1. No category

Department of Physics
Health and safety information for staff and students
The Physics Department and the Faculty of Natural Sciences aim to operate to the highest
safety standards.
These documents have been compiled to provide staff and students with basic information on
various health & safety procedures in the Department of Physics. Additional and more
detailed information is available on the Department of Physics safety webpages and the
Imperial College safety website. Links to these are given below.
Department of Physics safety: http://www3.imperial.ac.uk/physics/safety
Faculty of Natural Sciences safety: http://www3.imperial.ac.uk/naturalsciences/safety
Imperial College Safety Department: http://www3.imperial.ac.uk/safety
You must contact your line manager and safety co-ordinator for induction and to discuss
training relevant to your work. They will be your first line of contact for safety information and
advice.
Professor Jordan Nash
Head of Physics Department
Issue 23
October 2014
(Reviewed annually for October – information in this document may change during the year, for latest
information go to the version on the Physics safety webpages:
http://www3.imperial.ac.uk/physics/safety)
CONTENTS:
• Department of Physics: Health and
Safety Statement and Arrangements
• Physics Safety Management
• Safety support and advice
• Staff safety training
• Post graduate safety training
• General safety guidance
• Information for academic supervisors
• Lone working
p1
• First aid information
p20
p2
p3-4
p5-7
p8-10
p11
p12
p13
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
p21
p22
p23
p24-25
p26
p27
p28
• Extended hours access
p14
•
•
•
•
p15
p16
p17
p18-19
Fire safety
Fire Action
Fire evacuation routes
Fire Safety Coordinator and Fire
Wardens
Office safety
Laboratory safety
Electrical safety
Chemical safety
Laser safety
Ionising radiation safety
Workshop and machine
tool safety
• Heavy and mechanical
lifting & manual handling
• Biological Safety
p29
P30
1
Head of Dept: Prof Jordan Nash
Deputy Head of Dept: Prof Kenny Weir
Dept Operations Manager: Mrs Linda Jones
Dept Health and Safety Committee
The Head of Dept chairs the Physics Dept Health and Safety Committee. The Health and Safety Committee
has representation from the following:
•
•
•
•
•
Academic staff
Postdoctoral staff
Students (postgraduate and undergraduate)
Safety Department
Fire Office
•
•
•
•
•
Union Safety Representative
Faculty Safety Managers
Mechanical workshop
Department Building Manager
Department Operations Manager
Safety is an agenda item at the Heads of Groups meetings and other relevant management committees within
the Dept.
Physics Safety Forum
The Faculty Safety Managers chair the Physics Safety Forum which is comprised of the various safety support
staff within the Dept. The aims of the forum are:
1. To ensure information on safety is communicated throughout the Dept of Physics
2. To discuss proposals on how best to implement new procedures or policies within areas where Physics
staff or students work.
If required please raise any safety concerns with your Group Safety Coordinator so that they can be raised at
the forum or committee if relevant.
2
Safety support and advice in Physics
FACULTY SAFETY STAFF
Faculty Safety Manager
FSM
Julia Easton
[email protected]
47700 /51270
Faculty Safety Manager
FSM
Stef Hoyle
[email protected]
50018
Richard Price
[email protected]
07775940024
Electrical Testing Technician
DEPARTMENTAL SAFETY STAFF:
Electrical Safety Supervisor
DESS Paul Beaumont
[email protected] B406 47523
Electrical Safety Technician
DEST Graham Axtell
[email protected]
B406 47960
Dept Laser Safety Officer
DLSO Brian Willey
[email protected]
H6M78 47787
Biological/Chemical Safety Adviser Contact the Faculty Safety Managers listed above
Waste Management Adviser
DWMA Malcolm Hudson
[email protected]
First Aid Co-ordinator
DFAC Meilin Sancho
[email protected] 47852
Fire Safety Co-ordinator
DFSC Simon Graham
[email protected]
B215 47620
Manual Handling Assessor
DMHA Simon Graham
[email protected]
B215 47870
[email protected]
B107 47672
[email protected]
B107 47877
[email protected]
B216 47666
Heavy & Mechanical Lifting Assessors HMLA Jon Dyne
HMLA Dave Bowler
Dept Building Manager
Malcolm Hudson
B216 47666
FACILITIES MANAGEMENT STAFF
Building Manager
H212B 49009
Assistant Building Manager
Adam Gardner
[email protected]
H212B 49081
GROUP/AREA Radiation Protection Supervisors (RPS):
Experimental Solid State
RPS
Jing Zhang
[email protected]
B910 47594
High Energy Physics level 11
RPS
Henrique Araujo
[email protected]
B1108 47549
High Energy Physics other floors
RPS
Mark Raymond
[email protected] B511b 47799
Plasma Physics
RPS
Simon Bland
[email protected]
B740 47650
Teaching Laboratories
RPS
Geoff Green
[email protected]
H455 47855
3
AREA SAFETY CO-ORDINATORS - On arriving in their area of responsibility, contact them before
starting work
Admin / Facilities / Theatres / Stores
Simon Graham
[email protected]
B215 47620
Teaching Laboratories
Robert Whisker
[email protected]
B422 47854
GROUP SAFETY CO-ORDINATORS - On arriving in their area of responsibility, contact them before
starting work
Astrophysics
Andrew Jaffe
[email protected]
B1013 47526
Condensed Matter Theory
Carolyn Dale
[email protected]
H902 47579
Experimental Solid State
Steve Cussell
[email protected]
B107 47877
High Energy Physics
Paula Brown
[email protected]
B542 47823
Photonics
Martin Kehoe
[email protected]
B616 47722
Plasma Physics
Alan Finch
[email protected]
B700 47616
[email protected]
B107 47877
Quantum Optics & Laser Science
Brian Willey
Space & Atmospheric
Steve Kellock
[email protected]
H/709B47760
Theoretical Physics
Graziela De Nadai-Sowery
[email protected]
H517 47843
GROUP LASER SAFETY ADVISERS - On arriving in their area of responsibility, contact them before
starting work with lasers
QOLS
Amelle Zair
[email protected]
Plasma
Francisco Suzuki Vidal
[email protected]
B740 47641
EXSS
Rupert Oulton
[email protected]
B901 47576
Photonics
James McGinty
[email protected]
B636C 47719
B317 47510/
47511
B631 45531
45603
STUDENT REPRESENTATIVES:
Postgraduate Representative
tba
Undergraduate Representative
Clark Baker
[email protected]
Post Doc Representative
Sunil Kumar
[email protected]
4
New staff – training and induction requirements (September 2014)
Below is a diagram outlining the safety training courses and inductions for a new member of staff. More details, links
to template forms and guidance on the process can be found in Table 1 (below diagram).
Diagram 1
New
starter
Training &
inductions
before
starting work
Ensure new staff
have returned Preemployment
questionnaire to
Occupational Health
Day 1
induction
Will member of
staff be an
academic
supervisor or
research fellow?
Training for all new staff,
to be completed within
one month:
1)
Month One Safety
Training (online)
2)
Risk Assessment
Foundation Training
(online)
3)
Fire prevention and
fire safety at work
(attend College
course)
Will member of
staff be doing
offsite work?
Will member of
staff be working
in a lab or other
hazardous
area?
Yes
Yes
Complete local lab /
hazardous area induction.
Line manager /
academic
supervisors to keep
records
Ensure supervision and
training in local lab
procedures and techniques is
given and recorded.
Yes
Attend Basic
Lab Safety
Training
course
Enrol onto
appropriate College
fieldwork training
course before
leaving for fieldwork.
Enrol onto
‘Health and
Safety for
academic
supervisors’
course.
Will work involve
the use of:
Lasers?
Biological
material?
Complete College
course ‘Introduction
to laser safety’.
For hazard group 2
pathogens, GM
material class 2 or
human material that
may contain
pathogens
individual
completes a
containment level 2
training record.
Complete laser
user registration
form, assign a
competency level
and return to
DLSO.
Local training in
safe use of laser
system and control
measures given by
supervisor or
nominated other.
Ionising
radiation?
Other
hazards?
Based on
individual’s
competence
identify if any safety
training courses are
required by using
the Training course
identification matrix.
Attend appropriate
College Principles
course (either for
use of ‘open
sources’ or ‘X-rays)
Complete ionisation
radiation user
registration form
and return to
College RPO
Local training in
safe use of ionising
radiation given by
RPS using the
College induction /
training template.
Gases or
cryogenics
?
Attend appropriate
College course on
gas cylinders or
cryogenic liquids
(or both if
appropriate)
Local training in
safe use of relevant
gases and / or
cryogenic liquids
given by competent
member of
research group.
5
Table 1 – Details of mandatory safety training courses and inductions
Training and induction
requirements for all new
staff
College Day 1 induction
Month One Safety Training (MOST)
Risk Assessment Foundation
Training (RAFT)
Type of course or
induction
Completed with line
manager or other
delegated individual
Online – complete within
first month.
Online - complete course
and test within first
month
Fire prevention and fire safety at
work
Attendance at College
Safety Training course –
complete within first
month
Health and safety for academic
supervisors
Attendance at College
Safety Training course –
complete within first
month
Further information
Gives a brief overview of emergency
arrangements associated with the building
they will be working in
Line managers or academic supervisors
need to keep copies of the signed record.
Links to template forms
and guidance
Information on Day 1 Induction
Day 1 induction template
Guidance on information to be
given during Day 1 induction
Builds upon the information given in the Day
1 induction. It is mandatory online course for
all new staff and relates to common safety
issues around the College.
Information on MOST course
Enrolment is automatic and via email
notification (three days after receiving
College log in).
Risk assessment is a fundamental
managerial skill. The Dept requires all new
staff to complete the RAFT course and pass
the test within one month of starting.
Information on RAFT course
All new staff will be notified of enrolment
onto RAFT by email from the Faculty Safety
Manager.
Biggest risk to individuals and the College is
from fires. Attendance at the course
ensures staff members knowledge of fire
procedures and prevention measures is up
to date.
This mandatory course provides supervisors
with an overview of their legal
responsibilities, enshrined in the College's
Health & Safety policy.
Information on College fire
safety course
Information on H&S course for
academic supervisors
Training and induction requirements for staff working in hazardous areas (labs etc)
Pre-employment questionnaire and
Health surveillance
Completed questionnaire
sent to Occ. Health. If
required appointment
made to see Occ. Health
advisor.
Basic Lab Safety course
Attend if post graduate
or relatively
inexperienced in lab
work or biological
experimentation.
Local laboratory / hazardous area
induction record
Completed with line
manager or other
delegated individual
before starting work in
lab
Introduction to laser safety
Enrol onto course via
‘My training’ link in ICIS.
Bio-medical sciences health surveillance
required for work with:
Animals, insects and gluteraldehyde.
Biological health surveillance required for
work with:
Hazard group 2 or 3 pathogens, GM material
class 2 or 3 and human material that may
contain pathogens
The Basic Lab Safety course is provided by
the Faculty Safety Managers. You do not
need to book but can turn up and sign the
attendance sheet. Details of when courses
are run are made available on the Faculty
Safety webpage.
Gives a brief overview of safety procedures
and controls within the local laboratory.
Line managers or academic supervisors
need to keep copies of the signed records.
In some cases individual facilities (NMR
Centre, insectory, CL3 labs, clean rooms
etc) will have their own inductions which
users will also need to complete. The facility
manager or technical staff will provide copies
of the relevant documents.
It is College and Dept Policy that all those
using high powered lasers (3B and 4) attend
this online course before using lasers.
Information on Health
surveillance
Links to Health surveillance
forms
Basic Lab Safety course
Local lab induction and
equipment training record
template
Guidance on information given
during lab induction and
equipment training
Introduction to Laser Safety
6
Dept user laser registration form
Complete form with
supervisor and return to
Dept Laser Safety
Officer
The user registration is required for all those
working with class 3B or 4 lasers. The form
includes essential information about the
laser system being used and the hazards
involved with the procedure. Those
completing the registration also need to
complete a laser exposure calculation for the
set up they are using. This calculation must
be checked by their supervisor.
Laser user registration form
If working with:
•
•
•
Containment Level 2 training record
College Principles of radiation
protection courses
College Radiation Protection - XRay Safety Awareness Training
Ionising radiation work area
induction
College course - Laboratory Gases
and Decanting Liquid Nitrogen
College course - Connecting Gas
Regulators and Manual Handling of
Cylinders
Identification of College Safety
training courses
human blood,
serum or unfixed
human tissue
pathogens in
Hazard Group 2
class 2 GM material
assigned to this
class on the basis
of their risk to
humans
then a record of the
training associated with
these needs to be kept
locally by the group
This course is
mandatory for all staff
and students who intend
working with ionising
radiation (open or sealed
source, except X-rays –
see below).
This course is
mandatory for all staff
and students who intend
to work with X-Ray
equipment and artificial
sources of ionising
radiation that are
designed to generate
photons.
Complete with the
Radiation Protection
Supervisor (RPS)
All staff or students
whose activities involve
the use of gas should
attend this course.
All staff or students
whose activities involve
working with gas
cylinders and regulators
in a laboratory
environment should
attend this course.
Complete with line
manager or nominated
delegate within 1 month
of starting
The aim of the local training and supervision
is to ensure those working with the
hazardous biological material are aware of
the associated hazards and risks, routes of
exposure, control measures and emergency
actions so that they can work safely
unsupervised.
Containment level 2 training
record template
Inform your Radiation Protection Supervisor
when you have completed the course.
Principles of radiation protection
Inform your Radiation Protection Supervisor
when you have completed the course.
Radiation Protection - X-Ray
Safety Awareness Training
Addresses specific issues concerning
management of ionising radiation including
safe use, storage, disposal and emergency
procedures
Delegates must complete the relevant elearning session: Using Liquid Nitrogen
Safely within Universities prior to the
workshop. E-learning code will be assigned
while the booking of the practical session is
received.
Delegates must complete the relevant elearning session: Using Gas Cylinders
Safely within Universities prior to the
workshop. E-learning code will be assigned
while the booking of the practical session is
received.
Laboratory Gases and
Decanting Liquid Nitrogen
Connecting Gas Regulators and
Manual Handling of Cylinders
Attendance at the following courses is
mandatory before the user can start the
work: (high powered lasers, ionising
radiation and gases and cryogenics).
Attendance at other courses is decided by
the line manager / supervisors depending on
the competence of the individual.
Use training course identification matrix for
assistance.
Training course identification
matrix
7
New Postgraduate – training and induction requirements (September 2014)
Below is a diagram outlining the safety training courses and inductions for a new postgraduate. More details, links to
template forms and guidance on the process can be found in Table 1 (below diagram).
Diagram 1
Training &
inductions
before
starting work
New
starter
Day 1
induction
Will member of
staff be doing
offsite work?
Training for all new PGs,
to be completed within
three months:
Experimental based student’s only Basic lab safety training
Will PG be
working in a lab
or other
hazardous
area?
Risk Assessment
Foundation Training
(online via Blackboard)
No
PhDs only - Fire
prevention and fire
safety at work (attend
College course)
Line manager /
academic
supervisors to keep
records
No
Yes
Enrol onto
appropriate College
fieldwork training
course before
leaving for fieldwork.
Yes
Complete local lab /
hazardous area induction.
Ensure supervision and
training in local lab
procedures and techniques is
given and recorded.
Will work involve
the use of:
Lasers?
Biological
material?
Complete College
course ‘Introduction
to laser safety’.
For hazard group 2
pathogens, GM
material class 2 or
human material that
may contain
pathogens
individual
completes a
containment level 2
training record.
Complete laser
user registration
form, assign a
competency level
and return to
DLSO.
Local training in
safe use of laser
system and control
measures given by
supervisor or
nominated other.
Supervisor and PG
must complete the
appropriate health
surveillance form
and send to
Occupational
Health Dept (OHD)
10 working days
prior to start of lab
work.
Ionising
radiation?
Other
hazards?
Based on
individual’s
competence
identify if any safety
training courses are
required by using
the Training course
identification matrix.
Attend appropriate
College Principles
course (either for
use of ‘open
sources’ or ‘X-rays)
Complete ionisation
radiation user
registration form
and return to
College RPO
Local training in
safe use of ionising
radiation given by
RPS using the
College induction /
training template.
Gases or
cryogenics
?
Attend appropriate
College course on
gas cylinders or
cryogenic liquids
(or both if
appropriate)
Local training in
safe use of relevant
gases and / or
cryogenic liquids
given by competent
member of
research group.
8
Table 1 – Details of mandatory safety training courses and inductions
Training and induction
requirements for all new
Post graduates
College Day 1 induction
Risk Assessment Foundation
Training (RAFT)
Type of course or
induction
Completed with line
manager or other
delegated individual
Online - complete course
and test within nine
months
Further information
Gives a brief overview of emergency
arrangements associated with the building
they will be working in
Line managers or academic supervisors
need to keep copies of the signed record.
Risk assessment is a fundamental
managerial skill. The Dept requires all new
PGs to complete the RAFT course and pass
the test.
Links to template forms
and guidance
Information on Day 1 Induction
Day 1 induction template
Guidance on information to be
given during Day 1 induction
Information on RAFT course
All new PGs will be notified of enrolment
onto RAFT by email from the Faculty Safety
Manager.
Fire prevention and fire safety at
work (PhD students only)
Attendance at College
Safety Training course
Biggest risk to individuals and the College is
from fires. Attendance at the course
ensures PGs knowledge of fire procedures
and prevention measures is up to date.
Information on College fire
safety course
Training and induction requirements for post graduates working in hazardous areas (labs etc)
Introduction to laser safety
Online Course.
It is College and Dept Policy that all those
using high powered lasers (3B and 4) attend
this course before using lasers.
Introduction to Laser Safety
Basic Lab Safety Training (only for
those doing experimental work)
Attendance at Faculty
arranged course
available during October,
and periodically
throughout the year.
Designed to give a basic understanding of
how to work safely in the laboratory and
highlight common lab hazards.
Basic Lab Safety course
Complete form with
supervisor and return to
Dept Laser Safety
Officer
The user registration is required for all those
working with class 3B or 4 lasers. The form
includes essential information about the
laser system being used and the hazards
involved with the procedure. Those
completing the registration also need to
complete a laser exposure calculation for the
set up they are using. This calculation must
be checked by their supervisor.
Laser user registration form
This course is
mandatory for all staff
and students who intend
to work with X-Ray
equipment and artificial
sources of ionising
radiation that are
designed to generate
photons.
Inform your Radiation Protection Supervisor
when you have completed the course.
Radiation Protection - X-Ray
Safety Awareness Training
Dept user laser registration form
College Radiation Protection - XRay Safety Awareness Training
Ionising radiation work area
induction
Complete with the
Radiation Protection
Supervisor (RPS)
College Principles of radiation
protection courses
This course is
mandatory for all staff
and students who intend
working with ionising
radiation (open or sealed
source, except X-rays –
see above).
Addresses specific issues concerning
management of ionising radiation including
safe use, storage, disposal and emergency
procedures
Inform your Radiation Protection Supervisor
when you have completed the course.
Principles of radiation protection
9
College course - Laboratory Gases
and Decanting Liquid Nitrogen
College course - Connecting Gas
Regulators and Manual Handling of
Cylinders
Health surveillance is required for
certain types of work. There are
two different health surveillance
programmes:
Bio-medical health surveillance
(for work with animals, insects and
gluteraldehyde)
&
Bio-agents health surveillance for
work with hazard group 2 or 3
pathogens, GM material class 2 or
3 or human material that may
contain pathogens.
All staff or students
whose activities involve
the use of gas should
attend this course.
All staff or students
whose activities involve
working with gas
cylinders and regulators
in a laboratory
environment should
attend this course.
PG and supervisor to
complete the health
surveillance forms (for
example a PG student
using animals and
working on a GM class 2
project would need to
complete both sets of
health surveillance
forms) and return them
to Occupational Health
at least 10 days before
commencing work.
Delegates must complete the relevant elearning session: Using Liquid Nitrogen
Safely within Universities prior to the
workshop. E-learning code will be assigned
while the booking of the practical session is
received.
Delegates must complete the relevant elearning session: Using Gas Cylinders
Safely within Universities prior to the
workshop. E-learning code will be assigned
while the booking of the practical session is
received.
Bio-medical sciences health surveillance
required for work with:
Animals, insects and gluteraldehyde.
Biological health surveillance required for
work with:
Hazard group 2 or 3 pathogens, GM material
class 2 or 3 and human material that may
contain pathogens
Laboratory Gases and
Decanting Liquid Nitrogen
Connecting Gas Regulators and
Manual Handling of Cylinders
Information on Health
surveillance
Links to Health surveillance
forms
Gives a brief overview of safety procedures
and controls within the local laboratory.
Local laboratory / hazardous area
induction record
Completed with line
manager or other
delegated individual
before starting work in
lab
Line managers or academic supervisors
need to keep copies of the signed records.
In some cases individual facilities (NMR
Centre, insectory, CL3 labs, clean rooms
etc) will have their own inductions which
users will also need to complete. The facility
manager or technical staff will provide copies
of the relevant documents.
Local lab induction and
equipment training record
template
Guidance on information given
during lab induction and
equipment training
If working unsupervised
with:
•
•
•
Containment Level 2 training record
human blood,
serum or unfixed
human tissue
pathogens in
Hazard Group 2
class 2 GM material
assigned to this
class on the basis
of their risk to
humans
then a record of the
training associated with
the agents needs to be
kept locally by the group.
Work unsupervised for
students can only be
approved by the
supervisor after
demonstration of
competence.
Identification of College Safety
training courses
Complete with line
manager or nominated
delegate within 1 month
of starting
The aim of the local training and supervision
is to ensure those working with the
hazardous biological material are aware of
the associated hazards and risks, routes of
exposure, control measures and emergency
actions so that they can work safely
unsupervised.
Containment level 2 training
record template
Attendance at the following courses is
mandatory before the user can start the
work: (high powered lasers, ionising
radiation and gases and cryogenics).
Attendance at other courses is decided by
the line manager / supervisors depending on
the competence of the individual.
Use training course identification matrix for
assistance.
Training course identification
matrix
10
General safety advice in Physics
The points below are relevant to all staff, students and visitors working in Physics
All staff must be aware of the College Health and Safety Policy Statement, and the Department of Physics
Health and Safety Statement and Arrangements.
You must:
1. Ensure activities are appropriately assessed
2. Ensure you know how to use the control measures associated with your work and how to respond in an
emergency situation (e.g. chemical spill, laser eye strike, gas release etc.)
3. Ensure you are inducted and trained appropriately for the work you are engaging in
4. Ensure the area / bench / laser table you are working in or on is free of clutter and other items not involved
with your work i.e. good housekeeping
5. Ensure hazardous substances are stored in the appropriate areas
6. If activities significantly change make sure the assessment and related control measures are reviewed
7. If constructing equipment discuss the design and potential safety issues with your Group Safety
Coordinator or other safety personnel (as appropriate) before building it
8. Report all incidents that are considered dangerous, whether or not they cause injury as soon as possible
after the event. The accident report form (Click on the SALUS icon) and corresponding guidance note can
be accessed form the Safety Department web-site.
9. Report any building defects, e.g. broken lights, dangerous ceiling tiles, defective fume cupboards,
dangerous floors, etc., immediately to the Department Building Manager, Malcolm Hudson,
[email protected] Tel: 47666, or in his absence to the Facilities Manager, Viv Frater
[email protected] Tel: 47888.
You will be required to provide the following information:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Your contact details (Name, Email, Department, Contact Number)
Location: building, floor, Room
Type of Job: Asbestos, Blockage, Carpentry, Chemical Waste Disposal, Cleaning, Heating, Leak, Lifts,
Lighting,
Other, Pest Control, Plumbing, Power, Space Database, Water
Description of the problem
Priority of the job: 2 (24 hours), 3 (48 hours), 4 (4 days), 5 (7 days), 6 (Minor Works), Quote for Works,
10. If you are unsure about safety procedures, hazards or risks associated with your work ask your supervisor
and / or the Group Safety Coordinators or any other of the safety advisers listed in this booklet (as
appropriate)
11. Do not take unnecessary risks that may cause harm to yourself or others around you
12. Do not interfere with equipment and signage that is provided for your and others safety.
11
Information for academic supervisors and principal investigators
Health and safety responsibilities
Principal Investigators (PIs) are accountable to their Head of Group or their line manager for the health and
safety of their staff and students and for compliance with College and Department procedures. They must
ensure that proper arrangements are in place to discharge their responsibilities.
Detailed College information on responsibilities for those who have supervisory roles can be found here:
http://www3.imperial.ac.uk/safety/policies/organisationandarrangements
Training
All new academics supervisors and principal investigators must attend the College course ‘Health and Safety
Responsibilities for Academic Supervisors’ – book onto the course via this link:
http://www3.imperial.ac.uk/staffdevelopment/safety/index/academicsupervisors
Help and advice
Faculty Safety Manager
FSM
Julia Easton
[email protected]
Tel: 47700/ 51270
Faculty Safety Manager
FSM
Stefan Hoyle
[email protected]
Tel: 50018
In summary:
•
Ensure all work is assessed appropriately
•
Ensure that working practices are regularly reviewed and where necessary assessments updated to reflect
changes in procedure
•
Where appropriate you may delegate a health and safety duties, ensuring that staff have the necessary
authority and resources to discharge them. You cannot delegate a health and safety responsibility.
•
Monitor your staff and students to ensure control measures identified in your assessments are being
implemented
•
Ensure your staff and students know and can implement emergency procedures associated with your
research
•
Ensure information on hazards and controls is communicated with all others who may be affected by your
activities
•
Ensure those supervising staff and students on your behalf are competent to do so
•
Identify and review training requirements for staff and students
•
When planning new work or significant changes to existing work notify your Group Safety Coordinator or a
member of the Faculty Safety Team.
12
Lone working procedures in Physics
The following describes the procedures for lone working for staff and students in the Dept of Physics. These
arrangements aim to reduce the risks to staff, students, visitors and contractors associated with lone working
and comply with the requirements of the College Lone Working Policy and Code of Practice.
Definitions
Lone working is more likely outside of normal working hours and is defined as ‘where a person works by
themselves without close or direct supervision or contact with others’,
Lone working and working outside of normal working hours carries a greater risk because core services (first
aid, security and fire officers) may not be available or have restricted access in certain locations.
Dept working hours
Normal working hours for Dept of Physics have been defined by the Head of Dept as: Monday to Friday
07.00 – 18.00. Wherever possible all staff and students should arrange their work so that it can be done during
these times and with others in attendance.
However it is recognised that this is not always possible, therefore supervisors must ensure:
• That risk assessments associated with the work includes consideration of lone working and potential lack
of core services (first aid, fire response etc).
• Risk assessments consider that if working alone the normal working hours emergency procedures are
reviewed to ensure lone workers can also use them effectively.
• That the findings of the risk assessments are communicated to those doing the work and the identified
control measures are implemented and on occasion monitored.
• That those doing the work are competent (have appropriate knowledge, experience and training) – if they
are not competent they must be supervised.
• Advice is sought from the appropriate safety personnel for high risk procedures or work in restricted and
highly restricted areas (amber or red areas) that will involve working outside of normal working hours
and/or lone working.
Arrangements for lone working
The Dept normal working hours correspond with the routine College building access hours (07.00 – 18.00
Monday to Friday). After 18:00 and at all times at the weekends, buildings are accessible only by swipe card
until 23.00 (if access is required beyond 23.00 follow the procedure for requesting extended hours
security card access).
Responsibilities of lone workers
• Ensuring that identified control measures are implemented.
• Ensuring that they are familiar with the local arrangements for fire, first aid, spillages, power failures and
other emergencies.
• Adhering to agreed protocols for emergency contact.
• Keeping within the scope of the agreed work and work areas and, if changes are necessary informing their
supervisor and updating the assessment before changing the scope of the work.
Lone working - prohibited activities
In some situations lone working is prohibited. Please consult the Lone Working Code of Practice for a list of
these:
https://workspace.imperial.ac.uk/safety/Internal/Lone%20Working/Lone%20working%20CoPv10%20college%
20issue%20June%202014.pdf
Consent for Lone Working in Intrinsically Hazardous Environments, and Benign Environments if it is outside
normal working hours can be applied for here:
https://share.imperial.ac.uk/services/SafetyDpt/loneworking/LoneWorkingForm/SitePages/Home.aspx
13
Applying for extended hours access
Any extension of swipe card access outside of normal building access hours (07.00 – 23.00 Monday to
Sunday) must be risk assessed with the relevant supervisor / manager and Faculty Safety Manager before
access is granted. Applications for extended hour’s access are then approved by the Head of Dept.
This helps to ensure the security of staff and equipment in the building and how individuals will make contact
with College core services in the event of an emergency.
Procedure for requesting access Monday – Sunday 23.00 – 07.00 and national holidays:
•
Download the extended hours request form from: http://www3.imperial.ac.uk/physics/safety
•
Complete the request form and review the appropriate risk assessment, agree with your supervisor and
send both documents to the Faculty Safety Manager (Julia Easton [email protected]) at least 2
weeks before access is required for review.
•
Upon agreement of appropriate control measures for the work the request will be sent to the Head of Dept
for final approval and then access will be requested from security.
Risk Assessments
Generic risk assessments for doing office work outside of normal building access hours are available on the
Physics safety webpage, those requesting access for office work are required to read the assessment and
implement the findings.
Risk assessments for lab work are completed by individual groups. Supervisors are to ensure they are
reviewed and monitored so appropriate controls for working outside of normal building access hours (including
lone working risks) are in place and implemented.
14
Fire Safety
All new staff and students must attend Fire Safety Training, which will be booked by the local Safety
Coordinator after you have received a general safety induction for the area you work in.
The principal causes of fire are generally arson, electrical faults and smoking. Work in laboratories presents
special hazards arising primarily from the use of flammable gases and liquids.
Good housekeeping and sensible precautions will reduce the risk of a fire and ensure a safe
evacuation if the case on a fire.
Arson
- Do not allow flammable materials such as rubbish and waste paper to accumulate especially in any place
where they might cause damage if ignited maliciously.
- Ensure that windows are closed and secured when buildings are unoccupied, especially those on the ground
floor.
- Report all suspicious persons or occurrences to Security.
Electrical equipment
- As far as possible, make sure that electrical equipment and wiring is in safe condition and that sockets are
not overloaded.
- Turn off all electrical equipment when not in use, unless it is designed to be connected permanently.
- Switch off immediately any equipment in the event of sparking, burning smells or smoke, and ensure that the
equipment is isolated from the electricity supply and repaired before further use.
Smoking
- Do not smoke in any building or on any designated non-smoking site.
Using inflammable liquids and gases
- Store compressed gas cylinders away from heat and secure them against falling.
- Store flammable liquids only in approved purpose-built stores or clearly labelled metal cabinets.
- Store in laboratories only quantities of flammable liquids and gases required for immediate use.
- Keep the use of exposed flammable liquids and solvents to a minimum and replace caps and lids
immediately after use.
- Keep flammable liquids away from electrical equipment, especially when such equipment is unattended.
- Remember that an explosion can be caused by sparks from electric motors and switches igniting gases and
vapours.
- Never undertake an experiment, which involves a high risk of explosion.
General maintenance
- Ensure that all work areas are cleaned regularly.
- Ensure that the ventilation of heaters, machinery and office equipment is not obstructed and that regular
cleaning takes place (particularly where fluff and dust can gather and mix with grease).
Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan (PEEP)
If you need help to evacuate a building, either because of a temporary injury (e.g. broken leg) or due to
something more permanent, you may require a Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan. Please talk to
the Faculty Safety Manager.
15
FIRE ACTION
IF YOU DISCOVER A FIRE
1. Sound the alarm - operate the nearest fire alarm call point.
2. Warn people in the vicinity of the fire.
3. Leave the building closing doors behind you.
4. Report to a fire warden or the emergency response team.
Try to extinguish a fire only if you:
•
have already raised the alarm
•
attended the Fire Safety Course Practical Element
•
feel confident to use the extinguisher – and attempt with only one extinguisher, then evacuate
•
are not alone
DO NOT TAKE PERSONAL RISKS
FIRE ALARM AND EVACUATION PROCEDURE
1. Evacuate the building by the nearest available exit closing the door of your room as you leave.
2. Go to the nearest assembly point.
•
Do not stop to collect personal belongings
•
Do not use the lifts
•
Do not run
•
Do not re-enter the building until permission is given by a Fire or Security Officer
•
Keep away from any entrance - Ensure to keep clear of any vehicular traffic
ASSEMBLY POINTS ARE VIA THE NEAREST EXIT, move to the assembly point:
(A)
(B)
(C)
QUEENS GATE - BLANK WALL - to the WEST of BLACKETT Building
(Use when exiting from Blackett Front or West Exits or Huxley Front Exit)
AERONAUTICS - CAR PARK - beside RODERIC HILL Building
(Use when exiting rear of Blackett or rear of Huxley or Undercroft Exits
BONE COURTYARD - Via SHERFIELD WALKWAY or GROUND LEVEL
(Use when exiting Huxley rear Exits near Sherfield and post room)
(Assembly points have tannoy points near them to alert those who have evacuated when they can re-enter the
buildings).
See Fire Exits and Assembly Points on the next page
EMERGENCY NUMBER 4444 (from any college phone)
From a mobile ring: 020 7589 1000
16
17
Fire Safety Coordinator and Fire Wardens
The Head of Department appoints a Fire Safety Coordinator to support them in the
implementation of the College Fire Safety Policy.
The Fire Safety Coordinator for Physics is:
Simon Graham
[email protected]
B215
47870
Fire Wardens have local knowledge of the fire risks in their work area and are appointed to:
•
Alert their fire safety coordinator or the Department Building Manager to any defects
in fire precautions in their area
•
Participate in fire drills and report any problems to the Fire Safety Coordinator
•
Assist during the evacuation of their building by
a. Guiding people to assembly points
b. Helping to prevent re-entry until the building is deemed safe for re-occupation
Blackett & Huxley Buildings Fire Wardens
Departments of Computing, Mathematics and Physics
Fire Warden duties during lectures: The lecturer automatically assumes the role of Fire
Warden if the fire alarm activates during a lecture. The lecturer needs to ensure that those
attending the lecture leave in an orderly manner via the nearest exit and go to the
appropriate assembly point to await further instruction.
Fire Wardens
Level
Building/Area
Simon Bland
0
Blackett/Huxley Plasma and EXSS areas
Jon Dyne
0
Blackett Workshop area
Felicity McGrath
0
Blackett/Huxley QOLS area/SPAT area 002
Tobias Witting
0
Blackett/Huxley QOLS area/SPAT area 002
Paul Brown
1
Blackett Instrumentation Facility
Brian Willey
1
Blackett Instrumentation Facility
David Bowler
1
Blackett Instrumentation Facility
Andrew Pope
1
Huxley Mathematics
Viv Frater
2
Blackett
Neil Powell
2
Blackett
Malcolm Hudson
2
Blackett
John Conway
3
Blackett
Julia Easton
3
Blackett
Loli Sanchez Rey
3
Blackett
Edward Charnley
3
Blackett
Graham Axtell
4
Blackett
Paul Beaumont
4
Blackett
18
Robert Whisker
4
Blackett
Vera Kasey
5
Blackett HEP
Paul Dauncey
5
Blackett HEP
Julia Sedgbeer
5
Blackett HEP
Graziela De Nadai Sowrey
5
Huxley Theory
Martin Kehoe
6
Blackett Photonics
Jude Baylis
6
Blackett Photonics
Marcia Salviato
6
Blackett Photonics
John Gibbons
6
Huxley Mathematics
Chris Sisson
6
Huxley Mathematics
Tim Oddy
6M
Huxley SPAT
Andrew Parry
6M
Huxley Mathematics
Richard Bantges
7
Huxley SPAT
Paul Green
7
Huxley SPAT
Ciara Mulholland
7
Huxley ISP
James Wilgeroth
7
Huxley ISP
Steve Kellock
7
Huxley ISP
Alan Finch
7
Blackett Plasma / Photonics
Robert Kingham
7
Blackett Plasma /Photonics
Alnaimi Radhwan
7
Blackett
Alice Powell
8
Common Room Blackett
Tyler Roschuk
8
Blackett EXSS
Carolyn Dale
9
Huxley EXSS
Bhavna Patel
9
Huxley EXSS
Juraci Didone
9
Huxley EXSS
Linda Jones
9
Blackett HoDs office / EXSS
Caroline Jackson
9
Blackett HoDs office / EXSS
Sandie Bernor
10
Blackett ASTRO
Dave Clements
10
Blackett ASTRO
Jonathan Pritchard
10
Blackett ASTRO
Nathalie Skrzypek
10
Blackett ASTRO
Henrique Araujo
11
Blackett HEP
Physics Fire Coordinator: Simon Graham [email protected] 020 7594 7870
Maths Fire Coordinator:
Andrew Pope [email protected]
020 7594 8544
Information on fire wardens and College fire safety requirements can be found here:
http://www3.imperial.ac.uk/safety/policies/individualpolicies/firesafety/firesafetycodeofpractice
19
PHYSICS in Blackett & Huxley SEPT. 2014
QUALIFIED FIRST AIDERS AND EFAWs
In the event of an accident or medical emergency requiring First Aid -
Your FIRST action is to contact someone from the list without delay.
You may also need to call for backup or College Emergency Response
Emergency - dial internal: 4444 (to summon help via a mobile: 020 7589 1000)
Level
0
0
0
0
0
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
2
2
2
2
3
3
4
4
5
5
6
I6m
6m
6m
6m
6
6
7
7
7
7
7
7
7
7
8
8
9
10
Box sited
B/005/006
H/007
B- wall
B/107
“
H/111
“
“
“
“
B - 2 wall
-
B - 3 wall
B/406
B/422
H/517
B/617
-
B/700
B - 8 wall
B - 9 wall
Name
Eoin Butler
Alan Finch
Joe Goodwin
Susan Parker
Emma Simpson
Sofia Bekou
David Bowler
Steve Nelson
Brian Willey
Steve Maine
Dave Williams
Jon Dyne
Steve Cussell
Martin Pettifer
Kyle Major
Devin Dunseith
Graham Stutter
John Tisch
Vivienne Frater
Tom Gamble
Gabrielle Thomas
Julia Easton
Vijay Tymms
Paul Beaumont
Graham Axtell
Alexander Richards
Morgan Wascko
Simon Johnson
Martin Arnold
Hazel Lowe
Emilio Pisanty
Patrick Brown
Lionel Fafchamps
Arttu Rajantie
George Dibb
Sheridan Few
Sylvain Gennaro
Stuart Higgins
Gwenhiver Moon
Ciara Mulholland
Thuy-Tien Nguyen
Megumi Yoshida
Freddie Page
Alice Powell
st
1 Aiders and EFAWS
Will Ball
Person sited
B/015 / B/ 737 (CCM )
B/006 Z Pinch (PLASMA)
H/004 /006 ( QOLS )
H/003 & 723H( Elec Workshop )
H/012 & 6M09 ( QOLS )
B/111A ( EXSS )
B/107 (Main Workshop)
B/107 (Main Workshop)
B/107 (Main Workshop)
B/107 (Main Workshop)
B/107 (Main Workshop)
B/107 (Main Workshop)
B/107 (EXSS/Workshop)
B/107 ( EXSS/Workshop )
B/114 ( QOLS )
B/114 / H010 ( QOLS )
B/114 H/004 / 006 ( QOLS )
B/205 H007 / H008 (QOLS)
B/216 ( Facilities )
B/224 (Lodge)
B/222b (PHOT)
B/325 ( Faculty Safety Manager )
B/315 ( Teaching )
nd
B/406 (2 Year Lab)
nd
B/406 (2 Year Lab)
B/529 ( HEP )
B/525 ( HEP )
B/617 ( PHOT/ QOLS )
H/6m09 / H009 ( QOLS )
H/6m09/L1/ 148. /L0 /H009
H/6m05 ( QOLS )
H/6m59 (SPAT)
B/729 (PHOT)
H/605 ( THEO )
H/724 (EXSS)
H/724 (EXSS)
H/722 ( EXSS )
H/724 (EXSS)
H/722 ( EXSS )
B/728 ( ISP )
H/759 ( ISP )
H/724 ( EXSS )
B/817 ( CMTH )
L8 Common Room
See Level 8
1012 ( ASTRO )
Telephone
47864
47616
47883
47886/47536
47740
41253
47877
47877
47877
47877
47877
47672
47877
47877
47588
47588
47588
47710
47888
58911
47743
47700/
45238
47523
47960
47802
41607
47722
47887
47887
47728
47764
48376
47835
46682
46682
43680
46682
43680
41343
41962
46682
47614
48327
Grade
EFAW
st
1 Aider
EFAW
EFAW
EFAW
EFAW
st
1 Aider
EFAW
EFAW
st
1 Aider
EFAW
EFAW
EFAW
st
1 Aider
EFAW
EFAW
EFAW
EFAW
EFAW
st
1 Aider
EFAW
st
1 Aider
EFAW
st
1 Aider
st
1 Aider
EFAW
EFAW
st
1 Aider
EFAW
st
1 Aider
EFAW
EFAW
EFAW
EFAW
EFAW
EFAW
EFAW
EFAW
EFAW
EFAW
EFAW
st
1 Aider
EFAW
EFAW
47557
EFAW
Please use the College’s online service ‘SALUS’ to report incidents /accidents.
For FA training contact the DFAC – Meilin Sancho on 47852 or [email protected]
20
Office safety and minimising risks associated with use of computers
When working in an office/administration area:
•
Keep area tidy and remove trip hazards
•
Clear up any spills on the floor to prevent slips
•
Make sure you know the nearest emergency exit and the route to take if the fire alarm activates
•
Identify the first aiders in your area and the location of the first aid box
•
Do not link electrical extension leads to one another (daisy chaining)
•
If moving large items of office equipment get advice form the Dept Manual Handling Assessor
•
Any stepladders or similar used in offices must be registered with Dept Manual Handling Assessor
Minimising risks associated with computer work
Extensive computer work can lead to health problems affecting the hands, arms and back. This is usually
caused by prolonged use of the keyboard and mouse coupled with unsatisfactory workstation layout and/or
poor keyboard or mouse technique.
The College has web pages dedicated to the healthy use of computers and work stations:
http://www3.imperial.ac.uk/occhealth/guidanceandadvice/computerhealth
Before you start work at your computer, ensure your workstation is suitably set up by carrying out an
assessment. Guidance and a workstation checklist are available from the Occupational Health web site:
http://www3.imperial.ac.uk/occhealth/guidanceandadvice/computerhealth/computerchecklist
Please read the guidance before undertaking an assessment. If any problems are highlighted in the
assessment contact your Display Screen Equipment (DSE) assessor. This will normally be your Group Safety
Coordinator. Alternatively, contact the Faculty Safety Manager.
You should complete a workstation assessment regularly; at least annually, when something about your
workstation changes, or if you start to experience problems that could be related to workstation use.
Any member of staff who uses a computer regularly in their normal work can have an eye test carried out by
an optician, paid for by their department. For more information, contact your local OH Service or see the "Eye
Tests for Computer Work" web page:
http://www3.imperial.ac.uk/OCCHEALTH/guidanceandadvice/eyetests/eyetestsforcomputerwork
Workstation Set-Up
•
WORKSPACE ON YOUR DESK should be sufficient for you to place documents to read with room to
rest your wrists in front of the keyboard.
•
YOUR CHAIR (preferably adjustable) should allow you to sit at a comfortable height relative to your
keyboard and screen. Use a footrest if your feet do not reach the ground. Ensure leg room & clearance
to allow posture change
•
YOUR SCREEN must be easy to read without discomfort, position the monitor relative to artificial and
window light to avoid direct or indirect glare and reflections.
•
KEYBOARD must be usable, adjustable, legible
•
LONG UNINTERRUPTED PERIODS at your computer are hazardous to you. Take frequent, short
breaks to carry out a different task away from the computer (a few minutes every half hour will help).
•
IF YOU EXPERIENCE ANY PAIN OR DISCOMFORT that you think may be due to use of the
computer, you must report this to your DSE assessor.
21
Laboratory safety
Each individual in the laboratory is responsible for his or her own safety and for the safety of others affected by the work.
Before any procedure is undertaken, the relevant risk assessment form must be consulted, safety precautions taken, and
the decontamination/disposal of waste routes/emergency procedures understood. Always seek appropriate training
before starting the work.
Preventing exposure
•
Design experiments so that you and others around you are protected from any hazardous materials or activities
•
Eating, drinking, storing of foods, applying of cosmetics etc. must not take place in lab areas.
•
Do not take personal belongings into laboratory (e.g. coats, bags)
•
Laboratory coats must be worn when required to prevent your own clothing becoming contaminated. Additional
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) may also be required. This may include appropriate gloves, safety
goggles/glasses, ear protectors etc.
•
Change gloves regularly – depending upon the activity they may only protect you for a limited time.
•
Lab coats and gloves must not be worn outside of the laboratory or workshop.
•
If your labcoat is contaminated, change it as soon as is possible.
•
Any cuts or grazes, dermatitis or other forms of open wound, especially on the hands, should be covered by a
waterproof dressing before you start work. The cover should be adequate to prevent contamination.
•
Wash your hands before leaving the laboratory or if they become contaminated during bench work.
Housekeeping
•
Keep all passageways clear. Fire doors should not be locked, bolted or obstructed.
•
Fire extinguishers must not be moved or used as door stops.
•
Do not store excessive amounts of paper or cardboard, they are a fire hazard.
•
Keep the labs in a clean and tidy state at all times. This includes personal bench space as well as communal areas.
•
Put chemicals away when you have finished with them.
•
Store heavy bottles or items at bench height.
•
Clear up spillages immediately using the appropriate protocol and inform others in the area of the spill.
•
Return gas cylinders to the stores when they are empty.
•
Dispose of all waste safely. Do not leave waste to overflow in bins or build up in the laboratory.
Risk reduction
•
Label equipment left running unattended (especially overnight) with date, hazards identified and emergency contact
details.
•
Do not store excessive quantities of flammable chemicals.
Use of Gas Cylinders
For guidance on the use, handling and storage of gas cylinders refer to the College Code of Practice "Safe Handling, Use
and Storage of Compressed Gases" available on the following web page:
http://www3.imperial.ac.uk/safety/subjects/gasesandcryo#gases
•
All cylinders should be secured, individually, to a rigid support using an appropriate clamp.
•
Keep the number of cylinders in the laboratory to a minimum. Return empty or unwanted cylinders to the Stores.
•
Keep cylinders away from stocks of flammable liquids and ignition sources.
•
After use always close the valves and depressurise the regulator.
•
All regulators must be replaced every 5 years or every 2 years if used with corrosive gases. Regulators should be
inspected annually.
Eye Wash Showers
Eye wash showers, where they are fitted in laboratories, should be flushed out weekly to prevent the
build-up of contaminated water. A weekly inspection log should be kept nearby recording when the
shower was last flushed out.
22
Electrical safety
The policy for portable appliance testing in Faculty of Natural Sciences can be found here:
https://workspace.imperial.ac.uk/Naturalsciences/Public/staff/healthandsafety/Portable%20Appliance%20Testing%20%20FoNS%20arrangements%20120613.pdf
All electrical equipment in the department is tested by the FoNS Electrical Testing Technician:
Electrical Testing Technician FoNS Richard Price
[email protected] 07775940024
Additionally, the Department has electrical safety personnel who can be contacted for advice on electrical safety:
Electrical Safety Supervisor
DESS Paul Beaumont
[email protected]
B406
47523
Electrical Safety Technician
DEST Graham Axtell
[email protected]
B405
47960
The following guidance must be observed within the Department:
•
Do not use equipment that is labeled ‘Do not use’. The label shown below will be attached to equipment that is
known to be unsafe whilst it is awaiting repair.
•
Do not use any equipment that is suspected or known to be damaged or faulty –
report it to one of the technicians to get it examined, tested or for advice
concerning repair. (Note: Faculty and departmental electrical safety staff are not
responsible for arranging repairs).
•
Do not replace any blown fuses without getting the item checked to prevent further damage / fire /electrocution.
•
Ensure your equipment has been electrically tested – check for test stickers that
look like this:
•
Ensure any risks from your use of electricity have been considered in your risk assessment.
•
The use of extension leads is to be avoided where possible. Use all available socket outlets first. Where extension
leads must be used ensure they are securely fixed and off of the floor. Do not ‘Daisy Chain’ extension leads.
•
Do not use extension reels; these may overheat if not fully unwound.
•
Keep cables neat and tidy – do not let them become trip hazards. If you can use a shorter power lead then do so.
Where cables are running across floors they MUST be covered with floorguard tread protector matting.
•
If you are constructing, modifying or repairing electrical equipment; including the fitting of plugs or replacement of
fuses, ensure it is checked by a competent electrician before you start using it. If you are carrying out such work
consideration needs to be given of local isolation ON/OFF switches, power ratings of supply cables, fusing, and the
equipment must be adequately earthed.
•
Ensure exposed metal parts of apparatus and equipment are adequately grounded (earthed).
•
Paper cards on backs of plugs must be removed as these are a fire hazard.
•
Ensure high voltage terminals are appropriately shielded to prevent accidental contact.
•
Never work alone with high voltages (i.e. above 50 V ac).
•
Take care with capacitor banks as they can retain charge for a considerable time.
•
Seek expert advice prior to dealing with three phase supplies, as only qualified electricians can work on electrical
systems above 50V ac.
•
Ensure any auto-transformers used to step down voltage are enclosed.
•
Ensure all plugs switches or circuit breakers controlling a piece of apparatus are clearly accessible, identified and
visible (especially if overnight running is required); means of switching off should be readily accessible to the user.
23
Chemical safety
Detailed Safety Department policies and procedures outlining requirements for use of chemicals and safe
disposal can be found via this link: http://www3.imperial.ac.uk/safety/subjects/chemicalsafety
Risk Assessment
The "Control of Substances Hazardous to Health" Regulations 2002 (COSHH) require a risk assessment to be
carried out before starting work with any substance defined as hazardous to human health. For example, if you
are using any product with hazard labelling, or statements; your process produces gas, fume, dust, mist or
vapour; or harm could arise because of how you are using the product, you must document what you are
going to do to reduce the hazard.
You should consider:
 Using a safer alternative
 Using the product in a safer form
 Changing the process to use less of the substance
 Enclosing the process
 Using Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV)
 Limiting the number of people who may be exposed
 The use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
•
The College Safety Dept provide a COSHH template
http://www3.imperial.ac.uk/safety/formsandchecklists/raforms1
assessment
at
the
following
link:
Completed COSHH assessments must take into consideration the storage, use, transport, emergency
procedures and disposal of the chemical including any hazardous byproducts.
•
You must know what the possible health effects of exposure are, both short term and immediate effects,
and long term or accumulative effects. Ensure you know the signs and symptoms of exposure to the
chemicals you are working with.
•
If LEV is identified as a control measure, you should be familiar with the parts of the system and their
function, how the system should be used correctly, how to recognize if something is damaged and the
simple checks (before you start work) to verify that the system is delivering its designed performance and
therefore controlling exposure.
•
You must know what you need to do in an emergency associated with the chemical you are using – this
may include responding to a spillage, exposure to a chemical or failure of a fume cupboard etc.
•
Store chemicals in suitable containment. Segregate chemicals - “flammable”, “corrosive”, “toxic”.
Flammable chemicals should always be stored in cupboards designed to hold and store them. Corrosive
chemicals should be stored in vented cabinets, or if quantities are small in air tight containers. Chemicals
that have more than one hazard category should ideally be segregated within the storage facility, for
example, a chemicals that are flammable and corrosive should be stored in an airtight container within a
cabinet suitable for flammable chemicals.
•
Carry chemical bottles in carriers designed for the types of bottle you have.
•
Plan your work and your control measures to protect yourself and others around you.
•
Personal protective equipment (PPE) - wear the correct eye protection, suitable gloves, lab coat and shoes
as identified in any risk assessment or area rules. Do not wear PPE in public areas. Keep PPE clean and
store it so that it does not become damaged.
24
Training
Training
courses
relating
to
COSHH
can
http://www3.imperial.ac.uk/staffdevelopment/safety/index/coshhcourses
be
found
here:
Help and advice relating to chemicals and assessments
Faculty Safety Manager
FSM Julia Easton [email protected]
Tel: 47700 /51270
Faculty Safety Manager
Tel: 50018
FSM
Stefan Hoyle [email protected]
Chemical Waste
An inventory needs to be filled in for all chemical waste as described here:
https://workspace.imperial.ac.uk/safety/Internal/Chemical%20Waste/Chemical%20Waste%
20Labels%20Nov%202012.pdf
The inventory form is available on the Physics Department Safety Web Page
https://workspace.imperial.ac.uk/physics/Public/physicsdocs/about/safety/files/Imperial%20
Waste%20Form%202013-10.xlsx
The completed inventory form must be sent to the Dept Waste Management Advisor
who will register the waste with Facilities Management who will then finalise
disposal arrangements.
The waste must be labelled with the College’s chemical waste labels which can be obtained from the Dept
Waste Management Advisor.
If possible ‘Chemical Waste’ labels should be fixed to containers while waste is being collected in the lab.
Help and advice relating to chemical disposal:
Dept Waste Management Advisor
DWMA Malc Hudson [email protected]
Tel: 47666
25
Safe use of high powered lasers in Physics
The FoNS code of practice for safe management of lasers has full details on safe laser use and can be
found via this link: http://www3.imperial.ac.uk/physics/safety/lasers the code of practice must be familiar to
all those using lasers in the Department of Physics
All registration documents, codes of practice and other laser safety information can be found via the
following link: http://www3.imperial.ac.uk/physics/safety/lasers
For help and advice relating to safe use of lasers please speak to the safety personnel listed here:
Dept Laser Safety Officer
Brian Willey
[email protected]
H6M78 Tel: 47787
Group laser safety advisors
QOLS
Amelle Zair
Plasma
Francisco Suzuki Vidal
EXSS
Rupert Oulton
Photonics
James McGinty
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
Tel: 45603
B740 Tel: 47641
B901 Tel: 47576
B636C Tel: 47719
Faculty Safety
Julia Easton
Stefan Hoyle
[email protected]
[email protected]
Tel: 47700 /51270
Tel: 50018
College laser Safety Advisor
Ross Manson
[email protected]
Tel: 49403
Procedures for using lasers in the Physics Department
•
Staff and students using lasers must be familiar with the Faculty Code of Practice for safe management
of lasers.
•
A risk assessment must be carried out for all work using lasers. This must cover the beam delivery
system, the laser process and the environment, as well as the laser itself.
•
Ensure local rules are in place for the safe use of lasers during routine use, laser alignment and optic
manipulations, maintenance and servicing.
•
Staff and students must complete the ‘Introduction to Laser Safety – e-learning course’ which can be
found here: http://www3.imperial.ac.uk/staffdevelopment/safety/index/lasersafetycourses
•
All staff and postgraduate students using class 3B or 4 lasers must be registered. The laser user
registration form needs to be signed off by the supervisor and returned to the Department Laser Safety
Officer.
•
All Class 2 lasers and above brought into, or manufactured within, the Department must be registered.
The registration system is electronic and available here:
https://share.imperial.ac.uk/fons/operations/safety/lasers/default.aspx
Where it is impractical to register a laser as its details change frequently, a generic registration must be
made of the area containing all of the laser’s component parts.
26
Ionising Radiations
How to register to work with ionizing radiations at Imperial College London:
A flow chart summarizing what to do if you wish to work with ionising radiations is available on the Safety Department web
pages.
Work and Personnel Registration – Summary Process
The information below is a summary of the main actions those wishing to use radioactive materials must take. Do not
store or start using any radioactive material until you have the appropriate permissions.
1.
All work involving radiation must be managed by a Radiation Protection Supervisor (RPS). If none of the RPSs listed
are managing the work another RPS must be appointed.
GROUP/AREA Radiation Protection Supervisors (RPS):
Experimental Solid State
Jing Zhang
[email protected]
B910
47594
High Energy Physics (level 11)
Henrique Araujo
[email protected]
B1108 47549
High Energy Physics (other floors)
Mark Raymond
[email protected]
B511b 47799
Plasma Physics
Simon Bland
[email protected]
B740
47650
Teaching Laboratories
Geoff Green
[email protected]
H455
47855
2.
All those who will be working with radioactive material must attend either the Principles of Radiation Safety course
(isotopes and sealed sources) or the X-ray Safety Awareness course (X-ray generators). Details of the courses are
available on the Learning and Development safety course web-site
http://www3.imperial.ac.uk/staffdevelopment/safety/index#R.
3.
Complete a Personnel Registration Form from the Safety Department web pages:
http://www3.imperial.ac.uk/safety/formsandchecklists/irregforms Return this to the College Radiation Team.
4.
Anyone who is working away from Imperial College must familiarize themselves with the Ionising Radiations Code of
Practice and Guidance - Working with Ionising Radiations away from Imperial College Premises, and adhere to the
off-site working policy: http://www3.imperial.ac.uk/safety/policies/individualpolicies/offsiteworking
5.
Fill in the appropriate Work Registration Form and return it to the Radiation Safety Team. Forms for the different
types of work are available here: http://www3.imperial.ac.uk/safety/formsandchecklists/irregforms
Policy and Guidance Notes
The College Policy on use of radiation can be found here:
http://www3.imperial.ac.uk/safety/policies/individualpolicies/pc14ionising
College guidance notes on what to do if you are using radioactive material can be found here:
http://www3.imperial.ac.uk/safety/subjects/ionradiation
For help and advice relating to safe use of radiation, please contact the Radiation Protection Supervisor for your
area, a member of the College Radiation Protection Team, or the Faculty Safety Manager.
College Radiation protection team
Ross Manson
[email protected]
College RPA
Tel: 49403
Jon Fear
[email protected]
College RPO
Tel: 43045
Ross Morgan
[email protected]
College RPO
Tel: 49425
Faculty Safety
Julia Easton
[email protected]
Tel: 51270
Stef Hoyle
[email protected]
Tel: 50018
Reminder Summary
•
Ensure that your Personnel Registration is signed off by your Academic Supervisor.
•
You must undertake Local Safety Induction Training with your RPS or Lab Manager before you start work with
Ionising Radiations.
•
You must complete a Host Off-Site Working form when working away from Imperial College London.
•
You must read the College Health and Safety Policy and Ionising Radiations Safety Policy.
27
Workshop safety
The Physics Department has several workshop facilities. The mechanical workshops and their respective
managers are:
Mechanical Instrumentation Workshop
Paul Brown [email protected]
High Energy Physics Mechanical Workshop Dave Clark
[email protected]
Optics Instrumentation Facility
Martin Kehoe [email protected]
Tel: 47876
Tel: 47801
Tel: 47722
Machine tools are only to be used in the Department by staff or students that have received appropriate and
recognised training, and with satisfactory competency and supervision levels. In addition there are local rules
in place for individual workshops.
Students are not permitted to use machine tools with the exception of pillar drills allocated for their use.
Students wishing to use one of these machines must have completed the Department Pillar Drill Training
Course.
To arrange a training session please contact [email protected] with name, group, email address and
internal extension number. Please title messages in the subject field ‘Pillar Drill Training’.
Any exception to this practice must be agreed with the Faculty Safety Manager, who is also available
for help and advice:
Faculty Safety Manager
Julia Easton
[email protected]
Tel: 47700/ 51270
The department has a policy for the purchase of machine tools for areas other than mechanical workshops,
which can be found on the web page for Mechanical Workshops and Machine Tools.
28
Heavy and mechanical lifting
Heavy and Mechanical lifting is the lifting and moving of a load which cannot be handled easily by one or two
people without the aid of lifting equipment.
The Department has two LOLER Heavy and Mechanical Lifting Assessors (MHLA) to complete and review
lifting assessments and method statements associated with these activities. All lifting procedures falling into
this category must have an appropriate assessment / method statement carried out by a MHLA.
Department Heavy and Mechanical Lifting Assessors
Jon Dyne
[email protected]
B107
Tel: 47672
David Bowler [email protected]
B107
Tel: 47877
Training
Heavy and Mechanical lifting activities may only be undertaken by those that have received appropriate
training in the safe use of slings and hoists. Department mechanical workshops technicians have appropriate
training and experience to be involved with any lifts. Where necessary staff and students have received
appropriate training to carry out lifting activities associated with their work.
Do not attempt to carry out lifting activities if you have not discussed them with an Assessor and have
received the necessary training.
Heavy lifting equipment
All equipment for heavy lifting operations must be registered with the College heavy lifting insurance officer
before use in the College. To arrange registration contact the Department Building Manager (ext: 47666).
Planning a lift / deliveries to the loading bay /relocating and moving laser tables
Lifting activities must be planned in advance so that the necessary expertise can be made available. Do not
rush lifting activities and ensure they are planned appropriately with the technical staff.
Contact Facilities ([email protected]) or make an entry into the calendar on the Heavy and
Mechanical Lifting sharepoint page, to notify ‘Goods In’ of the timing of large deliveries.
https://share.imperial.ac.uk/fons/operations/safety/lifting/SitePages/Home.aspx
The Department has equipment for moving and relocating laser tables contact the Heavy and Mechanical
Lifting Assessor if you need to use the equipment.
Information
can
be
found
on
the
Dept
safety
webpages
for
heavy
lifting:
http://www3.imperial.ac.uk/physics/safety/lifting and the Heavy and Mechanical Lifting sharepoint page
https://share.imperial.ac.uk/fons/operations/safety/lifting/SitePages/Home.aspx.
Manual handling operations
(Not classified as heavy or mechanical lifting)
For routine manual handling advice and assistance contact the Dept Manual Handling Advisor.
Department Manual Handling Advisor
Simon Graham
[email protected]
B215 Tel: 47870
For example, this will cover moving office furniture, small equipment, boxes of paper and removing deliveries
from ‘Goods In’.
29
Biological safety
All work involving the use of living organisms, their tissues, body fluids or their products must be
notified to the Faculty Safety Manager and must be registered with the College Biological Safety
Officer. Those working with pathogens or unscreened human material must be registered with
Occupational Health.
College registration forms and assessment templates are available here:
http://www3.imperial.ac.uk/safety/subjects/biosafety/gmprocedures
Do not store or start using any biological material until you have the appropriate permissions.
All researchers working with biological materials should attend the Biological Safety - Foundation
Training course provided by the College.
Details at: http://www3.imperial.ac.uk/staffdevelopment/safety/index/biologicalsafety
More information and guidance on Biological Safety can be found at the following link:
http://www3.imperial.ac.uk/safety/subjects/biosafety
The College Policy on use of biological agents is available here:
http://www3.imperial.ac.uk/safety/policies/individualpolicies/pc-11dangerouspathogens
The College Biological Risk Assessment Forms can be found at:
http://www3.imperial.ac.uk/safety/formsandchecklists
Help and advice relating to safe use of biological material including genetically modified organisms
Faculty Safety Manager
Faculty Safety Manager
Julia Easton
Stefan Hoyle
[email protected]
[email protected]
Tel: 47700/ 51270
Tel: 50018
College Biorisk Manager
College Biosafety Officer
Associate Biosafety Officer
Anton de Paiva
Ian Hackford
Marian Blokpoel
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
Tel: 49421
Tel: 49422
Tel: 49426
•
Work with biological agents must only be carried out in laboratories that have been specifically designed
for work with biological agents. If in doubt check with the Faculty Safety Manager.
•
Currently there are no facilities for autoclaving waste biological material in the Physics Department. If you
are planning work that requires waste to be autoclaved contact the Faculty Safety Manager.
30