Concrete Cutting Safety: What to Watch Out For
If there is anything under the concrete, such as water pipes, electrical wires or supports, the risk of accident and injury is high.
As a building material, concrete is one of the longest lasting and most versatile options available. Ancient buildings made from concrete stand to this day, proving its ability to stand the tests of time. However, in the case that it must be removed, repaired, or modified, it can create a unique problem for the untrained. If there is anything under the concrete, such as water pipes, electrical wires or supports, the risk of accident and injury is high. Learning about the risks and knowing the potential for danger will help create a culture of safety.
Utilities
There is a huge range of opportunities for threat when utility lines are damaged. If you hit a water, sewer, natural gas, or power line the potential risks and damages are very high. Not only can you cause a loss of service, interior or exterior damage added expenses due to repairs, and most significant injury to anyone nearby. These utilities are often buried under concrete, which is why it’s always essential to double check before you begin any removal or construction.
Rebar
As a reinforcement tool to make concrete stronger, it often has embedded wire mesh or bars made from carbon steel, stainless steel, carbon fiber, or glass fiber. These help to reinforce the concretes tensile strength and make it more able to withstand damage. Not only can accidentally cutting into this material cause personal injury, but it can also greatly damage and destroy construction materials resulting in costly repairs or replacements.
Post and Pre-Tension Cable
As with rebar, pre and post-tension cables can be added to concrete before it is poured to help improve its strength and longevity. Because these cables are usually under significant tension, they can cause severe injuries and even death when snapped. If a taut cable is cut unintentionally, it can also cause the loss of structural integrity of an entire structure.
Prioritize Employee Safety with G&M Services
G&M Services is proud of our employees and the dedication they have for safety in the workplace. We reward our employees for displaying positive safety practices. We incorporate weekly and monthly discussions and meeting to ensure that all involved are aware of how to handle equipment and potential situations that could occur during a project.
G&M Services offers services in the way of concrete drilling and sawing, concrete scanning, and FireStop. To get started with us, call today at 410-787-8828 or visit our contact page. Follow the official company page today on Google+, Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
