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Remember: The contents of this handbook were not intended to
make your life difficult or to increase your paperwork. This book
is designed to keep you and your co-workers safe.
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1.0 Corporate Safety
Policy.......................................................................3
2.0 Petroleum Industry Guiding Principles for Worker
Safety...............4 3.0
Introduction..........................................................................................5
4.0 Safety
Responsibilities........................................................................6
4.1 Operating Companys
Responsibilities..................................................6
4.2 Managements
Responsibilities..............................................................6
4.3 Testers
Responsibilities........................................................................7
5.0 Hazard
Identification............................................................................9
5.1
Introduction............................................................................................9
5.2 Types of
Inspections..............................................................................9
5.2.1 Vehicle
Inspections.........................................................................9
5.2.2 Site
Inspections............................................................................10
5.3 Hazard
Control.....................................................................................10
5.4 Hazard
Reporting.................................................................................10
5.5 Implementation of Hazard Identification and
Control...........................11 5.6 Hazard Control through
Maintenance..................................................12
6.0 Rules and Work Procedures
.............................................................13 6.1
General Safety
Rules.......................................................................13
6.2 Personal Protective
Equipment........................................................14
6.3 Vehicles and
Driving.........................................................................15
6.4 Fire Prevention and
Protection.........................................................16
6.5 Hazardous
Materials.........................................................................18
6.6 Equipment and
Operations...............................................................20
6.7 Testing Specific
Rules......................................................................24
6.8 Working
Alone..................................................................................24
7.0
Communication..................................................................................25
7.1
General.....................................................................................................25
7.2 Pre-Job Safety
Meetings..........................................................................25
7.3 General Safety
Meeting............................................................................25
8.0 Training and
Orientation...................................................................27
Appendix A: Inspection
Sheets.......................................................................29
Appendix B: Hazard Identification Report and Incident
Report...................30 Appendix C: Hazard
Management..................................................................
31 Appendix D: Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System
(WHMIS)...........................................................................................................................35
Appendix E: Transportation of Dangerous Goods
(TDG).............................36 Appendix F: Industry
Recommended Practices: Drill Stem Testing...........37 Appendix G:
Working
Alone............................................................................38
Appendix H: Safety Meeting
Forms................................................................39
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1.0 Corporate Safety Policy
1. The health and safety of employees, contractors, and
sub-contractors are paramount in the conduct of our business.
2. Risks present in all operations must be managed to prevent
injury and sickness, through proper work planning and organizing,
hazard identification, hazard control, and accident
investigation.
3. Management is responsible and accountable for providing a
safe working environment and fostering safe working attitudes.
4. Management is responsible for establishing safety rules and
procedures, as well as providing proper training and to ensure that
everyone understands their responsibilities.
5. All employees, contractors, and sub-contractors must comply
with all health and safety policies and follow all established
rules and procedures at all times.
6. Company rules and procedures meet applicable laws,
regulations, industry standards, and client requirements.
7. It is the responsibility of employees, contractors, and
sub-contractors to work in a manner that ensures their personal
safety as well as the safety of their fellow workers.
8. It is the responsibility of management, employees,
contractors, and sub-contractors to support, participate in, and
enhance the safety program and communicate ideas to improve, and
ultimately, achieve excellence in health and safety.
9. Everyone has the right and responsibility to refuse to do
work when unsafe conditions exist.
10. By fulfilling our safety responsibilities, everyone who
works for Delta P Test Corp. will share the benefits of a safe work
environment.
President and CEO Date
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2.0 Petroleum Industry Guiding Principles for Worker Safety
There are two copies of the Petroleum Guiding Principles for
Worker Safety included in this manual. One is on the following
page; the other is laminated and loose. Please display the
laminated copy (prominently) in your test unit.
There is a laminated copy of Delta-Ps Corporate Safety Policy.
Please display the laminated copy (prominently) in your test
unit.
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Petroleum Industry Guiding Principles For Worker Safety
We, the members of the petroleum industry, have a responsibility
to protect all workers engaged in its activities from personal
injury and health hazards. To meet our responsibility we will
operate under the following guiding principles: RESPONSIBILITY The
operating company, when acting as prime contractor, is responsible
for coordination and general supervision of all activities at the
work site, including activities carried out by contractors,
sub-contractors, service companies and suppliers. While all parties
have a responsibility to promote worker safety, the operating
company recognizes its leadership role in promoting worker health
and safety on the basis that it has the greatest power to influence
work site situations. It is the responsibility of workers and
employers to refuse to perform unsafe work practices. PRIORITY
Activities will be conducted on the basis that safety of all
personnel is of vital importance, whether those personnel are
employed by an operating company, a contracto a sub-contractor, a
service company or a supplier. RECOGNITION The process of selecting
contractors, sub-contractors, service compaadministration of
contracts, will include recognition and support of goodand
recognition based on good safety performance will also be
proviemployees. IMPROVEMENT The operating company, in cooperation
with service companies withmethods and practices that have
potential for improving safety performan Chairman of the Board
Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers Cana
Chairman of the Board Canadian Association of Oilwell Drilling
Contractors P Chairman of the Board Canadian Energy Pipeline
Association Small E
Chief Executive Officer Company Name
r,nies and supp safety performaded by all empl
in the industry,ce.
Chairman of thedian Association of Geop
Chairman of theetroleum Services Assoc
Chairman of thexplorers and Producers A
Chief Operating
Company Na
liers, and the nce. Support oyers to their
will promote
Board hysical Contractors
Board iation of Canada
Board ssociation of Canada
Officer
me
October 2000
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3.0 Introduction
Delta-P Test Corp. is sincerely concerned about the safety of
its employees, contractors, and sub-contractors. It is the company
policy to provide a safe working environment. This manual was
designed to provide everyone working for Delta-P Test Corp. with
the tools to ensure that they can work safely.
Everyone must follow the safety procedures outlined in this
manual and all applicable government regulations while working for
Delta-P Test Corp.
Testing, by the very nature of the work, is diverse and
demanding. Working environments and condition are always changing
as such; rules cannot be established to cover all situations and
scenarios. It is mandatory that good judgment and common sense
prevail in all testing and traveling situations. Be alert and do
not take chances.
If the job cant be done safely, it shouldnt be done at all.
T.B. Bratrud, P.Eng.
Chief Engineer
Delta-P Test Corp.
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4.0 Safety Responsibilities
It is the responsibility of every employee, contractor, or
sub-contractor or operating company (client) to meet the goals of
Delta Ps corporate Safety Policy. To this end, the general safety
responsibilities of each person involved in the work have been
identified. It should be noted that due to the diverse nature of
well testing, these lists should be used as guidelines for
determining safe work, but safe work is not limited to the
responsibilities contained on these lists. Common sense must
prevail at all times and safety must be the paramount condition in
all testing and traveling circumstances.
4.1 Operating Companys Responsibilities
The operating Companys Responsibilities are:
Insist on safe performance throughout operations by ensuring
contractors and employees are competent to do their work
properly.
Have an effective safety program.
Ensure the safety program and operations comply with contractual
and regulatory requirements.
Ensure contractors and employees know the operating companys
expectations.
Provide sufficient time for contractors and employees to perform
their jobs safely.
Hire for employees and contractors only individuals who have
good safety records.
4.2 Managements Responsibilities
Managements responsibilities are:
Insist on performance and behavior that meet the standards of
the companys safety program.
Encourage employee involvement in safety by demonstrating
managements commitment to safety.
Ensuring company, contractor, and testing operations comply with
government safety requirements.
Ensuring accidents and incidents are reported and investigated
and corrective actions are taken.
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Ensuring that testers are adequately qualified to perform their
work.
Ensuring that training needs are identified and met.
Ensure that testers, contractors, and sub-contractors know what
is expected of them.
Ensure that testers, contractors, and sub-contractors understand
the proper reporting procedures for accidents and incidents.
Conduct investigations, using outside specialists if required,
of all accidents and incidents. Record all findings and take
appropriate measures.
Establish equipment inspection and maintenance procedures and
schedules.
Conduct safety meetings and record minutes; circulate and post
meeting minutes.
4.3 Testers Responsibilities
A testers responsibilities are:
Operate only the equipment and carry out tasks for which they
have been adequately trained.
Properly use Personal Protective Equipment.
Abide by all government regulations, company policies (Delta-P
and Client), procedures and standards pertaining to testing.
Refuse to work under conditions or perform tasks for which they
are not adequately trained or prepared.
Be thoroughly familiar with the company safety program.
Report potential hazards to the Operating Company and the
Drilling Contractor. Identified hazards should also be recorded and
passed on to management.
Immediately report all accidents and incidents management.
Participate in the development and improvement of the safety
program.
Know the location, type and operation of all emergency equipment
on board testing units.
Participate in on-site safety meetings and orientations held by
Operating Companies or Drilling Contractors.
Immediately correct unsafe conditions in test units.
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Inform Rig Crews of all known hazards prior to testing and
measures for dealing with the hazards.
Inspect worksites for hazardous conditions and compliance with
regulatory and Operating Company requirements.
Properly maintain testing vehicles and test equipment to
minimize operating hazards.
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5.0 Hazard Identification
5.1 Introduction
The Oilfield can is a dangerous place. Hazards exist on every
drilling rig and lease. Every Drill Stem Test has potential
hazards. Hazards are conditions that exist in every workplace.
A HAZARD is a condition that, if not properly identified and
mitigated, could lead to an incident, near miss, injury or
accident.
It is critical that hazards be identified BEFORE they can evolve
or cause an incident. The best method for identifying hazards in
the workplace is INSPECTION. INSPECTIONS are visual reconnaissance
of a worksite with the intent of identifying hazards.
5.2 Types of Inspections
5.2.1 Vehicle Inspections
Drill Stem testing can be broken into two segments: Travel
to/from the jobsite and testing on the jobsite. Due to significant
amount of hours that are spent driving, road, travel and vehicle
related hazards pose a threat to the safety of the tester. It is
essential that vehicles be inspected on a regular basis to minimize
the incident potential.
Three different inspection checklists have been included in
Appendix A:
Quick Visual Reviews
Detailed Visual Review
Documented Vehicle Inspection
The Quick Visual Review should be performed prior to every trip
with the test vehicle. It consists of vehicle walk around to ensure
that all tires are inflated, running lights are functioning, that
there are no obstructions around the tires, exhaust pipes are free
of clogs, and that all equipment bay door are secured. As part of
the visual review, the driver should ask himself two questions: Am
I in the proper condition to operate this vehicle in a safe and
responsible manner? And What changes to my driving style will I
have to make to properly accommodate the prevailing weather
conditions.
The Detailed Visual Review should be performed while the vehicle
is stopped for refueling. It consists of fluid level checks in
addition to tire pressure checks.
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The Documented Vehicle Inspection is to be performed every
5000km. This is a documented review of the vehicles operations and
condition. A copy of the review is to be forwarded to the head
office for review and filing.
If a condition is identified as a potential hazard during an
inspection, it must be repaired prior to travel to the jobsite.
5.2.2 Site Inspections
Due to the diverse nature of drill stem testing, there are a
continually changing range, number, and risk level of hazards. It
is critical that every drilling site, rig, and rig crew, be
inspected prior to engaging in testing operations.
Site hazards can take many forms: trip hazards, slippery
stairways, overhead wires, lifting loads, etc. Most of these
hazards can be avoided but avoiding a hazard can only occur if the
hazard is recognized. These hazards do not have to be documented in
any uniform fashion; however, a checklist has been provided to
assist in identifying on-site hazards. See Appendix B for a copy of
the Site Inspection Checklist.
Some hazards, however, cannot be avoided and some other action
must be taken to correct the hazard. If this is the case, the
hazard should be identified to the Tool Push. If no action is
taken, the hazard should be identified to the Site
Engineer/Consultant. If there is still no action to mitigate the
hazard, a hazard identification form and risk assessment form
should be filled out and kept on file. Submit a copy of this form
by email as soon as possible. See Appendix B for a copy of the
Hazard Identification Report.
5.3 Hazard Control
After an inspection is complete, it is necessary to control any
hazards that have been identified. There are three steps in hazard
control:
Identify and determine what needs to be done to control/remove
the hazard.
Identify and determine what needs to be done to remove the
hazard.
Establish a time to perform the hazard control.
See Appendix C for more information on Hazard Identification,
Hazard Control, and Hazard Management.
5.4 Hazard Reporting
After an inspection is complete, sometimes it is necessary to
report the hazard to someone other than yourself. A form for hazard
reporting has been included in Appendix B.
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Most of the time, when a hazard has been identified, it can be
corrected by verbal communication with the rig crew, Tool Push, or
Company Engineer. However, if this not the case, a document may be
required to properly record the hazard. These reports will be sent
into the Delta-P head office for filing.
5.5 Implementation of Hazard Identification and Control
The preceding sections on hazard identification, control and
reporting may seem like a great deal of work. This is not the case.
Once you become familiar with the inspection sheets, they will
become an asset to you. Not only will they help keep you safe, but
they will also reduce vehicle breakdowns.
In order to assist you with the understanding of Hazard
Identification and Control, a few examples follow for you to
read:
Example #1
Inspection: Vehicle Detailed Visual Review.
Hazard: Low oil level.
- A hazard has been identified by visual inspection. It should
be controlled.
What needs to be done to remove hazard? Add oil to engine.
Who needs to do it? You. (Or the station attendant, if
available)
When? Now.
Note that the when question is open to discussion. The truck may
be scheduled for an oil change the next day, adding a quart of oil
is just a waste of money. In this case, the low oil level hazard is
a low risk level. However, the oil level may be low and oil was
just added on the previous fuel stop. In this situation, the action
taken may be more than adding oil a service stop may be required.
If this is the case the who changes to a serviceman and the when
question becomes more important.
Example #2
Inspection: Site Inspection Checklist.
Hazard: Logging Truck has Gamma Ray source on lease.
- A hazard has been identified with an inspection checklist.
What needs to be done to remove the hazard? Wait for the logger
to complete his task
Who needs to do it? The logging operator
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When? Upon completion of logging rig-out operations.
Note that in this case the who is someone other than you. If
this is case, it is often necessary to avoid the hazard i.e. stay
away until the hazard is removed. This is also the case with
excavations, overhead cables and other physical hazards. If they
cannot be removed, they may be avoided. This is another reason for
having inspections: you cannot avoid what you cannot identify!
5.6 Hazard Control through Maintenance
Hazards can be controlled by regular maintenance schedules
performed on all tools. Refer to Appendix A for a copy of the DST
Tool Maintenance form.
All DST tools must be serviced as soon as possible after a
test.
After servicing, a Maintenance form must be filled out to record
the details of the service procedures.
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6.0 Rules and Work Procedures
6.1 General Safety Rules Smoking
No Smoking signs on each worksite must be obeyed. Smoking is
permitted in designated locations approved.
Drugs and Alcohol
The use of drugs and alcohol on any worksite where Delta-P is
operating is strictly prohibited. Tester found to be under the
influence of alcohol or illegal drugs while working for Delta-P
will be asked to leave the operating company worksite.
Prescription medications that may interfere with the safe
execution of testing operations should brought to the attention of
Management for review.
Security
All Thefts, burglaries and acts of vandalism must be reported to
Management.
Trucks and equipment should be locked at all times.
Housekeeping
Good housekeeping is a basic part of accident prevention. Clean
test units and worksites encourage pride in the job and prevent
hazards that lead to incidents.
All work areas and shop spaces must be kept clean and free of
obstructions. Tools, grease, and other materials left lying around
can create tripping or slipping hazards.
To prevent spills or accumulations of hazardous substances,
leaks (vehicle or equipment) must be repaired as soon as
possible.
Spilled toxic materials must be cleaned up immediately. Refer to
the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) (found in the doghouse,
Engineers shack, or Tool Pushs shack) for the correct method.
Every worksite must be cleaned up at the end of each shift or at
the conclusion of the job.
All refuse must be disposed of in appropriate containers.
Remember: if you are disposing of test data, do so in a manner that
obscures the information (shredding or burning) contained on the
paper.
Emergency Response Plans.
Every drilling rig and Operating Company will have detailed
Emergency Response Plans (ERP) for every location. Testers must
become familiar with the
All testers must become familiar with the specific EPR for each
test location.
In the event of an emergency, Delta-P testers are required to
follow the instructions of the Operating Company
Representative.
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Delta-P Testers should also render support to secure the
wellbore as necessary (i.e. shut-in hydraulic tool, shut-in test
head, close manifold).
Facial & Head Hair
Head hair must be off the collar and above the ear.
Facial hair must NOT be longer than 1 day of growth. Beards,
goatees and manchurians are not permitted.
Accidents, Incidents, and Injuries
Al accidents, incidents, injuries, and near-misses that occur
while operating for, or traveling to, a Delta-P jobsite must be
reported to Management as soon as possible after they occur.
First Aid
All testers must hold valid first aid certificates and ensure
that appropriate kits are supplied to each test unit.
Additionally, testers should become familiar with the use and
locations of emergency eye wash stations, emergency showers, and
first aid facilities at each test.
6.2 Personal Protective Equipment
Hard Hats
Hard hats approved by the CSA (CAN/CSA Z94.1-92) must be worn at
all times while on a drilling lease. The hat suspension must be
properly adjusted to provide the proper protection. Only hard hats
recognized by the CSA under the applicable standard will be
acceptable.
Hard hats do not have to be worn while in the cab, sleeper, or
telemetry section of a test truck.
Footwear
Hard toed boots approved by the CSA (CAN/CSA Z195-M92) must be
worn at all times while outside the test vehicle on a drilling
lease.
Clothing
During testing, work clothing outer garments of fire retardant
material must be worn. NOMEXIII or Proban are acceptable materials
for outer garments.
Nylon or other static electricity producing materials must not
be worn at any time on a drilling lease.
Cotton or wool should be worn under the fire-retardant outer
layer so that it does not melt to the skin in the event of a flash
fire.
Gloves
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Gloves must be worn appropriate to the work being done and the
nature of the hazard involved. For example, rubber or neoprene
gloves should be worn for the handling of well fluids and cotton or
leather gloves should be worn while handling test tools.
Eye and Face Protection
Eye protection must be worn at all times when outside of the
test vehicle. The eyewear must meet or exceed the appropriate CSA
standard (CAN/CSA-Z94.3-92).
Hearing Protection
Hearing protection must be worn in posted areas or where noise
levels exceed the Provincial or Federal Government Regulations.
Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA)
SCBA must be worn in areas where H2S concentrations exceed 10ppm
and when the O2 concentration level in the air is below 18%.
6.3 Vehicles and Driving
Inspections
Vehicles must be inspected as per the guidelines documented in
5.2.1 Vehicle inspections.
Accidents
All vehicle accidents must be reported.
Defensive Driving
All testers must:
Hold a valid operators license of a class appropriate to the
vehicle that they operate.
Comply with the rules of the road as outlined by the appropriate
provincial or territorial jurisdiction.
Exercise courtesy in their driving habits.
Remain alert and try to anticipate road conditions and action of
other drivers.
Drive in a manner appropriate to the conditions of the road.
Ensure all loads are properly secured and that all cargo/stowage
doors are closed and locked.
Use seat belts.
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Employ a guide when backing up if in an area where obstructions,
hazards, or personnel, cannot be readily identified by the
side-view mirrors.
Winter Driving
Additional caution must be exercised under winter driving
conditions:
Avoid sudden changes of speed of direction when driving on icy
or snow-covered roads to reduce the possibility of skidding.
Leave extra distance between the test vehicle and any vehicle in
front of it. Stopping on ice can take eight times the distance as
required on dry pavement.
Carry suitable warm clothing and emergency equipment and
supplies for protection in the event travel is halted by mechanical
breakdown or extreme weather.
Clear snow and ice from the hood and top of vehicle and all
windows prior to driving.
Obey signs warning of slippery sections or icy bridges.
6.4 Fire Prevention and Protection
General
The best method for fighting a fire is to prevent it starting in
the first place.
The following components are required for a fire to ignite and
undergo combustion:
1. Fuel (in the form of a vapor or liquid)
2. Oxygen (in the atmosphere, typically)
3. Heat (temperatures high enough to ignite the fuel/air
mixture. Note that exposure to temperatures can be VERY brief for
ignition i.e. a static electric spark.)
The removal of any one of these three components will prevent a
fire or cause a fire to be extinguished. However, control of #1 and
#2 are the easiest sources to control.
To prevent fires, tester should:
Always follow safe work practices when handling flammable or
explosive materials.
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Store oily rags, waste materials, paper and combustible
materials in metal containers with lids and empty containers
regularly.
Avoid overloading electrical outlets.
Classification of Fires
Fires can be grouped into the following classifications:
CLASS A: Fires in ordinary materials: wood, paper, rags,
rubbish, etc.
CLASS B: Fires in petroleum products: oil, grease, and
paint.
CLASS C: Fires in live electrical equipment.
CLASS D: Combustible metal fires: magnesium, sodium, cesium,
etc.
Fire Extinguishers
Each test vehicle must be equipped with a dry-chemical ABC rated
fire extinguisher.
Shops spaces must be equipped with a dry-chemical ABC rated fire
extinguisher.
Access to fire-fighting equipment must never be blocked by any
material or equipment.
All fire fighting equipment must be inspected at least monthly
to ensure it is in place, accessible, and fully charges.
Discharged fire extinguishers must be immediately replace with
fully charged units.
Operation of Fire Extinguisher
Following is a stepwise procedure for operating fire
extinguishers:
Break the seal holding pin in place. Remove hose (if
equipped)
Remove pin. Depress cartridge lever to charge the extinguisher
(if equipped)
Point nozzle in safe direction (away from face and body) and
give the operating handle a quick squeeze to verify operation.
Approach fire from the upwind side (wind at your back).
Engage the fire from a distance of 3 meters (10 feet).
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Direct the stream from the extinguisher towards the base of the
fire. Use a rapid sweeping motion (side to side) to blanket the
base of the fire with chemical.
Use the full stream do not throttle the extinguisher.
If the extinguisher is not sufficient to kill the flame, back
away from the area. NEVER TURN YOUR BACK ON A FIRE!
Care of Extinguisher
Read and follow the manufacturers instructions with respect to
the care and inspection of the extinguishers.
Fire extinguishers must be inspected once per month to ensure
operational reliability (i.e. seals must be in place, nozzle
unobstructed, access to unit).
6.5 Hazardous Materials
Before undertaking any work involving handling or exposure to
any hazardous material workers must unsure:
They are aware of the hazards and take appropriate
precautions.
Approved PPE is used.
Adequate ventilation is in place.
Approved fire protection is in place (if required).
First aid supplies and facilities are readily available.
Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS)
Workers must review the WHMIS documentation (Appendix D).
Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG)
Workers must review the TDG literature in Appendix E.
Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S)
Hydrogen sulphide gas is a killer. An extremely toxic, colorless
and flammable gas occurs naturally as a by-product of organic
decay. It is particularly prevalent in the petroleum industry as a
component of produced oil and natural gas. It is imperative that
every tester be aware of its physical properties, recognize its
hazards, and know how to avoid exposure to it.
The physical properties of H2S are:
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Color colorless
Odor offensive similar to rotten eggs at low ppm
Vapor Density SG = 1.189. Heavier than air
Explosive limits 4.3% to 46.0% by volume in air.
Flammability auto ignition point = 260 deg. C (burns
readily)
Solubility readily soluble in water and oil.
Boiling Point -60 deg. C. Usually a gas.
Three levels of Occupational Exposure Limits have been
established to protect workers from the toxic effects of H2S:
10 ppm Time Weighted Average (TWA) the maximum exposure for an
eight hour workday.
15 ppm Short-Term Exposure Level (STEL) acceptable for no more
than 15 minutes.
20 ppm Ceiling Exposure Level (Ce) no one shall be exposed to
H2S levels above 20ppm no matter how brief the duration.
Various concentrations of H2S and the toxic effect that can be
expected on the body are listed below:
1 ppm Can be smelled.
10 ppm eight hour OEL.
15 ppm 15-min. OEL
20 ppm Ceiling OEL
100 ppm loss of smell in 2-15 min. Burning in throat, headache
and nausea.
200 ppm rapid loss of smell, burning in eyes and throat.
500 ppm loss of reasoning and balance, respiratory upset in
2-15min. Prompt resuscitation required.
1000 ppm immediate unconsciousness, death or permanent brain
damage will result without prompt resuscitation.
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H2S content is also sometimes expressed as a total percentage of
the air. The difference between parts per million (ppm) and
percentage scales is significant. One ppm of H2S is a low
concentration and (relatively) safe to be exposed to, however one
percent H2S is lethal.
If any H2S release occurs, testers must:
Immediately leave the area in an upwind direction
Sound an alarm
Don SCBA
Rescue victim(s) if it safe to do so
Secure well bore.
Revive victim(s). If using CPR, do not inhale the victims
exhalation!
Get medical aid
Alert Operating Company Emergency Services.
Testers must maintain a valid H2S alive certificate.
6.6 Equipment and Operations
Compressed Air Cylinders
Compressed gas cylinders are filled to a very high pressure and
must be handled carefully to prevent rupture. When handling gas
cylinders, testers must:
Assume the cylinders are full.
When handling cylinders, remove regulators and replace caps to
protect valves.
Prevent cylinders from bumping together during transport.
Refrain from rolling, dropping, or throwing cylinders.
Keep oxygen cylinders away from oil or grease.
Ensure that the proper regulator, designed for the contents of
the cylinder, and appropriate for the pressure rating of the
cylinder, is installed.
Do not interchange regulators for different gasses.
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When storing gas cylinders, chain or strap secure them in an
upright position.
Do not store cylinders in areas where the heat may exceed 55
deg. C.
Electrical Safety
Testers must maintain the following minimum distances between a
power-line and themselves and test equipment.
Safe Limits of Approach from Powerlines
Jurisdiction Voltage (line to ground) Distance
Alberta 0-750 V Insulated of Polyethylene Covered Conductor.
300mm
Above 750 V Insulated Conductor 1.0m
0-40 kV 3.0m
69kV, 72kV 3.5m
138kV, 144kV 4.0m
230kV, 240kV 5.0m
500kV 7.0m
British Columbia/ Sask. Over 750V to 75 kV 3.0m
Over 75kV to 250 kV 4.5m
Over 20kV to 550 kV 6.0m
Federal (CLC) Up to 50kV 3.0m
50 kV to 120 kV 4.5m
120 kV-250 kV 6.0m
250kV 350 kV 7.5m
Over 350 kV 9.0m
Hand Tools
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All hand tools must be maintained in safe working condition.
Before using any tool, testers must ensure that they know how to
properly use the tool. They must also ensure that the tools used
are the proper one for the job.
Tools must be carried and handled properly to prevent injury to
the user of the tool and other workers. Sharp or pointed tools
should not be carried loosely or in the pockets or clothing.
Air Tools
When working with air tools, workers must ensure proper
connections are made to the air supply. The air supply should
always be shut off by the appropriate shut-off valve and never by
the act of bending of kinking the hose.
When an air tool is not in use, air supply must be shut off.
Pressure in its hose must be relieved before the hose is
disconnected from the air supply.
Oxygen and other bottled gasses must never be used to operate
air tools.
High-Pressure Connections
The pressure in high-pressure connections must be bled off
before threaded or flanged connections are tightened. No
connection, threaded or flanged, may be tightened under
pressure.
Hoisting and Winching Equipment
Hoisting equipment must be operated according to these
guidelines:
Where signals are required, only one person must give signals
and that person must have received signaling instructions. The
signaler must remain in view of the hoist or winch operator.
When operating hoisting equipment, the worker must maintain the
minimum powerline clearances in the above chart.
Hoisting equipment must not be subjected to loads in excess of
the rated capacity of the hoist.
All hoisting equipment must be inspected before use. Excessively
worn or damaged equipment components must be replaced before
use.
All hooks on hoisting equipment must be equipped with safety
latches.
Testers must not stand or pass under suspended loads. If a
suspended load must be positioned, tag lines must be used.
Workers must not ride on the hoisting apparatus or on suspended
loads.
Workers must not work or position themselves under raised loads
such as vehicles or trailers unless the load is supported by a
vehicle
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hoist or adequate stands or blocks. Jacks DO NOT provide
adequate protection by themselves.
Ropes and cables under tension must be avoided by ground
workers.
Gloves must be worn by anyone handling ropes or cables. Ropes
and cables should not be allowed to slide through the handlers
hands. A hand-over-hand technique should be used to slacken the
line.
Hydrates
Natural gas hydrates are solid compounds formed by natural gas
and water. Some light hydrocarbons will form hydrates under
pressure at temperatures above 0 deg. C. These hydrates form as
crystals and look like snow. In pipe, they can pack solidly to form
a restriction resulting in partial or complete flow blockages.
Hydrates pose a real threat to people and equipment. If proper
procedures are not used to remove hydrates from pipes, a potential
pressure release could result.
If hydrates are suspected to form a blockage in a pipe segment,
the segment must be isolated by closing valves. If possible, the
pipe should be re-charged to the original pressure prior to the
initial bleed-down. After isolation is complete, the pipe segment
should be steamed until the entire pipe length is heated to above
30 deg. C for a period not less than 15 minutes. After the pipe has
been heated for 15 minutes, another bleed-down attempt may be
made.
If the pipe is still blocked, increase the temperature to 40
deg. C and the duration time to 20 min. Continue to bleed-down and
heat in cycles until the blockage is released.
Manual Handling and Lifting
Whenever manually handling or lifting materials at all
worksites, testers must:
Wear appropriate gloves.
Obtain help from rig-crews when lifting heavy or bulky
objects.
Lift with the leg muscles, not the back.
Remove slivers, nails, or sharp ends before handling.
Maintain a clear line of vision when carrying materials.
Valves
Testers operating valves must:
Keep the body and face away from the top of the stems when
opening or closing high-pressure valves.
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Open and close valves on high-pressure lines slowly to prevent
radical pressure differentials or transients that may rupture or
split pipe or fittings.
Never stop a leaking valve on a connection with a bull plug. A
nipple and an extra valve must be used and the extra valve kept
open until the connection has been made.
Service valves in accordance with manufacturers guidelines.
6.7 Testing Specific Rules
The following section includes Industry Recommended Practice(s)
[IRP] for Well Testing and Drill Stem Testing.
These IRPs are recommended by:
Canadian Petroleum Safety Council (PSC)
Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers (CAPP)
Canadian Association of Oilwell Drilling Contractors (CAODC)
Petroleum Services Association of Canada (PSAC)
Small Explorers and Producers Association of Canada (SEPAC).
Testers must review the IRPs and follow the outlined practices.
See Appendix F for a copy of the IRPs.
6.8 Working Alone
The provincial government has released a guide for working
alone. Most of the time, testers will be working with others,
however, due to the nature of the job, a significant amount of time
will be spent alone while traveling. As such, precautions should be
taken.
Please refer to Appendix G for more information on Working
Alone.
In addition, to minimize the risk to testers, a call in
procedure will be used:
Prior to leaving for a test, the tester will report to the
dispatcher/manager as to when they are leaving for a test. The
tester will also supply an estimated time for arrival on location.
If a call is received from the Operating Company Engineer
(complaining that a tester is not on location at the appropriate
time), the dispatcher will attempt to contact the tester to verify
location and status. If there is no response, further action will
be taken to assess the condition of the tester.
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7.0 Communication
7.1 General There are two general categories of communication:
communication with Operating Companies/Rig Crews and Delta-P
internal communication. Much of the communication that occurs is
informal and undocumented. In order to increase the focus on
safety, formalized meetings will be held to specifically address
issues of safety.
Safety meetings have several purposes:
Increase general safety awareness among participants.
Increase awareness of company and government safety requirements
for specific jobs or projects.
Provide training in safety and procedures.
Encourage feedback on safety matters to improve safety program
and overall safety.
7.2 Pre-Job Safety Meetings
Prior to inflating packers, it will be mandatory to hold a
safety meeting to alert rig crews to the specific hazards of
testing. A Pre-Test Safety Meeting Form can be found in Appendix
H.
Who?: Anyone involved in the testing process and anyone who may
be on the rig during a test.
When?: Conduct the meeting prior to inflating packers.
Where?: The drilling rig doghouse is the best location to hold
the meeting.
Why?: See above
What?: The sample Pre-Test Safety Meeting Form can be used as a
guideline for safety issues
7.3 General Safety Meeting
Delta-P Test Corp. will hold bi-annual safety meetings to
discuss issues of safety and to orient new workers.
Agenda
Two weeks before the General Safety Meeting (GSM), an agenda
will be circulated to all testers to alert them to the topics of
the GSM. If anyone wishes to see an issue discussed at the meeting,
they will have an opportunity to tell the meeting facilitator after
they review the agenda.
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Meeting Minutes
Minutes of the meeting will be kept and distributed 1 week after
the conclusion of the meeting. The method of distribution will be
e-mail. Any amendments or comments to the minutes can also be
circulated via email.
Follow-up
Any action items that are generated at the GSM will be given a
person responsible for completing the action. Management will
communicate with the individual responsible and distribute reports
to the other GSM attendants (via e-mail).
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8.0 Training and Orientation
Training
Delta-P Test Corp. only hires individuals with experience and a
proven record of accomplishment of safety and operational
knowledge.
New employees will be trained by a senior tester and evaluated
on-the-job.
For more information on Training, please refer to the Delta-P
Test Corp. New Employee Manual.
Orientation
Everyone will undergo an orientation to verify understanding of
the corporate safety policy.
Additionally, all testers will fill out the proceeding page to
document their understanding of the contents of this Handbook.
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Orientation Acknowledgement Form
Name:__________________________
Date:_____________________________
Please acknowledge that you have reviewed each element in the
Safety Handbook by initialing and signing below:
Element Testers Initials Management
Corporate Safety Policy ____________ ___________
Testers Responsibilities ____________ ___________
Company Safety Rules ____________ ___________
Industry Recommended Practices (IRP) ____________
___________
Hazard Identification and Control ____________ ___________
Driving Hazards ____________ ___________
Working Alone ____________ ___________
Safety Meeting ____________ ___________
TDG ____________ ___________
WHMIS ____________ ___________
Guiding Principles posted in Test Unit ____________
___________
Corporate Safety Policy posted in Test Unit ____________
___________
I have reviewed the elements in this manual. I understand that
safety is a significant component of my work. I will make every
effort to uphold the Corporate Safety Policy and the Industry
Guiding Principles
____________________________ _____________________________
Signature of Tester Signature of Management
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Appendix A: Inspection Sheets
-
Quick Vehicle Inspection
To be performed before driving.
Walk around vehicle. Look for the following:
Flat Tires Are the tires/wheels free of obstructions? Is the
exhaust clear? Are all compartments closed and cable
reel handles stowed?
Are the running and headlights functional? Are there any obvious
leaks? Are there any loose panels or bodywork? Are loads tied down?
Look for anything that is out of the ordinary.
-
Quick Detailed Vehicle Inspection
To be performed at fuel stops:
Check Oil Level Check Windshield Washer level Check tire
pressure Check vehicle operating temperature Check brake and signal
lights Clean lights and windshield These steps are in addition to
the Quick Vehicle Inspection
-
Detailed Vehicle Inspection (5000km) Date: Operator:
Unit: Milage:
Drivers Compartment
Sun Visors Horns & Switches Instrument Lamps
Windshield Wipers Windshield Defrost Hazard warning kit
Side Windows Hi-Beam Indicator Air Pressure gauge
Pedal Pads Acc. Pedal & Air Throttle Steering Travel
Seats & Seatbelts Steering & Power Assist Clutch
disengagement
Speedometer Mirrors
Cabin Air Leakage Windshield
Body Exterior
Headlamp operation/aim Clearance Lamps Ext fuel tanks
Tail Lamps Stop Lamps Turn signals
Marker Lamps Hazard Lamps Reflectors
Tire Pressure Secondary Attachments Fenders/Mud Flaps
Air System Paint Body, Doors, Bumpers
Under the Hood
Hood Accessory Belts Air compressor
Power Steering Fluid/sys Fuel Pump & Filter Battery and
wiring
Exhaust Fan fins and Belt Distributor
Air Filter Windshield washer pump Cooling System
Undercarriage
Transmission Oil Pan Muffler
Steering Box Drag Link Pitman Arm
Cotter pins Tie-Rod Differential
Tie-Rod Ends Frame Rails Suspension
Shocks Springs Axles
Brakes, Tires, and Wheels
Brake Components U-Joint Brake Lining Thickness
Spring Caging Bolts Brake Drums Brake Failure Indicator
Disc Brakes Brake lines and hoses Parking Brake
Reservoirs and Valves Tire Pressure Brake Operation
Wheel Bearings Vacuum System & Reserve
Brake Cams & Travel Tire Wear
-
Detailed Vehicle Inspection (5000km) Inspection Checklist
Resource
Rating Legend N.A. = Not Applicable to this Unit P = Passed in
good working Condition M = Passed but maintenance required R =
Rejected replacement necessary before returning to service. Vehicle
Inspector must sign off on bottom of inspection sheet. *** Attach
inspection form to invoice/receipt for work performed and
file.***
-
Site Inspection Checklist
Item PP Comments/Notes
Site Driving Conditions?
Overhead Wires or Cables?
Other Activities (Logging/ Casing Unloading)?
Trenches?
Ground Cables?
Wind Direction?
SCBA Location?
Rally Point?
Fire Fighting Equipment?
Eyewash/ Firstaid?
Emg. Showers
Breakers / Electrical ESD location?
Tripping and slipping?
Sharp projections on rig?
H2S potential?
Compressed gas cylinders?
MSDS products?
Flare Pit Flaring OK?
Other?
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Appendix B: Hazard Identification Report and Incident
Report.
-
HAZARD IDENTIFICATION REPORT
Date:_____________________________ H.I. Report
Number:_______________________ Hazard
Location:________________________________________________________________
Person Completing
Report:________________________________________________________
Description of Hazard R.A.C.
Personnel Involved
Delta-P Tester Contractor Student
Visitor Other Client
Action Required Responsible Party Target Date Completion
Date
Hazard Classification Risk Assessment Codes (R.A.C) Used the
following categories and degrees to assign a Risk Assessment Code
for the identified Hazard. Consequence Probability of Occurrence
Exposure (# of people affected) Risk Assessment Code I. Catastrophe
A. Likely to Occur 1. More than 50 1. Critical II. Critical B.
Probably Occur 2. 10-49 2. Serious III. Marginal C. Possibly Occur
3. 5-9 3. Moderate IV. Negligible D. Unlikely 4. Less than 5 4.
Minor Additional Notes and follow up comments are to be written on
the back of this document.
-
EVENT REPORT (Accident or Near Miss)
Date:_____________________________ Event Report
Number:_______________________ Event
Location:_________________________________________________________________
Person Completing
Report:________________________________________________________
Type of Event
Personal Injury Equipment Failure Fire/Explosion
Lost Time Equipment Damage Vehicle Accident
Medical Aid Property Damage Environmental
First Aid Material Loss Security/Theft
Restricted Duty Business Interruption Other
Personnel Involved
Delta-P Tester Contractor Student
Visitor Other Client
Event Classification
Critical** Serious** Minor ** Full Investigation is
required.
General Information
Name of Individual Involved:
Employee/Contractor Name:
Location of Event:
Event Description
-
Status of Injured/Immediate Action Taken
Follow Up Action to Be Taken
Is an investigation required?
Action Required Who is Responsible Target Date Completion
Date
___________________________________
____________________________________ Management Signature Date
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Appendix C: Hazard Management
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Hazard Management Loop
Identify Hazard
Assess Hazard
Generate Options
Implement Option
Evaluation Did it work?
Yes
No
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Identify Hazard
The first step to managing any hazard is to identify it. Many
times hazards are not identified because they are not always
obvious and there is often no deliberate effort to identify
them.
Use the following steps to identify hazards:
1. Before beginning a task, have all of the people involved in,
or affected by, the proposed work discuss the job. Focus on Who,
What, When, Where, How, and Why.
2. Participants ask questions to gain clarification on the work
and identify where there could be exposure to a hazard.
3. Identify any procedures, equipment, or materials that may
pose a hazard.
4. Use Company safe work permits to help guide discussions.
Assess Hazard
Determine which of the identified hazards apply to the planned
work and which do not. Options must be generated to Control, Avoid,
or Remove the hazards that apply to the specific work tasks. Other
identified hazards should be documented and this information passed
on to company supervisors for handling.
Generate Options
Once the hazards have been assessed and it has been determined
that the hazard applies to the task/work, you must identify some
method to manage the exposure. Deciding to take no action and leave
the consequences to chance is not an acceptable way of managing a
hazard.
Seek the input of others to generate ideas about how to manage
the assessed hazards. Do not be afraid to use the experience of
others.
Implement Options
From the list of generated options, select the one that best
manages the hazard and has the support of the people involved in
the work (or affected by the work). Responsibilities for
individuals must be make clear at this time.
Evaluate
Monitor the progress of the work and verify that the
controls/mitigation/removal of the hazard is acceptable. If the
implemented option is not working as required, proceed with the
following actions:
1. Make sure you understand the hazard. Are there other things
that could influence what happens?
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2. Review other options and maybe create new ones.
3. Select and implement another option, monitor results.
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Appendix D: Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System
(WHMIS)
-
WHMISInformation for Employers
WorkplaceHealth & Safety WHMIS
September 1999
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CH008 Revised September 1999
Table of Contents
Introduction..........................................................................................................................
1What does W-H-M-I-S
mean?..............................................................................................................................
1What is the purpose of
WHMIS?.........................................................................................................................
1
Legislation
...........................................................................................................................
2What is the WHMIS law called and where can I get a
copy?....................................................................
2But Im already complying with TDG.
............................................................................................................
2What happens if companies dont comply with the WHMIS
requirements?......................................... 3
Application...........................................................................................................................
4Does WHMIS apply to every
chemical?............................................................................................................
4Which products are excluded from WHMIS?
..................................................................................................
5Which products are totally excluded?
................................................................................................................
5Which products are excluded from the supplier aspects of
WHMIS?.................................................... 6Whos
going to classify our products for
us?...................................................................................................
7
Roles and
Responsibilities..................................................................................................
8What are my responsibilities as an employer?
...............................................................................................
8Do my workers have any WHMIS responsibilities?
......................................................................................
8What can I expect from my suppliers?
..............................................................................................................
8What happens if a supplier sends me a controlled product that
doesnt have a supplier label? .. 9Some of my American suppliers
arent co-operating.
..................................................................................
9Can I get imported products to my plant to label them, or will
they be stopped at the border? .... 9What is the governments role?
.........................................................................................................................
10
Labels
................................................................................................................................
11What does a WHMIS label look
like?...............................................................................................................
11What does a basic supplier label look
like?...................................................................................................
11Variations on the basic supplier label
..............................................................................................................
13What does the small container label look like?
............................................................................................
13How do the WHMIS labelling requirements apply to products
purchased in bulk? ......................... 14And laboratory
chemicals, what kind of label variations might I find on them?
................................. 15How are laboratory samples
labelled?
............................................................................................................
15Is that all the variations on the basic supplier
label?..................................................................................
16What does a WHMIS work site label look like?
............................................................................................
16Are there any variations on the WHMIS work site
label?..........................................................................
17Tell me about placards
..........................................................................................................................................
17When is it okay for me to simply identify a controlled
product?..............................................................
17Are there any controlled products that dont require a WHMIS label
of any kind? .......................... 17Where do I get my WHMIS
labels?
..................................................................................................................
18
Material Safety Data Sheets
(MSDSs).............................................................................
19What is a Material Safety Data Sheet?
...........................................................................................................
19Are there any variations on the basic MSDS?
...........................................................................................
19How do I get MSDSs for the controlled products at my
company?.......................................................
22Am I responsible for updating all these MSDSs?
........................................................................................
22
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WHMIS Information for Employers
CH008 Revised September 1999
My supplier says that some of the ingredients in the product are
secret. Can he get away
withthat?.............................................................................................................................................................................
23We like to transfer supplier MSDSs onto our own MSDS format. Is
that okay?.............................. 24Are there any controlled
products at the work site that dont require
MSDSs?................................. 24Is there anything else
that I need to know about MSDSs?
......................................................................
24
Worker Education
.............................................................................................................
25What must be included in WHMIS worker
education?...............................................................................
25Do I have to provide WHMIS worker education for all my
workers?..................................................... 25How
often do I have to conduct WHMIS worker education at my
company?.................................... 26What is the standard
for WHMIS worker education?
.................................................................................
26Where can I get my workers trained?
..............................................................................................................
26
Confidential Business Information
....................................................................................
27What does confidential business information mean?
..............................................................................
27What information may be withheld as confidential business
information?.......................................... 27What if
the supplier claims that some of the hazard information is
confidential? ............................. 27Who decides if the
information really is confidential business information?
...................................... 27How do I know if the claim
has been validated?
..........................................................................................
28What happens if a claim is not validated?
......................................................................................................
28What happens if theres an incident involving a controlled product
that has a
confidentialingredient?.................................................................................................................................................................
28
Glossary............................................................................................................................
29Appendix 1 Obtaining WHMIS
legislation.........................................................................
36Appendix 2 Resources
.....................................................................................................
37
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Introduction
What does W-H-M-I-S mean?
The letters W-H-M-I-S stand for Workplace Hazardous Materials
Information System.
WHMIS is a national hazard communication system. It affects
suppliers, importers anddistributors of potentially hazardous
materials used at work sites, and employers andworkers who use
those materials.
What is the purpose of WHMIS?
WHMIS was developed to ensure that persons at work sites receive
adequate hazardinformation about chemicals that are used there. The
system requires that suppliers anddistributors of controlled
products convey specified hazard information to their
industrialcustomers, i.e. employers, and that the employers pass
that hazard information on totheir workers.
WHMIS has three major elements:
1. Labels WHMIS labels provide the essential information that a
person needs toknow to handle a particular product safely.
2. Materials Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs) MSDSs provide basic
technicalinformation about a products physical characteristics and
its hazardous properties.
3. Worker education This element provides persons at work sites
with two kinds ofinformation. First, it explains just what
information they can expect to receive as aresult of WHMIS. And
second, it teaches them specific hazard information and safework
procedures that they can use directly at their jobs.
WHMIS was implemented through coordinated federal, provincial
and territoriallegislation.
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CH008 Revised September 1999 2
Legislation
What is the WHMIS law called and where can I get a copy?
There are two main bodies of WHMIS law (legislation). There are
federal WHMIS laws,which deal mostly with the supplier aspects of
the system. There are also provincial,territorial and Labour Canada
WHMIS laws. These deal with the employer and workeraspects of
WHMIS.
The federal legislation consists of: The Hazardous Products Act
(HPA); The Controlled Products Regulations (CPR); The Ingredient
Disclosure List; The Hazardous Materials Information Review Act;
and The Hazardous Materials Information Review Regulation.
This legislation specifies requirements for supplier labels and
MSDSs and requiressuppliers to provide users with MSDSs when
products are purchased. It also makesprovision for the protection
of confidential business information.
The federal WHMIS law is available from Supply and Services
Canada or from federalgovernment publication outlets across Canada
(see Appendix I).
The provincial, territorial and Labour Canada WHMIS laws deal
with WHMIS at the worksite level. This legislation defines the
various responsibilities of employers and workersunder WHMIS.
Albertas WHMIS law is contained in Part 2 of the Chemical
Hazards Regulation. It wasdeveloped under the authority of the
Occupational Health and Safety Act, whichestablishes the
fundamental principles of Albertas occupational health and safety
law.
All Alberta occupational health and safety regulations,
including the Chemical HazardsRegulation, are available from the
Queens Printer (see Appendix 1).
But Im already complying with TDG.
The Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG) law is not the same
as the WHMIS law.
TDG was enacted to protect the general public from hazards
associated withtransporting dangerous materials on public roads, in
the air, by rail or on waterways.WHMIS, on the other hand, was
developed to protect the health and safety of people atwork sites
by providing them with hazard information about the chemicals they
workwith. The two systems often deal with the same chemicals TDG
while the product isin transit and WHMIS when the product reaches
the work site.
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CH008 Revised September 1999 3
What happens if companies dont comply with the WHMIS
requirements?
Companies found violating the WHMIS law are subject to various
legal procedures. Theoutcome of the legal procedures depends on
many factors such as the seriousness ofthe problem, the companys
compliance history, etc.
Violation of the federal WHMIS law may result in seizure of
products and/or prosecution.The outcome of prosecution may be a
fine of up to $1,000,000 and/or imprisonment forup to two
years.
Violation of the provincial WHMIS law may result in orders to
make changes, shut downof work site operations, or prosecution. The
outcome of prosecution for violation of theOccupational Health and
Safety Act or its regulations may be fines of up to $300,000and/or
imprisonment for up to one year.
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WHMIS Information for Employers
CH008 Revised September 1999 4
Application
Does WHMIS apply to every chemical?
No. WHMIS does not apply to every chemical product.
WHMIS applies only to products that meet certain criteria. These
products are calledcontrolled products.
There are six classes of controlled products. Any product that
meets the criteria for anyone (or more) of the six WHMIS classes is
a controlled product and is included inWHMIS. A few products are
covered by other legislation, so they have been excludedfrom WHMIS
requirements.
There is no comprehensive list of controlled products. The only
way to find out if aproduct is a controlled product or not is to
compare its properties with the criteria foreach of the six classes
of controlled products.
Each class of controlled products has a distinct hazard symbol.
Class D has one symbolfor each of its three divisions. (Class B has
six divisions, but all six are represented bythe same hazard
symbol.)
Figure 1 shows the six WHMIS classes and their hazard symbols.
The WHMISclassification criteria are contained in the federal
Controlled Product Regulation.
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Figure 1 The WHMIS classes and hazards symbols
Which products are excluded from WHMIS?
There are two groups of excluded products. The first is totally
excluded from all WHMISrequirements. The second consists of
products that are excluded only from the supplieraspects of
WHMIS.
Which products are totally excluded?
Products excluded from all aspects of WHMIS are: wood and
products made of wood; tobacco and products made of tobacco;
manufactured articles; dangerous goods while they are covered by
TDG legislation i.e. while in transit; and hazardous wastes (except
that safe storage and handling are required through the
combination of any mode of identification and worker
training).
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Products made of wood and products made of tobacco do not
include products madefrom wood and products made from tobacco. For
example, lumber, which is made ofwood, and cigarettes, which are
made of tobacco, are excluded from WHMIS by thisexemption. On the
other hand, turpentine, which is made from wood, and nicotine,which
is extracted from tobacco, are included.
Manufactured article means a product that is manufactured to a
specific shape, andwhose function depends on that shape.
Manufactured articles do not release controlledproducts during
normal use. Coated pipe is an example of a product that is
exemptedfrom WHMIS by this provision. The coating material may have
been a controlled productwhen it was applied, but it is not
released during normal use of the pipe. Welding rods,on the other
hand, are not exempted by this provision because they release
controlledproducts (as part of the welding fume) during their
normal use.
You should note that the release of controlled products during
the installation of amaterial does not prohibit its exemption from
WHMIS by the manufactured articleprovision. New carpet, for
example, usually releases certain gases during installationand for
a short time afterward. But installation is not normal use. So
carpet isconsidered a manufactured article and is totally exempted
from WHMIS.
Even though these products are exempt from WHMIS, the Alberta
Chemical HazardsRegulation deals with materials that are hazardous
but are not controlled products.These hazardous materials are
called harmful substances. Employers have threeresponsibilities
regarding harmful substances. They must: ensure that harmful
substances or their containers are clearly identified; establish
procedures to minimize worker exposure to these substances; and
train workers in those procedures and in the health hazards
associated with
exposure to the harmful substance.
Which products are excluded from the supplier aspects of
WHMIS?
This group of products includes: explosives, which are covered
by the Explosives Act; cosmetics, devices, foods and drugs, which
are covered by the Food and Drug Act; pesticides and herbicides,
which are covered by the Pest Control Products Act; radioactive
materials, which are covered by the Atomic Energy Control Act; and
consumer products that are restricted products and covered by the
Hazardous
Products Act (HPA).
Consumer product means a product that is packaged in quantities
appropriate for thepublic, available to the public in retail
outlets and labelled with the restricted productlabelling required
by the HPA. For example, a solvent that is packaged in a 250 ml
size,labelled with a restricted product label and offered for sale
in a regular hardware store isconsidered a consumer product. The
WHMIS consumer product exemption applies.The supplier does not have
any WHMIS responsibilities to meet. Yet the same productin a 454
litre drum, sold at an industrial supply outlet, would not be
permitted thisexemption. It would be considered a controlled
product and all WHMIS requirementswould apply.
Information requirements for these products were addressed by
the Explosives Act, theFood and Drug Act, etc, long before WHMIS
was developed. These laws are currently
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CH008 Revised September 1999 7
being reviewed to ensure that their information requirements are
as stringent as those ofWHMIS. If this is found not to be the case,
the situation will be corrected. Thoseindividual laws will be
amended or the products will be brought into WHMIS so that
usersreceive information that meets the WHMIS standard.
Whos going to classify our products for us?
Canadian suppliers must classify the controlled products they
sell to you.
But the classification of products you produce on-site for use
on-site, products youobtained prior to WHMIS and still have
on-site, and products you import, is yourresponsibility.
Classification can be complicated. If you dont have occupational
health and safetypersonnel or chemists on your staff, you may wish
to engage outside assistance. TheCanadian Centre for Occupational
Health and Safety (CCOHS) can help with theclassification of pure
substances. Private consultants are available to help with
theclassification of more complex products.
Appendix 2 lists resources available to provide you with
assistance.
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Roles and Responsibilities
What are my responsibilities as an employer?
Albertas Occupational Health and Safety Act requires employers
to take all reasonablemeasures to protect the health and safety of
workers at their companies. WHMIS is animportant tool for employers
to use in achieving this objective.
Employers have an important role to play in the effective
implementation of WHMIS.This role is documented in the Chemical
Hazards Regulation as a series ofresponsibilities. The employer is
responsible for ensuring that: all controlled products at their
work sites are labelled with appropriate WHMIS labels; there are
up-to-date (no more than 3 years old) WHMIS MSDSs for all
controlled
products at the site and these MSDSs are located in a place
readily accessible toeveryone who works there; and
workers at their work site have had the appropriate WHMIS worker
education toprotect their health and safety on the job.
Do my workers have any WHMIS responsibilities?
The Occupational Health and Safety Act requires workers to
cooperate with theiremployers to protect their own and other
workers health and safety on the job. TheChemical Hazards
Regulation specifically requires that they participate in
WHMISworker education provided by their employers.
A Safety Bulletin similar to this one, (CH007) WHMIS Information
for Workers is alsoavailable from Alberta Human Resources and
Employment, Workplace Health andSafety. It describes the WHMIS
system in general, labels, Material Safety Data Sheets,worker
education, suppliers responsibilities, employers responsibilities
and workersresponsibilities.
What can I expect from my suppliers?
Canadian suppliers of controlled products have two main WHMIS
responsibilities:
1. label each controlled product they sell to Canadian work
sites with an appropriateWHMIS supplier label with information
written in both English and French; and
2. develop a WHMIS MSDS for each controlled product they sell to
Canadian worksites. They must provide a copy of that MSDS (in
English or French, as thecustomer chooses), to each Canadian work
site customer.
Distributors of controlled products have the same
responsibilities as suppliers. You canexpect distributors to
provide you with the same WHMIS information you would get froma
supplier.
Note: These responsibilities are described in detail in Safety
Bulletin (CH009) WHMIS Information for Suppliers, also available
from Workplace Health and Safety.
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CH008 Revised September 1999 9
What happens if a supplier sends me a controlled product that
doesnt have asupplier label?
This is a very important question.
Youre not allowed to use this product until you have received
and applied the correctlabel. In fact, you have permission to store
it on your site only if you are actively seekingthe proper label,
and if you have placed a placard over the product. (Placards
arediscussed on page 17)
This situation is the same if a supplier sends you a controlled
product for which you havenot received a WHMIS MSDS. You may store
the product, but you may not use it untilyou obtain the WHMIS
MSDS.
You may, of course, refuse to accept a product that arrives at
your site without theproper WHMIS label or MSDS. The choice is
yours.
Some of my American suppliers arent co-operating.
WHMIS is Canadian law. It applies only in Canada. Your American
suppliers, or anyother foreign suppliers, may not be aware of it.
Even if they do know about WHMIS,they may not be willing to comply
with its supplier requirements.
WHMIS responsibilities for controlled products imported into
Canada for use at worksites fall to the importing companies. In
other words, companies that import controlledproducts must ensure
that WHMIS supplier labels are developed and applied to
theproducts, and that WHMIS MSDSs for the products are
obtained.
Importers have these responsibilities for products that are
imported for sale to otherCanadian work sites and for products that
are imported for use within the importingcompany. If you import a
controlled product for use at your work site, you areresponsible to
ensure that it has a WHMIS supplier label and a WHMIS MSDS.
Can I get imported products to my plant to label them, or will
they be stopped atthe border?
Importers may bring a controlled product into Canada without a
WHMIS supplier label ora WHMIS MSDS, as long as the Alberta
government is notified and the WHMISrequirements are met before the
product is used or sold.
Notification to the government must include: identification and
description, i.e. the classification of the product; address in
Alberta at which the supplier label will be applied, a list of the
other
provinces into which the product will be imported; and if
requested:
a sample of the product, import schedule, and quantity of
product to be imported.
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Notification should be sent to:
WHMIS CoordinatorAlberta Human Resources and EmploymentWorkplace
Health and Safety9th Floor, 10808-99 AvenueEdmonton, Alberta T5K
0G5
You must put WHMIS supplier labels on these products, and
develop WHMIS MSDSsfor them before you can use them or sell
them.
What is the governments role?
Government has two major roles in implementing WHMIS at Alberta
workplaces. Theseroles are consultation and enforcement. Alberta
Human Resources and Employment,Workplace Health and Safety deals
with all aspects of WHMIS in the province. TheDepartment consults
with Alberta employers, suppliers and workers to help
themunderstand their WHMIS responsibilities. The Department can
provide informationmaterials, including this booklet and the
accompanying ones for workers and suppliers,pamphlets and booklets
on many aspects of chemical safety, and references to
otherresources.
Workplace Health and Safety enforces both federal and provincial
WHMIS legislation inAlberta. Occupational Health and Safety
Officers inspect Alberta work sites forcompliance with WHMIS (and
for compliance with other Alberta occupational health andsafety
legislation). They explain any violations that are observed to the
partiesresponsible for the work site, specifying a date for
compliance. If violations continue,more stringent measures may be
taken, including compliance orders, site closure,product seizure
and prosecution.
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Labels
What does a WHMIS label look like?
There are two main kinds of WHMIS labels supplier labels and
work site labels.
Supplier labels are the labels that must be present on
controlled products in their original(supplier) containers. These
include: controlled products sold by Canadian suppliers and
distributors to Canadian work
sites; controlled products imported into Canada for use at work
sites; and old controlled products which employers obtained prior
to WHMIS coming into
effect and that are still present at the work site.
Work site labels are used only by employers and workers. They
are applied to: containers into which controlled products are
transferred; containers of controlled products that are produced at
the work site for use there;
and supplier containers, to replace supplier labels (and labels
that are accepted as
supplier labels, such as labels on pesticides and consumer
products) that have beenaccidentally damaged or defaced, where new
supplier labels cannot be obtained.
There are different information requirements for supplier labels
and work site labels. Inaddition, there are some situations in
which the basic requirements for each type of labelare relaxed and
less detailed labels may be used.
What does a basic supplier label look like?
An example of a WHMIS supplier label is shown in Figure 2. These
labels are easy torecognize because they have a unique, rectangular
slash-marked border.
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CH008 Revised September 1999 12
Figure 2 An example of a WHMIS supplier label
The basic WHMIS supplier label has seven required pieces of
information which must becontained within the rectangular border.
Figure 3 lists these requirements. The supplierlabel information
must be written in both French and English. The only
acceptablealternative to this provision is the use of two, equally
visible labels, one in French andone in English.
There is no specified format for the WHMIS supplier label. There
is no size requirementeither, but the label must be large enough to
be legible.
Finally, the label must be located on some area of the product
where it will be readilyseen.
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CH008 Revised September 1999 13
Figure 3 Information required on a WHMIS supplier label
Variations on the basic supplier label
There are five variations that you might encounter:
1. small containers (less than 100 ml) are permitted to carry a
shorter version of thesupplier label;
2. suppliers who provide controlled products in bulk shipments
may provide the supplierlabel information in three different
forms;
3. laboratory supply houses are permitted to use three unique
variations of the basicsupplier label on certain controlled
products they sell;
4. samples sent to laboratories for analysis are allowed to have
a different type of label;and
5. labels on compressed gas cylinders may have a curved shape to
reduce distortion.
What does the small container label look like?
Containers with a capacity of 100 ml or less are permitted to
carry WHMIS supplierlabels which do not have Risk Phrases,
Precautionary Measures or First Aid Measures.
An example of the Small Container Label is shown in Figure
4.
1. Product IdentifierSame as on MSDS.
2. Supplier IdentifierIdentifier of manufacturer or distributor,
as appropriate
3. Hazard SymbolsAll WHMIS hazard symbols applicable to the
products classification.
4. Risk PhrasesBrief statements on the main risks associated
with the product.
5. Precautionary MeasuresBrief statement of main precautions to
be taken.
6. First Aid MeasuresMain first aid measures to be taken in case
of acute overexposure.
7. Reference to the Material Safety Data SheetFor more
detail