Method Statement : Prepare Area for Repointing Work

Explanation

The preparation of an area for repointing work involves a series of methodical steps designed to ensure the integrity and safety of the structure while safeguarding the health and safety of the workforce. This process includes setting up appropriate access, such as scaffolding, to facilitate safe and efficient work at height. The task requires the careful raking out of old or loose pointing material, followed by its proper disposal to prevent environmental contamination and maintain a tidy worksite. Subsequently, the area is meticulously brushed to remove any residual debris, ensuring a clean surface for the new pointing material. Finally, the surface is dampened with water to optimise adhesion and minimise dust generation, thereby enhancing the quality and durability of the repointing work.

Responsibilities

• Site Supervisor: Ensure all safety protocols are followed and oversee the setup of access equipment.
• Scaffolder: Erect and inspect scaffolding to ensure it is safe and secure for use.
• Labourer: Rake out old or loose pointing and dispose of debris in accordance with waste management procedures.
• Cleaner: Brush the area to remove residue and ensure a clean surface for further work.
• Water Technician: Dampen the prepared area with water to minimise dust and prepare the surface for repointing.

Equipment

• Scaffold
• Ladder
• Trowel
• Hammer and chisel
• Wire brush
• Dustpan and brush
• Bucket
• Hose or spray bottle
• Safety helmet
• Safety goggles
• Dust mask or respirator
• Ear protection
• Gloves
• High-visibility vest
• Steel-toe boots

Operation

• Conduct a risk assessment to identify potential hazards and implement control measures.
• Ensure all personnel are trained and competent in the tasks they are to perform.
• Verify that all necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) is available and in good condition.
• Inspect the work area for any existing hazards, such as loose debris or uneven surfaces, and address them accordingly.
• Erect scaffolding by a competent person, ensuring it is stable, level, and securely anchored.
• Install guardrails and toe boards on the scaffolding to prevent falls and falling objects.
• Ensure safe access to the scaffolding, such as ladders or stair towers.
• Use appropriate tools to rake out old or loose pointing, ensuring they are in good condition.
• Wear suitable PPE, including safety goggles, gloves, and dust masks, during the raking process.
• Work methodically to remove only the loose or deteriorated mortar without damaging the brickwork.
• Collect all removed mortar and debris in designated containers or bags for disposal.
• Dispose of waste in accordance with local regulations and site-specific waste management procedures.
• Use a stiff-bristled brush to remove any remaining dust or loose particles from the joints.
• Lightly dampen the area with water using a low-pressure hose or spray bottle, ensuring not to saturate the brickwork.
• Confirm that the water source is safe and free from contaminants.
• Maintain a clean work area by regularly removing debris to prevent trip hazards.
• Secure the work area with appropriate signage and barriers to prevent unauthorised access.
• Establish a clear communication plan among team members, including emergency procedures.
• Ensure that a first aid kit is readily accessible and that personnel are aware of its location.

Risk Assessment : Prepare Area for Repointing Work

Who might be harmed: Construction Workers | Scaffolders | Site Supervisors

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

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

• Ensure scaffolding is erected by a competent person and inspected before use to provide a stable working platform.
• Use guardrails and toe boards on scaffolding to prevent falls and falling objects.
• Provide workers with appropriate personal protective equipment, such as harnesses, when working at height.
• Ensure ladders are secured and positioned correctly, maintaining three points of contact at all times.
• Implement a safe access and egress plan to and from the work area at height.
• Conduct a risk assessment to identify potential hazards and implement control measures before commencing work.
• Provide training for workers on safe working practises at height and emergency procedures.

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

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Manual Handling : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Construction Workers | Labourers | Maintenance Personnel | Subcontractors

Type of harm: Back / Spinal Injury | Broken Bones | Crush / Entrapment | Cuts and Abrasions | Muscular Injury

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

• Ensure all workers are trained in proper lifting techniques to minimise the risk of injury.
• Use mechanical aids, such as trolleys or hoists, to transport heavy materials whenever possible.
• Plan the work area layout to minimise the need for manual handling by positioning materials close to where they are needed.
• Encourage team lifting for heavy or awkward loads to distribute weight evenly among workers.
• Conduct a risk assessment to identify potential manual handling hazards and implement appropriate controls.
• Rotate tasks among workers to prevent repetitive strain injuries from prolonged manual handling activities.
• Ensure that all pathways are clear of obstacles to facilitate safe movement of materials and equipment.

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

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Dust Inhalation : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Construction Workers | Site Supervisors | Nearby Personnel

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

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

• Workers should wear appropriate respiratory protective equipment (RPE) such as a dust mask or respirator that meets the required safety standards.
• Use water suppression techniques to dampen the area and minimise dust generation during raking and brushing activities.
• Ensure adequate ventilation in the work area to disperse dust particles effectively.
• Implement local exhaust ventilation (LEV) systems to capture and remove dust at the source.
• Conduct regular air monitoring to assess dust levels and ensure they remain within safe limits.
• Provide training to workers on the hazards of dust inhalation and the correct use of control measures.

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: Construction Workers | Site Supervisors | Nearby Personnel

Type of harm: Permanent Hearing Damage

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

• Ensure all workers wear appropriate hearing protection, such as earplugs or earmuffs, when operating noisy equipment.
• Schedule noisy tasks during times when fewer workers are present to minimise overall exposure.
• Regularly maintain and service equipment to ensure it operates at the lowest possible noise levels.
• Use noise-dampening materials or barriers around machinery to reduce sound levels in the work area.
• Provide training to workers on the risks of noise exposure and the correct use of hearing protection.

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

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Sharp Tools : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Construction Workers | Maintenance Personnel

Type of harm: Cuts and Abrasions

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

• Ensure all workers are trained in the correct use and handling of tools to prevent accidental cuts or abrasions.
• Provide appropriate personal protective equipment, such as cut-resistant gloves, to minimise the risk of injury.
• Regularly inspect tools for damage or wear and replace any that are not in good condition.
• Implement a tool management system to ensure tools are stored safely when not in use.
• Establish a clear work area to prevent distractions and ensure focus when using sharp tools.

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: Construction Workers | Site Supervisors | Visitors to the Site | Delivery Personnel | Subcontractors

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

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

• Ensure all debris and loose materials are promptly cleared from the work area to maintain a tidy environment.
• Use appropriate signage to warn of uneven surfaces or potential trip hazards in the vicinity.
• Inspect and maintain scaffolding and ladders to ensure they are stable and secure before use.
• Provide adequate lighting in the work area to enhance visibility and identify potential hazards.
• Ensure that all cables and hoses are routed safely to prevent them from becoming trip hazards.
• Wear appropriate footwear with non-slip soles to reduce the risk of slipping on wet or uneven surfaces.
• Conduct a pre-work inspection to identify and address any potential slip, trip, or fall hazards.

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: Construction Workers | Electricians | Site Supervisors | Maintenance Personnel

Type of harm: Burns | Death | Electrocution

Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Probable (4) = High (20) Controls

• Ensure all electrical equipment and tools are inspected and tested for safety before use.
• Use only battery-operated or low-voltage tools to minimise the risk of electric shock.
• Keep all electrical cords and equipment away from water or damp areas during preparation work.
• Ensure that all workers are trained in the safe use of electrical equipment and aware of potential hazards.
• Implement a lockout/tagout system to ensure that any electrical sources are de-energised before work begins.
• Maintain a safe distance from overhead power lines when setting up scaffolding or accessing elevated areas.

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

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Eye Injuries : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Construction Workers | Contractors or Subcontractors

Type of harm: Eye Damage

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

• Ensure all personnel wear safety goggles or face shields to protect against flying debris during raking and brushing activities.
• Position barriers or screens around the work area to contain dust and debris.
• Provide training on the correct use of tools to minimise the risk of creating excessive debris.
• Conduct regular inspections of personal protective equipment to ensure it is in good condition and fit for purpose.
• Implement a clean-as-you-go policy to reduce the accumulation of loose materials that could become airborne.

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

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Chemical Exposure : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Construction Workers | Site Supervisors

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

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

• Ensure that all workers wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves and goggles, to prevent skin and eye contact with chemicals.
• Provide adequate ventilation in the work area to disperse any harmful fumes or vapours.
• Use only approved and labelled chemicals, following the manufacturer’s instructions for safe use.
• Implement proper storage procedures for chemicals to prevent accidental spills or leaks.
• Train workers on the potential hazards of chemicals used and the correct handling procedures.
• Establish an emergency response plan for chemical spills, including access to spill kits and first aid.

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

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Water Hazards : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Construction Workers | Site Supervisors | Maintenance Personnel

Type of harm: Cold / Pneumonia | Drowning

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

• Ensure that the work area is well-drained to prevent water accumulation and slippery surfaces.
• Use non-slip footwear to reduce the risk of slipping on damp surfaces.
• Clearly mark and cordon off wet areas to alert workers to potential slip hazards.
• Regularly inspect and maintain equipment to prevent water leaks or spills.
• Provide adequate lighting to ensure visibility of wet areas and potential hazards.

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

COSHH Assessment : Prepare Area for Repointing Work

Silica dust

Silica dust is not an intended substance for use; rather, it is a by-product generated during the cutting, grinding, or drilling of materials such as concrete, brick, and mortar.

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Inhalation : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Construction workers | Site supervisors | Nearby workers from other trades

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

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

• Use water suppression techniques to minimise airborne dust during raking out.
• Provide and enforce the use of appropriate respiratory protective equipment (RPE).
• Implement local exhaust ventilation systems to capture dust at the source.
• Conduct regular air monitoring to ensure dust levels remain below occupational exposure limits.
• Ensure proper training for workers on the hazards of silica dust and control measures.
• Establish designated clean areas for breaks to prevent inhalation of dust.

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

Type of harm: Eye Damage

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

• Workers should wear safety goggles or face shields to prevent silica dust from entering the eyes.
• Ensure proper ventilation or use dust extraction systems to minimise airborne silica dust.
• Implement wet methods to suppress dust generation during raking and brushing tasks.
• Provide training on the correct use and maintenance of personal protective equipment.

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 | Maintenance personnel

Type of harm: Dermatitis

Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Probable (4) = High (20) Controls

• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as long-sleeved clothing and gloves, to prevent direct skin contact with silica dust.
• Use barrier creams to provide an additional layer of protection on exposed skin areas.
• Implement proper hygiene practises, including washing hands and exposed skin thoroughly after handling materials containing silica dust.
• Ensure work areas are regularly cleaned to minimise dust accumulation on surfaces that may come into contact with skin.

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

Cement dust

Cement dust is generated during the handling and mixing of cement-based materials used to prepare surfaces for repointing work.

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Inhalation : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Construction workers directly involved in the preparation work. | Nearby workers on site.

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

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

• Use appropriate respiratory protective equipment (RPE) such as a P2 or P3 mask to prevent inhalation of cement dust.
• Implement local exhaust ventilation systems to capture and remove airborne dust at the source.
• Dampen surfaces with water before and during work to minimise dust generation.
• Ensure regular maintenance and cleaning of work areas to prevent dust accumulation.
• Limit the time workers are exposed to dusty environments by rotating tasks.
• Conduct air monitoring to assess dust levels and ensure compliance with occupational exposure limits.

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 | Site supervisors

Type of harm: Eye Damage

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

• Workers should wear safety goggles or face shields to prevent cement dust from entering the eyes.
• Ensure that eyewash stations are readily accessible in the work area for immediate use.
• Implement dust suppression methods, such as dampening surfaces, 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 | Labourers | Maintenance personnel | Clean-up crew

Type of harm: Dermatitis

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

• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves and long-sleeved clothing, to prevent direct skin contact with cement dust.
• Use barrier creams to provide an additional layer of protection on exposed skin areas.
• Implement proper hygiene practises, including washing hands and exposed skin with soap and water after handling cement dust.
• Provide training on the correct use and disposal of personal protective equipment to ensure effective protection.
• Ensure that work areas are equipped with washing facilities to allow for immediate cleaning of skin if contact occurs.

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

Asbestos (if present in older buildings)

Asbestos, if present in older buildings, was historically used for its fire-resistant and insulating properties.

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Inhalation : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Construction workers | Site supervisors | Nearby workers from other trades | Maintenance personnel

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

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

• Conduct an asbestos survey to identify and assess the presence of asbestos before commencing work.
• Use appropriate respiratory protective equipment (RPE) that is fit-tested and suitable for asbestos fibres.
• Implement wet methods to suppress dust during the removal of old pointing.
• Establish an exclusion zone with clear signage to prevent unauthorised access.
• Ensure proper ventilation in the work area to reduce airborne fibre concentration.
• Provide training for workers on safe handling and emergency procedures related to asbestos exposure.
• Regularly monitor air quality to ensure fibre levels remain below permissible limits.

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

Toolbox Talk : Prepare Area for Repointing Work

Introduction

The preparation of an area for repointing work involves a series of methodical steps designed to ensure the integrity and safety of the structure while safeguarding the health and safety of the workforce. This process includes setting up appropriate access, such as scaffolding, to facilitate safe and efficient work at height. The task requires the careful raking out of old or loose pointing material, followed by its proper disposal to prevent environmental contamination and maintain a tidy worksite. Subsequently, the area is meticulously brushed to remove any residual debris, ensuring a clean surface for the new pointing material. Finally, the surface is dampened with water to optimise adhesion and minimise dust generation, thereby enhancing the quality and durability of the repointing work.

Hazards

The preparation area for repointing work presents several hazards that must be carefully managed to ensure the safety of all personnel involved. The erection and use of scaffolding pose risks of falls from height, which necessitates proper installation and use of fall protection measures. The process of raking out old or loose pointing can generate dust, potentially containing hazardous materials such as silica, which requires appropriate respiratory protection and dust control measures. Manual handling of tools and materials can lead to musculoskeletal injuries if not performed with correct techniques. Additionally, the use of sharp tools for raking out mortar presents a risk of cuts or abrasions. The disposal of debris must be conducted safely to prevent trips and slips, while brushing to remove residue can further contribute to airborne dust hazards. Finally, dampening the area with water introduces the potential for slips, necessitating caution and the use of non-slip footwear.

Prepare Area for Repointing Work : Rules

• Do conduct a risk assessment prior to commencing work to identify potential hazards.
• Do ensure all personnel are trained and competent in the tasks they are performing.
• Do wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including dust masks, gloves, safety goggles, and hard hats.
• Do inspect scaffolding for stability and secure assembly before use.
• Do ensure that all tools and equipment are in good working condition and suitable for the task.
• Do maintain a clean and organised work area to prevent trips and falls.
• Do use dust suppression methods, such as dampening surfaces, to minimise airborne particles.
• Do follow safe manual handling techniques when lifting or moving materials.
• Do ensure proper ventilation when working in confined spaces.
• Do communicate effectively with team members to coordinate tasks and ensure safety.
• Do dispose of waste materials in accordance with local regulations and environmental guidelines.
• Do regularly monitor the work environment for any changes in conditions or new hazards.

Prepare Area for Repointing Work : Warnings

• Do not commence work without a thorough risk assessment and method statement.
• Do not use damaged or unstable scaffolding; ensure it is erected by a competent person.
• Do not work at height without appropriate fall protection measures in place.
• Do not handle materials or equipment without wearing suitable personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves, goggles, and dust masks.
• Do not ignore the presence of hazardous materials; ensure proper identification and handling procedures are followed.
• Do not leave tools or debris scattered, as this may create trip hazards.
• Do not use electrical equipment near water sources without ensuring it is properly insulated and grounded.
• Do not dispose of waste materials improperly; follow site-specific waste management protocols.
• Do not work in poorly ventilated areas without adequate ventilation or respiratory protection.
• Do not rush tasks; ensure all safety procedures are followed diligently to prevent accidents.

Induction Record

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Subject:	Risk Assessment and Method Statement : Prepare Area for Repointing Work	Tutor:
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