HSE – SPECIFICATION

Setting Clear Requirements

Petroleum Development Oman L.L.C.

Workshops and Industrial Safety Specification including

offices & Laboratories,

Document ID HSE SP-1256

Document Type Specification

Security Unrestricted

Discipline Management Safety & Environment

Document Owner Corporate Functional Discipline Head MSEM

Month and Year of Issue January 2020

Version 3.0

Keywords Industrial Workshop Safety, including offices and Laboratories

Copyright: This document is the property of Petroleum Development Oman, LLC. Neither the whole nor any
part of this document may be disclosed to others or reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in
any form by any means (electronic, mechanical, reprographic recording or otherwise) without prior written
consent of the owner.

SP-1256 REVISION 3.0 Page i

 HSE – SPECIFICATION
Setting Clear Requirements

Document Authorisation

The following is a brief summary of the four most recent revisions to this document. Details of all revisions prior
to these are held on file by the Document Custodian.

Version No. Date Author Scope / Remarks

Version 3 January Kevin Doyle Updates in line with legal and industry changes. The
2020 MSE12 article related to Camps is removed and now covered
in SP-2216 respectively
Version 2.0 October Hamad Khalfeen Criteria Added for Location.
2008 Ref. Ind: MSE/1
Version 1.0 July 2002 Hamad Khalfeen Original issue. Supersedes HSE Standards Manual -
Ref. Ind: CSM/11 Chapter 6 and 7; Occupational Health Management
Guidelines 1996 (GN 18; IN 19)

User Notes:

The requirements of this document are mandatory. Non-compliance shall only be authorised by CSM through STEP-
OUT approval.

A controlled copy of the current version of this document is on PDO's EDMS. Before making reference to this
document, it is the user's responsibility to ensure that any hard copy, or electronic copy, is current. For assistance,
contact the Document Custodian.

This document is the property of Petroleum Development Oman, LLC. Neither the whole nor any part of this
document may be disclosed to others or reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form by any
means (electronic, mechanical, reprographic recording or otherwise) without prior written consent of the owner.

Users are encouraged to participate in the ongoing improvement of this document by providing constructive
feedback.

SP-1256 REVISION 3.0 Page ii

 HSE – SPECIFICATION
Setting Clear Requirements

Contents
INTRODUCTION ..................................................................................................................................1
General Performance Requirements ................................................................................................1
Location, Design and Construction ..................................................................................................1
Electrical Supplies, Installations and Equipment .............................................................................1
Maintenance .....................................................................................................................................2
General Housekeeping......................................................................................................................2
WORKSHOPS ........................................................................................................................................2
Workshop Design and Construction .................................................................................................2
Layout of Workshops ........................................................................................................................3
Health & Safety in Engineering Workshops .....................................................................................4
Workshop Discipline .........................................................................................................................4
Lifting Operations in Workshop Areas .............................................................................................4
Fixed Workshop Equipment ..............................................................................................................4
APPENDIX A..........................................................................................................................................5
INDUSTRIAL SAFETY ........................................................................................................................5
BASIC EQUIPMENT SAFEGUARDS ..........................................................................................................5
HAND TOOLS .........................................................................................................................................5
PORTABLE ELECTRICALLY POWERED TOOLS ........................................................................................6
Electrically Powered Portable Hand Saws.......................................................................................6
APPENDIX B ..........................................................................................................................................7
Pneumatic Tools ...............................................................................................................................7
APPENDIX C..........................................................................................................................................9
Grinders 9
APPENDIX D........................................................................................................................................10
Abrasive Blasting Operations .........................................................................................................10
Abrasive blasting operations present two distinct hazards to workers: .........................................10
Blasting Equipment......................................................................................................................... 11
Abrasive blasting materials ............................................................................................................11
Work Practices ............................................................................................................................... 11
APPENDIX E ........................................................................................................................................13
Industrial Gases .............................................................................................................................. 13
Industrial Compressed Gas Cylinders ............................................................................................ 13
Transport of Compressed Gas Cylinders ........................................................................................ 13
Storage of Cylinders ....................................................................................................................... 14
Use of Cylinders ............................................................................................................................. 14
APPENDIX F ........................................................................................................................................16
Gas Welding and Cutting................................................................................................................16
Regulators.......................................................................................................................................16
Hoses and Torches.......................................................................................................................... 16
ARC WELDING.....................................................................................................................................17
General 17
APPENDIX G .......................................................................................................................................19
Battery Charging and Storage ........................................................................................................19
APPENDIX H .......................................................................................................................................20
Tanks and Vessels (Confined Entry) ............................................................................................... 20
Opening and Entry of Tanks and Vessels ....................................................................................... 20

SP-1256 REVISION 3.0 Page iii

 HSE – SPECIFICATION
Setting Clear Requirements

Hot Work on Contaminated Tanks/Vessels .....................................................................................20

APPENDIX I .........................................................................................................................................21
Laboratories ...................................................................................................................................21

SP-1256 REVISION 3.0 Page iv

 Introduction
Purpose
This Specification describes PDO's requirements for managing occupational health and safety
risks associated with:
▪ Workshops,
▪ offices,
▪ Laboratories
Scope
This Specification applies to all workshops, offices & Laboratories and other buildings and other
premises belonging to or occupied by PDO, Contractors or Sub-Contractors authorised to work
on behalf of PDO.

This Specification does not address:

▪ Manual handling (refer to SP 1231 Occupational Health)
▪ Ergonomics in the office environment and VDUs (refer to SP 1231 Occupational Health)
▪ Public Health & Catering risks (refer to SP 1232 Public Health)
▪ Fire Protection (refer SP 1075 Fire and Explosion Risk Management).
▪ PDO Standards and Guidelines for Permanent Accommodation Camps SP 2216
▪ PDO-ERD-17-01: Civil and Building Construction Specification
▪ PDO-ERD-17-02: Building Services Construction Specifications
▪ PDO-ERD-17-04: SP-1275, Civil and Building Design Criteria Manual
▪ SP 1127: Layout and Spacing of Plant Equipment and Facilities
▪ Temporary transportable units such as portacabins shall meet requirements of PDO-ERD-
92-02 Transportable Accommodation Units SP-1277.

General Performance Requirements

Location, Design and Construction

The location of new workshops, offices and laboratories shall be carefully selected to ensure
that risks to workers are controlled to a level that is as low as reasonably practicable. The
selection criteria shall include:
- The location of workshops/offices/industrial areas with regard to existing hazardous
facilities;
- The impact of the workshops/offices/Labs industrial areas on existing roads in the area,
with any recommendations for road improvements, and preferred routes/access points to
minimize road traffic risk;
- The transportation arrangements to the workplace for workers to/from camps or
accommodation areas, and between those areas and the worksites.
All workshops, offices and laboratories shall be designed and constructed in accordance with
the following documents:

Electrical Supplies, Installations and Equipment

All electrical supplies to workshops, offices, laboratories, and installations within these, shall be
in accordance with the following documents:
SP 1104: Electrical Safety Rules
SP-2155 Building Services Specification
Temporary electrical supplies shall meet the requirements of SP 1111 Temporary Electrical
Supplies for Construction and Maintenance Work.
Extension cords shall not be used for any permanently installed equipment. Whenever utilised,
electric power extension cords shall be in accordance with this Specification and with SP 1111
Temporary Electrical Supplies for Construction and Maintenance Work.
Electrical installations shall comply also with the following:
• All electrical equipment shall be connected to the voltage for which it is designed.
• Plug adapters shall not be used in any industrial installation. All equipment shall be fitted
with the correct plug to fit in its corresponding socket.

SP 1256 REVISION 3.0 Page 1

 • Sockets shall be available in all industrial work sites. Multiple appliances or power tools
shall not be plugged into a single socket via a multi-outlet adapter.

All electrical equipment shall be maintained in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
Temporary electrical installations shall be installed by competent personnel and inspected as a
minimum every month.

Maintenance
All workshops, offices, laboratories shall undergo regular preventive maintenance. Such
preventive maintenance shall be planned and recorded. The preventive maintenance program
shall include:

• Health and welfare, lighting and ventilations, dust management/collection

• Safety routes and exits, emergency lighting,
• Floor and workbench surfaces shall be in good condition
• Walls, ceilings and fixtures shall be painted on a regular basis to maintain the standards of
illumination required.
• Electrical installations, specifically the integrity of insulation and earthing provisions
Compressed air, industrial gas and water installations
• All fixed equipment and machine tools, hand tools, shall be tested and in working condition

General Housekeeping
Good housekeeping shall be considered one of the primary defences against accidents, injuries
and health problems in the workplace and therefore is the responsibility of all personnel.

All workshops, offices, laboratories shall be maintained clear of debris, waste and other rubbish,
which shall be disposed of in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and SP 2194
Waste Management. All buildings shall be kept cleaned, and wastebaskets regularly emptied.
All floor coverings shall be regularly inspected and any loose or damaged items replaced or re-
secured immediately. Loose carpets are not recommended in offices as they represent a trip
hazard.

All emergency walkways, passages and exits, fire doors, break glass alarm points, firefighting
equipment, first aid and other emergency stations shall be kept clean, unobstructed and in
good working order. Facilities for physically challenged personnel must be available example
wheelchair access.

Spill kits are to be readily available in all workshops, offices and laboratories as appropriate.

Workshops

Workshop Design and Construction

In addition to the general requirements, the following requirements shall apply to the design
and construction of workshops:

• Working, squatting, sitting at floor level in any area is to be discouraged as this may lead
to medium or long-term ergonomic related health effects. Provide work benches.
• All workbenches and working surfaces shall be fit for purpose, constructed of suitable fire-
resistant materials and to a sound design, such that the work may be accomplished safely
and without undue strain to the worker.
• Where wet processes are carried out, or where machinery is liable to eject quantities of
fluid, adequate containment, in the form of channels, bunds or curbs, and drainage shall
be provided. Drainage of industrial effluent shall be in accordance with SP 1126 Drain
Systems Specification
• Storage shall be arranged to ensure suitable distance/segregation between flammable
materials
• Adequate provision shall be made for the collection, temporary storage, and disposal of
solid scrap and waste material from all workplaces.

SP 1256 REVISION 3.0 Page 2

 • Segregation and disposal of such scrap materials shall be made in accordance with SP 2194
Waste Management.
• Adequate toilets and washrooms shall be provided in all workshops. These shall meet the
requirements of SP 1232 Public Health. Where necessary, special cleansers shall be
provided to discourage workers from using unsuitable industrial solvents for skin cleansing.
• Adequate supplies of drinking water shall be provided in all workshops in accordance with
SP 1232 Public Health.

Layout of Workshops

Workshops shall be laid out as follows:

• Clear areas shall be defined for each activity performed in the workshop. Activities shall
be segregated such that each activity does not interfere or cause hazards to others present
heat, noise etc.
• Hazardous activities such as welding, cutting, grinding, grit blasting, painting etc., shall be
segregated from other activities, normally in dedicated booths.
• All hazardous materials shall be securely stored in dedicated areas, separated from work
areas and, where necessary, from other hazards.
• Pedestrian walkways shall be clearly defined in all workshops, pedestrians shall be
segregated as far as reasonable practical from vehicle/plant movement areas example fork
lift.
• All emergency systems: escape routes; fire alarms and firefighting equipment; first aid
equipment; etc., shall be indicated by clearly visible signs. Such signs shall conform to the
requirements of SP1284 Signs and Signboards.
• Wherever possible, work areas, storage areas, walkways, hazardous areas and escape
routes shall be indicated by means of colour coding. Colour coding shall follow the ISO
7010:2019, as detailed in Table 1 below.

Contrast colours and/or wording or symbols are added to improve visibility, as detailed in
Table 1 below.

• Yellow and black diagonal striping shall be used to indicate hazards or sources of particular
danger (e.g., moving machinery, load lay down areas, areas requiring entry permits).
• Safety colours may be applied directly to surfaces to indicate their condition. Thus
emergency walkways or escape routes should, in general, be painted green, while the
flooring of a welding shop, or other permanent restricted access or hazardous area should
be painted either yellow, or yellow with black stripes, depending on the level or type of
hazard present.

SP 1256 REVISION 3.0 Page 3

 Table 1: Safety Colours in the Workplace
COLOUR MEANING EXAMPLE OF USE Symbol/Wording
Colour
Red Prohibition Stop signals, White or Black
Stop; Emergency shutdowns Contrast
harmful Identification of
activity, Firefighting Equipment
Yellow Warning: Indication of Hazards Black
Caution (Fire, explosion,
Danger radiation, chemical, trip
etc.); Identification of
thresholds, dangerous
passages, obstacles
Blue Mandatory Mandatory information White
Information signs, such as: Wear
action personal protective
equipment

Green Informatio Escape routes, refuges, White

n: Safety first aid eye baths,
deluge showers.

Health & Safety in Engineering Workshops

Workshop Discipline
• Smoking shall not be permitted in any workshop or industrial area, except in designated
smoking zones.
• Eating food shall be restricted to designated areas and work breaks.
• Horseplay of any kind shall be prohibited in the workplace.

Lifting Operations in Workshop Areas

Single/double Girder Overhead traveling cranes with hoists in workshops SP-2202

Personnel working under or in the vicinity of an active overhead crane inside the workshop or
workshop area shall wear safety helmets.
Lifting operations shall be conducted in accordance with:
SP 2275 Specification for Lifting Hoisting Equipment Inspection and Testing Requirements
SP 1257 Working at Height and Access.
Fixed Workshop Equipment
General
The layout of the workshop shall enhance a safe, systematic and ergonomic working
environment. Fixed workshop equipment, such as compressors, lathes, grinders, drills and
hydraulic presses present specific hazards. All such equipment shall be installed in such a way
that these hazards are minimised. As a minimum, temporary or permanent screens should be
in place, particularly next to lathes, grinders and drilling machines to protect personnel working
nearby.

SP 1256 REVISION 3.0 Page 4

 Appendix A

Industrial Safety

Basic Equipment Safeguards

▪ All moving parts of machinery, such as drive belts, gear wheels, etc., shall have
adequate guards in place at all times to prevent injury.
▪ Adequate protection shall also be in place at the point of operation, i.e. circular or band
saw blades, grinding wheels, power presses, etc., to prevent operator injury from both
the equipment and debris such as metal chips, sawdust etc. created in the work
process.
▪ Adequate support and guides shall be provided for work pieces, such that they are
secured and controlled when being cut, ground or otherwise worked and cannot "kick
back" to injure the operator.
▪ Signs shall be provided in accordance with SP-1284 Signs and Signboards, indicating
the personal protective equipment (eye protectors, ear protectors, work-gloves etc.)
required for the safe operation of the equipment. The protective equipment itself shall
be placed in a convenient position close to the machine.
▪ Powered workshop equipment shall be used only by trained operators. Operators shall
demonstrate their competence to their supervisor before being allowed to work
unsupervised.

Hand Tools

▪ All hand tools shall be assigned to a responsible person. This may be on an individual
basis, or a single person may be assigned to control the hand tools of a particular work
area or shop.
▪ Regular six monthly inspections shall be made of all hand tools and records of these
inspections maintained. If any defects are identified the tool shall be removed from
service and either be repaired or replaced.
▪ Tools shall only be issued to personnel who have the necessary knowledge and skill to
operate them safely. Supervisors shall ensure that workers are competent to work
safely with any tool prior to leaving them to work unsupervised.
▪ Tools shall be used only for the specific purpose for which they were designed
▪ Tools shall at all times be transported from one work location to another in adequate
containers and in such a way as not to endanger the safety of others.
▪ When using hand tools on small work pieces, the work pieces shall be suitably secured
to the workbench using a vice or clamps.
▪ The use of non-sparking tools is not recommended. In the event that their use is
justified in an exceptional case, then the condition of such tools shall be thoroughly
checked by competent personnel and users shall be made aware that they are not a
complete safeguard against spark production.
▪ The use of hand tools with powered machines such as lathes or grinders shall be strictly
controlled. Only competent personnel shall be allowed access to such powered
machines.

SP 1256 REVISION 3.0 Page 5

 Portable Electrically Powered Tools

General Regulations
▪ All portable electrically powered tools shall be of a type approved by PDO, and shall be
inspected, tested, serviced and used in accordance with the manufacturer's
instructions. Only competent personnel shall be allowed to use them.
▪ Portable electrical equipment shall be in accordance with SP 1111 Temporary Electrical
Supplies for Construction and Maintenance Work.
All portable electrically powered tools shall have the following construction features:
▪ Fitted with adequate fuse protection, either in the tool body or its electric plug.
▪ Provided with an automatic shut-off device which renders it inoperative if the operator
releases grip, e.g. a non-sustaining trigger switch. The use of trigger switch locking
devices or sustaining buttons should be avoided.
▪ Portable electrically-powered tools shall not be used in potentially hazardous or
explosive environments. In addition, extreme care shall be taken in working areas
containing oil, water, caustic, corrosive or conductive fluids, particularly with regard to
routing of power leads.
▪ Where applicable, protective guards shall be securely fitted, and correctly adjusted.
Cartridge or Powder Actuated Tools
▪ The use of cartridge or powder-actuated tools is prohibited.
▪ Maintenance, Inspection and Testing
▪ Maintenance of electrical tools, transformers and associated protection devices like
Earth Leakage Circuit Breakers (ELCBs) shall be carried out at 6 monthly intervals in
accordance with guidelines given in GU 325 Electrical Maintenance Management
Manual.
▪ Each piece of equipment tested shall be labelled to show that it has been tested and
to indicate when the next test is due. The procedure involves the use of a portable
appliance test unit which, by plugging the tool into the unit, automatically carries out
a test sequence and carries a register of the equipment tested.

In addition, the inspection procedure shall include:

▪ Inspection of leads for damage and that correct PDO colour codes are used.
▪ Checks on terminations and cord grips.
▪ Verification of correct fuses fitted to plug tops.
▪ Insulation checks, where applicable.

Tools found to be defective shall be labelled as such in the working language of the work force
and English, removed from service and returned to the store for repair.

Electrically Powered Portable Hand Saws

▪ All electrically powered portable saws (circular saws) shall be fitted with both a fixed
guard over the upper half, and a movable guard over the lower part.
▪ Both guards shall at all times be operative.
▪ Blocking open of the lower guards is prohibited.

When cutting materials which generate dust, proper respiratory protection shall be worn (ref
SP 1234 Personal Protective Equipment). In addition, when cutting in areas occupied by other
workers, protection in the form of dust extractors shall be provided.

SP 1256 REVISION 3.0 Page 6

 Appendix B

Pneumatic Tools
Use of Pneumatic Tools
Using high pressure air to clean or remove dust and chips from personnel, clothing or
workbench is prohibited.

Workers using percussive or rotary pneumatic tools are exposed to the harmful effects of
vibration. Since the harmful effect is related to the length of exposure, frequency and vibration
intensity, proper supervision is required to identify vibration stress. Health risk associated with
vibrating equipment shall be managed in accordance with SP 1231 Occupational Health.

Workers using percussive or rotary pneumatic tools are also exposed to the harmful effects of
noise. Health risk associated with noise exposure shall be managed in accordance with SP
1231 Occupational Health.
When the use of pneumatic tools generates dust, proper respiratory protection shall be worn
(ref SP 1234 Personal Protective Equipment). In addition, when dust is generated in areas
occupied by other workers, protection in the form of dust extractors shall be provided.
The Compressor
The compressor supplying air shall be installed such that it:
▪ receives an adequate supply of fresh, uncontaminated air.
▪ does not represent a fire hazard.
▪ does not represent a noise hazard.

The compressor shall be fitted with the following:

▪ a manual isolation valve between its storage tank and the air lines to permit their
isolation.
▪ a bleed-down valve to de-pressurise the air lines prior to disconnecting them.
▪ an automatic check valve operating to isolate the air lines from the storage tank in the
event of line failure causing an uncontrolled loss of air.
▪ an adequate purging system on the accumulator tank to remove any water or oil
contamination.
Airlines and Couplings
▪ All airlines and couplings shall be fit for the specific application. Where an airline is
fitted with a quick-release connection, the female connector should be fitted on the
upstream (pressurised) side, and shall be fitted with an automatic check valve.
▪ Where twist lock connectors are used, i.e. on heavy-duty line to road drills, compactors,
etc., they shall be fitted with suitable safety wires or chains to prevent both accidental
disconnection and to secure the ends, thus preventing flailing if disconnected
accidentally under pressure.
▪ In permanent installations of compressed air, the air supply shall be piped as close as
possible to the workplace and the minimum of flexible hose used to connect the tools.
Multiple access points with quick-release connectors should be used to give maximum
flexibility. It is advisable to fit fluid traps and purges to permanent air piping in order
to remove any oil or water build-up, which could be a safety hazard, or cause
equipment malfunction.
▪ Flexible airlines shall be protected from damage by vehicles and materials and shall be
routed such that they do not represent a trip hazard to workers. Channel ways shall

SP 1256 REVISION 3.0 Page 7

 be supplied when crossing walkways and roadways. Where carried overhead or
vertically, they should be supported by a messenger cable, bridging or other suitable
support.
▪ Unless fitted with a quick-release connection containing an automatic check valve,
pneumatic lines shall be de-pressurised and isolated from the compressed air source
prior to disconnecting either the tool from the line or the line from the source of
compressed air.
▪ Prior to carrying out any repair, adjustment or cleaning of pneumatic tools or
equipment, the air supply shall be physically disconnected. Where necessary the
compressor shall be isolated and the lines de-pressurised prior to disconnecting the
tool or equipment.
Inflating tyres
Where a compressor is being used to inflate tyres, an in-line pressure gauge shall be installed
to guard against over inflation. The airline between the chuck and the control valve shall be
at least 3 metres.

Wheels of split rim type, typically used on heavy vehicles shall be placed in a safety cage for
inflation after tyre replacement or repair. Such safety cages shall be supplied by an
internationally recognised tyre manufacturer. Alternatively, such safety cages shall be
manufactured locally in accordance with the standards set by such a manufacturer.

SP 1256 REVISION 3.0 Page 8

 Appendix C

Grinders
Grinding wheels shall be covered with a solid guard over that part of the circumference not
used for grinding, in order to protect operators in case of wheel breakage. Also an adjustable
guard shall be set over the usable area of the wheel.

▪ Grinders shall be fitted with a transparent eye shield. In addition, operators shall wear
eye protection which meets the requirements of SP 1234 Personal Protective
Equipment.
▪ The spindle end shall be covered to prevent catching of clothing
▪ An adjustable work rest shall be fitted to the machine and shall normally be adjusted
no more than 3 mm from the wheel face.
▪ A dead man device (i.e. foot pedal actuation) should be installed to prevent the grinder
being left running unattended. Additionally visual indication (flashing light) should be
considered.
▪ Operators shall use the circumference face of the wheel, never the side.
▪ Only fit for purpose grinding wheels shall be used, i.e:
▪ correct diameter for the grinding machine
▪ correctly sized hole to fit snugly on the spindle, without either forcing or slack.
▪ Where grinding generates any harmful dust, a dust extraction system shall be provided.
Wheels containing free silica (sandstone for example) are prohibited.

SP 1256 REVISION 3.0 Page 9

 Appendix D

Abrasive Blasting Operations

Abrasive blasting operations present two distinct hazards to workers:

▪ Inhalation of hazardous dusts.
▪ Physical external injury from the abrasive blast.

Abrasive blasting activities shall comply with the requirements of SP-1246 - PDO-ES-CS-48-06
Surface Preparation and Coating of Oil and Gas Facilities and the requirements of 5.4 of this
Specification.
Personal Protective Equipment
▪ Personnel engaged in abrasive blasting operations shall always wear a specifically
designed blasting helmet. This consists of a helmet enclosing the entire head and neck
of the worker and extending down both the back and chest area sufficient distance to
prevent abrasive entry. It shall be fitted with a wide angle transparent visor, which
shall be specific to the particular design of helmet and easily replaced when damaged.
It shall be supplied with fresh air operating under a positive pressure system, to
prevent entry of dust or abrasive.
▪ The air supply to the blasting helmet shall be drawn from a clean air area. Air supply
volume/pressure shall be as per manufacturer's recommendations and fitted with
sufficient in-line filtering to achieve the air purity standard specified in SP 1234 Personal
Protective Equipment.
▪ In addition to the above, personnel engaged in grit blasting shall wear suitable long-
armed gauntlets, a long apron and high boots for body protection, and hearing
protection (ref SP 1234 Personal Protective Equipment).
▪ All personal protective equipment shall be subject to rigorous inspection at the
beginning and end of every shift or operator change over. Defective parts shall be
replaced to ensure adequate performance as described above. Items requiring specific
attention are the helmet visor, the air filtering system, in line breathing filter and hoses.
Personnel Requirements
▪ All personnel engaged in abrasive blasting operations shall be fully trained in the safe
operation of the equipment and safe working practices.
▪ All personnel who are required to work in the vicinity of abrasive blasting operations
shall receive specific instruction on the hazards of the work and procedures to minimise
danger to themselves and their equipment.
▪ At all times personnel engaged in abrasive blasting shall be supervised by a competent
person, who will ensure that the breathing air supply is maintained at all times and
that work is carried out in a safe and efficient manner.
▪ At no time shall more than one person work at one specific blasting site. If more than
one abrasive blaster is employed on a particular operation, their work areas shall be
physically separated to prevent the blast of one operation reaching the other.
Vibration
▪ Workers using abrasive blasting equipment are exposed to the harmful effects of
vibration. Since the harmful effect is related to the length of exposure, frequency and
vibration intensity, proper supervision is required to identify vibration stress. Health

SP 1256 REVISION 3.0 Page 10

 risk associated with vibrating equipment shall be managed in accordance with SP 1231
Occupational Health.

Blasting Equipment
▪ Abrasive blasting equipment shall be utilised and maintained in accordance with the
manufacturer’s instructions.
▪ The abrasive blasting tool shall incorporate an automatic safety shut-off valve, such
that if the operator loses his grip on the tool, air and grit supply are immediately shut
off. This shut-off valve shall be of a type approved by the manufacturer of the grit
blasting tool and shall be fitted in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. It
shall be functional at all times and shall never be tied, clamped or otherwise secured
in the open position.
▪ Air shall be delivered to the blasting tool through an electrically conductive hose,
electrically earthed to the mass of the tank, vessel or structure being cleaned such that
static electricity build-up is prevented, to avoid both shock hazards to the operator and
spark discharges which could ignite any flammable dust generated in the blasting
operation.
▪ All couplings on the airline shall be secured with insurance wires (whip-checks) or
securing chains to prevent accidental disconnecting while under pressure.
Abrasive Blasting Booths
Where blasting is carried out in a permanent installation, a dedicated blasting booth shall be
constructed. The location and design of such booths shall be subject to PDO approval. For
large pieces of equipment, (e.g. a vessel), a dedicated blasting area is required. The following
features shall be incorporated in the design, where applicable, of the blasting booth or blasting
area:
▪ Air exhaust system such that a slight negative pressure is maintained in the booth.
The exhausting should be in a downward direction, away from the principal area of
work, with the exhaust exiting at ground level. Exhaust air shall be passed through a
suitable filter to remove grit and blast debris prior to release to the atmosphere.
▪ Adequate lighting such that the operator may perform the blasting work safely, and
that an observer may clearly see the operator from outside the booth.
▪ An observation window of suitable material which should be placed either in, or close
to, the access door.
▪ An interlock device linking the blasting air supply to the access door, such that blast
air is automatically disconnected when the door is opened. This interlock shall require
manual resetting from outside the booth, such that should the door close after the air
supply has been interrupted, the air supply is not automatically resumed.
▪ A control console close to the observation window. The console shall be able to monitor
and control:
▪ blast helmet air supply temperature and pressure.
▪ blasting abrasive air supply temperature and pressure.
▪ manual shut off of blasting abrasive air supply.
▪ A concrete floor sufficiently strong to support any work pieces and their supports.
▪ Adequate supports, trestles, clamps etc. to support the work pieces.

Abrasive blasting materials

Acceptable and unacceptable blasting materials are discussed in SP-1246-PDO-ES-CS-48-06
Surface Preparation and Coating of Oil and Gas Facilities.
The preferred material for abrasive blasting operations is reduced sparking copper slag.

Work Practices
On-Site Operations
▪ All on site abrasive blasting operations shall be planned and executed in a manner
which ensures the safety of the blasting operators and all other workers on site.
▪ The blasting area, inclusive of the blast pod feeding area and lay down area and an
adequate peripheral safety zone, shall be cordoned off with high visibility warning tape.

SP 1256 REVISION 3.0 Page 11

 Warning notices shall be placed at all accessible sides of the work area. Where
practical, physical screens shall be erected to isolate the blasting area.
▪ When abrasive blasting is being carried out in confined spaces, adequate air extraction
equipment shall be deployed to ensure no build-up of hazardous dust occurs in the
work area.
▪ Where abrasive blasting is performed higher than 2 meters above ground level,
adequate scaffolding or staging shall be used.
▪ Abrasive blasting operations shall at no time be carried out from movable platforms,
or while suspended from cranes in man-baskets.
▪ When working on scaffolding, blasters shall at all times be supplied with a safety line,
fixed securely to the structure prior to initiating blasting. Care shall be taken when
routing blast air and operator helmet air to the elevated structure such that they are
in no way strained or in danger of pinching.
▪ Abrasive blasters shall at all times be supervised, ensuring that their helmet air supply
is functioning correctly, and that they are blasting in an area where they are not
endangering co-workers.
▪ The removal of used abrasive materials and blast debris shall be carried out with
adequate frequency and in a controlled manner, such that material build up is not
permitted to become a safety hazard. All blasting operations shall cease during
material removal.
▪ Abrasive blasting operators shall not work directly on blasting operations for continuous
sessions of greater then 40 minutes, with a minimum rest period of 10 minutes
between sessions.
Off-site Operations
▪ All work practices as described for on-site operations shall apply to off-site operations,
whether in temporary or permanent facilities. It is recommended that whenever the
size of the work piece permits, all regular off-site operations are performed in a
dedicated abrasive blasting booth.

SP 1256 REVISION 3.0 Page 12

 Appendix E

Industrial Gases
All cylinders shall be identified by colour coding in accordance with ISO 448 (or BS349
"Identification of the Contents of Industrial Gas Containers"). The colours assigned to the
principal common industrial gases are:

Industrial Compressed Gas Cylinders

All cylinders shall be manufactured to an internationally recognised standard, such as BS5045
"Transportable Gas Containers".
All cylinders shall be maintained in good condition and shall be tested and inspected in
accordance with an internationally recognised standard, such as BS 5430 "Periodic Inspection,
Testing and Maintenance of Transportable Gas Containers".

▪ All cylinders shall be filled by qualified personnel, using proper equipment and
procedures, and in accordance with the filling ratios as given in BS 5355, "Specification
for Filling Ratios and Developed Pressures for Liquifiable and Permanent Gas".
▪ All colour coding shall be maintained in a clear and legible condition.
▪ The date of manufacture or the last hydrostatic test date shall be clearly and legibly
displayed upon the cylinder.
▪ In addition to the colour coding, the name of the gas contained within the cylinder
shall be clearly stencilled in letters not less than 7 cm high on the cylinder body.
▪ All couplings associated with cylinders containing flammable gases shall be left hand
threaded. For other gases right hand threads shall be used.
▪ Cylinders shall be supplied with protective guards or caps for the valve assemblies and
the valves shall be in good operating condition.
▪ Cylinder valves shall be of the correct type for the gas content and pressure rating of
the cylinder, and manufactured to BS341, "Specifications for Valve Fittings for
Compressed Gas Cylinders".
▪ Valve spindles shall be held captive within the valve bodies.

Transport of Compressed Gas Cylinders

The transport of compressed gas cylinders shall comply with the requirements of PDO’s SP
2001 Transport Standards and the following:

▪ All cylinders when being transported shall have the protective guards or caps in place
over the valve assemblies. Cylinders shall be transported in the upright position and
be placed in sectional boxes or containers in such a manner that they cannot knock
against other cylinders or obstructions.

SP 1256 REVISION 3.0 Page 13

 ▪ Cylinders of different gas shall not be mixed together in the same container when being
transported. Transport oxygen cylinders shall under no circumstances together with
acetylene or any other forms of flammable substances.
▪ Cylinders shall not be rolled and dropped from vehicles onto rubber tyres or similar
packaging but shall be lowered to the ground under controlled conditions.
▪ Cylinders shall not be lifted using chains or metal slings. Lifting shall be carried out
using flat band slings.
▪ If more than one cylinder has to be lifted, a properly designed and certified cradle shall
be used.

Storage of Cylinders
▪ Cylinder storage areas shall be clearly identified, with the names of the gases stored
within prominently displayed.
▪ Where gases of different types are stored at the same location, cylinders shall be
grouped by type of gas and the groups arranged to take into account the gases
contained, e.g. flammable gases shall not be stored near oxidising gases.
▪ Cylinders containing combustible gas shall be stored separately from oxygen and
wherever possible, not closer than 6 metres. If 6 metres separation is not possible, a
fire resistant wall shall be used to separate them.
▪ Charged and empty cylinders shall be stored separately, with the storage layout such
that cylinders comprising old stock can be removed first with a minimum of handling
of other cylinders.
▪ Storage rooms shall be of fire resistant construction, well ventilated and designed such
that the cylinders are shaded from the direct rays of the sun.
▪ Stores shall be located as far as possible (but not less than 20 metres) from flammable
substances such as oil, gasoline or waste.
▪ All electrical fittings in the storage area shall be rated for a zone II application.
▪ Cylinders shall be stored in an upright position within the store and secured in such a
manner as they cannot fall or be knocked over.
▪ Protective caps or guards shall be retained in place on all full and empty cylinders
within the store.
▪ No smoking, naked lights or sources of ignition shall be allowed within or in the vicinity
of cylinder stores.
▪ Fire extinguishers shall be located outside the store entrance.

Use of Cylinders
▪ Compressed gases shall be handled and used only by properly trained persons.
▪ The user shall verify the cylinder contents by the markings before putting the cylinder
to use. If unable to identify the contents by the markings, the cylinder shall not be
used but shall be returned to the supplier. Special care shall be taken in verifying inert
gases before introducing them into live equipment.
▪ The protective valve assembly caps shall be kept in place until the cylinder is required
for use.
▪ Before using gas cylinders, the user shall ensure that they are properly supported and
secured to prevent them being knocked over. Suitable pressure regulating devices shall
be used in all cases where gas is admitted into systems having pressure rating
limitations lower than the cylinder pressure.
▪ Threads on regulator connections or other auxiliary equipment shall be the same as
those on the cylinder valve outlet. Connections that do not fit shall not be forced
together.
▪ Where a compressed gas cylinder is connected to a flexible hose, the hose shall be of
adequate pressure rating and made from a material that resists any corrosive effects
of the gas.
▪ Cylinder valves shall be opened slowly with the valve pointed away from the operator
or any other person. Only the correct tools shall be used to open and close cylinder
valves. On valves equipped with hand wheels, wrenches, hammers or other tools shall
not be used to operate the valve.
▪ Connections to piping, regulators and equipment shall always be kept tight to prevent
leakage. All hoses shall be kept clean and maintained in good condition.

SP 1256 REVISION 3.0 Page 14

 ▪ Compressed gas cylinders shall be kept either in trolleys designed and manufactured
to BS2718 "Gas Cylinder Trolleys", or secured to a part of a structure such that they
cannot be accidentally knocked over. Cylinders shall be retained in an upright position.
▪ Under no circumstances shall compressed oxygen be used for testing or purging when
compressed air or nitrogen is called for.
▪ Under no circumstances shall oxygen be allowed to come into contact with any form
of grease or oil because of the risk of explosion and fire.
▪ Extreme caution shall always be exercised to avoid knocking or jarring acetylene
cylinders, which can lead to internal self-heating and the risk of explosion. If an
acetylene cylinder shows signs of internal heating, cool it with water. Partially empty
or empty acetylene cylinders shall at all times be maintained in an upright position.
▪ Venting of partially empty cylinders should be avoided.

SP 1256 REVISION 3.0 Page 15

 Appendix F

Gas Welding and Cutting

General Safety Requirements
▪ Gas welding and cutting shall, whenever possible, be performed in dedicated work
bays separate from other activities. When working on site, welding and cutting
operations shall be separated from other activities.
▪ Adequate provision shall be made for the removal of welding fumes from the
workplace. In confined places, extraction fans shall be utilised.
▪ All flammable materials shall be removed from the area of operation, especially all
greases, solvents, rags, etc.
▪ Adequate fire extinguishers, of dry powder or CO2 type, shall be available at the
worksite. These extinguishers shall be supplemented with fire blankets and/or sand
buckets as appropriate. Water or foam extinguishers shall not be used.
▪ All welding/cutting operators shall wear personal protective equipment and assistants
(refer to SP 1234 Personal Protective Equipment).
▪ Burning/cutting shall not be carried out in close proximity to concrete structures or
floors, as build-up of heat could cause the concrete to explode.
▪ Only a welder’s flint gun or piezo-electric igniter shall ignite burning/cutting and
welding torches. Matches or "smouldering rope" shall not be used.
▪ Personnel who have adequate formal training and certification for the work shall carry
out all welding/cutting and burning activities.
▪ Gas welding or cutting of alloys containing magnesium or other combustible metals is
not permitted.

Regulators
▪ All compressed gas cylinders utilised for gas welding shall be fitted with adequate
pressure regulators and associated high and low pressure manometers.
▪ Regulator sets shall be manufactured to BS5741 "Pressure Regulators Used in Welding,
Cutting and Related Processes" and subject to regular test and inspection.
▪ Prior to connecting a pressure regulator to the gas supply, all debris or dust shall be
removed from the supply points by momentarily "cracking" (opening) the supply
master valve.
▪ The gas supply master valve shall always be opened slowly against a fully closed
regulator. Conversely, when shutting down, the master valve shall be closed, and all
pressure bled off from the regulator and line through the torch prior to fully closing the
regulator.

Hoses and Torches

All hoses and associated couplings shall be fit for purpose, and manufactured to an international
recognised standard, such as BS1389.

SP 1256 REVISION 3.0 Page 16

 Hoses shall be colour coded as follows:

▪ Oxygen Blue or black

▪ Acetylene Red
▪ Propane Orange

Blowpipes, mixers and nozzles used in cutting, welding and associated operations shall be
manufactured to BS6503 “Hand Held Blowpipes, Mixers and Nozzles, Using Fuel Gas and
Oxygen, for Gas Welding, Cutting and Related Processes” and subject to regular preventive
maintenance, test and inspection.

All welding/cutting sets shall be equipped with both flash-back arrestors and check valves,
which shall be manufactured to BS6158 “Safety Device for Fuel Gases and Oxygen or
Compressed Air for Welding Cutting and Related Processes” and subject to regular preventive
maintenance, test and inspection.

All hose couplings shall be securely fastened. Care shall be exercised in the laying of hoses to
avoid kinking, sharp edges, hot spots and areas of transit. Hoses shall be subject to regular
inspection for damage and leakage. All leak tests shall be carried out with soapy water only.

All maintenance, test and inspection shall be carried out in accordance with manufacturer’s
specifications.

Arc Welding

General
Welding operations on Company pipelines and installations shall be conducted in accordance
with the following documents:

• SP 1097 Specification for Welding of Duplex Stainless Steel Pipelines

(Amendments/Supplements to API Std 1104)
• SP 1173 Specification for Welding on On-Plot Pipework
• Welding of Metals-SP-1173
• Pipeline Construction Specification SP-1208

In addition, welding operations shall also be conducted in accordance with the following:

▪ Arc welding can cause serious eye injury. Therefore, whenever possible, it shall be
carried out in dedicated welding booths. Where this is not possible, adequate shielding,
by means of fire resistant screens, shall be provided to shield other workers in the
vicinity from the welding arc. Welders shall use adequate eye protection (ref SP 1234
Personal Protective Equipment)
▪ Radiation from arc welding can burn the skin. Welders shall wear appropriate personal
protective equipment to protect themselves from such burns (ref SP 1234 Personal
Protective Equipment)
▪ All arc welding power sources shall meet the requirements of BS 638 "Arc Welding
power Sources, Equipment and Accessories". All equipment shall be subjected to
regular preventive maintenance, inspection and testing to ensure the safety of
operators.

SP 1256 REVISION 3.0 Page 17

 ▪ All power supply cables shall be of adequate construction and correctly protected.
Where portable installations are supplied by movable, trailing cables, they shall be
suitably protected and adequately earthed.
▪ Electric arc welding sets shall be located as close to the work piece as possible, to
avoid the use of long trailing cables.
▪ When portable welding transformers are used, the central point on the low tension
side shall be bonded to the transformer before the transformer is connected up on the
high tension side. The transformer shall be effectively earthed.
▪ In the case of portable motor generator welding sets, the frames and bed plates of the
DC generator shall be effectively earthed.
▪ All arc welding shall be carried out with an independent earth conductor from the
welding power source to the work piece. All earth connections shall be bolted or
clamped directly to the work to ensure a good electrical contact.
▪ Electrode holders shall have a positive clamping mechanism for the electrode. They
shall be inspected regularly and maintained in a good and safe condition at all times.
▪ Electrode holders shall not be placed on the ground when not in use. To avoid creating
an electrical circuit in the vicinity, wooden rests to support electrode holders shall be
provided and used.
▪ Adequate firefighting equipment, in the form of dry powder or CO2 extinguishers shall
be available at arc welding work sites to ensure immediate firefighting capability.
Extinguishers may be supplemented by sand buckets and/or fire blankets, as
appropriate. Water and foam extinguishers shall not be used.
▪ When breaking the electrical continuity of any pipe or vessel which contains, or has
contained, any explosive or flammable mixture, a low resistance cable bond shall be
firmly connected to reach each side of the point to avoid arcing by stray welding
current.

SP 1256 REVISION 3.0 Page 18

 Appendix G

Battery Charging and Storage

▪ Charging of batteries causes the emission of flammable hydrogen gas. Incorrect

connecting and disconnecting of battery leads may cause sparking which could
explosively ignite any accumulated hydrogen. Thus battery charging, connecting and
disconnecting should be considered as hazardous and adequate protective measures
taken.
▪ All battery charging shall be performed in a dedicated area, and all sources of ignition
(i.e. smoking, naked flames and the use of any electrical or hand tools which might
cause sparking) shall be prohibited within a radius of 3m from the battery charging
facility.
▪ All battery chargers shall be fitted with a 3 core power cable, three prong plug, and
shall be properly earthed.
▪ Adequate ventilation shall be provided to ensure the rapid dispersion of any flammable
hydrogen gas.
▪ Eye protection shall be worn at all times in the battery charging facility (ref SP 1234
Personal Protective Equipment).
▪ The charger power supply shall be disconnected prior to connecting or disconnecting
batteries.
▪ All battery cell covers or plugs shall be removed during charging, and not replaced until
all "bubbling" has stopped.
▪ Electrolyte level shall be checked and if required topped up both before and after
charging batteries.
▪ Separate racks or shelving shall be provided for charged batteries and batteries
awaiting recharging. These shelves shall be a minimum of 1 metre from the charging
bench and shall be open wooden shelving or purpose manufactured plastic racks, to
prevent the accumulation of hydrogen gas.
▪ The following equipment and information shall be available in the charging/storage
area:
• dry powder fire extinguisher
• water source for washing away spilled electrolyte
• neutraliser for spilled acid (i.e. baking soda)
• eyewash station
• Spill Kits and tested emergency spill response
• room drainage facilities

SP 1256 REVISION 3.0 Page 19

 Appendix H

Tanks and Vessels (Confined Entry)

Opening and Entry of Tanks and Vessels
Opening and entry of tanks and vessels for inspection or maintenance activities (e.g. PVV
replacement on tanks, relief valve replacement on vessels, internal inspection and cleaning
etc.) present a major hazard to personnel and equipment. These hazards include but may not
be limited to the following:
▪ Restricted access
▪ Working at heights
▪ Combustible materials (crude oil, fuel products, gas etc.)
▪ Toxic substances (H2S, acid etc.)
▪ Presence of pyrophoric iron sulphide (which could self-ignite when exposed to air)
▪ Lack of oxygen in the tank (asphyxiation).
An additional hazard associated with multipurpose tanks or vessels (often transportable or
trailer mounted units) is that these may have contained different substances. Consequently its
contents, and the associated hazards at any one time, may not be known. All multi purpose
tanks or vessels shall therefore be considered as being contaminated by hazardous materials
and the pre-entry job safety plans and/or procedures shall be based on this premise.
Pre-Entry Requirements
Opening and entry of tanks and vessels shall be conducted in accordance with the following
documents:
• PR 1172 Permit to Work System Manual.
• PR 1073 Gas Freeing , Purging and Leak Testing of Process Equipment (Excluding Tanks)
• PR 1077 Preparation of Tank and Vessel for Internal Work
• PR 1079 Gas Freeing and Purging of Tanks
• PR 1148 Entry into Confined Space
• PR 1154 Gas Testing Procedure
Hot Work on Contaminated Tanks/Vessels
Before any Hot Work (work that could result in the generation of a spark or flame) is conducted
on a tank or vessel which contains or has contained a flammable substance, the tank or vessel
shall be prepared to minimise the risk of fire or explosion. This preparation shall be conducted
in accordance with the following documents:
• PR 1172 Permit to Work System Procedure Manual.
• PR 1073 Gas Freeing, Purging and Leak testing of Process Equipment (Excluding Tanks)
• PR 1077 Preparation of Tank and Vessel for Internal Work
• PR 1079 Gas Freeing and Purging of Tanks
• PR 1148 Entry Into Confined Space
• PR 1154 Gas Testing Procedure
Prior to commencing Hot Work, the vessel shall be ‘blanketed’. Acceptable means of blanketing
a vessel are filling the vessel space with an inert gas (such as nitrogen) or liquid (such as water)
and providing a constant flow of the blanketing medium through the vessel during the Hot
Work.
Gas testing shall not be used as a means of testing for the absence of flammable material if
the vessel previously contained a flammable liquid or solid since vapour may not evolve until
after heat is applied.
Hot work shall be conducted in accordance with the following documents:
• PR 1172 Permit to Work System Procedure Manual.
• PR 1148 Entry into Confined Space.

SP 1256 REVISION 3.0 Page 20

 Appendix I

Laboratories
Design and Construction
Laboratories shall comply with DEP-34.17.10.31 Laboratories (appropriate to the chemicals
being handled and work performed)
▪ Be sure to read all fire alarm and safety signs and follow the instructions in the event
of an accident or emergency.
▪ Ensure you are fully aware of your facility's/building's evacuation procedures.
▪ Make sure you know where your lab's safety equipment—including first aid kit(s), fire
extinguishers, eye wash stations, and safety showers—is located and how to properly
use it.
▪ Know emergency phone numbers to use to call for help in case of an emergency.
▪ Lab areas containing carcinogens, radioisotopes, biohazards, and lasers should be
properly marked with the appropriate warning signs.
▪ Open flames should never be used in the laboratory unless you have permission from a
qualified supervisor.
▪ Make sure you are aware of where your lab's exits and fire alarms are located.
▪ An area of 36" diameter must be kept clear at all times around all fire sprinkler heads.
▪ If there is a fire drill, be sure to turn off all electrical equipment and close all containers.
▪ Always work in properly-ventilated areas.
▪ Do not chew gum, drink, or eat while working in the lab.
▪ Laboratory glassware should never be utilized as food or beverage containers.
▪ Each time you use glassware, be sure to check it for chips and cracks. Notify your lab
supervisor of any damaged glassware so it can be properly disposed of.
▪ Never use lab equipment that you are not approved or trained by your supervisor to
operate.
▪ If an instrument or piece of equipment fails during use, or isn't operating properly,
report the issue to a technician right away. Never try to repair an equipment problem
on your own.
▪ If you are the last person to leave the lab, make sure to lock all the doors and turn off
all ignition sources.
▪ Do not work alone in the lab.
▪ Never leave an ongoing experiment unattended.
▪ Never lift any glassware, solutions, or other types of apparatus above eye level.
▪ Never smell or taste chemicals.
▪ Do not pipette by mouth.
▪ Make sure you always follow the proper procedures for disposing lab waste.
▪ Report all injuries, accidents, and broken equipment or glass right away, even if the
incident seems small or unimportant.
▪ Where the height of storage shelving requires their use, steps or ladders shall be
provided. Shelving and flooring shall be of adequate design and strength to carry the
intended loads.
▪ Storage cupboards for stationery and other flammable materials shall be metallic and,
when not in a dedicated storage room, fitted with doors.
▪ Quantities of chemicals likely to react adversely shall not be disposed of together.
▪ All chemicals to be disposed of shall be placed in clearly labelled containers with a
description of the contents and international hazard sign.
▪ Waste shall be suitably segregated to minimise hazards to disposal personnel.
Particular attention shall be given to separating all broken glassware and other sharp
objects from regular waste. The proper disposal of waste shall be the responsibility of
designated laboratory staff.
▪ Any spillage of liquid, especially of toxic, corrosive or otherwise hazardous liquids, shall
be immediately cleaned up in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions, the SHOC

SP 1256 REVISION 3.0 Page 21

 Cards or the MSDS (refer to SP 2194 Waste Management). All staff shall be familiar
with the procedures for dealing with spillage in the laboratory. Any materials used to
mop up spills shall immediately be removed to a safe place and stored in closed
containers for safe disposal (refer to SP 1194 Chemical Management, Section 5).
▪ Adequate time shall be assigned in all laboratories to ensure that good housekeeping
is maintained. If deemed necessary, in addition to the housekeeping efforts of
laboratory workers, specialised cleaning personnel may be required to maintain
adequate levels of cleanliness. If such work is carried out during normal working hours,
provision shall be made to ensure they neither interrupt the regular work patterns or
distract the laboratory workers, nor are put at risk by the laboratory processes.
Likewise, if cleaning activities are carried out outside normal working hours, this work
shall be supervised by competent laboratory staff to ensure the cleaning personnel are
neither at risk from chemicals, nor cause damage to equipment.
▪ All laboratory work shall be carried out by qualified and competent personnel, working
in accordance with written and approved work procedures. The hazards of all
chemicals used in the laboratory shall be assessed and specific HSE training relevant
to the hazards shall be provided to all laboratory staff handling those chemicals.
▪ Personal protective equipment (PPE) as specified in the above work procedures and in
SP 1234 Personal Protective Equipment shall be available in the laboratory and worn
by staff while performing laboratory work. Each laboratory shall have eye wash baths
and emergency showers installed.
▪ Personal protective equipment (PPE) as specified in the above work procedures and in
SP 1234 Personal Protective Equipment shall be available in the laboratory and worn
by staff while performing laboratory work. Each laboratory shall have eye wash baths
and emergency showers installed.
▪ No activity which involves gas, electricity, water or chemical reaction shall be left
unattended without the approval of the laboratory supervisor.
▪ No person shall perform laboratory work alone unless appropriate safety measures
have been taken (e.g. use of dead man’s alarm, direct contact with other staff working
outside the laboratory or a camera installed which can be monitored by other staff
working nearby).
▪ Any operation which may result in the release of toxic or noxious fumes shall be
performed in a suitable fume cupboard. Ventilation and fume extraction systems shall
meet the requirements of DEP 34.17.10.31 Laboratories and be maintained in good
condition.
▪ The process of diluting acids or other reactive liquids shall be done by adding the
concentrated liquid to the required quantity of water, rather than adding water to the
concentrated reactive liquid.
▪ Pipetting shall only be carried out using an aspirator bulb.
▪ No food or drink shall be brought into, prepared, or consumed inside laboratory work
or storage areas. Designated areas where no chemicals are present may be allocated
for this purpose.
▪ No unauthorised work or experiments shall be performed in laboratories.
▪ Laboratory equipment which may be subjected to pressure or corrosive substances
shall be inspected and tested in accordance with manufacturer's recommendations and
shall meet the specified Certification requirements.
▪ The use, storage and handling of industrial gases in the laboratory shall comply with
the requirements of this Specification.
Control of Chemical Substances
▪ The use and disposal of chemicals within the laboratory shall comply with SP 1194
Chemical Management and SP 1009 Waste Management.
▪ Only the required quantity of chemical substances for the daily operations shall be kept
in the laboratory. Bulk chemicals shall be kept locked in dedicated, fit-for-purpose
stores.

SP 1256 REVISION 3.0 Page 22