The Dangers

Wet Concrete is Dangerous!

Concrete is the single most widely used material in the world. Despite its thick and cool appearance, concrete is also one of the most dangerous construction products on the market. Yet the inherent dangers of concrete are often minimized or ignored altogether by concrete manufacturers, suppliers and general contractors.

Wet Concrete: A stealth threat

Each year, thousands of skilled laborers and “weekend warriors” alike visit hospital emergency rooms as a result of concrete burns. In many cases, these burns don’t show up for hours or even days after initial skin contact, earning concrete the ominous reputation as a stealth threat. Even minimal skin exposure can result in second or third-degree burns that go down to the bone and can result in disfigurement and disability. In extreme cases, limb amputation is a reality.

You may be at risk 

Working with concrete can cause severe burns. However, workers should be aware that other caustic materials they work with could potentially cause serious injuries. Workers who use the following materials are at risk for skin burns and other injuries: 

• Concrete
• Stucco
• Terracotta
• Grout
• Plaster
• Mortar

Source: https://www.osha.gov/dsg/guidance/cement-guidance.html