Concrete

The main causes of injury are:

• Injured while handling, lifting or carrying
• Slipping, tripping or falling on the same level
• Hit by moving, flying or falling object
• Falls from a height

The main causes of occupational ill health are:

• Musculoskeletal disorders
• Skin disease, eg Dermatitis

Industry specific guidance

Respiratory risks from cutting or breaking concrete

Concrete can contain large amounts of crystalline silica. Cutting or breaking up concrete can produce airborne respirable crystalline silica (RCS). RCS is hazardous and causes silicosis, a serious lung disease causing permanent disability and early death.

Further information on how to reduce the risks can be found in:

• CN1 - Concrete scabbling
• CIS54 - Dust control on cut off saws used for stone or concrete cutting
• CIS36 - Construction dust

Pre stressing concrete

Further information on the significant risks involved with the activity of stressing concrete is available.

Strategy and targets

The Concrete Targets CT2015 scheme is an industry-wide programme to continue the improvements already made by the previous Concrete Targets Schemes. Download the brochure and complete the pledge form.

The CT2015 Commitment:

• An expectation of 'ZERO HARM' to all
• 50% reduction in Lost Time Injury Frequency Rate (LTIFR) for direct employees by 2015 (Baseline 2010)
• 50% reduction in Lost time Injuries (LTIs) for contractors by 2015 (Baseline 2010)