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production & processing: 47
Face activity
A new approach to face inspections
Bardon Aggregates > Ivonbrook Quarry, Derbyshire > 01629 650275
Bardon Aggregates has devised a new system to improve the effectiveness of daily face inspections.
The original inspection was conducted by the face loader operative using a tick sheet. This was handed to
the quarry manager who would make any comments and file for record. However, the operative had no
specific training, and the simple tick sheet did not capture all relevant information. In addition, it did not
provide any guidance to the operator on what action to take in the event of an unsafe face condition. If an
incident occurred, it placed an unfair responsibility on the operative.
The company’s new inspection sheet incorporates guidance for action and commitment to identify
dangerous conditions rather than just using a tick list. The inspection is carried out in accordance with a
Safe System of Work. It includes an inspection of the crest in addition to the face, and is now carried out by
the quarry supervisor with the face operator. This increases the communication between the operator and
the supervisor enabling any safety issues to be highlighted before work commences.
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Drill rig safety barrier
Hanson Aggregates > Chipping Sodbury Quarry, South Gloucestershire > 01454 314400
Hanson’s Chipping Sodbury Quarry (near Bristol) utilises a drill rig with a fully enclosed cab. When drilling
post holes for face barriers, the driller (if he has to leave the security of his cab) is potentially exposed to
the unguarded face edge.
The drilling operator suggested welding a horizontal pole on to the front of the drill rig frame to act as a
physical barrier. This protective system is a considered as a suitable alternative to the wearing of a full fallarrest
harness, but only whilst moving between cab and hole top.