The complexity of concrete cutting in Brisbane means there are many safety issues to consider before making your first cut. Without following precautions, you put yourself at risk of injury and those around you. You also want to ensure you do it right for quality results, so we've put together some guidelines for the best way to do the task.
Must Do's When Concrete Cutting
There are many possibilities for mistakes when concrete cutting; however, by following a set of guidelines, you can get it very right every time.
1. Wear Safety Gear
When undergoing any construction work, it's essential to wear safety gear. This will include items such as:
Mask
Ventilators
Protective Boots
Earplugs/ear muffs
Long-sleeves
High Vis gear
And rubber boots.
2. Time Your Time
Like any job where safety is an issue, taking a slower pace with the concrete saw will mean less chance of hurting yourself and enables you to do the delicate task correctly. When using a saw for drilling and cutting, taking small, slow cuts helps protect the blade and avoids overheating.
3. Consistent Water Flow
Water is typically used for the precision of cuts and dust reduction when concrete cutting. Guaranteeing adequate water flow is essential when employing this tool because dry blades should never be used with a wet machine.
Don'ts Attributed to Concrete Cutting
Prior to making those first cuts, being well-informed will assist in avoiding any accidents and safety concerns when cutting concrete. This guide shares what you should avoid when concrete cutting or core drilling.
1. Say No to Damaged Tools & Equipment
If you choose to use damaged tools or equipment, you are at risk because it is dangerous. When using damaged blades, your cuts will be ineffective, so we recommend always inspecting your equipment and blades before every use. Always ensure the guard for your blade is down before making your first cut.
2. Poor Ventilation
If the areas you're working in are ventilated poorly, toxins can build up and create fumes that are harmful, especially when combined with dust. Most saws run on diesel or petrol, which produces toxic fumes.
If you’re cutting concrete in an enclosed space, you must wear gear that protects you and use fans to circulate air and reduce the impact of dust if windows cannot be opened.
3. Lifting Safely
Concrete cutting equipment is quite heavy and will require a reliable and safe lowering and lifting method to steady and protect your back. Harnesses and braces are well-regarded forms of support to help your lift when undertaking your project.
Choose Safe Concrete Cutting in Brisbane
While there are many must-do's when undertaking any concrete cutting, it is best to leave it to a professional. At Precise Cut & Core, we ensure our teams wear gear that's protective, give the job the time it needs to be completed safely and provide a seamless flow of water to protect themselves, their equipment and those around them.