The tenth monthly SAIMC Vaal branch meeting was held on 7 October. The branch secretary, Eben Grobbelaar introduced the speaker Mel Wilmans. The subject for the evening was the legal compliance of hazardous locations in terms of the Occupational Health and Safety Act – Act 85 of 1993. The main topics of discussion were:
* Occupational Health and Safety Act.
- The speaker elaborated the role of the OH&S Act in petrochemical industries with regard to hazardous locations.
* COC – Certificate of compliance
- Authority for issuing COC (as per SANS 10142-1 Annex P).
- What is the Certificate of Compliance?.
- When must it be issued?
- What supporting documentation must be submitted with the COC?
- Who can issue the COC?
* HAZLOC (plant) Inspections
- Management actions.
- Maintenance and plant E&I responsibilities.
Mel Wilmans (right) receiving certificate of recognition from Eben Grobbelaar
What about domestic houses COC requirements?
The law as it is currently enforced: it is important to note that the law expressly provides that a COC needs to be issued when a property on which an electrical installation exists changes ownership at any time after 1 March 1994. The electrical installation regulations require every user or leaser of an electrical installation (ie, a premises that is electrified) to have a valid COC, which is transferable, in respect of such an installation. There is an exception that if the installation existed prior to October 1992 and there have been no additions or alterations to that installation, and it has not changed ownership since January 1994, then no COC is required. Once a change of ownership occurs, a COC is required.
Need I say more? Enough said, ensure that you have a COC for your premises.
Visitors
The turnout from the Vaal members was excellent with representation from fuel refineries, petrochemical, steel, mining, power, engineering, suppliers and many other industries. We would like to thank our audiences for their unwavering support and we are looking forward to welcoming everyone again.
Control road show
October was a jam packed and exciting month thanks to the hosting of the annual control road show at the Quest Conference Centre. Delegates were treated to a variety of automation equipment and information to take back to their work environments.
SAIMC Vaal branch committee members at the roadshow, (from left): Herbert Karolius, Mohammad Simjee, Solly Mabitsela (chairman), Eben Grobbelaar (secretary/treasurer), Anthony Tucker and Oratile Sematle
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