Cement mixers are capable of wonders on the worksite, but one ought to make sure they’re being safely operated, transported and stored. This article will cover the basics of safety practice surrounding mixers, beginning with an introduction to cement mixer types and function.

 

We’ll then go into the various tips workers can use to keep themselves, others and equipment safe, including the use of PPE, the preparation of the workspace, proper operation techniques, correct maintenance and more. This article is brought to you by BS Power, a longstanding supplier of high-quality construction equipment and power tools.

 

Safely Operating Cement Mixers: Understanding Cement Mixer Basics

 

To understand how to operate a cement mixer safely, one must first understand the difference between different kinds of mixers and how they all work. The two most foundational distinctions between the mixers will be power type, being divided into petrol and electric motor types. From a safety standpoint, the former variety will require one to be cautious around the use of flammable fuel, handling and pouring it safely, as well as ensuring there are no fuel leaks.

 

On the other hand, electrical mixers represent the risk of electric shocks if any cords or electronic components become damaged and exposed. Besides the difference in power type, most mixers follow the same basic plan: a rotating steel drum mounted on a sturdy frame. It might also have a tipping mechanism and chute for easy discharge, or wheels for ease of transport.

 

Larger and heavier mixers might need treads or skids for mobility instead. Of all these components, the drum— where the cement powder, aggregates and water are mixed— represents the greatest safety threat, as it is a heavy and powerful object that moves continuously. Any piece of equipment, clothing or limb that gets snagged and pulled along with its movement could result in serious damage or injury.

 

The best practice is to thoroughly read the manufacturer’s manual of any cement mixer you may work with, so that you can read firsthand how to safely handle each individual component of the machine.

 

 

Safely Operating Cement Mixers: Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

 

While one should always prepare a cement mixer properly for safe operation, don’t forget to do the same with yourself. Personal protective equipment (or simply PPE) is designed to keep you safe while working in a hazardous environment, such as a construction site. There are also many items specifically made to protect you from the unique threats posed to you by the operation of a cement mixer.

 

Fitted clothing made from a tough material will protect your skin and is less likely to get snagged on moving parts of the mixer, such as the rotating drum. Sturdy footwear will give you a better grip on the uneven terrain and protect your feet from sharp debris or small falling objects. Hearing protection will offer you a welcome reprieve from the high-vibrating engine of a petrol mixer and prevent any long-term damage to your ears.

 

Goggles will prevent debris or dust from entering your eyes. A breathing mask or respirator will prevent you from accidentally breathing in cement dust, which can be disastrous for your lungs. Gloves don’t just give you a better grip and prevent cuts or scrapes. They keep cement mixtures from coming in contact with your skin, which can cause major allergic reactions, irritation and pain.

 

Safely Operating Cement Mixers: Preparing for Operation

 

Before you even switch a cement mixer on, there are several steps that you’ll want to complete first to ensure safe operation. The cement mixer should be placed on a level and stable surface, so that it won’t tip over and cause injury during operation. The next step will be to check each individual component for any mechanical issues before starting.

 

In particular, you might want to check that all moving parts are still securely fastened, as the high vibration of the powerful engine tends to wiggle these a bit loose after long periods of use. If any parts look like they need lubrication, now is also the time to do so.

 

If you have a petrol mixer, check that there’s enough petrol inside and that there are no leaks anywhere along the fuel system. With fuel-powered mixers, you’ll also need to ensure that there’s proper ventilation for the engine. On the other hand, the electrical model should be inspected for any frayed cables or exposed electrical components.

 

Safely Operating Cement Mixers: Safe Mixing Practices

 

Now that the basic checks have been completed, the cement mixer can be turned on and set to use. You’ll have to start by adding all the necessary ingredients, which should be done in the right order.

 

First comes water, then come all the aggregates and only afterwards can the cement powder be added. Every cement mixer has a specific drum capacity and can only take so much mixture at a time. Overloading the drum will slow down its efficiency, strain the engine, create an uneven mixture and potentially even break the mixer.

 

If you find yourself frustrated with the small capacity of a mixer, go browse the selection of BS Power mixers, which include options that are capable of handling over four hundred litres of material at a time.

 

Keep an eye on the progress of the mixer and monitor the mix time and consistency of the concrete. However, do this safely and never put your hands or any tools into the drum while its moving, lest they get snagged. If it becomes necessary to manipulate the material manually, this should only be done with a hand tool while the drum is stationary.

 

 

Safely Operating Cement Mixers: Managing Hazards On-Site

 

The area around the cement mixer should also be cleared and prepared for use, to protect both equipment and labourers. The area immediately surrounding the cement mixer should be clean and free of any obstructions, making it easy to access all parts of the machine without potentially stumbling or tripping.

 

If you’re using an electrical cement mixer, you should ensure that all cords are kept neatly arranged so they won’t be damaged or cause anyone to trip. If you’re using a petrol cement mixer, you should ensure that any nearby fuel is being stored safely and securely, where it won’t become a dangerous fire hazard.

 

Always keep an eye on the moving parts of the cement mixer, especially its rotating drum. Make sure that nothing gets caught on these, as if something snags on the drum, it will be quite relentlessly pulled towards the mixer and into its mechanisms.

 

Not only could this damage the cement mixer or snagged equipment, but it could also lead to a pretty grievous injury. The person or persons operating the cement mixer should be situationally aware at all times, keeping both an eye on the mixers and others entering the space as the mixer is being used.

 

Safely Operating Cement Mixers: Cleaning and Maintenance Safety

 

To secure a long and productive lifespan for one’s cement mixer, it must be cleaned and maintained thoroughly and regularly. Even during this process, the best safety practices should be observed. The first and simplest is to ensure that there is no power going to the machine during cleaning, lest it accidentally start or, in the case of an electrical model, shock the person cleaning it.

 

There are a variety of tools you can use to properly clean a cement mixer, which should always be employed instead of your hands. For example, to clean out the interior of the drum, you can use a stiff-bristled brush, a high-pressure hose or cement solvent when necessary.

 

The safest and most effective method is to employ preventative measures rather than conduct actual repairs. Clean the mixer immediately after use, check for any signs of loose parts, ensure all moving parts are well lubricated and identify any weak points on the frame.

 

A deteriorating frame could cause the entire machine to collapse, leading to significant damage and potential injury. By keeping on top of cleaning and inspection, both the cement mixer and the people working with and around it should be kept safe.

 

If you notice that any parts are missing or damaged, don’t hesitate to contact BS Power immediately. Our after-sales support covers any troubleshooting and repairs, including shipping out replacement parts in the case of damage.

 

If the issue is systemic and severe enough to prevent the machine from running, we’d even be willing to replace the entire unit. All of this is done using a logistically sound and seamless nationwide shipping system, letting BS Power solve the issue before it causes significant delays for you on the work site.

 

 

Safely Operating Cement Mixers: Safe Storage and Transport

 

When transporting mixers, one should ensure that the mixer is securely fastened and unable to slip loose. A machine of such a weight can cause considerable chaos should it tip over or fall from the vehicle during transit. In this stage, the cement mixer should also be unplugged if it is an electrical model, and drained of all fuel if it’s a petrol model.

 

During transit and storage, it should be adequately covered in a waterproof tarp, then stored in a dry indoor area. This will prevent the water and weather from wearing away at the mixer while it lies in storage, which may otherwise damage the components and frame of the cement mixer.

 

Conclusion

 

In conclusion, cement mixers are a fantastically useful device capable of achieving the work of dozens of labourers on the worksite. However, to make the most of these machines, one should always employ the best safety practices while using them. This begins with understanding how mixers (both electric and petrol) work, and what each of their parts does.

 

Next, you’ll look at the personal protective equipment (PPE) available to workers to protect them during operation, such as gloves, goggles and hearing protection. The cement mixer should be operated on a flat level surface free of any obstruction or hazard, and the machine should be inspected before use.

 

While it’s working, keep away from the moving parts and remain situationally aware of any movement around the workspace.

 

When not in use, the mixer should be regularly cleaned and maintained, to ensure not only the long life of the mixer but the safety of those who work with it. Finally, it should be securely transported and stored to keep it in good condition for the next time it’s operated. Now that you know how to safely use a cement mixer, head over to the BS Power website and browse our selection of top-notch mixers.