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IN EMERGENCY
CALL 4444 ON A UNIVERSITY INTERNAL TELEPHONE
and
GIVE DETAILS CLEARLY AND CONCISELY
A CONTINUOUSLY SOUNDING ALARM WARNS YOU TO LEAVE
THE BUILDING IMMEDIATELY
Kroto Safety Booklet Written 15.08.2005 Updated 24.11.2011
Kroto Safety Booklet Page 1
CONTENTS
PAGE
1 CONTENTS 2 INTRODUCTION 3 KROTO SAFETY POLICY 4 FIRE AND EMERGENCY PROCEDURES 5 MEDICAL EMERGENCY AND FIRST AID 6 GENERAL RISK ASSESSMENT 7 PERSONS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS 8 OUT-OF-HOURS WORKING
10 UNATTENDED EQUIPMENT OR SUBSTANCES 11 SUPERVISORS’ RESPONSIBILITIES FOR UG STUDENTS
12 STUDENT PROJECT WORK 13 SUPERVISION OF GRADUATE & RESEARCH STUDENTS 14 PORTABLE APPLIANCE TESTING (PAT) 15 COSHH REGULATIONS 16 SAFETY AUDITS 17 DISPLAY SCREEN EQUIPMENT 17 MANUAL HANDLING 18 PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT 19 WORK EQUIPMENT 20 SAFETY SIGNS AND SIGNALS REGULATION 21 RADIATION SAFETY 22 PRESSURE SYSTEMS 23 CONSTRUCTION OF EQUIPMENT AND APPARATUS IN THE
BUILDING 24 VISITORS 26 SPECIFIC ROLES AND RESPOPNSIBILITIES 27 INDEX
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INTRODUCTION
This booklet summarises the safety policy and procedures in the Kroto
Research Institute. It is not intended to be comprehensive, but to inform all staff
and students from the Departments using the building:-
of their responsibilities
of the procedures to be followed to comply with legal
requirements
of where further information can be sought
The University Health & Safety Code of Practice provides a general framework
for safe working in the University and is issued to staff and students. It can also
be downloaded from the University Safety Services website
http://www.shef.ac.uk/safety/codes
The advice and information in this booklet is for guidance only.
People with specific roles in relation to Health and Safety issues are listed on
page 26. If you need further advice or information, you should contact the
relevant individual.
It is intended that the information under each heading of this booklet is
sufficient for you to decide what you must do to comply with safety
requirements, but appropriate cross-references to other sections are also
included.
If in doubt, ask.
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KROTO SAFETY POLICY
The Kroto Institute is committed to ensuring, as far as is reasonably practicable,
the health and safety at work for all staff, students and visitors. It is expected
that all individuals working in the Institute operate within an ethos of good
practice and compliance with Health and Safety regulations. It is the intention
of the Institute that an excellent training in high professional
standards of Health and Safety work culture is provided to all early career
scientists whilst working in the Institute.
The Institute Director is responsible for ensuring that the Institute provides,
wherever possible, the necessary resources to maintain a safe infrastructure in
the Institute. Heads of the individual home Departments are responsible for
overseeing compliance with Health and Safety requirements for their members
and ensuring, where possible, a safe working environment within these groups.
Specific policies on safety matters have been established by each department,
on advice from their Departmental Safety Committees. The academic head of
each research group in the Kroto Institute is responsible for ensuring that the
individuals in their group comply with the Health and Safety regulations
established by their home department and that the correct procedures are
followed at all times.
The Heads of the home Departments are ultimately responsible for the safety of
those working as part of their Department, but all individuals must take
responsibility for their own actions. In addition, heads of groups and staff in a
supervisory position are responsible for the safety of the staff working under
them.
Some members of staff have accepted particular responsibilities, but this does
not detract from the legal obligation of everyone in the Kroto Institute to act in
a responsible manner with regard to safety in their work.
Safety is the responsibility of all. Every individual who supervises or
controls an activity is responsible for ensuring that the activity is
conducted safely, a suitable and sufficient risk assessment is performed, a
COSHH form has been completed, appropriate control measures are
introduced and the appropriate COSSH forms and risk assessments are
reviewed as necessary.
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FIRE AND EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
General
To summon assistance, such as the Ambulance, Fire or Police services etc., use
an internal telephone to contact the University's Emergency Control Centre
telephone number 4444. Be prepared to give details of the exact location of the
incident, nature of incident, any specific hazards (e.g. chemicals); number of
casualties (if any).
Fire
Upon discovering a fire:
1. Close doors etc., to isolate fire and raise the alarm by either breaking the
glass of an emergency call point or shouting fire, or by telephoning the
University's Emergency Control Centre (internal 4444 - see above).
2. Call the Fire service by calling the University's Emergency Control
Centre (internal 4444 - see above).
3. Only if safe to do so and you are not alone, attempt to tackle the fire with
an appropriate portable extinguisher. Human safety MUST come first, if
in doubt close doors on the fire and evacuate to the designated assembly
point.
Evacuation
On hearing the fire alarm (which is a continuous bell), immediately leave the
building by the nearest safe exit (which may be an Emergency Exit).
Congregate at the assembly point in the category B car park beyond the Porter’s
Lodge. Do not congregate in the area around the entrance as this needs to
remain free for emergency vehicle access. Do not re-enter the building until
official permission is given.
Training
General fire training sessions are held throughout the year. All new staff should
attend a session as soon as possible after commencing their contract. Existing
staff should update their training annually, but this can be completed via the
online training facility. Students are also encouraged to attend. See the Safety
Services web site for training dates and for details of the on-line fire training.
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MEDICAL EMERGENCY AND FIRST AID
Before approaching casualty(ies) check that it is safe to do so.
Provide First Aid if possible, and send for a Departmental First Aider. If
necessary, call an Ambulance by contacting the University Emergency Control
Centre, internal telephone number 4444.
Appointed Persons able to assist
An up to date list of qualified First Aiders is posted beside each First Aid Box
and on the Kroto Safety Noticeboard in the entrance foyer.
A first aid box can be found in the following rooms: Breakout areas G09, F08,
LG03, Lab areas LG52, Ground Floor Lab corridor, Ground Floor Foyer, 2nd
Floor Lab corridor (Lab S20), LG41
All accidents and dangerous incidents, including those requiring first aid
treatment, and/or use of the First Aid boxes around the building, must be
recorded in the Building Accident Book, which is held by Elinor Noble in F09.
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GENERAL RISK ASSESSMENT
The law requires that all activities that take place in the building must be
assessed to identify any hazards that pose a safety risk. This means that
everyone in the building is responsible for assessing, or contributing to the
assessment of, their work to identify any risks involved, and to develop
procedures to eliminate those risks. Student projects must be jointly assessed
with the student’s supervisor to ensure completeness and accuracy.
The general principles of risk assessment can be summarised as follows:
Look for hazards in your area of work, particularly those which could cause
serious harm (e.g. anything involving electricity, chemicals, heavy lifting,
heat etc.)
Decide who might be harmed, remembering that cleaners, visitors and
contractors may enter your area as well as the people who normally work
there.
Evaluate the risks arising from the significant hazards identified; decide
whether existing precautions are adequate or more are needed. Take into
account that extra precautions may be necessary for persons with special
needs. Check that any specific legal requirements are adhered to. Aim for a
situation where remaining risk is low and the appropriate precautions are
reasonable.
Record findings where significant hazards have been identified. Indicate
what checks were made, identify who is at risk and indicate what steps have
been taken to reduce or eliminate risk. Hazards already identified and
addressed under other legalisation (e.g. COSHH) need not be recorded
again. The originator should keep records and follow the home Department
policy regarding storage, logging and dissemination of the documents.
If there is any change in the procedure, or in the materials used, or in the
amounts used, a new assessment must be made before the change is
implemented
Blank risk assessment forms should be obtained from the home Department for
each academic group. The relevant Heads of Department for groups within the
Institute are responsible for overseeing compliance.
See also: PERSONS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS (Page 7)
SPECIFIC ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITES (Page 26)
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PERSONS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS
People with certain physical disabilities or health problems may be at greater
risk from particular activities than would otherwise be the case.
Staff and students with physical disabilities or health problems which they feel
could put them at increased risk are encouraged to discuss the situation with
their manager / supervisor. Supervisors / Managers may wish to seek advice
from the Occupational Health Service (10-12 Brunswick St., tel. 26215, email
[email protected]) where appropriate. Issues of a
sensitive nature will be treated with the utmost confidentiality.
Certain work activities and environments may adversely affect the health, safety
and / or welfare of new and expectant mothers and / or their child (new or as yet
unborn).
New and expectant mothers who feel that their or their child’s health, safety and
/ or welfare may be put at risk by their work activities and / or environment are
encouraged to discuss the situation with their manager / supervisor.
Young people may need closer supervision depending on their level of
experience, competency and maturity, and the nature of the work. For instance,
a school placement scheme work experience person will need constant
supervision.
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ACCESS TO THE INSTITUTE AND OUT-OF-HOURS WORKING
Access to the Kroto Institute at all times is via the swipe card system and is
administered by Elinor Noble. Individuals requiring access to the Institute
should contact Elinor, providing U-card/staff card details and permission from
the relevant academic staff member if appropriate. If out-of-hours access is
required the additional requirements stated below must be met before access
can be provided.
All visitors to the Institute from outside the University should sign in at the
Porters’ Lodge. Visitors to the Institute from within Sheffield University are not
required to sign in during working hours and can be given access into the
Institute by the porters or the person they are visiting.
Out-of-Hours Access
All staff, students and visitors must sign in and out at the Porters’ Lodge when
working in the Institute outside the hours 8.00 am - 6.00 pm, Monday to Friday.
You must provide details of where you will be working, so you can be readily
located in the event of an emergency. It is also necessary to sign in if you are
already in the Institute and wish to continue working after 6.00 pm. In addition,
all out-of-hours requirements for specific activities as stipulated on COSHH
forms must be met.
Undergraduate students and external visitors to the University are not permitted
to work out-of-hours unless under the direct supervision of a member of staff
who has permission for out-of-hours working. Visitors from within the
University may work in the Institute out-of-hours in specified areas, as agreed
by the people responsible for these areas, if all the appropriate out-of-hours
conditions are met.
No one should work alone in a laboratory out-of-hours. No experimental work
where there is a risk of an accident should be undertaken out-of-hours.
Anyone working out-of-hours must:
Have the written permission of their Manager or Supervisor
Know the emergency procedures
Have obtained fire training in the past year
Have obtained out-of-hours training during the past three years
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Out-of-hours Training
Out-of-hours training is designed to meet the first aid and safety training
requirements of EVERYONE who works at times when normal first aid cover
is not available. Safety Services run a limited number of out-of-hours training
sessions. These must be attended by any member of staff that is new to out-of-
hours training. All postgraduates and members of staff renewing their training
can complete their training on line. Out-of-hours training must be renewed
every three years. Individuals must also comply with the out-of-hours
requirements of their home Department. This includes attendance at any face-
to-face training sessions stipulated by the home Department. The university
policy is also that people with a current First Aid at Work or Medical/Nursing
qualification are exempt from the out-of-hours training provided they are
informed of the safety aspects of out-of-hours working by their department.
Access to buildings during official closure:
Written permission from your Department Safety Officer (and academic
supervisor/HOD if applicable) is required if you wish to enter the Institute
during times of official closure. Only those people qualified to work out-of-
hours are eligible. Forms for permission are available to download from
(http://www.shef.ac.uk/kroto/resources/accessatchristmas) and should be
returned completed to Elinor Noble, Room F09, ext 27455.
See also: SUPERVISORS' RESPONSIBILITIES (Page 11)
PERSONS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS (Page 7)
SPECIFIC ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (Page 26)
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UNATTENDED EQUIPMENT OR SUBSTANCES
Equipment
Any apparatus that is left running unattended for long periods, especially
overnight, should incorporate “fail-safe” features, so that a failure of one of the
controls, (e.g. cooling water, gas pressure, electric power or thermostat) will not
cause a hazard. Permission must be obtained from the person in charge of the
laboratory before equipment is allowed to run through the night or unattended
at weekends. Students must also obtain prior permission from their supervisor.
A card indicating that the equipment is to be left running should be clearly
visible on or beside the apparatus concerned. It must also explain the action to
be taken in an emergency or malfunction of services (e.g. mains failure), and
bear the names and telephone numbers of persons to contact. The notice must
be kept up-to-date and removed when not applicable.
Substances
Any substance potentially hazardous to health (chemicals, gases etc.) that has to
be left unattended must be left in such condition that it does not constitute a
hazard.
Chemicals must be properly labelled, clearly visible, in a position away from
the main areas of work where they will not be disturbed, in a fume cupboard if
necessary, and in a closed container if possible. Chemicals must not be left
unattended near to sources of heat and ignition, unless in purpose designed
equipment.
Any equipment which is using gas and is unattended should incorporate “Fail
safe" features, so that failure of one of the controls, e.g. pressure regulator, gas
flow regulator, etc., or a loss of gas, will not cause any hazard. Equipment using
hazardous gases must incorporate leak/extract failure warning alarm systems,
and be constantly monitored whilst such gases are in use. Permission must be
obtained from the person in charge of the laboratory before any equipment that
uses gas is allowed to run through the night or unattended at weekends.
Students must also obtain prior permission of their supervisor.
A card indicating that the chemical/gas using equipment is to be left unattended
should be clearly visible near to the chemical container or gas using equipment.
It must also give details of the action to be taken in an emergency or
spillage/gas leak, and bear the names and telephone numbers of persons to
contact. The notice must be kept up-to-date and removed when not applicable.
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SUPERVISORS' RESPONSIBILITIES FOR UG PROJECT STUDENTS
Universities have a legal duty to provide 'such supervision as is necessary' for
the health and safety of students. This duty is delegated to the Head of
Department, and if appropriate to the member of staff directly involved (e.g.
project supervisor). It is not adequate to assume that 'students ought to know
what they are doing'.
It is essential that a risk assessment is carried out (see page 6), and the student is
made aware of the necessary procedures (if any) to deal with any identified risk.
Information, instruction and training are important components of reducing
risks.
Pages 14 to 23 of this booklet contain information about specific risks. If you
are in any doubt, you should seek the advice of whoever is named as having
further information about a specific topic (see page 26).
Except for work in a library or certain designated computer multi-terminal
rooms, undergraduates are not normally allowed to work out-of-hours.
See Also: OUT-OF-HOURS WORKING (Page 8)
PERSONS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS (Page 7)
SPECIFIC ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (Page 26)
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STUDENT PROJECT WORK
Universities have a legal duty to provide 'such supervision as is necessary' to
ensure the health and safety of students. This duty is delegated to the supervisor
for student projects. Supervisors should appoint a suitably qualified person to
deputise for them during times of their absence or unavailability.
No undergraduate student can carry out experimental work without the
supervision of a member of staff. This does not mean constant attendance; it
does mean that the supervisor is satisfied that the absence of direct supervision
does not constitute a hazard. A vital stage in defining the level of supervision
necessary is to carry out a risk assessment.
The supervisor and student should conduct a risk assessment at the start of the
project to ensure that any hazards are identified. The steps to be followed in
carrying out the risk assessment are described on page 6. The necessary safety
procedures should be written down in all circumstances.
All equipment and apparatus developed and constructed within the Institute
must be checked to ensure that it conforms to all relevant safety requirements.
Specific advice on the ‘Construction of equipment and apparatus in the
building’ is given on page 23. Outline information about specific types of
hazard is given on other appropriate pages in this booklet (see pages 14 to 23).
Regular checks should be made by the student’s supervisor to ensure that the
procedures are being followed. Changes in experimental method require a fresh
assessment of risk.
Students should be informed that everyone has a legal responsibility not to
endanger themselves or others either through their actions, or lack of
action.
See also: GENERAL RISK ASSESSMENT (Page 6)
OUT-OF-HOURS WORKING (Page 8)
VARIOUS HAZARDS (Pages 14 to 23)
UNATTENDED EQUIPMENT or SUBSTANCES (Page 10)
SPECIFIC ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (Page 26)
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SUPERVISION OF GRADUATE & RESEARCH STUDENTS
Universities have a legal duty to provide 'such supervision as is necessary' to
ensure the health and safety of students. In the case of graduate students (both
taught and research) this duty is delegated to the student’s supervisor.
Supervisors should appoint a suitably qualified person to deputise for them
during times of their absence or unavailability.
No graduate student should be allowed to carry out experimental work without
the supervision of a member of staff. This does not mean constant attendance; it
does mean that the supervisor or deputy is satisfied that the absence of direct
supervision does not constitute a hazard.
The supervisor and student should conduct a risk assessment at the start of the
project to ensure that any hazards are identified; the steps to be followed are
described on page 6. In all but the most elementary circumstances the necessary
safety procedures should be written down. The risk assessment should be
reviewed biannually. Risk assessments and review forms should be
countersigned by the supervisor to verify completeness and accuracy.
All equipment and apparatus developed and constructed within the building
must be checked to ensure that it conforms to all relevant Safety requirements.
Specific advice on the ‘Construction of equipment and apparatus in the
department’ is given on page 23. Outline information about specific types of
hazard is given on appropriate pages in this booklet (see pages 14 to 23).
Regular checks should be made by supervisors or their deputy to ensure that the
procedures are being followed. Changes in experimental methods require a
fresh assessment of risk.
Students should be informed that individuals have a legal responsibility not
to endanger themselves or others either through their actions, or lack of
action.
See also: OUT-OF-HOURS WORKING (Page 8)
UNATTENDED EQUIPMENT or SUBSTANCES (Page 10)
SPECIFIC ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (Page 26)
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PORTABLE APPLIANCE TESTING (PAT)
By law all portable mains powered electrical equipment must have a current
Portable Appliance Test (PAT). The test includes assessment of cables, fuses,
connectors, etc., earth continuity and insulation resistance. This testing is the
responsibility of the home Departments and individual groups must liaise with
their departments to ensure that PA testing is carried out annually. It is the
responsibility of the individual Heads of Department for the groups using the
offices and laboratories of Kroto Institute to ensure this takes place.
Before using electrical equipment it is your responsibility to check that it has
been tested and that the test label shows a date for “next test due” that has not
yet passed.
Before any new equipment can be used it must first be tested either by the
university PA tester or a suitably qualified technician and the details recorded.
Equipment that passes is labelled showing the "next test due" date.
Equipment found not to be tested or whose test date is overdue should not be
used. Contact the person responsible for the area, or your home department,
who will then arrange to have it tested.
All equipment brought into the building, including personal equipment (e.g.
brought from home), borrowed or hired equipment and equipment returning
from calibration or repair should be treated as new equipment.
All electrical equipment or apparatus constructed in the building, which is to
have some form of connection to mains electricity (or similar source of power),
must also be tested (however temporary it may be).
Any electrical equipment that is found to be faulty should be reported to the
nearest technician and clearly labelled as “Faulty: Do Not Use” to prevent
further use.
If any electrical equipment is to be scrapped the labels need to be removed and
the item made inoperative.
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COSHH REGULATIONS
The law requires that a formal assessment of risk is made for any procedure
using any potentially hazardous substance (liquids, powders, gases, solids, etc.)
before the procedure is performed. This assessment covers associated hazards,
working procedures, safety precautions and emergency procedures. The results
of any such assessments are to be made available close to any work area where
they may be used.
The objectives of the COSHH regulations are to minimise hazards occurring
from the use of chemicals in the workplace. A COSHH form must be completed
and authorised for all chemicals used within the laboratory before work is
carried out. Before undertaking experimental procedures, individuals must read
carefully and sign the relevant COSHH assessments. These must also be
countersigned by the academic supervisors after checking with technical staff as
appropriate.
Blank COSHH forms should be obtained from the home Department and
specific home Departmental policies should be followed regarding the logging
of these forms. The relevant Heads of Department are responsible for
overseeing compliance with COSHH regulations.
It is the responsibility of anyone intending to perform a procedure to ensure that
they are familiar with the relevant assessment, and to take all reasonable steps
to protect themselves and others at work from risks caused by substances
hazardous to health. They must also make full and proper use of any control
measures, personal protective equipment or other facility provided as part of the
regulations and if any defect is discovered it must be reported to the individual
responsible for that particular area.
All COSHH forms should be reviewed and signed annually, adding more
information if this is necessary or deleting information that no longer applies.
Detailed information is held in home Departments about potentially dangerous
substances, how to complete the appropriate forms, and the procedures to be
followed. For further information see your home Department Safety Officer.
Before obtaining any substances potentially hazardous to health (either by
purchasing or other means), you should determine whether or not the building
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has the facilities to enable you to meet the safety requirements for those
substances.
If there is any change in the procedure, materials used, or amounts used, a new
assessment must be made before the change is implemented.
Supervisors of visitors, researchers, and/or students are responsible for ensuring
that those in their care are familiar with any relevant assessments.
Everyone concerned must ensure that procedures prescribed on COSHH
assessment forms are followed. If you notice that such procedures are not being
followed or that substances are in use without a COSHH assessment having
been performed for that particular activity, it is your duty to inform the relevant
supervisor or Safety Officer.
SAFETY AUDITS
Safety Audits carried out within the Institute will be conducted annually. These
will be organised with Safety Services by the home departments of the research
groups within the Institute. Departmental Safety Officers are responsible for
providing the completed Safety Audit and confirmation of any actions carried
out to meet with compliance to the North Campus Site Superintendent. Copies
of completed safety audits should be logged with both the Institute Director and
the home department. The Institute Director will confirm the annual report and
compliance.
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DISPLAY SCREEN EQUIPMENT
By law, all University employees who, as part of their normal work, use
Display Screen equipment are protected by the Display Screen Equipment
Regulations and are referred to as DSE ‘users’.
There is a very useful Visual Display User information leaflet (compiled by
HSE) available from http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg36.pdf
Workstations (DSE and associated equipment/furniture, etc) used by ‘users’
should be assessed for suitability. Such assessment should be carried out when
an individual is first identified as a ‘user’, and at any time there is significant
change to workstation or equipment. ‘Users’ should inform their home
Departmental Safety Officer when any changes occur or if health problems
develop which you believe may be linked to DSE use.
MANUAL HANDLING
If there is some risk of injury from manual handling, then a task assessment
must be made. It should be noted that assessments should only be done by those
individuals who have received the appropriate manual handling assessment
training.
Steps must be taken to reduce the risk to the lowest reasonable practicable level.
Avoid the need for manual handling as far as reasonably practicable. Protective
measures should be observed at all times, e.g. the wearing of gloves, glasses or
protective footwear. Make full and proper use of equipment provided to aid
manual handling.. Always practice good handling techniques.Seek assistance; it
may be helpful to draw on the knowledge and expertise of others.
See also: PERSONS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS (Page 7)
SPECIFIC ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (Page 26)
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PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
Personal protective equipment should not be regarded as a substitute for other
methods of controlling risks to health and safety. Use of other methods, e.g.
engineering controls, safe systems of work, etc., must be considered first. The
home Departments are to provide all relevant Personal Protective Equipment if
it is considered necessary, or is covered by separate legislation on specific
hazards.
Examples of the equipment available not covered by other legislation are:
U.V. proof goggles and spectacles
Light-restricting spectacles
Welding masks
Gloves used for manual handling to protect against cuts, knocks,
scrapes etc.
Gloves used to handle hot objects
Gloves used to handle extremely cold objects
Welding aprons
Welding gaiters
Footwear to protect against falling objects and knocks
If you think you, or anyone else, require Personal Protective Equipment for any
of your activities then seek guidance and information from your home
Department Safety Officer.
See also: PERSONS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS (Page 7)
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WORK EQUIPMENT
"Work equipment" covers all equipment used within the building, including
personal equipment (e.g. brought from home), borrowed or hired equipment.
The definition of "equipment" in this context is very broad and would cover
everything from a photocopier through to a scalpel. Everyone who specifies,
purchases, uses and/or is responsible for work equipment should:
Ensure that it is safe, suitable for its task and for the
environment in which it is to be used.
Be sure that it complies with any appropriate E.U.
regulations (e.g. does it carry a 'CE' mark where applicable?)
Keep it in a state of good repair, operating a system of
planned checks and maintenance where appropriate.
Consider whether any hazards might arise in both normal use
and during any foreseeable malfunction. If the equipment
might pose any significant risk to users or others, ensure that
it is appropriately sited and guarded and that procedures are
in place to eliminate or minimise that risk.
Ensure that, where appropriate, both users and supervisors of
users receive appropriate instruction and training in the safe
use of this equipment and are aware of any hazards that
might arise from its use or its foreseeable malfunction.
Complex instructions are better written down.
Guidance can be obtained from the North Campus Site Superintendent or the
home Department Safety Officer.
See also: PERSONS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS (Page 7)
SPECIFIC ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (Page 26)
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SAFETY SIGNS AND SIGNALS REGULATIONS
The law requires that a safety sign must be provided where other methods,
properly considered, cannot deal satisfactorily with the risk(s).
A safety sign, however, cannot be used as a substitute for other methods of
controlling risks to health and safety. Other methods of control must be
provided wherever possible, e.g. engineering controls, safe systems of working
etc.
Where a safety sign is used, it must conform to the standards specified in the
appropriate regulations.
Where a safety sign would not help to reduce a risk or where risk is not
significant, there is no need to provide a sign.
Guidance can be obtained from the home Department Safety Officer.
See also: UNATTENDED EQUIPMENT or SUBSTANCES (Page 10)
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RADIATION SAFETY
General
The University has a responsibility under the Health and Safety at Work Act
1974, to ensure that all work with radiation is carried out safely. In the Kroto
Building the main sources of radiation are from isotopes.
Ionising Radiation
The use of radioactive materials, X-ray equipment and any other source of
ionising radiation is regulated by the Radioactive Substances Act 1993, the
Ionising Radiation Regulations 1985 and associated Codes of Practice and
Guidance Notes. The Departmental Radiation Protection Supervisor (DRPS)
must be informed of any proposed work involving ionising radiation.
Further Information
For further information please contact your home Department Laser Safety
Officer.
See also: SPECIFIC ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (Page 26)
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PRESSURE SYSTEMS
Anyone who uses, or intends to use or purchase, a pressure system should be
aware of the current regulations covering such systems.
A pressure system is defined as a system containing liquids and/or gases at
pressures above 0.5 bar or any system containing steam. Examples are a
compressed air supply, steam equipment or a system using a compressed gas
cylinder.
High pressure equipment and systems require specialist knowledge and
expertise, and a “thorough examination” of pressure vessels and pressure
systems is required by law every 14 months. If the product of the Pressure times
the Volume of the largest pressure vessel in the system is 250 bar/litres or more,
then by law a “Written Scheme of Examination” must be obtained for that
system prior to its commissioning and use.
Although it is not a legal requirement for systems below this threshold, the
Kroto Institute’s policy is that a “Written Scheme of Examination” must be
obtained for all compressor receivers prior to their commissioning and use.
For more information or advice contact Estates Services.
It is essential to ensure that all pressure systems in the building are registered,
insured, and covered by a regular maintenance schedule. Adequate information
must be provided to all relevant personnel for the safe operation, maintenance
and examination of such systems.
Useful codes of practice are issued by the High Pressure Technology
Association and the British Compressed Air Association. Reference should also
be made to the requirements of the Pressure Systems Regulations 2000.
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CONSTRUCTION OF EQUIPMENT AND APPARATUS IN THE
DEPARTMENT
All equipment or apparatus constructed in the building or the department using
the building must be tested before use to ensure that it complies fully with all
the relevant safety legislation. This applies to equipment or apparatus
constructed as part of undergraduate or research projects and applies equally to
electronic circuits, electrical machines, mechanical devices, etc.
It is important to seek advice at an early stage, preferably before the start of
construction (see other relevant sections of this book), and this can be obtained
from the North Campus Site Superintendent.
See also: SPECIFIC ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (Page 26)
UNATTENDED EQUIPMENT or SUBSTANCES (Page 10)
PORTABLE APPLIANCE TESTING (PAT) (Page 14)
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VISITORS
Occupants of the building who invite or receive visitors are responsible for their
safety, and for ensuring that they are given relevant information about any
hazards they may encounter.
This applies to all visitors, including UCAS candidates, academic visitors,
contractors, service engineers, sales representatives, work experience non-
employees or casual visitors.
As a minimum all visitors should be informed of the Fire and Emergency
Procedures (see page 4). Further information should be provided depending on
the potential hazards arising from the purpose and location of the visit.
Short-term Visitors
Short-term visitors must be supervised at all times.
Longer-term Visitors
On arrival, longer-term visitors should be provided with an appropriate
induction by the home Department that they are visiting. In addition, their host
within the Kroto Research Institute should advise them of any additional safety
procedures specific to the Institute and their particular area of work.
Contractors / Service Engineers
Contractors / service engineers should be informed that on arrival, they must
report to the relevant site manager or his representative.
The site manager or his representative must issue the contractor / service
engineer with all necessary information, including contact details, to allow them
to work in safety on site, and must, jointly with the contractor / service
engineer, fill in a Permit to Work. These forms are then kept for information at
the gatehouse and to enable portering staff to allow access to permitted
contractors.
Work must not commence until the site manager or representative has given
clearance.
Contractors / service engineers must not commence / continue work unless in
possession of a current, valid Permit to Work.
All Visitors
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All visitors should be:
Made familiar with emergency arrangements.
Instructed not to enter any laboratories or workshops unaccompanied and
without authorisation.
Instructed not to touch any equipment or process without permission.
Made aware that entry to many workshops and laboratories will require
them to wear protective equipment and/or clothing. Their host should advise.
Made aware that there are restrictions on working outside normal hours.
If this is essential, their host will need to make special arrangements.
Made aware that although we make every effort to ensure their health and
safety, should they see a potential safety hazard, they are expected to report it
immediately to a member of staff.
Further information can be obtained from the North Campus Site
Superintendent or the home Department.
See also: PERSONS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS (Page 7)
SPECIFIC ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (Page 26)
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SPECIFIC ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The following people have specific responsibility for particular areas within the
Kroto Institute. These people may impose additional safety requirements and
conditions for working in their given area, if appropriate:
Hemaka Bandulasena G21 to G23
Andrew Fairburn G24, G26, G27 and G30
Nicola Green Confocal Facility
Claire Hurley Surface Analysis Centre
Peter Korgul Lower Ground Floor and Sorby Centre
Jaime Lozano G21 to G23
Ian Ross Centre for High Resolution Imaging and Analysis
Mark Wagner Second Floor labs and Clean Room
Emma Wharfe G25, G26, G28 to G33
The Kroto Research Institute does not operate an additional or overarching
Safety Committee and any specific safety issues should be raised with the
relevant designated individuals from the home departments. For a current list of
the named individuals see the table on the following page.
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SAFETY OFFICERS FOR DEPARTMENTS WITHIN THE KROTO RESEARCH INSTITUTE
Name Duty Extension
Civil and Structural Engineering
Vito Racic Departmental Safety Officer and Radiation Protection Supervisor 25790
Andrew Fairburn Deputy Departmental Safety Officer 25770
Glenn Brawn Departmental Laser Safety Officer 25723
Wei Huang / Emma Wharfe Departmental Biological Safety Officer 25736
Materials Science and Engineering
Bev Lane Departmental Safety Officer 25461
Dr Steve Mason Deputy Departmental Safety Officer 25500
Dr Steve Matcher Departmental Laser Safety Officer 25994
Mr Mark Wagner Departmental Biological Safety Officer 25927
Dr Nik Reeves-McLaren Departmental Radiation Officer 26013
Chemical and Biological Engineering
Mr Richard Stacey Laboratory Superintendent
Departmental Safety Officer
COSHH Assessment Representative
27529
Mr Keith Penny Departmental Laser Safety Officer 27531
Dr Mark Dickman Departmental Biological Safety Officer 27541
Mr Mark McIntosh Display Screen Assessor 27530
Mr David Wengraf Departmental Radiation Officer 27586
Computer Science
Dr Philip D Green Departmental Safety Officer 21828
Electronic and Electrical Engineering
Mr Ian Moulson Departmental Safety Officer 25141
Mrs Dianne Webster Departmental Deputy Safety Officer 25859
Dr Gavin Williams Departmental Laser Safety Officer 25814
Prof Mark Hopkinson Departmental X-ray Radiation Safety Supervisor 25385
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ALPHABETICAL INDEX
PAGE NO. ACCESS TO BUILDINGS DURING CLOSURE 8 CONSTRUCTION OF EQUIPMENT AND APPARATUS 23, 14 COSHH REGULATIONS 15 DISPLAY SCREEN EQUIPMENT 17 EMERGENCY PROCEDURE 4 EMERGENCY TELEPHONE NUMBER 4 EQUIPMENT LEFT RUNNING 10 EVACUATION 4 KROTO SAFETY POLICY 3 FIRE 4 FIRE AND EMERGENCY PROCEDURES 4 INTRODUCTION 2 IONISING RADIATION 21 MANUAL HANDLING 17 MEDICAL EMERGENCY AND FIRST AID 5 OUT-OF-HOURS WORKING 8 PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT 18 PERSONS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS 7 PORTABLE APPLIANCE TESTING (PAT) 14 PRESSURE SYSTEMS 22 PROJECT WORK (UNDERGRADUATE) 12 RADIATION SAFETY 21 RADIATION SUPERVISORS 21 RESEARCH STUDENTS (SUPERVISION OF) 13 RISK ASSESSMENT 6 SIGNS AND SIGNALS REGULATIONS 20 STUDENTS (SUPERVISORS' RESPONSIBILITIES FOR) 11-13 SPECIFIC ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 26, 27
SUBSTANCES 10, 15 TRAINING (SAFETY) 4 UNATTENDED EQUIPMENT OR SUBSTANCES 10 VISITORS 24-25 WORK EQUIPMENT 19