Waterproofing Applicators

Waterproofers seal foundations, basements, plazas, balconies, tunnels and roofs. The products include solvent-based coatings, polyurethane and epoxy systems, hot asphalt and torch-applied membranes. Those bring chemical fumes, burns and fire, and the work happens in deep excavations, tight basements and on roofs.

• Waterproofers
• Roofers
• Foundation Crews
• Concrete Contractors

Main hazards

• Solvent vapors: many primers, sealers and coatings release flammable, headache-causing vapors that build up in basements and below grade. See Solvents.
• Isocyanates and epoxies: polyurethane and epoxy membranes can cause asthma and skin sensitization. See Isocyanates and Epoxies & Resins.
• Hot work and fire: torch-applied membranes and heat-welded seams ignite insulation, wood and debris. See Hot Work Permits.
• Hot asphalt (kettles) and burns: heated tar and asphalt cause severe burns and fumes. See Roofing and Occupational Cancer.
• Excavations: exterior foundation waterproofing is done in deep cuts with cave-in risk. See Trenching Basics.
• Falls from roofs, decks, plazas, balconies and ladders. See Fall Protection Basics.
• Confined spaces such as basements, tunnels, tanks and crawl spaces. See Confined Spaces.
• Silica dust from grinding or cleaning concrete before coating. See Silica.
• Heat and slips: wet membranes, primers and ice. See Heat Illness.

Chemicals and ventilation

• Read the SDS for every product and follow the label for ventilation, PPE and mixing. See Safety Data Sheets and Secondary Container Labels.
• Ventilate basements and enclosed areas with fresh-air fans, and exhaust vapors outdoors, away from ignition sources. Choose lower-VOC or water-based products where suitable. See Ventilation.
• Wear chemical-resistant gloves, coveralls and splash goggles, and a respirator with the right cartridges or supplied air if the SDS or air monitoring calls for it. See Chemical-Protective Clothing and Respirator Filters.
• Keep ignition sources away from flammable coatings: no smoking, open flames, sparks or running motors in the vapor area. Store solvents in approved cans and cabinets. See Flammable Liquids.
• Keep containers closed, clean spills at once, and dispose of rags in approved metal cans since some products can heat and ignite rags.
• Don't eat, drink or smoke around the work, and wash before breaks.

Torches, kettles and hot asphalt

• Use a hot work permit and a fire watch during and after torch work. Keep fire extinguishers within reach. Check the area behind the work, since heat travels through flashing and gaps.
• Inspect hoses, regulators and torches; keep propane cylinders upright and secured. See Propane Safety.
• Keep kettles on level ground away from buildings and combustibles, never overfill, and keep water out of hot asphalt, which can spatter violently.
• Wear heat- and splash-resistant gloves, long sleeves, boots and a face shield around hot materials. See Burn First Aid.

Below grade and elevated work

• Keep exterior excavations sloped, shored or protected as required, with a competent person inspecting. Provide safe ladders and keep spoil back from the edge. See Protective Systems.
• Call 811 before digging and watch for utilities at foundation walls.
• Use fall protection on roofs, decks and open edges, and secure materials and equipment. Keep rolls and drums from rolling or falling. See Guardrail Systems.
• Test air in basements and tanks before entry where hazardous vapors may collect, and don't work alone in confined areas.
• Watch for slippery membranes and wet primers, and wear boots with good traction.

Waterproofing checklist

• I read the SDS and ventilated the work area
• I wear the right gloves, goggles and respirator for the product
• Ignition sources are controlled; hot work has a permit and fire watch
• Excavations are protected and inspected; 811 was called
• Fall protection is in place on roofs, decks and open edges

Last updated: October 5, 2026