CON/General/TBT-CON-027
Curing and Protection of Fresh Concrete
Concrete & Formwork › General › Curing and Protection of Fresh Concrete
Toolbox Talk
Curing and Protection of Fresh Concrete
Fresh concrete must be cured and protected correctly to achieve its specified strength and durability. Premature drying, freezing, or physical damage during the curing period causes cracking, reduced strength, and surface defects that may require costly remedial work. Operatives involved in concrete placement and finishing must understand the importance of proper curing and the methods used on UK sites.
Key Hazards
Structural weakness from concrete that has not achieved design strength
Surface cracking from premature moisture loss in hot or windy weather
Frost damage to fresh concrete placed during cold weather conditions
Skin burns from prolonged contact with wet curing compounds
Control Measures
- Apply curing measures as soon as the concrete surface can support them without damage.
- Use polythene sheeting, curing membranes, or wet hessian as specified in the method statement.
- Protect fresh concrete from freezing by using insulated blankets during cold weather pours.
- Avoid pouring concrete when the ambient temperature is below 5°C unless heated enclosures are used.
- Prevent foot traffic and loading on fresh concrete slabs until they have reached adequate strength.
- Erect barriers and warning signs around freshly placed concrete to prevent accidental damage.
- Monitor concrete temperature using embedded thermometers in mass pours to control thermal cracking.
- Wear gloves and eye protection when applying spray-on curing compounds to avoid skin and eye contact.
- Record curing methods, start times, and ambient conditions in the concrete quality log.
Remember
- Apply curing measures as soon as the concrete surface is ready to receive them
- Protect fresh concrete from frost using insulated blankets during cold weather pours
- Prevent all foot traffic and loading until the concrete reaches adequate strength
- Wear gloves and eye protection when handling or applying curing compounds
- Record all curing activities and ambient conditions in the concrete quality log
Applicable Legislation: CDM 2015 · BS EN 13670 (Execution of Concrete Structures) · BS 8500 (Concrete Specification) · COSHH 2002
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