Concrete itself is a relatively safe material with which to work, however, the delivery and placement of concrete can have some inherent dangers. You can mitigate most risk by taking a few simple precautions:
Wear personal protective equipment including safety glasses, PVC gloves, rubber boots, a high visibility vest, a hard hat, and fall protection if necessary.
Fresh concrete may irritate your skin – be sure to wear gloves and rubber boots. If you’re going to be finishing the concrete on your knees with a float, be sure to wear knee pads that are soft and waterproof. Consult a medical professional if you experience irritation in the eyes or prolonged skin irritation.
Be sure that you have a location large enough for a mixer truck to navigate and park safely, out of the flow of traffic. Our mixer trucks are rear-discharge meaning that the driver will have to back his or her truck into position. A mixer is nearly 12’ high, 9’ wide, and 25’ long. Be sure that your driveway or job site can accommodate a truck of this size.
Mixer trucks can weigh between 36,000lbs and 75,000lbs depending on the load. Be sure that your driveway or job site entrance can support the weight.
Beware when placing concrete below grade, or ground level. Be sure that you provide appropriate escape inclines and adequate support to any loose dirt to prevent a cave-in.
Be sure that you have a plan to effectively unload the concrete safely. If the truck cannot directly access the site of your pour you will likely have to use buckets, a wheelbarrow, buggies, or even a concrete pump. Be careful not to injure yourself by carrying loads that are too heavy.
Be aware of your surroundings at all times, especially when working with large equipment including mixer trucks, pump trucks, etc. Stand clear when equipment is in motion and work safely near all equipment.
Concrete is often poured in places that are by nature "unfinished". Watch for dirt access roads, ruts, muddy conditions, hazardous inclines, or slippery surfaces.
Plan for incidents and injuries. Make sure you know who to call if someone were injured on your job or at your home. Ask your contractor about your liability for an injury while at your home or jobsite. Also ask your contractor about their liability concerning any property damage that may take place during construction. The more you know, the more prepared you’ll be.