The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) have issued a safety alert regarding unsafe use of floor grating systems on offshore oil and gas platforms, vessels and wind generation installations.
Sections of polymer floor grating systems widely used in offshore workplaces can become dislodged. This poses a trip hazard as workers may trip on the unsecured sections, or fall through any subsequent hole left by a dislodged section.
This safety alert has come about because investigations have found that the fasteners used to secure the polymer grating flooring sections have not been installed as per the guidance of the original equipment manufacturer (OEM), or in keeping with industry good practice.
The HSE have stated that all employers and duty holders affected should identify all areas of grating systems across installations and workplaces. They advise beginning with safety critical areas like escape routes, and reviewing flooring in those areas to ensure it is safe to use. This review should include ensuring that floor fastening are installed in accordance with the OEMs instructions.
For more information, see: Unsafe use of floor grating systems in oil and gas, and wind generation.
