- Wear RPE, eye protection, and long sleeves when cutting GRP pipe
- Use a diamond blade or fine-toothed saw designed for composite cutting
- Bed the pipe on granular material free from rocks and sharp objects
- Compact backfill in even layers as specified to prevent point loading
- Store pipes on flat ground with cradles to prevent rolling and deformation
- Follow the COSHH assessment for resin and hardener used in laminated joints
- Inspect each pipe length for cracks or damage before lowering into the trench
- Complete deflection testing after backfilling to verify proper installation
- Protect stored GRP pipes from prolonged UV exposure with covers or sheeting
- Use appropriate lifting slings — chain slings can damage the pipe surface
|
- DON'T cut GRP pipe without RPE and eye protection — glass fibre dust is harmful
- DON'T drop, drag, or roll GRP pipes along the ground during handling
- DON'T bed GRP pipe on ungraded material containing rocks or concrete lumps
- DON'T compact backfill directly over the pipe with heavy equipment
- DON'T stack GRP pipes higher than the manufacturer's recommended limits
- DON'T apply resin for laminated joints without gloves and skin protection
- DON'T use damaged or cracked pipe lengths — reject and replace them
- DON'T store GRP pipes in direct sunlight for extended periods without UV covers
- DON'T use chain or wire rope slings to lift GRP pipes — use webbing slings
- DON'T skip deflection testing — it confirms the pipe is properly supported
See also: Pipeline Safety Awareness | Pipe Material Selection and Handling
|