Safety Information

Any item of equipment can be dangerous if it is not used correctly. Our staff will be glad to demonstrate the proper and safe use of equipment on request and customers are advised to take advantage of this service.


Safety Devices

The hirer must not disable or adjust any safety or protective device fitted to the equipment and must not increase any governed speed or working pressures.


Warning Notices

The hirer must not remove or obstruct any warning notice on the equipment.


Risk Assessment

Under health and safety legislation there is a general duty on employers to take reasonably practicable steps to ensure the health and safety of their employees and others, such as members of the public.

Employers also have a general duty to inform their employees of the risks to their health and safety associated with the work they do and the equipment they use. Selwood believes that when equipment is supplied there is no significant risk until it becomes operational. Once put in to use the degree of risk will depend upon the competency of the person and the circumstances in which the equipment is used. These matters are under the control of the hirer and as such should be taken into account when performing a risk assessment.


Safety Information Sheets

These are issued for the different types of equipment that Selwood supply and it is important that these instructions are read before using the machine. At Selwood, we value all our customers and therefore provide this information and assistance to ensure the safety of all operators and to outline the effective maintenance and reliability checks necessary to ensure trouble free operation.

It is the general duty of the hirer, under current health and safety legislation, to provide adequate training and instruction to all employees and the information that Selwood supplies is intended to supplement that requirement. Selwood can also offer a range of safety equipment.

In the event that a fault or breakdown should occur during the hire which may affect safety then the local Selwood Branch must be notified so that the equipment can be repaired or exchanged. Selwood cannot accept any responsibility if the hirer continues to use the equipment before repair. Selwood undertake to deal with such defects as a matter of urgency.

If at any time you require further information regarding any equipment please do not hesitate to contact your nearest Selwood Branch.


Noise

Selwood produces the quietest range of pumps on the market and makes every effort to offer the safest equipment produced by other manufacturers in our hire fleet. All equipment is marked with the Sound Power Level and the manufacturer¹s guidance levels are noted on hire contracts. We can also supply our own equipment list with Sound Power (By Output) and equivalent Sound Pressure (Bystander/Operators Ear) on request.



Inspection & Testing

In order to comply with manufacturer's recommended servicing frequencies and legislation regarding the testing of equipment, we would ask for the client¹s co-operation to assist in the access to equipment to undertake this work. In some cases an exchange may be required which must be mutually agreed beforehand. The Selwood computer servicing system produces a 10 day warning prior to when the work is required and this will be notified to the customer so that appropriate arrangements can be made.


Method Statements

This should reflect the risk assessed in any operation and the controlled manner in which it should be undertaken. These can be provided when requested.


Safe Working Position

Before operating ensure unit is positioned safely and securely.


Vibration

One of the greatest causes for concern in the construction industry is the Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS).

Selwood makes every effort to offer the safest products, produce manufacturers guidance levels with all hire contracts and can also supply our own equipment list with HAVS limits and usage times on request.

When using hand/guided tools & equipment you may be exposed to vibration.
Here are precautions you can take to minimise the risk:

• Wear gloves ­ Keep warm, ensure good circulation to the fingers and
  hands.

• Don't grip the machine too tightly; let the equipment do the job.

• Don't smoke, this reduces the blood flow to fingers and hands.

• Ensure you are using sharp tools (Point, Chisel, Drill Bits, Blade) job
  is done quicker, less time exposed.

• Take regular breaks.

• If you experience any tingling or numbness in your hands or fingers
  STOP immediately and report this incident.


Exhaust Gases

Do not operate the machine in confined spaces without good ventilation.
Breathing exhaust gases could harm or possibly kill you.


Sparks

Explosions and fire can be caused by sparks from the exhaust or the electrical system. Do not use the machine in a closed area where there is flammable material, vapour or dust.


Hot Surfaces

Under normal working conditions the engine components, particularly the exhaust, will get hot ­ Do not touch. The hydraulic oil, pump, valve and tank can also reach temperatures high enough to burn ­ Do not touch.


Oil

Oil is toxic. If you swallow any oil do not induce vomiting, seek medical advice. Used engine oil contains harmful contaminants which can cause skin cancer. Do not handle used engine oil more than necessary. Always use barrier cream or wear gloves to prevent skin contact. Wash skin contaminated with oil thoroughly in warm soapy water. Do not use petrol, diesel fuel or paraffin to clean your skin.


'HS' Power Pack Labels

The instructions for safe operation of the unit are written on the label which is fixed to the control panel of the powerpack.


Damaged Hoses & Cables

Damaged hoses and cables can cause fatal accidents. Inspect these regularly for:

• Damaged end fittings (loose glands)
• Chafed outer covers (exposed wire armour)
• Ballooned outer covers
• Kinked or crushed hoses
• Embedded armouring in outer covers


Hydraulic Fluid

Fine jets of hydraulic fluid at high pressure can penetrate the skin. Do not use your fingers to check for hydraulic fluid leaks. Always wear eye protection during examination of the machine whilst running. Do not put your face close to suspected leaks. Hold a piece of cardboard close to suspected leaks and then inspect this for fluid. If hydraulic fluid penetrates the skin, get medical help immediately.


Submersible Pump Data

All submersible pumps will have the manufacturers data plate fitted. This will show:

Confined Spaces

Explosion proof pumps are available on request. Before any pump is made available for hire, all tolerances, flame paths are checked using fully calibrated gauges. All staff entering confined spaces should be fully trained and have the current safety equipment.


Electrical Connection

All equipment has been tested and inspected in accordance with the I.E.E.
wiring regulations BS7671 16th edition 2001. Any electrical equipment should only be mains connected by an electrician qualified to the above standard.


Electrical control Equipment

Any electrical starters should only be operated by competent personnel.
Earth leakage protective devices and motor overloads should only be adjusted by a competent person.


Lifting

Lift only by the handle using suitably rated and certified equipment.


Pump Testing

All submersible pumps will be checked for earth conductivity and resistance on a 90 day cycle. This may result in our requesting access to the equipment whilst it is on hire. This is a requirement of the Health & Safety Executive.