SHEM-08.01 General EHSS Rules

SHEM-08.01 General EHSS Rules is one of the elements of the safe work practice SHEM – 08.00 among the eleven basic workplace safety rules drew up SABIC that workers must comply with to avoid accidents. They are simple principles that precede all the special rules that may occur in any operation. The majority of accidents are produced by the lack of SHEM-08.01 General EHSS Rules.

We want to present you the summary of the SHEM-08.01 General EHSS Rules (Safety health and environment management system) that the entire organization, in any sector, must follow to control the protection of employees, they must also be carried out correctly and without any fear of getting hurt by carrying out their work. SHEM-08 are:

Disclaimer: the pieces of information mentioned in this blog are not of the author. The summary of SHEM-08.01 abstract from ST-OMS – 316.01. It is not intended to substitute for SHEM-08.01 General EHSS Rules or change but only a summary of SHEM-08.01 General EHSS Rules for safety officer education purposes. U.S. law allows some copyrighted material to be used without permission if it is for education, criticism, or commentary.

8.1 – General EHSS Rules

8.2 – Laboratory HSE Rules

8.3 – Material handling and storage

8.4 – Prevention of fires and explosions of combustible dust

8.5 – ELECTRICAL safety

8.6 – Lifting equipment

8.7 – Handling tools

8.8 – Personal protection equipment

8.9 – Working at height

8.10 – Work Permit

8.11 – Control hazardous energy isolation including LOTO

SHEM-08.01 General EHSS Rules/Office

Defective office equipment (or suspected of being defective) should not be used until it is inspected and repaired. Defects include items such as missing or loose mechanical guards, evidence of electrical shorts or problems, sharp edges or splinters on furniture, and excessive play in wheels.

Portable machines and temporary devices must be positioned so that they will not easily topple over and create a hazard. Machine slip must be monitored. Clamps or safety devices should be used when there is a significant possibility that a machine or device will fall from its support or position.

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Machines such as shredders, cutters, and paper entryways into the machines must have guards to prevent injury. Such machines should not be operated without guards installed and are preferably located in a central location rather than individual office desks. Other office EHSS rules are:

• Trimming boards (paper cutters) must be equipped with a guard in the pinch point area.
• Defective carpets or tiles will be repaired immediately. Worn or misshapen mats under office chairs need to be replaced or repaired.
• Plastic mats with wavy or torn edges need to be replaced or repaired.
• File cabinets and desk drawers should be closed when not in use.
• Only one drawer in a filing cabinet should be open at a time to prevent tipping. Standard practice should be to load the file cabinet in such a way that it is not too heavy.
• All office furniture will be kept in good condition.
• Unauthorized personnel shall not repair (office) machines.
• The person in charge of the corresponding area will evaluate the need to issue a work permit (of the corresponding type) for any maintenance activity that is being carried out in non-operational areas.
• Chemical samples, flammable liquids, or compressed gases will not be stored in the offices without proper review and approval. If approved, the chemicals will be kept in designated locations in clearly marked containers and with a means to capture leaks if they are potentially hazardous products.
• Appropriate fire extinguishers must be provided as required by the requirements of applicable local/regional/international standards/regulations.
• Smoke detectors shall be installed, as required by the requirements of applicable local/regional/international standards/regulations.
• Emergency lighting must be provided and regularly tested as required by the requirements of applicable local/regional/international standards/regulations.

• No candles, stoves or incense burners should be used (portable electric heaters used to heat buildings are excluded).
• Emergency exits will be kept visible and clear for access.
• Ground/earth wires must not be removed.
• Electrical cords and plugs will be regularly examined, replaced, or repaired if damaged or worn.
• Unprotected power cords should not be placed under rugs, rugs, or other items that may cause or conceal cord damage. Cables should be tied/clamped in cable trays or fixed routed where possible.
• Stairs with more than 4 steps must have handrails that must be used by the people using these stairs and the steps must have non-slip surfaces.
• Climbing and access to elevated places will only be attempted using specially designed ladders, stools or devices and by the requirements of SHEM08.09. Chairs, desks, open drawers, or office furniture are not to be used as substitutes.
• Trip hazards (including temporary ones) created by electrical/telephone/computer cords or loose materials should be avoided or otherwise protected and routed where possible so as not to create unnecessary trip hazards. All cables must be securely taped unless they are specifically designed to lie flat and walkable.
• Spills should be cleaned up or temporary barriers placed to prevent traffic through the area as soon as possible until the walking surface can be cleaned.
• Garbage/waste will be separated as much as possible disposed of in designated containers and recycled where possible.
• The arrangement of office furniture should be such that adequate space is left for employees to pass freely between furniture and equipment. Ergonomics will be taken into account when selecting office furniture.
• Smartphones, tablets, and documents should not be read while walking.
• Smoking is strictly prohibited in offices/buildings unless specifically designated rooms are available.
• File cabinets with the potential to tip when 2 or more drawers are opened simultaneously depending on the design of the cabinet should be ensured against tipping by following the manufacturer’s instructions during installation and use (in addition, this can be done, for example, by bolting to the adjacent cabinet or wall). ).
• Objects with sharp points, such as scissors, letter openers, or knives, should not be stored with a sharp edge exposed to accidental contact.
• You are not allowed to take home any company property without the written agreement of a Manager or Supervisor (even if it is only temporary). Firearms and ammunition shall not be permitted on plants in the operation, except those run by law enforcement officers.
• All plant incidents, accidents and emergencies must be reported immediately and employees must take action by their duties/job classification.

SHEM-08.01 General EHSS Rules/plant

The carrying of lighters matches or any other form of ignition within the Plant in operation is strictly prohibited. When strictly necessary, this will only be done following the hot work permit system by SHEM-08.10 or with the written approval of the corresponding Area Manager.

Mobile devices/cell phones will not be allowed without authorization inside units of the operating plant where potentially explosive atmospheres may occur. The Manager of the area concerned must review the request for the use of mobile phones in the operating units of the plant considering that the use could distract the staff from their normal work.

Photography and the use of video cameras within the operating plants will be strictly controlled. If photography is used, it will be treated as a hot work activity with the appropriate permits and gas testing for the area where the device will be operated. Other general plant EHHSS RULES are:

• The entry of personnel and vehicles to the Operating Plant will be restricted and controlled, also considering the applicable requirements of SHEM-14.
• EHSS rules for visitors must be developed. Visitors must receive or become familiar with the plant’s EHSS rules before entering the plant area.
• Visitors will not be allowed access to the plant unless accompanied by SABIC personnel.
• Visitors will receive a visitor’s badge to enter plant areas.
• Visitors must follow the rules of access to the plant and register on the visitor registration sheet of the area in question.
• All vehicles entering the plant in operation must comply with local Traffic Laws regarding technical inspection, licenses, insurance, and spare parts.
• Vehicles entering the operating plant shall comply with all posted signs, signals, and traffic instructions.
• All personnel entering the operating plant shall comply with the clothing and personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements by SHEM08.08 requirements.
• Smoking will not be allowed in the Operating Plants except in designated safe places that are identified and provided with lighters, ashtrays, and fire extinguishers.
• An appropriate work permit must be obtained to work within the operating areas of the plant.
• Precautions and EHSS procedures related to specific operations and jobs will be followed. All work or tasks will be carried out by the established procedure and with the designated tools and equipment.
• All lifting equipment brought into operating plants, including contractor equipment, must have current certifications of examination and testing by a competent examination body.
• No person other than an employee of the Production/Operations department may operate any plant equipment without the prior approval of the Production/Operations Supervisor concerned.
• Horseplay or fighting will be prohibited.
• Running within the plant should be prohibited, except in an emergency.
• The use of open flames or arc-producing tools/equipment will be prohibited in the areas of operation unless specifically authorized by the applicable permit by SHEM-08.10.
• Oil/chemicals will be properly stored to ensure there are no leaks. Oil/chemical drums will be labelled as hazardous or non-hazardous. Oil/chemical spills should be controlled and disposed of for recycling.
• Employees will be informed of the location of fire extinguishers in work areas and how to use them. Portable fire extinguishers are to be used by employees for the initial stage of fire suppression only.
• Use of fire hydrants and fire hoses for non-emergency purposes shall comply with SHEM-11.04: Disruption of Emergency Response Teams and Authorized Use of Emergency Equipment for Non-Emergency Purposes.
• Employees who are not assigned departmental or emergency response duties should not congregate in an emergency area.

SHEM-08.01 General EHSS Rules/Traffic

Before being permitted to operate a motor vehicle, drivers must have a valid driver’s license acceptable to local traffic regulations for the class of vehicle they have been or will be assigned to operate.

Drivers of SABIC vehicles must be able to speak and read enough to converse with the general public, read and understand highway traffic signs and signals, respond to official inquiries, and make entries in reports and records.

When the Company plans to hire new employees or transfer existing employees to jobs in which driving a motor vehicle is the primary function, individuals who can reasonably be expected to drive safely must be selected. Final selection must be based on an analysis of driving experience and driving record, a knowledge test, a driving skills test, and a physical examination.

• Vehicles must comply with applicable local/regional laws regarding MOT, licensing, insurance, parts and EHSS equipment.
• Drivers must visually inspect their motor vehicles before using them each day.
• Vehicles must not be operated with defects that impair safe operation, such as malfunctioning brakes or worn tires.
• A “Danger – Do Not Operate” label must be placed on the steering wheel of any motor vehicle deemed unsafe to operate, and the location of the vehicle must be immediately reported to the supervisor and the Maintenance Department.
• Traffic signs, as applicable, will be posted within SABIC facilities/functions within SABIC divisions.
• The maximum speed limit allowed within SABIC facilities/functions within SABIC divisions will be by local rules and regulations.
• All posted traffic control signs will be followed.
• The maximum number of passengers to be transported in the vehicle will be by the design of seats according to the class of the vehicle.
• Vehicle passengers may not get on or off moving vehicles.
• Unless specifically designated for this purpose, motorized vehicles may not be used to push or pull other vehicles.
• When visibility is limited, flagmen must be used or other appropriate precautions must be taken to ensure that motorized vehicles can back up safely.
• Headlights should be turned on whenever there is insufficient visibility to see pedestrians or other vehicles.
• Vehicles must not be left unattended while the engine is running.
• Vehicles must be parked and/or loaded and unloaded only in designated spaces and areas.
• Vehicles should not be parked within 15 feet / 5 meters of fire hydrants, in travel lanes, or at driveways/exits of parking lots or buildings.
• Drivers shall not operate a motor vehicle, and the Company will not require or permit a driver to operate a motor vehicle, while the driver’s ability or alertness is so impaired, or so likely to be affected, by fatigue, illness, or alcohol/drug use. Or any other cause, which makes it unsafe for him to start or continue to operate a motor vehicle.

Drivers must drive defensively and courteously

• Equipment or other loose objects that may hinder the driver or any passenger in motor vehicles shall be secured with ropes/grabs or other devices.
• When travelling in an unfamiliar area, drivers should get directions and consult a map before driving. The strong preference is to use a satellite navigation system. If directional questions arise while driving,
• Drivers should safely pull out of traffic and stop their vehicles before consulting a map or satellite navigation system. Drivers will not attempt to read a map and/or reprogram their navigation system and drive at the same time.
• Drivers must not use mobile phones to converse while driving a motor vehicle on company business without a hands-free device, regardless of local regulation. In general, mobile phone use is strongly recommended only when the vehicle is not moving. Avoid initiating phone calls while driving, snooze incoming calls, or keep them short and simple.
• Drivers must not create, send or read text messages or emails using a mobile phone or another electronic device at any time while operating a motor vehicle. All privately owned vehicles operated by company businesses must comply with applicable local regulations (seat belts for all occupants as a minimum).
• Heavy vehicles (as defined by local traffic regulations) must have an alarm that sounds when reversing. A signalman should direct any heavy vehicle while backing up if visibility is obscured.

SHEM-08.01 General EHSS Rules/Freight transport

• Cargo will be loaded and secured to prevent it from sliding, shifting or falling.
• If the load extends 4 ft. /1.2 m or more beyond the vehicle body, a red flag or cloth of at least 12 in / 0.3 m must be provided or reflective lights or another type of warning light in the rear end of the vehicle. Cargo to provide greater visibility. No load should extend over the sides.
• Cargo securing equipment (e.g., ropes, chains, chocks, straps, wires) must be visually inspected before use to ensure that it is free from defects and in good working order.

Entry of Motor Vehicles into Hazardous Areas

Motor vehicles entering plant operating areas shall be equipped with spark arresters and similar air intake valves or cutouts unless a vehicle entry permit is obtained from the Plant Operations/Production department. Appropriate gas testing is performed when necessary.

All Vehicles will only travel on designated highways. Vehicles are not allowed to travel on or through open or median areas of dirt or gravel. You will not travel on roads that are temporarily closed with barricades and signs. Vehicles are not allowed to enter the areas of operation without proper authorization.

• Entry to the plant will be restricted.
• A system to approve the entry of vehicles into the plant will be established.
• Barricades will be erected and conspicuous signs posted where vehicle entry into processing or storage areas is prohibited, or prohibited without an approved vehicle entry permit.
• Smoking will be prohibited inside all vehicles entering or operating within the fenced area of the operating plant.

If the Emergency Alarm sounds, all motorized vehicles operating within the plant will be parked out of the way and turned off. Non-emergency vehicles such as firefighters, ambulances, etc., will not be able to circulate through the Plant if the alarm has sounded.

Accident Reporting/Investigation Auto accidents must be reported per SHEM-10: Incident Reporting, Classification, Investigation, and Analysis. It will be guaranteed that:

• Drivers of company vehicles promptly report vehicle accidents, whether they occur on or off-site. This notification will be made by the most appropriate and appropriate means (for example, telephone, radio or messaging).
• Drivers do not leave the scene of the incident unless there is an emergency need. Drivers will need to take all necessary on-scene precautions to prevent further accidents at the scene.

SHEM-08.01 General EHSS Rules/Housekeeping

Trip hazards, such as trash, trash cans, phone lines, electrical cords, air lines, furniture, ropes, hoses, pallets, etc., must not obstruct employee hallways, emergency exits, or stairwells. If such a practice is unavoidable, suitable barricades must be provided and the hazard covered.

The accumulation of garbage, scrap and debris will not be allowed. Arrangements will be made for their removal to keep accumulation to a minimum. Protruding nails and other sharp objects shall be removed or bent in such a way that they no longer present a hazard.

• Work environments will be kept clean, orderly and free from tripping hazards or oil spills.
• Identified containers will be provided for the different types of garbage and scrap.
• Garbage and waste will be recycled, whenever possible.
• Materials and/or equipment must be returned to storage when the work for which they were used is finished.
• Material and equipment shall not be stored, parked, or left in a manner that obstructs access to fire extinguishers, fire water/gas valves, electrical switches, emergency showers/eyewash stations, etc.
• Storage shelves, shelves, cabinets, files, etc. They must be anchored and secured in a way that prevents them from tipping over.
• Machinery-related spills (i.e., oil, powdered metal shavings, hydraulic fluids, etc.) in walkways and work surfaces should be prevented by the use of collection bags, drip trays, splash guards, or other effective means.
• Potentially flammable and combustible materials must be returned to approved storage cabinets at the end of each shift, or when not in use. Compressed gas cylinders/bottles will be removed from the work area and placed in their approved storage location at the end of each shift, or when not in use.
• Good housekeeping practices will be followed. Staff shall ensure that at the end of each shift, work areas and break areas are clean and orderly.
• The floors of the work environments must be kept clean and free of oil. Additionally, repair requests will be prioritized in a manner that places the greatest emphasis on reducing the level of employee exposure to hazardous conditions and effects in the environment.

Evacuation routes will be displayed

The minimum width of the walkway shall comply with the requirements of applicable local/regional/national/international standards/regulations. Without local/regional/international rules/regulations, it will be 44 inches / ~112 cm.

SHEM-08.01 General EHSS Rules/Safety Signage

A space must be provided on the tag or equivalent system to write the name of the person installing the tag, the date of installation, and the equipment identification number. The label or equivalent system must also contain other information, such as the trade or the reason for the label. Hazard labels or equivalent systems shall contain site-standardized words in the local language, such as “Danger-Do Not Operate.”

Danger signs

Danger signs will be installed in places where there is immediate danger. Wording on signs must meet regulatory requirements and be in a language understood by all persons present on site and the use of English as a second language will be considered in the SABIC Environment.

Caution signs

Caution signs shall be installed where required to warn of potential hazards or to warn of unsafe practices. In the absence of local/regional/international rules/regulations, it shall be yellow as the predominant colour, black top panel and borders, yellow “caution” lettering on the black panel and yellow bottom panel for additional sign wording. The wording in black will be used for additional wording.

Safety instruction signs

Safety instruction signs will be installed in places where permanent safety requirements must be installed, such as safety rules, required personal protective equipment, etc.

The words on the signs must comply with the regulatory requirements and be in a language that is understood by all persons present in the place and the use of English as a second language will be considered at the Entity level, and must be legible from a minimum distance of 5 feet / ~1.50 meters or the greater distance that justifies the danger.

Without local/regional/international rules/regulations, it will be white with a green top panel with white lettering to convey the main message. Any additional text on the sign must be in black type on a white background.

Conclusion

SABIC has a strong commitment to EHSS, and its Life-Saving Rules (LSRs) are a key part of this commitment. The LSRs highlight the hazardous elements of SABIC’s operations and reinforce the procedures that require absolute focus to avoid serious incidents or injuries.

Some of the general EHSS rules of SABIC include:

• Always follow the safety procedures: This includes wearing the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), following lockout/tagout procedures, and using the correct tools and equipment.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Report any hazards or unsafe conditions to your supervisor immediately. This will help to prevent accidents and injuries.
• Take care of yourself and your co-workers. This means being aware of your limitations, as well as the limitations of others. It also means being willing to help out your co-workers when they need it.

EHSS is a core value at SABIC. This means that it is not just a set of rules to be followed, but a way of life. EHSS is everyone’s responsibility. This means that everyone at SABIC has a role to play in creating a safe and healthy workplace. SABIC is committed to continuous improvement. This means that the company is constantly looking for ways to improve its EHSS performance.