The biggest risk factor for plasterers and renderers is potential falls from height. All work at height must be planned, and control measures put in place to ensure that falls do not occur.
You must not alter or remove scaffolding without approval from the on-site scaffold inspector. Any altered scaffold must be replaced immediately on completion of that phase of work.
Plaster and renders contain silica. When in dust form this can be harmful to the skin, eyes and lungs.
Wet concrete is hazardous to the skin as it burns and causes damage to the cell structure.
When incorrect or inadequate PPE has been worn, it has in some cases resulted in the need for amputations.
When should PPE be worn?
- Whilst operating/filling machines – goggles, dust masks and gloves must be worn.
- When spraying with machines – goggles and gloves must be worn.
- When rubbing down – goggles and dust masks must be worn.
Plant and machinery
Only trained and competent operatives should use the concrete pumps and machinery provided.
Environmental
All plasters and cements should be disposed of and washed out only at the designated locations.
Only use designated washout areas to clean off plant and equipment as the dirty water will pollute watercourses if not disposed of properly.
Poor storage facilities, damp environments, burst bags, or leaking bulk storage systems cause potential environmental hazards, such as ground contamination and polluted watercourses.
