Safe Work Procedure for Concrete Grinding in Occupied Aged Care Facilities
Document Number: [SWP-NUMBER]
Revision Date: [DATE]
Next Review Date: [NEXT REVIEW DATE]
Department: [DEPARTMENT NAME]
1. Scope
This safe work procedure (SWP) outlines the necessary safety precautions and procedures for concrete grinding operations within occupied areas of a residential aged care facility. It addresses dust control, noise mitigation, and resident safety, ensuring compliance with relevant occupational health and safety regulations. This SWP applies to all workers involved in concrete grinding activities at the facility. It does not cover concrete cutting or demolition activities, or grinding in unoccupied areas.
2. Definitions
RCS Dust "RCS dust" means any of the following that can be deposited in the lower gas exchange regions of the lung when inhaled:
(a) respirable crystalline silica;
(b) respirable α-quartz;
(c) respirable cristobalite; [3]
Exposure Limit "exposure limit" means the applicable exposure limit as referred to in section 5.48 [3]
Silica Process "silica process" means the following processes, as well as any other process that may result in the release of RCS dust in concentrations likely to exceed the exposure limit:
(a) sandblasting;
(b) cleaning of castings;
(c) abrasive blasting, grinding, sanding or dressing of any surface that contains crystalline silica; [3]
3. Responsibilities
3.1 Supervisors
- Ensure that all workers are adequately trained and competent to perform concrete grinding tasks safely.
- Conduct regular site inspections to verify that all control measures are in place and effective.
- Enforce the use of required personal protective equipment (PPE) by all workers.
- Ensure that a pre-job briefing is conducted with all workers involved to discuss potential hazards and control measures.
- Respond to and investigate all incidents and near misses related to concrete grinding operations.
3.2 Workers
- Participate in pre-job briefings and understand the hazards and control measures associated with concrete grinding.
- Use all required PPE as instructed and ensure it is in good working condition.
- Operate equipment safely and according to manufacturer's instructions.
- Report any hazards, incidents, or near misses to the supervisor immediately.
- Follow all safe work procedures and instructions.
3.3 Health and Safety Representative
- Monitor the implementation and effectiveness of this SWP.
- Participate in incident investigations and recommend corrective actions.
- Provide guidance and support to workers and supervisors on safety matters related to concrete grinding.
4. Potential Hazards and Risks
| Hazard | Risk | Control Measures |
|---|---|---|
| Exposure to Respirable Crystalline Silica (RCS) dust [1] [6] | Inhalation of RCS dust can lead to silicosis, lung cancer, and other respiratory diseases. | Use concrete grinders equipped with HEPA-filtered dust collection systems. Implement wet grinding techniques to suppress dust generation. Provide workers with properly fitted respirators (minimum N95) and ensure proper fit testing. Conduct air monitoring to verify the effectiveness of dust control measures. Implement an exposure control plan. |
| Noise Exposure | Prolonged exposure to high noise levels can cause hearing damage or loss. | Use concrete grinders with noise reduction features. Provide workers with hearing protection (earplugs or earmuffs) with an appropriate noise reduction rating (NRR). Implement administrative controls such as limiting the duration of grinding activities and providing regular breaks in quiet areas. Conduct noise monitoring to assess noise levels and the effectiveness of control measures. |
| Slips, Trips, and Falls | Wet grinding can create slippery surfaces, increasing the risk of slips, trips, and falls. | Maintain good housekeeping practices by regularly cleaning up water and slurry. Use slip-resistant footwear. Provide adequate lighting in the work area. Clearly mark wet areas with warning signs. |
| Electrical Hazards | Use of electrical equipment in wet conditions can lead to electric shock. | Use ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) to protect against electrical shock. Inspect electrical cords and equipment for damage before each use. Ensure that all electrical equipment is properly grounded. Keep electrical cords away from water. |
| Ergonomic Hazards | Repetitive motions and awkward postures can lead to musculoskeletal disorders. | Use ergonomic concrete grinders with vibration dampening. Rotate tasks among workers to reduce repetitive motions. Provide workers with training on proper lifting and grinding techniques. Take frequent breaks to stretch and rest. |
| Resident Exposure | Dust and noise can negatively impact residents' health and well-being. | Schedule grinding activities during times when residents are least likely to be disturbed. Use barriers and enclosures to contain dust and noise. Communicate with facility staff and residents about the planned activities. Ensure adequate ventilation to prevent dust from migrating to other areas. |
| Equipment Malfunction | Grinder malfunction can cause projectile debris and injury. | Inspect grinder before each use. Follow manufacturer's maintenance schedule. Remove damaged grinders from service. |
5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
All personal protective equipment (PPE) must be inspected before each use to ensure it is in good working condition. Any damaged or defective PPE must be replaced immediately.
- Respirator (N95 or higher): A NIOSH-approved N95 or higher respirator is required to protect against inhalation of RCS dust. Ensure proper fit testing has been conducted.
- Hearing Protection (Earplugs or Earmuffs): Hearing protection with an appropriate Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) is required to protect against noise exposure. Select hearing protection based on noise levels.
- Eye Protection (Safety Glasses or Goggles): Safety glasses or goggles are required to protect against dust and debris. Ensure eye protection meets ANSI Z87.1 standards.
- Gloves: Gloves are required to protect against skin irritation and abrasion. Select gloves appropriate for concrete grinding, such as nitrile or leather gloves.
- Protective Clothing: Long-sleeved shirts and pants are required to protect against skin exposure to dust and debris. Consider disposable coveralls for additional protection.
- Slip-Resistant Footwear: Slip-resistant footwear is required to prevent slips and falls on wet surfaces. Ensure footwear meets ASTM standards for slip resistance.
Ensure that respirators are properly fitted and that workers are trained on their proper use and maintenance.
6. Equipment and Tools
All equipment and tools used for concrete grinding must be inspected before each use to ensure they are in safe working condition. Any damaged or defective equipment must be removed from service immediately.
- Concrete Grinder with HEPA Filter: A concrete grinder equipped with a HEPA-filtered dust collection system is essential for controlling RCS dust exposure. Ensure the HEPA filter is properly maintained and replaced regularly.
- Wet Grinding System: A wet grinding system, such as a water sprayer or integrated wet grinding attachment, is used to suppress dust generation. Ensure the system is functioning properly and provides adequate water flow.
- Vacuum Cleaner with HEPA Filter: A vacuum cleaner equipped with a HEPA filter is used for cleaning up dust and debris. Ensure the HEPA filter is properly maintained and replaced regularly.
- Warning Signs and Barriers: Warning signs and barriers are used to restrict access to the work area and alert residents and staff to potential hazards.
Inspect grinder before each use. Follow manufacturer's maintenance schedule. Remove damaged grinders from service.
7. Pre-Job Requirements
7.1 Training and Competency
Training and Competency: All workers performing concrete grinding must be trained and competent in the safe operation of the equipment, the hazards associated with the work, and the control measures that are in place. Training records must be maintained. [4]
7.2 Pre-Job Briefing
Pre-Job Briefing: A pre-job briefing must be conducted with all workers involved in the concrete grinding operation. The briefing should cover the scope of the work, the hazards associated with the work, the control measures that are in place, and the emergency procedures.
7.3 Work Area Preparation
Work Area Preparation: The work area must be properly prepared before starting concrete grinding. This includes removing any obstructions, covering surfaces with plastic sheeting, and erecting barriers to contain dust and noise.
8. Safe Work Procedure Steps
- 1. Pre-Job Assessment: Before starting any concrete grinding work, conduct a thorough assessment of the work area. Identify potential hazards, including the presence of asbestos-containing materials, electrical hazards, and slip/trip hazards. Develop a plan to control these hazards.
- 2. Resident Notification: Notify the aged care facility staff and residents in advance of the planned concrete grinding activities. Provide information on the scope of the work, the expected duration, and the control measures that will be implemented to minimize disruption and ensure their safety.
- 3. Work Area Preparation: Prepare the work area by removing any furniture or equipment that could be damaged by dust or water. Cover any remaining items with plastic sheeting. Erect barriers or enclosures to contain dust and noise within the work area.
- 4. Equipment Inspection: Inspect the concrete grinder, dust collection system, and other equipment before each use. Ensure that all components are in good working condition and that the HEPA filter is properly installed and maintained. Check electrical cords for damage and ensure that GFCIs are in use.
- 5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Ensure that all workers wear the required PPE, including respirators, hearing protection, eye protection, gloves, and protective clothing. Ensure that respirators are properly fitted and that workers are trained on their proper use and maintenance.
- 6. Dust Control Measures: Implement dust control measures, such as wet grinding or using a concrete grinder with a HEPA-filtered dust collection system. Ensure that the dust collection system is functioning properly and that dust is effectively captured at the source. [5]
- 7. Concrete Grinding: Perform concrete grinding in a controlled manner, using appropriate techniques to minimize dust and noise generation. Avoid excessive pressure or speed, which can increase dust production. Take frequent breaks to reduce fatigue and prevent ergonomic hazards.
- 8. Monitoring and Air Quality: Monitor air quality during concrete grinding to ensure that dust control measures are effective. Use a portable dust monitor to measure airborne dust levels. If dust levels exceed acceptable limits, stop work and reassess control measures.
- 9. Clean-Up Procedures: After completing concrete grinding, clean up the work area thoroughly using a HEPA-filtered vacuum cleaner and wet cleaning methods. Dispose of waste materials in sealed containers to prevent dust from re-entering the workplace. Do not use dry sweeping or compressed air for cleaning. [6]
- 10. Equipment Storage: Store equipment properly after use. Clean and inspect the concrete grinder and dust collection system. Replace any worn or damaged parts. Store equipment in a designated area to prevent damage and ensure it is readily available for future use.
- 11. Post-Job Inspection: Conduct a post-job inspection to ensure that the work area is clean and safe. Remove any remaining barriers or plastic sheeting. Verify that all equipment has been properly stored. Document the completion of the work and any issues that arose during the process.
9. Precautions and Safety Measures
- Implement a comprehensive dust control program that includes engineering controls, administrative controls, and personal protective equipment.
- Provide workers with training on the hazards of RCS dust and the proper use of control measures. [4]
- Conduct regular air monitoring to assess worker exposure to RCS dust and verify the effectiveness of control measures. [7]
- Maintain good housekeeping practices to prevent the accumulation of dust and debris.
- Communicate effectively with facility staff and residents to minimize disruption and ensure their safety. [2]
10. Emergency Procedures
10.1 General Emergency Response
In the event of a fire, evacuate the area immediately and activate the fire alarm. Contact emergency services and provide them with information on the location and nature of the fire. Do not attempt to extinguish the fire unless you are trained and equipped to do so.
10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios
- Dust Exposure: If a worker experiences symptoms of dust exposure, such as coughing, shortness of breath, or eye irritation, remove them from the work area and provide them with fresh air. Seek medical attention if symptoms persist.
- Injury: In the event of an injury, provide first aid and seek medical attention if necessary. Report the incident to the supervisor and complete an incident report.
11. Incident Reporting and Investigation
All incidents, injuries, and near misses must be reported to the supervisor immediately. The supervisor will then complete an incident report and submit it to the safety department. The incident report should include a detailed description of the event, the cause of the event, and any corrective actions that were taken.
All reported incidents will be investigated by the safety department. The investigation will include a review of the incident report, interviews with witnesses, and an inspection of the work area. The purpose of the investigation is to determine the root cause of the incident and to identify corrective actions that will prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
Approved by: [NAME AND POSITION]
Date: [APPROVAL DATE]
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