General Safe Work Practices

The information on this page is drawn from material produced by the Travelers Insurance Company. The original pdf is available at the bottom of the page. 6/1/09

Safe work practices for some activities

Not following these practices may result in a strain or sprain when performing the activity.

Manually loading the mixer with bags of mortar

Position the operator so the top of the mixer is at waist height.
Position bags of mortar between knuckle and shoulder height.
Turn with feet. Don't twist with back. Injury: Strain/sprain from shoveling or lifting sand and mortar

Laying Block

Keep block and mortar supply between knuckle and chest height.
Kneel down when working below knee height. Don't bend with the back.
Adjust the scaffolding so that the work area remains between knee and shoulder height.
Turn with feet, don't twist with back.

Supplying the mason with block

Position a supply of block close to each mason to minimize the distance carried.
Use mechanical assistance to lift block onto the scaffolding (i.e., fork truck)
Lift using two-person team.

Supplying the mason with mortar

Position a mortar tub close to each mason to minimize the horizontal distance carried.
2-person team should push the mortar tub. Ensure a clear path.
Use mechanical assistance to lift the mortar tub into the air (i.e., fork truck)