Health and Safety

Question 1

What health & safety legislation are you aware of?

Answer 1

The Federal Labour Law (No 8 of 1980) is the central piece of labour legislation in UAE and contains the general duties of employers to ensure the health and safety of all persons in their employment. The law obligates employers to provide a safe working environment, protect employees from hazards, and provide training on health and safety matters.
Ministerial Resolution No. 32 of 1982 outlines the regulations for occupational health and safety in the workplace. It covers a range of topics, including safety equipment, protective clothing, and ventilation.

Question 2

How do you ensure that you comply with this legislation?

Answer 2

I cooperate and follow my company’s safety instructions and guidelines; report any hazards or unsafe conditions to my employer; undertake safety and health trainings and participate in safety drills; perform my duties only within the limit of my competency, use the protective equipment and clothing provided to me.

Question 3

Tell me about your employer’s health & safety policy?

Answer 3

Providing a safe place of work relating to ventilation, heating, lighting and welfare facilities etc.
Minimising risks relating to monitors and workstations
Providing personal Protective Equipment (PPE),
First aid
Safe electrical systems
Fire risk assessment
Working hours
Health & safety induction
Stress
No Hazardous substances

Question 4

What are your health & safety duties as an individual surveyor?

Answer 4

Perform duties within the limits of my competence, be prepared to work within the designated work system, be able to adapt to changes, remain vigilant at all times, recognize my abilities and be an effective team member.

Question 5

What guidance does the RICS produce about H&S?

Answer 5

Surveying Safely 2nd edition effective from February 2019

Question 6

Tell me something you understand from reading Surveying Safely.

Answer 6

I understand the organisational (selection, training, information, equipment, safe systems of work, instruction, supervision, PPE) and individual responsibilities for health and safety practices (performance, control, adaptability, vigilance, awareness, teamwork). I understand the concept of a ‘Safe Person - each individual assumes individual behavioral responsibility for their own, their colleagues’ and others’ health and safety while at work’.
I understand the guidance for risk assessment.
1 identify the hazards
2 decide who might be harmed and how
3 evaluate the risks and decide on precautions
4 record the findings and implement them
5 review the assessment and update if necessary
6 advise all those affected of the outcome of the assessment and methods of work, or other control measures necessary, to minimise or eliminate risk.
I understand the procedures for visiting the premises/sites.
I understand the occupational health considers physical and mental effect of work on health.

Question 7

What is the safe person concept?

Answer 7

Each individual assumes individual behavioural responsibility for their own, their colleagues’ and others’ health and safety while at work.

Question 8

What must Regulated Firms provide?

Answer 8

A safe working environment
Safe work equipment
Safe systems of work
Competent staff

Question 9

What happened in the case of Suzy Lamplugh?

Answer 9

state agent who disappeared during the course of her work as an estate agent in 1986 while showing a client round a house

Question 10

Why is this important for surveyors?

Answer 10

For lone workers safety and procedures; check in calls, will there be a signal?, keeping record where lone worker is and time expected back, ‘If I did not come back from site who would know I am missing and how could they find me?’

Question 11

What is Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)?

Answer 11

PPE is equipment to protect against health & safety risks. For example, helmets, goggles, steel capped shoes, ear defenders, face masks, lighting and batteries, hi vis clothing.

Question 12

What is a risk assessment?

Answer 12

The RICS define it as carefully examining what in your work could cause harm to people, so that you can judge whether or not you have taken enough precautions to prevent harm.

Question 13

What is a risk?

Answer 13

Risk - likelihood of harm being realised

Question 14

What is a hazard?

Answer 14

Hazard - something with potential to cause harm

Question 15

How would you undertake a risk assessment before attending site?

Answer 15

It is important to collect as much information as possible from the client or person who has requested the visit, or from the organisation or person who is in control of or managing the premises or site.
Consider: traveling to and from site, lone working, condition of property, occupation, activity/use, site rules, roofs, high structures, dangerous substances, diseases (clinical waste), special access (emergency rescue), special risks (radiation), access equipment (ladder), PPE, environment (weather), physical matters

Question 16

What is asbestos?

Answer 16

Naturally occurring rock mineral that has heat and fire resisting properties. It has been extensively used worldwide in a wide range of building material

Question 17

What legislation are you aware of in relation to asbestos?

Answer 17

UAE Federal Law: Asbestos has been banned in the UAE since November 2006

Question 18

How does asbestos cause lung damage?

Answer 18

Asbestos fibers are microscopic, and when they are inhaled, they can become lodged in the lungs and remain there for a long period of time. Over time, these fibers can cause inflammation, scarring, and damage to the lung tissue, leading to various lung diseases. The body’s immune system tries to remove the fibers by engulfing and digesting them, but asbestos fibers are durable and are not easily broken down by the body’s immune system. As a result, the immune system produces an inflammatory response, causing the release of chemicals that damage the lung tissue. This inflammation and scarring can lead to a range of lung diseases, including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.

Question 19

What are the two types of asbestos survey?

Answer 19

The two types of asbestos surveys are:

Management survey: A management survey is the standard survey conducted to identify the presence of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in buildings. The purpose of this survey is to locate the presence, extent, and condition of any ACMs that could be disturbed or damaged during normal occupancy or maintenance of the building. The survey is usually non-intrusive and involves a visual inspection of accessible areas, such as ceilings, walls, floors, and service risers. The survey may also involve taking samples of suspected materials for laboratory analysis to confirm the presence of asbestos.

Refurbishment and demolition survey: A refurbishment and demolition survey is a more extensive survey that is required before any refurbishment or demolition work is carried out in a building. The purpose of this survey is to locate and identify all ACMs present in the building, including those that may be hidden behind walls or other structures. The survey is intrusive and involves accessing areas that may be difficult to reach, such as behind walls and above ceilings. Samples are also taken of any suspected materials for laboratory analysis to confirm the presence of asbestos. The survey report will provide recommendations for the safe removal and disposal of any identified ACMs before refurbishment or demolition work begins.

Question 20

What is occupational health?

Answer 20

Protection and promotion of the health and wellbeing of people in work;
Identifying and managing any hazards or risks that may affect the health and wellbeing of occupants, such as exposure to asbestos, poor indoor air quality, and ergonomic issues that may cause musculoskeletal disorders.
Providing support services and resources to help employees manage stress, anxiety, and other mental health issues.

Question 21

Why occupational health important?

Answer 21

Protect health of employees, comply with regulations, productivity and efficiency

Question 22

Tell me about your understanding of fire safety?

Answer 22

A system to ensure that fire related plant and equipment is regularly serviced, maintained and tested; effective emergency evacuation plan; trainings to people responsible for safety of occupants, fire marshals.

Question 23

What key fire safety legislation are you aware of?

Answer 23

Dubai Civil Defense Code, Abu Dhabi Civil Defense Code - govern fire safety standards for all types of buildings.
Regulations for fire prevention measures, fire protection systems, fire evacuation procedures, and other fire safety requirements (sprinkler systems, fire alarms, and emergency lighting).

Question 24

On an electricity site, would you wear steel toed boots - if not, why?

Answer 24

Yes, it provides protection for the feet against heavy falling objects, sharp materials, and electrical hazards.

Question 25

How is working in the heat regulated in UAE?

Answer 25

Working hours: During the summer months, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) sets specific working hours for outdoor workers to limit their exposure to the heat. The maximum working hours allowed are eight hours per day, with a break of at least two hours during the hottest period of the day.
Heat stress management: Employers are required to implement heat stress management programs to protect workers from heat-related illnesses. This includes providing adequate rest breaks, access to cool drinking water, and shaded rest areas.
Personal protective equipment (PPE): Workers who are exposed to high temperatures must be provided with appropriate PPE, such as lightweight and breathable clothing, hats, and sunscreen.
Training and awareness: Employers are required to provide workers with training and awareness on heat-related illnesses and how to prevent them.

Question 26

Explain how you ensure your personal safety on site?

Answer 26

Take a charged mobile
Plan an escape route
Implement a call back system with office (e.g. a safe word)
Make your daily schedule available to colleagues
Be careful in roof voids and when using ladders
Park your car close by and keep your keys on you
Make sure you know who you are meeting
Follow your gut instinct
Understand the site rules for construction sites
Be aware of aggressive occupants and dogs

Question 27

Explain how you ensure the security of your personal possessions on site?

Answer 27

Keep your personal property safe and with you at all times
Don’t leave possessions on view in your car
Don’t leave possessions lying around on site
Back up your photos and phone numbers
Keep confidential information safe, e.g. client contact information, bank details
Leave accommodation as you found it

Question 28

Tell me about when you have used PPE on an inspection.

Answer 28

I inspected an under construction building with my manager. We signed in and were provided with induction on safety and emergency procedures, we were provided with PPE such as hi-vis vest, helmets, goggles and we ensured that we both were wearing protective boots.

Question 29

What would you do if you suspected asbestos existed on a site inspection?

Answer 29

If I suspected that asbestos existed on a site inspection, the first thing I would do is to ensure my own safety and that of others in the vicinity. Next, I would inform the property owner or site manager of my suspicion, and advise them to have the area tested for asbestos by a qualified professional. Asbestos testing should only be conducted by trained and certified professionals who follow proper procedures and protocols. If asbestos is confirmed to be present, the property owner or site manager should arrange for its safe removal and disposal by a licensed asbestos removal contractor. The removal process should follow strict guidelines and regulations to ensure the safety of workers and the public.

Question 30

Tell me about any specific precautions you would take when inspecting a dilapidated property.

Answer 30

PPE, flashlight, stay extra vigilant for signs of structural damage (cracks in the walls, sagging floors or ceiling), check for pests, ensure the surface is stable, for example stairs/ladders, ask for assistance.

Question 31

What hazardous materials have you come across in your work?

Answer 31

During inspections of warehouses, I have encountered hazardous materials such as paint and petroleum products. I wore appropriate attire and had a mask on during the inspection.