Standardized Safety Training

General Mine Safety Awareness SFTY 1820

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The contents of this training manual are intended for informational purposes only and as a general overview of the topics addressed. This content does not constitute legal advice and is not intended as a substitute for informed legal advice as to specific issues and legal problems. Worker competency is determined by knowledge, experience and training. It is the responsibility of your employer to combine this training with your experience to determine if you are competent to perform any and all tasks.

Used With Permission

None

Used Under Fair Dealing

Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety. (2018). What can the individual do to cope with shiftwork? Retrieved from https://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/ergonomics/shiftwrk.html

MSA The Safety Company. (2018). W65 self-rescuer respirator. Retrieved from http://ca.msasafety.com/Air-Purifying-Respirators-(APR)/Escape-Respirators/W65-Self- Rescuer-Respirator/p/000270000500001501

Ocenco Incorporated. (2012). The Ocenco M-20.2 EEBD – the world’s smallest and most durable EEBD. Retrieved from http://www.ocenco.com/m20/english.html

The Mines Regulations, 2003. Retrieved from http://www.qp.gov.sk.ca/documents/english/Regulations/Regulations/O1-1r2.pdf

The Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, 1996. Retrieved from http://www.qp.gov.sk.ca/documents/English/Regulations/Regulations/O1-1R1.pdf

The Saskatchewan Employment Act, Statutes of Saskatchewan, (2013, c. S-15.1). Retrieved from http://www.qp.gov.sk.ca/documents/English/Statutes/Statutes/S15-1.pdf

This material was copied for a fair dealing purpose. Any further distribution must follow Saskatchewan Polytechnic fair dealing guidelines.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness

Course Overview

Course This course provides a general overview of mine safety and offers an Description introduction to: Saskatchewan Mining Regulations, OH & S Regulations, and Saskatchewan Employment Act; hazard identification and control; personal protective equipment; safe use of hand and power tools; safe use of scaffolding and ladders; controlled energy safety; fire safety and hot- work awareness; ground control awareness; environmental awareness and spill reporting; asbestos awareness; incidents and reporting incidents; and fit for duty and drug testing.

Learning 1. Discuss Regulatory Bodies in Mining Including the Saskatchewan Outcome(s) Employment Act, Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, and the Saskatchewan Mine Regulations 2. Discuss Hazards and Controls Associated With Mining 3. Describe the Legal Requirements and Proper Use of Personal Protective Equipment 4. Describe Safe and Proper Use of Hand and Power Tools 5. Discuss Safe Work Practices Related to Ladders and Scaffolding 6. Identify Hazards Associated With Controlled Energy and Proper Methods of Controlling Energy 7. Discuss Fire Safety and Hot-Work Practices 8. Identify Hazards Related to Ground Control and Describe Safe-Work Practices 9. Identify Environmental Hazards and Describe Responsibilities for Reporting Spills 10. Discuss Asbestos Hazards and Controls 11. Identify Hazards Related to Self-Rescue Techniques 12. Discuss Incidents and Reporting Incidents 13. Discuss Fit for Duty and Drug and Alcohol Testing

Course Hours 14

i Assessment of Knowledge Assessment Learning Your knowledge will be assessed by means of the following: Outcome(s) • Quiz for each Learning Outcome • Theory Final Exam (Open Book)

Performance Assessment

Your practical skills will be assessed by means of the following:

• Final Written Exam

Passing Grade 80% –Theory Assessment

Resource(s) to Saskatchewan Polytechnic. (2018). SFTY 1820–General mine safety Purchase awareness [Course Manual]. SK, Canada: Author.

Other Canada’s Nuclear Regulator. (2009). Occupational dose data for major Resource(s) Canadian nuclear facilities 2001¬07. Retrieved from http://nuclearsafety.gc.ca/pubs_catalogue/uploads/INFO_0775_e.pdf (last accessed July 22, 2015)

The Mines Regulations, 2003

The Saskatchewan Employment Act, 2013

Saskatchewan Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, 1996

ii Table of Contents

Learning Outcome 1: Discuss Regulatory Bodies in Mining Including the Saskatchewan Employment Act, Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, and the Saskatchewan Mine Regulations Learning Step 1: Discuss Preliminary Matters and Their Significance ...... 1 Learning Step 2: Discuss General Safety Requirements ...... 5 Summary ...... 15

Learning Outcome 2: Discuss Hazards and Controls Associated With Mining Learning Step 1: Define Hazards ...... 17 Learning Step 2: Discuss Roles & Responsibilities ...... 19 Learning Step 3: Discuss Effective Hazard Controls ...... 21 Learning Step 4: Discuss the Hierarchy of Hazard Controls...... 22 Learning Step 5: Assess Physical Hazards and Controls ...... 26 Learning Step 6: Discuss Radiation Protection ...... 35 Learning Step 7: Assess Biological Hazards and Controls ...... 37 Learning Step 8: Assess Chemical Hazards and Controls ...... 38 Learning Step 9: Assess Psychosocial Hazards and Controls ...... 40 Learning Step 10: Discuss Monitoring Strategies ...... 43 Learning Step 11: Determine Probability and Severity of Risks ...... 44 Summary ...... 47

Learning Outcome 3: Describe the Legal Requirements and Proper use of Personal Protective Equipment Learning Step 1: Discuss PPE Legislation and Roles and Responsibilities ...... 49 Learning Step 2: Identify Hazards Related to PPE ...... 50 Learning Step 3: Discuss How to Prevent Head Injuries by Identifying Overhead Hazards and Using a Hard Hat ...... 51 Learning Step 4: Discuss How to Prevent Eye Injuries by Identifying and Eliminating Workplace Hazards and use of Proper Eye Protection ...... 53 Learning Step 5: Describe how to Avoid Foot Injuries by Understanding and Eliminating Potential Workplace Hazards and Appropriate Foot Protection ...... 56 Learning Step 6: Discuss Glove Protection and How to Prevent Hand Injuries ...... 58 Learning Step 7: Discuss Respiratory PPE...... 59 Learning Step 8: Discuss Fall Protection PPE...... 60 Learning Step 9: Discuss Hearing Protection and When it Needs to be Used ...... 61 Learning Step 10: Discuss the Correct Fit, Maintenance, and Use of PPE ...... 64 Learning Step 11: Discuss Safe Work Practices and Procedures ...... 65 Summary ...... 66

Learning Outcome 4: Describe Safe and Proper Use of Hand and Power Tools Learning Step 1: Discuss Power and Hand Tool Hazard Identification and Controls ...... 67 Learning Step 2: Discuss Power and Hand Tool Selection and Inspection ...... 69 Learning Step 3: Discuss Maintenance and Legislation and Lockout/Tagout for Deficiencies ...... 71 Summary ...... 72 iii Learning Outcome 5: Discuss Safe Work Practices Related to Ladders and Scaffolding Learning Step 1: Discuss How to Identify the Common Types of Ladders and Scaffolds ...73 Learning Step 2: Discuss the Safety Procedures for Putting up and Working From Ladders ...... 79 Learning Step 3: How to Identify and Understand Ladder Labels ...... 80 Learning Step 4: Discuss the Correct Procedures for Scaffold Construction and Use ...... 81 Learning Step 5: Discuss How to Identify and Understand Scaffold Tags ...... 85 Summary ...... 86

Learning Outcome 6: Identify Hazards Associated With Controlled Energy and Proper Methods of Controlling Energy Learning Step 1: Discuss Legislation, Roles, and Responsibilities ...... 87 Learning Step 2: Discuss Isolation ...... 90 Learning Step 3: Identify Different Types of Energy Sources ...... 92 Learning Step 4: Describe Lock, Lockboxes, and Tags ...... 94 Learning Step 5: Describe Energy Control Interruption ...... 98 Summary ...... 99

Learning Outcome 7: Discuss Fire Safety and Safe Hot-Work Practices Learning Step 1: Discuss the Mining Regulations Fire-Safety Legislation ...... 101 Learning Step 2: Discuss Causes of Mine Fires ...... 104 Learning Step 3: Discuss Harmful Products of Mine Fires ...... 106 Learning Step 4: Discuss the Five Classes of Fire and the Types of Portable Fire Extinguishers...... 109 Learning Step 5: Mine Emergency Warning Systems and Fire Prevention Techniques .....115 Learning Step 6: Define Hot-Work ...... 119 Learning Step 7: Discuss Hot-Work Management Programs ...... 121 Learning Step 8: Discuss Hot-Work Permits ...... 121 Learning Step 9: Discuss How to Avoid Hot-Work ...... 122 Learning Step 10: Discuss Hot-Work Safe-Work Practices ...... 122 Learning Step 11: Discuss Protection for Hot-Work Hazards ...... 123 Learning Step 12: Discuss Hot-Work Hazard Evaluation ...... 124 Learning Step 13: Discuss Hot-Work Personal Protective Equipment ...... 124 Learning Step 14: Discuss Preparation for Hot-Work ...... 125 Summary ...... 126

Learning Outcome 8: Identify Hazards Related to Ground Control and Describe Safe Work Practices Learning Step 1: Discuss Legislation, Roles, Responsibilities in Regard to Ground Control ...... 127 Learning Step 2: Explain Ground Control ...... 128 Learning Step 3: Describe Potash and Hard Rock Ground Control Hazards and Control ..131 Learning Step 4: Discuss Sound and Scale ...... 134 Summary ...... 134

iv Learning Outcome 9: Identify Environmental Hazards and Describe Responsibilities for Reporting Spills Learning Step 1: Defining Environmental Contaminants ...... 135 Learning Step 2: Discuss Spill Reporting Procedures ...... 136 Learning Step 3: Discuss Legislation Regarding Spills ...... 137 Learning Step 4: Discuss Spill Cleanup and Management...... 137 Learning Step 5: Discuss Saskatchewan Environment’s Legislation Concerning Air, Water, Waste, and Chemicals and How They Affect the Workplace ...... 138 Summary ...... 139

Learning Outcome 10: Discuss Asbestos Hazards and Controls Learning Step 1: Define Asbestos ...... 141 Learning Step 2: Discuss Properties of Asbestos ...... 141 Learning Step 3: Discuss Where Asbestos is Found and What it Looks Like ...... 142 Summary ...... 143

Learning Outcome 11: Identify Hazards Related to Self-Rescue Techniques Learning Step 1: Discuss Equipment Used for Self-Rescue ...... 145 Learning Step 2: Discuss When Equipment is Used ...... 148 Learning Step 3: Explain How Equipment is Used ...... 149 Learning Step 4: Discuss Safe-Refuge Stations ...... 150 Summary ...... 152

Learning Outcome 12: Discuss Incidents and Reporting Incidents Learning Step 1: Discuss the Significance of Reporting Incidents ...... 153 Learning Step 2: Discuss Fact Finding Versus Fault Finding ...... 155 Learning Step 3: Discuss Corrective Action and Follow Up ...... 156 Summary ...... 157

Learning Outcome 13: Discuss Fit for Duty and Drug and Alcohol Testing Learning Step 1: Discuss the Benefits of Physical Activity and Elements of Good Health ...... 159 Learning Step 2: Discuss Nutrition and Stimulants Such as Caffeine and Nicotine ...... 160 Learning Step 3: Discuss How to Prevent Back Injuries...... 161 Learning Step 4: Discuss Extreme Weather and the Importance of Self-Care ...... 162 Learning Step 5: Discuss Fatigue and the Importance of Sleep ...... 167 Learning Step 6: Define Harassment ...... 172 Learning Step 7: Discuss Harassment Legislation ...... 175 Learning Step 8: Discuss the Use of Drugs (Legal and Illegal) and Alcohol ...... 176 Learning Step 9: Discuss Drug and Alcohol Testing Procedures ...... 177 Summary ...... 178

Appendix A: Course Outline ...... 179

Appendix B: Glossary ...... 187

vi Introduction

Since the early days, the people involved in Saskatchewan’s exploration and mining companies have shaped the economic fabric of our province. While there have been many challenges and hurdles along the way, they saw Saskatchewan’s potential and the infinite collective benefit the mining industry would bring to the province. As a result, mining began in the 1880s with the discovery of coal in the Roche Percee area of southern Saskatchewan. Since these humble beginnings, Saskatchewan’s mining industry has continued to expand not only in the number of mines but in the number of commodities as well.

Saskatchewan Mining Association (SMA) members operate 17 active mining/milling operations in the potash, uranium, coal and gold sectors. With these kinds of natural resources, it is easy to see why Saskatchewan is a leader in the Canadian and global mining scene. In 2017, it continued to be the world’s largest producer and exporter of potash, providing almost 30% of the world’s supply and was the second leading uranium producer, providing almost 22% of the world’s supply. Saskatchewan was Canada’s fourth leading mining jurisdiction in 2017, with mineral production valued at $5.7 billion. In 2017, Saskatchewan was the 4th leading mineral jurisdiction in Canada for mineral exploration expenditures. In 2017, Saskatchewan has once again been identified as the top jurisdiction in Canada, and 2nd leading jurisdiction in the world for mineral investment by the Fraser Institute Mining Survey.

While these are important and impressive statistics, there have been a significant number of fatalities and serious injuries as a result of mining activities over the past 125+ years. The SMA has been able to identify 87 fatalities, the earliest on record dates back to 1952. Since 2000, there have been 12 fatalities at Saskatchewan mines. Although it is clear to see that mining can be an inherently dangerous occupation, Saskatchewan mining companies have made great strides in identifying and putting in place appropriate safety control measures to provide a safe working environment for employees at Saskatchewan mines. This commitment to employee safety can be demonstrated by a comparison of Saskatchewan Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB) Premium Rates. The WCB 2018 Premium Rates recorded the eleventh consecutive decrease in the average premium rate. The 2018 Premium Effective Rate, which reflects injury rate and duration, for all industries is $1.19 (per $100 payroll). The 2018 Premium Rate for all Mining Specific Codes, is lower than the “all industry” rate, reflecting the mining sectors’ lower injury rate and duration. Specific mining code rates are $0.65 for Open Pit Mines (D71); $0.71 for Underground Soft Rock (D72); $0.79 for Underground Hard Rock (D73) and $0.45 for Solution Mines (M31). (Source WCB 2018 Premium Rate Notice) SMA member companies believe that safety is a value and not a priority as priorities can change from time to time, whereas values are entrenched. They also believe that it is the responsibility of every contractor and employee to ensure that they are knowledgeable about the tasks/jobs they are about to undertake and to take the time to ask questions when they are unsure. It was with this in mind that the SMA Safety Committee worked with Saskatchewan Polytechnic to develop the General Mine Safety Awareness course.

vii The General Mine Safety Awareness course was developed to be an “awareness level” course that allows individuals taking the course to be familiar with surface and underground mining operations at all mining sectors, as SMA members recognize that many contractors move from sector to sector and at times from surface to underground. This approach was taken to allow contractors to essentially have a “passport” that would allow them access to SMA member sites requiring this course.

viii Learning Outcome 1 Discuss Regulatory Bodies in Mining Including the Saskatchewan Employment Act, Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, and the Saskatchewan Mine Regulations

The purpose of the “basics of the Saskatchewan Mining Regulations and Employment Act” module is to:

• Discuss preliminary matters such as mining regulations take precedence and dangerous occurrences (what they are, why report them and committee involvement) • Discuss general safety requirements • Discuss design of mines

Learning Step 1 Discuss Preliminary Matters and Their Significance

1.1 Instruction Sheet Preliminary Matters

Provincial Safety Legislation

There are federal and provincial laws regarding mining and health and safety. Mines are governed by the Saskatchewan Employment Act, the Saskatchewan Occupational Health and Safety Regulations (1996), and the Mining Regulations (2003).

Figure 1: Safety Begins With You

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO1 Page 1 Your company requires a copy of The Saskatchewan Employment Act and OH & S Regulations that is easy to access and it should be kept up-to-date at all times. Every contractor needs to become familiar with the acts and regulations and referring to them should be second-nature. If you are unsure of the meaning of a regulation, contact an Occupational Health and Safety Officer in the Saskatoon or Regina office.

The specific regulations governing your worksite at any given time will depend on the combination of conditions, equipment, tools, and so on that are involved in a particular job.

Legal Duties and Responsibilities

The following excerpts from the Saskatchewan Employment Act and Saskatchewan Occupational Health and Safety Regulations (1996) are not a complete list of legislated responsibilities. It is up to the employer, contractor, supervisor, and worker to know and understand the sections of the Saskatchewan Employment Act, OH & S Regulations, and Mine Regulations that may relate to their situation.

1.2 Instruction Sheet Saskatchewan Employment Act

Employers: General Duties of Employers

Section 3-8: This section discusses general duties of employers

3-8 Every employer shall:

(a) ensure, insofar as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare at work of all of the employer’s workers;

(b) consult and cooperate in a timely manner with any occupational health committee or the occupational health and safety representative at the place of employment for the purpose of resolving concerns on matters of health, safety and welfare at work;

(c) make a reasonable attempt to resolve, in a timely manner, concerns raised by an occupational health committee or occupational health and safety representative pursuant to clause (b);

(d) ensure, insofar as is reasonably practicable, that the employer’s workers are not exposed to harassment with respect to any matter or circumstance arising out of the workers’ employment;

(e) cooperate with any other person exercising a duty imposed by this Act or the regulation;

(f) ensure that:

(i) the employer’s workers are trained in all matters that are necessary to protect their health, safety and welfare; and

(ii) all work at the place of employment is sufficiently and competently supervised;

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO1 Page 2 (g) if the employer is required to designate an occupational health and safety representative for the place of employment, ensure that written records of meetings with the occupational health and safety representative are kept and are readily available at the place of employment;

(h) ensure, insofar as is reasonably practicable, that the activities of the employer`s workers at a place of employment do not negatively affect the health, safety or welfare at work of the employer, other workers or any self-employed person at the place of employment; and

(i) comply with this act and regulations (The Saskatchewan Employment Act, 2013).

What this means to you:

• Your health and safety is a priority to your employer. • Employers will work together with a health and safety committee to resolve concerns as soon as possible. • Employers are to ensure that you are not exposed to harassment. • Employers will work with OH & S personnel. • Employers will ensure that you are trained, skilled, and knowledgeable about your job. • Employers will ensure that you are competently supervised. • Employers will post OH & S meeting minutes.

“Competent: means possessing knowledge, experience and training to perform a specific duty” (The Saskatchewan Employment Act, 2013).

What this means to you:

• To be deemed competent at your job, you must have the required knowledge, experience, and training.

Supervisors: General Duties of Supervisors

Section 3-9: This section discusses general duties of supervisors

3-9 Every supervisor shall:

(a) ensure, insofar as is reasonably practicable, the health and safety at work of all workers who work under the supervisor’s direct supervision and direction; (b) ensure that workers under the supervisor’s direction comply with this Act and the regulations; (c) ensure, insofar as is reasonably practicable, that all workers under the supervisor’s direct oversight and direction are not exposed to harassment at the place of employment; (d) co-operate with any other person exercising a duty imposed by this Act or the regulation; and (e) comply with this Act and the regulations (The Saskatchewan Employment Act, 2013).

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO1 Page 3 What this means to you:

• Your health and safety is a priority to your supervisor. • Supervisors must be aware of and comply with OH & S regulations. • You are not exposed to harassment. • Supervisors are required to work with other OH & S personnel.

Fascinating Fact

Saskatchewan mines have produced potash, uranium, coal, copper, zinc, lead, gold, silver, platinum, palladium, nickel, cadmium, sodium sulphate, kaolin, bentonite, diamonds, salt, and silica sand.

Contractors: General Duties of Contractors

Section 3-12: This section discusses general duties of contractors

3-12 Every contractor shall:

(a) ensure, insofar as is reasonably practicable, that every:

(i) place of employment or worksite where an employer, employer’s worker or self- employed person works pursuant to a contract between the contractor and the employer or self-employed person; or

(ii) work process or procedure carried on at every place of employment where an employer, employer’s worker or self-employed person works pursuant to a contract between the contractor and the employer or self-employed person; that is not in the direct and complete control of an employer or self-employed person under contract with the contractor is safe for, without risk to the health of, and adequate with regard to facilities for the welfare of, all employers, workers or self-employed persons at the place of employment;

(b) post any prescribed notice in a conspicuous location at every place of employment where an employer, employer’s worker or self-employed person works pursuant to a contract between the contractor and the employer or self-employed person; and

What this means to you:

• Health and safety is a priority for contractors. • Contractors must post notices in obvious places. • Contractors must comply with legislation.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO1 Page 4 Workers: General Duties of Workers

3-10 Every worker while at work shall:

(a) take reasonable care to protect his or her health and safety and the health and safety of other workers who may be affected by his or her acts or omissions;

(b) refrain from causing or participating in the harassment of another worker;

(c) cooperate with any other person exercising a duty imposed by this Part or the regulations made pursuant to this Part; and

(d) comply with this Part and the regulations made pursuant to this Part (The Saskatchewan Employment Act, 2013).

Learning Step 2 Discuss General Safety Requirements

2.1 Instruction Sheet OH & S Regulations

General Duties of Workers

13 A worker shall:

(a) use the safeguards, safety appliances and personal protective equipment provided in accordance with these regulations and any other regulations made pursuant to the Act; and

(b) follow the safe work practices and procedures required by or developed pursuant to these regulations and any other regulations made pursuant to the Act (The Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, 1996).

What this means to you:

• Your health and safety and the safety of others is a priority for you. • You will not participate in harassment. • You will cooperate with OH & S personnel. • You will comply with OH & S legislation.

Fascinating Fact

All Saskatchewan mines provide financial assurance monies to government to ensure that there are funds in place to reclaim mine areas.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO1 Page 5 Worker Rights

The Saskatchewan Employment Act supports every worker’s right to a safe and healthy workplace. The Act recognizes that only workers who are adequately informed and empowered can effectively fulfill their responsibilities. It grants three important rights to workers:

1. Right to Know: Workers have the right to know about workplace hazards, including how to identify hazards and protect themselves from those hazards and about the rights afforded to workers under the Act.

2. Right to Participate: Workers have the right to participate in decisions related to occupational health and safety, free of reprisal for their participation. Participation, in part, is achieved through consultation with the committee or representative.

3. Right to Refuse: Workers have the right to refuse work that they have reasonable grounds to believe is unusually dangerous.

The Act protects these rights by prohibiting employers from imposing discipline or other sanctions on workers for fulfilling their responsibilities or exercising their rights. This helps workers participate on a more even footing with employers and supervisors in preventing workplace injuries and illness.

What this means for you:

• You have a right to know about the hazards you may be exposed to. • You have a right to participate in a Health and Safety committee. • You have a right to refuse unusually dangerous work.

The Saskatchewan Mining Regulations, 2003

Outline regulations under provincial jurisdiction that govern the mining industry. For example:

• Dangerous occurrences • Supervision of workers • Hoisting regulations • Storage and use of explosives

Regulation 4 - The Mines Regulations Take Precedence

Application of OHS regulations to mines

“4 (1) Subject to subsection (2) and except where these regulations provide otherwise, the OH&S Regulations apply to mines in addition to these regulations.

(2) If there is a conflict between the OHS regulations and these regulations, these regulations prevail” (The Mines Regulations, 2003).

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO1 Page 6 Mining Regulations take precedence over OH & S Regulations.

Fascinating Fact

Uranium was discovered in 1923 on the north shore of Lake Athabasca near Goldfields. The discovery became a major uranium mining camp that formed Uranium City.

Dangerous occurrences

6 (1) In this section, “dangerous occurrence” means any occurrence that does not result in, but could have resulted in, a condition or circumstance set out in subsection 8(1) of the OHS regulations, and includes:

(a) the structural failure or collapse of a structure, scaffold, temporary falsework, concrete formwork, dam or bulkhead;

(b) the unanticipated failure or collapse of all or any part of an excavated shaft, tunnel, caisson, coffer dam, trench or excavation;

(d) any inrush of water underground;

(e) any outbreak of fire underground;

(f) any outbreak of fire on the surface that causes structural damage to a building at the mine;

(g) any call-out of a mine rescue team;

(h) any unusual gaseous condition in a workings;

(i) any rockburst or unexpected or uncontrolled subsidence or caving-in of a workings;

(j) any failure during use of the braking or steering system of a vehicle used for the hauling or loading of ore or waste;

(k) any loss of control of any vehicle conveying workers;

(l) the failure of a crane or hoist or the overturning of a crane or unit of powered mobile equipment;

(m) an accidental contact with an energized electrical conductor;

(n) the bursting of a grinding wheel;

(o) an uncontrolled spill or escape of a toxic, corrosive or explosive substance;

(p) a premature detonation or accidental detonation of explosives;

(q) the failure of an elevated or suspended platform; and

(r) the failure of an atmosphere-supplying respirator (The Mines Regulations, 2003).

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO1 Page 7 Fascinating Fact

Coal mines in Estevan, Bienfait, and Coronach provide the primary source of energy in Saskatchewan – accounting for over 40% of the province’s available power capacity.

What this means for you:

Dangerous occurrences include:

• Collapse of a structure, scaffold, temporary falsework, excavated shaft or caisson; • Equipment failure; • Inrush of water; outbreak of fire underground; • Call out of a mine-rescue team; • Rockburst or cave in; • Brake or steering failure; • Accidently release of controlled energy; • Bursting of a grinding wheel; • Escape of toxic substances; • Unintended detonation of explosives; • Suspended platform failure; and • Air-supplying respiratory failure.

Figure 2: Caution

Reporting Dangerous Occurrences:

Section 6: This section discusses reporting dangerous occurrences

(2) An employer, contractor or owner shall give notice to the division as soon as is reasonably possible of any dangerous occurrence that takes place, whether or not a worker sustains injury.

(3) A notice required by subsection (2) must include:

(a) the name of each employer, contractor and owner involved in the dangerous occurrence at the mine; (b) the date, time and location of the dangerous occurrence;

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO1 Page 8 (d) the name, telephone number and fax number of the employer, contractor or owner or a person designated by the employer, contractor or owner to be contacted for additional information (“The Mines Regulations, 2003”).

What this means to you:

• Report dangerous occurrences immediately. • Report circumstances, names, date, time, and contact information.

Committee/Representative Must be Involved in the Investigation

(4) An employer, contractor or owner shall provide each co-chairperson or the representative with a copy of the notice required by subsection (2). (5) An employer, contractor or owner shall ensure that every dangerous occurrence is investigated and a written report prepared in accordance with section 31 of the OHS regulations (The Mines Regulations, 2003).

What this means to you:

• Every dangerous occurrence must be investigated together with an OH & S committee or representative.

Fascinating Fact

Saskatchewan is the leading producer of potash, and the second-leading producer of uranium in the world.

General Safety Requirements

Topics discussed in this section include:

• Training programs for workers • No substance impairment • Interference with safety equipment or processes prohibited • Shift record • Unusually hazardous work • Working alone • Regular underground inspection • Employer must appoint a competent person • Inspections of worksite prior to each shift • Remedying unsafe conditions • Entry restrictions • Hazard information and controlling the movement of strata

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO1 Page 9 Training Program for Workers

Section 20: This section discusses worker training programs.

Training program for workers

20 (1) An employer must:

(a) develop a written program for the training of workers to ensure that they are adequately trained to carry out their duties safely; and (b) appoint a competent person to direct the training program.

(2) A training program must specify for each type of work procedure:

(a) the content of the training required; and (b) the time required for the training.

(3) The person appointed to direct the training program must:

(a) keep a record of all training provided to each worker through the program; and (b) make a copy of the record readily available to workers.

(4) The employer must ensure that any person who provides training as part of the training program:

(a) is competent to provide the training; and (b) is provided with adequate time and facilities to provide the training.

(5) If a worker has previous experience in the mining industry and is able to establish to the satisfaction of the person directing the training program that the worker has received training equivalent to training required by the program, the person directing the training program may accept the worker’s previous training as meeting all or any part of the requirements of the program (The Mines Regulations, 2003).

What this means to you:

• You must be trained to do your job competently (knowledge, experience, and training). • You must be trained by a competent person. • Your training must be documented. • Your training is provided and paid for by your employer.

No Substance Impairment

Section 21: This section discusses substance impairment

Substance Impairment Prohibited

21 An employer or contractor must take all reasonable steps to ensure that no person whose ability to work safely is impaired by alcohol, any drug or any other substance is allowed to work at a mine (The Mines Regulations, 2003).

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO1 Page 10 What this means for you:

• Workers can be subject to drug and alcohol testing to confirm their fitness for work duty. • Working under the influence of drugs or alcohol is not permitted in mines and drug testing policies are in place.

Figure 3: Drug Abuse

Interference with Safety Equipment or Processes Prohibited

Section 23: This section discusses interference with safety equipment

No worker shall:

(a) remove, displace, damage, destroy or render inoperative any safeguard or emergency equipment other than for the purpose of maintenance;

(b) remove or render unreadable any warning sign or notice unless authorized to do so by the employer or contractor; or

(i) the equipment mentioned in clause (a), including the proper use of that equipment; or

(ii) any method or process adopted for the protection of that worker or any other worker at the mine (The Mines Regulations, 2003).

What this means for you:

• You shall not remove, alter, or interfere with safety devices.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO1 Page 11 Working Alone

Section 27: This section discusses working alone.

(1) An employer or contractor must ensure that no worker is required or permitted to work alone at any worksite if the absence of personal communication with another person may place the worker’s health or safety at risk.

(2) If a worker is working alone at a worksite, an employer or contractor must ensure that contact is made with the worker personally, or by radio, telephone or other suitable means, at least once every two hours (The Mines Regulations, 2003).

What this means for you:

• If you are required to work alone, you must have a means to communicate; contact with someone must be made every two hours.

Inspection of Equipment and Worksite

Section 29: This section discusses equipment and worksite inspection

29 An employer must ensure that each worker inspects his or her worksite and equipment for defects and unsafe conditions at the beginning of each shift, and as necessary after that, to ensure that the worksite and equipment are safe. (The Mines Regulations, 2003)

317 Pre-operation inspections

An employer or contractor must ensure that:

(a) the details of each pre-operation inspection conducted in accordance with these regulations are recorded in the vehicle record by the person who performed the inspection; and (b) each vehicle record mentioned in section 316 is kept readily available to the operator of the vehicle or, if reasonably practicable, with the vehicle.

What this means for you:

• You must inspect your equipment and worksite before each shift. • You must fill out the vehicle logbook before operating a vehicle (The Mines Regulations, 2003)

Fascinating Fact

The first significant gold discovery in Saskatchewan was made in 1916 in the Amisk Lake area, which started production as the Prince Albert (Monarch) Mine in 1923.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO1 Page 12 Remedying Defects, Unsafe Conditions

Section 30: This section discusses remedying defects and unsafe conditions

30(1) If a defect or unsafe condition that may create a hazard to a worker is identified, an employer or contractor must:

(a) until appropriate steps are taken pursuant to clause (b), take immediate steps to protect the health and safety of any worker who may be at risk; and

(b) as soon as is reasonably practicable, take suitable action to correct the defect or unsafe condition.

(2) A worker who knows or has reason to believe that a worksite or any equipment under the worker’s control is not in a safe condition must:

(a) repair the defect or correct the unsafe condition if the worker is authorized by the employer to do so and is competent to do so; or

(b) as soon as is reasonably practicable, report the condition of the worksite or equipment to the employer (The Mines Regulations, 2003).

What this means for you:

• If a hazard is identified, employers and contractors must correct the unsafe condition as soon as possible. • You must report a hazard or defect to your employer or fix it if you are competent to do so.

Entry Restrictions

Section 31: This section discusses entry restrictions

31(1) An employer or contractor must ensure that no worker is required or permitted to enter or work in any part of a mine that is barricaded or fenced off unless the employer or contractor has:

(a) determined the conditions under which entry to or work in that part of the mine is safe; and

(b) clearly explained the conditions mentioned in clause (a) to the worker.

(2) No worker shall enter or work in any part of a mine that is barricaded or fenced off unless the employer or contractor has:

(a) determined the conditions under which entry to or work in that part of the mine is safe; and

(b) clearly explained to the worker the precautions to take for safe entry to or work in that part of the mine (The Mines Regulations, 2003).

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO1 Page 13 What this means for you:

• You are not permitted to enter a barricaded or fenced off area until it is safe or the unsafe conditions have been clearly explained to you.

Information Regarding Hazards

Section 33: This section discusses information regarding hazards

33 If any of the things mentioned in clauses (a) to (d) may present a hazard to a self- employed person or worker, the employer or contractor must provide that person or worker with documentation containing the most current and relevant information and an evaluation or assessment with respect to the location of those things:

(a) any disused workings;

(b) any rock or stratum that contains or is likely to contain any liquid, including water, or gas;

(d) any diamond drill holes (The Mines Regulations, 2003).

What this means for you:

• The above hazards and their controls must be communicated in writing prior to an employee commencing work.

2.2 Review Exercise

Word Bank

alcohol mining regulations written program work alone dangerous health and safety of unusually hazardous work occurrence workers inspects 90 operating days safeguard or investigation emergency equipment refuse

1. If there is a conflict between the OHS regulations and these regulations, ______prevail.

2. Outbreak of fire underground is an example of a ______.

3. Develop a ______for the training of workers to ensure that they are adequately trained to carry out their duties safely.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO1 Page 14 4. An employer or contractor must take all reasonable steps to ensure that no person whose ability to work safely is impaired by ______, any drug or any other substance is allowed to work at a mine.

5. No worker shall remove, displace, damage, destroy or render inoperative any ______other than for the purpose of maintenance.

6. At the end of every shift, the direct supervisor records all significant information relevant to the ______that was discovered during the shift.

7. ______means work that involves different or additional hazards or risks than are normally involved with that type of work or similar work.

8. An employer or contractor must ensure that no worker is required or permitted to ______at any worksite if the absence of personal communication with another person may place the worker’s health or safety at risk.

9. An employer must ensure that each worker ______his or her worksite and equipment for defects and unsafe conditions at the beginning of each shift, and as necessary after that, to ensure that the worksite and equipment are safe.

10. The Saskatchewan Employment Act grants three important rights to workers. The right to know, the right to participate, and the right to ______.

Summary

There are federal and provincial laws regarding mining and health and safety in Saskatchewan. Mines are governed by The Saskatchewan Employment Act, The Occupational Health and Safety Regulations (1996), and the Mining Regulations (2003). Employers, supervisors, and workers need to become familiar with these laws so they are doing everything possible to ensure due diligence and the health and safety of everyone at work.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO1 Page 15

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO1 Page 16 Learning Outcome 2 Discuss Hazards and Controls Associated With Mining

The purpose of the “hazard recognition” learning outcome is to:

• Inform course participants of their legislated rights and responsibilities regarding safety, specifically recognizing and understanding hazards and basic hazard assessment and control • Discuss physical, biological, chemical, and psychosocial hazards and controls • Discuss hazard management, including hazard severity, probability, and the hierarchy of controls, and • Discuss hazard monitoring strategies and reporting practices

Learning Step 1 Define Hazards

1.1 Instruction Sheet What are Hazards?

Hazards are objects, physical effects, or conditions that have the potential to cause harm to people, property, or the environment.

The goal of hazard identification and control is to be proactive and prevent incidents or injuries from happening.

The result of the hazard could be minimal, in the case of a slip on gravel that does not cause injury or could be a near miss, or it could be catastrophic in the case of a fall that results in death. Regardless of the result, all hazards must be identified, assessed, and controlled.

Hazards can be present in two states: existing or potential. Existing hazards are those that are tangible. These hazards are regarded as real and can be evaluated as such. For example, nails sticking out of lumber laying on the ground or workers at heights are existing hazards. Potential hazards are those that are not present at that time, but have a likelihood of occurring. Examples of potential hazards are compressed gas cylinders that may explode or chemicals that can cause eye or skin burns.

Fascinating Fact

Every bag of Kingsford briquettes contains char from the Bienfait coal mine.

It is through the control of hazards that we can reduce the frequency and severity of accidents, reduce human suffering, and reduce financial costs. Effective hazard recognition and control involves:

• Determining what hazards are present in the workplace. • Assessing the level of risk for the hazards identified.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO2 Page 17 • Implementing strategies to eliminate or reduce the risk involved. • Monitoring and following-up to ensure the control strategies chosen are implemented and effective.

1.2 Instruction Sheet Definitions

Throughout this Learning Outcome, a number of terms will be used:

Hazard: an object, physical effect, or condition with the potential to harm people, property, or the environment.

Hazard assessment: conducted by all employees involved when starting a new job; includes identifying the hazard and understanding its potential severity and probability, and assigning controls.

Hazard control: actions or methods for mitigating the adverse effects of hazards.

Hazard control hierarchy: actions or methods for controlling hazards in order of effectiveness:

• Elimination: remove the condition or act presenting the hazard. • Substitution: substituting one material, tool, process, etc., for another that is less hazardous. • Engineering: made at the conceptual stage of a project; designing and laying out work areas to eliminate or reduce the level of hazard. • Administration: directing people that requires strong commitment from management to the health and safety program. • Personal protective equipment: last line of defense or as back-up protection; used as a supplement to the other controls, but not as a substitute.

Hazard prioritization: ranking hazards due to their potential severity and probability (worst- first); can be conducted using a matrix to help determine high risk, medium risk, or low risk.

Hazard recognition: recognizing and understanding a condition or behaviour that can cause harm.

Hazard types: classification system to categorize different hazards; includes physical, biological, chemical, and psychosocial.

Probability: the likelihood that an incident or injury could occur; includes probable, reasonably probable, remote, and extremely remote.

Risk: a probability or threat of damage, injury, liability, loss, or any other negative occurrence that is caused by external or internal vulnerabilities, and that may be avoided through preemptive action.

Severity: the degree to which a hazard could cause injury or unwanted effects; includes negligible/ok (near miss or injury not requiring first aid) minor (minor injury requiring first aid), serious (injury offsite medical attention or lost time), and imminent danger (death or permanent disability).

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO2 Page 18 Learning Step 2 Discuss Roles & Responsibilities

Instruction Sheet 2.1 Roles & Responsibilities

Employers have the legal responsibility to identify and control, to the best of their ability, workplace hazards to protect workers. Supervisors are also required to identify, control, to the best of their ability, workplace hazards to protect workers. Likewise, you as a worker have the right to know about the hazards of the job and how to protect yourself. It is your responsibility to ensure you are following company rules that outline the hazard and control process.

The following references are taken from the Saskatchewan Employment Act, Statutes of Saskatchewan (2013, c. S-15.1). Retrieved from the Saskatchewan Queen’s Printer’s website: http://www.publications.gov.sk.ca/freelaw/documents/English/Statutes/Statutes/S15-1.pdf

Saskatchewan Employment Act

• Part III, section 3-8(a)—every employer shall make every reasonable effort to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of all its workers; • Part III, section 3-8(b)—employers shall consult and co-operate with any occupational health committee or the occupational health and safety representative at the place of the employment for the purpose of resolving concerns on matters of health, safety, and welfare at work; • Part III, section 3-9 (a) - supervisors shall ensure the health and safety of workers they directly supervise, ensure that workers comply with OH & S legislation, ensure that workers are not exposed to harassment, and cooperate with any other person exercising a duty imposed by the Act and Regulations. • Part III, section 3-10(a)—workers shall take reasonable care to protect his/her health and safety and the health and safety of other workers who may be affected by his/her acts and omissions; • Part III, section 3-22(1)(a)—at every place of employment where 10 or more workers of one employer work, the employer shall establish an occupational health committee at the place of employment; and • Part III, section 3-27(1)(a)—duty of an occupational health committee to participate in hazard identification and control; committee must be established where 10 or more workers of one employer work.

What this means for you:

Under The Saskatchewan Employment Act (2014), an employer must:

• Provide a safe and healthy workplace. • Establish and maintain an effective health and safety program and obtain input from the occupational health committee (OHC). • Make sure that managers and supervisors are trained, supported, and held accountable for fulfilling their workplace health and safety requirements.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO2 Page 19 • Oversee the health and safety performance of their managers and supervisors. • Make sure workers have the information, training, certification, supervision, and experience to do their jobs safely. • Make sure medical/first aid facilities are provided as needed. • Set-up effective occupational health committees. • Co-operate with the OHC, occupational health and safety (OHS) representative and other parties to resolve health and safety issues in a timely fashion. • Keep OHC/OHS representative meeting minutes on file and readily available. • Ensure workers are not exposed to harassment in the workplace. • Ensure that legal health and safety requirements are met. • Employers are also required to have a copy of The Saskatchewan Employment Act and regulations readily available to workers and management.

Under The Saskatchewan Employment Act (2014), a supervisor must:

• Understand and ensure compliance with workplace health and safety requirements. • Co-operate with the occupational health committee, ensure that it functions properly, and ensure all workers support committee members in their health and safety activities. • Make sure hazards are identified and proper steps are taken to eliminate the hazards or control the risks. • Inspect work areas and correct unsafe acts and conditions. • Instruct and coach workers to follow safe work procedures. • Ensure only authorized, competent workers operate equipment. • Ensure equipment is properly maintained. • Ensure the necessary personal protective equipment is provided to workers and used properly. • Know how to safely handle, store, produce, and dispose of chemical and biological substances at the workplace. • Understand and implement emergency procedures. • Report and investigate incidents (meaning accidents and dangerous occurrences). • Promote health and safety awareness. • Co-operate with other parties in dealing with health and safety issues. • Ensure that workers under their direct supervision are sufficiently supervised. • Ensure that workers under their direct supervision are not exposed to harassment at their workplace.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO2 Page 20 The following reference is taken from the Saskatchewan Occupational Health & Safety Regulations (1996). Retrieved from the Saskatchewan Queen’s Printer’s website: http://www.saskatchewan.ca/work/safety-in-the-workplace

Occupational Health & Safety Regulations (1996)

• Part III, section 22(b)—“. . . an occupational health and safety program . . . must include the identification of existing and potential risks to the health or safety of workers at the place of employment and the measures, including procedures to respond to an emergency, that will be taken to reduce eliminate or control those risks”.

Fascinating Fact

The first potash solution mine opened in Belle Plaine in 1964

Learning Step 3 Discuss Effective Hazard Controls

3.1 Instruction Sheet Importance of Hazard Assessment

Why do hazards that seem minor, or insignificant, need to be identified and controlled? If a hazard is only potential, why spend time talking about it and figuring how to make sure it doesn’t happen?

Figure 1: Signs of Hazard

Every hazard, unsafe act, or unsafe condition contributes to the possibility, and probability, of a fatal incident.

• For every 30,000 hazards, there are 3,000 near-misses or first-aid required injuries. • For every 3,000 of those, 300 injuries happen that require medical attention. • For every 300 injuries that require medical attention, 30 are lost-time injuries. • For every 30 lost-time injuries, 1 results in a fatality.

Therefore, it is very important to control all hazards, no matter how minor they seem. All incidents should be reported and investigated, even near-miss incidents, as they all contribute to the likelihood of a serious or catastrophic incident occurring.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO2 Page 21 3.2 Review Exercise

1. What is the goal of hazard identification?

2. What are four components of effective hazard recognition and control?

3. What are the responsibilities of employers, supervisors, and workers in identifying and controlling workplace hazards?

4. Why are hazard assessments important?

Learning Step 4 Discuss the Hierarchy of Hazard Controls

4.1 Instruction Sheet Hazard Controls

Hazard controls are actions or methods for managing hazards to lessen, or ideally eliminate, their outcomes. Assigning and implementing hazard controls is a very critical step in hazard assessment. This is where steps or processes are assigned to a hazard to proactively prevent any harm, injury, or adverse effect from happening.

There are five classifications in hazard control. In order of most effective, they are: elimination, substitution, engineering, administrative, and personal protective equipment.

1. Elimination: involves removing the workplace condition or act presenting the hazard.

• Example: removing and disposing of defective ladders

2. Substitution: involves substituting one material, tool, process, etc., for another that is less hazardous.

• Example: using a non-toxic chemical instead of a toxic one

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO2 Page 22 3. Engineering: should be made at the conceptual stage or a project; designing and laying out work areas to reduce the level of hazard.

• Example: installing noise barriers

4. Administrative: involves directing people and requires a strong commitment from management to the health and safety program.

• Example: training and educating workers and assessing their performance

5. Personal Protective Equipment: wearable materials used to protect individual workers; reactive instead of proactive.

• Example: hard hat and safety glasses or respirator

Note: PPE should be used as a last line of defense and only as a supplement to the other controls, not as a substitute whenever possible.

Figure 2: Hierarchy of Control

Elimination

The ultimate control measure is to eliminate the workplace condition or act presenting the hazard.

Examples:

• Remove a fire hazard by using non-combustible materials instead of combustible. • Eliminate protruding objects. • Remove and dispose of defective ladders.

Eliminating a hazard is obviously the best method of control; however, not all hazards can be totally eliminated. The next best option is substitution.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO2 Page 23 Substitution

Substituting one chemical or piece of equipment for a less hazardous one, or a particular work activity with a safer method, has proven to be very effective as hazard control.

Examples:

• Replacing a toxic chemical for a less toxic chemical (granular or powder). • Replacing outdated equipment with new equipment. • Replacing a worker activity with a machine.

Engineering Controls

Engineering designs and control measures should be made at the conceptual stage of a project. The basic concept behind engineering controls is that, to the extent feasible, the work environment and the job itself should be designed to eliminate hazards or reduce exposure to hazards.

Examples:

• Installing additional lighting. • Pre-designing scaffolding systems to ensure proper erection, maintenance, and dismantling. • Enclosing equipment or installing exhaust ventilation. • Ground control measures underground in mines i.e., Rock bolting to secure the back (roof) and walls of drifts.

Administrative Controls

Since engineering controls are not always practical, administrative controls are used. These controls are more desirable than personal protective equipment and should be one of the controls implemented. However, administrative controls involve directing people and may, therefore, present drawbacks. When workers’ health and safety depends on strict enforcement and adherence to policies, procedures, supervision, training, and constant motivation, there must be a strong commitment from management to the health and safety program.

Examples:

• Establishing procedures for ongoing maintenance of tools, procedures, and work. • Scheduling hazardous activities when there are only a few workers on the worksite. • Developing and implementing safe work practices, procedures, and work permits.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO2 Page 24 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

When elimination, substitution, engineering, or administrative controls fail to provide the required protection, personal protective equipment (PPE) should be considered only as a last line of defense or as back-up protection. PPE may be used as a supplement to these other controls, but not as a substitute for them.

In using PPE as a control method, the supervisor must consider the following:

• Determine where/when PPE is required. • Determine which type of PPE is suitable. • Train employees on the proper care, use, and maintenance of PPE. • If PPE is required, develop a policy and enforce its use. • Inspect all PPE regularly for defects and replace equipment when necessary (ensure to follow proper policy or procedure when taking PPE out of service; be sure to document).

Figure 3: Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

There are situations in which the use of PPE is vital to hazard control. For example:

• When carrying out normally hazardous operations such as welding, spraying, or working in confined spaces. • In emergencies or when conducting activities which have unknown hazard levels.

In addition, supervisors must familiarize themselves with the requirements for PPE as outlined in the Saskatchewan Employment Act & Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, 1996.

The five previously listed control options are widely used as hazard control methods. Often, a combination of control methods will be required to eliminate or sufficiently reduce the risk of hazards to an acceptable level.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO2 Page 25 4.2 Review Exercise

1. What are the five classifications of hazard control? Provide an example for each.

4.3 Instruction Sheet Classification of Hazards

Though the number of different hazards is endless, they can be classified or grouped under five main types. When conducting a hazard assessment, all five of these components must be examined, sub-divided, and evaluated to see what risks are present.

Hazards exist in one of five different types:

1. Physical 2. Radiological 3. Biological 4. Chemical 5. Psychosocial

Learning Step 5 Assess Physical Hazards and Controls

5.1 Instruction Sheet Physical Hazards

Examples of Physical Hazards:

• Ground fall – unexpected/unplanned movement of rock or release of rock. • Interaction with equipment and tools – not sure what more I can say on this one? Do you mean that the mining environment is dynamic, things are always changing and they could be around/exposed to many different pieces of equipment and or tools? They would always be trained prior to using any equipment and most tools. • Electrocution – an injury or fatality caused by an electric shock. • Slips, trips, and falls:

• Slips – slipping on an object, a spill or a slippery surface and getting thrown off balance potentially leading to a fall. • Trips – tripping on an object and getting thrown off balance potentially leading to a fall. • Falls – stepping on an uneven surface and getting thrown off balance potentially leading to a fall.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO2 Page 26 • Manual material handling – moving or handling materials by lifting, pushing, pulling, lowering, carrying. • Working at heights – to work at heights means to work at a level that is above ground level where a person could potentially fall a distance and injure themselves if the proper safety precautions were not taken. • Working around water – this could be so many things. Can you please clarify what type of water or location? For example: is it inflow from a fault or fracture? Is it a lake on surface that the mine is located beside? Is it mine water from the mining process?. • Line of fire – being in harm’s way. Could be from a moving object such as a conveyor belt or a scoop, or an energy release etc…

Noisy Environment

Figure 4: Noise

Noise and mining go hand in hand as you are exposed to:

• Blasting – the controlled use of explosives to release or break rock when excavating. • Drilling – using a drilling rig to drill holes in the mine for exploration purposes, installing ground support, excavation, monitoring ground movement etc… • Equipment - machinery used in mining to assist in liberation of rock/excavation/processing etc… • Ventilation – providing safe and healthy air for a mine. • Conveying – transportation of materials through the use of a conveyor belt. • Vent tubing – ducting used in conjunction with a fan to ventilate and direct air from point A to point B. Can be layflat, spiral or rigid ducting.

Lighting

Lighting is a very important issue in mining. Underground without lighting can be called “true dark.” All contractors, employees, and personnel are required to have a light source with them at all times.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO2 Page 27

Figure 5: Lighting

Required Lighting: stationary lights must be present in following locations:

• In every underground shaft station that is in regular use. • In every underground permanent workshop and garage that is in regular use. • In every underground hoist room. • In every underground permanent electrical substation. • In every underground permanent fixed refuge station. • In every underground fuel station that is in regular use. • At any other place underground where lighting is necessary because of the nature of the work being done or the equipment being used.

Emergency Lighting

• When regular stationary lighting fails, unsafe work conditions result. • A mine must have suitable emergency lighting in place in the event of an emergency. • Different from auxiliary lighting which is provided to workers doing ground assessments at distances greater than cap lamps can illuminate.

Lighting in Open Pits

When work occurs in open pits during low light or dark conditions, adequate lighting is required. Lights should be placed at:

• Every place at the mine where vehicles regularly dump material over the edge of an embankment that is more than three metres high. • At any other place at the mine where lighting is necessary because of the nature of the work being done or the equipment being used.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO2 Page 28 Respirable Dusts

Dusts are small, dry particulates suspended in air and range in size from less than 1 micron, or one millionth of a metre, to 1 millimetre in size. On a mine site, most dust particles of concern are generated from grinding, drilling, or a pulverizing process. As the toxicity of airborne dust is dependent on size and chemical composition, monitoring respirable concentrations is critical in determining the health effects of worker exposure.

The greatest threat to worker health comes from the particles with a very small diameter size that are capable of penetrating deep into the lungs. These particulates are referred to as the respirable mass fraction, and are generally less than 4 microns in size and are not visible to the naked eye. When respirable particulates are deposited in the gas exchange region, sedimentation within the lung or diffusion into the bloodstream occurs. Certain respirable dusts, such as coal or silica, are the direct cause of diseases such as silicosis and black-lung disease.

Electrical Safety Hazards and Controls

It doesn't take a lot of electricity to kill you. The amount of current needed to light an ordinary 60-watt light bulb is five times what can kill a person. Thus, all electrical equipment on sites is potentially deadly.

Figure 6: Electrical Hazard

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO2 Page 29

Figure 7

Electrical extension cords are numerous and become damaged because of the rough conditions in which they are used. Inspect to ensure:

• All extension cords are three-wire cords; • The ground pin is on a male plug; • There is no broken insulation on the cord; • End appliances (plug and receptacle) are gripped to insulation; • All wires are continuous and unbroken; • All cords are protected from damage, likely to occur when passing through a door or window; • Metal boxes with knockouts are not used on extension cords; • Plugs are dead-front (molded or screwed in place); • Romex (non-metallic sheathed cable) is not used as flexible cord; and • Cords are not stapled or hung from nails.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO2 Page 30 Also, check these items:

• Temporary lights are not supported by cords; • Bulb guards are used on temporary lights; • Electrical power tools with non-dead man switches have a magnetic restart (when injury to the operator might result if motors were to restart following power failures); • Provisions are made to prevent machines from automatically restarting upon restoration of power in place; • Outlets do not have reversed polarity; and • Power tools are double insulated or have a ground pin.

Guard all exposed electricity of more than 50 volts so no one can come in contact with it (receptacles, light-bulb sockets, bare wires, load center, switches).

Guard by:

1. Using approved enclosures; 2. Locating them in a room, vault or similar enclosure accessible only to qualified persons; 3. Arranging suitable permanent, substantial partitions or screens so only qualified persons have access to the space within reach of live parts; 4. Locating them on a suitable balcony or platform that is elevated and arranged to exclude unqualified persons; and 5. Elevating them 8 feet or more above the working surface.

It is important to take the time to inspect equipment prior to beginning work each day. The fluid nature of the activities along with the changing environment and high potential for damage can let these items become a hazard quickly.

Basic Arc Flash Safety Hazards and Controls

Arc flash is described as “a dangerous condition associated with the release of energy caused by an electric arc.” A reduction of the insulation or isolation distance between energized components is responsible for this condition. For example, a tool that is inserted or accidentally dropped into a breaker or service area, other objects that are left behind, may compromise the distance between energized components.

Incidents may occur when a worker fails to ensure that equipment has been properly de- energized prior to servicing or inspection. Arc flash incidents typically occur in applications exceeding 120 volts.

Serious damage to equipment is a likely outcome in an arc flash incident. Sometimes affected equipment is so badly damaged that replacement is the only option. Of course, the human body is equally capable of being destroyed or irreversibly damaged, with no replacement option.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO2 Page 31 Arc Flash Controls

• Establish a written electrical safety program with clearly defined responsibilities covering all of your company’s electrical safety policies, including lockout/tagout, internal safety policies and responsibilities for electrical safety. • Have an engineering firm conduct an electrical system analysis to determine the degree of arc flash hazard present at your workplace. The analysis will define the type of personal protective equipment (PPE) that your workers must use while performing any work when energized parts are exposed. • Conduct arc flash safety training for all employees. It should be specific to the hazards of arc flash, arc blast, shock and electrocution. Ensure adequate personal protective clothing and equipment is on hand. • Ensure the proper tools are on hand for safe electrical work. This includes insulated voltage- rated hand tools and insulated voltage sensing devices that are properly rated for the voltage application of the equipment to be tested. • Any electrical equipment that is likely to require examination, adjustment, servicing or maintenance while energized must have arc flash warning labels posted in plain view. Such equipment includes switchboards, panel boards, industrial control panels, meter socket enclosures and motor control centres. • Appoint an electrical safety program manager. This should be a well-organized, responsible person who is familiar with electrical code requirements and other safety issues. • Maintain all electrical distribution system components. Modern, properly adjusted overcurrent protective devices that are properly maintained are able to detect an arcing condition almost instantly and clear the fault quickly. This capability significantly reduces the amount of incident energy that is released. • Finally, maintain and update all electrical distribution documentation. This is especially critical when expanding or revising facilities.

5.2 Review Exercise

1. List five things to look for when inspecting extension cords.

2. What is arc flash?

3. List five controls for arc flash.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO2 Page 32 5.3 Instruction Sheet Utility Knives

Utility knives are a very common tool in most industries today. Hand injuries in work places are all too common.

Most hand injuries involve nicks or cuts from utility knives.

Figure 8: Utility Knife

OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) estimates that there is over $300 million spent for hand lacerations each year.

Using Utility Knives Safely

• Always wear proper PPE when handling a utility knife. This includes gloves and protective arm wear. • Choose the right knife for the job. • Most people think utility knives are all purpose tools and end up using them incorrectly leading to injury. • Know your site specific requirements.

Utility Knife Safety Tips

• Always cut away from the body– never towards yourself. • Make sure no one is in the cutting path behind you. • The blade of the knife should always be retracted or in a sheath when not in use. • Never use a knife with a dull or chipped/notched blade. • Dispose of dull, rusty or broken blades properly. • If a knife falls, do not try to catch it. • Do not toss a knife to someone.

Fascinating Fact

Exploration is the R & D phase of mining–it takes 10 to 20 years to take a deposit into production.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO2 Page 33 Safe-Lifting Techniques

Mining involves manually lifting and carrying equipment and material that are both heavy and awkward. As a result, miners often suffer from lower back pain. Learning proper lifting and carrying techniques will reduce your risk of back injury. Follow the general guidelines that are outlined below:

• Know the approximate weight of a load before attempting to lift it. • Grip with your palms, not just your fingertips, to ensure solid contact with the load when lifting or carrying. • To lift a load, bend your knees; get as close to the load as possible; keep your back straight; place one foot slightly ahead of the other; grasp the load firmly, tighten your stomach muscles; straighten your legs to lift the load. Reverse these procedures to set a load down. • Never jerk a load to lift it. If the load is too heavy, get help. When you are working with a partner, make sure you communicate when lifting and setting the load down. • Carry the load close to your body and close to waist level. • When turning with a load, turn your feet; do not twist your body. • Practice proper posture and a good exercise program. • Whenever possible, use hydraulic lifting devices to help with heavy loads.

Fall Hazards

Falls are a leading cause of workplace injury and you are at risk for this type of injury. Fortunately, most falls are preventable if you follow proper safety procedures and use appropriate protective equipment.

The Occupational Health and Safety (OH & S) Regulations, 1996 require you to have fall protection if any of these conditions apply:

• You could fall a vertical distance of more than 3m (10 feet) from a temporary installation. • You could fall a vertical distance of more than 1.2m (4 feet) from a permanent installation. • You could fall into any hazardous substance (i.e., a storage tank). • You could fall onto any operating machine (i.e., crusher). • Workers need to know very specific Working at Heights requirements at each location.

Fall-Arresting Systems

A fall-arresting system consists of a full-body harness, a lanyard, and a secure anchor point. If you fall, the body harness supports your body. The lanyard connects your body harness to a secure anchor point and arrests your fall. An employer or contractor shall ensure that a personal fall arrest system must prevent you from falling more than 1.2m (4 feet) without a shock absorber.

It is critical that a proper fall protection plan is developed and a hazard assessment completed prior to working in conditions where there is a possibility of a fall.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO2 Page 34 5.4 Review Exercise

1. Why are utility knives a hazard?

2. What are five safe-knife practices?

3. Why is it important to follow safe-lifting practices?

4. According to the Acts and Regulations, what conditions require fall protection?

Learning Step 6 Discuss Radiation Protection

6.1 Instruction Sheet Defining Radiation

A common hazard in mining is exposure to radiation.

There is a great deal of misunderstanding about the word radiation. Radiation is energy in the form of waves or streams of particles. There are many kinds of natural and man-made radiation including the following:

• Ultraviolet rays from the sun • Radio and television signals • X-rays • Microwaves • Nuclear radiation • Nuclear gauges • Ore • Yellow cake

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO2 Page 35 Most radiation is beneficial. Without radiation from the sun, for example, life on earth would no longer exist. We use radio waves to communicate around the globe, x-rays to diagnose illness, microwaves to cook our food, and nuclear energy to generate electricity.

In Saskatchewan, the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) and Labour Relations and Workplace Safety (LRWS) are responsible for ensuring people and the environment are protected from possible harmful effects of radiation exposure.

Quick Facts

• Radiation is energy in motion • Radiation can be in the form of a particle or a wave • Ionizing radiation is radiation that moves fast enough to change the structure of cells (e.g., alpha, beta, and gamma radiation) • Radon emits ionizing radiation • Radiation is present all around us, from sources such as the soil, the sun, and even foods. This is called background radiation and it cannot be avoided. • Uranium is a source of ionizing radiation. In its ore form it emits both particle (alpha and beta) and wave (gamma) radiation.

Radiation Protection Safety Tips

There are six important concepts to remember about protecting yourself from external radiation:

• Time • Distance • Shielding • Contamination control • Ventilation • Radiation monitoring equipment

1. Time

The less time you spend near a radioactive source, the less radiation your body will absorb.

Follow the procedures below to reduce your external exposure:

• Work safely but quickly, and leave areas of elevated radiation as soon as you are finished. • Take meal breaks, coffee breaks, and rest breaks at designated areas only, away from areas where radioactive material is being mined, milled, or stockpiled. • Plan your jobs before entering elevated radiation areas.

2. Distance

As you move away from a radioactive source, the amount of radiation that reaches you decreases significantly. For example, if you double your distance from the source, your exposure drops to one-quarter.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO2 Page 36 3. Shielding

You can sometimes block radiation by placing an absorbing material between you and the radioactive source.

4. Contamination Control

• Wash your hands and face frequently • Shower daily • Keep your tools and boots clean • Do not eat, drink or smoke in radiation control areas

5. Ventilation

• Ensure good air movement in your work area • Keep dust down

Learning Step 7 Assess Biological Hazards and Controls

7.1 Instruction Sheet Examples of Biological Hazards

In addition to physical hazards that must be controlled for, biological hazards must be identified, assessed, and controlled. Exposure to micro-organisms or toxins can cause acute or chronic human health effects. Controls for biological hazards include elimination, substitution, engineered controls, administrative strategies, and personal protective equipment.

Examples of Biological Hazards:

• Allergic reaction to plants, insects, mold • Being in contact with materials where bacterial, viruses, or fungus is present • Blood or other bodily fluids • Animal feces (i.e. Deer mouse droppings)

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO2 Page 37 Learning Step 8 Assess Chemical Hazards and Controls

8.1 Instruction Sheet Examples of Chemical Hazards

Chemical hazards exist where exposure to an element or component could cause negative health effects. Examples of common chemical hazards are:

• Using cleaning products regularly • Gases and vapours • Welding fumes • Asbestos hazards • Using paint materials regularly • Using toxic chemicals • Agents in the form of vapours, gases, dusts, fumes, mists • Flammable materials like gasoline, solvents, and explosive chemicals

Figure 9: Chemical Hazards

Gases and Vapours

Gases and vapours are non-particulate airborne substances that readily mix with the ambient air. They pose a health risk to you as they have the ability to pass from the lungs directly into the bloodstream and therefore can directly affect various regions of the body. Contaminant gases and vapours at mine sites are those substances that are not found in normal ambient concentrations.

As gases and vapours become concentrated in the air, the potential threats to worker health and safety increase. In the mining industry, the gases that pose the greatest concern to worker health and safety include, but are not limited to: oxygen deprivation, carbon dioxide, methane, carbon monoxide, hydrogen sulphide, sulphur dioxide, oxides of nitrogen, hydrogen, and radon.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO2 Page 38 Welding Fumes

Welding fumes are composed of a variety of chemical and metal contaminants and vary in toxicity depending on the welding process and the alloy being welded. Fumes are not gases, but tiny particulates formed by the evaporation of solid or liquid materials. Generally, fume particle size is very small, usually one micron in diameter or smaller, but these particles tend to agglomerate together forming larger particulates.

Figure 10: Welding Fumes

A number of occupational hazards are directly associated with exposure to the welding process including radiation exposure and toxic fume inhalation. Welders are generally protected from UV radiation with protective clothing and equipment. Chromium hexavalent is a common byproduct/hazard of welding. Workers who are exposed to chromium hexavalent are at increased risk of developing lung cancer, sexual dysfunction, asthma or damage to the nasal epithelial and skin. Respiratory protection is not required yet in Saskatchewan, but is strongly recommended.

Diesel Exhaust

Diesel exhaust is a compound of variable composition containing thousands of chemicals, many of which have proven to be carcinogenic or mutagenic in nature. Diesel engines, particularly in underground mines, can deteriorate environmental conditions such that levels of exhaust gases and diesel particulates can become excessively high.

When broken down, diesel exhaust is a mixture of particulates and gases and is primarily comprised of carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, nitrous oxide, nitrogen dioxide, sulphur dioxide, hydrocarbons and carbonaceous particles. Although many of the gases in the mixture cause adverse health effects, the respirable particulate mass poses the greatest threat to worker health.

You can potentially inhale these particulate masses, allowing for deposition of the carcinogenic substances deep within the lungs. Prolonged exposure to such carcinogenic particulates can potentially lead to chronic lung diseases or cancer. Most mines use a tier 2 or tier 3 engine that burns extremely clean. Likewise, mine ventilation systems provide adequate ventilation and clean air for workers.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO2 Page 39 Learning Step 9 Assess Psychosocial Hazards and Controls

9.1 Instruction Sheet Psychosocial Hazards

A psychosocial hazard is any hazard that affects the mental well-being or mental health of the worker. It may have physical effects by overwhelming an individual’s coping mechanisms and impacting the worker’s ability to work in a healthy and safe manner.

Although these issues have been around for many years, psychosocial hazards are only now being recognized as potential workplace hazards. The hazards generally are not from physical things that you can see (like a saw blade) or smell (like paint). Rather, many of these hazards come about as a result of interactions with others. In some cases, the hazard is brought into the workplace from the home. There are often no obvious outward signs of the effects of exposure and the methods to control these hazards are somewhat different than methods used to control other traditional workplace hazards.

The types of issues or concerns included in this category are (includes behavioural and mental):

• Verbal abuse or bullying leading to intimidation • Complacency • Working hours, including rotating shift work • Fatigue • Rushing • Frustration • Technological changes • Working alone • Stress

Fatigue, Shift Work, and Stress

Fatigue, shift work and stress are common examples of psychosocial hazards.

Fatigue

Fatigue is the state of feeling very tired, weary or sleepy that results from insufficient sleep, prolonged mental or physical work, or extended periods of stress or anxiety. Boring or repetitive tasks can intensify feelings of fatigue. Fatigue can be described as either acute or chronic.

Acute fatigue results from short-term sleep loss or from short periods of heavy physical or mental work. The effects of acute fatigue are of short duration and usually can be reversed by sleep and relaxation. However, if sleep loss or overwork continues, the fatigue can become a chronic state. To recover from this degree of fatigue requires extended rest. People cannot

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO2 Page 40 repeatedly deprive themselves of sleep all week and hope to catch up by sleeping in one morning.

If sleep loss or overwork continues the acute fatigue can become chronic fatigue.

What Are the Signs of Fatigue?

Figure 11: Fatigue

Signs and symptoms of fatigue include:

• Tired • Sleepiness, including falling asleep against your will; i.e., micro sleeps • Irritability • Depression • Giddiness • Loss of appetite • Digestive problems • Increased susceptibility to illness

What Are the Potential Effects of Fatigue on Work?

Fatigue cannot be easily measured so it is difficult to pinpoint its effect on workplace incidents. However, studies report the potential effects of fatigue as:

• Reduced decision-making ability • Reduced ability to do complex planning • Reduced communication skills • Reduce ability to concentrate • Reduced productivity/performance • Reduced attention and vigilance • Reduced ability to handle stress on the job

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO2 Page 41 • Delayed reaction time, both in thought and resulting action (a few studies have shown this effect as similar to being legally drunk.) • Loss of memory or the ability to recall details • Failure to respond to changes in surroundings or information provided • Unable to stay awake; e.g., falling asleep while operating machinery or driving a vehicle • Increased tendency for risk taking • Increased forgetfulness • Increased errors in judgement • Increased sick time/absenteeism • Increased medical costs • Increased incident rates

Shift Work

Shift work means working outside regular Monday to Friday daytime hours. Types of work schedules may include:

• Rotating shifts • Extended work shifts (10 to 12 hour shifts) • Night or evening work • Overtime • Part-time work • Weekend work • Compressed work week • Varying working hours • Split shifts • Seasonal work • On-call work

Factors that May Impact the Effects of Shift Work

Factors that can potentially make the effects of shift work better or worse include:

• Features of the shift work scheduling system; i.e., fixed or rotating. • Individual characteristics of the shift worker; i.e., age and personality type. • Types of job tasks; i.e., workload, repetitive tasks, tasks requiring concentration.

The ability to adjust to shift work is different for every person.

9.2 Review Exercise

1. Explain what a psychosocial hazard is.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO2 Page 42 2. What is fatigue?

3. What are five signs that you are fatigued?

4. What three factors can affect how a person responds to shiftwork?

Learning Step 10 Discuss Monitoring Strategies

10.1 Instruction Sheet Effective Hazard Control

An employee is walking through the office when he steps in a coffee spill on the tile floor. The employee slips and bruises his tailbone. Luckily, the injury is minor and he does not need medical attention nor does he lose time from work; however, the incident still could have been prevented. Why did the employee slip? How could this injury have been avoided? Who is responsible for ensuring that incidents like this do not happen again?

Everyone in an organization can be the cause of a hazard. Spills on the floor, mislabeled chemicals, tools lying in walkways, mislabeled blueprints, or forgetting the barricade around a work area are all examples of hazards that are caused by people.

Everyone in an organization is responsible for looking for and recognizing hazards, assessing their adverse effects, and controlling them.

There are many root causes why people create hazards—being distracted with personal issues, laziness or taking short-cuts, not following procedure, rushing to get a task done, and of course just not being aware that they are causing a hazard.

In Saskatchewan mines and in mines across Canada, the primary way to cause bodily injury is to take a short cut. This results in creating a hazard or exposure to a hazard.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO2 Page 43 Recognizing and understanding hazards is the responsibility of all employees regardless of position or years of service. Everyone in an organization has a responsibility to prevent incidents or injuries from happening to the best of their ability.

A hazard assessment is performed by recognizing and assessing the existing and potential hazards of a job site and assigning those hazards controls with the goal of preventing an incident or accident from occurring.

1. Recognize and understand: you need to be able to recognize the hazard and understand how it will, or can, affect you, co-workers, property, and/or the environment.

Determine what hazards are present at the work site.

2. Assess: measuring the consequences of the hazard enables you to control or mitigate it. This is the severity of the hazard.

Assess the level of risk for the hazards identified.

3. Control: ideally, each hazard would have a combination of controls in place for protection if eliminating the hazard is not an option.

Implement strategies to eliminate or reduce the risk involved.

4. Document: all hazard assessments must be documented. Documentation must include all hazards, what controls are put in place for protection, and must be signed off by a supervisor.

Documentation and communication of the hazard to all others is key.

5. Follow-up: a hazard assessment must be revisited at any time a condition or physical effect changes. For example, if rain develops and poses a new hazard, a new assessment must be conducted to discuss the new potential for harm and/or incident and what control(s) can be put into place.

If the task cannot be made safe – stop and contact your supervisor for direction.

Learning Step 11 Determine Probability and Severity of Risks

11.1 Instruction Sheet Hazard Assessment and Identifying Potential Hazards

Existing hazards are typically more obvious to both the trained and untrained eye and thus, are easier to identify. Potential hazards, on the other hand, can be more difficult to recognize and understand. Based on observations of the task, knowledge of accident causes, personal experience, and imagination, the things that could go wrong must be identified as well. Use “Murphy’s Law”—if anything can go wrong, it will—when looking for potential hazards.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO2 Page 44 Some potential hazards to think about include:

• Can a body part get caught in or between objects? • Do tools, machines, or equipment present any hazards? • Can you make harmful contact with objects? • Can you be struck by objects falling from above? • Can you slip, trip, or fall? • Can you suffer strain from lifting, pushing, or pulling? • Are you exposed to extreme heat or cold? • Is excessive noise or vibration a problem? • Is lighting a problem? • Can weather conditions affect safety? • Is harmful radiation a possibility? • Can contact be made with hot, toxic, or caustic substances? • Is there dust, fumes, mist, or vapours in the air?

If yes is answered to any of the above potential hazards, ensure that controls are put in place to mitigate the hazards.

11.2 Instruction Sheet Hazard Assessment

Though the purpose behind a hazard assessment is consistent—to identify hazards, assess their potential or existing adverse effects, and implement controls to mitigate them—they may be referred to by different names. It is your responsibility as a worker to know what your company calls a hazard assessment, become familiar with how it is conducted, where it is to be documented, and how it is communicated.

Different names for a hazard assessment, or the documentation that includes a hazard assessment, may include:

• Pre-Task Hazard Assessment (PTHA) • Field-Level Hazard Assessment (FLHA) • Pre-Job Safety Instruction (PSI) • Job Safety Assessment (JSA) • Job Hazard Assessment (JHA)

Despite what a hazard assessment is called, the purpose for them and the manner in which they are conducted is similar from company to company.

• Assemble the people who will be involved—this should involve the most experienced and skilled workers on a site as well as less experienced.

• Discuss possible hazards with employees—both existing hazards and hazards that have the potential to occur need to be identified and understood.

• Tour the entire operation. Look for possible hazards originating from physical, biological, chemical, radiological and psychosocial means.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO2 Page 45 • Keep asking, “what if . . .?”—any hazard that does have a likelihood of happening needs to be addressed.

• Document all items that need attention--all hazards, existing and potential, will need to be assessed, controlled, and communicated.

• Review the findings with supervisors and workers and solicit their input for control measures—controls must be available and practical. They must be documented and communicated.

The Five Point Safety Card

The five-point safety card is an example of a hazard assessment tool.

• Invented by Neil George in 1942 while working at Sudbury’s INCO mine. • Was quickly adopted by other mines which in turn won safety awards. • Today, this system is being implemented in mines across North America as well as Africa, Australia and South America.

1. Check entranceway and walkway:

• Check travel way and entranceway to ensure the work site is free of hazards:

• Slippery surfaces • Tripping hazards • Loose guards, rails, equipment

• Any hazards found are corrected immediately or reported. • Supervisor double checks.

2. Are the workplace and equipment in good working order?

• Check work area for hazards including leaks, lighting, power, air quality. • Inspect equipment to see if in good working order. • Any damaged equipment is fixed or replaced any hazards found corrected before proceeding with work. • Supervisor double checks.

3. Are employees working properly?

• Are workers following proper procedures and not taking any unnecessary risks? • Workers determine if they are complying with company policies and not endangering themselves or others. • Supervisor double checks work procedures are being followed correctly.

4. Have employees perform an act of safety?

• Supervisor and worker do this together • Will select and discuss a safety topic and how it applies to the work being done • Also provides a window to discuss any problems or concerns

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO2 Page 46 5. Can and will employees continue to work safely?

• Workers determine if they have the knowledge and training to accomplish a task in a safe manner • Responsibility is shared between worker and supervisor

Benefits of a Safety Card

• Helps promote and develop safe work habits • Helps keep workers focused on working safety • Provides candid discussion for a variety of safety topics • Allows supervisors to individually monitor safe work practices by employees

11.3 Review Exercise

1. What are the five steps in a five-point safety card?

2. List three benefits of a safety card.

3. What should you do if you are not able to put an appropriate control in place?

Summary

Hazard recognition, assessment, and control are a mandatory part of a health and safety program. Managers, supervisors, office staff, equipment operators, contractors, sub-contractors and workers all have major roles in identifying and controlling workplace hazards.

Direct results of a hazard assessment process are fewer injuries and illnesses, increased productivity, reduced costs associated with accidents, and increased safety awareness.

Recognition, evaluation, and control of workplace hazards is such a fundamental safety concept that it must be understood and practiced by everyone.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO2 Page 47 It is very important to recognize that the hazard assessment does not deal strictly with things that are wrong at the present time. Rather, this assessment must deal with what could go wrong. When examining the five areas (Physical, Biological, Chemical, Radiological, and Psychosocial), keep asking the question, “what if”? The knowledge and experience of the people conducting the assessment is of vital importance in this step.

Before any work at the worksite begins, an initial hazard assessment must be conducted. Periodic assessments will be completed when changes in activity or condition occur that affects the types of hazards on the job (introduction of new workers, changing weather conditions, modifications of job plans, etc.). As the work activity changes, the hazards will change. It is important that hazard assessments are conducted before any changes in activity.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO2 Page 48 Learning Outcome 3 Describe the Legal Requirements and Proper use of Personal Protective Equipment

Learning Step 1 Discuss PPE Legislation and Roles and Responsibilities

1.1 Instruction Sheet PPE Legislation

In this module, you will become familiar with The Saskatchewan Employment Act and the Saskatchewan Occupational Health and Safety Regulations pertaining to the use of personal protective equipment (PPE). You will be introduced to:

• PPE legislation and roles and responsibilities • Common mine hazards where PPE is required • Personal protective equipment correct fit, maintenance, and use, and • The use of eye, foot, head, hearing, glove, fall, and respiratory protection

PPE Legislation

Personal protective equipment is a critical component in worker safety and the prevention of injury on the job. The OH & S Regulations (1996) state that:

Section 86

1) Where it is not reasonably practicable to protect the health and safety of workers by design of the plant and work processes, suitable work practices or administrative controls, an employer or contractor shall ensure that every worker wears or uses suitable and adequate personal protective equipment. 2) Where personal protective equipment will not effectively protect a worker, an employer or contractor shall, where reasonably practicable, provide alternative work arrangements for that worker.

What this Means for you:

• Where your safety cannot be protected by other controls, your employer will ensure that you wear suitable personal protective equipment. • If personal protective equipment cannot effectively protect a worker, an employer will provide alternative work arrangements.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO3 Page 49 Personal protective equipment is a worker’s last line of defense against workplace hazards. It is for your safety, but it is not meant to replace other safety controls or safety procedures. It is intended to provide added protection when used properly in combination with other safety measures.

Personal protective equipment is a worker’s last line of defense against workplace hazards.

There are many different types of PPE. Each worksite will require specific types of PPE dependent on the kinds of hazards and risks present. According to legislation, it is the responsibility of your employer to ensure they provide you with PPE; it fits you; and you’re trained in its use, care and maintenance. Likewise, it is the worker’s responsibility to use the appropriate PPE as required.

Basic PPE consists of headwear, eyewear, ear protection, gloves and boots. Specialized PPE pertains to respiratory protection, fall protection, high visibility vest, or other protective equipment specific to your trade or task.

Learning Step 2 Identify Hazards Related to PPE

2.1 Instruction Sheet Hazard Identification

What types of hazards exist in the mining industry?

• Flying particles or objects: debris from sawing, cutting, drilling, sanding, blasting, etc. • Chemical hazards: pouring, mixing, painting, cleaning, charging batteries, etc. • Respiratory hazards: toxic chemicals, vapours, gases, etc. • Foot hazards: tripping hazards, chemical spill hazards, etc. • Hand Protection hazards: sharp edges or wires, abrasions, cuts, exposure • Hearing hazards: noisy equipment or other activity • Falling hazards: working on a scaffold, platform, etc. • Missing equipment guards. • Exposure to radiation • Fall of ground • Propped objects and tools • Electrical hazards

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO3 Page 50 Learning Step 3 Discuss How to Prevent Head Injuries by Identifying Overhead Hazards and Using a Hard Hat

3.1 Instruction Sheet Protective Head Gear

Injuries to the head can be very serious. For this reason, head protection is an essential requirement for working in mines. The Saskatchewan Occupational Health and Safety Regulations identify the following worksites where protective headgear must be worn:

• A mine, mill or smelter • An oil or gas servicing operation • A drilling operation • A construction site • Forestry or sawmilling operation

Types of Hard Hats

• Falling objects or tools are a common hazard in many industries. • Head injuries can seriously injure a person and could cause: concussion, paralysis, or death. • Hard hats help protect workers against these risks.

Figure 1: Hard Hat Area

Two common styles of hard hats are used in mining operations:

1. Brimless peaked hard hat

Employees who work in surface operations usually wear the brimless peaked hard hat.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO3 Page 51 2. Full-brim miner’s hat

The full-brim hard hat, which is also called a “miner’s hat” or “shaftman’s hat” is often preferred by miners because it offers more protection from falling objects than the brimless hat. It also is better at keeping water from running down your neck.

A hard hat consists of a shell and a suspension liner. It is generally made of plastic or fiberglass.

Hard hats are designed to be worn on top of the head, not with a ball cap/toque/hoodie hood under the hard hat. Doing so compromises the suspension’s ability to absorb force and reduce impact on the skull. Use only approved hard liners that can be installed over the top of a hardhat suspension.

A suspension liner is designed to cushion a blow and spread its impact so that one part of the hat does not have to absorb the full shock. The liner also holds the hard hat firmly on your head. It is adjustable to suit individual head sizes.

A suspension liner is designed to cushion a blow and spread its impact so that one part of the hat does not have to absorb the full shock.

All hard hats must be approved by the Canadian Standards Association (CSA). The CSA seal is found on the inside of the hat. This seal is your assurance that the hat has met federal safety standards for resistance to impact, proper clearance between the shell and liner, resistance to electrical current, resistance to burning and melting, and resistance to cracking.

Inspection and Maintenance

• Do not put extra holes or notches in your hard hat. They will weaken the hat and may cause it to split on impact. • Avoid bug repellant and aerosols on your hard hat. • Do not paint your hard hat because paint can conduct electricity. It also may react with the material of the hard hat and weaken it. • Never use metal tape on your hard hat because it can conduct electricity. • Use only water to clean your hard hat. Gasoline, Varsol, hand cleaners and other cleaning solvents may react with the material of the hat and weaken it. • Inspect your hard hat and liner daily and replace them when signs of deterioration appear. • Make sure that there is adequate space between the hat shell and the suspension liner. • If your hard hat has received a significant impact – throw it away. Never wear a hard hat that has been cracked, dented, cut, painted or tampered with. Get a new one – it may save your life!

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO3 Page 52 3.2 Review Exercise

1. Whose responsibility is it to ensure you have appropriate PPE?

2. List five common hazards in the mining industry.

3. What are the two purposes of a suspension liner?

4. List five things you should look for when inspecting your hard hat.

Learning Step 4 Discuss How to Prevent Eye Injuries by Identifying and Eliminating Workplace Hazards and use of Proper Eye Protection

4.1 Instruction Sheet Protective Eyewear

When working underground, you are required to wear approved industrial eye or face protectors where there is a risk of irritation or injury to face or eyes from flying object or particles, splashing liquids, or ultraviolet, visible or infrared radiation. It’s important that you, including all of those in the vicinity of possible eye irritants, wear suitable eye protection. You must always wear safety glasses or goggles for added protection when using a face shield. Face shields alone are not considered adequate eye protection.

Safety Glasses

When working in a mine, you must wear CSA approved safety glasses at all times to protect your eyes from flying objects. Impact-resistant shields often are installed on the frames to prevent objects from striking your eye from the side.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO3 Page 53 Safety glasses help to reduce your exposure to some types of radiation.

Figure 2: Safety Glasses

Safety glasses come in a variety of styles with metal or plastic frames. You can order CSA approved safety glasses with prescription lenses.

If you work outside, the lenses of your safety glasses may be tinted to provide some protection from sunlight. Tinted glasses that change from tinting to clear and vice versa are not CSA approved and cannot be worn in a mine.

Even tinted safety glasses do not provide proper protection from the light that is generated by a cutting torch or a welder. Never substitute safety glasses for cutting goggles or a welding helmet.

Goggles

Goggles are designed to fit snugly around your eyes. They are held in place by a strap that adjusts around the back of your head. Both the lenses and the frame are impact resistant. Some goggles have one large lens that covers both eyes, while others have two separate lenses.

Figure 3: Goggles

Goggles can be worn when your eyes are in danger of being hit by sparks from a cutting torch or splashing chemical. Goggles often are tinted for use with a cutting torch, but they are not sufficient protection for arc welding. Clear goggles may be used for drilling or where it is very dusty.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO3 Page 54 Face Shields

A face shield is used to protect your entire face from glare, heat, or splattering substances. It is held on your head by an adjustable headband or attached directly onto your hard hat. You can wear safety glasses or goggles under a face shield.

Figure 4: Face Shield

Face shields are used when grinding, mixing chemicals, or working on lines that contain chemicals. Never substitute a face shield for a welding helmet.

Inspection and Maintenance

• Glasses and face shields should be cleaned daily. Use a lens cleaner and soft cloth to prevent scratches. • Store in clean areas to avoid accidental damage. • Replace if lenses are scratched, pitted or broken. Scratches impair vision and weaken lenses.

Welding Helmets

A welding helmet consists of a fiberglass visor with a window of heavily tinted safety glass. The visor protects your entire face from the heat and metal splatter. The tinted window protects your eyes from the intense light. Welding helmets are held in place by a headband or mounted directly to a hard hat.

Never look directly at the brilliant light at the tip of the welder's electrode without the proper eye protection. If you do, you could develop an extremely painful condition known as welder's flash and may suffer permanent eye damage.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO3 Page 55

Figure 5: Welding Helmet

A welding helmet is the only safe form of face and eye protection for arc welding. Use it for all arc welding jobs no matter how small they seem.

Learning Step 5 Describe how to Avoid Foot Injuries by Understanding and Eliminating Potential Workplace Hazards and Appropriate Foot Protection

5.1 Instruction Sheet Foot Protection

It is important that your footwear is appropriate to the risks associated with your workplace and is Canadian Standards Association (CSA) approved. You may be at risk from falling material or from stepping on sharp objects.

All protective footwear worn in a mine must provide the following protection:

• Protection for your toes and the bridge of your foot. • Protection from puncture wounds through the sole. • Protection from electricity.

Neither leather nor rubber boots conduct electricity. If your workplace is dry, leather boots can be worn. If your workplace is wet, rubber boots are the best choice. Boots that lace provide better ankle support.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO3 Page 56 CSA Classification

Protection for a 50 lb weight dropped from 0.6 m plus puncture protection (withstand 270 lbf).

Protection for a 50 lb weight dropped from 0.4 m plus puncture protection (withstand 270 lbf).

Can withstand 18,000 V and up to 1 mA for industries where accidental contact with live electrical conductors can occur.

Static-dissipative soles for industries where static discharges can create a hazard for workers or equipment.

Soles are conductive test rated for up to 500,000 Ω for environments where static discharge could cause an explosion.

Metatarsal protection includes CSA Z195-09 Grade 1 toe and plate protection including impacting resistance of up to 22.7 kg.

Table 1

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO3 Page 57 Choosing Appropriate Footwear for the Mining Industry

Consider the following when choosing footwear for the mining industry:

• What are the shapes and weights of the materials being handled? • Is there a risk of falling objects/tools? • Are there sharp objects in the workplace? • Will electrical work be involved? • Does the work require the use of power tools? • Does the work take place on uneven surfaces? Slippery surfaces? Rough terrain? • What climate conditions exist (ex., rain and severe cold)? • Will you be working in a wet environment?

Inspection and Maintenance

• Check the soles of your boots regularly for wear, and replace them when they no longer provide good traction. A slip or fall underground can lead to serious injury. • Do not put steel wear plates on the soles of your boots. They increase your chances of slipping and will conduct electricity. • Maintain your foot protection according to manufacturer’s instructions.

Learning Step 6 Discuss Glove Protection and How to Prevent Hand Injuries

6.1 Instruction Sheet Hand Protection

In Saskatchewan hand injuries make up an average of 23% of all annual WCB claims per year. Wearing proper work gloves can protect you from chemical substances, extreme temperatures, friction, abrasions and cuts. There are specific gloves for tasks performed on the worksite. Talk to your supervisor if you are unsure of the appropriate gloves for your task.

When working in a mine, you may handle sharp objects that cuts like a razor and/or, chemicals that burn your skin on contact. Suitable hand protection, therefore, is a necessary part of your personal protective equipment.

Most miners wear rubber gloves because they work in wet conditions. When handling corrosive materials, wear rubber gloves that extend over your forearms (gauntlets).

You also can wear vinyl sleeves that fit on your forearm and prevent water from running between the top of your gloves and the sleeve of your slicker. A slicker is a rain jacket that is either waist length or knee length.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO3 Page 58 General purpose rubber or leather gloves do not provide good protection from heat or electricity. People who work in the welding shop, or other areas where heat is a problem, use special heat- resistant insulated mitts. Electricians handling live electrical equipment must wear linesman gloves with an electrical insulating barrier. Handling live electrical equipment should be done by a qualified electrician.

Inspection and Maintenance

• Rings, watches, or bracelets that might cut or tear your gloves may pose a hazard. • Inspect your gloves before you use them and look for holes and cracks that might allow the glove to leak. • Always replace gloves that are worn or torn. • Maintain your hand protection according to manufacturer’s recommendations.

Wearing proper work gloves can protect you from chemical substances, extreme temperatures, friction, abrasions and cuts.

Note: Refer to specific worksite policy for jewelry requirements.

Learning Step 7 Discuss Respiratory PPE

7.1 Instruction Sheet Respiratory Protection

Airborne contaminants such as dust, fumes, oil, and vapours from solvents or various gases are common hazards in the workplace. Long-term exposure to these pollutants is harmful to your respiratory system. Short-term exposure to high levels of some contaminants can cause immediate damage. For example, inhaling high concentrations of ammonia can seriously burn the lining of your lungs and air passages.

If you have to enter an area where the level of airborne contaminants is harmful, you must wear a respirator. Before using a respirator, you must be trained on how to use it. An improperly worn respirator will not protect you, and may give you a false sense of security.

Figure 6: Respiratory Masks

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO3 Page 59 There are two major categories of breathing protection you should be familiar with. Air filtration devices may be used to remove dust or harmful vapours from the air you breathe. When the air in your workplace is low in oxygen or contains agents that may suffocate or kill you if inhaled, air supplied devices like a Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) are necessary. The type of breathing protection required is determined by proper air monitoring results and the particular job being done.

Inspection and Maintenance

• Inspect your respiratory protection prior to each time you use it. • Maintain your respiratory protection according to manufacturer’s recommendations. • Ensure that you are using a properly fitted respirator that you have been fit-tested for. Wearing the wrong size/type can potentially expose you to more airborne contaminants that if you were suing a properly fitted respirator.

If you have to enter an area where the level of airborne contaminants is harmful, you must wear a respirator.

Learning Step 8 Discuss Fall Protection PPE

8.1 Instruction Sheet Fall Protection

You will be required to wear a full-body harness when conventional fall protection methods are not practical or when entering confined spaces. Similarly, when working at heights you may be required to wear travel restraint PPE which prevents you from reaching the edge of a roofline or surface. Inspect your fall protection and travel restraint equipment each time you use it and replace defective equipment.

A compliant fall arresting system is comprised of:

• Anchor point (engineered or structural) • A body-holding device (harness) • Connector (snaphook or carabiner) • Energy absorbing device or Self-Retracting Lifeline

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO3 Page 60

Figure 7: Body Harness Fall Protection

If there is any doubt about the safety of your equipment, do not use it and talk to your supervisor.

Learning Step 9 Discuss Hearing Protection and When it Needs to be Used

9.1 Instruction Sheet Hearing Protection

For many years we paid little attention to noise in the workplace and miners used to brag about drilling without any hearing protection. We now know that noise pollution can cause short-term side effects such as irritability, increased blood pressure, and insomnia (loss of sleep). More seriously, exposure to noise can cause both temporary and permanent hearing loss.

Figure 8: Safety Mole

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO3 Page 61 OH&S regulations protect workers from hazardous noise. Employers are required to use all reasonable means to reduce noise levels in the workplace that are 85 DBA or higher. Noise can be reduced by improvements to engineering design, performing regular maintenance on machinery, and relocating noisy equipment. Sometimes, noise is diverted from workers by enclosing machinery behind sound barriers, using operator booths on equipment, and using sound absorbing baffles.

You can reduce your own exposure to noise by using common sense procedures including repairing leaking hoses, pipes, and cylinders; turning machinery off when possible; removing loose gear from mobile machinery; and reporting maintenance problems. You and your employer also may limit the number of hours you spend in noisy areas.

Your last line of defence is wearing hearing protectors to reduce noise intensity before it reaches your inner ear. Both ear plugs and ear muffs are used in mines as hearing protection.

Ear muffs, which can be attached directly to your hard hat, can reduce noise more than ear plugs if worn properly. However, ear muffs are ineffective if you do not maintain a tight seal between the ear muff and your face. Miners wear both ear plugs and ear muffs for maximum hearing protection.

Figure 9: Hearing Protection

The most popular ear plug is a foam type that you squeeze together and fit into your ear. Once released, it expands to block the ear canal. These plugs are effective if worn properly. Always follow the manufacturer's directions when inserting ear plugs.

Generally speaking, insert your ear plugs as follows:

• Ensure that the ear plugs are clean. • Roll the plug between your thumb and forefinger to compress it. • Gently pull your ear out and back, and insert the plug into your ear canal. • Release and check the seal by yawning.

The intensity of workplace noise is measured in decibels (dBA). Noise intensity is measured on the logarithmic scale. Noise levels double for every 3 dBA. Noise levels of some activities are listed in Table 2, on the next page.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO3 Page 62 Your exposure to noise in the workplace is measured in dBA L ex. This is the level of your total exposure to noise averaged over your entire workday and adjusted to an equivalent eight-hour day. OH&S regulations state that you may request hearing protectors at exposures of 80 dBA L ex or higher. At exposures of 85 dBA L ex or higher you must wear hearing protectors.

Comparison of the noise intensity of various activities:

Activity Noise Intensity in dBA Normal speech 60 Busy office 80 Scoop tram 90-120 Jumbo drill 110-120 Rock bolting 110-120 Jet engine 160

Table 2

Inspection and Maintenance

• Inspect your ear protection for wear and tear prior to using. • Maintain your ear protection according to manufacturer’s recommendations.

Comparison of Hearing Protection

Ear Plugs

Advantages

• Small, easy to carry and store • Easy to use with other equipment • Comfortable to wear for long periods and in poor work conditions (heat)

Ear Muffs

Advantages

• One size fits all • Less attenuation variability among users • Easy to monitor usage and damage • Can be worn with ear infections

Safety Tips

Do not reuse disposable ear plugs.

Do not share moulded ear plugs.

Replace dried, cracked, or damaged ear muffs.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO3 Page 63 Learning Step 10 Discuss the Correct Fit, Maintenance, and Use of PPE

10.1 Instruction Sheet Whole Body Protection

Several items of personal protective equipment are intended to protect your whole body rather than a specific part of your body. These include coveralls, slickers (oilers), hat lamps, and personal radiation monitors that are used in the uranium mining industry.

Coveralls and Slickers

Most employers in the mining industry supply their employees with coveralls for working underground. These coveralls often have reflective stripes so you are more visible in the mine. Coveralls help to protect you from cuts, scratches, and contact with hazardous chemicals. Therefore, it is important to keep your sleeves rolled down. Slickers, which also are called oilers, should be worn to keep you dry when working in wet conditions.

Your work clothing must fit properly to minimize the chance of snagging it on something or being caught in moving machinery. More than one worker has died or lost a limb because of baggy clothing.

Personal Radiation Monitors

In the uranium mining industry, you are required to wear devices called dosimeters to monitor your exposure to radiation. All underground workers wear a TLD badge (Thermo-Luminescent Dosimeter) to measure gamma radiation and a PAD (Personal Alpha Dosimeter) to measure alpha radiation.

Depending on where you work, you also may be required to wear other dosimeters to provide more details on your exposure to radiation. (The topics of radiation, radiation measurement, and radiation protection are covered in detail in Hazard Recognition.

10.2 Instruction Sheet When to Wear Personal Protective Equipment

You must wear the appropriate personal protective equipment whenever any of the following conditions are present:

• It is required by government legislation. • It is specified in your employer's safety procedures. • You enter an area that is sign-posted. • You think it is necessary.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO3 Page 64 Rules Applying to All Protective Equipment

Regardless of the piece of personal protective equipment you use, the following rules apply:

• It must be the right equipment for the job. • It must be CSA approved where applicable. • You are responsible for inspecting it before using it. • It must fit properly. • You must wear it correctly. • You must ensure that it is properly maintained.

Learning Step 11 Discuss Safe Work Practices and Procedures

11.1 Instruction Sheet Safe Work Practices and Procedures

Safe-Work Practices

Safe-work practices are non-specific guidelines on how to perform a generic task safely. Safe- work practices are general recommendations or understandings among workers about how a task is performed. They are the “do’s and don’ts.

The Six Steps for Safety system is an example of a safe-work practice.

1. Think—be aware. Be attentive to the work at hand, leave your personal life at home.

2. Understand your procedures.

3. Follow your procedures.

4. Use appropriate safety equipment and take proper care of it.

5. Ask if you are unsure – do not assume.

6. Do not answer if you do not know

• Be willing to admit ignorance. • If you don’t know or don’t understand something do not pretend otherwise. • If you do not understand an instruction, ask for clarification. • If you don’t know the answer to someone else’s question, don’t answer it. Seek advice from those who are qualified to provide accurate answers.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO3 Page 65 Safe-Work Procedures

Safe-work procedures refer to the specific series of directives on how to perform an entire job or part of a job safely. Safe work procedures are a safe and effective way to perform a certain task in a specific order, or in steps, for the task to be completed. Safe-work procedures are administrative controls used when it is necessary to assess the risk related to carrying out a particular task.

Safe-work procedures:

• Assess the risk and outline the safe working procedures to be followed to eliminate or minimize the risk. • Are a risk management tool.

11.2 Review Exercise

1. List 5 common things you should look for when inspecting your PPE.

2. When must you wear PPE?

3. What is the difference between travel restraint and fall arrest?

4. At what DBA is hearing protection required?

Summary

Personal protective equipment is a worker’s last line of defense against workplace hazards. It is for your safety and not meant to replace other safety controls or safety procedures. Ensure that your personal protective equipment fits properly and you are trained about its use, and care, and maintenance.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO3 Page 66 Learning Outcome 4 Describe Safe and Proper Use of Hand and Power Tools

Learning Step 1 Discuss Power and Hand Tool Hazard Identification and Controls

The purpose of the “power and hand tools awareness” learning outcome is to:

• Discuss power and hand tool hazard identification and controls • Discuss power and hand tool selection and inspection • Discuss maintenance legislation and lockout/tagout for deficiencies • Discuss personal protective equipment used with power tools, and • Discuss safe work practices and procedures

1.1 Instruction Sheet Common Power and Hand Tool Hazards

Whether you are using an electric hammer drill, portable electric cut-off saw, hand grinder, or a pneumatic torque wrench you must always be aware that all power tools can be hazardous if not used in a safe manner.

Power tools can provide workers with a safe and efficient way to perform a task and all power and hand tools are designed to be operated in a specific manner for specific tasks.

Using the wrong tool to perform a task, or using a tool in an unsafe manner, or in an unsafe working environment, may lead to:

• Serious injuries, death of a worker, and other workers in the vicinity, and • Damage to equipment and facilities.

Common Power Tool Hazards Include

• Not being properly trained how to use a power tool. • Not wearing proper PPE. • Using the wrong tool for the wrong task. • Failing to inspect the power tool prior to use to make sure it is in good condition and clean. • Carrying a power tool by the electric cord. • Using a power tool in an unsafe manner. • Using a power tool while standing or kneeling on unstable ground or platform(s). • Not holding the power tool firmly and properly. • Picking up or putting down a power tool while it is operating. • Exposed rotating parts (drill chuck, bit, and blade). • Tool slips, jams, breaks or malfunctions causing an injury to you or another worker. • Missing guards. • Damaged electrical cords.

Even experienced workers can be injured if they do not follow proper safe working practices.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO4 Page 67 Common Hand Tool Hazards Include

• Not being properly trained in how to select and use proper hand tools. • Not wearing proper PPE for the task. • Working alone or not properly supervised. • Using the wrong tool for the wrong task. • Tool slips and worker is injured. • Tool is defective and worker is injured. • Metal on metal impacts.

You must learn how to identify the hazards and procedures associated with the use of each power and hand tool.

Power tools with trigger locks and non-engineered tools (homemade) are prohibited on all SMA mine sites.

Case Study

Albert was an experienced 64-year-old self-employed carpentry contractor. On this day, Albert was working alone installing metal roofing panels on an old barn. He was working about 5 meters above the ground on a “home-made” scaffold. The scaffold was made of wood planks placed across the raised “bail-lift” hydraulic forks of two farm tractors. Albert was wearing some PPE - fall protection and eye protection. While trying to remove an old rusty spike directly in front of his face, Albert’s claw hammer slipped striking Albert on the forehead. The force of the blow knocked Albert unconscious. Albert fell off the scaffolding and was left suspended in his fall arrest PPE until someone found him about 30 minutes later.

What mistakes did Albert make which contributed to his injuries?

1.2 Instruction Sheet Controls for Power and Hand Tools

All tools will have some form of control built into their design. For example, hand saws will have a handle designed to provide the worker with a firm stable grip to control the movement of the saw.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO4 Page 68

Figure 1: Hand Saws

Power hand tools will have a power on/off switch. Power skill saws have a blade guard; start/stop switch/trigger; and depth of cut control.

Figure 2: Power Drill

When operating power hand tools:

• Never keep your finger on the power switch/trigger when the tool is not being used. • Do not leave the saw running while you move a piece of wood into place for your next cut. • Do not force the power tool when it is not performing properly

Learning Step 2 Discuss Power and Hand Tool Selection and Inspection

2.1 Instruction Sheet Selecting and Inspecting Power and Hand Tools

Experienced workers often say “the right tool for the job.” Failure to use the “right tool” in the right way to perform a specific task is inefficient, possibly dangerous, and may cause a serious injury(s) or fatality(s).

Jordan was an inexperienced labourer working at a construction site. He was asked by another worker to grab an electric skill saw and to trim one end of a large 10″ × 10″ timber so it would fit more easily into place. Rather than using a hammer and chisel or hand saw he used an electric skill saw as instructed. While trimming the timber, the blade caught a knot causing the skill saw to suddenly kick-back and severely cut Jordan’s thigh. His thighbone was not cut but it was badly bruised. Jordan required surgery and was off work for six weeks recuperating from his injuries.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO4 Page 69 Selecting a Power Tool

Each power hand tool is designed to be operated in a specific manner to perform a specific task. Workers need to be trained in the safe operation of each power hand tool they will be required to use.

Figure 3: Power Saw

Training should include the following:

• Follow all on-site procedures for selecting tools. • Selecting the right power hand tool for the task. • Follow on-site tool crib sign-out, sign-in procedures if kept in a tool crib. • Inspect power hand tool(s) for deficiencies. • Determine power hand tool(s) is in good working condition. • Use personal protective equipment (PPE). • Awareness of hazards associated with operating power hand tool(s). • Describe power hand tool(s) controls. • Demonstrate proper operation of power hand tool(s). • Filling out forms, checklists, and documentation.

Selecting a Hand Tool

Each hand tool is designed to be operated in a specific manner to perform a specific task. Workers need to be trained in the safe operation of each hand tool they will be required to use.

Training should include the following:

• Selecting the right hand tool for the task. • Follow on-site tool sign-out, sign-in procedures. • Inspecting hand tool(s) for deficiencies. • Determine that hand tool(s) is in good working condition. • Use of personal protective equipment (PPE). • Awareness of hazards associated with operating hand tool(s). • Describe hand tool(s) controls. • Demonstrate proper operation/use of hand tool(s). • Filling out forms, checklists and documentation.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO4 Page 70 Inspection and Maintenance

• Do not carry the power tools by their electric cord. • Do not tug on the cord to remove the plug from receptacle. • Inspect the cord periodically for damage. • Inspect and clean the clogged air vents to prevent overheating motor. • Return defective tool to the Tool crib and fill out checklist.

Learning Step 3 Discuss Maintenance and Legislation and Lockout/Tagout for Deficiencies

3.1 Instruction Sheet Maintenance Legislation

Warning! It is unsafe and a violation of Section 137 of the Saskatchewan OH&S regulations to remove safety guards from power/hand tools.

Safeguards

137(1) Except where otherwise provided by these regulations, an employer or contractor shall provide an effective safeguard where a worker may contact:

a) a dangerous moving part of a machine; b) a pinch point, cutting edge or point of a machine at which material is cut, shaped, bored or formed; c) an open flame; d) a steam pipe or other surface with a temperature that exceeds or may exceed 80° Celsius; or e) a cooled surface that is or may be less than minus 80° Celsius.

(2) An employer or contractor shall ensure that a safeguard required by subsection (1) remains in place at all times.

(3) Subsection (1) does not apply to:

a) a machine that is equipped with an effective safety device that stops the machine automatically before any part of a worker’s body comes into contact with a hazard mentioned in clause (1)(a) or (b); or b) a belt, rope or chain that is operated from a cathead or capstan.

(4) An employer or contractor shall ensure that a safeguard that is removed from a machine or made ineffective to permit maintenance, testing, repair or adjustment of a machine is replaced or made effective before a worker is required or permitted to use the machine.

(5) Where there is a possibility of machine failure and of injury to a worker resulting from the failure, an employer or contractor shall install safeguards that are strong enough to withstand the impact of debris from the machine failure and to contain any debris resulting from the failure (Saskatchewan OH&S Regulations, 1996).

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO4 Page 71 3.2 Instruction Sheet Lockout/Tagout for Deficiencies

If a tool is broken or inadequate, follow proper tag-out procedures.

Figure 4: Lockout Tag

When using power and or hand tools to adjust or repair mechanical or power equipment, you should always:

• Follow on-site lock-out, tag-out procedures; • Notify other workers in the area; • Shut down equipment; • Lock-out, tag-out equipment at control pane; and • Follow equipment maintenance procedures.

To lock-out a power tool, you only need to unplug it before changing blades or making adjustments to the tool.

Never unplug a power hand tool by pulling on the cord.

Summary

Power tools can be hazardous if not used in a safe manner. Using the wrong tool for a task or using a tool in an unsafe manner may lead to serious injury or death to you or a coworker or damage to equipment or facilities. Ensure that you are trained in the selection, use, care, and maintenance of hand and power tools you are using.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO4 Page 72 Learning Outcome 5 Discuss Safe Work Practices Related to Ladders and Scaffolding

Learning Step 1 Discuss How to Identify the Common Types of Ladders and Scaffolds

The purpose of the “ladders and scaffolds awareness: learning outcome is to:

• Identify the common types of ladders and scaffolds • Identify and understand ladder labels • Discuss the correct procedure for putting up ladders and working from ladders • Discuss Scaffold safe work practices and guidelines, and • Identify and understand scaffold tags

1.1 Instruction Sheet Types of Ladders

There are three basic types of ladders:

1. Portable ladders 2. Fixed ladders 3. Construction ladders

Portable Ladders

Portable ladders are any ladder that is not fixed in place and includes stepladders and extension ladders. Portable ladders are equipped with non-slip feet and are typically made of fibreglass or aluminum. Regardless of which type of ladder you are using, always climb using three-points of contact and facing the rungs. Never carry tools or material up or down the ladder with you – use a hoist or rope and pail to get tools to your work area. Never work from the top two rungs of any ladder. Never reach to the side to perform work from a ladder. Reposition it to allow you to work directly in front of you.

Saskatchewan legislation requires that portable ladders must extend at least 1m above any platform, roof or landing that is being accessed; must be tied off; and must have a 4:1 ratio.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO5 Page 73

Figure 1: Ladder Types

Portable Ladder Setup Best Practices

Apply the following best practices when setting up a portable ladder:

1. Preform a pre-use inspection.

2. Never modify or alter: select the correct type and size or consider an alternate work platform.

3. Working near power lines:

a) Never place ladder or work within 6m of overhead power lines where voltage is not known unless de-energized or it is protected with insulation. b) For known voltages, only qualified electrical workers can place a ladder or work closer than 3m from energized overhead power lines. c) Use a nonconductive ladder (fiberglass) for electrical work.

4. Ensure clothing is suited for ladder climbing.

5. Never tie/fasten ladders together to provide longer sections or take apart extension ladders to use separately unless specifically designed for this use.

6. Have sufficient room to set up ladder safely and keep area around bottom and top of ladder clear of equipment, materials and tools.

7. Remove any obstructions (tree branches). If not possible, place in another position so not obstructed or use other method to access the working level.

8. Set up ladder to provide access to work. Never move, walk, hop, extend ladders while occupied.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO5 Page 74 9. Always off-set ladders with a platform or landing between the ladders when two or more separate ladders are used to reach an elevated work area.

10. Never place portable ladders on boxes, barrels or unstable/moveable bases to obtain additional height.

11. Do not use portable ladders on scaffolds to increase work-level height.

12. Place portable ladders so feet are on solid, level and non-slippery surface. If not possible, use a manufactured leveler to level the base for the ladder; provide blocking for softer surfaces; secure the ladder feet or have another worker hold the ladder base to prevent movement.

13. Always ensure a minimum of 4:1 ratio to ensure proper lean angle.

14. Check (clean if required) ladder feet when moving from softer/dirty ground to a smooth, solid surface to ensure feet are clean and making contact with ground.

15. Secure area when there is a potential for the ladder to be pushed over by door/window; when there is a potential for pedestrian traffic underneath the ladder (aisles/doors); when there is the potential for vehicular traffic (larger aisle/driveways).

16. Ensure locking bars and rung locks are engaged.

17. Carry ladder horizontally and obtain help when heavy or long.

Portable Ladder Safe Use

When using a portable ladder, apply the following safe-use practices:

1. Review safety information labels on ladder.

2. Arrange/secure tools, equipment, materials so they can’t be knocked off or fall while on the ladder (remove from the ladder when done with the tool).

3. When ascending/descending:

a) maintain 3 points of contact b) do not hold any object or load that could cause a loss of balance c) never use cross-bracing on rear section of stepladder d) use slow/deliberate movements when getting on and off the ladder at the top and bottom

4. Ensure a minimum of 4:1 ratio for extension ladders.

5. Do not lean away from the ladder or reach too far overhead to carry out a task. Always keep your weight centered between the side rails and raise or move the ladder to access the work area.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO5 Page 75 6. Take the ladder down/secure climbing area if the ladder will be left unattended for extended periods.

7. Store fibreglass ladders in areas not exposed to direct sunlight.

Stepladders

A stepladder should not be more than 6m high when set for use and its legs must be securely held in position with metal braces or some other rigid support.

Figure 2: Safety Mole

When in use, the stepladder must be fully open and the spreaders locked in place. Work should only take place on the designated steps, typically no higher than the third step down counting from the top of the stepladder. Place the ladder facing the area you want to work so you can lean against the ladder steps. Stepladders should NEVER be used folded up and leaning against a surface.

Never use a step ladder as an extension ladder.

Extension Ladders

Extension ladders must be secured against accidental movement at both the top and bottom. Extension ladders should also be set up at a 4:1 ratio – four feet vertical for every one foot horizontal. When working near or with electrical devices, use a fiberglass ladder to prevent conductivity if contact occurs. Extension ladders must be equipped with locks that securely hold the sections of the ladder in place when extended. The section that is extended must overlap another section for a least one metre. No extension ladder may exceed nine meters in length.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO5 Page 76

Figure 3: Ladder Setup Ratio 4:1

Figure 4: Ladder Safety

Metal ladders conduct electricity. Keep them away from power lines and electricity.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO5 Page 77 Fixed Ladders

Fixed ladders are used in the shaft manway, manway raises, and as access ladders to muck chutes, access to process vessels and storage tanks as well as some attached to mill buildings.

Figure 5: Fixed Ladder

A fixed ladder must be firmly secured at the top, bottom, and any intermediate points necessary to prevent sway. Ladders are secured to a fixed support with nails, bolts, wire, or chain. They are never secured with rope.

Caged Ladders

Section 255 (6)

In the case of a ladder constructed on or after July 1, 1997, an employer, contractor or owner shall ensure that:

(a) The lowest hoop of the ladder cage is not more than 2.2m from a platform, landing or the ground; and (b) The uppermost hoop of the ladder cage extends at least one metre above the level of a platform, landing or roof.

Construction Ladders

Wooden construction ladders may not be used at Saskatchewan mine sites.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO5 Page 78 Learning Step 2 Discuss the Safety Procedures for Putting up and Working From Ladders

2.1 Instruction Sheet Ladder Inspection Checklist

• Are there splits or cracks in the rungs or other loose components? • Are there splits or cracks in the rails? • Are feet smooth or missing tread? • Are spreader bars bent or missing bolts? • When set-up for use, is the ladder stable? • Is the ladder clean? Remove grease, oil, and/or mud from the steps and rails. • Extension ladders: check for correct engagement of rung locks. • Check for any rope or cable fraying. • If you find a defective ladder, remove it from use, tag it “Do Not Use” and report it to your supervisor.

2.2 Instruction Sheet Ladder Classification Types

Type III – Light Duty Type III ladders are only intended for household use and may not be used for commercial or industrial jobs.

Type II – Medium Duty Type II ladders will support up to 225 lbs and are typically used for painting and general office maintenance.

Type I – Heavy Duty Type I, IA, and IAA ladders are most often used by contractors, utilities, and industry. Heavy Duty, Type I ladders will hold up to 250 lbs.

Type IA – Extra Heavy Type IA ladders will carry a maximum of 300 lbs.

Type IAA – Special Duty Type IAA ladders have a working load of 375 lbs.

Some mines will have standards or restrictions on the type of ladders that can be brought on site.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO5 Page 79 Learning Step 3 How to Identify and Understand Ladder Labels

3.1 Instruction Sheet Ladder Labels

Ladders are labeled with the following information:

• Total length of the ladder • Duty rating • Maximum working length for extension ladders • The highest standing level • Total length of sections for extension ladders • Manufacturing information

Every ladder must have warning and usage labels attached.

Caution and danger notices are general notices and warnings that apply to a specific kind of ladder including restrictions on use.

Instructions for proper setup and use describe procedures and proper conditions for setting up and using a particular kind of ladder.

3.2 Review Exercise

1. When climbing a ladder, how many points of contact must you maintain?

2. List three safety regulations for portable ladders.

3. List five best practices for portable ladder set-up.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO5 Page 80 4. What are five pieces of information on a ladder label?

5. List five things you should look for when inspecting ladders?

6. When climbing ladders, what are four safety practices you should keep in mind?

Learning Step 4 Discuss the Correct Procedures for Scaffold Construction and Use

4.1 Instruction Sheet Scaffold Safety

In Saskatchewan, when work cannot be safely done from the ground or from a permanent structure, an employer or contractor shall provide a scaffold or other safe working platform. A scaffold is a temporary elevated platform and structure that is designed to support workers, hand tools, equipment, and material.

In Saskatchewan, you must be deemed “competent” by your employer to erect scaffolding. That is, you possess the knowledge, experience and training to perform this task properly and safely without supervision.

Regardless of the type of scaffolding you are using, if it is more than two feet above or below a level, there must be a way to get on or off – such as a ladder, ramp, or personal hoist. Uprights must be vertical and braced to prevent swaying; platforms must be level.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO5 Page 81 4.2 Instruction Sheet Ladders and Climbing Technique

• The ladder must be properly erected and project 1m (3 feet) above the platform of the scaffold. • Debris, extension cords, and tools must be cleared away from areas around the top and the bottom of the ladder. • Getting on or off the ladder at the platform level is often the action that leads to a fall. Both hands must be free to grasp the ladder rungs. • It is unsafe to grasp a ladder by the rails in case the foot slips and the worker slides down the ladder. • Rungs are the only safe component to grasp. • Do not carry tools or materials while climbing the ladder. Wear a tool belt and pouch or move material up the scaffold by rope. • Portable ladders must always be placed with an adequate slope and be firmly secured to the scaffold structure. Always take into account the side forces exerted on the scaffold by a portable ladder to ensure that the ladder does not cause the scaffold to topple.

Guardrails Missing or Removed

There may be situations where scaffolds must be used without guardrails. If the scaffold is more than 3m (10 feet) in height, it is mandatory that the workers use some other method of fall protection such as harnesses, lanyards, and tie-off system or safety netting.

If a scaffold is more than 3m (10 feet) in height, it is mandatory that the workers use some other method of fall protection such as harnesses, lanyards and tie-off system or safety netting.

Standing on Objects above the Platform Level

Workers on a scaffold platform must have both feet firmly planted on the platform. Standing on a barrel, box, stepladder, guardrail, or other object to gain extra height is prohibited. The scaffold must be adjusted so the workers can easily access the job from the platform of the scaffold.

Standing on a barrel, box, stepladder, guardrail, or other object to gain extra height is prohibited.

Overloading

Overloading may affect stability as well as load carrying capacity. Differential settlement is a problem where heavy loads are applied to scaffolds resting on unstable surfaces. Uneven settlement puts stress on braces, tie-ins, and frame joints.

Loads must be placed symmetrically on the platform to ensure that settlement, if it occurs, is uniform and overloading is avoided.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO5 Page 82 Rolling Scaffolds

Rolling scaffolds must have locking devices on all castors. All locking devices must be applied or the castors suitably blocked when the scaffold reaches the desired work position.

It is mandatory that workers not be on a moving scaffold where the height exceeds twice the smallest base dimension or where the surface to be moved over is not smooth and level.

Rolling scaffolds must always have guardrails. They must be securely pinned together and must always be fitted with horizontal bracing as recommended by the manufacturer. Scaffolds that are not securely pinned together can separate if a leg drops into a hole or depression or runs into an obstacle at surface level.

Castors must also be secured to the frame. A caster dropping off in a hole or depression in the floor has been the cause of serious incidents. The castors must be suitable for the surface on which the scaffold is to be used. Small castors are suitable for concrete floors or pavement. Larger pneumatic castors are necessary where soils are the working surface.

Rolling scaffolds must always be used on a surface that is smooth, free of holes and depressions, and relatively level.

Figure 6: Rolling Scaffold

Rolling scaffolds are subject to several other special rules:

• Each caster must have a brake that must be engaged when workers are more than 10' (3 m) above floor level. • The scaffold must be secured against unexpected movement while a worker is on it.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO5 Page 83 • The height of a rolling scaffold must not be more than three times the smallest dimension of its base. • Generally, workers are not allowed to remain on a rolling scaffold while it is being moved (see The Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, 1996 - Part XII, Section 188 on Rolling Scaffolds for the exceptions).

Figure 7: Safety Mole

Debris on Scaffold Decks

Scaffold lift platforms can be small, narrow, and confined workspaces. Tools and material to be used for the job must be stored on the platform in an orderly fashion. Debris and waste materials must not be allowed to collect on the platform. Waste pieces of lumber, pipe, wire, miscellaneous metal, and small tools are tripping hazards, which have caused serious falls from scaffolds. Objects dropped from scaffolding can pose a serious safety hazard.

Working safely on a scaffold platform requires keeping an orderly work area.

Mud Sills

Mud sills are used to support the scaffold under the footings. They are usually made of wood, concrete, or metal and help distribute the weight of the scaffold evenly along the ground. A continuous sill must be used between two adjacent base plates.

To ensure your safety when working on supported scaffolds, check that the platforms are completely planked with no open areas. The scaffold must have guardrails on all open sides and ends and be properly tied to the building.

Remember to protect the workers below the scaffold by placing a toe board on the platform to prevent things from falling off the scaffold. In some cases, debris nets can be used to catch falling tools or materials. Preventing people and workers from walking under or near the scaffold is necessary.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO5 Page 84

Figure 8: Mud Sill

Also, watch for overhead power lines when erecting and using any elevated platform.

Learning Step 5 Discuss How to Identify and Understand Scaffold Tags

5.1 Instruction Sheet Scaffold Tags

Scaffold tags are placed at access points and at eye level. These indicate the current level of safety of a scaffold. Most sites use a red, yellow, or green tagging system that works like traffic lights.

• Red “Stop – Do Not Use”. • Yellow It is safe to use with caution but be sure to read what it says, and follow the directions. • Green It is safe to use. • No Tag Means Red Tag.

Not all sites use the same tagging systems so be sure you are aware of the system that is at your site.

Although there is always risks when working at heights, if you exercise care and attention when setting up and using ladders and scaffolds, you can avoid accidents and injury.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO5 Page 85 5.2 Review Exercise

1. Explain why loads must be placed symmetrically on a platform.

2. What are two conditions that must be present to safely work on a rolling scaffold?

3. What do red, yellow, and green mean on a scaffold tag?

Summary

It is very important that you thoroughly inspect, set up, maintain, and follow safe-work practices and procedures when working with ladders and scaffolds. Ensure that you are familiar with ladder and scaffold legislative requirements, how to interpret labels, and the risks and hazards associated with ladders and scaffolds.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO5 Page 86 Learning Outcome 6 Identify Hazards Associated With Controlled Energy and Proper Methods of Controlling Energy

Learning Step 1 Discuss Legislation, Roles, and Responsibilities

The purpose of the “controlled energy” learning outcome is to:

• Discuss lockout/tagout legislation, roles, and responsibilities • Identify different types of energy sources • Describe locks, lockboxes, and tags • Discuss isolation, and • Describe energy control interruption

1.1 Instruction Sheet Legal Duties & Responsibilities

Lockout/Tagout (Hazardous Energy Control)

The control of hazardous energy is more commonly known as lockout/tagout. Lockout procedures are designed to prevent injuries from the unexpected start-up of machinery or equipment during maintenance. Anyone repairing machinery or equipment must attach a lock or prevent anyone else from turning on the power, opening a valve, or taking any other action that could endanger another person.

Legal Duties and Responsibilities

Locking Out

Section 139

1) Subject to section 140, before a worker undertakes the maintenance, repair, test or adjustment of a machine other than a power tool, an employer or contractor shall ensure that the machine is locked out and remains locked out during that activity if not doing so would put the worker at risk.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO6 Page 87 2) Before a worker undertakes the maintenance, repair, test or adjustment of a power tool, an employer or contractor shall ensure that the energy source has been isolated from the power tool, any residual energy in the power tool has been dissipated and the energy source remains isolated during that activity.

3) An employer or contractor shall:

a) provide a written lock-out process to each worker who is required to work on a machine to which subsection (1) applies; and b) where the lockout process uses a lock and key, issue to that worker a lock that is operable only by that worker’s key and a duplicate key.

4) Where the lockout process does not use a lock and key, an employer or contractor shall designate a person to co-ordinate and control the lockout process.

5) Where the lockout process uses a lock and key, an employer or contractor shall designate a person to keep the duplicate key mentioned in clause (3)(b) and ensure that:

a) the duplicate key is accessible only to the designated person; and b) a log book is kept to record the use of the duplicate key and the reasons for that use.

6) Where it is not practicable to use a worker’s key to remove a lock, an employer or contractor may permit the person designated pursuant to subsection (5) to remove the lock if the designated person:

a) has determined the reason that the worker’s key is not available. b) has determined that it is safe to remove the lock and activate the machine; and c) if a committee or representative is in place, has informed the co-chairpersons or the representative of the proposed use of the duplicate key before it is used.

7) An employer or contractor shall ensure that a designated person who is permitted to use a duplicate key pursuant to subsection (6):

a) records in the log book the use of the duplicate key, the reason for its use and the date of its use; and b) signs the log book each time that the duplicate key is used.

8) Where a central automated system controls more than one machine, an employer or contractor shall ensure that the machine to be maintained, repaired, tested or adjusted is isolated from the central system before the lock-out procedures required by subsection (3) are implemented.

9) Before undertaking any maintenance, repairs, tests or adjustments to a machine to which subsection (1) applies, a worker shall lock out the machine following the process mentioned in clause (3)(a).

10) After a lock-out device has been installed or a lockout process has been initiated, the worker who installed the first lock or initiated the process shall check the machine to ensure that the machine is inoperative.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO6 Page 88 11) No person shall deactivate a lockout process that does not use a lock and key except the person designated pursuant to subsection (4).

12) No person shall remove a lock-out device except the worker who installed the lockout device or designated person acting in accordance with subsection (6) (Saskatchewan Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, 1996).

What this means for you:

• Employers are to provide written lockout procedures to ensure machines are locked out and power tools have been de-energized during maintenance. • Where there is no lock and key process, a designated person shall coordinate the lockout process. • Where there is a lock and key, a designated person shall have a duplicate key.

1.2 Review Exercise

1. Who is allowed to place or remove a lockout/tagout device?

1.3 Instruction Sheet Legislation

Cleaning, etc., of Machine or Other Equipment in Motion

Section 140

1) This section applies where any of the following requires cleaning, lubrication or adjustment while all or any part of a machine or other piece of equipment is in motion or under power:

a) The machine or other piece of equipment. b) A part of the machine or of the piece of other equipment; or c) Any material on the machine or on the piece of equipment.

2) In the circumstances mentioned in subsection (1), an employer or contractor shall:

a) develop and implement written work practices and procedures that ensure that the cleaning, lubrication or adjustment is carried out in a safe manner; b) ensure that workers who are required to perform the cleaning, lubrication or adjustment are trained in the written work practices and procedures mentioned in clause (a); and c) ensure that a copy of the written work practices and procedures mentioned in clause (a) is readily available for reference by workers (Saskatchewan Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, 1996).

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO6 Page 89 Key Points

1. Identify the energy source(s). 2. Isolate the energy source(s). 3. De-energize the energy source(s). 4. Lock-out/tag-out energy source(s). 5. Test equipment to prove it is de-energized. 6. Remove lockout-tagout when work is completed.

1.4 Review Exercise

1. What are the six lockout/tagout steps?

Learning Step 2 Discuss Isolation

2.1 Instruction Sheet Pipe Isolation Methods

In Saskatchewan there are only two acceptable methods of isolating the flow of material from pipes into a confined space. The first is using a Blank in the pipeline, and the second is the Double Block & Bleed method.

Piping Discharging Hazardous Substances

Section 275

1) Where a worker may be required or permitted to work in a confined space into which piping may discharge a hazardous substance, an employer shall ensure that the piping:

(a) has a blank installed that is sized for the proper pressure in the piping before the piping enters the confined space; (b) is equipped with two blocking valves and a bleed-off valve installed between the blocking valves located so that any bleed off does not contaminate the confined space; or (c) is equipped with an approved safety device.

2) Where piping is equipped with two blocking valves and a bleed-off valve pursuant to clause (1)(b) or an approved safety device pursuant to clause (1)(c), an employer shall ensure that:

(a) the valves in the flow lines are locked out in the “CLOSED” position and the bleed-off valve is locked out in the “OPEN” position;

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO6 Page 90 (b) the valves are tagged to indicate that the valves must not be activated until the tags have been removed by a worker designated by the employer for that purpose; and (c) the worker designated pursuant to clause (b):

(i) monitors the valves to ensure that they are not activated while a worker is in the confined space; and (ii) records on the tag mentioned in clause (b) the date and time of each monitoring and signs the tag each time the worker monitors the valves (Saskatchewan Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, 1996).

Blanking

This is achieved by placing a solid piece of material (usually steel) between the pipes. This is normally done at a flange in the piping. The bolts at the flange will be loosened or removed and the pipe connection will be separated and the blank inserted into the opening. The bolts will then be replaced into the flange and tightened. This is to stop any material (gas, liquid) from flowing into the confined space.

It is important that the blank be made of a material that will not react or deteriorate with any substance(s) in the piping. The blank must also be of sufficient strength so that should the piping become pressurized it will not fail. Using the blanking method is quite often the most cost effective way of isolating pipelines that enter into confined spaces.

Double Block and Bleed

This is accomplished by placing three valves in a pipeline. The two outside valves must be locked in the closed position. This means that should any substance begin to flow through the pipeline, the substance will not be able to pass through either valve. The third valve, which is located in between the other two valves, must have a bleed-off port. This means that should any substance flow to this valve, it will be released through the bleed-off port. Any material flowing through the bleed-off port must not contaminate the confined space.

This method is used so that if the first outside valve that is locked in the closed position fails, the substance will flow out the bleed-off valve letting the stand-by person know there is a problem and allowing him/her to notify the workers in the confined space to evacuate immediately. The purpose of the third valve is to stop the flow of material in the pipeline long enough for the workers inside the confined space to evacuate should the first valve fail.

This method can be costly depending on the size and number of valves required at each confined space. But it can also save time if entry into a particular confined space is conducted on a regular basis.

When using the double block and bleed method, your company’s “Lock-out/Tag-out” procedures should be followed if there is the possibility of equipment startup.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO6 Page 91 2.2 Review Exercise

1. Explain blanking and why is it required.

2. Explain double block and bleed and why is it required.

Learning Step 3 Identify Different Types of Energy Sources

3.1 Instruction Sheet Energy Sources

Energy is the power that makes the machines work. It is present in all forms depending on the machines in your workplace. For example, releasing stored energy, such as in a compressed spring, changes that energy into kinetic energy and causes the spring to uncoil.

Possible Energy Sources

Possible energy sources you may work with are as follows:

• Potential • Kinetic • Chemical • Electrical • Thermal • Nuclear

Potential Energy: Stored energy that can be drawn upon to do work.

Kinetic Energy: Energy from moving objects or parts mechanical systems.

Potential and kinetic energy may come from the same source, but potential is where the energy is waiting to be released, and kinetic is the energy being released

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO6 Page 92 For example: Compressing a spring whereby the more you compress it, the more the potential energy grows. When you release the spring it becomes kinetic energy.

Electrical Safety

Only authorized electricians are permitted to access or repair electrical equipment and installations. No person other than an authorized electrician is to open a jumbo box, pump box, fan starter, distribution board or any other electrical device. Remember the following rules:

• All cases of electrical shock must be reported to the Shift supervisor. Any person who receives an electrical shock must be checked by a medical practitioner. • It is a legal requirement to report all electrical shocks. • Never block the access to any electrical equipment, access must be kept clear at all times. • Never couple/uncouple any electrical leads/cables with the main breaker “on”. • Always hang Jumbo/Longhole cables out of water and off the ground. • Tag out and report any defective electrical equipment. Use an “Equipment out of Service” tag for all faulty equipment.

Electrical Shock

• Prior to initiating first aid, it is imperative that one is trained in First Aid and the training is current. You must be trained to provide emergency response. • Assess the situation, DO NOT approach the injured person unless it is safe to do so. Have a good look around the area before making your decision. • Unless you are certain the injured person is not in contact with the electrical supply, do not attempt to aid the victim until the electrical supply has been isolated. • Render first aid to the victim once electrical supply has been isolated and not before. • If possible have another person raise the alarm and contact the emergency services.

Normal and Abnormal Electrical Conditions

Normal Conditions

• Closed doors • Secured covers • No exposed energized conductors/circuits

Abnormal Conditions

• Open doors • Insecure covers • Exposed energized conductors/circuits • Overcurrent trip/blown fuse • Unfamiliar/excessive noise • Smoke/burning smell • Water present

IMPORTANT: Contact Supervisor if abnormal conditions exist.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO6 Page 93 Note:

• Only qualified or competent workers (training in electrical safety) may manually open/close breakers or disconnect switches - 750 volts (typically up to 600 volts). • Competent workers may open/close breakers or disconnect switches when the equipment is operating normally and no abnormal conditions are present. • Only qualified workers (electricians) may manually open or close breakers or disconnect switches that are 750 volts or higher. • When operating or closing breakers and disconnecting switches; the following is required: • Assess the electrical equipment and surround area to confirm normal operation of the electrical equipment ensuring no abnormal conditions are present. If present, stop work and consult your supervisor.

3.2 Review Exercise

1. What are the reporting requirements for electrical shocks?

2. What should you do if someone has been electrocuted?

Learning Step 4 Describe Lock, Lockboxes, and Tags

4.1 Instruction Sheet Equipment Lockout Procedures

If several people are involved with a maintenance job, each one must lockout the equipment. For example, a miner, electrician, and mechanic may all be involved in the lockout of a ventilation fan during a maintenance job to solve a ventilation problem.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO6 Page 94

Figure1: Lockout Tag

At some companies, employees are issued a numbered safety lock and matching key for the duration of their employment. At other companies, employees sign-out a safety lock, key, and lockout tags as required.

Machine or Equipment Shutdown and Isolation

If the equipment is operating, shut it down by the normal stopping procedure (depress stop button, open toggle switch, etc.). Only workers knowledgeable in the operation of the specific equipment should perform shutdown or re-start procedures.

1. Operate the energy isolating device(s) so that all energy sources (electrical, mechanical hydraulic, etc.,) are disconnected or isolated from the equipment. 2. Electrical disconnect switches should never be pulled while under load, because of the possibility of arcing or even explosion. 3. Stored energy, such as capacitors, springs, elevated machine parts, rotating flywheels, hydraulic systems, and air, gas, steam or water pressure, etc., must also be released disconnected, or restrained by methods such as grounding, repositioning, blocking or bleeding-down. 4. Pulling fuses is not a substitute for locking out. A pulled fuse is no guarantee the circuit is dead. Even if a circuit is dead, another person could inadvertently replace the fuse. 5. Equipment that operates intermittently, such as a pump, blower, fan or compressor may seem harmless when it is not running. Do not assume that because equipment is not operating at a particular point in time that it will remain off for the duration of any work to be performed on it.

Application of Lockout/Tagout Where Individual Locks are Used

Where called for by the lock out procedures, lockout and tag the energy-isolating device with an assigned, individual lock. A company’s procedure may vary from the process below, but will include most of these elements.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO6 Page 95 If more than one worker is working on the same piece of equipment at the same time, each one should lock out the equipment by placing a personal lock and tag on the group lockout device when s/he begins work, and should remove your personal lock when s/he stops working on the machine or equipment.

1. Locks and tags should clearly show the name of the person who applied the device, the date, and the reason for the lockout. This identifies who is servicing the machinery or equipment. In a multiple lockout/tagout situation, it will also identify any worker(s) who may not have finished working. 2. Locks and tags must be durable enough to withstand the environment in which they are to be used. Information on the locks and tags should remain legible. 3. Locks must be substantial enough to prevent removal without the use of excessive force. Tags must be substantial enough to prevent accidental or inadvertent removal. 4. Both locks and tags are to be standardized by colour, shape, or size. Tags should be easily recognized and provide appropriate information about the lockout. 5. For some equipment it may be necessary to construct attachments to which locks can be applied. An example is a common hasp to cover an operating button. Tags must be attached to the energy isolating device(s) and to the normal operating control in such a manner as to prevent operation during the lockout.

Figure 2: Lock

4.2 Review Exercise

1. What are five requirements for individual lockout/tagout?

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO6 Page 96 4.3 Instruction Sheet Verification of Isolation

After ensuring that no workers can be injured, operate the push button or other normal controls to verify that all energy sources have been disconnected and the equipment will not operate.

1. If there is a possibility of re-accumulation of stored energy, such as an increase in pressure to a hazardous level, isolation of the equipment must be periodically verified until the maintenance or repair is completed, or until the possibility of such accumulation no longer exists.

2. Return operating controls to neutral position after the test. A check of system activation (i.e., Use of voltmeter for electrical circuits) should be performed to ensure isolation.

3. The equipment is now locked out.

Figure 3: Lockout

Complex Lockout Procedures

In Saskatchewan mines, it is often not possible for individual lockout as the process is too complicated. Under these circumstances, Section 139 (4) requires that a person be designated to coordinate and control the lockout procedure. For contractors, this will often be the case.

Prohibited Locking Bar Devices

Adjustable lockout cables are prohibited due to the hidden mechanisms. A failure in the locking mechanism is not obvious and the cable may easily be pulled out.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO6 Page 97 Learning Step 5 Describe Energy Control Interruption

5.1 Instruction Sheet Lockout/Tagout Interruption

If a machine is locked/tagged and there is a need for testing or positioning of the equipment process, the following steps should be followed:

1. Clear the equipment/process of tools and materials; 2. Ensure workers are a safe distance from any potential hazard; 3. Remove lock/tags according to established procedure; 4. Proceed with test; and 5. De-energize all systems and re-lock/re-tag the controls before resuming work.

Release from Lockout/Tagout

Before locks and tags are removed and energy is restored to the machine or equipment, inspect the work area to ensure that non-essential items have been removed and the machine or equipment components are operationally intact.

1. Ensure workers are a safe distance from any potential hazard. 2. Each lock and tag should be removed from each energy-isolating device by the worker who applied the lock and tag or by the designated person by 139(4). 3. Notify affected workers that locks and tags have been removed. 4. Where the lockout involves a complicated process and a designated person, only the designated person shall deactivate the lockout process.

General Lockout Recommendations for Servicing Large Equipment

1. Disengage the power and stop the machine before servicing. 2. Do not clean, unplug, lubricate, adjust or repair any machine while it is running, unless it is specifically recommended in the service or owner’s manual. 3. Lock out the ignition and put a warning sign over the ignition that tells everyone that you are working on the machine. 4. Engage safety locks if the hydraulic cylinders are so equipped.

Lockout for Hydraulic Systems

Workers should always follow instructions in the operator’s manual for servicing hydraulic systems. Where appropriate, a properly qualified and certified mechanic should perform repairs and maintenance.

1. Shut off the engine that powers the hydraulic pump. 2. Lower implement to the ground or onto a solid support. 3. Move the hydraulic level back and forth several times to relieve pressure. 4. When applicable, blanking devices should be used.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO6 Page 98

Figure 4: Safety Mole

Key Points to Remember

• Test start equipment to be sure it is de-energized. • Always leave the last hole open on scissor clamps so another scissor clamp can be attached to hold more locks. • Anyone who works on the equipment must attach a lock on it first. • Make sure you remember to remove your lock when you complete your work! • Only remove your own lock. • Never cut a lock off.

5.2 Review Exercise

1. What would you do to ensure equipment has been de-energized?

Summary

The control of hazardous energy is more commonly known as lockout/tagout. Lockout procedures are designed to prevent injuries from the unexpected start-up of machinery or equipment during maintenance. Those repairing machinery or equipment must attach a lock or prevent anyone from turning on the power, opening a valve, or taking any other action that could endanger another person.

In Saskatchewan mines, it is often not possible for individual lockout as the process is too complicated. Under the circumstances, a person is designated to coordinate and control the lockout procedure.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO6 Page 99

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO6 Page 100 Learning Outcome 7 Discuss Fire Safety and Safe Hot-Work Practices

Learning Step 1 Discuss the Mining Regulations Fire-Safety Legislation

The purpose of the “fire safety and hot-work awareness” learning outcome is to:

• Discuss the Mining Regulations (2003) fire-safety legislation • Discuss causes of mine fires • Discuss harmful by-products of mine fires • Discuss the classes of fires and how to extinguish them • Explain mine emergency warning systems and fire prevention techniques • Discuss the basic principles of fire suppression, and • Discuss hot-work management programs, permits, and safe-work practices

1.1 Instruction Sheet Introduction

What would you do in case of a mine fire? Where would you go? Who would extinguish the fire?

A major fire is one of the worst possible mine disasters. Even small fires can produce dangerous levels of heat and choking smoke. Although severe mine fires are uncommon, the potential for one always exists. Any fire can get out of control if proper action is not taken in time to prevent it.

As a mine worker, you should understand the causes of mine fires and fire prevention techniques. You also are responsible for knowing how to extinguish small fires, and how to react if you encounter a large fire. This knowledge will help you take appropriate action if you are first on the scene of a mine fire.

You are not expected to know all the techniques for fighting large underground fires. Fighting a large mine fire requires extensive training. Mine rescue teams are specially trained for this purpose and for handling other mine disasters.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO7 Page 101 1.2 Instruction Sheet Fire Safety Legislation

The following is retrieved from Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, 1996

Fire Safety Plan

1) An employer, contractor or owner shall:

(a) Take all reasonably practicable steps to prevent the outbreak of fire at a place of employment and to provide effective means to protect workers from any fire that may occur; and (b) Develop and implement a written fire safety plan that provides for the safety of all workers in the event of a fire.

2) A plan developed pursuant to subsection (1) must include:

(a) the emergency procedures to be used in case of fire, including

(i) sounding the fire alarm; (ii) notifying the fire department; and (iii)evacuating endangered workers, with special provisions for workers with disabilities; (iv) The quantities, locations and storage methods of all flammable substances present at the place of employment; (v) The designation of persons to carry out the fire safety plan and the duties of the designated person; (vi) The training of designated persons and workers in their responsibilities for fire safety; (vii) The holding of fire drills; and (viii) The control of fire hazards.

3) An employer, contractor or owner shall ensure that:

(a) designated persons and workers who have been assigned fire safety duties are adequately trained in, and implement, the fire safety plan; (b) the fire safety plan is posted in a conspicuous place for reference by workers; and (c) a fire drill is held at least once during each 12-month period.

The following is retrieved from Saskatchewan Mining Regulations 2003:

Fire Hazard Area

Section 352

1) If a risk of fire exists in any area of a mine as a result of smoking or the use of any open flame equipment, match or other means of producing heat or fire, an employer or contractor must designate the area as a fire hazard area.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO7 Page 102 2) If an area has been designated as a fire hazard area pursuant to subsection (1), an employer or contractor must ensure that legible fire hazard warning signs are posted and maintained in conspicuous locations around the perimeter of the area.

Fire Prohibited Underground

Section 353

1) Subject to subsection (3), an employer or contractor must ensure that:

a) No person smokes or uses any open flame equipment, match or other means of producing heat or fire in any area designated as a fire hazard area pursuant to section 352; and b) No fire is set underground.

2) Subject to subsection (3), no worker shall:

a) Smoke or use any open flame equipment; match or other means of producing heat or fire in any area designated as a fire hazard area pursuant to section 352; or b) Set any fire underground.

3) This section does not apply to controlled open flame equipment that is used in accordance with section 370.

Maintenance and inspection of fire-fighting equipment

Section 356

1) In this section, “equipment” means the fire-fighting equipment required pursuant to section 355.

2) An employer or contractor must ensure:

a) That a competent person:

(i) Maintains the equipment (ii) Conducts monthly inspections of the equipment; and (iii)Prepares a written report containing the details of each monthly inspection conducted pursuant to subclause (ii); and

b) That the inspection report mentioned in subclause (a)(iii) is:

(i) Recorded by the competent person mentioned in clause (a) and countersigned by the employer or contractor; and (ii) Located at the place of employment and made readily available to workers.

What this means for you?

• An employer, contractor, or owner shall take all reasonable steps to prevent the outbreak of fire and develop written safety procedures in the event of a fire. • You are required to smoke in designated smoking areas and no fires are to be started underground. • Fire-fighting equipment is to be inspected and maintained by a competent person.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO7 Page 103 Learning Step 2 Discuss Causes of Mine Fires

2.1 Instruction Sheet Causes of Mine Fires

Contrary to what you might think, many things in a mine will burn. Most mine fires are caused by one of the following factors:

1. Friction is caused by the movement of two surfaces against each other. Friction generates heat and causes fires by overheating such things as brake linings, transmissions, and bearings on mobile equipment; sheave wheels on hoists; and drive pulleys on conveyor belts.

2. Open flames from cutting torches, welding, and smoking can cause underground fires. For example, a piece of hot slag from welding in the shaft could drop onto a shaft timber and smolder undetected for hours before bursting into flames. Tossing a hot match or cigarette butt into a garbage can or fuel spill can have a similar result.

3. Electricity can cause fires in several ways. Damaged wiring on equipment can short out. Overloading electrical circuits, or arcing at loose electrical connections generates intense heat that can ignite nearby combustibles.

4. Spontaneous combustion occurs when a combustible material oxidizes and produces enough heat within itself to ignite. For example, a pile of oily rags left in a pile for about a week can burst into flames spontaneously. Excessive amounts of dust also can ignite spontaneously causing a dust explosion.

5. Mixing incompatible chemicals such as hydrogen peroxide, chlorine, or nitric acid with a flammable liquid is a recipe for fire. This is a rare cause of underground fires because the chemicals are not common in a mine. However, these chemicals are used in other industrial processes (i.e. milling).

6. Hot work fires are generally caused by poor house-keeping practices such as working around flammable material. Preventative measures include following procedures and good house-keeping practices, and maintaining a clean work area.

7. Equipment Fires can be caused by electrical fires, poor maintenance, misuse, manufacturer defaults, and extreme conditions such as over loading or over stressing equipment. Preventative measures include pre-start checks, proper and scheduled maintenance, and competent training.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO7 Page 104 2.2 Review Exercise

1. According to the OH & S Regulations, list five safety regulations for employers/contractors.

2. Summarize, in your own words, sections 352, 353, and 356 of the O.H. & S. Regulations.

3. List seven causes of mine fires.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO7 Page 105 Learning Step 3 Discuss Harmful Products of Mine Fires

3.1 Instruction Sheet The Fire Triangle and Combustion

Fire occurs when heat, oxygen, and fuel are combined in the right amounts to start a chemical chain reaction. The combination of these four factors is called the fire tetrahedron, with each side of a pyramid representing one factor Figure 1.

Figure 1: Fire Triangle

Burning involves the following sequence of events:

1. A fuel must be heated to a high enough temperature to release vapours (gases). Only vapours will burn. Wood, for example, really does not burn. When heated, wood releases gases that burn giving the appearance that the wood is burning. 2. The vapours burst into flames when they come into contact with a source of ignition. 3. The flames cause a chemical chain reaction to begin. This increases the rate of combustion. 4. The chemical change produces light, heat, smoke, and other gases Figure 2. Except for light, each of these products can be harmful.

Figure 2: Products of Combustion

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO7 Page 106 Heat can cause burns, damage to your lungs, heat exhaustion, dehydration, and physical damage to property. Heat from an underground fire is more intense than heat from a surface fire because of the confined space. In a surface fire heat can escape into the atmosphere. In an underground drift, heat from a fire has no place to go.

Smoke contains carbon particles that irritate your lungs and carbon monoxide that is toxic. Smoke also displaces oxygen, and can contain other poisonous gases depending on the material burning.

Only trained mine rescue personnel wearing respiratory protection should enter smoky areas. If you get caught in smoke, stay as close to the floor as possible as you make your way to safety. In a mine fire, the thickest and hottest smoke gathers near the back.

Carbon monoxide is the gas that usually kills fire victims. It is colourless, odourless, tasteless, and extremely toxic. It can be quickly distributed throughout an area even in advance of smoke and other gases.

Take no chances with carbon monoxide. It quickly slows your reflexes and thinking processes by starving your muscles and brain from oxygen. High concentrations can cause immediate unconsciousness.

Carbon dioxide is only a threat if produced in high enough concentrations to displace oxygen. It is a colourless and odourless gas that tastes acidic in high concentrations. Carbon dioxide is heavier than air and collects in low lying areas.

Water vapour is another product of combustion. If you light a wooden match and watch the base of the flame, you will notice water being released from the wood. Water vapour increases humidity that can short circuit electrical equipment and contribute to heat exhaustion in fire fighters.

Other hazardous gases may be released by combustion depending on the material burning. Burning rubber tires, for example, releases highly toxic fumes. Other examples of toxic gases that might be mixed with smoke include ammonia, sulphur dioxide, oxides of nitrogen, and hydrogen cyanide.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO7 Page 107 3.2 Review Exercise

1. What are the components of the fire triangle?

2. What are the products of combustion? How can they affect you?

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO7 Page 108 Learning Step 4 Discuss the Five Classes of Fire and the Types of Portable Fire Extinguishers

4.1 Instruction Sheet Classification of Fires

Fires are categorized into five classes depending on their fuel source. Fire extinguishers are labelled with a standard symbol for each class of fire they are intended to extinguish (Table 1). They are:

Class of Fire & Fuel Source Symbol Ordinary combustibles such as wood, paper, cloth, rubber, plastics

Flammable liquids including diesel fuel, gasoline, oil, solvents, and oil-based paint

Any fire involving live electrical equipment, even if the fuel source of the fire is Class A, B or D, and electricity was not the cause of the fire (a diesel fuel spill burning around an electric motor)

If you can disconnect the source of electricity, you can treat the fire as a Class A, B, or D fire, depending on its fuel source

Combustible metals such as magnesium, sodium, potassium, titanium, and aluminum

Metals are most hazardous in their powdered form. Even in non-powdered form, however, sodium and potassium react violently with water releasing

These are meant for commercial kitchens and used to put out cooking fat and oil fires.

They are not meant to be used in isolation. They are to be used in combination with other fire protection methods

A red slash through a symbol on the label of a fire extinguisher means the extinguisher must not be used on that type of fire. A missing symbol indicates the extinguisher has not been tested for that class of fire, but may be used if a more appropriate extinguisher is not available.

Table 1: Five Classes of Fire and Their Symbols

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO7 Page 109 4.2 Instruction Sheet Portable Fire Extinguishers

Portable fire extinguishers are the most commonly used device for fighting small fires. Fire extinguishers are classified into five types based on the extinguishing agent they contain (Table 2). They are:

• Water • Foam • Multi-purpose dry chemicals • Carbon dioxide • Wet chemical

**Halon - not as common in North America since 1994 due to environmental concerns.

Figure 3: Portable Fire Extinguishers

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO7 Page 110 Type of Extinguisher Fire Rating Operating Technique Pressurized Water Class A Only Direct nozzle at base of flames and spray side to Water pressurized with carbon side; as flame dies, change stream to spray by dioxide or compressed air placing finger over nozzle.

Extinguishes fire by cooling. Foam Class A Direct the foam in a manner that will bury the Chemicals mixed with water fire and sweep foam across entire surface area of create foam on contact with air fire.

Class B Smothers and cools fire Carbon Dioxide Class B Direct nozzle at base of flames and pass from Liquefied carbon dioxide is side to side in slow sweeping motion. released as a gas (it will be mixed with dry ice crystals that Class C Smothers and cools fire; interrupts the chemical can freeze skin on contact) reaction.

* can be used on Class A but not as effective Dry Chemical Class A* Direct nozzle so chemical blankets the burning Dry chemicals are discharged material and sweep quickly from side to side; under pressure (e.g., barium apply thick layer to prevent rekindling of fire. sulfate, sodium bicarbonate, potassium chloride) Class B Smothers fire and stops chemical reaction.

Class C *There are two types of dry chemical extinguishers; ordinary (eg. Sodium bicarbonate) and multipurpose (eg. Barium sulfate). Only the multipurpose type can be used on Class A fires.

Dry Powder Class D only Direct nozzle so dry powder blankets burning Dry powder is discharged metal; apply sufficient depth to completely under pressure, or shovelled blanket the fire and surrounding area. onto burning metal (e.g., These extinguishers are sodium chlorine metal-specific Smothers fire and stops chemical reaction.

Wet Chemical Class K These are meant for commercial kitchens and Wet chemical is released under used to put out cooking fat and oil fires. pressure and a soapy foam layer is created which They are meant to be used in isolation but in extinguishes the fire combination with other fire protection methods.

Table 2: Types of Portable Fire Extinguishers and Their Use

All fire extinguishers carry the symbol for each class of fire they are rated to extinguish (Table 1). Extinguishers for Class A and B fires also are capacity-rated with a number in front of the letter (e.g., 10A, 30B). The larger the number, the greater is the capacity of the extinguisher. Class A ratings range from 1 to 40; Class B ratings range from 1 to 640. Class C and D extinguishers are not rated for capacity.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO7 Page 111 Class A extinguishers are rarely used at mine sites. They cannot be used on Class B fires because water could spread the burning liquid and make the fire worse. You could be electrocuted by using a Class A extinguisher on a Class C fire because water is a good conductor of electricity. Using a Class A extinguisher on a Class D fire could cause an explosive reaction.

Dry chemical extinguishers are common in mines because they can be used on all but Class D fires. However, the discharged chemicals can damage electrical equipment. Therefore, carbon dioxide extinguishers (recognized by their large funnel-like nozzle) sometimes are preferred on electrical fires.

Class D extinguishers are uncommon because metal fires are rare. These extinguishers are specific to certain metal types. The type of metal(s) that can be extinguished is identified on the label of each Class D extinguisher.

Class K extinguishers – are for fires that involve cooking oil, trans-fats, or fats in cooking appliances and are typically found in commercial kitchens and restaurants.

The most common type and size of fire extinguisher at mine sites is a 20lb dry chemical (ABC) extinguisher.

Using a Portable Extinguisher

Figure 4: Portable Fire Extinguisher Parts

The Saskatchewan Mines Regulations (2003) require your employer to provide the necessary fire extinguishers and to train you on their use. Procedures for operating most portable extinguishers are as follows:

• Pull the pin to unlock the operating lever (Figure 4). • Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire. • Squeeze the operating lever to release the extinguishing agent. • Sweep the nozzle back and forth across the base of the fire until the fire is out.

Note that if you combine the first letter of each procedure, it spells PASS. This might help you remember the procedures.

Always stand upwind when attempting to extinguish a fire.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO7 Page 112 4.3 Instruction Sheet The Principles of Fire Suppression

The basic principle of fire suppression is to remove one or more of the four elements of the fire tetrahedron:

a) Reduce the heat - Cooling is effective on both small and large fires. Coolants such as water reduce the fuel temperature so it no longer releases vapours. Without vapours to burn, the fire will go out. This method will not work on burning flammable gases or liquids because their vapours cannot be eliminated by a coolant.

b) Remove the fuel - A ruptured gas line or pipeline fire sometimes can be extinguished by closing a valve to stop the flow of liquid or gas. Solid fuels can be removed from the fire’s path to limit its advance. In some situations, it is best to allow the fire to consume all the fuel.

c) Stop the chemical chain reaction - Some dry chemicals (e.g., sodium bicarbonate) suppress the fire by stopping the chemical reaction. This method is effective on flammable gas and liquid fires. It will not work on a smoldering fire because without flames there is no chemical reaction to stop.

d) Eliminate the oxygen - Some small fires can be smothered with a fire blanket, foam, or carbon dioxide. Chemicals such as hydrogen peroxide, potassium chlorate, and sodium nitrate, however, release their own oxygen as they burn. Smothering will not work on fires involving these chemicals.

4.4 Review Exercise

1. What are the five classifications of fire, their symbol and fuel source?

2. List the four principles of fire suppression.

3. What does the acronym PASS stand for?

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO7 Page 113 4.5 Instruction Sheet Dealing With an Underground Fire

Before fighting any underground fire, be sure that you can put the fire out without wasting time or risking injury to yourself or others. If a fire extinguisher is readily available, and if you are sure you can extinguish the fire without risk, check the following points:

• Assess the size of the fire. Most portable extinguishers discharge • Within 15 seconds. Can you extinguish the fire in that time? • Ensure your fire extinguisher is fully charged. • Know the type of material burning. Do you have the proper extinguisher for the fire? • Consider the danger from other hazards or flammable materials in the area of the fire. • Assess the heat from the fire to ensure you can get close enough to the fire to extinguish it. • Approach the fire from upwind (ventilation moving from you toward the fire) to reduce your exposure to heat, smoke, and poisonous gases (Figure 5). If you cannot approach from upwind do not attempt to fight the fire.

Make sure you have a clear and safe escape route in case you cannot extinguish the fire.

Figure 5: Approaching a Fire From the Upwind Side

If you are unable to extinguish the fire without risking injury, take the following action:

• Protect yourself. • Warn your coworkers in the area. • If the mine is equipped with fire pull-stations to initiate the emergency warning -initiate it. If not, find the nearest safe phone and follow site procedures to initiate the emergency warning system. • In a shaft mine, the hoistman often is responsible for initiating the warning. • Take your self-rescuer with you. Keep it sealed until you encounter smoke. • Make your way quickly and safely to the nearest refuge station. Once inside the refuge station, turn on the air header (found only in hard rock mines) to give yourself a supply of fresh air. • If you are unable to reach safety, try to find a dead-end drift with an air header. Seal the drift as much as possible with available material, turn on the air header, and wait for help. Conserve your light. • As a last resort, protect yourself from smoke and toxic gases from a fire by covering yourself with a slicker jacket or vent tubing and turning on an air hose.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO7 Page 114 Choose the image that best demonstrates the CORRECT way to spray a fire extinguisher

Figure 6: How to Spray a Fire Extinguisher

4.6 Review Exercise

1. In the event of a fire you are unable to extinguish yourself, what should you do? (List 8 steps)

Learning Step 5 Mine Emergency Warning Systems and Fire Prevention Techniques

5.1 Instruction Sheet Warning Systems

The Mines Regulations require mines producing over 100 tonnes of ore per day, or mines designated by a mines inspector, to have an emergency warning system. Warning systems for emergencies such as mine fires and the procedures you must follow in an emergency may vary from mine to mine.

At most mines, stench gas is injected into the ventilation system and compressed air lines as an emergency warning system. Stench gas (ethyl mercaptan) has an unmistakable pungent smell like rotten eggs.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO7 Page 115

Figure 7: Safety Mole

Flashing lights may also be used as a warning system. A series of lights are placed in working areas at strategic locations throughout the mine. In an emergency, the lights are flashed to warn workers.

An emergency warning system is a signal for all underground workers to initiate the established emergency procedures for that mine. You will be instructed on the emergency system and emergency procedures in effect at any mine during the safety orientation for new employees.

5.2 Instruction Sheet Fire Prevention

Figure 8: Prevent Fire

Fire prevention involves the same basic principle used to fight fires: keep the four sides of the fire tetrahedron from coming together. Follow the safety guidelines below to minimize the danger of fire in your workplace:

• Store combustible and flammable materials in designated areas and designated metal containers with metal covers. • Close lids on varsol tanks when not in use. • Do not refuel when the engine is running. • Dispose of garbage at least daily. • Clean up flammable liquid spills immediately. • Dispose of flammable wastes immediately and put them in the proper container.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO7 Page 116 • Keep your equipment well-maintained with moving parts lubricated to reduce friction. • Release the park brake on mobile equipment before driving it. Leaving the park brake on can cause a friction fire. • Never tamper with electrical circuit breakers and fuses; they protect against overloading electrical circuits. • Check for frayed wires and/or damaged plugs. • Do not allow an electric spark or open flame near the battery as a severe explosion may result. • Obey all No Smoking signs. • Never tamper with fire protection equipment. Keep areas clear around fire equipment. • Familiarize yourself with the location of extinguishers and other fire-fighting equipment in the workplace; learn how to use it. • Check fire extinguishers regularly to ensure they are fully charged and well-maintained. If you use an extinguisher, be sure to replace it with a fully charged one. • Take extra safety precautions when welding and cutting around combustible material. • Keep alert. Your sense of smell and hearing are better fire detectors than most electronic devices. • Report fire hazards to your supervisor.

Consider fire prevention an important part of your daily activities.

Report any incident involving a fire in the workplace, no matter how small, to your supervisor.

Figure 9: Safety Mole

Fire Exits and Fire Fighting Equipment

• Fire exits must be kept clear and free of debris. • Maintain fire-fighting equipment in good operating condition and check at regular intervals. • Know the types of fires, types of extinguishers, their location and proper use. • If you have been trained and it is safe to do so, fight the fire before initiating the warning system. Small fires quickly extinguished prevent large fires. • If you are not trained, then sound the alarm and do not attempt to fight the fire. • Know the location of all fire exits.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO7 Page 117 Refuge Stations

Mines Regulations require refuge stations in all active areas of a mine. Refuge stations have a fresh air-supply that is not affected by the air outside unless the door is left open. These stations are intended to keep workers safe for a minimum of 36 hours in the event of an emergency like a mine fire.

Mine emergency procedures in Saskatchewan generally require workers to go to the nearest refuge station if the emergency warning system is activated. The intent is that workers should protect themselves and those around them by immediately taking refuge in an emergency. During the Esterhazy fire, 72 workers took refuge underground. All emerged safely after 30 hours of underground mine rescue work to control the fire.

Orientation training will include the location of the nearest refuge station. Always ensure that you know the location of your refuge station while working underground. If in doubt, ask your supervisor.

The Mining Regulations 2003 states the following:

(3) An employer, contractor or owner must ensure that every primary underground refuge station is equipped with the following:

(a) at least 36 hours of breathable air for the number of workers who may reasonably be expected to use the refuge station in accordance with the fire control and emergency response plan;

(b) potable water for the number of workers who may reasonably be expected to use the refuge station in accordance with the fire control and emergency response plan;

(d) lights;

(e) first aid supplies;

(f) sanitation facilities;

(g) suitable fire-fighting equipment;

(h) an effective means of communication with the surface;

(i) sufficient seating. (16 May 2003 cO-1.1 Reg 2 s398)

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO7 Page 118 5.3 Review Exercise

1. What are two methods used as mine emergency warning systems?

2. What can you do to prevent fires? List five suggestions.

Learning Step 6 Define Hot-Work

6.1 Instruction Sheet Hot-Work Awareness

What is Hot-Work?

Hot-work is any temporary or permanent operation involving open flames or producing heat and/or sparks that could provide an ignition source. Fires are often the result of a “quick five minute” job in areas not intended for welding or cutting. Getting a hot work permit is just one of the steps involved in a hot-work management program that helps to reduce the risk of starting a fire by welding or cutting in areas where there are flammable or combustible materials.

Some examples of hot-work are:

• Brazing • Cutting • Grinding • Soldering • Torch applied roofing • Welding • Heat shrinking

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO7 Page 119 Saskatchewan Occupational Health and Safety Legislation

Hot-Work

Section 359:

(e) “hot-work” means work that produces arcs, sparks, flames, heat or other sources of ignition.

Section 370:

1) Where a flammable substance is or may be present, an employer or contractor shall ensure that no hot-work is performed until:

a) Suitable tests have been conducted that:

(i) Indicate whether the atmosphere contains a flammable substance in a quantity sufficient to create an explosive atmosphere; and (ii) Confirm that the work may be safely performed; and

b) The work procedures developed pursuant to clause 363(1)(b) have been implemented to ensure continuous safe performance of the work.

2) While hot-work is being performed, an employer or contractor shall conduct tests described in clause (1)(a) at intervals appropriate to the work being performed and record the results.

3) An employer or contractor shall not require or permit any hot-work to be performed in the vicinity of a material that may constitute a fire hazard until suitable steps have been taken to reduce the risk of fire.

4) An employer or contractor shall ensure that a container or piping that contains or has contained a flammable substance is purged using an effective method to remove the flammable substance from the container or piping before any hot work is begun on that container or piping.

5) An employer or contractor shall not require or permit any welding or cutting of metal that has been cleaned with a flammable or combustible liquid until the metal has thoroughly dried (Saskatchewan Occupational Health & Safety Regulations, 1996).

What this means for you:

• Hot-work procedures must be developed and followed prior to hot-work being performed.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO7 Page 120 Learning Step 7 Discuss Hot-Work Management Programs

7.1 Instruction Sheet What is a Hot-Work Management Program?

Hot-work management programs are put in place to control or eliminate hot-work hazards and their risks. Programs include the development of policies, procedures, and the assignment of responsibilities and accountabilities for all aspects of hot-work. A program includes:

Policies

• Where hot-work is permitted • When hot-work is permitted • Who authorizes hot-work

Procedures

• What must be assessed before permitting/performing hot work in an area or on a process piece of equipment or area • What to do to prepare an area for hot-work • What to do if hot-work cannot be avoided in a particularly hazardous area • What hot-work tools are required • How to obtain a hot-work permit, when they are required, and who can administer them

Training

• Employees, supervisors, maintenance individuals, fire wardens, trained fire watch individuals, and contractors all have different roles, and must be trained accordingly

Communications

• Posting procedures • Posting policies • Posting signs in areas that are prohibited from having work performed in them.

Learning Step 8 Discuss Hot-Work Permits

8.1 Instruction Sheet Definition

A hot-work permit is a permit utilized to identify and eliminate potential hazards while performing hot-work. Before starting any hot-work, a hot-work permit must be issued and is valid for one shift.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO7 Page 121 Learning Step 9 Discuss How to Avoid Hot-Work

9.1 Instruction Sheet Can Hot-Work be Avoided?

You may be able to substitute hot work with other methods. Below are some examples:

Instead of: Use: Saw or torch cutting Manual hydraulic shears Welding Mechanical bolting Sweat soldering Screwed or flanged pipe Torch or radial saw cutting Mechanical pipe cutter

Learning Step 10 Discuss Hot-Work Safe-Work Practices

10.1 Instruction Sheet Preparation for Hot-Work

Whenever there are floor openings that cannot be closed, precautions need to be taken so that workers or readily ignitable materials on the floor aren’t exposed to sparks, slag, etc., which may drop through the floor. Precautions also need to be taken in regard to holes in walls or open doorways.

Keep the following safe practices in mind

• Sweep away any combustible materials such as paper clippings, wood shavings, etc., on the floor. • Combustible floors need to be kept wet or protected by fire-resistant shields. • Where relocation of materials or equipment to a fixed hot work station is impractical and hot work is unavoidable, use the least hazardous form of hot work. Combustibles need to be protected by flame proofed covers otherwise shielded. • Conveyors that might carry sparks to distant combustibles need to be protected or shut down. • Where cutting or welding is done near walls, partitions, ceiling or roof of combustible construction, fire-resistant shields or guards shall be provided. • If welding is to be done on a metal wall, partition, ceiling or roof, precautions need to be taken to prevent ignition of combustibles on the other side due to conduction or radiation, preferably by relocation. Where combustibles are not relocated, an additional fire watch shall be required on the opposite side form the work. • Welding may not be permitted on a metal partition, wall, ceiling, or roof having an ignitable covering or on walls or partitions of ignitable sandwich-type construction. • Cutting or welding on pipes or other metal in contact with ignitable walls, partitions, ceilings, or roofs may not be permitted if the work is close enough to cause ignition by conduction.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO7 Page 122 Before Performing Hot Work, What Are Some Good General Practices?

Make sure you are following your hot work procedure. Also consider the following items:

• Make sure that all equipment is in good operating order before work starts. • Inspect the work area thoroughly before starting. Look for combustible materials in structures (partitions, walls, ceilings). • Sweep clean any combustible materials on floors around the work zone. Combustible floors must be kept wet with water or covered with fire resistant blankets or damp sand. • Use water ONLY if electrical circuits have been de-energized to prevent electrical shock. • Remove any spilled grease, oil, or other combustible liquid. • Move all flammable and combustible materials away from the work area. • Have fire extinguisher within 10 feet of where work is performed • If combustibles cannot be moved, cover them with fire resistant blankets or shields. Protect gas lines and equipment from falling sparks, hot materials and objects. • Block off cracks between floorboards, along baseboards and walls, and under door openings, with a fire resistant material. Close doors and windows. • Cover wall or ceiling surfaces with a fire resistant and heat insulating material to prevent ignition and accumulation of heat. • Secure, isolate, and vent pressurized vessels, piping and equipment as needed before beginning hot-work. • Inspect the area following work to ensure that wall surfaces, studs, wires or dirt have not heated up. • Vacuum combustible debris from inside ventilation or other service duct openings to prevent ignition. Seal any cracks in ducts. Prevent sparks from entering into the duct work. Cover duct openings with a fire resistant barrier and inspect the ducts after work has concluded. • Post a trained fire watcher within the work area during welding, including during breaks and for at least 30-60 minutes after work has stopped. Depending on the work done, the area may need to be monitored for longer (up to 3 hours) after the end of the hot-work. • Eliminate explosive atmospheres (i.e., Vapors or combustible dust) or do not allow hot-work. Shut down any process that produces combustible atmospheres and continuously monitor the area for accumulation of combustible gases before, during, and after hot-work. • If possible, schedule hot-work during shutdown periods. • Comply with the required legislation and standards applicable to your workplace.

Learning Step 11 Discuss Protection for Hot-Work Hazards

11.1 Instruction Sheet Protection from Hazards

Workers or other persons close to areas where welding is being performed need to be protected from the rays by non-ignitable or flameproof screens or shields. They may be required to wear appropriate eye protection or other PPE.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO7 Page 123 Fire extinguishing equipment needs to be maintained in a state of repair and readiness at all times and be available in the area that hot work is being performed.

Note: Welding or cutting on, or with, materials coated with lead, fluorides, cadmium, beryllium, mercury, zinc, galvanized metal or stainless steel required special considerations.

Learning Step 12 Discuss Hot-Work Hazard Evaluation

12.1 Instruction Sheet Hazard Evaluation

For every hot-work permit issued, a hazard evaluation is required to assure complete isolation of hazardous gases and explosive atmosphere from the location of the work area and to determine the adequate post hot-work fire watch period.

This hazard evaluation is to be:

• Documented on the safe-work/hot-work permit. • Reviewed and approved by the equipment owner/supervisor and work group representative.

Learning Step 13 Discuss Hot-Work Personal Protective Equipment

13.1 Instruction Sheet Personal Protective Equipment

Employees who are exposed to hazards require protection from hot work operations. Personal protective equipment includes:

• Approved safety glasses with either half or full seal. • Welding helmet/hard hat or safety shield suitable for protection from hot-work with appropriate UV radiation protection. • Grinding – face shield • Welding and cutting – welding gloves • Aprons, gloves, leggings, welding jacket and footwear suitable for protection for hot work shall also be worn. • Mechanical ventilation must be adequate for the job being performed. • Respiratory protection, fitted with appropriate protective cartridges specifically designed to protect against the welding fumes or potentially hazardous gases present:

• At the appropriate protection factor, • Shall be provided where adequate ventilation is not available, or • Industrial hygiene testing has indicated that respiratory protection is required.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO7 Page 124 Learning Step 14 Discuss Preparation for Hot-Work

14.1 Instruction Sheet The Hot-Work Process

The following is an example of a hot-work safe work practices before, during, and after hot-work.

Before Hot-Work Begins

Before Hot-Work Begins Sign/Approve and Issue The supervisor shall: Permit • Confirm the location of the proposed hot-work • Verify the applicable precautions of the safe-work permit have been taken prior to allowing the start of any hot-work. • Sign the permit only after all needed fire prevention precautions are implemented and fire watch is present. Post Permit • A hot-work permit should be readily available upon request at the work area. Production employees and supervisors in the area need to be informed about the hot-work activity and the need to support the implemented precautions for this hazardous operation. During Hot-Work Maintain Fire-Safe • While the hot-work proceeds, the fire watch shall maintain a constant vigil Condition (even during employee breaks and meal times) to maintain the hot-work area in a fire-safe condition, shall keep watch for any stray sparks, smoldering fires, or other fire hazards, and shall be ready to provide the initial fire response. After Hot-Work Continuous Monitoring • Once the work is completed, the fire watch shall remain in the area for 60 minutes of continuous monitoring and carefully inspect the work and the adjacent areas for smolding fires. Intermittent Monitoring • Once the continuous fire watch is completed, an additional 60 minutes of intermittent monitoring is required. Final Inspection and • Upon completion of the 60-minute continuous monitoring period, the fire Closure of Permit watch shall sign the permit and leave it posted and inform the supervisor/equipment owner and work group supervisor. • Following the continuous monitoring period, an additional 60 minutes of intermittent monitoring is required. • The fire watch, supervisor, or equipment owner shall conduct a final inspection of the area and sign the permit. • Remove the permit and return it to where it was issued and kept on file.

Table 3: Hot-Work Safe Work Practice Process

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO7 Page 125 Summary

Although severe mine fires are uncommon, the potential for one always exists and can produce dangerous levels of heat, smoke, and other harmful by-products. Mine rescue teams are specially trained to fight mine fires; however, as a worker you should understand the causes of mine fires, fire prevention techniques, the hot-work process and what to do in the event of a fire.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO7 Page 126 Learning Outcome 8 Identify Hazards Related to Ground Control and Describe Safe Work Practices

Learning Step 1 Discuss Legislation, Roles, Responsibilities in Regard to Ground Control

1.1 Instruction Sheet Supervision of Workers Underground

OH&S legislation assigns more responsibility to those with more control over the workplace. Employers have a responsibility to ensure that all work performed on a workplace (surface or underground) is supervised by a competent supervisor. Underground and open pit supervisors are required to obtain a supervisor’s certificate that certifies them as direct supervisors.

A direct supervisor must:

• Be competent to act as a supervisor. • Hold a valid direct supervisor’s certificate. • Have adequate knowledge of the language normally used at the workplace/mine, has a minimum of three years’ experience in the practical workings of a mine. • Hold a degree or other qualifications in mining or a related discipline or a combination of training and experience that is the equivalent of the requirements set out in sub clause (i) or (ii). • Hold a valid class a qualification in first aid. • Be trained in the duties of a direct supervisor in a mine emergency in the particular mine. • Be authorized by the employer or contractor to act as a direct supervisor.

Employers have a responsibility to ensure that:

• Employees are adequately trained to carry out their duties safely • Training is provided which must be specific for each type of work procedure • The person who provides training must be competent to provide the training

Workers (employees) have three basic rights which enable us to fulfill our legislated responsibilities:

1. The right to know information that may affect our health and safety 2. The right to participate in an OH&S committee 3. The right to refuse to perform any work where we have reasonable grounds to believe the work is unusually dangerous to us or others at the job site.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO8 Page 127 Mines Regulations (2003) set the minimum standards for the supervision of workers in an underground mining workplace. For example, a mining company is also required to establish policies and procedures to adequately ensure that all employees and contractors are properly supervised while working underground.

The Mines Regulations (2003) require the employer to develop, implement and maintain policies and procedures to address:

• Personnel accountability system • Shift Record • Unusually hazardous work • Working alone • Regular inspection of underground mine • Inspection of equipment and worksite • Remedying defects and unsafe conditions • Entry restrictions • Report by professional engineer • Information on hazards • Controlling movement of strata • Determination of surface subsistence • Prevention of an inrush of water

The Chief Mines Inspector of the Ministry of Labour Relations and Workplace Safety is responsible for monitoring compliance with the legislation.

Learning Step 2 Explain Ground Control

The purpose of the “ground control awareness” learning module is to:

• Explain ground hazards • Discuss supervision of workers • Describe potash and hard rock ground control • Discuss sounding, scaling and listening to the rock

2.1 Instruction Sheet Factors Affecting Ground Conditions

Just as we need to know the environment when hiking in the bush or walking down the street, it is important to understand our work environment. A miners working environment is inside the earth’s crust (bedrock). The crust has numerous fractures caused by various geological forces. In addition, bedrock is in a constant state of change because of heat, pressure, and movements within the earth’s crust.

It is important to observe ground conditions and recognize signs of possible ground failure. Your safety depends on it.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO8 Page 128 Ground conditions vary within a mine and from one mine to the next:

• The potash mines in southern Saskatchewan are in soft rock. • Uranium, copper and nickel mines tend to be in hard, solid bedrock. • Saskatchewan’s uranium mines’ ground conditions can change from competent good rock, to bad ground with weak clay seams over a short distance.

As mine contractor employees, you need to be aware that these natural forces and mining activities affect our working environment.

Ground conditions in a mine can be disturbed by many factors including:

• Natural geological features and processes • Mining Activities • Geological structures • Ground Water

How Natural Geological Features Influence Ground Conditions

Different types of bedrock have different characteristics. For example:

• Granite is referred to as hard rock • Potash is referred to as soft rock

Some rock types are brittle and will fracture (break) under pressure. Other rock types are more elastic (such as potash deposits) and will bend under pressure.

Bedrock also contains geological structures that form natural planes of weakness in the rock. These structures, which are often associated with ore bodies, are formed by movements in the earth's crust.

Geological structures affecting ground conditions include:

• Bedding planes • Faults, slips, and shears • Joints and joint sets • Dikes and sills • Folding

Bedding planes in potash mines are the only geological structures which may affect our health and safety.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO8 Page 129 Bedding Planes

Sedimentary rock is formed in layers, ranging in thickness from a few centimeters to several meters. The different layers are often different types of rock. One layer may be sandstone while others may be limestone, shale, or mudstone.

The contact zones between layers of sedimentary rock are called bedding planes (Figure 1) In the Saskatoon area potash mines, there are thin clay layers bedded with the potash layers.

• Bedding planes form lines of weakness along which the rock may separate. In potash, the clay seams form layers of weakness. In the Saskatoon area potash mines, you may be required to recognize these clay seams and take action on what you see. If this is required, the mine will provide the training required.

• Mud, which has not yet been changed to rock, may also be part of the bedrock. This will further weaken the rock.

Figure 1: Bedding Planes

How Mining Operations Effect Ground Conditions

Mining operations remove ground (rock/ore) in a controlled manner. As ground is mined the natural vertical and horizontal pressures on the rock mass must be supported by the remaining rock. Likewise, as an area is mined the ground conditions tend to change (worsen).

Mine engineers and geologists adopt mining methods that help the rock remain self-supporting. Examples of mining techniques that preserve good ground conditions include:

• The sequence in which areas are mined is chosen to best suit the ground conditions in an area. • The amount of ground removed and the sequence in which an area is mined, is controlled to ensure the remaining rock can support the increased pressure. • Non-blasting mining methods such as tunnel boring and raise boring are used in unstable ground where blasting would cause problems.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO8 Page 130 Learning Step 3 Describe Potash and Hard Rock Ground Control Hazards and Control

3.1 Instruction Sheet Describe Potash and Hard Rock Ground Hazards

Ground Hazards

Unexpected and unwanted ground movements are a major safety hazard in mines. For example, about 25% of all fatalities in underground mining are caused by some type of ground failure. To protect co-workers and yourself you must learn to recognize dangerous ground conditions and know how to control them.

In mines only localized loose conditions are in your control. A mining company is required to:

• Train you to recognize localized loose, and • Teach you the proper way to control localized loose by sounding and scaling.

Sounding: knocking on the roof to see whether it’s safe to work under.

Scaling: removal of loose rock with a long bar from the roof or walls.

Localized loose rock, commonly called loose, is rock on the backs and walls of a drift, raise, or stope that is not solidly attached to the bedrock.

Loose is caused by many factors including: blasting, vibrations from drilling, rock weakness near geological structures, and pressure caused by mine depth or ground removal.

Potash Loose – Ground Hazards

Potash ore is found in a large sedimentary basin called the Prairie Evaporite. Depending on the drift, the ore seams mined are found approximately 1000 meters under the surface. Likewise, the ground is considered to be “squeezing ground” due to the high pressures at these depths and the characteristics of the potash ore.

Drifts made in potash mines get smaller daily until it closes up completely due to high pressures and the plastic or elastic nature of potash ore. This process takes years and the mines are designed to remain stable during this process. As openings get older, the rate of squeezing decreases. In new openings at the active mining areas, the openings can be decreasing in size by several centimeters a day. In older openings, this rate is very slow and requires instrumentation to measure.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO8 Page 131 With the openings getting smaller each day, localized loose is created on the back and walls by the squeezing action and most localized loose is created in the active mining areas. Generally, this loose is visible with visible cracking in the rock and most of this loose is created on the walls of the drifts.

Generally, in potash mines, stay away from the walls where possible in active mining areas.

Hardrock Loose – Ground Hazards

Localized loose is mostly created in hardrock mines (uranium and gold) by blasting. The explosives used to create openings cause fractures in the rock approximately 2′ into the back and walls. This disturbed ground must be removed by scaling and supported by rockbolts, shotcrete, etc.

Usually, as contractors, the area of the mine where you will be working has been inspected by the mine supervisor and can be considered to be reasonably safe. However, the mine supervisor will provide sound and scaling training. Ultimately, you are also responsible for inspecting your workplace even if the mine has already done it.

If you encounter ground conditions you are not familiar with, immediately notify the mine supervisor.

Loose is the single most dangerous hazard in a mine.

Loose ground must be scaled down and the area rock bolted or supported in some manner before anyone is allowed to work in the area. Recognizing and removing loose ground is everyone’s responsibility.

Ground Hazard Controls

Ground Hazard Control Methods

There are many methods used to control ground hazards in a mine.

• Visual Inspections • Sound and scaling • Listening • Rock Bolting • Screening, strapping, and cable slings • Timbering • Shotcreting • Concrete lining • Backfilling • Grouting and freezing • De-stressing techniques • Mining sequence and design

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO8 Page 132 As contractor employees you will likely only be responsible for visually inspecting sounding, scaling and listening to the rock in the areas where you travel and work within the mine.

Saskatchewan law requires ALL mine workers:

• To examine their workplace and equipment at reasonable intervals to ensure they are safe (Sections 29 and 30 of The Mines Regulations, 2003).

This responsibility requires that you:

• Inspect your workplace for loose ground or damaged ground support systems (e.g., rock bolts, timbers) at the beginning of every shift, and regularly throughout the day.

This is the number one priority when entering any underground area.

Ground condition checks of all the areas where you will work or travel must become part of your regular safety routine. Mine supervisors will indicate the areas that must be controlled. Methods for identifying dangerous ground include the following:

• Visual inspections • Sounding the ground • Listening to the rock

Visual Inspections

The first method to check ground conditions and ground support systems, is a visual check.

When conducting a visual inspection, use your cap-light to check the ground from different angles. Rock fractures and deformed ground supports may not be visible from all angles. The angle you shine our light can create shadows that outline potentially unstable wedges or blocks. Your ability to “read” the ground will improve with experience.

Loose can often pass a visual inspection. We also need to use other methods to identify loose ground. Include the following checks in your visual inspections:

Rock Formation Checks

• Check the face, walls, and back for new cracks • Examine bedding planes for signs of separation

Rock Movement Checks

• Look for freshly fallen muck on the floor • Watch for floor (sill) heaving or track shifting • Check for spalling (sloughing off of small plate-like slabs of rock) as an indicator of ground stress

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO8 Page 133 Rock Support Checks

• Watch for crushed or bowed timbers • Examine concrete supports and shotcrete for cracks • Check for:

• Loose rock bolts • Bent rock bolt plates • Rock bolt nuts pulling through the plate, and • Damaged screen or strapping

Learning Step 4 Discuss Sound and Scale

4.1 Instruction Sheet Sounding the Ground

Sounding the back and walls with a scaling bar is the most effective way to identify loose.

• Select an appropriate scaling bar • Work from good ground to bad ground • A sharp ringing sound indicates good ground • A “drummy” or hollow sound indicates loose (bad) ground.

• The “drummy” sound is caused by an air space behind the loose ground.

Make sure you are standing on good ground when sounding with a scaling bar, and you have a clear pathway to retreat.

Listening to the Rock

A certain amount of snapping and cracking is normal in all mines. This is the sound of the rock adjusting to changes in pressure from mining activities. Miners say the rock is “working” or “talking.” An increase in the “working or talking” of the rock could indicate a serious problem. When listening to rock, ensure you:

• Become familiar with the normal sounds in your work area. • Learn to listen for changes in those sounds.

Summary

Understanding your environment and its geological features is essential when identifying potential mine hazards. Bedrock is in a constant state of change due to heat, pressure and movements within the earth’s crust. It is important that you understand the potential ground control hazards, appropriate controls, and responsibilities involved.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO8 Page 134 Learning Outcome 9 Identify Environmental Hazards and Describe Responsibilities for Reporting Spills

Learning Step 1 Defining Environmental Contaminants

The purpose of the “environmental safety” learning module is to:

• Explain the types of chemicals and substances that are environmental contaminants • Discuss legislation regarding the discharge of a substance (spills), and • Describe procedures for an accidental release of environmental contaminants on the worksite

1.1 Instruction Sheet Types of Environment Contaminants

The best strategy for environmental safety is to prevent the release of contaminants into the environment. This starts with developing policies and procedures for safe handling of toxic substances, training employees in these procedures and using proper material storage techniques. Even small amounts of chemicals and substances can have a devastating effect on the environment, so it is imperative to spend the necessary effort on preventative techniques.

Should a spill occur it is also important to know how to respond to a spill to ensure that it is cleaned up in a safe and responsible manner.

Failure for a company to follow the spill reporting requirements can lead to a fine of up to 1-million dollars/day for each day of the offence as well as imprisonment of up to 3 years.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO9 Page 135 Types of Environmental Contaminants

The Saskatchewan Ministry of the Environment classifies pollutants in the following categories (see table below):

Pollutant Example Environmental Contaminants Mirex and PCBs Petroleum products Gasoline, diesel fuel, lubricants Pesticides Glyphosphate and DDT Acids and Bases Sulphuric acid and caustic soda Miscellaneous organic and inorganic Methanol and ammonia substances Metals Lead, mercury, and arsenic Radioactive Materials Tailings produced in a uranium mill Waste Water Domestic, industrial, and agricultural

Table 1: Categories of Pollutants

For further information, see “The Hazardous Substances and Waste Dangerous Goods Regulations: http://www.qp.gov.sk.ca/documents/English/Regulations/Regulations/E10- 2R3.pdf.

Learning Step 2 Discuss Spill Reporting Procedures

2.1 Instruction Sheet Reporting

Reporting: spills must be reported to the Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment. The mine site’s Environmental Department is generally responsible for notifying the Ministry of the spill and providing the required spill reports to the Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment. Reporting the spill to the provincial Spill Report Centre meets both federal and provincial requirements for immediate spill reporting.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO9 Page 136 Learning Step 3 Discuss Legislation Regarding Spills

3.1 Instruction Sheet Emergency Response Plan

Companies are required to have Emergency Response Plans in place which address the range of spills that could pose a risk to their employees, the environment, and the public.

If a release occurs, regardless of the size or volume, a plan must be put into action to deal with the situation and prevent permanent damage to the environment and protect employees and the public from exposure. An emergency plan is required as part of an employer’s Occupational Health and Safety requirements and Environmental Regulations. Workers should also understand that specific spill response training, beyond the general awareness training, is required for workers who will be actively engaging in spill response activities. This advanced training will include being familiar with the hazards, proper response techniques, as well as the appropriate personal protective equipment for each type of spill. It is important to know that workers are not authorized to prevent further release or try to contain and clean up spills unless they have the more advanced training.

Environment Spills – The Emergency Response Plan

• An identification of chemicals or substances that could pose a hazard to workers, the environment or public • Procedure to prevent further discharge of the substance • Procedures to contain the substance • Procedures to minimize the effects of the spill • Procedures to ensure cleanup is complete

Learning Step 4 Discuss Spill Cleanup and Management

4.1 Instruction Sheet Procedures for Reacting to a Spill

1. Safety – ensure the safety of yourself and others nearby. 2. Report – regardless of size, report a spill to your supervisor or site contact as soon as it happens. Common spills in mines are oil and diesel and you should learn what constitutes a reportable spill. A quick response from the Environmental Department is important so that the spill cleanup and reporting to the province can happen as soon as possible. 3. Read – read the SDS to find out about hazards, PPE, cleanup procedures and proper disposal requirements before using chemicals or transporting dangerous goods. 4. Know – know when you can respond to spills. Only those with advanced spill response training can actively respond to minimize, contain and clean up spills.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO9 Page 137 5. Protect – protect yourself by getting the proper PPE for the cleanup. Never put yourself at risk when coming in contact with substances.

Spill Kits – You may have a spill kit at your worksite that is available for a range of substances. Spill kits are used for a rapid intervention in case of a spill, leak, or equipment breakdown. In these instances, spill kits support the cleanup of hazardous products so they do not contaminate land or water. If your worksite has a spill kit, familiarize yourself with its location and know how to use it.

Common types of spills at mine sites are related to substances workers tend to be comfortable working around for example diesel and gas (hydrocarbons). Most often spills happen during transfer, for example accidentally overflowing diesel tanks while filling or spills from hoses/nozzles at vehicle refueling stations, and tend to be underreported. However, in Saskatchewan when the snow melts in the spring, spills are revealed as the hydrocarbons stain the soil and reveal unreported spills.

Learning Step 5 Discuss Saskatchewan Environment’s Legislation Concerning Air, Water, Waste, and Chemicals and How They Affect the Workplace

5.1 Instruction Sheet Hazardous Waste

While large amounts of dangerous goods will have to be disposed of by specialized companies, many consumer products such as paints, lubricants, motor oil, and solvents may be returned to the place of purchase for disposal, or to designated recycling centres across the province. To find where to dispose of your hazardous material, contact your site Environmental Department.

Minimize Pollution:

• Reduce • Recycle • Reuse • Rethink • Recover

Figure 1: Recycle

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO9 Page 138 5.2 Review Exercise

1. What are five types of environmental pollutants?

2. When a spill occurs, who do you report it to?

3. List four requirements of an emergency response plan.

4. What are the procedures for reacting to a spill? List five steps.

Summary

Many chemicals and dangerous substances are used on worksites. These substances can pose a threat to workers, the public, as well as the environment including plant and animal life when not handled correctly. In order for spills to be managed appropriately, it is critical that all spills, no matter how big or small, be reported to the Environmental Department at your mine site.

The best strategy for environmental safety is to prevent the release of contaminants into the environment. This starts with developing policies and procedures for safe handling of toxic substances, training employees in these procedures and using proper material storage techniques. Ensure that you follow proper procedures and you know what to do in the event of a spill at your mine site.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO9 Page 139

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO9 Page 140 Learning Outcome 10 Discuss Asbestos Hazards and Controls

Learning Step 1 Define Asbestos

The purpose of the “asbestos hazards and controls” learning outcome is to:

• Define asbestos • Discuss properties of asbestos • Discuss where asbestos is found and what it looks like • Discuss asbestos controls

1.1 Instruction Sheet Asbestos

Asbestos is a set of six naturally occurring minerals that consists of fibrous crystals. Each visible fiber is composed of millions of microscopic “fibrils” and can be released by abrasion and other processes.

Asbestos is commonly known by its color such as “blue asbestos”, “brown asbestos”, “white asbestos”, etc.

Learning Step 2 Discuss Properties of Asbestos

2.1 Instruction Sheet Properties of Asbestos

Asbestos has been mined for over 4,000 years. Physical and chemical properties which have made asbestos attractive to the construction and manufacturing industries include:

• Very strong • Resistant to heat and fire • Resistant to electrical and chemical damages • Good insulator • Cheap, in relation to other products with similar characteristics/properties • Used in over 5,000 manufactured products • Can be mixed with other products, such as, cement, or woven into fabrics or mats.

Asbestos and asbestos dust are known to cause asbestosis and are carcinogens – they can cause lung cancer.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO10 Page 141 Health Effects - OH&S Risks

There is a risk of lung cancer from working with asbestos. However, most employees working at mine sites in Saskatchewan will never encounter asbestos in the workplace, except in the form of manufactured products (i.e. pipe) or vermiculite.

Asbestosis is a chronic lung disease in which there is scar-like tissue formed in the lungs. As a results, the scaring decreases the elasticity of the lungs, making breathing more difficult and shortness of breath is a common symptom. Development of asbestosis usually requires 20-30 years of exposure to asbestos fibres.

The risk of getting lung cancer after asbestos exposure depends on a number of factors including:

• The level and duration of exposure; • The time since exposure occurred; • The age at which exposure occurred; • The tobacco-smoking history of the exposed person; and • The type and size of the asbestos fibres.

If you are exposed to asbestos, Saskatchewan OH&S Regulations (1996) state:

• Employers are required to inform employees of the presence of asbestos in the workplace; • The risk of injury resulting from exposure to asbestos; and • Provide appropriate training and PPE.

Learning Step 3 Discuss Where Asbestos is Found and What it Looks Like

3.1 Instruction Sheet Where Asbestos is Found and What it Looks Like

Employees working in many diverse industries can be exposed to asbestos in the workplace. Exposure has been known to occur in the:

• Mining of asbestos • Processing of asbestos minerals • Manufacture of asbestos-containing products • Construction industry – disturbing asbestos-containing materials during building renovations or demolitions • Mechanics - vehicle brake and clutch repairs • Insulation workers and heating trades • Sheet metal workers, plumbers and pipe fitters • Workers responsible for disposing of asbestos waste, and waste workers • Cement workers • Custodial workers – contact with deteriorating asbestos-containing materials in buildings

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO10 Page 142 Saskatchewan OH&S Regulations state what actions an employer must implement regarding asbestos-containing material including:

• Maintain an up-to-date list of, and identify asbestos-containing materials employees may encounter in the workplace including the:

• Location(s) • Characteristics of the material • Accessibility, and Notify OH&S Committee, representatives and employees

Where Can I Find Asbestos?

Most employees working at a Saskatchewan mine site will only encounter asbestos in manufactured products such as pipe or in vermiculite.

Employees may also encounter asbestos while performing home renovations. Asbestos was widely used in many home building products and materials until the 1970s including:

• Vinyl flooring • Wall paneling • Insulation (wall and attics) • Siding and roofing products • Paints and wall patching products • Hot water heater and pipe blankets

Summary

Asbestos is a set of six naturally occurring minerals composed of millions of microscopic fibrils. It was used widely in the 1970s and is commonly found in vinyl flooring, wall paneling, insulation, siding and roofing products, etc. When disturbed, asbestos dust can cause asbestosis which is a chronic lung disease characterized by scar-like tissue formed in the lungs. Ensure that you follow safe-work practices and procedures and protect yourself if there is a potential to be exposed to asbestos.

More information is available from:

• Worksafe BC Safe Work Practices for Handling Asbestos • Infrastructure Health and Safety Association (The former Construction Safety Association of Ontario) – Asbestos • The Canadian Society for Asbestos Victims, http://cansav.ca/ • http://www2.epa.gov/asbestos/us-federal-bans-asbestos • For further information on OH&S regulations see: • http://www.saskatchewan.ca/work/safety-in-the-workplace/safety-standards-and- alerts/asbestos • http://www2.epa.gov/asbestos/us-federal-bans-asbestos

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO10 Page 143

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO10 Page 144 Learning Outcome 11 Identify Hazards Related to Self-Rescue Techniques

Learning Step 1 Discuss Equipment Used for Self-Rescue

The purpose of the “self-rescue techniques” learning module is to:

• Identify hazards related to underground mining and discuss self-rescue techniques • Discuss equipment used for self-rescue • Discuss when self-rescue equipment is used • Explain how self-rescue equipment is used • Discuss advantages and limitations of self-rescue equipment • Discuss Refuge Stations

1.1 Instruction Sheet Personal Protective Equipment

Saskatchewan Mines Regulations (2003) and the Occupational health and Safety Regulations (1996) address safety procedures and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) in mining workplaces.

Safety controls and procedures are used to eliminate or reduce many workplace hazards; however, it is not possible to eliminate all workplace hazards.

Wearing personal protective equipment is your last line of defense against injury in the workplace. Employers will also have worksite specific policies and procedures regarding the use of protective equipment. Personal protective equipment is for your safety and is not meant to replace other safety controls or safety procedures. When used properly and in combination with other safety measures it is an additional level of protection.

Airborne contaminants such as dust, fumes, gases, fibres, and aerosols are common hazards in the workplace.

• Long-term exposure to these pollutants is harmful to our respiratory system and overall health. • Short-term exposure to high levels of some contaminants can cause immediate harm. For example, inhaling high concentrations of ammonia can seriously burn the lining of our lungs and air passages.

The main reason to wear a respirator is for protection from inhaling airborne contaminants. If you enter an area where the level of airborne contaminants is harmful, you must wear an appropriate breathing device such as a:

• Respirator • Self-rescuer, or a • Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA)

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO11 Page 145

Airborne contaminants should be eliminated at their source. You can control the amount of dust in the work environment by:

• Wetting down the work area before dust becomes airborne, and • Good ventilation also reduces contamination in the air by removing it from the mine.

If you cannot control the source of contamination, you must protect yourself by using a self- rescuer or a SCBA device that makes the air you breathe safe.

The Occupational Health and Safety Regulations (1996) require your employer to provide a suitable respirator if you are likely to encounter harmful or offensive airborne contaminants.

Self-Rescue Apparatus 404

1) If the chief mines inspector requires self-rescue apparatuses to be provided underground, or if the self-rescue apparatuses are otherwise provided by an employer or contractor, the employer or contractor must ensure that:

a) all workers carry a self-rescue apparatus at all times while working underground; or b) a sufficient number of self-rescue apparatuses are stored at suitable locations underground.

2) If self-rescue apparatuses are provided in accordance with subsection (1), an employer or contractor must ensure that a worker who may be required to use a self- rescue apparatus is adequately trained by a competent person in the proper use of the self-rescue apparatus and in its limitations (Mining Regulations, 2003).

Types of Airborne Contaminants

Fires and unplanned explosions are very dangerous in an underground mine and it is important to be aware of workplace hazards and risks. In the event of a fire or unplanned explosion, you may need to evacuate your work area. Released air-borne contaminants from fires or explosions include:

• Noxious and poisonous gases • Smoke • Impede breathing • Impede good vision • Make movement difficult, and • Are potentially fatal.

Fire and unplanned explosions that may occur in an underground mine are serious workplace hazard and cause immediate risks to your health and safety. Protecting yourself and other workers is your first priority and it is essential that you understand and follow all workplace safety procedures.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO11 Page 146

1.2 Instruction Sheet Equipment Used for Self-Rescue

You must wear respiratory protection if you are in an area where any of the following conditions exist:

• The concentration of airborne contamination is harmful • There is not enough oxygen to support life • The contaminant is poisonous • The length of your exposure would be harmful • You are entering a restricted area (e.g., high radiation levels, abandoned area of the mine)

Before you use any respirator, you must be trained how to use it. An improperly fitted or a defective respirator will not protect you.

There are a number of self-rescuer devices available. Two of the most commonly used self- rescuer devises in underground mining workplaces are the:

• W65 self-rescuer • Ocenco M-20 self-rescuer

The W65 Self-Rescuer

Figure 1: W65 Self-Rescuer Respirator (MSA The Safety Company, 2018)

• Is an air-purifying respirator • It is designed for one-time use • It provides protection against toxic carbon monoxide (CO) • The W65 is immediately ready-for-use after opening and removal from the storage canister • It has a latex-free mouthpiece and nose clip to protect the user from the contaminated air • It has an adjustable head harness which allows for a tight fit and hands-free usage

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO11 Page 147

The Ocenco M-20 Rescuer

Figure 2: Ocenco M-20 Rescuer (Ocenco Incorporated, 2012)

• A self-contained self-rescuer • Designed to protect the lungs from carbon monoxide and noxious, toxic gases and particulates • Use compressed oxygen to provide respiratory (breathing) protection for up to 20 minutes • Can be worn on your belt • Easy to use • A pressure gauge indicates the available oxygen supply is visible through the clear case • Can be refurbished and then re-used

Learning Step 2 Discuss When Equipment is Used

2.1 Instruction Sheet When Equipment is Used

The type of respirator or self-rescuer we use depends on:

• The type of airborne contaminants • If the contaminant is poisonous • The concentration of the contamination • The oxygen level in the air • The length of time you are exposed would be harmful • If you are entering a restricted area (e.g., high radiation levels, abandoned area of the mine).

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO11 Page 148

Learning Step 3 Explain How Equipment is Used

3.1 Instruction Sheet Respirator Use

You must be trained properly before using any respirator. If you have questions or are unsure how to use your respirator, ask your supervisor and always follow the manufacturer's instructions. When using a self-rescue device, you must:

• Be trained how to use it. • Wear the right respirator for the conditions. • Know the limitations of the respirator. • Know the type of contamination you are entering. • Be clean-shaven to wear a respirator. Even short stubble can break the seal between your face and the face piece. • Never wear glasses under a face piece if the eye glasses affect the seal. • If you experience dizziness or other adverse effects when wearing a respirator, immediately move to a safe area. • Always work in pairs when wearing respiratory equipment.

Some respirators come with the option of a full-face mask or a mouthpiece. Before selecting a self-rescue device, ask if you need to protect your face, eyes, and lungs. Always perform two standard tests to check the facemask before entering a contaminated area:

• Block the air intake(s) to the face piece and inhale; the face piece should collapse slightly and there should be no air leaks. • Block the air exhaust and exhale normally – the face piece should bulge slightly and there should be no air leaks. • If either test fails, adjust the face-piece and test again.

Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for wearing the respirator.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO11 Page 149

Learning Step 4 Discuss Safe-Refuge Stations

4.1 Instruction Sheet Safe-Refuge Stations

The Saskatchewan OH&S Regulations (1996) and Mines Regulations (2003) state:

Primary refuge station 398

1) An employer or contractor must install, equip and maintain a primary refuge station underground. 2) An employer or contractor must ensure that each primary refuge station is:

a) excavated in solid host material or constructed of steel; b) separated from adjoining workings by fire doors or stoppings that are:

(i) designed to prevent noxious fumes from entering the refuge station; and (ii) if reasonably practicable, constructed of materials that have at least a one-hour fire resistance rating;

c) located:

(i) if reasonably practicable, in a fresh air circuit; (ii) at least 100 metres away from any fuel station, explosive storage area or other fire hazard; and (iii)as accurately as possible on a map of the surface;

d) designed to accommodate the number of workers who may reasonably be expected to use the refuge station; e) clearly marked; f) readily accessible; and g) properly maintained and the area around the entrance is kept free of combustible material.

3) An employer, contractor or owner must ensure that every primary underground refuge station is equipped with the following:

a) at least 36 hours of breathable air for the number of workers who may reasonably be expected to use the refuge station in accordance with the fire control and emergency response plan; b) potable water for the number of workers who may reasonably be expected to use the refuge station in accordance with the fire control and emergency response plan; c) food; d) lights; e) first aid supplies; f) sanitation facilities;

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO11 Page 150

g) suitable fire-fighting equipment; h) an effective means of communication with the surface; i) sufficient seating.

Auxiliary refuge stations 399

1) An employer or contractor must install, equip and maintain auxiliary refuge stations within a reasonable distance of all locations where workers are expected to take refuge in the event of an emergency incident.

2) An employer or contractor must ensure that each auxiliary refuge station is constructed appropriately and adequately.

3) An employer or contractor must ensure that every auxiliary refuge station is equipped with the following:

a) at least 36 hours of breathable air for the number of workers who may reasonably be expected to use the refuge station in accordance with the fire control and emergency response plan; b) potable water for the number of workers who may reasonably be expected to use the refuge station in accordance with the fire control and emergency response plan; c) an effective means of communication with the surface; d) suitable and appropriate material to maintain the seal around the door of the refuge station.

Additional refuge station 400

An employer or contractor must locate, install, equip and maintain refuge stations, in addition to the refuge stations mentioned in sections 398 and 399, as directed by the chief mines inspector.

Inspection of refuge stations 401

An employer or contractor must:

(a) ensure that every refuge station, and the equipment in the refuge station, is thoroughly inspected by a competent person at least once a month; and (b) ensure that the results of each inspection conducted pursuant to clause (a) are recorded by the competent person mentioned in clause (a) and countersigned by the employer or contractor.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO11 Page 151

Use of compressed air in refuge station 402

If a refuge station mentioned in section 398, 399 or 400 uses compressed air cylinders, the employer or contractor must ensure that the compressed air cylinders are equipped with regulators that provide for the optimum flow of air in the refuge station, taking into account the size of the refuge station and the number of workers who may use it.

Respiratory protective device for hoist operators 403

If the fire control and emergency response plan prepared pursuant to section 383 requires a hoist operator to remain in the hoist room during an emergency and the air supply of a hoist room may become contaminated, an employer or contractor must ensure that:

(a) suitable respiratory protective devices are provided for each hoist operator; and (b) the respiratory protective devices mentioned in clause (a):

(i) provide at least four hours of breathable air; and (ii) are properly maintained.

Employers have mine-site specific safe work and refuge station policies, procedures, and training.

Always follow the work-site safe work and refuge station procedures.

Summary

A self-rescuer is your last line of defense in the event of poor air quality and must be trained in the proper use according to the manufacturer’s instructions when working underground. Ensure that you are trained in the maintenance and care of your self-rescue device and know the advantages and disadvantages of the equipment you are using.

You should only take off your self-rescuer once you have reached a refuge station or area with an air header providing clean air.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO11 Page 152

Learning Outcome 12 Discuss Incidents and Reporting Incidents

Learning Step 1 Discuss the Significance of Reporting Incidents

1.1 Instruction Sheet Incident Reporting

Despite your best efforts with supervision, training, and inspection, unexpected problems are still going to occur on your worksite. Your safety program can dramatically reduce your company's losses due to injuries or property damage, but it won't eliminate them entirely since it may be impossible to remove all workplace hazards. Therefore, you need to know what to do when such losses do occur.

The material in this section refers to both accidents and incidents-not only to the unexpected events that result in damage and/or injury, but also to the unexpected events that could have resulted in damage or injury if circumstances had been slightly different (in other words, “near misses”).

In an incident/accident investigation, it's not really the injury or the damage that you are investigating, as serious as that might be. What you really are doing is looking for the underlying causes that allowed the incident to happen. The injury or damage is the symptom, not the problem and it is the problem that needs to be solved.

Do not minimize the importance of incidents/accidents that seem to be less serious, especially if they happen more than once. A minor incident signals a safety problem as much as a serious incident does. If you don't look beyond the incident to see why it happened, you can be sure the problem leading up to it will not disappear. It's just a matter of time until a tragedy occurs.

The Saskatchewan Employment Act and Saskatchewan Occupational Health and Safety Regulations (1996) comes into effect whenever there is a serious injury on a worksite, or an incident that has the potential for causing serious injury at a worksite. At that point, the contractor or employer responsible for the worksite must notify a Saskatchewan Labour OHS Division as soon as reasonably possible.

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Reporting Incidents: Accidents Causing Serious Bodily Injury

Please review Section 8 of the Saskatchewan Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, 1996 which deals with reporting incidents that result in bodily injury, as follows:

1) An employer or contractor shall give notice to the division as soon as is reasonably practicable of every accident at a place of employment that:

a) Causes or may cause the death of a worker; or b) Will require a worker to be admitted to a hospital as an in-patient for a period of 72 hours or more.

2) The notice required by subsection (1) must include: a) the name of each injured or deceased worker; b) the name of the employer of each injured or deceased worker; c) the date, time and location of the accident; d) the circumstances related to the accident; e) the apparent injuries; and f) the name, telephone number and fax number of the employer or contractor or a person designated by the employer or contractor to be contacted for additional information.

3) An employer or contractor shall provide each co-chairperson or the representative with a copy of the notice required by subsection (1).

Please review Section 9 the Saskatchewan Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, 1996 which deals with dangerous occurrences, as follows:

1) In this section, “dangerous occurrence” means any occurrence that does not result in, but could have resulted in, a condition or circumstance set out in subsection 8(1), and includes:

(a) The structural failure or collapse of:

ii) A structure, scaffold, temporary falsework or concrete formwork; or iii) All or any part of an excavated shaft, tunnel, caisson, coffer dam, trench or excavation;

(b) The failure of a crane or hoist or the overturning of a crane or unit of powered mobile equipment; (c) An accidental contact with an energized electrical conductor; (d) The bursting of a grinding wheel; (e) An uncontrolled spill or escape of a toxic, corrosive or explosive substance; (f) A premature detonation or accidental detonation of explosives; (g) The failure of an elevated or suspended platform; and (h) The failure of an atmosphere-supplying respirator.

2) An employer, contractor or owner shall give notice to the division as soon as is reasonably possible of any dangerous occurrence that takes place at a place of employment, whether or not a worker sustains injury.

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3) A notice required by subsection (2) must include:

(a) the name of each employer, contractor and owner at the place of employment; (b) the date, time and location of the dangerous occurrence; (c) the circumstances related to the dangerous occurrence; and (d) the name, telephone number and fax number of the employer, contractor, or owner or a personal designated by the employer, contractor or owner to be contacted for additional information.

4) An employer, contractor or owner shall provide each co-chairperson or the representative with a copy of the notice required by subsection (2).

Please review Section 6 of the Mining Regulations, 2003, found on Page 7, which deals with dangerous occurrences.

1.2 Review Questions

1. Explain why it’s important to discover both direct and indirect causes of an incident.

2. When must an incident be reported to authorities?

3. Provide five examples of dangerous occurrences in a mine.

Learning Step 2 Discuss Fact Finding Versus Fault Finding

2.1 Instruction Sheet When an Incident Occurs

When an incident or accident occurs, your first step, as supervisor should be to take control of the situation. You need to ensure that:

• No further injury or damage occurs (by identifying and controlling imminent danger hazards), • Injured persons are properly cared for, • Secure the scene of the incident/accident to ensure physical evidence is not disturbed before you and/or a Saskatchewan Labour- OH&S Division Officer can examine it.

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Investigating an incident or accident involves much more than filling out a report form. It is a process of gathering information and drawing conclusions; the report form is only the documentation and the summary of that process.

Reporting is fact finding rather than fault finding. Look for the direct and indirect causes that led to the incident.

Learning Step 3 Discuss Corrective Action and Follow Up

3.1 Instruction Sheet Underlying Causes of Accident/Incidents

Consider the following underlying causes when completing an incident report.

• Shortcuts • Overconfidence • Poor or lack of house keeping • Starting a task before getting all necessary information • Neglecting safety procedures • Mental distractions • Lack of Preparation

Remember:

All accidents and incidents must be reported at the time they occur. An Incident Report Form will be filled out at the time of the event or before you leave site at the end of your shift.

There are four important reasons for completing the Incident Report Forms:

1. So corrective action can be taken to prevent a reoccurrence of the same type of event. 2. In case injury requires medical treatment and submission for a Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB) claim. 3. So accident and incident trends can be analyzed to identify areas requiring priority attention. 4. The incident may need to be reported to outside agencies.

Following an incident, the Shift Supervisor must be notified immediately so he/she can initiate an incident report form. The completed Incident Report form is the start of the incident management process.

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3.2 Review Exercise

1. As a supervisor, what are the first three steps you should take when an incident occurs?

2. Provide five examples of underlying causes to incidents.

3. Why is it important to complete incident report forms?

Summary

Despite everyone’s best efforts with hazard controls, supervision, training, and inspection, unexpected incidents will occur at your worksite. Your safety program can dramatically reduce your company’s losses due to injuries and property damage, but it won’t eliminate them entirely since it is impossible to remove all workplace hazards. A minor incident can signal a safety problem that can lead to a serious incident and it is only a matter of time before a major loss occurs. Know and understand what an incident is, how to respond to an incident, how to report it, and how to investigate both direct and indirect causes.

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Learning Outcome 13 Discuss Fit for Duty and Drug and Alcohol Testing

Learning Step 1 Discuss the Benefits of Physical Activity and Elements of Good Health

The purpose of the “fit for duty and drug and alcohol testing” learning outcome is to

• Inform participants how their physical health impacts their ability to successfully do their job • Discuss the importance of back care • Discuss managing fatigue and self-care depending on weather conditions • Discuss harassment guidelines, and • Discuss drug and alcohol testing

1.1 Instruction Sheet The Benefits of Physical Activity

Your body is the most important tool you bring to the workplace each day. A healthy body allows you to avoid injuries and work more efficiently. Keeping your body in good health through exercise and proper nutrition is of benefit to you in all areas of your life.

• Physical activity stimulates various brain chemicals leaving you feeling happier and more relaxed. • Exercise can combat and prevent chronic diseases like high blood pressure, osteoporosis, and diabetes. • Physical activity helps you to manage your weight. • Exercise boosts your energy by delivering oxygen and nutrients to your tissues and ensuring your cardiovascular system works efficiently. • Regular physical activity also promotes better sleep.

When planning physical activities, it’s important to consider these four elements of good health.

• Aerobic fitness • Muscular fitness • Stretching • Core exercise

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Aerobic exercise helps your heart, lungs and blood vessels transport oxygen throughout your body making it easier to complete routine physical tasks.

Muscular fitness or strength training helps you increase bone density, stamina and strength.

Stretching improves your joints range of motion and promotes better posture. Regular stretching can even help relieve stress.

Core exercise addresses the muscles in your abdomen, lower back, and pelvis which protect your back and connect your upper and lower body movements.

A regular exercise program that includes these four elements will keep your body in good shape and allow you to work effectively while reducing the likelihood of an injury on the job.

Learning Step 2 Discuss Nutrition and Stimulants Such as Caffeine and Nicotine

2.1 Instruction Sheet The Benefits of Good Nutrition

Nutrition also plays a large role in your overall health and your ability to work safely. Food is the fuel that keeps your body in motion. Follow Canada’s Food Guide and choose foods that are nutritious and low in fat. Keep yourself well hydrated, particularly in the summer months. Eat at regular intervals when you are doing physical work to provide your body with a continuous supply of energy.

Figure 1: Healthy Eating

Avoiding stimulants like caffeine or nicotine will help your body to work better and improve your cardiovascular health.

Lifestyle choices not only affect your ability to work, they can also impact your quality of life.

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Learning Step 3 Discuss How to Prevent Back Injuries

3.1 Instruction Sheet Back Care

Before starting any physical work, it is important to warm up your muscles by stretching. Starting heavy work without doing so increases the chance of strains and sprains. This is particularly true for your back muscles.

Figure 2: Back Care

Back injuries are one of the most common work related injuries and recovery can be a long and painful process.

A back injury can occur when you are engaged in an activity that is not part of your daily routine. Injuries can result from sudden movement caused by tripping or falling, or excessive twisting of the spine. It is important to follow proper transporting, lifting, and repositioning procedures when lifting or moving in unfamiliar ways.

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Learning Step 4 Discuss Extreme Weather and the Importance of Self-Care

4.1 Instruction Sheet Extreme Weather

Workers employed at outdoor worksites face the challenges of extreme Saskatchewan temperatures.

Hot Temperatures

Figure 3: Extreme Weather Safety

Working in hot summer months can result in heat cramps, heat exhaustion, or heat stroke therefore making the intake of fluids throughout the day critical. In absence of immediate medical attention, heat stroke could be fatal. Heat exhaustion and fainting (syncope) are less serious types of illnesses which are not fatal but interfere with a person’s ability to work. Excessive exposure to heat is referred to as heat stress.

Underground temperatures in most potash mines range from 25 ºC to 45 ºC (or higher), depending on work area.

Warning Signs of Heat Stroke

Victims of heat stroke and hypothermia are unable to notice the symptoms, and therefore, their survival depends on co-workers’ ability to identify symptoms and to seek medical help.

While symptoms can vary from person to person, the warning signs of heat stroke can include:

1. Complaints of sudden and severe fatigue 2. Nausea 3. Dizziness 4. Light-headedness 5. Sweating (may or may not)

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What are the Exposure Limits for Working in Hot Environments?

The American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) recommends Threshold Limit Values (TLVs) for working in hot environments. These limits are given in units of WBGT (wet bulb globe temperature) degrees Celsius (°C). The WBGT unit takes into account environmental factors namely, air temperature, humidity and air movement, which contribute to perception of hotness by people. In some workplace situations, solar load (heat from radiant sources) is also considered in determining the WBGT. Some Canadian jurisdictions have adopted these TLVs as occupational exposure limits and others use them as guidelines to control heat stress in the workplace.

Figure 4: Heat Stroke

Remember:

When working outdoors, remember to wear sunscreen and appropriate eyewear to block the sun’s rays. Water is the best fluid to keep you hydrated.

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ACGIH Screening Criteria for Heat Stress Exposure (WBGT values in 0 C) for 8 hour work day five days per week with conventional breaks Allocation of TLV ® Action Limit Work in a Light Moderate Heavy Very Light Moderate Heavy Very Work/Rest Heavy Heavy Cycle 75-100% 31.0 28.0 -- -- 28.0 25.0 -- -- 50-75% 31.0 29.0 27.5 -- 28.5 26.0 24.0 -- 25-50% 32.0 30.0 29.0 28.0 29.5 27.0 25.5 24.5 0-25% 32.5 31.5 30.5 30.0 30.0 29.0 28.0 27.0 Notes:

Table is intended as a screening tool to evaluate if a heat stress situation may exist.

Assumes 8-hour workdays in a 5-day workweek with conventional breaks.

TLVs assume that workers exposed to these conditions are adequately hydrated, are not taking medication, are wearing lightweight clothing, and are in generally good health.

Examples of workloads:

Rest - sitting (quietly or with moderate arm movements)

Light work - sitting or standing to control machines; performing light hand or arm work (e.g., using a table saw); occasional walking; driving

Moderate work - walking about with moderate lifting and pushing or pulling; walking at moderate pace; e.g., scrubbing in a standing position

Heavy work - pick and shovel work, digging, carrying, pushing/pulling heavy loads; walking at fast pace; e.g., carpenter sawing by hand

Very Heavy - very intense activity at fast to maximum pace; e.g., shoveling wet sand Adapted from: 2013 TLVs® and BEIs® - Threshold Limit Values for Chemical Substances and Physical Agents and Biological Exposure Indices. Cincinnati: American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH), 2013, p.210)

Table 1: ACGIH Screening Criteria for Heat Stress Exposure

Humidex and Thermal Comfort Humidex Range (0 C) Degrees of Comfort 20-29 Comfortable 30-39 Varying degrees of discomfort 40-45 Uncomfortable 46 and Over Many types of labour must be restricted

Table 2: Humidex and Thermal Comfort

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Cold Temperatures

At very cold temperatures, the most serious concern is the risk of hypothermia or dangerous overcooling of the body. Another serious effect of cold exposure is frostbite or freezing of the exposed extremities such as fingers, toes, nose, and ear lobes. Hypothermia can be fatal in absence of immediate medical attention.

During the winter, remember to dress in layers and wear insulated boots and gloves. Keep your eyes and skin protected from wind and extreme cold in the winter. Excessive exposure to cold is called cold stress.

Warning Signs of Hypothermia:

1. Shivering, cold, pale, and dry skin 2. Tiredness, confusion, and irrational behaviour 3. Slow and shallow breathing 4. Slow and weakening pulse

What are Exposure Limits for Working in the Cold?

*2013TLVs® and BEIs® - Threshold Limit Values for Chemical Substances and Physical Agents and Biological Exposure Indices. Cincinnati: American Conference of Governmental Industrial

TLVs Work/Warm-up Schedule for Outside Workers based on a Four-Hour Shift* Air Temperature - No Noticeable Wind 8 km/h Wind 16 km/h Wind 24 km/h Wind 32 km/h Sunny Sky Wind (5 mph) (10 mph) (15 mph) (20 mph) 0 C F (approx.) Max. No. of Max. No. of Max. No. of Max. No. of Max. No. of (approx.) work Breaks* Work Breaks Work Breaks Work Breaks Work Breaks Period * Period Period Period Period -26 to -15 to (Norm breaks) (Norm breaks) 75 2 55 3 40 4 -28 -19 1 1 min. min. min. -29 to -20 to (Norma breaks) 75 2 55 3 40 4 30 5 -31 -24 1 min. min. min. min. -32 to -25 to - 75 2 55 3 40 4 30 5 Non- -34 29 min. min. min. min. emergency work should -35 to -30 to 55 3 40 4 30 5 Non- cease -37 -34 min. min. min. emergency work should -38 to -35 to 40 4 30 5 Non-emergency cease -39 -39 min. min. work should cease -40 to -40 to 30 5 Non- -42 -44 min. emergency work should -43 & -45 & Non-emergency cease below below work should cease

Hygienists (ACGIH), 2013, page 202.

Table 3: TLVs Work/Warm Schedule

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The ACGIH has adopted the guidelines developed by the Saskatchewan Labour for working outdoors in cold weather conditions. These guidelines recommend protective clothing and limits on exposure time (Table 3).

The recommended exposure times are based on the wind chill factor, a scale based on air temperature and wind speed. The work-break schedule applies to any four-hour period with moderate or heavy activity. The warm-up break periods are of 10-minute duration in a warm location. The schedule assumes that “normal breaks” are taken once every two hours. At the end of a 4-hour period, an extended break (e.g., lunch break) in a warm location is recommended.

More information is available in the ACGIH publications “2013 TLVs® and BEIs®” (or most current) and “Documentation of TLVs® and BEIs®” and on the Saskatchewan Labour web page Cold Conditions Guidelines for Outside Workers.

4.2 Review Exercise

1. What are the benefits of physical activity? (List 4)

2. List the four components elements of fitness and explain why they are important.

3. What are the signs of heat stroke? (List 4 symptoms)

4. What are the signs of hypothermia? (List 4 symptoms)

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Learning Step 5 Discuss Fatigue and the Importance of Sleep

5.1 Instruction Sheet Shift Work and Fatigue

Another key element to keep you safe at work is management of personal fatigue. Begin by scheduling a solid seven to nine hours of sleep every night. Also take adequate breaks throughout your workday. Stretching and moving around between tasks helps you to stay alert and focused.

Remember:

Schedule 7-9 hours of sleep each night.

Figure 5: The Body Clock

The Body Clock

Human beings are day oriented. We are designed to work in the daytime and sleep at night. The internal body clock (circadian clock) is responsible for this. It causes a regular variation through 24 hours in different body and mental functions. This variation is referred to as the circadian rhythm. Body temperature, heart rate, blood pressure, respiration rate and adrenaline production, for example, normally rise during the day and fall at night. It is these changes which affect behaviour, alertness, reaction time and mental capacity of all people by varying degrees.

Nightshift

Most people find it is difficult to adjust to night work. If people work by night and rest by day, their circadian rhythms are disturbed but they never completely change to the new pattern of work and sleep. A partial adjustment may occur over successive shifts, but normal circadian rhythms are usually quickly re-established on days off. As well, some people are early risers who work best early in the day and slow down in the evening. Others are late to rise, slow to get going and often at their peak in the evening. Ten to 20 per cent of people who are early risers find it hardest to adjust to working at night.

Did you know?

The need for sleep is the second most powerful urge (after breathing) and the impairment of 24 hours without sleep is similar to a 1% blood alcohol level?

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Sleep Cycles

The sleep cycle lasts about 90 minutes and during that time we move through five stages of sleep. The first four stages makeup our non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep. This is a light sleep. The fifth stage is when the rapid eye movement (REM) sleep occurs, or the dream state.

People get their longest sleep when they go to sleep before midnight and their shortest when sleep begins in the morning.

On-the-Job Fatigue

The level of tiredness increases with the number of hours worked and is more pronounced during the second half of a shift, especially between two and six in the morning. Another common problem experienced with sleep loss is a high level of sleepiness when awake. Many shift workers actually fall asleep briefly while working. These ‘microsleeps’ may last from seconds to three minutes and some shift workers may not be aware that they have nodded off.

Increased feelings of fatigue and sleepiness at work may make it difficult for employees to maintain concentration. This has implications for workplace safety. Judgement is impaired and response time slowed.

An Australian study which compared the effects of alcohol and sleep loss on work performance showed that shift workers who have had one sleepless night can be as great a workplace hazard as someone who has been drinking alcohol.

Health Effects

Shift workers and former shift workers show more signs of ill health than people on fixed day work. Health problems may appear after a short stint of shiftwork, or may be only apparent after some years. Common health problems often associated with shiftwork could include gastro- intestinal trouble. Women working shiftwork could have possible fertility issues or when pregnant have preterm labor. Shiftwork over the age of 40 could become more intolerant of shiftwork.

• Gastro-intestinal complaints: Body rhythms for digestive function are regulated for food to be eaten during the day. The digestive system is relatively inactive at night, causing problems with some foods which are tolerated well in the daytime. Digestive complaints are often aggravated by a higher intake of caffeinated drinks consumed at night to keep awake. • Pregnancy: Possible risk of preterm labor or underweight baby. Possible fertility issues for women. • Age: Shift workers may become intolerant of their work schedules when they reach their 40s and 50s, despite having done shiftwork successfully for many years. Older employees may also find it more difficult to switch from eight-hour to 12-hour shifts.

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Managing Shiftwork

Adapting to shiftwork is easy for some people while others never adjust. Exercise and a well- balanced diet will probably help any adjustment. Family understanding and cooperation can also reduce stress that seems to go with a shift worker’s lifestyle.

If you do find it difficult to adjust to shiftwork, you should discuss the problem with your supervisor or manager, occupational health nurse or doctor or counsellor or employee advisory service. They may be able to help you find a solution.

Managing Odd Hours

To avoid a build-up of fatigue while you are on night shift, you must get as close to your average amount of sleep as possible. The following hints may help:

• Curtains with backing or blinds to reduce the light levels. • Sleeping in cool conditions helps in getting to and staying asleep. An air conditioner may help. • Reducing noise with heavy curtains and sound insulation on the doors and windows. Let close neighbours know when you will be sleeping in the daytime so they can avoid mowing or noisy car repairs. • Maintain a regular sleep schedule. A minimum of four hours of sleep is desirable, but try to allow at least seven hours in bed. Rest without sleep is still beneficial for the body. • Try different sleep times in the daytime to find which suits best – straight after work, before the next night shift or part of both. • Try relaxing between work and bed. Some shift workers prefer to go straight to bed while others find it better to read or watch television first. • Don’t get upset if you can’t sleep straight away. Read the paper or watch television. • Remember rest in itself is important. • Don’t drink too much liquid before going to bed. • Avoid coffee in the last few hours prior to sleeping. • Alcohol, contrary to popular belief, does not promote sleep. Instead, it lowers the quality of sleep and overloads and stimulates the bladder. • Be cautious with the use of sleeping tablets. They may help for a few days but should not be used in the long term. • Heavy smokers have difficulties in going for long periods without a cigarette, especially during the day. Craving for a cigarette may wake you up. If you give up smoking you will sleep poorly until your body adjusts, but then your sleep will improve.

Other Helpful Hints

• Maintain regular eating patterns as much as possible. Balanced, varied meals are very important. Keep family meal times the same even though the work routine constantly changes. Family meals may need to be altered in content to suit the shift worker.

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• Time meals carefully. Afternoon workers should have the main meal in the middle of the day instead of the middle of the work shift. Night workers should eat lightly throughout the shift and have a moderate breakfast. This way they should not get too hungry while sleeping during the day and digestive discomfort should be minimal. • Pay careful attention to the type of food eaten. Drink lots of water and eat the usual balance of vegetables, fruit, lean meat, poultry, fish, dairy products, grains and bread. Eat crackers, nuts and fruit instead of pop and candy bars during work breaks. Reduce the intake of salt, caffeine, and alcohol. Avoid greasy foods, particularly at night. • Avoid excessive use of antacids, tranquilizers and sleeping pills. It is healthier to watch what and when you eat, and use relaxation techniques to aid sleep. • Relax during meals and allow time for digestion. • Sleep on a set schedule to help establish a routine and to make sleep during the day easier. Some people may prefer to get a full period of rest just before the next work shift (as it is with “normal day” work). Try different patterns of work and sleep to see which is best for you. • Make sure that family and friends are aware of and considerate of the worker's sleep hours and needs. Ensure that the shift worker has a comfortable, dark, quiet place to sleep during the day. Air conditioning, a telephone answering machine, and good blinds on windows are recommended. • Make time for quiet relaxation before bed to help get better sleep. Learn how to relax using muscle relaxation, breathing techniques and so on. Use mental imagery to block out unpleasant thoughts. If you still do not fall asleep after an hour, read a book, meditate or listen to quiet music for a while. If sleep still does not come, reschedule sleeping hours for later in the day. Limit commitments later in the day to allow for napping. • Pay attention to general physical fitness and good health habits. • Learn how to recognize and reduce stress through physical fitness, relaxation techniques and so on. • Take leisure seriously (CCOHS, 2018).

5.2 Instruction Sheet Stress

Stress can be defined as the result of any emotional, physical, social, economic or other factor that requires a response or change. It is generally believed that some stress is okay and, in fact, necessary (sometimes referred to as challenge or positive stress). When stress occurs in an amount or intensity you cannot handle, both mental and physical changes may occur.

Workplace stress is the harmful physical and emotional responses that can happen when there is a conflict between job demands on the worker and the amount of control a worker has over meeting these demands. In general, the combination of high demands in a job and a low amount of control over the situation can lead to negative stress.

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Causes of Stress at Work

An event that triggers a stress reaction in your body is called a stressor. Situations at work that may cause stress could include the following:

• Possible injury or illness • Deadlines • Lack of training for a new job or task • Feelings of pressure • Lack of time to do work • Lack of control of job tasks • Job change • Downsizing of the company • Working with difficult colleagues or clients

I have heard stress can be both good and bad. Is this true?

Answer: Some stress is normal. In fact, it is often what provides us with the energy and motivation to meet our daily challenges, both at home and at the workplace. Stress in these situations is the kind that helps you rise to a challenge and meet your goals, such as deadlines, sales or production targets, or finding new clients. Some people would not consider this challenge a type of stress because, having met the challenge, we are satisfied and happy. However, too much stress can have negative impacts. When the feeling of satisfaction turns into exhaustion, frustration or dissatisfaction or when the challenges at work become too demanding, we begin to see negative signs of stress.

Figure 6: Stress

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Potential Health Effects of Stress

Too much stress can have a negative impact on your overall health. Your body reacts to stress with a fight or flight response. This is very effective for the short term when faced with an immediate danger. However, our bodies deal with all types of stress in the same way and experiencing stress for long periods of time, such as constant stressors at work, will keep this system activated. With long term stressors, the fight-flight system does not get the chance to turn off and this can lead to a variety of possible health effects and symptoms including:

Physical Psychosocial Behavioural • Fatigue • Anxiety • Eating Disorders • Headaches • Irritability • Intolerance • Changes in appetite • Sadness • Procrastination • Increased blood pressure • Defensiveness • Substance abuse • Grinding teeth • Anger • Increased smoking • Clenched jaws • Hypersensitivity • Withdrawal or isolation • Shortness of breath • Apathy from others • Muscle aches • Depression • Poor job performance • Increased perspiration • Slowed thinking or racing • Poor personal hygiene • Trouble sleeping thoughts • Change in close family • Depression of the immune • Feelings of helplessness, relationships system hopelessness or of being • Absenteeism • Cardiovascular disorders trapped • Mood swings • Gastronomical disorders • Pessimism • Weight disorders

A few stress management tips include:

• Exercising regularly, Yoga, meditation or relaxation techniques • Eating healthy and refrain from excessive alcohol/drug use • Take a break from the stressor • Laughing – proven to reduce stress

Learning Step 6 Define Harassment

6.1 Instruction Sheet Harassment

Workers should expect a workplace free from harassment. Both the Canadian Human Rights Act and the Canada Labour Code protect employees from any harassment at work. Saskatchewan provincial human rights laws also prohibit harassment and the Criminal Code protects people form physical or sexual assault.

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The Saskatchewan Employment Act – Part III defines harassment as conduct, comments, displays, actions or gestures that have lasting harmful effect on a worker.

Figure 7: Harassment

Harassment is taken very seriously because it has the potential to threaten the health and safety of the targeted worker and those who work with that person.

The Canadian Human Rights Act prohibits harassment related to race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, age, sex, marital status, family status, disability, pardoned conviction, or sexual orientation.

Having a sense of humour and joking with co-workers is healthy and can improve the work environment and morale. However, humour cannot extend to any actions that can put anyone in harm’s way – emotionally or physically. Practical jokes like shooting compressed air or shaking a co-worker’s ladder are inappropriate and can result in serious injury. Don’t take chances with anyone’s safety.

Policy Development

All employers must develop, in consultation with the occupational health committee, a written policy to prevent harassment in the workplace. Employers must implement that policy and post it in the workplace.

What Can I do if I am Harassed?

Do not ignore harassment. Report it. If you fear for your safety, or the safety of others, contact the police. If harassment occurs at work, you should:

• First, inform the harasser of the issue and tell them that it’s unacceptable and unwanted. • Contact the person listed in your workplace harassment policy. • If no policy is available, find out if there is a company grievance procedure to help you, or contact your union representative. • Keep a written record of the incidents, including times, places and witnesses.

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Figure 8: Reporting Harassment

You may also be able to file a complaint with the Canadian Human Rights Commission.

6.2 Review Exercise

1. What are the different types of legislation that protect workers from harassment?

2. If you are harassed at work can you file a complaint with the Canadian Human Rights Commission?

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Learning Step 7 Discuss Harassment Legislation

7.1 Instruction Sheet Harassment Policy – Sample

1. Definition (section 2(1)(l) of The Occupational 5.3. Once a person designated by the employer to Health and Safety Act, 1993): receive complaints of harassment receives a “Harassment” means any inappropriate conduct, complaint, that person shall immediately bring comment, display, action or gesture by a person: the complaint to the attention of the employer. (i) that either: 5.4. The employer will: notify the alleged harasser A) is based on race, creed, religion, colour, sex, of the complaint; provide the alleged harasser sexual orientation, marital status, family with information concerning the circumstances status, disability, physical size or weight, age, of the complaint; and undertake a confidential nationality, ancestry or place of origin; or investigation. B) subject to subsections (3) and (4), adversely 5.5. Following the conclusion of the investigation, affects the worker’s psychological or the employer will inform the complainant and physical well-being and that the person the alleged harasser of the results of the knows or ought reasonably to know would investigation. cause a worker to be humiliated or intimidated; and 6. Resolution and corrective action (ii) that constitutes a threat to the health or safety of Where harassment has been substantiated, the the worker; employer will take appropriate corrective action to resolve the complaint. Where harassment has not 2. Worker right been substantiated, no action will be taken against Every worker is entitled to a working environment a worker who has made a complaint in good faith. that is free of harassment.

3. Employer obligation 7. Confidentiality This employer will ensure that no worker is This employer will not disclose the identity of the subjected to harassment at this place of employment. worker or the circumstances of the complaint, except where disclosure is necessary for the 4. Worker obligation purposes of investigating or taking disciplinary No worker shall cause or participate in the action in relation to the complaint, or where such harassment of another worker. disclosure is required by law. 5. Procedure All complaints will be taken seriously. The rights of 8. External complaints all concerned will be respected. Nothing in this policy prevents or discourages a 5.0 Workers are encouraged to use these steps to worker from referring a harassment complaint to address incidents of alleged harassment the Occupational Health and Safety Division internally. under: The Occupational Health and Safety Act, 5.1. A worker who believes that he or she has been 1993; particularly sections 3 and 4; and The subjected to harassment is encouraged to first Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, clearly and firmly make known to the alleged 1996; particularly section 36. harasser that the harassment is objectionable and A worker may also file a complaint with the must stop. Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission under 5.2. Where this cannot be done, or is unsuccessful, The Saskatchewan Human Rights Code, the worker should report the alleged harassment particularly sections 16, 17, 18 and 27. A worker to the employer or to one of the following retains the right to exercise any other legal avenues persons designated by the employer to receive available. complaints of harassment.

Name/Position: ______

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Learning Step 8 Discuss the Use of Drugs (Legal and Illegal) and Alcohol

8.1 Instruction Sheet Drugs and Alcohol

Working while under the influence of any substance that can impair your judgement or ability to do your job safely is extremely dangerous to you and your co-workers.

Illegal drug use and abuse as well as alcohol use and abuse jeopardizes the health and safety of the user, the user’s fellow employees and the safety of the general public. An employee who uses or abuses drugs or alcohol is more likely to become involved in serious accidents. Furthermore, drug and alcohol abuse directly, or indirectly, increases absenteeism and reduces productivity. The adverse effects of illegal drug and alcohol use results in increased utilization of sickness and disability benefits, and increased insurance premiums.

Figure 9: Drug Free

Many companies encourage workers who are taking prescription or over the counter medications to notify their supervisor. Some jobs cannot be performed by workers while they are taking certain types of prescription or over the counter drugs (i.e., allergy or cold and flu medications). Entry into confined spaces, climbing or operating mobile equipment can be extremely dangerous when done by a person under the influence of certain substances.

These restrictions are enforced to protect the worker using the drugs as well as his or her co- workers. If you are taking prescription drugs or over-the-counter medication, you should check with your doctor or pharmacist to ensure it is safe for you to work or operate your vehicle. Keep a record of what you are currently taking for medication in your wallet. It could be valuable in an emergency. If you experience any side-effects such as dizziness or lack of concentration, tell your supervisor immediately and contact your doctor.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO13 Page 176

Learning Step 9 Discuss Drug and Alcohol Testing Procedures

9.1 Instruction Sheet Testing

Be prepared for drug testing to be a condition of pre-employment and continued employment. Generally, testing is applied under four conditions:

1. Pre-employment/access – to determine worker’s fitness for work prior to arriving on site. 2. Due cause – at any point that a worker displays behavior or signs/symptoms of impairment, an employer had the right to request a Drug and Alcohol test to confirm an employee’s fitness for work. 3. Post incident – to rule out the presence of drugs or alcohol contributing to an incident. 4. Post Treatment (random for 2 years) – following the completion of a substance abuse treatment program, the employer reserves the right to random Drug and alcohol testing at any time to ensure the efficacy of the worker’s treatment and ongoing sobriety.

There are various Drug and Alcohol tests. Common tests are urine, breathalyzer or oral swab.

Mixing drugs and alcohol can be a deadly combination. Using or being under the influence of recreational drugs or alcohol at a worksite is forbidden. You simply cannot work safely under the influence of these substances. Drug and alcohol consumption affects your work performance and inhibits your physical coordination. Being impaired in this way greatly increases the risks to your physical safety and well-being along with contravening company policy, is also illegal.

9.2 Review Exercise

1. Explain why companies have drug and alcohol policies. (List 4 reasons)

2. Do you have to inform your supervisor if you are taking prescription or over the counter drugs?

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO13 Page 177

Summary

Your body is the most important tool you bring to the workplace each day and if you look after it, it will look after you. Keeping your body in good health through exercise and proper nutrition is of benefit to you in all areas of your life. Along with physical safety, you should expect a workplace free from harassment and all employers must develop and implement a harassment policy that contains all the legislated requirements. Lastly, the use of over-the-counter, prescription and illegal drugs can impair your judgement or your ability to do your job safely. Be prepared for drug-testing to be a condition of pre-employment and continued employment on mine sites.

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – LO13 Page 178

Standardized Safety Training

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness

Appendix A Course Outline

Course General Mining Safety Awareness Course Description This course provides a general overview of mine safety and offers an introduction to: Saskatchewan Mining Regulations, OH & S Regulations, and Saskatchewan Employment Act; hazard identification and control; personal protective equipment; safe use of hand and power tools; safe use of scaffolding and ladders; controlled energy safety; fire safety and hot-work awareness; ground control awareness; environmental awareness and spill reporting; asbestos awareness; incidents and reporting incidents; and fit for duty and drug testing.

Target Audience This course is suitable for workers on Saskatchewan Mining Association member sites Course Hours 14 hours Student Assessment Theory Assessment Grade/Passing Grade 80% Learning Resources General Mine Safety Awareness Student Manual General Mine Safety Awareness PowerPoint Learning Mode Classroom or Online Learning Outcomes 1. Discuss regulatory bodies in mining including the Saskatchewan Employment Act, Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, and the Saskatchewan Mine Regulations 2. Discuss hazards and controls associated with mining 3. Describe legal requirements and proper use of personal protective equipment 4. Describe safe and proper use of hand and power tools 5. Discuss safe-work practices related to ladders and scaffolding 6. Identify hazards associated with controlled energy and proper methods of controlling energy 7. Discuss fire safety and hot-work practices 8. Identify hazards related to ground control and describe safe-work practices 9. Identify environmental hazards and describe responsibilities for reporting spills 10. Discuss asbestos hazards and controls 11. Identify hazards related to self-rescue techniques 12. Discuss incidents and reporting incidents 13. Discuss fit for duty and drug and alcohol testing

Prepared by: Amanda Stalwick Date: July 14, 2015

Approved by Program Head: Sharon Hopkins Date: May 2016

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – Appendix A Page 181

Learning Outcomes/Assessment Tools Learning Steps 1. Discuss Regulatory Bodies in Mining Including the Saskatchewan • Discuss Preliminary Matters and their significance Employment Act, Occupational Health and Safety Regulations and • Discuss general safety requirements the Saskatchewan Mine Regulations

Assessment Tools: Learning Outcome 1 Quiz 2. Discuss Hazards and Controls Associated With Mining • Define hazards • Discuss roles and responsibilities • Discuss effective hazard controls • Discuss the hierarchy of hazard control • Assess physical hazards and controls • Discuss radiation protection • Assess biological hazards and controls • Assess chemical hazards and controls • Assess psychosocial hazards and controls • Discuss monitoring strategies • Determine probability and severity of risks Assessment Tools: Learning Outcome 2 Quiz 3. Describe the legal requirements and proper use of personal • Discuss PPE legislation and roles and responsibilities protective equipment • Identify hazards related to PPE • Discuss how to prevent head injuries by identifying overhead hazards and using a hard hat • Discuss how to prevent eye injuries by identifying and eliminating workplace hazards and use of proper eye protection • Describe how to avoid foot injuries by understanding and eliminating potential workplace hazards and appropriate foot protection • Discuss glove protection and how to prevent hand injuries • Discuss respiratory PPE • Discuss fall protection PPE • Discuss hearing protection and when it needs to be used • Discuss the correct fit, maintenance, and use of PPE • Discuss Safe Work Practices and Procedures Assessment Tools: Learning Outcome 3 Quiz 4. Describe safe and proper use of hand and power tools • Discuss power and hand tool hazard identification and controls • Discuss power and hand tool selection and inspection • Discuss maintenance legislation and lockout/tagout for deficiencies

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Learning Outcomes/Assessment Tools Learning Steps Assessment Tools: Learning Outcome 4 Quiz 5. Discuss safe-work practices related to ladders and scaffolding • Discuss how to identify the common types of ladders and scaffolds • Discuss the safety procedures for putting up and working from ladders • How to identify and understand ladder labels • Discuss the correct procedures for scaffold construction and use • Discuss how to identify and understand scaffold tags Assessment Tools: Learning Outcome 5 Quiz 6. Identify hazards associated with controlled energy and proper • Discuss legislation, roles, and responsibilities methods of controlling energy • Discuss isolation • Identify different types of energy sources • Describe lock, lockboxes, and tags • Describe energy control interruption Assessment Tools: Learning Outcome 6 Quiz 7. Discuss fire safety and safe hot-work practices • Discuss the Mining Regulations fire-safety legislation • Discuss causes of mine fires • Discuss harmful products of mine fires • Discuss the five classes of fires and the types of portable fire extinguishers • Explain mine emergency warning systems and fire prevention techniques • Discuss the basic principles of fire suppression • Define hot-work • Discuss hot-work management programs • Discuss hot-work permits • Discuss how to avoid hot-work • Discuss hot-work safe-work practices • Discuss protection for hot-work hazards • Discuss hot-work hazard evaluation • Discuss hot-work personal protective equipment • Discuss preparation for hot-work Assessment Tools: Learning Outcome 7 Quiz 8. Identify hazards related to ground control and describe safe-work • Explain ground control practices • Discuss supervision of workers • Discuss legislation, roles, responsibilities in regard to ground control • Describe potash and hard rock ground control hazards and controls

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – Appendix A Page 183

Learning Outcomes/Assessment Tools Learning Steps • Discuss sound and scale Assessment Tools: Learning Outcome 8 Quiz 9. Identify environmental hazards and describe responsibilities for • Define Environmental Contaminants reporting spills • Discuss spill reporting procedures • Discuss legislation regarding spills • Discuss spill cleanup and management • Discuss Saskatchewan Environment’s legislation concerning air, water, waste, and chemicals and how they affect the workplace Assessment Tools: Learning Outcome 9 Quiz 10. Discuss asbestos hazards and controls • Define asbestos • Discuss properties of asbestos • Discuss where asbestos is found and what it looks like Assessment Tools: Learning Outcome 10 Quiz 11. Identify hazards related to underground mining and discuss self- • Discuss equipment used for self-rescue rescue techniques • Discuss when equipment is used • Explain how equipment is used • Discuss safe-refuge stations Assessment Tools: Learning Outcome 11 Quiz 12. Discuss incidents and reporting incidents • Discuss OH & S and Mine Regulations legislative requirements • Discuss the significance of reporting incidents • Discuss fact finding vs fault finding • Discuss corrective action and follow up Assessment Tools: Learning Outcome 12 Quiz 13. Discuss fit for duty and drug and alcohol testing • Discuss the benefits of physical activity and elements of good health • Discuss nutrition and stimulants such as caffeine and nicotine • Discuss how to prevent back injuries • Discuss extreme weather and the importance of self-care • Discuss fatigue and the importance of sleep • Define harassment • Discuss harassment legislation • Discuss the use of Drugs (legal and illegal) and alcohol • Discuss drug and alcohol testing procedures

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – Appendix A Page 184

Learning Outcomes/Assessment Tools Learning Steps Assessment Tools: Learning Outcome 13 Quiz Assessment Tools: Theory Final Exam (Open Book)

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SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – Appendix A Page 186

Standardized Safety Training

SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness

Appendix B Glossary

Glossary

Adit – A nearly horizontal passage from the surface by which a mine is entered and drained. In the U.S., an adit is usually called a tunnel, though the latter strictly speaking, passes entirely through a hill and is open at both ends – frequently called “drift” or “adit” level.

Air Track Drill – a heavy drill mounted on crawler tracks that are controlled by separate air motors.

Alloy – A compound of two or more metals, usually produced by fusion.

Alluvial – Deposited by a stream.

Alteration – Change in the mineralogical composition of a rock typically brought about by the action of hydrothermal (hot water) solutions.

Amalgamation – Use of mercury to catch native gold by sorption, forming a liquid of plastic “amalgam” from which the mercury is later removed by distillation.

Amenability – Characteristic reaction of minerals to basic methods of mineral processing.

Anchor Bolt – A foundation bolt; a drift spike, or other device used for holding any mechanism or structure down. It may or may not be threaded.

Anemometer – An instrument for measuring the velocity of air currents; specifically, in mines a common form consists of a small delicately mounted disk fan connected by means of gears with indicating dials, especially useful when air current is over 100 feet per minutes (fpm).

ANFO – A free running explosive made of 94% prilled ammonium nitrate and 6% No. 3 fuel oil.

Anion – An ion carrying a negative charge.

Anode – The electrode which gives off positive ions, or toward which negative ions collect.

Anode – A rectangular plate of copper (or other metal) cast in a shape suitable for electrorefining.

Bit – The cutting end of a boring instrument. In rock drilling, it is frequently made with ultra- hard material such as diamonds or tungsten carbide.

Blast Hole – A hole drilled for purposes of blasting rather than for exploration or geological information.

Cathode – A rectangular plate of metal produced by electrolytic refining which is melted into commercial shapes such as wirebars, billets, ingots, etc.

Concentrate – A product containing the valuable metal and from which most of the waste material in the ore has been eliminated.

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Concentrator – A particular type of milling plant that produces a concentrate of the valuable minerals or metals. The concentrate must then be treated in some other type of plant such as a smelter to effect recovery of the pure metal.

Converter – In copper smelting, a Bessemer furnace is used to reduce copper metal from matte, and slagging off the iron; this machine is also used in steelmaking.

Core – The long cylinder of rock, about one inch or more in diameter that is recovered by the diamond drill.

Crusher – A machine for crushing rock.

Cut and Fill – A method of stoping in which ore is removed in slices, or lifts, following which the excavation is filled with rock or other waste material known as backfill, before the subsequent slice is mined. The backfill supports the walls of the stope.

Drift (or drive) – A horizontal passage underground that follows along the length of a vein or rock formation.

Erosion – The breaking down and subsequent removal of either rock or earthy surface material through the forces of nature.

Flux – A chemical substance used in metallurgy to react with gangue minerals in an ore deposit.

Gangue – The worthless minerals associated with valuable minerals in an ore deposit.

Gneiss – A layered or banded crystalline metamorphic rock whose grains are aligned or elongated into a roughly parallel arrangement.

Hoist – A lifting apparatus, as an elevator; a hydraulic lift or a windlass.

Jaw Crusher – A machine in which the rock is broken by the action of moving steel jaws.

Matte – The produce of a smelter being metal with some contained Sulphur. It must be refined to obtain the pure metal.

Metallurgy – The various methods of preparing metals for use by separating them from their ores.

Mill – a) a plant in which ore is treated for the recovery of valuable metals or concentration of the valuable minerals into a smaller bulk for shipment to a smelter or other reduction works; b) a machine consisting of a revolving drum for the fine grinding of ores as preparation for treatment.

Ore – A mixture of ore minerals and gangue from which at least one of the metals can be extracted at a profit.

Ore Dressing – The treatment of ore by the removal of some of the waste materials.

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Pillar – A block of solid ore rock left in place for the purpose of supporting the walls or root in a mine.

Raise – A vertical or inclined underground working that has been excavated from the bottom upward.

Refinery – A plant in which metal or valuable minerals are extracted from ore.

Roasting – The treatment of ore by heat and air, or oxygen-enriched air, in order to remove Sulphur and arsenic.

Rockbolting – The act of consolidating roof strata by means of anchoring and tensioning steel bolts in holes especially drilled for the purpose.

Scaling - Removal of loose rock from the roof or walls. This work is dangerous and a long bar (called a scaling bar) is often used.

Shaft – A vertical or inclined excavation for the purpose of opening and servicing a mine. It is usually equipped with a hoist at the top, which lowers and raises a conveyance for handling men and material.

Skip – A self-dumping type of bucket used in a shaft for hoisting ore or rock.

Slag – The vitreous mass separated from the fused metals in a smelting process.

Smelting – A heat process applied to ore, which separates a metal from impurities.

Sounding - Knocking on a roof to see whether it is sound and safe to work under.

Stope – An excavation in a mine from which ore is being or has been extracted.

Tailings – Material rejected from a mill after the recoverable valuable minerals have been extracted.

Waste – Barren rock in a mine, or at least material that is too low in grade to be of economic value.

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SFTY 1820 General Mine Safety Awareness – Appendix B Page 192

Developed January 2018 SFTY 1820 Revised 01/18 05/18 11/18 Last Revised Date November 2, 2018