Courtesey of the State Compensation Insurance Fund
Drywalling is physically challenging work, and can be hazardous as well since drywalling is often performed at heights. Drywalling is typically one of the last activities on a construction project, so workers are frequently under deadline pressure.
Workers must be in good physical condition and physical stamina is essential. Proper techniques must be used when lifting, cutting, and maneuvering heavy, awkward sheets of drywall and fixing them into place.
- Working in pairs will help to reduce the chance of worker injury and strain.
- Seam taping and sanding tools with spring-assisted or powered systems can help to 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. Instead, workers should focus on completing one area at a time, this will allow them to rotate tasks and give their muscles a break.
Drywall activities, such as sheetrock cutting or dry mixing joint compounds can release dust into the air.
- Using the right Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), safety glasses, respirators or dust masks will protect workers’ eyes and lungs.
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Having proper worksite ventilation will reduce dust levels that are created when sanding finished joints.
Electrical hazards may also be present when workers fasten sheetrock to wall frames.
- Caution should be used around interior wall wiring. 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 should be in good working order and used properly.
Drywalling activities can be hazardous at heights when workers install walls or ceilings.
- Use ladders when safe to do so, and follow all ladder safety rules.
- Do not use unstable objects as working platforms or supports such as lean-to or jack scaffolds, shore scaffolds, nailed brackets, loose tile, loose brick, or loose blocks.
- 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.
Drywalling is usually done at a fast pace as it is one of the final activities on a construction project. With haste the chances of an injury increase, so make safety the number one priority when performing drywall activities.
© 2012 State Compensation Insurance Fund
Established in 1914 by the state legislature, State Fund is California’s largest provider of workers’ compensation insurance and a vital asset to California businesses. Completely self supporting, State Fund plays a stabilizing role in California’s economy by maintaining an open door policy that ensures all employers have a strong and stable option for their workers’ compensation needs.