Working with Concrete Safely: Chemical and Physical Hazards
Overview
Working with concrete safely involves understanding chemical hazards from wet concrete, using proper protective equipment, following safe handling procedures, and recognizing symptoms of concrete-related injuries like chemical burns and respiratory problems.
Why This Is Important
Wet concrete is highly alkaline and can cause severe chemical burns within minutes of skin contact. Long-term exposure can lead to permanent skin damage, respiratory problems, and other serious health effects.
Concrete work also involves physical hazards including heavy lifting, repetitive motions, and exposure to silica dust that can cause serious long-term health problems.
Safety Process Steps
Pre-Work Preparation
Inspect and don all required PPE including waterproof gloves, boots, and eye protection before handling concrete.
During Concrete Work
Avoid direct skin contact, change wet clothing immediately, and take breaks to check for exposure signs.
Post-Work Cleanup
Wash thoroughly with pH-neutral soap, inspect skin for irritation, and properly clean all equipment.
Emergency Response
If concrete contacts skin, flush immediately with clean water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention for burns.
Protection Strategies
Chemical Protection
- Wear waterproof gloves that extend above wrists to prevent concrete contact
- Use chemical-resistant boots and clothing to protect against alkaline exposure
- Avoid contact with wet concrete on skin at all times
- Change wet clothing immediately to prevent prolonged chemical exposure
Respiratory Safety
- Use dust masks when cutting or grinding concrete to prevent silica inhalation
- Wet cutting methods reduce dust exposure and improve air quality
- Work upwind of dust when possible to minimize exposure
- Use proper ventilation in enclosed areas to maintain air quality
Physical Protection
- Use proper lifting techniques for heavy materials to prevent back injury
- Wear knee protection for extended kneeling during concrete work
- Take frequent breaks to prevent overexertion and heat-related illness
- Stay hydrated in hot conditions during physically demanding work
Equipment and Maintenance
Equipment Maintenance
- Clean tools and equipment promptly to prevent concrete buildup
- Maintain effectiveness of protective equipment through proper care
- Inspect PPE regularly for damage or wear that could compromise protection
- Replace damaged equipment immediately to maintain safety standards
Long-term Health Monitoring
- Regular health monitoring for respiratory and skin health helps detect problems early
- Document exposure incidents for medical reference and trend analysis
- Participate in health screenings offered by employers or healthcare providers
- Report health concerns promptly to supervisors and medical professionals
Concrete Hazards
Chemical Hazards
- Alkaline burns from wet concrete contact with skin
- Eye damage from concrete splashes or dust
- Respiratory irritation from concrete dust inhalation
- Allergic reactions to concrete additives or chemicals
Physical Hazards
- Silica exposure from cutting, grinding, or demolition work
- Heavy lifting injuries from handling concrete materials
- Repetitive motion injuries from finishing and placement work
- Heat stress from working in hot conditions with heavy PPE
Environmental Hazards
- Slippery surfaces from wet concrete and water
- Uneven work surfaces creating trip and fall hazards
- Equipment hazards from mixers, pumps, and finishing tools
- Weather exposure during outdoor concrete work
Emergency Procedures
Skin Contact
- Flush immediately with clean water for minimum 15 minutes
- Remove contaminated clothing while flushing continues
- Don’t scrub or rub the affected area
- Seek medical attention for any signs of chemical burns
Eye Contact
- Flush eyes immediately with clean water for 15 minutes
- Hold eyelids open during flushing to ensure thorough irrigation
- Remove contact lenses if easily removable
- Seek immediate medical attention for all eye exposures
Respiratory Exposure
- Move to fresh air immediately if experiencing breathing difficulties
- Loosen tight clothing around neck and chest
- Seek medical attention for persistent cough or breathing problems
- Report exposure to supervisors and safety personnel
Discussion Questions
- Personal Experience: What concrete-related injuries have you seen or experienced?
- Current Practices: How do you currently protect yourself when working with wet concrete?
- PPE Challenges: What challenges do you face in wearing proper PPE during concrete work?
- Safety Improvements: How can we improve concrete safety practices on our jobsites?
- Early Warning Signs: What early warning signs of concrete exposure should we watch for?
Remember: Concrete safety requires constant vigilance and proper protective equipment to prevent both immediate chemical burns and long-term health effects. By following established safety procedures and using appropriate PPE, we can work safely with concrete throughout our careers.