Key Elements of Safety Management System & Guidelines

A Safety Management System (SMS) is a formalized framework designed to manage health

and safety risks in the workplace. It includes policies, procedures, and practices aimed at
preventing accidents and ensuring the health and safety of employees. Below are the key
elements of an effective SMS:

1. Policy and Commitment: A clear health and safety policy demonstrates top
management's commitment to the well-being of employees. This policy outlines the
organization's intentions and ensures compliance with legal requirements.
2. Planning: Safety planning involves hazard identification, risk assessment, and risk
control. Organizations must anticipate potential safety issues and plan accordingly by
setting objectives and performance standards.
3. Implementation and Operation: This stage involves executing the safety plan by
assigning roles and responsibilities, providing training, and ensuring appropriate
equipment and resources are available.
4. Performance Measurement and Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of safety
practices helps track progress and identify areas for improvement. This can include
incident reporting, safety audits, and routine inspections.
5. Review and Improvement: Regular reviews of the SMS help refine policies and
procedures, incorporating lessons from past incidents or new legal requirements.

ISO 14001, ISO 45001:2018/OHSAS 18001

• ISO 14001: An international standard for environmental management systems (EMS),

focusing on minimizing the environmental impact of industrial activities. It includes
provisions for pollution prevention and regulatory compliance.
• ISO 45001:2018: A global standard for occupational health and safety management,
replacing OHSAS 18001. It provides a framework for improving employee safety,
reducing workplace risks, and ensuring better, safer working conditions.
• OHSAS 18001: The Occupational Health and Safety Assessment Series was an
international standard for occupational health and safety management, now largely
replaced by ISO 45001.
ILO Legislation – Convention and Recommendation Concerning Safety, Health, and
Environment

The International Labour Organization (ILO) has established various conventions and
recommendations focusing on workplace safety and health. Notable conventions include:

• C155 - Occupational Safety and Health Convention, 1981: Provides a framework

for promoting workplace safety and preventing occupational accidents and diseases.
• C187 - Promotional Framework for Occupational Safety and Health Convention,
2006: Focuses on enhancing national safety and health systems, establishing policies,
and setting priorities for improvement.
• Recommendation R164: A supplement to C155, emphasizing practical
implementation strategies for improving workplace safety.

Safety, Health, and Environment as Human Rights Issues

Workplace safety is increasingly being viewed as a fundamental human right. This perspective
is rooted in several human rights frameworks, including the Universal Declaration of Human
Rights (Article 23), which emphasizes the right to safe and healthy working conditions. Proper
safety measures protect workers' dignity, health, and life.

Awareness Programs

Safety awareness programs educate employees about workplace hazards and the measures
needed to mitigate them. They often involve:

• Training sessions: On proper handling of equipment and safety protocols.

• Campaigns: Focusing on specific safety topics such as fire safety, hazard
communication, or personal protective equipment (PPE) usage.
• Workshops: Offering hands-on experience with safety tools and equipment.

Types of Occupational Health Hazards

1. Physical Hazards: These include noise, vibration, temperature extremes, radiation, and
improper lighting. Workers exposed to excessive noise may develop hearing loss, while
those working with radiation may face risks of cancer.
 2. Chemical Hazards: Exposure to harmful chemicals such as asbestos, benzene, or
solvents can lead to chronic illnesses like cancer, respiratory diseases, or skin
conditions.
3. Biological Hazards: Workers in healthcare or waste management may be exposed to
bacteria, viruses, or fungi, resulting in infections or allergic reactions.
4. Mechanical Hazards: These arise from unsafe machinery or tools, leading to cuts,
fractures, or other physical injuries.
5. Psychological Hazards: Stress, workplace bullying, or excessive workloads can affect
mental health, leading to anxiety, depression, or burnout.

Common Work-Related or Occupational Diseases

Occupational diseases arise due to exposure to specific hazards in the workplace. Common
diseases include:

• Pneumoconiosis (from dust exposure, like in mining).

• Asbestosis (due to asbestos exposure in construction).
• Hearing loss (due to prolonged noise exposure).
• Dermatitis (from exposure to chemicals or allergens).
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (from repetitive movements).

Occupations Involving Risk of Contracting Diseases

Jobs in construction, mining, manufacturing, healthcare, and agriculture expose workers to a

high risk of occupational diseases. For example:

• Miners are at risk of respiratory diseases like silicosis.

• Healthcare workers face biological hazards such as infectious diseases.
• Construction workers are at risk of chemical hazards like lead poisoning.

Mode of Causation of Diseases and Effects

Occupational diseases are typically caused by long-term exposure to hazardous substances or

environments. Effects can range from minor ailments like skin irritation to severe outcomes
like lung cancer, neurological disorders, or even death.
Diagnostic Methods

Diagnosing occupational diseases often involves:

• Medical history: Determining work-related exposure.

• Physical examination: Evaluating symptoms.
• Laboratory tests: Such as blood tests for lead exposure or imaging for lung diseases.

Methods of Prevention

Preventive measures include:

• Elimination of hazards at the source (e.g., replacing hazardous materials with safer
alternatives).
• Engineering controls: Such as ventilation systems.
• Administrative controls: Limiting workers' exposure time to hazards.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Such as helmets, gloves, and masks.

Notifiable Occupational Diseases

Certain occupational diseases must be reported to authorities as per legal requirements. These
include diseases like silicosis, asbestosis, and lead poisoning. Reporting ensures timely action
and compensation for affected workers.

Compensation for Occupational Diseases

Workers affected by occupational diseases are entitled to compensation, which may include
medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, or disability benefits. In many countries, this is
governed by workers’ compensation laws.

Evaluation of Injuries

Injuries are evaluated based on their severity, the potential for rehabilitation, and their impact
on the worker's ability to perform their job. Medical evaluations guide decisions on
compensation or return to work.

Medical Services in an Industrial Establishment and Its Functions

Industrial medical services are essential for managing worker health. Their key functions
include:

• Routine medical examinations: To identify potential health risks.

• First aid and emergency care: For injuries and accidents.
• Health surveillance: Monitoring workers for early signs of occupational diseases.

Occupational Health Audit and Survey

Audits and surveys assess workplace health risks and ensure compliance with safety
regulations. They involve inspections, employee interviews, and reviewing safety policies.

Occupational Diseases Relating to Construction Work

In construction, workers are exposed to dust, noise, vibrations, and chemicals like asbestos,
leading to diseases such as:

• Asbestosis.
• Hearing loss.
• Silicosis.

Emergency Medical Treatment of Injuries and Rehabilitation at Construction Sites

Immediate medical attention is crucial for construction site injuries. First responders administer
first aid, and injured workers may need hospitalization. Rehabilitation programs ensure
workers regain their physical abilities, allowing a safe return to work.

Each of these elements plays a vital role in managing safety and health in industrial and
construction sectors, ensuring workers' well-being and legal compliance for organizations.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) in Safety Management Systems & Guidelines

1. Introduction to Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) refers to protective gear, equipment, and devices
designed to safeguard the health and safety of workers in hazardous work environments. PPE
forms the last line of defense in the hierarchy of hazard controls, meaning it is used only when
other measures, such as engineering and administrative controls, have been exhausted. In
construction, manufacturing, and other high-risk sectors, PPE is critical for protecting workers
from injuries and exposure to harmful substances, minimizing workplace incidents, and
promoting a culture of safety.

PPE encompasses a wide range of items, including helmets, gloves, safety goggles, respiratory
masks, earplugs, high-visibility clothing, and harnesses, each serving to protect specific parts
of the body against particular hazards.

2. Requirements for PPE

The selection and use of PPE must comply with established standards and guidelines, often
outlined by occupational safety and health authorities. Essential requirements for PPE include:

• Suitability: PPE must be suitable for the nature of the hazard and the conditions under
which it will be used. It should adequately protect the worker without causing
discomfort that may hinder performance or discourage use.
• Quality and Certification: PPE should meet relevant safety standards and certification
(e.g., ANSI, OSHA, CE marks) to ensure its effectiveness. Compliance with these
standards indicates that the equipment has been tested and is reliable.
• Compatibility: Different types of PPE used together should not impair the
effectiveness of one another. For example, a hard hat should not interfere with the fit
of safety goggles.
• Comfort and Fit: PPE should fit the user properly to ensure maximum protection.
Poorly fitting equipment can lead to safety risks and reduced effectiveness.
• Training and Awareness: Workers must be trained in the proper use, maintenance,
and storage of PPE to ensure they are aware of its limitations and how to use it
effectively.

3. Assessment of PPE
Before deploying PPE, a comprehensive assessment should be carried out to identify potential
hazards and determine appropriate protective measures. This involves:

• Hazard Identification: Recognizing and assessing potential risks associated with a

task or work environment, such as chemical exposure, falling objects, electrical risks,
or respiratory hazards.
• Risk Evaluation: Evaluating the probability and severity of each hazard to determine
which types of PPE will be necessary and if additional control measures are required.
• PPE Selection: Based on the hazard assessment, selecting suitable PPE that offers
adequate protection. This may involve multiple types of equipment for comprehensive
coverage.
• Fit Testing: Particularly for respiratory PPE, fit testing is essential to ensure that the
device creates a proper seal and provides full protection.
• Maintenance and Inspection: Regular inspections should be conducted to assess the
condition of PPE. Damaged or worn-out equipment must be repaired or replaced to
ensure continued effectiveness.

4. Types of PPE

PPE can be categorized based on the specific body parts they protect or the hazards they
mitigate. Key types of PPE include:

• Head Protection: Hard hats and helmets protect against head injuries from falling
objects, bumps, or electrical hazards.
• Eye and Face Protection: Safety goggles, face shields, and welding masks protect
against chemical splashes, flying debris, and harmful radiation.
• Respiratory Protection: Respirators (e.g., N95 masks, half-face respirators) provide
protection against inhalation of hazardous substances, including dust, fumes, vapors,
and gases.
• Hearing Protection: Earplugs and earmuffs protect workers from high noise levels,
preventing hearing loss in noisy environments like construction sites and factories.
 • Hand and Arm Protection: Gloves protect against cuts, abrasions, chemical exposure,
and temperature extremes. They are made of various materials, such as leather, rubber,
or latex, depending on the hazard.
• Foot and Leg Protection: Safety boots and shoes with reinforced toes protect against
heavy impacts, electrical hazards, and chemical spills.
• Body Protection: High-visibility vests, coveralls, aprons, and specialized suits protect
against specific hazards like chemical exposure, sharp objects, or extreme temperatures.
• Fall Protection: Equipment like harnesses, lanyards, and anchorage systems prevent
falls from heights, which is a leading cause of injuries in construction and other
industries.

Non-Respiratory Personal Protective Devices

Non-respiratory personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential for safeguarding workers

against various hazards in the construction and industrial sectors. These devices protect specific
parts of the body—such as the head, ears, eyes, hands, feet, and body—by minimizing the risk
of injuries from impact, noise, chemicals, or other dangerous elements. Below is an overview
of each non-respiratory protective device within the context of Safety Management System &
Guidelines:

1. Head Protection

• Purpose: Head protection is crucial to prevent injuries from falling objects, collisions,
or electrical hazards.
• Types of Devices: Helmets, hard hats, bump caps.
• Standards: Protective headgear must meet safety standards such as ANSI/ISEA Z89.1
in the US, or ISI standards in India, ensuring they provide adequate protection against
impact and penetration.
• Design Features: A sturdy outer shell, shock-absorbing lining, and adjustable straps
for a secure fit.
• Usage Considerations: Workers should ensure a comfortable fit and avoid modifying
or drilling holes in helmets, which can compromise their structural integrity.

2. Ear Protection
 • Purpose: Ear protection safeguards against harmful noise levels, reducing the risk of
hearing damage and loss in noisy environments.
• Types of Devices: Earplugs, earmuffs, canal caps.
• Standards: Ear protection should conform to regulations such as ANSI S3.19-1974 or
ISO 4869-1.
• Noise Reduction Rating (NRR): This rating indicates the level of noise reduction
provided, with higher values indicating greater protection.
• Usage Considerations: Proper fit is essential for earplugs to be effective. For high-
decibel settings, combining earplugs with earmuffs can offer enhanced protection.

3. Face and Eye Protection

• Purpose: Face and eye protection prevent injuries from flying particles, chemical
splashes, and harmful light exposure (e.g., welding).
• Types of Devices: Safety goggles, face shields, welding helmets, and safety glasses.
• Standards: Equipment must meet standards like ANSI Z87.1 (for impact resistance)
and provide UV protection where applicable.
• Usage Considerations: Workers should select protective eyewear based on specific
job hazards and ensure a secure, snug fit to prevent gaps.

4. Hand Protection

• Purpose: Hand protection is vital to prevent cuts, burns, chemical exposure, abrasions,
and punctures.
• Types of Gloves:
o Rubber or nitrile gloves for chemical resistance.
o Cut-resistant gloves for handling sharp materials.
o Insulated gloves for protection against electrical hazards.
• Standards: Gloves must comply with safety standards like ANSI/ISEA 105 in the US,
categorizing them based on their protection levels.
• Usage Considerations: The choice of glove material should match the specific task.
Workers should inspect gloves regularly for tears or punctures.

5. Feet Protection
 • Purpose: Feet protection is necessary to shield against injuries from heavy falling
objects, punctures, slips, or exposure to corrosive chemicals.
• Types of Footwear:
o Steel-toe boots for impact protection.
o Anti-slip shoes for slippery surfaces.
o Insulated boots for extreme temperatures.
• Standards: Safety footwear must meet standards like ASTM F2413 in the US, which
covers impact resistance, puncture protection, and electrical insulation.
• Usage Considerations: Workers should select appropriate footwear based on the
specific environmental risks, and ensure proper fit to avoid fatigue.

6. Body Protection

• Purpose: Body protection safeguards against hazards like sharp objects, chemical
exposure, heat, and other environmental factors.
• Types of Protective Clothing:
o High-visibility vests for visibility in high-traffic areas.
o Coveralls or aprons to protect against chemicals, cuts, or contamination.
o Flame-resistant clothing for protection in fire-prone environments.
• Standards: Protective clothing should meet requirements under standards such as
NFPA 2112 (for flame-resistant clothing) and OSHA guidelines.
• Usage Considerations: The type of body protection should align with specific job
hazards, and garments should fit properly for mobility.

General Guidelines for Non-Respiratory PPE Usage

• Inspection and Maintenance: Regular inspection of all PPE is essential to ensure

functionality. Damaged equipment must be replaced immediately.
• Training: Workers should be trained on the proper use, limitations, and maintenance
of PPE.
• Compliance: All PPE should comply with relevant safety regulations and standards as
per organizational and legal requirements.
Ensuring the correct selection, use, and maintenance of non-respiratory PPE is critical for
worker safety and aligns with Safety Management Systems and Guidelines in minimizing risks
and promoting a safe work environment.

Supply of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Employer Responsibility: Employers are required to supply suitable PPE to protect

workers from identified hazards. This includes items like helmets, gloves, eye
protection, hearing protection, and respiratory devices, among others. The type of PPE
provided should match the specific hazards associated with a task or workplace
environment.
• Compliance with Standards: PPE must meet national and international standards
(such as OSHA, ANSI, or EN standards) to ensure its effectiveness and reliability.
Employers should source PPE from certified suppliers to guarantee quality and safety.
• Training on PPE Usage: Workers must be trained not only on the correct usage of
PPE but also on the limitations of each piece of equipment. This training should be
provided upon initial supply and reinforced regularly.

2. Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Proper Fit and Adjustment: For PPE to be effective, it must fit the worker properly.
Ill-fitting PPE can reduce its protective capabilities and potentially cause discomfort,
leading to improper use.
• Work-Specific Requirements: Different tasks or environments require different types
of PPE. Workers should be aware of the specific PPE requirements for each task. For
example, welding may require specific eye and respiratory protection, whereas work at
height may require harnesses and helmets.
• Employee Responsibility: While the employer is responsible for providing PPE,
employees have a responsibility to use it properly, as instructed, and avoid intentional
misuse or neglect.

3. Care of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

 • Regular Cleaning and Inspection: PPE must be kept clean and free from damage to
maintain its effectiveness. For example, face masks and respirators must be cleaned
after each use, and earplugs should be regularly sanitized.
• Storage Practices: PPE should be stored in a designated, clean, and dry location.
Improper storage can lead to contamination or physical damage. For example, storing
a helmet under heavy objects can compromise its structural integrity.
• Employee Training on Care: Workers should be trained on how to care for their PPE,
including cleaning, drying, and proper storage. This ensures that PPE is always in
optimal condition when needed.

4. Maintenance of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Regular Inspections: PPE should undergo routine inspections for wear and tear or any
signs of damage. For instance, rubber gloves should be checked for punctures, and
harnesses should be examined for frayed straps.
• Repair and Replacement: Damaged or worn-out PPE should be repaired or replaced
immediately. Employers should establish a system for PPE maintenance and
replacement to ensure no one uses ineffective equipment.
• Record Keeping: Maintenance records should be kept to track the lifespan and
condition of PPE, ensuring compliance with safety regulations and standards. Regular
maintenance audits help identify any recurring issues or equipment in need of frequent
replacement.

5. Personal Protective Equipment Regulations and Standards

• Compliance with Legal Requirements: Under workplace safety regulations such as

the Factories Act and relevant safety rules, employers must ensure that the PPE
provided is suitable, maintained, and used in compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Regular Updates on Standards: Safety standards evolve, and it's crucial for
organizations to stay updated on any changes. This may involve acquiring new types
of PPE or modifying usage guidelines to comply with revised standards.

Safety Management System & Guidelines: Respiratory Personal Protective Equipment

(PPE)
1. Requirements under Factories Acts and Rules

The Factories Acts and Rules establish a legal framework to ensure worker safety and health
within factory settings. They mandate specific requirements for personal protective equipment
(PPE), including respiratory devices, to safeguard workers against hazardous airborne
substances. Key requirements include:

• Provision of Respirators: Employers are required to supply appropriate respiratory

PPE to workers exposed to airborne contaminants like dust, fumes, gases, and vapors.
• Regular Maintenance and Inspection: Respirators must be regularly checked,
cleaned, and maintained to ensure they are functioning effectively.
• Training and Fit Testing: Employees should receive proper training on PPE usage,
along with regular fit testing to ensure the respirator forms a secure seal on the user’s
face.

2. Respiratory Personal Protective Devices (RPPDs)

Respiratory PPE is designed to protect the wearer from inhaling hazardous substances in the
workplace. There are two primary categories of respiratory protective devices:

• Respirators: These devices filter contaminants from the air the user breathes.
• Breathing Apparatus (BA): This equipment supplies breathable air from a clean
source when the surrounding air is contaminated or oxygen-deficient.

3. Classification of Hazards

Respiratory hazards in construction and industrial environments can be classified into the
following types:

• Dusts and Fibers: These are solid particles that can be inhaled, such as silica dust,
asbestos, and fibers from construction materials.
 • Fumes and Smoke: Generated from welding, smelting, or burning materials, they
consist of very fine solid particles.
• Gases and Vapors: These include toxic chemicals like ammonia, chlorine, and
solvents that can be inhaled and cause respiratory issues.
• Oxygen-Deficient Atmospheres: Some confined spaces may have insufficient oxygen
levels, posing a serious risk to workers without proper respiratory protection.

4. Classification of Respiratory Personal Protective Devices

Respiratory PPE is classified based on the type and level of protection they provide. Categories
include:

• Air-Purifying Respirators (APR): Designed to filter out contaminants from the air;
includes particulate respirators (N95), chemical cartridge respirators, and powered air-
purifying respirators (PAPR).
• Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA): These supply breathable air from a
tank, often used in highly hazardous environments with a risk of toxic gas exposure or
oxygen deficiency.
• Supplied-Air Respirators (SAR): Provide clean air from a remote source via an air
hose; suitable for long-term use in toxic atmospheres.

5. Selection of Respirators

Selecting an appropriate respirator requires an assessment of the workplace hazards and the
duration and frequency of exposure. Key factors include:

• Type and Concentration of Contaminants: Identifying the specific hazards (e.g.,

gases, vapors, or dusts) and their concentrations.
• Fit and Comfort: Respirators must fit securely on the face; for example, N95
respirators must form a seal to prevent leakage.
• Duration of Use: Respirators suitable for long periods should be lightweight and
comfortable.
• Work Conditions: If working in high temperatures or humid conditions, choose
respirators that provide adequate comfort and durability.

6. Instructions and Hints in the Use of Breathing Apparatus

Using breathing apparatus requires careful adherence to specific guidelines:

• Fit Testing: Ensure that the device forms a proper seal. Regular fit tests are essential
for secure fitting.
• Proper Donning and Doffing: Follow standardized procedures to put on and remove
the apparatus safely.
• Regular Inspection: Check for any signs of wear or damage before each use.
• Pre-Use Function Check: Test the apparatus before entering hazardous environments
to ensure it functions correctly.

7. Supply, Use, Care, and Maintenance of Breathing Apparatus

Proper management of breathing apparatus involves:

• Supply: Employers should supply respirators suited to workplace hazards, making sure
enough units are available.
• Use: Devices must be used as per the manufacturer’s instructions and not modified or
altered in any way.
• Care: Clean and disinfect respirators after each use, especially shared devices.
• Maintenance: Regular checks are necessary to inspect and replace parts like filters,
hoses, and seals. Records of inspections should be maintained.

8. Training in the Use of Breathing Apparatus

Training is crucial for ensuring that workers can effectively use respiratory PPE in emergencies
or hazardous situations. Training typically covers:

• Understanding Hazards: Educating workers on the hazards of the environment and

the necessity of respiratory protection.
• Device Operation: Instructions on how to operate, don, and doff the device correctly.
• Emergency Procedures: Training on emergency protocols and how to respond if a
device fails.
• Maintenance and Storage: Proper cleaning, maintenance, and storage procedures to
extend the life of the apparatus and ensure readiness for future use.