Ready-mix concrete is an excellent material for all kinds of applications. However, before it hardens, it poses several dangers, including potentially severe health hazards. Thankfully, you can protect your crew by following a few simple tips.

How to Stay Safe When Completing a Project With Ready-Mix Concrete

1. Use the Right Equipment

Working with wet concrete is physically demanding and can strain virtually all the muscles during a single shift. To prevent overuse injuries, make sure your crew has the tools they need to get the job done right, including hand trucks, forklifts, sturdy shovels, and wheeled carts. Additionally, instruct them to lift heavy loads with their legs, not their backs, and avoid twisting their bodies when carrying them.

2. Cover Up

Excessive or extended exposure to wet concrete can irritate the contact sites, including the eyes, nose, mouth, and skin. As such, all those who work directly with the material should wear waterproof gloves, long pants, and shirts with sleeves. They should also put on adequate eye protection and waterproof boots before getting started each day.

3. Prepare for Accidents

Even if your crew is highly trained and has all the right equipment, accidents are common. As such, you should include fully functional cleaning stations on every job site. If wet concrete or dry dust gets into your workers’ eyes, they’ll need to flush them continuously with water for at least 15 minutes at an eyewash station. Your crew will also need a soap and water station to wipe their skin after any direct contact with wet concrete. Prompt rinsing could prevent serious injuries, including chemical burns.

For quality ready-mix concrete, turn to The Dolomite Group. Based in Rochester, this wholesale supplier has been serving contractors and construction companies across upstate New York since 1920. To determine how much ready-mix concrete you’ll need for your upcoming project, visit their website or call (585) 381-7010.