Skip to main content
Skip to main content

🧱 Concrete Safety

Topic: Safety hazards in concrete work Duration: 5-7 minutes Best for: Concrete crews, finishers, formwork crews

Common Hazards​

Chemical Burns​

Wet concrete is caustic:

  • pH of 12-13 (very alkaline)
  • Can cause severe burns
  • Contact with skin causes chemical burns

Protection:

  • Waterproof boots - Keep concrete off skin
  • Long sleeves - Protect arms
  • Gloves - Waterproof gloves
  • Wash immediately - If concrete contacts skin

Heavy Lifting​

Concrete work involves heavy materials:

  • Rebar bundles: 50-100+ lbs
  • Form panels: 50-100+ lbs
  • Concrete bags: 80 lbs

Safe lifting:

  • Use proper technique - Lift with legs, not back
  • Get help - Don't lift alone if too heavy
  • Mechanical aids - Use equipment when possible
  • Warm up - Stretch before heavy lifting

Formwork Hazards​

Forms can collapse if not braced properly:

  • Adequate bracing - Forms properly braced
  • Inspect forms - Before each pour
  • Don't overload - Don't exceed form capacity
  • Stay clear - During pour, stay away from forms

Rebar Hazards​

Rebar can cause serious injuries:

  • Cap exposed ends - Rebar caps or covers
  • Watch your step - Don't trip on rebar
  • Cutting safety - Use proper tools, eye protection
  • Lifting safety - Use proper technique

Concrete Placement​

During concrete placement:

  • Stay clear - Keep away from chutes, hoses
  • Watch for spills - Concrete can splash
  • Proper PPE - Boots, gloves, eye protection
  • Vibration safety - Don't wrap cord around body
Concrete Burns

Wet concrete causes chemical burns. If concrete gets on your skin, wash it off immediately with water. Don't wait.