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All construction projects pose safety risks, especially for people who lack experience. For instance, handling concrete can cause a burn that leaves permanent scarring when not properly treated. Before starting your next project, here’s what you should know about concrete burns. 

What Are Concrete Burns?

Cement, an ingredient of concrete, consists primarily of calcium oxide. When it becomes wet, however, it produces calcium hydroxide, which can reach a pH of 12 or higher in only a few minutes. When cement reaches this state, concrete becomes highly caustic, meaning it can cause burns when exposed to the skin. Concrete burns worsen over time, so you might not immediately realize you have one. If you’ve been working with concrete and notice any redness, dryness, itching, blisters, scabs, or pain on your skin, assume it’s a burn. If treated promptly, the reaction typically doesn’t become severe.

How Can You Prevent & Treat Them?

concreteTo prevent burns, take the following precautions: 

  • Wear protective gear, like a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, chemical-resistant gloves, elbow pads, knee pads, rubber boots, and eyewear
  • Remove exposed clothing carefully to avoid touching your skin
  • Wash exposed items immediately and store them separately from everyday clothes
  • Wash your hands after handling exposed materials 

If you develop a burn, remove contaminated clothing, brush any dry cement off the skin, and flush the area with cold running water for 20 minutes. Then, head to a medical professional, who will wash the burn again and likely apply bandages. You may also be given antibiotics to decrease the chance of infection. If your burn is severe, you may need surgery. 

 

For your next project, work with a team that prides itself on safety, like Miller’s Ready Mix Concrete & Block. For more than 40 years, the experienced staff  has been providing high-quality construction products for homes and businesses throughout Gloversville, NY. Along with concrete in a variety of colors, they offer masonry products, Redi-Rock®, and aggregates. If you’re preparing for a large project, take advantage of their crane service. Visit them online to learn more about their offerings, and call (518) 661-5601 to discuss your needs with a friendly team member.

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