Safety Guidance – Prevention measures and technical implementation

Packaging and storage modalities 

The rolls are stored flat in a clean and load-bearing area, accessible with a machine. They can be placed on chevrons to allow forklift forks or slings to pass underneath. Solid wooden wedges should be provided to stabilize the rolls. Verify stability. 

Loading and unloading of our rolls: reminders 

This document recalls the measures to be taken during the loading or unloading of rolls and their transportation with a lifting device. Geosynthetic product rolls are heavy and not self-stable; due to their cylindrical shape, they can roll. Operators must be trained and authorized, and their equipment must be checked. General safety principles apply: secure the load when lifted, stay out of the perimeter, and adhere to all other rules. This reminder does not replace the recipient company’s rules. 

Handling loads with forks: 

– If transport or loading/unloading is done with the load directly on the forks, it must be centered relative to the load’s center of gravity (often at the center of the roll).
– Be aware that there is always a risk of the load slipping and the center of gravity shifting, leading to the load falling.
– Ensure that the fork tilt is locked upwards to prevent the roll from rolling off the forks.
– If transport or loading/unloading is done at a height, the load must also be secured with slings or straps. 

Handling loads with a ram: 

– Handling a load with a frontal ram increases the dimensions and involves larger movements. All pedestrians must stay outside the perimeter. 

Handling loads with slings: 

– Ensure operators are trained by an authorized organization.
– The quality, proper maintenance, and compliance of lifting accessories and devices are crucial to worker safety; do not use damaged or unsuitable equipment to avoid breakage during lifting (e.g., slings).
– Before lifting a load, the operator or signaler must ensure that all cables, chains, slings, or other restraints are properly attached to the load, and there is no danger during lifting.
– Lifting loads should be done vertically.
– The lifting device should not be left unattended when a load is suspended.
– Transporting loads above workers should be avoided, and if not possible, measures must be taken to ensure their safety.
– It is prohibited for any worker to stand on a load, hook, or sling suspended from a lifting device. 

– Hooks used for lifting loads, as well as those attached to slings, must have a safety latch, unless designed specifically for the safe lifting of certain loads. 

On-site installation (see our teraguide documentation): 

– Leave the roll on the ground as much as possible; otherwise, resort to handling with slings.
– Only on the ground, place a rod through the roll’s mandrel to tow it with a machine; the roll rolls on the ground.
– Be cautious on slopes; do not let the roll escape, and do not have anyone below. If it escapes, do not try to stop it with your body.
– Preferably cut panels of the product to the appropriate length on a flat area for safe work, and then move the panel to the slope to be equipped.
– Use gloves and a retractable blade cutter. 

Reminder of basic safety rules during lifting: 

– Do not position yourself under the load.
– Do not stay near the load when it is in motion.
– Ensure a safety perimeter is defined for a lifting operation.
– Check that the load does not exceed the lifting equipment’s capacity.
– If intervening in the operation area:

• Prior agreement with the forklift operator
• Stay within the forklift operator’s line of sight
• Stand aside during the resumption of operations 

– Do not move with a load at a height.
– In case of rough terrain, reduce speed to avoid load sway.
– Wearing PPE is mandatory; refer to the safety protocol of the site you are on.
– It is your responsibility to ensure the training and safety of your personnel, and the compliance of equipment and machinery. Consult authorized training and inspection organizations. 

Product usage limits during loading/unloading phase: 

– Unsecured height load.
– Roll on the ground that may escape on a slope.
– Person within the handling perimeter, potentially receiving a shock.
– Attempting to take too many rolls at once to save time.