Civil Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
an organisation will directly affect each of the elements
of the hierarchy of controls if elimination has not been
achieved. Therefore discipline in the shape of supervision
and monitoring will also form part of the control process.
It is likely that rather that placing reliance upon
any one individual control measure covered in ERICPD
a combination of controls outlined in the hierarchy will
often be required and then supported by an appropriate
level of supervision and monitoring.
Figure 6.5
A typical explosive atmosphere warning sign
6.4
Supervision and monitoring
With the exception of elimination, the remainder of the
hierarchy of controls will require an adequate level of
supervision and monitoring. This will ensure that the
controls are implemented and maintained, particularly
those that place a heavy reliance upon humans.
For example, effective management of both primary
and secondary fi re hazards is essential and the role
of effective supervision and monitoring must not be
underestimated.
A well-trained and competent person will be able to
undertake a level of 'self supervision' reducing the need
for more formal management supervision. The level of
self supervision will also need to take into account the
level of risk.
When considering a programme of hot works the
levels of supervision will be dependent upon both the
competence of the individual undertaking the task and
the risk of fi re starting and spreading. Therefore for this
higher risk activity effective management systems with
appropriate levels of formal supervision are essential to
control the risks. The levels of supervision and monitor-
ing required will need to take into account the following
factors:
Figure 6.6
A typical emergency escape sign
Fire signs
Signs showing the direction to, or location of, fi re fi ght-
ing equipment.
Rectangular or square sign
Red ground (50% of area)
White pictogram.
E.g. fi re extinguisher.
➤
Individual factors, e.g.:
➤
Competence
➤
Capability
➤
Age
➤
Task factors, e.g.:
➤
Complexity
Figure 6.7
A typical fi re extinguisher location sign
➤
Frequency of operations
➤
Environment
Clear, well-positioned and well-maintained signage
will enhance the control measures identifi ed earlier in this
chapter. As will be seen in Chapter 10 the use of escape
signage is a critical control in assisting persons to leave
the building safely.
Behavioural controls in the form of personal discipline
is required to follow not only the safety signage but also
the conditions laid down in SSOWs and for an individual
to utilise engineering controls as part of an overall risk
management strategy. The safety culture pervading in
➤
Risk factors, e.g.:
➤
To the individual
➤
To other groups or persons
➤
To the business
➤
To the environment.
The type and level of safety monitoring will depend upon
the workplace precautions or controls in place. Monitoring
of engineering controls such as fi re detection and alarm
systems will be based on formal systems such as those
