Hot topics

The rollover of a tipper in the Midlands this week reinforces the importance of ensuring that drivers and operators understand how to prevent these incidents. CEMEX has produced a video on rollover prevention, this topic is also covered in MPA's Driver's Handbook.

View CEMEX Video

HSE has issued an article on disinfecting premises. Fog, mist, vapour or UV treatments may be suitable options to help control the spread of Coronavirus, by cleaning and disinfecting larger workspaces/rooms. The article provides information on the different methods available, the suitability and limitations of each system and the safety considerations. Any use of these treatments should be risk assessed.

View Article

Cemex UK has produced a short video on vehicle rollovers.

CEMEX Rollover Video

The video provides information on how vehicles, including mixer trucks and articulated tippers can become unstable and the measures that drivers can take to prevent rollovers. The video includes video footage of actual incidents which provide an impactful message. MPA recommends the video to members as an ideal way to raise awareness amongst their employees and contractors on the potential for vehicle rollovers and the actions that can be taken to reduce the risk of such occurrences.

HSE has issued a Waste and Recycling eBulletin on ‘not forgetting the basics’ whilst managing COVID-19 risks. Such issues are equally relevant to other sectors and members are reminded to check that they have not lost focus on the day-to-day risks in their operations, whilst managing the COVID-19 risks.

A substantial number of face masks, claiming to be of a KN95 standard, provide an inadequate level of protection and are likely to be poor quality products accompanied by fake or fraudulent paperwork. These face masks may also be known as filtering facepiece respirators.

View HSE Warning

Aggregate Industries has created a short video which provides some helpful advice and practical examples of how to manage COVID-19 safety on minerals sites.

A letter that reassures drivers, and reminds businesses of their obligations under the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992, to provide suitable toilet and hand washing facilities to drivers visiting their premises.

View HSE DoT Letter

In response to concerns raised about the risks of air conditioning spreading coronavirus, we have issued advice that the risk of air conditioning spreading coronavirus is extremely low.

If you use a centralised ventilation system that removes and circulates air to different rooms, it is recommended that you turn off recirculation and use a fresh air supply.

You do not need to adjust other types of air conditioning systems. If you’re unsure, speak to your heating ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) engineers or advisers.

Please view posters outlining simple rules for users to follow during COVID 19.  Subjects covered are;

• Canteens
• Kitchens
• Toilets
• Lifts

They can be downloaded as pdfs from the Other resources section of Safequarry. The posters have been supplied by Mansfield Sand and Gravel - Safer by Sharing

Guidance provided by the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial strategy for employers and businesses dealing with Coronavirus - COVID. The site has subsections on the range of topics listed below where further detailed information and resources can be found. Very useful for employers considering return to working.

• What you need to know
• Symptons
• Good practice for employers
• Social distancing in the workplace
• Shift-working and staggering processes
• Staying at home if you, or someone in your household, has symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19) on site
• Sick pay
• Certifying absence from work
• What to do if an employee needs time off work to look after someone
• Limiting spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) in business and workplaces
• Use of face masks in the community
• Moving goods
• Cleaning and waste disposal
• Handling post or packages
• Food safety

Link to the the GOV UK Website