Part 2: Risk Assessment
Organisation name: Riyadh Ceramics
Date of assessment: January 11th
, 2025
Scope of risk assessment: Raw Material Storage and Preparation Section, Mixing and Blending Section, Pressing and Molding Section,
Drying Section, Glazing Section, Printing and Design Section, Firing Section (Kiln Area), Polishing Section, Cutting and Finishing Section,
Quality Control and Testing Section, Packaging Section, Storage and Dispatch Section.
Hazard
category and
hazard
Who might be harmed
and how?
What are you already
doing?
What further controls/actions
are required?
Timescales
for further
actions to be
completed
(within …)
Responsible
person’s job
title
1.Work,
Equipment
and
Machinery
Unguarded
pressing
machines
having rotating
flywheels and
belts in
pressing and
molding
section.
Press Machine
Operators, Hydraulic
Technicians, Molding
Supervisor.
In the Pressing and
Molding Section,
unguarded machinery
posed a significant risk
to workers. The
pressing machines,
used to shape ceramic
tiles, were found to be
inadequately guarded.
The machines had
exposed moving parts,
such as flywheels and
belts, which were
Medical health facilities
were provided to the
workers.
Workers were provided
workers with appropriate
PPE such as cut-resistant
gloves, safety boots, and
eye protection.
a. Remove the need for
direct worker interaction
with moving parts by
introducing fully automated
pressing.
1-Month Site
Engineer
mechanical
b. Replace mechanical locks
with electromagnetic safety
locks that disengage only
when the machine is
completely powered down.
3-Months Site
Engineer
Instrument
c. Implement interlocking
safety devices that
automatically stop the
machine if the guard is
opened or tampered.
1-Month Site
Engineer I/C
d. Establish standard
operating procedures
(SOPs) for machine
2-Weeks Planning
Lead
Hazard
category and
hazard
Who might be harmed
and how?
What are you already
doing?
What further controls/actions
are required?
Timescales
for further
actions to be
completed
(within …)
Responsible
person’s job
title
accessible to workers
during maintenance
and operation. The lack
of proper guarding
mechanisms increased
the risk of accidental
contact with the moving
machinery, which could
lead to severe injuries,
including amputation,
crushing, or
entanglement.
operation and maintenance.
e. Implement a
lockout/tagout (LOTO)
system for maintenance,
ensuring machines are
properly de-energized.
1-Month HSE
Coordinator
f. Conduct regular safety
training sessions for all
workers in the Pressing and
Molding Section.
1-Month Training
Coordinator
2.Noise
Sharp,
repetitive
clanging
sound from
hydraulic
cylinder in
pressing and
moulding
section
reaching 125
dB.
Press Machine
Operator, Hydraulic
Technician, Molding
Supervisor.
In the Pressing and
Molding Section,
workers were exposed
to high noise levels
from the continuous
operation of the tile
presses, which
generated noise levels
exceeding 125 dB(A)
during tile formation.
The pressing
Signage was installed in the
area indicating “Use
Earmuffs”.
Noise monitoring sensors
were installed in the area.
Toolbox talk was given to
workers.
a. Source of the high noise
levels should be eliminated
by replacing the hydraulic
presses with quieter,
electric-driven presses.
3-Months Site
Engineer
Mechanical
b. The presses should be fitted
with noise-dampening mats
and soundproof barriers.
2-Months Site
Engineer
Mechanical
c. Acoustic enclosures should
be installed around the
presses using soundproof
materials, such as foam
panels.
1-Month Site
Engineer
Mechanical
d. Worker exposure to high
noise levels should be
minimized through job
2-Weeks Planning
Lead
Hazard
category and
hazard
Who might be harmed
and how?
What are you already
doing?
What further controls/actions
are required?
Timescales
for further
actions to be
completed
(within …)
Responsible
person’s job
title
machines, equipped
with large hydraulic
cylinders, produced
sharp, repetitive
clanging sounds when
force was applied to
mold the tiles. This
constant noise
exposure could in
workers experiencing
ear fatigue, tinnitus,
and potential long-term
hearing damage.
rotation.
e. Workers should be trained
on noise hazards and the
proper use of hearing
protection.
1-Month Training
Coordinator
f. All workers should be
provided with earplugs or
earmuffs with an NRR of 30
dB(A) or higher.
3-Weeks In-charge
Storage
3.Fire
Malfunction in
the gas-fired
kiln’s burner
assembly and
ignition failure
due to
improper fuel-
air mixture
causing
unburned fuel
to accumulate
in the
combustion
Kiln lubricators,
Combustion
Technicians, Kiln
Supervisor and patrol
man.
In the Firing Section, a
fire hazard arose due
to a malfunction in the
gas-fired kiln’s burner
assembly, which is
responsible for
maintaining the
required firing
temperature for
Fire extinguishers were
installed in the area.
Marking of fire assembling
area was carried out.
Fire escape routes were
designated in the area.
a. Replace the existing burner
with advanced systems
such as Riello Burners or
Weishaupt Burner
Systems.
3-Months Site
Engineer
Mechanical
b. Substitute the gas-fired
burner with a safer electric
heating element.
2-Months Site
Engineer
Mechanical
c. Install flame arrestors in the
burner assembly to prevent
flashbacks.
3-Months Site
Engineer
Instrument
d. Implement a routine
maintenance schedule,
2-Weeks Planning
Lead
Hazard
category and
hazard
Who might be harmed
and how?
What are you already
doing?
What further controls/actions
are required?
Timescales
for further
actions to be
completed
(within …)
Responsible
person’s job
title
chamber of
firing section.
ceramic tiles. The
burner system, which
operates at
temperatures
exceeding 1200°C,
experienced an ignition
failure due to improper
fuel-air mixture
regulation. This
malfunction caused
unburned fuel to
accumulate in the
combustion chamber,
increasing the
likelihood of a
flashback. During
routine operation, a
flashback occurred,
which could ignite the
fuel-air mixture and
causing a fire within the
combustion chamber.
Fire could result in skin
pigmentation, third-
degree burns, skin
lacerations, severe
pain etc. In severe
case it could lead to
ensuring the burner system
is inspected regularly
e. Workers should be trained
on the risks of gas-fired kiln
operations, the proper
procedures for ignition and
shutdown.
1-Week Training
Coordinator
f. Provide fire-resistant
clothing, gloves, and face
shields to workers operating
in or near the kiln area.
3-Weeks Store In-
charge
Hazard
category and
hazard
Who might be harmed
and how?
What are you already
doing?
What further controls/actions
are required?
Timescales
for further
actions to be
completed
(within …)
Responsible
person’s job
title
fatality and property
damage.
4.Hazardous
Substances
Exposure to
silica dust in
mixing and
blending
section in
concentration
of 150 µg/m³
(micrograms
per cubic
meter of air).
Mixing Operator,
Process Technician,
Section Supervisor
In the Mixing and
Blending Section,
workers were exposed
to hazardous chemicals
used in the preparation
of ceramic glazes and
clay mixtures. The
chemicals included
silica dust in
concentration of 150
µg/m³ (micrograms per
cubic meter of air),
which was generated
during the blending of
raw materials, used in
some coloured glazes.
The process involved
mixing large quantities
of fine powder, which
created significant dust
clouds, and the
application of lead-
Sensors were installed in
the area for ambient air
monitoring.
Workers were provided with
PAPR respirators,
chemical-resistant gloves,
and protective eyewear to
prevent exposure.
a. Replace lead-based
chemicals with non-toxic,
water-based ceramic
colorants to eliminate lead
exposure.
2-Months Site
Engineer
Process
b. Install automated dust
extraction systems with
HEPA filters to capture
airborne silica particles.
1-Month Site
Engineer
Mechanical
c. Enclose mixing equipment
to prevent dust dispersion
and contain hazardous
chemical fumes.
1-Month Site
Engineer
Mechanical
d. Upgrade ventilation
systems to provide
positive pressure airflow
and ensure safe air quality
levels.
1-Month Site
Engineer
Mechanical
e. Implement rotation
schedules to minimize
prolonged exposure and
reduce overall health risks.
2-Weeks Planning
Lead
f. Conduct specialized
training on handling
hazardous substances and
recognizing toxic exposure
2-Weeks Training
Coordinator
Hazard
category and
hazard
Who might be harmed
and how?
What are you already
doing?
What further controls/actions
are required?
Timescales
for further
actions to be
completed
(within …)
Responsible
person’s job
title
based chemicals to
achieve specific tile
finishes. Silica dust,
when inhaled, posed a
risk of developing
silicosis. Silica dust
could lead to long-term
respiratory issues,
including lung cancer.
symptoms.
5.Working at
height
Inspection and
maintenance
at platforms
located at 10
feet having
lack of
guardrails in
glazing
section.
Glazing Machine
Operator, Spray
Technician, Quality
Check Assistant.
In the Glazing Section,
workers were
frequently required to
perform routine
inspections and
maintenance on the
high-pressure air
compressors located
on elevated platforms.
These platforms, about
10 feet above the
ground, lacked proper
guardrails. During one
maintenance task, a
For fall protection, safety net
was installed below the
work area.
Area of working was
barricaded.
Workers were provided with
fall protection equipment,
such as full-body
harnesses, lanyards, and
shock-absorbing devices.
a. Eliminate the need for
working at height by
relocating the air
compressors to ground
level.
1-Month Design
Engineer
b. Substitute manual tasks at
height with mechanical
systems and hoists.
2-Months Site
Engineer
Mechanical
c. Install permanent guardrails
with mid-rails around all
elevated platforms to
prevent accidental falls.
2-Weeks Site
Engineer
Mechanical
d. Use scaffolding systems or
mechanical lifts with proper
access to enable safe and
secure working at heights.
3-Weeks Site
Engineer
Mechanical
e. Implement a strict permit-to-
work system for any tasks
involving work at height.
1-Month HSE
Coordinator
Hazard
category and
hazard
Who might be harmed
and how?
What are you already
doing?
What further controls/actions
are required?
Timescales
for further
actions to be
completed
(within …)
Responsible
person’s job
title
technicians could fall
while accessing the
compressor, which
could result in severe
injuries, including
fractures. The absence
of fall protection
equipment, such as
harnesses and safety
lanyards, significantly
increased the risk of
injury when working at
height.
f. Provide all maintenance
personnel with
comprehensive training on
working safely at height.
2-Weeks Training
Coordinator
6.Health,
Welfare and
Work
Environment
Scorching
temperatures
in firing
section
reaching 45-
50°C due to
kiln operation.
Kiln Operator,
Combustion
Technician, Kiln
Supervisor
In the Firing Section,
workers were exposed
to extreme
temperatures due to
the operation of gas-
fired kilns, which
operate at
temperatures
exceeding 1200°C. As
a result, the ambient
Training was provided on
recognizing symptoms of
heat stress, dehydration,
and heat exhaustion.
Ambient air temperature
monitoring was carried out
by using sensors.
Workers were provided with
heat-resistant clothing,
including cooling vests,
heat-protective gloves, and
safety footwear.
a. Replace gas-fired kilns with
more energy-efficient and
cooler operational
technologies.
2-Months Site
Engineer
Mechanical
b. Install high-performance
ventilation systems to
improve airflow and reduce
ambient temperatures.
1-Month Site
Engineer
Mechanical
c. Use air-conditioning or
localized cooling units in
high-temperature zones to
provide relief for workers.
2-Weeks Site
Engineer
Mechanical
d. Install thermal insulation 1-Week Site
Hazard
category and
hazard
Who might be harmed
and how?
What are you already
doing?
What further controls/actions
are required?
Timescales
for further
actions to be
completed
(within …)
Responsible
person’s job
title
temperature in the
surrounding area
reached upwards of 45-
50°C, especially near
the kilns.
This excessive heat
exposure could led to
several health-related
issues, including heat
exhaustion,
dehydration, and
fatigue, cramps,
dizziness, and heat
stroke.
around kilns and heat
sources to reduce radiant
heat exposure.
Engineer
Mechanical
e. Implement heat shields or
barriers between workers
and kilns to reduce direct
exposure to high
temperatures.
1-Month Site
Engineer
Mechanical
f. Limit the duration of
exposure to high
temperatures through shift
rotations to prevent
prolonged heat stress.
3-Weeks Planning
Lead
Audit : Security : Risk Handling : Response

Audit : Security : Risk Handling : Response

  • 1.
    Part 2: RiskAssessment Organisation name: Riyadh Ceramics Date of assessment: January 11th , 2025 Scope of risk assessment: Raw Material Storage and Preparation Section, Mixing and Blending Section, Pressing and Molding Section, Drying Section, Glazing Section, Printing and Design Section, Firing Section (Kiln Area), Polishing Section, Cutting and Finishing Section, Quality Control and Testing Section, Packaging Section, Storage and Dispatch Section. Hazard category and hazard Who might be harmed and how? What are you already doing? What further controls/actions are required? Timescales for further actions to be completed (within …) Responsible person’s job title 1.Work, Equipment and Machinery Unguarded pressing machines having rotating flywheels and belts in pressing and molding section. Press Machine Operators, Hydraulic Technicians, Molding Supervisor. In the Pressing and Molding Section, unguarded machinery posed a significant risk to workers. The pressing machines, used to shape ceramic tiles, were found to be inadequately guarded. The machines had exposed moving parts, such as flywheels and belts, which were Medical health facilities were provided to the workers. Workers were provided workers with appropriate PPE such as cut-resistant gloves, safety boots, and eye protection. a. Remove the need for direct worker interaction with moving parts by introducing fully automated pressing. 1-Month Site Engineer mechanical b. Replace mechanical locks with electromagnetic safety locks that disengage only when the machine is completely powered down. 3-Months Site Engineer Instrument c. Implement interlocking safety devices that automatically stop the machine if the guard is opened or tampered. 1-Month Site Engineer I/C d. Establish standard operating procedures (SOPs) for machine 2-Weeks Planning Lead
  • 2.
    Hazard category and hazard Who mightbe harmed and how? What are you already doing? What further controls/actions are required? Timescales for further actions to be completed (within …) Responsible person’s job title accessible to workers during maintenance and operation. The lack of proper guarding mechanisms increased the risk of accidental contact with the moving machinery, which could lead to severe injuries, including amputation, crushing, or entanglement. operation and maintenance. e. Implement a lockout/tagout (LOTO) system for maintenance, ensuring machines are properly de-energized. 1-Month HSE Coordinator f. Conduct regular safety training sessions for all workers in the Pressing and Molding Section. 1-Month Training Coordinator 2.Noise Sharp, repetitive clanging sound from hydraulic cylinder in pressing and moulding section reaching 125 dB. Press Machine Operator, Hydraulic Technician, Molding Supervisor. In the Pressing and Molding Section, workers were exposed to high noise levels from the continuous operation of the tile presses, which generated noise levels exceeding 125 dB(A) during tile formation. The pressing Signage was installed in the area indicating “Use Earmuffs”. Noise monitoring sensors were installed in the area. Toolbox talk was given to workers. a. Source of the high noise levels should be eliminated by replacing the hydraulic presses with quieter, electric-driven presses. 3-Months Site Engineer Mechanical b. The presses should be fitted with noise-dampening mats and soundproof barriers. 2-Months Site Engineer Mechanical c. Acoustic enclosures should be installed around the presses using soundproof materials, such as foam panels. 1-Month Site Engineer Mechanical d. Worker exposure to high noise levels should be minimized through job 2-Weeks Planning Lead
  • 3.
    Hazard category and hazard Who mightbe harmed and how? What are you already doing? What further controls/actions are required? Timescales for further actions to be completed (within …) Responsible person’s job title machines, equipped with large hydraulic cylinders, produced sharp, repetitive clanging sounds when force was applied to mold the tiles. This constant noise exposure could in workers experiencing ear fatigue, tinnitus, and potential long-term hearing damage. rotation. e. Workers should be trained on noise hazards and the proper use of hearing protection. 1-Month Training Coordinator f. All workers should be provided with earplugs or earmuffs with an NRR of 30 dB(A) or higher. 3-Weeks In-charge Storage 3.Fire Malfunction in the gas-fired kiln’s burner assembly and ignition failure due to improper fuel- air mixture causing unburned fuel to accumulate in the combustion Kiln lubricators, Combustion Technicians, Kiln Supervisor and patrol man. In the Firing Section, a fire hazard arose due to a malfunction in the gas-fired kiln’s burner assembly, which is responsible for maintaining the required firing temperature for Fire extinguishers were installed in the area. Marking of fire assembling area was carried out. Fire escape routes were designated in the area. a. Replace the existing burner with advanced systems such as Riello Burners or Weishaupt Burner Systems. 3-Months Site Engineer Mechanical b. Substitute the gas-fired burner with a safer electric heating element. 2-Months Site Engineer Mechanical c. Install flame arrestors in the burner assembly to prevent flashbacks. 3-Months Site Engineer Instrument d. Implement a routine maintenance schedule, 2-Weeks Planning Lead
  • 4.
    Hazard category and hazard Who mightbe harmed and how? What are you already doing? What further controls/actions are required? Timescales for further actions to be completed (within …) Responsible person’s job title chamber of firing section. ceramic tiles. The burner system, which operates at temperatures exceeding 1200°C, experienced an ignition failure due to improper fuel-air mixture regulation. This malfunction caused unburned fuel to accumulate in the combustion chamber, increasing the likelihood of a flashback. During routine operation, a flashback occurred, which could ignite the fuel-air mixture and causing a fire within the combustion chamber. Fire could result in skin pigmentation, third- degree burns, skin lacerations, severe pain etc. In severe case it could lead to ensuring the burner system is inspected regularly e. Workers should be trained on the risks of gas-fired kiln operations, the proper procedures for ignition and shutdown. 1-Week Training Coordinator f. Provide fire-resistant clothing, gloves, and face shields to workers operating in or near the kiln area. 3-Weeks Store In- charge
  • 5.
    Hazard category and hazard Who mightbe harmed and how? What are you already doing? What further controls/actions are required? Timescales for further actions to be completed (within …) Responsible person’s job title fatality and property damage. 4.Hazardous Substances Exposure to silica dust in mixing and blending section in concentration of 150 µg/m³ (micrograms per cubic meter of air). Mixing Operator, Process Technician, Section Supervisor In the Mixing and Blending Section, workers were exposed to hazardous chemicals used in the preparation of ceramic glazes and clay mixtures. The chemicals included silica dust in concentration of 150 µg/m³ (micrograms per cubic meter of air), which was generated during the blending of raw materials, used in some coloured glazes. The process involved mixing large quantities of fine powder, which created significant dust clouds, and the application of lead- Sensors were installed in the area for ambient air monitoring. Workers were provided with PAPR respirators, chemical-resistant gloves, and protective eyewear to prevent exposure. a. Replace lead-based chemicals with non-toxic, water-based ceramic colorants to eliminate lead exposure. 2-Months Site Engineer Process b. Install automated dust extraction systems with HEPA filters to capture airborne silica particles. 1-Month Site Engineer Mechanical c. Enclose mixing equipment to prevent dust dispersion and contain hazardous chemical fumes. 1-Month Site Engineer Mechanical d. Upgrade ventilation systems to provide positive pressure airflow and ensure safe air quality levels. 1-Month Site Engineer Mechanical e. Implement rotation schedules to minimize prolonged exposure and reduce overall health risks. 2-Weeks Planning Lead f. Conduct specialized training on handling hazardous substances and recognizing toxic exposure 2-Weeks Training Coordinator
  • 6.
    Hazard category and hazard Who mightbe harmed and how? What are you already doing? What further controls/actions are required? Timescales for further actions to be completed (within …) Responsible person’s job title based chemicals to achieve specific tile finishes. Silica dust, when inhaled, posed a risk of developing silicosis. Silica dust could lead to long-term respiratory issues, including lung cancer. symptoms. 5.Working at height Inspection and maintenance at platforms located at 10 feet having lack of guardrails in glazing section. Glazing Machine Operator, Spray Technician, Quality Check Assistant. In the Glazing Section, workers were frequently required to perform routine inspections and maintenance on the high-pressure air compressors located on elevated platforms. These platforms, about 10 feet above the ground, lacked proper guardrails. During one maintenance task, a For fall protection, safety net was installed below the work area. Area of working was barricaded. Workers were provided with fall protection equipment, such as full-body harnesses, lanyards, and shock-absorbing devices. a. Eliminate the need for working at height by relocating the air compressors to ground level. 1-Month Design Engineer b. Substitute manual tasks at height with mechanical systems and hoists. 2-Months Site Engineer Mechanical c. Install permanent guardrails with mid-rails around all elevated platforms to prevent accidental falls. 2-Weeks Site Engineer Mechanical d. Use scaffolding systems or mechanical lifts with proper access to enable safe and secure working at heights. 3-Weeks Site Engineer Mechanical e. Implement a strict permit-to- work system for any tasks involving work at height. 1-Month HSE Coordinator
  • 7.
    Hazard category and hazard Who mightbe harmed and how? What are you already doing? What further controls/actions are required? Timescales for further actions to be completed (within …) Responsible person’s job title technicians could fall while accessing the compressor, which could result in severe injuries, including fractures. The absence of fall protection equipment, such as harnesses and safety lanyards, significantly increased the risk of injury when working at height. f. Provide all maintenance personnel with comprehensive training on working safely at height. 2-Weeks Training Coordinator 6.Health, Welfare and Work Environment Scorching temperatures in firing section reaching 45- 50°C due to kiln operation. Kiln Operator, Combustion Technician, Kiln Supervisor In the Firing Section, workers were exposed to extreme temperatures due to the operation of gas- fired kilns, which operate at temperatures exceeding 1200°C. As a result, the ambient Training was provided on recognizing symptoms of heat stress, dehydration, and heat exhaustion. Ambient air temperature monitoring was carried out by using sensors. Workers were provided with heat-resistant clothing, including cooling vests, heat-protective gloves, and safety footwear. a. Replace gas-fired kilns with more energy-efficient and cooler operational technologies. 2-Months Site Engineer Mechanical b. Install high-performance ventilation systems to improve airflow and reduce ambient temperatures. 1-Month Site Engineer Mechanical c. Use air-conditioning or localized cooling units in high-temperature zones to provide relief for workers. 2-Weeks Site Engineer Mechanical d. Install thermal insulation 1-Week Site
  • 8.
    Hazard category and hazard Who mightbe harmed and how? What are you already doing? What further controls/actions are required? Timescales for further actions to be completed (within …) Responsible person’s job title temperature in the surrounding area reached upwards of 45- 50°C, especially near the kilns. This excessive heat exposure could led to several health-related issues, including heat exhaustion, dehydration, and fatigue, cramps, dizziness, and heat stroke. around kilns and heat sources to reduce radiant heat exposure. Engineer Mechanical e. Implement heat shields or barriers between workers and kilns to reduce direct exposure to high temperatures. 1-Month Site Engineer Mechanical f. Limit the duration of exposure to high temperatures through shift rotations to prevent prolonged heat stress. 3-Weeks Planning Lead