What Happened?
- A worker from a specialist company was laying hot asphalt (tarmac) on a roadway within a construction site.
- The worker was standing on a manhole cover when the lid, which is believed to have been unsecured, shifted due to movement and vibration from tarmac-laying equipment operating in the vicinity.
- This caused one of the worker’s legs to slip into the manhole opening. In attempting to save himself, the worker outstretched his arm and came into contact with hot tar on his right hand and left arm.
Why it Happened?
- Failure to identify and secure a loose manhole cover within the work area before paving operations commenced.
- The worker was not wearing long sleeves or gloves, and suffered burns as a result.
Immediate Learnings / Recommendations?
- Inspect and secure manhole covers before work begins.
- As part of the risk assessments and RAMS process, evaluate the potential impact of plant movement, traffic, and vibration on existing infrastructure, including manhole covers and chambers.
- Identify and communicate site-specific hazards, such as underground services, chambers, access points, and other concealed risks during pre-start inspections and briefings.
- Maintain constant awareness of hazardous materials, particularly hot substances used during paving and surfacing operations.
- Ensure appropriate PPE is worn (e.g. gloves, long-sleeved clothing, and other protective equipment would help reduce the severity of burn injuries should inadvertent contact occur).