Identification of safety and protection principles of gypsum
“landing, transporting, and storing tools and materials”
Here are some important principles of safety and protection to consider when handling and storing gypsum:
1. Protection from Humidity
One of the key risks in storing gypsum is its sensitivity to humidity. When exposed to moisture in the air over time, gypsum tends to harden and form lumps, which can become too hard to break apart by hand. Gypsum that contains these hard lumps is unsuitable for construction purposes because it compromises the quality of the material. The hardened lumps reduce the overall strength of the gypsum and mortar mixture, and they can also cause **gypsum retardation**, meaning the gypsum takes longer to set, affecting the efficiency of the building process.
2. Storing Gypsum in Open Spaces
In many small-scale workshops or construction sites where only limited amounts of gypsum are needed in different areas, there may be no choice but to store gypsum bags in open spaces. In these situations, extra care must be taken to protect the gypsum from moisture and other environmental factors. Here are some steps to ensure proper storage:
– Dry Flooring: The ground or floor where the gypsum bags are stacked must be dry to prevent moisture from seeping into the bags. It is recommended to elevate the storage area at least a few centimeters (e.g., 5 to 10 cm) above the surrounding ground to minimize exposure to ground moisture. Bricks, wooden boards, or pallets can be used to create an elevated platform.
– Waterproofing the Area: To keep the floor dry, it is beneficial to cover the elevated platform with plastic sheets. This further protects the bags from moisture rising from the ground.
– Covering the Bags: When the bags are stacked on top of one another, they should be covered with a waterproof sheet such as plastic or tarpaulin to prevent rain or humidity from affecting the gypsum. Make sure the cover extends well beyond the edges of the stacked bags, with adequate overlap, and secure it in place with heavy objects such as bricks or stones to keep the cover in position, even during windy conditions.
– Temporary Storage: It’s important to note that this method of storing gypsum outdoors should only be used for a short period, as prolonged exposure to the elements can still lead to moisture damage, even with precautions in place.
3. Storing Gypsum in Warehouses for Larger Projects
For larger construction projects where more significant amounts of gypsum are needed, it is essential to store gypsum bags in specialized warehouses. Properly designed storage facilities help prevent moisture-related issues and ensure the long-term usability of the gypsum. The following guidelines should be followed:
– Damp-Proof Warehouse: The warehouse where gypsum is stored must be entirely damp-proof. This means the floors, walls, and ceiling should be protected against moisture ingress. Materials like waterproof coatings, sealants, and damp-proof membranes should be used to ensure that no moisture can penetrate the structure.
– Distance from Walls: When stacking gypsum bags inside the warehouse, the bags should be placed at least 30 cm away from the walls. This helps ensure good air circulation and reduces the risk of moisture accumulating between the wall and the bags.
– Stacking Guidelines: The height of the gypsum stacks should not exceed 1.5 meters to prevent excessive pressure on the lower bags, which could cause them to deform or tear. The width of each row of stacked bags should also be limited to three meters to allow easy access to the gypsum and reduce the risk of stacks collapsing.
By following these principles, you can help ensure that gypsum remains in optimal condition for construction use, free from the harmful effects of moisture and improper handling. Proper storage is crucial in maintaining the quality and strength of the gypsum, which is vital for achieving durable and high-performance building materials.
