Concrete Chipping

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 safety requirements and procedures for chipping concrete using hand and power tools. It applies to all workers involved in concrete chipping activities. The purpose of this SWP is to minimize the risk of injury or illness associated with this task.

2. Definitions

Concrete Chipping The process of removing concrete material using hand or power tools. Hazard Any condition or activity that could cause injury or illness. Risk The chance that someone will be harmed by a hazard. Control Measure Measures taken to eliminate or reduce the risk of a hazard. PPE Personal protective equipment, such as safety glasses, gloves, and hearing protection, used to protect workers from hazards.

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

Ensure that all workers are properly trained and competent to perform the task.
Provide workers with the necessary tools, equipment, and PPE.
Conduct pre-job briefings and toolbox talks to discuss potential hazards and safety procedures.
Monitor workers to ensure they are following safety procedures.
Correct any unsafe conditions or practices immediately.
Investigate any incidents or near misses and take corrective action to prevent recurrence.

3.2 Workers

Inspect tools and equipment before use to ensure they are in good working condition.
Use the correct tools for the job and use them safely.
Wear appropriate PPE at all times, including safety glasses, gloves, and hearing protection.
Follow all safety procedures and instructions provided by the supervisor.
Report any hazards or unsafe conditions to the supervisor immediately.
Participate in pre-job briefings and toolbox talks.
Ensure the work area is clear of obstructions and other hazards.

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
Flying concrete debris	Eye injury, cuts, and abrasions	Wear safety glasses or a face shield to protect eyes from flying debris. Ensure adequate ventilation to minimize dust exposure. Use dust collection systems where available.
Hand-arm vibration	Hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS)	Use tools with vibration dampening features. Take frequent breaks to reduce exposure. Rotate tasks among workers.
Noise	Hearing loss	Wear hearing protection, such as earplugs or earmuffs. Use quieter tools where possible. Limit exposure time.
Electrical shock	Electrocution, burns	Ensure proper grounding of electrical tools. Use ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs). Inspect cords for damage before use.
Musculoskeletal injuries	Strains, sprains, back injuries	Use proper lifting techniques. Get help when lifting heavy objects. Take breaks to rest muscles.
Inhalation of concrete dust	Respiratory irritation, silicosis	Wear respiratory protection, such as a dust mask or respirator. Use water to suppress dust. Ensure adequate ventilation.
Slips, trips, and falls	Sprains, fractures, bruises	Maintain a clear work area. Use barriers to protect other workers. Provide adequate lighting.
Cuts and lacerations	Lacerations, amputations	Ensure tools are properly guarded. Use push sticks or other devices to keep hands away from moving parts. Receive proper training on tool use.

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

The following PPE is required for concrete chipping: safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection, respiratory protection, and safety boots.

Safety Glasses: Provides eye protection from flying debris.
Gloves: Protects hands from cuts and abrasions.
Hearing Protection: Protects hearing from excessive noise.
Respiratory Protection: Protects lungs from inhaling concrete dust.
Safety Boots: Provides foot protection from falling objects and punctures.

Inspect PPE before each use to ensure it is in good condition. Replace any damaged or worn PPE. Clean PPE regularly according to the manufacturer's instructions.

6. Equipment and Tools

The following equipment and tools are required for concrete chipping: chipping hammer, jackhammer, concrete saw, sledgehammer, chisels, and brooms.

Jackhammer: Used for breaking up large sections of concrete.
Chipping Hammer: Used for smaller chipping and demolition tasks.
Concrete Saw: Used for cutting concrete surfaces.
Sledgehammer: Used for manual concrete breaking.
Chisels: Used for detailed concrete removal.

Inspect all tools and equipment before use to ensure they are in good working condition. Check for any damage, such as cracks, loose parts, or worn cords. Remove any defective tools from service. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for maintenance and repair.

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

Training and Competency: All workers must be properly trained and competent to perform concrete chipping tasks. Training must include the safe use of tools and equipment, hazard identification, and control measures.

7.2 Pre-Job Briefing

Pre-Job Briefing: A pre-job briefing must be conducted before beginning work to discuss the potential hazards, safety procedures, and emergency procedures. All workers must participate in the briefing.

7.3 Work Area Preparation

Work Area Preparation: Before beginning work, the work area must be inspected for hazards and prepared to ensure safe working conditions. This includes clearing obstructions, providing adequate lighting, and erecting barriers to protect other workers.

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

Prepare the Work Area: Inspect the concrete surface for any hazards, such as embedded objects or utilities. Mark out the area to be chipped.
Select the Appropriate Tool: Select the appropriate tool for the job, such as a chipping hammer, jackhammer, or chisel. Ensure the tool is in good working condition.
Wear Required PPE: Put on all required PPE, including safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection, and respiratory protection.
Maintain Proper Posture: Position yourself in a stable and comfortable stance. Keep your feet shoulder-width apart and your back straight.
Chip the Concrete: Begin chipping the concrete, using controlled and deliberate movements. Avoid excessive force, which can damage the tool or cause injury.
Remove Concrete Debris: Remove the chipped concrete from the work area. Dispose of the concrete debris properly.
Inspect and Clean the Work Area: Inspect the work area for any remaining hazards. Clean up any dust or debris.
Store Tools and Equipment: Store tools and equipment properly after use. Perform any necessary maintenance or repairs.

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

Never operate tools or equipment without proper training and authorization.
Keep the work area clean and free of obstructions.
Use tools and equipment only for their intended purpose.
Do not modify tools or equipment without the manufacturer's approval.
Report any unsafe conditions or practices to the supervisor immediately.

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

In the event of any emergency, immediately stop work and assess the situation. Ensure the safety of all personnel. Provide first aid and call for medical assistance if necessary. Report the incident to the supervisor.

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

Worker struck by flying concrete debris: Immediately stop work and evacuate the area. Administer first aid and call for medical assistance if necessary. Report the incident to the supervisor.
Electrical shock from power tool: Shut off the power to the tool and administer first aid if necessary. Seek medical attention. Report the incident to the supervisor.
Inhalation of concrete dust: Move the worker to fresh air and administer first aid. Seek medical attention if symptoms persist. Report the incident to the supervisor.

11. Incident Reporting and Investigation

All incidents, injuries, and near misses must be reported to the supervisor immediately. The supervisor will investigate the incident and take corrective action to prevent recurrence.

The incident investigation will include gathering information about the incident, interviewing witnesses, and reviewing the work area. The investigation will identify the root cause of the incident and recommend corrective actions.

Approved by: [NAME AND POSITION]

Date: [APPROVAL DATE]