Smoking areas must to cut sources of ignition

Build Safe UAE's weekly safety alert (76) issued a recommendation from Musanada, which asked companies on construction sites to provide sheltered and clearly signed designated smoking areas onsite and away from working areas and stores.

"These must contain fire extinguishers and sand filled ash/butt deposits with "no smoking" signs clearly posted elsewhere on site," it said.

Construction sites are full of combustible materials ( paint, chemicals and construction debris) and lit cigarettes and discarded butts are sources of ignition.

Lack of properly designated smoking areas lead to workers smoking and discarding butts in working area, it warned. "All project employees must receive training on the effect of smoking on health, and the risks and consequences of fire caused through smoking, which must be permitted during official break times only. Disciplinary procedures must be put in place for repeat offenders found smoking in no-smoking areas. Companies must also offer smoking cessation programmes for employees," said the alert.

Parsons International, in its best practice alert, said a toolbox talk on grinding work was conducted on November 16 using Build Safe UAE (BSU) Safety Alert 351.

Safety managers discussed the checks required before undertaking grinding work, precautionary measures to be taken during the work and procedures to follow in case of an emergency.

The toolbox talk was translated by Samsung's foreman to the workers in their own language (Bengali) for better understanding. Almost everyone associated with the M1 Bridge Project from consultant, main contractor to subcontractors attended this toolbox talk.

During the toolbox talk, Najdat Othman, CM – Parsons, Nakheel Projects, reiterated the site management's commitment to safety. Later, the toolbox talk was translated into Hindi so more workers learnt about safety tips.

Meanwhile, Orascom, in its best practice alert, said the impact of developing a safety culture should not be underestimated.

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