Safe Work Procedure for Pouring Concrete

Document Number: [SWP-NUMBER]

Revision Date: [DATE]

Next Review Date: [NEXT REVIEW DATE]

Department: [DEPARTMENT NAME]

1. Scope

This safe work procedure outlines the steps to be followed when pouring concrete to ensure the safety of all personnel involved. It includes information on hazard identification, risk assessment, control measures, required personal protective equipment (PPE), and emergency procedures. This procedure applies to all workers involved in concrete pouring activities.

2. Definitions

Portland Cement A hydraulic cement consisting of finely ground clinker, comprising hydraulic calcium silicates, usually containing one or more of the forms of calcium sulfate as an interground addition. Dermatitis Inflammation of the skin. Skin contact with Portland cement can cause inflammation of the skin, referred to as dermatitis. Signs and symptoms of dermatitis can include itching, redness, swelling, blisters, scaling, and other changes in the normal condition of the skin. [4]

NIOSH National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

Ensure all workers are properly trained and competent to perform the task.
Provide all necessary equipment and PPE in good working condition.
Conduct regular site inspections to ensure compliance with this procedure.
Enforce all safety rules and regulations.

3.2 Workers

Follow all instructions and procedures outlined in this document.
Use all required PPE as specified.
Report any hazards or unsafe conditions to the supervisor immediately.
Participate in pre-job briefings and safety meetings.

3.3 Health and Safety Representative

Monitor workplace safety and health conditions.
Participate in incident investigations.
Provide recommendations for improving safety procedures.

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
Dust inhalation [3]	Respiratory irritation, silicosis	Use a NIOSH-approved dust mask or filtering face piece in poorly ventilated areas or when permissible exposure limits may be exceeded. Ensure adequate ventilation.
Skin contact with wet concrete [1] [1]	Dermatitis, chemical burns	Wear gloves of adequate length to offer appropriate skin protection from splashes. Wear rubber boots when stepping in concrete. Immediately remove all soiled and contaminated clothing. Wash hands before breaks and at the end of work. Avoid contact with the eyes and skin.
Eye contact with concrete dust or splashes [2]	Serious eye damage	Wear approved eye protection (properly fitted dust- or splash-proof chemical safety glasses).
Lifting heavy bags of concrete mix	Back strain, muscle injury	Use proper lifting techniques. Get assistance when lifting heavy bags. Use mechanical aids where possible.
Slips, trips, and falls	Injuries from falls	Maintain good housekeeping. Clean up spills immediately. Wear slip-resistant footwear.
Mixing concrete [1]	Exposure to dust and potential splashes	Ensure good ventilation/exhaustion at the workplace. DO NOT BREATHE DUST. In dusty environments, the use of an OSHA, MSHA or NIOSH approved respirator and tight fitting goggles is recommended. Wear appropriate PPE.
Manual handling of concrete	Musculoskeletal disorders	Use mechanical aids wherever possible (e.g., wheelbarrows, concrete pumps). Rotate tasks to reduce repetitive motions.

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Wear appropriate PPE.

Gloves: Wear gloves of adequate length to offer appropriate skin protection from splashes. Nitrile, Butyl and PVC gloves have been found to offer adequate protection for incidental contact. [1]
Eye Protection: Wear approved eye protection (properly fitted dust- or splash-proof chemical safety glasses). [2]
Rubber Boots: Wear rubber boots when stepping in concrete. You cannot rely on pain to alert you to cement burns. Portland cement can cause dermatitis or sensitization. [1]
Respiratory Protection: A NIOSH-approved dust mask or filtering face piece is recommended in poorly ventilated areas or when permissible exposure limits may be exceeded. [3]
Protective Clothing: Wear appropriate protective clothing to minimize skin exposure.

6. Equipment and Tools

Inspect all equipment and tools before use.

Concrete Mixer: Used for mixing concrete. Inspect for any damage before use. Ensure all safety guards are in place and functioning properly.
Wheelbarrow: Used for transporting concrete. Check tire pressure and ensure handles are secure.
Shovels and Rakes: Used for moving and spreading concrete. Inspect for damage or wear before use.
Vibrator: Used to consolidate concrete. Ensure the power cord is in good condition and the unit is properly grounded.

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

Training and Competency: All workers must be trained and competent in the safe pouring of concrete, including hazard awareness, PPE requirements, and emergency procedures.

7.2 Pre-Job Briefing

Pre-Job Briefing: A pre-job briefing must be conducted before starting any concrete pouring activity to discuss the scope of work, potential hazards, and control measures.

7.3 Work Area Preparation

Work Area Preparation: The work area must be properly prepared before starting any concrete pouring activity. This includes ensuring adequate lighting, ventilation, and access.

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

Pre-Job Inspection: Inspect all equipment and tools before use to ensure they are in good working condition. Check the work area for any hazards and correct them before starting work.
Set Up Mixing Area: Set up the concrete mixer on a stable, level surface. Ensure there is adequate ventilation in the mixing area.
Mix Concrete: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for mixing the concrete. Add water gradually until the desired consistency is achieved. Do not mix with other chemical products, except as indicated by the manufacturer. [1]
Transport Concrete: Use a wheelbarrow or other suitable equipment to transport the concrete to the pouring location. Avoid overfilling the wheelbarrow.
Pour Concrete: Pour the concrete into the designated area. Use shovels and rakes to spread the concrete evenly.
Consolidate Concrete: Use a vibrator to consolidate the concrete and remove any air pockets.
Clean Up: Clean all equipment and tools after use. Dispose of any waste concrete properly. Do not allow to enter sewers/ surface or ground water. Good housekeeping is important to prevent accumulation of dust. [1] [1]
Curing: Follow proper curing procedures to ensure the concrete sets correctly.

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

Ensure good ventilation/exhaustion at the workplace. [1]
DO NOT BREATHE DUST. In dusty environments, the use of an OSHA, MSHA or NIOSH approved respirator and tight fitting goggles is recommended. [1]
Keep away from foodstuffs, beverages and feed. Immediately remove all soiled and contaminated clothing. Wash hands before breaks and at the end of work. Avoid contact with the eyes and skin. [1]
Do not allow water to contact the product until time of use to preserve product utility. [1]
You cannot rely on pain to alert you to cement burns. Therefore precautions must be taken to prevent all contact with Portland cement.

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

In any emergency situation, the primary concern is the safety of all personnel. Assess the situation, provide first aid, and contact emergency services as needed.

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

Skin contact with wet concrete: Immediately remove contaminated clothing and rinse the affected area with plenty of water. If irritation or burns develop, seek medical attention.
Eye contact with concrete dust or splashes: Rinse eyes cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing. Immediately seek medical advice.
Inhalation of concrete dust: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing. If respiratory irritation or difficulty breathing occurs, seek medical attention.

10.3 Emergency Contact Information

In case of emergency, contact emergency services immediately.

11. Incident Reporting and Investigation

All incidents, including near misses, must be reported to the supervisor immediately. A written report must be submitted within 24 hours of the incident.

All reported incidents will be investigated to determine the root cause and to implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence.

Approved by: [NAME AND POSITION]

Date: [APPROVAL DATE]