Electrical
Electrical shocks are a common risk for many building sites and it’s a rare
risk assessment that does not mention them in some regard. Couple this with the
fact that the vast majority of shocks are non-fatal and result in little more
than a light sting and you have a recipe for underestimating danger.
The HSE is warning contractors about this very danger to try and end
electrocutions of engineers. They believe that vigilance and a commitment to
following best practice will be enough to prevent shocks of any kind.
That’s what we believe at BPM Maintenance too; our Health & Safety
Manager holds regular toolbox talks and a common theme is the dangers of
electrical currents. The Manager trains our
operatives to never underestimate the risk involved and treat it just as
seriously as working at height or with gas; even if the danger is not always as
obvious.
As technology evolves and the use of electricity becomes ever more integrated
with our lifestyles, awareness and caution of currents become ever more
important for any building worker. Our
electrical engineers are always provided with the most up to date training and
relevant information for all areas of electrical works that we deal with. Additionally,
all of our operatives receive electrical awareness training to keep
Asbestos
Asbestos is a real and present danger in the UK. Due to its unique fire proofing abilities it
was used prolifically in the building of residential dwellings and commercial
buildings during the 1960’s and the 1970’s.
It was later discovered that the inhalation of asbestos fibres causes
serious illness and often death. Diseases
caused by asbestos include; Non malignant pleural disease, Asbestosis, Asbestos
related lung cancer and Mesothelioma.
Asbestos can be found all over a building, it is mostly found where an
area has been made to be fire retardant, such as, meter cupboards, fuse boxes
and in commercial buildings some riser cupboards. It was also used in floor tiles and for
rainwater items, such as roof gutters, soffits and downpipes.
At BPM we do the following to manage asbestos:
- All of our engineers have taken a training course on dealing with asbestos in buildings
- Engineers ensure that works carried out are not significantly dangerous enough to warrant using a licensed contractor
- Protective equipment and clothing is always used where appropriate
- Waste is dealt with cleanly and safely, for example clearing as they go and double bagging waste, and finally disposing of as per regulations.
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Working at Height
All of our on-site representatives know that working at height means
any height where if somebody was to fall, personal injury would be caused.
Every time an operative from BPM Maintenance works at height they
ensure that:
- All equipment used is properly maintained and regularly inspected.
- Any risks from working on or near fragile surfaces are managed.
- All jobs are properly organised and planned so that any potential dangers are highlighted before works have started.
