Drywall installers and finishers are at risk for back injuries, falls and respiratory exposure to dusts, including silica.
Drywall sheets range from 50 to 120 pounds each. Handle these sheets with care during transport and installation to prevent strains and sprains to backs, shoulders, and arms. First, have the sheets delivered and stacked as close to the installation site as possible. Next, use forklifts, dollies, and drywall lifts and/or jacks to move and position sheets.
Minimize hand carrying and installation. Pick up one sheet at a time. Special sheet gripper tools or grip-dot gloves help you hold sheets securely without exerting a lot of handgrip force. Use a team lift to raise and position sheets. Lift sheets with your legs and a straight back. Don’t twist your back while you lift.
To prevent falls, keep floors and pathways clear. While working and looking up at ceiling installations, periodically check your feet to ensure you have a safe pathway. Avoid unstable and makeshift scaffolds. Sturdy scaffolds or 20-inch wide stepbenchs are the best choices for elevated work. Don’t try to use stairs while carrying drywall alone. Team carry sheets upstairs, or use tools to transport them upstairs.
Drywall sheets and joint compound can contain talc, calcite, mica, gypsum, and silica. Read the material safety data sheets for your brand of drywall and compound for manufacturer-recommended safe work practices. Minimize dust emissions and use good ventilation. Wear safety glasses and a mask (Voluntary if needed, speak with your Foreman or Safety manager if you have questions) when you are exposed to dust. Use wet work practices for sanding and vacuum-equipped cutting and sanding tools. Use a pole-sander to keep the dust away from your face. Do not hold a hand sander close to your face and avoid bending over while sanding as much as possible. Carefully mix dry compound powders to avoid creating a dust cloud. Don’t use dry cleanup methods such as air compression hoses or brooms. Utilize clean sweep products to eliminate dust.
Learn to build success from becoming efficient drywall installers and finishers. As we become better at identifying hazards in our work areas, we will exhibit our “Build It” core value each day.
Remember to call WorkPartners with any non-life threating injury 24/7/365.
