MCU14/0056 Response to SARA - Consulting Report

2 Enviropod Health and Safety
The following section details some of the considerations which may be required for a
contactor to comply with relevant health and safety regulations regarding the manual
handing activities, hazards associated with the waste material and issues associated with
working on roads.

Cleaning of Enviropod filters is a specialist activity. Material collected can be harmful if not
handled correctly. Sediments may contain heavy metals and carcinogenic substances as
well as harmful objects such as broken glass and syringes. As all of the Enviropod units
are located on roads particular care must be taken due to the potential build up of
hydrocarbon based products and other vehicle based contaminants which may be
carcinogenic or toxic. It is essential that Occupational Safety and Health guidelines are
followed at all times, and that the following steps are carried out to ensure safe and
successful maintenance operations.

In additional to the hazards associated with the cleaning handling of material in the filter
bags, there also hazards associated with traffic at the work site, the removal of the grate,
pedestrians and other non-worker personnel, and general work place hazards associated
with working outdoors.

This section is not intended to address all the safety issues associated with Enviropod
maintenance, providing only information and suggestions on safety aspects associated
with the maintenance procedures. A separate safety plan should be prepared for each
project address the specific requirements of the project.

The procedures indicated in the Operations section of this manual are recommend
as the safest and most efficient manner in conducting the maintenance of
Enviropod Units (Section 3), however contractors and cleaning staff may vary the
procedure in response to the site conditions, varying work practices or general
preferences in the cleaning techniques. Please note that procedures outlined is this
manual are not exhaustive, and that any changes should still comply with general
safe work practices.

2.1   Personnel Health and Safety
All contractors and staff shall comply with all current Health and Safety Legislation and
take all practicable steps to:
 Comply with all applicable laws, regulations and standards.
 Ensure that all employees, contractors and visitors are informed of and understand
    their obligations in respect of current Health and Safety Legislation.
 Ensure that employees understand and accept their responsibility to practice and
    promote a safe and healthy work environment.

All relevant precautions must be taken to prevent contact with sediment and litter when
maintaining filters. The following personal protective equipment (PPE) safety equipment
should be worn:
 Puncture resistant gloves.
 Steel capped safety boots.
 Fluorescent safety vest.
 Overalls or similar skin protection.
 Safety apron. (if necessary)*
 Eye protection. (if necessary)*