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1.4.2.9 Loading of blocks 1.
After completion of dressing, blocks are inspected and approved by buyers. Only approved blocks can cross the seas. Depending upon size etc., those not approved are either redressed where possible or sold in local market subject to acceptability. The ones that exhibit tangential cracks may not have any taker and so goes to waste dump. Block is loaded at pit head with crane. Such loading is round the clock and depends upon reporting of truck that would cart it away. Activity of loading has the following hazard
2.
Illumination. The process of loading of blocks is to attach slings raise the load and either the truck reverses below load or load swung on to truck and unloaded. Illumination presently is with crane and truck lights only. Far end of block cannot be visible. Raised load cannot be judged by those standing on ground. Since blocks are loaded from an open area . Lighting towers or portable genets with lighting masts should be available. External pole mounted fixtures should be available
3.
Slings made of steel wire ropes are used for lifting of blocks. These should of proper size slings and clamped safely. Slings used should have a record of inspection and also a certificate from manufacturer for maximum load it can handle. .
4.
Slings cling firm on to sides of block. Block has sharp edges that could affect injury to the strands. A regular pre inspection should be in place. Also procedure for discard should be in place. Gloves should be provided for workers engaged in slinging operations
5.
In general a cubic meter of block would weigh about 2.7(t) Calculated weight as dimensions of buyer as against actual will not tally since the buyer keeps tolerance while measuring therefore the actual weight may be 5-10% more than calculated weight. While handling a load this has to be considered. Capacity of crane that is being used has a capacity of 18(t) at its closest. The capacity would reduce as the load is farther away or when the truck to be loaded is farther away Operation of crane should have clear Safe Operating procedures specifying inspection schedules, responsibilities, signals , authority etc.,
6.
During all loading operation a designated engineer should be available
1.4.2.10 Workshop 1.
Grinding wheel. These rotate at high RPM. Absence of guard, job rest etc can lead to breakage and can inflict fatal injuries. Also emergency cut off switches are to be provided
2.
Housekeeping does not only mean keeping things clean and tidy but also everything in its easily accessible place. Things that are required are in place and also obsolete materials written off. Housekeeping leaves a lot to be desired.
3.
General condition of tools and their proper utilisation needs improvement
4.
Inflation of tyres is yet another hazard that gets higher risk rating. In the absence of inflation cage, at the time inflation lock rings of tyres can fly out and result in fatal injury. A proper tyre inflation cage should be available
5.
Welding transformers mainly air cooled type , lag behind in safety , are not covered , leads are not insulated
6.
Use of oxy –acetylene gas cutting sets. Flash back arrestors are needed to meet emergency of flame travelling backwards in the hose piece. Condition of regulators should be improved
7.
Battery charging area should have exhaust to avoid exposure to toxic fumes. Crocodile clamps should be used. Twisting of bare wires will result in sparking, fire and wear out of battery terminals, the gases are toxic. Battery should be kept at waist level for ease of handling and to avoid back injury