Branch
Report:
5th December 2007
Geotechnical Inspections and
Management Structure
Cath Pickett, HSE
The December meeting
was a presentation by Cath Pickett – Quarries Inspector – HSE, entitled
Geotechnical Inspections and Management Structure.
Cath pointed out that none of what was to
be discussed was new, but that there had been some misunderstanding of the
regulations, and these regulations would be enforced. She stated that
detailed Inspection Reports are to be retained with all factors liable to
affect the stability and safety to be recorded as required in the
regulations. As guidance, all relevant parts of Schedule 1 should be
addressed.
Should remedial measures be required, and
are these sufficient. Where there is doubt a further Geotechnical
inspection should take place. Cath posed a number of questions as to
whether certain measures could be classed as maintenance as required by
reg.12 and which are practicable on working faces.
Cath then gave examples of relevant publications and
the website
http://www.gwalton.co.uk where information and
guidance is available.
Cath then turned her attention to Reg. 7
and Reg. 8, relating to preparing details of a management structure,
preparing the structure, and making records of same.
The requirement for the appointment of a
competent person is well known as is the requirement of a nominated
substitute when the competent person is not readily available. This may be
one or a number of individuals covering all competences during the absence
of the competent person. Cath then pointed out that there is
misunderstanding of the term readily available, and gave several instances
where the term would not apply, such as not being contactable by
telephone, or too far away from the location.
There was an interesting question and
answer session to conclude, and vice Chairman Simon Grey proposed a vote
of thanks to Cath for very informative evening.
Glyn
Cullen, South Wales Branch Chairman, thanking with Cath
