Method Statement : Test and Commissioning of Plumbing Installations

Explanation

The test and commissioning of plumbing installations is a critical process conducted as part of new build or refurbishment works in both domestic and commercial settings, including kitchens, washrooms, and laundries. This procedure involves a comprehensive assessment to ensure that all plumbing systems are installed correctly and function efficiently, meeting the required standards and specifications. The primary aim is to verify the integrity, performance, and safety of the plumbing installations, ensuring that they are free from leaks, blockages, and other defects that could compromise their operation. This process is essential to guarantee the reliability and longevity of the plumbing systems, thereby safeguarding the health and safety of occupants and users.

Responsibilities

• Project Manager: Ensure all testing and commissioning activities are planned and coordinated effectively.
• Plumbing Engineer: Conduct the test and commissioning of plumbing installations in accordance with relevant standards and procedures.
• Health and Safety Officer: Monitor compliance with health and safety regulations during testing and commissioning activities.
• Site Supervisor: Oversee the work on-site, ensuring that all safety protocols are adhered to.
• Quality Assurance Inspector: Verify that the plumbing installations meet the required quality standards post-commissioning.
• Electrician: Ensure electrical components related to plumbing systems are safely isolated and reconnected as necessary.
• Apprentice Plumber: Assist the plumbing engineer in carrying out testing and commissioning tasks under supervision.
• Facilities Manager: Coordinate with the project team to ensure minimal disruption to existing operations during testing.

Equipment

• Pressure gauge
• Pipe wrench
• Adjustable spanner
• Pipe cutter
• Plumber’s torch
• Leak detection fluid
• Multimeter
• Bucket
• Hose
• Safety goggles
• Gloves
• Steel-toe boots
• High-visibility vest
• Hearing protection

Operation

• Conduct a thorough risk assessment to identify potential hazards specific to the site and task.
• Ensure all personnel involved are adequately trained and competent in test and commissioning procedures.
• Verify that all necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) is available and in good condition.
• Confirm that all tools and equipment required for the task are in proper working order and have been inspected.
• Review and understand the plumbing system design and specifications to be tested.
• Ensure that all relevant permits and authorisations have been obtained prior to commencing work.
• Establish clear communication protocols among team members and other site personnel.
• Isolate the plumbing system from any live services to prevent accidental activation during testing.
• Set up appropriate signage and barriers to restrict access to the work area and inform others of ongoing activities.
• Check for the presence of hazardous substances and ensure appropriate control measures are in place.
• Plan for emergency procedures, including the location of first aid kits and emergency exits.
• Verify that all necessary documentation, such as method statements and safety data sheets, is available on site.
• Conduct a thorough visual inspection of the plumbing installation to ensure all components are correctly installed and accessible.
• Gradually pressurise the system using water or air, as appropriate, to the specified test pressure, monitoring the pressure gauge closely.
• Inspect all joints and connections for leaks, applying a leak detection solution and rectifying any issues before proceeding.
• Operate all valves, taps, and fixtures to ensure they function correctly and smoothly, checking for proper water flow and drainage.
• Test water heaters and boilers to ensure they are operating within safe temperature ranges, verifying thermostatic mixing valves are set correctly.
• Ensure that all electrical components associated with the plumbing system are properly grounded and functioning safely.
• Record all test results, including pressure readings, leak detection outcomes, and functional test observations, documenting any issues identified.
• Conduct a final walkthrough of the installation to ensure all components are secure and operational, confirming adherence to safety measures.
• Provide a comprehensive handover to the client or end-user, explaining the system’s operation, maintenance requirements, and safety considerations.
• Schedule a follow-up review to assess the system’s performance after a period of operation, addressing any issues that may arise during initial use.

Risk Assessment : Test and Commissioning of Plumbing Installations

Who might be harmed: Plumbing Technicians | Commissioning Engineers | Maintenance Personnel

Type of harm: Burns | Dermatitis | Eye Damage | Respiratory damage / Asthma / COPD

Initial Risk: Major (3) x Frequent (5) = Medium (15) Controls

• Ensure all personnel wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves and goggles, when handling chemicals.
• Provide training on the safe handling and use of chemicals specific to plumbing installations.
• Use only approved and labelled chemicals for testing and commissioning tasks.
• Implement proper ventilation in areas where chemicals are used to prevent inhalation of fumes.
• Establish emergency procedures for chemical spills, including access to spill kits and first aid.
• Store chemicals securely in designated areas away from unauthorised personnel.
• Ensure safety data sheets for all chemicals are readily accessible to workers on site.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Slips, Trips, and Falls : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Plumbing Technicians | Construction Workers | Site Supervisors | Facility Maintenance Staff

Type of harm: Back / Spinal Injury | Broken Bones | Cuts and Abrasions | Death | Head Injury | Multiple / Various Injury

Initial Risk: Severe (4) x Frequent (5) = High (20) Controls

• Ensure all work areas are kept tidy and free from unnecessary equipment or materials to minimise trip hazards.
• Use appropriate signage to warn of wet floors and ensure they are promptly dried to prevent slips.
• Wear slip-resistant footwear to provide better traction on potentially wet surfaces.
• Conduct regular inspections of the work area to identify and rectify any potential slip or trip hazards.
• Ensure adequate lighting is provided in all work areas to improve visibility and reduce the risk of trips.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Electric Shock : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Plumbing Technicians | Electrical Engineers | Maintenance Personnel | Construction Workers

Type of harm: Burns | Death | Electrocution

Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Occasional (3) = Medium (15) Controls

• Ensure all electrical equipment is properly grounded and regularly inspected for faults before use.
• Use insulated tools and wear rubber-soled footwear to minimise the risk of electric shock.
• Verify that all electrical circuits are de-energised and locked out before commencing work.
• Install residual current devices (RCDs) to provide additional protection against electric shock.
• Provide training for workers on safe electrical practises and emergency procedures.
• Maintain a safe distance from live electrical components and ensure adequate signage is in place.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Burns : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Plumbing Technicians | Commissioning Engineers | Maintenance Personnel

Type of harm: Burns | Death | Eye Damage | Heat Stroke / Exhaustion | Smoke Inhalation

Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Frequent (5) = High (25) Controls

• Ensure all personnel are equipped with appropriate personal protective equipment, such as heat-resistant gloves and long-sleeved clothing, to prevent direct contact with hot surfaces or water.
• Conduct a thorough risk assessment prior to testing to identify potential sources of burns and implement necessary precautions.
• Verify that all hot water systems are clearly labelled with warning signs to alert workers of potential burn hazards.
• Implement a safe system of work that includes allowing hot water systems to cool down before commencing any testing or commissioning activities.
• Provide training for all personnel on the safe handling of hot water and steam systems, including emergency procedures in case of burns.
• Ensure that first aid facilities are readily available and that personnel are trained in administering first aid for burn injuries.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Flooding : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Plumbing Technicians | Construction Workers | Site Supervisors | Building Occupants

Type of harm: Drowning | Illness

Initial Risk: Major (3) x Probable (4) = Medium (12) Controls

• Ensure all plumbing connections are securely tightened and tested for leaks before commencing the main testing procedure.
• Utilise water pressure gauges to monitor and control pressure levels, preventing excessive pressure that could lead to system failure.
• Conduct a thorough inspection of the plumbing system for any visible signs of wear or damage prior to testing.
• Implement a clear communication protocol to quickly address and rectify any leaks or flooding incidents during testing.
• Have appropriate drainage systems in place to manage any accidental water discharge effectively.
• Equip personnel with appropriate personal protective equipment, such as waterproof boots, to mitigate exposure to water.
• Establish an emergency shut-off procedure to quickly stop water flow in the event of a significant leak or flooding.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Moving Parts : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Plumbing Technicians | Commissioning Engineers | Maintenance Personnel | Apprentices or Trainees

Type of harm: Amputation | Crush / Entrapment | Cuts and Abrasions | Death | Broken Bones | Head Injury

Initial Risk: Major (3) x Occasional (3) = Medium (9) Controls

• Ensure all machinery and equipment are fitted with appropriate guards to prevent accidental contact with moving parts.
• Conduct regular maintenance checks on equipment to ensure all safety features are functioning correctly.
• Provide training for workers on the safe operation of machinery, including the identification of moving parts.
• Implement a lockout/tagout procedure to ensure machinery is de-energised before maintenance or testing.
• Ensure that personal protective equipment, such as gloves and safety goggles, is worn when operating machinery.
• Establish clear communication protocols to alert workers when machinery is in operation.
• Maintain a safe distance from moving parts during operation and testing activities.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Manual Handling : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Plumbing Technicians | Commissioning Engineers | Site Labourers | Maintenance Personnel | Apprentices and Trainees

Type of harm: Back / Spinal Injury | Broken Bones | Muscular Injury

Initial Risk: Severe (4) x Probable (4) = Medium (16) Controls

• Ensure that all personnel are trained in proper lifting techniques to minimise the risk of musculoskeletal injuries.
• Utilise mechanical aids such as trolleys or hoists to transport heavy equipment and materials whenever possible.
• Plan the task in advance to identify and eliminate unnecessary manual handling by organising the work area efficiently.
• Encourage team lifting for heavy or awkward loads to distribute weight evenly and reduce strain on individuals.
• Conduct a risk assessment prior to commencing work to identify potential manual handling hazards and implement appropriate controls.
• Ensure that work areas are kept clear and free from obstructions to facilitate safe movement and handling of materials.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Working at Height : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Plumbing Technicians | Construction Workers | Maintenance Personnel

Type of harm: Broken Bones | Death | Head Injury | Multiple / Various Injury

Initial Risk: Major (3) x Probable (4) = Medium (12) Controls

• Use stable and secure ladders or scaffolding that comply with safety standards to access elevated plumbing installations.
• Ensure all personnel are trained in working at height procedures and the use of fall protection equipment.
• Conduct a risk assessment prior to commencing work to identify potential hazards and implement appropriate controls.
• Utilise personal fall arrest systems, such as harnesses and lanyards, when working at height is unavoidable.
• Maintain a clean and organised work area to prevent tripping hazards when working at height.
• Establish a clear communication protocol among team members to ensure awareness of activities and potential risks.
• Regularly inspect all equipment used for working at height to ensure it is in good condition and fit for purpose.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Noise Exposure : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Plumbing Technicians | Commissioning Engineers | Site Supervisors | Other Construction Workers on Site

Type of harm: Permanent Hearing Damage

Initial Risk: Major (3) x Probable (4) = Medium (12) Controls

• Ensure all personnel involved in testing and commissioning wear appropriate hearing protection, such as earplugs or earmuffs, to mitigate noise exposure.
• Schedule noisy activities during times when fewer workers are present to minimise overall exposure.
• Utilise noise-dampening materials or barriers around loud equipment to reduce sound levels in the work area.
• Conduct regular noise level assessments to identify areas where additional controls may be necessary.
• Provide training for workers on the risks of noise exposure and the proper use of hearing protection equipment.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Confined Spaces : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Plumbing Technicians | Commissioning Engineers | Maintenance Personnel | Construction Workers

Type of harm: Asphyxia | Crush / Entrapment | Death | Drowning | Electrocution | Heat Stroke / Exhaustion | Respiratory damage / Asthma / COPD | Smoke Inhalation

Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Occasional (3) = Medium (15) Controls

• Ensure a thorough risk assessment is conducted to identify potential hazards within the confined space before commencing work.
• Provide adequate ventilation to maintain a safe atmosphere and prevent the build-up of hazardous gases.
• Use gas detection equipment to continuously monitor air quality for oxygen levels and toxic gases.
• Implement a permit-to-work system to control access and ensure only authorised personnel enter the confined space.
• Ensure all personnel are trained in confined space entry procedures and emergency response protocols.
• Establish effective communication methods between workers inside the confined space and those outside.
• Have a standby person present outside the confined space to initiate emergency procedures if necessary.
• Equip workers with appropriate personal protective equipment, such as respirators, if required by the risk assessment.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

COSHH Assessment : Test and Commissioning of Plumbing Installations

Cleaning agents

Cleaning agents are utilised to flush and sanitise plumbing systems, ensuring the removal of debris and contaminants prior to commissioning.

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Inhalation : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Plumbing installation workers | Commissioning engineers | Maintenance personnel

Type of harm: Asbestosis / Lung Cancer / Mesothelioma | Asphyxia | Respiratory damage / Asthma / COPD | Smoke Inhalation

Initial Risk: Severe (4) x Occasional (3) = Medium (12) Controls

• Ensure adequate ventilation in the work area to disperse fumes.
• Use appropriate respiratory protective equipment, such as masks or respirators, when necessary.
• Select cleaning agents with lower volatility or reduced harmful emissions.
• Implement safe work practises, such as avoiding aerosolising cleaning agents.
• Provide training on the proper use and handling of cleaning agents to minimise exposure.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Ingestion : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Plumbing installation workers

Type of harm: Illness | Death

Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Probable (4) = High (20) Controls

• Ensure all cleaning agents are clearly labelled and stored securely to prevent accidental ingestion.
• Provide training to workers on the safe handling and use of cleaning agents, emphasising the importance of not eating or drinking in work areas.
• Implement a strict policy prohibiting the transfer of cleaning agents into unlabelled or food containers.
• Ensure handwashing facilities are readily available and encourage workers to wash hands thoroughly after handling cleaning agents.
• Provide appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves, to minimise direct contact with cleaning agents.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Eye Contact : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Plumbers and plumbing technicians | Maintenance personnel | Cleaning staff

Type of harm: Eye Damage

Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Occasional (3) = Medium (15) Controls

• Ensure workers wear appropriate eye protection, such as safety goggles, when handling cleaning agents.
• Provide training on the correct use and handling of cleaning agents to prevent splashes.
• Implement proper storage procedures to prevent accidental spills or leaks of cleaning agents.
• Use cleaning agents in well-ventilated areas to minimise the risk of splashes.
• Provide access to eye wash stations in areas where cleaning agents are used.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Skin Contact : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Plumbers and plumbing technicians | Maintenance personnel | Construction workers | Cleaning staff

Type of harm: Dermatitis

Initial Risk: Major (3) x Frequent (5) = Medium (15) Controls

• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as chemical-resistant gloves, to prevent direct skin contact with cleaning agents.
• Use long-sleeved clothing to minimise skin exposure when handling cleaning agents.
• Implement proper training for workers on the safe handling and application of cleaning agents.
• Ensure availability of washing facilities with soap and water for immediate decontamination.
• Utilise dispensing equipment to avoid direct handling of concentrated cleaning agents.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

Soldering flux

Soldering flux is intended for use in plumbing installations to clean and prepare metal surfaces, ensuring a strong and reliable bond during the soldering process.

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Inhalation : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Plumbers conducting the soldering work | Commissioning engineers present during testing | Other tradespeople working nearby

Type of harm: Respiratory damage / Asthma / COPD

Initial Risk: Severe (4) x Frequent (5) = High (20) Controls

• Ensure adequate ventilation in the work area to disperse fumes.
• Use local exhaust ventilation systems to capture fumes at the source.
• Wear appropriate respiratory protective equipment, such as a mask with a suitable filter.
• Limit the duration of exposure by taking regular breaks away from the work area.
• Implement a fume extraction system specifically designed for soldering activities.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Eye Contact : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Plumbers conducting the test and commissioning. | Apprentices or trainees assisting with the work.

Type of harm: Eye Damage

Initial Risk: Major (3) x Frequent (5) = Medium (15) Controls

• Wear safety goggles or face shields to prevent flux splashes from reaching the eyes.
• Ensure proper ventilation to reduce airborne flux particles that may contact the eyes.
• Use a soldering station with fume extraction to minimise exposure to flux fumes.
• Implement a clean work area policy to prevent accidental transfer of flux to the eyes.
• Provide training on safe handling and application techniques for soldering flux.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Skin Contact : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Plumbers | HVAC Technicians | Maintenance Workers | Apprentices and Trainees

Type of harm: Dermatitis

Initial Risk: Major (3) x Probable (4) = Medium (12) Controls

• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as chemical-resistant gloves, to prevent direct skin contact with soldering flux.
• Use barrier creams to provide an additional layer of protection on exposed skin areas.
• Implement proper handwashing procedures with soap and water after handling soldering flux.
• Ensure adequate ventilation in the work area to minimise airborne flux particles settling on skin.
• Provide training on safe handling techniques and potential skin hazards associated with soldering flux.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

Sealants

Sealants are used to create watertight and airtight seals in plumbing connections, preventing leaks and ensuring the integrity of the system.

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Inhalation : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Plumbing installation workers | Commissioning engineers | Nearby construction workers

Type of harm: Asbestosis / Lung Cancer / Mesothelioma | Asphyxia | Respiratory damage / Asthma / COPD | Smoke Inhalation

Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Frequent (5) = High (25) Controls

• Ensure adequate ventilation in the work area to disperse fumes.
• Use sealants in well-ventilated spaces or outdoors whenever possible.
• Wear appropriate respiratory protective equipment, such as a mask or respirator, when ventilation is insufficient.
• Limit the amount of time spent applying sealants to reduce exposure.
• Store sealants in tightly sealed containers when not in use to prevent fume release.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Eye Contact : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Plumbing installation workers | Commissioning engineers | Maintenance personnel

Type of harm: Eye Damage

Initial Risk: Major (3) x Occasional (3) = Medium (9) Controls

• Wear safety goggles or face shields to prevent sealant splashes.
• Ensure proper ventilation to reduce airborne particles that may contact eyes.
• Use sealant applicators to minimise direct handling and potential splashes.
• Implement a clean-up procedure for spills to prevent accidental eye exposure.
• Provide eye wash stations nearby for immediate rinsing in case of contact.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Skin Contact : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Plumbers | Commissioning engineers | Maintenance personnel | Construction workers

Type of harm: Dermatitis

Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Probable (4) = High (20) Controls

• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as chemical-resistant gloves, to prevent direct skin contact with sealants.
• Use barrier creams on exposed skin areas to provide an additional layer of protection against sealant exposure.
• Ensure proper ventilation in the work area to reduce the concentration of airborne sealant particles.
• Implement good hygiene practises, including washing hands and exposed skin thoroughly after handling sealants.
• Provide training on the safe handling and application of sealants to minimise the risk of skin contact.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

Descaling chemicals

Descaling chemicals are intended for use in removing mineral deposits and limescale from plumbing systems to ensure optimal water flow and system efficiency.

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Inhalation : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Plumbing technicians conducting the test and commissioning. | Other construction workers in the vicinity. | Facility maintenance staff present during the process.

Type of harm: Asphyxia | Respiratory damage / Asthma / COPD

Initial Risk: Severe (4) x Occasional (3) = Medium (12) Controls

• Ensure adequate ventilation in the work area to disperse fumes.
• Use appropriate respiratory protective equipment, such as masks or respirators, when necessary.
• Limit the amount of descaling chemicals used to the minimum required for the task.
• Implement local exhaust ventilation systems to capture and remove airborne contaminants.
• Train workers on the safe handling and use of descaling chemicals to minimise exposure.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Ingestion : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Plumbing technicians

Type of harm: Illness | Death

Initial Risk: Major (3) x Frequent (5) = Medium (15) Controls

• Ensure all personnel handling descaling chemicals are trained in safe handling procedures.
• Prohibit eating, drinking, or smoking in areas where descaling chemicals are used.
• Provide appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves and aprons, to prevent contamination.
• Store descaling chemicals in clearly labelled containers to prevent accidental ingestion.
• Implement strict hygiene practises, including handwashing after handling chemicals.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Eye Contact : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Plumbing installation workers | Commissioning engineers | Maintenance personnel

Type of harm: Eye Damage

Initial Risk: Major (3) x Occasional (3) = Medium (9) Controls

• Ensure workers wear appropriate safety goggles or face shields when handling descaling chemicals.
• Provide training on the correct use and handling of descaling chemicals to prevent splashes.
• Implement a procedure for immediate rinsing with water in case of eye exposure.
• Ensure eyewash stations are readily accessible in areas where descaling chemicals are used.
• Use chemical-resistant containers and equipment to minimise the risk of splashes.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Skin Contact : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Plumbing installation workers | Commissioning engineers | Maintenance personnel

Type of harm: Burns | Dermatitis

Initial Risk: Major (3) x Frequent (5) = Medium (15) Controls

• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as chemical-resistant gloves and long-sleeved clothing, to prevent skin exposure.
• Ensure that safety data sheets for descaling chemicals are readily available and reviewed before use.
• Implement proper training for workers on safe handling and application techniques for descaling chemicals.
• Provide accessible washing facilities with soap and water for immediate decontamination in case of skin contact.
• Use tools or equipment to apply descaling chemicals, minimising direct hand contact.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

Toolbox Talk : Test and Commissioning of Plumbing Installations

Introduction

The test and commissioning of plumbing installations is a critical process conducted as part of new build or refurbishment works in both domestic and commercial settings, including kitchens, washrooms, and laundries. This procedure involves a comprehensive assessment to ensure that all plumbing systems are installed correctly and function efficiently, meeting the required standards and specifications. The primary aim is to verify the integrity, performance, and safety of the plumbing installations, ensuring that they are free from leaks, blockages, and other defects that could compromise their operation. This process is essential to guarantee the reliability and longevity of the plumbing systems, thereby safeguarding the health and safety of occupants and users.

Hazards

The test and commissioning of plumbing installations in domestic and commercial settings present several hazards. Exposure to hazardous substances, such as chemicals or sewage, poses a significant risk, particularly in kitchens, washrooms, and laundries. Wet surfaces increase the likelihood of slips, trips, and falls, while the potential for electric shock exists when interacting with electrical components. Hot water or steam can cause burns during testing procedures. Leaks may lead to flooding or water damage, creating further safety concerns. Additionally, manual handling of heavy equipment or materials can result in injuries, and working at height introduces the risk of falls. Confined spaces may present additional hazards, and loud noise levels during testing can impact hearing. It is imperative to address these dangers to ensure a safe working environment.

Test and Commissioning of Plumbing Installations : Rules

• Do conduct a thorough risk assessment prior to commencing any testing or commissioning activities.
• Do ensure all personnel are adequately trained and competent to perform the tasks required.
• Do wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves, safety goggles, and non-slip footwear.
• Do verify that all tools and equipment are in good working condition and suitable for the task.
• Do establish clear communication protocols among team members to ensure coordination and safety.
• Do isolate electrical supplies when working near electrical components to prevent electric shock.
• Do ensure proper ventilation in enclosed spaces to avoid exposure to hazardous fumes or gases.
• Do use appropriate lifting techniques or mechanical aids when handling heavy equipment or materials.
• Do maintain a clean and organised work area to minimise the risk of slips, trips, and falls.
• Do follow manufacturer’s instructions and industry standards for testing and commissioning procedures.
• Do monitor for leaks or signs of water damage during testing and take immediate corrective action if necessary.
• Do report any incidents, near misses, or hazards to the appropriate supervisor or safety officer promptly.

Test and Commissioning of Plumbing Installations : Warnings

• Do not commence testing without conducting a thorough risk assessment.
• Do not use equipment or tools that are damaged or faulty.
• Do not work alone in potentially hazardous environments.
• Do not ignore signs of leaks or water damage during testing.
• Do not bypass safety protocols or procedures.
• Do not handle chemicals or hazardous substances without appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Do not leave wet surfaces unattended without proper signage.
• Do not attempt to lift heavy objects without assistance or proper lifting techniques.
• Do not work at height without appropriate fall protection measures.
• Do not enter confined spaces without proper training and authorisation.
• Do not neglect to isolate electrical supplies before working on plumbing systems.
• Do not disregard noise protection requirements in high-noise areas.
• Do not rush the testing process; ensure all steps are followed methodically.
• Do not assume all systems are depressurised; verify before commencing work.

Induction Record

Company name:		Project title:
Location:		Contract No:

Subject:	Risk Assessment and Method Statement : Test and Commissioning of Plumbing Installations	Tutor:
Date:		Signature:

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