Concrete Placement
Date Posted: 09/21/2016
Concrete is used on most construction sites. There are hazards resulting from the act of forming, placing and finishing concrete.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
PPE must include heavy-duty waterproof gloves and slip-resistant boots.
Gloves and boots need to be high or long enough to protect legs and arms.
While kneeling, knees must be protected.
Safety glasses should be used to prevent concrete from splashing into the eyes.
Concrete Placement
Exercise caution while stepping on forms and tied rebar that may not support your weight.
If using a concrete bucket, watch for pinch points.
Maintain good communication with the concrete pump operator.
It is very common for the rebar caps to come off while placing the concrete. If a cap fall of put it back. Consider using saddles with 2 by 4’s instead of caps.
Concrete hides tripping hazards. Watch for trip hazards.
When placing vertical concrete, use proper fall protection.
Finishing Concrete
Before using a bull float, check for overhead electrical hazards. Some handles are over 20 feet long.
Power trowels should have positive or dead man’s switches only.
If chemical are used while finishing concrete, make sure you understand the hazards by reading the SDS.
If dried concrete is handled and dust is created, there might be a silica hazard. This can happen during cutting without water, cleaning out lines using air hose, or by dry sweeping. A respirator may be needed.
When pulling vertical forms, keep workers out of fall area. Use warning signs.
Remember: Concrete placement and finishing is hard work. Be sure that you have hydrated yourself before you begin and during breaks.
Presenter tips
Pre-read the Toolbox Talk. Your comfort level and confidence will be higher if you know your topic.
Discuss related tasks, work areas or events that make the Toolbox Talk relevant to your job site.
Involve the workers by asking questions and input that drives discussion.
Questions for Discussion
Have you ever had a burn from concrete?
What other hazards are present during concrete operations?
