Introduction
Concrete hazards are an unavoidable part of any construction project, and recognizing these dangers is the first step toward maintaining a safe work environment. Whether it’s the risk of exposure to harmful chemicals, heavy machinery accidents, or the physical strain of lifting and pouring, understanding the potential hazards associated with concrete work is crucial for preventing injuries.
Hazards
There are many hazards associated with concrete use, including:
- Irritation, dermatitis, and chemical burns
- Respiratory irritation, illness, or infection
- Slips, trips, and falls
- And, injuries from improper lifting or falling objects
Irritation, Dermatitis, and Chemical Burns
Contact with wet concrete can cause skin irritation, dermatitis, or chemical burns. The chemicals in cement pull moisture from whatever they touch, speeding up the drying process and potentially damaging your skin. If the skin is not treated after concrete hardens, it may blister, swell, or bleed. In severe cases, scarring, skin grafts, and amputations may occur.
Luckily, there are precautions workers can take to avoid skin problems when handling fresh concrete, such as:
- Wear protective equipment, such as waterproof clothing, alkali-resistant gloves, or coveralls
- Wash your skin with clean water if wet concrete contacts the skin
- Wear eye protection, such as side shields or safety goggles
- And, remove clothing or PPE if it becomes saturated with wet concrete
Respiratory Irritation
Dust generated from dry concrete mixtures can irritate the respiratory systems, resulting in illnesses or possible diseases. Inhaling concrete dust can irritate the nose and throat, causing breathing difficulty. Concrete dust can become airborne when sanding, grinding, cutting, etc. operations take place.
Per OSHA, adequate respiratory protection, such as an N95 filter dust mask or a higher-rated P100 filter respirator, must be worn when working with or handling concrete.
When performing tasks that generate concrete dust, wear protective clothing, such as gloves and long sleeves, and implement proper ventilation systems. Additionally, HEPA vacuums and wet methods can be used when cleaning concrete dust to reduce dust accumulation.
Lifting Injuries
Lifting accidents are common on construction sites, especially in concrete production industries. Understanding the weight of concrete is crucial to ensure proper handling and lifting techniques. The weight of concrete can vary depending on its composition and type. The following is a general breakdown of typical weights:
- Normal-Weight Concrete: Typically weighs around 145 to 155 pounds per cubic foot
- Lightweight Concrete: Can weigh as little as 95 pounds per cubic foot
- High-Density Concrete: This type can range anywhere from 190 to 260 pounds per cubic foot
- And, Broken Concrete: Concrete typically has a density of about 150 pounds per cubic foot. However, the weight of broken concrete can vary, often being lighter due to the air gaps between the fragments
Fortunately, there are safety regulations to prevent lifting injuries, such as:
- When moving materials weighing more than 50 pounds, use a forklift or divide the workload with a co-worker
- If manually moving heavy materials is the only option, lift with your knees rather than your back, and avoid twisting while carrying heavy items
- And, OSHA encourages employee training on proper lifting techniques and proper ergonomics
Resources
OSHA provides information on the hazards discussed above and additional hazards associated with concrete in construction on their webpage titled “Concrete and Concrete Products – Industry Segments and Controlling Hazards.”
Conclusion
Concrete hazards are an inevitable part of any construction project, but with proper awareness and safety measures, they can be effectively managed. By understanding the risks and taking the necessary precautions, workers can prevent injuries and ensure a safer work environment.