BRD/Inspection Repair/TBT-BRD-020
Concrete Repair and Protection on Bridges
Bridges & Structures › Inspection Repair › Concrete Repair and Protection on Bridges
Toolbox Talk
Concrete Repair and Protection on Bridges
Concrete repair work on bridges involves breaking out defective concrete, treating exposed reinforcement, and applying patch repair materials at height over roads, railways, or water. The combination of working at height, dust exposure, chemical handling, and working above live infrastructure creates a high-risk environment. This talk covers the safety controls for bridge concrete repair operations on UK projects.
Key Hazards
Silica dust inhalation during concrete breakout with pneumatic tools
Falls from height during repair work on bridge soffits and piers
Debris falling onto live traffic or railway below the bridge deck
Skin irritation from chemical repair mortars and protective coatings
Control Measures
- Provide safe access using scaffolding, under-bridge access units, or MEWPs for all repair positions.
- Use dust suppression and RPE during all concrete breakout operations to control silica exposure.
- Install debris netting and catch fans below the work area to protect traffic and the public.
- Coordinate with the road or rail authority for traffic management or possession requirements.
- Wear chemical-resistant gloves and eye protection when mixing and applying repair materials.
- Review the COSHH assessment for all repair mortars, primers, and protective coating products.
- Ensure edge protection is in place on all exposed bridge edges during the repair works.
- Brief all operatives on the access arrangements, dust controls, and emergency procedures daily.
- Record all repair locations, materials used, and application conditions in the quality log.
Remember
- Use dust suppression and RPE during all concrete breakout operations on the bridge
- Install debris netting below the work area to protect traffic and the public underneath
- Coordinate with the road or rail authority for any traffic management or possessions needed
- Wear chemical-resistant gloves and eye protection when handling all repair materials
- Ensure edge protection is in place on all exposed bridge edges throughout the works
Applicable Legislation: Work at Height Regulations 2005 · COSHH 2002 · CDM 2015 · BS EN 1504 (Products and Systems for Concrete Repair)
Delivered By
RAMS Builder
Generate professional Risk Assessment and Method Statements in minutes. 10 document formats, site-specific content, instant Word download.