Does building or rerouting a pipeline need a SiGeKo?
As a rule, yes. New build, rerouting and extension of pipelines and stations are construction projects under the German Construction Site Ordinance. If employees of several employers work on site, such as civil works, pipe laying and electrical installation, the client appoints a coordinator. With prior notice or particularly hazardous work under Annex II, a health and safety plan is also mandatory.
What is an explosion protection document?
It describes where a hazardous explosive atmosphere can occur, how the areas are classified into zones and which technical and organisational measures apply. The employer prepares it before work starts and keeps it up to date (§ 6 (9) GefStoffV). Contractors are inducted on this basis before starting work.
What does permit to work mean?
Permit to work is a work authorisation system. Hazardous work such as hot work, vessel entry or opening pipelines starts only once a responsible person has checked the work location and released the work in writing. The permit names the section, measures, measurements, validity and handback.
Who coordinates contractors during operation?
If several contractors work in one installation, the employers must cooperate under § 8 of the German Occupational Safety and Health Act. If they can endanger each other, they appoint a person under § 6 DGUV Regulation 1 to coordinate the work; with hazardous substances, § 15 GefStoffV requires a coordinator. SAFETEE takes on this role as contractor coordinator.
What applies when entering a tank?
Before entry, the responsible person issues an entry permit. The vessel is drained, isolated and gas-tested by competent persons, and the measurement is documented. During the work a standby person stays outside and rescue equipment is ready. The basis is DGUV Rule 113-004 for vessels, silos and confined spaces.
Which additional regulations apply to tank farms?
Besides occupational safety and explosion protection, the Ordinance on Installations for Handling Substances Hazardous to Water (AwSV) applies and, depending on the stored quantity, the Major Accidents Ordinance. For petroleum products the thresholds are 2,500 and 25,000 tonnes. Which duties apply in detail follows from the permit and the classification of the establishment.
