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A strong part of the commitment to safety
is continuous training programs for workers and supervisors. Inspection procedures should
be implemented and used.
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Also, during the dismantling stage,
rapid removal caused by carelessness can increase the likelihood of accidents through
falling or shifting formwork. Incorrect and unsafe dismantling can damage the formwork
causing unsafe conditions when the formwork used again.
Damaged formwork is a constant problem on the job site. All formwork
components must be inspected for damage. Nicks, bends, and wear can lead to problems and
unsafe conditions when subjected to loads. The old adage that a chain is only as strong as
the weakest link is relevant to formwork systems. Regardless of how a component sustains
damage through misuse, abuse, accident, heat, or wear, that component should be scrapped.Potential causes of formwork failures.
• Insufficiently trained workers.
• Shortcomings in supervision.
• Unanticipated construction events.
• Improper concrete placement.
• Inadequate sub-base.
• Insufficient bracing and lacing.
• Improper shoring and reshoring.
• Failure to account for vibration.
• Ignorance of equipment requirements.
• Premature formwork removal.
• Improper stripping.
• Damaged equipment.
DESIRABLE FORMWORK PRACTICES
The preceding section highlights some common
causes of formwork failure caused by unsafe formwork practices. Obviously, prevention is
the best way to achieve safety. This definitely involves applying safe formwork techniques
and practices.
There are ways safety, quality, and economy can be improved.
First and foremost, there must be a strong top/down commitment to
safety. Safety must be constantly and sincerely practiced and preached. Workers can see
through "do as I say" not "do as I do" actions.
A strong part of the commitment to safety is continuous training
programs. Formwork is only as safe as the worker makes it. Experienced supervisors are
critical to achieving safety but they must be aware and trained in new methods and safety
practices. Anyone can always learn something new and never know too much about safety.
Inspection procedures should be implemented and used. Proper inspection
assures safety.
Bracing needs proper attention. The formwork has to be adequately
braced so that all loads can be carried. When a bracing failure occurs it is only then
that one realizes there was insufficient bracing. An unsafe environment will provide a
chance for failure.
During the loading phase of concrete placement, monitoring of the
formwork is essential. Movement in the formwork caused by the concrete placement has to be
detected before disaster occurs.
The formwork removal process should be done orderly to avoid damaging
the component parts. Undamaged formwork is safer and can be used longer, thereby reducing
costs.
Checklists should be developed to verify that all requirements have
been examined. Even though an airplane pilot may have taken off thousands of times, he or
she still uses a checklist prior to each flight to make sure nothing is overlooked. Safety
is the reason for a checklist. |
