Preventing Concrete Burns

Fresh Wet Concrete Can Cause Burns & Dermatitis

When working with concrete, mortar or screed it is essential to protect yourself to prevent injury. We've put together this fact sheet to help keep you safe whilst handling concrete and concrete-based materials.

Skin contact with fresh wet concrete, mortar or screed can cause:

Cement burns
Dermatitis

Damage will increase with contact time so it is important to take action as soon as your skin makes contact with fresh wet concrete especially since chemical burns can develop without pain being felt.

Protect Your Skin At All Times

Wash thoroughly, if irritation persists after washing seek medical attention immediately

Make Sure You Have Help When Handling Concrete

Did you know that fresh wet concrete is heavy? It can be approximately 2.5 tonnes per cubic metre!

This can cause cause strains and potential problems if you are not used to handling it. So its important to ensure you have sufficient help so that you can place, compact and finish it in a safe manner - preventing potential injuries.

Look After Your Feet

If concrete gets in your boots then STOP, remove them and wash the boots and your feet thoroughly.

Look After Your Face & Eyes

If patches of skin, and especially your eyes come into contact with fresh wet concrete, wash immediately and thoroughly with clean water. It is imperative that you seek medical attention if any irritation persists.

Look After Your Skin & Clothing

If your clothing is affected by fresh wet concrete they need to be taken off and washed. Skin also needs to be washed thoroughly - if any irritation or pain persists then medical attention should be sought.