HSE UPDATES:
HSE does not recommend using ear loop masks/respirators as tight fitting RPE at work in GB.
New HSE research has revealed that respirators/masks which rely on ear loops to hold the respirator/mask in place, do not protect people adequately when used as tight fitting respiratory protective equipment (RPE). This safety alert advises dutyholders, who have these items available in their workplaces, to revisit their Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (as amended) risk assessment and consider their RPE provision to ensure it is adequate, suitable for the user and the activity to be undertaken.
For full details and further guidance view the safety alert.
Manage the risks and prevent hand-arm vibration syndrome
Hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) can be caused by using hand-held power tools for prolonged periods of time. It is a painful, disabling disease of the hands affecting blood vessels, nerves and joints.
Visit HSE’s HAVS website to find out what you need to do to prevent this painful disease.
It includes key messages and resources including the hand-arm vibration calculator.
HSE's guidance book Hand-arm vibration covers the management and control of the risks from exposure and how to protect workers.
Make sure you know your COSHH essentials
A variety of harmful substances are found in our working environments – knowing how to control these safely is key to safety and protection from harm. If you work with hazardous substances, HSE Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) website can help you understand the actions you should take to stay healthy.
You can download publication “Working with substances hazardous to health: A brief guide to COSHH”, which explains how to control exposure and comply with the Regulations. The “COSHH Safe Handling Chemicals poster” also provides crucial guidance on how to handle chemicals safely in your workplace, including Do’s and Don’ts and a useful hazardous signs check.
FOREST HAULAGE:
Forest Haulage Safety for Professional Drivers - Driver CPC Training Days
Having been delayed by CV19, Benslie Training have now provided weekend dates for the first round of CPC eligible training in 7hr +F format for HGV holders.
Dates and locations of training, along with booking details can be found on the flyer here.
FISA recommend that FWM’s involved in instructing haulage should also sit the course.
Recent enquiry calls received on Haulage issues
We would draw your attention to the following:
- The drier weather and spiralling stone costs could be causing a scrimping on stone on haulage routes - particular concerns are being raised on the apron for the turn off the public highway. We have drivers reporting concerns over the poor access/passing places and general poor condition of haul routes.
- We are receiving ongoing complaints around the lack of traffic management and warning signage; post storm clearance and diseased ash work are increasing roadside work. The FWM is responsible for ensuring all risks are planned for and effective controls are in place – this includes safely and effectively planning the traffic management.
- Road side working and harvesting risk zones are not a good combination, passing cars on the public highway should not be driving through the harvesting risk zone…..parked timber haulage with a driver standing having a coffee should not be in the risk zone! If you’re harvesting diseased ash with a road closure, your risk zone needs to remain clear. If you have haulage to fit into the road closure, please ensure that the risk zone is kept clear, you may have to extend the road closure to accommodate this.
OTHER REMINDERS:
Register as a user of professional plant protection products (PPPs) and adjuvants
You must register as a business, organisation or sole trader that uses professional PPPs and any adjuvants in Great Britain (England, Scotland or Wales).
You need to register if you:
- use professional PPPs and any adjuvants as part of your work
- have professional PPPs and any adjuvants applied by a third party as part of your work in agriculture or horticulture, amenities or forestry
More information here.
COVID-19 restrictions are being replaced by public health advice
COVID-19 will remain a public health issue and guidance for workplaces is being replaced with public health advice. HSE web page for workplaces on COVID-19 provides more information and links to public health and other government body advice.
You can check the latest position and timescales for the nation you are working in:
HSE no longer requires every business to consider COVID-19 in their risk assessment or to have specific measures in place.
There is a requirement to protect those who come into contact with the virus due to their work activity.
You can find guidance on the circumstances when you should make a report under the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR).
HSE will continue to expect employers to comply with the requirements for cleaning, ventilation and welfare facilities in the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992.
Think Safe: Stay Safe