Following the foaming process used in the production of a foamed concrete product, a second sample was required in order to confirm the density of the material, this is not a usual occurrence.

The technician’s usual wheelbarrow for sampling had previously been used for the same load and was full of material. Therefore, a bucket was positioned beneath the truckmixer chute in order to take the sample, extensions were not added to the chute. The driver was unaware of the flowing nature of the material and, when operating the discharge controls, the concrete poured rapidly into the bucket. Due to the Technician’s positioning, he was in the line of fire and concrete splashed into his face, getting behind his safety glasses.

The site team responded quickly and after consulting COSHH documentation drove the technician to a local hospital.

The technician suffered a scratched eye, which resulted in him having to carry out restricted work duties for a short period.

Review of incident identified the following key findings

• Incorrect equipment used for sampling.
• Technician positioned in line of fire.
• To reduce interactions during the pandemic sampling procedures were changed, this change resulted in alterations to usual working practices.
• Driver was unaware of product properties

HOW COULD THIS HAVE BEEN AVOIDED?

• Carry out point of work risk assessment before a task and whenever a change occurs
• Fully inform others in working area of potential hazards
• Select correct PPE for task. Goggles may be more appropriate than safety glasses for some tasks.

KEY REVIEW POINTS

• Ensure risk assessments are up to date and fully consider hazards / changes to work practices.
• Have all relevant personnel been trained in pre task / personal risk assessments and they are carried out effectively and in accordance with the guidelines?
• Do covid-19 protocols require management of change?
• Do you know where site COSHH assessments are held? Consider ‘line of fire