Concrete and Masonry Safety Best Practices

Concrete and masonry work plays an essential role in construction projects of all scales. However, the risks associated with these materials can often go unnoticed, leading to injuries, illnesses, and even fatalities. According to OSHA, over 250,000 people work in concrete or masonry trades, and over 28,000 report job-related injuries annually. This underscores just how important proper safety measures are.

This guide will walk you through the hazards, best practices, and safety tips essential for working safely with concrete and masonry materials. By the end, you'll be better prepared to protect yourself or your team on the job site.

Understanding the Hazards of Concrete and Masonry Work

While they may seem simple and solid, concrete and masonry pose various occupational risks that span from physical injuries to chemical hazards. Identifying these risks is the first step toward creating a safer work environment.

Physical Hazards

1. Slips, Trips, and Falls

Wet concrete creates a slippery surface, leading to falls and potential injuries.

2. Heavy Lifting

Materials such as cement bags, rebar, and formwork tools are heavy and can strain the back if not lifted correctly.

3. Impalement Risks

Uncovered rebar often creates a hazard for workers walking or working near construction zones.

4. Equipment-Related Injuries

Machinery and tools used for cutting, mixing, and pouring concrete often feature moving parts that can lead to accidents if improperly secured.

Chemical Hazards

1. Cement Dust

Dust contains silica, which can cause a lung condition called silicosis after prolonged exposure. 

2. Chemical Burns

Wet concrete is highly alkaline and can cause severe skin irritation or chemical burns on unprotected skin.

3. Eye Irritation

Contact with cement particles or wet concrete can result in severe eye damage.

Ergonomic Risks

• Awkward postures while lifting, pouring, or finishing concrete can cause strain-related injuries, particularly to the back and knees.

  
  

Noise Hazards

• Prolonged exposure to loud equipment like mixers can damage hearing over time.

Phases of Concrete Work and Their Unique Risks

Concrete work is a multi-stage process, and each step presents its own set of safety challenges.

Forming

Creating forms involves erecting structures that hold the concrete in place. Key risks include falling, collapsing formwork, and manual handling injuries. Proper scaffolding, fall protection equipment, and structurally sound forms are essential.

Mixing

During the mixing process, cement dust can irritate skin and respiratory systems. Workers should always wear proper personal protective equipment (PPE) like gloves, masks, and goggles to minimize exposure.

Placement

Wet concrete can cause slips and falls, as well as skin burns due to its alkaline content. Ensure safe walkways, PPE, and protective barriers to avoid direct contact with wet concrete.

Finishing

Finishing involves smoothing and solidifying the concrete surface. Long-handled tools can touch live power lines, creating electrical hazards. Additionally, dust from dried concrete can harm the lungs if proper dust control measures aren’t followed.

Essential Safety Practices for Concrete and Masonry Work

Knowing the hazards is only half the battle. Implementing strict safety practices is key to minimizing risks and protecting workers.

Use Proper PPE

Equip yourself with the right protective gear:

• Safety goggles to protect from particles and concrete splashes.

• Long sleeves, pants, and alkali-resistant gloves to shield against skin irritation.

• Respiratory masks (N95 or higher) to prevent inhaling silica dust.

• High-visibility clothing and steel-toed boots to stay safe from falling materials and heavy machinery.

Practice Safe Lifting

1. Keep your back straight and bend through your knees, not your waist.

2. Carry loads close to your body to avoid overexertion.

3. Avoid twisting while lifting to reduce strain on your back.

Control Cement Dust

1. Wet cutting and grinding operations to suppress dust.

2. Use vacuum systems near cutting tools or grinding equipment.

3. Restrict eating or drinking in areas contaminated with cement dust.

Guard Equipment and Tools

Ensure that all gears, levers, and moving parts on machinery are protected by safety guards. This minimizes the risk of injuries.

Mark Hazardous Areas

Use barriers, caution tape, or visible signage to mark areas with:

• Wet, slippery surfaces.

• Unstable formwork.

• Openings or holes in partially completed projects.

Maintain Hygiene

Cement is reactive, and exposure can worsen with inadequate hygiene. Wash off wet cement immediately, and avoid prolonged skin contact.

Trained Personnel Are Key

Invest in regular safety training and refresher courses for workers to ensure they know how to handle materials and react to emergencies correctly. Specialist programs like those offered by Must Be Safety can provide OSHA-compliant standards and hands-on training.

What to Do During an Emergency

Emergencies can happen even with robust safety measures in place. Knowing how to react quickly can save lives.

Chemical Burns

• Flush the affected area immediately with large quantities of water.

• Remove contaminated clothing and consult medical help.

Eye Contact

• Rinse eyes with water for at least 15 minutes and seek immediate medical attention.

Immediate Injury Response

• For impalement or major injuries, call 911. Stabilize the injured worker without removing any impaled objects.

• Administer basic first aid until professionals arrive.

Dust Exposure

• Provide the worker with fresh air and remove them from the source of exposure.

• Engage appropriate respiratory protection and monitor symptoms of breathing difficulty.

Commit to a Safer Work Environment

Concrete and masonry work continues to be the backbone of modern construction, but safety should always be the top priority. By practicing identified safety protocols, utilizing appropriate PPE, providing regular training, and partnering with reliable safety organizations like Must Be Safety, you can build not only solid structures but also a foundation of safety for your workers.

To make training and compliance easy, check out the comprehensive safety courses offered at Must Be Safety. Invest in your team's safety today.