Concrete Hazards

Concrete work and construction involve significant safety hazards spanning material handling, equipment operation, and regulatory compliance. These hazards contribute to a high rate of injuries and fatalities within the construction industry. [4] [4]

Material Handling:

• Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) due to repetitive lifting, twisting, and bending.
• Risk of back injuries from lifting heavy materials.
• Exposure to cement and concrete can cause skin diseases.

[5] [3] Equipment Operation:

• Struck-by incidents involving moving equipment such as bulldozers.
• Contact injuries from tools like nail guns and power saws.
• Caught-in/between events involving unguarded machinery and equipment.
• Electrocution from power tools and cords.

[4] [3] [4] [4] Regulatory Compliance:

• OSHA standards for scaffolding, fall protection, and hazard communication.
• Requirements for trench work, including shoring and sloping.
• Standards for asbestos removal, containment, and encapsulation.

[6] [7] [8] Other Hazards:

• Exposure to silica dust, leading to silicosis.
• Lung cancer among asbestos insulation workers and other trades.
• Noise and hearing loss.
• Falls from heights.

[3] [3] [1] [4] To mitigate these hazards, it is crucial to implement comprehensive safety measures, including:

• Developing and enforcing policies that maintain safe clearance from mobile equipment.
• Providing and ensuring the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), including high-visibility clothing.
• Conducting pre-work safety meetings to discuss potential hazards and safe work procedures.
• Implementing Construction Hazard Prevention through Design (CHPTD).
• Enhancing training and education programs.

[2] [2] [2] [1] [1]