Concrete Repair Safety FAQs

Undertaking repairs on concrete surfaces and structures requires an individual to have a basic understanding of the safety precautions that need to be taken to reduce the likelihood of physical injury. Discussed below is vital information about concrete repair safety provided in question and answer format for the benefit of those undertaking DIY concrete repairs.

What Is The Effect Of Fresh Concrete Getting Into Contact With Skin?

Anyone looking to undertake DIY concrete repairs is advised to prevent all forms of contact between their skin and fresh concrete. This is because the individual's skin is bound to get severely irritated upon exposure to fresh concrete.

Skin irritation when undertaking concrete repairs is caused by the various components that make up the concrete. For example, fresh concrete contains coarse sand which has an abrasive effect on human skin. Some cement mixtures such as caustic concrete are strong bases. Exposure to such strong bases during concrete repairs can have a burning effect on skin.

Portland cement that is almost dry has a high affinity to water. This is because Portland cement cannot harden in the absence of water. As such, Portland cement will absorb water from any surface it comes into contact with and this includes human skin. Contact between concrete and the individual's skin can be prevented by wearing long pants, waterproof gloves and long-sleeved shirts when undertaking repairs.

What Are The Potential Risks Of Using Power Tools During Concrete Repairs?

Undertaking DIY concrete repairs may require an individual to use different types of power tools. This exposes the individual to the risk of different types of injury.

Pneumatic power tools are commonly used for concrete repairs. Injury when using pneumatic power tools commonly occurs as a result of damage to the tool's air hose. This leads to involuntary whipping of the hose which sends hammer bits flying across the work area.

Electrically powered repair tools expose DIY concrete repair enthusiasts to the risk of electrocution. This often results from damaged electric cords (cracked or frayed). It may also result from a lack of proper insulation and use of electric tools when standing on wet ground.

Power tools that run on gasoline expose the user to the risk of explosive conditions. This is due to the highly explosive nature of the fuel that powers such tools. Gasoline shouldn't be allowed to spill on hot surfaces and related fumes shouldn't be allowed to accumulate within the work area. Gasoline-powered tools should also be refuelled away from potential sources of heat.