EKSCAVATOR, SAFE SYSTEM OF WORK

For an operation involving the use of an excavator, the proprietor/contractor, in consultation with the management personnel and workers, should carry out a detailed analysis of the operation so as to devise a system of work that is safe and without risk to health to workers. A system of work should lay down proper and safe work method and procedures for workers to follow.

Workers concerned should be given knowledge of details of the system of work. Where necessary, the proprietor/contractor should arrange suitable training for the workers to impress upon them the importance of following the work method and procedures in the system of work.

Establishing a safe system or work

Before commencement of work with an excavator, the proprietor/contractor should identify all potential hazards associated with the work to be performed, so as to assess the risk. The following factors should be considered  :

1. type of excavator used and type of protective structure installed
2. limitations and restrictions of the excavator
3. ground profile and condition at the work location
4. proximity hazard at the work location
5. work requirements ; and
6. competence of the work team

After identifying the potential hazards, the proprietor/contractor should assess the risk of each hazard to determine the need for preventive measures, then establish means to reduce the hazards, safe work method and work procedures.

With collective input from personnel of different levels, the proprietor/contractor should devise a safe system of work for the operation which should be documented. For an operation that has been assessed to involve high risk of serious injuries to workers, the proprietor/contractor should consider adopting a permit-to-work system.

The proprietor/contractor should provide adequate communication of the system of work to every personnel involved in the work. Where additional training for particular or necessary skill is required for the workers to carry out their jobs, such training should be provided to them before commencement of the work.

The proprietor/contractor should make efforts to ensure that every personnel involved follows strictly the system of work when work is being carried out. After implementation of the system of work, the proprietor/contractor should arrange regular monitoring and review of the effectiveness of the system. The proprietor/contractor should consider modifications, or alterations, if neccessary, to improve effectiveness of the system, or in case there are changes in circumstances. Any modification or alteration required after implementation should be adequately communicated, as soon as possible, to the personnel involved.