10 Tips for Working Safely Around Cement

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10 TIPS FOR WORKING SAFELY AROUND CEMENT

Cement is a common element at many worksites across the country. As an ingredient in materials like concrete, plaster, mortar, stucco, terrazzo and tile grout, workers throughout the construction industry deal with cement on a regular and ongoing basis.

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While concrete and many other cement-containing materials may look benign, they actually create a number of hazards for workers.

So what makescement dangerous?


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On the pH scale, cement is very alkaline (the opposite of acidic) with a pH of 12 to 13. Because human skin has a very different/low pH of 4.5 (slightly acidic), this creates a problem. The pH of wet cement is one billion times higher than skin, which means the skin is easily irritated by exposure to cement.

Graph provided by National Oceanic & Atmospheric Association, USA


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Exposures can cause:• Dry Skin• Irritant Contact Dermatitis (pain, itching, blisters, scabs,

swelling, etc.)• Allergic Contact Dermatitis (an immune response)• Cement Burns (These have symptoms like regular burns,

but employees may not realize they are in danger until significant damage has occurred.)

These conditions can be serious and difficult to treat.


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To prevent these often chronic conditions, employers and workers need to take steps to prevent cement exposure.

At worksites that use cement, employers should provide:• 5 to 7 gallons of running water per person for

• pH neutral or slightly acidic soap

• PPE like gloves and rubber boots


hand washing

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Additionally, those working with cement should follow basic guidelines for protecting the skin.

Keep reading to learn the 10 tips…10 Tips - Working Safely With Cement www.CreativeSafetySupply.com • 866-777-1360

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Wear Your PPE


First and foremost, protect the skin from cement. Gloves – Wash hands before donning gloves. If your hands have cement on them, the gloves will hold it against your skin. Dirty hands with gloves are no safer than hands without gloves.Rubber Boots – Tuck pants into boots and tape around the edges.Long Sleeves – Tuck into gloves and tape around the edges.

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Wash hands after workand always before eating.Use a pH neutral or slightly acidic soap. Most soaps are actually slightly alkaline, which can exacerbate skin irritation in cement workers.

Wash SkinAppropriately


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If cement gets on clothing, change.Cement can quickly soak through clothing and reach the skin.If cement is left on the skin too long, it can cause cement burns. These burns can be severe and require hospitalization. They can cause blisters, hardening of the skin and discoloration.

Example ofCement Rash

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Remove Gloves CarefullyWhen taking off gloves, make sure not to touch the outside of the gloves with your fingers.


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Clean PPE


Clean gloves and otherPPE daily.Old PPE that can no longer be cleaned adequately should be thrown away.

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Don’t Wear JewelryCement can easily get caught in rings, watches and other jewelry, and once it’s caught, it will be held against the skin.Remove all jewelry before beginning work.


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Don’t Use Barrier Creams at WorkBecause cement causes dry skin, workers may be tempted to use hand lotion. These creams can actually trap cement particles and seal them against the skin, though, which creates a real hazard.If you do use lotions, only do so at home after showering.


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Change Clothes at WorkMany cement workers inadvertently expose family members and roommates to cement by carrying residue home on their clothes. It’s best to change out of dirty work clothes before heading home. Carry these clothes home in a plastic bag.


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Wash Work Clothes SeparatelyAs an added precaution, it’s a good idea to launder work clothing separately. The washing machine can also be run without clothes in it afterward to remove any remaining cement from the machine.


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Have symptoms? See a DoctorSkin problems associated with cement are quite common, but the majority of workers don’t seek medical attention.This can lead to chronic, often incurable skin disorders that can result in timeaway from work or even the need to change professions.

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PLAY IT SAFE!


If you experience ANY symptoms of cement-related skin disorders, consult a medical professional and be sure to inform them about the cement hazards at your workplace.


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10 Tips for Working Safely Around Cement