Every person on the job site should understand the hazards that can occur when air is compressed in the hose of a concrete pumping truck. Following proper safety guidelines enables a safe, successful, and profitable concrete pour.
Hose whipping accidents are one of the most common accidents associated with operating a concrete pump. Higher horsepower and pump pressures are available in today’s pumping equipment; air can momentarily be trapped, compressed, and then released in the delivery system, causing hose whippings.
Air can be introduced into the delivery system by various means:
- When the pump is started initially
- When restarting the pump after a move that allows the concrete level to fall below the valve
- When removing a blockage or allowing concrete to free fall after the pump is shut off
To Avoid Hose Whipping Injury
- All personnel should keep a reasonable distance from the end of the delivery line until the air is exhausted from the system and the concrete is free flowing.
- If 10 feet of rubber hose is attached to a pipeline, personnel standing more than 10 feet away from the point of attachment are considered outside of the end-hose movement area.
- Debris coming from the hose during the release of trapped compressed air also can be a hazard, so personnel should always wear protective equipment such as a hard hat and eye protection.
- Do not allow air to be compressed.
Compressed air creates stored energy and creates a hazard. - When every person on the job understands what can occur when air is compressed in the hose, and the proper precautions are taken, a successful and profitable concrete pour results.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Do not forget to look for overhead lines before pumping concrete.
