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Installing 50m of perf pipe ins Vancouver boulevard with power overhead in a trench 6 feet deep.

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Pipeline Installation in Urban Boulevard ========================================

Document Number: \[SWP-NUMBER]

Revision Date: \[DATE]

Next Review Date: \[NEXT REVIEW DATE]

Department: \[DEPARTMENT NAME]

1\. Scope


This safe work procedure outlines the necessary safety precautions for the installation of a 50m high-performance pipeline in a Vancouver boulevard. It addresses hazards associated with excavation, overhead power lines, and working in a confined space (6-foot deep trench). This procedure applies to all personnel involved in the pipeline installation. It does not cover pipeline welding or specialized connection procedures, which require separate SWPs.

2\. Definitions


Trench An excavation that is narrow in relation to its length, made below the surface of the ground. In general, the depth is greater than the width, but the width is not greater than 3\.6 meters (12 feet). Protective System A system used to protect workers from cave-ins, falling materials, or other hazards while working in a trench or excavation. These include shoring, sloping, and shielding. Excavation The process of removing soil or earth to create a trench or excavation. Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) A device intended to protect personnel by de-energizing a circuit when a fault current to ground exceeds some predetermined value.

3\. Responsibilities


3\.1 Supervisors

  • Ensure all workers are properly trained and competent to perform the task.
  • Conduct pre-job briefings to discuss hazards, risks, and control measures.
  • Ensure all necessary PPE and equipment are available and in good working condition.
  • Monitor work activities to ensure compliance with safe work procedures.
  • Take immediate corrective action to address any hazards or unsafe conditions.

3\.2 Workers

  • Inspect tools and equipment before use to ensure they are in good working condition.
  • Use appropriate PPE as required by the task and work environment.
  • Report any hazards or unsafe conditions to the supervisor immediately.
  • Participate in pre-job briefings and training sessions.
  • Follow all safe work procedures and instructions.

4\. Potential Hazards and Risks


HazardRiskControl Measures
Contact with underground utilities (electrical, gas, water). [1]Electrocution, explosion, flooding, service disruption.Contact utility companies to locate and mark underground services before digging. Use safe digging practices, including hand digging within the tolerance zone of underground utilities.
Contact with overhead power lines. [1]Electrocution, burns.Maintain a safe distance from overhead power lines as per regulatory requirements. Use non-conductive ladders and equipment. Designate a safety watcher to monitor the proximity of equipment to power lines.
Trench collapse. [2]Crushing, suffocation.Ensure the trench is properly shored, sloped, or shielded to prevent collapse. Inspect the trench daily for signs of instability. Never enter an unprotected trench.
Slips, trips, and falls. [1]Injuries ranging from minor sprains to fractures.Provide adequate lighting in the work area. Use high-visibility clothing. Ensure workers are trained in safe excavation practices.
Struck by moving equipment. [1]Serious injury or death.Ensure equipment is operated by trained and authorized personnel. Use spotters when operating equipment in close proximity to workers. Establish and maintain clear communication channels.
Contact with vehicular traffic.Serious injury or death.Implement a traffic management plan to separate workers from vehicular traffic. Use barriers and signage to delineate the work zone.
Manual handling of heavy materials. [1]Musculoskeletal injuries.Provide appropriate lifting equipment and training. Use proper lifting techniques. Avoid manual lifting whenever possible.
Hazardous atmosphere in trench. [2]Asphyxiation, poisoning.Test the atmosphere in the trench for hazardous gases and oxygen deficiency before entry. Provide adequate ventilation. Implement a confined space entry program if required.

5\. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)


All personnel involved in the pipeline installation must wear the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) as specified below. PPE must be inspected before each use and replaced if damaged or defective.

  • Hard Hat: Required to protect the head from falling objects and impacts.
  • Safety Glasses: Required to protect the eyes from dust, debris, and chemical splashes.
  • Safety Boots: Required to protect the feet from punctures, impacts, and electrical hazards.
  • Gloves: Required to protect the hands from cuts, abrasions, and chemical exposure.
  • High-Visibility Clothing: Required to increase visibility in low-light conditions and around vehicular traffic.

Inspect gloves regularly for punctures, tears, or chemical damage. Clean and store gloves properly after each use. Replace gloves as needed.

6\. Equipment and Tools


All equipment and tools must be inspected before use to ensure they are in safe working condition. Any damaged or defective equipment must be removed from service immediately.

  • Excavator: Used for excavating the trench. Ensure the excavator is in good working condition and operated by a trained and authorized operator.
  • Trench Protective System: Used for shoring, sloping, or shielding the trench. Ensure the protective system is appropriate for the soil conditions and trench depth.
  • Soil Compactor: Used for compacting the soil during backfilling. Ensure the compactor is in good working condition and operated according to the manufacturer's instructions.
  • Atmospheric Monitoring Meter: Used for testing the atmosphere in the trench. Ensure the meter is properly calibrated and used by a trained operator.
  • Shovels: Used for hand digging around underground utilities. Ensure the shovel is in good condition and appropriate for the task.

Inspect the excavator daily for any signs of damage or leaks. Ensure all safety devices are functioning properly. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for maintenance and servicing.

7\. Pre-Job Requirements


7\.1 Training and Competency

Training and Competency: All personnel involved in the pipeline installation must be properly trained and competent to perform their assigned tasks. Training must include, but is not limited to, excavation safety, electrical safety, confined space entry, and first aid/CPR.

7\.2 Pre-Job Briefing

Pre-Job Briefing: A pre-job briefing must be conducted before the start of each shift to discuss the day's activities, potential hazards, and control measures. All personnel involved in the work must attend the briefing and sign the attendance sheet.

7\.3 Work Area Preparation

Work Area Preparation: The work area must be properly prepared before the start of work. This includes identifying and marking underground utilities, establishing traffic control measures, and ensuring adequate lighting.

8\. Safe Work Procedure Steps


  1. Locate Underground Utilities: Contact utility companies to locate and mark underground services. Wait for confirmation before proceeding with excavation. [4]
  2. Inspect Work Area: Conduct a thorough inspection of the work area to identify potential hazards, including overhead power lines, unstable soil conditions, and traffic hazards.
  3. Implement Traffic Control: Establish a traffic management plan to protect workers from vehicular traffic. Use barriers, signage, and flaggers as needed.
  4. Excavate Trench: Excavate the trench to the required depth, ensuring that the trench is properly shored, sloped, or shielded to prevent collapse. [3]
  5. Test Atmosphere: Test the atmosphere in the trench for hazardous gases and oxygen deficiency before entry. Provide adequate ventilation if necessary. [3]
  6. Install Pipeline: Install the pipeline according to the manufacturer's instructions and all applicable codes and standards.
  7. Backfill Trench: Backfill the trench, compacting the soil in layers to ensure stability.
  8. Restore Work Area: Restore the work area to its original condition, including repairing any damage to sidewalks, roads, or landscaping.
  9. Remove Equipment: Remove all equipment and materials from the work area.

9\. Precautions and Safety Measures


  • Never enter an unprotected trench. Ensure the trench is properly shored, sloped, or shielded before entry.
  • Maintain a safe distance from overhead power lines. Use non-conductive ladders and equipment.
  • Test the atmosphere in the trench for hazardous gases and oxygen deficiency before entry. Provide adequate ventilation.
  • Use safe digging practices, including hand digging within the tolerance zone of underground utilities.
  • Implement a traffic management plan to separate workers from vehicular traffic.

10\. Emergency Procedures


10\.1 General Emergency Response

In the event of an emergency, immediately stop work and assess the situation. Evacuate the area if necessary and follow the established emergency plan.

10\.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

  • Contact with Overhead Power Line: If equipment or a person comes into contact with an overhead power line.: Immediately call 911 and the utility company. Do not approach the vehicle. Warn others to stay away. Wait for qualified personnel to de-energize the line before approaching the vehicle or attempting rescue.
  • Trench Collapse: In the event of a trench collapse.: Evacuate the trench immediately. Ensure all personnel are accounted for. Contact emergency services if anyone is trapped or injured. Do not re-enter the trench until it has been inspected and secured by a competent person.
  • Gas Leak: If a gas leak is detected during excavation.: Evacuate the area. Immediately report the leak to the supervisor and follow the established emergency response plan. Do not attempt to repair the leak yourself.

10\.3 Emergency Contact Information

In case of emergency, contact 911 immediately. Provide the location of the incident, the nature of the emergency, and the number of people involved.

11\. Incident Reporting and Investigation


All incidents, including near misses, must be reported to the supervisor immediately. A written report must be submitted within 24 hours of the incident. The report should include a detailed description of the incident, the cause of the incident, and any corrective actions taken.

All reported incidents will be investigated by a designated safety representative. The investigation will determine the root cause of the incident and identify any necessary corrective actions to prevent recurrence. The findings of the investigation will be documented and shared with all relevant personnel.

Approved by: \[NAME AND POSITION]

Date: \[APPROVAL DATE]

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4 source record(s)

Sources used for this answer

[1] Landscaping - Shovelling and Digging

Page 1

Open source document

Source excerpt

CCOHS CCHST Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety Centre canadien d'hygiène et de sécurité au travail Landscaping # Landscaping - Shovelling and Digging On this page What should you do before shovelling or digging? What should I know about cave-ins? ## What should you do before shovelling or digging? - Contact utility companies for location of the cables, wires, and pipes before digging. In many areas it is illegal to dig unless you have called to have these utilities located. - Wear the proper protective clothing (e.g., safety footwear, gloves, long pants, etc.) that is suitable for the task and the work environment. - Choose the proper tool for the task and make sure it is in good condition. - Remember that wet soil is heavy - adjust the amount of soil you put on your shovel accordingly. - Keep your feet shoulder-width apart to stay balanced and not slip. - Don't twist your body - turn your front foot in the direction you want to deposit the shovel's load. - Keep a loaded shovel close to your body to keep you balanced. There are many tips in other Landscaping OSH Answers documents. In addition, there may be requirements in your jurisdiction's health and safety regulations relating to excavation and trenching. Always verify the legislative requirements before digging. For more information on trenching and excavation, please see the OSH Answers: Trenching and Excavation ## What should I know about cave-ins? One cubic foot of soil can weigh over 45 kg (100 pounds) - a small amount of soil falling into an unprotected trench can lead to injuries or fatalities. Even being buried up to the waist can lead to a fatality due to the pressure exerted on the body. Landscaping - Shovelling and Digging CCOHS

[2] Trenching and Excavation

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Open source document

Source excerpt

CCOHS CCHST Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety Centre canadien d'hygiène et de sécurité au travail Health and Safety Programs # Trenching and Excavation ## On this page What is meant by a trench and an excavation? What are the hazards associated with trenching and excavation? What is meant by soil types? What should occur before beginning an excavation? What factors determine what is the appropriate protective system to use? What are the different types of protective systems used to protect against cave-ins? What should NOT be done during an excavation? What can be included in a trenching and excavation inspection checklist? ## What is meant by a trench and an excavation? Generally speaking, an excavation is a hole in the ground as the result of removing material. A trench is an excavation in which the depth exceeds (is bigger than) the width. ## What are the hazards associated with trenching and excavation? Working in trenches and excavations is hazardous to both the workers who work inside them, and to workers on the surface. The hazards include: - Cave-ins or collapses that can trap or crush workers. - Equipment or excavated soil falling on workers (e.g., equipment is operated or soil and debris is stored too close to the excavation). - Falling into the trench or excavation. - Flooding or water accumulation. - Exposure to a hazardous atmosphere (e.g., gas, vapour, dust, biological contaminants, or lack of oxygen). Trenching and Excavation CCOHS

[3] Trenching and Excavation

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Open source document

Source excerpt

# Trenching and Excavation (cont.) ## What are the hazards associated with trenching and excavation? (cont.) - Contact with buried service lines such as electrical, natural gas, water, sewage, telecommunications, etc. - Contact with overhead electrical lines. - Slips, trips and falls as workers climb on and off equipment, or from inappropriate access and egress methods. - Being struck by moving machinery, or by falling or flying objects. - Hazards related to materials handling (e.g., lifting, struck by, crushed between, etc.). ## What is meant by soil types? Definitions of soil types vary by jurisdiction in Canada. In addition, some jurisdictions have not defined soil types, but do require preventative measures when an excavation reaches a certain depth or proportion. When a soil type is defined, the purpose is to try to identify or predict the potential for the soil to move and cause a collapse while the work is being done. Soil types typically use a scale of 1 to 4 where 1 is hard and dense to 4 which is loose, soft, wet or muddy soil, or a scale of A to C where A is hard and solid, and C is soft, sandy, filled or loose. The soil type is determined by the characteristics of the soil's consistency, ease of removal, appearance, ability to excavate with hand tools vs. machine, water seepage, whether the soil has been excavated before, etc. ## What should occur before beginning an excavation? The employer or supervisor is responsible for the work, and must take the necessary steps to identify all the hazards and risks before beginning any work. These steps include to: - Identify the soil type(s) related to the excavation or trench you are going to dig. Soil properties often vary widely within a single trench (e.g., the soil type changes from top to bottom and along the length of a trench). - Look for the legislative requirements that apply in your jurisdiction and the type of protective measures to be taken. - Locate all buried services. Contact t…

[4] Trenching and Excavation

Page 3

Open source document

Source excerpt

# Trenching and Excavation (cont.) ## What should occur before beginning an excavation? (cont.) - Check areas near the site for potential hazards and sources that can impact the stability of the soil. Be aware that nearby vehicles and equipment can cause the soil to vibrate and then collapse. - Determine if nearby buildings or structures and their foundations may put pressure on the soil and affect the walls of the trench. - Test for hazardous gas, vapours, and dust before entering. Test for oxygen levels in the space before entering, and during the work as required. - Plan appropriate organization of the work site, and good housekeeping practices including moving debris and excavated soil far enough away from the excavation site. - Remove water from the excavation. - Protect workers from falling into the excavation. - Identify appropriate personal protective equipment including high visibility apparel for vehicular traffic and make sure every worker wears them as required. - Have a worker above ground when a worker is working in the trench to warn those in the trench of danger and to provide emergency help. - Determine if the trench is considered a confined space If so, do not allow workers to enter the trench until the requirements of the organization's confined space program are met, including entry permits and training. - Prepare work permits for work in confined spaces, as appropriate. - Have a means of exit provided from the inside of the trench, usually no more than 8m (25 ft) away from any worker in the trench. - Plan for adverse weather conditions (e.g. hot or cold environments, storms, etc.). - Prepare an emergency plan and rescue procedures. - Keep first aid equipment at the site. - Educate and train workers about all existing and potential hazards and risks and appropriate safety measures. ## What factors determine what is the appropriate protective system to use? In general, trenches that are 1.2 metres (4 feet) deep or great…

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