Mark Prescott

1. RRV Safety Improvement ProgrammeDuplex-RRV CommsCommunications Protocols Mark Prescott

2. Radio Communications - Protocols • DECT DUPLEX Radios operate in an ‘Open’ Channel conference. • This means that your microphone is always live/active. • Every time you speak it will be heard by those connected to your open channel conference. • It is not reasonable to expect you to remain silent for the length of the shift. • Itis important to know when you are giving and receiving safety critical information and/or instructions. • Using Open channel communications requires some discipline and some simple rules to know when safety critical info/instructions are being transmitted.

3. RRV Comms – Protocols, Basic Rules • The Machine/Crane Controller is responsible for establishing the rules for communications and confirming what communications ‘phrases’ and ‘call signs’ are to be used. • Remember using radios with RRVs will be new to many MC/CCs and Operators. • Remember when Tandem Lifting each Machine will need an easily understandable name or call sign to ensure each Operator knows when he is being addressed. • Before RRV operations commence the MC/CC must brief the Operator(s) and come to a clear understanding on the names and protocols that are going to be used.

4. RRV Comms – Protocols:- Commencing Operations • When the RRV is required to commence an operation (movement or lift etc) the Machine or Crane Controller must alert the Operator(s) that he is about to give safety critical information or an instruction. This will stop any background conversation that may be taking place and the Operator(s) must pay attention. The following phrase should be used:- “Machine/Crane Controller speaking. Standby for Instruction.” The Operator must respond with the phrase:- “Standing by” • When the task has been completed and the RRV can be stood down to wait for the next task the Machine/Crane controller should inform the Operator and state:- “Operation complete stand down.”

5. RRV Comms – Protocols:- Emergency Commands • In the event of an Emergency the command is:- “Emergency! Stop! Stop! Stop!” Operators must cease or freeze all wheel and jib movement immediately. Crane Controllers can then give further instructions to bring the machine and or jib/load to a position of safety in a controlled manner.

6. RRV Comms :– Actions in the event of Radio Equipment Failure • In the event of Radio equipment failure and the MC/CC and Operator are unable to resolve then the following actions must be instigated by the MC/CC:- • The MC/CC must attempt to source replacement equipment. • If the time required to source alternative equipment imports risk to successfully completing the task, within the given possession working time then traditional Hand Signals may be used. • The MC/CC MUST record on his RRV Work Plan why Hand signals are being used and the type/reason of failure of the Radio equipment and report the defect to the Site or Line Manager. NB Hand Signals will remain in MC/CC and Operator training and competence standards.

7. A Step Change in RRV Safety! Implementation • The use of this equipment has been mandated for all RRV operations since 31st March 2012. • Using this equipment represents a step change in RRV Safety. • This will only work if you effectively manage the robust implementation of its use. • Please engage with your MCs, CCs and RRV Operators and take an interest in how they are getting on with the kit. • Get involved with your Super User. • Ask your Supervisors to undertake site visits when Duplex Comms are in use.