CON/General/TBT-CON-023
Formwork Erection and Striking Safely
Concrete & Formwork › General › Formwork Erection and Striking Safely
Toolbox Talk
Formwork Erection and Striking Safely
Formwork provides the mould into which concrete is poured and must withstand significant hydrostatic pressure during the pour. Erecting formwork involves heavy panel handling, working at height, and assembling complex tie and waling systems. Striking formwork — removing it after the concrete has cured — involves working beneath the structure and handling panels that may stick or release suddenly. Both operations require competent supervision, correct technique, and strict adherence to the temporary works design.
Key Hazards
Formwork collapse during the pour from inadequate ties, walings, or prop spacing
Workers struck by falling formwork panels during erection or striking operations
Manual handling injuries from heavy formwork panels, soldiers, and waling beams
Premature striking before the concrete has reached the minimum required strength
Control Measures
- Erect formwork strictly in accordance with the temporary works design drawings and method statement.
- Ensure all form ties are installed at the correct spacing and torque specified by the designer.
- Use mechanical handling for heavy formwork panels and waling beams wherever practicable.
- Inspect completed formwork before every pour for alignment, tie installation, and prop positioning.
- Obtain written approval from the engineer before striking any formwork from the concrete.
- Strike formwork progressively following the approved removal sequence to prevent sudden collapse.
- Wear a hard hat, safety glasses, and gloves during all formwork erection and striking operations.
- Stand clear of the panel release zone when striking formwork in case panels drop suddenly.
- Clean, inspect, and store formwork panels safely after striking for reuse on subsequent pours.
Remember
- Formwork collapse during a concrete pour is catastrophic due to the weight of wet concrete.
- All form ties must be installed at the exact spacing and torque specified in the design.
- Premature striking before the concrete reaches design strength can cause structural collapse.
- Standing beneath formwork during striking is dangerous because panels can release and fall suddenly.
- Heavy formwork panels must be handled mechanically or by coordinated team lifts.
- The temporary works designer must confirm the concrete strength before any striking begins.
Applicable Legislation: CDM Regulations 2015 · BS 5975 (Temporary Works) · BS EN 12812 (Falsework) · Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
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