Question 2 [60]

Read the following and then answer the questions. PETROL FILLING STATIONS In general petrol filling stations can be described as a place where you can buy petrol and oil for your car. These petrol filling stations are particularly hazardous workplaces. The HEALTH AND SAFETY AUTHORITY of Ireland describes several general hazards/risks and related control measures of petrol filling stations, namely: Fuel storage: The storage of petrol may pose several risks: Fire/explosion, environmental damage, health effects when handled by individuals. Control measures suggested are to ensure all staff are adequately trained, storage tanks and dispensing pumps are adequately maintained and monitored, appropriate wet stock management procedures are used, and hazardous areas are identified, and all sources of ignition are controlled by using appropriate warning and hazard signs.

Vehicle Movement:

There is considerable movement of cars and other vehicles on the forecourt which could lead to an accidental collision with structures, people and other vehicles. Control measures suggested include devising a safe system of traffic movement, displaying clear information/warning signs setting out the traffic control arrangements, providing sufficient designated parking areas close to the shop and away from the pumps and providing mechanical protection to vulnerable structures such as fuel tanks and liquified petroleum gas storage areas.

Hazardous Substances:

Some items of stock and chemicals used in the car wash and for general cleaning can be harmful. Exposure to them through use, accidental spillage or leaks, can cause respiratory problems, skin infections or chemical burns. Control measures suggested are store all hazardous chemicals in their original containers, obtaining information on all substances stored and used in the premises from manufacturers hazard data sheets, training staff and provide appropriate protective clothing.

Slips, trips and falls:

Water, fuel and oil spillages on the forecourt can present a hazard in that people can fall and skid from vehicles. Control measures suggested are mixing industrial salt with fine gravel and spreading it on the forecourt to absorb and clean up any water, fuel, or oil spilled. Also, staff should be trained on how to deal with these spillages.

Electricity:

Accidents are mainly due to misuse of, or poorly maintained, equipment, and there is an increased risk of electric shock when using equipment externally in a wet environment e.g. commercial vacuums and car washes. Control measures suggested are that electrical installation must be certified by a competent electrician every three years, all electrical equipment used out of doors should be suitably insulated and should be supplied through a circuit protected, all electrical switchgear controlling machinery should be clearly labelled and readily accessible at all times, ensuring that the electrical installation used for mechanical car washes is suitable for a wet environment and has adequate protection from mechanical damage, considering the complexity of the moving parts and fitting a readily accessible emergency stop button to mechanical car washes.

Fire Risks:

Obstructed exits e.g. by stock and/or accumulations of packaging, can prevent escape and provide fuel for fires. Control measures suggested are to keep all escape routes and fire exits clear and make regular checks to ensure that this is the case and to clear rubbish regularly.

Violence to Staff:

Robbery of goods or cash may place staff at risk of violence. Control measures suggested are to consider the use of closed-circuit television, panic alarms and other security measures e.g. the use of pay windows at night

Compressed Air Systems:

The main risks arise from abuse of this equipment and from over inflation of vehicle tyres. Control measures suggested are to make sure that the air system is located within sight of the shop attendant to ensure constant supervision, to display clear information on the use of the air system e.g. the driver should check the correct tyre pressures and to train staff in the safe use of the equipment.

Required:

2.1 You are the owner of a petrol filling station in Johannesburg. You are selling petrol, oil, and have a carwash on the site. You have identified some serious risks that you are exposed to in your filling station. Analyze each of the following risks as identified in the case study in detail and then illustrate how you would mitigate these identified risks using the information in the article above. (50)

2.1.1 Compressed Air Systems (6)

2.1.2 Electricity (10)

2.1.3 Fire Risks (4)

2.1.4 Fuel storage (6)

2.1.5 Hazardous Substances (6)

2.1.6 Slips, trips and falls (6)

2.1.7 Vehicle Movement (6)

2.1.8 Violence to Staff (6)

2.2 Distinguish between the risk management responsibilities of the following employees at your filling station: (10)

2.2.1 Location manager (5)

2.2.2 Individual employees (5)