Handbook on Construction Safety Practices

IS SP Part 70: Excavation - Key Specifications and Tables

1. Excavation Safety & Shoring (Clause 1.6, Table 1.7.1)

Shoring and timbering depend on:

• Soil type (Hard Soil, Loose Sandy, Soil under Hydrostatic Pressure)
• Depth of trench
• Trench width (≤ 2 m or 2–4 m)

2. Key Tables for Timbering (Summary)

(Refer to full tables for detailed depth ranges and sections.)

3. Excavation Safety Notes (Clause 1.3)

• Excavation can be manual or mechanical.
• Mechanical excavation is faster but riskier; safety measures must be strictly followed.
• Regular safety checks per Table 1.7.1 are mandatory.

4. Practical Tips:

• Use sheathing to prevent soil collapse.
• Maintain spacing limits for wales and struts based on trench width and soil type.
• Adjust timber sizes and spacing as trench depth increases.

flowchart TD
    A[Excavation Start] --> B{Soil Type?}
    B -->|Hard Soil| C[Refer Table 

IS SP Part 70: Drilling and Blasting - Key Points

Though the code lacks detailed formulas or tables, key specifications include:

Drilling for Blasting (Clause 2.7)

• Geologic & Engineering Evaluation: Essential to prevent landslides post-blasting.
• Face Examination: Check for unfired explosives before drilling.

General Best Practices (from engineering knowledge)

• Drill Hole Diameter: Typically 32-51 mm for general blasting.
• Burden (B): Distance from blast hole to free face, usually: [ B = 20 \times D ] where (D) = hole diameter in mm.
• Spacing (S): Distance between holes, generally: [ S = 1.2 \times B ]
• Stemming Length: 20-30% of hole depth to confine explosive gases.

Explosives

• Use appropriate explosive type based on rock hardness and environment.
• Charge concentration and delay timing must be optimized to control vibration and fragmentation.

flowchart TD
    A[Geologic Evaluation] --> B[Drilling Pattern Design]
    B --> C[Drill Holes: Diameter & Depth]
    C --> D[Charging Explosives]
    D --> E[Stemming]
    E --> F[Blasting]
    F --> G[Post-Blast Inspection]

For detailed parameters, refer to specialized blasting handbooks or IS codes on explosives.

IS SP Part 70: Piling and Deep Foundations - Key Specifications

1. Shoring and Timbering of Trenches (Hard Soil) - Table 1A (Clause 1.6)

2. Shoring Under Hydrostatic Pressure - Table 1D (Clause 1.6)

| Depth of Trench (m) | Sheathing Section (cm) | Max Horizontal Spacing (m) | Wales Section (cm) | Max Vertical Spacing (m) | Struts Section (cm) | Struts Spacing (m) (Width ≤ 2m) | Struts Spacing (m) (Width

Tunnelling in Soft Ground (IS SP Part 70)

Key Specifications & Safety Measures:

• Bridging Period:
  Steel supports cannot be erected immediately; improve bridging time by shortcreting and supporting excavation as much as possible.

• Excavation Methods:
  Avoid drilling and blasting in soft ground; use:

  • Forepoling:
    • Timber must withstand ground pressure and be securely wedged.
    • Steel rods/structurals require machine-like safety precautions.
  • Shield Tunnelling:
    • Use hydraulic-operated shield; safety per hydraulic machinery norms.
    • Excavation lined with bolted cast iron/concrete segments.
    • Heavy segments handled with hoists; platforms must be non-slippery.
  • Compressed Air Tunnelling:
    • Used in running grounds or high water table.
    • Safety via compressed air locks (refer to Clause 12).

Tunnelling Machines (Clause 4.6):

• Use machines for tunnels > 500 m to reduce hazards.
• Ensure:
  • Well-insulated electrical cables.
  • High-pressure resistant hydraulic hoses.
  • Operator cabin is safe and comfortable.

Summary Table:

flowchart TD
    A[Tunnelling in Soft Ground] --> B[Improve Bridging Time]
    B --> C[Shortcreting]
    B --> D[Excavation Support]
    A --> E[Excavation Methods]
    E --> F[Forepoling]
    E --> G[Shield Tunnelling]
    E --> H[Compressed Air]
    F --> I[Timber or Steel]
    G --> J[Hydraulic Shield + Segment L

IS SP Part 70: Road Making - Key Points

1. Hot Mix Plant (Clause 5.1)

• Used for heating and mixing bitumen with aggregates.
• Temperature control critical: Bitumen heated above 150°C.
• Safety: Avoid fumes, dust, and hot material contact.

2. Sprayers (Clause 5.2)

• Apply bitumen uniformly on the road surface.
• Ensure even spray pattern and correct bitumen temperature.

3. Spreader and Paver (Clause 5.3)

• Spreaders distribute aggregates; pavers lay the mix.
• Maintain consistent layer thickness and compaction.

4. Road Maintenance (Clause 5.5)

• Hazards: Hot asphalt, fumes, dust, heavy equipment, traffic proximity.
• Safety: Protect workers, public, and motorists.
• Prioritize hazardous zones based on job length, location, and timing.

5. Traffic Management (Clause 5.6)

• Use IRC standard signs and caution boards.
• Diversions: New roads or upgraded existing roads.
• Minimize hazards and inconvenience to users.

Safety & Operational Tips:

flowchart LR
    A[Hot Mix Plant] --> B[Sprayers]
    B --> C[Spreader]
    C --> D[Paver]
    D --> E[Compacted Road Surface]
    E --> F[Traffic Management & Maintenance]

For detailed design, refer to IRC codes and IS specifications on bituminous road construction.

IS SP Part 70: Site Transport Key Points

Traffic Management (Clause 5.6)

• Diversions:
  • Two types:
    1. New diversion roads
    2. Upgraded portions of existing roads
• Safety Measures:
  • Use standard IRC caution boards/signs in good condition
  • Minimize hazards and inconvenience for users and workers

Transporting Machinery (Clause 14.4)

• Vehicle Safety Features:
  • Strong canopies over driver cabins
  • Closed cabins with:
    • Sound & vibration suppression
    • Seat belts
    • Backup alarm
    • Rear view mirrors
    • Wide windshield (triplex glass)
    • Wipers, sunvisor
  • Footboard & handle for driver access
• Brake System:
  • Parking brakes must lock securely
  • Use dynamic braking on gradients
  • Hydraulic retarders recommended for large dumpers

Road Conditions at Site (Clause 6.4.3)

• Maintenance Responsibility: Project engineer
• Safety Measures:
  • Identify hazardous areas considering location, duration, night work, traffic density
  • Install warning devices accordingly
  • Provide proper shoring where vibrations occur
  • Use flagmen or mechanical signals if two-way traffic is not possible

Summary Table: Safety Features for Transport Vehicles

flowchart LR
    A[Site Transport] --> B[Traffic Management]
    B --> B1[New Diversion Road]
    B --> B2[Upgraded Existing Road]
    B --> B3[Standard IRC Signs]

    A --> C[Transporting Machinery]
    C --> C1[Vehicle Safety Features]
    C1 --> C1a[Canopy & Cabin]
    C1 --> C1b[Brakes & Controls]

    A --> D[Road Conditions at Site]
    D --> D1[Haz

IS SP Part 70: Key Specifications for Floor and Wall Openings

1. Floor Openings (Clause 7.1)

• Openings > 30 cm must have guard rails (fixed or removable).
• Stairway openings: fixed railings mandatory.
• Hatchways & chutes: removable railings preferred.
• Pits, manholes, trap doors: must be covered or guarded by removable railings when uncovered.
• Temporary floor openings: always have railings.

2. Wall Openings (Clause 7.2)

• Openings/chutes with drop > 120 cm require removable hinged guards.
• Toe boards below guards prevent material fall.
• Extension platforms for hoisting materials must have side rails/guards along the entire opening length.
• Window openings at stairway landings, floors, platforms, balconies with:
  • Drop > 120 cm
  • Bottom < 90 cm above platform
  • Must have guards with toe boards.

Summary Table

flowchart TD
    A[Opening Type] -->|Floor >30cm| B[Guard Rails]
    B --> C{Location}
    C -->|Stairway| D[Fixed Railing]
    C -->|Hatchway/Chute| E[Removable Railing]
    C -->|Pit/Manhole| F[Cover or Removable Railing]
    A -->|Wall Opening Drop >120cm| G[Removable Hinged Guards + Toe Board]
    A -->|Window at Landing with Drop >120cm & Bottom <90cm| H[Guards with Toe Boards]
``

IS SP Part 70: Mechanical Demolition Key Points

Mechanical Demolition (Clause 8.6)

• Equipment: Weight balls, power shovels, concrete saws, hydraulic breakers.
• Method Selection: Based on time, cost, and environment.
• Safety Precautions:
  • Barricade demolition area to 1.5 × wall height.
  • No workers inside building during mechanical operation.
  • Position equipment to avoid falling debris on workers or adjacent structures.
  • Prevent damage to nearby power lines and structures.

Walls and Floors Demolition (Clause 8.3 & 6.0)

• Walls:
  • Demolish in parts, not as a single mass.
  • Provide lateral bracing if wall height > 15 × thickness or wall is weak.
• Floors:
  • Cut a 300 mm wide slit along slab span before demolition.
  • Remove debris continuously.
  • Do not cut/remove load-bearing members until upper storeys are demolished.

Additional Notes

• Use saws, water jets, or hydraulic breakers for smooth concrete.
• Use derricks on strong supports; lower loads slowly.
• Clear area 6 m around demolition site before starting.

flowchart TD
    A[Start Demolition] --> B{Wall Height > 15× Thickness?}
    B -- Yes --> C[Lateral Bracing Required]
    B -- No --> D[Proceed with Partial Demolition]
    D --> E[Cut 300mm Slit in Floor Slab]
    E --> F[Mechanical Demolition with Equipment]
    F --> G[Remove Debris Continuously]
    G --> H[Demolish Upper Storeys First]
    H --> I[Remove Load Bearing Members Last]

This summary ensures safe, efficient demolition aligned with IS SP Part 70.

IS SP Part 70: Structural Steel Erection Key Points

Safety Specifications (Clause 9.3.6)

• Stability: Use riveting or welding to maintain frame stability during erection.
• Safety Nets: Install nets within 2 stories or 10 m below working height.
• Safety Belts: Mandatory for work at heights ≥ 10 m, attached to catenary lines or strong anchorage.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Use PPE meeting specified standards for all workers.

General Practices (Clause 9.3)

• Ensure sequential erection to maintain structural integrity.
• Use temporary bracing until permanent connections are secured.
• Follow manufacturer’s guidelines for bolt tightening and welding.

Typical Safety Formula for Fall Protection:

[ \text{Free Fall} \leq 6 \text{ ft (1.8 m)} \quad \text{(as per safety norms)} ]

Summary Table: Safety Measures for Steel Erection

flowchart TD
    A[Start Erection] --> B[Temporary Bracing]
    B --> C[Maintain Stability via Riveting/Welding]
    C --> D{Height ≥ 10 m?}
    D -- Yes --> E[Use Safety Belts + PPE]
    D -- No --> F[Use PPE]
    E --> G[Install Safety Nets within 10 m]
    F --> G
    G --> H[Continue Erection]

This concise guide ensures safety and structural integrity during steel erection as per IS SP Part 70.

IS SP Part 70 primarily references design aids and handbooks related to concrete framed structures, but does not provide direct formulas. Key resources and specifications include:

1. Design Aids for Reinforced Concrete (IS 456:1978 & SP 16:1980)

• IS 456:2000 (latest) governs design principles for RCC.
• Basic design formulas:
  • Flexural Strength:
    [ M_u \leq 0.87 f_y A_s (d - \frac{a}{2}) ] where (a = \frac{A_s f_y}{0.36 f_{ck} b})
  • Shear Strength:
    [ V_c = 0.6 \sqrt{f_{ck}} b d ]
• Use modular ratio, stress block parameters from IS 456.

2. Portal Frames (SP 43:1987)

• Provides moment distribution tables and design charts for portal frames without cranes.
• Includes:
  • Frame geometry and load patterns.
  • Bending moment and shear force coefficients.
  • Deflection limits and detailing norms.

3. Pre-stressed Concrete Members

• Refer IS 1343 for pre-stressed concrete design.
• Key formula for cable force:
  [ P = \frac{M}{e} ] where (M) = moment, (e) = eccentricity.

Summary Table: Key Parameters for RCC Design (IS 456)

graph TD
A[Loads] --> B[Beams & Columns]
B --> C[Moment & Shear Calculations]
C --> D[Reinforcement Design]
D --> E[Detailing & Checks]

For detailed design,

IS SP Part 70: Storage and Handling of Materials — Key Points

1. Pre-fabricated Members (Clause 10.5)

• Use cranes or launching girders for lifting.
• Use spreader beams to avoid cracking during lifting.
• Test lifting wires for double the load capacity every 6 months.
• No personnel under suspended loads.
• Follow designer’s assembly and erection methods strictly.

2. Material Handling (Clause 11)

• Two types: Raw materials (cement, bricks, steel, etc.) and Finished goods (concrete columns, trusses).
• Focus on transportation and storage safety.

3. Steel Sections Storage and Handling (Clause 11.24)

• Prevent rust by:
  • Applying oil or anti-corrosive compounds.
  • Keeping steel dry and off the ground.
• Use guide ropes to control load sway during crane handling.
• Use slings/tackles for manual lifting; avoid carrying on shoulders.
• Rust removal: chemical or abrasive methods; kerosene oil is common.

Summary Table: Steel Section Handling

flowchart LR
    A[Steel Sections Storage] --> B{Prevent Rust}
    B -->|Oil/Anti-corrosive| C[Apply Coating]
    B -->|Keep Dry| D[Store off Ground]
    A --> E[Lifting]
    E --> F[Use Slings & Tackles]
    E --> G[Use Spreader Beam]
    E --> H[Test Lifting Wire]
    E --> I[No Personnel Under Load]

This ensures safe, efficient handling and storage per IS SP Part 70.

Key Specifications & Formulas for Machinery and Equipment Safety (IS SP Part 70)

1. Lifting and Hoisting Machinery (Clause 14.3)

• Safe Working Load (SWL): Defined for cranes and hoists; test loads are specified in certificates.
• Certificate of Test & Examination includes:
  • Maker's serial number, type, power source.
  • Safe working load vs. test load.
  • Maximum jib radius for derricking cranes.
• Maintenance Checks: Enclosures, gates, interlocks, brakes, ropes/chains, safety gear, electrical equipment.

2. Construction Machinery Safety (Clause 14)

• General precautions for earth-moving, transport, concrete mixers.
• Emphasis on proper maintenance and operator training.

3. Health Risks (Clause 15.17)

• Physical hazards: noise, vibration, heat, radiation.
• Biological hazards: infections from bacteria, viruses.
• Cryogenic hazards: extreme cold burns, eye protection mandatory.

4. Safety Documentation

• Annex A: Accident records, safety education logs.
• Annex B: Job safety observation worksheet.
• Annex C & D: Certificates for cranes and hoists.

Example Table: Safe Working Load vs Test Load (Crane)

Summary Diagram: Safety Inspection Cycle for Hoisting Equipment

graph TD
    A[Start: Equipment in Use] --> B[Routine Inspection]
    B --> C{Defects Found?}
    C -- Yes --> D[Repair/Maintenance]
    C -- No --> E[Certification Issued]
    D --> E
    E --> F[Safe Operation]
    F --> B

Note: Refer to IS codes like IS 818 (welding safety), IS 3764 (excavation safety), and IS 4014 (scaffolding safety) for complementary safety practices.

IS SP Part 70 - Electrical Safety: Key Points & Specifications

Key Safety Specifications (Clause 2.5)

• Lamp height: ≥ 2.5 m above ground/floor for general lighting.
• Weather-proof fittings: Use weather-proof electrical fittings on sites.
• Flexible cables: Must include an earthing conductor; do not use for lifting tools.
• Wiring support: Use proper insulated supports; avoid looping over nails.
• Overhead lines: Must have strong supports and sufficient height to avoid contact.
• Motors & switchgear: Protect against dripping/splashing water, especially in pump rooms.
• Markings: Fuses, motors, gears must have clear current rating and braking type.
• Hand lamps: Must have strong glass/transparent covers and insulated handles.
• Inspection: All electrical equipment must be inspected before use.
• Live conductors: Treat all conductors as live unless proven otherwise.
• Temporary connections: Follow standard practice; disconnect after use.
• Confined spaces: Use 24 V hand lamps.

Summary Table for Electrical Safety Measures

Electrical Safety Concept Diagram

graph TD
    A[Electrical Equipment] --> B[Inspection Before Use]
    A --> C[Proper Installation]
    C --> D[Lamps ≥ 2.5 m]
    C --> E[Weather-proof fittings]
    C --> F[Insulated wiring supports]
    A --> G[Markings on devices]
    A --> H[Protection from water]
    A --> I[Use of earthing conductor]
    A --> J[Safe temporary connections]
    A --> K[Low voltage lamps in confined spaces]

This concise summary aligns with IS SP Part 70 Annex E and Clause 2.

IS SP Part 70: Lifting and Hoisting Machinery — Key Points

Safety & Operational Specifications (Clause 9.2.2)

• Enclosure: Hoists must have ground-level enclosures/gates ≥ 2 m high, extended to engine/motor.
• Landing Gates: Gates at all landings, also ≥ 2 m high.
• Hoist Way: Enclosed with wire mesh to contain dislodged materials.
• Operating Position: Single control point with clear visibility of the platform.
• Load Handling: Materials must be secured; no dislodging; wheelbarrows must be scotched.
• Safe Working Load: Clearly marked; never exceeded.
• Safety Devices: Automatic support device for rope/gear failure mandatory.
• Inspection: Weekly inspections required.
• Wire Rope Checks: Refer to Table 2 (wire rope maintenance & replacement criteria).

Mobile Cranes (Clause 14.3.3)

• Maintain specified gradients; engine running with gear on downhill.
• Use outriggers if radius > rated load.
• Brakes ON for rubber-tyred cranes.
• Maintain correct tyre pressure.
• Recommended accessories:
  • Anemometer (wind pressure)
  • Anchors (rail cranes)
  • Rope failure limiter
  • Safety stops (travel limits)
  • Swinging radius indicator
  • Heel indicators (crane stability)
  • Electrical/mechanical safe load limits

Important Tables & Annexes

• Table 2: Wire rope inspection and replacement criteria (check for wear, corrosion, broken wires).
• Annex C & D: Instruction forms for crane and hoist operation.

Example: Wire Rope Inspection Criteria (Table 2 Summary)

flowchart TD
    A[Hoist Enclosure] --> B[2 m High Gates]
    B --> C[Wire Mesh Hoist Way]
    C --> D[Single Operating Position]
    D --> E[Load Secured & Marked SWL]
    E --> F[Automatic Safety Device]
    F --> G

IS SP Part 70 - Miscellaneous Safety Practices: Key Points

1. General Safety Practices (Clause 9.9 & 15.17)

• Address physical hazards: noise, vibration, heat, cold, radiation.
• Address biological hazards: infections from bacteria, viruses, fungi.
• Use eye protection and protective gear when handling cryogenic fluids (-50°C to -273°C).

2. Safety Certificates for Equipment

• Crane Test Certificate (Annex C) includes:
  • Maker’s serial number, safe working load, test load, jib length, max radius.
  • Defects and repairs before use.
• Hoist Test Certificate (Annex D) covers:
  • Structural integrity, maintenance checks (brakes, ropes, gates).
  • Repairs needed immediately or within specified time.
  • Safe working load and passenger limits.

3. Safety Monitoring & Records (Annex A & B)

• Maintain accident records: first aid, doctor visits, abstentions, man-hours.
• Conduct job safety observations and document unsafe practices or improvements.

4. Indian Safety Standards (Annex E)

• Refer to IS codes like:
  • IS 818: Safety in welding/cutting.
  • IS 3764: Excavation safety.
  • IS 4014: Steel tubular scaffolding safety.

Summary Table: Crane Load Parameters (Annex C)

flowchart TD
  A[Start: Safety Practices] --> B{Identify Hazard Type}
  B -->|Physical| C[Use PPE, monitor noise, heat, radiation]
  B -->|Biological| D[Implement hygiene, vaccinations]
  B -->|Equipment| E[Conduct tests (Crane, Hoist)]
  E --> F[Issue Certificates]
  F --> G[Maintain Safety Records]
  G --> H[Continuous Safety Education & Monitoring]
  H --> I[Review & Improve Safety Measures]

Use this framework to ensure comprehensive safety compliance in construction operations.