Feb 2022
SAFETY NEWSLETTER
vital.uk.com
Contents Feb 2022
Section Introduction Welcome Safety Matters / HSQE Team Hot topic What3Words | Additional support in placing protection CIRAS reporting
Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6
Health and Wellbeing Taking care of your mental health
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Driving Changes to the Highway Code
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Environment Science based targets How to prepare for a flood
Page 10 Page 11
Compliance Hand arm vibration syndrome (HAVS)
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Offices
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External Alerts & Notices TRU – SHES Fast Facts 2022-01 Safety Bulletin NR – Near miss Uphill Junction Safety Advice NR – Fast clip puller accident Safety Advice NR – Rail slide off moving vehicle Siemens – Good Practice Report
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Welcome Group Director, Health, Safety, Quality and Environmental Compliance, Gareth Morris
We will support all efforts to make the workplace a safe place.
Welcome to our February newsletter.
Thank you, take care.
The importance of Health and Safety in the workplace.
Gareth Morris
It is not uncommon to hear Health and Safety being, incorrectly, disparaged as preventing getting the job done. Some outdated attitudes prevail in the rail industry, such as “we have always done the job in this way and no one got hurt so what’s the issue?”
Health and safety statistics 2021 (hse.gov.uk)
The problem is that trading on luck is no basis for safe behaviour. Increasingly, both within the company and externally, our performance and working methods are being examined to look for better, safer ways of completing our tasks and delivering safe work. Evidence that workplace failures continue is provided by The Health and Safety Executive (HSE). The statistics show that accident trends in the UK remain at unacceptable levels, 400,000 injured persons between 2020 and 2021. More worrying is that 142 people lost their lives at work in the same period. Behind every number is a personal tragedy, families destroyed, relationships shattered, remaining lives changed for the worse forever. There can be no justification or acceptance of these numbers or outcomes. Safety is everyone’s concern. I ask that you call out poor practice and behaviour and help end the avoidable pain that you and your colleagues and families suffer because of accidents or incidents that were preventable. Please remember, all accidents are preventable. If you have concerns on poor behaviour or practice, please raise it on site in an acceptable manner, close call it or speak with your line or branch manager.
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Safety Matters Created specifically for our workforce; a multi platform mobile app that has been designed for users to ensure they can report a close call at any time and any place.
Features Include:
Simple - Add the information to the form provided and submit Direct - All close calls reported through the app are sent instantly to our Health and Safety mailbox Photograph - Upload supporting images Offline - No network connection required, use the app anywhere
Safety Matters The Close Call Reporting App Available to download NOW!
HSQE Team
My Idea How would you improve safety?
HSQE Director Gareth Morris, Morson International - Manchester Gareth.Morris@morson.com 07736 657 039
HSE Adviser (Scotland) and Close Call Champion Stephen McKay - Scotland and Newcastle Stephen.McKay@vital.uk.com 07717 306 733
HSE Adviser and Safety Unit (North) Jane Hepburn – Manchester, Solutions, Milton Keynes (North) Doncaster, Market Rasen and Birmingham Jane.Hepburn@vital.uk.com 07717 306 797
HSE Adviser and Safety Unit (South) Alex Wilson - Cardiff, Farnham, Milton Keynes (South) and Canning Town. Alex.Wilson@vital.uk.com 07717 306 811
What are your ideas for innovation? What would you change? To be in with the chance to with £100 worth of gift vouchers, email us your ideas at: MYIDEA@VITAL.UK.COM
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What 3 Words Additional support in placing protection Identifying exactly where to place protection and on which track is key to the safety of possession support staff and the work sites, they are responsible for supporting. Safe work packs and additional information show what is expected; however, an additional safeguard is available which is free, reliable, easy to use and offers a clear sense check for possession support professionals and others with legitimate business on track. The App. “What 3 Words” generates a unique label that allows users to identify any spot within a 3m square patch. In practice, the app can differentiate between two adjacent tracks at the same mileage, meaning that confirmation can be gained to ensure boards are placed in the correct spot. The App is also excellent when used to locate access points, offering greater detail than a postcode. User guide The App has detailed tutorials which are highly recommended o get the best use from this tool. Below are some simple steps to help identify a precise location on track using Google maps to generate a reference that can easily be cut and pasted into What3Words, generating your destination label. Functions Find a what3words address Enter a place name or street address into the search bar and choose the correct result. Switch to satellite mode and zoom in until you see the grid. Tap on a square to see its what3words address. View current what3words address Tap the icon above satellite mode to view your current location. If your GPS accuracy is low, switch to satellite mode. Zoom in until you see the grid and tap the correct square. Get directions to a what3words address Enter the what3words address in the format word.word.word. Select the correct result, tap Navigate, then choose your preferred navigation app. Share a what3words address Find the what3words address you would like to share. Tap Share, then choose how you want to share it. Save a what3words address Find the what3words address and tap Save. Add a label if you like. Add a what3words address to a photo Open the menu and choose Photo. Take a photo or choose one from your library. A sticker will be added to your photo. You can change the what3words address, size, colour, and position of the sticker. The App is available for iOS or Android devices, download from your App provider or here: https://what3words.com
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CIRAS reporting CIRAS - a confidential reporting service
CIRAS is an organisation offering a confidential reporting service where safety concerns can be raised. Vital support this important service through membership and active participation. CIRAS partners with the GB mainline railway industry and has seen significant improvement in safety performance over the past two decades. Their confidential reporting service cuts across organisational boundaries and continues to be an integral part of Rail’s safety management system. CIRAS will take calls on a wide range of concerns affecting the health, wellbeing and safety of staff, passengers or the public. From rules non-compliance and equipment issues through to fatigue, security and working conditions – these are all early indicators of potential harm. The concerns raised through the hotline often have common themes, allowing the industry to benefit from shared learning and good practice. Why speaking up matters If you see something that looks unsafe, or think the way you or others are working is unsafe or damaging to health or wellbeing, you have two choices: do something, or do nothing. Doing nothing is as much a choice as doing something - and we are all responsible for the choices we make. By speaking up, you are making sure that companies are aware of any issues and have all the information they need to address a concern. You might be the only person who can see that there is a problem, so it’s important not to assume that others know about it or have spoken up. And when you don’t want to raise your concerns through other channels, CIRAS can pass them on confidentially. What do people report? Exposure to fumes and poor air quality. Performing tasks without the right competence. Social distancing measures not followed. Training not suitable for the role. Regular trespass. Worn-out equipment. These are just a few examples of things people have raised with CIRAS. See their Frontline Magazine for more examples. If you have a rail safety concern that you feel unable to raise with your own employer, call CIRAS now on: Report hotline: 0800 4 101 101 Report textline: 07507 285 887 CIRAS’s quarterly magazine, Frontline Matters, is available to download for free - click here.
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Taking care of your mental heath Mental health problems are a growing public health concern. They are prevalent not just in the UK, but around the world. Mental health problems are one of the main causes of the overall disease burden worldwide. Mental health and behavioural problems (e.g. depression, anxiety and drug use) are reported to be the primary drivers of disability worldwide, causing over 40 million years of disability in 20 to 29year-olds. Major depression is thought to be the second leading cause of disability worldwide and a major contributor to the burden of suicide and ischemic heart disease. It is estimated that 1 in 6 people in the past week experienced a common mental health problem. Working conditions and environment can have a huge impact on mental health and, equally, someone's mental health can have a significant impact to perform well in their job. 1 in 6.8 people are experience mental health problems in the workplace (14.7%). Women in full-time employment are nearly twice as likely to have a common mental health problem as full-time employed men (19.8% vs 10.9%). Evidence suggests that 12.7% of all sickness absence days in the UK can be attributed to mental health conditions. At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic the Rail Regulator, RSSB, conducted a survey of rail staff and the findings: More than 1 in 3 people met the criteria for a clinical mental health condition. 10% of participants reported symptoms consistent with post traumatic stress disorder (more than twice the level seen in the general population). Workers were 6 times more likely to be off work due to a health problem caused by or made worse by a workplace accident. What can you do if you have a mental health concern? Vital have over 50 qualified Mental Health First Aiders (MHFA). This group offer a first point of contact were anyone can ask for support. If you do seek help, you will be treated with kindness, compassion and understanding. The MHFA group can’t solve problems that need the care and attention of qualified professionals. They will signpost you to support from established organisations such as the Samaritans or MIND. All this will be done under the strictest confidence and with the knowledge that the company is sincere in wanting to fully support your recovery. Please contact your Branch or your local Health and Safety Adviser if you would like to discuss a referral to a MFHA. You do not have to explain to anyone why you are asking for this contact if you do not feel comfortable to do so. It is also worth remembering that you can offer this detail to your colleagues if you have concerns over their wellbeing.
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Highway Code rule changes The Highway Code: changes you need to know from 29 January 2022 Rules for all types of road users have been updated in The Highway Code to improve the safety of people walking, cycling and riding horses. Main rules overview Three of the biggest Highway Code changes Rule H1 New hierarchy of road users Drivers of vehicles that can cause the greatest harm in the event of a collision bear the greatest responsibility to take care and reduce the danger to others. This principle applies most strongly to drivers of HGVs, LGVs, cars/taxis and motorcycles. Cyclists and horse riders have a responsibly to reduce danger to pedestrians. Rule H2 New priority for pedestrians at junctions Drivers, motorcyclists and cyclists should give way to pedestrians crossing or waiting to cross a road into which or from which you are turning. You should give way to pedestrians waiting at a zebra crossing (currently it’s only if they’re already crossing), and to pedestrians and cyclists waiting to cross a parallel crossing. Rule H3 Priority for cyclists when cars are turning You should not cut across cyclists, horse riders or horse-drawn vehicles going ahead when you are turning into or out of a junction or changing direction or lane. You should give way whether they are using the road, a cycle lane or cycle track. Do not turn at a junction if to do so would cause the cyclist or horse going straight ahead to stop or swerve. You should stop and wait for a safe gap if necessary.
Highway Code: New hierarchy of road users Road users who can do the greatest harm, have the greatest responsibility to reduce the danger or threat they may pose to other road users
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CYCLISTS: Changes in practice
PEDESTRIANS: Changes in practice
For more information on The Highway Code: 8 changes you need to know from 29 January 2022 Click here 9
Science based targets Vital and our Rail clients, such as Network Rail, and our principal contractors such as Balfour Beatty have committed to support the Science Based Targets initiative. We know that the emission of Greenhouse gases such as Carbon Dioxide are harmful to our environment, and they are directly contributing to global warming and climate change. The purpose of the initiative is to demonstrate an organisation’s commitment to reduce the amount of Greenhouse gases they produce in their operations as part of a pledge to reduce global warming by a certain amount, and to accurately measure our emissions, and report them in a timely manner. The Science based target initiative was started in 2015 just before the Paris agreement and it’s a collaboration between 4 partner organisations: CDP United Nations Global Compact World Resources Institute WWF The aim of Science based targets is to drive ambitious climate action in the private sector by allowing companies to set emissions reduction targets which are based on science and fall in line with the goals of the Paris Agreement. What are Science based targets? • To meet the goals of the Paris Agreement Global Warming needs to be limited to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels and making efforts to limit warming to 1.5°C • For targets to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to be classified as Science Based Targets, they need to fall in line with what the latest climate science says is necessary to meet the goals of the Paris Agreement • In doing this companies can determine how much and how fast they need to reduce their emissions by in order to be consistent with the Paris Agreement
How do we align to Paris Agreement Target
How are SBT’s achieved
COMMIT Submit a letter establishing your intent to set a science-based target
DEVELOP
SUBMIT
COMMUNICATE
Work on an emissions reduction target in line with the SBTi's criteria
Present your target to the SBTi for official validation
Announce your target and inform your stakeholders
Click here to learn more about science based targets and low-carbon future
DISCLOSE Report company-wide emissions and progress against targets on an annual basis
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How to plan ahead for flooding Climate Change has dramatically impacted the world’s weather patterns. We have seen over the last 6 months evidence of severe storms, most recently in the East Cost of the UK where untold damage was inflicted and the aftermath is still being cleaned up in some areas. If you live or work in areas with a known flood risk, what can you do to help stay safe? In many flood risk areas, you can sign up for flood warnings. These warn of flooding risk from rivers, the sea and groundwater. You’ll be alerted by phone, email or text when flooding is expected. Flood warnings and alerts are not available in all areas. Sign up for flood warnings - click here Know what to do The best way to protect yourself from flooding is to know what to do in advance. The Government issue 3 levels of flood warning: Flood alert - Prepare prepare a bag that includes medicines and insurance documents check flood warnings Floodwarning - Act turn off gas, water and electricity move things upstairs or to safety move family, pets and car to safety Severe flood warning - Survive call 999 if in immediate danger follow advice from emergency services keep yourself and your family safe If you live near a watercourse There is specific guidance If you own property or live beside: a river (click here) a canal (click here) Source and more information GOV.UK
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Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome, or HAVS, is a condition caused by repeated regular exposure to vibration from hand-held tools, such as sanders, grinders, hammer drills, chain saws and breakers. It can affect the nerves, blood vessels, muscles and joints of the hand, wrist and arms. The effects of this can be permanent and disabling and can make everyday life and work difficult. HAVS can affect your hands, wrists and arms. Symptoms can include numbness and tingling, or pins and needles, in your fingers. Fingertips may also go white in wet or cold weather conditions. Other symptoms include aches and pains in your fingers, hands and wrists, noticing a reduced strength in your hands, not being able to feel things with your fingers and having problems with fine work, such as picking up small objects or doing up buttons. It is important to remember that some individuals may be affected sooner than others. There are a few things that you can do to reduce your exposure to vibration: Use the right tool for each job and use the tool in the right way Make sure tools are in good working order and have been maintained and/or repaired before use. Older equipment that is not well maintained may increase your exposure to vibration Know how much vibration you can safely be exposed to in any one shift and don’t go over your limits Do other jobs that don’t involve using vibrating tools to reduce exposure Keep your hands warm and dry, especially in cold and wet weather conditions. This improves circulation, encouraging blood flow to your hands and fingers If you are a smoker, try to cut down or stop smoking as it reduces blood flow to your fingers Health surveillance appointments are not optional – you must take part every year. Let your manager know if you think you are due an assessment If you do have any concerns, tell your line manager as soon as you notice a problem. If you are diagnosed with HAVS, you can expect to receive information about your diagnosis and how it will affect you at work. The advice that will be given by occupational health to you and your line manager will be determined by the severity of the disease, how far it has progressed and the nature of the tasks you carry out at work. In many cases, people can continue to use vibrating tools, whereas in others it may be advise to reduce exposure to vibration. If you continue to use vibrating tools (even at reduced exposure levels) you will still be expected to continue to attend health surveillance appointments in occupational health to ensure that your symptoms aren’t worsening. You should always report any change in your symptoms to your line manager as soon as possible, so that occupational health advice can be sought. Health surveillance is used to detect any effects of using vibrating tools as early as possible. It gives each employee the opportunity to discuss any concerns that they have with a healthcare professional who can provide advice. In doing so, health surveillance helps protect employee’s health by identifying health concerns and advising appropriate action. You should remember that if you do have any concerns you should tell your line manager as soon as possible, so that they can refer you for help and guidance from Occupational Health. Early intervention is best to protect your hands.
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Office Locations Manchester (Head Office) T: 0161 836 7000 E: HeadOffice@vital.uk.com
Abercynon T: 01443 809 950 E: Abercynon@vital.uk.com
Bellshill T: 01698 840 950 E: BellshillRail@vital.uk.com
The Mill, South Hall Street, off Ordsall Lane, Salford, Manchester, M5 4TP
G16/17 Ty Cynon, Navigation Park, Abercynon, CF45 4SN
10 James Street, Righead Industrial Estate, Bellshill, Lanarkshire ML4 3LU
Cardiff T: 029 2083 9955 E: Cardiff@vital.uk.com
Birmingham T: 0121 809 3010 E: birminghamrail@vital.uk.com
Crewe T: 01270 906 130 E: Crewe@vital.uk.com
The Laurels, Heol Y Rhosog, Springmeadows Business Park, Rumney, Cardiff, CF3 2EW
F03 First Floor, Fairgate House, 205 Kings Road, Tyseley, Birmingham, B11 2AA
Office 2 The Dairy, Crewe Hall Farm, Old Park Road, Crewe, Cheshire, CW1 5UE
Derby T: 01332 982 470 E: Derby@vital.uk.com
Doncaster T: 01302 244450 E: Doncasterrail@vital.uk.com
Farnham T: 01252 964 020 E: Farnham@vital.uk.com
Ground Floor, Room 30 Derwent Caxtor House, RTC Business Park, Derby, DE24 8UP
First Floor Offices, Carr House, Heavens Walk, Doncaster, DN4 5HZ
Unit 10, Guildford Road Trading Estate, Farnham, Surrey, GU9 9PZ
Market Rasen T: 01302 308 080 E: MarketRasen@vital.uk.com
Newcastle T: 0191 300 0433 E: Newcastle@vital.uk.com
London T: 0203 963 5080 E: CanningTown@vital.uk.com
Unit 2, Gallamore Lane Ind. Estate, Market Rasen, LN8 3HZ
Spaceworks, Benton Park Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne & Wear, NE7 7LX
Unit 10, Canning Town Business Park, Stephenson Street, London, E16 4SA
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Safety Newsletter Feb 2022
vital.uk.com