M. Forms
• Offer of Hepatitis B Vaccination Form
• Exposure Incident Investigation
• Post-Exposure Evaluation and Follow-Up Checklist
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BLOODBORNE PATHOGENS
Offer of Hepatitis B Vaccination Form
Hepatitis B Vaccine Acceptance
I understand that due to my occupational exposure to blood or other potentially
infectious materials, I may be at risk of acquiring Hepatitis A and/or B Virus
infection when responding to accidents, cleaning public restrooms and parks, and
performing other public service functions.
I certify or request one of the following:
[ ] I have completed the hepatitis B vaccine series.
[ ] I desire to be administered the hepatitis B vaccine series of three injections, at no
cost to me.
[ ] I am declining to submit to the hepatitis B vaccine series at this time. However, if
at a later date I desire to be vaccinated I shall continue to have this employer
sponsored opportunity, provided I remain in the status of a full-time, regular
employee of the City.
Signature:________________________________________________
Printed Name:_______________________________________
Social Security Number (last 4 digits) ____________________________
Date:_______________
If employee is under 18 years of age, the parent or legal guardian must read and
sign below:
I certify that I am the parent or legal guardian of the employee above named; that I
have read and understood the form language; and that I grant my full consent and
authorization for the (consent/refusal) of the Hepatitis B vaccination series.
Parent (or) Legal Guardian signature: ___________________________________
Date:______
[Print Name) ____________________________________________________
Relationship to employee:____________________________________________
Accident Prevention Program
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VACCINE ADMINISTERED RECORD:
Type Date Lot # Provider
Initial Vaccine
2nd in series
3rd in series
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EXPOSURE INCIDENT INVESTIGATION FORM
Date of Incident: Time of Incident:
Location:
Potentially Infectious Materials Involved
Type: Source:
Circumstances (Work being performed, etc.):
How Incident was Caused (Accident, equipment malfunction, etc.):
Personal Protective Equipment Being Used:
Actions Taken (Decontamination, clean-up, reporting, etc.):
Recommendations for Avoiding Repetition:
Report Prepared By:
Job Title:
Date:
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POST-EXPOSURE EVALUATION AND FOLLOW-UP CHECKLIST
The following steps must be taken and information transmitted in the case of an
employee being exposed to blood-borne pathogens:
Activity
Completion
Date
• Employee furnished with documentation regarding
exposure incident
• Source individual identified
(Name)
• Source individual’s blood tested and results
given to exposed employee
Consent could not be obtained
• Exposed employee’s blood collected and tested
• Appointment arranged for employee with health-care
Professional
Professional’s Name
• Documentation forwarded to healthcare professional
Blood-borne Pathogens Standard
Description of exposed
employee’s
duties
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Description of exposure incident
Result of source individual’s
blood
Testing including routes of
exposure
Employee’s medical records
Accident Prevention Program
City of Port Townsend
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A. Purpose
The purpose of this procedure is to provide requirements and guidelines
concerning the safe use and inspection of tools – power, electrical and hand.
It is the City’s policy to take precautions to eliminate hazards associated with
the use of hand and portable power tools; and to ensure that employees are
properly trained to utilize these tools in a safe manner.
All City employees shall comply fully with the requirements for Tools –
Hand, Power and Electrical as outlined below.
B. General Safety Requirements
1. This procedure outlines Hand, Power and Electrical Tool safety
procedures and the frequency of inspection for tools, cord sets, and
equipment.
2. This procedure does not supersede the requirement to visually inspect of
all tools, cord sets, and equipment before and after each use.
3. Only electrical competent per sons shall inspect electrical tools and
equipment as outlined in this procedure and maintain all required
documentation .
4. Only qualified electricians shall be approved to make necessary
repairs on electrical components of electrical tools, cord sets, and
equipment.
5. City personnel shall not use tools of which they have not been trained on
the safe use and care of.
C. Tool Safety
1. The City has selected Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI) as its
standard method of protecting employees from the hazards associated with
electrical shock.
2. If a tool has visible or suspected damage, DO NOT USE, red tag and
place out of service until the tool is repaired or replaced.
3. Wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as applicable.
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4. GFCIs shall be used on all 120-volt, single phase 15 and 20-amphere
receptacle outlets, which are not part of the permanent wiring of the
building or structure.
5. Temporary power panels providing 120 -volt service shall be equipped
with GFCI circuit breakers for optimum personnel protection. The same
level of protection is afforded by the use of GFCI receptacles.
6. Disconnect tools before servicing and when changing accessories such as
blades, bits, cutters, etc.
7. Do not carry power tools by the cord or hose, as this may
damage the strain relief and/or connections.
8. When using air-operated tools, ensure that the source of the air supply
pressure is adjusted to not exceed the working pressure of the tool.
9. All equipment guards shall remain in place. If it is believed that a task
cannot be completed with the guard on, then stop your work and contact
your supervisor.
10. Ensure that the grinding wheel RPM matches the RPM of the grinder.
11. Do not carry sharp, pointed tools or other objects in your pockets.
D. The Right Tool for the Job
1. Select the proper size hammer for the job. Soft hammers are to be
used on machined parts, hardened parts and finish work.
2. Do not use a hammer with a cracked handle or loose head.
3. Oily hands or oily hammer handles will cause hammer to slip.
4. Hammers with chipped faces are not to be used.
5. The correct type and size screwdriver tip is important. Select the correct
size for the job.
6. Use only the correct type and size wrench for the job.
7. “Double wrenching” or the use of a “cheater” on wrenches to gain more
leverage or strength is not allowed. Use a manufactured “breaker bar” that
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is designed to provide additional leverage.
8. All air hose and other air connections used for cleaning must be equipped
with a pressure reducing nozzle or device that will reduce the pressure to
less than 30psi at the nozzle.
9. Compressed air shall not be used to clean particles from personal clothing.
10. On all hose to hose connections, airline “Whip-checks” must be used.
E. Personal Protective Equipment
1. Employees who use hand and portable power tools and are exposed to
hazards, such as noise, vibration, particulate, sparks/chips, abrasive,
splashing objects, harmful dusts, fumes, mists, vapors and/or gases must
complete a JSA for the task and be provided with the appropriate personal
protective equipment (PPE).
2. The following considerations should be evaluated at a minimum, in the
selection and use of PPE when utilizing hand and portable power tools:
a. Eye Protection - Safety glasses or goggles must be worn at all times
when using hand and portable power tools.
i. A face shield may be used, in addition, but not in place of
safety glasses or goggles to protect the face and neck.
Whenever a face shield is utilized, safety glasses or goggles
must be worn in conjunction with the secondary protection.
b. Foot Protection – Appropriate construction type foot wear, which
should include composite toe or steel-toed reinforcement and in some
cases metatarsal protection may be necessary.
c. Hearing Protection– If the tool or equipment being utilized generates
excessive noise, the use of hearing protection may be necessary. Follow
the manufacturer’s recommendations for hearing protection and if
necessary, personal noise dosimetry may be conducted to determine if
employees must be enrolled in the hearing conservation program. For
more information on this program, please refer to Hearing Conservation
Program.
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i. Hearing Protection is required during the use of certain hand
tools and for all portable power tools.
d. Respiratory Protection- Tools and equipment which generate excessive
dust, mists, vapors and other particulate matter may require the use of
a particulate filtering respirator. For more information on respiratory
protection requirements, please refer to Voluntary Respiratory Protection
Program.
e. Hand Protection- Whenever there are sharp objects or elevated
temperatures associated with the work being conducted, adequate hand
protection for the task must be provided to the employee performing
the work.
f. Body Protection- Depending on the hazards present, appropriate
clothing must be worn during the use of hand/portable power tools.
g. Hair Protection- Long hair must be tied back and secured during the
use of power tools to prevent hair from being caught in rotating parts.
F. Training Requirements
1. Employees that are expected to utilize hand and portable power tools as
part of their job duties must be adequately trained prior to using such
tools.
2. Employees should be trained in the following areas:
a. Be able to recognize potential hazards associated with different
types of tools and equipment; and the safety precautions necessary
for proper use.
b. PPE required to be worn during the use of these tools.
c. The proper use of hand and power tools and, other hand-held
equipment.
d. Be able to recognize damage and defects in tools which may render
them out of service and in need of repair.
e. When applicable, provide access to the manufacturer specifications
and manuals for specific equipment to be used.
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3. Retraining may be necessary to maintain employee knowledge of working
with tools or for review if a near-miss or injury has occurred.
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A. Purpose
To establish minimum requirements for the control of hazardous energy sources
to ensure the health and safety of personnel.
All City employees shall comply fully with the requirements for the Control of
Hazardous Energy (Lockout/Tag-out -LOTO) WAC 296-803, as outlined below.
B. Definitions
• Affected Employee - An employee whose job requires him/her to operate
or use a machine or equipment on which servicing or maintenance is
being performed under lockout or tag-out, or whose job requires
him/her to work in an area in which such servicing or maintenance is
being performed.
• Authorized employee - A person who locks out or tags out machines or
equipment in order to perform servicing or maintenance on that machine
or equipment. An affected employee becomes an authorized employee
when that employee’s duties include performing servicing or maintenance
covered under this section.
• Capable of being locked out - An energy isolating device is capable of being
locked out if it has a hasp or other means of attachment to which, or
through which, a lock can be affixed, or it has a locking mechanism built
into it. Other energy isolating devices are capable of being locked out, if
lockout can be achieved without the need to dismantle, rebuild, or replace
the energy-isolating device or permanently alter its energy control
capability.
• Energized - Connected to an energy source or containing residual or stored
energy.
• Energy isolating device - A mechanical device that physically prevents the
transmission or release or energy, including but not limited to the
following: A manually operated electrical circuit breaker, a disconnect
switch, a manually operated switch by which the conductors of a circuit
can be disconnected from all ungrounded supply conductor and, in
addition, no pole can be operated independently; a line valve; a block,
and any similar device used to block or isolate ener gy. Push buttons,
selector switches and other control circuit type devices are not energy
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isolating devices.
• Energy source - Any source of electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic,
chemical, thermal, or other energy.
• Group Lockout - Multiple employees, multi-crafts or combination of
Company and contractor personnel working on locked out system.
• Lock-out - The placement of a lock-out device on an energy isolating
device, in accordance with an established procedure, is ensuring that the
energy isolating device and the equipment being controlled cannot be
operated until the lock-out device is removed.
• Lock-out device - A device that utilizes a positive means such as a lock and
key, to hold an energy isolating device in the safe position and prevent
the energizing of a machine or equipment. Included are blank flanges and
bolted slip blinds.
• Servicing and/or maintenance - Workplace activities such as constructing,
installing, setting up, adjusting, inspecting, modifying, and maintaining
and/or servicing machines or equipment. These activities include
lubrication, cleaning or un -jamming of machines or equipment and
mak ing adjustments or tool changes, where the employee may be exposed
to the unexpected energizing or startup of the equipment or release of
hazardous energy.
• Tag-out - The placement of a tag-out device on an energy
isolating device, in accordance with an established procedure, to
indicate that the energy isolating device and the equipment being
controlled may not be operated until the tag -out device is removed.
• Try-out - Prior to starting work on machines or equipment that have been
locked out, the authorized employee shall verify that isolation and de-
energizing of the machine or equipment has been accomplished
C. Responsibilities
1. Site Manager: The senior on-site manager is responsible for assuring
compliance with the requirements of this procedure.
2. Supervisors: Each supervisor is responsible for assuring that all
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employees comply with the requirements of this procedure.
3. Safety Manager: The safety manager shall assist site management in the
effective implementation of this procedure, conduct training as required,
and monitor compliance to verify full compliance.
4. Employees: Each employee is responsible for practicing safe work habits
and complying with all requirements contained in this procedure.
D. Energy Isolating Devices (Locks and Tags)
1. Locks
a. All energy isolating devices capable of being locked-out shall be
locked-out. If an energy-isolating device is not capable of being
locked-out, the energy control program shall utilize a tag-out
system.
b. Locks, chains, blinds, wedges, key blocks, adapter pins, self-locking
fasteners, or other hardware for lock-out shall be provided for
isolating, securing or blocking of machines or equipment from
energy sources.
c. Lock-out locks be individually keyed and used exclusively for
Energy Control. The City’s senior onsite manager or designee shall
control all Grand Master Keys for removing locks where the
authorized person who applied them is not available to open lock.
d. Lock-out devices must have a means of identification that
distinguishes them from any other locking device.
e. Lock-out devices shall be durable and able to prevent removal
without the use of excessive force or unusual techniques, such as
with the use of bolt cutters or other metal cutting tools.
f. A lock-out log should be used to identify the location of a lock-out
lock and individual installing lock while it is in use.
2. Tags
a. Tags used in conjunction with lock-out devices for the purpose of
isolating an energy source shall be standardized in such a way
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to serve as a prominent warning: DANGER – DO NOT OPERATE.
b. The tag must have information spaces available for date,
identification of the energy source, and name of individual placing
the tag.
c. Tags shall be capable of withstanding the environment to which
they will be exposed for the maximum period of time that exposure
is expected.
d. Tags, including their means of attachment, shall be substantial
enough to prevent inadvertent or accidental removal. Tag -out
device attachment means shall be of a non-reusable type, attachable
by hand, self-locking, and non-releasable with a minimum
unlocking strength of no less than 50 pounds and having the
general design and basic characteristics of being at least equivalent
to a one -piece, all environment-tolerant nylon cable tie.
e. If an energy-isolating device is not capable of being locked
out, the employer’s energy control program shall utilize a tag -out
system.
f. In demonstrating that a level of safety is achieved in the tag -
out system which is equivalent to the level of safety obtained by
using a lock -out program the employer shall demonstrate full
compliance with all tag -out- related provisions of this standard
together with such additional elements as are necessary to provide
the equivalent safety available from the use of a lock-out device.
Additional means to be considered as part of the demonstration of
full employee protection shall include the implementation of
additional safety measures such as the removal of an isolating
circuit element, blocking of a controlling switch, opening of an
extra disconnecting device, or the removal of a valve handle to
reduce the likelihood of inadvertent energizing.
g. Tags are essentially warning devices affixed to energy isolating
devices, and do not provide the physical restraint on those devices
that is provided by a lock.
h. When a tag is attached to an energy isolating means, it is not to be
removed, without authorization of the authorized person(s)
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responsible for it, and it is never to be bypassed, ignored, or
otherwise defeated.
i. Tags are never to be re-used and destroyed immediately upon
removal. No alterations to the tag are permitted.
E. Periodic Audits
1. A periodic audit of the Control of Hazardous Energy Procedure
(Lockout/Tag-out -LOTO) shall be performed at least annually and also after
any incident involving implementation of the LOTO procedure to ensure the
requirements of the procedure are being followed.
2. Periodic audits will be conducted by the manager or designated authorized
employee other than those utilizing the LOTO procedure.
3. Any deficiencies noted during an audit shall be promptly corrected.
4. Periodic audits shall be fully documented and include locations audited,
persons interviewed, deficiencies noted, and corrective actions taken.
F. Application of Energy Control
1. The procedures for the application of energy control (lock-out/tag-
out) shall include the following elements and shall be accomplished in the
following sequence:
2. Preparation for shutdown: The impact of the shutdown on the
system or processes shall be understood and communicated to
those people who may be affected prior to the shutdown. Before an
authorized or affected employee turns off a machine or equipment, the
authorized employee shall have knowledge of the type and magnitude
of the energy, the hazards of the energy to be controlled, and the method
or means to control the energy.
3. Machine or equipment shutdown: The m achine or equipment shall be
turned off or shut down using the procedures established for the machine
or equipment. An orderly shutdown must be utilized to avoid any
additional or increased hazard(s) to employees as a result of the equipment
stoppage.
4. Machine or equipment isolation: All energy isolating devices that are
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need ed to control the energy to the machine or equipment shall be
physically located and operated in such a manner as to isolate the
machine or equipment from the energy source(s).
5. Lockout and Tag-out device application:
a. The employer shall maintain a bulk supply of individually keyed
locks, to be used only for locking out all energy isolating devices.
Lockout and/or Tag-out devices shall be affixed to each energy-
isolating device by authorized employees. This will include but not
be limited to: electrical process, steam, lube oil, relief system
hydraulic, and pneumatic. Small valves (gated or ¼ turn) that
cannot be locked with lock and chain shall be locked out with
“lockable covers”.
b. Lockout devices, where used, shall be affixed in a manner that will
hold the energy isolating devices in a “safe” or “off” position.
c. The authorized person or designee will place the initial lockout
and tag-out devices on a multi-lock device. Each employer with
affected employees shall install its own lockout and tag-out devices
on the multi -lock device.
d. Employers may remove their lockout/tag-out devices once their
work and exposures have been eliminated.
e. The City’s multi-lock device and lock(s) and tag(s) shall be the
last removed.
f. Where a tag cannot be affixed directly to the energy isolating
device, the tag shall be located as close as safely possible to the
device, in a position that will be immediately obvious to anyone
attempting to operate the device.
G. Stored Energy
1. Following the application of lockout or tag-out devices to energy isolating
devices, all potentially hazardous stored or residual energy shall be
relieved , disconnected, restrained, depressurized or otherwise rendered
safe.
2. If there is a possibility of re-accumulation of stored energy to a
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hazardous level, verification of isolation shall be continued until the
servicing or maintenance is completed, or until the possibility of such
accumulation no longer exists.
H. Verification of Isolation
1. Prior to starting work on machines or equipment that have been locked
out, the authorized employee shall verify that isolation and de-energizing
of the machine or equipment has been accomplished.
I. Release from Lockout and Tag-out
1. Before lockout and tag-out devices are removed and energy is restored
to the machine or equipment, procedures shall be followed and actions
taken by the authorized employee(s) to ensure the following:
a. The machine or equipment:
i. The work area shall be inspected to ensure that nonessential
items have been removed and to ensure that machine or
equipment components are operationally intact.
b. Employees:
i. The work area shall be checked to ensure that all employees
have been safely positioned or removed.
ii. Before lockout or tag-out devices are removed and
before machines or equipment are energized, affected
employees shall be notified that the lockout or tag-out
devices will be removed.
iii. After lockout or tag-out devices have been removed and
before a machine or equipment is started, affected
employees shall be notified that the lockout or tag-out
device(s) have been removed.
J. Lockout/Tag-out Devices Removal
1. Each lockout or tag-out device shall be removed from each energy -
isolating device by the person responsible for the machine or equipment.
Personnel lock out locks applied by maintenance, contract or other
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authorized employees shall be removed by the person who applied the
device.
2. Exception: When the authorized employee who applied the lockout or
tag-out device is not available to remove it, that device may be
removed by an authorized person only after the following safeguards
have been met to protect all employees:
a. Verification by the employer that the authorized employee who
applied the device is not at the facility.
b. Making all reasonable efforts to contact the authorized employee
to inform him/her that his/her lockout or tag-out device needs to
be removed.
c. The equipment must be inspected to ensure it is safe.
d. The City’s authorized person or his designee and the affected
employee’s supervisor concur that it is safe to remove the
lockout/tag-out device.
e. Ensuring that the authorized employee has this knowledge before
he/she resumes work at that facility.
f. The LOTO Emergency Lock Removal Procedure shall be followed
with applicable forms completed documenting the removal.
K. Testing or Positioning of Machines, Equipment, or Comp onents
1. In situations in which lockout or tag-out devices must be temporarily
removed from the energy isolating device and the machine or equipment
energized to test or position the machine, equipment or component
thereof, the following sequence of actions shall be followed:
a. Clear the machine or equipment of tools and materials
b. Remove employees from the machine or equipment area
c. Remove the lockout or tag-out devices
d. Energized and proceed with testing or positioning.
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e. De-energize all systems and reapply energy control measures to
continue the servicing and/or maintenance.
L. Outside Personnel (Contractors, Vendor Representatives)
1. Whenever outside servicing personnel a re to be engaged in activities
covered by the scope and application of this standard, the City and
contractor employers shall inform each other of their respective lockout or
tag-out procedures.
M. Group Lockout/Tag-out
1. When servicing and/or maintenance is performed by multiple employees,
multi-crafts or combination of City and contractor personnel, the
authorized unit operator will be responsible to assure that all employees
are afforded a level of protection equivalent to that provided by the
implementation of a personal lockout or tag-out device.
N. Shift or Personnel Changes
1. The keys that control access to the first unit lock attached to the multi -lock
devices shall be controlled by each operations unit. These keys shall be
controlled and accessed in a manner that will maintain protections to all
employees for the duration of the locked out project.
O. Training
1. Each employer shall provide training to ensure that the purpose and
function of the energy control program are understood by employees and
that the knowledge and skills required for the safe application, usage, and
removal of the energy controls are acquired by employees. The training
shall include the following:
a. Each authorized employee shall receive training in the
recognition of applicable hazardous energy sources, the type and
magnitude of the energy available in the workplace, and the
methods and means necessary for energy isolation and control.
b. Each affected employee shall be instructed in the purpose and
use of the energy control procedure.
c. All other employees whose work operations are or may be in an
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area where energy control procedures may be utilized, shall be
instructed about the procedure, and about the prohibition relating
to attempts to restart or re - energize machines or equipment which
are locked out or tagged out.
d. Training shall be conducted anytime this procedure is revised,
when changes in job assignments occur, and when a change in
machinery, equipment, or process present new hazards.
e. If the employer has reason to believe retraining is necessary,
retraining will occur to re-establish proficiency.
f. Training shall be documented and maintained on file.
P. Forms
• LOTO Log
• Emergency Lock Removal Procedures
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LOCKOUT/TAGOUT LOG
Project Site:
Page #:
Date
Applied:
Authorized
Employee: Location: System Locked Out: Date
Removed:
Authorized
Employee:
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EMERGENCY LOCK REMOVAL PROCEDURES
Date: Time:
1) Name of LOTO device owner whose Lock/Tag is to be
removed:
2) LOTO device owner's contact information:
3) LOTO device owner's AWS Supervisor:
4) Documented Attempt to Contact LOTO Device Owner:
Date/Time: Method of Contact: Result:
5) Purpose for LOTO
Removal:
Evaluate the entire affected system to ensure employee’s safety before LOT device is removed.
Device Removal Verification
Removed By (Print): Observed By (Print):
Signature: Signature:
Date/Time: Date/Time:
Accident Prevention Program
City of Port Townsend
Revision: 1
Date: 11/06/18 Section 019
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A. Purpose
To establish requirements for the development and implementation of mandatory
and voluntary respiratory protection programs. Mandatory program is in effect
when it is necessary for the health of employees or when required by the
employer. Voluntary use is only permitted when the City or manager has
determined that there are no air born hazards that would require mandatory use
of a respirator.
All City employees shall comply fully with the requirements for Respiratory
Protection as outlined below.
B. Definitions
• Air-purifying respirator – a respirator with an air-purifying filter, cartridge, or
canister that removes specific air contaminants by passing ambient air
through the air-purifying element.
• Atmosphere-supplying respirator – a respirator that supplies the respirator user
with breathing air from a source independent of the ambient atmosphere,
and includes supplied-air respirators (SARs) and self-contained breathing
apparatus (SCBA) units.
• Competent person – the person designated must meet two qualifications: they
should have an excellent working knowledge of the respiratory protection
procedures or methods and should have sufficient authority to promptly
prevent and/or correct hazardous conditions.
• Hazardous atmosphere – an atmosphere that may expose employees to the risk of
death, incapacitation, impairment of ability to self-rescue, injury or acute
illness.
• Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health (IDLH) – any atmosphere that poses an
immediate hazard to life or produces immediate irreversible debilitating
effects on health.
• Oxygen deficiency – the concentration of oxygen, by volume, below which
atmosphere supplying respiratory protection must be provided. It exists in
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atmospheres where the percentage of oxygen, by volume, is less than 19.5
percent.
• Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) – the OSHA established time-weighted
average (TWA) concentration of a contaminant that shall not be exceeded.
• Program administrator – the qualified person assigned to administer or oversee
the respiratory protection program and conduct the required evaluations of
program effectiveness.
• Qualitative fit test (QLFT) – a pass/fail fit test to assess the adequacy of
respirator fit that relies on the individual’s response to a test agent.
• Quantitative fit test (QNFT) – an assessment of the adequacy of respirator fit by
numerically measuring the amount of leakage into the respirator.
• Time-weighted average (TWA) – the average concentration of a contaminant in
air during a specific time period.
• Voluntary use of a respirator – the use of a respirator that is not required, based
on documented exposure levels
C. General
1. Every consideration will be given to the use of effective engineering controls
to eliminate or reduce exposure to respiratory hazards to the point where
respirators are not required. However, when feasible engineering controls
are not effective in controlling toxic substances, the City will provide
appropriate respiratory protective equipment.
2. Employees required to use respiratory protective devices because of
exposure to toxic substances will wear respiratory protective devices as a
condition of employment. Employee required to use respirators will be
medically screened, thoroughly trained in their use, properly fitted, and
appropriately tested. PPE shall be provided to the affected employee at no
cost (same as all other PPE).
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3. This written respiratory protection procedure will be revised as necessary to
address the specific respiratory hazards at each project or work location. The
written plan will also include information such as name of program
administrator and respirator models and sizes available for use.
4. All medical evaluations, training and respirators will be provided at no cost
to the employee.
D. Respirator Selection
1. A summary diagram for selecting whether use of a respirator is required is
presented in Respirator Use Requirements Flow Chart. This diagram
provides an overview of the decision logic to be used to select respiratory
protection equipment. The following is a listing of specific decision
considerations:
a. All respirators shall be NIOSH certified and selection shall be based
on the hazards that employees may/will be exposed to.
b. Purchased respirators need to be able to be serviced/tested by East
Jefferson Fire Rescue or other local vendor.
c. Most respirator manufacturers now supply a given model respirator
in different sizes so that workers can be fitted with the same brand of
respirator.
d. What is the estimated contaminant concentration where the respirator
will be used, as determined by industrial hygiene monitoring
information?
e. What is the permissible exposure limit (PEL) to the contaminant,
threshold limit value (TLV), and short-term exposure limit (STEL)?
Health standards for many specific substances are available. Tables
Z1, Z2, and Z3 of OSHA Standard 1910.1000 give the required PELs
when no health standards supersede these tables. However, since
these tables are established from the 1969 TLV list, good industrial
hygiene practice should base respirator selection on current TLVs, if
lower, or on other new toxicity data.
f. Is the contaminant gas, vapor, mist, dust, or fume? This information
can be determined by studying the manufacturing or maintenance
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process: raw materials, intermediate products, by-products, and
wastes. (See Material Safety Data Sheets when available.)
g. Could the contaminant concentrations be termed immediately
dangerous to life or health (IDLH)? This knowledge is derived from
the manufacturer of raw materials, the process engineer or chemist,
the company or plant industrial hygienist, and Safety Data Sheets,
when available. In addition, consideration should be given to the
potential for contamination of atmospheres under abnormal or
emergency conditions.
h. If the contaminant is flammable, does the estimated concentration
approach the lower explosive limit (LEL), or do dust concentrations
create a potential explosion problem? Besides creating a potential fire
and explosion condition, in most situations flammable vapor or gas
concentrations exceeding the LEL are IDLH. Plant gas or vapor levels
can be determined with an explosion or combustible gas indicator
(CGI). Here, too, consideration should be given to emergency
conditions such as spills.
i. Does the contaminant have adequate warning properties?
Manufacturers can supply such information directly or through Safety
Data Sheets. Warning properties such as odor, irritation, or taste
should ideally be present at concentrations at or below the PEL.
j. Will the contaminant irritate the eyes at the estimated concentration?
Frequently, this will be self-evident if the operation is in progress.
This information, too, is available from the Safety Data Sheets of raw
materials. For irritant materials a full face-piece respirator should be
used.
k. If the contaminant is a gas or vapor, is there any available sorbent that
traps it efficiently? Respirator manufacturers and/or industrial
hygienists can provide this information.
l. Can the contaminant be absorbed through the skin as a vapor or
liquid? If so, will it significantly add to the worker's exposure and
cause injury? Skin absorption is indicated in the OSHA Standard
1910.1000, Table Z1 by the notation "skin" after the material name.
Safety Data Sheets will also indicate skin absorption potential.
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m. What is the size of the worker's face? Some manufacturers offer the
same model respirator in two or three sizes. This will help to fit most
workers properly with one brand of respirator.
n. What types of respirators will give the required maximum use
concentration (MUC)? The MUC is a measure of the degree of
protection provided by a respirator to the wearer. It also takes into
account respirator limitations and the ability of a user to obtain a
satisfactory fit. Multiplying the PEL (or STEL) by the protection factor
assigned to a respirator gives the maximum use concentration (MUC)
of the hazardous material for which the respirator can be used.
i. MUC = PEL x Protection Factor
Respirator Type Minimum Protection Factor
Negative Pressure- Filter Masks (N95, etc.) 100
Air Purifying Respirator (1/2 Mask) 100
Air Purifying Respirator (Full Facepiece) 500
SCBA/SABA (Tested in Negative Pressure Mode) 1000
2. Air Purifying Respirators
a. General Considerations and Limitations
b. Chemical cartridge respirators shall not be used in environments
immediately dangerous to life or health (IDLH) or in atmospheres
containing less than 19.5 percent oxygen.
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c. Chemical cartridge respirators shall not be used for exposure to air
contaminants that cannot be easily detected by odor or irritations. For
example, cartridge respirators should not be used to protect against
methyl chloride or hydrogen sulfide. The former is odorless and the
latter, while foul smelling, paralyzes the olfactory nerve so quickly
that odor detection is unreliable.
d. Full face-piece respirators must be used when working in
environments where concentrations are irritating to the eyes.
e. Chemical cartridge respirators cannot be used for protection against
gases that are not effectively stopped by chemical filters utilized (for
example, carbon monoxide).
3. Cartridge Selection
a. Select the cartridge or cartridge/filter group that best fits the type of
exposure. Using the wrong cartridge and filter may be equivalent to
using no respirator at all. For example, acid gas respirators cannot be
used for protection against organic vapors. However, an organic
vapor-acid gas respirator can be used for one or both these exposures.
Check and recheck cartridge labels to ensure that the correct types are
issued.
4. Respirator Use
a. After correct cartridges have been selected, screw the cartridge into
the face-piece after checking it for intactness (see Respirator
Inspection, Care, Maintenance, and Storage procedure). Ensure that
cartridge seals (usually part of the packaging) have been removed.
b. Fit the respirator as outlined in Respirator Fit Testing procedure.
c. The cartridges can be used until the contaminant can be smelled or
tasted, or until irritation occurs.
d. Do not use a cartridge after the expiration date printed on the label.
e. If the face-piece and cartridge are used by only one employee and the
cartridge has not been exhausted, it may be resealed by the worker
and reused at a future time until cartridge exhaustion.
f. Inspect, clean, and maintain respirators as outlined in the Respirator
Inspection, Care, Maintenance, and Storage procedure.
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5. Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus
a. The self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) affords complete
respiratory protection in any atmosphere for which the lungs are the
principal route of entry into the body. They supply the wearer with
cool, non-contaminated breathing air, as required by the wearer, at
approximately ambient atmospheric pressure. (For specific instructions
on SCBA units, consult the SCBA manufacturer's manual.)
b. Component Parts
i. A high-pressure, flexible hose that routes the compressed air
from the cylinder to the regulator.
ii. An audible alarm that sounds to indicate low cylinder air
pressure.
iii. A pressure-demand regulator that reduces the cylinder
pressure to a breathable pressure and supplies the wearer with
air in direct response to breathing requirements. Entry and re-
entry into immediately dangerous or hazardous atmospheres
requires a pressure-demand regulator.
iv. A face-piece assembly consisting of a rubber face-piece and
lens with headband, exhalation valve, and breathing tube.
v. A carrier and harness on which the cylinder is mounted and by
which the entire apparatus is worn.
c. Breathing Air Quality & Use
i. A cylinder and valve to contain a supply of grade D or better
compressed air.
ii. Cylinders must be stored in a clean atmosphere with in-line
purification and must be tagged to indicate date of change out.
iii. Fittings must not be incompatible with non-respirable gasses
and containers.
d. General Check-out Procedure – follow manufacturer’s instructions
6. Powered Air-Purifying Respirators
a. Powered air-purifying respirators protect against particulates and/or
gasses and vapors. A significant advantage of a powered air-
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purifying respirator is that it usually supplies air at a positive pressure
so that any leakage is outward from the face-piece. It can be used
with a helmet, hood, or face-piece. Air can be supplied by a user-
mounted, battery-powered backpack purifier or by a stationary pump
through up to 25 feet of low pressure hose. It has good applicability
to abrasive blasting, grinding, pesticide spraying, and operations
using asbestos.
b. Generally, powered air-purifying units can be used for up to 100 times
the PEL for dusts, mists, and fumes when used with filters approved
for materials with PELs not less than 0.05 mg/m3 or 2 mg/cf and
nuisance dusts. Such respirators can be used for up to 3000 times the
PEL when used with high-efficiency filters. For use in chemical vapor
or gaseous atmospheres, the MUC depends on the chemical cartridge
or canister used. In all cases check the manufacturer's specifications
and the NIOSH/MSHA approval for the particular configuration
used. Consideration should first be given to standard air-purifying
units, supplied air devices, and SCBA.
E. Medical Evaluation
This is required by employees for both the mandatory and voluntary use of
respirators. Medical evaluations are completed only once for each employee. If
there are changes in health and/or prescriptions that would affect use of a
respirator then a second medical evaluation is required.
1. Using a respirator may place a physiological burden on employees that
varies with the respirator type worn, the workplace conditions in which the
respirator is used, and the medical status of the employee.
2. The City shall provide medical evaluations to employees prior to fit-testing,
City issuance and use of respiratory protection devices. Medical evaluations
shall be under the direct supervision of a licensed physician.
3. The employee shall be given the opportunity to discuss results of the medical
evaluation with the licensed physician.
4. When conducting the initial medical evaluation respirator Medical
Evaluation Questionnaire, WAC 296-842-22005 or equivalent shall be used.
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Additional documentation Employer Provided Information for Medical
Evaluations will be filled out by employees.
5. In addition to the standardized questionnaire, the physician must also be
furnished with a copy of the latest OSHA Standard governing the type of
exposure to which the employee will be subjected, a description of the
employee’s duties as they relate to the exposure, the anticipated exposure
level, a description of the respiratory protective equipment and additional
protective clothing and equipment to be used, any temperature and
humidity extremes that may be encountered, and any available information
from previous medical evaluations of the employee.
6. At the conclusion of the evaluation, the physician will submit a written
opinion to the City that will include the results of the medical evaluation and
any recommendations from the physician concerning the employee’s
limitations and follow-up examinations if required.
7. The City must furnish a copy of the physician’s opinion to the affected
employee within thirty (30) days.
8. Medical evaluations and questionnaires shall be administered confidentially
during the employee’s normal working hours; employees participating in the
respirator protection program shall be provided an opportunity to discuss
the results with the physician or other licensed health care professional.
F. Warnings Related to Respirator Selection and Use
1. Failure to properly select the appropriate respirator for all materials and
concentrations to which the respirator wearer may be exposed may result in
serious illness, disability, or death of the wearer.
2. Only self-contained positive-pressure breathing apparatus and full-face
piece, pressure demand air-line respirator equipped with an auxiliary self-
contained air supply are permitted for use:
a. In oxygen-deficient atmospheres (an atmosphere of less than 19.5
percent oxygen by volume at sea level);
b. In poorly-ventilated areas or confined spaces such as tanks, small
rooms, tunnels, or vessels unless the confined space is well ventilated
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and the concentration of toxic contaminants is known to be below the
upper limit recommended for the respirator;
3. In atmospheres where the concentrations of toxic contaminants are unknown
or are IDLH; employee must immediately leave the area and evaluate proper
respiratory considerations to take prior to continuing work.
4. Immediately leave the area and replace the respirator if:
a. Breathing becomes difficult;
i. Dizziness or other distress occur;
ii. Wearer senses irritation, or smells or tastes the contaminants;
iii. If the respirator becomes damaged.
5. The respirator selected must properly fit the wearer. To ensure that the
respirator fits and operates properly, carefully follow fitting instructions, fit
tests, and fit checks outlined in the instruction booklet that accompanies each
respirator.
6. If the worker is exposed to two or more contaminants for which different air-
purifying elements are recommended (such as ammonia and benzene), and if
a combination element is not available, then an air-supplied respirator
should be used.
7. Some toxic contaminants are readily absorbed through the skin. In such
cases appropriate gloves and/or protective clothing may be required to
protect other areas of the body that might be exposed to the contaminant.
8. Individuals with beards or other facial hair that passes between the sealing
flange of the respirator face-piece and the wearer’s face shall not use
respirators. Facial hair may cause leakage or may interfere with proper
operation of the respirator exhalation valve, thereby exposing the wearer to
the hazardous contaminants.
9. Air-purifying respirators should not be used for sandblasting, or for gas or
vapor contaminants with poor warning properties.
10. Any air-purifying respirator, when properly selected and fitted, will
significantly reduce but not completely eliminate breathing of contaminant(s)
by the respirator wearer. The wearer, when working in atmospheres
containing substances such as asbestos (reputed to cause cancer in amounts
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below their TLV), will obtain better protection from a continuous-flow or
positive-pressure air-supplied respirator.
G. IDLH Atmospheres
1. In the event that work is required to be performed in IDLH atmospheres,
the following procedures shall apply:
a. At minimum, one employee shall be stationed outside of the IDLH
atmosphere while work is being performed.
b. Visual, voice or signal line communication take place between the
employee in the IDLH atmosphere and the worker stationed outside
of the atmosphere.
c. The employee stationed outside of the atmosphere must be trained
and equipped to provide emergency rescue and be equipped with:
i. Supplied-air respirator and
ii. Appropriate retrieval equipment
H. Special Respirator-Use Considerations
1. Facial hair lying between the sealing surface of a respirator face-piece and the
wearer's skin will prevent a good seal. Except with positive-pressure air-line
respirators, powered air-purifying respirators, and pressure-demand SCBA,
a negative pressure exists within the mask upon inhalation; a poor seal will
permit contaminated air to enter the face-piece. Even a few days' growth of
beard can permit contaminant penetration. Respirators shall not be worn
when conditions prevent a good seal of the face-piece to the face. Facial hair
in the form of beards, long mustaches, long sideburns, and stubble should
not be permitted on workers required to wear respirators if the hair comes
between the face-piece sealing surface and the face.
2. Workers wearing corrective eye glasses present a special problem with
respect to respiratory protection. Spectacle temple bars or straps that pass
between the sealing surface of a full face-piece respirator and the wearer's
face prevent a good seal and thus must not be worn.
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3. Spectacles with short temple bars that do not interfere with respirator sealing
and are taped to the worker's face may be used temporarily. Special
corrective lenses or spectacle inserts that can be permanently mounted inside
a full face-piece respirator are available from most manufacturers. Such
corrective lenses should be mounted in the face-piece so that it ensures good
vision and comfort.
4. Spectacles or goggles may also interfere with quarter- or half-mask sealing; in
this case a full face-piece respirator should be used.
5. Contact lenses shall not be worn while wearing a respirator in a
contaminated atmosphere. Contaminants may get into the eyes and cause
severe irritation and/or discomfort with quarter- or half-masks. Full face-
pieces can pull at the side of the eye and cause the lens to pop out.
6. Under cold weather conditions a number of problems can develop, such as
fogging of full face-piece respirators, valve sticking, and rubber stiffness that
prevents a good facial seal.
7. Fogging of full face-piece respirators can be reduced by installing a nose-cup
into the face-piece. This device, available from most manufacturers, deflects
the exhalation breath away from the cold face-piece lens. Defogging solution
should also be used.
Under some conditions it is necessary for respirator wearers to communicate
with other personnel within or outside the contaminated area. When this is
necessary, special communicating equipment, generally available from the
respirator manufacturer, can be installed inside the face-piece. If it is
necessary to penetrate the face-piece or alter the respirator in any way to
install communications equipment, check with the respirator manufacturer
to ensure that NIOSH/MSHA approval will not be voided by such
installation.
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I. Respirator Fit-Testing
Fit testing is required by employees for both the mandatory and voluntary use of
respirators. Annual testing is required due to the changes in shape and bone
structure of the face.
1. Prior to use of any respirator with a negative or positive pressure tight-fitting
face-piece, the employee must be fit tested with the same make, model, style,
and size of respirator that will be used.
2. Employees using tight-fitting face-piece respirators shall pass the appropriate
qualitative (QLFT) or quantitative (QNFT) fit test.
3. Employees may be provided with several different respirator models, and
will be provided several different sizes so that the respirator is acceptable to,
and correctly fits, the user.
4. Respirator fit testing shall be conducted in compliance with OSHA accepted
fit test protocols, 1910.134, Respiratory Protection Training & Fit Testing
Checklist.
5. Qualitative Fit Testing (QLFT)
a. One of the following protocols may be utilized when performing a
QLFT. The protocol used must be appropriate for the respirator type
being tested:
i. Isoamyl Acetate Protocol
• The isoamyl acetate (banana oil) test relies on the
employee’s ability to detect odor inside the respirator. The
test is performed by placing an isoamyl acetate saturated
material near the respirator. If the wearer is unable to smell
the chemical, then a satisfactory fit is assumed to be
achieved.
• This protocol is not appropriate for fit testing of particulate
respirators. If used to fit test particulate respirators, the
respirator must be equipped with an organic vapor filter.
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ii. Saccharin Solution Aerosol Protocol
• The saccharin solution test relies on the employee’s ability
to taste a saccharin solution sprayed around the outside of
the respirator. The test is performed by placing an
enclosure over the respirator wearer’s head and shoulders
and administering the solution from a nebulizer. If the
wearer does not react to the chemical, then a satisfactory fit
is assumed to be achieved.
• This test is dependent on the wearer’s honest indication of
taste. There is no involuntary response.
• The saccharin solution aerosol QLFT protocol is the only
currently available validated test protocol for use with
disposable particulate respirators not equipped with high-
efficiency filters.
iii. Bitrex TM (Denatornium Benzoate) Solution Aerosol Protocol
• The BitrexTM solution aerosol QLFT protocol uses the
published saccharin test protocol because that protocol is
widely accepted. Bitrex is routinely used as a taste aversion
agent in household liquids.
iv. Irritant Smoke (Stannic Chloride) Protocol
• The irritant smoke test is performed by directing an irritant
smoke from a smoke tube towards the respirator being
worn. If the wearer does not detect the irritant smoke, a
satisfactory fit is assumed to be achieved.
• Since this type of test provokes an involuntary response
from the employee, it is the preferred testing method when
available.
6. Quantitative Fit Testing (QNFT)
a. One of the following protocols may be utilized when performing a
QNFT. Quantitative fit testing relies on instrumentation to provide a
measurement of the volumetric leakage rate of a face-piece to quantify
the respirator fit.
i. Generated Aerosol Quantitative Fit Testing Protocol
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• This protocol uses particulates such as corn oil,
polyethylene glycol 400, di-2-ethyl hexyl sebacate or
sodium chloride as test aerosols.
• Quantitative fit testing using this protocol will be
conducted in accordance with the protocols contained in
Training & Fit Test Checklist & Record, 29 CFR 1910.134,
Respiratory Protection.
b. Ambient Aerosol Condensation Nuclei Counter (CNC) Quantitative
Fit Testing Protocol
i. This protocol (Portacount TM) uses a probe to sample air
from inside the respirator to calculate the overall fit factor.
ii. Quantitative fit testing using this protocol will be
conducted in accordance with the protocols contained in
Training & Fit Test Checklist & Record, 29 CFR 1910.134,
Respiratory Protection.
c. Controlled Negative Pressure (CNP) Quantitative Fit Testing Protocol
i. This protocol provides an alternative to aerosol fit testing
methods. The CNP protocol fit test is based on exhausting
air from a temporarily sealed respirator to generate and
then maintain a constant negative pressure inside the face-
piece.
iii. Quantitative fit testing using this protocol will be
conducted in accordance with the protocols contained in
Training & Fit Test Checklist & Record, 29 CFR
1910.134, Respiratory Protection.
7. Qualitative and/or qualitative fit testing must be repeated at least once every
12 months for routine use.
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8. The respirator wearer is required to conduct positive and negative pressure
fit checks each time he or she dons a respirator and before entering a
contaminated area.
a. In the positive pressure fit check, the wearer closes off the exhalation
valve by gently placing a palm over the valve and gently exhaling into
the face-piece. The fit is considered satisfactory if a slight pressure builds
up in the face-piece without any evidence of outward leakage.
b. In the negative pressure fit check, the wearer closes of the inlet(s) with
a palm(s) and inhaling gently so that the face-piece collapses slightly.
The breath is held for about 10 seconds. If the face-piece remains
slightly collapsed and no inward leakage of air is detected, the
tightness of the respirator is considered satisfactory.
9. Respirator fit testing shall be documented and maintained on file for
review.
J. Respirator Inspection, Care, Maintenance & Storage
1. Inspection
a. All respirators shall be inspected by the user before each use, and at
least monthly by a competent person to ensure that they remain in
satisfactory working condition.
b. Respirators shall be thoroughly inspected during and after each
cleaning.
c. Respirators maintained for use in emergency situations shall be
inspected at least monthly and checked for proper function before and
after each use.
d. Respirator inspections must include a check of respirator function,
tightness of connections, and the condition of various parts including,
but not limited to, face-piece, head straps, valves, connecting tube,
cartridges, canisters or filters, and a check of elastomeric parts for
pliability and signs of deterioration.
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e. Monthly inspections of emergency respirators shall be documented.
f. Air-Purifying respirators should be inspected as follows before and
after each use:
i. .Examine the face-piece for:
1. Dirt
2. Cracks, tears, holes, or physical distortion of shape from
improper storage
3. Inflexibility of rubber face-piece (stretch and knead to
restore flexibility)
4. Cracked or badly scratched lenses in full face-pieces
5. Incorrectly mounted full face-piece lenses, or broken or
missing mounting clips
6. Cracked or broken air-purifying element holder(s),
badly worn threads, or missing gasket(s), if required.
ii. Examine the head straps or head harness for:
1. Breaks
2. Loss of elasticity
3. Broken or malfunctioning buckles and attachments
4. Excessively worn serrations on head harness that might
permit slippage (full face-piece only)
iii. Examine the exhalation valve for the following after removing
its cover:
• Foreign material, such as detergent residue, dust
particles, or human hair under the valve seat
• Cracks, tears, or distortion in the valve material
• Improper insertion of the valve body in the face-piece
• Cracks, breaks, or chips in the valve body, particularly
in the sealing surface
• Improper installation of the valve in the valve body
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iv. Examine the air-purifying element for:
• Incorrect cartridge, canister, or filter for the hazard
• Incorrect installation, loose connections, missing or
worn gasket(s), or cross-threading in the holder
• Expired shelf-life date on the cartridge or canister
• Whether contaminant(s) can be smelled or tasted
• Cracks or dents in the outside case of the filter,
cartridge, or canister, indicated by the absence of sealing
material, tape, foil, etc. over the inlet
v. If the device has a corrugated breathing tube, examine it for:
• Broken or missing end connectors
• Missing or loose hose clamps
• Deterioration (determined by stretching the tube and
looking for cracks)
vi. Examine the harness of a front- or back-mounted gas mask for:
• Damage or wear to the canister holder that may prevent
its being held in place
• Broken harness straps for fastening
• Atmosphere-Supplying respirators should be inspected
as follows before and after each use:
a. If the device is a tight-fitting face-piece, follow
procedures outlined under air-purifying
respirators, except for those pertaining to the air-
purifying elements.
b. If the device is a hood, helmet, blouse, or full suit,
follow these procedures:
i. Examine the hood, blouse, or full suit for
rips and tears, seam integrity, etc.
ii. Examine the protective headgear, if
required, for general condition with
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emphasis on the suspension inside the
headgear
iii. Examine the protective face shield, if any,
for cracks, breaks, or impaired vision
iv. Ensure that the protective screen is intact
and secured correctly over the face shield
c. Examine the air supply systems for:
i. Integrity and good condition of air supply
lines and hoses, including attachment and
end fittings
ii. Correct operation and condition of all
regulators or other air flow regulators
d. In addition to the above, for self-contained
breathing apparatus (SCBA) units also determine
that:
i. Breathing air cylinders are fully charged
and recharged when the pressure falls to
90 percent of the manufacturer’s
recommended pressure level
ii. Low level alarms are functioning properly
on closed-circuit SCBA, a fresh canister of
CO2 (carbon dioxide) sorbent is installed.
1. Care and Maintenance
a. Cleaning the Respirator
i. Respirators (except filtering face-pieces – dust masks) shall be
cleaned and disinfected using procedures in WAC 296-842-
22015 Respirator Cleaning Procedures. Respirator cleaning
procedures recommended by the manufacturer are allowed,
provided that such procedures are equivalent.
ii. Respirators used should be clean, sanitary, and in good
working order. Clean and sanitary respirators are essential in
the prevention of dermatitis, skin irritation and communicable
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respiratory diseases. These requirements are a vital part of
any successful respiratory protection program.
iii. To ensure that the respirator does not create a health hazard
(i.e., skin irritation) for users, a maintenance program must be
in place prior to respirator use and must address proper
cleaning and disinfecting procedures and proper storage. The
manufacturer’s instructions for inspection, cleaning, and
maintenance of respirators should be consulted.
iv. The Department Manager will oversee the maintenance and
care program.
v. Respirator wipes are not an adequate substitute for the
cleaning and disinfecting process.
b. Maintenance and Repair
i. Respirators that fail and inspection or are otherwise found to
be defective shall be removed from service and discarded or
repaired.
ii. Employees involved in respirator maintenance and repair
shall be thoroughly trained.
iii. Repairs and adjustments shall never be made beyond the
manufacturer’s recommendations.
iv. All replacement parts shall be supplied by the respirator
manufacture. No substitutes shall be permitted.
c. Storing the Respirator
i. When they are not being used, respirators shall be stored in
individually sealed plastic bags and stored at locations established
by project management in order to protect them against dust,
sunlight, extreme temperatures, excessive moisture, or damaging
chemicals.
ii. Respirators should not be stored in tool boxes, gang boxes or any
other location that might subject them to distortion or damage.
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K. Program Evaluation
1. Periodic evaluations shall be conducted and documented to ensure that this
procedure is being implemented properly during all phases of operation
involving the use of respiratory protective equipment.
2. This procedure shall be revised as necessary to incorporate process
improvements based on program evaluations and employee feedback.
L. Program Administrator
1. The respirator program administrator for the City is:
• Department Manager
M. Training
Training is required by employees for both the mandatory and voluntary use of
respirators once per year.
1. The City shall provide training to all workers involved in respirator usage
free of charge. The City shall certify that the training has been
accomplished. This certification shall be available for inspection by
workers and their authorized representatives.
2. The following training intervals shall be provided to each affected worker:
a. Before the worker's first duty.
b. Before any change in assigned duty.
c. When any change in operations occurs that presents a hazard in
which the worker has not been trained.
d. Whenever there is reason to believe that there are deviations from
entry procedures that could prove hazardous to workers.
e. All affected employees shall receive re-training annually.
N. Recordkeeping
1. All records pertaining to the employee’s medical examination and evaluation
shall be retained by the employer for a period of thirty (30) years plus the
duration of employment. The following records shall be maintained on file:
a. Respirator training records – for duration of employment
b. Medical approval form (from the LHCP)
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c. Fit test records – until next fit test is administered
d. Maintenance and repair records
e. A copy of the respiratory protection program
f. Documented audits
g. An employee signed copy of WAC 296-842-11005, Advisory
Information for Employees Who Voluntarily Use Respirators.
O. Supplement - Breathing Air Quality for Air Supplying Respirators
1. Breathing Air Quality for Air Supplying Respirators
Air for atmosphere-supplying respirators will be of high purity, meets quality
levels for content, and does not exceed certain contaminant levels and moisture
requirements.
Compressed air, compressed oxygen, liquid air, and liquid oxygen used for
respiration must be in accordance with the specifications found in WAC 296-842-
2005.
2. Air Supplied by Vendors
For supplied-air respirators (SARs), only Grade D breathing air shall be
used in cylinders. The Program Administrator will coordinate refilling
compressed air cylinders with East Jefferson Fire and Rescue and require
their certification that the air in the cylinders meets the specifications of
Grade D breathing air. Moisture content in the cylinders will not exceed a
dew point of –50° F (-45.6° C) at 1 atmosphere pressure. Note: This
requirement will prevent respirator valves from freezing, which can occur when
excess moisture accumulates on the valves. All breathing gas containers must
be marked in accordance with the NIOSH respirator certification standard,
42 CFR part 84.
3. Air Supplied by Compressors
Compressors used for supplying breathing air will be constructed and situated so
contaminated air cannot enter the air-supply system. The location of the air
intake will be in an uncontaminated area where exhaust gases from nearby
vehicles, the internal combustion engine that is powering the compressor itself (if
applicable), or other exhaust contaminants being ventilated will not be picked up
by the compressor air intake.
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Compressors will be equipped with suitable in-line, air-purifying sorbent beds and
filters to further ensure breathing air quality and to minimize moisture content so
that the dew point at 1 atmosphere pressure is 10°F (5.56°C) below the ambient
temperature. Sorbent beds and filters will be maintained and replaced or
refurbished periodically according to the manufacturer's recommendations. An
inspection tag will be kept at the compressor indicating the most recent change
date and the signature of the Program Administrator or his/her designee
authorized to perform the maintenance.
The Program Administrator will ensure that the compressor intake will not
allow the introduction of carbon monoxide greater than 10 parts per
million (ppm) into the system. Note: This could be from sources other than the
compressor such as forklifts or other gas powered equipment. Where this is not
possible or feasible, it may be necessary to combine the use of a carbon
monoxide alarm with a carbon monoxide sorbent bed when conditions are
such that a reliable carbon monoxide-free area for air intake cannot be
found.
Where possible, non-oil-lubricated compressors will be used at our
facilities or worksites.
If an oil-lubricated compressors are used, a high-temperature alarm or
carbon monoxide alarm, or both, will be used to monitor carbon monoxide
levels. If only high-temperature alarms are used, the air supply will be
monitored at intervals sufficient to make sure the concentration of carbon
monoxide in the breathing air does not exceed 10 ppm.
Breathing air couplings will be incompatible with outlets for non-
respirable plant air or other gas systems to prevent accidental servicing of
airline respirators with non-respirable gases or pure oxygen. No
asphyxiating substance (e.g., nitrogen, argon) will be allowed in the
breathing airlines.
P. Voluntary Program
The purpose of this program is to provide procedures and guidance for all
employees who voluntarily choose to use a respirator and is designed to
comply with Chapter 296-842 WAC. Employees will be processed in the
identical procedures as mandatory respirator use. This includes:
1. Respirator selection,
2. Medical evaluation,
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3. Fit testing,
4. Training,
5. Record keeping
Each employee that voluntarily uses a respirator, including filter face-pieces –
dust masks, will be given a copy of the advisory information contained in
WAC 296-842-11005, Advisory Information for Employees Who Voluntarily
Use Respirators. For employees speaking other languages, provisions shall be
made to ensure that they understand the content.
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MEDICAL QUESTIONNIAIRE FORM (Mandatory)
WAC 296-842-22005
To the employer:
• Must tell employee how to deliver or send the completed questionnaire to the health
care provider.
• Will not review employee’s questionnaire.
To the employee: Can you read? (Circle one): Yes/ No
• Your employer must allow you to answer this questionnaire during normal working
hours, or at a time and place that is convenient to you.
• Your employer or supervisor must not look at or review your answers at any time.
• Your employer must tell you how to deliver or send this questionnaire to the health
care professional who will review it.
To the Health care provider:
• Review information in this questionnaire and any additional information provided to
you by the employer
• You may add questions to this questionnaire; HOWEVER, questions in Parts 1-3 may
not be deleted or substantially altered.
• Follow-up evaluation is required for any positive response to questions 1-8 in Part 2, or
questions 1-6 in Part 3. This might include: phone consultations to evaluate positive
responses, medical tests, and diagnostic procedures
• When evaluation is complete, send a copy of your written recommendations to the
employer and employee.
Part 1. Employee Background Information (Mandatory) All employees must complete this
part.
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1. Today’s date: ________________________
2. Your name: __________________________
3. Your age (to nearest year): ________________
4. Sex (circle one): Male/ Female
5. Your height: _______ft. ______in.
6. Your weight: ________lbs
7. Your job title: ________________________
8. A phone number where you can be reached by the health care professional who reviews
this questionnaire (include the area code): _______________________
9. The best time to reach you at this number: ______________________
10. Has your employer told you how to contact the health care professional who will review
this questionnaire (circle one): Yes/ No
11. Check the type of respirator you will use (you can check more than one category:
a. _______ N. R. or P. filtering-face piece respirator (for example, a dust mask, or an
N95 filtering-face piece respirator)
b. Check all that apply
Half Mask Full face piece mask Helmet hood Escape
Nonpowered cartridge or canister Powered air-purifying cartridge respirator
(PAPR)
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Supplied air or Air-line
12. Have you worn a respirator (circle one): Yes/ No
If “yes” what type(s): ________________________
Part 2. General Health Information (Mandatory) All employees must complete this part.
Please circle “Yes” or “No”
1. Do you currently smoke tobacco, or have you smoked tobacco in the last month: Yes/
No
2. Have you ever had any of the following conditions?
a. Seizures (fits): Yes/ No
b. Diabetes (sugar disease): Yes/ No
c. Allergic reactions that interfere with your breathing: Yes/ No
d. Claustrophobia (fear of enclosed spaces): Yes/ No
e. Trouble smelling odors: Yes/ No
3. Have you ever had any of the following pulmonary or lung problems?
a. Asbestosis: Yes/ No
b. Asthma: Yes/ No
c. Chronic bronchitis: Yes/ No
d. Emphysema: Yes/ No
e. Pneumonia: Yes/ No
f. Tuberculosis: Yes/ No
g. Silicosis: Yes/ No
h. Pneumothorax (collapsed lung): Yes/ No
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i. Lung cancer: Yes/ No
j. Broken ribs: Yes/ No
k. Any chest injuries or surgeries: Yes/ No
l. Any other lung problem that you’ve been told about: Yes/ No
4. Do you currently have any of the following symptoms of pulmonary or lung illness?
a. Shortness of breath: Yes/ No
b. Shortness of breath when walking fast on level ground or walking up a slight hill or
incline: Yes/ No
c. Shortness of breath when walking with other people at an ordinary pace on level
ground: Yes/ No
d. Have to stop for breath when walking at your own pace on level ground: Yes/ No
e. Shortness of breath when washing or dressing yourself: Yes/ No
f. Shortness of breath that interferes with your job: Yes/ No
g. Coughing that produces phlegm (thick sputum): Yes/ No
h. Coughing that wakes you early in the morning: Yes/ No
i. Coughing that occurs mostly when you are lying down: Yes/ No
j. Coughing up blood in the last month: Yes/ No
k. Wheezing: Yes/ No
l. Wheezing that interferes with your job: Yes/ No
m. Chest pain when you breathe deeply: Yes/ No
n. Any other symptoms that you think may be related to lung problems: Yes/ No
5. Have you ever had any of the following cardiovascular or heart problems?
a. Heart attack: Yes/ No
b. Stroke: Yes/ No
c. Angina: Yes/ No
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d. Heart failure: Yes/ No
e. Swelling in your legs or feet (not caused by walking): Yes/ No
f. Heart arrhythmia (heart beating irregularity): Yes/ No
g. High blood pressure: Yes/ No
h. Any other heart problem that you’ve been told about: Yes/ No
6. Have you ever had any of the following cardiovascular or heart symptoms?
a. Frequent pain or tightness in your chest: Yes/ No
b. Pain or tightness in your chest during physical activity: Yes/ No
c. Pain or tightness in your chest that interferes with your job: Yes/ No
d. In the past two years, have you noticed your heart skipping or missing a best: Yes/
No
e. Heartburn or indigestion that is not related to eating: Yes/ No
f. Any other symptoms that you think may be related to heart or circulation problems:
Yes/ No
7. Do you currently take medication for any of the following problems?
a. Breathing or lung problems: Yes/ No
b. Heart Trouble: Yes/ No
c. Blood Pressure: Yes/ No
d. Seizures (fits): Yes/ No
8. If you’ve used a respirator, have you ever had any of the following problems? (If you’ve
never used a respirator, check the following space and got to question 9):
a. Eye irritation: Yes/ No
b. Skin allergies or rashes: Yes/ No
c. Anxiety: Yes/ No
d. General weakness or fatigue: Yes/ No
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e. Any other problem that interferes with your use of a respirator: Yes/ No
9. Would you like to talk to the health care professional who will review this
questionnaire about your answers to this questionnaire: Yes/ No
Part 3. Additional Questions for Users of Full-Face Respirators or SCBAs
Please circle “Yes” or “No”
1. Have you ever lost vision in either eye (temporarily or permanently): Yes/ No
2. Do you currently have any of the following vision problems?
a. Need to wear contact lenses: Yes/ No
b. Need to wear glasses: Yes/ No
c. Color blind: Yes/ No
d. Any other eye or vision problem: Yes/ No
3. Have you ever had an injury to your ears, including a broken eardrum: Yes/ No
4. Do you current have any of the following hearing problems?
a. Difficulty hearing: Yes/ No
b. Need to wear a hearing aid: Yes/ No
c. Any other hearing or ear problem: Yes/ No
5. Have you ever had a back injury: Yes/ No
6. Do you currently have any of the following musculoskeletal problems?
a. Weakness in any of your arms, hands legs or feet: Yes/ No
b. Back pain: Yes/ No
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c. Difficulty fully moving your arms and legs: Yes/ No
d. Pain or stiffness when you lean forward or backward at the waist: Yes/ No
e. Difficulty fully moving your head up or down: Yes/ No
f. Difficulty fully moving your head side to side: Yes/ No
g. Difficulty bending at your knees: Yes/ No
h. Difficulty squatting to the ground: Yes/ No
i. Climbing a flight of stairs or a ladder carrying more than 25 lbs: Yes/ No
j. Any other muscle or skeletal problem that interferes with using a respirator: Yes/
No
Part 4. Discretionary Questions (Health Care Provider driven) Questions in this section are
only required if the health care provider says they are necessary.
1.In your present job, are you working at high altitudes (over 5,000 feet) or in a place that has
lower than normal amounts of oxygen: Yes/ No
If “yes”, do you have feelings of dizziness, shortness of breath, pounding in your chest, or
other symptoms when you’re working under these conditions: Yes/ No
2. Have you ever been exposed to (at work or at home) to hazardous solvents, hazardous
airborne chemicals (e.g. gases, fumes, or dust), or have you come in skin contact with
hazardous chemicals: Yes/ No
If “yes,” name the chemicals if you know them:
____________________________________________________________
3. Have you ever worked with any of the materials, or under any of the conditions listed
below?
a. Asbestos: Yes/ No
b. Silica (e.g. in sandblasting): Yes/ No
c. Tungsten/cobalt (e.g. grinding or welding this material): Yes/ No
d. Beryllium: Yes/ No
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e. Aluminum: Yes/ No
f. Coal (for example, mining): Yes/ No
g. Iron: Yes/ No
h. Tin: Yes/ No
i. Dusty environments: Yes/ No
j. Any other hazardous exposures: Yes/ No
If “yes,” describe these exposures: ____________________________________________________
4.List any second jobs or side businesses you have: _____________________________________
5. List your previous occupations: ____________________________________________________
6. List your current and previous hobbies: ______________________________________________
7. Have you ever been in the military services? Yes/ No
If “yes,” were you exposed to biological or chemical agents (either in training or combat): Yes/
No
8. Have you ever worked on a HAZMAT team? Yes/ No
9. Other than medications for breathing and lung problems, heart trouble, blood pressure, and
seizures mentioned earlier in this questionnaire, are you taking any other medications for any
reason (including over-the-counter medications): Yes/ No
If “yes,” name the medication if you know them: ______________________________________
10. Will you be using any of the following items with your respirator(s)?
a. HEPA Filters: Yes/ No
b. Canisters (for example, gas masks): Yes/ No
c. Cartridges: Yes/ No
11. How often are you expected to use the respirator(s)? (Circle “yes” or “no” for all answers
that apply to you)
a. Escape only (no rescue): Yes/ No
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b. Emergency rescue only: Yes/ No
c. Less than 5 hours per week: Yes/ No
d. Less than 2 hours per day: Yes/ No
e. 2 to 4 hours per day: Yes/ No
f. Over 4 hours per day: Yes/ No
12. During the period you are using the respirator(s), is you work effort:
a. Light (less than 200kcal per hour): Yes/ No
If “yes,” how long does this period last during the average shift: _____hrs. ____mins.
Examples of a light work effort are sitting while writing, typing, drafting, or performing
light assembly work; or standing while operating a drill press (1-3 lbs.) or controlling
machines.
b. Moderate (200 to 350 kcal per hour): Yes/ No
If “yes,” how long does this period last during the average shift: _____hrs. _____mins.
Examples of moderate work effort are sitting while nailing or filing; driving a truck or bus
in urban traffic; standing while drilling , nailing, performing assembly work, or
transferring a moderate load (about 35 lbs.) at trunk level; walking on a level surface about
2 mph or down a 5-degree grade at 3 mph; or pushing a wheelbarrow with a heavy load
(about 100 lbs.) on a level surface.
c. Heavy (above 350 kcal per hour): Yes/ No
If “yes,” how long does this period last during the average shift: _____hrs. _____mins.
Examples of heavy work are lifting a heavy load (about 50 lbs) from the floor to your waist
or shoulder, working on a loading dock, shoveling, standing while bricklaying or chipping
castings, walking up an 8-degree grade about 2 mph; climbing stairs with a heavy load
(about 50 lbs.).
13. Will you be wearing protective clothing and/or equipment (other than the respirator)
when you’re using your respirator: Yes/ No
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If “yes,” describe this protective clothing and/or
equipment:_____________________________
14. Will you be working under hot conditions (greater than 77 F): Yes/ No
15. Will you working under humid conditions: Yes/ No
16. Describe the work you’ll be doing while you’re using your
respirator(s):________________________
17. Describe any special or hazardous conditions you might encounter when you’re using your
respirator(s) (for example, confined spaces, life-threatening gases):
____________________________
18. Provide the following information, if you know it, for each toxic substance that you’ll be
exposed to when you’re using your respirator(s):
Name of the first toxic substance: ______________________________
Estimated maximum exposure level per shift:
__________________________________
Duration of exposure per shift ________________________________
Name of the second toxic substance: ______________________________
Estimated maximum exposure level per shift:
__________________________________
Duration of exposure per shift ________________________________
Name of the third toxic substance: ______________________________
Estimated maximum exposure level per shift:
__________________________________
Duration of exposure per shift ________________________________
The name of any other toxic substances that you’ll be exposed to while using
your respirator:
__________________________________________________________
19. Describe any special responsibilities you’ll have while using your respirator(s) that may
affect the safety and well-being of others (for example, rescue, and security):
______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________ _________________________
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Signature Date
MEDICAL PROVIDER’S LETTERHEAD
To: The City of Port Townsend
250 Madison St.
City of Port Townsend, WA 98368
Date: _______________________________
To whom it may concern:
I have reviewed _____________________________________________________
Questionnaire and he/she is: (CHECK THE APPROPRIATE BOX)
CLEARED FOR RESPIRATOR USE
NOT CLEARED FOR RESPIRATOR USE
REQUIRES FURTHER MEDICAL EVALUATION BEFORE RESPIRATOR
USAGE CAN BE DETERMINED
Sincerely,
____________________________________
Printed Name of Medical Professional
____________________________________
Signature of Medical Professional
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EMPLOYER PROVIDED INFORMATION FOR MEDICAL EVALUATIONS
The WISHA Respirators Rule (WAC 296-842) requires that certain information
regarding respirator use be provided by the employer to the licensed health care
provider (LHCP). The following general information must be provided to the LHCP
by the employer:
• A copy of our written respiratory protection program;
• A copy of the Respirators Rule WAC 296-842.
In addition, certain respirator user-specific information must be provided. This form
may be used by the employer to provide the respirator user specific information to the
LHCP, but is not a required form.
Specific Respirator Use Information for Respirator Use Medical Evaluation
Employee Name: ___________________________________________________________
Employer name: ____________________________________________________________
Employee job title: __________________________________________________________
Employer Address: _________________________________________________________
City contact person and phone #: _____________________________________________
1. Will the employee be wearing protective clothing and/or equipment (other than
the respirator) when using the respirator?
Yes/No __________ If “yes,” describe this protective clothing and/or
equipment:
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
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Eye Protection, hearing protection, rain gear (pants and jacket), Hard Hat and
Gloves. These are items that maybe used but all may not be used at the same
time.
2. Will employee be working under hot conditions (temperature exceeding 77
degrees F)?
Yes/No __________ If “yes”, describe temperature and duration.
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
3. Will employee be working under humid conditions? Yes / No __________
4. Describe any special or hazardous conditions you might encounter when you're
using your respirator(s) (for example, confined spaces, life-threatening gases).
Can be used in Confined Spaces but not in life-threatening situations.
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
Specific Respirator Use Information, Continued
Table 1: Specific Respiratory Use Information
Check
Appropriate
Box
Respirator
Type
Face / Head
Cover Type
(i.e. 1/2 or full
face, helmet,
hood)
Frequency of Use
(i.e. hours / day, week,
month)
Work Effort
Light,
Moderate,
Heavy
(see
descriptions
below)
Respirator
Weight
Disposable
face-piece
particulate
filter
(N, R or P
series)
1/2 face-piece Once or twice a year Moderate
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Mask with
replaceable
filter or
cartridge
1/2 face-piece Once or twice a year Moderate
Mask with
canister
Powered air-
purifying
respirator
(PAPR)
Air-line,
continuous
flow
Air-line,
negative
pressure
demand
Air-line,
positive
pressure
demand
SCBA,
negative
pressure
demand
Full face-piece
SCBA,
positive
pressure
demand
Full face-piece
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Date: 11/06/18 Section 019
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Work Effort Descriptions
Examples of a light work effort are sitting while writing, typing, drafting, or
performing light assembly work; or standing while operating a drill press (1-3 lbs.) or
controlling machines.
Examples of moderate work effort are sitting while nailing or filing; driving a truck
or bus in urban traffic; standing while drilling, nailing, performing assembly work,
or transferring a moderate load (about 35 lbs.) at trunk level; walking on a level
surface about 2 mph or down a 5-degree grade about 3 mph; or pushing a
wheelbarrow with a heavy load (about 100 lbs.) on a level surface.
Examples of heavy work effort are lifting a heavy load (about 50 lbs.) from the floor
to your waist or shoulder; working on a loading dock; shoveling; standing; standing
while bricklaying or chipping castings; walking up an 8-degree grade about 2 mph;
climbing stairs with a heavy load (about 50 lb.).
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WAC 296-842-11005
Advisory Information for Employees Who Voluntarily Use Respirators
• Respirators protect against airborne hazards when properly selected
and used. WISHA recommends voluntary use of respirators when
exposure to substances is below WISHA permissible exposure limits
(PELs) because respirators can provide you an additional level of comfort
and protection.
• If you choose to voluntarily use a respirator (whether it's provided by
you or your employer) be aware that respirators can create hazards for
you, the user. You can avoid these hazards if you know how to use your
respirator properly and how to keep it clean. Take these steps:
- Read and follow all instructions provided by the manufacturer
about use, maintenance (cleaning and care), and warnings
regarding the respirator’s limitations.
- Choose respirators that have been certified for use to protect
against the substance of concern. The National Institute for
Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) certifies respirators. If a
respirator isn't certified by NIOSH, you have no guarantee that it
meets minimum design and performance standards for workplace
use.
• A NIOSH approval label will appear on or in the
respirator packaging. It will tell you what protection the
respirator provides. Keep track of your respirator so you
don't mistakenly use someone else’s.
Do not wear your respirator into:
• Required use situations when you are only allowed voluntary
use.
• Atmospheres containing hazards that your respirator isn't
designed to protect against. For example, a respirator
designed to filter dust particles won't protect you against
solvent vapor, smoke, or oxygen deficiency.
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Employee’s Signature Date
Respiratory Protection Training & Fit Testing Checklist
To be completed prior to training and fit testing:
□ Ensure that wearer has been medically cleared and approved to wear a
respirator
□ Ensure that wearer is clean shaven and is wearing the PPE that they
would wear with the respirator (clean shaven means no more than a
mustache to the corners of the mouth and a patch under the bottom lip, no
facial hair can come into contact with the respirator seal)
□ Have wearer fill out fit test form (see Attached)
□ Hand wearer a respirator, show them how to conduct positive and
negative pressure fit checks and have them check the size for proper fit
□ Once it is determined that the respirator appears to fit, have the wearer
adjust the straps and put the respirator on their face ensuring that the straps
are snug (not tight) and evenly adjusted
□□ Make sure wearer can demonstrate the following knowledge and skills
arequired by their duties:
□ Have wearer perform positive and negative pressure seal checks (instruct
wearer that this is to be done each time the respirator is donned or adjusted)
□ Have wearer install P100 filters and wear the respirator while training
ensues to warm up the seal on the face
□ Inform the user on the respirator’s capabilities and limitations. Include,
for example, how the respirator provides protection and why air-purifying
respirators can’t be used in oxygen-deficient conditions
□ Train wearer on proper fit and adjustment of the respirator
□ Train wearer on the inspection of the respirator for damage, wear or
missing parts
□ Instruct wearer how to clean the respirator properly, both daily cleaning
and a more comprehensive cleaning
□ Inform wearer of respirator storage requirements
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□ Instruct wearer on cartridge or filter selection and change-out schedules
□ Have wearer complete the remainder of the fit test form and sign in all
three places upon completion of training and passing the fit testing exercises
□ Double check paperwork to ensure that it is completed properly, make a
copy for our records and give the original to the appropriate customer
contact
□ Important – Conduct sensitivity check using Bitrex or Stannic Chloride on
user before and after test to ensure that they can sense the test agent
Make sure employees can demonstrate the following knowledge and skills
as required by their duties: (each test should last one minute)
1 – Normal breathing
2 – Deep breathing
3 – Normal breathing while nodding head up and down
4 – Normal breathing while gently turning head from side to side
5 – Reading the “Rainbow Passage” or counting out loud backwards from
100
6 – Bend at the waist (Run in place if fit testing with anything other than
irritant smoke)
7 – Normal breathing
RESPIRATOR FIT TEST RECORD
EMPLOYEE HAS HAD A MEDICAL REVIEW AND HAS NO LIMITATIONS THAT
WOULD PREVENT THE USE OF RESPIRATORY PROTECTION EQUIPMENT:
_________________________________________
Signature of person tested
A. EMPLOYEE NAME: ___________________________________ DATE: ____________
EMPLOYEE JOB TITLE/DESCRIPTION: ______________________________________
B. EMPLOYER NAME:
_______________________________________________________________________
LOCATION/ADDRESS:
______________________________________________________________________
TELEPHONE: ________________________________ FAX: ________________________
C. RESPIRATOR SELECTED:
__________________________________________________________________
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MANUFACTURER: _____________________________MODEL/SIZE:
_________________
NIOSH APPROVAL NUMBER: ___________________________
D. CONDITIONS WHICH COULD AFFECT RESPIRATOR FIT:
CLEAN SHAVEN FACIAL SCAR PPE WORN
COMMENTS/OTHER:
_________________________________________________________________
E. FIT CHECKS: NEGATIVE PRESSURE:
POSITIVE PRESSURE:
F. FIT TESTING QUALITIVE: BITREX IRRITANT SMOKE SACCHARINE
QUANTITATIVE: FIT FACTOR _______________
PASSED FAILED
F. EMPLOYEE ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF TEST RESULTS:
EMPLOYEE SIGNATURE: _________________________________________ DATE: _____
TEST CONDUCTED BY: __________________________________________ DATE: ____
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------
DISCLAIMER: This respirator fit test(s) training was performed on and by the person
listed. The results indicate the performance of the listed respiratory protective device
under controlled conditions, as tested on the employee named. Fit testing, as
performed, measures the ability of the respiratory protective device to provide
protection to the individual tested. The manufacturer or test conductor express or imply
no guarantee that this or any identical respiratory protective device will provide
adequate protection under conditions other than were present when this test was
performed. Improper use, maintenance, or application of this or any other respiratory
protective device will reduce or eliminate protection.
___________________
Initials of person tested
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Respirator Cleaning Procedure
Step Task
1. Remove filters, cartridges, canisters, speaking diaphragms, demand and pressure valve
assemblies, hoses, or any components recommended by the manufacturer.
• Discard or repair any defective parts.
2. Wash components in warm (43°C (110°F) maximum) water with a mild detergent or with a
cleaner recommended by the manufacturer
a. A stiff bristle (not wire) brush may be used to help remove the dirt
b. If the detergent or cleaner does not contain a disinfecting agent, respirator components
should be immersed for two minutes in one of the following:
i. A bleach solution (concentration of 50 parts per million of chlorine). Make this by
adding approximately one milliliter of laundry bleach to one liter of water at 43°C
(110°F)
ii. A solution of iodine (50 parts per million iodine). Make this in two steps:
A. First, make a tincture of iodine by adding 6-8 grams of solid ammonium iodide
and/or potassium iodide to 100 cc of 45% alcohol approximately
B. Second, add 0.8 milliliters of the tincture to one liter of water at 43°C (110°F) to
get the final solution
c. Other commercially available cleansers of equivalent disinfectant quality when used as
directed, if their use is recommended or approved by the respirator manufacturer.
3. Rinse components thoroughly in clean, warm (43°C (110°F) maximum), preferably, running
water.
Note:
The importance of thorough rinsing cannot be overemphasized. Detergents or disinfectants that dry on facepieces could cause dermatitis. In
addition, some disinfectants may cause deterioration of rubber or corrosion of metal parts, if not completely removed.
4. Drain components.
5. Air-dry components or hand dry components with a clean, lint-free cloth.
6. Reassemble the face piece components.
Replace filters, cartridges, and canisters, if necessary (for testing).
7. Test the respirator to make sure all components work properly.
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A. Purpose
The purpose of this procedure is to reduce the potential for heat and cold
illnesses through employee awareness, methods to prevent illness, and actions
to take if symptoms occur. Any City employee participating in job tasks when
environmental risk factors for heat illness are present will comply with the
requirements for Heat & Cold Illness Prevention as outlined below.
B. General
1. This procedure outlines the control of risk occurrence of heat &
cold illnesses and applies to all outdoor places of employment and
other work environments when the environmental risk factors for
heat and cold illnesses are present.
2. The Occupational Safety & Health Administration does not
currently have specific standards for heat and cold stress; however, the
OSH Act of 1970 General Duty Clause (Section 5(a)(1)) states that “Each
employer shall furnish to each of his employees employment and a place of
employment which are free from recognized hazards that are causing or are
likely to cause death or serious physical harm to his employees.” The
Outdoor Heat Exposure Rule WAC 296-62-095 applies from May 1
through September 30, every year, when exposures are at or above a
specific temperature (see Table 1 of the rule (app.leg.wa.gov)).
3. In order to understand and mitigate the risks through training as
well as through Engineering, Administrative and PPE methods, an
assessment may be conducted to identify the types of jobs or
employees who are at risk for exposure to both heat and cold
illnesses.
C. Heat Related Illnesses; Signs, Symptoms and Treatment
1. While working in hot weather conditions, the human body may not be able
to maintain a normal temperature just by sweating. If this happens, heat-
related illnesses may occur. The most common health problems caused by
hot work environments include:
a. Heat Stroke- This is the most serious heat-related effect. Heat stroke
occurs when the body temperature increases above 104˚F. Signs and
symptoms of heat stroke are confusion, loss of consciousness and lack
of perspiration. This condition must be treated as a medical emergency
and the employee must receive immediate medical attention.
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b. Heat Exhaustion- Signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion include
headache, nausea, dizziness, weakness, irritability, confusion, thirst,
heavy perspiration and a body temperature greater than 100.4˚F.
Employees experiencing heat exhaustion should be moved to a cool
area, given fluids to drink and given cold compresses for their head,
face and neck. Employees should also be taken to a clinic or emergency
room to be monitored by medical personnel.
c. Heat Cramps- Signs and symptoms of heat cramps include muscle pains
usually caused by the loss of body salts/fluids. Employees should
replace fluid loss by drinking water and/or carbohydrate-electrolyte
replacement liquids (e.g. Gatorade) every 15 to 20 minutes.
d. Heat Rash- Heat rash is caused by excessive perspiration and looks like
a red cluster of pimples or small blisters. Heat rash usually appears on
the neck, upper chest, in the groin, under the breasts and in elbow
creases. Treatment for heat rash is to provide a cooler, less humid
environment.
e. Dehydration- Dehydration is a major factor in most heat disorders.
Signs and symptoms of dehydration include increasing thirst, dry
mouth, weakness or light-headedness (particularly if worse upon
standing) and a darkening of the urine or a decrease in urination.
Dehydration can be reversed or put back in balance by drinking fluids
that contain electrolytes (i.e. Gatorade) that are lost during work related
activities. Avoid caffeinated drinks.
2. While heat-related illness are dangerous and potentially life threatening,
they can be prevented. Prevention methods include the following:
a. Acclimation- Acclimation is a process by which the physical processes
of an employee’s body adjusts to the environment over a period of
time. Based upon data obtained from OSHA, this process usually takes
five to seven days. This process could take up to three weeks
depending upon the individual and their work environment.
According to the American Industrial Hygiene Association, the process
requires a consistent work level for at least two hours each day during
the acclimation period in order for an employee to become
acclimatized. Mere exposure to heat does not confer acclimatization,
nor does acclimatization at one heat stress level confer resistance to
heat stress at a higher temperature or more vigorous work load.
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Employees who are not adequately acclimatized to the heat may
experience temporary heat fatigue resulting in a decline in
performance, coordination or alertness. They may also become irritable
or depressed. This can be prevented through gradual adjustment to the
hot environment. People in good physical condition tend to acclimatize
better because their cardiovascular systems respond better.
b. Engineering Controls – For employees working indoors, the best way to
prevent heat-related illness is to make the work environment cooler.
Where and if possible, use air conditioning to cool the work area.
Alternatively, increase the general ventilation as much as possible by
opening windows or doors. When available, use cooling fans to aid in
increasing ventilation.
c. Safe Work Practices – For employees working outdoors or working
indoors without air conditioning or ventilation, take scheduled breaks
in cool areas. Ensure there is plenty of cool water to drink and take
water breaks as needed. Immediately report any problems to a
supervisor. Supervisors should consider scheduling the hottest work
for the coolest part of day, assigning extra employees to high demand
tasks, and using work-saving devices (e.g. power tools, hoists or lifting
aids) to reduce the body’s work load. All employees should watch out
for the safety of their coworkers.
D. Cold Related Illnesses and Injuries; Signs, Treatment and Prevention
1. During cold weather, an employee’s body will use energy to maintain a
normal internal body temperature. This will result in a shift of blood flow
from employee’s extremities (hands, feet and legs) and outer skin to the
employee’s core (chest and abdomen). If this happens, cold-related
illnesses and injuries may occur if exposed to cold conditions for an
extended period of time. The most common health problems caused by
cold work environments include:
a. Hypothermia– Hypothermia is a potentially serious health condition.
Hypothermia occurs when body heat is lost faster than it can be
replaced. When the core body temperature drops to approximately
95°F, the onset of symptoms normally begins. The employee may begin
to shiver, lose coordination, have slurred speech, and fumble with
items in the hand. The employee’s skin will likely be pale and cold. As
the body temperature continues to fall these symptoms will worsen and
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shivering will stop. Once the body temperature falls to around 85°F
severe hypothermia will develop and the person may become
unconscious, and at 78°F, vital organs may begin to fail.
Treatment depends on the severity of the hypothermia. For cases of
mild hypothermia move to warm area and stay active. Remove wet
clothes and replace with dry clothes or blankets, cover the head. To
promote metabolism and assist in raising internal core temperature
drink a warm (not hot) sugary drink. Avoid drinks with caffeine. For
more severe cases do all the above, plus contact emergency medical
personnel (Call 911 for an ambulance), cover all extremities completely,
place very warm objects, such as hot packs or water bottles on the
victim's head, neck, chest and groin. Arms and legs should be warmed
last. In cases of severe hypothermia, treat the employee very gently and
do not apply external heat to re-warm. Hospital treatment is required.
b. Frostbite– Frostbite occurs when the skin actually freezes and loses
water. In severe cases, amputation of the frostbitten area may be
required. While frostbite usually occurs when the temperatures are 30°
F or lower, wind chill factors can allow frostbite to occur in above
freezing temperatures. Frostbite typically affects the extremities,
particularly the feet and hands. The affected body part will be cold,
tingling, stinging or aching followed by numbness. Skin color turns red,
then purple, then white, and is cold to the touch. There may be blisters
in severe cases.
Do not rub the area to warm it. Wrap the area in a soft cloth, move the
employee to a warm area, and contact medical personnel. Do not leave
the employee alone. If help is delayed, immerse in warm (maximum
105 °F), not hot, water. Do not pour water directly on affected part. If
there is a chance that the affected part will get cold again do not warm.
Repeated heating and cooling of the skin may cause severe tissue
damage.
c. Trench Foot – Trench Foot is caused by having feet exposed to damp,
unsanitary and cold conditions including water at temperatures above
freezing for long periods of time. It is similar to frostbite, but
considered less severe. Symptoms usually consist of tingling, itching or
burning sensation. Blisters may be present.
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For treatment, soak feet in warm water, then wrap with dry cloth
bandages. Drink a warm, sugary drink. Seek medical attention if
necessary.
d. Dehydration – It is easy to become dehydrated during cold weather.
Signs of dehydration include increasing thirst, dry mouth, weakness or
light-headedness (particularly if worse upon standing), and a
darkening of the urine or a decrease in urination. Dehydration can be
reversed or put back in balance by drinking fluids that contain
electrolytes (i.e. Gatorade) that are lost during work related activities.
Avoid caffeinated drinks
2. Just as with heat related illness, cold related illnesses and injuries are
dangerous and potentially life threating, however, they can be prevented.
Prevention methods include:
a. Acclimation – Employees exposed to the cold should be physically fit,
without any circulatory, metabolic, or neurologic diseases that may
place them at increased risk for hypothermia. A new employee should
not be required to work in the cold full time during the first days of
employment until they become adjusted to the working conditions and
required protective clothing. New employees should be introduced to
the work schedule slowly and be trained accordingly.
b. Engineering Controls – For employees working indoors, the best way to
prevent cold-related illness is to make the work environment warmer.
Where and if possible, use heaters to warm the work area.
Alternatively, decrease the general ventilation as much as possible by
closing windows or doors.
c. Safe Work Practices – For employees working outdoors or working
indoors without heat, take scheduled breaks in warm areas. If available,
use wind barricades to block the wind from the employees. Ensure
there is plenty of water to drink and take water breaks as needed.
Immediately report any problems to a supervisor. Additional practices
shall include the following:
i. For areas heavily traveled, walkways shall be sanded, salted or
cleared of snow and ice as soon as practicable.
ii. Employees may be asked to work as a part of a “buddy system”
during tasks where exposure to cold stress is high.
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iii. Supervisors should consider scheduling the most work for the
warmest part of day, assigning extra employees to high demand
tasks that will require longer periods in cold areas.
iv. Employees will be informed of the dangers associated with
working around unstable snow and ice build ups.
v. Cold weather supplies shall be regularly inspected and
restocked when necessary.
d. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) – PPE is an important factor in
preventing cold stress related illnesses and injuries. Employees should
adhere to the following recommendations when dressing for work in a
cold environment:
i. Wear at least three layers of clothing; an inner layer of wool, silk
or synthetic to wick moisture away from the body; a middle
layer of wool or synthetic to provide insulation even when wet;
an outer wind and rain protection layer that allows some
ventilation to prevent overheating.
ii. Wear a hat or hood; up to 40% of body heat can be lost when the
head is left exposed.
iii. Wear insulated boots or other footwear.
iv. Do not wear tight clothing; loose clothing provides better
ventilation.
v. Keep a change of clothing available in case work clothes become
wet.
E. Training
1. Supervisors shall be trained in the heat and cold illness procedures to
follow when an employee exhibits symptoms consistent with possible heat
illness, including emergency response procedures.
2. Employees shall be trained in identification and symptoms of heat and
cold illness as well as procedures for treatment. This shall be conducted
before beginning work involving risk of heat/cold illness.
a. Employee training may include first aid treatment for cold and heat-
induced injuries/illnesses.
F. Recordkeeping
1. All training records shall be maintained in the employees personnel file and
maintained by the supervisor.
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Heat Index
The heat index is a simple tool and a useful guide for employers/employees making
decisions about protecting employees in hot weather. It does not account for certain
conditions that contribute additional risk, such as physical exertion. Consider taking
the steps at the next highest risk level to protect employees from the added risks
posed by:
• Working in the direct sun (can add up to 15°F to the heat index value)
• Wearing heavy clothing or protective gear
Under most circumstances, fluid intake should not exceed 6 cups per hour or 12
quarts per day. This makes it particularly important to reduce work rates, reschedule
work, or enforce work/rest schedules.
Heat Index Risk Level Protective Measures
<91˚F Lower
(Caution)
• Provide plenty of drinking water
• Ensure that adequate medical services are
available
• Plan ahead for times when heat index is higher,
including worker heat safety training
• Encourage workers to wear sunscreen
• If workers must wear heavy protective clothing,
perform strenuous activity or work in the direct
sunlight, additional precautions are
recommended.
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91°F to 103°F Moderate
In addition to the steps listed above:
• Remind workers to drink water often (4 cups per
hour)
• Review heat-related illness topics with workers
such as recognition, prevention and first-aid
• Schedule frequent breaks in cool, shaded areas
• Acclimatize workers
• Set up a buddy system and instruct workers and
supervisors to watch for signs of heat-related
illness
• Schedule strenuous activities at a time when the
heat index is lower
• Develop work rest schedules
• Monitor workers closely
• If workers must wear heavy protective clothing ,
perform strenuous activity or work in the direct
sun, addition precautions are recommended
103°F to 115°F High
In addition to the steps listed above:
• Alert workers of high risk conditions
• Actively encourage workers to drink plenty of
water (about 4 cups per hour)
• Limit physical exertion
• have a knowledgeable person at the work site
who is well informed about heat related illness
and able to determine appropriate work/rest
schedules
• Establish and enforce work/rest schedules
• Adjust work activities (e.g. reschedule work,
pace/rotate jobs)
• Use cooling techniques
• Watch/communicate with workers at all times
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• When possible, reschedule activities to a time
when the heat index is lower
115°F Very High to
Extreme
If essential work must be done, in addition to the
steps listed above:
• Alert workers of extreme heat hazards
• Establish water drinking schedule (about 4
cups per hour)
• Develop and enforce protective work/rest
schedules
• Conduct physiological monitoring (e.g. pulse,
temperature, etc.)
• Stop work if essential control methods are
inadequate or unavailable
• Reschedule non-essential activities for days
with a reduced heat index or to a time when
the heat index is lower
• Move essential work tasks to the coolest part
of the work shift
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• Consider earlier start times, split shifts or
evening/night shifts
• Strenuous work tasks and those requiring the
use of heavy or non-breathable clothing or
impermeable chemical protective clothing
should not be conducted when the heat index
is at or above 115˚F.
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A. Purpose
The purpose of this procedure is to provide requirements and guidelines to
protect employees from the hazards associated with Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S)
exposures.
B. General Scope
This program applies to all locations where City personnel may work with or
around the use or production of H2S.
C. Definitions
a. NIOSH- National Institute for Occupational Safety & Health
b. PEL- Permissible Exposure Limit, the legal limit in the United States for
exposure of an employee to a chemical substance or physical agent
c. STEL- Short-Term Exposure Limit, the acceptable average exposure over a
short period of time, usually 15 minutes as long as the time-weighted
average is not exceeded.
D. Responsibilities
Department Manager & Human Resources
a. Monitor compliance with this program and the OSHA Standard, as
listed under 29 CFR 1910.1000 table Z-2 Toxic and Hazardous
Substances
b. Provide general H2S safety training and ensure employees with
potential exposure receive the appropriate training prior to being
assigned to an exposure area.
c. Arrange for immediate emergency response, if necessary, for
employee exposure to H2S.
d. Conduct exposure assessments and evaluate exposure control
measures as necessary.
e. Investigate accidents.
f. Coordinate the provision of medical exams, monitoring exposure
and maintain employee exposure records.
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Employees
g. Know the provisions of the H2S Awareness Program.
h. Report accidents, possible overexposures or unsafe conditions to
your supervisor.
i. Wear Personal Protective Equipment and use engineering control
where recommended.
E. Hazard Data
H2S exposures usually occur during the drilling for or production of natural
gas, crude oil and petroleum products. H2S is also produced by the
purifications of organic matter and may accumulate in sewers, sewage
treatment plants or hide storage pits in the tanning industry. Well drillers and
tunnel workers, as well as miners, may be exposed when underground
pockets of H2S are encountered.
H2S may be used in the manufacture of inorganic sulfides, sulfuric acid and
mercaptans.
E. Characteristics of H2S
H2S is a colorless gas with a powerful nauseating smell of rotten eggs. The
odor is a poor warning property because H2S exposure quickly deadens the
sense of smell. The gas is heavier than air and may collect in low areas such as
sewers, pits, tunnels or gullies. High airborne levels of H2S (between 4.3 and
46.0 percent of gas by volume in the air) may catch fire if there is a source of
ignition. If the gas is burned, toxic products such as sulfur dioxide will be
formed. H2S is incompatible with oxidizing agents, such as nitric acid and
chlorine trifluoride, and may react violently or ignite spontaneously.
F. Health Effects on the Body
H2S is extremely toxic. It may cause death instantaneously in high airborne
concentrations. Low levels may be extremely irritating to the lungs, nose,
throat and eyes.
H2S can be detected by smell at levels as low as 0.13 parts H2S per million
parts air (ppm). Odor cannot be used as a warning because the gas can deaden
the sense of smell within 2 to 15 minutes in exposures of approximately 100
ppm. A single breath of H2S at about 1000 ppm may paralyze the respiratory
system and result in coma and death. Convulsions may also occur. Prolonged
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exposure at about 250 ppm H2S may cause the lung tissue to swell and fill up
with water (pulmonary edema).
G. Permissible Exposure Limits (PEL)
While not definitive, H2S levels below 10 ppm appear to cause little short term
effects.
When H2S levels are unknown, respirators shall be used.
Current OSHA standards are:
a. 20 ppm Ceiling Level (Level of audible alarm)
b. 50 ppm Maximum allowable peak for 10 minutes STEL with no
other exposure
Current NIOSH standards are:
c. 10 ppm PEL averaged over 10 minute period
d. 50 ppm Area shall be evacuated
29 CFR 1000(b)(2) which requires that an employee’s exposure to any
substance listed in Table Z-2 shall not exceed at any time the acceptable ceiling
concentration limit, except for a time period and up to a concentration not
exceeding the maximum duration and concentration allowed in the acceptable
maximum peak.
H. Medical Surveillance
Medical examinations should always supplement effective gas, vapor, fume,
dust, and mist monitoring and controls, we will provide medical examinations
for all workers who may be exposed to H2S at or above the respective PEL for
greater than 30 days per year, found in 29 CFR 1926.55.
I. Records Keeping
Exposure monitoring data – 30 Years
Medical surveillance data – Duration of employment plus 30 years
See Reporting and Records Keeping section in this manual for additional information.
J. Training and Information
Occasionally workers will be assigned a task that is not routine. For example,
workers may be required to work in an area that may have potential for H2S
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exposure. Before starting such work, every employee involved will be given
such information as is necessary to enter and work safely within the work area.
No employee is to begin work at a non-routine task without first being briefed
on any hazards that may be involved in the performance of such an assignment.
After receiving such training, workers are not to begin work unless their
immediate supervisor is aware of their activity.
K. Contingency / Emergency Plan
Site / location specific contingency / emergency evacuation and medical
response plans shall be developed and documenting prior to commencing any
work in locations that may be affected by H2S. Plans shall include all
information from the First Aid and Emergency Planning section of this
Accident Prevention Program.
L. H2S Monitoring
City employees shall utilize portable monitors with alarms set at the
permissible exposure limits (PEL) of 20 ppm for 29CFR1910 and 10 ppm for
29CFR1926 for the detection of H2S. Employees shall receive initial monitor
training prior to deployment to their assignment, when assignment and / or
monitors change and annually. Monitors shall be used in strict accordance
with manufacturer’s specifications.
M. H2S Detection & Safety Precautions
In the event that an audible alarm sounds while monitoring for H2S,
immediately evacuate the area and suspend operations until:
a. The hazard can be abated or
b. If the hazard cannot be abated, proper respiratory protection is in
use
N. Emergency Breathing Apparatus
In certain situation you may require a Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus
(SCBA) to exit area that many have levels of H2S. The self-contained breathing
apparatus (SCBA) affords complete respiratory protection in any atmosphere for
which the lungs are the principal route of entry into the body. They supply the
wearer with cool, non-contaminated breathing air, as required by the wearer, at
approximately ambient atmospheric pressure. NOTE: Prior to utilizing an SCBA
employees must be in full compliance with the Respiratory Protection Section of this
Illness and Accident Prevention Plan.
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A. Purpose
The purpose of this procedure is to comply with Washington State Labor and
Industry, Division of Occupational Safety and Health Chapter 296 -824
WAC , and to provide the necessary requirements to prevent the spillage of
toxic and hazardous materials that may adversely affect the health and safety of
personnel and contaminate the air, water, or land. This procedure also identifies
steps to be taken in the event of a spill to minimize adverse effect on personnel
and the environment.
All City employees shall comply fully with the requirements for Spill Prevention
and Response as outlined below.
B. Emergency Spill Response Plan
1. An Emergency Response Plan shall be developed and implemented to
handle anticipated emergencies prior to the commencement of emergency
response operations. The plan shall be in writing and available for
inspection by all employees, their representatives and OSHA.
a. The written plan shall include the elements listed in the WAC 296-
824 and 29 CFR 1910.120(q)(2) requirements:
i. Pre-emergency planning and coordination with outside
parties
ii. Personnel roles including line of authority, training and
communication
iii. Emergency recognition and prevention
iv. Safe distances and places of refuge
v. Site Security and control
vi. Evacuation routes and procedures
vii. Decontamination
viii. Emergency medical treatment procedures
ix. Emergency alerting and response procedures
x. Critique of response and follow-up
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xi. PPE and emergency equipment.
b. Emergency response program may use the local emergency
response plan or the state emergency response plan or both, as part
of their emergency response plan to avoid duplication. Those items
of the emergency response plan that are being properly addressed
by the SARA Title III plans may be substituted into The City’s
emergency plan or otherwise kept together for the employer and
employee's use.
2. Medical Surveillance Procedures
a. Employees who may have been injured, received a health impairment,
developed signs or symptoms which may have resulted from exposure
to hazardous substances resulting from an emergency incident, or
exposed during an emergency incident to hazardous substances at
concentrations above the permissible exposure limits or the published
exposure levels without the necessary personal protective equipment
being shall undergo medical surveillance as soon as possible following the
incident or development of signs or symptoms, and at additional times, if the
physician determines follow-up is medically necessary.
3. General Spill Procedures
a. Site specific procedures for spill response shall be developed and
address incident reporting, roles and responsibilities, spill
containment, clean-up and disposal methods, spill response supplies
and equipment, required notifications, and incident investigation.
b. The individual discovering the spill will immediately make
notification to the City and may call 911 or the Chemical Alert number
for large hazardous spills.
c. The first emergency response team member responding to the scene
will make an initial assessment to determine the hazard to personnel
and environment. The first consideration during every response
situation will be the safety and health of employees including
members of the emergency response team. First aid or other
medical treatment will be provided as needed, and proper protective
clothing and equipment used to remove injured personnel from the
contaminated area. A review of any applicable Material Safety
Data Sheets should be initiated at the earliest possible moment during
the response.
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d. All non-essential personnel should be safely evacuated from the area.
e. The initial assessment and review of available information on the
nature of the spill will help in determining the need for notifications
to the local HAZMAT organization, local agencies and general public.
f. The next effort shall be directed to limiting the extent of the spill
source if such action can be taken safely. This may involve closing
an upstream valve, placing boom or sleeves to re-route a spill to a
collection area, digging a trench, etc.
g. Once containment has been achieved, the appropriate measures shall
be taken to clean-up the spill and any associated contaminated soil,
water, etc., decontaminate materials and equipment as needed, and
package for proper disposal.
4. Incident Investigation
a. All incidents involving accidental spills related to hazardous
chemicals /materials shall be investigated to determine root cause(s)
and lessons learned will be communicated to prevent future
occurrences.
5. Reportable Quantities
a. In the event of a spill or release of hazardous materials in excess of
Reportable Quantities, notification must be made immediately to the
agencies or authorities having jurisdiction over the site.
C. Spill Prevention
1. General
a. Management shall designate appropriate individuals to make
evaluations and decisions on matters of regulatory compliance as
well as compliance with the City requirements related to spill
prevention and response.
b. All project employees shall receive instruction on the City’s
requirements related to spill prevention and response during new
hire orientation.
c. Management shall ensure that personnel charged with decision
making during a spill event and all emergency response team
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members have received sufficient training to make initial assessments
and notifications, take appropriate actions to contain spills, and the
take the steps necessary to achieve clean-up and proper disposal of
spill materials.
d. Management shall conduct an assessment to determine the types
and quantities of spill response containment and clean-up supplies
needed for spill response.
e. A master Safety Data Sheet (SDS) file shall be maintained and
contain all City and contractor SDS’s for all hazardous chemicals
and materials in use or in storage on-site.
f. Routine storage of small quantities of liquids shall be accomplished
in such a manner as to prevent a spill by providing a flat surface for
storage and where necessary containment deemed shall be
constructed around the storage area to contain any possible spill.
g. Hazardous chemicals and products shall be left in their
original sealed containers until their use is required. When not
being used, hazardous chemicals will be returned to storage and not
left in open containers. During use or application, dispensing
containers with self-closing lids shall be used to the maximum extent
possible.
2. Bulk Storage Areas
a. Bulk storage will only be permitted in designated areas.
Designated areas shall be isolated to the maximum possible extent
from operations and traffic. Bulk storage areas shall also be located
in areas that will limit the potential contamination of waterways in
event of a spill.
b. Bulk storage tanks use for the storage and dispensing of
flammable and combustible liquids shall to the maximum possible
extent, be protected by a means of secondary containment.
c. Above ground storage tanks shall be inspected weekly for leakage or
spillage.
Recommended:
i. Bulk storage tanks not protected by a means of secondary
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containment are protected by a dike or berm lined with 3 layers
of 6 mil plastic. Seams are sealed to prevent the leakage of fluid.
ii. Hoses used to dispense liquids are equipped with a
means of automatic shut-off.
2. Maintenance and Servicing of Equipment
a. All motorized equipment shall be properly maintained to prevent the
leakage of oil, grease, and hydraulic fluid.
b. Equipment maintenance shall be conducted in designated
equipment areas except for approved field servicing.
c. Equipment used to prevent and contain spills during servicing shall
include, but not be limited to drip pans for changing oil and filters
and plastic sheeting to prevent contact of liquids with the ground.
d. All waste oils and fluids shall be recovered and disposed of in
accordance with all applicable City, Client, and regulatory
requirements.
D. Training Requirements
1. No workers shall perform emergency spill response duties outside of the
scope of their specified training or engage in the cleanup of any spill, no
matter how small, unless they are adequately trained to perform such
functions.
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A. Purpose
To provide minimum requirements for safety to be followed by employees in
office locations.
B. Safety Notices and Posting Requirements
1. A copy of each notice described below must be posted at each work
establishment, preferably a bulletin board, providing the greatest exposure
to employees.
a. Poster – “Health and Safety Protection on the Job” (the OSHA
poster)
b. Summary of Work-Related Injuries and Illnesses (OSHA Form 300A)-
This summary shall be completed, signed, and posted on an
annual basis no later than February 1st, and remain in place through
April 30th of the year following the year covered by the form. This is
in addition to the OSHA reporting requirement as outlined under
the City Reporting & Recordkeeping policy.
c. Emergency Phone Number List- Post this list in conspicuous locations
such as near telephones and show current emergency numbers for
medical assistance, ambulance, fire, police, and hospital.
d. Emergency Exit Plans- Routes for emergency exit/evacuation shall be
posted in visible locations to aid employee exit/evacuation during an
emergency.
e. Workers’ Compensation Notices- Post notices as required by
applicable State requirements to inform employees of worker’s
compensation coverage for occupational injury and illness.
2. Additional safety related items such as safety posters and general safety
informational materials may be posted in all offices to promote safety
awareness.
C. Work Practices
1. General
a. Practice good housekeeping practices to avoid injury and fire risk.
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b. Each employee is empowered to stop any activity or operation that
he or she observes to be unsafe. The appropriate supervisor should
be contacted immediately.
2. Back Injury Prevention
a. The following safe lifting techniques are essential to preventing back
injury:
i. Think about what you intend to lift and how it can be done
safely.
ii. Bend your knees, keeping the lower back straight, and use the
legs to lift.
iii. When lifting, use the pelvic tilt, do not twist the torso, move
feet in the direction of hands at the same time. Never twist
sideways to lift an object.
iv. Ensure that item contents are not going to shift during lifting.
This could cause loss of balance resulting in an accident or
injury.
v. Push, Pull, Reach – Lock or stabilize the lower back using the
pelvic tilt prior to lifting an object. Never reach over or out to
lift a heavy object.
vi. Get help with heavy objects. Know your body and its
capabilities. No one should attempt to lift without assistance
an object weighing more than 50 pounds, and in some cases,
less.
vii. Wear gloves to protect your hands if you are handling an
object that can cause cuts or splinters.
3. Exits
a. Every building designed for human occupancy shall be provided
with exits sufficient to permit the prompt escape of occupants in case
of emergency.
b. Exits and the way of approach and travel from exits shall be
maintained so that they are unobstructed and accessible at all times.
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c. Know ahead of time where exits are and where they go.
4. Portable Fire Extinguishers
a. Portable fire extinguishers suitable to the conditions and hazards
involved shall be provided and maintained in an effective operating
condition.
b. Portable fire extinguishers shall be conspicuously located and
mounted where they will be readily accessible. They may not be
obstructed or obscured from view and extinguisher shall be identified
by signs.
5. Aisles Corridors
a. A minimum of four feet should be established for aisles.
Obstructions such as wastebaskets, low tables, boxes, cords, etc.,
must be placed where they do not create a trip hazard.
b. Use caution when walking around blind corners. Avoid collisions by
keeping to the right when walking in hallways or aisles, especially
when approaching doorways and blind corners.
c. The installation of wall-mounted mirrors at high traffic blind corners
should be considered.
d. Doors should not open into the path of employee travel. However,
if they do, the floor should be marked identifying the swing path of
the door.
6. Floors – General Conditions
a. All floor surfaces shall be kept clean, dry, and free from
protruding nails, splinters, loose boards, holes, or projections.
b. Clean up liquid spills immediately, especially on stairs and tile floors.
c. Floor finishes and/or carpets should be selected for anti-slip qualities.
d. Keep electric cord sets off floors and out of aisles to eliminate a
tripping hazards
e. When cord sets must strung across floors on a temporary basis a cord
concealer or strip shall be used.
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7. Stairways
a. Stairways should be protected with an anti-slip material.
b. Use handrails, take one step at a time, keep to the right, and do not
hurry.
c. Don’t store or throw anything on steps or stairways.
8. Elevators
a. In the event of a fire, never use an elevator for emergency egress.
9. File Cabinets
a. When possible , filing cabinets should be arranged side -by-side
and bolted together to prevent a cabinet from toppling forward
when one of the high drawers are opened.
b. When possible, anchor single file cabinets to the wall.
c. Where there is a single filing cabinet, great care must be taken to
prevent toppling when a high drawer is opened. Arrange the files so
that the lower drawers bear the heaviest load and pull out only one
drawer at a time to avoid over-balancing.
d. Keep drawers of file cabinets closed when not in use.
10. Office Equipment/Supplies
a. Do not tilt back when sitting in a straight chair.
b. Use only an approved type ladder or another safe support when
reaching for material on high shelves or at other elevated positions.
Do not stand on chairs, boxes or any other makeshift device.
c. Furniture and other office equipment that is defective or
hazardous shall be removed from service immediately.
d. Do not use ventilation fans or space heaters unless they are
Underwriter -Laboratories (UL) approved and guarded.
11. Ergonomics
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a. Make sure your chair is adjusted so you can sit with your feet flat
on the floor and your thighs parallel to the floor. Your core/trunk
should be straight but inclined slightly forward at the hip.
b. Assure that there is good support for your hands and forearms
when you are typing. You should be able to rest them on a tabletop, a
wrist rest, or the arms of your chair.
c. While typing, try to avoid bending your wrists. A flat or wrist
“neutral” position should be maintained and elbows should be bent
at 90 degrees, with forearms parallel to the floor.
d. Don’t strike the keys too hard. Try to develop a light touch, and
adjust the keyboard to that end if possible.
e. Take regular breaks. Get up, stretch, and move around. Avoid
remaining in the same position for long periods of time.
12. Hazards Chemicals
a. All chemical containers shall be properly labeled and must not be left
uncapped.
b. Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for all chemicals must be maintained in
the office’s Hazard Communication file.
c. Chemicals, other than small amounts of household cleaners,
should not be stored in offices. Approved storage cabinets should
be utilized outside of the office.
d. Gasoline, thinners, or other flammable materials should not be
stored in the office. Appropriate outside storage should be provided.
13. Electrical Safety
i. Turn off all electrical equipment when not in use
ii. Cords must be properly equipped with grounding prongs
iii. Electrical cords should be visually inspected on a periodic
basis to identify frayed and worn cords
iv. Keep all electrical cords out of walkways and passageways
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v. Use approved surge protectors. Never plug extension cords
into surge protectors or “daisy chain” surge protectors (surge
protectors plugged into each other)
vi. Don’t overload or split outlets and surge protectors
vii. Combustible material, such as paper, should not be stored on
or in close proximity to electrical outlets and connections
viii. Nothing should be stored within 30" of electrical panels.
D. Emergency Procedures
1. Each employee working in an office environment must be able to respond
properly in the event of an emergency. Employees must:
a. Know how to report a fire or medical emergency
b. Know evacuation/escape routes in case of fire and remember to avoid
elevators.
c. Become familiar with the location of the emergency exits and
emergency evacuation routes and the evacuation meeting place.
Know the location of emergency equipment such as fire extinguishers
and fire alarms.
d. Know the name of the emergency response team member if the office
has such personnel assignments.
e. Immediately report any suspicious package(s) or letter(s) found in
the work area to the immediate supervisor or other designated
individuals.
f. Know the location of the office first aid cabinet.
g. Participate in emergency drills.
E. Training
1. Employees shall receive office safety training in their new employee
orientation.
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A. Purpose
To identify and provide recognition related to safe and “at-risk” behaviors and
evaluate the effectiveness of pre-task safety planning.
B. General
1. The Safe Behavior Observation process enables trained personnel to
observe workers to identify safe and “at-risk” behavior; discuss the
observations with the crew and receive feedback from the workers about
the observation. The observation process allows an observer to view a job
without being involved in it. The observer is not there to "catch" anyone
doing something wrong, but simply to watch, listen, and provide
feedback. Observations are systematic and standardized to sample
behavior, not individuals.
2. The program is non-disciplinary in nature. No one is singled out and the
names of those observed are not entered on the SBO form. Each observer is
responsible for implementing corrective action with respect to “at-risk”
behaviors and conditions that they observe during the SBO activity.
C. Conducting Quality Observations
1. It is important that each observer fully understands the Safe Behavior
Observation process and be prepared to use it effectively. Some
observation tips:
a. Be able to explain the program
b. Have prior knowledge of the job being observed
c. Treat workers with respect; do not preach or lecture,, avoid
arguments
d. Show the crew members the SBO form
e. Focus on behaviors, tasks, and specific actions
f. Focus on the positive aspect of what the crew is doing,
then discuss improvements
g. If a work process is not understood by the observer, ask the crew to
explain it
h. Write any comments on the SBO form that crew members discuss
i. If a worker is performing an “at-risk” behavior or if an unsafe
condition is observed, address the situation with the worker and
immediate supervisor to ensure prompt corrective action
2. Obstacles to Safe Behavior
a. Most individuals work “at-risk” because there is some type of
obstacle in their way. An obstacle may be lack of proper
tools, equipment, or knowledge. Perhaps the employee has
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learned to do it that way and feels that his or her safety is not “at-
risk”. An observer can do the following:
i. Discover the obstacles preventing the employee from
working safely.
ii. Discuss with the employee ways to eliminate the obstacle
iii. "Sell" the philosophy that there is value in doing the job
safely
iv. Record the observation and obstacle on the SBO form for
management review.
D. Documentation and Report
a. Observers shall return all completed Safe Behavior Observation
cards to the manager or designated safety representative for review
2. Behaviors and/or Conditions
a. Eye/Face PPE
i. Is the appropriate eye and face protection worn for the task
being performed?
ii. Is the eye/face protection appropriate for the risk?
iii. Is the equipment in good condition?
iv. Is the equipment being worn as designed?
b. Foot PPE
i. Is the appropriate foot protection worn for the job?
ii. Is the foot protection appropriate for the risk?
iii. Is the foot protection in good condition?
iv. Is the foot protection worn correctly and as designed?
c. Hand/Arm PPE
i. Is the appropriate hand protection worn for the task being
performed?
ii. Are the gloves in good condition?
iii. Is arm protection appropriate for the task being performed?
d. Head PPE
i. Is the appropriate head protection worn for the task being
performed?
ii. Is the head protection in good condition?
iii. Is it being worn as designed?
e. Hearing PPE
i. Is hearing protection worn in high noise areas?
ii. Is hearing protection appropriate for the risk?
iii. Is the equipment in good condition and clean?
iv. Is the equipment worn correctly and as designed?
f. Respiratory PPE
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i. Is the appropriate respiratory protection worn for the job?
ii. Are the respirators appropriate for the risk?
iii. Is the equipment in good condition and worn as designed?
iv. Is the worker properly trained in the use of respiratory
protection equipment?
v. Has the worker been medically qualified to use a respirator?
vi. Is the worker clean-shaven if using a respirator?
g. Fall Protection PPE
i. Is a body harness worn when work is done over 6 feet in
height?
ii. Is the lanyard properly attached to a secure anchorage?
iii. Is the harness and lanyard in good condition?
iv. Does the harness fit correctly?
v. Has the worker been trained on the proper use of fall
protection equipment?
vi. Have the body harness and lanyard been inspected within the
last month?
h. Mobile Equipment
i. Has the proper mobile equipment been selected for the job?
ii. Is the mobile equipment in good working order and free from
obvious defects?
iii. Is the mobile equipment free of non-approved modifications?
iv. Is the worker operating the mobile equipment qualified?
v. Is the mobile equipment used as it was designed?
vi. Has the mobile equipment been inspected prior to use?
i. Electrical/GFCI
i. Are all cord sets and electrical tools used protected by
GFCI’s?
ii. Are all electrical cords in good condition and free of any
damage to the insulation.
iii. Is the ground prong firmly attached?
iv. Is the lighting in the area sufficient to safely perform the task?
j. Lockout/Tagout (LOTO)
i. Is the equipment worked on in an energy-free state?
ii. Is the source of electrical energy isolated and locked out when
working on electrical equipment?
iii. Is the source of pressurized fluids and gases isolated, locked
out, and lines depressurized before opening lines?
iv. Has a lock and tag been placed on all energy isolating points?
v. Has the system been rendered and verified inoperable and
appropriately locked and tagged?
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vi. Has the system been mechanically tested prior to
commencing work?
vii. Have all affected employees performing work under
lockout/tagout been trained?
k. Work Permits
i. Have the appropriate work permits been obtained for the
task?
ii. Does the work permit contain all required signatures?
iii. Is the crew following all permit requirements?
iv. Are work permits readily available for review?
l. Excavations
i. Is the excavation inspected daily by a competent person?
ii. Is sloping or shoring adequate?
iii. Is proper access provided?
iv. Is this a confined space?
v. Is the excavation properly barricaded?
vi. Are spoils at least two feet from edge?
vii. Is the excavation free of standing water?
m. Manual Lifting
i. Does the worker use the legs and keep the back straight?
ii. Is the worker bending at the knees?
iii. Is the load held close to the body?
iv. Is the weight of the load known?
v. Is the load too heavy to lift without assistance?
n. Ladders
i. Is the right ladder for the task used?
ii. Is the ladder in good conditions and free of defects?
iii. Is the ladder being used properly?
iv. Are straight ladders secured?
v. Do ladders used for access extend at least three feet above the
landing?
vi. Are stepladders fully extended and locked into position?
o. Scaffolds
i. Is the scaffold erected by a competent person?
ii. Is it inspected daily by a competent person?
iii. Is proper access provided?
iv. Are guardrails and toe-boards in place?
v. Is it tagged?
p. Body Positioning
i. Does the worker place all parts of their body so that it will not
be contacted, sprayed, or struck by an energy release of any
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kind?
ii. Does the worker keep body parts and clothing away from
moving or stationary parts that are closing or may close
together?
iii. Does the worker avoid placing their hands into blind areas?
iv. Does the worker keep his or her eyes on the task and avoid
distractions?
q. Aerial Lifts
i. Are all aerial lifts used (boom and scissors) inspected prior to
use?
ii. Has the employee been trained and is verification of training
on file?
iii. Are workers using aerial lifts using a body harness and
lanyard?
iv. Are workers avoiding possible pinch points?
v. Are surface conditions in the immediate area safe for aerial
lift use?
vi. Is the aerial lift load including workers and materials within
load capacity?
vii. Do workers remain on the platform floor during use?
r. Barricading
i. Are barricades and warnings in place to prevent entry into
temporary hazards?
ii. Are barricades around permanent hazards effective and
maintained in good condition?
iii. Is the proper type of barricade used?
iv. Does barricading include the name and company of the
individual responsible?
v. Is the correct color of barricade tape used to protect
personnel from the hazard present?
s. Slip/Trip/Fall
i. Is the surface from which the worker is performing a task
stable, level, solid, and provide good traction?
ii. Does the worker use the walkway provided for access to the
work area and avoid short cuts, uneven, or slippery surfaces?
iii. Is the walkway and work area free of cords and hoses?
t. Rigging
i. Is rigging in good condition?
ii. Is rigging appropriate for the load to be lifted?
iii. Has a documented inspection of all rigging been conducted
within the last month?
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u. Confined Space
i. Has the confined space been prepared for entry according to
the Confined Space Entry Permit?
ii. Is the permit posted at the confined space?
iii. Has the atmosphere been tested?
iv. Is the worker wearing appropriate PPE?
v. Is entry/rescue equipment present and in good working
condition?
vi. Is the confined space attendant in place at the point of entry
and in communication with entrants and emergency
personnel?
vii. Has everyone involved in the entry been properly trained?
v. Tools in Use
i. Has the worker selected the proper tool for the task?
ii. Are hand tools clean and free of obvious defects and in good
working order with no damage?
iii. Are hand tools free of non-approved modifications?
iv. Is the worker using the tool as it was designed to be used?
v. Are fire extinguishers available if required?
w. Housekeeping
i. Is the work area free of debris and loose objects?
ii. Does the worker maintain the workspace in a neat and
orderly condition?
iii. Does the worker place equipment, tools, supplies, and
materials to avoid creating clutter or obstructions in the work
area?
iv. Does the worker clean and organize the work area before
departing?
3. Pre Task Planning (PTP) Audit
a. Good PTP
i. Does the completed PTP effectively address the hazards
associated with the task being performed?
ii. Have all sections of the PTP been completed?
b. Inadequate PTP
i. Have significant hazards been overlooked and not identified
and addressed in the PTP?
ii. Are there some sections of the PTP that have not been
completed?
iii. Is this PTP appropriate for the task being performed?
c. No PTP
i. Did the foreman and crew fail to complete a PTP for this task?
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d. PTP Not Audited
i. Was the PTP not reviewed during this observation?
e. Work Area Evaluation Completed
i. Is the Evaluating Your Work Area section of the PTP
completed?
ii. Do the Yes or No responses correspond with the nature of
the task being performed?
f. Potential Hazard Checklist Completed
i. Is the Potential Hazard Checklist section of the PTP
completed?
ii. Do the potential hazards checked correspond to the
hazards present for this task?
g. Required PPE Listed
i. Has all required PPE for the task identified in this section?
h. Steps to Complete Task Identified
i. Are the major work steps listed in this section?
ii. Are any significant work steps not listed?
i. Hazards for Steps Identified
i. Has the foreman listed all significant hazards in this section?
ii. Do they correspond with the work step breakdown?
j. Identified Hazards Adequately Mitigated
i. Has the foreman listed the required actions to eliminate
or control the hazards that have been identified?
ii. Can you think of any other actions that the foreman
and crew can take to safely execute the assigned task?
k. Appropriately Signed
i. Has the PTP been signed by all members of the work crew?
l. PTP is Posted
i. Is the completed PTP posted in the work area?
ii. Did you have any difficulty in locating the PTP?
m. PTP is Followed
i. Is the crew performing the task in accordance with the PTP?
ii. Does the PTP need to be revised to address any hazards
not identified during its development?
4. List “at-risk” Behaviors Observed/Other
Comments
a. Provide additional detail on all “at-risk behaviors or PTP deficiencies
observed.
b. Include positive comments that are warranted.
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E. Forms
1. Safe Behavior Observation Card
Safe Behavior Observation Card
Observer’s Name: Time &
Date:
Project Name:
Location of Work
Place a checkmark next to “At Risk” Behaviors and/or Conditions
At Risk Behavior or
Condition
Please Describe “At Risk”
Behavior/Condition:
☐ PPE in use for task
☐ Mobile Equipment
☐ Electrical
☐ Lockout/Tagout
☐ Work Permits
☐ Excavations
☐ Manual Lifting
☐ Ladders
☐ Scaffolding
☐ Body Positioning
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☐ Aerial Lifts
☐ Barricading
☐ Slips/Trips/Falls
☐ Rigging
☐ Crane Operations
☐ Confined Spaces
☐ Tooling
☐ Housekeeping
☐ Pre-Task Planning
☐ Follow-Up Required
Potential Severity (if applicable): ☐ Serious ☐ Minor ☐ Minimal ☐ Ergonomic
Significant Aspects of Observation and Discussion with Employees
Observer Signature:
Supervisor Signature:
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A. Purpose
The purpose of this procedure is to provide requirements, guidelines,
training and detection equipment to protect employees from the hazards
associated with gas. Note: This procedure is associated and incorporates the
Voluntary Respiratory Protection of this Accident Prevention Program. All
City employees shall comply fully with the requirements for gas awareness
as outlined below.
B. Definitions
• Action Level- Level of exposure to a harmful substance (present in a work
environment or situation) at which an employer must take the required
precautions to protect the workers. This is normally one half of the
permissible exposure limit.
• Bump Test- A brief exposure of the monitor to gas in order to verify that the
sensors respond and the instrument alarms function accordingly.
• Calibration- Exposing the monitor to a certified concentration of gas for a
particular time to verify that it provides an accurate reading.
• Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) - The legal limit in the US by which an
employee may be exposed to a chemical substance or physical agent such
as noise. These limits are established by the Washington State Department
of Labor and Industries, Division of Occupational Safety and Health and
the Occupational Safety & Health Administration.
• Safety Data Sheets (SDS) - A technical document that provides detailed and
comprehensive information on a controlled product including information
relating to health effects of exposure, hazard evaluation, measures to
protect workers and emergency procedures.
• Short-Term Exposure Limit (STEL) - Maximum permissible concentration of
a substance (expressed usually in parts per million or ppm) in air for a
defined short period (typically 5 minutes).
C. Responsibilities
1. Public Works Operations Manager
a. Monitor compliance with this program, Chapter 296-841 WAC Safety
Standards for Airborne Contaminants WAC, and 296-24-680 WAC,
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Welding, Cutting and Brazing and the OHSA Standard, 29 CFR 1910.134
Respiratory Protection and 1910.101 Compressed Gases, general
requirements.
b. Provide general gas safety training and ensure employees with
potential exposure receive the appropriate training prior to being
assigned to the exposure area.
c. Arrange for immediate emergency response, if necessary, for
spills, injuries and overexposures.
d. Conduct exposure assessments and evaluate exposure
control measures as necessary.
e. Investigate all accidents, incidents and / or near misses.
f. Coordinate the provision of medical exams, monitoring
exposure and maintain employee exposure records.
g. Maintain an SDS file for the gas product(s) in use and all other
hazardous chemicals in the work area.
2. Employees
a. Know the provisions of the gas awareness program.
b. Report accidents, possible overexposures or unsafe conditions to
your supervisor.
c. Wear Personal Protective Equipment and use engineering
controls where recommended.
D. Contingency Plan Awareness
1. City management shall ensure that all employees are aware of the
City’s contingency plan provisions, including but not limited to
knowledge of evacuation routes and alarms. All affected City
employees shall participate in emergency evacuation drills and
practice rescue procedures
E. Employee Exposure Assessment
1. Whenever gases are in our work area, the City will monitor the air
to determine employee exposures. Measurements of employee
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exposures will be representative of a full shift or STEL, and will be
taken for each job classification in each work area.
2. If employee exposures are found to be at or above the action level but
below the PEL, the City will repeat air monitoring annually for those
spaces routinely exposed to gases.
3. If exposures are above the PEL, air monitoring will be conducted
every month for the duration of the job. If exposures are above the
STEL, air monitoring will be conducted at least once per year.
Monitoring will continue until the exposures can be reduced below
these levels by engineering or administrative controls.
4. Air monitoring will be conducted promptly in a work area if
employees are experiencing signs or symptoms of exposure. Air
monitoring will be repeated in an area each time there is a change in
equipment, processes or controls which may result in additional
exposure to gases.
F. Gas Hazard Monitoring Equipment
1. Each employee shall use a portable gas monitor as required in all
high gas or potentially high hazard areas.
2. The gas monitor(s) must be calibrated prior to each use in accordance
with the manufacturer’s recommendations and contain a current
calibration sticker on the monitor providing the previous calibration
date.
3. Bump Testing should be completed at the beginning of each day that
each monitor is in use. The Bump Test is utilized to establish that the
monitor is functioning in accordance with the manufacturer’s
specifications.
G. Use, Maintenance and Care of Gas Monitors
1. City employees shall only utilize gas monitors issued by the City.
Personal monitors are not allowed.
2. Personal Gas monitor(s) shall be located on the outside of all clothing.
3. Employee(s) shall check calibration date prior to conducting a Bump
Test. If the calibration date has passed, the monitor shall not be used
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and turned into your immediate supervisor immediately.
4. When there are multiple work shifts, a bump test shall be performed by
each shift prior to utilizing the monitor.
5. Avoid physical or sensor damage, monitors are sensitive equipment;
report any monitor that does not appear to be functioning as expected.
H. Hygiene
1. To prevent the accidental ingestion of gases; eating, drinking and
smoking are prohibited in areas where gases are used. In addition,
employees must wash their hands before eating, drinking and
smoking.
I. Employee Information and Training
1. Every employee working around potential gas must receive training
on its hazards. Supervisors should review this information with
employees before their initial assignment, annually and when
conditions change at the work location. This information contains the
following:
a. Gas Hazards – Characteristics of gases, including oxygen
deficiency, oxygen or nitrogen enrichment, carbon monoxide
and hydrogen sulfide
b. Gas Alarms – type and location of alarm stations
c. Contents of the Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
d. Gas Monitoring Equipment – Portable and Fixed detection
systems
e. Evacuation Procedures – Site / location specific
f. Staging Areas – Primary and secondary
g. Personnel rescue plan, plant Emergency Response Team (ERT)
h. Instructions for emergency procedures
i. Description of the health hazards associated with exposure
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j. Signs and Symptoms of exposure
k. Description of the operations in the work area (building) where
specific gases are present and of concern
l. Work practices to reduce exposure, including engineering and
administrative controls and personal protective equipment
required; use and care of Self Contained Breathing Apparatus
(SCBA) emergency procedures as applicable
2. This training must be conducted whenever a new hazard is introduced
into the work area, when the employee transfers to another job,
and whenever the employee demonstrates behavior that indicates a
lack of understanding of the safety requirements when working in
areas where gases are present.
3. All training must be documented by the individual presenting the
training session and a copy of the training records will be kept on file
in Human Resources and be available for review.
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A. Purpose
The purpose of this procedure is to ensure that all City of Port Townsend
employees recognize the effects of fatigue as related to safely being able to
perform work and reduce or eliminate the potential of accidents, incidents
and/or near miss events caused by fatigue. All City employees shall comply
fully with the requirements for Heat Prevention as outlined below.
B. Definitions
1. Fatigue- the state of being exhausted. It may be caused by long hours of
sedentary work, long hours of physical or mental activity, inadequate
rest, excessiv e stress, or a combination of these factors.
a. The signs, symptoms and affect fatigue has on individual adults
may vary from person to person; fatigue may affect the individual
worker’s ability to perform mental and physical tasks, including
driving and working with tools & equipment.
b. The results of fatigue may lead to any or all of the following
hazardous conditions effects or behaviors:
i. Decreases alertness and watchfulness
ii. Inability to see properly
iii. Slower reflexes and reactions
iv. Micro sleep – up to sixty seconds where the brain goes to
sleep and the person blacks out no matter what they are
doing
v. Automatic behavior – where a person does routine tasks but
is not having any conscious thoughts
vi. Inability to make a good decision or plan
vii. Inability to concentrate, including wandering thoughts
viii. Inability to remember things that have just been complet ed,
seen or heard
ix. Inability to notice things a person would usually notice
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x. Inability to respond quickly or correctly to changes
xi. Inability to communicate effectively or handle stressful
situations
xii. Poor logic and judgment, including taking risks that the
person would not usually take
xiii. Mood changes – depressed, irritable, impatient or bored
C. Responsibilities
1. Supervisors
a. Relay fatigue management information to staff.
b. Be aware of the possible risks associated with extended hours
and/or consecutive work days. When practical, use short-term
help to minimize the need for extended hours work.
c. Recognize individual and crew fatigue; report any fatigue
management problems, issues or concerns.
d. Assess and control hazards and risks and take prompt actions when
risks develop.
e. Account for workers returning from sickness, absences and/or
modified work days and consider any factors that may affect a
worker’s ability to maintain an extended work schedule.
f. Ensure workers take rest breaks.
2. Employees
a. Recognize symptoms of fatigue and promptly report any fatigue
related concerns to your immediate supervisor.
b. Take breaks during work and get proper rest during time off
c. Rotate and perform various functions of short duration during
extended hours as directed by your supervisor.
3. Human Resources
a. Provide information to employees about the fatigue management.
D. Program Procedure
1. Identification - all employees must be identified who are required to work
where an extended hours and/or consecutive work days schedule may be
in effect.
2. Training- all potentially impacted employees and their supervisors
working where extended hours and/or consecutive work days scheduled
may be in effect. Work Analysis – management may conduct analysis of
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each individual work task / assignment to control fatigue utilizing:
weather, time of day, temperature, crew size, repetitive functions or
type of work, length and frequency of breaks, duration and extent, hours
of consecutive work; days off, and other applicable factors.
3. Mitigation Measures– whenever possible ensure sufficient resources of
personnel, equipment and support are available; set work hour
limitations and control job rotation. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) -
select personal protective equipment (PPE) appropriate to the conditions
that exist including weather and environment and limit the duration of
the tasks requiring PPE that may affect the performance or that places
additional physical demands on the workers.
4. Ergonomics - Utilize ergonomic equipment and proper lighting for
repetitive tasks; control temperature if possible and develop a worker
rotation similar to a manufacturing environment.
5. Staff /Work Balance – utilize optimum scheduling whenever possible to
execut e work schedules that allow for effective fatigue risk management.
E. Factors the May Influence Fatigue
1. Medication, over the counter and/or prescription drugs may affect a
worker’s fatigue factor.
F. Training
1. City employees that may be potentially impacted will be trained to
recognize the dangers of fatigue issues in the workplace.
Supervisors should review this information with employees before their
initial assignment, and when schedule conditions change at the work
location.
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A. Purpose
The purpose of this procedure is to establish the requirements for asbestos
exposure protection for employees of the City of Port Townsend and to inform
City employees about possible and associated hazards. This document has been
established to ensure the health and safety of employees who may encounter
asbestos-containing-materials (ACM) in their work environment and who may
be required to work with or around these materials and shall apply to all City
projects where the presence of asbestos containing materials is known or
suspected and where Employees may encounter these substances as part of
their work activities.
B. Definitions
1. Amended Water (Wetting Agent) - Water to which a surfactant has been
added to increase the ability of the liquid to coat, penetrate and stick to
ACM.
2. Asbestos- Includes chrysotile, amosite, crocidolite, tremolite asbestos,
anthophyllite asbestos, actinolite asbestos and any of these minerals that
has been chemically treated and/or altered. For purposes of this policy,
"asbestos" includes PACM listed below.
3. Asbestos Containing Material (ACM) - any material containing more than
1% asbestos.
4. Asbestos Work- Any work with ACM as defined/covered by Asbestos
Work Classes I through IV below.
5. Asbestos Work Classes- OSHA divides ACM work into four classes as
follows:
a. Class I - Activities involving the removal of thermal system
insulation (TSI) and surfacing asbestos containing materials
or presumed asbestos-containing materials (PACM).
b. Class II - Activities involving removal of asbestos-containing
material which is not thermal system insulation or surfacing
material. This includes, but is not limited to, the removal of
asbestos containing wall board, floor tile and sheeting,
roofing and siding shingles, construction mastics, gaskets
and leak sealant materials.
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c. Class III - Repair and maintenance operations where ACM
including thermal system insulation and surfacing material is
likely to be disturbed.
d. Class IV - Maintenance and custodial activities during which
employees contact ACM and PACM and activities to clean-
up waste and debris.
6. Bulk Sample- A process of collecting samples of materials to be sent to a
laboratory for analysis to determine whether or not the material contains
asbestos, and if so, what types and percentages.
7. Competent Person- One who is capable of identifying existing asbestos
hazards in the workplace and selecting the appropriate control strategy
for asbestos exposure, and who has the authority to take prompt
corrective measures.
8. Excursion Limit- 1.0 fibers per cubic centimeter (1.0 f/cc) averaged over a
30 minute period. This is the maximum concentration of airborne
asbestos an employee may be exposed to during any 30 minute period
during a work shift without the use of protective measures such as
respirators or protective clothing.
9. Exposure Assessment- Air monitoring done to determine employee
exposure to airborne asbestos, which is compared to the PEL and
Excursion Limit.
10. High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA or P100) Filter- A filter capable of
trapping and retaining at least 99.97 of all single dispensed particles of
0.3 micrometers in diameter.
11. Negative Exposure Assessment- A demonstration by the employer that
employee exposure during an activity is expected to be consistently
below the PEL.
12. Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL)- 0.1 fibers per cubic centimeter (0.1 f/cc)
Time weighted average (TWA) for an eight hour period. The maximum
concentration of airborne asbestos an employee may be exposed to
during an 8 hour work shift without the use of protective measures such
as respirators or protective clothing.
13. Presumed Asbestos Containing Material (PACM)- Materials suspected of
containing asbestos that have not been positively identified as not
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containing asbestos. These are normally sprayed or troweled on
materials in buildings and facilities constructed prior to 1980. These
materials must be treated as asbestos containing material until they are
determined to not contain asbestos.
14. Regulated Area- an area established to demarcate areas where Class I, II,
and III asbestos work is conducted, and any adjoining area where debris
and waste from such asbestos work accumulates; and any work area
which exceeds, or where there is a reasonable possibility to exceed the
Permissible Exposure Limit.
15. Surfacing Materials- asbestos containing material sprayed or troweled on
surfaces (walls, ceilings, structural members) for acoustical, decorative or
fireproofing purposes.
16. Thermal System Insulation (TSI)- Insulation used to inhibit heat transfer or
prevent condensation on pipes, boilers, tanks, ducts, and various other
components of hot. This includes pipe lagging, pipe wrap, block, batt and
blanket insulation, cements and "muds" and a variety of other products.
17. Wetting Agent- See "Amended Water" in this Section
C. Responsibilities
1. Management
City Management is responsible for ensuring compliance with this
procedure and that all site specific asbestos hazards have been properly
addressed and effectively communicated to all Employees assigned to the
site.
2. Supervisor
City Supervisors responsible for Employees performing work covered by
the City’s Asbestos Exposure Protection guideline must:
a. Ensure Employees are properly trained on the applicable
contents of this procedure and any site specific asbestos
programs.
b. Ensure Employees are trained in the recognition of
asbestos containing materials and the method and means to
protect themselves from these hazards.
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c. Continuously monitor the work to assure compliance
with this procedure and any site asbestos program requirements.
d. Confirm each job is properly prepared and that
Employees are aware of any asbestos hazards that may be
encountered as part of their work or as a result of someone else's
work in the area.
3. Employee
City Employees who may encounter asbestos-containing-materials
(ACM) in their work environment and who may be required to work
with or around these materials must know the hazards associated with
asbestos and ensure these hazards are properly addressed according to
training received. Such Employees are responsible for implementing
the safe work procedures contained in this procedure.
4. Competent Person
a. A Competent Person must be assigned to supervise all asbestos
work (abatement projects and maintenance/construction activity)
performed by City Employees.
b. The Competent Person must ensure the job is conducted in
compliance with this guideline and applicable OSHA regulations;
1926.1101 and 1910.1001.
c. At a minimum, the Competent Person must:
• Review the job for compliance issues, and assist
Management in developing site specific asbestos
plans/procedures.
• Perform Exposure Assessments (air monitoring).
• Perform jobsite inspections as required by OSHA to monitor
job compliance and respond to any Employee
questions/requests.
D. Program Procedures
All City employees engaged in operations or activities where asbestos
containing materials may be encountered shall receive the proper procedures,
training, and equipment necessary to protect themselves from harmful
exposure to these materials.
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E. Exposure Assessments and Permissible Exposure Limits
1. Each workplace or job task with asbestos work must perform exposure
assessments (air monitoring) to accurately determine airborne
concentrations of asbestos to which Employees are exposed.
2. A designated Competent Person will perform the initial and
subsequent daily monitoring as required by Chapter 296-62-077 WAC, and
OSHA 29 CFR 1926.11011.
3. Representative exposure assessments of each Employee shall be made.
4. The results of exposure assessments shall be made on the basis of
representative 8 hour time weighted averaging (TWA).
5. The results of exposure assessments shall be maintained with the
Employees medical records for retention purposes.
6. All Employees who participated in personal exposure assessment
monitoring will be notified of the results upon receipt, regardless of the
fiber count.
7. Chapter 296-62-07705 WAC, and OSHA 29 CFR 1926.1101 establishes
two exposure limits for employees whose work involves asbestos
containing materials:
8. Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL): 0.1 Fibers per cubic centimeter (0.1
f/cc) averaged over and eight (8) hour day. This is the maximum
concentration of airborne asbestos an employee may be exposed to during
and 8 hour work shift without the use of protective measures such as
respirators or protective clothing.
9. Excursion limit: 1.0 f/cc averaged over a 30 minute period. This is the
maximum concentration of airborne asbestos an employee may be exposed
to during any 30 minute period during a work shift without the use of
protective measures such as respirators or protective clothing.
10. A documented assessment of the expected level of asbestos exposure
must be conducted by a Competent Person for each asbestos job to be
undertaken. This would include even short duration jobs such as the
removal of an intact asbestos gasket.
F. Training
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1. Training is required for City employees prior to initial assignment and
annually thereafter for Employees engaged in asbestos work activity, or
who may encounter asbestos containing materials as part of their routine
work activities.
2. Initial training for asbestos workers will consist of an EPA accredited
course appropriate for the class of work being performed; or conform with
the policy set below for Class IV, and special cases of Class II work
activities:
3. Class I and Class II* workers: 32 hours training
4. Class II: Training may only be 8 hours, or equivalent in length with
part of that being hands-on training if the employee will remove only one
type of Class II material. (See section 7.3** below for additional
requirements.)*
5. Class III: 16 hours training
6. Class IV: Training must be 2 hours in length. Process Safety
Management Training may be used for this purpose, provided job/site
specific procedures and protective measures are added to the training and
covered as part of the instruction.
7. Competent Persons at a minimum must take the 40 hour EPA
accredited course for asbestos supervisors, and can only be designated as
such by Management and Human Resources.
8. Awareness level training consisting of a Process Safety Management
Training Course must be completed by all Employees who may encounter
asbestos containing materials as part of their work activities.
9. Records of all training and copies of medical examination results must
be maintained as part of the Employee’s file.
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A. Purpose
This document establishes the requirements for lead exposure protection for
City personnel and notification of City employees about possible lead-related
hazards in their work areas. It applies to all City employees who perform
construction or maintenance work where the employee may be occupationally
exposed to lead. The intent of this procedure is to comply with Chapter 296-62-
07521 WAC.
B. Definitions
1. Project - is used in its broadest sense and includes all land, property,
building, structures, installations, employee lockers, cars, trucks and all
other equipment being utilized for Project business.
2. Action Level - means Employee exposure, without regard to the use of
respirators, to an airborne concentration of lead of 30 micrograms per
cubic meter of air (30ug/m3) calculated as an 8-hour time-weighted
average (TWA).
3. Competent Person - means one who is capable of identifying existing and
predictable lead hazards in the surroundings or working conditions
and who has authorization to take prompt corrective measures to
eliminate them.
4. Lead - means metallic lead, all inorganic lead compounds, and organic
lead soaps. Excluded from this definition are all other organic lead
compounds.
5. Permissible Exposure Limit - an airborne concentration of lead at
concentrations greater than fifty micrograms per cubic meter of air
(50ug/m3) averaged over an 8-hour period.
6. Prophylactic Chelation - Giving a person an agent (normally containing a
calcium derivative, such as milk) to aid one's body in expelling metals
as a treatment or preventive measure against the effects of "metal
poisoning", such as lead.
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C. Responsibilities
Management:
1. If lead is present in any quantities in locations where City
employees may be expected to enter, the Manager is responsible for
ensuring that an initial determination is completed on whether any
employee's exposure to lead exceeds the action level of 30 µg/m3.
2. Whenever the results indicate that the representative employee
exposure, without regard to respirators, is at or above the PEL, the
Manager shall include, in the written notice, a statement that the
employee's exposure was at or above the PEL and a description of
the corrective action taken or to be taken to reduce the exposure to
or below that level.
3. All Medical Surveillance Programs must be in accordance with CFR
1926.62. Human Resources shall be notified by the Manager when
any Employee is placed on medical surveillance.
4. The Manager shall not order prophylactic chelation for any
employee. If chelation is used, it must be supervised by a licensed
physician in a clinical setting.
5. The Manager must notify Human Resources when an employee is
put under temporary medical removal protection.
Supervisor Responsibilities
1. City Supervisors responsible for employees performing work
covered by the City Lead guideline must:
a. Confirm each job has been properly evaluated for lead
hazards, and that these hazards have been properly eliminated
or controlled.
b. Ensure employees are aware of any hazards associated
with their work.
c. Continuously monitor the work to assure compliance with
this guideline.
Employee Responsibilities
1. City employees performing work tasks covered by this Lead
guideline must:
a. Comply with the provisions of this guideline as per training
and instructions received.
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b. Wear the required personal protective equipment.
D. Program Requirements
1. All City employees shall be protected against exposure to lead hazards in
the workplace.
2. Exposure to lead occurs in at least 120 different occupations, including lead
smelting, battery manufacturing, lead pigment manufacturing and use,
solder manufacturing and use, and many others.
3. The primary source for exposure on construction and maintenance work
sites would be lead base paint, and the removal of this paint from existing
piping and structures.
4. The purpose of this document is to provide those employees, who may be
exposed to airborne lead, with the proper safety guidelines to avoid any
hazards associated with airborne lead.
5. Occupational exposure to lead includes all of the following operations:
• Demolition or salvage
• Construction, alteration, repair or renovation
• Installation of products containing lead
• Painting and decorating
• Maintenance operations
E. Guidelines
1. Interim Requirements
a. This section provides specific requirements for protecting
employees from possible lead exposure. During the interim period,
while the assessment is being done, it must be assumed the
exposure levels are consistent with the levels stated in this
guideline.
b. Interim protective measures that are required, pending completion
of the employee monitoring shall include:
• Respiratory Protection
• Protective Clothing and Equipment
• Hygiene Facilities
• Biological Monitoring
c. The following tasks are affected by the interim requirements and the
specific work practices listed below:
• Abrasive blasting on painted surfaces
• Clean-up of abrasive blast material
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• Welding, grinding, sanding, needle gun or cold cutting on
painted surfaces
• Work on lead-based metals
• Carpentry work on material coated with lead base paint
d. The following specific work procedures must be followed until it is
established by either exposure monitoring, previous exposure
monitoring done within 12 months, or objective data, that the
exposure levels generated are below the action level.
• Analysis to determine activities involving lead base paints
• All employees involved with the task must have received
the City Lead Awareness Training Course.
e. Exposure Prevention Training Course. See Section: Training.
• Exposure Assessment and Air Monitoring.
• Create a project specific written compliance plan.
• Provide change rooms, hand washing facilities and
showers (if feasible) for all employees involved with the
task.
• Install barricade with the appropriate signs around all
work areas. Evaluate the need for a full or partial
enclosure.
• Conduct biological monitoring on all Employees working
within the barricaded area.
• Place employees into the medical surveillance program
once they reach thirty (30) days of possible exposure within
12 consecutive months.
2. Lead Identification
a. According to the Lead Paint Act of 1971 a paint is defined as lead
containing if it contains more than 0.06% lead by weight. This level
was established for consumer use, however it is the most commonly
used threshold for establishing if industrial paint should be
considered lead containing.
b. Even though the most common colors associated with lead
containing pigments is orange or red, lead can be present in all
different colors of pigment. Laboratory testing is the only way to
positively determine if a paint in question contains lead.
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c. Positive identification of lead containing paint should be made prior
to any work being done that may cause airborne concentrations of
lead. If a positive identification cannot be accomplished it must be
assumed it contains lead and take the necessary precautions.
3. Health Hazards
a. Lead can be absorbed into the body by inhalation and ingestion.
Lead compounds covered by this guideline cannot be absorbed
through the skin. If exposure to lead above the PEL continues
without the proper protective equipment, the amount of lead stored
in the body will increase because one is absorbing more lead than
the body is able to excrete.
b. Short-term (acute) overexposure to extremely high doses of lead
may lead to acute encephalopathy. Encephalopathy is a condition
affecting the brain that develops quickly into seizures, coma and
possibly death from cardiorespiratory arrest. Prior to developing
encephalopathy, Employees may experience abdominal pain. Short
term occupational exposures of this magnitude are highly unusual.
c. Long-term (chronic) over exposure to lead may result in severe
damage to the blood forming, nervous, urinary and reproductive
systems.
d. Common symptoms of chronic over-exposure include loss of
appetite, anxiety, constipation, nausea, headache, muscle and joint
pain, nervous irritability, numbness, dizziness, and the presence of a
lead line on the gums.
e. If an employee is showing symptoms that may be attributable to
lead exposure they must be enrolled in the Medical Surveillance
Plan.
4. Allowable Levels of Exposure
a. The action level established by OSHA is at 30 µg/m3, calculated as
an 8 hour Time Weighted Average (TWA). This action level must
be observed even if respirator protection is provided to Employees.
b. The Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) is established at 50 µg/m3.
No employee shall be exposed to lead at concentrations above the
PEL averaged over an 8 hour period.
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c. If an employee works more than 8 hours in one day, the PEL shall
be reduced according to the following formula.
d. Allowable Employee Exposure (µg/m3) =400 Number of hours
worked
5. Exposure Assessment
a. If lead is present in any quantities, where our employees may be
expected to enter, the Manager is responsible for assuring that an
initial determination is completed on whether any employee's
exposure to lead exceeds the action level of 30 µg/m3.
b. This initial determination must include instrument monitoring of
employee’s exposures unless there is objective data, done within the
last twelve (12) months, which can demonstrate conclusively that no
employee will be exposed to lead in excess of the action level.
c. If objective data is used to determine the amount of exposure, the
Safety Department must be notified as to the contents of the
objective data. This data must be maintained for at least 30 years.
d. The exposure assessment must represent the employee exposure
which would occur without the use of a respirator.
6. Exposure Monitoring
a. When using exposure monitoring to complete the exposure
assessment, the instrument monitoring must be done for a full shift
(at least 7 hours). The monitoring must be performed for each job
classification in the work area, and the samples must be
representative of the employee's regular daily exposure to lead.
b. The initial monitoring can be accomplished by representative
sampling of the employees who are reasonably believed to be
exposed to the greatest concentrations of lead.
c. If initial monitoring results are below the action level of 30 µg/m3,
the results must be well documented and the measurements
typically do not have to be repeated, unless the nature of the
operation changes.
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d. When exposure levels from monitoring are higher than 30 µg/m3,
but less than 50 µg/m3, an exposure monitoring program must be
set up with monitoring repeated at least every six (6) months.
Monitoring can be discontinued when two (2) consecutive
measurements, taken at least seven (7) days apart are below the
action level.
e. When the initial monitoring reveals that the exposure is above the
PEL of 50 µg/m3, a monitoring program must be developed that
includes quarterly monitoring of affected Employees.
f. If monitoring results indicate levels above the PEL, corrective action
must be pursued (i.e., engineering controls, better abatement
practices) to drop the levels of exposure two (2) consecutive
measurements taken at least seven (7) days apart are below the PEL,
the monitoring can be reduced to every six (6) months. If
engineering controls are improved further and the two (2)
consecutive measurements drop below the action level the
monitoring may be discontinued.
g. Whenever the results indicate that the representative employee
exposure, without regard to respirators, is at or above the PEL, the
Manager shall include, in the written notice, a statement that the
Employee’s exposure was at or above the PEL and a description of
the corrective action taken or to be taken to reduce the exposure to
or below that level.
F. Training
1. All City employees must be apprised to the general hazards associated
with lead in their work environments and the protective measures in place.
2. All employees working on sites where the City is performing work
around lead work activities must attend the City Lead Awareness Training
Course.
3. All employees exposed to airborne lead above the action level must
notify management so that a determination can be made concerning the
exposure. Note that the affected employee will likely be removed from the
area of operations involving the lead exposure or safeguards will be
provided to include comprehensive training, a means of protection and
medical monitoring.
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7.
A. Purpose
The purpose of this procedure is to provide a guideline for safe lifting and
manual materials handling operations at the City of Port Townsend facilities
and projects.
B. General
The City of Port Townsend and its employees must take effective action to
prevent injuries associated with material handling at all times by utilizing a
positive safety work culture of risk mitigation and control. Wherever possible,
employees are encouraged to avoid the need for hazardous manual handling
(so far as reasonably practicable), assess the risk of injury from hazardous
manual handling that cannot be avoided, and reduce the risk of injury from
hazardous manual handling (so far as it is practical).
C. Program Requirements
1. Hazard Assessment
Prior to conducting any manual material handling operations, a
dynamic hazard assessment may be conducted considering the load,
the task, the environment in which the task is to be performed and the
operator. When these factors interact with each other, they can create
hazards that result in injuries.
a. A load may be hazardous because of:
• Weight
• Size
• Shape (making it awkward to handle)
• Coupling (type of grip on the load)
• Unsecure, slippery or damaged surfaces
• Absent or inappropriate handles
• Imbalance (i.e. changing center of gravity)
b. The task or method of handling may be hazardous when it involves:
• Lifting or lowering repetitively, quickly, for extended
periods of time, while seated or kneeling, immediately
after prolonged flexion or shorting after periods of rest.
• An inability to get close to the load
• Moving the load over large distances
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• Accuracy and precision required because of either fragile
loads or specific unloading locations
• Materials positioned too low or too high
• Hazardous movements or postures (e.g. twisting, extended
bending and reaching)
• Multiple handling requirements (e.g. lifting, carrying,
unloading)
c. Environmental factors could include
• Temperature changes
• Precipitation, as well as relative humidity (generally
beyond a 35-50% range)
• Lighting
• Noise
• Time constraints
• Physical conditions such as obstacles or floor surfaces that
are slippery, uneven or damaged
2. Implementing Control Measures
The best control measure is to eliminate the need for workers to perform
manual handling tasks. Since this is not always feasible, tasks should be
designed so that they are within the worker’s capabilities. Considerations
should include the load itself, the design of the work station and work practices.
Providing mechanical handling devices or aids is always the preferred method
whenever possible and can often eliminate the task itself or ease physical
demands on the worker.
a. Task Design
i. The load
• Reduce the weight of the load by decreasing the size of the
object, weight of the container, capacity of the container or
load in the container.
• Conversely, consider increasing the weight of the load so
that it may only be handed mechanically. This can be done
by use of palletized loads and larger bins or containers.
b. Work Station Design
i. Reduce the distance over which the load has to be moved by
relocating production and storage areas.
ii. Design work stations so that workers:
• Can store and handle all material between knuckle and
shoulder height; waist height is most desirable
• Can begin and end handling material at the same height
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• Can face the load and handle materials as close to the body
as possible
• Do not have to handle loads using awkward postures or an
extended reach
• Do not handle loads in confined spaces that prevent them
from using good body mechanics
c. Work Practices
General Lifting Techniques
i. Whether it is during leisure activities or as a part of paid work,
everyone lifts, holds, carries, pushes and pulls on a daily basis.
Manual material handling involves lifting light, heavy and
awkward objects. Safe lifting is a critical aspect of daily
activities and should be the focus of any manual material
handling.
ii. Before you lift, remember the following:
• Wear supportive shoes;
• Use lift assist devices (hand dollies, carts, lift tables, forklifts);
• Carry all movements out horizontally (e.g., push and pull
rather than lift and lower);
• Always use your body weight and not your feet when
pushing;
• Try to have most workplace deliveries placed at hip height;
• Always keep objects in the comfort zone (between hip and
shoulder height);
• Keep all loads close to and in front of the body;
• Keep the back aligned while lifting;
• Maintain the center of balance;
• Let the legs do the actual lifting; and
• Reduce the size of the material to keep it light, compact and
safe to grasp
iii. Plan the Lift prior to lifting as follows:
• Size up the load, its weight, shape and position;
• Determine if the load is too large, too heavy or too awkward
to move alone;
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• Get help from a coworker or use a mechanical aid device to
help with the lift when necessary;
• Decide on the route to take;
• Check for any problems or obstacles such as slippery or
cluttered floors;
• Investigate the location where the load is going to be placed
in order to anticipate any difficulties; and
• Always exercise or warm-up the back prior to lifting.
iv. Squat Lifting should be done for a majority of all lifts.
Squat lifting should be performed as follows:
• Stand as close to the load as possible;
• Move your feet shoulder width apart;
• Tighten your stomach muscles so you can tuck your pelvis;
• Bend at the knees, keeping your back straight and stomach
tucked;
• Get a good firm grip on the load;
• Hug the load close to the center of your body;
• Lift smoothly with your legs gradually straightening the
knees and hips into a standing position; and
• Avoid twisting your body as you lift.
v. Carrying Loads should be done as follows:
• Keep the load close to the center of your body to take full
advantage of the mechanical leverage of your body;
• Do not change your grip on the load unless it is weight
supported;
• Avoid twisting your body without pivoting your feet at the
same time;
• If you must change direction, move your feet in that
direction instead of twisting your trunk in that direction;
• Make sure you can see over the load;
• Move carefully toward your destination; and
• If a heavier load is carried for some distance, consider
storing it closer.
•
vi. Unloading Objects should be done the same way as lifting
objects, but in the reverse order as follows:
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• Slowly bend your knees to lower the load;
• Keep your back straight and the weight close to the center
of your body;
• Allow enough room for fingers and toes when the load is
set down;
• Place the load on a bench or table by resting it on the edge
and pushing it forward with your arms and body; and
• Secure the load to ensure that it will not fall, tip over, roll or
block someone's way.
•
vii. One-Arm Loads are used when carrying items such as pails
or buckets. Lifting and carrying one-arm loads should be
performed as follows:
• Bend the knees and at the waist keeping your back straight;
• Reach for the load;
• Grasp the handle of the load firmly;
• Lift with your legs not your shoulders and upper back; and
• Keep your shoulders level while switching hands regularly
to reduce overexertion on one side of the body while
carrying the load.
viii. Team Lifts are highly encouraged when objects are too
heavy, too large or too awkward for one person to lift. Team lifts
should be performed as follows:
• Work with someone of similar build and height, if possible;
• Choose one person to direct the lift (e.g., "lift on the count of
three");
• Lift with your legs and raise the load to the desired level at
the same time;
• Always keep the load at the same level while carrying;
• Move smoothly and in unison; and
• Set the load down together.
ix. Overhead Lifts should be conducted as follows:
• When lifting or lowering objects from above the shoulders,
lighten the load whenever possible;
• Stand on something sturdy such as a step stool or platform
to decrease the vertical distance; and
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• When you are lowering objects from above the shoulders,
slide the load close to your body, grasp the object firmly,
slide it down your body and proceed with your move.
x. Mechanical Aids
• Alternative material-handling techniques for carrying or
moving loads are to be used whenever possible to
minimize lifting and bending requirements.
• These alternate techniques include the use of: hand trucks,
carts, dollies, forklifts, hoists and wheelbarrows.
• Although mechanical aids are used, safe lifting procedures
should still be followed by maintaining the natural
curvature of the back, using the legs for any lifting that is
encountered and avoid twisting the back.
xi. Lifting/Lowering
• Lifting weights greater than 60 lbs. may necessitate the use
of either a team lift, or lift-rated powered hoist or other
equipment designed for the task.
• All manual handling conducted vertically shall be
conducted using a mechanical advantage system with an
automatic capture mechanism to prevent the potential of
dropped objects
• All lifts conducted at height within a fall arrest zone must
be conducted within a work positioning stance (PPE) to
ensure correct lifting posture.
• Dynamic Risk Assessments shall be conducted before,
during and after any manual lift exercise.
D. Training
City employees who regularly perform manual handling activities as part
of their essential job duties shall be trained in the following precautions:
• How to identify hazardous loads or handling tasks
• The proper selection and use of mechanical handling aids
• Safe postures and manual lifting techniques to minimize
strain
• Safe lifting techniques
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A. Purpose
The purpose of this procedure is to provide requirements and guidelines
to protect employees from the hazards associated with welding, cutting
and comply with Chapter 296-24-680 WAC, Cutting, Welding and Brazing.
All City of Port Townsend employees shall comply fully with the
requirements for welding, cutting and hot work as outlined below.
B. Definitions
• Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) – A risk assessment tool used to identify and
control workplace hazards.
• Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) – The legal limit in the US by which an
employee may be exposed to a chemical substance or physical agent such
as noise. These limits are established by the Washington State Department
of Labor and Industries, Division of Occupational Safety and Health
(DOSH).
• Safety Data Sheets (SDS) – A technical document that provides detailed and
comprehensive information on a controlled product including information
relating to health effects of exposure, hazard evaluation, measures to
protect workers and emergency procedures.
• Short Term Exposure Limit - Maximum permissible concentration of a
substance (expressed usually in parts per million or ppm) in air for a
defined short period (typically 5 minutes).
C. Responsibilities
1. Public Works Operations Manager
a. Monitor compliance with this program and the OHHSA
Standard, 29 CFR 1910.252.
b. Provide adequate welding, cutting and hot work safety training
and ensure employees with potential exposure receive the
appropriate training prior to being assigned to the exposure
area.
c. May assist in conducting pre-job hazard analysis including the
identification for potential welding, cutting and hot work, assist
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in modifying work practices to address risks, and providing
any unique safety equipment and Personal Protective
Equipment required to safely perform tasks involving welding,
cutting and hot work.
d. Arrange for immediate emergency response, if necessary, for
spills, injuries and overexposures.
e. Conduct exposure assessments and evaluate exposure control
measures as necessary.
f. Investigate accidents, incident and near-misses.
g. Maintain a SDS for all welding product(s) used and all
other hazardous chemicals in the work area.
h. Ensure that fire extinguishers or other methods be made available to
extinguish flames in the event of a fire.
2. Employees
a. Know the provisions of the welding, cutting and hot work
program.
b. Report accidents, possible overexposures or unsafe conditions to
your supervisor.
c. Wear Personal Protective Equipment and use
engineering control where recommended.
d. Inspect all hot work equipment before use.
e. Report any equipment problems immediately and do not use
damaged equipment until equipment has been repaired by an
authorized technician or replaced.
3. Supervisors
a. Know the provisions of the welding, cutting and hot work
program.
b. Ensure employees have been trained on the task they are going to
perform.
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c. Develop and monitor site-specific hot work procedures.
d. Provide fire extinguishers and safe equipment for hot work.
e. Provide proper and effective personal protective equipment (PPE)
for all hot work.
f. Monitor all hot work.
g. Ensure all hot work equipment and personal protective
equipment (PPE) is in safe working order.
h. Allow only trained and authorized employees to conduct hot
work, cutting, welding and fire extinguisher use.
i. Ensure permits are used for all hot work; hot work permits
must be completed and approved by the employee in charge
prior to the start of the welding operation.
j. Inspect the area, provide written permits to employees.
k. Post area or use shields for ongoing hot work and follow all shop
requirements.
D. General Scope
1. This program applies to all locations that the City may work at or in
and that perform welding, cutting and hot work including
construction work in which welding, in any amount is conducted.
Construction work is defined as work involving building, alteration
and / or repair, painting and decorating.
E. Common Hazards
1. Common health and safety hazards, inherent in metal welding and
cutting operations, include exposures to fumes, gases, high noise
levels, radiation, fire and electricity. The severity of these hazards
relate to:
a. The materials used in the process;
b. The characteristics of the by-products which evolve;
c. The specific process utilized;
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d. The conditions which exist at the workplace; and the
concentration and duration of employee exposure.
2. The potential hazards can be minimized through implementation of
appropriate administrative controls i.e.:, employee training, the use
of engineering controls i.e., ventilation, process improvement, etc.,
and through complete planning if each job to ensure that all hazards
are defined and controlled.
F. Safe Welding and Cutting Procedures:
1. The supervisor in charge of the job shall brief the welder(s) on the
potential hazards of the specific job.
2. All welding and burring equipment shall be chosen to provide the
safest operation and installed by qualified technicians. If the
welding operation cannot be performed in a safe manner work must
stop and not continue until it can be performed in a safe manner, NO
exceptions.
3. Welders are responsible for the proper maintenance and safe
operations of their equipment. Welders shall be familiar with
29CFR1910.252 – 254 sections (a) (b) (c) and shall be familiar with the
requirements of the American Welding Society Standards appropriate
to their position. Supervisors shall ensure welders are trained in the
type of procedures they will be performing.
4. Only qualified and properly instructed employees shall operate
welding or burning equipment after they have received approval
from their Supervisor .
5. When welding or burning is to be performed in an enclosed or limited
space, where natural ventilation is minimal, mechanical ventilation
shall be provided.
6. Employee performing the welding or burning operation, or those
assisting, shall wear appropriate shielding and eye protection to
prevent exposure from welding hazards.
7. Where there is a potential for exposure to persons in adjacent areas, a
non- combustible screen, which will protect against ultraviolent
radiation, shall be installed between them.
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8. No welding or burning shall be performed without first ensuring that
all combustibles have been removed from the immediate location.
This applies to objects that require welding but cannot be moved and
/ or objects that can be located to a suitable location.
9. Fire Watch requirements shall be as outlined:
a. When welding, cutting or heating operation is such that
normal fire prevention precautions are not sufficient, an
additional person may be assigned as “Fire Watch” in the
immediate area where the operation is conducted.
b. The fire watch shall have in their possession, or immediate
reach, a 20lb ABC rated fire extinguisher in good operating
order.
c. Their sole responsibility shall be to guard against fire while the
operation is being performed, and for a minimum of thirty (30)
minutes or as determined by the on-site manager, to ensure
that no possibility of fire exists.
d. Fire Watch Responsibilities – specifically what the fire watch
must know:
i. That their only duty is fire watch
ii. When they can terminate the watch
iii. How to use the fire extinguisher provided
iv. How to activate the fire alarm / plant fire emergency
system
10. Fire extinguisher training – all employees working on welding,
cutting and hot work shall receive annual training on the proper use
fire extinguishers including:
a. Type of fire extinguishers
b. Location and markings
c. Use of extinguishers
d. Inspection and maintenance of fire extinguishers
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e. Types and classes of fires
f. Facility alarm / notification system (site specific)
11. All welding lead cables shall be inspected prior to each welding
operation. Cables with damaged insulation, or exposed bare
connections, shall be replaced or repaired immediately.
12. All flames, sparks, molten slag, and hot metal shall be kept from
coming in contact with equipment or combustible materials. To ensure
this, fire blankets, catch pans, or other suitable means to catch hot slag
or sparks may be necessary.
13. Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) may be completed for all operations,
signed by all members of the crew and approved by the supervisor. If
hazardous fumes, gases and / or dust are possible during the
welding/cutting operations the JHA must include mitigating
protocols in accordance with Section G – Reducing Employee
Exposure to Hazardous Fumes, Gases or Dust of this procedure.
G. Reducing Employee Exposure to Hazardous Fumes, Gases or Dust
1. Substitution - whenever possible, substitution of a less hazardous
process will be used to reduce or eliminate hazardous fumes, gases
and / or dust exposures.
2. Engineering Controls - whenever possible, local exhaust ventilation
will be used to reduce exposures to hazardous fumes, gases and / or
dust. Local exhaust is used to capture and exhaust fumes, gases, or
dust particles, preventing high exposures in the worker breathing
space.
3. Administrative Controls – If engineering controls cannot be
implemented, alteration of work practices will be used to reduce
exposure to hazardous fumes, gases and/or dust. This could include
limiting the amount of time employees spend working in high
exposure areas by rotating personnel.
4. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) – will be used to prevent exposure
to hazardous fumes, gases and/or dust; the use of protective garments
and equipment which are impervious to hazardous fumes, gases and
/ or dust. The type of personal protective equipment necessary will
vary depending on the concentration amount used and the potential
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for exposure. The supervisor will provide guidance on the
appropriate equipment. All personal protective equipment (PPE)
must be inspected by employees prior to each use. Personal
protective equipment must be stored in a clean and sanitary manner.
Respirators shall be inspected weekly by supervisors to ensure they are
being used, stored and cleaned properly.
H. Respirators
1. If employee exposures are found to exceed the PEL or STEL, respirators
will be provided until feasible engineering or administrative
controls can be implemented. Respirator use and type will be
determined by the Supervisor based on air sampling results. If
respirator use is necessary, employees must be medically cleared by
a physician to wear a respirator in accordance with City Respiratory
Protection Program.
2. In areas where hazardous fumes, gases and/or dust concentration
are unknown City employees shall not be allowed to enter the area
until a job hazard assessment is conducted and training has been
completed.
I. Hygiene
1. To prevent the accidental ingestion of hazardous fumes or gas residue
or dust; eating, drinking and smoking are prohibited in areas where
hazardous fumes, gases and/or dust or operations are being
conducted. In addition, employees must wash their hands before
eating, drinking and smoking.
J. Employee Information and Training
1. Supervisors are responsible for ensuring that employees with
potential exposure to welding, cutting and hot work receive the
appropriate training prior to working with material. Every employee
working around welding, cutting and hot work must receive training
on its hazards. Only employees who have been trained in the safe
operations of cutting and welding equipment may use the equipment.
2. Employees that have successfully completed training on the use of
cutting and welding equipment will be deemed qualified to use the
equipment. All employees including the supervisor must be familiar
with the requirements of Chapter 296-24-680 WAC and 29 CFR 1910.254
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and 29 CFR 1910.252 sections (a), (b) and (c).
3. Supervisors should train employees on the following:
a. Requirements of the Chapter 296-24-680 WAC and OSHA
Standard, 29 CFR 1910.252;
b. Contents of the Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
c. Review of the Hot Work Permit system
d. Welding and Hot Work Hazards
e. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and limitations
f. Fire extinguisher training
g. Description of the operations in the work area where welding,
cutting and hot work is present
h. Work practices to reduce exposure, including engineering and
administrative controls and personal protective equipment
required; and
i. Instructions for emergency procedures
j. Fire watch responsibilities for site specific work:
i. Fire watch is the only responsibility
ii. When the watch can be terminated
iii. How to use fire extinguishers
iv. How to activate the fire/plant/construction site fire
emergency system
4. All training must be documented by the individual presenting the
training session and a copy of the training records will be kept on file
in Human Resources .
K. Forms
1. Hot Work Permit
2. Job Hazard Analysis
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HOT WORK PERMIT
Time Hot Work Allowed ___________ To ___________ Date
Job Description
Type Of Work Melting Pot
Electric Welding Chiseling
Red Heading Grinding
Powder Gun Brazing
Hammering Soldering
Gas Welding/Burning Drilling
Other
Alarms Must Be Cut Off Yes Yes
Fire Watch Required Yes No
Vapor/Gas Combustion
Test Required Yes No
Special Instructions
Approvals (Signatures)
Shift Supervisor Foreman
Day
Swing
Night
Person Doing The Work Must Check
Items and Sign Below
Hand Fire Extinguisher In Area
Yes
Combustible Materials Removed From Area
Yes
Combustible Materials Removed From Area Below
Yes
All Flammable Liquids Removed From Area
Yes
All Flammable Gas Shut-Off And Isolated
Yes
Welding Screens Positioned Where Needed
Yes
Sheathing Provided Where Needed
Yes
Welding Cables And Hoses Out Of Travel
Areas Or Secured At Least 7' Overhead
Yes
Vapor Combustion Test Conducted
Yes
Vapor Combustion Test Conducted
Where Necessary
Yes
If Tested, Who Conducted Test?
Test Results
Using Pipe as Required on Special Work Permit
Yes
Signature of Person Performing The Hot Work
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Port Townsend Job Hazard Analysis (JHA)
Project
Location:
Prepared By:
Date Prepared:
Job Description:
Job Steps Hazard and Risk
Descriptions Control Measures
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A. Purpose
The policy intention is to ensure the safety of lone workers or staff who
sometimes work alone, by minimizing risks they face and instituting
appropriate measures to improve their safety. This procedure is to be used as
guidance for mitigating health and safety risks while working alone. For
specific work processes, a Job Hazard Analysis and a detailed Hazard
Assessment and Risk Control study may be necessary to assess the
likelihood and severity of a specific activity. All City employees shall comply
fully with the requirements for Lone Work.
B. Definitions
1. Lone Workers- those who work by themselves without close or direct
supervision.
2. Hazard- A condition or set of circumstances that present a potential for
harm. Hazards are divided into two broad categories:
a. Health hazards (cause occupational illnesses)
b. Safety hazards (cause physical harm- injuries)
3. Hazard Identification- T he process of examining each work area and work
task for the purpose of identifying all the hazards which are “inherent in
the job”. Work areas include but are not limited to machine workshops,
office areas, stores and transport, maintenance and grounds, and te aching
spaces. Tasks can include (but may not be limited to) using screen based
equipment, audio and visual equipment, industrial equipment, hazardous
substances and/or dangerous goods, teaching/dealing with people,
driving a vehicle, dealing with emergency situations, construction.
4. Risk- The likelihood or probability that a hazardous event (with a
given outcome or consequence) will occur.
C. Responsibilities
1. Supervisors
a. City supervisors may have the affected employee complete a JHA
and Risk Assessment.
b. Will communicate with the affected employee on a regular basis.
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c. Should the affected employee not respond, the supervisor will
immediately make their way to the affected employee’s location
and be capable of activating the Emergency Response Plan (ERP),
as necessary.
2. Employees
a. Employees shall inform their supervisor prior to performing non-
routine or unplanned lone work activities.
b. Lone work employees will periodically “check in”, communicating
with their supervisor of their status.
D. Program Requirements
1. Should a City employee find themselves unexpectedly working alone
the employee shall:
a. Notify their immediate supervisor as to their work activity and
location.
b. Have a reliable means of communication. (i.e. Radio, cell phone,
monitoring device) A secondary means of communication is
recommended for lone work.
c. Inform the City supervisor of the approximate time they will
complete the task and the return time.
E. Training
1. Lone work requirements shall be communicated to all employees prior
to being assigned to work activities.
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A. Purpose
It is City of Port Townsend’s policy to take precautions to eliminate potential
exposure to respirable crystalline silica in the workplace. The purpose of this
Silica Awareness Program is to provide training on the hazards associated with
silica dust and outline steps to ensure employees who work with, or around
materials that contain silica are protected from hazardous levels of silica dust.
This program addresses common silica-related work and procedures to
minimize exposure, in accordance with the Chapter 296-818, Blasting, Chapter
296-901 WAC Hazard Communication, and OSHA Respirable Crystalline Silica
standard as outlined under 29 CFR 1926.1153.
B. Definitions
• Action Level- Employee exposure, without regard to use of respirators, to
an airborne concentration of silica of 25μg/m3 averaged over an 8-hour
work period (TWA).
• Authorized Person- An employee who has received proper training and
exposure monitoring skills to safely work with silica-containing materials.
• Crystalline Silica- Naturally occurring component in earth soils, sand,
granite and many other materials resulting in many building materials
containing silica.
• Exposure Assessment- The initial determination to find if any employee may
be exposed to lead at or above the permissible exposure limit (PEL). Until
the assessment is completed, employees shall take all necessary
precautions to maintain exposures below the PEL.
• HEPA- High Efficiency Particulate Air. A filtering system capable of
trapping and retaining at least 99.97% of all particles of 0.3 micron in
diameter and larger.
• Permissible Exposure Limit - (PEL) The legal regulatory limit in the United
States on the amount or concentration of a substance in the air. The PEL
for silica dust exposure is set at and will remain below 50 micrograms per
cubic meter of air (50μg/m3) as an 8-hour TWA under any foreseeable
conditions.
• Silica-Containing Material - Any material, which has the potential to contain
silica at levels, which may pose a hazard to employees when the material is
manipulated to create airborne particles.
• Silicosis- A lung disease caused by inhalation of silica dust. Silica dust can
cause fluid buildup and scar tissue in the lungs that cuts down the ability
for the lungs to fully function. The disease is not curable, but can be
prevented through the use of protective systems.
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• Time-Weighted Average (TWA) - The average exposure to any regulated
hazardous substance in the workplace based on an eight-hour workday or
40-hour workweek. It is the maximum amount one may be exposed to
without experiencing significant adverse health effects over said period.
C. Responsibilities
1. Public Works Operations Manager
a. Responsible for providing program oversight and consultation to
City employees regarding potential risks, exposure prevention and
training relating to silica dust exposure.
b. Conduct building/material assessments for silica-containing
materials and perform employee silica hazard
assessments/monitoring upon request.
2. Supervisors
a. City employees responsible for supervising personnel with
responsibilities where workers may come into contact and where
there is a risk of exposure to silica dust must ensure that employees
are properly trained on the applicable contents of the Silica
Awareness Program and are provided appropriate personal
protective equipment (PPE) when conducting such work.
3. Authorized Person
a. Employees working in areas where there is an identified risk of
silica dust exposure must be properly trained on all applicable
elements of the City Silica Awareness Program and be provided,
and utilize the appropriate PPE for the task being performed.
D. General
1. Crystalline silica is a basic component of soil, sand, granite and many other
minerals. Quartz is the most common form of crystalline silica. All
materials containing silica can result in the presence of respirable silica
particles when chipping, cutting, drilling or grinding takes place. Silica
exposure occurs through inhalation of silica containing particles and
occurs through many construction and general industry methods. The
most severe exposures generally occur during abrasive blasting with sand
to remove paint and rust from bridges, tanks, concrete structures and other
surfaces. Other activities that may result in severe silica exposure include
jack hammering, rock/well drilling, concrete mixing, concrete drilling,
brick and concrete cutting/sawing, tuck pointing and tunneling
operations.
2. Exposure to excessive silica dust over long periods of time can lead to lung
diseases such as silicosis or lung cancer.
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a. Silicosis is often a disabling, progressive, and sometimes fatal
disease. Symptoms of silicosis include coughing, difficulty in
breathing, bluish skin and shortness of breath. There are three types
of silicosis that a worker can develop:
i. Chronic Silicosis- This usually occurs after 10 or more years
of exposure to crystalline silica at relatively low
concentrations.
ii. Accelerated Silicosis- This results from exposure to high
concentrations of crystalline silica and develops 5-10 years
after the initial exposure.
iii. Acute Silicosis- This occurs where exposure concentrations
are the highest and can cause symptoms to develop within a
few weeks to 4-5 years after the initial exposure.
3. This Silica Dust Safety Program applies to City employees who are
expected to be exposed to silica dust through the methods outlined above;
or through other means, which are determined by their supervisor.
E. Material Assessment
1. Any time there is a potential for silica-containing materials to be involved
in a project, sources of silica must be assessed prior to disturbing.
Supervisors may perform this assessment to determine silica content in
materials or the assessment may be performed by a 3rd party contractor as
appropriate.
2. Crystalline silica occurs naturally in the earth’s crust and is a basic
component of sand, concrete, brick, asphalt, granite, some blasting grit as
well as wall spackling materials. Employees can be exposed to silica when
conducting activities such as:
a. Jack hammering
b. Moving/dumping piles of concrete, rock or
sand
c. Demolition of concrete or brick
d. Using coatings containing silica
e. Removing coatings containing silica
f. Mixing of concrete or grout
g. Concrete drilling
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h. Sawing concrete or bricks
i. Chipping or scarifying concrete
3. If airborne silica is expected to be generated during the project, the
supervisor shall be contacted to conduct exposure monitoring and to
ensure that all safety precautions are followed to minimize employee
exposure to airborne silica dust.
F. Exposure Monitoring
1. Initial Exposure Monitoring
a. Where City employees are expected to come into contact/work with
silica-containing materials, and where there is a risk of exposure
through inhalation of dust, City Supervision shall develop an
exposure monitoring program.
b. Initial exposure monitoring may be conducted by Supervisors or a
member of the Safety Committee to quantitatively evaluate the
exposure to airborne silica.
c. Exposure monitoring shall be conducted on any employee exposed
to airborne silica dust as levels may vary based on job duty within a
project. For example, the employee performing concrete cutting vs
an employee providing supervision during the work.
2. Periodic Monitoring
a. Whenever silica exposure levels are greater than, or equal to the
action level of 25μg/m3, periodic exposure monitoring will be
required. It is the responsibility of the Supervisor to work with the
Public Works Director to develop a periodic exposure monitoring
schedule.
b. Exposure monitoring is not required by every employee at risk of
airborne silica exposure. Sufficient sampling must be conducted to
enable the employee’s exposure level to be accurately represented.
3. Termination of Exposure Monitoring
a. Periodic exposure monitoring may be discontinued if results from
two consecutive sampling periods taken at least 7 days apart show
that employee exposure is below the PEL.
b. If initial monitoring indicates that City employee exposures are
below the action level of 25μg/m3, monitoring may be discontinued
for those employees represented by such monitoring.
4. Sampling Methods
a. Personal monitoring shall be conducted using an approved NIOSH
method. Monitoring records shall include the following:
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i. The date, number, duration, location and results of each of
the samples taken, including a description of the sampling
procedure used to determine representative employee
exposure where applicable.
ii. A description of the sampling and analytical methods used.
iii. The type of respiratory protective devices, if any.
iv. Name and job classification of the employee being
monitored.
v. Any environmental variables that could affect the
measurement of the employee exposure.
5. Reassessment of Exposure Data
a. Exposures shall be reassessed whenever a change in the production,
process, control equipment, personnel, or work practices may
reasonably be expected to result in new or additional exposures at
or above the action level, or where the Supervisor has any reason to
believe that new or additional exposures at or above the action level
are or have occurred.
6. Reporting of Exposure Monitoring Results
a. Exposure monitoring results will be communicated to the
Supervisor and the Public Works Director as soon as final
laboratory analysis is completed. The Supervisor must provide this
analysis to affected employees within 5 working days.
b. If levels are measured during the exposure monitoring exceeding
the PEL, steps and controls to reduce exposure below the PEL will
be provided.
c. Follow up exposure monitoring may be necessary if engineering or
administrative controls are put into place to reduce hazardous
exposures.
G. Exposure Control
1. For each employee engaged in a task where exposure to respirable
crystalline silica is likely, City shall fully and properly implement
engineering controls, work practices and respiratory protection as outlined
under 29 CFR 1926.1153 Table 1 unless the Supervisor is able to limit
employee exposure below the PEL of 50μg/m3.
2. Engineering/Administrative Controls
a. Where silica exposures at or above the PEL have been documented
or are expected, appropriate engineering or administrative controls
will be implemented where feasible. Follow-up exposure
monitoring may be necessary when administrative or engineering
exposure controls are utilized.
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b. Typical controls may include the following:
i. Substituting non-silica-containing materials for use while
abrasive blasting.
ii. Alternative methods such as pre-ordering grout already
mixed instead of onsite mixing in bulk.
iii. Local exhaust ventilation
iv. Use of wet methods to keep respirable dust down
v. General ventilation
vi. Vacuum methods with HEPA filters
vii. Distance
viii. Dust control practices
ix. Containment
x. General work practices such as good housekeeping, worker
rotation, development of specific SOP’s to minimize
exposure.
xi. Any additional controls as outlined under Table 1 as
referenced above.
xii. Use an outside vendor whenever possible.
3. Personal Protective Equipment
a. In addition to administrative or engineering controls, employees
may be required to wear specific PPE during the disturbance of
silica-containing materials and/or when airborne silica is present.
The level of protection will depend on the task being conducted and
the tools being utilized to complete the task.
b. Recommended PPE may include the following:
i. Respiratory protection as outlined below
ii. Disposable or reusable work clothing to keep from spreading
or bringing dust home.
iii. Leather gloves
iv. Safety glasses or goggles
v. Face shield
vi. Boot covers or rubber boots
c. The following table provides recommended respiratory protection
levels based on the measured or anticipated exposure levels:
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Recommended Respiratory Protection Levels
Respirator Type Protection Factor Typical Silica Activity
N95 Particulate Less than
25μg/m3
Used on voluntary basis to
control low exposures
Half-Face with HEPA
Filter 25 – 500μg/m3
Housekeeping (wet method), saw
cutting (wet method), drilling
concrete (wet method), power
tools with dust collection,
equipment operating with open
cab
Full-Face with HEPA
Filter 500 – 5,000μg/m3
Chipping concrete, jack
hammering, power tools without
dust collection, mixing grout in
bulk, vacuum abrasive blasting
SCBA Above 5,000 g/m3 Abrasive blasting
d. Where employees perform more than one task as outlined under
Table 1 as referenced above and where the total duration of all tasks
combined is more than four hours per shift, the applicable
respiratory protection shall be utilized as outlined under the
standard. Where exposure levels are less than 25 μg/m3,
respiratory protection shall be voluntary.
H. Housekeeping
1. In areas where silica containing dust may be present, all surfaces must be
maintained free from accumulations of dust to minimize potential silica
exposure. Dust and other silica containing debris must be removed from
the work area as soon as possible.
2. Acceptable method of silica dust removal includes the use of HEPA
vacuum or wet methods such as wet mopping.
3. Unacceptable methods of silica dust removal include dry sweeping,
vacuum cleaners, shop vacuums, and compressed air.
4. Follow all required procedures and utilize required PPE during silica-
containing debris cleanup activities.
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5. Where silica-containing materials are used, impacted, or being removed;
the following requirements must be met:
a. PPE should be removed upon work completion and disposed of
after each use.
b. Employees must wash hands; showers are recommended prior to
leaving work.
c. Ensure contaminated PPE, including footwear is not worn outside
of the work area.
I. Medical Surveillance Program
1. For City Employees that are required to use a respirator for protection
against silica dust for 30 days or more per year, and where exposure
monitoring has shown exposure levels to be within the 25μg/m3 action
level, the City shall make medical surveillance available at no cost to the
employee and at a reasonable time and place.
a. Medical examinations and procedures required under this section
shall be performed by a Physician or other Licensed Health Care
Professional (PLHCP).
b. An initial baseline medical examination shall be conducted within
30 days after initial assignment. The examination shall consist of
the following elements:
i. A medical work history, with emphasis on; past, present and
anticipated exposure to respirable crystalline silica, dust and
other agents affecting the respiratory system.
ii. Any history of respiratory system dysfunction including
signs and symptoms of respiratory disease, history of
tuberculosis and smoking status and history.
iii. A physical examination with special emphasis on the
respiratory system.
iv. A chest X-ray
v. A pulmonary function test
vi. Any additional elements as outlined under the standard
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2. Follow up examinations shall be conducted no less than every 3 years. It
may be conducted more frequently upon recommendation by the PLHCP.
3. The results of the examination shall be provided to the City employee
along with a copy of the written medical report no less than 30 days
following the examination.
4. The report shall detail any recommended limitations on the employee’s
use of respirators or on the employee’s exposure to silica dust.
J. Signage
1. In areas where exposure to silica dust may exceed the PEL, the following
types of signage must be in place to warn employees of the hazards
present:
K. Employee Training
1. City employees shall be trained regarding the hazards of respirable silica
dust prior to being assigned to a task where the exposure levels are at or
above the OSHA PEL.
2. Additional training may be required based upon task. This may include
but not limited to the following:
a. Hazard Communication Training
b. Use and Care of PPE
c. The use of engineering controls, administrative controls and good
housekeeping to control silica exposure
d. Respiratory protection training including medical clearance and fit
testing as outlined under section 2- City Respiratory Protection
Program
3. The City shall maintain all training, confidential medical surveillance and
exposure monitoring results.
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Port Townsend Job Hazard Analysis (JHA)
Project
Location:
Prepared By:
Date Prepared:
Job Description:
Job Steps Hazard and Risk
Descriptions Control Measures