Preparing to pour a driveway

About this guide

You can adapt this example to your own job and help create a safer working environment.

One in three injuries on construction sites involves everyday tools and equipment. So make sure you don't take shortcuts with your gear and use the right tools for the job.

Take time to prepare your site. Stop, Step back, and Think.

Stop

What job needs to be done? Do I have the right tools?

What's the job?

Pour a driveway for a renovated home.

List the tools you need

• concrete line pump (hired)
• circular saw
• nail gun
• reo mesh
• bar chairs
• shovels
• screeds

Step back

Take a moment to ask:

Where is the job located?

At an inner city suburban home.

How long will the job take?

3 days.

How many tradies do I need?

4 concreters.

What do I have to do?

1. Erect the formwork.
2. Lay the mesh.
3. Pour and screed concrete.
4. Remove the formwork.

Will the work impact on others?

Yes. The road will be occupied all day by the concrete line pump and with trucks delivering concrete. Traffic management will be needed to control pedestrians and traffic around the work area.

What hazards need to be fixed before I start?

Arrange a traffic controller to be onsite during delivery.

Think

Make sure your equipment is in safe working order. Know what to do when arriving on site.

Are the tools in good condition and appropriate to the task?

• Make sure the nail guns are serviced regularly according to manufacturer's specifications.
• Power leads and tools should be tested and tagged to ensure they are in good condition.
• Check that the safety guards are fitted and working properly on all tools.

Are safety guards fitted and working properly?

The saw has a guard fitted but the return guard jams open.

Do I have all the right tools and equipment for the job?

No.

What do I need to do before I'm on site?

• Get the circular saw guard repaired or replaced.
• Organise a traffic management company to develop and implement a traffic management plan for the delivery process.

What do I need to do when I arrive on site?

• Set up traffic management.
• Review and revise the Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) for high risk work
• Induct employees onsite into the SWMS.

Check Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• hearing protection
• eye protection
• protective gloves
• gumboots