Health and Safety in Dry-Lining

Module 3: Health and Safety in Dry-Lining

Risk Assessments and Method Statements

Before starting any dry-lining project, a thorough risk assessment must be conducted to identify potential hazards and implement control measures. A method statement (also called a "safe system of work") outlines how tasks will be carried out safely.

Key considerations:

• Hazard Identification – Falling objects, manual handling injuries, dust inhalation, electrical risks, and slips/trips.

• Control Measures – Using PPE, proper lifting techniques, dust suppression, and securing work areas.

• Legal Compliance – Following the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations (CDM 2015) and Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.

• Site-Specific Risks – Assessing unstable structures, overhead cables, or confined spaces.

Method Statement Contents:
✔ Scope of work
✔ Sequence of operations
✔ Equipment/tools required
✔ Emergency procedures
✔ Welfare facilities

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Dry-lining involves exposure to dust, sharp tools, and heavy materials, making PPE essential.

Mandatory PPE for Dry-Liners:

1. Safety Gloves – Protect hands from cuts (when handling plasterboard) and chemical exposure (adhesives).

2. Dust Mask (FFP3 Recommended) – Prevents inhalation of gypsum dust and insulation fibres.

3. Safety Glasses/Goggles – Shields eyes from flying debris when cutting or drilling.

4. Steel-Toe Boots – Protects feet from falling objects and sharp fixings.

5. High-Visibility Vest – Required on construction sites for visibility.

6. Knee Pads – Useful when working on floors or low-level fixing.

7. Hard Hat – Essential if working under overhead hazards (e.g., ceiling installations).

Handling and Storing Materials Safely

Plasterboard is heavy and fragile, requiring proper handling to prevent injuries and material damage.

Safe Handling Practices:
✔ Team Lifting – Plasterboard sheets (especially 12.5mm+ thickness) should be carried by two people.
✔ Correct Posture – Bend knees, keep back straight, and avoid twisting while lifting.
✔ Mechanical Aids – Use trolleys or panel lifters for moving large quantities.

Storage Guidelines:
✔ Keep Dry – Store plasterboard flat and off the ground (on pallets) in a covered area to prevent moisture damage.
✔ Avoid Stacking Too High – Maximum stack height of 10–12 boards to prevent toppling.
✔ Separate Different Types – Moisture-resistant and fire-resistant boards should be clearly labelled.
✔ Secure Loose Materials – Insulation rolls and adhesives should be stored in sealed containers.

Working at Heights (Scaffolding, Hop-Ups, Ladders)

Falls are a major risk in dry-lining, especially when fixing ceilings or high walls.

Safety Measures:

1. Scaffolding

• Must be erected by a competent person and inspected before use.

• Guardrails and toe boards should be installed to prevent falls.

• Platform must be stable and level.

2. Hop-Ups (Mobile Work Platforms)

• Should have non-slip treads and locking castors.

• Never exceed the maximum load capacity.

• Avoid overreaching—keep work within arm’s length.

3. Ladders (Last Resort Only)

• Should be tied off or footed by a second person.

• Follow the "1 in 4 rule" (1 unit out for every 4 units up).

• Only used for short-duration work (under 30 mins).

Prohibited Practices:
❌ Standing on unstable objects (e.g., buckets, stacked materials).
❌ Overloading platforms with excessive tools/materials.
❌ Working at height without edge protection.

Summary of Key Safety Rules

✅ Plan Ahead – Follow method statements and risk assessments.
✅ Wear Full PPE – Always use gloves, masks, and eye protection.
✅ Lift Correctly – Avoid manual handling injuries.
✅ Secure Work at Height – Use scaffolding or hop-ups, never ladders for prolonged work.
✅ Keep Site Tidy – Prevent slips/trips from offcuts and debris.