Safety code for handling and storage of building materials

IS 7969: Scope Summary & Key Specifications

• Scope: IS 7969 covers specifications for portable chemical fire extinguishers, foam type.
• Rounding Off: Final test or analysis results must be rounded per IS 2-1960:
  • Retain the same number of significant digits as the specified value.
• Handling (Clause 3.10.4):
  • For rolling drums in stacking/unstacking, temporary skids must be laid on the tier over which drums roll.
• International Coordination: The standard aligns with global practices to ensure compatibility.
• Adoption: Finalized and adopted on 24 December 1975 by the Indian Standards Institution.

Important Note on Rounding (IS 2-1960)

This scope ensures safe handling and uniformity in testing portable foam fire extinguishers.

IS 7969 - Key Points on Stacking and Piling

1. General Stacking Requirements (Clauses 2.1, 3.6.1, 3.7.5)

• Materials must be segregated by kind, size, and length.
• Piles should be neat, orderly, and safe from falling.
• High piles must be stepped back at intervals to maintain stability.
• Maintain minimum 1 m wide passageways between piles for inspection and removal.
• Passageways must be clear of dry vegetation to reduce fire risk.
• Stacking must prevent rolling, sliding, or spreading of materials.

2. Stacking on Solid, Level Sills (Clauses 3.5.1, 3.6.1)

• Use solid, level sills as base support.
• Pipes and poles should be blocked and contained to prevent movement.
• For large quantities, place packing between layers to reduce pressure and spreading.

Summary Table for Stacking

flowchart TB
    A[Start: Material Delivery]
    B[Segregate by kind, size, length]
    C[Stack on solid, level sills]
    D[Block to prevent rolling/spreading]
    E[Step back high piles]
    F[Maintain ≥1 m wide passageways]
    G[Clear passageways of dry vegetation]
    H[Safe, stable pile ready]

    A --> B --> C --> D --> E --> F --> G --> H

This ensures safe, stable, and inspectable stacking per IS 7969.

IS 7969: Handling and Storage of Building Materials — Key Points

1. General Handling & Storage Principles (Clauses 0.2, 3.1)

• Multi-stage handling/storage is common: unloading → stacking → lifting → loading → conveying.
• Use mechanical aids where possible (refer IS 7293-1974 for mechanical handling).
• Safety of workmen is paramount; follow safety code to prevent accidents.

2. Stacking and Storage (Clause 3.1)

• Materials must be stacked to prevent damage and ensure stability.
• Follow specific guidelines for different materials (see IS 4082-1967 for damage-free storage).

3. Safety Recommendations

• Avoid overloading stacks; maintain safe height limits.
• Ensure proper spacing between stacks for access and ventilation.
• Use appropriate supports and pallets to prevent moisture and deformation.

4. Reference Tables & Formulas

• Stack Height Limits: Typically, stack height ≤ 2.5 m for heavy materials, ≤ 1.5 m for fragile materials.
• Load per unit area on stacking surface should not exceed the material’s bearing capacity.
• Safe Load Calculation:

[ \text{Safe Load} = \text{Stack Area} \times \text{Allowable Bearing Pressure} ]

• Refer IS 4082-1967 for detailed tables on stacking dimensions and load limits.

flowchart LR
    A[Material Arrival] --> B[Unloading]
    B --> C[Stacking]
    C --> D[Storage]
    D --> E[Handling for Use]
    style A fill:#f9f,stroke:#333,stroke-width:2px
    style E fill:#bbf,stroke:#333,stroke-width:2px

Summary: IS 7969 emphasizes safe, damage-free multi-stage handling and storage with mechanical aids where possible, referencing IS 4082 and IS 7293 for detailed practices.

IS 7969: Loading and Unloading Procedures - Key Points

1. Loading and Unloading Rail Road Wagons (Clause 4.1)

• Use cranes or gantries for heavy items.
• Ensure slings and ropes have adequate load capacity.
• Workers must stand clear during mechanical handling.

2. Loading and Unloading from Motor Vehicles (Clause 4.2)

• Similar precautions as rail wagons.
• Use mechanical aids wherever possible.
• Ensure safe anchoring of ropes and slings.

3. Manual Handling of Heavy/Long Components (Clause 4.3.2)

• Place wooden sleepers or steel rails as gentle slopes at 3-4 points against vehicle body.
• Drag items one by one along these supports using ropes.
• Men pull with feet firmly anchored.
• Shift items on vehicle floor with crowbars/levers, not by hands to avoid injury.

Safety and Load Handling Specifications:

Loading Procedure Flowchart:

flowchart TD
    A[Prepare vehicle/wagon] --> B[Place wooden sleepers/rails as slopes]
    B --> C[Attach ropes/slings with adequate capacity]
    C --> D{Use crane/gantry?}
    D -- Yes --> E[Move heavy items mechanically]
    D -- No --> F[Drag items manually along supports]
    F --> G[Shift on vehicle floor with crowbars]
    E & G --> H[Secure load and complete loading]

Summary: Use mechanical aids for heavy loads; if manual, provide stable inclined supports and use proper ropes/slings. Always prioritize worker safety by keeping clear of loads.

IS 7969: Scrap Lumber and Waste Management - Key Points

• Scrap Lumber & Waste Handling (Clause 5.1):

  • Collect and store scrap lumber and waste daily in piles or containers.
  • Ensure timely removal and disposal to maintain site safety and cleanliness.

• Stacking & Piling (Clause 2.1):

  • Segregate materials by kind, size, and length.
  • Stack neatly and safely to prevent falling.
  • For high piles, use stepped-back arrangement at intervals.
  • Maintain minimum 1 m wide passageways between piles for inspection and removal.
  • Keep passageways free from dry vegetation.

• Manual Handling (Clause 4.3.3):

  • Follow procedures similar to unloading long heavy items (as per Clause 4.3.2).
  • Emphasize safe manual handling techniques to prevent injuries.

• General Safety & Storage (Clause 0.2):

  • Multi-stage handling/storage may be needed.
  • Mechanical aids recommended where possible (see IS 7293-1974).
  • Safety measures must be followed during unloading, stacking, lifting, and conveying.

Summary Table: Scrap Lumber Management

flowchart TD
    A[Scrap Lumber & Waste] --> B[Daily Collection]
    B --> C[Storage in Piles/Containers]
    C --> D[Segregate by Kind, Size, Length]
    D --> E[Stack Neatly & Safely]
    E --> F{Pile Height > Threshold?}
    F -- Yes --> G[Step Back Piles]
    F -- No --> H[Maintain 1m Passageway]
    G --> H
    H --> I[Clear Passageways of Vegetation]
    I --> J[Safe Removal & Disposal]

Note: No explicit formulas are provided in IS 7969 for

Worker Safety and Health Precautions (IS 7969)

Key Specifications:

• Protective Gear (Clause 3.3.1):

  • Workmen handling bulk cement, lime, or fine pozzolana must wear:
    • Protective clothing
    • Respirators
    • Goggles
  • Instruction on cleanliness to prevent dermatitis.
  • Provision of hand cream, petroleum jelly, or similar for skin protection.

• Housekeeping (Clause 7.3):

  • Efficient, orderly storage of materials.
  • Routine housekeeping to prevent accidents and fire hazards.

Summary Table: Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for Bulk Materials Handling

Additional Safety Measures (General Engineering Practice)

• Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation in storage and handling areas.
• Training: Regular safety training for workers.
• First Aid: Availability of first aid and fire appliances per IS code recommendations.

flowchart TD
    A[Handling Bulk Cement/Lime/Pozzolana] --> B{Wear PPE?}
    B -->|Yes| C[Proceed with Work]
    B -->|No| D[Stop Work - Provide PPE]
    C --> E{Maintain Cleanliness?}
    E -->|Yes| F[Prevent Dermatitis]
    E -->|No| G[Risk of Skin Diseases]

For detailed fire safety and machinery operation, refer to respective IS safety codes and local regulations.

IS 7969 - Housekeeping (Clause 7.3) Key Points

General Guidelines:

• Efficient and orderly storage of materials is critical for safety and fire prevention.
• Routine housekeeping must be maintained in all storage areas to avoid hazards.
• Paint scrapings and paint-saturated rags must be removed daily and preferably destroyed by burning at a safe place (Clause 3.9.4).

Key Specifications for Housekeeping

Important Notes:

• Housekeeping is a continuous process; not just a one-time cleanup.
• Proper storage reduces accidents, fire hazards, and material damage.
• Use mechanical aids where possible to reduce manual handling risks.

flowchart LR
    A[Material Receipt] --> B[Orderly Storage]
    B --> C[Routine Housekeeping]
    C --> D[Waste Removal (Daily)]
    D --> E[Fire Prevention & Safety]

For detailed fire appliance selection and maintenance, refer to the Code of Practice for First Aid Fire Appliances mentioned in IS 7969.

IS 7969: Warning Signals and Signage - Key Points

• Placement of Warning Signs:

  • On motor vehicles being loaded/unloaded near walkways: signs at each end (Clause 4.2.2).
  • On railroad wagons near walkways: warning signals at each end (Clause 4.1.5).

• Signal Visibility and Restrictions:

  • Wagons must display signals indicating no coupling or movement (Clause 4.1.1).
  • No equipment should block the view of these signals without notifying responsible personnel.

• Material Stacking:

  • Materials stacked near passageways must not pose hazards (Clause 2.1.2).
  • Such stacks require daytime warning signs and red lights at night.

Specifications Summary

Recommended Warning Signal Characteristics

• Signs: High visibility, reflective material.
• Lights: Red, steady or flashing, visible from all pedestrian approaches.
• Positioning: At eye level or clearly visible height on both ends of vehicle/wagon.

flowchart LR
    A[Loading/Unloading Area] --> B[Place Warning Signs on Both Ends]
    B --> C{Vehicle Type}
    C -->|Motor Vehicle| D[Warning Signs]
    C -->|Railroad Wagon| E[Warning Signals]
    A --> F[Material Stacks]
    F --> G[Daytime Warning Signs]
    F --> H[Nighttime Red Lights]

For detailed dimensions and color codes, refer to IS 2551 (Safety Signs) and IS 10418 (Safety Colors & Markings).

Fire Hazard Prevention per IS 7969

Key Clauses:

• 3.11 Flammable Materials: Proper identification and control of flammable materials to minimize fire risk.
• 3.6.4 Fire Hazard: Storage areas must be free from vegetation and flammable debris.
• 6.1 Fire Extinguishing Equipment: Adequate fire extinguishers must be provided at all storage locations as per IS 2190-1971.
• 7.3 Housekeeping: Efficient storage and routine housekeeping are essential for fire prevention.

Essential Specifications & Practices

Fire Extinguisher Types (IS 2190-1971 Reference)

Summary Diagram: Fire Hazard Prevention Workflow

flowchart TD
    A[Identify Flammable Materials] --> B[Segregate & Store Safely]
    B --> C[Maintain Storage Area Clean & Vegetation-Free]
    C --> D[Provide Adequate Fire Extinguishers]
    D --> E[Routine Housekeeping & Inspection]
    E --> F[Minimize Fire Hazard Risk]

Contact: For detailed guidance, refer to regional offices listed in IS 7969 or consult IS 2190 for fire appliance standards.

IS 7969: Manual Handling Techniques – Key Points

• Clause 3.7.8: Heavy steel sections/bundles must be lifted using slings and tackles; no shoulder carrying allowed.
• Clause 2.2:
  • Proper lifting methods must be taught by supervisors.
  • Provide personal safety equipment.
  • Assign sufficient men per load based on:
    • Weight
    • Distance
    • Difficulty
    • Time required
• Clause 4.3: Emphasizes special care in handling heavy/long items (use mechanical aids if possible).

Recommended Manual Lifting Guidelines (General Engineering Practice)

Safety & Handling Summary

• Use mechanical aids (cranes, slings) for heavy/bulky items.
• Train workers on proper lifting techniques (bend knees, avoid twisting).
• Assign multiple workers for heavy loads.
• Provide PPE (gloves, safety boots).
• Refer IS 7293-1974 for mechanical handling methods.

flowchart TD
    A[Heavy Material] --> B{Weight > 25kg?}
    B -- Yes --> C[Use Slings/Tackles]
    B -- No --> D[Manual Lifting]
    D --> E[Train Workers]
    D --> F[Use PPE]
    C --> G[Mechanical Handling]
    E --> H[Safe Lifting Posture]

Summary: IS 7969 mandates mechanical aids for heavy loads, proper training, and safety equipment to minimize injury risks during manual handling.

IS 7969: Mechanical Handling and Use of Equipment - Key Points

1. Handling & Storage (Clause 0.2)

• Multi-stage handling and storage are common.
• Operations: unloading, stacking, lifting, loading, conveying.
• Manual methods prevail but mechanical aids are increasingly used.
• Safety risks rise with bulkier materials and larger quantities.
• Reference IS 7293-1974 for mechanical handling guidelines.

2. Mechanical Handling (Clause 4.3.1)

• Use cranes/gantries for heavy loading/unloading.
• Workmen must stand clear of moving loads.
• Slings/ropes must have adequate load capacity to prevent failure.

3. Manual Handling (Clauses 2.2 & 3.7.8)

• Workmen must be trained in proper lifting techniques.
• Use slings/tackles for heavy steel sections; no shoulder carrying.
• Assign sufficient men based on:
  • Weight per person
  • Distance and difficulty of movement
  • Time required

Practical Guidelines for Manual Lifting

Safety Reminder Diagram

flowchart LR
    A[Heavy Material] --> B{Handling Method}
    B -->|Mechanical| C[Use Crane/Gantry]
    B -->|Manual| D[Use Slings/Tackles]
    D --> E[Train Workmen in Lifting]
    C --> F[Workman Stands Clear]
    E --> G[Assign Adequate Men]

Summary: Use mechanical aids where possible; for manual handling, train workers, use proper equipment, and ensure safe load distribution.

IS 7969: Storage of Flammable Materials - Key Points

• Containers:

  • Use properly sealed/closed containers for paints, varnishes, lacquers, thinners, etc. (Clause 3.9.1)
  • Containers must be stored in well-ventilated locations, away from heat, sparks, flames.

• Safety Regulations:

  • Follow relevant regulations, including Indian Explosives Act for explosives (Clause 3.11.1).
  • Ensure compliance to maintain desired safety during storage.

• Bulk Storage:

  • For bulk storage depots, install automatic fire alarms of suitable design to detect fire early (Clause 6.2).

Recommended Storage Conditions Summary

Safety Storage Diagram

flowchart LR
    A[Flammable Materials] --> B[Sealed Containers]
    B --> C[Well-Ventilated Storage Area]
    C --> D{Away from Heat, Sparks, Flame}
    D -->|Yes| E[Safe Storage]
    D -->|No| F[Risk of Fire]
    E --> G[Automatic Fire Alarm (Bulk Storage)]

Note: IS 7969 emphasizes safe storage practices but refers to other codes/regulations for detailed fire safety and handling procedures.

IS 7969: Safe Access and Passageways – Key Points

1. Safe Access Requirements

• Clause 7.1: Stairways, walkways, scaffolds, and accessways must be free from debris and obstructions at all times.
• Clause 3.7.3: Maintain adequate spacing between piles to ensure safe worker access.
• Clause 2.2.1: For stacks >1.5 m height, provide safe access means (e.g., ladders, gangplanks) without disturbing stack stability.

2. Gangplank Safety (Clause 4.1.4)

• Use cleats at the lower end or a pin through gangplank ends to prevent sliding between wagons and platforms.
• If gangplank rests on the ground, provide cleats or abrasive surface along the entire length for slip resistance.

3. Rounding Off Numerical Values

• Follow IS 7969 revised rules for rounding off dimensions and measurements to ensure consistency and safety margins.

Summary Table for Gangplank Safety

flowchart TD
    A[Stack Height > 1.5m] --> B[Provide Safe Access]
    B --> C{Access Type}
    C -->|Gangplank| D[Use Cleats or Pin]
    C -->|Ladder| E[Ensure Stability]
    B --> F[Maintain Clear Walkways]
    F --> G[No Debris or Obstruction]

Ensure all accessways comply with IS 7969 clauses for worker safety and stack stability.

Precautions for Handling Heavy Steel Sections (IS 7969)

• Manual Handling (Clause 3.7.8):
  Heavy steel sections and bundles must be lifted and carried using slings and tackles.
  Do NOT carry on workers' shoulders to avoid injury.

• Stacking (Clause 3.7.5):
  Structural steel should be stacked carefully to prevent sliding or tipping.
  Ensure stable, level ground and use chocks or wedges if necessary.

• General Handling Guidelines:

  • Use mechanical aids wherever possible (refer IS 7293-1974 for mechanical handling).
  • Multi-stage handling requires careful planning to avoid damage or accidents.
  • Train workers on safe lifting techniques and use of equipment.

Key Specifications Summary:

flowchart TD
    A[Heavy Steel Sections] --> B[Lifting with Slings & Tackles]
    B --> C[Safe Transport]
    C --> D[Stacking on Stable Ground]
    D --> E[Prevent Sliding/Tipping]
    E --> F[Use Mechanical Aids if Possible]

Always prioritize worker safety and equipment integrity during handling and storage.

IS 7969: Safety Measures for Confined Spaces – Key Points

• Access for Stacks > 1.5 m (Clause 2.2.1):
  Provide safe, stable access (ladders, platforms) without compromising stack stability.

• Ventilation & Lighting (Clause 3.9.5):

  • Ensure adequate ventilation to avoid flammable vapor buildup.
  • Use explosion-proof electrical fittings in painting or hazardous areas.

Additional Safety Measures for Confined Spaces (General Engineering Practice)

Safety Checklist for Confined Spaces:

• Test atmosphere before entry (O2, toxic gases, flammables)
• Continuous ventilation during work
• Use personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Have standby personnel and communication means
• Emergency rescue plan ready

flowchart TD
    A[Confined Space Entry] --> B[Test Atmosphere]
    B --> C{Safe Levels?}
    C -- Yes --> D[Provide Ventilation]
    C -- No --> E[Do Not Enter]
    D --> F[Use PPE & Explosion-proof Lighting]
    F --> G[Work with Standby & Communication]
    G --> H[Emergency Rescue Plan]

For detailed handling and storage safety, refer to IS Safety Code for Handling and Storage of Building Materials.