Truck mounted concrete pumps

Truck-mounted concrete boom pumps are widely and effectively used to deliver concrete in construction.   While pumping concrete substantially reduces manual handling of the product, it carries its own hazards and risks that need to be considered. 

Pre-engagement checks

Can the concrete contractor provided evidence of a safe system of work?

This should include evidence of the following:

• the contractor carries out site-specific risk assessments prior to commencing work,
• there is a documented risk assessment for the specific type of plant,
• documented safe work method statements
• documented emergency plan
• plant maintenance, inspections and tests carried out regularly as per manufacturer’s recommendations. This should include records of regular inspections, major inspections, thickness tests and crack tests.
• training of workers into the SWMS and other safety requirements, e.g., concrete delivery, traffic management, line and pump cleaning, emergency procedures.
• the plant is registered (plant design registration and item registration) as required by the local workplace health and safety authority
• road vehicle registration and transport permits (if required)
• driver licence 
• operator High Risk Work licence
• construction induction card (White Card).

Operator prestart checks

The pump operator should verify the following prior to operating the equipment:

• prestart visual inspection and function tests are carried out as per manufacturer’s instructions to ensure the plant is in a sound operating condition 
• the plant operator’s logbook is up to date and filled out correctly
• scheduled maintenance, inspections and test are up to date and logbooks are available
• all the required safety equipment is available, including PPE, bollards/traffic cones/signs, fire extinguisher and first aid kit
• all equipment manuals and safe operating instructions are available on site
• SWMSs have been reviewed to include hazards specific to the site
• an emergency plan is in place 
• safety observer/ spotter available, where required
• all workers have been inducted into the site safety procedures, SWMSs and emergency plan
• the location is suitable for setting up the pump in accordance with the SWMS, manufacturer’s instructions and safe operating procedures.

Site supervisor checks

• all above checks have been verified and any deficiencies addressed
• safety zones or exclusion zones are adequate
• there enough trained and competent workers available to safely use the equipment
• the contractor has adequate arrangements for supervision to ensure safe systems of work are followed
• traffic management arrangements and any required permits are in place.

For further information contact your local workplace health and safety authority.