Is it Dangerous to Cut Concrete Blocks With a Dry Saw?

Masonry Cut-Off Saws

• Concrete workers use masonry cut-off saws to create deep cuts through existing concrete block walls. Suitable for dry cutting conditions, cut-off saws accept circular concrete blades, usually greater than a foot in diameter. Like gas-powered chain saws, cut-off saws' engines typically fire-up with a yank of a pull-start cord. Cut-off saws' internal combustion engines offer greater power than electric masonry saws and operate for prolonged periods without risk of overheating.

Standard Circular Saw

• Saw blade manufacturers offer small diameter masonry blades as accessories for general-purpose circular saws. Notably, general-purpose circular saws are designed only for cutting in dry conditions; using electric circular saws under wet conditions poses significant risk of electrical shock. The strongest masonry blades for circular saws are called diamond blades. Unlike toothed, wood-cutting blades, diamond-edged masonry blades are typically blunt and abrasive. Outfitted with the proper blade, standard circular saws score and slice through both individual concrete blocks and existing concrete block walls.

Angle Grinder

• Like a general-purpose circular saw, an angle grinder applies to several construction materials, including concrete, metal and wood. Often smaller than circular saw blades, angle grinder discs protrude from the end of the tool's slender body, allowing workers to grind and cut without resting the tool's body against a work surface. Angle grinders accept both fiber-reinforced masonry wheels and diamond-edged blades for dry-cutting concrete applications.

Dry-Cut Safety

• The risks of cutting concrete dry include eye injury, skin injury, hearing and respiratory damage. Although high-quality blades create smooth cuts through block and other masonry materials, concrete chips inevitably fly toward the saw's operator. Therefore, laborers must wear safety goggles and long-sleeved clothing while cutting concrete. Both wet and dry concrete cutting operations are exceptionally loud, and workers should wear ear muffs or ear plugs to prevent hearing loss. Unlike wet saws, which suppress dust into a moist slurry, dry concrete saws stir and spread hazardous concrete dust. Therefore, respirators are an absolute requirement in both enclosed and outdoor work areas.