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:
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.
More Health & Safety Tips
Protect your eyes with safety goggles or spectacles.
Wear long sleeved top and trousers, ensuring you cover bare skin.
Do not kneel in wet concrete - wear knee pads or use an impervious mat
Protect your hands at all times - wear strong waterproof gloves
Protect your feet at all times - wear tough waterproof boots