Decking Installation Risk Assessment

Typical hazards & measures

• Treated timber preservatives — Confirm use-class suitability. Wear gloves and eye protection when cutting; avoid skin contact with residues. Do not burn off-cuts. Containerise waste and sawdust. Prevent run-off to drains. Use stainless or compatible fixings to avoid corrosion and staining on finished work.
• Cutting operations with saws — Use guarded saws with sound riving knife and brake; clamp stock and use stands for long boards. Keep blades sharp and disconnect before changes. Extract dust at source or use M-class vacs. Wear eye and face protection. Control off-cuts and never cut free-hand or mid-air.
• Excavations and ground instability — Assess soil and water table; batter sides or use post-hole liners. Keep spoil and fill set back; plate soft spots and fence open holes. Verify bearing with simple pen tests. Backfill and compact in layers. Cap or cover holes if left unattended and secure at close of play.
• Noise exposure — Plan noisy tasks together; use well-maintained saws and blades. Establish hearing protection zones and provide suitable SNR-rated plugs or muffs with fit checks. Limit exposure with rotation and schedule high noise when fewer people are present. Monitor levels as needed.
• Manual handling of timbers and joists — Plan delivery drop-points close to the workface. Team-lift long boards and use dollies or roller stands. Keep loads close, avoid twisting, break packs down, and pre-cut to reduce carries. Provide grip gloves and rest breaks. Clear routes and maintain firm, even footing throughout.