Brick and Block Laying Works: Health and Safety Checklist
1. Pre-Work Planning
- Risk Assessment: Conduct a comprehensive risk assessment specific to brick and block laying tasks.
- Method Statement: Prepare a detailed method statement outlining safe work procedures.
- Permits and Authorisations: Ensure all necessary permits and authorisations are obtained.
2. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Head Protection: Hard hats to be worn at all times on site.
- Eye Protection: Safety goggles to protect against dust and debris.
- Hand Protection: Gloves to safeguard against cuts and abrasions.
- Foot Protection: Steel-toed boots to prevent foot injuries.
- Hearing Protection: Ear defenders if noise levels exceed safe limits.
- Respiratory Protection: Dust masks or respirators as required.
3. Site Setup
- Access and Egress: Ensure clear, unobstructed access to and from the work area.
- Scaffolding and Platforms: Verify that all scaffolding and platforms are securely erected and inspected.
- Lighting: Provide adequate lighting for all work areas, particularly in low-light conditions.
- Signage: Display clear signage indicating hazards, PPE requirements, and emergency procedures.
4. Manual Handling
- Training: Ensure all workers are trained in proper manual handling techniques.
- Lifting Aids: Use mechanical lifting aids where possible to minimise manual handling.
- Team Lifting: For heavy or awkward loads, implement team lifting procedures.
5. Working at Height
- Fall Protection: Use appropriate fall protection systems (e.g., guardrails, harnesses) when working at height.
- Inspections: Regularly inspect ladders, scaffolds, and fall protection equipment for defects.
6. Tools and Equipment
- Inspection: Inspect all tools and equipment before use to ensure they are in good working condition.
- Maintenance: Regularly maintain tools and equipment according to manufacturer’s guidelines.
- Safe Use: Follow manufacturer instructions and site-specific guidelines for safe operation.
7. Hazardous Substances
- COSHH Assessment: Conduct a Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) assessment for any hazardous materials.
- Storage and Labelling: Store hazardous substances properly and ensure they are clearly labelled.
- Handling Procedures: Follow safe handling procedures to avoid exposure.
8. Emergency Preparedness
- First Aid: Ensure first aid facilities are available and accessible, with trained personnel on site.
- Fire Safety: Provide appropriate fire extinguishers and ensure workers are trained in their use.
- Emergency Exits: Clearly mark emergency exits and ensure they are free of obstructions.
- Emergency Procedures: Communicate emergency procedures to all workers and conduct regular drills.
9. Environmental Considerations
- Waste Management: Implement waste management protocols to safely dispose of debris and materials.
- Dust Control: Use water suppression or dust extraction systems to minimise dust.
- Noise Control: Implement noise control measures to protect workers and the surrounding environment.
10. Monitoring and Review
- Site Inspections: Conduct regular site inspections to ensure compliance with health and safety standards.
- Incident Reporting: Implement a system for reporting and investigating incidents and near-misses.
- Continuous Improvement: Regularly review and update safety procedures and protocols based on feedback and incident reports.
References
- Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
- Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015
- Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002
- Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992
By adhering to this checklist, brick and block laying works can be conducted safely, ensuring compliance with UK legislation and protecting the health and well-being of all workers on site.
For an article on Risk Assessments for brick and blockwork work please check this article
We have a professional pack of documents available at our sister site this pack contains:-
Method statement for bricklaying and blockwork
Risk Assessment for bricklaying and blockwork
Risk Assessment for Working With Cement Mixers
Risk Assessment for Manual Handling
Risk Assessment for Work at Height
Risk Assessment for Abrasive Wheels (cutting & grinding)
COSHH Assessment for Silica Sand
COSHH Assessment for Cement OPC (Ordinary Portland Cement)
Blank Method Statement Template
Blank Risk Assessment Template
Risk Assessment for slips, trips and falls
Click HERE to access this pack
