Jackhammers and handheld powered chipping tools are commonly used on construction and demolition sites. From breaking up concrete to removing masonry, these tools are essential for many tasks — but they also come with serious hazards. Without proper training, protective equipment, and dust control measures, jackhammer use can result in injuries and long-term health issues.
Jackhammer Hazards
Jackhammers are powerful, heavy tools that can cause injury if they are not handled correctly. Common hazards include flying debris, muscle fatigue, sprains and strains, abrasions, and lacerations. The repetitive motion and force required to operate a jackhammer can place significant stress on the body, particularly the hands, arms, shoulders, and lower back.
Operators are also exposed to strong vibrations that can lead to hand-arm vibration syndrome over time, as well as high noise levels that may cause permanent hearing damage without proper protection. In addition, breaking concrete or masonry releases fine dust into the air, creating respiratory hazards. When working near unknown underground utilities, there is also a risk of electrocution if power lines are struck.
Because jackhammers are heavy and awkward to maneuver, extra care must be taken when loading, unloading, or repositioning them. Operators should never attempt to move these tools alone if assistance is available. Muscle strain is a major risk, so proper lifting techniques are critical. Always lift with your legs, not your back, keep your feet shoulder-width apart, and stay square to the tool during operation to maintain control.
Safe Use Practices
Before each use, inspect the jackhammer and ensure all hose couplings are secure. Loose or damaged connections can lead to loss of control or unexpected movement during operation. Always use the correct bit for the material being worked on, and never force the tool to do more than it is designed for.
When a jackhammer is not in use, it should be laid flat on the ground rather than propped against a wall or other surface. Propping the tool increases the risk of it tipping over and injuring someone nearby.
Hoses should be fully stretched out and routed in a way that minimizes tripping hazards. Keep walkways clear and be mindful of other workers moving through the area.
If the job requires extended jackhammer use — especially for more than 15 minutes at a time — rotating workers in and out of the task can help reduce fatigue, repetitive motion injuries, and vibration exposure.
Personal Protective Equipment
Anyone using a jackhammer, as well as workers nearby, must wear appropriate PPE. This includes hearing protection, safety glasses, and steel-toed boots. Operators should also wear gloves to improve grip and reduce vibration exposure, along with metatarsal guards to protect the feet from falling debris.
If there is any possibility of contacting unknown underground power lines, insulated gloves must be worn for added electrical protection.
Silica Dust Hazards
When jackhammers are used to break concrete, stone, masonry, or other silica-containing materials, respirable crystalline silica dust becomes a serious concern. Inhaling fine silica particles over time can cause permanent lung damage and increase the risk of serious illnesses. Even short-term exposure at high levels can be harmful.
To reduce airborne dust, two primary control methods are commonly used. The first is a wet method, which uses a sprayer or water-spray system to apply water directly at the point of impact. This helps prevent dust from becoming airborne. The second option is a vacuum dust collection system that captures dust at the source before it spreads into the surrounding area.
Indoor and Enclosed Work
Using jackhammers indoors or in enclosed spaces presents additional challenges for dust control. Even with wet methods or vacuum systems in place, airborne particles can accumulate quickly. In these situations, extra ventilation is necessary to protect workers.
Mechanical ventilation methods such as exhaust trunks, portable exhaust fans, and air ducts can help keep contaminated air moving away from workers’ breathing zones. Always ensure airflow is not blocked by foot traffic or by doors and windows opening and closing.
Compressed air or blowers should never be used to clean surfaces, tools, or clothing, as this can significantly increase airborne silica levels. Instead, use HEPA-filtered vacuums or wet cleaning methods to keep dust under control.
Respiratory Protection
In addition to engineering controls, respiratory protection may be required. When jackhammers or chipping tools are used indoors or in enclosed areas, workers must wear respirators with an Assigned Protection Factor (APF) of at least 10. The same level of respiratory protection is required when these tools are used outdoors for more than four hours during a single shift.
Jackhammers are powerful tools that can cause serious injuries and long-term health effects if not used properly. Every operator must be trained, physically prepared, and equipped with the correct PPE. Dust control measures should always be in place, and everyone on site should understand the risks — not just the person holding the tool.
