|
Concrete Safety Tips
Concrete is one of the safest building materials known.
Over the years, relatively few people involved in mixing, handling, and
finishing concrete have experienced injury. This page describes
commonsense precautions that those working with portland cement and concrete
should consider.
Protect
your eyes and head
Eye protection is essential to guard against blowing dust, concrete
that may splatter, or other foreign objects. Wear proper eye
protection when working with cement or concrete. On some jobs it may
be advisable to wear either side shields on safety glasses or full-cover
goggles. Remember that sight is precious. The wise workman
protects his eyes at all times.
|
Protect
your back
A flatend shovel is the most effective tool for spreading
concrete. After the concrete is deposited in the desired area by
conveying chute or wheelbarrow, it should be pushed - not lifted - into
position with the shovel.
|
Protect
your skin
When working with fresh concrete, care should be taken to avoid skin
irritation or chemical burns that can occur through prolonged contact
between fresh concrete and skin surfaces, eyes, and clothing.
There are 3 factors that can cause skin irritation or chemical burns
through prolonged contact with fresh concrete.
1. Portland cement is
alkaline in nature and therefore caustic.
2. Portland cement is
hygroscopic. This means it tends to absorb moisture from the skin.
3. The sand contained in
fresh concrete is abrasive to bare skin.
Clothing should not be allowed to become saturated with the moisture from
the concrete because saturated clothing can transmit alkaline or
hygroscopic effects to the skin.
Waterproof gloves, a long-sleeve shirt, and full-length trousers should be
worn.
If it is necessary to stand in fresh concrete while it is being placed,
screeded, or floated, wear rubber boots high enough to prevent concrete
from flowing into them.
When finishing concrete, waterproof pads should be used between fresh
concrete surfaces and knees, elbows, hands, etc. Clothing areas that
become saturated from contact with fresh concrete should be rinsed out
promptly with clean water to prevent continued contact with skin
surfaces. Eyes or skin areas that come in contact with fresh
concrete should be washed thoroughly with fresh water. Mild
irritation of skin areas can be relieved by applying a lanolin cream to
the irritated area after washing. Persistent or severe discomfort
should be attended to by a physician.
When working with fresh concrete, begin each day by wearing clean
clothing, and conclude the job or day with a bath or shower. |
|
