How Our Contractors Practice Safety with Concrete Drilling

Assuring safety is one of the most important tasks for contractors who perform concrete drilling.

Concrete drilling is a demanding task that requires careful attention to detail and, above all, a commitment to safety. At G&M Services, our contractors prioritize the health and safety of both the team and the work environment by adhering to rigorous safety protocols. Below, we outline the essential practices that help us maintain a safe workspace during every concrete drilling project.

Use Protective Gear

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is the first line of defense when working with heavy-duty tools and materials like concrete. Here’s how our contractors protect themselves:

• Eye Protection: We always wear safety goggles to prevent serious eye injuries caused by concrete chips and dust.
• Hearing Protection: Concrete drilling is noisy, and long-term exposure can damage hearing. Contractors wear earmuffs or earplugs to safeguard their ears.
• Dust Mask or Respirator: Inhaling concrete dust can lead to serious lung conditions. To protect their respiratory health, our workers always wear a dust mask or respirator.
• Heavy-duty Gloves: Drilling tools can be tough on the hands. Gloves not only provide protection but also enhance grip, helping our contractors maintain control of their tools.

Tool Inspection

A crucial part of concrete drilling safety is ensuring that all equipment is in perfect working order. Our team always takes the time to:

• Check power cords for frays or cuts to prevent electrical accidents.
• Test the drill before starting to confirm it is functioning properly.
• Inspect drill bits for cracks or excessive wear to ensure optimal performance.
• Double-check all drill settings to ensure they are correct for the task at hand.

Effective Drilling Techniques

When drilling into concrete, technique matters. Our contractors follow these best practices to reduce the risk of injury and achieve precise results:

• Start Slow: We begin at a low speed to guide the drill into the concrete, then gradually increase speed for a smooth and controlled process.
• Keep the Drill Steady: Holding the drill with both hands ensures stability, reducing the chance of slipping or making mistakes.
• Don’t Force the Drill: Forcing the drill can cause damage to the bit or lead to loss of control. Our team lets the tool do the work at its own pace.

Handle Dust and Keep the Workspace Clear

Concrete drilling generates a lot of dust, which can create hazards if not properly managed. Our contractors take the following precautions:

• Use a Dust Extractor: Many of our drills have built-in dust extraction systems to keep the worksite clear.
• Spray Water on the Concrete: Wet drilling helps reduce dust by keeping it from becoming airborne and also cools the drill bit.
• Clean Up Regularly: A clean workspace is a safe workspace. We take breaks to sweep up dust and debris, minimizing tripping hazards.

Practice Electrical Safety

Electrical hazards are a serious concern during concrete drilling. Here’s how our team stays safe:

• Use a Wire Detector: Before starting, we scan the area with a wire detector to identify hidden wiring or pipes that could be damaged.
• Mark Safe Zones: After scanning, we mark safe areas where drilling can proceed without the risk of hitting utilities.
• Shut Off Power: If electrical lines are nearby, we turn off the power to that section of the building to prevent accidents.

Manage Core Drilling

Core drilling requires additional precautions, as it involves cutting through thick, tough materials:

• Secure the Drill: A drill stand is used to keep the tool stable, which prevents wobbling and ensures precision.
• Use the Right Bit: For core drilling, we use diamond-tipped bits specifically designed for cutting through concrete.
• Manage the Water: Wet drilling is often part of core drilling. Our team ensures the water flow is controlled to avoid electrical hazards or creating a slippery surface.

Be Prepared for Anything

Accidents can happen, even with the best safety practices. That’s why our team is always prepared:

• First Aid Kit: We keep a stocked first aid kit nearby, ready to treat minor injuries like cuts or bruises.
• Fire Extinguisher: If we’re working near electrical wiring, a fire extinguisher is always on hand for emergencies.
• Emergency Contacts: All workers are trained on emergency procedures and know who to call if something goes wrong.

At G&M Services, safety is at the heart of everything we do. By following these stringent protocols, our contractors ensure that every concrete drilling project is completed safely and efficiently. Whether you’re working on a large commercial site or a smaller residential project, you can trust our team to prioritize safety every step of the way.

Keep Your Business Safe with G&M Services

G&M Services is proud of our employees and the dedication they have for safety in the workplace. We reward our employees for displaying positive safety practices. We incorporate weekly and monthly discussions and meetings to ensure that all involved know how to handle equipment and potentially risky situations during a project. We offer services in the way of concrete core-drilling and sawing, concrete scanning, Air Barriers, Firestop, and BIM Project Management and Coordination. To get started with us, call today at 410-787-8828 or visit our contact page. Follow the official company page today on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.