Demand Safety – September 2026

A concrete chute may be a routine part of the job, but it can cause serious injuries and property damage in seconds. Pinch points, falling chutes, and equipment strikes are real risks on every pour. Taking time to assess hazards, communicate clearly, and follow safe handling procedures helps ensure everyone goes home safely.

Safe chute operation depends on awareness, communication, and proper handling. Whether you’re a driver, spotter, or crew member, following established safety practices helps prevent injuries, property damage, and project delays.

Communicate Clearly

• Maintain constant communication between the mixer driver and spotter.
• Confirm signals and positioning before moving or adjusting the chute.

Handle Chutes Properly

• Never stand on a chute.
• Never use a chute to lift or support materials or equipment.
• Follow manufacturer guidelines for chute operation and positioning.

Proper truck positioning is essential for both worker safety and efficient concrete placement.
Before setting up:
• Maintain a minimum 14-foot clearance from overhead utility lines and structures.
• Evaluate entrances, exits, and roadway grades before driving onto the site.
• Keep a safe distance from excavations and underground utilities.
• Verify soil conditions can adequately support the truck’s weight.
• Review truck dimensions and clearance requirements before arrival.

Conduct a thorough hazard assessment before concrete placement to prevent truck-related incidents, injuries, and property damage.

When noise, distance, or limited visibility make verbal communication difficult, approved hand signals help crews operate safely and efficiently.

Use hand signals when:

• Backing trucks into position.
• Positioning the mixer for discharge.
• Directing chute movement.
• Working in congested or confined jobsites.
• See ready-mix hand signals here.

Every pour presents unique hazards. Taking a few extra moments to assess the site, communicate clearly, and follow safe chute handling practices can help avoid property damage, and keep the job running smoothly.
Property damage can occur quickly when chutes are moved without proper planning. Careful positioning helps prevent damage to structures, vehicles, and equipment.

• Maintain communication between the driver and spotter.
• Attach extension chutes only after the truck in properly positioned.
• Use extra caution in confined spaces and near structures.
• Keep vehicles, tools, and equipment outside the chute swing radius and operating path.

Think before you swing the chute.  Protect the team, protect the equipment, and protect the jobsite.