Concrete core drilling is when you remove a core or cylinder of concrete from its structure for many purposes. Construction crews will use this equipment for installing plumbing, electrical, HVAC, drainage, sewer holes, and other applications. It might sound like a simple task to enact. However, there are dangers that come with using heavy equipment in construction. Use our safety tips for proper concrete core drilling to ensure everyone is cautious and safe.
Choose the Right Drilling Method
Concrete is not the only material that people use with core drilling. Ensure you understand how core drilling works in construction because you will use various drilling methods depending on your application. Some methods include wet core drilling, dry drilling, and inverted drilling. For example, if you’re drilling to install electrical work, you must choose the dry drilling method to ensure no water mixes with electricity. This keeps everyone safe.
Use the Correct Drill Bit and Stand Attachment
The drill bit is the equipment component that does the most work because it’s what is cutting through the concrete. Using a drill bit that isn’t strong enough to withstand cutting through concrete will endanger the equipment operator. Never use the incorrect bit and force the equipment to perform a job it cannot do. Otherwise, you’ll run into hazards.
Additionally, the stand attachment is crucial to use because it ensures safety. Not all jobs proceed on a flat surface. Therefore, construction personnel sometimes need to mount the drill with stand attachments to keep it stable while core drilling. In conjunction with stands, you might also use safety chains to thwart the risk of the equipment slipping away.
Be Mindful of Tripping or Falling Hazards
Slips, trips, and falls are common causes of injuries on a construction site. Because of this, you must be mindful of where on the work site you could encounter these hazards. To help eliminate these dangers, follow a few simple steps. Never leave tools lying on the ground, clear main walkways, provide handrails in areas with poor balance, and cover exposed cables.
Always Wear Personal Protective Equipment
This safety tip for concrete core drilling is the most crucial, no matter what you’re doing on a construction site. Wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) is paramount for stopping and avoiding injuries. Always wear your hard hat, steel-toed boots, protective glasses, etc. Specifically for core drilling, you might consider wearing a mask or ventilator since this task will kick up lots of dust and debris.
Many of the safety measures you take for concrete core drilling are standard for many construction applications. However, each type of equipment you use is different. Therefore, it may require different safety standards. Follow the advice here to avoid injury and hazards during concrete core drilling.
