Policy & Procedure

Date Created: May 28, 2007

Form # 2.07

Topic: ETS Safety Procedures Manual

Revision: September 17,2010

Page 1 of 27

Status: Approved

EX CEL TOW ER SER VI CE

SAFETY P R OCEDUR ES
M ANUAL
Safety on a ETS Job site is of Supreme
Importance. Compromise for any reason is
unacceptable.

Policy & Procedure

Date Created: May 28, 2007

Form # 2.07

Topic: ETS Safety Procedures Manual

Revision: September 17,2010

Page 2 of 27

Status: Approved

1.0

Forward

Excel Tower Service - ETS (the Company) is vitally interested in the occupational
health and safety of all its employees, workers and sub-contractors.
The Canada Labour Code (Part II-Occupational Safety and Health) is the federal
legislation applicable to our operations. Our company is committed to meeting or
exceeding all of the requirements, duties, and the standards set by this Code and its
applicable regulations. This Code is based on the internal responsibility system.
This is a system of overlapping and concurrent duties on the part of the employer
and workers at the company. Each employee at every level of our company must be
familiar with the circumstances and in full compliance of the respective duties and
responsibilities.
The Code also provides for the right of every employee to refuse to do work that he
or she believes to be unsafe. Any such dangerous or hazardous circumstances
shall be immediately reported to the employee's immediate supervisor. The
supervisor will then investigate and follow the procedures set out in the Code
This manual will define and describe the working practices which will ensure that the
highest safety standard possible is effectively being used for any of the companys
tower work, field work, warehouse work and electronics installation. This includes
employees of ETS all subcontractors and consultants assigned to the site under the
responsibility of ETS.
For Tower rigging the primary objective of this manual is to ensure that all workers
are secured to the tower at all times with a minimum of two connections unless the
worker is moving or repositioning on the tower, whereby the worker is to be secured
to the tower by at least one lanyard connection ETS. uses a fall arrest system: the
permanently installed one provided by the owner, a temporary system provided by

Policy & Procedure

Date Created: May 28, 2007

Form # 2.07

Topic: ETS Safety Procedures Manual

Revision: September 17,2010

Page 3 of 27

Status: Approved

ETS, or a combination of the two. It is the responsibility of the ETS supervisor,

foreman or crew chief to determine which system or combination will be used. No
one will be permitted on the tower while ETS is on site without demonstrating an
understanding of the system in use and without proper suitable equipment
The foreman will hold a Safety review meeting before commencing operations on
any site. Site specific conditions will be reviewed and explained to the crew

Policy & Procedure

Date Created: May 28, 2007

Form # 2.07

Topic: ETS Safety Procedures Manual

Revision: September 17,2010

Page 4 of 27

Status: Approved

2.0
2.1.

General
Safety equipment

2.1.1.

All personnel shall be required to wear an approved full body harness,

safety belt complete with two lanyards and a rope grab at all times
when working on a tower or exterior work on a roof top. In addition all
personnel will use either an approved safety rail, safety cable or rope
fall arrest equipment. All safety equipment used must meet the
applicable national standards.

2.1.2.

Hardhats and steel-toed boots shall be worn during all field activities.

2.1.3.

Eye protection is compulsory when operating any power tool or using

bull pins.

2.1.4.

All belts must be equipped with sufficient snap hooks and loops to
secure tools safely

2.2

Safety practices for Rigging

2.2.1.

All personnel shall be familiar with ETS practices.

2.2.2.

Inexperienced personnel will not be permitted to work or move on a

tower alone and must be paired with experienced personnel.
Inexperienced persons are those who have been trained in the ETS
workplace safety procedure, basic climbing skills and have less than
one year of experience. In addition, in Europe, training and certification
of personnel are mandatory before any individual can work or move on
a tower

2.2.3.

No personnel shall perform any work on a tower while alone at a site.

Either another ETS employee or an owner's representative must be
present.

Policy & Procedure

Date Created: May 28, 2007

Form # 2.07

Topic: ETS Safety Procedures Manual

Revision: September 17,2010

Page 5 of 27

Status: Approved

2.2.4.

2.3
2.3.1

Each crew will be equipped with a rescue kit providing the ability for
retrieving at tower height an injured or disabled worker. Each crew must
be trained in the use of the rescue kit. Records of this training must be
kept in a central.
Fall arrest system
Consists of installing an adequate number of ropes (5/8 in North
America and 10mm in Europe) on the structure and the use of a fall
arresting trolley mechanism (rope grab). Personnel are to be linked to
these ropes by means of the fall arresting trolley mechanism (rope
grab).
Personnel must be connected to these ropes via their trolleys at all
times when they are on the outside of the structure. One rope will be
attached on the whole length of the structure following the first climb.
This rope is to be attached to the structure at +/- 60 foot intervals and
will allow personnel to be linked via their trolleys for work on the outside
of the structure. All personnel will connect their trolleys before leaving
the inside of the structure, while still connected to the structure through
lanyard(s). No more than one man at a time will use the same 60-foot
section of a rope.

2.3.2

All personnel will use a full body harness and safety belt complete with
two lanyards and a rope grab at all times. Two lanyards will be secured
while working, one while moving. The lanyards will be connected to the
tower with a hook that is certified for use.

2.3.3

Where a permanent fall arrest system does not exist on the inside or
the outside climbing ladder of the tower, a temporary fall arrest rope
system must be installed.
The climber must attach his rope trolley to the temporary system when
climbing. The base of each safety rope must be terminated with a figure

Policy & Procedure

Date Created: May 28, 2007

Form # 2.07

Topic: ETS Safety Procedures Manual

Revision: September 17,2010

Page 6 of 27

Status: Approved

eight note to stop the rope trolley from sliding off the end. When not
attached to the temporary rope fall arrest system, the climber will work
with two lanyards. One of the lanyards must be attached to the tower at
all times.
2.3.4

3.0

During the installation or removal of the safety system rope on the

outside of the tower, personnel will use two safety lanyards and ensure
one is always connected to the structure.
Erection safety procedures

3.1

Responsibilities of All Personnel

3.1.1

All personnel, prior to each use, shall visually inspect safety belt,
lanyards, rope grab, safety system rope and fall arrest trolley daily
before usage to ensure that all safety equipment is sound. All personnel
will check the expiry dates on all safety equipment used to ensure that
no equipment is past the expiry date.

3.1.2

Safety belts must be equipped with two lanyards at all times.

3.1.3

The use of two lanyards is mandatory: one short for positioning, one
long for moving. Both are to be connected to tower at all times except
when moving, when one is to be connected to tower or permanent fall
arrest system.

3.1.4

Visually and physically check your proper connection to structure

through lanyards every time you move.

3.1.5

At every opportunity check the safe connection to the structure of those

working next to you.

3.1.6

During tower construction a minimum of three for tower sections with an

outside ladder or four if tower sections have an inside ladder, (1 per
face, 1 inside) safety ropes spanning the length of section will come up

Policy & Procedure

Date Created: May 28, 2007

Form # 2.07

Topic: ETS Safety Procedures Manual

Revision: September 17,2010

Page 7 of 27

Status: Approved

with each new section. Once a section is connected, personnel will

transfer their trolleys to these ropes before proceeding up. One
continuous safety rope will run from bottom of the tower structure to the
top of the last tower section connected and will be raised after each
new section is connected. Section length ropes from previous section
will be sent down with counterweight for next lift. In this manner
personnel will be connected to tower at all times by means of their
safety trolleys and safety lanyards.
3.1.7

Personnel will keep clear of moving cables at all times.

3.1.8

Particular attention will be paid in the vicinity of blocks and sheaves.

3.1.9

Audible warning signals shall be given and acknowledgement received

before any movement of hoisting or other mobile cables. A separate
worker will act as a signaller if the operator is unable to view the load.

3.1.10

All tools and equipment used on the tower will be secured at all times
by means of an appropriate and approved fastening device.

3.1.11

Use of cages and/or hoisting of personnel on a winch line are permitted

only when hoisting equipment is approved for such use by the
appropriate authorities and is of failsafe design.
Hoisting devices, used for personnel must be equipped with a limit
switch system positioned at the highest point of the rigging. The limit
switch will trigger by means of a solid conductor connected to the hoist,
a full power cut off in case of emergency. This type of apparatus must
be inspected by the appropriate authorities before usage. Refer to CSA
Standards # B311-M1979 and supplement B311S1-1984.
It is the responsibility of the Foreman and the Project Manager to verify
local rules and regulations before hoisting personnel with a hoist. When
lifting personnel with an approved hoist and relevant safety apparatus,

Policy & Procedure

Date Created: May 28, 2007

Form # 2.07

Topic: ETS Safety Procedures Manual

Revision: September 17,2010

Page 8 of 27

Status: Approved

fall protection rope(s) or cable(s) will be attached to the highest point of

the rigging, workers will fasten their rope grabs to the safety device
during the lifting operation. In any case personnel being winched will be
positioned in a certified nacelle.
Every elevating device and every safety device attached shall be
inspected and tested by a qualified person to determine that the
prescribed standards are met prior to being placed into service or after
any alteration to any device. This inspection shall be completed a
minimum of once every twelve months if it has not been in use. Such
inspections and the details of the inspection should be recorded
complete with the signature of the inspector and this information is to be
forwarded to the Head Office for safekeeping for a minimum of two
years.

3.1.12

Safety Requirements for Roof Top Sites

3.1.12.1 A fall arrest system must be installed on every roof top site before the
work begins and be used through the duration of the job. The actions
and responsibilities are as follows:
(a)

(b)

Before starting any work on a rooftop, a safety plan must be initiated by

the foreman. The plan will determine the critical areas, which require a
fall protection system. The perimeter of these areas of the rooftop
where the work will take place shall be secured.
Once the plan is completed the crew will install a fall arrest system with
the use of ropes anchored to positive connection points. During the
installation of the rooftop fall arrest system, a temporary fall protection
system will be used to allow the safe installation of the working system.
The system will allow personnel to work on the rooftop while being
attached to the fall protection system by use of rope trolleys. The
system will be installed in a manner, which will prevent personnel from
potentially falling over the edge of the roof. The system will remain in

Policy & Procedure

Date Created: May 28, 2007

Form # 2.07

Topic: ETS Safety Procedures Manual

Revision: September 17,2010

Page 9 of 27

Status: Approved

(c)

(d)

place and will be used at all times for the duration of the project.
The foreman will inspect the system at the beginning of each day. The
foreman will also perform a random check of the system throughout the
day to assure the system is in good working order.
It is the responsibility of all personnel working on the rooftop to use the
fall arrest system. It is the responsibility of the foreman to ensure that
all employees working on the rooftop are attached to fall arrest system
at all times.

3.1.12.2 There is always a danger that unsecured materials can be accidentally

knocked over or blown over the edge of a roof which could cause
serious danger to people and property below. Materials and tools
required for a rooftop installation will be placed at a safe distance from
the roof edge and will be secured by means of weights and tie ropes.
Materials will be placed on the roof using great care as not to damage
the roof. Materials and tools will be handled in such a way as not to
damage the roof during installation. Plywood and or cribbing will be
used at all times for the storage of all materials and tools to protect the
roof.
3.1.12.3 The rooftop will be kept free of all garbage. All garbage will be stowed
in garbage bags or a suitable container. This garbage will be removed
from the rooftop and stowed in a safe area to be removed from the site
when the project is completed.
3.1.13

Vigilance by all personnel is essential at all times. It is the responsibility

of all personnel to adhere to ETS Safety practices at all times.
Furthermore all personnel are expected to be attentive to potential
dangers at the work-site and to advise their co-workers and supervisors
of any unsafe or potentially unsafe situations.

3.2

Equipment Requirements

3.2.1

It is mandatory that all winches and cranes be operated by trained and

Policy & Procedure

Date Created: May 28, 2007

Form # 2.07

Topic: ETS Safety Procedures Manual

Revision: September 17,2010

Page 10 of 27

Status: Approved

qualified personnel who are fully conversant with the equipment and
their load limitations, maintenance and safe practices. Where
required, the operator shall be licensed. The operator shall have in his
possession the load chart for the equipment that he is operating. The
foreman on the site will have the load chart for the gin pole to be used
and be knowledgeable in the application of the gin pole load chart.
3.2.2.
a)
b)
c)
d)
e)
f)
3.2.3

Each operator shall perform the following inspection on a daily basis:

Check hydraulic oil levels on all equipment daily.
Visually inspect booms on trucks for leaks.
Verify brake system and hydraulic system on hoist units.
Check steel cables for deformation or wear.
Inspect blocks daily and grease as required.
Inspect gin poles before use for cracks in welds or deep scratches.
Each operator will perform the following duties as required:

a) Grease sheaves on gin poles before and after site operations and as
required by use
b) Use only nylon binders on aluminium gin poles.
c) Test winches with a Dynamometer to safe working load on a monthly basis.
All winches and capstans must be checked and LABELLED AS
INSPECTED on a monthly basis.
d) Tirfors and other manual hoists must be maintained according to the
procedures and instructions stipulated in the manufacturers manuals.
e) Any problems with any equipment shall be reported to your supervisor.
f) The supervisor will take the defective equipment out of service and have it
replaced with new equipment or repaired to new standard before putting
the equipment into service.
3.2.4

Only qualified personnel shall operate any motorized or manual

equipment. Qualified Personnel shall mean an operator who has
been trained in the
procedures of the devices inspection, fuelling

Policy & Procedure

Date Created: May 28, 2007

Form # 2.07

Topic: ETS Safety Procedures Manual

Revision: September 17,2010

Page 11 of 27

Status: Approved

and the safe and proper use

manufacturer.

including those provided by the

3.2.5

Where are licensing requirements to operate any specific equipment in

the region in which you are working, all personnel using the equipment
must have a valid license in order to operate the specific equipment.

3.2.6

All training of personnel in the operation of motorized and manual

equipment will be documented with a copy of the training report sent to
the Regional Manager for safekeeping.

3.2.7

Every motorized or manual materials handling equipment shall be

inspected and tested by a qualified person to determine that the
prescribed standards are met prior to being placed into service or after
any alteration to any device. This inspection shall be completed a
minimum of once every twelve months. Such inspections and the details
of the inspection including the date of inspection, test or maintenance
on the equipment, the description of the equipment and any safety
observations should be recorded complete with the signature of the
inspector. This information is to be forwarded to the Head Office for
safekeeping for a minimum of one year.

3.3

Rigging equipment

3.3.1

Regular Monthly inspections shall be carried out by the foreman on all

rigging and hoisting equipment. A monthly log will be kept of inspection
results in each regional office.

3.3.2

All rigging hardware fittings including slings, sheaves, snatch blocks,

etc. are to be kept in top condition, inspected on a regular basis and
conform to the standards of good rigging practice.

3.3.3

All personnel are to be vigilant and report any malfunction or wear or

misuse of equipment, which might jeopardise continued safe use.

Policy & Procedure

Date Created: May 28, 2007

Form # 2.07

Topic: ETS Safety Procedures Manual

Revision: September 17,2010

Page 12 of 27

Status: Approved

3.3.4

Check ropes for wear and cuts every time they go through your hands.
Report any defects to your supervisor.

3.3.5

Never use live flame close to a rope.

3.3.6

Particular emphasis is to be placed on the inspection of the wire rope

and this will be done at least once a week or more often if the wire rope
is in continuous use.

3.3.7

All inspections are to be carried out and reported by the installation

supervisor with particular attention to worn wires, distortion, kinks, etc.

3.3.8

All wire ropes, whose continued use, in the opinion of the erection
supervisor, would pose a safety hazard through fatigue causing rope
failure, are to be removed from service and replaced.

3.3.9

Properly lubricate wire rope regularly in accordance with the rope

manufacturers' recommendations.

3.3.10

Hardware used with wire rope rigging is to be of adequate strength for

the application.

3.3.11

Safe working loads respecting the manufacturers or industry

specifications must be observed at all times.

3.3.12

Particular attention is to be paid by all personnel to the proper

installation and seating of slings, blocks, restraining devices, hoisting
devices, which are being used. Any potential rubbing, cutting, wearing,
slipping should be eliminated before use of rig. This means that all
eyes are to contribute to the rig's inspection and every time it is in
motion.

4.0

Additional Safety Practices for Technical Services Personnel

Policy & Procedure

Date Created: May 28, 2007

Form # 2.07

Topic: ETS Safety Procedures Manual

Revision: September 17,2010

Page 13 of 27

Status: Approved

4.1

General
Section 4.0 through to section 6.3 are additional safety requirements for
those personnel working on the technical services jobs in addition to
the requirement for safe rigging practice in sections 1.0, 2.0, 3.0. ETS is
fully committed to the well being of its employees through the
sponsorship of a comprehensive health and safety program. This
program will:

4.1.1

Require all Supervisory personnel to assume responsibility and

accountability for the identification and elimination of potential work
hazards, training of employees in safe work practices, and development
of overall employee safety awareness.

4.1.2

Ensure proper identification, use, storage and disposal of any

hazardous material and make WHMIS Procedures available.

4.2

Building, Premises

4.2.1

All accessible wall openings from which there is a drop of more than 1.2
meters, all floor openings and all scaffold platforms shall be fenced in
with a safety railing or covered with a material capable of supporting all
loads which may be brought to bear on it. Such material shall be
securely fastened to and supported the structure.

4.2.2

Warning tape on safety railings, steps and on doors reduces the risk of
sidestepping and accidents. Safety railings, steps and doors shall be
labeled with warning tape.

4.2.3

Holes in the floor for cable leads must be covered with a solid lid.

Policy & Procedure

Date Created: May 28, 2007

Form # 2.07

Topic: ETS Safety Procedures Manual

Revision: September 17,2010

Page 14 of 27

Status: Approved

4.3

Noise

4.3.1

Noise that makes conversation at the ordinary voice strength impossible

at a distance of one meter can be damaging to hearing. All persons
exposed to noisy working environments are required to wear adequate
hearing protection (i.e. where there is sawing, drilling, grinding and
other work involving loud noise). Where noise levels are consistently
high, signs shall be posted in conspicuous locations warning of a
potentially hazardous level of sound in the workplace and advising
persons to wear adequate hearing protection

4.4

Electric Tools

4.4.1

When drilling in walls and ceilings, the drill can come into contact with
live wires. For this reason, one should always use insulated protective
gloves while using a drill.

4.4.2

Always use protective safety glasses when using electric tools in

situations where there is a risk of eye injury. (i.e. drilling, sawing, etc.)

4.5

Climate, Ventilation

4.5.1

The most comfortable indoor working temperature is 18-24C where the

humidity is between 30-70% where possible. The temperature should
be regulated by means of the central heating or air conditioning system.

4.5.2

All personnel should wear suitable clothing to regulate one's own body
temperature (i.e. do not wear one heavy warm garment; rather, one
should wear several light garments). Personnel should also be mindful
that loose clothing, long hair, dangling accessories, jewellery or other
similar items may be hazardous to their safety and health and should

Policy & Procedure

Date Created: May 28, 2007

Form # 2.07

Topic: ETS Safety Procedures Manual

Revision: September 17,2010

Page 15 of 27

Status: Approved

not be worn unless they are tied, covered or otherwise secured so as to

prevent the hazard.

Policy & Procedure

Date Created: May 28, 2007

Form # 2.07

Topic: ETS Safety Procedures Manual

Revision: September 17,2010

Page 16 of 27

Status: Approved

4.6

Handling Of Material

4.6.1

Avoid lifting or carrying burdens of more than 20-30 kgs. Use lifting
aids. If this is not possible, several persons shall carry out the lifts.

4.6.2

Use recommended and tested lifting aids only. Do not make piles too
high. Bear in mind the danger of toppling.

4.6.3

Only personnel who are properly trained may use lifting machines. The
operators must check that all parts are in good condition prior to use
(see sections 3.2 and 3.3).

4.6.4

When you lift and carry manually, use the correct method of lifting: arms
straight, knees bent, and back straight. Avoid lifting-turning movements.
They are very dangerous to your back.

4.6.5

Do not strain your back. Practice the correct lifting technique. Bending
forward to lift with straight legs can cause serious back injury. Avoid
lifting-turning movements!

4.6.6

Always use protective gloves safety hardhat and safety shoes with steel
toes and soles when handling material.

4.7

Seats, Ladders

4.7.1

Boxes piled on top of each other must not be used as ladders or chairs.

4.7.2

Loose tools must not be left on ladders or chairs.

4.8

Lighting and Vision

Policy & Procedure

Date Created: May 28, 2007

Form # 2.07

Topic: ETS Safety Procedures Manual

Revision: September 17,2010

Page 17 of 27

Status: Approved

4.8.1

The level of lighting required depends on the type of work you are
performing and the duration of the task. Eyestrain causes headaches
and fatigue, and therefore increases the risk of accidents. Individual
lighting with good color reproduction should be used for precision work
and connecting.

4.8.2

Always carry a flashlight when working, just in case there is a power

failure and there is no backup generator. Flashlights should be tested
on a regular basis. Make sure you always have extra batteries available
just in case your batteries in the flashlight fail.

4.9

Order, Hygiene

4.9.1

Order, cleanliness and personal hygiene contribute to your comfort and

well being.

4.9.2

Leave the washroom in the same condition that you yourself would
hope to find it in. Please ensure that supplies are adequately stocked.

4.10
4.10.1

Fire
General
Keep all sites clear of flammable material, packaging, wire and cable
waste, etc.
Order and tidiness at the work site is vitally important in preventing fire.
Report at once to your supervisor if you see anything, which should be
altered to reduce fire hazards
Electrical equipment and tools should never be left unattended while
plugged in.

Policy & Procedure

Date Created: May 28, 2007

Form # 2.07

Topic: ETS Safety Procedures Manual

Revision: September 17,2010

Page 18 of 27

Status: Approved

4.10.2

Fire and Hydrochloric Acid

Fire in PVC plastic (Cable & Wire) that is extinguished with water gives
off Hydrochloric Acid. This acid can damage the installed equipment
and exposed skin and must be removed quickly. All Technicians must
read the WHIMIS sheets covering Hydrochloric Acid and the sheets
must also be available for reference in their tool kit.
When removing damaged equipment, rubber gloves must be worn to
avoid skin contact with the Hydrochloric Acid
Should skin contact occur, immediately flush the skin with plenty or
water for at least 15 minutes while removing contaminated clothing and
shoes. Wash clothing before reuse. Thoroughly clean shoes before
reuse. Get medical attention immediately.
Should there be eye contact with the acid, immediately flush eyes with
plenty of water for at least 15 minutes, lifting lower and upper eyelids
occasionally. Get medical attention immediately.

4.10.3

Sounding the Alarm:

4.10.3.1 Make sure you know the telephone number to the local fire department
and to the management responsible for the site.
4.10.3.2 You should know where the nearest telephone and fire alarm is
situated.
4.10.3.3 Locate the fire extinguishers and identify how they are used. There are
instructions printed on all fire extinguishers. Prior to starting work read
the instructions on the fire extinguishers.
4.10.4

Use of Water to Extinguish a Fire:

Policy & Procedure

Date Created: May 28, 2007

Form # 2.07

Topic: ETS Safety Procedures Manual

Revision: September 17,2010

Page 19 of 27

Status: Approved

To put out fire in wood, cloth, paper and other fibrous materials.
4.10.5

Use of Carbon Dioxide to Extinguish a Fire:

To put out fire in telephone equipment, electric motors, as well as any
flammable liquids.

4.10.6

Evacuation Routes:
Prior to starting work on a site identify where the emergency exits and
evacuation routes are for the building or structure of the work site

4.10.7
a)
b)
c)
d)
e)
f)
g)
h)
i)
4.11

What You Should Do If Fire Has Broken Out

Warn anyone else threatened by the fire. i.e. Sound alarm
Switch off the power to the unit or equipment on fire.
Switch off ventilation
Call the fire department or send someone to call the fire department
If the fire is small and containable, take the correct fire extinguisher and
point the nozzle to the center of the fire. Not toward the smoke and flame.
If the fire persists:
Shut the door (s) to the room where the fire is.
Exit the building but do not use the elevator.
Call the TSF management.
Poisons
Always be careful with chemicals. Wash carefully if you have been
working with lead cables and solvents, especially before eating. Lead,
Mercury, Cadmium and other heavy alloys can cause poisoning.

Policy & Procedure

Date Created: May 28, 2007

Form # 2.07

Topic: ETS Safety Procedures Manual

Revision: September 17,2010

Page 20 of 27

Status: Approved

4.12

Power Equipment

4.12.1

Installation personnel may not undertake work on power mains (110220V) and other extraneous installations.

4.12.2

You may not work on power equipment that is connected and live
without written certification. This requires special training and testing.

4.12.3

Never wear a watch, rings or metal objects that may cause shortcircuiting or burns.

4.13

RF Exposure Limits
Exposure to Radio Frequency (RF) energy in excess of the limits given
in the Standard for the country where the work is being performed
(Canada Safety Code 6) may be hazardous to human health. For
countries where not RF code exists then the Canadian standard Safety
Code 6 will be used. Each worker must be familiar with the current
safety code for the country for the country in which the work is being
performed explaining the acceptable RF Exposure Limits. RF detection
meters must be worn and these units must have a valid inspection
certificate.

4.14

Procedure for Handling Battery Acid

4.14.1

In the battery room, the danger of explosion or fire is always great

especially when charging or filling is in progress. An explosion can be
touched off by the smallest spark and cause damage through splinters,
corrosion and burns. Follow instructions carefully. Prior to working on a
site where sulfuric acid is present All Technicians or Riggers who will be
working on the site must read the WHIMIS sheets covering sulfuric acid.
The WHIMIS sheets for sulfuric must also be available for reference in
their individual tool kits. Ventilate the room thoroughly. Locate the

Policy & Procedure

Date Created: May 28, 2007

Form # 2.07

Topic: ETS Safety Procedures Manual

Revision: September 17,2010

Page 21 of 27

Status: Approved

source of the leak and if possible contain the leak by applying duct
tape, which will prevent further leakage.
4.14.2

No metallic tools should be used in the battery room, unless they are
insulated.

4.14.3

Neutralizing agents should not be allowed to enter the cells as they

vigorously react with the electrolyte.

4.14.4

Quantities given in Table 1 are theoretically calculated based on pure

chemicals. If the neutralizing chemical has absorbed moisture or
contains other impurities, larger quantities will be required.
TABLE 1

QUANTITY OF
SULPHURIC
ACID

SPECIFIC
GRAVITY

QUANTITY OF
SODA ASH

QUANTITY OF
BAKING SODA

1L

1.215

389G

616G

1L

1.300

558G

884G

4.14.5

Sprinkle soda ash or baking soda over the spilled acid. Wait until the
reaction has subsided and add quantities in small lots until no more
carbon dioxide gas is generated (bubbling). Wash the material down
the drain with plenty of cold water. If this is not possible, collect the
entire solid residue (Sodium Sulfate) using a plastic brooms and
dispose of the solid waste in a safe and proper manner. Wash the floor
with cold water and wipe dry.

4.14.6

Hard to reach locations (e.g. rack bottom) should be wiped repeatedly

with a cloth moistened with a solution of soda ash or baking soda (5g in
1L) in water followed by wiping with a cloth moistened with water and

Policy & Procedure

Date Created: May 28, 2007

Form # 2.07

Topic: ETS Safety Procedures Manual

Revision: September 17,2010

Page 22 of 27

Status: Approved

wipe dry. Cloths used for wiping should be disposed of as normal

waste.
4.14.7

Damaged cells should be removed from the battery room as soon as

possible and replaced with new cells.

4.14.8

Protective clothing, which includes acid resistant coveralls, gloves,

rubber
boots and suitable gas-tight goggles should be worn for major
spills.
However, for minor spills discretion should be used regarding these
requirements. For example, if some electrolyte is spilled from a
hydrometer, it can be handled by wearing eye protection and gloves
only.

4.14.9

During neutralization of the acid, large quantities of carbon dioxide gas

will be generated. Prolonged exposure to carbon dioxide should be
avoided.
Come out of the battery room for a few minutes of fresh air every 5-10
minutes during the operation rather than staying in all the time. If
possible, ventilate the room to the outside air.

4.14.10 Flush skin or eyes with large quantities of cold water in case of contact.
Consult a doctor as soon as possible if severely exposed to acid or acid
fumes.
5.1.

Emergencies

5.1.1.

For reasons of safety a telephone, either land or mobile must be

available at all times at the work site. Find out the numbers to call to
reach police, fire and ambulance in case of an accident. First aid kits
should be available at all times. Find out where the fire extinguisher
equipment is for each site and how it works. Look for emergency exits

Policy & Procedure

Date Created: May 28, 2007

Form # 2.07

Topic: ETS Safety Procedures Manual

Revision: September 17,2010

Page 23 of 27

Status: Approved

provided. Follow regulations and notices carefully. See to it that

protective aids are in hand. See section 4.10.
5.1.2.

Never work alone so help is always near if anything should happen.

6.0

First Aid Responses to Personal Injury

6.1

Acid Splashes
Flush skin or eyes with large quantities of cold water in case of contact.
Consult a doctor as soon as possible if severely exposed to acid or acid
fumes.

6.2

Action In The Case Of Accidents Caused By Electric Current

6.2.1

Switch off or break the current or free the injured person from the
contact (Use insulated gloves to protect yourself). If the injured person
is not breathing, start artificial respiration immediately. This may need
to continue for eight hours or more before the injured person will begin
to breathe on their own. If the casualty is breathing but is unconscious,
place him in a semi-prone position.

6.2.2

If the person is breathing but is unconscious, place them in a prone

side position. Keep a watch on him as breathing may stop! See to it that
the injured person receives medical care at once.

Policy & Procedure

Date Created: May 28, 2007

Form # 2.07

Topic: ETS Safety Procedures Manual

Revision: September 17,2010

Page 24 of 27

Status: Approved

6.2.3

THE FOLLOWING MEASURES SHOULD BE TAKEN EVEN IF THE

CASUALTY APPEARS TO BE DEAD

a)

Switch off the current immediately if this is possible. If the current

cannot be switched off, the following should be observed. You should at
once remove the casualty from live parts, but do not touch him with your
bare hands since this can cause danger to your own life. Use nonconducting material such as clothing, rope and rubber gloves. Be
careful even in the case of low voltage.
If possible, do not stand on wet floors. Put a folded coat or blanket
down on the floor to stand on. Do not waste time on moving the
casualty to a different area. Every moment of delay can be fatal.
Begin CPR at once and call for an ambulance immediately.

b)

c)

6.2.4

WHILE CPR IS IN PROGRESS, ASSISTANTS, IF AVAILABLE,

SHOULD ACT AS FOLLOWS:

a)
b)
c)

Improve the casualtys position by raising his feet.

Loosen tight-fitting clothes if this has not been done.
Massage the legs, always in the direction of the heart to promote the
circulation of blood.
Send for an ambulance.
Keep the casualty warm by wrapping him in blankets without CPR being
disturbed.
Do not give the casualty anything to drink until he has completely
recovered consciousness.

d)
e)
f)

6.2.5

IF THE INJURED PERSON IS BREATHING BUT IS UNCONSCIOUS

a)
b)

Loosen tight-fitting clothes round neck, chest and waist.

Send for an ambulance.

Policy & Procedure

c)
d)

Date Created: May 28, 2007

Form # 2.07

Topic: ETS Safety Procedures Manual

Revision: September 17,2010

Page 25 of 27

Status: Approved

Place the patient in the semi-prone position and keep them warm.
If breathing ceases, start artificial respiration at once.

Policy & Procedure

Date Created: May 28, 2007

Form # 2.07

Topic: ETS Safety Procedures Manual

Revision: September 17,2010

Page 26 of 27

Status: Approved

7.0

Enforcement of Safety Rules

7.1

All personnel are required to know and comply with the company safety
rules. Any individual who wilfully or repeatedly violates safety
legislation, policies, protocols, rules or procedures will be subject to the
company's progressive discipline process.
The progressive discipline process is as follows:
Level 1:
Level 2:
Level 3:
Level 4:

Verbal Warning
Written Warning
Suspension
Dismissal

Our goal is to promote compliance with our safety objectives through

awareness, knowledge and skills. We will concentrate our efforts on
effective and ongoing supervision rather than discipline.
However, the above progressive discipline process may not be
followed at all times. In this regard, the company maintains its
right to terminate employees for cause or to discipline employees
without using the progressive discipline process if the company
feels that a safety breach has been committed.

7.2

Free Climbing without the required equipment as described in 2.2.1

Safety Equipment or without following the required practices as
described in 2.2 Safety Practices will be cause for immediate
dismissal. Any Field Supervisor who sanctions Free Climbing will also
be subject to immediate dismissal

8.0. Emergency Situations

Policy & Procedure

Date Created: May 28, 2007

Form # 2.07

Topic: ETS Safety Procedures Manual

Revision: September 17,2010

Page 27 of 27

Status: Approved

8.1.

Every employee is authorized to respond in an emergency.

Supervisors are required to manage and co-ordinate activities until
emergency services and/or a person from an emergency response
group arrive on site. They are also to notify head office.

8.2.

Sequence of Events:
o Work shall be suspended
o Equipment, vehicles, materials and tools shall be rendered safe
o The area must be preserved (barricaded or roped off) until the
proper authorities have completed their investigation.
o Everyone in the vicinity shall be advised of the emergency.
o One person shall notify emergency services by calling 911.
o A person shall be sent to escort emergency services.
o The supervisor shall be notified.
o A safe emergency perimeter shall be established.
o Head office shall be advised by calling 613-395-9393 and informing
the President Greg Belyea.