Concrete Vibrator and Power Screed Safety

Talking points

1. Internal (immersion) vibrators operate in wet concrete near electrical cords and water. Use GFCI protection on all vibrator power supplies and inspect cord insulation before each use.
2. Prolonged use of vibrators causes hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS). Rotate vibrator duties among the crew and limit individual exposure time.
3. Power screeds and vibrating screeds are heavy and can cause musculoskeletal injuries. Use proper lifting technique when positioning, and have two workers handle long screed bars.
4. Keep power cords out of the wet concrete. A cord submerged in concrete is an electrocution hazard and the alkaline concrete damages insulation over time.
5. Wear rubber boots, waterproof gloves, and eye protection during concrete vibration. Concrete splashes during vibration and prolonged skin contact causes chemical burns.

Ask the crew

Are our vibrator cords in good condition and GFCI-protected — and are we rotating vibrator duties to limit vibration exposure?

Standards this talk is built on

• 29 CFR 1926.702

A toolbox talk is a short safety briefing. It supports the training a standard requires; it does not replace it.

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