Brick Cleaning Safe Work Method Statement

The safest approach is to start with the least hazardous chemical that achieves effective cleaning. For light mortar residue and efflorescence, pH-neutral or mildly acidic proprietary masonry cleaners (pH 4-6) are safest, requiring less stringent PPE and creating lower environmental risk than strong acids. These products are formulated specifically for masonry cleaning with inhibitors that prevent damage to bricks while dissolving mortar and mineral deposits. For moderate soiling, diluted phosphoric acid (5-10%) is less corrosive and produces less hazardous fumes than hydrochloric acid while providing good cleaning effectiveness. When stronger cleaning is necessary, use proprietary brick cleaners containing buffered hydrochloric acid with corrosion inhibitors rather than straight hydrochloric acid. Always start with the weakest concentration and increase only if test panels demonstrate inadequate cleaning. Avoid sodium hydroxide (caustic soda) on brickwork as it can cause permanent staining and damage. Whatever chemical is selected, always conduct test panels, provide full chemical-resistant PPE, establish emergency washing facilities, and implement containment for chemical runoff. The 'safest' chemical is one that balances cleaning effectiveness with hazard minimisation and is applied using proper safety controls.

Acidic waste water from brick cleaning must be neutralised and disposed appropriately, never discharged directly to stormwater drains where it can harm aquatic ecosystems and cause environmental damage. For small quantities (under 100 litres), collect waste water in buckets or drums and neutralise using sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) or hydrated lime. Add neutralising agent gradually while stirring until pH reaches 7-8 (neutral to slightly alkaline) as measured with pH test strips or electronic pH meter. Wear chemical-resistant PPE during neutralisation as the reaction generates heat and can cause splashing. Once neutralised, disposal options include discharge to sewer system (check with local water authority for approval and any volume limits), disposal through licensed liquid waste contractor, or land application on non-sensitive areas with landowner permission and environmental authority approval if applicable. For large volumes typical of commercial projects, engage licensed liquid waste contractor with appropriate authorisations for collection, transport, and disposal of acidic waste. They will provide bulker trucks or IBC containers for waste collection and handle all disposal compliance. Document all waste disposal including volumes, pH test results, disposal method, and contractor details if used. Never discharge untreated acidic waste to stormwater, gardens, or natural waterways as this constitutes environmental pollution under state Environmental Protection Acts with substantial penalties including fines exceeding $100,000 and prosecution liability.

Acid splash to eyes is an emergency requiring immediate action to prevent permanent vision loss. Within seconds of eye contact, begin continuous eye irrigation with copious amounts of clean water. Use an eye wash station if within immediate reach, or if not available, use any clean water source including taps, hoses, or bottles. Hold eyelids open with fingers to ensure water contacts all eye surfaces including under eyelids where acid can be trapped. Continue irrigation for a minimum of 15 minutes without interruption, even if the injured person experiences pain or closes eyes. The person providing first aid should use force if necessary to keep eyelids open as thoroughness of irrigation is critical. After 15 minutes of continuous irrigation, continue another 5 minutes if any burning sensation persists. While one person continues eye washing, a second person should call 000 for ambulance stating 'chemical burn to eyes requiring emergency treatment' and providing details of the chemical involved (read from product label or SDS). If wearing contact lenses, remove them during irrigation if they do not come out naturally with flushing. After completing irrigation, loosely cover both eyes with clean damp cloths and transport immediately to emergency department by ambulance or private vehicle if ambulance is delayed. Do not allow the injured person to rub eyes or drive themselves. Never attempt to neutralise acid in eyes using alkaline solutions as this creates additional chemical reactions causing further damage. Provide the Safety Data Sheet for the chemical to emergency medical personnel. All acid splashes to eyes require medical assessment even if symptoms seem minor, as delayed damage can occur. Prevention through face shields, chemical splash goggles, and safe work practices is infinitely preferable to treatment.

Domestic pressure washers can be used for light brick cleaning tasks such as removing loose dirt, organic growth, and general soiling using water only, but have limitations for chemical cleaning and heavy-duty applications. Domestic units typically operate at 1,000-2,000 PSI with relatively low flow rates (5-8 litres per minute), which may be insufficient for effective rinsing of chemical cleaning residues from large areas. They also lack the chemical-resistant components and durability of commercial equipment, with seals and fittings potentially damaged by acidic cleaning solutions. If using domestic pressure washers, never run chemical cleaning solutions through the machine as this causes corrosion and contamination of internal components - always apply chemicals by separate spray bottle or brush then rinse with clean water through the pressure washer. Use only manufacturer-approved detergent injection systems with appropriate cleaning solutions if chemical application through the machine is desired. For significant brick cleaning projects, particularly those involving acidic chemicals, engage commercial-grade pressure washers rated for chemical use (if chemical injection is required) or designed for intensive cleaning applications. All pressure washer operators, whether using domestic or commercial equipment, require training in safe operation including maintaining safe distances (minimum 300mm from surface), never pointing lances at people or body parts, wearing appropriate PPE including safety boots and hearing protection, and using ground fault circuit interrupters (RCDs) for electric machines. The suitability of equipment depends on project scale, chemical requirements, and surface area to be cleaned.

Respiratory protection requirements for brick cleaning depend on the chemicals used, application methods, work environment, and presence of dust-generating activities. For chemical cleaning using acidic solutions, respiratory protection is mandatory when working in enclosed or poorly ventilated areas where acid fumes accumulate, during mixing of concentrated chemicals, when applying chemicals by spray methods creating mists or aerosols, and if workers experience respiratory irritation, coughing, or difficulty breathing during work. Use fitted disposable P2 respirators or reusable half-face respirators with acid gas cartridges (Type A) for protection against acid fumes. For abrasive cleaning methods including grinding, wire brushing, or media blasting that generate silica-containing dust, P2 or P3 respiratory protection is mandatory to prevent silicosis risk, with respirators fitted and tested to ensure adequate seal and protection factor. For outdoor work in well-ventilated conditions using moderate chemical concentrations with brush application rather than spraying, respiratory protection may not be required if workers experience no respiratory symptoms, though it remains best practice for regular exposure. Always consult the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for specific chemicals being used, which specifies respiratory protection requirements under Section 8 (Exposure Controls/Personal Protection). If uncertain about respiratory protection needs, conduct air monitoring to measure actual chemical or dust concentrations and compare to occupational exposure standards, or take the precautionary approach and require respiratory protection. Respirators must be fit-tested to individual workers to ensure proper seal, with clean-shaven faces required (beards prevent effective seal), and workers must be trained in correct use, cleaning, and storage of respiratory protective equipment.