![Differences between IOSH and NEBOSH: Which is better? [2023]](https://www.asmgroup.ie/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/IOSH-Vs-Nebosh-which-is-better-1000x675.jpg)
by asmuser | Sep 21, 2023 | Uncategorised
IOSH vs NEBOSH: The key differences
IOSH and NEBOSH are health and safety training courses that are recognised as essential for those in the occupational safety and health industry. They are widely recognised courses that cover health and safety fundamentals to improve the risk assessment process and maintain safety in the workplace. IOSH offers a way to complete a short, effective training course in health and safety and NEBOSH courses usually take longer to complete.
IOSH is the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health, the biggest health and safety body in the world. It is a high quality training provider which offers two courses, IOSH Managing Safely, aimed at managers and supervisors, and IOSH Working Safely, which is ideal for non-health and safety personnel. IOSH is a Chartered body, while NEBOSH is an examination body.
NEBOSH is the National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health, offering examinations for health and safety professionals wanting to qualify in the industry. NEBOSH courses are delivered by other institutions, not NEBOSH itself, and they usually focus on general health and safety principles, fire safety and safety risks in the gas and oil industry.
IOSH Managing Safely
IOSH Managing Safely courses are suited to those with supervisory roles in the workplace, to give managers and supervisors an understanding of their safety responsibilities and overall workplace safety. It is an excellent option for those working in or considering health and safety management, and other health and safety professionals.
IOSH Working Safely
The IOSH Working Safely course is designed for non-health and safety professionals, to give them a basic understanding of health and safety and practical skills. This can be completed in one day.
NEBOSH National General Certificate
The NEBOSH National General Certificate is a requirement to work in the health and safety industry in the UK, while the NEBOSH International General Certificate focuses on international health and safety practices and is internationally recognised.
NEBOSH National General Certificate vs IOSH Managing Safely: Which is right for you?
Some companies prefer both IOSH membership and NEBOSH training, so it is worth finding out if this applies to your employer before making a decision. IOSH courses are often more in demand in Ireland, so this may be the best health and safety training option for you.
Is IOSH Recognised in the Health and Safety Profession?
The IOSH course is internationally recognised and assures a certain level of knowledge that is required by many employers. IOSH is a chartered body that offers training and certification, as well as membership. IOSH membership is an asset when you are applying for a role in health and safety management.
Q: Have you Already Completed Training in Occupational Safety?
If you work in health and safety management or in the health and safety industry, you will want to stay up to date with your health and safety training. IOSH courses are ideal for this purpose, ensuring your training is current and relevant to your workplace. NEBOSH training courses tend to be longer and offer more detailed training in risk management for particular health and safety roles.
Which Is Better: NEBOSH or IOSH?
Whether to opt for NEBOSH or IOSH is a decision determined by the type of health and safety role you work in or plan to work in. The IOSH is better for managers and regular personnel, while the NEBOSH may be ideal for those in or seeking careers in the health and safety industry. Both are valuable and worthwhile training courses, but many companies in Ireland tend to prefer the IOSH courses, and you can get started today.
IOSH courses in Ireland
ASM Groups offer IOSH Managing Safely training courses for all employees who are required to manage risks and resources in the workplace. Our comprehensive course is designed to give you the knowledge you need to create a safe and healthy working environment. This training course takes place over three days and we recommend renewal every three years to ensure you are fully up to date.
![First Aid Kit Essentials for the Workplace [Ireland]](https://www.asmgroup.ie/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/First-Aid-Kit-Essentials-Ireland.jpg)
by asmuser | Sep 19, 2023 | Uncategorised
Do you know what’s in your workplace first aid kits? If you’ve never needed to find out, good for you! But should you need to give or receive emergency first aid at work, it would be reassuring to know that your first aid box contains everything you might need to deal with a difficult situation.
First aiders are trained to assess an emergency situation, diagnose and treat injuries and provide immediate life-saving care until the emergency services arrive. This is a big responsibility and it’s important to know that your workplace first aid kit contains all the equipment you might need in an emergency situation. Of course, ensuring that someone has alerted the emergency services is a key task for a first aider and they will often administer emergency care when they have instructed another person to make the emergency call.
First Aid Kit Ireland
Whether you are working in an office-based business, a construction site or a factory, your company will be required to have up to date first aid kits, containing the essential first aid supplies for the workplace. This includes products for dealing with wounds and burns as well as eye injuries and broken limbs. Most workplaces will also have a defibrilator, and first aid courses include training in how to use these.
Essential first aid products for your first aid boxes
When you’re stocking first aid kits for the workplace, the following first aid supplies are recommended by the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) in Ireland:
- Sterile wound dressings in a range of sizes
- Adhesive plasters
- Triangular bandages
- Safety pins
- Sterile eye pads
- Wrapped disinfectant wipes
- Gloves
- Scissors
- Pocket face mask
- Burn dressings in different sizes
- Crepe bandage.
- Sterile water if there is no clean running water.
If you are stocking first aid kits for sports facilities, you may require some more specific items such as joint support bandages or single use ice packs. There is an extensive range of first aid supplies to choose from, but it is important to ensure you have plenty of the most commonly used items, and avoid items that could be used incorrectly or cause complications, such as any ointments and creams.
Where to find First Aid supplies
You can find your first aid supplies in a local pharmacy, supermarket or online. Many suppliers stock complete first aid kits so that you can select the size you need and all the essentials are included. Make sure you choose high quality products so that they will last longer.
Your workplace first aid kit is not just for your staff team. If you are a customer facing business, your customers may also need medical attention or supplies in an emergency situation, and you will want to offer them a first class service. This means it’s even more important to keep your first aid kits up to date, replacing any items that are damaged or have expired, and carry out this check on a regular basis.
Book your First Aid Responder Course in Ireland
Training as a first aider is straightforward and rewarding, even enabling you to apply for more senior positions in some businesses. Our first aid course is a three day training that will give you the skills and confidence to give emergency care and deal with injuries, as well as perform CPR and the use a defibrilator. Ideal for anyone who wishes to train as a first aider in the workplace, book your place on our First Aid Responder course today.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is crucial to seek proper training from a certified first aid professional before attempting any first aid techniques or procedures. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized guidance and to ensure your actions align with your specific circumstances.
by asmuser | Sep 13, 2023 | Uncategorised
What is Chemical Safety Awareness
Chemical Safety is achieved by undertaking all activities involving chemicals in a way that ensures the safety of human health and the environment. It encompasses all chemicals, natural and manufactured, and a range of exposure situations from the natural presence of chemicals in the environment to their extraction or synthesis, industrial production, transport use and disposal.
Both employers and employees are responsible for ensuring that chemical safety is employed in a work setting.
Employers are required to:
- Determine which hazardous substances are present in the workplace.
- Assess the risks to employees and others from the presence of these hazardous substances.
- Prevent or control exposure to hazardous substances to as low a level as is reasonably practicable.
- Have arrangements in place to deal with accidents, incidents and emergencies.
- Provide information, training and consultation to employees.
- Make available health surveillance to employees.
Employees are required to:
- Co-operate with their employer e.g. follow procedures
- Make full and proper use of control measures e.g. using PPE, extract ventilation where provided
- Report any defects in plant/ equipment immediately to the employer as appropriate
- Report any accident or incident which may have resulted in the release of a dangerous chemical/substance into the workplace
What is a Chemical Agent?
Any chemical element or compound, on its own and/or mixed, as it occurs in the natural state or as produced, used or released, including release as waste, by any work activity, whether or not produced intentionally and whether or not placed on the market.
Examples of Chemical Hazards
- Bleach/caustic soda
- Paints/thinners
- Glues/epoxy resins
- Latex glove allergies
- Respiratory Sensitizers
- Lubricating oils/oil mists
- Wood dust
- Pesticides
- Ozone (Photocopier)
- Cleaning agents
- Dyes/toners
Routes and exposure
There are a range of different routes of entry of different chemicals into the body. This includes:
- Ingestion: Eating/Drinking/Smoking/poor hand hygiene
- Intravenous
- Inhalation (mouth and nose)
- Absorption through the skin
- Transplacental (from mother to unborn)
Exposure to different chemicals can have a range of side effects, from cardiovascular, to skin issues, respiratory problems and nervous system issues.
Chemical Spill
Everyone on-site needs to be aware of Spill control/response procedures. The purpose of a Spill Response Plan is to provide procedures that will be followed in the event of an emergency spill incident of a hazardous substance. The purpose of Spill Response Plan is to protect people and the environment from contamination due to spills of hazardous materials on site.
Small chemical spills or less hazardous materials should be dealt with by the appropriate persons wearing the appropriate PPE For those who are responsible for cleaning up spills , response to small spills of hazardous materials may still require the use of respirators
The Spill Response Plan applies to responses of hazardous materials releases that create an emergency situation.
What is an Emergency Situation?
Release of hazardous substance where there is a potential safety or health hazard e.g. fire, explosion, chemical exposure, threat to environment or property. Responses to spill situations that can not be immediately and safely cleaned-up, neutralized, absorbed or controlled by employees in the area who normally work with the hazardous materials.
Why Complete Chemical Safety Awareness Training with ASM Group?
ASM’s Chemical Awareness Training course is designed to provide participants with a clear understanding of what chemicals are and thus the knowledge and skills to work safely with chemical agents within the Laboratory environment. ASM Group’s half day course covers a range of different topics including:
- Health and Safety Legislation & Regulations associated with use of chemicals in the workplace.
- Chemical Forms
- Safe Handling
- Routes Of Entry To The Body and health effects
- Chemical Information Safety Data Sheets
- Classification
- Chemical Control Measures
- Risk Assessment Process, Hierarchy Of Control Measures,
- Administrative Control Measures
- Accidents And First Aid
- Chemical Disposal
- PPE
- Course review and Q&A
If you have a chemical awareness training need, don’t hesitate to reach out to contact@asmgroup.ie and we would be happy to discuss.
References
World Health Organization
by asmuser | Sep 5, 2023 | Uncategorised
What is Atex?
ATEX broadly refers to the hazard of explosive atmospheres in the workplace attributable to the presence of flammable gasses or combustible dust mixed in air, which can contribute to the risk of explosion. Anywhere where an explosive atmosphere can occur, ATEX applies. ATEX certification ensures that equipment works safelty in explosive environment without causing any accident if used as per the manufacturer’s recommendations. Equipment used in explosive atmosphere within the EU and EEA have to be ATEX certified.
What is an Explosion?
An explosion occurs if a flammable substance is present in mixture with air or another oxidant (i.e. sufficient oxygen), within the explosion limits, together with a source of ignition.
All substances capable of an exothermic oxidation reaction are to be regarded as flammable
Explosive atmosphere
An ‘explosive atmosphere’ is a mixture with air, under atmospheric conditions, of flammable substances in the form of gases, vapours, mists or dusts in which, after ignition has occurred, combustion spreads to the entire unburned mixture.
The ATEX directive does not define atmospheric conditions, but normally a temperature range of -20 ºC to +60 ºC and a pressure range of between 0.8 and 1.1 bar is accepted. It should be noted that electrical products are usually designed and tested for use in an ambient temperature range of -20 ºC to +40 º
Types of Ignition Sources
There are a range of different types of ignition sources that may cause an explosion, including:
- Non Ex Rated electrical equipment
- Hot Work (welding, cutting, burning, soldering)
- Electrical fault
- Inadequate or poor electrical bonding/ earthing
- Stray currents/arcing across conductive gaps
- Static electricity generation:
- Personnel
- Solvent pumping
- Powder transfer
- Moving part of machinery (conveyor belts)
- Mobile Phones/camera/pagers
- Smoking
- Exposed Hot surfaces; Boiler casing/Petrol engines
- Lightning strike
- In excess of Auto Ignition Temperature (methane 595oC)
- Mechanical friction; lack of lubrication/ min clearances
- Vibration; mechanical sparks •Impact sparks (metal striking metal
- Flammable liquids, Solvents, IPA, Methanol, Ethyl Alcohol
- Dusts of flammable solids, e.g. chemicals powders- API’s.
It is common knowledge that electrical equipment such as light fittings, switches, motors or virtually any type of electrical apparatus may cause sparking. Static electricity that has generated and built up on a person, clothing or item may discharge with a spark. In these instances, a spark could ignite an explosive atmosphere and cause an explosion, which could lead to serious consequences, including:
- Explosion
- Fire
- Injuries
- Fatal
- Loss of business
- Building loss
- Equipment loss
- Prosecution
Therefore if an explosive environment is unavoidable in a workplace, appropriately rated and protected electrical equipment must be used to prevent the possibility of ignition from a spark, or other source of heat. In addition, special precautions such as anti-static clothing and shoes may be necessary to prevent the possibility of a static electrical discharge potentially igniting a flammable gas or combustible dust.
Why complete ASM Group’s Atex Awareness training?
ASM Group’s ATEX training course provides learners with a better understanding of Atex, providing insight to the legislation and application of the Directives. ASM Group’s Atex Awareness training covers a range of different topics, such as:
- What is Atex?
- Legislation
- Examples of industrial explosion accidents
- Flammable data
- Gases and vapours
- Dust and powders
- Hazardous Area Classification
- Potential Ignition Sources
- Explosion prevention and control measures
- Selecting Equipment, Equipment Inspections & maintenance
Get in touch with ASM Group today to discuss your training requirements. We deliver a wide range of training courses, from Atex Awareness, to Lock Out Tag Out, Hot Works, Permit to Work, Safe Pass and many more. Don’t hesitate to reach out today to discuss your training needs by emailing contact@asmgroup.ie
References
Health Services Authority
by asmuser | Aug 30, 2023 | Construction Safety
Permit to work systems in Ireland are designed to identify where a work permit is needed and regulate high risk work and maintenance work to ensure safety. Read on for more information: permit to work training everything you need to know.
What is a Permit to Work Training (PTW) and why is it important in Ireland?
Permit to work training or permit to work systems enable workers to identify situations in which a permit to work is needed and to create and/or use a permit to work system in their workplace. Permit to work systems are essential for hazard identification and risk assessments and workplaces that carry out manual handling tasks will require permit to work systems.
Who needs to do Permit to work training?
This Permit to Work Course is designed for anyone who will be creating and issuing permits, as well as those who will supervise or carry out the work covered by a permit.
Why do Permit to Work Training?
Permit to work training is a requirement in many types of work and is essential to control risks and ensure workers can work safely. Permits to work ensure correct hazard identification and are vital for risk assessment and to ensure safe systems. Whether you are working in confined spaces or following emergency procedures for hot work, the work permit system enables key principles of safety to be followed routinely, to avoid a major accident and promote safe work systems. Permit to work systems guard against communication failure and identify the control measures and precautions required for specific types of hazardous work, making the work procedure simpler and easier to carry out safely.
How long is a Permit to Work training course?
Training in permit to work systems is an essential but simple process, taking only half a day with our certified Permit to Work course.
What topics are covered in a permit to work training course?
A permit to work training course will teach competent individuals to identify situations which require a permit, to understand and record the information required for a permit, to understand how to create a permit to work system in the workplace or know who else is responsible for managing this system, and to have a good working knowledge of the general principles of permit to work systems and how they work in practice.
What are the different types of Permit to Work?
There are several types of permit to work in Ireland, covering high risk work across many industries, and these are:
- General work permit (blue), for work that does not fit into the other categories.
- Hot work permit (red), for work involving flammable substances or other hot works that involve fire or another heat energy source, heat application or other fire hazards.
- Height permit, for work activities carried out in spaces at least 2m above ground level, such as ladders, elevated platforms and scaffolds.
- Confined space permit, for certain activities carried out in confined spaces, such as vessels, tanks, pits or containers.
- Excavation work permit, for work that involves mining or digging to extract resources or build infrastructure.
- Electrical work permit, for work where the worker or tools will be connected to electrically energised circuits, or electrical energy sources.
- Special hazard work permit, for hazardous work that is specific to the workplace or industry seeking the permit, including hazardous environments such as nuclear waste plants.
- Chemical work permit, for work which involves harmful chemical substances, such as chemical engineering.
Book your permit to work training course
Our permit to work training course is a half day training session that will teach you everything you need to know about permit to work systems, as well as how to set up a permit to work system in your workplace. It is suitable for all employees who require a permit to work and is assessed and completed through a multiple choice test.
![What are the 3 Primary Roles of a First Aider? [Ireland]](https://www.asmgroup.ie/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/primary-roles-of-a-first-aider.jpg)
by asmuser | Aug 30, 2023 | First Aid Training
Being a qualified first aider is a big responsibility and one that is essential to any workplace setting. First aiders can save lives and offer immediate medical care in emergency situations and becoming a first aider is a great way to develop your skills and become a more valuable asset to your company.
In a medical emergency, the main responsibilities of a first aider include:
- being able to assess the situation,
- knowing how to protect yourself and others from harm, and
- treating the casualty or multiple casualties until further help arrives.
1. A first aider should assess the situation
The role of a first aider is often about assessing the emergency situation and deciding what medical treatment is needed. In some situations, this will mean preventing further harm, while other situations may require appropriate first aid treatment to be administered by the first aider to preserve life or promote recovery.
2. A first aider must protect themselves and others to potentially save lives
A trained first aider must ensure continuing safety for themselves and others around an emergency situation before emergency treatment is given. This may mean moving obstructions around an injured person or clearing the area of hazards before giving emergency first aid. A first aider may need to protect themselves while giving emergency first aid, particularly if the patient’s condition is unstable or dangerous. A first aider should not put themselves in danger to provide first aid care.
3. First aiders offer first aid and ensure further medical help is sought
A workplace first aider is not expected to provide full medical treatment but to offer emergency first aid until the emergency services arrive. The aim of a first aider is to preserve life and prevent further harm, which may involve putting a patient in the recovery position, administering first aid to life threatening injuries or using an automated external defibrillator to begin cpr (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) in case of cardiac arrest.
As a first aider, it is essential to ensure that the emergency services have been contacted, and you should ask those around you to call a medical professional and other emergency services while you are with the injured person. If you can provide emergency first aid to prevent deterioration and assess the patient’s condition to pass on information to medical professionals, this will help to preserve life.
First Aid Courses for First Aiders
First aid training is not just about learning to use a first aid kit but it is empowering to be able to offer immediate help. The responsibilities of a first aider include wound care, such as stopping bleeding, learning how to perform cpr and learning the correct way to treat an injury such as a fractured limb. Identifying the medical need and offering appropriate medical help is all part of first aider training and our first aid training will give you the practical skills and knowledge you need to give effective life support, assess where further medical help is needed and treat injuries or illness appropriately.
While training as a first aider, you will become familiar with a first aid kit, learn about first aid kit essentials and learn how to perform first aid procedures to promote recovery. First aid procedures will range from caring for an unconscious casualty to helping to prevent infection and wound care. Even simple first aid procedures such as elevation keeping a limb above the heart can be an essential part of first aid care and can prevent deterioration and preserve life.
Become a first aider with 3 Day first aid training
Every workplace first aider will be trained in first aid arrangements and emergency first aid, enabling them to promote recovery and offer life saving medical care. Our first aid courses in Cork are designed to make first aid training fun and accessible to all so that becoming a first aider is not a stressful process. Contact us to arrange your 3 day first aid training today and ensure your first aid provision is up to date.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is crucial to seek proper training from a certified first aid professional before attempting any first aid techniques or procedures. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized guidance and to ensure your actions align with your specific circumstances.
by asmuser | Jul 25, 2023 | Uncategorised
What is Face Fit Training and why is it important in Ireland?
Face fit training is all about ensuring the safety and efficiency of respiratory protective equipment (RPE) in the workplace. Face fit training is a way to ensure the correct selection of masks for workers who need to wear RPE and to be sure that the mask being used fits correctly. This ensures adequate protection for wearers of respiratory protective equipment from hazardous substances and other risks.
Face fit RPE is a vital way to protect employees and relies on ensuring a tight seal between the mask being worn and the wearer’s face. There must be continuous contact between the mask and the skin of the face, and this is a skill that must be taught and learned correctly. If RPE is not fitted correctly and fit tested, there is a risk of harm to the wearer.
Who needs to do Face fit Training?
Face fit testing training is suitable for anyone who wears a specific mask or particular type of RPE over the face. It’s also an ideal training course for anyone who is responsible for other workers or for overseeing health and safety protocol.
Why do a Face fit training?
Face fit testing is an essential way to protect workers by ensuring that wearing a correct fitting, suitable mask becomes standard practice. Training courses are designed to fit train the person wearing the mask so that those wearing masks and half masks are better protected from any substances hazardous at work. Face Fit training involves two types of mask testing – qualitative which examines potential leaks or faults with masks in relying on participants own senses i.e. sense of smell, and quantitative, which involves the use of equipment which gather information about the masks which is then analysed in a laboratory.
How do they do the Face fit test?
A face fit test relies on using the exact mask that you will use at work. The process of ensuring the face of the wearer is completely protected will be carried out using a bitter or sweet test solution and adjusting the mask until there is no movement and therefore no smell passes through the tight seal of the mask.
How often should you face fit?
Your face fit test certificate will apply only to the exact mask you have face fit tested during the course and we recommend taking a new test every two years.
How long is a face fit training course?
Our face fit testing is a short course that incorporates two hours of theory to fully understand fit testing and then a qualitative face fit test for each participant, which lasts around 35 minutes.
What topics are covered in the face fit training course?
Our comprehensive face fit tester course content includes all you need to fit and wear your own mask, including:
- Identifying respiratory hazards
- Understanding routes of exposure to harmful inhalants
- How to select your face fit testing kit equipment
- How to use FFP tight-fitting respirators
- How to use filter respirators, half mask and full mask respirators
- How to correctly put on and take off your Respiratory Protective Equipment. (RPE)
- What Face Fit testing is, why to do it, and how to do it
- The correct method of qualitative fit testing
Our program ensures that any worker using a mask can be certain that they are protected after passing a face fit test. Contact us for further information on Face Fit traning today.
![Lockout Tagout: Your Ultimate Safety Checklist for Every Step of the Process [2023]](https://www.asmgroup.ie/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Lock-out-tag-out.jpg)
by asmuser | Jul 18, 2023 | Uncategorised
Lockout Tagout training is an important way to prevent hazardous energy and protect occupational safety and health. Lockout using an energy isolating device should be done before equipment service or maintenance and it is vital to follow lockout tagout processes correctly. Hazardous energy includes any type of energy that could be released and cause harm to a person, and this includes chemical, hydraulic, mechanical and electrical energy, and more.
When you work with machinery, you will need to take basic steps to ensure employees are protected, and LOTO procedures are an example of these safety precautions. Lockout tagout training has been introduced throughout many industries because hazardous energy sources have affected employees in Ireland when maintenance is not carried out with an energy isolating device. Such accidents, while rare, can cause serious injuries and even fatalities so the introduction of lockout devices and LOTO procedure has been welcomed by the Irish? health administration. Here’s our quick guide to the lockout tagout procedures that are standard practice to protect employees from hazardous energy sources and maintain occupational safety and health during maintenance operations.
Lockout tagout devices and the six steps of lockout tagout (LOTO)
Lockout tagout devices and the lockout tagout LOTO are part of the energy control procedures in a workplace and authorized employees and workers must be trained correctly in LOTO safety to protect occupational safety and health. The tagout device is only one part of the process and every step is essential to ensure that LOTO safe maintenance activities are carried out on any machine or equipment in your workplace to protect your employees, equipment and work processes.
The six steps of lockout tagout procedures in the correct order are:
Step 1 – Preparation
This is the first step in lockout tagout procedures, identifying any hazardous energy sources and means of energy control. Lockout tagout training will teach your authorized employees to identify this type of energy source before applying lockout tagout devices.
Step 2 – Shutdown
This is the process of shutting down machines or equipment to be serviced or maintained. This is also the time to notify affected employees, contractors or visitors of the shutdown. This process is part of your safety culture, and it will soon become routine to perform lockout maintenance in this manner.
Step 3 – Isolation
This step involves isolating the machine or equipment from any source of energy, often by turning off power at a breaker, turning off water pressure or using an energy isolating device. The shutdown of energy is a vital part of the lockout process, protecting your employees before further energy control procedures are carried out.
Step 4 – Lockout/tagout
This is the crucial phase of lockout tagout procedures, when lockout devices are applied to keep energy isolating devices in their safe positions, so only an authorized employee carrying out the lockout tagout procedures can turn them back into unsafe positions. This will prevent an unexpected startup which would restore energy. The lockout tagout program also involves putting a securely fastened tag on the device with the name of the authorized employee performing the lockout tagout and any additional information – hence the name lockout tagout device. LOTO devices are designed to be simple and straightforward safety devices to use, giving you exclusive control over your power sources.
Step 5 – Stored energy check
Even at this stage, it’s possible for hazardous energy to be stored in the machine that has been locked out. Here, any residual energy or potentially hazardous stored energy is identified and relieved or made non-hazardous. Depending on the energy type, the way you release stored energy will vary, so you will need to take the correct energy control measures. Once the machine is de-energized, there will be no risk of hazardous energy to control.
Step 6 – Isolation verification
This is the time to verify isolation by double checking that the LOTO procedures have been followed correctly: the machine should be in the off position with no connection to an energy source, with lockout tagout devices applied appropriately and the residual energy removed. Once this step is completed, an authorized employee can verify that the machine is safe, there is no hazardous energy stored within it, and maintenance, servicing workers or operators can proceed to interact with the machine.
Lockout tagout training with ASM
This course is vital for anyone who wishes to implement a Lock Out Tag Out system. It will provide those who are responsible for LOTO procedures with a full overview of how they work. Workplace safety is a vital responsibility and our half day lockout tagout training course will ensure that your authorized employees, maintenance workers and other employees understand how to prevent hazardous energy sources from causing problems and carry out the correct energy control or lockout tagout procedure. Book your employees and maintenance workers onto our lockout tagout training and bring lockout tagout devices into your workplace today.
Important Note: The information provided in this blog is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional training. It is crucial to seek proper lockout tagout training from a professional training company before performing any lockout tagout steps.
by asmuser | Jun 27, 2023 | Construction Safety
Anyone working in the construction industry will be aware of the role of a Project Supervisor for the Design Process (PSDP) and a Project Supervisor Construction Stage (PSCS) on construction projects. These vital jobs ensure the smooth running of a building project, from its initial stages through to completion.
At ASM Group, our priority is to help those working in key industries to have confidence in their safety and health plan. We can give assistance with health and safety awareness and education, through our comprehensive courses and consultancy. Our team are also experienced health and safety consultants, and we can provide you with a Project Supervisor Design Process (PSDP) or a Project Supervisor Construction Stage (PSCS) service when you need one. Here’s the ASM Group guide to the vital roles played by both the Project Supervisor Design Process (PSDP) and Project Supervisor Construction Stage (PSCS).
What is a Project Supervisor Design Process?
The PSDP is responsible for guiding health and safety at the design stage of the project. By coordinating the efforts of architects, engineers, contractors, and subcontractors, the PSDP facilitates a cohesive design safety process on a construction project.
The PSDP will be the main point of contact between the client, design team, and construction team. They will ensure the project adheres to all regulations, and meets stringent safety, health and welfare standards, as well as meeting the client’s brief and keeping to the project budget and timeline.
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Balancing costs against safety
A key feature of the PSDP role is the ability to juggle effective time and budget management. They must use their comprehensive knowledge of construction regulations to create a safety and health plan that allows the project to optimize costs without compromising the safety of construction workers.
Time related aspects are also vital to the PSDP role. As project managers they must monitor the design process against the project schedule, allowing adequate time to ensure worker safety.
What is a Project Supervisor Construction Stage?
The Project Supervisor Construction Stage comes into play once construction work begins. They are responsible for coordinating and overseeing safety, health and welfare aspects of the project during the construction stage.
Their main objective is to ensure that construction activities are carried out safely and in compliance with health and safety regulations, codes of practice, and industry standards.
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The Construction Stage Safety and Health Plan
In Ireland, the construction stage supervisor is governed by the Health, Safety and Welfare at Work (Construction) Regulations 2013. The PSCS must prepare a specialist safety and health plan, called a Construction Stage Safety and Health Plan. This plan details specific safety procedures and risk assessments. It identifies any particular risk involved in construction stage safety.
Why are the roles of PSCS and PSDP vital to construction projects?
Both the PSCS and PSDP are vital to success in construction. Not only are they a legal requirement, but by coordinating safety from the very early stages through to the finishing touches of the completed structure, these roles promote a safe and healthy working environment. This means that accidents and injuries are less likely, workers can feel safer and happier, and companies avoid the legal and financial implications of safety problems.
Do you need a PSCS or PSDP for your construction project in Ireland?
If you’re looking for a PSCS or PSDP, look to ASM Group today. With years of experience in the construction field, a comprehensive knowledge of regulations, and an excellent grasp of the relevant duties, the ASM team can help you complete your project with the very best success. From coordinating more than one contractor, to helping you identify and neutralise particular risk, ensure your latest company undertaking is completed on time and in budget with help from ASM Group. For those interested in training we also offer PSCS Training and PSDP Training options.
by asmuser | Jun 19, 2023 | First Aid Training
The ABC Rule in First Aid Training
When completing first aid training, it can feel like there is a lot to remember. From performing chest compressions, to contacting the emergency services, in an emergency situation it’s important to have strategies in place to avoid overwhelm, so you can do the right things until professional help arrives.
This is where memory aids such as the ABC rule come in. Also known as “DR ABC” or the primary survey, the ABC rule provides an efficient method for patient assessment, giving you clear guidance for what you need to do when, in order to preserve life and promote recovery in an injured person.
At ASM Group, we pride ourselves on being leading providers of the highest quality first aid training. Here is our guide to the ABC rule and how to use it.
Important Note: The information provided in this blog is intended to depict actions that a trained first aider would typically take in response to certain situations and is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is crucial to seek proper training from a certified first aid professional before attempting any first aid techniques or procedures. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized guidance and to ensure your actions align with your specific circumstances.
What does ABC stand for in First Aid Training?
The ABC rule provides you with a framework for gaining an initial assessment of the injured person. ABC stands for Airway, Breathing, and Circulation.
A is for Airway
Your first move is to check that they have a clear airway. Gently tilt their head back, using one hand on their forehead and another under their chin.
If they are unresponsive, it is vital that you move on to tackle their breathing straight away.
B is for Breathing
Is the person breathing normally? Listen for their breath with your ear above their mouth, looking at their body for the chest rise movement of normal breathing, for 10 seconds.
If you do not think they are breathing, call the emergency services straight away. You will need to start performing CPR, and you should ask someone else on the scene to bring an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) too.
If the casualty is breathing normally, move on to circulation.
C is for Circulation
The next step is to check if they are bleeding heavily.
If they are experiencing severe blood loss, you will need to try and staunch the blood flow by applying direct pressure to the wound. You should also call the emergency medical services straight away.
If they are unresponsive but breathing, and with no bleeding, you should still treat this as a medical emergency. Put the person in the recovery position and contact the emergency services.
What variations are there on the ABC rule?
It can be useful to remember a slightly longer phrase, DR ABC. This adds two additional points to your first aid practice. Before moving on to the ABC part of the process, check for:
D – Danger
Before approaching the casualty in order to administer first aid, you should always check that the area is clear from danger.
R – Response
Is the injured person responsive? The first thing you should do when approaching them is to talk to them. Introduce yourself, ask them their name, ask them to open their eyes. When you reach them, gently hold their shoulders and repeat your questions.
If they reply, or give some kind of gesture that they have heard you, then they are responsive.
If they don’t communicate in any way, they are unresponsive and the situation requires immediate attention.
Are you looking for first aid training in Ireland?
ASM Group is a leading provider of safety training in Ireland. We offer health and safety training courses both on a public and private basis nationwide. We also provide industry specific training and bespoke training courses for our broad base of clients, both in Dublin and throughout Ireland.
Our first aid training courses are delivered in the classroom in ASM training venues as well as on our client sites. Our consultants deliver their expertise in national safety regulations compliance, risk assessment, and occupational safety at our training centres, as well as directly in the workplace. Additionally, we provide training courses online via live webinars to ensure our client training requirements are met.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is crucial to seek proper training from a certified first aid professional before attempting any first aid techniques or procedures. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized guidance and to ensure your actions align with your specific circumstances.
