Division 09 Finishes is devoted to the basic interior building blocks of a construction project. From walls to paint and ceilings to floors, Division 09 includes the majority of common interior finishes. Interior finishes are described in a manner to provide information about their past usage, present usage, installation requirements and methods, and future advancements.
Drywallers put the finishing touches on our home and office interiors by installing and finishing sheetrock walls. Physical stamina is required to lift, cut, and maneuver heavy sheets of drywall and fix them in place. Finishing and sanding seams is also an ergonomic and physical challenge. Consider that this demanding work is often done on a construction site and at heights, and it is clear that drywallers need to think safety on the job.
Lifting and maneuvering tools and heavy, awkward sheets of drywall pose an ergonomic risk for drywallers. Maintaining good physical condition and using proper lifting techniques can reduce the chance of injury and strain. Working in pairs makes it easier to lift, position, and control sheetrock. Seam taping and sanding tools with spring-assisted or powered systems makes overhead finishing work easier by reducing the force that workers must apply. 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.
Because drywallers work at heights to install tall walls and ceilings, they need to use extra caution to prevent falls. Workers can use ladders if the work can be done safely from them, but they should follow ladder safety rules. 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 their 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.
Dust is a hazard for drywallers at the beginning and end of every job. When sheetrock is cut, the gypsum dust that is released can be irritating to the eyes and lungs. Dust from dry mixing joint compound can be an irritant; pre-mixed compounds can reduce worker dust exposure. Sanding finished joints can also create a lot of dust. Whenever job tasks may create dust, safety glasses and respirators or dust masks should be used to protect workers’ eyes and lungs. Proper ventilation on the jobsite can reduce dust in the air.
Travertine Tile is transported to Bermuda from Turkey. Travertine is a form of limestone deposited by mineral springs, especially hot springs. Travertine often has a fibrous or concentric appearance and exists in white, tan, cream-colored, and even rusty varieties. It is formed by a process of rapid precipitation of calcium carbonate, often at the mouth of a hot spring or in a limestone cave. In the latter, it can form stalactites, stalagmites, and other speleothems. It is frequently used in Italy and elsewhere as a building material.
All tilers to wear Personal Protective Equipment: Safety hat, glasses, vest, pants and boots. When working on elevations fall protection is required. When handling materials Kevlar gloves provide additional hand protection. Limited access zones are to be established to provide traffic control. Workers exposed to chemicals may require ventilation to help air circulation. Knee pads are a good way to prevent knee injuries associated with tile installation. Only use operator’s instructions when using power tools. All electrical tool and equipment are to have GFCI requirements. Physical conditions are to be controlled by muscular warm up and stretches. Environmental conditions are to be controlled with shade and drinking water.
2. Waterproofing
This specification describes the application of a waterproofing, slip resistant, wearing surface using a low modulus epoxy binder and selected aggregate.
Bermuda Construction Safety Council 