Ref / Pt.No: 006944
Revolution II Stage 3 Installation
Instruction
Revision: C
Date: 27-Nov-12
006944.doc
Page 4 of 29
1. Safety
A risk assessment is an important step in protecting your workers and your business, as well as
complying with the law. It helps you focus on the risks that really matter in your workplace
– the
ones with the potential to cause real harm. In many instances, straightforward measures can
readily control risks, for example ensuring spillages are cleaned up promptly so people do not
slip, or cupboard drawers are kept closed to ensure people do not trip. For most, that means
simple, cheap and effective measures to ensure your most valuable asset
– your workforce – is
protected.
The law does not expect you to eliminate all risk, but you are required to protect people as far
as ‘reasonably practicable’.
There are many work situations which add to the hazards of welding. Each must be
assessed carefully, since there may be added hazards such as falls or asphyxiation.
This is particularly true of work in confined spaces, where there is a very real risk of
death, and the employer should make a critical assessment of the work to be done, and
how it may be carried out safely. There may be statutory requirements in these
situations.
Lifting and manual handling is one of the highest risks in work environments. It is
essential to inform your staff about safe lifting and manual handling basics.
Some form of dust extraction is also beneficial with heavy use as exposure to airborne
particles can cause respiratory complaints.
The main requirement of the PPE at Work Regulations 2002 is that personal protective
equipment is to be supplied and used at work wherever there are risks to health and
safety that cannot be adequately controlled in other ways.
Power tools can be extremely dangerous if not used correctly. The correct techniques
and personal protective equipment must be worn at all times.
