Risk Assessment and Method Statement Template for Concreting
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RAMS : Concrete Works
Site Specific Instructions
Work Process and Associated Hazards for Concrete Works
Preliminary Foundation Works
Installation of Steel Columns
Installation of Beams
Formwork to Pile Caps, Ground Beams, and Bases
Falsework and Temporary Works
Horizontal Slab Reinforcement
Installing Formwork & Reinforcement
Column/Wall Fabrication
Pouring Concrete
Concrete Surface Repairs
Slab Cutting
Cement Rendering
Emphasised Points:
Manual handling : Low (1) Who might be harmed: Construction workers | Labourers | Steel fixers | Formwork carpenters | Concrete finishers Type of harm: Back / Spinal Injury | Broken Bones | Cuts and Abrasions | Muscular Injury Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Occasional (3) = Medium (15)
Controls
Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)
Slips, trips, and falls : Low (1) Who might be harmed: Construction workers | Site supervisors | Subcontractors | Delivery personnel | Site visitors Type of harm: Back / Spinal Injury | Broken Bones | Cuts and Abrasions | Death | Head Injury | Multiple / Various Injury | Muscular Injury Initial Risk: Major (3) x Frequent (5) = Medium (15)
Controls
Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)
Falling objects : Low (1) Who might be harmed: Construction workers | Site supervisors | Subcontractors | Delivery personnel Type of harm: Broken Bones | Crush / Entrapment | Cuts and Abrasions | Death | Eye Damage | Head Injury | Multiple / Various Injury Initial Risk: Major (3) x Frequent (5) = Medium (15)
Controls
Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)
Exposure to cement dust : Low (1) Who might be harmed: Construction workers | Site supervisors | Subcontractors Type of harm: Burns | Dermatitis | Eye Damage | Respiratory damage / Asthma / COPD Initial Risk: Severe (4) x Occasional (3) = Medium (12)
Controls
Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)
Contact with wet concrete : Low (1) Who might be harmed: Construction workers | Site supervisors | Subcontractors Type of harm: Burns | Dermatitis | Eye Damage Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Probable (4) = High (20)
Controls
Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)
Noise : Low (1) Who might be harmed: Construction workers | Site supervisors | Subcontractors Type of harm: Permanent Hearing Damage Initial Risk: Major (3) x Frequent (5) = Medium (15)
Controls
Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)
Vibration : Low (1) Who might be harmed: Construction workers | Equipment operators | Labourers Type of harm: HAVS / Vibration White Finger Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Frequent (5) = High (25)
Controls
Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)
Working at height : Low (1) Who might be harmed: Construction workers | Site supervisors | Subcontractors Type of harm: Broken Bones | Death | Head Injury | Multiple / Various Injury Initial Risk: Severe (4) x Frequent (5) = High (20)
Controls
Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)
Use of power tools : Low (1) Who might be harmed: Construction workers | Site supervisors | Subcontractors | Nearby workers on site Type of harm: Amputation | Broken Bones | Burns | Cuts and Abrasions | Death | Electrocution | Eye Damage | HAVS / Vibration White Finger | Head Injury | Permanent Hearing Damage Initial Risk: Major (3) x Occasional (3) = Medium (9)
Controls
Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)
Confined spaces : Low (1) Who might be harmed: Construction workers | Subcontractors | Maintenance personnel Type of harm: Asphyxia | Crush / Entrapment | Death | Drowning | Respiratory damage / Asthma / COPD | Smoke Inhalation Initial Risk: Severe (4) x Probable (4) = Medium (16)
Controls
Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)
Reinforcement steel injuries : Low (1) Who might be harmed: Construction workers | Steel fixers | Formwork carpenters | Concrete pourers | Labourers Type of harm: Amputation | Cuts and Abrasions | Death | Eye Damage | Head Injury | Multiple / Various Injury Initial Risk: Major (3) x Probable (4) = Medium (12)
Controls
Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)
Formwork collapse : Low (1) Who might be harmed: Construction workers | Site supervisors | Engineers | Subcontractors Type of harm: Asphyxia | Back / Spinal Injury | Broken Bones | Crush / Entrapment | Death | Head Injury | Multiple / Various Injury Initial Risk: Severe (4) x Frequent (5) = High (20)
Controls
Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)
Concrete burns : Low (1) Who might be harmed: Construction workers | Site supervisors | Subcontractors Type of harm: Burns | Dermatitis | Eye Damage Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Probable (4) = High (20)
Controls
Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)
Chemical exposure from admixtures : Low (1) Who might be harmed: Construction workers | Site supervisors | Subcontractors Type of harm: Burns | Dermatitis | Eye Damage | Respiratory damage / Asthma / COPD Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Probable (4) = High (20)
Controls
Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)
All personnel involved in the concreting works must possess the necessary qualifications and experience relevant to their specific tasks. Concrete operatives are required to hold a valid Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card, demonstrating their competence in handling concrete materials and equipment. Supervisors overseeing the concrete works must have completed a Site Supervisors’ Safety Training Scheme (SSSTS) or equivalent, ensuring they are equipped to manage health and safety on site effectively. Additionally, supervisors should have prior experience in managing concrete operations, particularly in tasks such as formwork installation and concrete pouring. Steel fixers and those involved in reinforcement tasks must be proficient in reading and interpreting technical drawings, with evidence of previous work in similar roles. They should also be familiar with the safe handling and installation of steel reinforcements. Formwork carpenters must demonstrate competence in constructing and dismantling formwork systems, with a focus on ensuring stability and safety during concrete pours. Experience with the specific formwork systems being used on site is essential. All personnel must undergo a site-specific induction that includes detailed information on the risks associated with concrete works, such as manual handling, exposure to cement dust, and working at height. Regular toolbox talks will be conducted to reinforce safe working practises and address any emerging issues related to the concreting activities. Continuous assessment of personnel competence will be carried out by the site management team to ensure adherence to safety standards and project requirements. Any identified gaps in skills or knowledge will be addressed through targeted training sessions. All personnel involved in the concreting works must undergo a comprehensive site induction prior to commencing any tasks. This induction will specifically address the unique hazards and safety protocols associated with concrete works. Key elements of the induction include:
Understanding of Concrete Hazards: Personnel will be briefed on the risks associated with handling concrete, including exposure to cement dust and wet concrete, which can cause skin irritation and respiratory issues. Safe Handling of Materials: Training will cover the correct procedures for handling and transporting concrete materials, ensuring that all workers are aware of manual handling techniques to prevent musculoskeletal injuries. Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): The induction will emphasise the importance of wearing appropriate PPE, such as gloves, goggles, and dust masks, specifically tailored to protect against the hazards of concrete works. Equipment Operation: Workers will receive training on the safe operation of equipment used in concreting tasks, such as mixers, vibrators, and cutting tools, highlighting the need for vigilance and adherence to operational guidelines. Emergency Procedures: Specific emergency response procedures related to concrete works will be outlined, including actions to take in the event of a concrete spill or equipment malfunction. Environmental Considerations: The induction will address measures to minimise environmental impact during concreting activities, such as proper disposal of waste materials and prevention of watercourse contamination. Regular refresher training sessions will be conducted to ensure ongoing compliance and awareness of safety practises specific to concrete works. Attendance at these sessions is mandatory for all personnel involved in the project. All personnel involved in the concrete works must utilise designated access routes to and from the work area. These routes shall be clearly marked and maintained free from obstructions at all times to ensure safe passage. Access points to the site must be secured with appropriate barriers and signage to prevent unauthorised entry. Egress routes must be established and communicated to all workers during site inductions. These routes should be inspected regularly to ensure they remain clear and functional, particularly during the pouring of concrete when movement may be restricted. During the installation of formwork and reinforcement, temporary walkways must be installed to facilitate safe access across the site. These walkways should be constructed from non-slip materials and be capable of supporting the weight of workers and equipment. For tasks involving elevated work, such as the installation of steel columns and beams, appropriate scaffolding or mobile elevated work platforms (MEWPs) must be used. All access equipment must be inspected prior to use and comply with relevant safety standards. In the event of an emergency, all workers must be familiar with the quickest and safest egress routes. Emergency exits must be clearly marked and illuminated, with no obstructions that could impede a swift evacuation. Regular briefings will be conducted to update workers on any changes to access and egress arrangements, particularly as the project progresses and site conditions evolve. All personnel involved in the concreting works shall have access to adequate welfare facilities throughout the duration of the project. Welfare units will be strategically positioned on-site to ensure ease of access for all workers engaged in tasks such as preliminary foundation works, installation of steel columns, and pouring concrete. Sanitary conveniences must be maintained in a clean and hygienic condition, with regular cleaning schedules implemented to accommodate the workforce’s needs during peak activities like slab cutting and cement rendering. Handwashing facilities shall be equipped with running water, soap, and drying provisions, particularly important after handling materials such as cement and concrete additives. Rest areas will be provided, offering shelter from adverse weather conditions, ensuring that workers can take breaks in a comfortable environment. These areas must be kept clean and free from dust and debris associated with formwork and reinforcement activities. Drinking water shall be readily available on-site, with clearly marked stations to prevent dehydration during physically demanding tasks such as column/wall fabrication and horizontal slab reinforcement. Regular checks will ensure that water supplies are replenished and maintained at all times. Changing facilities will be available for workers to change into appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) before commencing tasks like concrete surface repairs. These facilities must be secure and provide adequate space for storing personal belongings. The site management team will conduct regular inspections to ensure that all welfare provisions meet the required standards and are effectively supporting the health and well-being of all personnel involved in the concreting works. All personnel involved in the concreting works must ensure that special permits are obtained and adhered to prior to commencing any task that requires such authorisation. The following procedures are to be strictly followed: Permit to Dig: Before any preliminary foundation works commence, a Permit to Dig must be secured. This ensures that all underground services have been identified and marked, preventing accidental damage during excavation. Hot Works Permit: If any cutting or welding is required during the installation of steel columns and beams, a Hot Works Permit must be obtained. This is crucial to manage fire risks associated with these activities. Permit for Temporary Works: Prior to the erection of falsework and temporary works, a specific permit must be issued. This ensures that all temporary structures are designed, checked, and approved by a competent engineer. Confined Space Permit: Should any concreting tasks involve working within confined spaces, such as deep pile caps or enclosed formwork areas, a Confined Space Permit is mandatory. This ensures that appropriate safety measures are in place to protect workers from potential hazards such as limited oxygen or toxic atmospheres. Permit for Working at Height: When installing formwork and reinforcement at elevated positions, a Permit for Working at Height is required. This ensures that all necessary fall protection measures are implemented. Permit for Use of Hazardous Substances: If any hazardous substances are used during concrete surface repairs or cement rendering, a permit must be obtained. This ensures that all safety data sheets are reviewed and appropriate control measures are in place. All permits must be displayed prominently on-site and reviewed regularly to ensure compliance with safety protocols. Failure to adhere to these procedures may result in work stoppage and disciplinary action. All tools and equipment utilised in the concrete works must be inspected prior to use to ensure they are in good working condition. Daily checks are mandatory, with any defects reported immediately and faulty equipment removed from service. Concrete mixers must be positioned on stable ground, with all guards and safety devices in place. Operators must be trained and competent in their use. Vibrating pokers should be handled with care, ensuring that cables are intact and connections secure. Operators must wear appropriate PPE, including gloves and hearing protection. Formwork systems require careful assembly following manufacturer guidelines. All components must be checked for damage or wear before installation. Falsework must be erected by competent personnel, with regular inspections to ensure stability throughout the project. Power tools, such as drills and saws, must be 110V or battery-operated to reduce electrical hazards. Ensure all power tools are PAT tested and fitted with appropriate guards. Operators must use tools as per the manufacturer’s instructions and wear suitable PPE, including eye protection. For slab cutting, ensure that cutting equipment is fitted with dust suppression systems to minimise airborne particles. Operators must wear respiratory protection and ensure the work area is well-ventilated. All lifting equipment, including hoists and cranes, must be certified and operated by qualified personnel. Lifting plans should be in place for all significant lifts, with clear communication maintained between team members. Regular toolbox talks should be conducted to reinforce safe practises and address any concerns related to the use of tools and equipment in concrete works. All personnel involved in the concreting works must ensure that all existing services, including electrical, water, and gas lines, are identified and clearly marked prior to the commencement of any activities. Service drawings must be reviewed and verified on-site to confirm the location of these services. Before any excavation or foundation work begins, a service isolation plan must be implemented. This includes liaising with utility providers to arrange for the safe disconnection or isolation of services where necessary. No work shall commence until confirmation of isolation is received and documented. During the installation of steel columns, beams, and formwork, care must be taken to avoid any contact with existing services. Spotters should be employed to guide machinery and equipment operators in areas where services are present. For the pouring of concrete, ensure that all service entry points are adequately protected to prevent ingress of concrete material. Temporary barriers or covers should be used to shield service access points. In the event of any accidental damage to services during the works, immediate cessation of work is required, and the site manager must be informed without delay. Emergency procedures should be followed as outlined in the project’s emergency response plan. Upon completion of concrete works, a thorough inspection must be conducted to ensure that all services are intact and operational. Any discrepancies or damages must be reported and rectified before proceeding to subsequent construction phases. All personnel involved in the concreting works must be made aware of the potential hazards associated with the use of hazardous substances, particularly cement and concrete additives. Cement dust can cause respiratory issues and skin irritation; therefore, appropriate measures must be implemented to mitigate these risks. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is mandatory and must include gloves, goggles, and dust masks to prevent skin contact and inhalation of dust. Workers handling wet concrete should wear waterproof clothing to avoid prolonged skin contact. Concrete additives and curing agents must be stored in clearly labelled containers, away from direct sunlight and sources of ignition. Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for all substances must be readily accessible on-site, and workers must be trained in their safe handling and emergency procedures. Spill kits must be available to manage any accidental releases of hazardous substances. In the event of a spill, immediate containment and clean-up procedures must be followed, ensuring that waste is disposed of in accordance with environmental regulations. Regular inspections must be conducted to ensure compliance with these procedures, and any incidents involving hazardous substances must be reported and investigated promptly to prevent recurrence. All deliveries of concrete and associated materials shall be scheduled to minimise disruption and ensure a smooth workflow. The site manager will coordinate with suppliers to confirm delivery times, ensuring that they align with the project timeline and site access restrictions. Upon arrival, delivery vehicles must report to the designated site entrance and adhere to the established traffic management plan. Drivers must be briefed on site-specific safety protocols and wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times. Concrete deliveries will be directed to the designated pour area by a competent banksman. The banksman will ensure safe manoeuvring of vehicles, maintaining clear communication with drivers to prevent accidents. All unloading activities must be supervised by trained personnel to ensure compliance with safety standards. Materials such as steel reinforcement and formwork components will be offloaded using suitable lifting equipment, operated by certified personnel. Manual handling should be minimised; where unavoidable, proper lifting techniques must be employed to prevent injury. Storage of materials on-site must be organised to prevent obstruction of walkways and access routes. Concrete and related materials should be stored on stable ground, away from potential sources of contamination or damage. Reinforcement bars and formwork should be stacked securely to prevent collapse. In the event of adverse weather conditions, deliveries may need to be rescheduled to ensure safety and quality control. All personnel involved in materials handling must remain vigilant and report any hazards or incidents immediately to the site manager. All personnel involved in concrete works must adhere to the following project-specific procedures regarding Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Hard Hats: Must be worn at all times to protect against potential head injuries from falling objects during the installation of steel columns and beams. Safety Footwear: Steel-toe boots with slip-resistant soles are mandatory to prevent foot injuries and ensure stability on potentially slippery surfaces, particularly during pouring and finishing of concrete. High-Visibility Clothing: Essential for all workers to ensure visibility amidst moving plant and equipment, especially during the delivery and handling of materials. Eye Protection: Safety goggles or face shields must be worn when cutting slabs or during any activity that may produce flying debris or dust, such as cement rendering and surface repairs. Gloves: Chemical-resistant gloves are required when handling wet concrete to prevent skin irritation or burns. Additionally, cut-resistant gloves should be used when dealing with reinforcement materials. Hearing Protection: Ear defenders or plugs must be used in areas where noise levels exceed safe limits, particularly during slab cutting operations. Respiratory Protection: Dust masks or respirators must be worn when working in environments with high levels of dust, such as during cement rendering and slab cutting, to prevent inhalation of harmful particles. Compliance with these PPE requirements will be monitored regularly to ensure the safety and well-being of all personnel engaged in concrete works. In the event of an emergency during concreting works, all personnel must immediately cease operations and follow the established emergency protocols. All workers must be familiar with the location of emergency exits and assembly points. Upon hearing the alarm, operatives should ensure that all equipment, particularly concrete mixers and pumps, are safely shut down to prevent any hazards. Concrete pours in progress must be halted immediately, and any unfinished sections should be marked clearly to prevent accidental access. First aid kits must be readily accessible on-site, with trained first aiders available to respond to injuries specific to concreting activities, such as chemical burns from cement or injuries from handling heavy materials. In the case of a spillage of wet concrete, containment measures should be enacted swiftly to prevent environmental contamination and slips. Communication devices should be used to alert the site manager and emergency services if necessary. All personnel must proceed to the designated assembly point in an orderly manner, ensuring that no one is left behind, particularly those working in confined spaces or at height. Regular drills should be conducted to ensure all workers are proficient in emergency procedures specific to concreting tasks. Documentation of these drills should be maintained for review and improvement of emergency response strategies. To ensure the safety of the public and occupiers during concrete works, the following project-specific procedures shall be implemented: Site Perimeter and Barriers: Erect robust barriers and fencing around the work area to prevent unauthorised access. Ensure all barriers are clearly marked with warning signs indicating the presence of construction activities, particularly during pouring and curing phases. Signage: Install clear and visible signage at all entry points to inform the public and occupiers of ongoing concrete works. Signs should include warnings about potential hazards such as wet concrete, heavy machinery, and restricted access zones. Traffic Management: Implement a traffic management plan to control vehicle movements around the site. This includes designated routes for delivery vehicles transporting concrete and materials, ensuring minimal disruption to public pathways and occupier access. Dust and Noise Control: Utilise dust suppression techniques during cutting and surface repairs to minimise airborne particles. Schedule noisy activities, such as slab cutting, during times that will least impact nearby residents and businesses, adhering to local noise regulations. Concrete Pouring Operations: During concrete pouring, assign personnel to monitor the perimeter and guide any pedestrians or occupiers safely around the site. Ensure that all hoses and equipment are secured to prevent tripping hazards. Spill Prevention and Clean-Up: Establish procedures for immediate clean-up of any concrete spills on public pathways or areas accessible to occupiers. Provide spill kits on-site and train workers in their use to prevent slips and environmental contamination. Communication: Maintain open lines of communication with nearby occupiers and the public, providing updates on the progress of works and any changes to access arrangements. Designate a liaison officer to address any concerns or queries promptly. Emergency Access: Ensure that emergency access routes are kept clear at all times for use by emergency services. Regularly review and update emergency procedures in coordination with local authorities. By adhering to these procedures, the safety of the public and occupiers will be prioritised throughout the duration of the concrete works. All personnel involved in the concreting works must be vigilant for any materials suspected to contain asbestos, particularly during preliminary foundation works and slab cutting activities. Should any suspect material be identified, work must cease immediately, and the area must be cordoned off to prevent access. The site manager must be notified without delay. A licenced asbestos contractor shall be engaged to conduct a thorough survey and, if necessary, safely remove any asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) before resuming work. All personnel must adhere strictly to the asbestos management plan and follow the instructions provided by the licenced contractor. During the installation of steel columns and beams, as well as formwork and reinforcement activities, care must be taken to avoid disturbing any existing structures that may contain ACMs. If drilling or cutting into existing concrete is required, a risk assessment must be conducted to determine the likelihood of encountering asbestos. All workers must wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) as specified in the asbestos management plan when working in areas where asbestos is suspected or confirmed. This includes respiratory protective equipment (RPE) and disposable overalls. Regular monitoring and air testing shall be conducted by a competent person to ensure that asbestos fibres are not present in the work environment. Records of all findings and actions taken must be maintained and made available for inspection. In the event of accidental disturbance of ACMs, emergency procedures must be followed, including immediate evacuation of the area and notification of the site manager and licenced asbestos contractor. The monitoring of concrete works shall be conducted with a focus on ensuring compliance with health and safety standards, as well as maintaining the quality of the construction process. Daily inspections will be carried out by the site supervisor to assess the condition and stability of formwork, falsework, and temporary structures. Particular attention shall be given to the integrity of reinforcement installations and the secure positioning of steel columns and beams. Concrete pouring activities will be closely monitored to ensure that the mix is consistent with the specified design and that the pouring process does not introduce any safety hazards. The site supervisor shall verify that all personnel involved in the pouring process are wearing appropriate PPE and that safe access routes are maintained. During concrete surface repairs and slab cutting, continuous observation will be required to ensure that dust suppression measures are effectively implemented, and noise levels are kept within acceptable limits. Monitoring shall also include checking that all equipment used is in good working order and that operators are competent. Regular checks will be conducted on cement rendering activities to ensure that materials are stored correctly and that mixing procedures are followed precisely. The site supervisor shall ensure that all waste materials are disposed of in accordance with environmental regulations. All findings from monitoring activities will be documented in a daily log, which will be reviewed weekly by the project manager to identify any trends or areas requiring improvement. Any deviations from the method statement or potential hazards identified during monitoring shall be addressed immediately, with corrective actions recorded and communicated to all relevant personnel. All waste generated from concrete works shall be managed in accordance with the Waste Management Plan. Concrete waste, including excess material and washout water, must be contained and disposed of responsibly to prevent environmental contamination. Concrete washout areas shall be designated on-site, equipped with impermeable liners to prevent leachate from entering the ground. These areas must be clearly marked and used exclusively for cleaning equipment and disposing of excess concrete. Regular inspections of the washout areas are required to ensure compliance with environmental standards. Reinforcement offcuts and other metal waste from formwork and reinforcement activities shall be collected in designated skips for recycling. It is imperative that these materials are segregated from general waste to facilitate efficient recycling processes. Formwork materials, such as timber or plywood, should be reused where possible. Damaged or unusable formwork must be disposed of in accordance with site waste segregation protocols, ensuring that timber waste is separated from other materials. Packaging waste from cement bags and other materials must be collected and disposed of in designated recycling bins. Efforts should be made to minimise packaging waste by coordinating with suppliers for bulk deliveries where feasible. All personnel involved in concrete works must receive training on the specific waste management procedures relevant to their tasks. Compliance with these procedures will be monitored through regular site audits, and any non-conformances will be addressed promptly to maintain high standards of environmental stewardship. All personnel involved in the concreting works shall adhere to the following procedures to mitigate environmental impact: Concrete Waste Management: Dust Control: Noise Management: Spill Prevention: Material Storage: Water Usage: Recycling and Reuse: By adhering to these procedures, the project aims to minimise its environmental footprint while maintaining compliance with relevant legislation. To mitigate potential disturbances to near neighbours during concrete works, the following project-specific procedures shall be implemented: Communication: Prior to commencement of concrete works, a detailed schedule of activities, including expected noise levels and durations, shall be communicated to all neighbouring properties. Regular updates will be provided to inform of any changes or additional works. Noise Control: All machinery and equipment used in concrete works, such as mixers and vibrators, shall be fitted with noise-reducing devices. Operations will be restricted to designated working hours to minimise disruption. Dust Suppression: During activities such as slab cutting and cement rendering, water suppression techniques shall be employed to control dust emissions. Additionally, dust barriers will be erected where necessary to protect adjacent properties. Traffic Management: Delivery of concrete materials shall be scheduled to avoid peak traffic times, reducing congestion and minimising inconvenience to local residents. A designated route for construction vehicles will be established to limit their impact on the surrounding area. Vibration Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of vibration levels during activities such as pouring concrete and using compactors will be conducted to ensure compliance with acceptable thresholds, thereby preventing structural impact on neighbouring buildings. Site Cleanliness: The site perimeter will be regularly inspected and maintained to prevent debris from affecting neighbouring properties. Any spillages or waste generated from concrete works will be promptly cleared. Complaint Resolution: A dedicated contact person will be appointed to address any concerns or complaints from neighbours promptly and effectively, ensuring that any issues are resolved in a timely manner. Exposure to Cement Dust and Wet Concrete: Personnel involved in concrete works must be aware of the risks associated with exposure to cement dust and wet concrete. Appropriate PPE, including gloves, long-sleeved clothing, and eye protection, must be worn at all times to prevent skin contact and inhalation. Manual Handling: The handling of heavy materials such as steel columns, beams, and formwork requires adherence to manual handling procedures. Mechanical aids should be utilised where possible, and team lifting techniques should be employed to minimise the risk of musculoskeletal injuries. Noise and Vibration: The use of power tools and equipment during slab cutting and concrete pouring can generate significant noise and vibration. Personnel must use hearing protection and adhere to scheduled breaks to mitigate the effects of prolonged exposure. Silica Dust: Cutting and grinding of concrete slabs can release respirable crystalline silica. Dust suppression methods, such as water suppression or local exhaust ventilation, must be implemented. Respiratory protective equipment (RPE) should be worn when necessary. Ergonomics: Tasks such as installing formwork and reinforcement require awkward postures and repetitive movements. Workstations should be adjusted to reduce strain, and regular breaks should be scheduled to prevent fatigue. Heat Stress: During warmer months, personnel may be at risk of heat stress while working with concrete. Adequate hydration, shaded rest areas, and monitoring for signs of heat-related illnesses are essential. Chemical Exposure: When using chemical admixtures or surface treatments, ensure that safety data sheets (SDS) are available on-site. Personnel must follow safe handling procedures and use appropriate PPE to prevent exposure. Training and Awareness: All personnel must receive training on occupational health risks specific to concrete works. Regular toolbox talks should reinforce safe practises and encourage reporting of any health concerns. All amendments to the method statement for concrete works must be documented and authorised prior to implementation. Any proposed changes to the procedures, materials, or personnel involved in the concreting tasks must be submitted in writing to the project manager. This includes alterations to: The project manager will review the proposed amendments in consultation with the health and safety advisor to ensure compliance with relevant legislation and site-specific safety requirements. No work shall proceed under the amended method until written authorisation is granted. In the event of an emergency change, verbal approval may be sought from the project manager, followed by a formal written amendment within 24 hours. All authorised amendments must be communicated to the site team through a toolbox talk, ensuring that all personnel are aware of the changes and any new safety measures. Records of all amendments and authorisations must be maintained on-site for audit purposes and to ensure traceability throughout the project lifecycle. Cement dust is generated during the handling and mixing of cement for concrete production. Inhalation : Low (1) Who might be harmed: Construction workers | Site supervisors | Nearby tradespeople Type of harm: Respiratory damage / Asthma / COPD Initial Risk: Severe (4) x Probable (4) = Medium (16)
Controls
Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)
Eye Contact : Low (1) Who might be harmed: Construction workers handling cement | Site supervisors and managers | Nearby tradespeople Type of harm: Eye Damage Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Occasional (3) = Medium (15)
Controls
Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)
Skin Contact : Low (1) Who might be harmed: Construction workers | Labourers | Concrete finishers | Formwork carpenters Type of harm: Burns | Dermatitis Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Frequent (5) = High (25)
Controls
Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)
Silica dust is not intentionally used but is generated during activities such as cutting, grinding, or drilling concrete, posing a significant health risk to workers. Inhalation : Low (1) Who might be harmed: Construction workers | Site supervisors | Nearby tradespeople Type of harm: Asbestosis / Lung Cancer / Mesothelioma | Respiratory damage / Asthma / COPD Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Probable (4) = High (20)
Controls
Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)
Concrete additives are utilised to enhance the performance characteristics of concrete, such as improving workability, accelerating or retarding setting time, and increasing strength or durability. Inhalation : Low (1) Who might be harmed: Construction workers | Site supervisors | Nearby tradespeople Type of harm: Respiratory damage / Asthma / COPD Initial Risk: Major (3) x Probable (4) = Medium (12)
Controls
Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)
Eye Contact : Low (1) Who might be harmed: Construction workers | Labourers | Formwork installers | Concrete finishers Type of harm: Eye Damage Initial Risk: Major (3) x Occasional (3) = Medium (9)
Controls
Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)
Skin Contact : Low (1) Who might be harmed: Construction workers | Concrete finishers Type of harm: Burns | Dermatitis Initial Risk: Severe (4) x Occasional (3) = Medium (12)
Controls
Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)
Formwork release agents are applied to formwork surfaces to facilitate the easy removal of the formwork from the cured concrete. Inhalation : Low (1) Who might be harmed: Construction workers | Site supervisors | Nearby tradespeople Type of harm: Respiratory damage / Asthma / COPD Initial Risk: Severe (4) x Frequent (5) = High (20)
Controls
Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)
Eye Contact : Low (1) Who might be harmed: Construction workers handling formwork release agents Type of harm: Eye Damage Initial Risk: Severe (4) x Frequent (5) = High (20)
Controls
Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)
Skin Contact : Low (1) Who might be harmed: Construction workers handling formwork | Labourers assisting with formwork installation Type of harm: Dermatitis Initial Risk: Major (3) x Frequent (5) = Medium (15)
Controls
Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)
This document has been provided as a template. By completing the section above, you take full responsibility for the use of this document.
Site Specific Hazards
Procedures
Personnel and competence
Site inductions and training
Access and egress arrangements
Welfare
Special permits
Tools and equipment
Services and isolations
Hazardous substances
Deliveries and materials handling
PPE
Emergency procedures
Safety of public and occupiers
Asbestos
Monitoring
Waste management
Environmental considerations
Near neighbours and nuisance
Occupational health
Amendments and authorisation
Activities
Preliminary foundation works
Installation of steel columns
Installation of beams
Formwork to pile caps, ground beams, and bases
Erection of falsework and temporary works
Horizontal slab reinforcement
Installing formwork and reinforcement for slabs
Column and wall fabrication
Pouring concrete
Concrete surface repairs
Slab cutting
Cement rendering
Hazardous Substances
Cement dust
Silica dust
Concrete additives
Formwork release agents
Induction Record
Company name:
Project title:
Location:
Contract No:
Subject:
Method Statement : Concrete Works
Tutor:
Date:
Signature:
Name
Comments
Signature
Date