Method Statement : Pouring Concrete – Boom Pump

Explanation

The process of pouring concrete using a boom pump involves the utilisation of an articulating boom and pump system to efficiently deliver concrete to a specified location on a construction site. This method is particularly advantageous for reaching areas that are difficult to access with traditional concrete pouring techniques. The primary aim of this operation is to ensure the precise and controlled placement of concrete, thereby facilitating the construction of robust and durable structures. The procedure requires careful coordination and adherence to safety protocols to mitigate potential hazards and ensure the safety of all personnel involved.

Responsibilities

• Pump Operator: Ensure the safe operation of the boom pump, including setup, monitoring, and shutdown procedures.
• Site Supervisor: Oversee the entire concrete pouring process, ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations.
• Concrete Labourer: Assist in the placement and finishing of concrete, following safe handling practises.
• Health and Safety Officer: Conduct risk assessments and ensure all safety protocols are adhered to during the operation.
• Signal Person: Communicate effectively with the pump operator to guide the boom’s positioning and movement.
• Maintenance Technician: Perform regular inspections and maintenance on the boom pump to ensure it is in safe working condition.

Equipment

• Articulating boom pump
• Concrete delivery hoses
• Safety harnesses
• Hard hats
• High-visibility clothing
• Safety goggles
• Hearing protection
• Protective gloves
• Steel-toed boots
• Respiratory protection
• Two-way radios
• First aid kit

Operation

• Conduct a thorough site risk assessment to identify potential hazards.
• Ensure all personnel involved are trained and competent in operating the boom pump.
• Verify that the boom pump is in good working condition through a pre-use inspection.
• Position the boom pump on stable, level ground and engage stabilisers and outriggers.
• Conduct a pre-operation check to ensure all controls, safety devices, and emergency stop functions are operational.
• Set up the work area with appropriate barriers and signage to restrict access to authorised personnel only.
• Conduct a safety briefing with all personnel involved in the operation, establishing clear communication channels.
• Extend the boom carefully to the desired location, avoiding contact with overhead power lines or obstructions.
• Continuously assess weather conditions, particularly wind speed, for safe operation.
• Begin pumping concrete at a slow rate to ensure a steady flow, monitoring pressure gauges to prevent blockages.
• Use the remote control to guide the boom accurately to the pour site, maintaining visual contact with the end hose.
• Keep in constant communication with the pour crew to ensure correct and safe concrete placement.
• Make necessary adjustments to the boom position or pump speed based on feedback from the pour crew.
• Continuously observe for potential hazards such as leaks, blockages, or equipment malfunctions, addressing them immediately.
• Once the pour is complete, retract the boom carefully, ensuring it is clear of any obstructions.
• Clean the boom and pump thoroughly to prevent concrete build-up and future blockages.
• Conduct a post-operation check to inspect equipment for wear or damage, reporting any issues for maintenance.
• Conduct a debriefing session with all personnel to discuss any issues encountered and areas for improvement in future operations.

Risk Assessment : Pouring Concrete – Boom Pump

Who might be harmed: Boom Pump Operators | Construction Workers | Maintenance Personnel

Type of harm: Amputation | Broken Bones | Crush / Entrapment | Death | Head Injury | Multiple / Various Injury

Initial Risk: Major (3) x Frequent (5) = Medium (15) Controls

• Ensure all operators are trained and competent in the safe operation of the boom pump equipment.
• Establish and maintain a clear exclusion zone around the boom pump to prevent unauthorised access.
• Conduct regular maintenance and inspections of the boom pump to ensure all safety features are functioning correctly.
• Utilise spotters to guide the boom operator and monitor for potential hazards during operation.
• Implement a communication system, such as radios or hand signals, to coordinate movements between the operator and ground personnel.
• Ensure all workers wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including high-visibility clothing and hard hats.
• Position the boom pump on stable ground to prevent tipping or unexpected movement during operation.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Falls from Height : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Boom Pump Operators | Construction Workers

Type of harm: Back / Spinal Injury | Broken Bones | Death | Head Injury | Multiple / Various Injury

Initial Risk: Major (3) x Probable (4) = Medium (12) Controls

• Ensure all personnel working at height are equipped with appropriate fall arrest systems, such as harnesses and lanyards, securely anchored to a stable structure.
• Install guardrails or edge protection on elevated platforms and scaffolding to prevent falls.
• Conduct a thorough risk assessment to identify potential fall hazards and implement necessary safety measures before commencing work.
• Provide training for all workers on safe working practises at height, including the correct use of personal protective equipment.
• Ensure that all access equipment, such as ladders and scaffolding, is inspected regularly and maintained in good condition.
• Designate a competent person to supervise work at height and ensure compliance with safety procedures.
• Limit access to areas where there is a risk of falling by using barriers or signage to restrict entry to authorised personnel only.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Concrete Burns : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Boom Pump Operators | Concrete Pouring Crew | Site Labourers

Type of harm: Burns | Dermatitis | Eye Damage

Initial Risk: Severe (4) x Probable (4) = Medium (16) Controls

• Ensure all personnel wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including gloves, long sleeves, and eye protection, to prevent skin contact with wet concrete.
• Provide training to workers on the hazards of concrete burns and the importance of immediate washing if contact occurs.
• Establish designated washing stations with clean water and soap near the work area for immediate use in case of skin contact with concrete.
• Implement a procedure for regular inspection and maintenance of personal protective equipment to ensure its effectiveness.
• Instruct workers to avoid kneeling in fresh concrete and to use waterproof kneepads if necessary.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Respiratory Issues : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Boom Pump Operators | Construction Workers | Site Supervisors

Type of harm: Asbestosis / Lung Cancer / Mesothelioma | Asphyxia | Cold / Pneumonia | Death | Illness | Respiratory damage / Asthma / COPD | Smoke Inhalation

Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Frequent (5) = High (25) Controls

• Ensure that all workers wear appropriate respiratory protective equipment, such as dust masks or respirators, when working in areas with concrete dust exposure.
• Implement dust suppression methods, such as water spraying, to minimise airborne concrete dust during the pouring process.
• Conduct regular air quality monitoring to assess dust levels and ensure they remain within safe limits.
• Provide training for workers on the hazards of concrete dust and the correct use of respiratory protective equipment.
• Establish designated clean areas where workers can remove and clean their protective equipment to prevent contamination.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Musculoskeletal Injuries : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Boom Pump Operators | Concrete Labourers | Maintenance Personnel

Type of harm: Back / Spinal Injury | Muscular Injury

Initial Risk: Major (3) x Occasional (3) = Medium (9) Controls

• Ensure all workers are trained in proper lifting techniques and manual handling procedures specific to the equipment and materials used in concrete pouring.
• Utilise mechanical aids, such as hoists or trolleys, to transport heavy materials and equipment to reduce manual lifting.
• Implement a job rotation system to minimise repetitive strain by varying tasks among workers.
• Conduct regular ergonomic assessments of the work area to identify and mitigate potential musculoskeletal risks.
• Provide personal protective equipment, such as back supports, to workers engaged in manual handling tasks.
• Ensure that work areas are organised and free from obstructions to facilitate safe and efficient movement.
• Schedule regular breaks to allow workers to rest and recover from physically demanding tasks.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Electric Shock : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Boom Pump Operators | Construction Workers | Maintenance Personnel | Electricians

Type of harm: Burns | Death | Electrocution

Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Frequent (5) = High (25) Controls

• Ensure all electrical components and connections of the boom pump are regularly inspected and maintained by a qualified electrician.
• Use only equipment that is properly grounded and fitted with residual current devices (RCDs) to prevent electric shock.
• Establish a safe distance from overhead power lines, ensuring the boom does not come into contact with them.
• Provide operators and workers with appropriate personal protective equipment, such as rubber-soled boots and insulated gloves.
• Implement a lockout/tagout procedure to ensure the boom pump is de-energised during maintenance or repair work.
• Conduct regular training sessions for workers on the risks of electric shock and safe operating procedures specific to the boom pump.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Slips, Trips, and Falls : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Boom Pump Operators | Construction Workers | Site Supervisors | Delivery Personnel

Type of harm: Back / Spinal Injury | Broken Bones | Cuts and Abrasions | Death | Head Injury | Multiple / Various Injury

Initial Risk: Severe (4) x Occasional (3) = Medium (12) Controls

• Ensure all work areas are kept clean and free from obstructions by regularly removing debris and equipment.
• Use non-slip mats or coverings on wet surfaces to provide secure footing for workers.
• Clearly mark and illuminate any uneven surfaces or changes in elevation to alert workers.
• Provide appropriate footwear with slip-resistant soles to all personnel involved in the operation.
• Implement a system for immediate clean-up of spills or excess water to prevent slippery conditions.
• Ensure that all hoses and cables are properly routed and secured to prevent tripping hazards.
• Conduct regular inspections of the work area to identify and rectify potential slip, trip, and fall hazards.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Noise Exposure : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Boom Pump Operators | Construction Workers on Site | Site Supervisors

Type of harm: Permanent Hearing Damage

Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Frequent (5) = High (25) Controls

• Ensure all personnel wear appropriate hearing protection, such as earplugs or earmuffs, when operating or working near the boom pump.
• Conduct regular maintenance on the boom pump to minimise noise levels by ensuring all components are functioning correctly.
• Position noise barriers or acoustic screens around the work area to reduce noise exposure to nearby workers.
• Limit the time workers spend near the boom pump by rotating tasks to reduce prolonged noise exposure.
• Provide training for workers on the risks of noise exposure and the importance of using hearing protection.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Struck-by Hazards : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Boom Pump Operators | Construction Workers | Site Supervisors

Type of harm: Amputation | Broken Bones | Crush / Entrapment | Cuts and Abrasions | Death | Head Injury

Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Frequent (5) = High (25) Controls

• Ensure all personnel are trained in the safe operation of the boom pump and understand the potential struck-by hazards.
• Establish and maintain a clear exclusion zone around the boom pump operation area to prevent unauthorised access.
• Utilise spotters to guide the boom operator and ensure clear communication between all team members.
• Conduct regular inspections and maintenance of the boom pump to ensure all components are functioning correctly and safely.
• Implement a system of hand signals or radios for effective communication between the operator and ground crew.
• Ensure that the boom is operated at a safe distance from overhead power lines and other obstructions.
• Use appropriate personal protective equipment, such as hard hats and high-visibility clothing, to enhance visibility and protection.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Overhead Power Lines : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Boom Pump Operators | Construction Workers | Site Supervisors

Type of harm: Burns | Death | Electrocution

Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Frequent (5) = High (25) Controls

• Ensure a minimum safe distance is maintained between the boom and overhead power lines, as specified by relevant regulations.
• Conduct a site survey to identify and mark the location of all overhead power lines before commencing work.
• Use a dedicated spotter to monitor the boom’s proximity to power lines during operation.
• Implement exclusion zones around power lines to prevent unauthorised personnel from entering the area.
• Equip the boom pump with proximity sensors or alarms to alert operators when approaching power lines.
• Provide training for operators and ground personnel on the risks associated with overhead power lines and safe operating procedures.
• Ensure all equipment is properly grounded to prevent electrical hazards in case of accidental contact.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

COSHH Assessment : Pouring Concrete – Boom Pump

Cement dust

Cement dust is a byproduct of handling and mixing cement, which is a key component in the production of concrete for construction purposes.

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Inhalation : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Construction workers operating the boom pump | Labourers handling and finishing concrete | Site supervisors overseeing the concrete pouring process

Type of harm: Respiratory damage / Asthma / COPD

Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Frequent (5) = High (25) Controls

• Ensure workers wear appropriate respiratory protective equipment (RPE) such as dust masks or respirators.
• Implement local exhaust ventilation systems to capture and remove airborne cement dust at the source.
• Regularly wet down surfaces and materials to minimise dust generation during handling.
• Conduct regular air monitoring to assess dust levels and ensure compliance with occupational exposure limits.
• Provide training to workers on the hazards of cement dust and proper use of control measures.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Eye Contact : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Construction workers operating the boom pump | Labourers handling concrete materials

Type of harm: Eye Damage

Initial Risk: Severe (4) x Frequent (5) = High (20) Controls

• Wear safety goggles or face shields to prevent cement dust from entering the eyes.
• Ensure eyewash stations are readily accessible in areas where cement dust is present.
• Implement dust suppression methods, such as water sprays, to minimise airborne dust.
• Provide training on proper handling techniques to reduce the risk of eye exposure.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Skin Contact : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Construction workers handling concrete | Boom pump operators | Labourers assisting with concrete placement

Type of harm: Burns | Dermatitis

Initial Risk: Severe (4) x Occasional (3) = Medium (12) Controls

• Workers should wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves and long-sleeved clothing, to prevent direct skin contact with cement dust.
• Barrier creams should be applied to exposed skin areas to provide an additional layer of protection against cement dust.
• Regularly wash hands and any exposed skin with soap and water to remove any cement dust promptly.
• Provide access to washing facilities with running water and soap at the worksite for immediate decontamination.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

Silica dust

Silica dust is not intentionally used but is a byproduct generated during the handling and processing of materials containing crystalline silica, such as concrete.

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Inhalation : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Construction workers operating the boom pump | Labourers working in close proximity to the concrete pour | Site supervisors overseeing the concrete pouring process

Type of harm: Asbestosis / Lung Cancer / Mesothelioma | Respiratory damage / Asthma / COPD

Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Occasional (3) = Medium (15) Controls

• Use water suppression techniques to minimise airborne silica dust during operations.
• Ensure all workers wear appropriate respiratory protective equipment (RPE) with a suitable protection factor.
• Implement local exhaust ventilation systems to capture and remove silica dust at the source.
• Conduct regular air monitoring to assess silica dust levels and ensure compliance with exposure limits.
• Provide training for workers on the hazards of silica dust and proper use of control measures.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

Diesel exhaust emissions

Diesel exhaust emissions are a by-product of the combustion process in diesel engines, used to power the boom pump during concrete pouring operations.

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Inhalation : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Boom pump operators | Construction workers on site | Nearby site personnel

Type of harm: Asbestosis / Lung Cancer / Mesothelioma | Asphyxia | Respiratory damage / Asthma / COPD | Smoke Inhalation

Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Occasional (3) = Medium (15) Controls

• Ensure proper ventilation in the work area to disperse diesel fumes.
• Position the boom pump exhaust away from workers and enclosed spaces.
• Implement a regular maintenance schedule for equipment to minimise emissions.
• Provide respiratory protective equipment to workers when necessary.
• Limit the time workers spend near diesel exhaust sources.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Eye Contact : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Boom pump operators | Construction workers in proximity to the pump

Type of harm: Eye Damage

Initial Risk: Major (3) x Probable (4) = Medium (12) Controls

• Ensure that all workers wear safety goggles or face shields to protect against diesel exhaust emissions.
• Position the boom pump exhaust away from workers’ line of sight to minimise exposure.
• Implement regular maintenance of equipment to prevent excessive emissions and leaks.
• Establish designated safe zones for workers, away from exhaust emission points.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Skin Contact : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Equipment operators | Maintenance personnel | Construction workers

Type of harm: Burns | Dermatitis

Initial Risk: Severe (4) x Frequent (5) = High (20) Controls

• Wear protective gloves to prevent direct contact with diesel emissions.
• Use barrier creams to provide an additional layer of skin protection.
• Implement regular handwashing protocols to remove any diesel residue.
• Provide training on safe handling and potential hazards of diesel emissions.
• Ensure proper maintenance of equipment to minimise leaks and spills.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

Toolbox Talk : Pouring Concrete – Boom Pump

Introduction

The process of pouring concrete using a boom pump involves the utilisation of an articulating boom and pump system to efficiently deliver concrete to a specified location on a construction site. This method is particularly advantageous for reaching areas that are difficult to access with traditional concrete pouring techniques. The primary aim of this operation is to ensure the precise and controlled placement of concrete, thereby facilitating the construction of robust and durable structures. The procedure requires careful coordination and adherence to safety protocols to mitigate potential hazards and ensure the safety of all personnel involved.

Hazards

The primary hazards associated with pouring concrete using a boom pump include the risk of falls from height when operating on elevated platforms, and the potential for crush injuries from the moving parts of the boom. Workers may also be exposed to concrete dust, which poses respiratory risks, and there is a danger of musculoskeletal injuries from manual handling of heavy equipment and materials. Electrical hazards are present, with the possibility of electric shock from the pump’s electrical components. Additionally, wet or uneven surfaces can lead to slips, trips, and falls. Noise exposure from the operation of the boom pump can result in hearing damage, and there is a risk of burns from contact with hot surfaces or materials during the process.

Pouring Concrete – Boom Pump : Rules

• Do conduct a pre-operation inspection of the boom pump and associated equipment.
• Do ensure all operators are trained and competent in the use of the boom pump.
• Do wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including hard hats, safety goggles, gloves, high-visibility clothing, and hearing protection.
• Do establish a clear communication protocol among all team members involved in the operation.
• Do set up barriers and warning signs to restrict access to the work area and protect bystanders.
• Do ensure the boom pump is positioned on stable, level ground to prevent tipping.
• Do maintain a safe distance from overhead power lines to avoid electrical hazards.
• Do regularly check for leaks or blockages in the pump lines and address them promptly.
• Do monitor weather conditions, particularly wind speed, which may affect the stability of the boom.
• Do ensure that all safety devices and emergency stop functions are operational before commencing work.

Pouring Concrete – Boom Pump : Warnings

• Do not operate the boom pump without proper training and authorisation.
• Do not position the boom pump near overhead power lines to avoid electrical hazards.
• Do not stand under the boom or in the path of the concrete delivery line.
• Do not exceed the load capacity of the boom pump.
• Do not ignore personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements, such as hard hats, gloves, and eye protection.
• Do not allow unauthorised personnel within the designated work area.
• Do not leave the boom pump unattended while in operation.
• Do not use damaged or defective equipment; report any faults immediately.
• Do not attempt to clear blockages in the delivery line while the pump is operational.
• Do not work on wet or slippery surfaces without taking appropriate precautions to prevent slips and falls.

Induction Record

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