Construction drywall activities are not only physically demanding, they can also be dangerous, when performed at heights. And, because drywall work is usually one of the last activities on a construction project, they’re often done under deadline pressure. No matter what the drywall activity or its location; worker safety should be the number one priority.
Workers must have the physical stamina to lift, cut, and maneuver heavy, awkward sheets of drywall and fix them in place. If workers are in good physical condition, use proper lifting techniques, and work in pairs, they will reduce their chance of injury and strain. Using seam taping and sanding tools with spring-assisted or powered systems can make overhead finishing work easier and ergonomically safe. Completing work one task at a time (hanging, taping, finishing, etc.) may be efficient, but is harder on the body; completing one area at a time allows workers to rotate tasks and give muscles a break.
Whenever drywall activities create dust, safety glasses and respirators or dust masks should be used to protect workers’ eyes and lungs. Such activities include sheetrock cutting where gypsum dust can be released or when dry mixing joint compounds whose dust can become airborne. In the latter instance, pre-mixed compounds can reduce dust exposure. And, proper worksite ventilation can reduce the dust created when sanding finished joints.
Electrical safety should be considered when drywallers are fastening sheetrock to wall frames. Workers should use caution around interior wall wiring and ensure that electric boxes have proper shielding to prevent screws and nails from penetrating them. Powered nail guns, fasteners, and drills should be properly grounded and in good working order to reduce the risk of electric shock. Other tools, especially cutting tools, should be in good working order and used properly.
When drywalling is done at heights to install tall walls and ceilings, workers need to use extra caution to prevent falls. Ladders can be used, if the work can be done safely from them and all ladder safety rules are followed. However, lean-to or jack scaffolds, shore scaffolds, nailed brackets, loose tile, loose brick, loose blocks, and other unstable objects cannot be used as working platforms or for supports. Stilts should never be used due to their instability. Sturdy scaffolds or steps that are at least 20 inches wide provide safe, stable working platforms when installed and used correctly.
Finally, the need for speed is never an excuse to forget safety. It’s as plain as the writing on the wall, good planning and following safety procedures give a drywalling jobs a smooth and safe finish.
7/05 (c) 2005 State Compensation Insurance Fund