Whether you are cutting a concrete slab, floors or something else, it is important that you do so using the highest level of safety.
Using a concrete saw can be extremely dangerous if you are not careful while operating it.
Here are 7 tips that will ensure there are no issues once you take out your saw and begin cutting.
1. Mark Your Cuts
One thing many people don’t realise is the importance of marking each cut when you are using a concrete saw.
This is not a time to use your eye to estimate where each cut should be.
Having defined lines means that there will be no question as to where you should begin and end cutting.
This means that there will be a smaller margin for error and you will be more likely to control the saw with a steadier hand and minimise the chances of an accident.
2. Avoid Heavy Saws
It is not common to find a lightweight saw for concrete cutting, yet you should not use one that is heavier than you can handle with ease.
Doing so can lead to losing control of the equipment and possibly being hurt.
3. Never Force The Blade
The idea is to allow the saw to guide you when making cuts. You should never force the blade through concrete.
If you decide to do this, it can lead to the blade becoming overheated, which can cause burns and lead to debris flying all over the place.
The blade can also grip or kick back which can also lead to serious injury if you try and force it.
4. Cut At The Right Time
Cutting wet concrete is extremely difficult and messy, while fully cured concrete can fracture during the process.
Ideally, you should aim for doing this when the concrete is hard, but only partially cured. This will result in smoother cuts that do not produce a great deal of dust.
5. Protect Yourself From Dust
When you are cutting dry concrete, it creates dust that contains large amounts of silica.
If this is inhaled, it can cause serious health issues like silicosis and lung cancer.
This is why the appropriate steps need to be taken when dealing with these particles.
There are two steps that can be taken that will significantly reduce your risk of developing an illness.
The first is to use a dust extractor to remove as much of the dust as possible once the job is complete.
The other is to wear protective clothing while completing the job. This includes a face mask as well as clothing that covers all other parts of your body.
6. Sharpen Your Blade
Having a very sharp blade may seem like a hazard, but the opposite is actually true.
If your saw has a blade that has become dull, it is more likely to bind up in cuts and place you at risk.
While you do not have to sharpen them every time you use it, your saw’s blades should be homed periodically.
7. Avoid All Distractions
Before getting started, make sure that there is nothing happening around you that is distracting.
If there is loud music, lively chatter or anything else, you should consider cutting concrete at another time or removing these distractions.
In the event that this is the only opportunity to get the job done, you should try your best to focus on the task at hand and zone out everything else.
Regardless of your skill level when handling a concrete saw, it is always smart to make safety a priority.
Before you begin the project at hand, make sure that you consider all of this information carefully.
It will ensure there are no problems that place you or anyone else in harm’s way.
If you are looking for a specialist concrete cutting company who uses only the best practices to get the job done right, then please call us at Megasaw on 1300 920 419 or contact us through our website www.megasaw.com.au/contact-us/