‍ ‍

Scope:
Installation of ponds, streams, waterfalls, lakes, and associated stone masonry and groundworks, including excavation, base preparation, liner installation, rock placement, use of cement/mortar, and commissioning of water systems (electrical works by qualified subcontractors only).

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Hazards, Risks & Controls

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1. Excavation, uneven ground, slips/trips/falls

• Risk: Slips, trips, sprains, minor injuries.

• Controls:

  • Keep work area tidy, route cables and hoses safely.

  • Mark excavations clearly, use barriers where appropriate.

  • Maintain good housekeeping throughout the day.

  • Wear appropriate footwear (safety boots).

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2. Manual handling of stone and heavy materials

• Risk: Back injuries, strains, crush injuries to hands/feet.

• Controls:

  • Follow HSE manual handling principles: plan the lift, keep load close, avoid twisting, lift with legs not back.

  • Assess weight before lifting; if in doubt, treat as a two-person lift.

  • Use two-person lifts for medium stones; for anything heavier or awkward, use appropriate lifting equipment (excavator/plant with certified lifting straps).

  • Wear gloves and safety boots.

  • See separate Manual Handling risk assessment for detailed guidance.

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3. Use of power tools (angle grinders, mixers, etc.)

• Risk: Cuts, abrasions, dust inhalation, noise, eye injuries.

• Controls:

  • Only competent workers to use power tools.

  • Inspect tools before use; do not use damaged equipment.

  • Use eye protection, hearing protection if required, and gloves.

  • Use dust masks/respirators when cutting stone or mixing dusty products.

  • Follow manufacturer's instructions at all times.

4. Use of petrol compactors / hired plant (excavators, Manitou etc.)

• Risk: Crush injuries, collision, noise, fumes.

• Controls:

  • Only trained and competent operators to use plant equipment.

  • Follow hire company induction and site rules.

  • Exclude non-essential persons from operating area.

  • Never work under suspended loads; maintain clear communication with plant operator.

  • See separate Hired Plant Machinery risk assessment.

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5. Working near water / partially filled ponds

• Risk: Slips into shallow water, minor injury, cold exposure.

• Controls:

  • Keep edges clear and tidy; avoid standing on unstable or loose stones.

  • Use life jacket if there is any possibility of entering deeper or unstable water.

  • Lone working around water only in line with Riverdale Falls Lone Working procedures (check-ins, life jacket, no high-risk tasks alone).

  • See separate Working Around Water risk assessment.

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6. Use of cement, mortar, tanking slurry, epoxy coatings

• Risk: Skin/eye irritation, chemical burns, inhalation of fumes or dust.

• Controls:

  • Wear suitable gloves, eye protection, and respirators when required.

  • Avoid skin contact; wash off splashes immediately.

  • Mix in well-ventilated areas.

  • Follow COSHH assessments and SDS for each product (available at www.riverdalefalls.co.uk/forms).

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7. Noise, dust, general site hazards

• Risk: Long-term hearing damage, respiratory irritation.

• Controls:

  • Use appropriate hearing protection when using noisy equipment.

  • Use dust suppression where possible and suitable RPE.

  • Take breaks away from dusty/noisy operations.

‍ ‍

8. Weather conditions (heat, cold, rain)

• Risk: Dehydration, heat exhaustion, cold stress, slippery surfaces.

• Controls:

  • Monitor weather forecasts; adjust work if conditions become unsafe.

  • Provide adequate breaks, hydration, and shelter.

  • Wear appropriate clothing for conditions.

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9. Sharps and stone edges

• Risk: Cuts, lacerations.

• Controls:

  • Wear appropriate gloves when handling stone.

  • Be aware of sharp edges on cut stone and tools.

  • Keep first aid kit accessible (stored in van).

Residual Risk Rating

With controls in place, residual risk is considered Low–Medium. Site-specific factors (steep slopes, public access, unusual hazards) must be added on a site-specific RAMS sheet.

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Scope:
Routine maintenance including pond cleaning, filter cleaning, pump servicing, plant management, fish relocation, sediment removal, and minor repairs to existing water features.

‍ ‍

Hazards, Risks & Controls

‍ ‍

1. Working near or in shallow water ‍

• Risk: Slips, falls into water, cold exposure, drowning (low risk in shallow ponds).

• Controls:

  • Always work in pairs during pond maintenance.

  • Wear life jacket when working near deeper water (stored in van).

  • Wear waders if entering shallow water.

  • Keep edges clear and avoid standing on unstable surfaces.

  • Follow Riverdale Falls Lone Working procedures if applicable.

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2. Handling fish and wildlife

• Risk: Minor bites/stings, stress to wildlife.

• Controls:

  • Handle fish carefully using nets and appropriate containers.

  • Relocate to temporary holding tanks with aeration.

  • Use wildlife filters when vacuuming to protect aquatic life.

  • Leave pond sediment beside water feature for 48-72 hours to allow wildlife to return.

  • Wear gloves when handling pond waste.

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3. Manual handling of equipment and materials

• Risk: Back injuries, strains.

• Controls:

  • Use proper lifting techniques.

  • Use two-person lifts for heavy pumps, filters, or sediment buckets.

  • Use equipment aids (sack trucks, wheeled containers) where possible.

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4. Use of pond vacuum equipment and power tools

• Risk: Electrical hazards near water, noise, trips from hoses/cables.

• Controls:

  • Ensure all electrical equipment is PAT tested and in good condition.

  • Use RCD protection for all electrical equipment used outdoors.

  • Keep cables and hoses tidy and away from water where possible.

  • Wear hearing protection if operating noisy equipment for extended periods.

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5. Exposure to pond water and organic matter

• Risk: Leptospirosis (Weil's disease), skin infections, allergic reactions.

• Controls:

  • Wear waterproof gloves and waders.

  • Cover any cuts or abrasions with waterproof dressings before starting work.

  • Wash hands thoroughly after work and before eating/drinking.

  • Do not put hands near face while working.

  • Seek medical attention immediately if flu-like symptoms develop after working in water.

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6. Use of water treatment chemicals

• Risk: Skin/eye irritation from algaecides, clarifiers, beneficial bacteria products.

• Controls:

  • Use only plant and fish-safe products.

  • Follow COSHH assessment for each chemical (available at www.riverdalefalls.co.uk/forms).

  • Wear gloves and eye protection when handling concentrated products.

  • Follow dosage instructions carefully.

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7. Slips, trips, and uneven surfaces around ponds

• Risk: Falls, sprains, minor injuries.

• Controls:

  • Assess site conditions before starting work.

  • Wear appropriate footwear with good grip.

  • Keep work area tidy.

  • Be aware of wet, muddy, or slippery surfaces around pond edges.

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Residual Risk Rating

With controls in place, residual risk is considered Low.

‍ ‍

Scope:
Stone selection, cutting, shaping, and placement for retaining walls, stone cladding, rockwork features, edging, and natural stone landscaping.

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Hazards, Risks & Controls

‍ ‍

1. Manual handling of stone

• Risk: Back injuries, strains, crush injuries, trapped fingers/toes.

• Controls:

  • Assess weight before lifting; never attempt to lift stones beyond safe capacity.

  • Use two-person lifts for medium stones (generally over 25kg depending on shape/grip).

  • Use mechanical lifting (excavator with straps) for large or awkward stones.

  • Plan the lift: clear path, stable ground, secure grip.

  • Wear safety boots and gloves at all times.

  • See separate Manual Handling risk assessment.

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2. Use of hand tools (chisels, hammers, bolsters)

• Risk: Cuts, bruises, eye injuries from flying stone chips.

• Controls:

  • Only competent workers to use stone masonry tools.

  • Wear safety glasses/goggles at all times when working stone.

  • Wear gloves to protect hands.

  • Ensure tools are in good condition (no split handles, mushroomed heads).

  • Keep other workers at safe distance when striking stone.

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3. Use of power tools (angle grinders, disc cutters)

• Risk: Cuts, lacerations, eye injuries, dust inhalation, noise exposure.

• Controls:

  • Only trained and competent workers to use power tools.

  • Inspect tools before use.

  • Use appropriate cutting discs for stone (check manufacturer specifications).

  • Wear full PPE: safety glasses/goggles, dust mask/respirator, hearing protection, gloves, protective clothing.

  • Use dust suppression (water feed) where possible.

  • Keep bystanders clear of cutting area.

  • Never bypass guards or safety features.

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4. Silica dust exposure (from cutting/grinding stone)

• Risk: Silicosis, lung disease (long-term exposure).

• Controls:

  • Minimize dry cutting where possible; use water suppression.

  • Wear appropriate RPE (FFP3 dust masks or powered respirators for prolonged work).

  • Work in well-ventilated areas.

  • Wet down work area to reduce airborne dust.

  • Seek occupational health monitoring if regularly exposed to silica dust.

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5. Working with cement and mortar

• Risk: Skin burns (alkaline), dermatitis, eye irritation.

• Controls:

  • Wear waterproof gloves when mixing and working with cement/mortar.

  • Wear long sleeves and trousers to minimize skin contact.

  • Wash off splashes immediately with clean water.

  • Use barrier cream on exposed skin.

  • Follow COSHH assessment for cement/mortar (available at www.riverdalefalls.co.uk/forms).

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6. Unstable stacks and stone storage

• Risk: Collapse of stone stacks, crush injuries.

• Controls:

  • Stack stone on level, stable ground.

  • Keep stacks low and stable; do not overstack.

  • Never climb on stone piles.

  • Never reach into unstable stacks; dismantle carefully from the top.

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7. Noise from tools

• Risk: Long-term hearing damage.

• Controls:

  • Wear hearing protection when using power tools, compactors, or working near noisy plant.

  • Take regular breaks away from noisy work.

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8. Weather conditions

• Risk: Cold stress, heat exhaustion, slippery surfaces in wet weather.

• Controls:

  • Monitor weather; adjust work schedule if conditions become unsafe.

  • Provide shelter, hydration, and appropriate breaks.

  • Wear appropriate clothing for conditions.

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Residual Risk Rating

With controls in place, residual risk is considered Low–Medium.

Scope:
Lifting, carrying, moving, and positioning stone, bagged materials (cement, aggregates), equipment, pumps, filters, and other heavy items.

Hazards, Risks & Controls

1. Lifting and carrying heavy or awkward loads

• Risk: Back injuries, hernias, muscle strains, joint injuries.

• Controls:

  • Avoid manual handling where possible: Use mechanical aids (excavators, forklifts, sack trucks, wheelbarrows, trolleys).

  • Assess the load before lifting:

    • Is it too heavy? (HSE guideline: max ~25kg for men, ~16kg for women in good lifting conditions, but much less for awkward shapes or repeated lifts).

    • Is it awkward or unstable?

    • Can you get a good grip?

    • Is the route clear?

  • If in doubt, use a two-person lift or mechanical aid.

2. Safe lifting technique

• Controls:

  • Plan the lift: where are you taking it? Is the route clear?

  • Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, close to the load.

  • Bend knees, keep back straight, grip firmly.

  • Lift with legs, not back.

  • Keep load close to body; do not twist while carrying.

  • Put load down carefully; do not drop.

  • Take breaks if doing repetitive lifting.

3. Two-person lifts

• Risk: Coordination failures, unequal load distribution.

• Controls:

  • Both workers must agree on the lift plan before starting.

  • One person should lead and call instructions ("ready, lift, move, down").

  • Ensure both have secure grip and stable footing.

  • Lift and move in unison.

  • Communicate throughout the lift.

4. Mechanical lifting (excavators, Manitou, straps)

• Risk: Load drop, crush injuries, strap failure.

• Controls:

  • Only trained operators to use lifting plant.

  • Use appropriate lifting equipment (rated straps, chains, slings).

  • Inspect lifting gear before use; do not use damaged equipment.

  • Never stand under suspended loads.

  • Maintain clear communication between ground worker and plant operator.

  • Secure load properly before lifting.

5. Stone shape and sharp edges

• Risk: Cuts, trapped fingers, unstable grip.

• Controls:

  • Wear gloves appropriate for the task.

  • Check for sharp edges before gripping.

  • Be aware that natural stone can be unbalanced or have hidden weight distribution.

  • If stone is unstable or difficult to grip, reassess whether manual lift is appropriate.

6. Uneven ground and obstacles

• Risk: Trips, falls while carrying load.

• Controls:

  • Clear route before lifting.

  • Ensure ground is level and stable.

  • Do not carry loads that obstruct your view.

  • Take short steps and move carefully on uneven surfaces.

7. Repetitive lifting

• Risk: Cumulative strain injuries, fatigue.

• Controls:

  • Rotate tasks to avoid prolonged manual handling.

  • Take regular breaks.

  • Use mechanical aids to reduce number of manual lifts.

  • Monitor for signs of fatigue; stop if experiencing pain or discomfort.

When to Use Mechanical Lifting

Always use plant/mechanical lifting for:

• Stones or materials too heavy for two people (generally >50kg or awkward shape).

• Large or bulky items that cannot be safely gripped.

• Repeated lifts of medium-weight items (use wheelbarrow, trolley, or plant).

Residual Risk Rating

With controls in place, residual risk is considered Low–Medium.

Scope:
Use of handheld and portable power tools for cutting, grinding, drilling, mixing, and other construction tasks.

Hazards, Risks & Controls

1. Contact with moving parts (blades, discs, bits)

• Risk: Cuts, lacerations, amputations.

• Controls:

  • Only trained and competent workers to use power tools.

  • Always use tools with guards in place; never bypass safety features.

  • Ensure tool is switched off and unplugged (or battery removed) before changing blades/discs/bits.

  • Keep hands away from cutting area.

  • Allow tools to come to complete stop before putting down.

2. Flying debris and stone chips

• Risk: Eye injuries, cuts from flying particles.

• Controls:

  • Wear safety glasses or goggles at all times when using cutting/grinding tools.

  • Keep bystanders at safe distance (minimum 3 meters).

  • Position body to side of cutting line, not directly in line with disc.

3. Dust inhalation (stone dust, cement dust)

• Risk: Respiratory irritation, silicosis (long-term).

• Controls:

  • Wear appropriate dust mask or respirator (FFP3 for silica dust).

  • Use dust suppression (water feed) where possible.

  • Work in well-ventilated areas.

  • Take breaks away from dusty operations.

4. Noise exposure

• Risk: Hearing damage.

• Controls:

  • Wear hearing protection (ear defenders or plugs) when using noisy tools (grinders, disc cutters, compactors).

  • Limit exposure time; take breaks away from noise.

5. Vibration (hand-arm vibration syndrome - HAVS)

• Risk: Nerve damage, loss of sensation, reduced grip strength (long-term).

• Controls:

  • Use tools with anti-vibration features where available.

  • Keep tools well-maintained; worn tools vibrate more.

  • Take regular breaks; do not use vibrating tools for prolonged periods.

  • Wear anti-vibration gloves where appropriate.

  • Rotate tasks to limit daily exposure.

  • Report tingling, numbness, or loss of grip strength immediately.

6. Electrical hazards

• Risk: Electric shock, electrocution.

• Controls:

  • Ensure all tools are PAT tested and in good condition.

  • Use 110V tools or battery tools on site where possible.

  • If using 240V tools, use RCD protection (30mA trip).

  • Inspect cables and plugs before use; do not use damaged equipment.

  • Keep electrical equipment away from water.

  • Do not use electrical tools in wet conditions unless rated for such use.

7. Tool condition and misuse

• Risk: Tool failure, kickback, loss of control.

• Controls:

  • Inspect tools before use; check for damage, loose parts, worn guards.

  • Use the right tool for the job; do not improvise or misuse tools.

  • Use correct discs/blades for material being cut (check manufacturer specifications).

  • Do not use excessive force; let the tool do the work.

  • Maintain secure grip with both hands where appropriate.

  • Report defective tools immediately; tag as "DO NOT USE" and remove from site.

8. Trailing cables and trip hazards

• Risk: Trips, falls, cable damage.

• Controls:

  • Route cables safely; avoid crossing walkways where possible.

  • Use cable protectors or secure cables if they must cross paths.

  • Keep work area tidy.

Residual Risk Rating

With controls in place, residual risk is considered Low–Medium.

Scope:
All work activities conducted near or around water features, including installation, maintenance, inspection, and testing.

Hazards, Risks & Controls

1. Slips, trips, and falls into water

• Risk: Injury from falling, cold water immersion, drowning (especially in deeper water or strong currents).

• Controls:

  • Assess water depth and site conditions before starting work.

  • Keep pond edges clear and tidy; remove loose stones, tools, and materials from edge.

  • Wear appropriate footwear with good grip.

  • Avoid standing on unstable or wet surfaces.

  • Work in pairs when working near deeper water or in isolated locations.

2. Drowning risk

• Risk: Drowning if worker falls into deep water or becomes trapped.

• Controls:

  • Life jackets must be worn when:

    • Working on or over water deeper than waist height.

    • Working near fast-flowing water or unstable edges.

    • Working alone (in line with Lone Working procedures).

  • Life jacket stored in van; check condition before use.

  • If worker cannot swim or is uncomfortable around water, additional precautions must be taken (buddy system, harness if appropriate, avoid working over deep water).

  • Emergency rescue equipment (throw line, reaching pole) should be available on site for larger water features.

3. Cold water immersion

• Risk: Hypothermia, cold shock, loss of coordination.

• Controls:

  • Wear appropriate clothing; avoid working in very cold conditions where immersion risk is high.

  • If worker falls in, get out immediately, remove wet clothes, and warm up.

  • Have spare dry clothes and blanket available on site.

  • Call 999 if person shows signs of hypothermia (confusion, shivering, loss of coordination).

4. Waterborne diseases (Leptospirosis / Weil's disease)

• Risk: Serious illness from contact with water contaminated by animal urine (rats, livestock).

• Controls:

  • Cover cuts and abrasions with waterproof plasters before starting work.

  • Wear waterproof gloves and waders when entering or working in water.

  • Do not put hands near mouth or face while working.

  • Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after work and before eating/drinking/smoking.

  • Seek immediate medical attention if flu-like symptoms develop after working near water (tell doctor you work around water).

5. Working in or near flowing water

• Risk: Being swept away, loss of footing, drowning.

• Controls:

  • Do not enter fast-flowing water.

  • If work must be done near flowing streams, ensure secure footing and use appropriate PPE (life jacket, waders with good grip).

  • Work in pairs; maintain visual contact.

  • Assess water flow and depth; do not work in conditions beyond safe limits.

6. Hidden underwater hazards

• Risk: Cuts, entanglement, trips from submerged debris, rocks, pipework, or vegetation.

• Controls:

  • Assess pond/water feature before entering or working near edges.

  • Use a probe or pole to check depth and check for submerged obstacles.

  • Wear protective footwear (waders with reinforced soles).

  • Move carefully; do not rush.

7. Lone working around water

• Risk: No immediate help if worker falls in or gets into difficulty.

• Controls:

  • Follow Riverdale Falls Lone Working procedures at all times.

  • Life jacket must be worn.

  • Regular check-ins with office (as per Lone Working policy).

  • Avoid high-risk tasks (deep water work, entering water alone) when working alone.

8. Electrical equipment near water

• Risk: Electric shock, electrocution.

• Controls:

  • All electrical equipment used near water must have RCD protection.

  • Keep electrical tools and cables away from water where possible.

  • Do not use electrical equipment in wet conditions unless rated for such use.

  • Ensure pumps and lighting installed by qualified electrician.

  • Switch off mains supply before working on installed electrical equipment.

Residual Risk Rating

With controls in place, residual risk is considered Low–Medium.

Scope:
Visiting active or inactive quarries to hand-select stone for water features and landscaping projects. Always minimum two workers present at quarries.

Hazards, Risks & Controls

1. Moving plant and vehicles

• Risk: Being struck by dump trucks, excavators, loaders; serious injury or death.

• Controls:

  • Follow quarry site induction and rules at all times.

  • Use designated pedestrian routes only; do not enter prohibited areas.

  • Wear hi-vis clothing at all times.

  • Maintain visual contact with plant operators; make eye contact before approaching.

  • Never approach plant from behind or blind spots.

  • Stand well clear of reversing vehicles.

2. Uneven ground, loose rocks, trip hazards

• Risk: Slips, trips, sprains, falls from height.

• Controls:

  • Wear safety boots with good grip and ankle support.

  • Walk carefully; test footing on loose stone piles.

  • Do not run or rush on quarry site.

  • Avoid walking on top of high or unstable stone stacks.

3. Falling rocks and unstable stone piles

• Risk: Being struck by falling stone; crush injuries, head injuries.

• Controls:

  • Wear hard hat at all times in quarry.

  • Do not climb high unstable rock faces.

  • Only scramble on low-level stable stone piles where safe to do so and permitted by quarry.

  • Always work in pairs; one person should watch for movement or instability while other selects stone.

  • Do not undercut stone piles or pull stones from bottom of stacks.

4. Manual handling of stone

• Risk: Back injuries, strains, crush injuries.

• Controls:

  • Assess weight before lifting; use two-person lifts for medium stones.

  • For large or heavy stones, arrange for quarry to load using their plant equipment.

  • Do not attempt unsafe manual lifts in difficult terrain.

  • See separate Manual Handling risk assessment.

5. Dust exposure

• Risk: Respiratory irritation, silicosis (long-term).

• Controls:

  • Wear dust mask (FFP3) if quarry operations are generating significant dust.

  • Take breaks away from dusty areas.

  • If visiting active quarry during crushing/processing operations, follow quarry's dust control measures.

6. Noise from quarry operations

• Risk: Hearing damage.

• Controls:

  • Wear hearing protection if quarry plant is operating nearby.

  • Maintain safe distance from noisy operations.

7. Weather conditions (heat, cold, rain)

• Risk: Heat exhaustion, cold stress, slippery surfaces in wet weather.

• Controls:

  • Check weather forecast before visit.

  • Bring appropriate clothing and water.

  • Avoid visiting quarry in extreme weather (high winds, heavy rain, ice).

8. Working in pairs (mandatory)

• Risk: No immediate help if injury occurs in isolated quarry location.

• Controls:

  • Always minimum two workers present at quarries.

  • Maintain line of sight with partner at all times.

  • Agree on meeting point and time before splitting up (if necessary).

  • Carry mobile phones and ensure signal or know location of quarry office.

9. Quarry-specific hazards

• Controls:

  • Complete quarry site induction before entering.

  • Follow all site-specific rules and signage.

  • Wear all mandatory PPE: hard hat, hi-vis, safety boots, gloves, eye protection (if required).

  • Do not enter restricted areas or areas marked as unsafe.

  • Report any unsafe conditions to quarry staff immediately.

Residual Risk Rating

With controls in place, residual risk is considered Low–Medium.

‍ ‍

Scope:
Use of hired excavators, telehandlers (Manitou), and other plant machinery for excavation, lifting, material movement, and ground preparation.

‍ ‍

Hazards, Risks & Controls

‍ ‍

1. Operator competence

‍ ‍

• Risk: Loss of control, accident, injury if operator not trained.

• Controls:

  • Only trained and competent operators may use plant machinery.

  • Operators must have appropriate certification/training for the type of plant.

  • Follow hire company induction and familiarization before using hired plant.

  • If operator has not used specific machine before, take time to familiarize with controls before starting work.

‍ ‍

2. Crushing and collision hazards

‍ ‍

• Risk: Workers or public struck by plant; serious injury or death.

• Controls:

  • Exclude non-essential personnel from operating area.

  • Use banksman/ground worker to guide plant where visibility is restricted.

  • Establish clear communication system (hand signals, radio).

  • Ensure pedestrians and public are kept at safe distance; use barriers if necessary.

  • Never allow workers to approach plant from behind or blind spots.

  • Operator must check all around before moving; use mirrors and cameras if fitted.

‍ ‍

3. Overturning and instability

‍ ‍

• Risk: Plant tips over, causing serious injury.

• Controls:

  • Only operate plant on stable, level ground appropriate for the machine.

  • Do not exceed safe working load or reach limits.

  • Avoid working on steep slopes unless machine is rated for it.

  • Be aware of underground voids, trenches, or soft ground that could cause collapse.

  • Lower bucket/forks and park on level ground when not in use.

‍ ‍

4. Working under suspended loads (lifting with excavator)

‍ ‍

• Risk: Load drops, crushing injury or death.

• Controls:

  • Never stand or work under suspended loads.

  • Use appropriate lifting equipment: rated straps, chains, shackles.

  • Inspect lifting gear before use; do not use damaged equipment.

  • Ensure load is secure and balanced before lifting.

  • Maintain clear communication between operator and ground worker.

  • Keep lift height low; move loads smoothly.

‍ ‍

5. Contact with underground services (electric, gas, water)

‍ ‍

• Risk: Electrocution, explosion, flooding.

• Controls:

  • Obtain service location plans before starting excavation.

  • Use cable locator if available.

  • Hand-dig trial holes to confirm location of services before using machine.

  • Assume services are live unless confirmed otherwise.

  • If services struck, stop work immediately and notify client/utility company.

‍ ‍

6. Contact with overhead power lines

‍ ‍

• Risk: Electrocution if plant boom or load touches power line.

• Controls:

  • Identify overhead power lines before starting work.

  • Maintain safe clearance (minimum 3 meters for 240V, much more for high voltage).

  • If work must be done near power lines, contact utility company for isolation or supervision.

  • Use banksman to monitor clearance at all times.

‍ ‍

7. Fuel handling (petrol for compactors, diesel for plant)

‍ ‍

• Risk: Fire, explosion, skin irritation.

• Controls:

  • Refuel in well-ventilated area, away from ignition sources.

  • Turn off engine before refuelling.

  • Do not smoke while refuelling.

  • Wipe up spills immediately.

  • Store fuel in approved containers; keep secure and away from heat.

  • Follow COSHH assessment for fuel (available at www.riverdalefalls.co.uk/forms).

‍ ‍

8. Noise and vibration

‍ ‍

• Risk: Hearing damage, hand-arm vibration syndrome.

• Controls:

  • Wear hearing protection when operating noisy plant.

  • Take regular breaks to reduce vibration exposure.

  • Report excessive vibration or discomfort.

‍ ‍

9. Visibility and confined sites

‍ ‍

• Risk: Collision with structures, vehicles, pedestrians.

• Controls:

  • Assess site for space and access before bringing in plant.

  • Use banksman in confined or restricted visibility situations.

  • Fit audible reversing alarms where available.

  • Move slowly and carefully on congested or confined sites.

‍ ‍

Residual Risk Rating

‍ ‍

With controls in place, residual risk is considered Low–Medium.

‍ ‍

Scope:
Use of ladders for access and occasional scrambling on low-level rock piles at quarries. Riverdale Falls does not routinely work at height, but ladders may be used for inspection, access, or minor tasks.

Hazards, Risks & Controls

1. Falls from height

• Risk: Serious injury from falls, even from low heights.

• Controls:

  • Avoid working at height where possible; consider alternative access methods.

  • Use stepladders or ladders only for short-duration tasks (less than 30 minutes).

  • Do not use ladders for heavy or strenuous work.

  • Ensure ladder is appropriate type and in good condition (check before use).

  • Use three points of contact when climbing.

  • Do not overreach; reposition ladder instead.

2. Ladder stability

• Risk: Ladder slips or tips, causing fall.

• Controls:

  • Place ladder on firm, level ground; use ladder stabilizers if necessary.

  • Secure ladder at top or have someone foot the ladder at base.

  • Angle ladder correctly (1:4 ratio - 1 unit out for every 4 units up).

  • Extend ladder at least 1 meter above landing point if using to access higher level.

  • Do not use ladders in high winds or adverse weather.

3. Carrying tools or materials on ladder

• Risk: Loss of balance, dropped objects.

• Controls:

  • Use tool belt or hoist materials up using rope; keep hands free for climbing.

  • Do not carry heavy or awkward items up ladder.

4. Scrambling on rock piles at quarries

• Risk: Slips, falls, unstable rocks.

• Controls:

  • Only scramble on low-level stable rock piles (generally less than 2 meters).

  • Wear appropriate footwear with good grip.

  • Test footing before putting weight on rocks.

  • Always work in pairs; maintain line of sight.

  • Do not climb high unstable rock faces.

  • Follow quarry-specific guidance on where scrambling is permitted.

5. Overhead hazards

• Risk: Striking head on overhanging branches, structures.

• Controls:

  • Assess overhead hazards before climbing.

  • Wear hard hat if risk of striking head or falling objects.

Residual Risk Rating

With controls in place, residual risk is considered Low.

Scope:
General site activities including site setup, material unloading, vehicle movements, public interaction, and daily site operations.

Hazards, Risks & Controls

1. Vehicle movements on site

• Risk: Collision with workers, public, structures; reversing accidents.

• Controls:

  • Assess site access and parking before arriving.

  • Park in safe location; do not obstruct access routes or emergency exits.

  • Use banksman when reversing in confined spaces or where visibility is poor.

  • Keep pedestrians clear of moving vehicles.

  • Drive slowly on site; maximum 5-10 mph.

  • Be aware of children, pets, and members of public on residential sites.

2. Loading and unloading materials

• Risk: Manual handling injuries, dropped loads, vehicle instability.

• Controls:

  • Plan loading to ensure even weight distribution and vehicle stability.

  • Use proper lifting techniques when loading/unloading.

  • Use two-person lifts or mechanical aids for heavy items.

  • Secure loads properly before travel.

  • Do not overload vehicle beyond rated capacity.

3. Working on or near public roads

• Risk: Being struck by passing traffic.

• Controls:

  • Wear hi-vis clothing at all times when working near roads.

  • Use cones, barriers, or signage to warn traffic if necessary.

  • Park vehicle to protect work area from traffic where possible.

  • Be aware of passing traffic; do not stand in road.

  • If working on public highway, follow local authority requirements.

4. Site security and access control

• Risk: Unauthorized access, theft, vandalism.

• Controls:

  • Keep van locked when unattended; do not leave valuables on display.

  • Secure tools and equipment overnight.

  • Respect client property; use only agreed access routes.

  • Report suspicious activity to client or police as appropriate.

5. Interaction with public, clients, and other contractors

• Risk: Conflict, confusion, safety of bystanders.

• Controls:

  • Maintain professional behavior at all times.

  • Keep public informed of work activities and any hazards (barriers, noise, etc.).

  • Exclude children and pets from work area; inform residents/clients.

  • Coordinate with other contractors on shared sites; hold joint site meetings if necessary.

  • If conflict arises, inform office and seek guidance.

6. Site tidiness and housekeeping

• Risk: Trips, falls, injuries from disorder.

• Controls:

  • Keep work area tidy throughout the day.

  • Store materials neatly; do not create tripping hazards.

  • Clear away waste regularly.

  • Leave site clean and safe at end of each day.

7. Welfare facilities (toilets, drinking water)

• Risk: Dehydration, hygiene issues.

• Controls:

  • Arrange access to toilet facilities with client before starting work.

  • Bring adequate drinking water, especially in hot weather.

  • Maintain good hygiene; wash hands before eating.

8. Lone working (see separate Lone Working policy)

• Risk: No immediate help if injury or emergency.

• Controls:

  • Follow Riverdale Falls Lone Working procedures at all times.

  • Regular check-ins with office.

  • Carry charged mobile phone.

  • Do not undertake high-risk tasks alone.

9. Fire safety

• Risk: Fire from fuel, hot works, electrical equipment.

• Controls:

  • Store fuel safely in approved containers; keep away from ignition sources.

  • Ensure fire extinguisher is available in van and workers know how to use it.

  • Do not smoke near fuel or flammable materials.

  • Be aware of client's fire exits and assembly points.

  • If using hot works (cutting, grinding), assess fire risk and have fire extinguisher nearby.

10. First aid and emergency procedures

• Risk: Delay in treatment if injury occurs.

• Controls:

  • First aid kit stored in van (under front passenger seat); check contents regularly.

  • At least one worker on site should know first aid kit location.

  • Eye wash kit also in van (under front seat).

  • In emergency, call 999 and inform office.

  • Know site address and postcode for emergency services.

Residual Risk Rating

With controls in place, residual risk is considered Low.