Concrete is among the most common materials used in most types of construction. However, working with concrete mixtures, chemicals and equipment can be very dangerous for workers. By following the guidelines below, you adhere to OSHA’s regulations for maintaining a safe workplace for everyone.

Do…

• Wear a respirator or dust mask when cutting, batching, drilling, chipping or grinding concrete.

• Wear full-body protective clothing when working with wet concrete and other cement mixtures. This consists of fully buttoned long sleeves, full-length pants, tight-fitting safety goggles and waterproof gloves.

• Make sure the signalman and pump operator are trained to use the correct and prescribed hand signals. They should also maintain visual contact while communicating.

• Use steps, guardrails, or grab bars when climbing on a truck.

• See to it that shoring and tilt ups are secure for at least twice the weight of the material.

• Support the load of a defective jack/lifting unit by blocking it.

• Paint the ends of forming pins and stakes to prevent trips and falls.

• Use proper fall protection when working more than six feet above a lower level. (personal fall-arrest, positioning-device and/or safety-net systems)

Photo by Kevin Rosseel

Don’t…

• Walk backward when directing or guiding a truck
• Ride or hang on concrete buckets during movement.
• Extend beyond the wheels on either side of the buggy.
• Work under concrete buckets while they’re being lowered, elevated or swung.
• Swing or hang on the pump hose.

Whatever job workers are tasked with, they must ALWAYS use proper personal protective equipment (PPE). They should also be trained in the operation of the equipment used for concrete and all its applications, as well as in properly responding to emergencies.

Related Links:

OSHA Announces Top 10 Most Cited Violations

Proper Management of Hazardous Chemicals: Plan and Training for Workers

MSDS in Your Hazard Communication Program: Your Guard against Hazardous Chemicals

PPE and How It Can Save Your Life – Part 1

Creating Emergency Action Plans for Your Workplace