SafeWork SA is warning people who work with cement and concrete about the dangers of alkaline burns after a home handyman sustained serious leg injuries.
The Mid North resident was laying a cement base for a garden shed when wet cement seeped through his pants, causing serious burns to both legs.
He was airlifted to Adelaide by the Royal Flying Doctor Service for treatment at Royal Adelaide Hospital’s Burns Unit where he underwent skin grafts on both legs to treat the deep burns.
Cement or concrete with a pH level greater than 12 is highly alkaline and poses a serious risk of burn upon contact with the skin.
The setting of cement or concrete is an exothermic reaction, releasing a lot of heat. This, together with excessive sweating, and wearing wet or damp clothing can exacerbate the severity of cement or concrete burns.
Cement or concrete burns, also known as cutaneous alkali burns, may start as redness or irritation but can quickly progress into more severe conditions.
Unlike thermal burns, the damage might not be immediately noticeable, which can delay treatment and increase severity.
These burns are most common in the construction industry where workers frequently handle concrete or cement without sufficient protection. Burns often happen to:
- Workers pouring cement or concrete for foundations or footpaths may have prolonged contact with the wet mixture, especially if they kneel or sit on it.
- Masons and bricklayers develop burns when handling mortar or cement without gloves or protective clothing.
- DIY enthusiasts working on home projects like patio installations experience burns if they handle cement or concrete without proper skin protection.
Symptoms of cement or concrete
Cement or concrete burns on the skin can manifest in various ways and may depend on the individual’s sensitivity to alkaline substances.
Stages of cement or concrete burns
- Early Stage: Characterized by mild irritation, redness and inflammation, and delayed discomfort.
- Intermediate Stage: Involves blistering, crackling, and peeling of the skin, swelling, and colour change from red to pink to whitish-grey.
- Advanced Stage: Progresses to full-thickness burns, dead skin, and tissue loss, as well as scarring and loss of mobility. Severe cases have the potential for life-threatening consequences if left untreated.
Injury management
Prompt removal of wet cement from the skin is crucial. All clothing that is in contact with the affected area must be removed and the burns irrigated with copious amounts of saline or water. Powdered cement or concrete should be brushed off the wound before water is applied.
How to prevent cement or concrete burns
Construction workers and do-it-yourself enthusiasts are reminded to read labels and safety information about the products they are using before commencing work and follow instructions.
People working with cement or concrete should wear the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and practise good hand hygiene.
Handling cement or concrete
Read Safety Data Sheets (SDS) if available: Before starting any cement or concrete-related task, review the SDS for information on handling, hazards, and emergency response procedures. This helps you understand the specific risks associated with the cement or concrete mix you’re using.
Mix cement or concrete carefully: When mixing cement or concrete, do so slowly to minimize splashing. Wear gloves and goggles to protect yourself from accidental splashes that could reach your skin or eyes.
Handle wet cement or concrete with tools: Avoid direct skin contact and whenever possible, use tools like trowels, shovels, or cement or concrete spreaders to minimize direct contact with wet cement or concrete. This reduces the chances of burns and skin irritation.
Limit exposure time: Try to limit your time working with wet cement or concrete to reduce the risk of burns. The longer the skin is exposed, the higher the risk of injury.
Keep a clean work area: Maintain a tidy workspace to avoid accidentally tracking wet or dry cement or concrete onto your skin, tools, or clothing. Clean any spills immediately and be mindful of where the cement or concrete is being mixed or poured.
Use water wisely: Ensure that plenty of clean water is available at the worksite for immediate rinsing in case of accidental contact with cement or concrete. Having a designated rinsing station can help workers quickly wash off any wet cement or concrete from their skin.
Inspect equipment before use: Inspect your tools, mixing containers, and protective gear before use. Uncleaned or damaged equipment can increase the likelihood of spills and splashes and expose you to cement or concrete unnecessarily.
Dispose of waste properly: Properly dispose of cement or concrete waste to prevent further exposure. Be mindful of environmental guidelines when disposing of unused cement or concrete or washing down equipment.
Appropriate PPE
Long-sleeved shirts and pants: Long-sleeved shirts and pants made of durable materials, such as cotton or protective fabric blends, shield your skin from direct contact with cement or concrete and a water-resistant top layer should also be worn. For example, protective waterproof chaps should be worn over clothing.Ensure that your garments fit properly and cover your body adequately for the best protection.
Gloves: Wearing work gloves is essential to protect your hands from coming into direct contact with wet cement, which can cause skin irritation or chemical burns. Opt for gloves made of materials specifically designed for cement or concrete work, such as rubber or nitrile. These gloves provide a barrier against the chemicals in cement or concrete and help maintain your grip on tools and materials.
Safety goggles: When working with cement or concrete, it is important to protect your eyes from potential splashes or airborne particles. Safety goggles with snug fit and shatter-resistant lenses safeguard your eyes from any cement or concrete debris or chemical substances that may cause eye irritation or injury.
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