All companies should have a framework of Policies and Procedures relating to the management of Health & Safety. SMD have developed a specific Site Installation Guide to assist operatives with trade-specific guidance notes.

Contract-specific safety documentation, including Method Statements, Risk Assessments and COSHH data sheets are available for all hazards / activities associated with the handling and fixing of metal decking and associated accessories. The communication of this to the workforce, ensures that all operatives understand the risks and preventative measures that have been agreed. An initial toolbox talk on the method statement, followed by further weekly talks ensures procedures on site are appropriate to the ever-changing construction environment. Records of inductions and all toolbox talks should be maintained.

Typical hazards associated with metal decking and associated preventative measures are:

• Falls from Height - Handrails, safety nets, temporary cover to voids and suitable access to level
• Hot Works - Exclusion zones, removal of flammable materials, fire blankets, fire watch and fire extinguishers
• Use of Cartridge Tools - Competency, training and PPE
• Hand Arm Vibration - Management procedures to reduce trigger times
• Noise - PPE, management procedures, suitable work equipment and off-site cutting
• Cuts to Hands - Training and PPE
• Electrical Equipment - Maintenance and use of 110v tools
• Falling Materials from Height - Trim / tool tethers and loading out in accordance with best practice
• Removal of Waste - Skips to level, loading bays etc.
• Adverse Weather - Management control
• Slips, trips and falls - Training, management control, PPE and housekeeping measures
• Manual Handling - Design consideration, loading out to drawing and operative training

Refer to SMD Contract Specific Risk Assessments for more information.