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Use a safe system for unblocking continuous tunnel washers

URN: UKFTTCS18
Business Sectors (Suites): Textile Care Services
Developed by: UKFT
Approved on: 30 Mar 2023

Overview

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This standard is for those who operate Continuous Tunnel Washers (CTWs). 
The job role may involve carrying out the correct and safe procedures for clearing blockages in a CTW, either with or without entry to the CTW. CTW unblocking with entry should only be carried out following organisational procedures and with authorisation.
This standard is for CTW operatives and supervisors.

Performance criteria

You must be able to:

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P1 identify faults in the CTW
P2 unblock the CTW without entry by selecting and using the appropriate method
P3 flush the CTW with fresh water to remove excess residues in the event of an entry to the CTW being required
P4 before unblocking a CTW with entry, confirm availability of the emergency services
P5 when unblocking a CTW with entry, confirm authorisation to do so in line with organisational procedures and check all required controls are in place
P6 safely remove all work from the hopper or press area 
P7 ensure that means of communication are in place throughout the CTW
P8 ensure that the temperature and length of time of exposure are monitored
P9 ensure that own health condition is suitable to enter the CTW
P10 wear the correct protective clothing (including chain mail wrist protector) to enter a CTW
P11 carry the correct tools when entering the CTW 
P12 safely release the linen by pulling or cutting ensuring you do not over reach. 
P13 follow organisational procedures in the event of an emergency 
P14 record the incident in line with organisational procedures and industry standards

Knowledge and Understanding

You need to know and understand:

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K1 why the organisation should be informed of personal medical conditions and medication
K2 the work and rest periods when unblocking a CTW
K3 when a blockage does, and does not, require entry
K4 the sequence of actions to be undertaken in the event of a blockage
K5 the non-entry unblocking methods to use; rotating the CTW drum backwards or forwards dependent on location of the blockage, raising the water level to assist in clearance in conjunction with rotation or by adding detergent or softener in conjunction with rotation
K6 the protocols for unblocking a CTW with entry
K7 the roles and responsibilities of self, colleagues, management and external agencies
K8 how to communicate whilst inside the CTW
K9 the reasons for having a ‘lock off’ map
K10 the Safe Systems of Work (SSOW) and unblocking procedures
K11 why operatives work in a chain
K12 the cutting tools to be used and precautions to be taken during cutting
K13 how to cut linen free
K14 how to pull linen free 
K15 why care should be taken when removing wet linen
K16 how to process an indicator load to ensure there is no further blockage
K17 the risk assessment procedures for CTW
K18   statutory responsibilities under health, safety and environmental legislation, regulations and industry standards

Scope/range

Scope Performance

Scope Knowledge

Values

Behaviours

Skills

Glossary

Links To Other NOS

External Links

Version Number

2

Indicative Review Date

30 Mar 2026

Validity

Current

Status

Original

Originating Organisation

Creative Skillset

Original URN

SKSLWDC23

Relevant Occupations

Textile and Garment Trades, Laundry Operative, Wet Cleaner, Dry Cleaner

SOC Code

9224

Keywords

Laundry; CTW; Loads; Safety; Faults; Procedures; Standards; Danger;