Working with concrete is common in construction projects. With that said, accidents can happen at any given time.
If you are planning to drill through concrete walls, taking the proper precautions can help you avoid any mishaps.
This guide will show you the best way to get the job done without placing yourself in any danger.
Survey The Area
There are many different things that can lie behind concrete walls, including electrical equipment and metal beams.
It is in your best interest to do a survey of the area where you will be drilling prior to getting started.
The most effective way to do this would be to take a look at the architectural plans of the structure.
This leaves no doubt when it comes to determining where you should and should not drill.
If you are unable to gain access to the plans, you will have to take notice of things like electrical sockets, assume equipment is nearby and be extra careful when drilling.
Drill Shallow Holes
If there is any doubt about whether there are wires behind a wall, you should focus on drilling shallow holes.
In many cases, this will allow you the opportunity to do what you need without placing yourself in any danger.
Drilling too far and hitting a wire is a recipe for disaster. In most cases, wires are embedded at least two and a half centimetres deep.
Try your best to remember this before you begin your project.
Purchase A Stud Finder
This is a device that will help you locate all of the studs that are hidden inside concrete walls.
Studs are generally used to provide support for things like windows, insulation and doors.
When using this tool, it will be possible to determine which part of the wall is less hollow than the rest, which is an indication that a stud may be placed there.
Keep in mind that this is not 100% effective, so it is still important for you to be careful.
Avoid Handheld Drills
These are not durable or efficient enough to make their way through concrete without jamming or experiencing some kind of kickback.
As a result, there is a chance that the user will sustain an injury. Specialised equipment is needed for this task.
If you do not have access to this type of equipment, you should consider hiring it from a local company.
Another option would be to hire someone to handle this part of the project for you.
Check For Stability Periodically
When you start drilling through concrete walls, there is a huge chance that they may become unstable.
You have to check for this every once in a while to make sure that the concrete does not end up breaking up and collapsing and causing any injuries.
Also, checking for weak areas prior to drilling would be a wise decision. This will reduce the chances of anyone being in danger while drilling the necessary holes.
Cover Your Mouth
You should wear a face mask when you are drilling since there will be dust in the air. This will prevent you from inhaling silica dust, which can lead to sickness.
Even if you do not plan to drill for very long, it is best to err on the side of caution and be safe.
Drilling holes in concrete does not have to be as difficult or dangerous as it sounds.
If you want to reduce the chances of sustaining any injuries, make sure that you follow all of the advice that was offered in this quick guide.
It will keep you safe while working on your project.
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/