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A concrete core drill uses a large, high-torque motor and a hollow tube bit with teeth to grind concrete. Water is used to reduce heat and dust. Safety precautions include securing the base and using hazard signage.
A concrete core drill is a large, high-torque drill motor with a large stud for attaching a concrete core drill bit. These bits look like a hollow tube with a threaded nut on top and a set of rectangular “teeth” set into the bottom of the bit. Applying pressure to the drill forces the drill bit against a concrete surface. The teeth grind the material around the perimeter of the drill bit, leaving a solid core of concrete that matches the opening of the hollow core drill bit.
The dust fills the drilling area when the teeth of a coring bit contact the concrete surface. Together with the powder, frictional heat is generated between the teeth and the concrete. A pressurized water tank attaches to the concrete core drill to reduce heat and convert the dust into dirt slurry, which stays on the concrete surface rather than flying through the air. Although a constant supply of water increases safety and extends bit life, another safety issue arises when using a concrete core drill.
Large diameter drill bits create a lot of force on the base of a concrete core drill. This can damage the drill or property or cause serious injury to the drill operator. Fixing the base to the concrete keeps the drill in a secure position during the drilling operation. Standard concrete anchors sized to fit slotted mounting holes and positioned correctly in the concrete can secure the drill base to the structure. After a concrete drill is firmly in place, there is still one more safety issue.
Drilling into a concrete structure with an open area below creates the danger of a concrete core falling from the center of a concrete drill bit and hitting a person walking or working underneath the drilled hole. Adequate hazard signage is needed to alert people working underneath the concrete core drill to the dangers lurking above them. Applying red “hazardous” tape surrounding the area under the core drill will keep people safe. While hanging the hazard tape, the concrete core operator can inspect the area to ensure that no other hazards remain in the area under the drilling operation. Taking the proper precautions will ensure the safety of the concrete drill and its operator.
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