Health & Safety

When Granitmix delivers its concrete to you, you will be asked to sign a PPE disclaimer no matter where you are – from Glasgow to Edinburgh and from Lanarkshire to the Borders. However, Granitmix wants all of its customers to be safe and so whether you’re tackling a large industrial project or a relatively straightforward DIY task, bear in mind the following tips:
 

• Watch out for hazardous ingredients: The principal constituents of cement are calcium silicates, aluminates, and sulphates. While reducing agents are added, there may still be hazardous properties and so you should always take care and ensure hands are washed thoroughly after handling.
   
• Risks from wet concrete: Wet concrete, as well as mortar and screed, are strong alkalis and contact with the skin or eyes can cause serious burns and ulceration or acute allergies. Suitable clothing should be worn including long sleeves and eye protection, as well as boots; and in the event of eye contact you should wash immediately with water and seek medical attention. Also bear in mind that long term inhalation of dust can lead to lung cancer, so wear protective masks.
   
• Risks from equipment: Bear in mind that all hand tools and equipment can be risky if not handled correctly. Make sure you read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and if the mixer truck is fitted with a conveyor or pump, set aside an adequate exclusion zone.
   
• Risks from slips, trips and lifting: Surfaces can be slippery around wet concrete and concrete is very heavy, so handle with care.

If there is any eye contact wash quickly with clean water and seek medical attention; and for ingestion wash out the mouth, drink plenty of clean water and seek medical attention. Also remember to take suitable fire precautions and accident release measures.