November 2024 - ITS - Industry Training Services

5 Tips for Safer Manual Handling

Posted on November 13, 2024 by Marketing

Do you suffer from back pain on a daily basis? Unfortunately, back pain is extremely common and something most of us will experience at some stage in our lives. It can be triggered or exacerbated by our work environment where manual handling is involved in daily tasks.

Back pain continues to be the number one cause of job-related disabilities as well as being a leading contributor to employees missing days at work due to painful musculoskeletal disorders

Back pain is not restricted to those undertaking manual jobs, it can also affect those in sedentary jobs that requires sitting for long periods. The reality is that office staff or individuals undertaking deskbound jobs spend an average of 9.5 hours sitting every day! Factors such as inactivity, poor or awkward posture, sitting in one static prolonged position, insufficient space to work in or bad lighting can make individuals vulnerable to back, neck and shoulder pain.

Why is Work-Related Back Pain a Common Condition?

Work related back pain is a very common condition because all working environments require some form of manual handling. Those most likely to be exposed to handling of high-risk heavier loads include construction and agricultural industries. However, manual handling is also present in the retail sector, particularly for warehouse and delivery staff as well as with postal and courier workers, healthcare industries, manufacturing sectors, motor industries and even the hospitality sector with hotel and restaurant staff needing to lift and manoeuvre catering supplies, furniture and associated equipment.

Sprains, strains and posture problems can arise from the following activities in the workplace:

Carrying heavy loads awkwardly
Stretching, twisting, crouching
Undertaking repetitive tasks such as packing products or continual lifting
Remaining in the one position for long periods of time
Working at computers with poor posture
Uncomfortable working conditions

Ensuring the Safety of Employees in the Workplace

Employers have a duty of care towards employees (Health and Safety at Work Act). They are responsible for preventing or minimising risk, injury and accidents in the workplace as well as ensuring staff are appropriately trained in manual handling techniques. By pushing, lifting, pulling and carrying a load, employee are instantly exposed to manual handling risks and hazards. Industry Training Services provides Manual Handling training which is designed for individuals who carry out manual handling as part of their work. This half day training course provides awareness of areas including tasks, loads, the working environment, individual capacity, general risk assessment and more. This classroom-based course is entails both theory and group activity and finishes with a multi-choice questionnaire. Training is also available on clients’ site.

The top 5 tips to remember when lifting heavy objects are:

Assess the load: Before lifting a heavy object, assess its weight, size, and shape to determine the best approach. Plan your lifting path to ensure that there are no obstacles in the way.
Get a good grip: Ensure that you have a good grip on the object before lifting it. Wear gloves if necessary to improve your grip and prevent the object from slipping.
Use your legs: To lift heavy objects, use the strength in your legs rather than your back. Bend your knees, keep your back straight, and lift the object using your leg muscles.
Keep the load close: Keep the heavy object as close to your body as possible while lifting it. This will reduce the strain on your back and make it easier to control the load.
Ask for help: If an object is too heavy for you to lift safely, ask for help from a co-worker or use equipment such as a dolly or forklift to move it. Don’t risk injuring yourself by trying to lift more than you can handle.

For further information call us on 028 3839 / 01 891 6105 or email us at info@industrytrainingservices.com

4 Components of Plant and Machinery Training for a Safe Workplace

Posted on November 13, 2024 by Marketing

You’re on a bustling construction site, surrounded by heavy machinery and lively workers. The air is filled with anticipation as rolling and dumping operations are in full swing. But amidst the excitement, safety takes centre stage. Why? Because nothing is more important than ensuring the well-being of every individual on that site.Plant and Machinery safety training is all about ensuring that you return home to your loved ones after a productive day on the construction site. By understanding how to operate rolling and dumping equipment safely, you minimise the risk of accidents, injuries, and those “uh-oh” moments that could otherwise dampen the spirit of your work.In recent years, the industry has responded to concerns over safety with increased regulations and improved training programmes. Many construction companies now require their operators to complete a comprehensive training course before they are allowed to operate rollers and dumpers.Rolling and dumping operations involve heavy machinery and materials, which can pose significant risks if not handled properly. From bulldozers to dump trucks, these powerful tools require specialised skills and knowledge to operate safely. Mishandling or overlooking safety protocols during rolling and dumping activities can lead to accidents, injuries, and even fatalities.

Key Components of Plant and Machinery Safety Training:

Equipment Familiarisation: Effective safety training begins with getting to know the equipment involved in rolling and dumping operations. Trainees will learn about the different types of machinery, their functions, and proper operating techniques. This knowledge empowers individuals to make informed decisions and operate machinery safely.Safety Protocols and Procedures: Safety protocols are the backbone of accident prevention. Our training covers essential safety procedures, such as pre-operational checks, signalling and communication techniques, and guidelines for working in proximity to other workers or structures. These protocols establish a consistent and safe working environment for everyone involved.Risk Assessment and Hazard Identification: Understanding potential risks is crucial for proactive accident prevention. Safety training emphasises risk assessment and hazard identification techniques. By learning to identify and mitigate potential hazards, construction professionals can take proactive measures to prevent accidents and create a safer work environment.Emergency Response: In any construction site, preparing for emergencies is paramount. Safety training includes emergency response procedures, such as first aid training, fire safety protocols, and evacuation plans. Being equipped with these skills ensures that construction professionals can respond effectively in critical situations, minimising harm and promoting swift action.Plant and Machinery safety training is important as moving machinery can cause injuries in many ways:

People can be struck and injured by moving parts of machinery or ejected material. Parts of the body can also be drawn in or trapped between rollers, belts and pulley drives
Sharp edges can cause cuts and severing injuries, sharp-pointed parts can cause stabbing or puncture the skin, and rough surface parts can cause friction or abrasion
People can be crushed between parts moving together of plant and machinery
Parts of the machine, materials and emissions can be hot or cold enough to cause burns or scalds and electricity can cause electrical shock and burns
Injuries can also occur due to plant and machinery becoming unreliable and developing faults or when machines are used improperly through inexperience or lack of training

As experts in plant and machinery safety training , ITS offers a variety of accredited card schemes including CSR Plant Card Scheme, Construction Plant Competence Scheme, NPORS Card SchemeAs well as our accredited plant schemes we offer high standard in house training for those who do not need accredited training, this can be done at our premises, or we can go to your premises or site if suitable. With over 20 years of experience in training candidates, our in-house Plant and Machinery safety training programmes are highly effective and can be tailored to fit your needs. Whether you require accredited training or simply need to improve your skills, we have a solution for you. Our plant and machinery training can be conducted at our centre or on your own premises, depending on your needs and availability.Remember, Plant and Machinery safety isn’t just a checkbox on your to-do list—it’s a mindset. Embrace the role of a safety advocate, spreading awareness among your teammates and inspiring them to prioritise safety every step of the way.Contact Us: Portadown: 028 3839 8700 Dublin: 01 891 6105 info@industrytrainingservices.com

EUSR Training: Enhancing Safety in Excavations

Posted on November 13, 2024 by Marketing

In the realm of construction and excavation projects, where progress is synonymous with innovation, it’s crucial not to overlook the concealed hazards that lurk beneath the surface. Excavations, a pivotal part of these undertakings, carry inherent risks that necessitate expert handling. This is where Energy & Utilities Skills Register (EUSR) training steps in, a guardian of safety in the world of excavation.

Unveiling Subsurface Dangers in Excavations

Amidst the grandeur of construction, the potential dangers tied to excavation often remain hidden. Trenches that facilitate progress can, in an instant, turn into perilous traps. Soil collapses, unstable trench walls, and inadvertent utility strikes all underscore the magnitude of risks associated with excavation work.

EUSR Training: Provided by ITS

EUSR training is the beacon that guides professionals through the labyrinth of excavation hazards. Its purpose is to equip workers with specialised knowledge and practical skills that transform them into adept navigators of excavation intricacies, with safety as the compass directing their every move.

1. Mastery of Risk Evaluation and Mitigation

EUSR training empowers individuals as discerning risk evaluators. Mastery over soil types, trench stability, and the identification of looming collapses empowers workers to discern excavation site stability. This discernment is further fortified by their ability to implement protective mechanisms—such as shoring, sloping, and trench boxes—that preclude soil collapses and their catastrophic consequences.

2. Safeguarding Utility Infrastructure

Beneath the surface, a delicate tapestry of utility lines sustains communities. EUSR training underscores the sanctity of utility detection and protection. Enabling workers to use techniques that allow for the identification of underground utilities, effectively averting accidental damages. This vigilance prevents gas leaks, service interruptions, and, most importantly, ensures the uninterrupted flow of vital utility services.

3. Navigating Emergencies with Precision

Emergencies are as unpredictable as they are inevitable. EUSR training equips workers to handle such scenarios with ease. Whether it’s rescuing colleagues or administering first aid during unforeseen medical situations, trained professionals possess the knowledge of how to manage emergencies.

4. Compliance and Cultural Transformation

EUSR training transcends mere skills acquisition; it’s about fostering industry-wide compliance and nurturing a culture of safety. The evolving nature of excavation regulations underscores the need for comprehensive training. Organisations investing in EUSR training showcase their commitment to adhering to these regulations and nurturing a culture where safety is engrained in every action and decision.

At Industry Training Services, our safety in excavations training courses are accredited by EUSR (Energy and Utility Skills Register) and are highly regarded within the industry. EUSR accredited training gives both the employer and employees added confidence that they have been trained robustly with the knowledge and skills required to plan, manage and implement excavation and digging works.

At ITS we offer the following EUSR training:

EUSR – Understanding Safety in Excavations
EUSR Category 1 – Locate Utility Services (HSG47)
EUSR Category 2 – Implement Safe (Digging) Excavating Practices
EUSR Category 3 – Install, Inspect and Remove Timber Support Systems
EUSR Category 4 – Install, Inspect and Remove Steel Support Systems
EUSR Category 5 – Install, Inspect and Remove Proprietary Shoring Systems
EUSR. Category 3, 4, 5 – Install, Inspect and Remove Timber, Steel and Proprietary Shoring Systems

EUSR training arms workers with knowledge, expertise, and a safety-conscious mindset that elevates industry standards whilst safeguarding those who dedicate themselves to building the world around us. As the construction landscape evolves, our allegiance to EUSR training is unwavering—a testament to our dedication to safety beneath our very feet.

Contact Us:

Portadown HQ: 028 9344 4729 Dublin HQ: (01) 891 6105 or e-mail us at info@industrytrainingservices.com. Further information is also available online at https://www.industrytrainingservices.com/training-courses/safety-in-excavations/

Train with Ireland’s Leading Health and Safety Training Provider

Shine a Light on Safety with NRSWA Sign Lighting and Guarding Training

Posted on November 13, 2024 by Marketing

Understanding NRSWA

Not everyone has heard of sign, lighting, and guarding procedures but none of us are strangers to street works! Streetworks or roadworks are a common, and yes, somewhat annoying sight if you’re a road user, pedestrian, or live in the vicinity and have to tolerate daily disruption and temporary traffic lights for a while!

Those working in the construction industry know that the teams behind the scenes have a challenging job to do. They often work during peak traffic hours as well as through the night to ensure the safety of everyone involved, and the efficient delivery of much needed road improvements during these times. Skilled street works operatives will be familiar with best practice in relation to signs, lighting, and guarding.

NRSWA Legislation

The importance of NRSWA Sign, Lighting and Guarding Training is addressed within the New Roads and Street Works Act (NRSWA) as it enables properly trained operatives to minimise the negative impacts of street works to the public, as well as mitigate the risks to workers delivering the project.

The New Roads and Street Works Act (NRSWA) is a piece of UK legislation designed to regulate and coordinate roadworks and street works on public roads. Its primary objectives are to minimise disruption, ensure safety of workers and road users, and maintain the integrity of roads and streets.

Sign, Lighting and Guarding: The Basics

1. Safety Illumination

Sign, Lighting and Guarding Training focuses on ensuring that roadworks are visible and safe, especially during low-light conditions or at night. Proper illumination is crucial to alert drivers and pedestrians to potential hazards. This training teaches workers how to install, maintain, and use lighting equipment effectively.

2. Traffic Management

Controlling traffic flow is another critical aspect. Workers are trained in placing signs, cones, and barriers strategically to guide and protect road users. They will learn how to set up and maintain temporary traffic management systems, keeping both drivers, workers, and pedestrians safe.

3. Emergency Response

In cases of accidents or emergencies during roadworks, workers trained in Sign, Lighting and Guarding are equipped to respond swiftly and efficiently. This aspect of training ensures that all workers know what to do in case of an unexpected event.

Why NRSWA Sign, Lighting and Guarding Training Matters

Safety First: The safety of workers and the general public is paramount during roadworks. Proper training ensures that everyone involved knows how to minimise risks effectively.

Reduced Disruption: Well-planned and well-lit roadworks are less disruptive, leading to smoother traffic flow and less frustration for commuters.

Compliance: NRSWA compliance is not optional. Proper training ensures that roadworks are conducted according to legal standards, avoiding fines and legal issues.

Emergency Preparedness: In the event of an accident or emergency, trained workers can act quickly and appropriately, potentially saving lives.

Training and Certification

To become proficient in NRSWA Sign, Lighting and Guarding, workers need to undergo formal training provided by certified trainers and organisations.

At Industry Training Services we offer NRSWA accredited Sign, Lighting and Guarding (Operative O1/Supervisor S1) Training at our Portadown HQ. It is a one-day course intended for operatives or supervisors involved in utility works and working on public roads and footpaths throughout the UK.

The course covers the statutory training requirement for placing signs, cones, barriers etc., on public roads and footpaths and enables candidates to gain the necessary qualifications.

The course combines classroom-based training followed by a practical assessment. Operative candidates are assessed through carrying out practical exercises, whilst supervisor candidate assessments comprise of knowledge questions followed by observation of operatives carrying out various tasks.

NRSWA Sign, Lighting and Guarding Training plays a starring role. It ensures that our roads remain safe, well-lit, and efficiently managed, benefiting everyone who uses them.

Stay informed, stay safe, and keep the roads moving!

Contact Us:

Portadown HQ: 028 3839 8700

Dublin HQ: (01) 891 6105

Email: info@industrytrainingservices.com

For more information visit: https://www.industrytrainingservices.com/

Safe Access and Egress: Techniques Taught in PASMA

Posted on November 13, 2024 by Marketing

In industries where working at height is a common practice, ensuring the safety of workers is paramount. One key aspect of this safety is safe access and egress from elevated work platforms like mobile access towers. The Prefabricated Access Suppliers’ and Manufacturers’ Association (PASMA) has long been a standard-bearer in promoting safe working at height, and their mobile access towers training is essential for anyone involved in erecting or using these structures.

Understanding the Importance of Safe Access and Egress

Safe access and egress refer to the methods and procedures used to enter and exit elevated work platforms, such as mobile access towers, scaffold towers, or ladders, without risking injury. This aspect of working at height is often overlooked, yet it plays a crucial role in preventing accidents and ensuring the well-being of workers.

PASMA Mobile Access Towers Training

PASMA is a recognised authority in the field of mobile access towers offering training solutions designed to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to work safely at height. The PASMA Operator’s Code of Practice serves as a comprehensive guide for the use, assembly, altering and dismantle of scaffold towers. New revisions to this code mean that no individual who is assembling or working on a scaffold tower needs to stand on an unguarded platform. Safe access and egress techniques are an integral part of this training.

Some of the key techniques taught in PASMA mobile access towers training:

3T Method (Through the Trapdoor): This method involves climbing through the trapdoor onto the platform and turning around to face outwards. It’s crucial to ensure the trapdoor is securely closed before using this method. PASMA training teaches individuals how to safely execute this manoeuvre, emphasising the need for balance and stability.
A-Frame Method: The A-Frame method is another way to access the platform. It involves climbing a ladder attached to the tower at an angle, resembling the letter ‘A’. PASMA training provides guidance on setting up the ladder correctly and using it safely.
Toe-Boards and Guardrails: PASMA training highlights the importance of toe-boards and guardrails on mobile access towers. These safety features help prevent falls from the platform and provide a secure surface for workers to step onto or off.
Correct Use of Tools and Equipment: The training also covers the proper use of tools and equipment required for safe access and egress, such as handrails, stabilisers, and climbing devices. Candidates will learn how to inspect and maintain these components to ensure they are in good working condition.
Fall Protection: PASMA training emphasises the significance of fall protection measures, such as the use of harnesses and lanyards. Workers are taught how to use these devices when ascending or descending mobile access towers.
Risk Assessment: Part of safe access and egress involves identifying potential hazards and assessing the risks associated with the task. PASMA training instructs participants on how to perform risk assessments to ensure safe working conditions for examples ensuring the suitability of the site ground conditions.
Emergency Procedures: In the event of an emergency or equipment malfunction, PASMA training provides guidance on how to safely descend from the tower. This knowledge can be invaluable in critical situations.

Ultimately, the techniques taught in PASMA mobile access towers training extend far beyond the training room. They become ingrained in the practices of those who undergo the training, creating a culture of safety that extends to every job site. PASMA training ensures that those who work at height are well-prepared to meet this challenge, making it an invaluable asset in our ongoing quest for workplace safety and well-being.

At Industry Training Services we offer comprehensive PASMA Mobile Access Towers Training for more information, contact us:

Portadown: 02838398700

Dublin: 018916105

info@industrytrainingservices.com

TETRA Ladder Safety Training: Step Up Employee Safety

Posted on November 13, 2024November 13, 2024 by Marketing

Ladders are ubiquitous tools used across various industries, from construction and manufacturing to maintenance and utilities. Despite their commonplace presence, they pose significant risks when not used correctly.

This is where TETRA Ladder Systems Training can step in. It provides candidates with the knowledge and skills needed to mitigate these risks, ensuring that every ascent and descent is a safe one.

Understanding TETRA Ladder Systems Training

TETRA Ladder Systems Training is a comprehensive programme designed to equip workers with the skills and expertise necessary to use ladders safely and effectively. Some key elements of the training include:

1. Ladder Selection: Participants learn how to choose the right ladder for the task at hand. This includes understanding the ladder’s load capacity, height, and type.

2. Proper Inspection: An essential aspect of ladder safety is inspecting the equipment before use. TETRA training teaches workers how to conduct thorough inspections to identify any signs of damage or wear.

3. Safe Set-up: The correct setup of a ladder is crucial to its stability. Training covers how to position and secure ladders, ensuring they remain stable during use.

4. Climbing Techniques: Participants learn safe climbing techniques, including maintaining three points of contact, facing the ladder, and using both hands for stability.

5. Fall Prevention: TETRA emphasises fall prevention strategies, such as avoiding overreaching and not standing on the top rungs of a ladder.

6. Emergency Procedures: Workers are trained in how to respond in case of ladder-related emergencies, including falls and accidents.

Benefits of TETRA Ladder Systems Training

Reduced Accidents: Proper training significantly reduces the risk of ladder-related accidents, helping organisations save on medical costs and lost workdays.
Legal Compliance: TETRA training ensures that organisations comply with workplace safety regulations and standards, mitigating the risk of fines and legal issues.
Enhanced Productivity: A well-trained workforce is a more efficient one. Workers can perform tasks confidently and safely, resulting in increased productivity.
Improved Morale: Knowing that their employers prioritise safety and invest in their well-being boosts employee morale and job satisfaction.
Savings: Preventing accidents and injuries through training can result in substantial cost savings for organisations in terms of workers’ compensation claims and insurance premiums.

Tetra Ladder Safety Systems Training with ITS

ITS are the only public training centre in Ireland offering Tetra training!

We offer both: Tetra Leaning & Roof Ladder Candidate Course (Level 3) and Tetra Leaning Ladder Candidate (Level 1-2).

We aim to provide each candidate with the underpinning knowledge and practical skills to safely use fall protection equipment with leaning and roof ladders when accessing property elevations and working on pitched roofs. During this training candidates will be introduced to items of personal fall protection equipment which always enables the individual to safely reach their working position maintaining 3 points of contact.

Certification and ID Cards are issued upon successful completion of the course and assessments. This will be valid for 3 years from the date of course.

Conclusion

TETRA Ladder Systems Training is not just about adhering to regulations; it’s about protecting the lives and livelihoods of the workforce. It is a commitment to creating safer work environments and fostering a culture of safety within organisations.

TETRA Ladder Systems Training is essential in ensuring every step is secure, every ascent is safe, and every descent is uneventful. It’s an investment in safety that pays dividends in peace of mind and a safer, more productive workplace for all.

Contact Us:

Portadown HQ: 028 9592 2765

Dublin HQ: (01) 536 9328

info@industrytrainingservices.com