UTM-SAFETY-AND-HEALTH-PROCEDURES_(1).pdf

Occupational Safety, Health & Environmental Office (OSHE)
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia
UTM SAFETY AND HEALTH
PROCEDURES
March 2020

CONTENT OF UTM SAFETY AND HEALTH PROCEDURES
FOREWORD
CHAPTER 1: UTM Safety Program 1 - 3
1.0 UTM’s Policy on Safety, Health and Environment
1.1 Objectives
1.2 Administrative
1.3 Safety and Health Committee
CHAPTER 2: Fire Safety 4 – 11
2.0 Definition of Fire
2.1 Element of Fire Triangle
2.2 Classes of Fire
2.3 Fire Extinguiher Instructions
2.4 Causes of Fire
2.5 Fire Prevention Plan
2.6 In the Event of Fire
2.7 If Caught In Smoke
2.8 If Trapped in Room or Building
2.9 If Forced To Advance Through Flames (which should be a last resort)
2.10 Action Plan if The Fire Alarm Sounds Continuously
2.11 On-Campus Fire Safety
CHAPTER 3: First Aid 12 - 21
3.0 Introduction
3.1 Definition
3.2 Purpose (Policy)
3.3 Legal Provision
3.4 Objective
3.5 Organization
3.6 First Aider

3.7 First-Aid Facilities
3.8 Implementation
3.9 Special First-Aid Requirements
CHAPTER 4: Electrical Safety 22 - 30
4.0 Introduction
4.1 Electrical Power Generation
4.2 Legal Requirements
4.3 Electrical Accidents
4.4 Effect of Electricity To Human
4.5 Causes Of Electrical Failure and Fire
4.6 Safety In Electrical Appliance Use
4.7 Circuit and Equipment Protection
4.8 Safe System of Work
4.9 Static Electricity
4.10 Lightning and Lightning Protection
CHAPTER 5: Mechanical Safety 31 - 45 -
5.0 Introduction
5.1 General Working Rules
5.2 Safe Operating Procedure
5.3 Occupational Health
CHAPTER 6: Chemical Safety 46 - 69
6.0 Introduction
6.1 Chemical Classification
6.2 Route of Exposure
6.3 Controlling Chemical Exposures
6.4 Procurement, Distribution, and Storage
6.5 Compressed Gas and Cryogenic

6.6 Chemical Fire
6.7 Explosion Control
6.8 Chemical Waste Management
CHAPTER 7: Biological Safety 70 - 82
7.0 Introduction
7.1 Laboratory Biological Safety Guidelines
7.2 Biological Safety Cabinet (BSCs)
7.3 Receiving and Storage of Chemical
7.4 Chemical Spillage
7.5 Pressurized Gas and Cryogenic Liquid
7.6 Control of Chemical Based Fire
7.7 Control of Explosion
7.8 Chemical Waste Management
7.10 Emergency Response Plan
CHAPTER 8: Radiation Safety 83 - 100
8.0 Introduction
8.1 Authorization of Ionizing Radiation Sources
8.2 Radiation Safety Training Requirements
8.3 Procurement and Transfer of Radioactive Materials
8.4 Using Radioactive Materials
8.5 Emergency Procedures
8.6 Personnel Exposure
8.7 Radioactive Waste
CHAPTER 9: College Safety 101 - 109
9.0 Introduction
9.1 College Safety & Health Committee

9.2 Fire Emergency
9.3 Medical Emergency
9.4 Fire Equipment
9.5 Fire Safety
CHAPTER 10: Occupational Health 110 - 122
10.0 Introduction
10.2 Objective
10.3 Legal Provision and Guidelines
10.4 Occupational Health Hazard
10.5 Duty of Care (Responsibilities and Accountabilities)
10.6 Employee Responsibilities
10.7 Elements of Managing Occupational Health
10.8 Reporting to DOSH Office
10.9 Compensation
10.10 Participating in Emergency Response and Disaster Management
10.11 Provision of Clinical Services
10.12 Universal Precaution

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jafariah Jaafar
Director, OSHE UTM
March 2020
Preface
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) is a safety-conscious organization and
recognizes the importance of safeguarding the well-being of all our staff,
students and visitors. This Safety and Health Procedure was written as
early as the year 2009 as a basic guideline in the day-to-day working
practices in UTM. I encourage all staff and students to study the relevant
parts of this procedure and incorporate its measures into everyday practice
to reduce the risk and accident on campus. This procedure can be used as a
reference in carrying out work activities in UTM.

UTM/OSHE/Safety And Health Procedures
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1.0 UTM’s Policy on Safety, Health and Environment
UTM is committed in providing and maintaining a safe and healthy working-
learning environment to its staff, students and the general public.
To successfully implement this policy UTM shall:
a. Provide a Safety, Health and Environment management system that
meets national and international quality standards.
b. Make available an Action Plan for activities to be carried out in a safe and
healthy environment.
c. Nurture a work culture that emphasizes safety through education and
continuous training.
d. Review this Policy on Safety, Health and Environment from time to time.
1.1 Objectives
To ensure safe and healthy working environment of workers and public in
UTM, the Safety, Health and Environment (SHE) Unit of UTM shall be responsible
for:
i. Preventing accident and health problem of workers and public in
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia.
ii. Planning periodic inspection on physical facilities standard and
occupational safety and to plan auditing on place, system and safe
working procedures.
iii. Reporting and investigating all incidents causing injury, and damage to
property and plan on the control measures.
iv. Providing and maintaining a good environment in work place and to
provide safety equipments and facilities in order to reduce safety and
health disaster.
v. Providing latest information to staff and providing adequate training on
safety and health.
vi. Reviewing and revising UTM’s Policy on Safety, Health and Environment
from time to time.
CHAPTER 1

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1.2 Administrative
1.2.1 Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovations) or Director of Safety,
Health and Environment Unit (SHE) is representer of Vice-Chancellor in
implementing UTM’s Policy on Safety, Health and Environment according to
goal and objective of University to create a safe and condusive working
environment.
1.2.2 Dean of Faculty and Director of Centre of Excellence are responsible to
safety of their buidings and facilities.
1.2.3 Head of Department are responsible to safety of their office, laboratories,
facilities and equipments.
1.2.4 Other officers whom are responsible for building and facilities safety are
Registrar for Administration Buiding, Science Officer/Laboratory Officer for
laboratories, and Chief Librarian for Perpustakaan Sultanah Zanariah.
1.3 Safety and Health Committee
1.3.1 University Level
Safety and Health committee is responsible for safe and healthy working
environment of workers and public in UTM through:
• Promotion for prevention of accident and dangerous occurrence causing
problems on safety and health of workers in UTM.
• Periodic inspection on physical facilities and occupational safety and to
plan auditing on place, system and safe working procedures.
• Observing and ensuring that environment, equipment (machinery) and
facilities provided are safe.
• Organizing the dissemination of latest information to staff, student and
public in UTM.
• Providing adequate safety and health training to staff.
• Ensuring that issues on safety and health can be understood, applied
and obeyed.
• Investigating, improving and suggesting issue on:
• Risk to safety and health
• Unsafe act and condition that has been reported

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• Reviewing and revising UTM’s Policy on Safety and Health from time to
time.
• Planning and observing the activities organized by Faculty/Department
Safety and Health Committee.
• Recording and reporting all near-misses incident and accident to General
Manager of DOSH.

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2.0 Definition of Fire
A fire is a chemical reaction that occurs when a flammable material and oxygen
comes into contact with a heat source or ignition.
2.1 Element of Fire Triangle
Three main elements which can cause fire are heat, oxygen (O2) and fuel and
this can be shown as ‘Fire Triangle’ in Figure 1.
Figure 1. Fire Triangle
Fire will not occur in the absence of one element as fire will cease to exist if
one of the elements is eliminated. Fire safety is based upon the principle of keeping
fuel sources and ignition sources separate.
2.2 Classes of Fire
All employees, especially those in certain occupations, should learn to use a
fire extinguisher (laboratory, workshop and cafetaria) in case of fire. It is important
to know the classes of fire, so that suitable type of fire fighting agent can be selected
to put out the fire. Insuitable use of fire fighting agent may cause the incident to
become worse. Fire can be classifed into 4 classes based on the type of fuel, as
shown in Table 2.1.
CHAPTER 2

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Table 2.1. Four classes of fire
Class Classification of fuel Fire Fighting Agent
A
Solids combustible materials
that are not metal- e.g. wood,
paper, cloth, rubber, plastic,
trash
Water, dry chemical,
foam
B
Any non-metal in a liquid state,
on fire- e.g.: Flammable liquid:
petrol, diesel, gasoline, grease,
tar, paint, acetone, turpentine.
CO2, foam, dry
chemical, halon
C
Electrical:energized electrical
equipment. As long as it is
"plugged in," it would be
considered a class C fire.
CO2, foam, dry
chemical, halon
D
Metals: potassium, sodium,
magnesium, aluminium
A special
extinguishing agents
(Metal-X, foam)
Most fire extinguishers will have a pictograph label telling which fuels the
extinguisher is designed to fight. Figure 2 and 3 show the common fire
extinguishers available in most workplaces.
Figure 2. Dry Chemical Powder Fire Extinguisher (Class A, B & C)

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Figure 3. Carbon Dioxide Fire Extinguisher
2.3 Fire Extinguisher Instructions
It is easy to remember how to use a fire extinguisher if you can remember the
acronym PASS, which stands for Pull, Aim, Squeeze, and Sweep.
i. Pull safety pin from handle
ii. Aim at base of fire
iii. Squeeze the trigger handle
iv. Sweep from side to side.
Theory is great, but there is no substitute for hands-on experience.
2.4 Causes of Fire
Fire can be caused by:
i. Short circuit
ii. Equipment failure
iii. Welding and metal cutting activities
iv. Spill/overflow of flammable liquid/gas
v. Overheating
vi. Electric circuit overloaded
vii. Electric spark
viii. Contact with hot surfaces
ix. Pipe leakages/damage
x. Intentional burning

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xi. Fire sources such as lighter, cigarette butts and mosquito coil
xii. Chemical reaction
xiii. Lightning
And some contributing factors are:
i. Failure/damage of sprinkler system
ii. Insufficient water supply for spray system
iii. No spray system
iv. Human/operator error
v. Existence of flammable materials
vi. Breakage of equipment or container
2.5 Fire Prevention Plan
Some of the fire prevention plan are as follow:
i. Provide on job training program
ii. Provide instructions and written procedures
iii. Equipments should be labeled properly
iv. Select suitable person to job
v. Provide signage and warning signs
vi. Arrange and do periodic inspection on equipment and worker
vii. Plan all the work
viii. Ensure that design of equipment is more user-friendly and able to
prevent/control mistakes
ix. Reduce the use of flammable materials
x. Properly store flammable materials in special storage
xi. Store a minimum quantity of flammable materials
xii. Ensure that gas supply tube are in good condition
xiii. Swith off the electricity when not in use
xiv. Report all accident and damage of electrical equipment to Pejabat
Harta Bina UTM
xv. Do not throw ignited cigarette butts into dustbin.
2.6 In the Event of Fire
Fires can be very dangerous and we should always be certain that we will not
endanger ourselves or others when attempting to put out a fire. For this reason, in
case of fire, one should follow the procedures as shown in Figure 4.

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Figure 4 Flow procedure in the event of a fire
FIRE OCCUR
Break the fire alarm
panel
Call Unit Keselamatan UTM (30014) &
Pusat Kesihatan UTM (30999)
Immediately, remove victim to a safe
place
Cut electric supply if possible
Quarantine the
building
Call Fire Station at
999
In case of small fire, try to put out the fire by using
suitable fire extinguisher
If fail, immediately exit the building to the
designated assembly point
Call Management/ Head
of Department

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The last person to leave the area should close the doors and windows behind (if
possible). Use the fire escape (staircase). Do not use elevators when there is fire.
Notify fire personnel if you suspect someone is trapped inside the building. All staff,
including contractors, students, visitors and victim should report all accident or fire
cases to SHE Unit, UTM.
If the fire is small, you may attempt to use an extinguisher to put it out. However,
before deciding to fight the fire, keep these rules in mind:
Never fight a fire if:
 You don't know what is burning. If you don't know what is burning, you
don't know what type of extinguisher to use.
 The fire is spreading rapidly beyond the spot where it started. The time
to use an extinguisher is in the beginning stages of a fire. If the fire is already
spreading quickly, it is best to simple evacuate the building, closing doors
and windows behind you as you leave.
 You don't have adequate or appropriate equipment. If you don't have the
correct type or large enough extinguisher, it is best not to try to fight the fire.
You might inhale toxic smoke.
 Your instincts tell you not to. If you are uncomfortable with the situation
for any reason, just let the fire department do their job.
 The final rule is to always position yourself with an exit or means of
escape at your back before you attempt to use an extinguisher to put
out a fire. In case the extinguisher malfunctions, or something unexpected
happens, you need to be able to get out quickly, and you don't want to
become trapped.
2.7 If Caught In Smoke
Smoke from the fire is a threat since it is hot, stifling, poisonous and may
obstruct the exit to escape. One should follow insruction below if caught in smoke:
i. Drop to hands and knees and crawl toward exit.
ii. Stay low, as smoke will rise to ceiling level.
iii. Breathe shallowly through nose and use a filter such as towel or
shirt.
2.8 If Trapped In Room Or Building
One should follow insruction below if trapped in room or building:

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i. Wet and placed cloth material around and under the door to
prevent smoke from entering the room.
ii. Close as many doors as possible between you and the fire.
iii. Be prepared to signal someone outside, but DO NOT BREAK GLASS
PANEL until absolutely necessary (outside smoke may be drawn
into the room).
iv. Go the the nearest window to call for help.
v. Never try to jump from the building. Wait for the fire brigade to
arrive.
2.9 If Forced To Advance Through Flames (which should be a last resort)
i. Hold your breath.
ii. Move quickly.
iii. Cover your head and hair with a blanket or large coat.
iv. Keep your head down and your eyes closed as much as possible.
2.10 Action plan if the fire alarm sounds continuously
i. Identify the lighted zone:
 RED - alarm: one of the fire sensors has been activated.
 YELLOW - faulty: false alarm.
 GREEN - isolate: normal condition.
ii. If the red indicator is lighted:
 Identify the actual location that activated the alarm.
 Go to the location and confirm the occurance of fire.
 Call:
- Pusat Kawalan Keselamatan UTM 07–5530014
- Pusat Kawalan Keselamatan Kampus Kuala Lumpur: 03–
26154273
- Jabatan Bomba & Penyelamat (999).
- Head of Department in the respective zone.
iii. If the orange indicator is lighted:
 Call Pejabat Harta Bina: 07–5530295 to cancel the false alarm.
2.10.1 Fire Response Procedure:
i. Locate the area of smoke or fire.
ii. Activate the nearest fire alarm.

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iii. Contact UTM Security, and
- The nearest Jabatan Bomba & Penyelamat: 999
- The respective Head of Department.
iv. Rescue people from the immediate area of smoke and /or fire. Make
people aware that there is a fire alarm or actual fire.
v. Contain all smoke and fire by closing all windows and doors. Turn off all
sources of ignition.
vi. Extinguish the fire using the appropriate fire extinguisher for the type of
fire being fought.
vii. Relocate to a safe area at the designated assembly point outside the
building. Relocate the staff and visitors in accordance with the
department’s relocation plan.
viii.Someone in a supervisory capacity take roll call to ensure that all staff
and students are out of the building.
ix. If staff, faculty or students are unaccounted for, immediately notify a
representative from the Fire Department, University Security Unit or SHE
Unit that someone may still be in the building.
x. Do not re-enter the building until instructed to do so by a representative
from one of the aforementioned agencies.
2.11 On-Campus Fire Safety
Many factors contribute to the problem of dormitory housing fires.
 Improper use of 999 notification systems delays emergency response.
 Student apathy is prevalent. Many are unaware that fire is a risk or threat in
the environment.
 Evacuation efforts are hindered since fire alarms are often ignored.
 Building evacuations are delayed due to lack of preparation and preplanning.
 Vandalized and improperly maintained smoke alarms and fire alarm systems
inhibit early detection of fires.
 Misuse of cooking appliances, overloaded electrical circuits, and extension
cords increase the risk of fires.

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3.0 Introduction
The life of an injured worker and the public within the vicinity of the
workplace either serious or minor depend on proper first-aid being given within the
first few minutes of an accident or an illness. It is also important for minor injuries
such as burns, sprains, cuts, etc. The benefits of implementing systematic and
effective first-aid services are:
a) Preserve life;
b) Prevent illness or injury from becoming worse;
c) Prevent further complications of injury and illness;
d) Reduce pain;
e) Promote recovery; and
f) Care of unconscious.
Currently a few faculties and service departments have their own first aid services
team. Most of the emergency cases arise at any part of university campus are
managed by University Health Centre. The University Board Committee of Safety
and Health realizes in term of efficiency and effectiveness of first aid services. This
guideline helps employers, occupiers and Occupational Safety and Health personnel,
to plan and provide proper first-aid facilities, services and personnel in workplaces
based on provision requirements.
3.1 Definitions
3.1.1 First-aid
The provision of first-aid facilities, services and personnel required for
the initial treatment of persons suffering from injury or illness at a
workplace;
3.1.2 First-aid facilities
It comprises of first-aid box, a first-aid room, and first-aid equipment
for example, oxygen equipment and a stretcher.
3.1.3 First-aid requirements
The requirement for first aid facilities, services and personnel at
workplace;
3.1.4 First-aid services
Any procedure or method associated with the provision of first-aid at
workplace;
3.1.5 First-aider
CHAPTER 3

13
A person who has successfully completed a first-aid course conducted
by an Institution recognized by the Ministry of Health and has been
awarded with a certificate of proficiency in first-aid treatment.
The Vice Chancellor through University Safety, Health and Environment Unit
and their workers have committed to provide and implement the first aid services,
facilities and personnel for the purpose of providing initial emergency treatment of
persons suffering from injury or illness at a workplace.
3.3 Legal Provision
3.3.1 Section 25 of the Factories and Machinery Act 1967 (Act 139)
and Regulation 38 of the Factories and Machinery (Safety, Health
and Welfare) Regulations 1970:
a) providing and maintaining a first-aid box or cupboard of such
standard as may be prescribed and ensuring the box is readily
accessible at all times;
b) assigning the responsibility to upkeep a first-aid box or cupboard
to a responsible person, and for a factory with more than 20
persons employed, specifying that the responsible person should
be proficient in first-aid treatment; and
c) providing and maintaining a first-aid room in a factory where
more than 50 persons are employed.
3.3.2 Section 15(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act 1994
(Act 514)
a) that every employer and the self-employed person must ensure,
so far as is practicable, the safety, health and welfare at work of
all his employees.
b) The provision of first-aid facilities and first-aiders is in compliance
with the welfare component of this general duty of employers and
self-employed persons.
c) In a work-site (e.g. a construction site) where employees of
different employers are working together, the principal employer
to provide and maintain safe systems of work which include
provisions for adequate and appropriate first-aider, first-aid box,
first-aid room and first-aid equipment. However, the relevant
employers may make arrangement whereby one of them agrees to
provide adequate and appropriate first-aider, first-aid box, first-
aid room and first-aid equipment to comply with the above

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guidelines. The agreement should be recorded in writing and a
copy of the agreement should be kept by each employer
concerned.
3.4 Objective
To fulfill the policy statement, the board committee and the workers have
committed as far as practicable to practicing good occupational health management
in a manner of:
a) An integral part of the SHE’s activities and business objectives.
b) Establishing and documenting well defined and understood: health
policy, organization and arrangement.
c) Availability of authorized, controlled and sufficient resources.
d) Ensure the first aid team and the other personnel carrying out activities
having an impact on first aid services are adequate in number,
competent and have appropriate education, training, skills, and
experience.
e) Meeting the requirements of Occupational Safety And Health Act 1994,
occupational health standard, any statutory and regulatory
requirements, as well as customer requirements relating to occupational
health;
f) Conducting management reviews and auditing for sustainable and
continual improvement of the performance.
g) Instill best culture.
3.5 Organization
All first-aid programs are directed and controlled by Vice Chancellor or its
authorized representative which is Director of University Safety, Health and
Environment Unit. The program is supported and incorporated with Occupational
Health Advisor and Clinical personnel from University Health Centre. When
organizing the first aid services, the following factors should be considered:
a) type of operation/services;
b) number of workers;
c) number of work shifts;
d) location of workplace; and status of infrastructure;
e) accessibility to University Health Centre, external medical clinics or
hospitals.

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3.6 First Aider
First-aider is a qualified and trained person that can perform first aid
intervention during emergency with minimal equipment until appropriate medical
personnel arrive.
3.6.1 Recruitment
Selection criteria for recruitment:
a) Mature and responsible;
b) Physical and mentally fit;
c) Free to leave their work immediately to respond to an emergency;
d) Remain calm in emergency;
e) No blood borne infectious diseases, e.g. Hepatitis B, HIV/AIDS.
3.6.2 Course recognition
a) First-aid course conducted by an institution recognized by the
Ministry of Health and has been awarded with a certificate of
proficiency in first-aid treatment.
b) Effective 2 May 2008, industries are allowed to choose any
professional centers or NGOs without prior recognition from
Department of Occupational Safety and Health, Ministry of Human
Resources.
c) First aid training shall be conducted using the conventional methods
of training such as lecture, demonstration, practical exercise and
examination (both written and practical).
3.6.3 Number of first aiders
The number of first aiders required for any organization depends on
the number of employees. Table 3.1 lists the number requirement.
Table 3.1: Recommended number of first aiders at workplace
Risk level Number of workers Number of first aiders
Low risk hazards
(e.g. office)
Less than 20 One (1)
21 – 150 Two (2)
More than 150 Two (2) for every 150 workers
or part thereof.
High risk hazards (e.g.
Laboratory, workshop)
Less than 20 Two (2)
20 and more Two (2) for every 20 worker or
part thereof.

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Source: Guidelines on First-Aid in Workplace 2004, Department of Occupational Safety
and Health, Ministry of Human Resources
3.6.4 The Need for Further Training
First-aid certificates are usually valid for three (3) years except for
hazardous industries where the validity is for only one year. The validity of
some first-aid certificates may be subject to specific requirements, for
example:
a) refresher training;
b) evidence of proficiency in cardiopulmonary resuscitation;
c) whenever change within the workplace is likely to alter the hazards and
thus the type of potential injuries or occupational illnesses.
3.6.5 Training Record
The SHE Unit should keep a record of the dates on which first-aiders
obtained their training and the dates on which they received refresher
training.
3.6.6 Shift Work
If there is a shift work schedule, there should be a sufficient number
of first aiders for each shift based on Table 3.1.
3.6.7 Responsibilities of first-aider
3.6.7.1 Management of Casualty
In the management of an injured worker or ill worker, first-aiders
should:
a) Apply immediate first-aid treatment;
b) Arrange an ambulance or personal transport without delay for the
injured worker(s) to be sent to first-aid room, or University Health
Centre, according to the seriousness of this condition;
c) Apply the principle of Universal Precautions while delivering the
responsibility to protect the first-aiders from acquiring blood
borne pathogen e.g. Hepatitis B and HIV.
More than 400 workers More than 400 Two (2) for every 150 workers
in addition a registered nurse
or medical assistant must be
employed on site.

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d) The first-aider’s responsibility ends when the casualties are
handed over to the care of health care personnel.
3.6.7.2 Maintenance of Treatment Record
A record of the casualty and treatment given by the first-aider should
be made and kept by the SHE Unit for a period of five years. The
record should include information on:
i. the immediate treatment;
ii. details about the incident/accident including information
about the work;
iii. process involved;
iv. details about injury or work-related illness;
v. any referral arrangements made, e.g. usage of local
ambulance service,
vi. referral to local hospital; and
vii. subsequent casualty management.
3.6.7.3 Responsibilities for Maintenance of First-Aid
Requirement
Absolute responsibility for maintaining first-aid facilities lies on the
vice chancellor or its authorized SHE representative. Hence, the vice
chancellor must ensure an adequacy of first-aid services at all times
by reviewing the first-aid requirement at least once a year.
The first-aider is responsible for maintaining and checking the first
aid box periodically. This is to ensure that the contents of the box are
regularly replenished and only first-aid material is kept inside the
box.
Occupational Health Doctor or appointed medical personnel from
University Health Centre are responsible for the supervision of the
first-aider and the responsibility for maintenance of the first-aid
facilities.
3.7 First Aid Facilities
3.7.1 Effective First-aid communication
Effective communication is an essential part of first-aid services.
Employees, students and visitors should be informed at all times through
signage, calling card, pamphlets, stickers and 24 hours telephone service.
This is to ensure the nearest first-aiders on duty are contactable, identifiable
where, when and how to get help in a minute.

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The billboard signage or emergency telephone should be located accessible at
strategic places, such as:
a) Faculties include lecture rooms;
b) Hazardous areas e.g. lab, roads and ponds; and
c) Public concern e.g. public cafeterias, administrative buildings, sport
centers and colleges.
Figure 3.1: Example of signage or sticker
3.7.2 First-aid box
3.7.2.1 Design
First-aid boxes should be made of sturdy material and be
portable so that it is easier and convenience to be taken to the site of
an incident. The boxes should also be clearly marked.
3.7.2.2 Location
The first-aid box should be placed in a clearly identifiable, well
illuminated and accessible location. An adequate number of first-aid
boxes should be provided in a large area of workplace. The box
should be kept locked and the key thereto kept by responsible person
available during all working hours [section 38 (iii) FMA (safety, Health
and Welfare) Regulations]. The employees should be informed of the
location of all first aid boxes.
3.7.2.3 Contents
BANTUAN
KECEMASAN:
SILA DIAL: X
ATAU HUBUNGI JURU PERTOLONGAN CEMAS
BERDEKATAN DENGAN ANDA:
NAMA NO. SAMBUNGAN
1.
2.

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First-aid boxes should contain a sufficient quantity of suitable first-
aid materials but not any kind of other than those required for first-
aid treatment.
3.7.3 First-aid room
3.7.3.1 Design
A first-aid room should be set up if the numbers of workers are more
than 150 at a time. The room should be large enough to hold a couch
and still have space for people to move about. There should be
emergency lighting in the room. It should also be clearly identified as
a first-aid room by means of a sign.
The walls made of foldable or removable type to enable the room to be
expended to the requirement size, floor and ceiling should be of
material which does not collect dust and is easily cleaned. Floors
should be of non-slip material. Privacy must be ensured, by
obscuring windows if necessary. Temperature and humidity should
be maintained at a comfortable level.
3.7.3.2 Location
Criteria to select the location of first-aid room:
a) Accessible to work areas.
b) Accessible to car park, so as to facilitate transfer of the injured
person to an ambulance.
c) Proximity to shower for cleaning or decontamination purposes.
d) Proximity to lifts and main passageways which are wide enough to
allow a stretcher or wheelchair through
3.7.3.3 Facilities
The following should be provided in a first-aid room:
a) First aid box
b) Sink with tap water
c) Antiseptic hand wash soap
d) Paper towels
e) An examination/treatment couch with pillow & blanket
f) Portable stretchers
g) Splints (upper & lower limbs)
h) Disposable plastic apron
i) Separate disposable waterproof waste bag/basket for hazardous &
non-hazardous materials

20
j) Spinal immobilization equipment (cervical collar, spinal board)
k) Torch light
l) Chairs for waiting room
m) Cupboard for storing first aid equipment (as in the first aid box)
for top up purposes.
3.8 Implementation
3.8.1 Current practice of emergency services at Universiti Teknologi
Malaysia
Currently all emergency cases are fully managed by University Health
Centre.
3.8.2 Basic First Aid Intervention
Application of first aid to an injured person until a doctor or trained person
gets to an accident scene can save a life, especially in cases of stoppage of
breath, severe bleeding, and shock.
People with special medical problems, such as diabetes, cardiovascular
disease, epilepsy, or allergy, are also urged to wear some sort of emblem
identifying it, as a safeguard against use of medication that might be
injurious or fatal in an emergency.
In all cases, get medical assistance as soon as possible.
3.9 Special First-Aid Requirements
3.9.1 Provision for Mass Casualties
In a workplace where there is a potential risk of mass casualties, provisions
should be made for a safe place for evacuation and for the availability of
adequate equipment e.g. stretchers, wheelchairs, sheets, bandages, blankets,
etc.
3.9.2 Special Instructions
In any place of work where a chemical hazardous to health is used, the
current Chemical Safety Data Sheet (CSDS) for that chemical or a copy
thereof shall be kept in a conspicuous place close to each location where that
chemical is used and shall be easily accessible to the employees (USECHH
Regulations 2000). First-aiders working for companies dealing in chemicals
should receive special training on how to provide early management in cases
of chemical poisoning (i.e. decontamination).
3.9.3 Protective Clothing and Equipment

21
Protective clothing and equipment should be provided where there is a
possibility that the first-aider may need protection to avoid becoming a
casualty himself while administering first-aid. Protective clothing and
equipment should always be properly stored and checked regularly to ensure
that they remain in good condition. The principle of Universal Precautions is
encouraged when dealing with a casualty. Extra precaution should be taken
when there is possibility of coming in contact with blood or body fluids. It is
recommended that a first-aider be immunized for Hepatitis B.
3.9.4 Cleaning Up
First-aiders should wash their hands or any other surfaces of their body
splashed with blood or other body fluids as soon as possible with soap and
water. Contaminated surfaces should be cleansed and disinfected.
3.9.5 Universal Precaution
A set of precautions designed to prevent transmission of blood borne
pathogens including body fluids or secretion. It applies to blood, body fluids
containing visible blood, semen, vaginal secretions, tissues, cerebrospinal
fluids, synovial, pleural, peritoneal, pericardial and amniotic fluids. In
practice it is to ensure highest standard of precaution should be
implemented to prevent injuries when using needles and sharp instruments.
Use appropriate protective barriers when performing high risk procedures.
Immediate and through wash hands and other skin surface that are
contaminated with blood/fluids.
REFERENCES
1. The Factories and Machinery Act 1967.
2. The Factories and Machinery (Safety, Health and Welfare) Regulations 1970.
3. The Occupational Safety and Health Act 1994.
4. Code of Practice for First-Aid in the Workplace, Department or Employment.
5. Laws of Malaysia Act 162 – Malaysia Red Cross Society ( Change of Name)
Act 1975.
6. Guidelines on First-Aid in the Workplace 2004 (2nd Edition), Department of
Occupational Safety and Health, Ministry of Human Resources, Malaysia.
7. Manual Practices on First Aid Services 2009, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia.

22
4.0 Introduction
Almost all organizations make use of electricity to light the building, power
machines, operate equipment and air-conditioning. Accident due to electric shock
has the highest ratio of fatality to injury. The chance of fatality during electrical
accident is one in forty. The users are always in constant exposure to electrical
hazards. The common use of electrical equipment and appliances has lead to a
degree of complacency which is a factor in most electrocutions and electric shocks.
Unlike other physical hazards, electricity is invisible and this has made people fail to
appreciate the hazards involved. The main hazards of electricity are shock, ignition
of combustible materials, overheating and damage to equipment, electrical explosion
and inadvertent activation of equipment.
4.1 Electrical Power Generation
Electrical energy comes from power station located throughout the country.
Power plants used energy from gas, coal as well as fuel oil. There are also hydro
power plants in Temenggur, Bersia, Cenderoh, Kenyir, Pergau, Cameron Highland
and Batang Ai. Power stations produced alternating current (AC). Step up
substation is used to increase the voltage to push current through the transmission
tower using overhead cable to designated location. The transmission towers transmit
voltage either from 132, 232, 400, 500 or 600 kV to a step down substation. The
substation will reduce the voltage to 11, 22, 33 or 66 kV and the current is
transferred using underground cable. The voltage is further reduced using another
substation at the point of use. The voltage is reduced either to 415 V or 240 Volt.
The sub-station is the property of TNB and can only be accessed by TNB personnel.
TNB must be informed if there is any problem with power supply.
The basic equation in electrical system is:
Voltage (V) = Current (I) x Resistance (R)
Voltage is measured in volt, current in ampere and resistance is measured in ohm
(). All metals are good conductors and materials such as rubber, plastics, wood
and cloth are resistors. Voltage of 240 V used in the office or residential premises is
high enough to cause electrical shock and fatality. The resistance of human body is
about 1000 .
CHAPTER 4

23
4.2 Legal Requirements
The approval and supervision of all electrical installation in Malaysia is by
the Energy Commission under the Ministry of Water Resources and Energy. The
design, installation, operation and maintenance of electrical systems must comply to
Electricity Supply Act 1990 (Act 447) and Electricity Regulations 1994. All electrical
accidents must be reported to the Department of Occupational Safety and Health
(DOSH) under the Ministry of Human Resource.
4.3 Electrical Accidents
Electrical accidents can cause electric shock which can lead to serious injury
and fatality. Current flows through the body because of voltage differences between
the entry point and the surface where the person stands. Incorrect electrical
installation or short circuit can also cause overheating which can be a source of fire.
Overloading of equipment can also cause overheating. Static electricity can be a
source of spark that can ignite fire especially in the presence of volatile material
such as petrol or flammable gas. Burns occur due to the intense heat generated by
electrical energy when it passes through the body. Power surge or short circuit can
damage certain equipments especially electronic equipment. Electrical explosion can
occur due to poorly maintained transformer which caused overheating of the
mineral oil inside the transformer which acts as insulator. This oil can also become
fuel for the fire. Residual energy in electrical motor may cause inadvertent activation
of equipment which can lead to accident as well.
4.4 Effect of Electricity to Human
Electrical current that flow through human body will have a different effect
depending on the amount of current. Table 1 show the effect of different amount
current to humans.
Table 1: Effects of current to human
Current (mA) Effect
1
5
6 – 25 (women)
9 – 30 (men)
50 – 150
Tingling sensation
Little shock, not painful but disturbing
Painful shocked, loss of muscle control (muscular spasm)
Freezing current or let-go range
Painful, difficult to breathe, muscle shrinkage or contraction,
can cause fatality, individual cannot let go

24
1000 – 4300 Ventricular fibrillation, muscle shrinkage, nerve damage,
damage or hemorrhage to blood vessel and death
4.4.1 Types of Injury:
There are six types of injuries when someone is in contact with any
electrically energized object. These injuries are:
(i) Internal injuries - internal injuries occur due to contraction of chest muscle
or muscle spasm. This condition will cause the victim to lose control of the
muscle.
(ii) Paralysis of nerve center - The paralysis depends on the severity of the
exposure as well as the length of exposure. Permanent paralysis can occur in
the most extreme case.
(iii) Interference with normal rhythm of the heart. This condition is known as
ventricular fibrillation where the heart will stop beating under normal
condition due to the flow of high current through the heart. Failure to revive
the patient can cause brain damage and fatality. CPR and defibrillator can be
used to revive the heart. The current may also interrupt the operation of
pacemaker.
(iv) Destruction of tissue - Live tissues can be damaged due to electrical energy.
(v) Severe burns - Can occur at the entry point of the current, the point where
the current exit the body as well as the path in which the electrical current
flow. The severity of the burns depends on the amount of current as well as
the length of exposure time.
(vi) Eye injury - Occurs because of electrical flash. Ultraviolet radiation from the
flash can cause damage to the cornea. Cells exposed to ultraviolet radiation
can be damaged and then turn to scar which can affect the vision of the
victim.
4.4.2 Electric Shock
Electricity does not have to be of a high voltage for electrocution to occur.
Electrical shock is the sudden and accidental stimulation of the body’s nervous
system by an electrical current. Wet or damp locations are known to be hazardous,
but even body perspiration can provide the dampness which can make electrical
contact fatal. If current flow enters the body through the fingers (entry point) and
passes out through a contact at the elbow (exit point), no vital organs receive direct
exposure. But if a flow is from a hand through the body to the feet, vital organs such
as the heart and lung diaphragm are affected, with possibly fatal results. Current

25
that flow through the body can become a complete electrical circuit. Shock intensity
and effects also depend on the amount of current that flow, duration of contact, flow
path of the body and health condition of the victim. The current that flows through a
body depends on the resistance of the body and additional resistance between it and
the earth. The resistance of the body to current flow is contained almost entirely in
the skin. Persons wearing wet clothing or sweating will have low resistance and
electrical current can flow easily passing the body. The amount of voltage that is
used to execute condemned prisoner is 5 kV.
Electrical shock could be due to:
(i) contact with a normally bare energized conductor
(ii) contact with an energized conductor on which the insulation has
deteriorated, worn out or has been damaged
(iii) contact with internal parts of an appliance
(iv) equipment failure, causing an open or short circuit in which the appliance
has become live.
(v) wet condition in the area where the equipment is used.
(vi) static electricity discharge
(vii) lightning strike
4.4.3 Burnt Injury
The most common means by which combustibles are ignited electrically are
by a spark or through a flammable mixture. It is advisable to eliminate all electrical
circuits and equipment from hazardous areas in which flammable atmospheres
might exist. One of the principal effects of electrical heating is to cause accidental
fires. Overheating can also cause burnout of operating equipment, raising its
temperature so high that the equipment fails and sometimes ignites. A conductor
which is inadequate, either because of its size or material, to pass a very heavy
current may explode. Rapid overheating from over currents due to short circuits or
current surges can cause switches, fuses or other circuit breakers to explode
violently.
There are three types of burnt injury due electrical accident.
1. Electrical burns – flow of electrical energy through bones and body tissues. Heat
from the flow of electricity may cause severe damage to living cells. Burnt or

26
charred can be witnessed from entry point and exit point of the current. The type
of burn for severe case is third degree burn.
2. Arc/flash burns – high temperature near the body during explosion or when
electrical arc occur. Radiation from the bright yellow light contains ultra violet
radiation. This accident usually occurs when the transformer caught fire and
explodes or when spark is emitted from the switch board.
3. Thermal contact burns – direct physical contact with hot surface of the
conductor, equipment or conduit can cause burns. Normally, second degree
burn is resulted from thermal contact.
4.5 Causes of Electrical Failure and Fire
One of the most common causes of electrical failure is damaged insulation
which causes the bare wire to be exposed. Sparks generated between two
conductors can cause fire especially in the presence of volatile compound. Electrical
arc which is larger and brighter discharge of energy can also be produced in places
with high voltage. Inadequate over-current protection can cause the electrical
system to overload and cause fire. Inadequate earthing especially when the building
is hit by lightning can also ignite fire. Electrical connectors which are not protected
may expose live wire. Poor maintenance and testing can cause short circuits and
other causes of electrical failure. Old, defective and damaged wiring can also be a
source of electrical ignition. Do not use water to extinguish fire involving electrical
appliance. Use portable ABC fire extinguisher or CO2 and if the fire is on electrical
appliance use only CO2 to reduce damage to equipment.
4.6 Safety in Electrical Appliance Use
Using any appliance in wet condition can be hazardous because water is a
good electrical conductor. Touching the power cord when plugging, unplugging or
touching electrical switches when the hands are wet can also be hazardous. Before
cleaning or maintaining electrical appliance, switch off and unplug the power cords.
Do not pull the cord when unplugging appliances. Do not use any appliance that
produce smoke, spark or cause minor shock and send it for repair immediately.
Overloading power outlets and extension cords may cause overheating and lead to
fire.
4.7 Circuit and Equipment Protection

27
Almost all common circuit protection is to guard overloads of current.
Protection devices ensure that current flow does not produce heat which causes
temperature to rise to dangerous levels. The use of fuses which melt at pre-
determined current flow can prevent overloading or short circuit. Properly rated fuse
is very important so that when excess current flows, the fuse would blow and
protect the circuit from further damage. The use of the fuse rating higher than that
of the circuit it is meant to protect is hazardous because in the event of a fault,
current may flow to earth without blowing the fuse. Over-current that would not
open a fuse or breaker might damage equipment that is more heat sensitive.
Thermal and magnetic relays (cutouts) are used for protection of individual pieces of
equipment. Circuit breakers can detect electromagnetically any excess current flow
and cut off power supply, thus protecting the installation.
Earthing is electrode connection usually made of copper to earth through metal
enclosure. The function is to discharge the high current generated by lightning to
the earth. Most building and high rise structure such as telecommunication towers
and buildings need adequate lightning protection. Ensure that the electrode is not
in contact with any conductor to prevent the current from flowing to other direction
and not the earth.
Another means of protection is the use of earth leakage circuit breaker (ELCB) or
residual current device (RCD) which can detect earth faults and cut off supply.
When an overload occurs the breaker will switch off the current whenever or as
soon as its preset limit is exceeded that there should be no danger of injury. ELCB
operate by continuously comparing the current flow in both Live (supply) and
Neutral (return) conductors and if the flow become unbalanced, some current is
leaking to earth and it will disconnect the electricity supply before it can cause
injury or damage. ELCB can reduce the risk of fire by detecting electrical leakage
to earth in electrical wiring and accessories. ELCB will not protect against all
instances of electrical shock unless there is a current flow to the earth. Protective
devices may also be built into or provided for separate pieces of critical equipment.
Portable step down transformer and low voltage equipment can reduce the effect of
electrocution. Electrical insulation such as rubber mat, cable sheathing, rubber
gloves and insulated tools are effective preventive measures.
4.8 Safe System of Work
Safe system of work during installation, maintenance and dismantling of
electrical wiring or appliances can reduce the likelihood of accident. Before any

28
equipment is maintained, it must be switched off. The plug must be pulled off and
within the view of the maintenance personnel. If the switch is remotely located, then
the main switch must be locked off and tag off (LOTO) using pad lock. The tag will
warn other people not to switch on the equipment. There must be only one key to
open the padlock and key to the pad lock must only be kept by the wireman
himself. The wireman must personally check to ensure that he apparatus is dead.
For work involving high voltage, permit-to-work (PTW) system can be used in high
risk situation. If there is an urgent need to work on live circuit, it must be strictly
controlled and supervised to prevent any accident. Buddy system must be properly
employed for all work involving electrical current. All electrical tools and equipment
to be used must be checked for any damage to the cable or plug. Barriers and
warning notices must be deployed to warn passers by of the hazards.
4.8.1 Installation
Adequate socket outlet must be used to avoid overload which may lead to
overheating. All fuses and circuit breaker must be of correct rating to give maximum
protection to the user. Incorrect rating may cause overheating. For machined which
are fixed to one location, the main switch or isolator must be located near the
machine and within reach and view of the operator. The operator must be able to
identify the main switches to the machine.
4.8.2 Maintenance
Electrical to the machine must be locked off before any device is maintained
or repaired. Tagging should also be used to notify or warn users that the equipment
is under maintenance. Only competent electrical personnel are allowed to work on
the machine. The residual current circuit breaker must be tested before any work is
commenced. Special requirements might be needed for waterproof or explosion
protected equipment. Fuse box and switches should not be easily opened. Use test
button to test earth leakage circuit breaker (ELCB) or residual current device (RCD).
Properly designed electrical equipment which is maintained in good order is safe.
4.8.3 Operation
Avoid working on live equipment because the chance of electrocution is
much higher. Faulty equipment should be removed from service and labeled. Switch
off electrical power before plugging or unplugging tools. Ensure that all appliances
are unplugged before any cleaning or adjustment. Only certified and competent

29
persons such as electrical services engineer, competent electrical engineer, electrical
supervisor, chargeman, wireman or cable jointer can be allowed to work with
electricity.
4.8.4 Rescue
In any rescue operation, the first thing to do is to isolate the victim from the
power source by switching off the main switch. Use only non conducting dry
material to move away the victim from the electrical source. If the victim is
unconscious, apply cardiac massage and CPR to revive the victim. Do not touch the
victim if the surrounding area is wet or if the victim is still touching the live wire or
devices. Call TNB immediately to cut off the power supply.
4.8.5 Other Safety Measures
Ensure that all equipment are checked and maintained at all times. All
damaged equipment must not be used and replace all damaged wires and plugs. The
fuse used inside the pin plug must be of the correct rating. Operate the machine to
use up saved energy in the equipment to avoid inadvertent activation of the
machine. All electrical cables laid on the floor must not be left unprotected. Do not
approach areas where there are broken cables. Do not block electrical panel doors.
Ensure that there is no object placed or located within three feet around electrical
switch board. Electrical panel doors should always be kept close to prevent electrical
flashover. Avoid working on wet surface or wearing wet clothing when operating or
maintaining any electrical device. Never use electrical device outdoor under the rain.
Do not overload the circuit and use insulated PPE at all times. Avoid running of
wires across floor. Use cable cover to protect wiring and prevent tripping.
4.9 Static Electricity
Static electricity is formed from electrical charge generated by electrons on
the surface of a conductive and non-conductive material. These charges can cause
sparking and ignite a dust cloud or flammable vapor. Static electricity can be
generated from flow of liquid in a pipe, spray processes, wool or nylon clothing.
Earthing using copper wire can discharge the static electricity. Anti static shoes and
overcoat, rubber mats and hand straps can eliminate the presence of static
electricity. Static electricity can cause defective products in electronic industries. It
is also a major hazard in ammunition, petro-chemical, oil based paint, petroleum
refinery, explosive industries, gas processing plant and grain industries. All

30
equipment which can generate static electricity must be earthed. Hand phones
should not be allowed to be used in areas where there is the presence of volatile
flammable material. All employees must discharge static electricity before going into
this area.
4.10 Lightning and Lightning Protection
Lightning is a natural phenomenon which occurs in the presence of clouds.
Due to temperature, humidity and pressure difference, positive and negative
electrical charges are formed. Once these charges are accumulated, it needs to
discharge itself in the form of lightning. The power of lightning is one billion watts.
Lightning will choose the shortest path to discharge itself and it will strike the tallest
object around. Some areas are more lightning prone as compared to others and
there are some places in the world that has no lightning at all. All lightning
protection devices including the copper plate must be maintained to ensure that it
can give maximum protection to the occupants.

31
5.0 Introduction
Mechanical workplaces can be very dangerous places especially for the
untrained and inexperienced personnel. Local Rules have been written especially for
those who need to work in mechanical workshops or in mechanical environments, of
any size, anywhere in the University.
Mechanical safety involves machinery that may be hazardous if there are no proper
operating procedures, regular maintenance and servicing schedule. Beside
appropriate PPE and using the provided machine guarding, good housekeeping and
safe working distances between machines can also minimize the hazards.
If you need to use the mechanical facilities, talk to the technical staff well in
advance. Some machine tools can be operated after only a small amount of training,
but others need a lot of training and experience to be operated safely.
5.1 General Working Rules
5.1.1 Personal Protection
Everyday clothes should normally be covered while working in mechanical
workshops provided that they are in good condition, close-fitting at the wrists and
are kept fastened at the front. Apron or boiler suits are a safer form of attire for use
in workshops.
Prolonged contact of the skin with oil, grease, and cutting fluids can cause skin
problems. Clothings, smocks, and boiler suits should not be allowed to become
heavily contaminated with oils. They should be laundered regularly.
Long hair or headscarf can easily be caught in moving machinery and must be
secured. The wearing of rings, dangling jewellery (neck chains and earrings) is very
dangerous. All jewellery should be removed before work commences.
Suitable gloves should be worn when handling rough, sharp or dirty objects.
However, it should be noted that the wearing of gloves near rotating machinery
could be very dangerous.
Protective shoes or boots should be supplied and used by those engaged in regular
heavy lifting. Danger can also strike upwards, so boots or shoes should have strong
soles. Sandals and similar lightweight footwear should never be worn in workshops.
Suitable hearing protection, such as ear defenders or disposable earplugs should be
worn near a source of loud/prolonged noise, particularly if it is over 85dBA.
Each permanent member of the workshop staff must be supplied with a personal
issue of safety spectacles or goggles. They must be worn whenever flying chips,
swarf, turnings, and coolant splashes might endanger the eyes. Most workshops
should be regarded as "eye protection" areas. Eye protection should be made
available to (and worn by) visitors where necessary. All eye injuries should receive
qualified medical attention.
CHAPTER 5

32
Every workshop should maintain a first aid box, which should be checked on a
regular basis.
The correct lifting aid must be used for each lifting operation. Shackles, slings,"D"
rings, eyebolts hooks should all be marked with the Safe Working Load and be
inspected and certified annually by a qualified University approved staff. Unmarked
uncertified or improvised lifting aids should not be used.
5.1.2 Gangways
Gangways, through and around the workshop, should be clearly marked and
kept clear of obstructions at all times.
5.1.3 Manual Handling
All operations where lifting is required are covered by the Manual Handling
Regulations. All technical staff should attend basic manual handling training, and
some should also attend the assessor’s course. Manual Handling assessment forms
should be completed for all lifting operations. It is however acceptable for generic
forms covering lifting operations of a similar nature to be used. All technical staff
should be familiar with the contents of the manual handling booklet.
5.1.4 Risk Assessment
A risk assessment must be undertaken on all operations or processes which
may be hazardous to the operator. Generic risk assessments for common workshop
processes are acceptable, and copies of these should be available in each workshop.
Those using such processes must familiarize themselves with the risk assessment
before starting work
5.1.5 Housekeeping and Storage of Materials
Good housekeeping is essential if workshops are to be safe places to work.
Workshop users should replace tools and equipment immediately after use and
remove swarf, filings and other debris from machine beds, workbenches and the
floor as soon as possible. Tools should not be left in machine beds while the
machine is running. The floor should be kept clear of obstructions, and spillages
must be cleaned up immediately. Metal waste bins should be provided and used.
Faulty wiring, worn or defective equipment, unsatisfactory storage arrangements
and other circumstances likely to lead to an accident should be reported.
Proper racking facilities should be provided for the storage of sheet materials, rod
bars. Vertical racking requires a safety chain or bar. Where appropriate, the
protruding ends of rods and the sharp corners of sheet materials should be
sheathed to prevent injury.
5.1.6 Emergency Isolation Buttons
Most machines are fitted with an emergency stop button. Before commencing
work in a machine shop, the location of any such emergency button should be
established.

33
5.2.1 Equipment Safety
There are various types of mechanical equipment. To ensure mechanical
equipment safety, you must be familiar with the following:
• Equipment operation
• Applicable safeguards
• Maintenance requirements
2here are four fundamental elements of equipment safety:
i. use the correct equipment,
ii. know how to operate the equipment,
iii. inspect the equipment, and
iv. use the equipment properly.
Use equipment for its intended purpose only. Do not modify or adapt equipment
without guidance from the equipment manufacturer or the Environmental Health &
Safety Department. Do not defeat, remove, or override equipment safety devices.
Always inspect equipment before using it. Ensure that the equipment meets the
following requirements:
• Controls and safeguards are adequate and functional.
• Location is safe (and well-ventilated, if necessary).
• Equipment works properly.
IMPORTANT: Disconnect any equipment that is unsafe or does not work properly, and
remove it from service. Notify other users of the problem.
5.2.2 Machinery Guarding
a) Most workshop machinery is fitted with guards or other safety devices
designed to prevent access to dangerous parts of the machine. While the
Department has a responsibility to ensure that guards are in place, it must be
emphasized that any person who causes an accident by wilfully tampering with,
removing or not replacing a guard is liable to prosecution under the Occupational
Safety & Health Work Act 1974 (sections 7 and 8).
b) Guards or other safety devices must not be removed or over-ridden for any
reason without the written permission of the workshop supervisor. When it is
essential that guards are removed for routine maintenance work to be carried out, it
is important that they are replaced immediately afterwards. Before any guard is
removed the person concerned in the removal must ensure that the machine is
electrically isolated and made safe, such that it cannot be inadvertently started up
again by anyone else.
c) The person about to use the machinery is responsible for ensuring that all
safety equipment is in position. If it fails to function correctly or loses its
effectiveness, operation should cease immediately and the person in charge of the
workshop must be informed.

34
d) Where it is necessary to move or remove a guard to make routine
adjustments or measurements, the guard must be replaced before the machine is
restarted.
e) Stock guards must be used for parts of the material which project beyond
the machinery.
5.2.3 Compressed Air
A compressed air supply must be treated with respect. It must never be used
for cleaning purposes (blowing dust or swarf from clothing, skin, glassware or
machinery) or for ventilation purposes. A jet of compressed air directed onto the
body may introduce air into the bloodstream, produce blindness or other eye
injuries or cause a burst eardrum. All compressed air lines should be fitted with
safety nozzles of a type approved by the Health & Safety Executive and then may be
used only under the following conditions:
(a) The operator and anyone else in the immediate vicinity must wear eye protection.
(b) They must be used only with the lowest air pressure possible.
(c) They must only be used for the removal of swarf from blind holes where no other
means are available for the removal of such swarf.
(d) A compressed air supply must never be connected to a sealed container or be
used to pressurise a sealed vessel, other than certified air receivers.
(e) All compressed air receivers are subject to annual inspection and certification by
a qualified authorised staff.
Any deviation from the above conditions or misuse of these devices may result in the
prohibition of their use throughout the University.
5.2.4 Pressure Vessels
Legal Requirements
All autoclaves and other pressure vessels (such as air receivers, boilers,
calorifiers, pressure cookers and other gas pressure vessels, such as gas cylinders
owned by faculty or department) must be notified to the Pengarah Kerja of Pejabat
Harta Bina UTM who is responsible to do inspection of each item at the statutorily
required interval. Notification should be made through Director, Health, Safety and
Environment Unit, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia. Skudai. Johor by sending details
of the equipment (serial number, model, location, etc) and the contact name and
telephone number of a person responsible for the equipment (e.g. Laboratory
Manager, Head of Lab etc). Notification of newly installed equipment is required
before it is brought into use, so that the requirements of the Pressure Systems
Regulations may be complied with.
The safe working pressure (SWP), as indicated on the insurance certificate, must be
clearly marked on each item of equipment, and these limits must never be exceeded
under any circumstances. All pressure vessels should be cleaned out regularly, and
residues which might cause corrosion should be removed. Maintenance of all
pressure vessels must be arranged so that a competent engineer inspects each item
of equipment frequently.

35
The manufacturer's instructions must always be closely followed, and the various
safety interlocks must never be tampered with or over-ridden. Older autoclaves
which do not have interlocked doors or lids should be fitted with an appropriate
device which will prevent the chamber being opened when residual steam or boiling
water are present.
5.2.5 Hand tools
Sharp edges or points of tools to be carried or stored, should be protected.
a) Files
Files must never be used without a handle. Wooden handles should be renewed if
they show signs of splitting.
b) Screwdrivers
Screwdriver blades should be kept in good condition. The correct type and size of
screwdriver should be used for the job. Both hands should be kept behind the blade
when applying pressure. Screwdrivers should not be used as levers or chisels.
c) Hammers
Hammerheads must be kept tightly wedged in place.
d) Punches and Chisels
Punches or chisels that have mushroomed heads must not be used. They must be
reground.
e) Spanners
The correct size spanner to fit the nut or bolt head should always be used.
5.2.6 Welding - Electric Arc
a) Before you begin welding, you must first have "authorization". Welding may
be prohibited in certain areas of your facility, including:
• Locations with broken sprinkler systems.
• Places with explosive atmospheres.
• Areas with exposed or easily ignitable materials.
b) Electric Arc Welding should only be carried out by trained and competent
personnel, or under the supervision of a trained and competent person.
c) Exposure of the naked skin to the heat and light radiation from an electric
arc should be avoided. The radiation from the arc includes infrared and ultra-violet
light.
d) Screens or welding curtains must be erected around the welding area to
protect bystanders from electric arc flashes. Ensure all combustible materials are
removed from the work area prior to commencement.

36
e) Goggles do not give adequate protection from the arc. A hand-held shield
that covers the head, face, neck, wrist and hands should be used. Where both
hands are needed a head shield should be used, together with gauntlets to protect
the hands and wrists.
f) Both head shields and hand-held shields must be fitted with a filter of the
correct density for the power rating in use.
g) Protective clothing should give cover from the throat to the knees and
should be made of a recognised flame retardant material or leather.
h) Goggles or a face shield must be used when using a chipping hammer to
remove slag and spatter.
i) Hoses and leads must be kept clear of hazards - sharp edges, hot metal, etc.
Wheeled traffic must not be allowed to pass over them.
j) Welding return leads must be securely connected by bolting or clamping to
prevent contact resistance.
k) Appropriate extracts for the removal of welding and other fumes must be
used at all times.
l) Special care with fume extraction must be taken when using shielding gases
in a confined space. Argon and nitrogen tend to puddle and displace the oxygen.
m) Power tools must not be left on an electric-arc-welding bench. Damage may
be caused if the welding earth return should become open-circuit.
n) Work in progress or newly finished work, left unattended, should be clearly
marked "HOT" with the date and time of writing added.
5.2.7 Welding /Cutting - Oxy-acetylene
a) Before you begin welding, you must first have "authorization". Welding may
be prohibited in certain areas of your facility, including:
i. Locations with broken sprinkler systems.
ii. Places with explosive atmospheres.
iii. Areas with exposed or easily ignitable materials.
b) Cylinders must be handled with care. Acetylene is liable to form shock-
sensitive explosive acetylides with copper and silver salts (as well as with the metals)
and certain other metals. The pressure in any piped acetylene system must not
exceed 9 p.s.i. (0.621 bar, 62 kPa) above atmospheric pressure. A heavy blow on an
acetylene cylinder can ignite the contents as a result of adiabatic compression, and
the cylinder may subsequently explode unless action is taken immediately. Those
responsible for the use of acetylene should be acquainted with the emergency
routine to be followed should a cylinder start to warm up.
c) Cylinders must be used in an upright position and secured to prevent them
falling or being knocked over.
d) When turning on a cylinder, the valve should be opened very slowly. Whilst
doing this, no one should stand in front of the gauges.
e) Care must be taken to ensure that there are no gas leaks.

37
f) Heat sources must never be allowed near the cylinders.
g) Oil or grease must not be allowed to come into contact with the cylinder
valves or fittings, especially on oxygen cylinders.
h) Hoses must be kept in good condition. Wheeled traffic must not be allowed
to pass over them. They should be kept away from sharp edges and hot metal.
i) Flashback arrestors should be fitted both at the blowpipe end and the gauge
end of both hoses.
j) Cylinder valves must be closed when not in use, and hoses drained of any
remaining gas.
k) Appropriate goggles, fitted with the correct filter glass, must be worn.
l) Suitable clothing and gloves or gauntlets should be worn where practicable.
m) Goggles should be worn when removing flux residue or scale.
n) Where toxic fumes may be present, an approved respirator of a type
appropriate to the risk must be worn. Fume extractors should always be used when
welding, cutting etc.
o) Vessels or drums, which may in the past, have contained flammable or toxic
materials must not be cut or welded until they have been thoroughly cleaned and
made safe.
p) Dross from cutting operations should be caught in a metal receptacle.
q) Materials being cut should be adequately supported.
r) Care should be taken to ensure that off-cut pieces cannot fall and cause
injury or damage.
s) When Plasma cutting equipment is being used similar safety precautions
e.g. Clothing etc. should be taken as for Oxy-Acetylene burning.
t) When heating objects in furnaces do not enclose in sealed containers i.e.
when deep case hardening components etc. unless the container has been
specifically designed for this purpose. Some furnaces contain unprotected glass
elements; care should be taken when loading such furnaces.
5.2.8 Woodworking Machinery
Woodworking tools can be dangerous if not used properly.
• Only use woodworking machines that you have been trained to use properly and
safely.
• Read the owner's manual carefully.
• Make sure you understand instructions before attempting to use any tool or
machine. Ask questions if you have any doubts about doing the work safely.
Safety procedures that you should follow when using woodworking machines:

38
• Always wear safety glasses or goggles.
• Wear dust masks when required.
• Wear hearing protection that is suitable for the level and frequency of the noise you
are exposed to in the woodworking area. If you have trouble hearing someone speak
from three feet away, the noise level from the machine is too high. Damage to
hearing may occur.
• Use gloves to protect hands from splinters when handling wood but do not wear
them near rotating blades and other machinery parts.
• Make sure the guard is in position, is in good working condition, and guards the
machine adequately before operating any equipment or machine. Check and adjust
all other safety devices.
• Make sure the equipment is properly grounded before use.
• Check that keys and adjusting wrenches are removed from the machine before
turning on the power.
• Inspect stock for nails or other materials before cutting, planning, routing or
carrying out similar activities.
• Make sure that all machines have start and stop buttons within easy and
convenient reach of an operator. Start buttons should be protected so that
accidental contact will not start the machine. A collar around the button 1/8 to 1/4
inch (3 to 6 mm) above the button is recommended.
• Ensure that all cutting tools and blades are clean, sharp, and in good working order
so that they will cut freely, not forced.
• Turn the power off and unplug the power cord (or lock out the power source) before
inspecting, changing, cleaning, adjusting or repairing a blade or a machine. Also
turn the power off when discussing the work.
• Use a "push stick" to push material into the cutting area. Jigs are also useful in
keeping hands safe during cutting procedures. Keep hands out of the line of the
cutting blade.
• Clamp down and secure all work pieces when drilling or milling.
• Use good lighting so that the work piece, cutting blades, and machine controls can
be seen clearly. Position or shade lighting sources so they do not shine in the
operator's eyes or cause any glare and reflections.
• Ensure that the floor space around the equipment is sufficient to enable you to
machine the size of work piece being processed safely without bumping into other
workers or equipment.
• Woodworking machines should be fitted with efficient and well-maintained local
exhaust ventilation systems to remove sawdust or chips that are produced.
• Electric power cords should be above head level or in the floor in such a way that
they are not tripping hazards.
• Keep work area free of clutter, clean, well swept, and well lit. Spills should be
cleaned up immediately. Floor areas should be level and non-slip. Good
housekeeping practices and workplace design will reduce the number of injuries and
accidents from slips, trips, and falls.
Things you should avoid when working with woodworking machines:
• Do not wear loose clothing, work gloves, neckties, rings, bracelets or other jewellery
that can become entangled with moving parts.
• Avoid awkward operations and hand positions where a sudden slip could cause your
hand to move into the cutting tool or blade.
• Do not remove sawdust or cuttings from the cutting head by hand while a machine
is running. Use a stick or brush when the machine has stopped moving.
• Do not use compressed air to remove sawdust, turnings, etc. from machines or
clothing.
• Do not leave machines running unattended (unless they are designed and intended
to be operated while unattended). Do not leave a machine until the power off is
turned off and the machine come to a complete stop.

39
• Do not try to free a stalled blade before turning the power off.
• Do not distract or startle an operator while he or she is using woodworking
equipment.
• Horse play should be prohibited. It can lead to injuries.
5.2.9 Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Machines
a) Many workshops now have CNC machines of various types. As these
machines are usually fairly new the standards of safety equipment fitted is high.
Great care should be taken however when using such machines, particularly by
personnel who are more used to conventional machine tools. CNC machines are by
definition computer controlled, and when the program is running the moving parts
of the machine i.e. the table quill etc will move as dictated by the program,
independent of the operator. On dedicated CNC machining centres this causes only
minor problems, as the whole of the machining operation is usually confined within
a guard. However conventional machine tools with retro fitted CNC controls do not
usually have such guarding, and anyone not used to the operation of such machines
should be made familiar with their method of operation.
b) There are some CNC machines around the University such as wire EDM and
diesinkers which are of a highly specialized nature, and have their own particular
hazards. When using such machines reference should be made to the individual
handbook for the machine. As with all machinery and workshop processes the risk
assessment for the machine should also be read before use.
c) CNC machines usually involve the use of computers for the writing of
programs either on the machine or more commonly on a remote PC using a CAD
system. Operators using PCs are subject to the Display Screen Regulations, and the
departmental assessor for Display Screens should check both the operator and the
workstation being used. It might also be necessary for regular users to undergo
training. Courses are run periodically by Safety Services.
5.2.10 Conventional machining, cutting, grinding and drilling
Typical machine shops have available (in working condition) drill presses,
band saws, milling machines, lathes and others. In the use of all of these devices,
eye protection is essential. Beware of any loose personal articles (lab coat, ties, long
hair) which may be caught on moving parts of equipment. On a lathe, the rotating
positioning wheel can easily catch a pocket. Machine shop equipment is completely
unforgiving and will draw the body into it, tearing off fingers and limbs. Parts to be
drilled or tapped should preferably be clamped down prior to use, or held down
firmly. Otherwise the part may be lifted by the drill bit and turned into a propeller
blade. A block of sacrificial wood should be used to push parts through the band
saw, not the fingers. In all cases, one needs to pay full attention to the equipment
and not be distracted during use.
a) General Safety Checklist
i. Do not attempt to operate any machinery until you are sure you know how to
use it.
ii. Ensure that you know how to stop the machine before starting it.
iii. Ensure that all appropriate guards are in position before starting the
machine.
iv. Check, where appropriate that the direction of rotation of the work piece or
cutter is correct.
v. Ensure that any feed mechanisms are in neutral before starting the machine.

40
vi. Ensure that all tools, work pieces, etc. are secure before starting the
machine.
vii. Do not walk away and leave the machine running
viii. Wear appropriate personal protection - safety glasses, shoes, etc.
ix. Do not remove swarf with bare hands - wear gloves and use a rake or brush.
x. Do not wear gloves near rotating machinery.
xi. Avoid loose clothing/hanging jewellry/ties/pullcords/long hair
b) Safety Checklist - lathe
i. Always remove the chuck key from the lathe chuck.
ii. Do not use cracked or damaged tools.
iii. Always use guards - Check they operate properly.
iv. Keep all tools sharp.
v. Do not touch revolving chucks or work pieces.
vi. Keep the lathe-bed clear: Do not allow a build-up of swarf.
vii.Always use the correct tools for the job.
c) Safety Checklist -Milling Machines
i. Ensure that the feed mechanism is disengaged before starting the machine
ii. Position guards to deflect chips to a safe area.
iii. Do not use cracked or damaged cutters.
iv. Do not attempt climb milling unless the machine is designed for that
purpose.
v. Do not touch revolving cutters.
vi. Do not attempt to clear swarf from the cutter area while it is rotating.
d) Safety Checklist - Band saws
i. Use the correct tooth-pitch and band speed for the material being sawn.
ii. Adjust the top guard to just clear the work piece.
iii. Do not over-tension the blade.
iv. Use a "Push Stick" when cutting completely through a narrow item of work.
e) Safety Checklist- Pedestal/Radial Arm Drills
i. Ensure that long hair is restrained
ii. Rotating drive shafts must be guarded.
iii. Lock adjustable tables and arms before drilling commences.
iv. Clamp the material to be drilled in a vice or to the machine table.
v. Use the correct speed range for the size of the drill in use.
vi. Use correct drill type/bit for material being drilled.
f) Safety Checklist - Shapers/Planers
i. Check the speed and stroke length before starting.
ii. Check that the clutch is disengaged before starting the drive motor.
iii. Check that the work piece is securely fastened and if using a vice that this is
also secure before starting.
iv. Do not use excessive stroke length.
v. Use guards, where possible, to stop or deflect chips into a collecting tray.
vi. Check that the space occupied by the ram on its return stroke is clear.
vii. Keep the hands away from the work piece even when using a very low ram
speed.
viii. Always stop the ram before gauging the work piece.
ix. Place barriers around the work area.

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g) Safety Checklist - Surface Grinding
i. Only authorised personnel who have attended an appropriate Abrasive
Wheels course may mount or dress grinding wheels (Abrasive Wheels
Regulations 1970).
This applies to ALL grinding machines.
ii. Do not use a cracked wheel. Report it.
iii. Turn off coolant when wheel is stationary.
iv. Ensure that the work is held securely on the magnetic chuck, or is securely
clamped by other means.
v. Always wear eye protection during grinding operations.
h) Safety Checklist - Off Hand Grinding
Regulations 1970).
This applies to ALL grinding machines
iii. Check the wheel rotation before grinding.
iv. Turn off the coolant when the wheel is stationary.
v. Transparent face guards/eye shields must be fitted to the machine. They
must be clean and properly adjusted.
vi. The work-rest must be as close to the wheel face as possible.
vii. The side of straight-sided wheels should never be used for grinding.
viii. Always wear eye protection during grinding operations.
ix. Take care not to leave loose rags etc. near grinding wheels, if a rag is caught
in a rotating wheel it can cause the wheel to burst.
i) Safety Checklist - Cylindrical Grinding
Regulations 1970).
iii. Turn off coolant when the wheel is stationary.
iv. Remove the chuck-key before starting rotation of the chuck.
v. Lock tailstock centre when grinding between centres.
vi. Always wear eye protection during grinding operations.
j) Safety Checklist - Internal Grinding
i. Only authorised personnel may mount or dress grinding wheels (Abrasive
Wheels Regulations 1970).
iii. Check the wheel rotation before grinding.
iv. Turn off the coolant when the wheel is stationary.
v. Remove the chuck-key before the chuck rotates.
vi. Ensure that the chuck has stopped before measuring the work.
vii. Wind the work well clear of the wheel before checking the bore.
viii. Check that the wheel will not foul the sides of the bore before entry.
ix. Set stops correctly when grinding a blind bore or up to a shoulder.

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k). Safety Checklist - Sheet Metalworking Equipment
i. Guillotines both power and treadle, should be fitted with appropriate
guarding to ensure that the fingers etc. of the operator cannot come into
contact with the shearing blades.
ii. When using Rolls and Bending machines, care should be taken to prevent
fingers etc. being caught in the mechanism. Bending machines should
always be left in the closed position when not in use.
iii. Lever shears should always be fitted with a locking arm to prevent the lever
from being accidentally operated when not in use.
iv. When using Fly Presses and Hydraulic Presses take care to align the
punches, dies or components before the press is used, as misalignment may
cause the dies to fracture, and injure the operator or those in close
proximity.
5.2.11 Printing and Bookbinding Machinery
All potentially dangerous moving parts of printing machinery, guillotines and
trimmers, shredders, stitching, sewing and bookbinding machines, must be
adequately guarded either by means of a physical or a photo-electric guarding
system. Machinery must never be used without these guards in place and in
working order, unless an alternative equally effective means of ensuring that the
machine operators are protected from the moving parts can be employed. No
attempts should be made to adjust or clean such machinery whilst it is in motion.
All printing and bookbinding machinery must be regularly serviced by a competent
engineer.
An adequate means of local exhaust ventilation should be provided in all printing
and reprographic areas, where vapours from the solvents used to clean the
machines may build up. This is particularly important where large numbers of such
machines are housed together.
5.2.12 Centrifuges
All new centrifuges must conform to the safety requirements set out in
British Standard BSEN12547:1999 "Centrifuges. Common Safety Requirements", (or
an equivalent standard for imported models) and older models should be brought as
close to this standard as is practicable. Advice in this regard may require to be
sought from the suppliers of foreign-made equipment. Thereafter, the maker's
instructions and the recommendations for use given in BSEN12547 should be
carefully observed, and routine servicing by a competent engineer must be arranged.
Care must always be taken to ensure that centrifuge tubes are not cracked or
flawed, and that all heads, trunnion rings and buckets, as well as other working
parts, are regularly inspected for defects by a competent person. Centrifuge tubes
should not be filled more than three-quarters full, especially if an angled head is
used, and loads must be correctly balanced.
The lid of a centrifuge must not be opened whilst the rotor is still in motion, and
flammable liquids should never be centrifuged unless it is known that the centrifuge
motor and control gear are spark proof. Arrangements should always be made to
deal with tube breakages and mechanical failures before either event occurs.
5.3 Occupational Health
Wherever substances which are potentially hazardous to health are
employed, the requirements of the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health

43
Regulations must be complied with, and suitable risk assessments formulated.
Workshop staff has been known to develop industrial dermatitis unless sensible and
adequate protective measures are taken, to avoid excessive and prolonged contact
with some substances, such as mineral oils, solvents, degreasing agents, synthetic
resins and other chemical substances. The possibility of using commercial cutting
oils from which potentially carcinogenic components have been removed should be
investigated.
The simplest way to avoid any skin disorder is to pay close attention to personal
hygiene by washing hands, forearms, face and any other exposed areas regularly
with a good quality proprietary skin cleanser. Never use abrasives. Any skin
problems should be reported as soon as possible to a medical practitioner, and to
your workshop manager. Wherever practicable, the use of suitable gloves and/or
barrier creams should be considered, to prevent a problem occurring in the first
place.
Machining of toxic metals (e.g. lead, manganese, nickel, chromium, beryllium,
cadmium and vanadium), alloys containing these metals, and some plastics such as
PTFE (Teflon) must only be carried out in strict accordance with the procedures laid
down in the school rules for safe workshop practice, which will specify the
ventilation and respiratory protection requirements. Smoking must not be allowed in
the vicinity of such machining.
Acute respiratory sensitisation has been associated with two-pack polyurethane
paints and lacquers in which the hardener contains small amounts of isocyanides.
When such two-pack systems are in use, work must be carried out under suitable
local exhaust ventilation, which is subject to regular maintenance and performance
testing. Written records should be maintained of all such tests.
5.3.1 Noise
In any area where the noise level is thought to be excessive or uncomfortable,
Health and Safety Department should be contacted, so that a noise monitoring
exercise, as required by the Noise at Work Regulations, may be carried out. A good
rule of thumb to indicate a potential noise problem is the need to raise one's voice
substantially, to communicate with another person standing 6 feet away, whilst the
noise is present.
Depending upon the results of such a survey, decisions can then be taken on the
requirement to provide appropriate ear defenders, display warning notices, or, where
practicable, to control the noise at source.
5.3.2 Fumes and Dust
Areas where fumes or dust are created as part of a workshop process are subject
to strict regulation, and appropriate equipment suitable for the safe removal of such
fumes or dust must be used, particularly when using the following processes:
• welding soldering, burning/cutting etc.
• shot/bead blasting machine
• woodworking machinery (including portable equipment)
• machining of ceramics, carbon or other materials which may cause a fine
dust.
5.3.3 Paint Spraying Operations

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Paint spraying presents both a toxic and a fire hazard, and must only be
carried out in a suitable well ventilated enclosure, away from all sources of ignition,
including static electricity. Filters on ventilation plant must be checked regularly.
Efficient personal respiratory protection, as well as skin and eye protection, must be
worn wherever necessary.
5.3.4 Vibration
Vibration from tools can damage the blood vessels in your hands and fingers.
The reduced blood supply can then harm the skin, nerves, and muscles. You lose
feeling in your hands and fingers, and cannot control them. This is called hand-arm
vibration syndrome (HAVS), and is also known as white finger, dead finger, or
Raynaud’s Syndrome. It is very important to watch for early symptoms and report
them. The signs to watch for:
i. Tingling fingers
ii. Fingertips turn white or blue.
iii. Trouble picking up small objects.
iv. Numbness.
v. Clumsiness with hands.
vi. Reduced sense of heat, cold, and pain in hands.
vii. Trouble buttoning and zipping clothes.
The best way to avoid injury is to work with non-vibrating tools whenever possible. If
a vibrating tool must be used, use one that has effective anti-vibration features built
in. Some new designs can reduce tool vibration by more than 50 percent.
To reduce exposure to hand-arm vibration:
i. Limit the amount of time (hours per day and days per week) vibrating
tools are used.
ii. Take a 10-minute break for every hour spent working with a vibrating
tool.
iii. Alternate work with vibrating and non-vibrating tools.
iv. Let the tool do the work. Use as light a grip as possible to keep the
tool under control. A tight grip restricts blood flow in the hands and
fingers and allows more vibration to pass from the tool to the body.
v. Maintain tools properly. Tools that are worn, blunt or misaligned
vibrate more.
5.3.5 Hot Work
Hot work is any work process which requires heat or open flame to complete.
Hot Work procedures include but are not limited to using a torch or other extreme
heat producing device, grinding, brazing, welding, flame soldering, thawing pipes
with torches, applying roofing materials with torches and other work where there is
a risk of fire associated with the work.
If the Hot Work can be performed away from the facility, a Hot Work permit will not
be required. However, if Hot Work is performed inside, in the “crawl space”, or
immediate perimeter of a facility, then a Hot Work permit is required and must be
approved prior to the start of work. The Building Maintenance Manager or a
Facilities Services designate will determine during the pre-inspection if a manned
Fire Watch may also be required.
Hot Work Site Pre-Inspection

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1. A pre-inspection of the area where work is to be done is the responsibility of
the Director, Health, Safety and Environment Unit, or Pengarah Kerja.
Pejabat Harta Bina or a Facilities Services designate must complete the Hot
Work Pre-Inspection form. The pre-inspection is required to:
• assess the risks associated with the work area, i.e. whether the work
area is cluttered, houses combustible materials or flammable liquids.
• determine whether additional safeguards may be needed;
• determine whether a manned Fire Watch is required.
Fire Watch
The Fire Watch, as the name implies, maintains work site vigilance, looking for
the presence of fire or other hazardous conditions within the Hot Work area.
1. A Fire Watch is required when:
• the pre-inspection indicates a manned Fire Watch is a prudent and
reasonable precaution to protect life and property from fire;
• the Hot Work to be performed is outside of the normal weekday work
hours of 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
2. Fire Watch duties include but are not limited to:
• Arriving at site prior to start of work to ensure:
i. flammable containers are removed from area;
ii. making sure that equipment and/or work space is not contaminated
with combustibles, flammable liquids or other hazardous materials;
iii. if the work involves walls or ceilings, that combustibles are removed
from other side of wall.
• Bringing fireproof tarp to site;
• Bringing 10# ABC extinguisher to site;
• Vigilance during the job to watch for possible fire or other hazards;
• Staying at the site for 30 minutes after the Hot Work is complete or longer if
determined necessary by the Building Maintenance Manager or a University
Administrator;
• Re-inspecting the site one hour after the job has been completed to ensure
that the area is fire safe;
3. The Fire Watch should be:
• trained in the use of ABC type fire extinguisher usage;
• familiar with the equipment and facility;
• know the procedures for
i. emergency preparedness procedures
ii. sounding the building fire alarm, and
iii. notifying the Fire Department
4. Fire Watches may be authorized by the Director of Facilities Services, the
Building Maintenance Manager or the Safety, Health and Environment
Director.
5. Standby fire extinguishers and person(s) to man the Fire Watch are to be
provided and coordinated through the Facilities Services Department.

46
6.0 Introduction
Most of the chemicals used in the laboratories are hazardous materials. Hazardous
means it can potentially cause harm to the human. Handling chemicals such as
reacting, transporting, storing and disposing of chemicals, can present potential danger
to human health and/or the environment. The hazards encountered at workplaces in
relation to working with chemicals include: toxic (poisonous) substances, explosive
materials, corrosive materials, cancer-causing agents and others.
Safety Data Sheet (SDS) should be the first source of information about the hazards
associated with a chemical. Typically, SDS will contain the following information,
usually in separate sections on the sheet:
● chemical name, synonyms, and Chemical Abstracts (CAS) Number; name, address,
and phone number of manufacturer
● hazard identification
● composition or constituents for mixtures
● first-aid measures
● fire fighting measures
● accidental release measures
● handling and storage precautions
● exposure controls/personal protection
● physical properties
● stability and reactivity
● toxicological information
● ecological information
● disposal considerations
● transport information
● regulatory information
● other information
Proper handlings and appropriate measures must be taken in order to work as safely as
possible. If you understand what you are dealing with, it becomes much easier to decide
how to deal with it. Accidents may occur if proper steps of operating procedure are not
followed and proper protective measures are not taken.
CHAPTER 6

47
Chemicals can enter the human body by different methods; inhalation, ingestion,
absorption and injection. So by understanding the hazards of chemicals and how they
enter the body may help those working with chemicals devise procedures to work with
them safely.
All personnel should protect against the risk of injury or disease from chemicals
hazardous to health. Personnel should not be exposed to chemicals hazardous to
health, in particular to an extent which exceeds the exposure limits or other exposure
criteria established standards.
6.1 Chemical Classification
The following chemical classification is based on their hazards.
6.1.1 Explosives
Materials that may cause a sudden, almost instantaneous release of pressure, gas,
and/or heat when subjected to sudden shock, pressure, or elevated temperatures.
Examples include dry picric acid, nitroglycerine, lead azide, 2, 4-
dinitrophenylhydrazine, peracetic acid, sodium acetylide, mercury fulminate, nitrogen
triiodide, diazomethane, and ruthenium perchlorate.
6.1.2 Water Reactive Materials
Materials which either explode, violently react, evolve flammable, toxic, or otherwise
hazardous gases, or evolve enough heat to cause self-ignition or ignition of nearby
combustibles upon exposure to water or moisture. Examples include lithium aluminum
hydride, calcium phosphide, sodium borohydride, phosphorus pentasulfide, and pure
alkali metals.
6.1.3 Pyrophoric Materials
Pyrophoric materials will spontaneously ignite in air at or below 130°F (54.4°C).
Examples include organomagnesium, methyl phosphorous dichloride, dimethylzinc,
organolithium, and diethyl chlorophosphite.

48
6.1.4 Flammable Solids
Materials that do not meet the definition of explosives that are prone to cause fire
through friction or some other physical means, that have an ignition temperature below
2120F (1000C), or which burn so vigorously and/or persistently when ignited that they
create a considerable hazard. Flammable solids include finely divided solid materials
which when dispersed in air as a cloud may be ignited, thereby causing an explosion.
Examples include powdered magnesium, phosphorus trisulfide, palladium on carbon,
white phosphorus, and nitrocellulose.
6.1.5 Flammable Liquids
Flammable liquids are those liquids having a flash point below 100°F (37.8°C) at
atmospheric pressure and having a vapor pressure not exceeding 40 psi (2.72
atmospheres) at room temperature.
6.1.6 Combustible Liquids
Combustible liquids are those liquids having a flash point between 100°F (37.8°C) and
200°F (93.3°C) at atmospheric pressure. Examples of combustible liquids that are
miscible with water include dimethyl formamide, dimethyl sulfoxide, and diglyme
(diethylene glycol dimethyl ether). Examples of combustible liquids that are water-
insoluble include cyclohexanone, aniline, n-pentanol, and benzyl chloride.
6.1.6.1 Flammable and Combustible Liquids Classification
Classes of Flammable Liquids
Class IA — flash point below 73°F (22.8°C) and B.P. at or below 100°F (37.8°C)
Class IB — flash point below 73°F (22.8°C) and B.P. above 100°F (37.8°C)
Class IC — flash point at or above 73°F (22.8°C), but below 100°F (37.8°C)
Classes of Combustible Liquids
Class II - flash point at or above 100°F (37.8°C)
Class IIIA - flash point at or above 140°F (60oC) and below 200°F (93.3oC)

UTM-SAFETY-AND-HEALTH-PROCEDURES_(1).pdf

UTM-SAFETY-AND-HEALTH-PROCEDURES_(1).pdf

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UTM-SAFETY-AND-HEALTH-PROCEDURES_(1).pdf