Adverse Weather Policy

HSE DEPARTMENT 29.11.
2010
Document Title:
ADVERSE WEATHER POLICY
Rev.# Date of Description of Revision Prepared Approved

Revision
0 29.11.2010 Initial release Aynura Alakbarova Emin Ahmadov
Note:
This document is a controlled copy of the Rovshan Oguz Safety Management System. Any copies made
of this document are uncontrolled and are therefore not subject to review and further approval.
This document will be reviewed on an annual basis, at a minimum, to ensure its continued
appropriateness and effectiveness.
Title: Safety Management System Revision: C0

HSE DEPARTMENT 29.11.2010
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. Purpose
2. Scope
3. Policy
3.1. General
3.1.1. Preparation for adverse weather
3.1.2. Working at height
3.2. Windy Weather Conditions
3.2.1. Lifting Operations
3.2.2. Elevated Working Platforms (EWP)
3.2.3. Working at heights
3.2.4. Transportation
3.3. Heavy Rain / Fog
3.4. Snowy / Ice Conditions
3.4.1. Snow Storm Impact Management
3.5. Temperature Extremities Requirements
3.5.1. Cold Weather
3.5.2. Hot Weather
4. References
5. Appendices
5.1. Appendix 1 – Preparation for Snow Storm Impact
5.2. Appendix 2 – Snow Storm Impact Management Guide

1. Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to clarify site-specific requirements during periods of Adverse
Weather. The Policy outline plans for continuing operations, reducing staffing exposed on site or
shutting down of activities on site during adverse weather conditions.
2. Scope
This Policy applies to all staff and contractors of Rovshan Oguz Group LLC.
3. Policy
During adverse weather conditions any task can involve additional risk. To safely manage these
risks the directives herein will be adhered to. Any deviations must undergo a Level 2 Risk
Assessment and be approved by relevant Site Controller.
3.1. General
3.1.1. Preparation for adverse weather
It is the responsibility of Supervisors to reinforce requirement of leaving the worksite in safe

condition as a part of preparation for adverse weather and for activities carried out during
adverse weather periods. Weather forecasts issued in advance can be used as basis for this
decision.
3.1.1.1. Snow Storm Impact Management

 Step-by-step Preparation for Snow Storm Impact is detailed in Appendix 1
 Step-by-step Management of Snow Storm Impact is detailed in Appendix 2.
3.1.1.2. Notification to Contractors
The following flowchart must be adhered to in case of anticipated heavy snow conditions:
Forecast Available Contractors will be notified by

e-mail – HSE Advisor on shift
Preparation Process
2 days before 1 day before Snow Storm start
3.1.2. Working at height

Work at height should no longer just be considered as an activity of 2 m or higher above
the ground.

Personnel are advised that, work at height now means any place from which – if preventive
measures were not taken – a person could fall and injure themselves, including a place at or
below ground level or in the course of gaining access or egress from any place, except by a
staircase in a permanent workplace. This is the definition of RO Procedure for Working at
Height and is stricter than Golden Rule of Safety definition for Working at Heights.
3.2. Windy Weather Conditions

In the event of site wind speed reaching or exceeding 12.8 m/s all staff will be informed.
The following precautions shall be adhered to:

All external lifting operations will be stopped.
Lifting operations may only be allowed to re-commence following:
 A Task / Area Specific Risk Assessment will be undertaken taking into consideration
prevailing site conditions, prevailing protection offered by current site conditions,
industry guidelines, crane manufacturer recommendations, and type / weight / shape of
load being lifted.
 The locality wind speed should be re-checked to confirm that wind speed has been
mitigated or protected by adjacent buildings / structures or location.
 Any suspected increase in the wind speed must be confirmed. PA must continuously
assess the wind conditions and discuss changes with the AA.

All external EWP operations shall be stopped. EWP including Scissor lifts, Boom lifts and
Snorkel lifts.
EWP operations may only be allowed to re-commence following:
industry guidelines and EWP manufacturer recommendations.

All external sites Working at Heights and Scaffolding shall be stopped if wind speed exceeds
12.8 m/s.
To continue work in these conditions:

industry guidelines and EWP manufacturer recommendations.
Tools or equipment left unsecured during high wind conditions have the potential to fall and
injure personnel working below during high winds:
 The work area (permanent and temporary platforms, building roofs etc.) shall be
inspected for potential dropped / rolling objects at the end of the shift or when the work is
suspended.
 All loose tools and / or equipment shall be secured or removed.
 Rolling objects must be secured or removed.
 In the event of a weather forecast indicating expected high wind speeds all plant
areas and scaffolds should be checked that all clear and are secure and any remedial
tightening / securing is completed prior to wind increasing.
During high winds dust storms can be created which can limit visibility. High winds can also
affect the handling or larger transport equipment. During these periods extra caution must be
taken, including reducing speed, and if necessary pulling off into a safe area until it is safe to
proceed.
 Bicycles must not be used during windy weather conditions.

 Tricycles should only be used based on pre-assessment of weather condition by
user. Consideration should be made of route, road condition, distance of travel and
load being transported, both the prevailing weather condition and any other
weather forecast update if known.
3.3. Heavy Rain / Fog

During periods of heavy rain, ground conditions quickly change. Soil erosion and visibility can
be affected. Flooding can also be a problem in areas with poor drainage. During periods of heavy
rain the following precautions should be adhered to:

Prior to conducting any lift, during or after heavy rain, ground conditions must be assessed by a
competent person. If ground stability is suspect or if visibility is affected, the lifting operation
shall be suspended. Visibility during fog should also be considered for Lifting Operations that
need to be carried out.


As with Lifting Operations above, ground and fog conditions must be assessed prior to using any
EWP.

Due to poor grip, poor visibility and slipping hazards during heavy rain / fog conditions, all
external working at height must be stopped.
 A Task / Area Specific Risk Assessment will be undertaken taking into consideration the
prevailing weather conditions, the location of the work, the prevailing protection offered
by the work location and type of work.
 PPE of the employees must be checked for fitness to work under these conditions.
 PA must continuously assess the rain / fog conditions and discuss changes with the AA.
During heavy rain or fog, driver visibility can be drastically reduced and road conditions
affected. During these periods the following precaution should be followed:
 Only essential travel shall be conducted.

 Vehicle speed must be adjusted by the driver according to weather conditions.
 Ensure that windshield washer fluids are topped up at the start of every shift, and that
wiper blades are in good condition.
 Be cautious of washouts in the road surface.
 Be aware that any surfaces not tarmaced can become extremely soft, unstable and
slippery.
 Avoid driving through flooded areas, as the actual depth is unknown and unseen
obstacles under the water level can present a hazard (blown off storm drain covers, wash
outs, rocks etc.).
 Bicycles must not be used during heavy rain / fog conditions.
 Tricycles should only be used based on pre-assessment of weather condition by the user.
3.4. Snowy / Ice Conditions

During winter months snow and ice can be a serious hazard, particularly on roads. If combined
with wind conditions, they can also impose extremely poor visibility. During these periods the
following precautions should be adhered to:
3.4.1. Snow Storm Impact Management
 The number of required cleaning personnel will be minimized when the most of cleaning
and treatment will be conducted by using of specialized equipment.
 Site cleaning team will use special non-slippery footwear PPE (suitable PPE is
available).

Detailed step-by-step guide is available in Appendix 1.

Prior to conducting any lift during snow / icy conditions, ground conditions must be assessed by
Site Lifting Coordinator. If ground stability is suspect or if visibility is affected the lifting
operation shall be suspended.
As with lifting ground conditions must be assessed. Working surfaces can also be hazardous if
covered with snow and / or ice. Inspect all working surfaces prior to commencing work, and
ensure they are free of all snow and ice prior to proceeding with any operation.
Due to poor grip, poor visibility and slipping hazards during heavy rain / fog conditions, all
external working at height must be stopped.
 A Task / Area Specific Risk Assessment will be undertaken taking into consideration the
prevailing weather conditions, the location of the work, the prevailing protection offered
by the work location and type of work.
 PPE of the employees must be checked for fitness to work under these conditions.
 PA must continuously assess the Snowy / Ice weather conditions and discuss changes
with the AA.
As with EWP all working surfaces on permanent platforms and approved scaffolding must be
inspected by PA prior to commencing work. They must be free of all snow and ice prior to
proceeding with any operation.
During periods of ice and snow, driving becomes a very hazardous activity. In the event of snow
and / or ice the following precaution shall be strictly adhered to:
 Off Site Travel:
 Only essential travel is to take place in accordance with the Transportation Decision Flow
Diagram below.
 In case if road conditions are extremely unsafe then personnel on-shift will be required to
stay additional days to avoid transportation of oncoming shift.
 On-Site Travel:
 In the event of Snow Storm Transport Coordinator will identify members of Operations
Team on shift who will perform driving duties on site.
 For the period (day shift and night shift) of heavy snowing and icy road conditions
Transportation Department to assign a team of professional drivers (2-3 person) on site
who will operate the operations and maintenance vehicles. Number one above is the
default resource we shall use, but these professional drivers will be available on
request in case if we need them.
 All the vehicle movement on site must be authorized based on safety criticality of trip.
 Visibility and road stability can be dramatically reduced during a snow storm, vehicle
speed will be reduced and 4WD mode shall be used. Low Beam headlights should be
used during times of reduced visibility and if traveling at night as high beams will
increase glare and further reduce driver visibility.
 If conditions drastically deteriorate during a trip, terminate the trip if possible, and return
to point of departure or closest safe area. If it is impossible to proceed find a safe area to
pull in to. Immediately report your location and situation to the Transport Coordinator.
 If there is any doubt as to road conditions, do not travel except in an emergency. You
have the right to refuse any situation which you feel is unsafe.
 Bicycles / Tricycles must NOT be used during snow / icy weather conditions.
Transportation Decision Flow Diagram

During predicted snow and ice periods only essential personnel shall travel to the sites.
1. Transportation from city to 3. Transportation Coordinator will

site will start when we have communicate this report to the HSE
daylight (unless advised otherwise) Manager, who will then decide which
personnel and vehicles if any, will be
allowed to travel
2. Transportation department’s
representative shall determine the
condition of the road used to travel
to site and report his findings to the
Transportation Coordinator
These weather conditions are most likely to affect work which involves movement of personnel,
equipment or materials. Therefore, the effect of the weather must be considered when planning
and carrying out these types of tasks. The weather forecast should be reviewed at the daily
meeting so that any precautions which may be necessary can be put in place.
3.5. Temperature Extremities Requirements

Facilities in Baku can be exposed to relatively cold temperatures in winter and extremely hot
temperatures during summer period due to its geographical location so it is important that risks
for personnel associated with these temperature extremities are controlled.
3.5.1. Cold Weather
During periods of cold weather the potential for personnel to suffer from cold related injuries
such as frost bite, trench foot and hypothermia exists.
In order to prevent such injuries the following precautions shall be considered:

 Supervisors will re-examine ongoing and planned works and apply their best judgment to
minimize risk to personnel.
 In the event of the ambient temperature reducing quickly and approaching 4 degrees C
and below, all supervisory field staff must observe and monitor the ambient temperature
conditions and introduce Low Temperature breaks for his staff.
 Should the ambient temperature continue to drop and, if any rising wind condition adds
wind chill factor, then work MUST be postponed and the workforce advised to seek
warm shelter.
 When possible plan work in exposed areas for times when exposure to cold temperatures
is less likely.
 Take in to account the wind chill factor when planning work breaks.
 Provide shelters where personnel can gain some respite from the weather.
 Provide warm drinks during rest periods.
 Provide adequate warm clothing.
 If ambient temperature falls equal to or below 10º C and the wind speed exceeds 5.5 m/s
at the same time all outside works must be suspended or regular breaks shall be provided
to employees.
3.5.2. Hot Weather

Heat stress is usually the result of work being performed at elevated temperatures. Contributory
factors may also include a decrease of natural body ventilation by protective clothing e.g.
chemical and impervious suits.
All external works to be suspended while ambient temperature is above 41º C.
For external work areas that have lower temperature due to their layout a local
temperature reading needs to be obtained to make decision about work suspension.
Supervisory Controls
Supervisory controls to reduce the exposure time are as follows:
 Ensure workers are acclimatized to the heat

 Provide shelters where workers can find shade and protection from the direct sun rays
 Provide periodic water breaks where workers can drink before, during and after work
 Establish a work regime where workers can be rotated, allowing short rest periods to
prevent harmful effects due to heat
 Categorize the work load as to the type of work being performed (light, medium, heavy
work)
 Provide water at strategic points that are accessible to the worker. Establish access points
to water for workers that are working at heights
 Supervisors must monitor their work force by looking for signs of dehydration.
Note: If possible, work should be managed to avoid exposure during peak heat hours.
Preventative measures
 Employees shall have access to cool water at their place of work. Water shall be provided
for all crews.
 Shaded areas shall be provided for rest periods and instructions given to workers that
resting adjacent to, or under plant and equipment is strictly prohibited.
General
 All cases potentially related to thermal stress effects on employees shall be immediately
reported to line supervisor
 The contents of this procedure will be communicated and emphasized to site supervision
during training sessions, safety meetings, toolbox talks
 PPE needs to be worn adequately in all weather conditions. Coveralls must be zipped
fully, sleeves rolled down and hard hats / glasses worn at all times.
4. References
1. Labor Code of Azerbaijan Republic

2. RO Provision and Use of Work Equipment
5. Appendices
5.1. Appendix 1 – Preparation for Snow Storm Impact
As soon as snow storm is predicted the following actions shall be undertaken immediately:
The following actions must be taken if the snow storm is predicted for preparation:
1. Identify minimal staffing levels required during snow storm (essential personnel)
and summon them to sites 24 hrs prior to predicted impact.
2. All tasks shall be risk assessed and all required controls to be in place in advance.
3. Ensure that 2-3 professional drivers will be available in the office for the period of
predicted impact
4. The specially designated sand and salt will be procured and stored in an accessible
storage area in sufficient quantities for application when required.
5.2. Appendix 2 – Snow Storm Impact Management Guide

As soon as snow storm starts the following actions shall be undertaken immediately:
1. Site Cleaning Team to be mobilized (personnel number involved should be kept to as low
as reasonably practicable). Site cleaning team will use special non-slippery footwear PPE
(suitable PPE is available)
2. Transportation Coordinator will identify who will perform driving duties on sites.
Vehicles to be in 4WD mode
3. All vehicle use must be restricted on sites and only utilized upon Transportation
Coordinator approval
4. 2-3 professional drivers available in the office for driving upon request.

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HSE DEPARTMENT 29.11.

ADVERSE WEATHER POLICY

Rev.# Date of Description of Revision Prepared Approved

Title: Safety Management System Revision: C0

Title: Safety Management System Revision: C0

It is the responsibility of Supervisors to reinforce requirement of leaving the worksite in safe

3.1.1.1. Snow Storm Impact Management

3.1.1.2. Notification to Contractors

Forecast Available Contractors will be notified by

2 days before 1 day before Snow Storm start

3.1.2. Working at height

Title: Safety Management System Revision: C0

3.2. Windy Weather Conditions

3.2.1. Lifting Operations

3.2.2. Elevated Working Platforms (EWP)

3.2.3. Working at heights

Title: Safety Management System Revision: C0

 Bicycles must not be used during windy weather conditions.

3.3. Heavy Rain / Fog

3.3.1. Lifting Operations

Title: Safety Management System Revision: C0

3.3.2. Elevated Working Platforms (EWP)

3.3.3. Working at heights

 Only essential travel shall be conducted.

3.4. Snowy / Ice Conditions

Title: Safety Management System Revision: C0

Detailed step-by-step guide is available in Appendix 1.

3.4.2. Lifting Operations

Transportation Decision Flow Diagram

1. Transportation from city to 3. Transportation Coordinator will

3.5. Temperature Extremities Requirements

Title: Safety Management System Revision: C0

3.5.2. Hot Weather

 Ensure workers are acclimatized to the heat

1. Labor Code of Azerbaijan Republic

5.2. Appendix 2 – Snow Storm Impact Management Guide

Title: Safety Management System Revision: C0

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