Rules and Regulations for Contractors at Oil Facilities

Rules and Regulations
for Contractors
General Specification GS-004
Action Name Title Date

Preparation Jörg Walter Head of HSSE, M&B 08-09-2005
Review Manfred Niemann General Manager Engineering, OT GmbH 08-09-2005
Approval Jörg Walter Head of HSSE, M&B 09-09-2005
Revision I Steffi Voll Project Engineer HSSE, M&B 31-08-2006
Approval Gust Spaepen Managing Director, OT GmbH pending
All rights reserved. This document has been prepared for internal use on Oiltanking facilities only. It is the user’s
obligation to comply with all applicable laws and regulations. No warranty is made, either expressed or implied.
Document: GS-004
Rules and Regulations Version: 2.0
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HSSE Department for Contractors Prepared by: HSSE, M&B
CONTENTS
1 General............................................................................................................ 4
1.1 Scope .............................................................................................................. 4

1.2 Applicability.................................................................................................... 4
1.3 References...................................................................................................... 5
2 Definitions....................................................................................................... 6
3 Fundamentals................................................................................................. 9
3.1 HSSE Organisation ........................................................................................ 9

3.2 Basic Safety Rules ....................................................................................... 10
3.3 Access Regulations ..................................................................................... 11
3.4 Traffic Regulations....................................................................................... 12
3.5 Utility Services ............................................................................................. 12
3.6 Receipt and Storage of Goods.................................................................... 12
4 Health ............................................................................................................ 14
4.1 Industrial Safety ........................................................................................... 14

4.2 Occupational Hygiene ................................................................................. 14
4.3 Personal Protective Equipment .................................................................. 16
4.3.1 Minimum Requirements .............................................................................. 16
4.3.2 Additional Requirements ............................................................................. 18
4.4 First Aid ........................................................................................................ 27
4.5 Work Accidents ............................................................................................ 29
5 Safety ............................................................................................................ 30
5.1 Work Permit System .................................................................................... 30

5.1.1 Types of Permits ......................................................................................... 30
5.1.2 Permit Application ....................................................................................... 31
5.1.3 Completion of Work..................................................................................... 32
5.2 Gas Testing................................................................................................... 32
5.3 Work Equipment........................................................................................... 32
5.3.1 Vehicles ...................................................................................................... 32
5.3.2 Hand and Power Tools................................................................................ 33
5.3.3 Compressors and Generators ..................................................................... 33
5.3.4 Fall Protection ............................................................................................. 34
5.3.5 Ladders ....................................................................................................... 34
5.3.6 Scaffolding .................................................................................................. 34
5.3.7 Lights .......................................................................................................... 35
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5.3.8 Communication Equipment ......................................................................... 35

5.4 Safe Work Practice....................................................................................... 35
5.4.1 Hot Work ..................................................................................................... 36
5.4.2 Confined Space Entry ................................................................................. 36
5.4.3 Electrical Work ............................................................................................ 36
5.4.4 Welding and Cutting.................................................................................... 37
5.4.5 Tank Cleaning ............................................................................................. 39
5.4.6 Grit and Sandblasting.................................................................................. 40
5.4.7 Painting ....................................................................................................... 41
5.4.8 Demolition and Dismantling......................................................................... 41
5.4.9 Lifting and Handling .................................................................................... 42
5.4.10 Excavation................................................................................................ 43
5.4.11 Lock-out and Tag-out ............................................................................... 43
5.5 Work Site ...................................................................................................... 44
5.6 Fire Safety..................................................................................................... 44
6 Security......................................................................................................... 46
7 Environment ................................................................................................. 47
7.1 Hazardous Materials .................................................................................... 47

7.1.1 Entry Regulations........................................................................................ 47
7.1.2 Identification and Labelling.......................................................................... 47
7.1.3 Handling and Storage ................................................................................. 48
7.2 Immissions ................................................................................................... 49
7.2.1 Water and Soil............................................................................................. 49
7.2.2 Atmosphere................................................................................................. 49
7.3 Waste ............................................................................................................ 50
7.3.1 Waste Handling........................................................................................... 50
7.3.2 Waste Disposal ........................................................................................... 51
8 Emergency.................................................................................................... 52
8.1 Terminal Emergency Plan ........................................................................... 52

8.2 Emergency Instruction ................................................................................ 52
8.3 Escape and Rescue Plan ............................................................................. 53
9 Additional Regulations for Grassroots Construction Sites...................... 54
9.1 Provision of Fire Fighting and First Aid Equipment ................................. 54

9.2 Signposting .................................................................................................. 54
ATTACHMENTS
A. Oiltanking HSSE Policy

B. Document Receipt Form
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1 General
1.1 Scope
Oiltanking is committed to the safe and efficient operation of its facilities. Highest
standards of equipment integrity and reliability are maintained to avoid risk to people
and the environment. These basic principles are reflected in our Health, Safety,
Security and Environmental (HSSE) Policy (see Attachment A). The management of
Oiltanking will visibly and rigorously support the implementation of this policy. We
expect the support of all employees as well as contractors to eliminate accident and
work-related ill health and to protect the environment.
Oiltanking has implemented an HSSE Management System for all world-wide

facilities to maintain a healthy, safe, secure and environmental friendly work
environment. Every terminal has an HSSE Coordinator who will be the contact
partner for contractors in respect to HSSE related matters. For grassroots
construction sites an HSSE Coordinator, which can be the Oiltanking project
engineer, will be nominated.
The document at hand defines minimum HSSE requirements that have to be

adhered to for all work carried out for Oiltanking. All contractors and subcontractors
entering or working on Oiltanking property must adhere to these “Rules and
Regulations for Contractors” during the entire duration of their stay. Nevertheless, it
is every contractor’s own responsibility to take the necessary steps to be in
compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
Adherence to the Oiltanking “Rules and Regulations for Contractors” will not
automatically grant compliance with legal requirements. Furthermore, additional
requirements stipulated in the work permit must also be adhered to.
1.2 Applicability
The “Rules and Regulations for Contractors” apply to construction and maintenance
work on existing Oiltanking facilities as well as for works on grassroots construction
sites.
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1.3 References
American National Standards Institute (ANSI Z41): Personal protection –

Protective footwear, 1999.
American National Standards Institute (ANSI Z87.1): American national standard

practice for occupational and educational eye and face protection, 1989.
American National Standards Institute (ANSI Z89.1): Personal protection –

Protective headwear for industrial workers, 1986.
European Committee for Standardisation (EN 166): Personal eye-protection,

2001.
European Committee for Standardisation (EN 344-345): Safety, protective and

occupational footwear for professional use, 1997.
European Committee for Standardisation (EN 346): Protective footwear for

professional use, 1997.
European Committee for Standardisation (EN 347): Occupational footwear for

professional use, 1997.
European Committee for Standardisation (EN 420): General requirements for

gloves, 1994.
European Directive (92/58/EEG): Minimum requirements for the provision of
safety and/or health signs at work, 1992.
Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA 3074): Hearing

Conservation, 1995.
Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA 3079): Respiratory

Protection, 1998.
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2 Definitions
In the following, HSSE-related terms and abbreviations used within this document
and the Oiltanking organisation are defined and explained.
HSSE Coordinator
The HSSE Coordinator is the person who supervises, co-ordinates and controls the
HSSE organisation and all activities within the terminal, terminal network or
grassroots construction site which require particular attention from a HSSE risk and
liability standpoint.
Contractor
The contractor is the company that has been ordered by Oiltanking to perform a
certain work. This includes explicitly all subcontractors.
Employee
An employee is a person who is performing a certain work for Oiltanking and who is
employed by the contractor or subcontractor.
HSSE Officer
The HSSE Officer is the person, nominated by the contractor, who supervises, co-
ordinates and controls all HSSE-related activities of the contractor. He is the contact
person for Oiltanking with regard to HSSE.
Restricted Area
This is a normally fenced off area within the Oiltanking property, entry to which is
normally controlled by security and in which certain restrictions apply. The
Restricted Area also encloses the Hazardous Areas, but in order to pass from a
Restricted Area into a Hazardous Area other requirements must be met.
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Hazardous Area
Hazardous areas are generally referred to as areas wherein a dangerous

atmosphere may prevail. Dangerous atmosphere is normally understood as
flammable or explosive atmosphere. One must remember that there are hazardous
areas with a toxic or an oxygen deficient atmosphere. At least all tank pits, pump
stations, loading areas, jetties and oil/water separators should be classified as
hazardous areas.
High Risk Area
High Risk Areas are all areas with an increased safety and health hazard. This can
be related to the temporary presence of explosive or toxic atmospheres or physical
risks like:
Swivel areas of cranes and loading arms
Construction work areas
Areas near rotating machinery
Areas under suspended loads
Hot or cold installations
Installations with high voltage
Near Miss
A near miss is an event or occurrence that could have resulted in an incident or

accident, but by timing or other factors it did not.
Incident
An incident is an unforeseen event or occurrence, resulting in material damage, loss

of primary containment, environmental damage, fire, explosion or security threat, but
not involving personal injury.
Accident
An accident is an unforeseen event or occurrence usually involving injury or death of

a person or a group of persons. The term applies also to unforeseen events or
occurrences resulting in material damage, loss of primary containment,
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environmental damage, fire or explosion and injury or death of a person or a group

of persons.
Authorised Permit Applicant (APA)
The Authorised Permit Applicant (APA) is the person, normally from the terminal
operations or maintenance group, who confirms that the work described on a work
permit is required to be carried out and who is authorised to apply for the work
permit accordingly. The APA is responsible for co-ordinating with other discipline
managers to ensure that the work will not affect other activities and to ascertain
whether other work can be carried out at the same time.
Authorised Permit Issuer (API)
The Authorised Permit Issuer (API) is the person who is authorised to issue a work
permit, usually the HSSE Coordinator or the deputy. The API is responsible for
ensuring that all the necessary safety checks have been made, precautions have
been taken and that the persons performing the work fully understand the health,
safety, security and environmental implications. The API is also responsible for
ensuring that the correct protective clothing and safety equipment is available.
Authorised Permit Receiver (APR)
The Authorised Permit Receiver (APR) is the person who is responsible for the
performance of the work. The APR is usually the supervisor of the contractor’s
workers who will be performing the work. It is the APR’s responsibility to ensure that
the requirements on the work permit are fully understood and are complied with.
Authorised Gas Tester (AGT)
An Authorised Gas Tester (AGT) is the person who has been adequately trained in
the use of gas testing equipment and who is able to interpret the results and to
determine whether the atmosphere meets the requirements specified in the work
permit, be it for hot work or for entry into a confined space or any other eventuality.
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Approved Electrical Person (AEP)
An Approved Electrical Person (AEP) is the person who has been adequately
trained and is suitably qualified to safely isolate certain electrical supplies, to
undertake the isolation and locking off etc. and after work is completed, to verify and
undertake the safe re-energising of the supply
3 Fundamentals
It is the duty of every person working on Oiltanking facilities to ensure that their
actions do not put themselves or others or the facilities at risk of injury or damage.
Contractors who recognise a situation which could cause injury or damage should
take appropriate safeguard measures without putting himself/herself at risk. Such
situations must be reported to the contractor supervisor and always to the Oiltanking
HSSE Coordinator.
3.1 HSSE Organisation
Contractors working for Oiltanking should have an HSSE organisation in place

based on:
Management Responsibility
Communication
Documentation
Reporting
Education and Training
Promotion
When working for Oiltanking, an HSSE Officer has to be nominated by the

contractor. He is responsible for the implementation of the HSSE-related
requirements at the work site. The HSSE Officer should assess the risks associated
with the work activities in consultation with the HSSE Coordinator. The risk should
be eliminated or minimised as reasonably practical.
In particular the HSSE Officer must ensure that safety procedures are adhered to
and that the correct Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is used. Furthermore, it is
his/her responsibility to ensure that all near misses, incidents and accidents are
reported to the HSSE Coordinator.
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Often different contractors are working on a terminal or grassroots construction site

at the same time. For proper communication between all parties a weekly HSSE-
meeting should take place. These meeting, moderated by the HSSE-Coordinator,
must be attended by all HSSE-Officers.
3.2 Basic Safety Rules
Before starting the work contractors have to receive a HSSE induction before
entering a terminal to make them familiar with the HSSE rules and regulations.
Ideally this is done by showing a computer-based presentation like the “HSSE
Induction for Third Parties” as provided by the Corporate HSSE Department or
alternatively via a professional HSSE induction presentation with sound.
The Terminal Information Booklet (TIB) should be used as verification that a person
has received the HSSE induction and therefore be handed out after the induction.
The name of the person and the date of the induction should be noted on the TIB.
Prior to this contractors should be tested that the induction was fully understood.
This can be done in writing or verbally. The HSSE induction and the hand-out of the
TIB should be documented and signed by each person. All contractors should be re-
trained at least once a year, therefore the TIB should be limited to this period.
The HSSE Officer has to inform them about the HSSE rules and regulations as
stipulated in this document. The following list of Basic Safety Rules must always be
adhered to on Oiltanking sites:
Smoking is prohibited except in the marked smoking areas.
It is prohibited to carry sources of ignition (e.g. lighters, matches) at all times.
The use of intrinsically unsafe equipment (e.g. mobile phones, radios, cameras,
calculators, battery-powered hearing devices) is only allowed by special
permission from the management.
The minimum personal protective equipment (PPE) consisting of safety helmet,
footwear (anti-static safety shoes with product resistant soles) and protective
clothing (antistatic, long sleeve) must be worn at all times.
Where indicated through signposting or required by work permit, additional PPE
requirements (e.g. eye and ear protection) should be met as well.
It is forbidden to possess or consume alcohol, drugs or other intoxicants on the
site or to be under their influence.
It is not allowed to drink or eat during work or in tank pits, pump stations, in the
vicinity of manifolds, at loading racks and on jetties.
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Garbage and waste must be collected and disposed of in dedicated containers.

Drivers of all vehicles must obey traffic signs and regulations.
The general speed limit of 20 km/h or approx. 15 mph (max. 30 km/h or approx.
20 mph) must be observed.
Vehicles must be parked without blocking roads or emergency installations, with
engines switched off. In parking bays vehicles should be parked reversely.
Handrails and walkways must be used where provided.
All accidents, fires, spills, material damages or potentially serious incidents and
near misses must be reported to the control room, a supervisor or the terminal
HSSE Coordinator.
Permit conditions and other written procedures must be followed.
Instructions of Oiltanking personnel must always be followed.
3.3 Access Regulations
Oiltanking facilities are normally completely fenced; the same should apply for
grassroots construction sites. All contractors entering the Oiltanking property must
obtain or be in possession of a valid access-badge. Persons who are not holding a
valid access-badge are required to report to the security guard. On entry to the
Oiltanking facilities, it will be sufficient to present the badge. On leaving the terminal,
the badge is required to be returned to the security guard on the last day of its
validity. Several persons occupying one vehicle are all required to individually
register with a personal badge, both during entry as well as on leaving.
Before commencing the work, a representative of the contractor has to present

himself/herself to the HSSE Coordinator to receive a work permit. To enter the
Restricted Area of the terminal a Vehicle Entry Permit is required. Within the
Restricted Area access is limited to places as defined in the work permit. Only in
emergency situations, the contractor’s personnel may access the areas outside of
the working zone without having gained prior approval from the HSSE-Coordinator.
Normally contractors will use the terminal main entrance. Only for major works a
dedicated entrance for contractors may be defined by the HSSE Coordinator. At
grassroots construction sites preferably one entrance should be used for better
access control.
All persons working on Oiltanking sites must at least be 18 years old. Exceptions
can only be made for apprentices.
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3.4 Traffic Regulations
On Oiltanking facilities the local traffic regulations apply. Additionally, the on-site
traffic regulations must be adhered to. The maximum permitted speed is 30 km/h
(approx. 20 mph). Drivers are required to be in possession of a valid and
appropriate driving licence. All vehicles entering the Oiltanking property are required
to be insured and technically sound.
Private vehicles are, in principle, parked at parking locations outside of the facility or
construction site. Contractor and subcontractor personnel, who have been permitted
access to the terminal with their vehicles, are required to park in the designated
areas. The contractor has to provide means of transport for the relocation of his/her
personnel and material.
It is forbidden to park vehicles in front of or at entrances and exits, fire fighting

installations, emergency equipment or in areas where normal traffic or emergency
services can be obstructed. Vehicles with metal crawlers should not be driven on
the terrain roads without prior permission to do so.
3.5 Utility Services
In principle the contractor must provide all aids and provisions for carrying out the
work at hand. With written permission from Oiltanking, the contractor can use the
Oiltanking utilities such as electricity, compressed air, nitrogen, water or sewers.
The contractor has to indicate which utility he desires to use and specify relevant
parameters (pressure, capacity, output, voltage, etc.) timely before commencement
of the work assignment. Oiltanking retains the right to interrupt the supply of utility
services to third parties on each occasion demanded by prevailing circumstances.
Contractors have to provide their own telephone connection. With the exception of
emergency situations the Oiltanking telephone system is not to be used. In this
context it should be noted that usage of mobile phones is strictly prohibited inside
the Restricted Area of an operational terminal and throughout certain areas of
construction sites.
3.6 Receipt and Storage of Goods
The transport, unloading, storage and safeguarding of the material, purchased by

the contractor, is within the responsibility and at cost of the contractor. Oiltanking
has to be informed in advance by the contractor about all deliveries.
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The delivery address for materials purchased by the contractor, are required to be
clearly stated on the delivery and transport documents. Oiltanking retains the right to
refuse or reject deliveries where a final destination is not explicitly stated. The
contractor remains responsible for the acceptance of all materials which are
delivered directly to Oiltanking on his/her request. In no case Oiltanking will be held
responsible for the materials stored on site or in site depots.
The delivery of materials is required to take place during the normal working hours
of the terminal or construction site. If extraordinary deliveries are to take place
outside of the normal working hours, then a contractor’s representative is required to
be present in order to take the goods into receipt. If unloading equipment such as a
forklift truck or a crane is necessary it must be provided by the contractor or the
forwarding agent.
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4 Health
It is Oiltanking policy that the health of all employees and contractors is given the
highest priority and that every effort should be made to maintain a healthy working
environment. Each employee and contractor is encouraged to support the company
in ensuring that everything is done to meet that commitment.
4.1 Industrial Safety
High Risk Areas such as swivel ranges of cranes, rotating machinery, excavation
pits, etc. should be marked according to international standards. These areas must
be painted with yellow and black stripes (45° angle) or blocked off with barricade
tape in the same colour. Furthermore, signs indicating the mandatory Personnel
Protective Equipment (PPE) are to be posted.
An efficient emission control contributes to the prevention of long-term

health-damages. Measurements should be undertaken where appropriate to ensure
that relevant Threshold Limit Values (TLV) of substances present in the air are not
being exceeded. Whenever limits may be exceeded, appropriate design actions
should be taken or special Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) has to be worn.
4.2 Occupational Hygiene
From a hygiene point of view, it is not permitted to consume food or drink during the
working activities on the installations or construction sites. Before the consumption
of any food, necessary hygiene must be observed.
Contractors carrying out work for an extended period are requested to provide their
own accommodation which must be in accordance with local legislation. The
accommodation can be set up in the contractor area in consultation with the HSSE
Coordinator.
Contractors working on Oiltanking property have normally no access to the

terminal’s sanitary facilities (lavatories, showers, changing rooms, etc.). Therefore,
the contractor must provide adequate sanitary facilities. The drainage conduits from
such facilities must be connected to the wastewater sewage system or to a septic
tank. If existing and of sufficient capacity, the Oiltanking sewage system may be
used after consultation of the HSSE Coordinator. If no such system exists (for
example on grassroots construction sites) or if usage is not permitted, it is the
contractor's duty to install and maintain a suitable septic tank.
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Changing Rooms and Lockers
The contractor is required to provide changing rooms. The changing area must be
easily accessible, spacious and must have seating.
The changing areas are required to be large enough and be equipped in such a
manner that contractors can dry their working and private clothes and also have the
facility to adequately secure the same under lock and key.
If circumstances should demand (hazardous substances, moisture and dirt), there

should be the possibility to store working and civilian clothes should separately.
Lavatories
A sufficient number of lavatories must be provided. They either have to be

connected to a septic tank/sewage system or must be of closed circuit chemical
type. Normally they will be located in the contractor’s accommodations. Lavatories
may not be installed in Hazardous Areas or High Risk Areas.
Showers and Washbasins
When the nature of the work or the concern for health demands, an adequate
number of showers must be available to the personnel. The shower cubicles are to
be provided with hot and cold running water.
Where showers are not deemed necessary, a washing facility with running water
(warm, where necessary) is to be provided in the vicinity of the changing area. If the
showers or wash areas and the changing rooms are located as separate facilities,
these areas are required to be linked to each other.
Rest Area
The contractor is required to provide a refreshment area that is separate to the

changing rooms and showers/wash facilities as it is strictly forbidden to take rest in
Hazardous Areas or High Risk Areas such as tank-tops, scaffolding/staging, nearby
drainage sumps, excavations, gas flues/stacks etc.
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4.3 Personal Protective Equipment
Operations and construction work always imply potential health hazards. As it is not
possible to treat every possible danger by appropriate design measures suitable
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) must be used to prevent injuries.
PPE should be stored and maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s

recommendations, be in good working order and in good state of repair. Suitable
storage facilities should be provided to ensure the safeguarding of PPE against
damage and deterioration when it is not being used. For the correct choice it must
be considered that PPE is not suitable unless it:
Is appropriate for risks involved and conditions at the place of exposure
Takes account of ergonomic requirements and the state of health of the person
who wears it
Is capable of fitting the wearer correctly
Is effective to prevent or adequately control risks involved without increasing the
overall risk
Where more than one item of PPE is used, it must be compatible with other items
used at the same time.
4.3.1 Minimum Requirements
Every person entering the Restricted Area of a terminal should be in possession of

minimum PPE. The contractor has to provide this equipment.
In every case all PPE used must conform to local standards. In case of absence of
such regulations the PPE should conform to EN (European Norm) or ANSI
(American National Standard Institute). All PPE to be worn should be approved by
the HSSE Officer and the HSSE Coordinator.
In particular the minimum PPE equipment should comprise the following items:
Head Protection
Head protection should be worn whenever there is potential for injury to the head
from falling objects, flying particles, cramped space, bumping one’s head against
fixed objects or accidental head contact with electrical hazards.
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Safety Helmets
Safety helmets should be worn at all times. The use of labels is discouraged, as the
adhesives may affect the helmet’s material. Safety helmets made of plastic should
be replaced every three years. Any helmet damaged or exposed to heavy impact
whether damage is apparent or not should be replaced immediately. Metal safety
helmets should not be worn.
In case of lack of a local regulation, helmets should be in compliance with EN 397 or

ANSI Z89.1.
Foot Protection
Foot protection protects against danger of foot injuries due to falling or rolling
objects, objects piercing the sole and of electrical hazard. Employees whose work
involves exposure to hot substances or hazardous materials must have protection
gear to cover exposed body parts, including feet and legs.
Safety Footwear
Safety footwear should be worn at all times. They should be at least ankle deep.
Only visitors may wear low shoes. Every safety shoe should be equipped with a firm
toe cap, antistatic materials and product resistant soles. As a guidance, foot
protection comparable to safety shoes according to EN 344-347 “S3” or ANSI Z41
can be seen as an acceptable standard.
Footwear with exposed steel toe and heel plates, nails or studs is strictly forbidden.
Body Protection
Body protection should be worn to prevent injuries caused by absorption of

hazardous chemicals, severe cuts or lacerations, severe abrasions, punctures and
harmful temperature extremes.
Work Clothes
On Oiltanking terminals clothing made from Nylon or similar material must not be
worn as it builds up a static charge, is highly flammable and melts with heat. Cotton
clothing or clothing made from other antistatic materials (e.g. Nomex) are to be
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issued for protection against oil and dirt. Even the underwear has to be of antistatic
material.
Work clothes should be clean and properly fastened with cuffs secured to prevent
loose clothing becoming caught in moving or rotating machinery. Persons working
on or in the vicinity of moving machinery should wear close fitting and long sleeved
overalls. “Shorts” or similar pants are not acceptable in work areas. Clothing must
be suitable for the local climate throughout all seasons. Suitable rainwear and winter
clothing should be available.
Clothes contaminated with oil, chemicals or toxic substances may be a fire hazard
or lead to skin disease or other illnesses and should be laundered or disposed of
immediately. Therefore, the contractor should issue a sufficient number of work
clothes to each employee to allow change in case of an accidental damage/
contamination and to permit laundering. Preferably work clothes should be of highly
visible colours.
Hand Protection
Basic Hand Protection should protect against severe cuts or lacerations, severe
abrasions, punctures and harmful temperatures. Finger rings or other tight jewellery
should not be worn because of the danger of corrosive or irritating liquids getting
underneath the piece and producing irritation as well as to prevent contusion caused
by mechanically deformed finger rings.
Gloves
Gloves made from cotton or fabric blends should be worn to improve grip when
handling slippery objects. They also insulate hands from mild heat or cold. While
executing tasks that could cause injuries from sparks or scraping against rough
surfaces, leather gloves should be worn. It is recommended to use gloves with a
combination of both materials.
Every hand protection should be conform to national regulations or, if national

regulations are not applicable, to EN 420 or ANSI/ASTM.
4.3.2 Additional Requirements
The HSSE Officer together with the HSSE Coordinator should ensure that a formal
assessment has been conducted for all activities to ascertain the need for further
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Personal Protective Equipment for the employees. An assessment of physical

hazards and of the hazardous materials being handled should be made and should
draw up schedule of the PPE required for the work. Sufficient PPE should be
available in the sizes necessary to enable at least one change of outer clothing and
two changes of underclothing if necessary. There should also be sufficient PPE for
immediate rescue operations.
Additional PPE Requirements may be:
Head Protection
When necessary, head protection with chin or nape straps should be worn to
prevent the hat from being accidentally bumped off the head.
Welding Helmets
Welding helmets, which give protection against dangerous arc radiation and hot
particles of weld metal, should be worn by all personnel when engaged in welding
operations. Alternatively, a hand shield may be used if a standard safety helmet is
used.
Protective Helmets against electrical shock hazard
Protective helmets designed to reduce electrical shock hazard should be worn if

work is carried out near exposed high voltage electrical conductors.
Foot Protection
In certain cases a standard safety shoe does not offer sufficient protection.
Additional foot protection should then be used.
Neoprene or Nitrile Boots
Neoprene or Nitrile boots should be worn over standard safety shoes to prevent
contamination when handling open corrosive chemicals, bases or toxic products.
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Electrical Hazard Boots
Electrical hazard boots are specially constructed without using conductive materials
to offer protection against electrical shock. This type of boot may never be used
during standard operation, as it will provoke build up of static charge!
Welder Boots
Special leather boots for welders protect against sparks and heat radiation.
Hand Protection
Additional hand protection is required while handling hazardous substances or

exceptional sharp work pieces.
Protective gloves should be inspected before each use to ensure that they are not
torn, punctured or made ineffective in any way. A visual inspection should be carried
out to detect cuts or tears, but a more thorough inspection by filling the gloves with
water and tightly rolling the cuff towards the fingers will help reveal any pinhole
leaks. Gloves that are discoloured or stiff may also indicate deficiencies caused by
excessive use or degradation from chemical exposure. Any gloves with impaired
protective ability should be discarded and replaced. Reuse of chemical-resistant
gloves should be evaluated carefully, taking into consideration the absorptive
qualities of the gloves. A decision to reuse chemically-exposed gloves should take
into consideration the toxicity of the chemicals involved and factors such as duration
of exposure, storage and temperature.
Disposable Gloves
Disposable gloves made of light-weight plastic or latex can help guard against mild
irritants and can also be used for general hygiene purposes. It should always be
used when giving first aid treatments, especially while bandaging open wounds.
Rubber Gloves
Chemical-resistant gloves are made of different kinds of rubber, e.g. natural, butyl,
neoprene, nitrile and fluorocarbon (viton), or various kinds of plastic, e.g. polyvinyl
chloride (PVC), polyvinyl alcohol and polyethylene. These materials can be blended
or laminated for better performance. These gloves protect hands from many
substances such as corrosives, petroleum based products and solvents. Special
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attention must be given when choosing the correct material in correspondence with
the substance to be handled. Usually information about the suitable material can be
found in the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS). Advice should be sought from the
HSSE Coordinator. As a general rule, the thicker the glove material, the greater the
chemical resistance. But thick gloves may impair grip and dexterity, having a
negative impact on safety.
Laminate Gloves
These gloves are used to protect hands from exposure to one or more chemicals for
which a single glove is not effective. They normally should be used in combination
with another overglove to provide for better grip.
Kevlar or Catenarian Gloves
This type of gloves should be used when handling sharp or strongly abrasive
objects. It should be noted that this type of glove does not protect against stiches
from needle-like objects.
Body Protection
There are a number of dangers like for example whole body splash or heat radiation
against which standard working clothes do not protect sufficently. To prevent injuries
use of the following additional PPE may be necessary.
Chemical Full Suits
Handling of hazardous substances like corrosives or poisons may require the use of
chemical full suits in conjunction with a self contained breathing apparatus.
Close Proximity Suits
During fire fighting the use of close proximity suits may be necessary to withstand
the occurring heat radiation.
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Welder Protection
Special leather/moleskin clothes should be worn by welders for protection against

flying sparks and heat radiation during welding.
Eye and Face Protection
Eye and face protection should be worn in all working situations where hazards to
eyes and face exist, e.g. flying particles, molten metal, liquid chemicals, acids or
caustic liquids, chemical gases or vapours, potentially infected material or potentially
harmful light radiation. More and more terminals provide operators with safety
glasses as a minimum PPE. Terminals handling corrosive chemicals must provide
safety glasses or safety goggles and ensure that they are carried along at all times.
They should comply with a recognised standard like EN 166 or ANSI Z87.1. It is
important to remember that regular glasses and contact lenses do not offer
protection from eye hazards.
Safety Glasses
Standard safety glasses look very much like normal glasses, but have lenses that
are impact resistant and frames that are far stronger than regular eyeglasses. They
can be equipped with side shields, cups to offer additional protection and are also
available in prescription form. Safety glasses should be worn to prevent injuries from
flying particles. Appropriate tinted safety glasses should be worn at all times, when
performing or working in the vicinity of light arc welding if no welding-shield is being
used.
Safety Goggles
Like safety glasses, goggles are impact resistant, but they also provide a secure
shield around the entire eye area. Safety goggles can have regular or indirect
ventilation. Indirect ventilation goggles are required if exposed to splash hazards.
Full-face Shields
Full-face shields are used as a part of a head protection system. These transparent
sheets of plastic extend from the eyebrows to below the chin and across the entire
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width of the employee’s head. Some are polarized for glare protection. Face shields
protect against nuisance dusts, potential splashes or sprays of hazardous liquids
and heat, but will not provide adequate protection against impact hazards. Face
shields used in combination with goggles or safety glasses will provide additional
protection against impact hazards. They should be worn when inspecting or
adjusting burners.
Welding Shields
Welding shields are optimised full-face shields for welding operations. They are
constructed of vulcanized fiber or fiberglass and fitted with a filtered lens. Welding
shields protect eyes from burns caused by infrared or intense radiant light. They
also protect both the eyes and face from flying sparks, metal spatter and slag chips
produced during welding, brazing, soldering and cutting operations.
Contact lenses should not be worn when the user is conducting operations involving
the handling of chemicals or the use of dust and grit generating equipment unless a
full-face mask such as contained in a Self Contained Breathing Apparatus is worn.
Hearing protection
Regular exposure of employees to noise, particularly in the workplace, can result in

damage to hearing. Normally areas of high noise levels such as those where noise
levels exceed 83 dB(A) for a 12-hour shift or 85 dB(A) for an 8-hour shift should be
designated as areas where ear protection is required. Examples are areas close to
turbines, pumps, internal combustion engines and power generators.
This means that everyone entering a designated ear protection area should wear
suitable ear protection regardless of duration of entry. Designated areas should be
marked accordingly.
Additional information on hearing conservation can be found in OHSA 3074.
Ear Plugs
Ear Plugs are made of wax or PU-foam. They are introduced directly into the
auditory canal. Average protection against noise emissions can be achieved by this
means.
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Mufflers
Mufflers provide better and more reliable protection. In situations of continuous

noise exposure they should be mandatory. They should be compatible with the
obligatory safety helmet to be worn. Ideally a combined head-ear protection system
should be used where mufflers are directly attached to the safety helmet.
Breathing Protection
Breathing protection should be worn to prevent overexposure to inhalation hazards.

Every operation accompanied by the emission of hazardous dust, vapours or fumes
which may result in exceeding relevant threshold limit values (TLV), necessitates
the use of an effective breathing protection.
Therefore it is necessary to:

Select an appropriate respirator based on the specific substances and the
conditions under which an exposure occurs.
Have a medical evaluation to ensure that the person is capable of wearing the
relevant breathing protection safely.
Attend training in the use, basic maintenance and limitations of the particular
breathing protection to be used.
Have a fit and leak test to ensure that the breathing protection functions and fits
properly.
For different kinds of operations various types of breathing protection exist:
Dust masks
Dust masks should be used for routine work in dirty areas for protection against
dust, spray paint, shot blasting etc. They should not be used in oxygen deficient
areas or in areas where toxic gases or fumes may be present.
Dust masks should be replaced when becoming clogged with dust. It is of the
greatest importance to wear the correct type of mask. Where doubt arises, advice
should be sought from the HSSE Coordinator.
Operations or maintenance work raising the risk of inhalation of mineral fibres

require at least the usage of a fine-dust mask (e.g. “P2” EN 149).
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Respirators
Respirators are for special applications like tank cleaning or handling of additives. It
is essential that the correct cartridge is used for each particular work situation. The
cartridges should be used in accordance with the manufacturers’ recommendations.
The HSSE Officer should monitor the use of the cartridge type respirators and
should provide advice as necessary. Cartridges, which are saturated or out of date
(expiry date!) should no longer be used.
Air-line respirators
Air-line respirators should be used for routine work in areas where there is an
oxygen deficiency or where the atmosphere is otherwise contaminated. When
wearing an airline mask, a belt should be worn and the air-line clipped on it to
prevent any undue stress on the air-line or the face mask.
Self Contained Breathing Apparatus
Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) should be used as emergency type

equipment for fire fighting in dense smoke, during gas releases or for rescue
purposes in hazardous or toxic atmospheres. For maintenance operations requiring
air circulation independent breathing protection, an air-line respirator should
preferably be used. The SCBA is normally suitable for use in any atmosphere, but
care should be taken not to exceed the permissible period of use as determined by
the capacity of the compressed air cylinder.
Personnel whose work could involve regular use of breathing apparatus should be
checked regularly by a physician to ensure they are medically fit for such work.
The SCBA should be maintained by properly trained personnel in accordance with

the manufacturer’s instructions and the compressed air cylinders replenished after
each use. Furthermore, the equipment should be cleaned and sterilized for hygiene
reasons. Defects in the equipment should be reported immediately to the HSSE
Officer. Breathing apparatus should be inspected and maintained by the
manufacturer at the recommended intervals.
Additional information on breathing protection can be found in OHSA 3079.
Fall Protection
Fall protection equipment should be worn when working at heights over 2 m (6 ft)
and in other places where there is danger of falling.
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Safety Harnesses
The safety harness must be closely fitting and needs to be attached to either a
cable, a hook or other attachment that will take the full dynamic forces of the person
falling. The fall must be arrested within 1 m (3 ft) of the start of the fall. Safety
harnesses and lines must be inspected regularly and particularly after an incident
involving a fall or contamination by oils or chemicals.
“Pull Out” Equipment
“Pull out” equipment should be used when working in enclosed spaces where air
may be contaminated or oxygen deficient or where rescue could be difficult in the
event of injury.
Safety Belts
In these conditions personnel should work in groups of two or more with one
member remaining outside the hazardous area as standby, but in a position where
he/she can monitor the other(s). The person entering the enclosed space should
wear a safety belt connected to a lifeline. In the event of the person carrying out the
task running into difficulties, the standby man should summon help. He/she should
not go into the hazardous area himself/herself, unless he/she is properly protected
and has a replacement standby. When the safety belt and lifeline are used, pre-
arranged signals must be used.
When the safety belt and lifeline are used, the following pre-arranged signals should
be used.
Tab.1: Example of widely used signals for lifelines
Signal on Line Given by Wearer Given by Attendant

1 pull I am alright Are you alright
2 pulls Pay-out more line I am paying-out more line
2 pulls-pause-2 pulls Stop lowering or paying- I am stopping lowering or
out paying-out
3 pulls Heave in slack line or haul I am heaving in slack line
up or hauling up
Repeated sharp pulls Danger help me out Danger come out at once
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When signals are used they should be acknowledged by the recipient of the order
repeating the signal to show that it has been understood or is being acted upon.
Drowning Protection
Whenever working over water, measures to prevent persons from drowning should
be taken. It is necessary for a standby person, with an uninterrupted view of the
person working, to be either on the jetty or in a standby craft armed with the
necessary rescue equipment such as a lifebuoy attached to a rope. Both worker(s)
and standby persons must be able to swim.
Safety Lines
Where applicable, persons working over water should wear a safety harness
attached to a safety line which must be securely tied.
Life Jackets
Over the side of jetties, outboard of vessels, etc. in addition to a safety harness
attached to a securely tied safety line, a life jacket should be worn. Basically two
different types of life jackets exist:
Self floaters which contain solid floating bodies.
Self inflating life jackets (automatically when in contact with water or manually)
which are equipped with an air cartridge.
Life jackets should always be of a good visible colour such as lurid red or yellow and
should be equipped with reflecting stripes.
4.4 First Aid
It is known that the quicker a first aid treatment is given, the less impact the injury
will have on the patient. For more serious injuries, the purpose of first aid is to
maintain the injured in a stable condition until professional help arrives.
All contractors should establish procedures to deal with medical emergencies and
should conduct regular exercises to ensure that the medical response is adequate.
Generally it is the contractor's responsibility to ensure availability of appropriate first
aid equipment and suitably trained personnel, especially at grassroots construction
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sites. However, if the necessary equipment is already installed (e.g. on terminals)

the HSSE Coordinator can still oblige a contractor to provide additional first aid
equipment if deemed necessary.
First Aid Box
First aid boxes and other first aid equipment must comply with local legal
requirements. They should be located at strategic points. Locations of first aid
equipment should be clearly identified by the applicable international symbol.
A sufficient number of first aid boxes must be at hand on every work place.
Following is a list of the recommended minimum contents of a first aid box:
Tab.2: List of the recommended contents of a first aid box
First aid instructions with emergency phone numbers (incl. local first aid provider)
Table of content with expiry date and record sheet of treatments

2 large wound dressings Gauze pads
Eye flush bottle Gauze bandages
2 sterile eye pads Zinc-Oxide tape
1 triangular bandage 1 cold pack (pr)
10 antiseptic dressing 10 latex examination gloves
Wound area cleaning fluid 1 scissors and forceps
Burn gel treatment packs Strip (Butterfly) sutures
50 assorted adhesive dressings Burn spray
2 singlefix finger bandages Antiseptic lotion or cream
1 pack of absorbent white gauze 1 roll of adhesive plaster
1 resuscitation device or disposable mask 1 emergency first aid thermal blanket
1 bunch of safety pins Clinical waste bags
The first aid box should be sealed and the contents regularly checked for
completeness and for out-of-date materials.
Where corrosive liquids are used or grids and sparks are produced, provision of eye
wash facilities is mandatory. At least eye flush bottles filled with distilled water or
other suitable liquid should be provided in the first aid boxes and other suitable
locations. The contents and condition of all eye flush bottles should be checked
monthly by a qualified person and its content replaced as required. Bottles should
be marked with an expiry date.
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Training
At least one person of the contractor’s personnel must be adequately trained in first
aid. On larger construction sites more than one person who is trained in first aid may
be required. Valid and recent certificates of attendance of first aid lessons must be
furnished to Oiltanking on request.
4.5 Work Accidents
Every accident must be formally assessed and a written report including the
following points must be established:
Title of event
Category and impact of the incident
Exact date, time and location of the incident
Detailed description of the course of events
Response including measures taken and parties involved
Cause of incident
Corrective actions taken and recommendations
Estimated financial loss
Each accident or incident, for which personal help and/or care is imperative, is
required to be immediately reported to the HSSE Coordinator.
If information of authorities is required by local laws it is the duty of the HSSE Officer
to do so in case of an accident involving a contractor. Oiltanking must always be
notified immediately and beforehand about the information of authorities.
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5 Safety
It is Oiltanking policy to provide and maintain a safe working environment for own
employees as well as contractors. Each employee and contractor is encouraged to
support the company in ensuring that everything is being done to meet that
commitment. All risks involved should be continuously identified and evaluated.
Wherever needed, counter-measures should be developed based on the principles
of prevention.
5.1 Work Permit System
A Work Permit System covered by a formal written procedure is an important tool to

maintain a high level of safety in all Oiltanking facilities. Every activity which involves
dangers requires the issuance of a valid work permit. The work permit should
ensure that optimal organisational and technical precautions are taken to minimise
the remaining risk. Therefore the work permit clearly specifies the person who is
performing the work, the particular item of equipment or area involved, the extent of
work permitted, what conditions are to be observed and the time and duration of
validity.
The HSSE Officer and all contractor supervisors must have sufficient language
proficiency to ensure reliable communication with the HSSE Coordinator and to fully
understand the exigencies stipulated in the work permit. Before issuing a work
permit, the HSSE-Coordinator satisfies himself/herself that the conditions at the
work site, or on the equipment, are safe. If any of the conditions cannot be met, the
work permit will not be issued.
5.1.1 Types of Permits
Different activities give rise to different types of work permits to be issued. In general
the following types of activities are covered by the Work Permit System:
Cold work
Hot work
Confined space entry
Vehicle entry
Electrical work
Excavation work
Radiation work
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Any work permit for an activity in a potentially Hazardous Area requires also the
issuance of a Gas-free Certificate. This includes explicitly vehicle entries into such
areas.
5.1.2 Permit Application
Each contractor or subcontractor who carries out work on an Oiltanking site must be
in the possession of a valid work permit. Otherwise, no work may be carried out.
Therefore, the following procedure has to be followed to obtain a work permit.
The contractor must notify the Oiltanking department which ordered the work, at
least two days prior to work commencement in writing. The notification has at least
to contain the following information:
The name of the contractor (incl. subcontractors).
The reference number of the offer/order.
A short description of the work to be carried out.
Date and time of commencement and duration.
The number of persons who will carry out the work.
The on-site attendance of subcontractors.
A representative of the contractor (normally the HSSE Officer), acting as the

Authorised Permit Receiver (APR), should present himself/herself to the HSSE
Coordinator between 07.30 hrs and 09.00 hrs. The latter will act as the Authorised
Permit Issuer (API) and will issue the work permit(s). If needed, prior to issuance of
the work permit a gas-test will be carried out by an Authorised Gas Tester (AGT).
Contractors who do not strictly follow this procedure cannot be guaranteed that they
will obtain a work permit on the same day. Neither can waiting times in this
connection warrant occasion to charge supplementary costs.
The contractor and subcontractor have to be able to present a valid work permit at
any moment in time when requested to do so. They are required to strictly adhere to
the regulations as stipulated in the work permit.
Should work not have been completed during the period of validity of the issued
work permit, work must cease until the work permit is renewed or extended. If work
is carried out on a continuous shift-work basis, a renewal or extension of the work
permit is required for each change of shift.
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In case of violation of permit conditions, or a change of work site conditions or in

major emergency situations the work permit may be cancelled.
5.1.3 Completion of Work
Upon completion of the work, the work site has to be cleared and cleaned. All
vehicles, equipment, waste and dirt should be removed. Safety and communication
equipment has to be returned. This has to be marked and signed on the Work
Permit Form. The completed work permit is to be returned to the API.
5.2 Gas Testing
If work is to be carried out in areas or installations where an explosive, toxic or

oxygen-deficient atmosphere may be present, a gas test should be performed. This
test is to be carried out before the beginning of work and should be repeated
regularly. All measurement results should be noted on the Gas-free Certificate Form
(separate document or on the work permit). Depending on the results, a Gas-free
Certificate will be issued by the Approved Gas Tester (AGT).
A Gas-free Certificate must be obtained for all confined space entries, all hot work in
terminals and if explicitly stated in the work permit. In these cases work may not be
carried out without a valid Gas-free Certificate.
5.3 Work Equipment
Generally all work equipment used on Oiltanking sites must be in compliance with
local laws and EN or ANSI standards. This must be indicated by proper marking of
the CE or ANSI symbol on the equipment. Within the Hazardous Area of a terminal
no equipment which is not intrinsically safe may be introduced without a valid Hot
Work Permit.
5.3.1 Vehicles
All vehicles used for work on Oiltanking property must be technically sound. A
Vehicle Entry Permit is required to enter the Restricted Area. Only diesel driven
vehicles with a spark arrestor at the exhaust outlet and speed limiter at the air inlet
may be used in Hazardous Areas. Nevertheless, a valid Hot Work Permit in
combination with a Gas-free Certificate is required.
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5.3.2 Hand and Power Tools
All tools (hand-held, working aids, electrical and mechanical tools) must be used in
accordance to the manufacturer’s instructions. Usage of the latter for other than
their intended functions or outside the safe design capacity is strictly prohibited.
Persons assigned to use the tools must have received training in the correct and
safe use. Training should also include basic maintenance and checking of the tool’s
condition and safety provisions.
Safety guards and devices must be in place and functioning at all times. A visual
basic safety check must be made each time before using a tool. Hand tools and
other tools should be securely fastened to prevent them from falling down when
being used at height.
Electrical tools should be compatible to the electrical supply (voltage, frequency,

grounding or insulation method, etc.) and show a valid inspection sticker. When
using abrasive wheel machines or other rotating equipment special precautions (e.g.
eye protection and no loose clothing) are to be taken.
All power tools should be disconnected from the supply (air or electricity) before
changing bits, saw blades or grinding disks. Special attention is to be given only to
use suitable disks and bits (max. RPM).
Defective tools must not be used. They should be tagged and immediately removed
from the work site.
5.3.3 Compressors and Generators
Compressors and Generators must be technically sound and regularly inspected.

They should be placed outside of Hazardous Areas.
Electrical generators must be equipped with earth leakage circuit breakers (max.
30 mA). Electrical cables must have a rubber hull and be adequately protected
against mechanical impact and entry of liquids. Usage of rubber tape for repair of
cables is strictly prohibited.
Pressure hoses must be of an approved type and free of leaks. Usage of ordinary
hose clamps for connection of pressure hoses is strictly prohibited. Consideration
should be given to the usage of “low noise” equipment. If this is impracticable
suitable preventive measures such as usage of noise hoods should be considered.
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5.3.4 Fall Protection
Safety nets and safety harnesses must always found to be in their proper state and
in accordance with recognised standards (e.g. EN or ANSI). They have to be
periodically inspected by a competent person in accordance with the legislative
provisions. A label bearing the date of the last inspection is to be affixed to the
safety net or the safety harness. The inspections have to be recorded in a register
that is to be kept onsite.
5.3.5 Ladders
Each ladder is an aid to bridge height differences and is not meant to be used for
carrying out work. They should always be erected with an inclination of 20° to 30° to
the vertical.
Metal ladders constructed from steel or from aluminium alloys have to include
adequate antistatic caps made of synthetic material. Ladders should at all times be
in a good state of maintenance (without damage and stable) and equipped with
adapted anti-slip features. They must be erected on a good, firm base. If a ladder
has more than 25 rungs, then the ladder top is to be securely fixed.
The ladders have to be periodically inspected by a person competent to do so and

this in accordance with local regulations. A label bearing the date of the last
inspection carried out is to be affixed to a clearly visible part of the ladder. The
inspections have to be duly recorded in a register.
5.3.6 Scaffolding
Scaffolding must always conform to local standards and may only be erected or
altered by specialised companies holding required licenses and/or certificates. If a
construction calculation is required by local law, a copy of the calculation must be
sent to the HSSE Coordinator.
The platforms, passageways and ladders of the scaffold have to be dimensioned,

constructed, protected and used in such a manner that nobody can fall or be subject
to being struck by falling objects.
Each scaffold, which exceeds 2 m in height, has to be provided with railing,

intermediate railings and skirting. The working platform has to be conjoint and be
without dangerous spaces between the planks and railings and be of sufficient load-
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bearing strength. Access to the working platforms should be by means of stairs or

ladders.
Prior to use scaffolding has to be inspected by a competent person in accordance

with the regulations, thereafter periodically, after each modification or adjustment or
after an extended period of non-use, or other circumstances by which strength or
stability can be influenced or affected. The inspections have to be duly registered
and the register for this has to be available onsite. The scaffolding must be properly
labelled with the date of the last inspection.
Mobile scaffolding has to be provisioned with braked wheels, which immobilise the
structure. If a hanging scaffold is used, then the wearing of a suitable fall protection
is mandatory.
5.3.7 Lights
In Hazardous Areas intrinsically safe light sources must be used. Equipment must
be certified conform for usage in such areas and be regularly inspected. All
equipment must show a valid inspection sticker.
If rotating equipment is used no fluorescent tubes may be used to prevent

occurrence of stroboscope effects.
5.3.8 Communication Equipment
Communication equipment must be in compliance with local regulations. Fees and

royalties must be covered by the contractor.
If radios or telephones are to be used in Hazardous Areas, the apparatus itself and
the power source (e.g. battery pack) must be intrinsically safe and be accompanied
by a valid certificate of conformity and a valid inspection sticker. If cable based
equipment is to be used, attention must be given not to route non-intrinsically save
cables through Hazardous Areas.
5.4 Safe Work Practice
To provide and maintain a safe work environment certain precautions must be

considered when performing a job. This paragraph gives a brief overview of the
most common safety relevant works performed by contractors.
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5.4.1 Hot Work
Each work representing a potential source of ignition is to be considered as hot work

(e.g. welding, honing, burning, grinding, cutting, running of combustion engines in
Hazardous Areas etc.). A valid Hot Work Permit is always required to carry out this
type of work.
The zone or area where hot work will take place has to be kept free from
inflammable materials. When performing hot work, at least two contractor
employees have to be present. For some activities it may be indicated on the work
permit that the presence of a fire-watcher is a condition for the carrying out of the
work.
When hot work activities are being carried out, a sufficient number of adequate fire
extinguishing equipment must be available. It is the responsibility of the HSSE
Officer to provide the required equipment. He also has to ensure that all contractor
employees are familiar with the correct use of the fire extinguishing equipment.
5.4.2 Confined Space Entry
Every entry into a confined space such as tanks, pump pits, drainage pits,
excavation pits, oil/water separators etc. requires a valid Confined Space Entry
Permit.
A standby person must always be assigned. A rescue plan must be established for
the eventuality of an emergency. If entry is to be effectuated without a Self
Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) or an air-line respirator a valid Gas-free
Certificate must be obtained. Normally a safety belt attached to a lifeline should be
used.
5.4.3 Electrical Work
Electrical work may only be carried out by an Approved Electrical Person (AEP)
approved by the HSSE Coordinator. All works must be carried out with specialised
tools and approved equipment. Suitable lock-outs and tag-outs must be performed
(see Chapter 5.4.11).
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5.4.4 Welding and Cutting
Only competent and authorised employees should use welding and cutting
equipment. Usage of special PPE (e.g. eye protection, gloves, welding apron etc.)
during welding and cutting is mandatory. Welding and Cutting is regarded as hot
work and therefore requires the same precautions as stipulated in Chapter 5.4.1.
Gas Welding and Cutting
Gas cylinders must be in a good state and should be labelled with the name of their
contents and colour coded in accordance with local regulations. They should be
properly stored in an upright position and secured with clamps or chains in separate
racks. Store full and empty cylinder separately.
Automatic regulators and approved pressure gauges should be fitted to the

cylinders. They should include a non-return valve to prevent mixture of oxygen and
acetylene inside the cylinders. All equipment should be checked before use and
should be in good condition. Acetylene pressure of the cylinder should not exceed
20 bar to prevent explosion due to decomposition.
Only hose lines specially designed for welding and cutting operations should be
used to connect any oxy-acetylene torch to gas outlets. Hoses should be equipped
with approved flame arrestors. Hose lines for oxygen and for acetylene should be of
different colours and preferably of different sizes:
Red for flammable gases
Blue for oxygen
Black for inert gases
Do not use oil or grease on threads that may come into contact with compressed
oxygen. When torches are changed, the gases should be shut off at the pressure-
reducing regulators and not by crimping hoses.
Electric Arc Welding
The general rules for all welding work should also apply to electric arc welding, and
in addition the following considerations should apply. Neither self-amalgamating
tape or shrink sleeving nor PVC tape may ever be used for repairs to welding
cables. Damaged cables should be replaced as a whole. The grounding (earthing)
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lead should be connected directly to the work-piece by means of a clamp or bolted

terminal and the connection should be clean and secure to eliminate sparking.
The following should not be used as an earthing point:
Pipework containing flammable liquid or gas
Other cables or conduit
Chains or wire ropes
The main structure of the installation/site
Scaffolding
Where two or more welding machines are connected to the same structure or where
other portable electrical equipment/tools are in use, the earthing should be
supervised by an Approved Electrical Person (AEP).
Welding and Cutting in Confined Spaces
When welding and cutting operations are being out in a confined space, the
following has to be observed:
Adequate forced ventilation, by means of exhaust fans or forced draught as the
conditions require, should be constantly provided. Oxygen should never be used
for this purpose.
No airline or hand held blowpipe should be left unattended inside a tank or
vessel or other confined space during any interruptions of the work.
The welders should take all necessary precautions to prevent unburned
combustible gas or oxygen from escaping inside a tank or vessel or other
confined space.
Continuous gas testing in and around the tank should be carried out.
All gas cylinders and welding machines should be left outside the tank.
Adequate lighting with ground fault circuit interrupters should be used.
Electrical Hazards have to be observed when electric arc welding is performed in
confined spaces. Voltage should be limited to 42 V.
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5.4.5 Tank Cleaning
When cleaning a storage tank a number of precautions must be taken before the
tank is entered and the cleaning operation itself can start:
Emptying of the tank to the lowest possible product level.
Positive isolation of all pipelines and conduits of the tank.
Gas-freeing through continuous mechanical venting.
Continuous gas-testing.
Because of the remaining product sludge it is normally required to enter the tank
although a potentially atmosphere exists. Measurement results up to 10 % of the
Lower Explosive Limit (LEL) are acceptable. During removal of the sludge,
appropriate breathing protection must be used and venting has to continue. For this
work always a outside stand-by person must be assigned (see Chapter 5.4.2).
Before starting further cleaning activities a Gas-free Certificate should be issued to
allow tank entry without using breathing protection. Even then, a storage tank has to
be considered as a confined space with a potentially hazardous atmosphere.
Therefore, all equipment used in the tank (including lighting and vents) must be
intrinsically safe. All cleaning equipment, especially water or steam hoses, must be
correctly electrically bonded to the tank to prevent build-up of static electricity.
If venting or measurements are not performed as stipulated or if LEL rises above

10%, the entry permit is automatically suspended. Work should immediately cease
and everybody should leave the tank. The same rules apply if toxic exposures rise
above permissible limits. Ventilation should be continued in order to reduce the
vapour level and the HSSE Coordinator should be informed immediately. As soon
as gas-testing indicates that vapours are again at 0% LEL and the atmosphere is
within permissible toxic limits a new Gas-free Certificate will be issued and work
may continue. If the gas-concentration remains at higher levels the use of an SCBA
(for checks) or line respirators may be considered.
If a tank has formerly contained leaded products special disposable work clothes
preventing contamination with lead and suitable disposable gloves should be worn.
They should be replaced after each shift. Personnel hygiene must be strictly
observed.
It should also be remembered that certain methods of tank cleaning can generate
static electricity. Steam, particularly wet steam, issuing from a nozzle at high velocity
can cause the formation of a charged mist so it is recommended that high velocity
steam cleaning in a flammable atmosphere should be avoided, particularly in
enclosed spaces, even when the nozzle is earthed.
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In tank cleaning an electrostatic charge can also be generated when a water jet
impinges against the shell and breaks down into fine droplets. The electrostatic field
developed in this way is generally lower than that obtained with wet steam. Tank
cleaning with high-pressure water jets is permissible after gas-freeing or inerting.
Tank cleaning with a jet of hydrocarbon oil can also result in the generation of an
electrostatic charge.
When cleaning the inside of floating roof tanks it is important to ensure that pockets
of flammable material are not trapped in the tubular roof support legs due to a
blockage of the drain holes by scale or sludge.
Lighting equipment within the tank should be without cables, i.e. of the intrinsically
safe battery operated or of the compressed air driven turbine type as approved for
Zone 1 areas or other by national legislation.
There is a possibility that a pyrophoric scale may be present in tanks that have
contained products that are rich in sulphur compounds, such as sour crude oil. This
requires extreme care during cleaning. Pyrophoric scale can be highly reactive
when exposed to air and can rapidly reach temperatures in excess of the auto-
ignition temperature. If pyrophoric scale is suspected, the walls, roof and internals of
the tank should be kept wet during ventilation and cleaning to inhibit the pyrophoric
reaction.
Following the cleaning operation, adequate venting through the man holes must be
ensured to avoid the development of a vacuum. The vacuum may develop when the
hot steam cools down and this may destroy the tank.
5.4.6 Grit and Sandblasting
As grit and sandblasting represent potential sources of ignition a Hot Work Permit is
mandatory for this type of work. All equipment used for grit and sandblasting must
be suitably grounded. Because of the increased risk of injury due to flying particles,
suitable face and body protection (helmet with face shield and leather clothes) must
be worn. The area in which grit or sandblasting is to be performed should be
suitably blocked off to prevent non-protected persons from entering the dangerous
zone. All delicate equipment such as rating plates, level indicators, valves, vents
etc. must be suitably protected against particles.
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5.4.7 Painting
Before commencing a paint job, the contractor’s supervisor together with the
responsible Oiltanking department, have to precisely define which parts of the
installation are to be painted.
The following parts/components should never be painted:

The rating plates of apparatus/equipment, pressure vessels etc. as well as the
glass from manometers.
The glass of level indicators.
Delicate machine parts, where the paint coating could harm the proper working
of the machine such as moving or movable parts, pump-shafts, spindles of shut
off valves and the push button of electrical apparatus/equipment.
Electric cables.
Fire detection wires.
All instruments, light sources, control current switches and electric instrument
panels.
Membranes of pressure/vacuum valves.
Paint splatters on sensitive installations such as measuring apparatuses, valves,

light sources, insulating plates, walls, concrete etc. are required to be immediately
removed and the damage repaired before the paint has dried.
5.4.8 Demolition and Dismantling
Electric wiring, which is dismantled, has to be de-energised and physically

disconnected before commencing work activities. This work is required to be carried
out by an Approved Electrical Person (APE).
Product, water and air lines should be positively isolated before demolition or
dismantling commences. All equipment has to be free of product and product stains.
For environmental and economical reasons all materials should be separated with
regard to material and danger class. To simplify recycling, metals should be
classified into stainless steel, iron, aluminium and non-ferrous metals.
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5.4.9 Lifting and Handling
All users of lifting gear must be properly trained and instructed. Oiltanking lifting
gear may never be used without prior written approval of the HSSE Coordinator. All
lifting gear and hoisting accessories as well as excavating machines used in the
hoisting of loads brought to the construction area have to be provided with a valid
test certificate. The last test report regarding the different lifting gear as compiled by
a recognised body has always to be present on site. The lifting gear test certificates
have, on request, to be presented to the HSSE Coordinator.
The strength, stability and the resistance-capacity of the lifting gear and accessories
(chains, hooks, cables and tackling blocks) is to be visually inspected on a daily
basis. The electrical installations are required to be earthed. Requisite provisions
are required to be taken in order to prevent any possible contact with the electrical
conductor (namely, the movement of the arm, the swaying of the cables etc.).
Brakes, safety-catches, safety canopies or other safety aids to arrest an unexpected

descent of materials have always to be in proper working order. Cranes with
changeable working radiuses have to be provided with an indicator which
automatically portrays the maximum permitted load for each incline of the arm or an
automatic load control.
The lifting gear operator has always to be aware of the load borne. If this is
impossible, then any movements may only be carried out by order and to indications
conveyed by a signaller. No load may remain freely hanging outside of the actual
visible range of the crane operator. The necessary precautions have to be taken
against loads striking other objects and against suspended loads falling whilst work
is in progress.
During hoisting activities, the area within which is being hoisted has to be suitably
staked out. The access to High Risk Areas has to be made impossible through
suitable measures. Where it is necessary to employ more than one lifting apparatus
with an overlapping working range or large loads (tanks), a lifting-plan with clear
instructions is required to be drawn up together with the HSSE Coordinator.
It is not permitted to carry out lifting at a high wind speeds as the load may become
uncontrollable under these circumstances.
All materials and equipment have to be placed or stacked in such a manner that
they cannot collapse, move, fall over or topple.
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5.4.10 Excavation
Before manual or mechanical excavation takes place, the contractor (normally the
HSSE Officer) should contact the HSSE Coordinator to obtain an Excavation Work
Permit. For this purpose the location of all subsurface electric cables, pipelines,
sewer lines, telephone lines, etc. must be determined. Each damage, even minor
ones, has to be immediately reported to Oiltanking. If permit conditions or any other
rules and regulations as stipulated in this document are violated, the contractor is
held fully responsible for damage to subsurface installations and the consequences.
Every part of any excavation, shaft, earthwork or tunnel where persons are
employed should be inspected by the HSSE Officer at least once every day. The
face of tunnels and the working end of trenches of more than 1.5 m (5 ft) deep and
the base or crown of every shaft should be inspected at the commencement of
every shift for stability. When necessary, additional support must be installed. If
sufficient stability cannot be obtained, work should not be carried out.
The excavated soil, the equipment and vehicles in use have to be kept at a safe
distance from the excavations. To prevent people or material from falling into the
excavation always proper marking or fencing must be provided. For excavations of
more than 1.5 m a sufficient number of ladders is required in order to facilitate a
speedy evacuation.
Generally in pits, trenches, shafts and tunnels in petroleum storage facilities,

explosive gas-air mixtures can occur, as heavier-than-air gases tend to accumulate
in below grade openings. The HSSE Coordinator will decide whether a Gas-free
Certificate is required or not. If necessary, adequate forced ventilation must be
installed.
5.4.11 Lock-out and Tag-out
To prevent personal injury and property damage all machinery or equipment which
is repaired or upon which maintenance is being performed must be locked-out or
tagged-out. This includes all energy sources such as air, hydraulic, thermal or
spring-load devices. Tags and locks must be correctly completed, signed and dated
and must clearly name the person who placed it.
Only the person signing and placing a tag/lock (or his/her instructed shift-successor)
is allowed to remove it when work is completed. In electrical installations removal of
lead fuses is generally not sufficient. Physical disconnection of electrical feeder
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wires by an Authorised Electrical Person (AEP) is required. Generally, if possible,

hydraulic or pressure hoses should be physically disconnected as well.
5.5 Work Site
All elements which can cause hinder to traffic have to be clearly visible during day
and at night. Necessary marking and signposting should be in accordance with
international accepted standards.
Hazardous Areas and other areas with restricted access (e.g. construction sites)
should be fenced off (barriers, chains or barricade tape) with 45° diagonal red and
white stripes.
Areas of high risk or with physical hazards must be marked with 45° diagonal yellow
and black stripes. Areas to be marked include, but are not limited to:
High Risk Areas (noise, heat, fumes etc.)
Swivel areas of cranes and loading arms
Rims of berths and jetties if not protected by a railing.
High voltage areas
Slippery floors, wet surfaces and protection on stairs
Areas to be kept clear
Other physical hazards
5.6 Fire Safety
All electrical and mechanical apparatus for offices, workshops, work areas,
changing rooms etc. are required to be in a good and proper state and are subject
to a periodic inspection by the contractor. Heating elements have to be securely
fixed and provided with suitable protection. In particular a sufficient protection from
wood constructions by means of fireproof materials is required. Mesh grills
surrounding the equipment should be in place to prevent clothing or other
combustible materials from being in contact with the heating elements. Usage of
open gas heaters and electrical spiral filaments is forbidden.
Smoking is only permitted in designated smoking areas. When performing hot work,
the necessary measures have to be taken in accordance with requirements
stipulated in the Hot Work Permit.
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Solvents and inflammable materials may only be brought onto the site in limited
quantities secured in safety cans. For larger amounts (above 25 l), prior written
consent from the HSSE Coordinator is required.
It is the contractor’s responsibility to provide a sufficient number of suitable and

inspected fire extinguishers when working on Oiltanking property. Exemptions from
this duty may only be made by the HSSE Coordinator in written form, if suitable
equipment is provided by Oiltanking. All contractor personnel must be sufficiently
trained in the usage of portable fire extinguishers. Relevant certificates issued by a
certified body must be presented on request.
The use of the fixed fire fighting installation of Oiltanking is strictly forbidden.
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6 Security
Oiltanking facilities store large volumes of valuable and mostly dangerous liquids.
The security arrangements at the terminals are of vital importance for the following
reasons:
Prevention of theft, vandalism and even terrorism
Prevention of sabotage
Prevention of accidents due to unauthorised/untrained persons entering
Prevention of fire/explosion caused by the carrying of means of ignition
Control of vehicles, machinery and equipment being brought onto the terminal
Control of customs bonded products and materials
Recording of quantities of hazardous material entering and leaving the terminal
Recording of all persons and vehicles at the terminal in case of a major accident
Prevention of illegal immigrants/emigrants entering the terminal via ships
Prevention of unauthorised mooring
Fulfilling the ISPS-Code regulations
All third parties (e.g. contractors, truck drivers, surveyors and visitors) entering the
terminal should be controlled and recorded by the security guard. When entering the
restricted area, third parties will be controlled through badging. Normally, each
person and vehicle entering the site will be provided with an individual batch card
which cannot be transferred to another person or vehicle. The main purpose of
badging, from an HSSE point of view, is to always have a complete overview of the
number of persons and vehicles inside the restricted area to be able to check that all
persons have been evacuated in case of a plant wide emergency. All batch cards
have to be returned after each visit or after completion of the work for long term
projects.
Contractors are only allowed to enter the restricted area unattended, if in

possession of a valid vehicle permit and/or work permit.
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7 Environment
Oiltanking is committed to the protection of the environment and to the efficient and
responsible use of energy and materials. Therefore the following minimum
precautions regarding the handling of hazardous materials, emission reduction and
waste handling and disposal should be taken.
7.1 Hazardous Materials
Usage of hazardous materials or products which can be harmful to the environment

should be avoided if possible. If unavoidable, it is required to demonstrate that the
necessary preventative measures have been taken and that any possible secondary
risks are under control.
7.1.1 Entry Regulations
Hazardous materials and products which can be harmful to the environment may
only enter Oiltanking sites after the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) has been
furnished to the HSSE Coordinator.
Prior to commencing the working activities, it will be checked that no dangerous

reactions can arise with the products already present on the terminal. If this should
be the case, the HSSE Coordinator can forbid the use of such products by the
contractor or otherwise impose necessary measures. The contractor must inform
his/her personnel and instruct them with regard to the materials present on the
Oiltanking terminal and the hazardous materials to be used.
7.1.2 Identification and Labelling
Dangerous substances must always be labelled according to the legal requirements.

Proper labelling must at least show the following information:
Name of the dangerous substance(s)
Standard symbol or danger symbol
Risk (R) phrase describing the specific risks
Safety (S) phrase describing the safety precautions to be taken
Text informing how risks can be reduced
Name and address of the manufacturer
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The international standards stipulate black pictograms on an orange square. The

following list shows all international danger symbols.
Item Placing Sign

Highly flammable All canisters, barrels and other packaging
of product with the applicable danger class
(e.g. Acrylonitrile).
Extremely flammable All canisters, barrels and other packaging
(e.g. Propylene Oxide).
Explosive All canisters, barrels and other packaging
(e.g. Ammoniumbichromate).
Oxidizing All canisters, barrels and other packaging
(e.g. Sodium Peroxide).
Corrosive All canisters, barrels and other packaging
(e.g. Sulfuric Acid).
Irritant All canisters, barrels and other packaging
(e.g. Ammonia).
Harmful All canisters, barrels and other packaging
(e.g. Acetyl Acetone).
Toxic All canisters, barrels and other packaging
(e.g. Benzene).
Very toxic All canisters, barrels and other packaging
(e.g. Carbon Disulfide).
Dangerous for the environment All canisters, barrels and other packaging
(e.g. Gasoline).
7.1.3 Handling and Storage
The handling and storage of hazardous materials must be in accordance with the
local legislation. The HSSE Officer has to ensure that all employees handling or
being exposed to hazardous materials are provided with proper PPE (see Chapter
4.3). The HSSE Coordinator may require the storage in a secondary containment
and the presence of suitable anti-spill equipment.
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7.2 Immissions
7.2.1 Water and Soil
To avoid pollution of surface water the terminal’s sewage and/or drainage systems
are only to be used with a written approval of the HSSE Coordinator. Precise
information on the nature of the effluent, the concentration and the volume to be
discharged has to be provided. The contractor is fully responsible for any damage or
claim resulting from their discharge of wastewater to the Oiltanking sewage system
or into surface water bodies.
To protect soil and groundwater from pollution, suitable precautions must be taken
to prevent spillage of hazardous materials and products which can be harmful to the
environment. If the work to be undertaken is likely to produce minor spills (e.g.
usage of solvent for cleaning purposes) it may only be carried out if suitable
equipment (e.g. sorbent) is located at the work site to contain minor spills
immediately. It is the contractor's duty to ensure the fulfilment of this requirement as
well as to dispose of any contaminated sorbent correctly at his/her own cost.
Any product spill is to be immediately reported to the HSSE Coordinator who

decides on the further measures to be taken.
7.2.2 Atmosphere
Emission to the atmosphere should be reduced to as low as reasonably practical.
If products with a high vapour pressure are handled or used, special attention is to
be given to avoid unnecessary vapour emissions by always closing storage
containers properly.
All combustion engines such as generators or compressors and other thermal

equipment such as for example burners must be well maintained and well adjusted
to prevent excessive production of air pollutants.
Preferably “low noise” equipment should be used to minimise noise emissions. If

noise producing equipment must be used, it should be placed remotely or
adequately capsulated.
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7.3 Waste
If the production of waste cannot be avoided, it has to be handled properly.

Generally, all waste which is produced by the contractor must be disposed of by the
contractor himself/herself at his/her own cost, if not otherwise stated in the order
documents. Handling of waste is covered by local legislation that must be adhered
to.
7.3.1 Waste Handling
Non-hazardous waste
Whenever possible, non-hazardous waste should be separated for environmental

and economical reasons. Mixing of different types of non-hazardous waste can
complicate recycling. Therefore, non-hazardous waste should be stored in separate
containers.
Hazardous waste
All personnel handling hazardous waste must be clearly informed on the risks
involved and provided with proper PPE. Hazardous waste should be segregated
from non-hazardous waste material. Storage areas for hazardous waste should be
clearly marked. The floor must be product tight, curbed and be connected to the
wastewater sewage system. All hazardous waste should be protected against
rainfall to prevent wash-out of effluents which can result in contamination of the soil.
Hazardous and toxic waste should be stored and transported in special, closed
containers suitably marked. Within a hazardous waste container, individual
substances should be separately packed (secondary containment) in a secure
manner (e.g. drum, thick non-porous bag, box etc.) and each package should be
clearly labelled. Individual substances, which may react dangerously if mixed,
should not be stored in the same hazardous waste container even though they are
packed separately.
Contaminated soil should normally be stored in closed or at least covered

containers before final disposal. If there is not enough storage capacity in fixed
containers, at least product resistant impermeable tarpaulins are to be placed under
and over the contaminated soil as a provisional measure. Tarpaulins should be
securely fastened.
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7.3.2 Waste Disposal
Preferably, non-hazardous waste will be collected by a licensed contractor for

recycling. If this is not possible, the waste will be collected by the local refuse
company.
It is of great importance that only licensed companies are contracted for the disposal
of hazardous waste. This must be done in accordance with all applicable laws and
regulations. The contractor needs to have a written contract with a reliable and
reputable, licensed and approved waste disposal firm. The disposal methods and
disposal sites should be communicated to the HSSE Coordinator who should also
record all activities.
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8 Emergency
It is known that even the best practices and precautions cannot always prevent
emergencies. Therefore, every contractor must be familiar with the Oiltanking
emergency planning and must establish rescue plans for his/her direct work place. It
is the HSSE Officer’s responsibility to ensure that all employees of his/her company
(incl. subcontractors) are fully aware of all emergency and rescue procedures.
8.1 Terminal Emergency Plan
The contractor has to provide himself/herself with the information about the
Emergency Response Plan (ERP), which is set up for each Oiltanking terminal.
Emergency measures of contractors must always be in compliance with this
document. Key information on how to react in emergencies is also given in the
Terminal Information Booklet (TIB) which is issued by many terminals.
8.2 Emergency Instruction
When an emergency situation such as fire, explosion, gas leak, spill, etc. takes
place at the work site or is observed by a contractor the following basic rules apply:
Stop all activities in a safe manner.
Rescue injured and endangered persons, but only if safe to do so.
Trigger the nearest emergency alarm button.
If possible, fight the fire with portable fire extinguishers.
Inform the control room on WHERE did WHAT happen and WHO is informing by
using terminal telephones, intercom stations or terminal radios.
Follow escape routes and report to an upwind assembly point in a safe area.
If product is released all ignition sources must be shut down. Inlets of the sewage
system should be blocked. In case of gas releases vehicles may never be used.
Oiltanking facilities have different audible alarm systems (e.g. fire alarm, gas alarm,
all clear signal). The HSSE Officer has to provide himself/herself with information on
the alarm signals used. When the alarm sounds, the contractor has to follow the
local procedures.
At all times follow the instructions of the Oiltanking personnel.

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8.3 Escape and Rescue Plan
Each contractor must establish a work place related Escape and Rescue Plan in
close co-ordination with the HSSE Coordinator. All measures described in this plan
must be compatible with the procedures as laid down by Oiltanking.
The document should give instructions on rescue and medical care in case of an
accident in the work area. The HSSE Officer must assess whether the work to be
performed requires special rescue equipment (e.g. pull-out line with harness). If so,
this has to be provided by the contractor.
Furthermore, instructions for the evacuation of the designated work area should be
defined. This must include head-count procedures for all employees and clear
definition of responsibilities in case of an evacuation. The HSSE Officer should
contact the HSSE Coordinator to obtain information on escape routes and assembly
points to be used.
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9 Additional Regulations for Grassroots Construction Sites

9.1 Provision of Fire Fighting and First Aid Equipment
It must be considered that on grassroots construction sites usually no Oiltanking

equipment is available. Generally, it is the responsibility of the contractor to provide
sufficient fire fighting and first aid equipment, when working on Oiltanking grassroots
construction sites.
In cases where such equipment is available by courtesy of Oiltanking as a free lend-

out, it may be used with the permission of the HSSE Coordinator. However, it is
always the contractor’s responsibility to ensure the availability of sufficient fire
fighting and first aid equipment as stipulated in local regulations and in work permits.
If doubts about necessary equipment arise, advice from the HSSE Coordinator
should be sought.
9.2 Signposting
To provide a healthy and safe work place, signs indicating prohibitions, mandatory
PPE, escape routes, first aid and fire fighting equipment are to be properly placed.
The psychology of safety signs is based on colour and shape. These principles are
applicable world-wide. It is recommended to display a safety poster with all safety
signs and their explanations in a prominent location (e.g. operator's cubicle and/or
control room) to make employees familiar with them. The following table gives an
overview:
Design Colour Shape Symbol Category Message Example

White with
red ring and Round Black Prohibition Do not!
diagonal
Blue Round White Mandatory Do!
Yellow with
Triangle Black Warning Caution!
black rim
Square or First Aid or Equipm. here!

Green White
rectangular Rescue Safe route!
Equipment
Red Square White Fire fighting
here!
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On construction sites or for major expansions at terminals the signposting has to be

provided by the main contractor. The HSSE Coordinator will determine this
responsibility and co-ordinate with other contractors.
Prohibition signs
Prohibition signs are important to stress the relevant safety rules. The following list
is a selection of the most important prohibition signs commonly used:
Item Placing Sign

Naked flames/lights and smoking forbidden At the entrance gate (sign plate), on the
border to the Restricted Area and as a
reminder at loading racks, jetties etc.
No smoking At the entrance gate (sign plate), on the
border to the Restricted Area and as a
Use of mobile phones prohibited At the entrance gate (sign plate), on the
(switch off phones) border to the Restricted Area and as a
Cameras prohibited At the entrance gate of the terminal (sign
(photo and video) plate) and at the shore approach of jetties.
No access/entry to unauthorised personnel For example at the entry of tank pits,

electrical substations, pump houses or
construction areas.
No drinking or eating All areas where toxic substances are
handled.
Mandatory signs
Mandatory signs are important to point out the Personal Protective Equipment
(PPE) to be used. The following list is a selection of the important mandatory signs:
Item Placing Sign

Safety helmet must be worn On the border to the Restricted Area and
as a reminder at loading racks, jetties etc.
as well as in construction areas.
Safety shoes must be worn On the border to the Restricted Area and
as a reminder at loading racks, jetties etc.
as well as in construction areas.
Safety gloves must be worn In all areas where special hand protection
is required (e.g. on loading racks or jetties
where corrosive materials are handled).
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Safety glasses or goggles must be worn In all areas where safety glasses or
goggles are required (e.g. because of
flying objects when cutting).
Face shield must be worn In all areas where a face shield is required
(e.g. on chemical loading racks or jetties
because of splash hazards).
Ear protection must be worn In all areas where a ear protection is
(ear plugs or mufflers) required (e.g. in pump houses).
Protective clothing must be worn In all areas where full protective suit is
required (e.g. on chemical loading racks or
jetties because of splash hazards).
Dust mask must be worn In all areas where dust masks are required
(e.g. during tank maintenance with sand
blasting or spray painting).
Respirator must be worn In all areas where respirators are required
(e.g. when handling additives).
Self Contained Breathing Apparatus must In all areas where SCBA’s are required
be worn (normally only as temporary sign e.g. when
entering tanks before cleaning).
Safety harness with line must be worn In all areas where a fall protection is
required (e.g. at railcar loading racks or
temporary for work on tank roofs).
Life jacket must be worn On jetties if not properly secured or in
areas where working over water without
safety harness and line.
First aid and rescue signs
First aid equipment and facilities must be clearly marked with the applicable
international signs. The following list is a selection of the most important symbols:
Item Placing Sign

First Aid Box On the first aid box itself and, if hidden,
clearly visible in close proximity. On doors
of rooms where the first aid box is stored.
Emergency telephone Above the telephone and, if hidden, clearly
visible in close proximity. On the door of
the room where the telephone is located.
Safety Shower On the safety shower itself and, if hidden,
clearly visible in close proximity.
Eye washer (fixed installed or bottle) On the eye washer itself and, if hidden,
clearly visible in close proximity. On the
box in which the eye flush bottle is stored.
Stretcher On the stretcher itself or, if hidden, clearly
the room where the stretcher is stored.
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This way (example: to the left; always to be Only in combination with one of the before
combined with the equipment symbol) mentioned signs. Pointing in the direction
of the equipment.
Emergency exit (example: to the right, In all key locations (e.g. in buildings, in
down-stairs) tankpits etc.), always pointing to the next
emergency exit, stairway, ladder etc.
Assembly point At the assembly point itself clearly visible
from all sides (eventually 3-D signpost).
Fire fighting signs
Fire fighting equipment is meant to be used in case of an emergency only. The

following list is a selection of the most important fire fighting signs:
Item Placing Sign

Fire extinguisher (handheld or wheeled, On the outside of the cabinet or above the
with labels indicating the content) equipment, clearly visible from hazardous
areas and distance.
Fire hose cabinet or fire hose reel On the outside of the cabinet, clearly
visible from hazardous areas and distance.
Emergency fire phone Above the telephone and, if hidden, clearly

the room where the telephone is. located.
Fire alarm point Above the button and, if hidden, clearly
visible in close proximity.
Fire fighting equipment On the outside of the cabinet, clearly

(e.g. sand bucket or fire blanket; the type visible from hazardous areas and distance.
must be specified in writing under the sign)
Fire ladder On or above the storage place of the
ladder, clearly visible from the distance.
This way Only in combination with one of the before

(example: to the right; always to be mentioned signs. Pointing in the direction
combined with the equipment symbol) of the equipment.
Warning signs
Warning signs convey information about a possible hazardous condition or situation.

They are required by health and safety regulation and must be displayed to warn
persons to take precautions. Dangers for which no specific symbol exists can be
indicated by using the general warning sign combined with an additional safety text.
The following list is a selection of the most important standard warning signs:
Document: GS-004
Page: 58 of 60
Item Placing Sign

High voltage Outside (e.g. on doors) of electrical
substations and other installations with
electrical hazards.
Flammable material Outside (e.g. on doors) of rooms /buildings
or areas where flammable materials are
stored or handled.
Explosive material Outside (e.g. on doors) of rooms/buildings
or areas where explosive materials are
stored or handled.
Explosive atmosphere Outside (e.g. on doors) of rooms/buildings
or areas where an explosive atmosphere
exists or may exist.
Corrosive material Outside (e.g. on doors) of rooms/buildings
or areas where corrosive materials are
stored or handled.
Oxidising material Outside (e.g. on doors) of rooms/buildings
or areas where oxidising materials are
stored or handled.
Toxic material Outside (e.g. on doors) of rooms/buildings
or areas where toxic materials are stored
or handled.
Radioactive material Outside (e.g. on doors) of rooms/buildings,
tanks or areas where radioactive materials
are stored or used.
Danger Generally in all areas with a hazard that is
(always to be combined with specific not covered by standard signs. Only in
danger identification; e.g. “arc welding”) combination with a text ident. the hazard.
Document: GS-004
Version: 2.0
HSSE Policy Attachment: A
HSSE Department Prepared by: HSSE, M&B
Health, Safety and Environmental Commitment and Policy
Oiltanking is committed to the safe and efficient operation of its facilities. Our goal is
to prevent all accidents, injuries and occupational illness and to protect the
environment. In order to achieve this, we will:
n Promote Health, Safety, Security & s Be prepared for a quick and efficient
Environment (HSSE) in all response to emergency situations to
companies and manage it in the minimise the potential impact of
same way as any other critical incidents should they occur.
business activity.
o Comply with all applicable laws and t Design, build and maintain facilities
regulations and apply appropriate and utilize services in a manner to
standards where respective avoid risk to people and the
legislation does not exist. environment.
p Have a sound HSSE Management u Provide training and job-specific

System, in which competencies, education to all employees
responsibilities and communication supported by internal standards,
channels are clearly defined. procedures and instructions.
q Provide a safe and healthy work v Use energy and natural resources
environment for all employees and efficiently, prevent pollution and
contractors with adequate facilities raise employee’s awareness to
and appropriate protective minimise adverse impacts on the
equipment. environment.
r Identify and analyse potential w Set targets and benchmark our
hazards and security threats and performance to achieve continuous
implement measures to avoid, improvement and ensure
prevent, control and restrict the compliance with all applicable
associated risks. standards.
The management will visibly and rigorously support the implementation of this
policy. We expect the support of all employees, contractors and others working for
us in order to make our HSSE performance one which will earn us the continuing
confidence of our customers, neighbours and the community at large.
Hamburg, October 2004
Gust Spaepen
Managing Director - Oiltanking GmbH
Document: GS-004
Version: 2.0
Document Receipt Form Attachment: B
HSSE Department Prepared by: HSSE, M&B
Acknowledgement of Receipt for the

“Rules and Regulations for Contractors”
The contractor hereby confirms that he has received the Oiltanking “Rules and
Regulations for Contractors” (Document GS-004, Version 2.0).
The contractor hereby declares to have taken a full and clear understanding of the
contents of this document and to fully comply with the provisions made therein.
The contractor also confirms that the employees working on the Oiltanking site have
taken comprehensive knowledge of the requirements stipulated in the Oiltanking
“Rules and Regulations for Contractors” and are fully aware of the legal and
technical standards which must be adhered to.
COMPANY :
REPRESENTATIVE :
TITLE :
DATE :
SIGNATURE :

Rules and Regulations for Contractors at Oil Facilities

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Rules and Regulations

Action Name Title Date

1.1 Scope .............................................................................................................. 4

3.1 HSSE Organisation ........................................................................................ 9

4.1 Industrial Safety ........................................................................................... 14

5.1 Work Permit System .................................................................................... 30

5.3.8 Communication Equipment ......................................................................... 35

7.1 Hazardous Materials .................................................................................... 47

8.1 Terminal Emergency Plan ........................................................................... 52

9 Additional Regulations for Grassroots Construction Sites...................... 54

9.1 Provision of Fire Fighting and First Aid Equipment ................................. 54

A. Oiltanking HSSE Policy

Oiltanking has implemented an HSSE Management System for all world-wide

The document at hand defines minimum HSSE requirements that have to be

 American National Standards Institute (ANSI Z41): Personal protection –

 American National Standards Institute (ANSI Z87.1): American national standard

 American National Standards Institute (ANSI Z89.1): Personal protection –

 European Committee for Standardisation (EN 166): Personal eye-protection,

 European Committee for Standardisation (EN 344-345): Safety, protective and

 European Committee for Standardisation (EN 346): Protective footwear for

 European Committee for Standardisation (EN 347): Occupational footwear for

 European Committee for Standardisation (EN 420): General requirements for

 Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA 3074): Hearing

 Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA 3079): Respiratory

Hazardous areas are generally referred to as areas wherein a dangerous

High Risk Area

A near miss is an event or occurrence that could have resulted in an incident or

An incident is an unforeseen event or occurrence, resulting in material damage, loss

An accident is an unforeseen event or occurrence usually involving injury or death of

environmental damage, fire or explosion and injury or death of a person or a group

Authorised Permit Applicant (APA)

Authorised Permit Issuer (API)

Authorised Permit Receiver (APR)

Authorised Gas Tester (AGT)

Approved Electrical Person (AEP)

3.1 HSSE Organisation

Contractors working for Oiltanking should have an HSSE organisation in place

When working for Oiltanking, an HSSE Officer has to be nominated by the

Often different contractors are working on a terminal or grassroots construction site

3.2 Basic Safety Rules

 Garbage and waste must be collected and disposed of in dedicated containers.

3.3 Access Regulations

Before commencing the work, a representative of the contractor has to present

3.4 Traffic Regulations

It is forbidden to park vehicles in front of or at entrances and exits, fire fighting

3.5 Utility Services

3.6 Receipt and Storage of Goods

The transport, unloading, storage and safeguarding of the material, purchased by

4.1 Industrial Safety

An efficient emission control contributes to the prevention of long-term

4.2 Occupational Hygiene

Contractors working on Oiltanking property have normally no access to the

Changing Rooms and Lockers

If circumstances should demand (hazardous substances, moisture and dirt), there

A sufficient number of lavatories must be provided. They either have to be

Showers and Washbasins

The contractor is required to provide a refreshment area that is separate to the

4.3 Personal Protective Equipment

PPE should be stored and maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s

4.3.1 Minimum Requirements

Every person entering the Restricted Area of a terminal should be in possession of

In case of lack of a local regulation, helmets should be in compliance with EN 397 or

Body protection should be worn to prevent injuries caused by absorption of

American National Standards Institute (ANSI Z41): Personal protection –

American National Standards Institute (ANSI Z87.1): American national standard

American National Standards Institute (ANSI Z89.1): Personal protection –

European Committee for Standardisation (EN 166): Personal eye-protection,

European Committee for Standardisation (EN 344-345): Safety, protective and

European Committee for Standardisation (EN 346): Protective footwear for

European Committee for Standardisation (EN 347): Occupational footwear for

European Committee for Standardisation (EN 420): General requirements for

Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA 3074): Hearing

Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA 3079): Respiratory

Garbage and waste must be collected and disposed of in dedicated containers.